🍕 Introduction – A Legend in a Compact Body
When Ooni launched the Karu 12, pizza-makers around the world fell in love with the idea of a true multi-fuel portable oven. Light enough for balconies, powerful enough for authentic Neapolitan crusts, it quickly became one of the brand’s most-talked-about models.
But with newer versions and fierce competition, does the Karu 12 still deserve its reputation in 2025? Let’s test its design, performance, and real-world results.
⚙️ Key Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fuel Types | Wood, charcoal (+ optional gas burner) |
| Max Temperature | 950 °F / 500 °C |
| Preheat Time | 15 – 20 minutes |
| Cooking Area | 13 in cordierite stone |
| Weight | 12 kg (26 lb) |
| Material | Powder-coated carbon steel + stainless steel chimney |
🧱 Design & Build Quality
The Karu 12 is pure Ooni DNA – matte silver, compact, and cleverly engineered. Fold-out legs keep it stable on any surface, while the detachable chimney makes it easy to transport. The overall build feels solid yet portable, a sweet spot between power and packability.
Pros: durable shell, quick-release chimney, tidy fuel tray.
Cons: limited cooking space for > 13 inch pizzas.
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Portable Pizza Oven
Cook delicious wood-fired pizza in your backyard or take it on the go with this versatile and easy-to-use oven
Product information
£730.09 £270.08
Product Review Score
4.41 out of 5 stars
53 reviewsProduct links
🔥 Fuel Flexibility
This is where the Karu shines. Out of the box, it runs on wood or charcoal for smoky authenticity. Add the optional gas burner and you’ve got a three-way beast:
-
Wood: classic flavour, rustic charring.
-
Charcoal: steady heat and less smoke.
-
Gas: push-button convenience for weeknights.
Switching fuels is easy – just slide in the attachment and you’re ready to cook.
🍽️ Performance & Cooking Results
After a 20-minute preheat, the stone hits 900 °F and stays there.
-
Neapolitan Pizza: Cooks in 60 seconds flat with perfect leopard spots.
-
New York Style: Drop the heat slightly for chewier crust.
-
Flatbreads & Veggies: Great char without burning.
Compared with the Ooni Koda 12 (gas only), the Karu 12 gives more flavour depth and versatility, though you’ll spend extra time tending the flame.
🧠 Ease of Use
For a multi-fuel oven, the learning curve is gentle:
-
Use small, dry hardwood chunks for best results.
-
Allow 20 minutes for consistent heat.
-
Rotate pizza every 20–30 seconds.
Ooni’s design details make life simple – large front opening, quick stone access, and folding legs that pack flat.
🧰 Cleaning & Maintenance
-
Burn off residue for 5 minutes post-cook.
-
Brush the stone when cool.
-
Wipe the outer shell with a damp cloth.
No complex disassembly or ash trays to fuss over – a few minutes and you’re done.
💸 Value for Money
At around £299 / $299, the Karu 12 sits in the sweet spot between budget and pro.
The optional gas burner adds roughly £79 / $99, but you essentially get two ovens in one.
Compared to the Roccbox or Koda 16, it’s cheaper, lighter, and more flexible.
⚖️ Karu 12 vs Competitors
| Model | Fuel | Temp | Weight | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ooni Koda 12 | Gas | 932 °F | 9 kg | £399 | Simpler, less versatile |
| Ooni Fyra 12 | Pellet | 950 °F | 10 kg | £299 | Smokier, less control |
| Gozney Roccbox | Gas/Wood | 950 °F | 20 kg | £499 | Heavier, premium feel |
| Karu 12 | Multi Fuel | 950 °F | 12 kg | £299 | Balanced all-rounder |
❓ FAQs
Q: Is the gas burner worth it?
Yes if you want speed and control for weeknights. Wood still wins on flavour.
Q: Can I use pellets?
No – it’s designed for chunks or charcoal, not pellets.
Q: Is it safe for balconies?
Yes, with propane and good ventilation.
🍕 Final Verdict
The Ooni Karu 12 remains a star. It’s light, powerful, and endlessly flexible. Perfect for anyone who wants real wood-fired flavour with modern convenience.
If you’re new to pizza ovens and want to experiment with fuel types, this is your gateway to pizza heaven — still absolutely worth the hype in 2025.
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Portable Pizza Oven
Cook delicious wood-fired pizza in your backyard or take it on the go with this versatile and easy-to-use oven
Product information
£730.09 £270.08
Product Review Score
4.41 out of 5 stars
53 reviews