Outdoor Pizza Ovens — Wood vs Gas, Built-In vs Portable, Brand Comparison
Ooni, Gozney, Alfa, Forno Bravo — which actually belongs in your kitchen? The buyer's guide that cuts through the hype.
Wood vs gas vs dual-fuel
Wood: best flavor, most theatre, 30–45 min pre-heat. Gas: 15 min pre-heat, more usable on a weeknight, slightly less smoky flavor. Dual-fuel: best of both, premium price.
Portable (under $1K)
Ooni Karu 16 — top pick. Wood/gas/charcoal flexible. Best for tight budgets and renters. Sits on a counter or stand.
Premium portable ($1K–$2K)
Gozney Dome — best portable. Restaurant-quality bake, beautiful design, gas or wood. Still movable.
Built-in residential ($3K–$10K)
Alfa Forni Allegro, Forno Bravo Vesuvio, Mugnaini Medio. Real masonry/refractory ovens. Holds heat for 24 hrs after one fire. Becomes the centerpiece of an outdoor kitchen.
Built-in premium ($10K+)
Custom-built brick ovens with vaulted dome. $15K–$40K with mason labor. Heirloom-grade. Best for clients planning to host pizza nights for 20+ years.
