best infrared grill

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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

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill –Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Gas Grill BlackCharbroil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology 2-Burner
TitleBIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill –Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Gas Grill BlackCharbroil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology 2-Burner
Heating Power19,000 BTU infrared burner45,000 BTU total (4 burners)20,000 BTU total (2 burners)
Maximum Temperature1500℉ (800°C)500°F500°F
Heating Time to Max Temp3-5 minutesUnder 10 minutesUnder 10 minutes
Cooking Area13″ wide chamber with adjustable rack325 sq. inches primary + 111 sq. inches warming rack
Cooking TechnologyTop-down infrared heatingAmplifire infrared cooking systemAmplifire infrared cooking system
Additional Cooking SurfacesPizza stone includedHeavy-duty griddle (328 sq. in.)Heavy-duty griddle (274 sq. in.)
Wheels/Wheeled Mobility– (portable tabletop)Two 8-inch wheels with locking castersFour casters (two locking)
Build MaterialRust-resistant stainless steel
Available

BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill –

BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill –
Pros:
  • Rapid 1500°F heat
  • Professional-style searing
  • Easy, windproof ignition
Cons:
  • Small cooking area
  • Slightly pricey
Specification:
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

Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Gas Grill Black
Pros:
  • Fast, even heating
  • Versatile modular system
  • Large cooking area
Cons:
  • Pricey
  • Heavy to move
Specification:
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

Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology 2-Burner
Pros:
  • Quick heat-up
  • Versatile modular system
  • Even heat distribution
Cons:
  • Charcoal tray sold separately
  • Slightly heavy to move
Specification:
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

BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas
Pros:
  • Rapid heat up and sear
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Easy to clean
Cons:
  • Limited to small cuts
  • No side shelves
Specification:
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

Solaire SOL-EV17A Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill
Pros:
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Fast, even heat-up
  • Virtually flare-up free
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • Limited grilling area
Specification:
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.

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