Released on April 2, 2025, I got the Ooni Koda 2 right away for a test, and oh wow, I am impressed. In fact, it easily made the #1 position in my updated list of the best pizza ovens for 2025. With over ten years of experience as a chef at Dequte Restaurant LironBoylston, I’ve worked with countless pizza ovens. After testing the Ooni Koda 2 for several months, I’ve gathered in-depth insights into its performance and innovation.
As Ooni’s latest gas-powered model, the Koda 2 delivers exceptional efficiency, reaching pizza stone temperatures of 950°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes. What sets it apart is its G2 Gas Technology™, a patent-pending burner design that ensures 200% better heat distribution than its predecessor, the Koda 12, for perfectly cooked pizzas every time.
Unlike other Ooni models like the Karu 12, which offers multi-fuel versatility, the Koda 2 is exclusively gas-powered, prioritizing ease of use and precision. Its larger, thicker pizza stone and smart features, like compatibility with the Ooni Connect™ Digital Temperature Hub, make it a standout in Ooni’s lineup.
For my review of the Ooni Koda 2 Pizza Oven, I tested its quality and materials, temperature control, shape, first-time usage impressions, power source, size, ease of cleaning, and performed a real pizza cooking test to measure the time it takes to cook. To understand my full testing process and expertise, check out my article: “How I Test Pizza Ovens.”
This pizza oven claimed the top spot in my 2025 best pizza ovens list for its unmatched performance and user-friendly design.
Disclaimer: This review includes affiliate links to the Ooni Koda 2 Pizza Oven. If you decide to purchase through these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. However, my review is completely based on my genuine, hands-on experience as a professional chef with over ten years in the restaurant industry. The affiliate links do not affect my honest opinions or feedback shared here.
How Ooni Koda 2 Works and How To Use It
Setting up the Ooni Koda 2 is incredibly straightforward, taking just 10 minutes out of the box. As a gas-powered oven, it’s designed for simplicity—connect it to a propane tank, turn the dial, and it’s ready to heat. The G2 Gas Technology™ burner produces a tapered flame, ensuring even heat distribution across the 14-inch pizza stone.
Unlike the Karu 12, which requires managing a wood fire or attaching a gas burner, the Koda 2 is plug-and-play, making it ideal for beginners or those seeking convenience. The oven’s intuitive controls allow precise temperature adjustments, and the option to monitor stone temperature via the Ooni app (with the Connect™ hub) adds a modern touch.
Unboxing and First Impression
Unboxing the Ooni Koda 2 was a premium experience. The sleek die-cast aluminum body, available in foundry black or slate blue, exudes quality. Every component, from the foldable legs to the thick cordierite stone, feels robust and thoughtfully designed. Compared to other Ooni models, the Koda 2’s refined aesthetics and compact build immediately set it apart.
Quality and Materials
The Ooni Koda 2 is built to last. Its die-cast aluminum shell is lightweight yet durable, resisting high temperatures and outdoor elements. The pizza stone, 20% larger and 50% thicker than the Koda 12’s, ensures superior heat retention, reducing reheat time by 20%. This premium construction distinguishes it from the Karu 12’s stainless steel body, offering a more modern, low-maintenance finish.
Shape
The Koda 2’s compact, rectangular design optimizes heat retention and airflow. The sealed chamber minimizes heat loss, and the tapered burner ensures even cooking across the pizza. Unlike the Karu 12’s dome shape, which prioritizes wood-fired flavor, the Koda 2’s streamlined design is tailored for gas-powered efficiency and portability.
Temperature Control
The Ooni Koda 2 excels in temperature control. The G2 Gas Technology™ burner delivers consistent heat, reaching 950°F in 15 minutes—faster than the Karu 12’s 15-20 minutes. The burner’s tapered flame reduces hot spots, a common issue in older gas models like the Koda 12. For precise monitoring, the optional Ooni Connect™ hub provides real-time stone temperature data, a feature unique to the Koda 2 in Ooni’s lineup.
Using Ooni Koda 2 For The First Time
Our first test at Dequte Restaurant LironBoylston involved a classic Margherita pizza to evaluate the Koda 2’s performance. The oven heated up in 15 minutes, and the pizza cooked in just 60 seconds, achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. The even heat distribution, thanks to the G2 burner, outperformed the Karu 12’s wood-fired setup, which required more manual adjustments.
Power Source of Ooni Koda 2
The Ooni Koda 2 is exclusively gas-powered, using propane for quick, reliable heating. Unlike the Karu 12, which supports wood, charcoal, or an optional gas burner, the Koda 2 prioritizes simplicity and precision. This makes it less versatile for wood-fired flavor enthusiasts but ideal for those who value ease and consistency.
Size
At 35 lbs (16 kg), the Koda 2 is slightly heavier than the Karu 12 (26 lbs) but remains highly portable with foldable legs. It’s compact enough for patios or camping trips, and the optional Ooni carry cover enhances transportability. Its 14-inch stone accommodates larger pizzas than the Karu 12’s 12-inch capacity, adding versatility.
How To Clean Ooni Koda 2
Cleaning the Koda 2 is a breeze, thanks to its pyrolytic cleaning feature, which burns off residue at high temperatures. Unlike the Karu 12, which requires regular ash removal from wood use, the Koda 2’s gas-only design minimizes mess. Simply wipe the stone with a dry cloth and clean the exterior with a damp towel—no water inside the oven to avoid damage.
Can I Use Ooni Koda 2 Indoors?
No, the Ooni Koda 2 is designed for outdoor use only, requiring proper ventilation due to its gas-powered operation.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Pizza In Ooni Koda 2
The Koda 2 cooks a 14-inch pizza in about 60 seconds at 950°F, faster than the Karu 12’s 2-minute cook time. The stone’s thickness ensures it maintains optimal temperatures (750°F-950°F) for consecutive pizzas with minimal reheat time.
How Long It Takes To Warm Up?
The Koda 2 heats to 950°F in just 15 minutes, outpacing the Karu 12’s 15-20 minutes. The G2 burner’s efficiency is a key differentiator, ensuring rapid, consistent heating.
Can I Cook Something Besides Pizza in It?
Yes, the Koda 2 is versatile enough for flatbreads, skewers, vegetables, and even desserts. Its high heat and even distribution make it suitable for a range of dishes, similar to the Karu 12.
Downsides
While the Koda 2 is exceptional, it has minor drawbacks. Its gas-only design lacks the multi-fuel versatility of the Karu 12, limiting wood-fired flavor options. Additionally, the Ooni Connect™ hub, which enhances smart features, is sold separately, adding to the cost.
Price of Ooni Koda 2
The Ooni Koda 2’s price reflects its advanced technology and premium build. Given its rapid heating, smart features, and durable construction, it’s a worthwhile investment for pizza enthusiasts. Check today’s price on Ooni’s official site or Amazon.
How Does It Compare to Other Outdoor Pizza Ovens?
The Ooni Koda 2 outperforms competitors with its G2 Gas Technology™, rapid heating, and smart compatibility. Compared to the Karu 12, it offers superior ease of use and faster cooking, though it sacrifices multi-fuel options. Its larger stone and modern design make it the top choice for gas-powered ovens in 2025.
What Makes Ooni Koda 2 Different Among the Rest of Ooni?
The Koda 2 stands out in Ooni’s lineup for its G2 Gas Technology™, which delivers unmatched heat distribution, and its larger, thicker pizza stone for better heat retention. Unlike the multi-fuel Karu 12 or wood-only Fyra, the Koda 2 is gas-exclusive, prioritizing simplicity and precision. Its compatibility with the Ooni Connect™ hub adds smart functionality, a feature not available in other models, making it the most advanced gas-powered oven in Ooni’s range.
What Others Say
Early user feedback on the Koda 2 is overwhelmingly positive. An Amazon reviewer praised its “insanely fast heating and perfect crust every time,” though some noted the separate cost of the Connect™ hub. On Reddit, a pizza enthusiast described it as “a game-changer for home pizza nights,” highlighting its ease of use compared to the Karu 12. YouTube reviews emphasize the Koda 2’s sleek design and consistent results, with minor critiques about its gas-only limitation.
My Cooking Tips For This Oven
For the best results, preheat the Koda 2 for 15 minutes to ensure the stone reaches 950°F. Rotate the pizza every 20 seconds for an even bake, as the G2 burner’s intense heat can cook quickly. If using the Connect™ hub, monitor the stone’s temperature via the Ooni app to maintain consistency across multiple pizzas.
Conclusion
After extensive testing, I can confidently say the Ooni Koda 2 is the best gas-powered pizza oven on the market. Its innovative G2 Gas Technology™, rapid heating, and smart features make it a standout in Ooni’s lineup and beyond. As a chef with over a decade of experience, I appreciate its ease of use and consistent, pizzeria-quality results.
Despite minor limitations, the Ooni Koda 2’s performance makes it a must-have for pizza enthusiasts. Thinking of buying it? Please use my referral link.
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