3 Best Outdoor Pizza Ovens: Top Picks for Perfect Backyard Cooking

 

Choosing the best outdoor pizza oven wasn’t just another shopping decision for me — it became a mission. I’ve tested a lot of these ovens, some that blew me away with their performance and others that made me wonder why they even exist. What I’ve learned along the way is to find the oven that actually delivers the experience it promises.

When I started, I wasn’t sure if an outdoor pizza oven really gave that authentic, wood-fired taste without costing a fortune. But after trying dozens of models, I found out it’s absolutely possible — if you know what to look for. 

If you’re planning backyard pizza nights, upgrading your outdoor setup, or just want to make the best pizza at home, stick around. I’ve done the work to figure out the three best outdoor pizza ovens. 

So, let’s begin! 

What to Look for in the Best Outdoor Pizza Oven for Home

When choosing the right outdoor pizza oven, here are a few things to look for. 

Heat Retention and Temperature Control

One of the most important features of a pizza oven is how well it retains and controls heat. A good pizza oven should heat up quickly and stay hot throughout the cooking process. 

Look for models with multiple layers of insulation, like the Empava Outdoor Pizza Oven, which has thicker insulation for better heat retention. This helps ensure even cooking and avoids undercooked or overcooked spots on your pizza.

A pizza oven that can reach at least 800°F is ideal for achieving the crispy crust and bubbly toppings that define great pizza. For authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, you’ll want an oven that can go even higher — up to 900°F or more.

Cooking Speed

If you’ve ever had to wait too long for your food while hosting guests, you know how important speed is. Best pizza oven outdoor cook pizzas in 60 to 90 seconds when they’re properly preheated. 

Fast cooking times not only save you time but also ensure that the crust stays light and airy, and the toppings don’t dry out. Ovens with a flame and good heat distribution make it easier to achieve these quick results.

Build Quality and Durability

Outdoor pizza ovens are exposed to heat and weather, so durability is key. Stainless steel is one of the best materials for outdoor ovens because it resists rust and can handle high temperatures without warping. 

Durability also extends to the oven's components, like the cooking stone and burners. Look for high-quality stones that retain heat well and burners that provide consistent flames. These features will make your cooking experience smoother and your oven more reliable.

Ease of Use

Look for features that simplify the cooking process, like adjustable flames, easy-to-read temperature gauges, and wide oven openings for easy pizza placement. Ovens that come with accessories like pizza peels, scrapers, and brushes can save you from buying them separately.

Preheat times are also worth considering. The faster the oven heats up, the sooner you can start cooking. Most high-quality ovens preheat in about 20-30 minutes.

Price and Value

Pizza ovens come in a range of prices — from budget-friendly models to premium designs. The key is to find one that offers great value for its price. Entry-level ovens are a good starting point if you’re new to pizza making, but if you’re serious about quality, spend a bit more on a well-built model with better features.

3 Top Rated Outdoor Pizza Ovens

Let’s explore the top options. 

1. Best Overall: Empava Outdoor Wood Fired Pizza Oven EMPV-PG06
2. Best Budget Option: Solo Stove Pi Prime Pizza Oven
3. Best Portable: Gozney Roccbox

1. Best Overall: Empava Outdoor Wood Fired Pizza Oven EMPV-PG06

Image Source: Empava

Rating: 4.8/5

Price: $1,659.00 (Save 7% from $1,776.00)

Weight: 136.69 lbs (62kg)

Max pizza size: Three 7″ pizzas simultaneously

Max heat: 800°F

Preheat time: 20-30 minutes

Pizza cook time: 90 seconds

Warranty: 2 years standard (4 years for website subscribers)

The Empava EMPV-PG06 is the best rated outdoor pizza oven and a true workhorse for anyone passionate about outdoor cooking. Designed with Italian inspiration, this oven offers versatile functionality that goes beyond just pizza. With its three-layer insulation, it retains heat exceptionally well, which ensures consistent cooking performance. 

Add in the authentic wood-fired flavor, and you’ve got an oven that brings a slice of Italy right to your backyard. This oven is perfect for those who want the rich, smoky taste of wood-fired cooking paired with the flexibility to grill, bake, or even smoke various dishes. 

The large cooking area allows you to cook up to three pizzas at once — ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just when you’re craving a pizza night at home.

What makes this oven even more appealing is the thoughtful inclusion of accessories. With a pizza scraper, cutter, shovel, brush, and more in the box, you’re fully equipped to start cooking the moment it arrives. Plus, its durable stainless steel construction ensures long-term performance, standing up to the demands of frequent use and high temperatures. 

2. Best Budget Option: Solo Stove Pi Prime Pizza Oven

Image Source: Solo Stove

Rating: 4.9/5

Price: $329.99

Weight: 30 lbs (13.6 kg)

Max pizza size: 12 inches

Max heat: 900°F (482°C)

Preheat time: 15-20 minutes

Pizza cook time: 90 seconds

Warranty: Lifetime warranty on manufacturer defects

The Solo Stove Pi Prime is designed for simplicity and performance. Its compact size makes it easy to transport and store, while still delivering high temperatures for authentic pizza results. The wide opening allows for easy maneuvering of pizzas, and the responsive gas dial provides precise flame control. 

It heats up quickly, letting you cook pizzas in just 90 seconds, and its durable construction ensures it stands up to frequent use. The oven's built-in thermometer allows you to monitor cooking temperatures with ease, while its energy-efficient design ensures consistent performance. 

3. Best Portable: Gozney Roccbox

Image Source: Gozney 

Rating: 4.8/5

Price: $499.00 (Discounts available during sales)

Weight: 44 lbs (20 kg)

Max pizza size: 12 inches

Max heat: 950°F

Preheat time: 20-30 minutes

Pizza cook time: 60 seconds

Warranty: 5 years (with product registration)

The Roccbox is built for portability without compromising on functionality. Its foldable legs, compact size, and included carrying strap make it easy to transport and set up anywhere. Despite its small size, the Roccbox delivers high heat quickly and maintains it consistently, allowing you to cook perfect pizzas in just 60 seconds.

The oven features a SafeTouch silicone exterior, which keeps the outside cool to the touch, ensuring safety during use. Its dual-fuel capability allows you to switch between gas and wood, which gives you flexibility in flavor and cooking style. The durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the wide-mouth design makes pizza handling and rotation effortless. 

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it — 3 best pizza ovens outdoors that can change the way you cook and entertain. Whether it’s the versatility of the Empava Outdoor Wood Fired Pizza Oven, the portability of the Gozney Roccbox, or the budget-friendly performance of the Solo Stove Pi Prime, these ovens all bring something special to the table.

I’ve tested these ovens myself, and let me tell you — they’re worth every penny. From quick weeknight pizzas to hosting friends on the weekend, these ovens make the whole process fun, easy, and downright delicious.

Now it’s your turn. Pick the one that feels right for you, fire it up, and get ready to make some of the best pizza you’ve ever tasted. Trust me, once you start, you’ll wonder how you ever went without one.