BIG HORN or Chefman? Outdoor Pizza Ovens Compared in 2026
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The BIG HORN vs chefman outdoor pizza oven comparison highlights two very different appliances. Both handle 12-inch pizzas, but their capabilities diverge sharply. The BIG HORN is a multi-fuel outdoor oven designed for high-heat cooking with wood pellets, gas, or electric burners. The Chefman is a compact countertop electric maker. You need to decide if you want authentic outdoor results or versatile indoor convenience. This guide breaks down the specs to help you choose the right tool for your kitchen space and cooking style.
Key differences
| Aspect | BIG HORN 12-Inch Pellet Outdoor Pizza Oven | Chefman 12-Inch 1440W Pizza Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Wood Pellet, Gas, Electric | Electric |
| Placement | Outdoor | Countertop |
| Maximum Temperature | 1110°F | 428°F |
| Preheat Time | 18–20 min | 3 minutes |
| Weight | 24.9 pounds | 6 pounds |
| Form Factor | Portable Stand | Countertop Appliance |
Which one should you choose?
Choose BIG HORN 12-Inch Pellet Outdoor Pizza Oven if
- You want authentic wood-fired flavor and high-heat searing for Neapolitan-style pizzas.
- You have outdoor space and need a multi-fuel oven for steaks, burgers, and vegetables.
- You prefer a durable stainless steel build that withstands rain and all-weather use.
Choose Chefman 12-Inch 1440W Pizza Maker if
- You need a quick, versatile appliance for indoor use on a countertop.
- You want to make pizza, omelettes, pancakes, and quesadillas with one device.
- You value fast preheating and easy cleanup with nonstick ceramic plates.
Verdict: The BIG HORN is the clear choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want high temperatures and multi-fuel flexibility. The Chefman is better suited for indoor cooks who prioritize speed, versatility, and compact storage. Your decision depends entirely on where you plan to cook and what types of food you want to prepare.
BIG HORN vs Chefman Oven Comparison
Fuel flexibility
The BIG HORN offers three fuel options, including wood pellets for authentic flavor, plus compatible gas and electric burner attachments. This multi-fuel design lets you switch sources easily. The Chefman relies solely on 1440W electric power. It plugs into a standard outlet, making it simple but limited to indoor or covered outdoor use. If you want the smoky taste of wood or the convenience of gas, the BIG HORN provides more versatility. The Chefman is strictly electric.
Maximum temperature
Temperature matters for crust quality. The BIG HORN reaches 1110°F when using pellets. This high heat cooks a pizza in 60–90 seconds, mimicking professional wood-fired ovens. The Chefman tops out at 428°F. It takes three minutes to preheat. While this is fast for an electric unit, it cannot replicate the intense heat needed for authentic Neapolitan-style crusts. The BIG HORN delivers significantly higher heat for faster, crispier results.
Portability and weight
Weight affects how you move these ovens. The BIG HORN weighs 25 pounds. It features folding legs and comes apart without tools, making it easy to store or transport to outdoor events. The Chefman is much lighter at 6 pounds. It stands upright to save counter space and has integrated cord storage. The Chefman is easier to move indoors or store in a small kitchen. The BIG HORN is portable but heavier.
Cooking surface material
The cooking surface impacts cleanup and food release. The BIG HORN uses a square stone measuring 12 inches by 12 inches. Stone retains heat well but requires seasoning. The Chefman uses ceramic nonstick plates on the top and bottom. These plates allow for easy removal of food and simple wiping with a damp cloth. The nonstick surface is better for quick cleanup. The stone provides better heat retention for pizza.
Placement suitability
Where you place the oven changes its utility. The BIG HORN is designed for outdoor use. It is sturdy and safe for outdoor cooking events, rain or shine. The Chefman is a countertop appliance. It is UL approved for indoor use. It can make omelets, pancakes, and quesadillas, not just pizza. If you need an indoor kitchen tool, the Chefman fits. If you want an outdoor centerpiece, the BIG HORN is the choice.
Which pizza oven fits your needs best?
You want outdoor wood-fired flavor
The BIG HORN reaches 1110°F using wood pellets, delivering authentic smoky taste and crisp Neapolitan-style crusts in 60 to 90 seconds. Its stainless steel build and 12-inch square stone handle high heat effectively. You can also switch to gas or electric burners for flexibility, making it a versatile outdoor cooking solution.
You need quick indoor convenience
The Chefman heats up in just 3 minutes, reaching 428°F for fast countertop cooking. It weighs only 6 pounds and features ceramic nonstick plates for easy cleanup. This electric unit doubles as a griddle and sandwich maker, offering versatile meal options without the complexity of fuel management or outdoor setup.
You prioritize portability and storage
Weighing 6 pounds and measuring 4 inches tall, the Chefman is extremely compact. It stands upright to save space and includes cord storage. In contrast, the BIG HORN weighs nearly 25 pounds and measures 28 inches high. The Chefman’s lightweight design makes it ideal for small kitchens or easy transport.
You seek multi-fuel outdoor versatility
The BIG HORN supports wood pellets, gas, and electric burners, allowing you to choose your heat source. It reaches 1110°F for searing steaks and cooking various foods. The Chefman is limited to electric power and lower temperatures. If you need diverse fuel options for outdoor entertaining, the BIG HORN is the better choice.
The products compared
BIG HORN 12-Inch Pellet Outdoor Pizza Oven
Best for: quick backyard cooking of small pizzas
- Fuel Type
- Wood Pellet, Gas & Electric
- Maximum Pizza Size
- 12"
- Maximum Temperature
- 1110°F
- Cook Time
- 60–90 seconds
- Preheat Time
- 18–20 minutes
- Placement
- Outdoor
View on Amazon: BIG HORN 12-Inch Pellet Outdoor Pizza Oven Affiliate link
The BIG HORN 12" Outdoor Pizza Oven reaches 1110°F in 18–20 minutes. It cooks 12-inch pizzas in 60–90 seconds. You can use wood pellets, gas, or electric heat. The stainless steel body weighs 24.9 pounds. Folding legs make it portable. This oven suits you if you want fast cooking and versatile fuel options for backyard use.
Pros
- Reaches 1110°F maximum temperature
- Cooks pizzas in 60–90 seconds
- Uses wood pellets, gas, or electric fuel
- Weighs 24.9 pounds with folding legs
Cons
- Gas and electric burners are sold separately
- Limited to 12-inch pizza capacity
- Pellet mode requires airtight storage to prevent moisture absorption
Good fit if
- You want to cook Neapolitan-style pizzas quickly
- You need a lightweight oven for outdoor events
- You prefer the flavor of wood pellets
Skip if
- You plan to cook pizzas larger than 12 inches
- You want gas or electric heating included in the box
- You need an oven for permanent indoor installation
Verdict: BIG HORN 12" Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven delivers fast, high-heat cooking for small pizzas. It fits your needs if you value portability and authentic wood-fired results.
Chefman 12-Inch 1440W Pizza Maker
Best for: indoor apartment cooking and small families
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Maximum Pizza Size
- 12"
- Maximum Temperature
- 428°F
- Preheat Time
- 3 minutes
- Heat Output
- 1440W
- Form Factor
- Countertop
View on Amazon: Chefman 12-Inch 1440W Pizza Maker Affiliate link
The Chefman Everything Maker is a 1440W countertop electric appliance designed for indoor use. It features dual nonstick cooking plates that reach 428°F, suitable for 12-inch pizzas. The unit preheats in 3 minutes and includes interchangeable plates for griddling or sandwich making. Its compact 13x15x4 inch footprint and 6-pound weight make it portable. It is best for small kitchens where outdoor gear is not an option.
Pros
- 1440W heating element reaches 428°F maximum temperature
- 12-inch cooking surface accommodates standard pizza sizes
- Preheats in 3 minutes with LED indicator lights
- Interchangeable plates for omelettes, pancakes, and sandwiches
Cons
- Maximum temperature of 428°F is far below outdoor oven standards
- Electric cord limits placement to indoor outlets only
- Smaller capacity compared to 12-inch outdoor wood pellet ovens
Good fit if
- You live in an apartment with no outdoor space
- You want a single appliance for pizza and breakfast items
- You need a compact unit that stores vertically
Skip if
- You require high-heat wood-fired pizza crusts
- You cook for large groups regularly
- You prefer outdoor cooking with gas or pellets
Verdict: Chefman 12" Countertop Pizza Maker is a versatile indoor tool for small households, but it cannot replicate the high heat of outdoor ovens like the BIG HORN.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BIG HORN 12-Inch Pellet Outdoor Pizza Oven | Chefman 12-Inch 1440W Pizza Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Wood Pellet, Gas & Electric | Electric |
| Maximum Pizza Size | 12" | 12" |
| Maximum Temperature | 1110°F | 428°F |
| Cook Time | 60–90 seconds | not stated |
| Preheat Time | 18–20 minutes | 3 minutes |
| Heat Output | not stated | 1440W |
| Placement | Outdoor | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | Countertop |
| Pizza Size | 12 Inch | not stated |
| Compatible Appliance | Pizza Oven | Pizza Oven |
| Dimensions | 21 × 14 × 24 inches | 15 × 13 × 4 inches |
| Weight | 24.9 pounds | 6 pounds |
| Size | 12-inch pizzas | 13" x 15" x 4" |
| Color | Silver | Concrete |
| Model | SRPG18003 | RJ58-EM-CONCRETE |
Frequently asked questions
Can the BIG HORN oven be used indoors?
No. The BIG HORN is designed strictly for outdoor placement. Its multi-fuel construction, which includes wood pellet and gas options, produces smoke and requires ventilation. Using it inside poses safety risks and violates typical building codes. You must keep it outside on a stable surface.
Does the Chefman pizza maker fit on a standard counter?
Yes. The Chefman measures 13 inches wide by 15 inches long and stands 4 inches high. Its low profile and lightweight design, weighing only 6 pounds, allow it to sit securely on most kitchen countertops. It is built for indoor use and does not require outdoor space.
How heavy is the BIG HORN outdoor pizza oven?
The BIG HORN weighs 24.9 pounds. This weight makes it portable enough to move around your patio or yard, yet stable enough for outdoor cooking. Its dimensions are 14 inches wide by 21 inches long by 24 inches high, fitting comfortably in most outdoor areas.
What size pizzas do both ovens handle?
Both appliances are rated for 12-inch pizzas. The BIG HORN uses a 12-inch square stone to accommodate this size. The Chefman also targets 12-inch pies, though its internal dimensions are listed as 13 by 15 inches. You can cook standard personal-sized pizzas on either device.
Is the Chefman suitable for outdoor cooking?
No. The Chefman is a countertop appliance intended for indoor environments. It lacks the weather-resistant build and high-heat capabilities of outdoor ovens. The BIG HORN, by contrast, is built for outdoor use with multi-fuel options. Using the Chefman outside may void its design intent.
What fuel sources work with the BIG HORN oven?
The BIG HORN supports electric, gas, and wood pellet fuels. This multi-fuel flexibility allows you to choose between convenience and authentic smoky flavor. You can attach compatible gas or electric burners or use wood pellets directly. The Chefman, however, relies solely on electric power.
Does the Chefman oven have a stone cooking surface?
The data does not specify a stone surface for the Chefman. It is described as a countertop pizza maker with electric heating. The BIG HORN explicitly uses a 12-inch square stone. You should assume the Chefman uses a different heating element or tray material.