Just shy of 4 years ago I was in your shoes. I was in the market for a ceramic kamado. Long story short, like you, I began asking around. I asked and asked and asked. Asked anyone that could provide real world data/opinions. Next, I was able to swing by a couple of local dealers and see the big 3 (BGE, Primo and Kamado Joe). Personally, I was torn between Primo and KJ. There were things in each that I really liked. Hmmm, what to do. Next I decided to compile a list of questions and call each of the big 3 and bounce my questions off of the company rep that answered the phone. All I can say is that my phone conversation with Kamado Joe hands down sealed the deal. It instantly became a no- brainer for me. Their customer service is other worldly. Since becoming a customer, I have been very pleased with their innovation. Their Divide and Conquer cooking system is awesome. They released the JOEtisserie last year, and will be releasing the BigJOE version soon. And they continue to come out with accessories that no one else offers. And to top that, they are the only company that ships warranty replacement parts directly to your door absolutely free.
Please don't take my excitement to mean that KJ is the best kamado...it was/is simply the best for me. They are all good, and the cool thing is...you really cannot make a bad decision. Keep us posted