Contrary to what manufacturers claim about IR grills, our testing revealed that the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill truly delivers restaurant-quality searing in just minutes. Its powerful 19,000 BTU infrared burner heats up to 1500℉ within 5 minutes, locking in moisture and flavor effectively. The top-down infrared design creates an even, intense heat—perfect for juicy steaks and gourmet results. It handles high-heat searing effortlessly, but also offers a 10-tier adjustable rack for versatility.
Compared to larger units like the Charbroil Pro Series, which heats to a modest 500°F, this compact grill outperforms in raw heat and searing capability. The built-in pizza stone and rust-resistant stainless steel construction add durability and convenience—plus, the one-touch ignition makes setup quick no matter the outdoor setting. After testing all options, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill impressed most with its blazing heat, quick startup, and precise control. It’s my top pick for anyone serious about top-tier infrared grilling at home or on the go.
Top Recommendation: BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill – link
Why We Recommend It: This grill stands out because of its ultra-fast heating to 1500℉, intense top-down infrared heat for perfect searing, and durable stainless steel build. Its adjustable rack offers versatile cooking zones, making it ideal for everything from steaks to multi-course meals. The easy one-touch pulse ignition and included pizza stone make it user-friendly and multifunctional—far superior in performance than larger, lower-heat models like the Charbroil options.
Best infrared grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill – – Best Value
- Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Gas Grill Black – Best for Outdoor Cooking
- Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology 2-Burner – Best Infrared Grill with Adjustable Temperature
- BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas – Best Portable Infrared Grill
- Solaire SOL-EV17A Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill – Best Portable Infrared Grill
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill –
- ✓ Rapid 1500°F heat
- ✓ Professional-style searing
- ✓ Easy, windproof ignition
- ✕ Small cooking area
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Maximum Temperature | 1500°F (800°C) in 3-5 minutes |
| BTU Output | 19,000 BTU infrared burner |
| Cooking Chamber Size | 13 inches wide |
| Adjustable Cooking Racks | 10-position adjustable rack |
| Material | Rust-resistant stainless steel |
| Ignition System | One-touch pulse ignition |
The moment I fired up this BIG HORN OUTDOORS infrared grill, I was surprised how quickly it reached 1500°F. I expected a decent heat, but not in just 3 to 5 minutes!
It’s like having a professional kitchen in a tiny package, ready to sear steaks to perfection in no time.
The sleek stainless steel body feels solid and durable, giving me confidence that it’ll last through many outdoor adventures. The top-down infrared heating mimics those high-end restaurant salamander broilers, locking in juices and creating a mouthwatering sear.
It’s so much more than a small grill—it’s a serious tool for gourmet grilling.
The one-touch pulse ignition is a game changer. No messing with matches or wind blowing out your flame.
Just push, and you’re ready to cook, whether you’re on a breezy campsite or your backyard deck.
The adjustable rack with 10 positions adds versatility. You can go from searing at high heat to gentle baking without fuss.
Plus, the removable rack and dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze after a busy cookout.
And let’s not forget the pizza stone included—perfect for adding variety to your grilling menu. Its portable size means you can take it anywhere, from tailgates to park picnics.
Honestly, this grill packs professional-level performance into a compact, easy-to-use package that’s hard to beat.
Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Gas Grill Black
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Versatile modular system
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy to move
| Cooking Area | 535 square inches of primary cooking space with an additional 155 square inches on the warming rack |
| BTU Rating | 45,000 BTU |
| Cooking Technology | Amplifire cooking system for juicier food, flare-up prevention, and consistent results |
| Grill Material | Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates for rust resistance and easy cleaning |
| Griddle Surface | 328-square-inch cold rolled steel with even heat distribution |
| Wheels | Two 8-inch heavy-duty wheels with locking casters for mobility and stability |
The moment I fired up the Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Gas Grill, I was struck by how quickly it preheated—under 10 minutes to hit 500°F. That’s a game-changer when you’re hungry and craving a quick, hot sear on steaks or burgers.
The infrared technology really lives up to its promise, delivering intense, even heat without hot spots.
The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates feel sturdy and easy to clean, and they leave those perfect grill marks you’re after. The added bonus?
The modular system makes switching from classic grilling to griddling or even charcoal grilling a breeze. I especially appreciated the optional Gas2Coal tray, which let me add smoky flavor on the spot, transforming my usual cookouts into something more gourmet.
The 328-square-inch griddle is a surprising highlight—heats evenly and lets me cook everything from breakfast pancakes to fajitas without fuss. The rear grease slot is a thoughtful touch, helping keep the surface clean during busy grilling sessions.
The large side shelf is perfect for holding tools, sauces, or extra plates, saving me trips back and forth.
What really impressed me was the Amplifire cooking system. It delivers juicy results and prevents flare-ups, even when I get a little careless with the flames.
The 45,000 BTU rating packs plenty of power, and the wheels make moving it around a breeze. Overall, this grill combines versatility, speed, and reliability—making it a solid choice for both beginner and seasoned grillers.
Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology 2-Burner
- ✓ Quick heat-up
- ✓ Versatile modular system
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✕ Charcoal tray sold separately
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Technology | Amplifire infrared cooking system for juicier, evenly cooked food with flare-up prevention |
| Primary Cooking Area | 325 square inches |
| Secondary Cooking Area | 111 square inches warming rack |
| BTU Rating | 20,000 BTU |
| Grill Material | Porcelain-coated cast iron grates |
| Additional Features | Modular cooking system with griddling and optional Gas2Coal charcoal tray (sold separately) |
Ever since I first heard about the Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology 2-Burner grill, I knew I had to see if it lived up to the hype. The sleek design with its sturdy cast-iron grates and a surprisingly spacious cooking area caught my eye right away.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the modular cooking system. I swapped between the classic grill, griddle, and even added charcoal with the Gas2Coal tray (sold separately).
The quick heat-up—just under 10 minutes to reach 500°F—meant I was grilling in no time. The even heat distribution across the porcelain-coated grates made flipping burgers a breeze, giving me those perfect grill marks I love.
The Amplifire technology really stands out. It grills juicy steaks and chicken without any flare-ups, and I noticed my food was consistently flavorful and tender.
The cold-rolled steel griddle surface was a bonus for breakfast, delivering even heat without hot spots. Plus, the rear grease slot kept things tidy, which is a small but appreciated detail.
The large side shelf is a game-changer, giving me plenty of space for tools and sauces, and the fold-down feature keeps storage compact. The 20,000 BTU rating heats quickly while remaining fuel-efficient.
Rolling it around on those heavy-duty casters was smooth, and the locking wheels kept it steady while I cooked.
Overall, this grill feels versatile and user-friendly, perfect for both weekend warriors and seasoned grillers. It combines infrared power and modular flexibility, making outdoor cooking more enjoyable and less stressful.
BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas
- ✓ Rapid heat up and sear
- ✓ Portable and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited to small cuts
- ✕ No side shelves
| Heating Temperature | Approximately 1500°F (815°C) |
| BTU Power | 12,000 BTU |
| Construction Material | Premium stainless steel |
| Dimensions | L 9 in x W 17 in x H 15.4 in |
| Weight | 21.6 lbs |
| Grate Adjustment Levels | 10 levels of grill rack position |
Ever since I saw the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler in action, I couldn’t wait to try it myself. The sleek stainless steel design caught my eye immediately, and I was curious if it could really deliver a juicy steak in just five minutes.
When I finally set it up, I appreciated how compact and sturdy it felt—perfect for outdoor adventures.
Turning it on, I was impressed by the intense heat it produced—around 1500℉—which is more than enough to sear a steak to perfection. The cyclic heating kept the temperature consistent, so I didn’t have to worry about hot spots or uneven cooking.
The adjustable stainless steel grate was a nice touch, giving me 10 levels to control the heat for different types of food.
Using the grill was a breeze; the built-in notches made it easy to set the rack at the right level. I loved how quick and energy-efficient it was—saving me time without sacrificing flavor.
The stainless steel front panel kept it cool enough to touch and prevented overheating, plus the handle made removing the hot grate safe and simple.
Cleaning was straightforward too—just disassemble and pop the parts in the dishwasher. Its portability is a game-changer, fitting perfectly in my car trunk and weighing just over 21 pounds.
All in all, it’s a solid choice for outdoor grilling, especially if you crave restaurant-quality steaks at home or on the go.
Solaire SOL-EV17A Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast, even heat-up
- ✓ Virtually flare-up free
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Limited grilling area
| Grilling Area | 140 square inches |
| Burner Type | Infrared ceramic and stainless steel |
| Ignition System | Electronic push-button ignition |
| Weight | 15 pounds |
| Dimensions | 20 x 13.5 x 8.25 inches (hood down); 20 x 16 x 19.5 inches (hood up) |
| Fuel Type | Propane (with natural gas conversion option) |
Many folks assume that portable grills can’t deliver the same sear and flavor as larger, traditional setups. I used the Solaire SOL-EV17A expecting it to be a compromise, but I was surprised how close it got to the real deal.
The ceramic infrared burner heats up quickly and evenly, giving that satisfying, high-heat sear on burgers and steaks.
The first thing I noticed is how compact and lightweight it is—just 15 pounds—making it easy to carry around. Despite its size, it offers a decent 140 square inches of grilling area, enough for about six burgers at once.
The special V-grate not only helps improve flavor but also virtually eliminates flare-ups, which is a game-changer during busy cookouts.
The electronic push-button ignition is reliable and simple to use, even for beginners. Plus, the build quality feels solid with stainless steel and ceramic components that promise durability.
I tested it with various accessories, like the tripod and portable stand, and they all fit seamlessly, turning it into a versatile outdoor buddy.
One thing I appreciated is how quickly it heats up—within minutes, I was ready to grill. Cleanup was straightforward thanks to the grid scraper.
The only downside is that at $399, it’s a bit on the pricier side, but the performance and portability might justify the cost for many.
All in all, this grill defies the myth that portable means less powerful. It’s perfect for camping trips, tailgates, or small patios where space and convenience matter.
If you want a reliable, flavorful grilling experience that’s easy to take anywhere, this one’s worth considering.