Let me take you back to where it all began—Dequte Restaurant LironBoylston. I was just a customer with a complaint about a pizza crust, and Chef Bradley Thompson, the culinary mastermind behind the restaurant, was there to hear me out. That little crust critique turned into a heated (pun intended) discussion about pizza perfection. That little conversation turned into a friendship and eventually this blog.
But this isn’t just another generic ranking. Chef Bradley brought his expertise as a professional chef, I threw in my food critic skills (I’m also a director at MainMenus Inc., by the way), and we even factored in feedback from real customers who dined at Bradley’s restaurant. Together, we tested over 30 pizza ovens—yes, you read that right—to bring you the ultimate rating on pizza ovens.
So, if you’re in the market for a pizza oven, you’ve landed on the right article. In this article, we’ll walk you through how we tested these ovens and what makes some of them stand out or use this comparison table below if you need fast answer:
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Best Overall
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Best For Small Backyard
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Best For Smoky Taste
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Our Rating:
4.9
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Our Rating:
4.8
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Our Rating:
4.8
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Pros:
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Pros:
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Pros:
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Cons:
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Cons:
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Cons:
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- Thick stone floor and high-quality insulation
- Precise temperature control up to 950°F
- Elegant design
- Dual fuel options
- Cleaning is quick and efficient
- Heavy
- Good-quality materials like powder-coated carbon steel
- Extremely lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Compact design
- Doesn’t quite match the Roccbox in terms of heat consistency and control
- Strictly gas-powered
How We Tested All These Pizza Ovens?
Warning: Things are about to get a little geeky, but it’s important to understand the criteria behind our rankings for the best pizza ovens.
Testing over 30 pizza ovens wasn’t just about unboxing them—we got hands-on and thorough with each one. Here’s how we did it, keeping it short and to the point:
- Temperature Control: Using chef-rated thermometers, we measured how well each oven maintained consistent heat. A perfect crust needs the perfect temperature!
- Pizza Cooking Test: A classic Margherita pizza was our benchmark. We judged crust texture, cheese melt, and topping flavor to see how each oven performed.
- Taste Test: Bradley and I, along with some of his customers, critiqued the results. Believe me, the same recipe cooked in different ovens produced wildly different results!
- Ease of Use & Assembly: We checked how simple the ovens were to set up and operate. No one wants to struggle with confusing instructions when they’re hungry for pizza.
- Ease of Cleaning: Because no one loves scrubbing, we rated how easy it was to clean each oven after use.
- Price & Value: We looked at whether the features and performance matched the price tag.
- Customer Feedback: To keep things fair, we also factored in reviews from other users and pizza enthusiasts.
Finally, we scored each oven on a 1-to-5 scale to help you choose the right one. All this testing means you’re not just reading reviews—you’re getting insights from a chef, a food critic, and real-world users. More detailed information on how we test pizza ovens here.
DISCLAIMER: This rating was not sponsored by any brand, and no financial incentives influenced our reviews. We conducted all testing independently to ensure unbiased and accurate information. However, some links in this article are referral links, meaning that if you click on them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us maintain this blog and continue creating valuable content for our readers. We truly appreciate your support!
1. Gozney Roccbox Pizza Oven
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Quick Gozney Roccbox Summary
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Description: Gozney Roccbox is one of the best pizza ovens in 2025. |
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Pros:
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Cons:
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Our Rating:
4.9
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Gozney Roccbox is one of the best pizza ovens in 2025.
- Thick stone floor and high-quality insulation
- Precise temperature control up to 950°F
- Elegant design
- Dual fuel options
- Cleaning is quick and efficient
- Heavy
The Gozney Roccbox is more than just a pizza oven—it’s a culinary powerhouse. Designed with precision and engineered for perfection, this oven brings the authentic taste of wood-fired pizza to your backyard. Chef Bradley raves about its thoughtful design and performance, and after trying it myself, I can see why.
Setting it up took just 15 minutes, and the versatility of gas or wood as fuel makes it suitable for all skill levels. When I tasted a Margherita pizza straight out of this oven, I was blown away. The crust was perfectly crisp, with just the right char from the 950°F heat, while the cheese melted seamlessly, enhancing the fresh, vibrant flavors of the toppings.
One thing I appreciated as a food critic was how the Gozney Roccbox nailed the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The thick stone floor ensured even heat distribution, creating a crust that was crispy on the outside yet beautifully airy and soft inside. The rolling flame added a subtle char that enhanced the smokiness of the fresh mozzarella, while the high, consistent temperature perfectly caramelized the tomato sauce, bringing out its natural sweetness. Every bite felt like a symphony of textures and flavors, all thanks to the precision and design of this pizza oven.
Beyond pizza, you can also roast veggies or grill meats (in a pan to protect the stone). Cleaning was easy, too—a quick wipe with soapy water, and it’s good as new.
While the Roccbox leans heavier at 49.9 pounds and takes about 30 minutes to heat up, these minor inconveniences are outweighed by its performance. Whether you’re hosting a pizza party or just indulging yourself, the Gozney Roccbox is a standout choice.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Versatility: Gas and wood options cater to all tastes.
- Speed: Cooks a pizza in just 60 seconds!
- Flavor: Produces perfectly crisp, golden crusts every time.
If you’re looking for an outdoor pizza oven that combines style, functionality, and incredible results, the Gozney Roccbox is worth every penny.
2. Ooni Koda 12
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Quick Ooni Koda 12 Summary
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Description: Ooni Koda 12 earns its place as a leading pizza oven in 2025. |
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Pros:
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Cons:
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Our Rating:
4.8
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Ooni Koda 12 earns its place as a leading pizza oven in 2025.
- Good-quality materials like powder-coated carbon steel
- Extremely lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Compact design
- Doesn’t quite match the Roccbox in terms of heat consistency and control
- Strictly gas-powered
Chef Bradley Thompson couldn’t stop raving about the Ooni Koda 12 during our tests. “For such a compact oven, the results are extraordinary,” he said. “It’s easy to set up, heats quickly, and delivers a crust that rivals the best pizzerias.” His expertise shaped much of our evaluation, and I couldn’t agree more with his praise.
The Ooni Koda 12 proves that good things come in small packages. With its sleek, lightweight design and powerful gas burner, this pizza oven delivers exceptional results in a surprisingly portable frame. Setting it up took just 10 minutes, and its rapid preheat time of under 20 minutes had me ready to cook before I even finished prepping the dough.
When I tested it with a classic Margherita pizza, the results were nothing short of impressive. The carbon steel shell and ceramic insulation created an ideal cooking environment, delivering a crust with a light crunch and a tender, airy interior. The cheese melted to perfection, while the high, consistent heat beautifully caramelized the tomato sauce, adding a depth of flavor you’d expect from a professional wood-fired oven.
As a food critic, I couldn’t overlook the way the Koda 12’s design helps achieve such results. The rear-mounted burner ensures even heat distribution, and the high temperatures (up to 932°F) lock in flavors and textures you won’t get with a conventional oven.
Cleaning was a breeze—a quick brush for the stone and a wipe for the exterior, and it was good to go. While its compact size limits cooking space, this trade-off makes it perfect for small backyards or on-the-go pizza nights.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, ideal for tight spaces or travel.
- Speed: Ready to cook in less than 20 minutes.
- Precision: Consistently even cooking for restaurant-quality pizzas.
If you want to elevate your homemade pizza game without sacrificing convenience, the Ooni Koda 12 is a fantastic choice for any pizza enthusiast.
3. Big Horn Pizza Oven
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Quick Big Horn Summary
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Description: Big Horn dominates the list of best pizza ovens in 2025. |
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Pros:
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Cons:
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Our Rating:
4.8
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Big Horn dominates the list of best pizza ovens in 2025.
- Decent stainless steel build with a silicone door seal
- Heats up to around 500-550°F in 15-16 minutes
- Dome shape that promotes airflow
- Lighter and more compact
- Some minor issues with the design and quality
- Needs practice to be used properly
Chef Bradley Thompson had mixed expectations about the Big Horn pizza oven, but it didn’t disappoint when it came to the most important thing—flavor. “This oven might have its quirks,” he said, “but the smoky taste it adds to pizza is something our customers loved the most. It’s hard to believe it came from such an affordable oven.”
The Big Horn’s compact design, weighing just 25 pounds, makes it a great portable option for outdoor cooking. Using wood pellets as fuel, this oven not only reaches scorching temperatures of up to 900°F but also infuses pizzas with that signature smoky flavor. When I tested it with a Margherita pizza, I couldn’t stop eating it. The crust came out crisp, with a beautifully charred edge, while the toppings were evenly cooked, all thanks to its dome shape and heat circulation.
While it requires a bit of a learning curve to get the fire going and maintain steady heat, the results are worth it. Its smaller size also means it’s easy to carry around for picnics or outdoor gatherings, though the compactness limits cooking space to a 12-inch pizza.
Cleaning is straightforward—regularly clearing ash and wiping the stone will keep it in top condition. However, be prepared for some minor frustrations, like the door not sealing perfectly and the occasional hiccup with lighting pellets.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Flavor: The smoky taste from wood pellets is unforgettable.
- Affordability: A fraction of the price of premium models like Ooni.
- Portability: Light and easy to transport for outdoor adventures.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pizza oven that delivers great-tasting pizza, the Big Horn is a solid choice. And at Bradley’s restaurant, it earned the top feedback for pizza flavor, proving that even a lower-cost oven can achieve exceptional results.
4. Halo Versa 16
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Quick Halo Versa 16 Summary
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Description: Halo Versa 16 ranks among the top pizza ovens of 2025. |
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Pros:
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Cons:
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Our Rating:
4.7
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Halo Versa 16 ranks among the top pizza ovens of 2025.
- Durable stainless steel build and a Cordierite stone
- Reached about 900°F
- More spacious interior and can handle larger pizzas up to 16 inches
- Lighter at 43.2 pounds
- Runs solely on propane gas
- Stone may require more effort to maintain due to occasional residue build-up
Chef Bradley Thompson was particularly intrigued by the Halo Versa 16’s unique design. “The dual burner system and rotating stone are game-changers,” he remarked. “They take much of the guesswork out of achieving an even cook, especially for large pizzas.”
This pizza oven is packed with innovation. The patent-pending dual burner system, featuring an infrared burner at the bottom and a back burner for convection heating, ensures both the crust and toppings are cooked to perfection. The motorized rotating stone eliminates the need for manual turning, reducing the risk of burnt edges and uneven bakes.
When I tested it with a Neapolitan-style Margherita pizza, the results were impressive. After a bit of experimentation with the heat settings, the crust emerged beautifully golden and crispy, while the toppings were evenly cooked, bursting with flavor. The smoky aroma from the propane flames added an irresistible depth to the pizza’s taste.
Though it has a slight learning curve, especially for new users, the Halo Versa 16 rewards patience with consistent, high-quality results. Cleaning is also straightforward, thanks to its hinged top and removable stone.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Dual Burner System: Cooks both the crust and toppings evenly.
- Rotating Stone: Say goodbye to manual pizza turning!
- Versatility: Accommodates large pizzas up to 16 inches.
If you’re seeking a pizza oven with cutting-edge features that make cooking easier and more enjoyable, the Halo Versa 16 is an excellent choice. It’s the perfect blend of innovation and performance for pizza lovers.
5. Bertello Pizza Oven
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Quick Bertello Summary
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Description: One of 2025's best pizza ovens is the Bertello. |
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Pros:
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Cons:
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Our Rating:
4.7
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One of 2025's best pizza ovens is the Bertello.
- Robust construction with a stainless steel exterior and a durable refractory stone
- Heats up efficiently, reaching over 900°F in about 10-15 minutes
- Dome-shaped design
- Multi-fuel versatility, allowing the use of gas, wood, and charcoal
- Lighter
- Cleaning the Bertello can be a bit more involved
Chef Bradley Thompson appreciates the Bertello Pizza Oven for its versatility. “The ability to switch between wood and gas fuels makes it stand out,” he said. “That smoky wood-fired flavor is something every pizza lover should try at least once.”
The Bertello is a compact yet capable pizza oven, accommodating pizzas up to 12 inches. During my tests, its dome-shaped design ensured even heat distribution, delivering a crust that was crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside. The option to use propane for consistent heat or wood for that signature smoky flavor gives you flexibility depending on your mood or cooking style.
The first Margherita pizza I cooked in the Bertello was ready in just 90 seconds after a quick 15-minute preheat. The high heat (over 900°F) brought out the natural sweetness of the tomato sauce and perfectly melted the mozzarella. However, managing the wood tray can be tricky—it’s shallow, and flames can shoot out if not handled carefully.
Cleaning requires a bit of effort, especially when dealing with the pellet tray, but the results are worth the extra time. And while marketed for indoor use with proper ventilation, I recommend keeping it outdoors for safety.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Versatility: Use wood, charcoal, or gas to suit your cooking preferences.
- Authentic Flavor: Wood-fired options provide that sought-after smoky taste.
- Compact Design: Great for smaller spaces and outdoor gatherings.
If you’re looking for a pizza oven that offers flexibility and delivers flavorful results, the Bertello is a solid choice. While it has a learning curve and some cleaning challenges, its performance makes it a worthwhile investment for passionate pizza makers.
Conclusion: Which Pizza Oven Is Right for You?
After testing these pizza ovens, I can honestly say each one has its own personality, just like the pizzas you’ll make with them! Whether you’re after the smoky flavor from the Bertello, the quick convenience of the Ooni Koda 12, or the innovative features of the Halo Versa 16, there’s an oven here that can match your vibe.
If you’re serious about pizza, the Gozney Roccbox delivers pro-level results that even impressed me as a food critic. But hey, the Big Horn’s budget-friendly charm still offers great pizzas without breaking the bank.
At the end of the day, it’s all about finding the oven that fits your space, your style, and your taste buds. Whichever one you go for, I’m sure it’ll take your pizza nights to a whole new level. So, which one’s calling your name? Let’s get cooking!