11 Best Outdoor Pizza Ovens in 2025 (Tested By Experts)

Homemade pizza baking in an outdoor pizza oven with flames inside, showing crispy crust and fresh toppings

Are you having a hard time finding the best outdoor pizza oven for your backyard? There are so many options in the market today, and finding one that truly fits your budget and cooking style can be really overwhelming.

But don’t worry. That’s why I am here. I have tested numerous pizza ovens over the years, including outdoor, portable, and wood-fired models. Many brands claim that most of their products can cook authentic restaurant-style Neapolitan pizza with ease, but that’s not always true.

In this article, I will show you the top-quality outdoor pizza ovens that will help you make perfect Neapolitan pizzas with crispy crusts at home.

Why should you choose an Outdoor Pizza Oven?

So the question is: why an outdoor pizza oven rather than a regular indoor pizza oven? Well, there are many benefits of having an outdoor pizza oven. They don’t just make delicious pizzas; these ovens also cook faster and easier, and it’s really fun to use them.

On weekends, I love cooking with my backyard pizza oven for small get-togethers, but whenever I am spending time with my family, I use my home oven on the patio. It is smaller in size and easy to cook a restaurant-style pizza in just under 15 minutes. Let’s find out more.

Authentic Taste and Crispy Crusts

One of the biggest reasons I have switched to outdoor ovens is their unbeatable restaurant-like taste and flavour. The fantastic thing is that the high heat from these outdoor ovens cooks the pizza in a matter of minutes, giving it a crispy crust and that authentic wood flavor you will not get from a regular home pizza oven.

A quick cooking time

Another benefit of using outdoor pizza ovens is their cooking time. These ovens heat up very quickly — around 600-950 °F — and can cook a great pizza in just 60 to 90 seconds. This way it comes in real handy for me when I cook, especially for family gatherings and family dinners.

Versatility

An outdoor pizza oven can also cook more than just pizzas. There are many dishes you can make with it. Besides pizzas, I have roasted vegetables, baked breads, grilled meats, and done a lot of other things with it. And they cook like a charm.

Let’s cut to the chase and dive straight into the products I have used for years — believe me, they are high-quality, premium outdoor pizza ovens.

Here a Quick Comparison Guide to the best Outdoor pizza ovens

Product

A front view of the Ooni Karu 2 Pro Pizza Oven

Ooni Karu 2 Pro

Front view of the Gozney Dome pizza oven

Gozney Dome

A person is checking the temperature of an Alfa One outdoor pizza oven while baking a pizza

ALFA Nano Pizza Oven

Fontana Forni Margherita

Ooni Karu 2 multi-fuel outdoor pizza oven on a stand, cooking with visible flames

Ooni Karu 2

Gozney Roccbox 12-inch portable pizza oven in Olive Green, showing detachable gas burner and professional-grade pizza peel

Gozney Roccbox

Solo Stove Pi Prime gas pizza oven with flames visible inside, showing the stainless steel and black design

Solo Stove Pi Prime

Ninja Artisan 5-in-1 Electric Outdoor Oven in a dark gray finish, showing the digital control panel and internal pizza stone

Ninja Artisan 5-in-1

Empava EMPV-PG06 Italian Style Outdoor Wood Fired Pizza Oven in Italian Red with a stainless steel arch and chimney, mounted on a stand with wheels and an accessory rack holding tools like a brush, scraper, and shovel

Empava EMPV-PG06

Pizza Party Emozione large outdoor gas pizza oven in antique copper color on a cart, with two freshly made Neapolitan pizzas on plates in the foreground.

Pizza Party Emozione

Bertello Outdoor Pizza Oven with gas attachment and open flame, ideal for backyard pizza cooking

Bertello SimulFIRE

Best for

Best Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

Best Pizza Oven Overall

Best countertop pizza oven

Best Premium Pizza Oven

Best Compact Pizza Oven

Best Rated Outdoor Pizza oven

Best Gas Pizza Oven

Best portable Pizza Oven

Best outdoor pellet pizza oven

Best Large Cooking Surface Pizza Oven

Best Budget pizza oven

Price

$849.00

$1,999.99

$1399.99

$2,749.00

$449.00

$399.99

$359.99

$249.99

$1,189.95

$1,279.40

$499.99

Rating

Material & Build

Powder-coated carbon steel, stainless steel, glass door

GozneyShield coating, stainless steel interior

Powder-coated stainless-steel body with refractory ceramic floor and stainless-steel parts. Made in Italy

Welded steel with insulated dome, powder-coated exterior, Saputo stone surface

Powder-coated carbon steel body with stainless-steel base, aluminum front/rear, and borosilicate glass door.

Commercial-grade stainless-steel body with safe-touch silicone jacket and thick stone floor

304 stainless-steel body with cordierite stone cooking surface

Durable steel body with weather-resistant design and Chef’s View glass window

Reinforced 304 stainless steel with upgraded triple-layer dome for better insulation and durability

Painted aluminum dome with insulated stainless-steel body. 3 cm refractory cooking floor

Powder-coated carbon steel and stainless-steel body with cordierite pizza stone

Fuel Type

Wood, charcoal, gas

Wood + Gas (dual-fuel, built-in gas burner with regulator)

Wood-fired (dual-fuel version available separately)

Wood

Wood, charcoal, or optional gas burner (dual-fuel)

Propane (standard) with optional detachable wood burner

Propane only

Electric

Wood pellets

Propane, Butane, or LPG

Dual fuel – Gas + Wood (SimulFIRE Technology)

Cooking Surface Size

17 inches (fits 16” pizzas)

30mm double-layer stone floor (high heat retention)

23.6″ × 15.7″ ( 60 × 40 cm)

24″ D × 16″ W × 14″ H; fits two 10″ pizzas or one 12″ pizza

13.3″ × 13.3″ (34 × 34 cm) cordierite stone, 15 mm thick

12.4″ × 13.4″ ( 31.5 cm × 34 cm) cordierite stone floor.

Fits pizzas up to 12″ (30 cm) diameter

12″ × 12″ stone (fits 12″ pizza or similar-sized dishes)

Fits up to three 7” pizzas (approx. 25″ x 30″ cooking area)

40 × 70 cm (≈ 15.75″ × 27.56″), fits 2 pizzas at once.

16 × 16 in (40.64 × 40.64 cm)

Max Temperature

950°F (500°C)

950°F (510°C)

1000 °F (538 °C)

900°F (reaches 750°F in 30 mins)

950 °F (510 °C)

950 °F (510 °C)

900 °F (482 °C)

700 °F (371 °C)

Up to 800°F (427°C)

1022 °F (550 °C)

900°F (480°C)

Weight

62.6 lbs (28.4 kg)

128 lbs (150 lbs packaged)

119 lbs (54 kg)

242 lbs (with cart), 187 lbs (countertop)

33.7 lb (15.3 kg)

Approx. 44 lb (20 kg)

30 lb (13.6 kg)

30.2 lb (13.7 kg)

Around 176 lbs (80 kg)

32.7 kg (72 lb) with bricks and legs (15.5 kg (34 lb) without)

59.5 lbs (26.9 kg)

Heating Speed

15 minutes

20–30 mins to peak temp

(750–1000 °F) in about 10 minutes

750°F in 30 minutes

Heats up in about 15 minutes, cooks pizza in 60 seconds

Heats to 700 °F in under 20 minutes

Heats up in about 15 minutes, cooks pizza in 90 seconds

Preheats in about 18 minutes and cooks pizza in 3 minutes

Preheats in minutes, cooks pizza in about 90 seconds

Reaches cooking temperature quickly; cooks pizzas in minutes

Heats up in around 10 minutes

Portability

Compact but heavy (62 lbs)

Heavy and best for backyard use

Compact countertop design, not lightweight but moveable with two people

Optional portable cart add-on

portable with foldable legs, detachable chimney, and carry cover option

Retractable legs, detachable burner, and compact design for travel

Lightweight and easy to move, ideal for backyard or patio setups

Compact countertop design, easy to move for backyard or campsite use

Equipped with 4 wheels (2 swivel, 2 fixed) for easy movement

Compact, lightweight design for garden, patio, or outdoor use

Compact design; can be moved easily

Insulation

Densely layered for heat retention

Heavy-duty, restaurant-grade heat retention

Double-layer ceramic fiber insulation for heat retention

Rock wool fully insulated for heat retention

Powder-coated shell with heat-retaining materials for outdoor use

Hybrid 2-layer insulation with dense stone floor for superior heat retention

Demi-dome design ensures even heat distribution and retention

Fully enclosed electric chamber for even, controlled heating

Triple-coated dome enhances heat retention

Professional fiber (AES wool) high-density insulation

Double-walled, heat-resistant steel for good heat retention

Cooking Capacity

Fits pizzas up to 16” (one at a time)

16” pizzas, plus roasting, smoking, steaming, baking

1 pizza (up to 12–13 inches) at a time

1–2 pizzas at a time

1 × 12″ pizza at a time

1 × 12″ pizza at a time

1 × 12″ pizza at a time

1 × 12″ pizza, or similar-sized pan dishes (up to 6 chicken breasts)

Can cook multiple pizzas, meat, bread, and vegetables simultaneously

2 standard pizzas simultaneously

1 x 16″ pizza at a time

My Top Picks

Best Pizza Oven Overall: Gozney Dome

Best Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven: Ooni Karu 2 Pro

Best countertop pizza oven: ALFA Nano  

Best Budget pizza oven: Bertello SimulFIRE

Best Rated Outdoor Pizza oven: Gozney Roccbox

Best Compact Pizza Oven: Ooni Karu 2

Best Propane Pizza Oven: Solo Stove Pi Prime

Best portable Pizza Oven: Ninja Artisan 5-in-1

Best Premium Pizza Oven: Fontana Forni Margherita

Best outdoor pellet pizza oven: Empava EMPV-PG06

Best Large Cooking Surface Pizza Oven: Pizza Party Emozione

Best Pizza Oven Overall

Gozney Dome

Fresh Neapolitan pizza with melted cheese and basil being taken out of a Gozney Dome outdoor pizza oven

Best Overall

Key Specifications

Material & Build

GozneyShield coating, stainless steel interior

Fuel Type

Wood + Gas (dual-fuel, built-in gas burner with regulator)

Cooking Surface Size

30mm double-layer stone floor (high heat retention)

Max Temperature

950°F (510°C)

Weight

128 lbs (150 lbs packaged)

Heating Speed

20-30 mins to peak temp

Portability

Heavy and best for backyard use

Insulation

Heavy-duty, restaurant-grade heat retention

Cooking Capacity

16” pizzas, plus roasting, smoking, steaming, baking

Pros
Cons

Dual fuel ability to switch between wood or gas

It is heavy and not portable.

Versatile cooking to roast, smoke, steam, and bake beyond pizza.

It needs space and is not ideal for small patios.

Large oven mouth gives plenty of room for more than just pizzas.

Smart controls include a digital thermometer and two meat probes.

The Gozney Dome is one of my favourites for cooking authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza in my backyard. I have been using the Dome for more than two years now, and believe me, this outdoor pizza oven still works beautifully.

The Gozney Dome is a multi-fuel pizza oven that lets you cook with both gas and wood, and you can switch between them easily. This outdoor pizza oven can cook two pizzas at once in 60 seconds, which is very impressive, but the only downside I found is its portability.

It weighs over 120 lbs, which is quite large and heavy compared to other smaller pizza ovens like the Ooni Karu 12 and the Ooni Karu 2 Pro. You can move it, but it will require two people.

Cleaning this outdoor pizza oven is also relatively easy, and it has a built-in thermometer that lets you measure the internal air temperature. But I also like to use my infrared thermometer gun to check the stone temperature before cooking pizzas. This way, it gives me an accurate reading on whether my pizza crust will cook perfectly in 60 seconds.

If you are looking for the best outdoor pizza oven, then I recommend the Gozney Dome. The price may seem high, but it is definitely worth it.

Read Our Full Gozney Dome Review

Best Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

Ooni Karu 2 Pro

A front view of the Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

Best Multi-Fuel

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Powder-coated carbon steel, stainless steel, glass door

Fuel Type

Wood, charcoal, gas

Cooking Surface Size

17 inches (fits 16” pizzas)

Max Temperature

950°F (500°C)

Weight

62.6 lbs (28.4 kg)

Heating Speed

15 minutes

Portability

Compact but heavy (62 lbs)

Insulation

Densely layered for heat retention

Cooking Capacity

Fits pizzas up to 16” (one at a time)

Pros
Cons

Multi-fuel design with wood, charcoal and gas

Gas burner sold seperately

Big 17-inch stone gives plenty of room for pizzas and other dishes

Heavier and less portable compared to other Ooni models.

Built-in digital thermometer and Bluetooth app makes it easy to keep an eye on the heat.

The Ooni Karu 2 Pro is one of my favorite outdoor pizza ovens; I have been using it for years now, and every time I cook with it, it impresses me. The Ooni Karu 2 Pro is one of Ooni’s most versatile multi-fuel backyard pizza ovens, allowing me to cook with wood, charcoal, and gas.

Though I like to use wood and charcoal for that authentic flavor, I have cooked several pizzas—Detroit, Neapolitan, and cheese—as well as other dishes such as breads, meats, and casseroles, and the outcome still amazes me.

This outdoor pizza oven can reach up to 955°F pretty fast and cook an authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza in a matter of minutes.

Read Our Full Ooni Karu 2 Pro Review

Best countertop pizza oven

ALFA Nano

A person is checking the temperature of an Alfa One outdoor pizza oven while baking a pizza

Best Countertop

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Powder-coated stainless-steel body with refractory ceramic floor and stainless-steel parts. Made in Italy

Fuel Type

Wood-fired (dual-fuel version available separately)

Cooking Surface Size

23.6″ × 15.7″ ( 60 × 40 cm)

Max Temperature

1000 °F (538 °C)

Weight

119 lbs (54 kg)

Heating Speed

(750–1000 °F) in about 10 minutes

Portability

Compact countertop design, not lightweight but moveable with two people

Insulation

Double-layer ceramic fiber insulation for heat retention

Cooking Capacity

1 pizza (up to 12–13 inches) at a time

Pros
Cons

Solid stainless-steel build with high-quality materials

Can cook just one pizza at a time

Heats up very quickly

Not duel-fuel so you have to choose between wood and gas

Assembly takes just 20 minutes

Excellent heat retention

The Alpha Nano pizza oven, also previously known as Alpha One, is easily one of my best pizza oven picks. It is compact and surprisingly light, unlike the heavy brick ovens. It weighs around 50 kg, so that a single person can handle it for setup and cooking. 

The Alpha Nano comes with two fuel options: wood-fired and gas. I preferred the wood-fired one over the gas pizza oven because I wanted smoky, wood-fired flavor in the pizzas and other foods I cook. Because of its compact design, I placed it on my patio, as it doesn’t take up too much space.

The setup is straightforward, too. This thing is easy to move around; if you want to relocate it, you need to remove the chimney and the legs, which makes the oven lighter and easier to carry. So yes, this wood-fired oven is much more portable than other wood-fired models.

This countertop pizza oven is designed to cook just one 12-inch pizza at a time, which gives you enough space to cook an authentic wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza in a matter of minutes. The heat-up time is also perfect, taking about 10 to 15 minutes to cook a wood-fired dish.

Best Budget pizza oven

Bertello SimulFIRE

Bertello SimulFIRE 12-inch portable outdoor pizza oven, black with stone and hose.

Best Budget-Friendly

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Powder-coated carbon steel and stainless-steel body with cordierite pizza stone

Fuel Type

Dual fuel – Gas + Wood (SimulFIRE Technology)

Cooking Surface Size

16 × 16 in (40.64 × 40.64 cm)

Max Temperature

900°F (480°C)

Weight

59.5 lbs (26.9 kg)

Heating Speed

Heats up in around 10 minutes

Portability

Compact design, can be moved easily

Insulation

Double-walled, heat-resistant steel for good heat retention

Cooking Capacity

1 x 16″ pizza at a time

Pros
Cons

Multi-fuel flexiblilty with gas, wood and charcoal

No front door so it might effect the airflow

Compact design, no chimney, so it is easy to store and carry

Soots may build up since there is no chimney

Includes full accessory bundle

Great value for money

The Bertello SimulFIRE is a versatile pizza oven that lets you cook with wood, charcoal, gas and pellets. I have tested the Bertello and used both gas and wood simultaneously to cook pizzas.

One fantastic thing is that this oven takes only 18 to 20 minutes to preheat, and I measured the stone temperature with an infrared thermometer, which reached about 769°F. This temperature is good enough to cook an authentic, smoky Neapolitan pizza in just 2 minutes, with a nice, crispy crust and melted toppings.

This outdoor pizza oven is compact and portable. The one thing I like most about it is that it has no chimney, which makes it easy to store and take out on holidays. And the setup is also simple: all you need to do is insert the fuel basket, attach the gas, place the pizza stone, and fold out the legs. No complications at all. Just a simple assembly.

The Bertello SimulFIRE pizza oven is also one of the best budget friendly, coming in just under $500. So I strongly recommend this outdoor pizza oven, and getting a high-quality outdoor wood-fired pizza oven at this price is really hard to find.

Best Rated Outdoor Pizza oven

Gozney Roccbox

Gozney Roccbox 12-inch portable pizza oven in Olive Green, showing detachable gas burner and professional-grade pizza peel

Best Rated For Outdoor

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Commercial-grade stainless-steel body with safe-touch silicone jacket and thick stone floor

Fuel Type

Propane (standard) with optional detachable wood burner

Cooking Surface Size

12.4″ × 13.4″ (31.5 cm × 34 cm) cordierite stone floor.

Max Temperature

950 °F (510 °C)

Weight

Approx. 44 lb (20 kg)

Heating Speed

Heats to 700 °F in under 20 minutes

Portability

Retractable legs, detachable burner, and compact design for travel

Insulation

Hybrid 2-layer insulation with dense stone floor for superior heat retention

Cooking Capacity

1 × 12″ pizza at a time

Pros
Cons

Solid built, stainless steel with silicone insulation

Heat shield (baffle) have to buy seperately

Easy ignition, consistent flame, and stable temperature

A bit less portable

Nice portability around the backyard with included strap

Heats up pretty quickly around 30 to 35 minutes

The Roccbox is another popular Gozney product and is also a multi-fueled outdoor pizza oven. If you are looking for a budget-friendly, portable option for cooking delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas, this one will do the trick.

Setting up the Roccbox is straightforward. All you need to do is attach the burner, extend the legs, and you are good to go. On the official Gozney website, it says this backyard pizza oven heats up in just 20 to 25 minutes. But when I tested it, it took me about 35 to 40 minutes to fully heat the stone and achieve even baking.

This outdoor pizza oven comes with a propane burner, but if you want a wood burner, then you have to buy it separately. There are twist-lock connectors that let you switch them easily. Though you can use gas, wood, or pellets for cooking, I prefer gas most of the time for better efficiency and comfort.

One thing I liked is that this outdoor oven has an outer silicone jacket that keeps it insulated, so the exterior doesn’t get hot, making it very safe to touch.

Best Compact Pizza Oven

Ooni Karu 2

Ooni Karu 2 multi-fuel outdoor pizza oven on a stand, cooking with visible flames

Best Compact

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Powder-coated carbon steel body with stainless-steel base, aluminum front/rear, and borosilicate glass door.

Fuel Type

Wood, charcoal, or optional gas burner (dual-fuel)

Cooking Surface Size

13.3″ × 13.3″ (34 × 34 cm) cordierite stone, 15 mm thick

Max Temperature

950 °F (510 °C)

Weight

33.7 lb (15.3 kg)

Heating Speed

Heats up in about 15 minutes, cooks pizza in 60 seconds

Portability

portable with foldable legs, detachable chimney, and carry cover option

Insulation

Powder-coated shell with heat-retaining materials for outdoor use

Cooking Capacity

1 × 12″ pizza at a time

Pros
Cons

Multi-fuel flexiblity with wood and gas

Gas burner sold seperately

Excellent high and low temperature control

Small launching space might be tricky for beginners

Solid stainless steel build

Portable

I have been using the Ooni Karu 2 for a while now, and it’s actually the original version of the Ooni Karu lineup, which later changed its name to Karu 12G. Later, Ooni released an upgraded version, the Ooni Karu 2 Pro, but I preferred the original.

I liked it because it’s well-built, compact, and really very easy to move around. The performance also amazes me every time I use it. The Karu 2 is a multifuel outdoor pizza oven that lets you cook with wood, charcoal, and gas.

Switching between these fuels is also very easy. I mostly use this oven to cook with wood and charcoal only, as I like the wood-fired flavour and taste. The heat-up time is also super impressive and fast. It reaches 900 °F (about 480 °C) with wood and charcoal in just under 20 minutes.

And as for the gas, you can expect the temperature to be somewhere between 13 and 15 minutes. But you have to buy the gas burner separately. There is one thing to note: when cooking, you need to rotate your pizza in time to prevent burning.

Overall, I recommend buying the Ooni Karu 2 if you want a budget-friendly, high-quality outdoor pizza oven. Believe me, you can cook an authentic Neapolitan-style pizza in just a few minutes, with that smoky wood-fired flavour.

Best Gas Pizza Oven

Solo Stove Pi Prime

Solo Stove Pi Prime gas pizza oven with flames visible inside, showing the stainless steel and black design

Best Propane

Key Specifications

Material & Build

304 stainless-steel body with cordierite stone cooking surface

Fuel Type

Propane only

Cooking Surface Size

Fits pizzas up to 12″ (30 cm) diameter

Max Temperature

900 °F (482 °C)

Weight

30 lb (13.6 kg)

Heating Speed

Heats up in about 15 minutes, cooks pizza in 90 seconds

Portability

Lightweight and easy to move, ideal for backyard or patio setups

Insulation

Demi-dome design ensures even heat distribution and retention

Cooking Capacity

1 × 12″ pizza at a time

Pros
Cons

Made with 304 stainless steel hich is durable and lightweight

The burner is very powerful so watch out of your crust

Preheats to 900 °F in around 15 minutes

Easy to setup and portable

Great value for money

Managing a wood-fired pizza oven can be tricky, especially for beginners, and keeping the temperature steady is especially challenging. Managing a wood fire requires a lot of patience, as you need to constantly add logs, adjust the airflow, and closely monitor the flame. So even a small mistake can ruin your hard work.

But if you want a more straightforward method to cook a great Neapolitan pizza, then the Solo Stove Pi Prime is the best choice. This outdoor pizza oven runs on propane and can easily reach 900°F (480°C). This temperature is easy to maintain, and you can cook an authentic Neapolitan pizza in under 90 seconds.

I tested cooking a Margherita pizza, and the result was awe-inspiring. The pizza came out beyond my expectations, with a perfectly crispy bottom, melted cheese, and a crust that puffed up beautifully.

One thing I have noticed is that the official website says the Solo Stove Pi Prime takes 15 to 20 minutes to heat. But when I tested it, it took about 10 more minutes to heat up fully.

So yes, if you are looking for a budget-friendly gas-powered pizza oven, I recommend getting one. 

Best portable Pizza Oven

Ninja Artisan 5-in-1

Ninja Artisan 5-in-1 Electric Outdoor Oven in a dark gray finish, showing the digital control panel and internal pizza stone

Best Portable

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Durable steel body with weather-resistant design and Chef’s View glass window

Fuel Type

Electric

Cooking Surface Size

12″ × 12″ stone (fits 12″ pizza or similar-sized dishes)

Max Temperature

700 °F (371 °C)

Weight

30.2 lb (13.7 kg)

Heating Speed

Preheats in about 18 minutes and cooks pizza in 3 minutes

Portability

Compact countertop design, easy to move for backyard or campsite use

Insulation

Fully enclosed electric chamber for even, controlled heating

Cooking Capacity

1 × 12″ pizza, or similar-sized pan dishes (up to 6 chicken breasts)

Pros
Cons

Very easy to use since it is electric

You will need a power source even if you want to take it out

Highly portable

It runs on electric but still not safe for indoor use

Multi-function oven

Heats up very fast

If you want an affordable electric pizza oven, the Ninja Artisan 5-in-1 is a good option. I have tested countless outdoor pizza ovens that use gas and wood most of the time, but I heard many people talking about this pizza oven, so I decided to test it since I was new to electric ovens.

The Ninja Artisan reaches 700 °F, with a preheat time of around 20 minutes, but it is still much lower than that of a wood-fired pizza oven. But it can still cook a good Neapolitan-style pizza in just 3 minutes.

I have noticed that there are four cooking modes. These cooking modes are like the types of cooking you want to do, like pizza, bake, proof, and air fry. In pizza mode, you can make five types of pizzas: artisan, thin, New York, pan, and custom.

I have tested cooking the artisan style, like a classic Neapolitan pizza, and the crust came out really crispy, and the toppings were perfectly melted. I didn’t even have to turn the pizza while it cooked, but you will need to watch it closely, especially the first few times you use the Ninja Artisan.

I really liked how it cooks pizzas, but you won’t get that wood-fired flavor you get from a wood-fired pizza oven. But it is very easy to use and a highly portable pizza oven. One important thing to remember is that, even though it doesn’t use any gas or wood, you still have to use this pizza oven outdoors only.

Best Premium Pizza Oven

Fontana forni Margherita

Fontana Forni Margherita wood-fired pizza oven on a stainless steel stand, shown outdoors by a pool with a fire burning inside

Best Premium

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Welded steel with insulated dome, powder-coated exterior, Saputo stone surface

Fuel Type

Wood

Cooking Surface Size

24″ D × 16″ W × 14″ H; fits two 10″ pizzas or one 12″ pizza

Max Temperature

900°F (reaches 750°F in 30 mins)

Weight

242 lbs (with cart), 187 lbs (countertop)

Heating Speed

750°F in 30 minutes

Portability

Optional portable cart add-on

Insulation

Rock wool fully insulated for heat retention

Cooking Capacity

1–2 pizzas at a time

Pros
Cons

Strong and durable build made in Italy

Heavy to move without the cart

Uses less wood compared to traditional ovens

Expensive

Well insulated so the outside stays cool

Can cook other dishes than just pizza

I have been using the Fontana Forni Margherita for almost two years now, and it still cooks pizzas like it is brand new. I mainly bought this outdoor pizza oven for my home gatherings and pizza parties with my friends and family.

If you want to cook an authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, then this Margherita won’t disappoint you. Though this pizza oven can cook one large (12″) pizza or two smaller (10″) pizzas at a time, it can cook around 50 pizzas per hour, which is truly impressive.

It heats up pretty fast—like around 900 °F—to heat this beast, and it takes about 60 to 90 seconds to cook each pizza. The fantastic thing I have noticed is that it needs less wood than the traditional ceramic ovens. So you won’t be needing large amounts of fuel or too much waiting.

However, the setup will take you around 40 minutes. This Fontana Forni Margherita is really heavy, so you will need at least three people to assemble it. The cost might be overwhelming, but I assure you, it is worth it. I loved the design, and believe me, it is a long-term investment if you want to go for it.

Read Our Full Fontana Forni Margherita Review

Best outdoor pellet pizza oven

Empava EMPV-PG06

Empava EMPV-PG06 Italian Style Outdoor Wood Fired Pizza Oven in Italian Red with a stainless steel arch and chimney, mounted on a stand with wheels and an accessory rack holding tools like a brush, scraper, and shovel

Best Pellet-Fired

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Reinforced 304 stainless steel with upgraded triple-layer dome for better insulation and durability

Fuel Type

Wood pellets

Cooking Surface Size

Fits up to three 7” pizzas (approx. 25″ x 30″ cooking area)

Max Temperature

Up to 800°F (427°C)

Weight

Around 176 lbs (80 kg)

Heating Speed

Preheats in minutes, cooks pizza in about 90 seconds

Portability

Equipped with 4 wheels (2 swivel, 2 fixed) for easy movement

Insulation

Triple-coated dome enhances heat retention

Cooking Capacity

Can cook multiple pizzas, meat, bread, and vegetables simultaneously

Pros
Cons

Beautiful looking red color with stainless steel build

Assembly needs atleast 2 people to attach the dome and the base

Very good cooking space and can fit 2 to 3 pizzas

Exterior still gets hot

Can be costly for some people

Solid heat retention

Good ventilation system

The Empava EMPV-PG06 is another beautiful outdoor wood-fired pizza oven with a great stainless steel design. And trust me, this backyard pizza oven can cook delicious wood-flavoured pizzas.

From my testing, I found that it heats up very quickly and reaches a maximum of 700–800°F, which is enough to cook a wood-fired pizza in a minute. One thing I liked about this pizza oven is that the ceramic tiles retain heat very well once heated.

I don’t use the Empava as often, but I do like using it on weekends when I have guests coming over to my place. It comes in real handy for gatherings, as it helps me cook 2-3 medium-sized pizzas at a time.

However, beyond pizzas, I also cook bread. Roast chicken and fish with it. They cook very well and taste really great, but I noticed that the outer gets very hot once it is fully heated, so I had to be careful.
Other than that, I found this pizza oven to be very well-built, and it also comes with a portable cart with wheels, so I didn’t have to worry about carrying it around.

And on the price tag, the Empava EMPV-PG06 is a premium outdoor pizza oven, so if you want to use it more often, it’s worth it.

Best Large Cooking Surface Pizza Oven

Pizza Party Emozione

Pizza Party Emozione large outdoor gas pizza oven in antique copper color on a cart, with two freshly made Neapolitan pizzas on plates in the foreground.

Best for Large Cooking Space

Key Specifications

Material & Build

Painted aluminum dome with insulated stainless-steel body. 3 cm refractory cooking floor

Fuel Type

Propane, Butane, or LPG

Cooking Surface Size

40 × 70 cm (≈ 15.75″ × 27.56″), fits 2 pizzas at once

Max Temperature

1022 °F (550 °C)

Weight

32.7 kg (72 lb) with bricks and legs (15.5 kg (34 lb) without)

Heating Speed

Reaches cooking temperature quickly; cooks pizzas in minutes

Portability

Compact, lightweight design for garden, patio, or outdoor use

Insulation

Professional fiber (AES wool) high-density insulation

Cooking Capacity

2 standard pizzas simultaneously

Pros
Cons

Classic and vintage design

Requires more skill and attention when lighting and adjusting heat

Very well insulated and helps to prevent burning the pizza bottom

No automatic igniter or temperature gauge

Great heat balance

Larger cooking surface which fits 2 pizzas easily

The Pizza Party Emozione is an outdoor pizza oven made in Florence, Italy. This pizza oven uses propane gas for cooking, not just authentic Neapolitan pizzas but also other dishes like roasted meats, vegetables, flatbreads, Casseroles and more.

This outdoor propane pizza oven comes with standard refractory stones when you purchase it. But I chose to buy the biscotta stones because they helped me cook a perfect Neapolitan-style pizza without burning the crust.

The Biscotta stones heat up more slowly than the standard stones, so even at high temperatures, the top of the pizza gets nice leopard spots, and the bottom stays perfectly golden.

This oven is quite large, and I had a tough time moving it around. And since it doesn’t include a stand, I had to place it on a tabletop. But if you like, you can get the Aluminium Stand with Wheels so you can move it easily and place it anywhere in your backyard. You have to purchase this separately.

If you already own the Adori oven and are looking for more cooking space to cook two pizzas at a time, I recommend the Pizza Party Emozione.

How to Choose the Best Outdoor Pizza Oven

I love cooking pizza at home, but choosing the best outdoor pizza oven can be tough. I have tested several pizza ovens for years now, and if you have the right one, you can not only cook excellent pizzas but also fit your backyard setup. In this article, I have shared a simple buying guide to help you pick the right outdoor pizza oven that fits your needs and budget.

Cooking Temperature

Over the years, when I decide to shop for an outdoor pizza oven, temperature is one of the first things I check. If controlling the heat of the pizza oven is hard, you can either burn your pizzas or end up with them undercooked. 

For my backyard pizza oven setup, I prefer a temperature that gets around 700–900°F. This ideal temperature is perfect for crispy crusts and perfectly melted toppings. I have noticed that wood-fired ovens are great for authentic flavor and for retaining heat. On the other hand, gases are easier to control and more convenient.

Size and Capacity

When picking an outdoor pizza oven, I always think about how many pizzas I’ll cook with it. If I am going to cook just for my family and me, I prefer my compact pizza oven. It is more convenient for me to cook because it is simple, quicker, and requires less fuel. So no hassle at all. 

But on the weekend, when my friends are coming over to my place, I use my large family pizza oven, which can fit 2 to 3 pizzas at a time and cook faster. So I always check the pizza size and capacity before buying one.

Fuel Type

Fuel type is essential, and you must consider it before buying an outdoor pizza oven.

  • Wood-fired: They are best for authentic, smoky flavor and crispy crusts.
  • Gas-fired: Perfect for those who want quick, hassle-free cooking and easy temperature control.
  • Hybrid/Multi-fuel: A perfect, flexible option for those who want to cook with both gas and wood.

Portability and Storage

When you are going to buy an outdoor pizza oven, you always think about how much space you have in your backyard, right? Will it fit in nicely? If you have a smaller backyard, go for compact, lightweight ovens. These ovens are portable so that you can place them on small patios or balconies, and when you are done cooking, tuck them away.

If you plan to cook multiple pizzas at once for family gatherings or a party, consider larger pizza ovens. But they are not usually portable because they are cumbersome, so you will need a fixed spot in your backyard for them.  

Types of Outdoor Pizza Ovens

When I started making pizzas, I found that every outdoor pizza oven is different. Some of them are easy to use, while some are hard, but they give excellent results. So let’s check out the best outdoor pizza ovens that suit your needs.

Wood-fired pizza ovens

A wood-fired pizza oven is the best option for people who want a traditional and restaurant-like pizza taste. Everyone loves authentic wood-fired flavour, right? For cooking, you will need wood, and sometimes charcoal works best if you add it. It gives the pizzas a smoky flavour and a crispy crust, though it takes a bit of time to heat the oven. The taste you get from it is absolutely worth it.

Gas-fired pizza ovens

Gas-fired pizza ovens are an ideal choice for those looking for a quick, convenient way to cook pizzas outdoors. These gas ovens heat up very quickly —just a few minutes — and controlling the temperature is also relatively easy for me, without any hassle.

Some gas-fired pizza ovens use natural gas, while others run on propane tanks, and these fuels are great for backyard cooking. 

However, you won’t get that smoky flavor, but they can still make delicious pizzas without much effort.

Hybrid/Multi-fuel pizza ovens

Hybrid or multi-fuel pizza ovens run on both fuels and let you switch between wood, charcoal, and gas easily. When I first started cooking pizzas, I didn’t know which outdoor oven fuels I should buy. 

So I decided to go with the multi-fuel pizza ovens, and believe me, it didn’t take me long to learn them.

I started with wood for cooking pizzas because I wanted a smoky flavour, but I literally messed it up the first time I cooked. Either my pizzas were undercooked or burned. Then, slowly, I learned to cook over wood, and it took me a few days to adjust the temperature. 

Meanwhile, I switched to gas for convenient cooking, and I got it, alright, though at last. If you are starting, I recommend going with hybrid pizza ovens. If you get stuck with wood, you can switch to gas for fast, reliable cooking.

Must-Have Accessories for Outdoor Pizza Ovens

I always make sure I have the right accessories with me to get the best cooking results. There are some must-have outdoor pizza oven tools you will need to make your cooking faster and much easier.

  • Pizza Peel (Flat Peel): A flat peel is primarily used to place pizza dough into the oven.
  • Round Turning Peel: After placing the pizza in the oven, you will need a turning peel to rotate the pizza while baking so it cooks evenly.
  • Pizza Oven Brush: An essential tool for cleaning ash and crumbs.
  • Thermometer: You will need a thermometer to check the oven temperature to help you get those crispy crusts.
  • Heat-Resistant Gloves: A good heat-resistant glove is a must-have for protecting yourself from high heat when handling peels and adjusting the oven.
  • Pizza Stone: A pizza stone helps your pizzas cook evenly and gives the crust a nice, crispy texture, just like a restaurant-style pizza.
  • Rotisserie Kit: If I want to cook other than pizzas, like roasting veggies and meats in the oven, I use the Rotisserie Kit.
  • Oven Cover: An Oven cover is necessary for any outdoor pizza oven, as it protects it from the sun, rain, and dust.
  • Pizza Cutter: Used for quickly and neatly slicing pizzas.
  • Infrared Thermometer Gun: An Infrared Thermometer gun helps me measure the exact temperature of the oven floor so that I can get consistent, crispy results.
  • Fireproof Mat or Pad: It protects the surface under the oven from excessive heat damage.
  • Ash Scoop or Shovel: If you own a wood-fired pizza oven, then a shovel is a must. This tool helps you to clean up the ashes, leftover embers, and small wood pieces after cooking.
  • Silicone or Wooden Spatula: A silicone spatula helps you to lift pizza slices or move toppings without scratching your oven. It also makes your cooking easier and keeps the oven safe.
  • Dough Scraper: A dough scraper makes it easy to shape your pizza dough and move it without it sticking.
  • Timer: A timer is also necessary to check how long your pizza has been cooking.

Tips for Cooking a Perfect Pizza with an Outdoor Pizza Oven

Have you ever wondered how to use an outdoor pizza oven? Are you doing it the right way? Learning to use a backyard pizza oven takes patience and practice, but once you get the hang of it, it gets more fun and a bit addictive, too. A simple truth is that a small mistake can ruin your pizza, and all your hard work — like making the pizza dough, preparing the toppings, and heating the oven — will be in vain.

Let me share a few pizza-cooking tips and the best pizza dough recipes so you can make a perfect pizza every time you cook.

Always preheat your oven properly

Properly heating the pizza oven is a very important factor if you want to cook a perfect pizza. I always let my outdoor pizza oven heat up for 20-30 minutes until it’s completely hot. I usually set the temperature to around 800°F (425°C), which lets me cook a Neapolitan or Margherita pizza in just 90 minutes. 

When the oven is fully heated, you will notice that your pizza dough puffs up beautifully and the cheese melts perfectly without burning. 

This heating step is crucial for cooking pizza, but if you skip it, your pizza will remain undercooked, and the bottom will turn soft instead of getting crunchy.
 

Use the best pizza dough recipes

Preparing a good dough is essential if you want to make a perfect pizza. For me, I usually go with simple ingredients, nothing too fancy. 

I use 00 flour, water, yeast, and salt, and I let it rest overnight. If you want extra softness, you can add a bit of olive oil or some honey for a slight sweetness and better browning.

However, if you don’t have time to make pizza dough yourself, you can still get excellent results by getting fresh pizza dough from the local bakery. Well, I always prefer my homemade pizza dough over theirs because of its fresh taste, better texture, and more flavour.

Always go for fresh and simple ingredients

Using fresh ingredients always makes your pizza taste delicious. I always go for fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, a bit of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves for a classic Margherita pizza. I keep the toppings light because I don’t like to overload the pizza, as that might ruin its texture.

Remember to rotate your pizza in time

Rotating the pizza is a must when cooking with wood-fired outdoor ovens. But it mostly depends on the type of oven you are using. If I am cooking pizzas in a wood-fired or charcoal oven, I always rotate them halfway through, as they can develop hot spots that might burn one side while leaving the other undercooked. So I usually turn my pizza every 20-30 seconds with a pizza-turning peel, which helps me get that golden, crispy crust.

If you are cooking thin-crust pizzas like a Margherita, proper rotation is vital because they cook very quickly—just under 2 minutes. But if you are cooking a thicker pan pizza, then you might need to rotate a bit less. For better cooking, I would like to advise you to check your pizzas occasionally to prevent burning.

But sometimes, if you are using a gas or hybrid pizza oven, rotation isn’t necessary. But I still do it because it’s a habit, and it also makes sure the cheese melts and the edges are cooked perfectly.

Experiment with different woods for flavor

Trying out different woods can really change the taste of your pizzas. I have tried different woods in my wood-fired oven, and trust me, the flavours are just mindblowing. Here are the woods I have tried over the years.

  • Oak: This one is my favorite. Oak woods give a nice smoky flavour and work beautifully with a Margherita or Neapolitan style pizza.
  • Apple wood: Apple wood imparts a light, sweet aroma and pairs well with vegetable pizzas or Margherita-style pizzas.
  • Cherry wood: Cherry woods are a bit similar to apple woods, but the intensity and type are a bit different from each other. It produces richer, sweeter, fruity smoke and gives the crust an amazing smell while you cook. I like to use this wood when I am cooking a pepperoni or a prosciutto.
  • Hickory: If you want a deep smoky flavor and a rich taste like in a Barbecue, then Hickory is a way to go. This wood is excellent for meat pizzas like BBQ chicken, pepperoni, or sausage. I avoid using the Hickory for cooking a light pizza like the Margherita, as the smoke can be too intense.
  • Pecan: Sometimes I use pecan wood, too, as it gives me a light, sweet, smoky flavour that smells amazing and adds an extra flavour to the crust. If you want to use pecan, you can try cooking with vegetable pizza or any pizza with mild toppings.

How to keep outdoor pizza ovens clean and safe?

I always prefer to clean my outdoor pizza oven after each use so it stays in the best condition. If you do this, your pizza oven will last much longer, and you will get an amazing taste of your pizzas whenever you cook. Here are some of the things I always do.    

  • Clean the ashes and grease after each use—I always remove the leftover ashes from the oven with my metal ash shovel. If there are a few ashes left in my oven, I use my brush to clear them completely. As for the grease, I usually use a damp cloth or, sometimes, a sponge to wipe it up once the oven cools down.
  • Always use heat-resistant gloves and place the oven safely – Always remember to wear gloves when handling the hot parts of the pizza oven while cooking. Placing the pizza oven in the right place is essential, so make sure it sits on a steady, flat surface with a clear area around it. If the pizza oven gets tilted, it could tip over and cause accidents. After all, outdoor pizza oven safety is all that matters.
  • Cover your outdoor pizza oven to prevent rust and dirt – When you are not using it, always cover it with the oven cover. It protects against harsh weather conditions and will remain in top shape.

So yes, these are the simple steps that make cleaning your pizza oven very easy and safe for outdoor use. With proper care, you can keep your oven working for years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What is the best outdoor pizza oven for beginners?

A compact gas or hybrid oven is the best choice for beginners, as they are easy to use, heat up quickly and steadily, and are great for cooking delicious pizzas.

Can you use a pizza oven on a patio or balcony?

Yes, small portable ovens can be used safely on patios or balconies. But make sure that you have enough space and proper ventilation.

How long does it take to cook a pizza in an outdoor wood-fired pizza oven?

In a hot wood-fired oven, pizzas usually cook in just 1–3 minutes. Rotating the pizza also helps it cook evenly, resulting in a crispy crust.

Which is better: gas or wood-fired pizza oven?

Gas ovens are easier to control and more consistent, while wood-fired ovens give a smoky, authentic flavor. Beginners often prefer gas or hybrid ovens over wood-fired ovens.