Ooni Fyra 12 Review – Our review of Ooni’s Wood Pellet Pizza Oven

Introduction

Welcome to our Ooni Fyra 12 review. If you’re just dipping your toes into the exciting world of outdoor pizza ovens, or maybe you’re a seasoned cook planning to hit the road with a portable pizza maker, you’re in the right place. We’re going to talk about the Ooni Fyra 12, one of the most affordable and portable pizza ovens offered by the respected Scotland-based company, Ooni.

Retailing at a budget-friendly price of $349, the Ooni Fyra 12 is the least expensive model from the Ooni range, making it a fantastic entry point for those of you new to the art of pizza making. Don’t be fooled by the low price tag, though. This oven packs a punch with some impressive features.

It’s not just affordability that makes the Fyra 12 a standout. Its portability is another compelling selling point. Weighing in at just 22 pounds, this lightweight model is a breeze to transport. Whether you’re hosting a backyard pizza party or planning a camping trip, the Ooni Fyra 12 is ready to tag along.

The Ooni Fyra 12 uses dry hardwood pellets as fuel. These are not only easy to transport but also widely available, so you won’t have any trouble keeping your oven fired up.

With a preheat time of around 15 minutes, the Fyra 12 gets up to the ideal pizza-making temperatures (900 to 950 degrees Fahrenheit) in no time. But, remember, maintaining this heat can be a bit tricky due to the nature of the pellet fuel. We’ll talk more about this in our detailed features section.

That’s just a snapshot of the Ooni Fyra 12. Stick around, and we’ll dive deeper into its characteristics, benefits, and even the potential downsides in this comprehensive review.

Specification

Before we go into more detail below is the top-level specification of Ooni Fyra:

• Dimensions: 74 x 39 x 72cm (29.1 x 15.4 x 28.5″)
• Weight: 10kg (22lbs)
• Cooking surface: 12″
• Fuel: Wood pellets
• Price: $349

What comes in the box?

• Oven body with three folding legs
• Oven door
• Cordierite pizza stone
• Detachable chimney
• Chimney cover/pellet scoop
• Fuel hopper
• Fuel tray
• Flame keeper

Design and Build

Let’s zoom in on the Ooni Fyra 12’s design, which is undoubtedly one of its most impressive features. As someone who has worked with a multitude of pizza ovens, I can vouch for how a thoughtful design can elevate your pizza-making experience, and the Fyra 12 delivers on this front.

Crafted to be ultra-portable, the Fyra 12 is a marvel of convenience. Weighing in at just 22 pounds, this oven is light enough to move around with ease. Whether you’re rearranging your backyard setup or planning to pack it for your next camping trip, this oven’s compact size and light weight make it a dream to handle.

Built for both functionality and durability, the Fyra 12 sports a sleek metal casing that is not only sturdy but also adds a touch of modern style to your outdoor cooking setup.

But where the Fyra 12 really shines is in its thoughtful portable design. It comes with foldable legs and an inside-fitting chimney. These features make it incredibly compact when packed down. It’s as easy as folding the legs, removing the chimney, and voila, your Fyra 12 is ready to go wherever you go.

Do bear in mind, though, the Fyra 12’s compact size also means a smaller peephole and firebox. While this doesn’t compromise on the quality of your pizzas, it does require a bit more attention during the cooking process.

In our detailed exploration of this Ooni Fyra 12 review I’ll make sure to cover all the details, helping you make an informed decision. So, stay with me as we dive deeper into its other features.

Affordability

The Ooni Fyra 12 makes a compelling case for itself when we consider its price. At $349, it is the least expensive model in the Ooni line-up, making it an enticing option for those just entering the world of homemade pizzas or for those who crave delicious, oven-baked pizza while adventuring outdoors.

From my extensive experience with pizza ovens, I can tell you that this price point is highly competitive, especially considering the quality and features that the Fyra 12 offers. It stands up well compared to other portable pizza ovens in the market, which can often run several hundreds of dollars more.

Now, when we talk about affordability, we must also factor in ongoing costs. In the case of the Fyra 12, that’s primarily the cost of the hardwood pellets it uses for fuel. The price of these can vary, but they’re generally not a significant expense and are widely available. However, it’s an important aspect to keep in mind when budgeting for your new pizza oven.

Rest assured, as we progress through this Ooni Fyra 12 review I’ll continue to provide you with the nitty-gritty of this fascinating pizza oven, so you can make a fully informed choice. Up next, we’ll explore the Fyra 12’s fuel requirements and heat performance.

Fuel and Heat Performance

We’ve talked about the design and cost of the Ooni Fyra 12. Now, let’s dive into the heart of the matter – the fuel and heat performance. As a seasoned pizza chef, I know that the type of fuel an oven uses and how it handles heat are crucial to the quality of your pizzas.

The Fyra 12 uses dry hardwood pellets as fuel. This is a key characteristic that sets it apart from other models in the Ooni pizza oven range, and indeed, from many other pizza ovens in the market. These pellets lend a distinctive wood-fired flavor to your pizzas, something that, in my opinion, truly elevates them.

Not only do these pellets add to the flavor, but they also contribute to the oven’s portability. They’re lightweight, easy to store and transport, and are widely available. So, whether you’re setting up in your backyard or at a campsite, fueling your Fyra 12 should be a breeze.

Now, let’s talk about heat. The Fyra 12 gets up to the ideal pizza-cooking temperatures – that’s 900 to 950 degrees Fahrenheit – in around 15 minutes of preheating. Impressive, right? This means you can go from setting up the oven to sliding in your first pizza in a very short time.

However, maintaining this high heat can be a bit of a challenge due to the nature of pellet fuel. It requires a constant feed of pellets to keep the fire burning hot. There’s a bit of a learning curve here, but once you get the hang of it, it’s part of the fun of using this oven.

If you’re still unsure what’s best oven for you take a look at the Ooni gas vs wood guide.

As we continue to navigate this Ooni Fyra 12 review I’ll share more insider tips and insights, so stick around as we delve into more features and practical aspects of this fascinating pizza oven.

Assembly

Assembly of the Ooni Fyra is incredibly easy and is ready for lighting in just a few simple steps:

1. Unfold each of the three legs
2. Place grate into fuel tray
3. Place the pizza stone into the oven base
4. Insert flame keeper into the roof of the oven
5. Lock two part chimney together and screw into the top of the unit
6. Screw hopper into the rear of the oven
7. Place oven front door when required

When the oven needs to be disassembled simply reverse the steps above and pack away.

How to light the Ooni Fyra

When the oven is correctly assembled light the Fyra following these instructions:

1. Make sure the chimney cap is removed and the chimney vent is open to allow for air distribution
2. Fill the fuel tray with two scoops of hardwood pellets
3. Place fire starter on top, light, and slide back into oven
4. Make sure the door is closed and wait for around 5 minutes until all pellets are alight
5. Gradually fill up the fuel hopper little and often until it is filled up to the top
6. Once full the oven should burn for a full 15 minutes.
7. The oven is ready for cooking once it reaches 850F
8. For a longer cooking time continue to gradually add more pellets to the hopper to regulate the temperature of the oven.

Pros and Cons of the Ooni Fyra 12

As we delve deeper into our “Ooni Fyra 12 review”, it’s time to consider both the good and not-so-good aspects of this pizza oven. In my experience, understanding these factors can make all the difference in selecting an oven that perfectly suits your needs.

Pros of the Ooni Fyra 12

Let’s start with the bright side, the aspects that make the Fyra 12 a fantastic choice for many pizza enthusiasts.

1. Portable and Convenient: As I’ve mentioned earlier, one of the major strengths of the Fyra 12 is its portability. Whether you’re moving it around your backyard or taking it camping, its lightweight and foldable design make it extremely convenient to handle.
2. Affordability: The Fyra 12 is the most affordable model in the Ooni range, which is a significant advantage for those on a budget or just starting their homemade pizza journey.
3. Quick Heating: This oven gets up to ideal pizza-making temperatures remarkably fast, around 15 minutes.
4. Wood-Fired Flavor: The hardwood pellets not only offer a practical fuel solution but also contribute to that delicious, authentic wood-fired flavor.
5. Fun to Use: Despite some of its quirks, the Fyra 12 brings an element of fun to the pizza-making process, creating a truly interactive cooking experience.

Cons of the Ooni Fyra 12

Of course, like any product, the Fyra 12 has its challenges. It’s important to be aware of these before making a purchase decision.

1. Temperature Control: While the oven can achieve high temperatures, maintaining them can be difficult due to the need for a consistent feed of pellets.
2. Cleanup: The Fyra 12 requires a fair amount of cleanup because of soot buildup from the wood pellets.
3. Small Peephole and Fire Box: These can make it hard to see your pizza and feed the fire without removing the pizza.
4. Not Suited for Large Groups: Due to its size and the time it takes to cook each pizza, the Fyra 12 might not be the best option for large gatherings.
5. Fuel Costs: While the oven itself is affordable, keep in mind the additional cost of the hardwood pellets.

By weighing these pros and cons, you can make an informed choice about whether the Ooni Fyra 12 is the right pizza oven for you. And if you’re still not sure, don’t worry. I’ll be sharing more details about this oven in the upcoming sections of our review.

Cooking a Perfect Pizza with the Fyra 12

So, you’ve set up your Fyra 12, loaded it with pellets, and it’s blazing hot. Now comes the exciting part – making your first pizza! As an experienced pizza chef, I’ve gone through this process countless times, and let me assure you, nothing beats the satisfaction of watching a perfect pie emerge from your own oven.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook a fantastic pizza with the Fyra 12:

1. Prepare Your Pizza: First things first, prep your pizza dough and add your favorite pizza toppings. Keep it on a pizza peel dusted with a little flour or semolina to prevent sticking.
2. Preheat the Oven: Fire up the Fyra 12 and let it preheat for about 15 minutes until it reaches optimal pizza cooking temperatures of 900 to 950 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Feed the Oven: Ensure that the pellet hopper is consistently replenished. This is crucial to maintaining the fire and the high temperatures required for pizza cooking.
4. Cook Your Pizza: Now, gently slide your pizza onto the stone baking board. Here’s a pro tip: keep the pizza rotating for an even cook. Using a pizza peel, turn the pizza every 30 seconds or so.
5. Keep an Eye on Your Pizza: The Fyra 12 can cook a 12-inch pizza under optimal conditions in around 1 to 2 minutes. Yes, it’s that quick! So, you’ll want to keep a close eye on your pizza to avoid any overcooking.
6. Remove and Enjoy: Once your pizza has a lovely, crispy crust and the cheese is bubbling, use your peel to remove it from the oven. Give it a minute to cool down, then slice and enjoy!

Like any cooking process, you may face some challenges. For instance, getting a consistent temperature with the pellet feed can be tricky. However, once you get the hang of feeding the pellets at regular intervals, it becomes second nature. And remember, each challenge is just another opportunity to perfect your pizza-making skills.

This wraps up our cooking guide in the Ooni Fyra 12 review. Keep reading as I explore more features and details about this versatile pizza oven.

Comparing the Ooni Fyra 12 with Other Ooni Models

As we continue our Ooni Fyra 12 review it’s important to see how this model stands against others in the Ooni range. Ooni is known for its diverse offering of outdoor pizza ovens, each with its own set of unique features. So, let’s see how the Fyra 12 stacks up against a couple of other popular models, the Koda 12 and Karu 16.

Ooni Fyra 12 vs Ooni Koda 12

Starting with the Ooni Koda 12, it’s an excellent choice for those who prefer the ease of gas fuel. Unlike the Fyra 12, which uses wood pellets, the Koda 12 is powered by propane, providing a consistent heat source.

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Price: The Koda 12 is a bit pricier than the Fyra 12, but for those who prefer the convenience of gas, it may be worth the extra investment.
• Size and Portability: Both models are compact and designed for portability, but the Koda 12 has a slightly sleeker design.
• Fuel: While the Fyra 12 offers that authentic wood-fired flavor, the Koda 12 provides easier temperature control due to its gas fuel.
• Cooking Capacity: Both are designed to cook 12-inch pizzas perfectly.

Ooni Fyra 12 vs Ooni Karu 16

Next, let’s look at the Ooni Karu 16, which offers the versatility of using both wood or charcoal, and with an additional gas burner attachment, even gas.

Here’s how they compare:

• Price: The Karu 16 is a more premium model and comes with a higher price tag.
• Size and Portability: While the Fyra 12 is more compact, the Karu 16 offers more cooking space, accommodating a larger 16-inch pizza.
• Fuel: The Karu 16’s multi-fuel options provide versatility, but with the same authenticity of a wood-fired pizza as the Fyra 12.
• Cooking Capacity: The Karu 16 can cater to larger gatherings with its 16-inch pizza capacity.

Here’s a brief comparison table for a quick glance:

Features	Ooni Fyra 12	Ooni Koda 12	Ooni Karu 16
Price	$349	Slightly higher	Premium
Size	Compact	Compact, sleek design	Larger
Fuel	Wood Pellets	Propane Gas	Wood, Charcoal, Gas (with attachment)
Cooking Capacity	12-inch pizza	12-inch pizza	16-inch pizza

In conclusion, while each Ooni model has its distinct characteristics, the choice between them boils down to your specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s the pellet-fueled Fyra 12, gas-powered Koda 12, or the versatile Karu 16, you’re sure to find an Ooni oven that fits your pizza-making dreams perfectly. Stay tuned as we wrap up our Ooni Fyra 12 review in the following sections.

My Verdict

After spending time with the Ooni Fyra 12, going through its ins and outs, cooking numerous pizzas, and even branching out into other dishes, it’s time to share my final thoughts.

The Ooni Fyra 12, in my expert opinion, earns a solid place in the realm of portable pizza ovens. It’s the perfect entry point for those venturing into the world of backyard pizza making. Its affordability, at $349, coupled with the quality and performance it delivers, makes it a compelling choice.

I was genuinely impressed with its lightweight, compact design and portability. It’s incredibly easy to set up, break down, and transport, thanks to the foldable legs and inside-fitting chimney. The preheat time of about 15 minutes is quite reasonable, and the oven’s ability to reach the ideal pizza-making temperatures (900 to 950 degrees Fahrenheit) is commendable.

However, it’s important to note that every oven has its challenges, and the Fyra 12 is no exception. Maintaining consistent high heat can be a bit tricky due to its pellet fuel system. You’ll need to be patient and willing to learn the nuances of your oven, just like any other cooking tool. Cleaning up the soot buildup is another point to consider, but trust me, the pizzas it churns out make it worth the effort.

For those who plan to host larger gatherings or cook for big families regularly, I’d recommend exploring larger or gas-powered options like the Ooni Koda 12.

All in all, taking into account its pros and cons, I’d give the Ooni Fyra 12 a score of 7 out of 10 for its portability, user-friendliness, flavor quality, and value for money.

So, whether you’re a first-time backyard pizza oven buyer, a camping enthusiast looking for a portable cooking option, or a pizza lover seeking that authentic wood-fired flavor, the Ooni Fyra 12 is worth considering.

As we wrap up our Ooni Fyra 12 review I hope I’ve helped guide you through the journey of discovering this fantastic pizza oven. Remember, at the end of the day, the best oven is one that fits your needs and brings joy to your pizza-making experience. Happy cooking!

Accessories

There is a wide range of accessories available to enhance your cooking experience. While not all are necessary there are some I highly recommend.

Thermometer

To me this is an essential item. The Fyra doesn’t come with a built-in temperature gauge, so you’ll be guessing the temperature without this gadget. I highly recommend buying the Ooni infrared thermometer.

Pizza peels

Pizza peels are the tool used to load pizzas in and out of the oven and come in many different shapes and sizes. These are available at many places online but I recommend the Ooni turning peel.

Carry case

Ooni has made a carry case specifically for the Fyra oven. Perfect if you want to transport your oven around.

Pizza oven brush

A handy tool for keeping your pizza oven clean. Ooni’s stiff bristled brush is a 2-in-1 brush and scraper tool to brush excess flour and scrape away any food that may of fallen off.

Top tips

1. Don’t overfill the hopper, gradually add more pellets
2. Wait until the temperature hits 450 degrees Celsius before cooking
3. Turn every 10-15 seconds
4. Allow the oven to regain heat between each pizza

How does the Fyra compare to other models?

	Fyra 12	Karu 16	Karu 12	Koda 16	Koda 12
Fuel	Wood Pellets	Wood, Charcoal & Propane Gas (with adaptor)	Wood, Charcoal & Propane Gas (with adaptor)	Propane Gas	Propane Gas
Pizza size	Up to 12″	Up to 16″	Up to 12″	Up to 16″	Up to 12″
Unboxed size	29.2 x 15.1 x 28.6″	32 x 19.6 x 33″	30 x 15 x 31″	24.96 x 23.2 x 14.65″	15.7 x 11.6 x 24.8″
Weight	22lbs	62.6lbs	26.5lbs	40.1lbs	20.4lbs
Heat up time	15 mins	15 mins	15 mins	20 mins	15 mins
Max. temperature	950°F	950°F	950°F	950°F	950°F
Gas	No	Yes, with gas burner	Yes, with gas burner	Yes	Yes
Material	Powder-coated carbon steel	Powder coated carbon steel & Brushed 304, 409, 430, Stainless steel	Brushed 430 stainless steel	Powder-coated carbon steel	Powder-coated carbon steel
Stone type	0,4″ cordierite stone	0,6″ cordierite stone	0,6″ cordierite stone	0,6″ cordierite stone	0,4″ cordierite stone
Stone size	13 x 13″	16.7 x 24.5″	13 x 13″	16 x 16″	13 x 13″
Opening height	3.34″	5.71″	3.89″	4.37″	3.22″
Fuel consumption	2.5lbs for 10 pizzas	4.9lbs for 10 pizzas	3.3lbs for 10 pizzas	1.3lbs for 10 pizzas	0.9lbs for 10 pizzas
Gas consumption		1.1 lb/hr	0.74 lb/hr	1.3 lb/hr	0.63 lb/hr
Outdoor/indoor	Outdoor	Outdoor	Outdoor	Outdoor	Outdoor

Ooni Fyra 12 FAQs

Can’t find an answer to your question here? Take a look at the Ooni tips and FAQ guide to see our detailed list of questions relating to Ooni.

If you like to compare this model against the Ooni Koda check out our Koda vs Fyra guide.