Choosing the perfect pizza oven can be a delicious dilemma, especially when faced with premium options like the Ooni Koda 2 Pro and the Gozney Arc XL. Both gas-powered ovens promise exceptional pizza-making experiences, but their differences in price, size, features, and design make the decision far from straightforward. This in-depth comparison will analyze both ovens across key aspects, from cooking performance and temperature control to aesthetics and ease of cleaning. We’ll delve into the nuances of their build quality, energy efficiency, and running costs to help you determine which oven reigns supreme for your needs and budget.This comprehensive review weighs the pros and cons of each oven, offering a detailed look at their respective strengths and weaknesses. Whether you prioritize a larger cooking surface, smart app integration, superior heat retention, or a more traditional design, we'll provide the information you need to make an informed choice. Prepare to discover which oven – the Ooni Koda 2 Pro or the Gozney Arc XL – will elevate your pizza game to the next level.
Pros And Cons
- Larger cooking area than the Gossny Arc XL.
- Modern look.
- Can be used with an app.
- Larger mouth size allows for larger cooking trays.
- Two gas burners for more even heating.
- Easy to remove pizza stone.
- Lower price than the Gossny Arc XL.
- Less insulation than the Gossny Arc XL.
- Higher running costs than the Gossny Arc XL.
- Stand shows rust after 4 years of outdoor use (though this may not be inherent to the product).
- More insulation than the Uni Koda 2 Pro, helping retain heat.
- Classic look.
- Sturdy stand with wheels, shelves, and hangers.
- Pizza stone is more difficult to remove than the Uni Koda 2 Pro's.
- More expensive than the Uni Koda 2 Pro.
- Smaller cooking area than the Uni Koda 2 Pro.
- Stand can be wobbly on uneven ground.
- Only one gas burner.
Read more: 5 Best Pizza Stones for Enhancing Your Green Egg Magic
Price and Size Comparison
The Ooni Koda 2 Pro and Gozney Arc XL are both premium gas-powered pizza ovens, but they differ in price and size. The Ooni is priced at £599 (UK) and features an 18-inch cooking surface, while the Gozney Arc XL costs £799 (UK) with a 16-inch cooking area. This price difference reflects not only the size variation but also potential differences in features and build quality.
Although the Ooni is larger, the Gozney's smaller size may be preferable for users with limited outdoor space. The choice ultimately depends on your budget and the number of pizzas you plan to cook at once. Both offer enough space for standard size pizzas.
Features and Functionality
Both ovens boast digital thermometers for precise temperature control, but the Ooni integrates with a smartphone app for added functionality. The Ooni also features dual gas burners using Ooni's G2 gas technology for more even heat distribution compared to the Gozney's single burner. This dual burner system theoretically allows for faster and more consistent cooking.
While both have electronic ignition, the Gozney's single burner design may be simpler for some users. The Ooni's app integration and dual burners offer advantages for more advanced cooking, but might be unnecessary for simpler pizza baking.
Design and Aesthetics
The Gozney Arc XL sports a classic, round design with a white finish and optional wood stand, appealing to those who appreciate traditional aesthetics. The Ooni Koda 2 Pro boasts a more modern look, with sleek black and gray accents.
The choice between the two is purely subjective and depends on personal preferences. Consider your existing outdoor kitchen setup and desired overall style when deciding.
Pizza Stone and Oven Stands
Both ovens utilize 20mm thick pizza stones, with the Ooni having a slightly larger cooking surface (2290 cm² vs 2184 cm² for the Gozney). The Ooni's stone is easier to remove for cleaning due to its two-part design and access hole. The Gozney's stone requires tools for removal, a potentially more cumbersome process.
The ovens are sold separately from their stands. The Gozney stand is specifically designed for the Arc XL, offering features such as wheels, shelves, and tool hangers. The Ooni stand is a more generic modular table, potentially more versatile but less integrated with the oven itself.
Insulation, Weight, and Mouth Size
The Gozney Arc XL features more insulation than the Ooni, offering better heat retention for consecutive pizza cooks. The Ooni utilizes ceramic fiber insulation but lacks bottom insulation. This difference likely impacts energy efficiency and the oven's ability to maintain a stable temperature.
Both ovens are substantial (Gozney: 26.5 kg, Ooni: 30 kg), indicating they are designed for stationary use, not portability. The Ooni has a wider mouth (60cm vs 43cm for Gozney), potentially accommodating larger cooking accessories.
Heat Up Time and Running Costs
In a 30-minute test, both ovens reached temperatures suitable for pizza cooking (around 450°C). The Ooni reached 462°C while the Gozney hit 443°C. This difference is small and may not significantly impact cooking times. However, the Ooni, with its dual burners, likely heats up faster.
Running costs are significantly different. The Gozney, at 5.5kW, is cheaper to run than the Ooni at 9.8kW. Consider your budget and frequency of use when choosing between them.
Pizza Cooking Performance and Conclusion
Both ovens produced delicious pizzas with well-cooked toppings and varying crust crispness. The Gozney’s single burner might require more frequent pizza rotation, whereas Ooni's dual burners potentially offer more even cooking. The wider mouth on the Ooni offers easier access during cooking.
Ultimately, the best oven depends on individual needs and preferences. The Gozney Arc XL is a premium option with classic aesthetics, excellent heat retention, and lower running costs but slightly less convenient cleaning and smaller cooking area. The Ooni Koda 2 Pro offers modern design, app integration, and a wider cooking area, but at a higher running cost. Consider these factors to determine which better fits your budget and baking style.