The Kamado Joes are expensive because they are well made, the high-fired ceramic shell is heavy, and it retains heat effectively. The Kamado Joe Classic 2 has a heavier shell and can do the job by offering 360 degrees of cooking. The Classic 2 has an upgraded rust-resistant control tower of powered-coated cast aluminum; Kamado Joes are designed to last years. The neat stainless steel latch keeps the seal tighter, locking the heat and moisture essential for BBQ and smoking. Thus the Kamado Joe Classic 2 is better at fuel efficiency.