What Makes a Grill Infrared: A Practical Guide for 2026

If you love the char and flavor of a steakhouse-quality sear but want to cook at home or on the go, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler is a serious contender. This propane gas grill uses infrared technology to blast intense heat - up to 1500 degrees - so you can get a perfect crust on steaks, chops, seafood, and veggies in about five minutes. It's not your typical backyard grill; it's a specialized tool for outdoor cooks who prioritize speed, searing, and portability.

This grill is best suited for backyard grillers who want a quick steak fix without firing up a full-sized smoker, but it also shines for campers, tailgaters, RV owners, and patio cooks. Its compact tabletop design (17 x 9 x 15.4 inches) and 21.6-pound weight mean you can toss it in the car for a weekend camping trip or set it up on a picnic table for a tailgate party. The stainless steel construction feels sturdy and should hold up to outdoor conditions, though it's not a full-sized smoker replacement.

Cooking performance is where this grill stands out. The infrared burner delivers consistent, high heat that sears meat beautifully, locking in juices and creating that coveted crust. The 12,000 BTU output is plenty for fast grilling, and the constant cyclic heating helps maintain temperature while saving propane. The adjustable grate with 10 levels gives you fine control over how close your food is to the flame, so you can dial in the perfect sear for different ingredients. However, this is a high-heat tool - it's not designed for low-and-slow smoking or indirect cooking. Expect flare-ups with fatty cuts like ribeyes or burgers, so keep an eye on it.

Build quality is solid for the price point. The stainless steel body resists rust and weather reasonably well, though it's not marine-grade. The front heat shield protects your table from heat damage, and the included handle helps you safely remove the hot grate. There are no wheels or folding legs - it's meant to sit on a stable surface. Setup is straightforward, and the grill disassembles easily for cleaning. Most parts are dishwasher-friendly, which is a nice bonus after a messy cookout.

Realistically, the main limitation is cooking capacity. With a 9 x 17 inch grate, you can cook maybe two to four steaks or a few burgers at once - not ideal for a big backyard party. Also, there's no lid, so you won't get smoke flavor or heat retention for slower cooking. If you're looking to smoke brisket or do indirect grilling, this isn't the tool. But if your goal is fast, high-heat searing for small groups, camping meals, or tailgate appetizers, it's a great fit.

Overall, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler is a practical buy for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want restaurant-quality searing in a portable package. It's perfect for quick weeknight steaks on the patio, campsite dinners, or impressing friends at a tailgate. Just keep your expectations realistic about capacity and cooking style. If searing speed and portability matter more than smoking or feeding a crowd, this grill delivers.

If you own a Charbroil Commercial Infrared 3-burner grill and your original grates are looking rough, the EasiBBQ Cast Iron Grill Grates are a practical replacement that can breathe new life into your outdoor cooking setup. These three-piece grates are designed to fit a wide range of Charbroil models, including the Commercial Infrared series and the Signature 3-burner. They measure 17 by 7.5 inches each, giving you a total cooking area of 17 by 22.5 inches, which is plenty for grilling burgers, steaks, chicken, and veggies for a family or small gathering.

Cast iron is a favorite among backyard grillers and BBQ enthusiasts because it holds heat like a champ. These grates get hot and stay hot, which means you get solid sear marks on your steaks and even cooking across the surface. Whether you're tailgating before the big game or hosting a weekend BBQ on the patio, the heat retention helps you avoid cold spots and flare-ups. The infrared burners in your Charbroil grill pair nicely with these grates, giving you that intense, direct heat that's perfect for locking in juices.

Build quality is straightforward and durable. The cast iron has a black finish that offers some rust resistance, but like any cast iron, you'll want to keep it seasoned and dry to prevent corrosion. They're not the lightest grates out there, but that weight translates to stability and longevity. Installation is a breeze—just drop them into your grill after removing the old ones. No tools, no fuss. For campers and RV owners, these grates might be a bit heavy for portable use, but they're ideal for a stationary backyard grill or a tailgate setup where you have a dedicated cooking area.

Cleanup is manageable if you stay on top of it. After grilling, let the grates cool slightly, then scrub them with a nylon grill brush to remove stuck-on food. The manufacturer notes that new grates can be stickier at first, so a little extra scrubbing or a quick oiling before your first cook helps. Over time, as the grates develop a patina, food release improves. Grease management is decent—the bars are spaced to allow drippings to fall through, reducing flare-ups compared to solid griddles.

One realistic limitation is that these grates are not universal. You need to measure your original parts and compare them to the dimensions listed. They fit specific Charbroil model numbers, so double-check before ordering. Also, if you're used to porcelain-coated grates, cast iron requires a bit more care to prevent rust, especially if you live in a humid climate or leave your grill uncovered. But for the price, you're getting a set of grates that can outlast cheaper alternatives with proper maintenance.

Overall, the EasiBBQ Cast Iron Grill Grates are a smart buy for anyone with a compatible Charbroil grill who wants better heat performance and durability. They're best suited for backyard cooks, tailgaters, and outdoor entertainers who value searing power and even heat. If you're willing to put in a little extra care to keep them seasoned, these grates will serve you well for many cookouts to come.

If you're serious about getting a steakhouse-quality crust at home, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Infrared Propane Grill is a tool worth considering. This isn't your typical backyard gas grill. It's a portable salamander-style broiler that uses intense top-down infrared heat to sear meat faster and more evenly than almost anything else in its price range. Whether you're a backyard griller, a BBQ enthusiast, or someone who loves cooking at the campsite, this little unit brings serious heat to the table.

The standout feature is the 1500°F infrared burner. It heats up in about 3-5 minutes, and you can feel the blast of heat as soon as you open the lid. That kind of temperature is perfect for locking in moisture and creating a dark, crispy crust on steaks, chops, or fish. The 10-position adjustable rack lets you dial in the distance from the burner, so you can go from a quick sear to a slower cook for things like flatbreads or even a personal pizza using the included pizza stone. It's a versatile setup for a compact grill.

Build quality is solid. The stainless steel body feels sturdy and resists rust well, which is important for outdoor gear that might see rain or humidity. The ignition system works reliably even in windy conditions, and the drip tray slides out for easy cleanup. All the removable parts are dishwasher safe, which is a nice bonus after a messy cookout. Portability is a big plus: it's light enough to toss in the trunk for tailgating or a weekend camping trip, and the tabletop design means you don't need a dedicated cart.

That said, this grill has some limitations. The cooking surface is only 143 square inches, so you're not going to feed a crowd with it. It's more of a finishing tool for 1-2 steaks or a few burgers at a time. The extreme heat also means you need to watch your food closely – it can go from perfectly seared to charred in seconds. And yes, it drinks propane faster than a standard grill, but that's the trade-off for that intense infrared performance.

For outdoor cooks who already have a larger grill or smoker, this is an excellent complement. Use it to sear sous-vide steaks, finish off reverse-seared cuts, or add a quick char to vegetables. Campers and RV owners will appreciate its small footprint and fast heat-up. Tailgaters can use it to impress friends with restaurant-quality food right from the parking lot. It's not a replacement for a full-size grill, but as a specialty searing station, it's hard to beat at this price.

The BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill is all about intense, focused heat. The infrared burner reaches temperatures well over 1000°F, and you can adjust the rack height to control the intensity. For steaks, the top-down heat creates a beautiful crust without overcooking the interior, especially if you reverse-sear first. The included pizza stone works well for flatbreads and personal pizzas, though swapping it for a cooking steel can boost performance even more. Just be ready for some smoke – that's a sign it's working. Cleanup is straightforward with the removable drip tray, and lining it with foil makes it almost effortless.

The PlugNGrill Turbo E Sport Compact Electric Grill is a clever solution for anyone who loves grilled food but lacks the space or permission for a full-sized charcoal or propane setup. This is an electric grill that uses dual carbon-fiber infrared lamps to generate intense, even heat – a step up from the metal alloy tubes found in many budget electrics. The result is faster preheating, better searing, and juicier meat because the infrared energy locks in moisture without drying out the exterior.

Who is this grill for? It's ideal for apartment dwellers, condo owners, and anyone with a small balcony or patio. It also suits RV owners who have electrical hookups and want a reliable grill without propane tanks. Tailgaters might find it handy if they have access to power, but the 47-pound weight makes it less of a toss-in-the-trunk option. Backyard grillers who already have a gas or charcoal rig might use this as a secondary grill for quick weeknight meals or when they don't want to fire up the big pit.

In terms of cooking performance, the Turbo E Sport delivers. The infrared heat gets the cooking surface hot quickly – one-touch preheat simplifies the process. The included probe lets you set a target internal temperature, so you can walk away and come back to perfectly cooked steak or chicken. The low lid design means less air to heat, so the grill reaches temp faster and maintains it well. You won't get heavy smoke flavor like from a charcoal or pellet smoker, but the high heat does produce a nice crust on burgers and steaks. The cooking area is 286.4 square inches, which is generous for an electric – you can easily cook for 4 to 6 people.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The exterior is black coated metal, and the lid feels sturdy. The cooking grates are likely non-stick coated, which helps with cleanup. However, at 47 pounds, this grill is heavy for its size. There are no wheels or folding legs, so you'll need to place it on a sturdy table or stand and leave it there. The lack of portability features is a drawback if you plan to move it around often. Weather resistance isn't specified, but like most electric grills, it should be stored indoors or covered when not in use.

Setup is straightforward: take it out of the box, plug it in, and you're ready to go. Cleanup involves removing the drip tray and wiping down the grates. The non-stick surface helps, but you'll still want to scrub occasionally. One realistic limitation is that you're tethered to an outlet, so you need to consider cord length and outdoor power availability. Also, the grill's auto shutoff at 572°F is a safety feature but could be a nuisance if you want to do a high-heat sear for extended periods.

Overall, the PlugNGrill Turbo E Sport is a solid choice for urban grillers who prioritize convenience, safety, and consistent results. It won't replace a full-sized smoker or a charcoal kettle for flavor, but for quick burgers, hot dogs, chicken breasts, and vegetables, it performs admirably. If you have a small outdoor space and want to grill year-round without smoke complaints, this electric infrared grill is worth considering.

The Turbo E Sport's dual carbon-fiber infrared lamps provide intense, even heat that sears beautifully. The low lid design reduces heat loss, so the grill recovers quickly after you open it. You can get a good crust on steaks and burgers, and the digital probe ensures you never overcook. For low-and-slow cooking, it's less suited – electric infrared is best for high-heat grilling rather than smoking. But for fast weeknight meals or small gatherings, it delivers consistent results.

The digital control panel lets you set the temperature precisely, and the integrated probe monitors internal meat temperature. This takes the guesswork out of grilling – just set your target and let the grill do the rest. The one-touch preheat function gets the cooking surface hot fast, and the auto shutoff at 572°F prevents overheating. It's a very user-friendly system for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Despite being marketed as compact, the Turbo E Sport weighs 47 pounds – heavier than many portable electric grills. It has no wheels or folding legs, so you'll need to lift it onto a table or cart. This limits true portability for camping or tailgating unless you have a dedicated setup. It's better suited for a permanent spot on a balcony or patio where you can leave it plugged in.

The Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Gas Grill with Amplifire Infrared Technology is a versatile outdoor cooking machine built for the homeowner who wants more than just a standard gas grill. It combines a powerful propane grill, a built-in griddle, and the ability to run charcoal (with an optional tray) all in one cabinet-style unit. This is not a portable grill for campgrounds or tailgate lots; it's a backyard centerpiece designed for weekend BBQs, patio parties, and family meals where you want to cook everything from seared steaks and chicken to pancakes and fajitas on the same surface.

Who is it best suited for? Backyard grillers who love experimenting with different cooking styles will appreciate the 60-second swap between grill grates and griddle. BBQ enthusiasts who miss that charcoal smokiness can add the Gas2Coal tray and get the best of both worlds. Patio cooks and outdoor entertainers will find the 802.9 square inches of total cooking space enough for up to 25 burgers or 12 steaks at once, plus a warming rack for keeping sides hot. The side burner is handy for simmering sauce or boiling corn while the main grates are busy.

Real-world cooking performance is strong. The Amplifire infrared system spreads heat evenly across the 535 square inches of primary grilling space, so you don't get hot spots that burn one burger while leaving another underdone. Searing steaks works well - the cast-iron grates get hot fast and leave nice grill marks. The griddle surface heats consistently for pancakes, eggs, or chopped veggies. Temperature control is straightforward with four main burners plus a side burner, and the grill reaches 500 degrees in about ten minutes. For low-and-slow cooking, you can use indirect heat with the warming rack or go charcoal mode for real smoke flavor. Fuel efficiency is decent for a 45,000 BTU grill because the infrared system uses that energy effectively.

Build quality is solid for the price point. The lid is made of painted steel, the grates are porcelain-coated cast iron that resists rust, and the cabinet is sturdy enough to hold the weight. The two 8-inch wheels and two locking casters make moving it around the patio straightforward, but at 187 pounds you won't want to shift it often. Weather resistance is adequate for outdoor storage with a cover (sold separately). The griddle insert has a rear grease slot that channels drippings into the drip tray, making cleanup simpler than a full flat top.

Ease of setup and storage requires some assembly - plan a couple of hours with a friend. Once built, the cabinet offers enclosed storage for propane tank and tools. Cleaning the griddle is straightforward with a scraper and paper towels, and the porcelain grates can be brushed clean. The drip tray catches most grease, but you'll need to empty it regularly to avoid flare-ups. One realistic limitation is that the charcoal mode requires buying a separate tray (Gas2Coal), so if you want that smoky flavor, factor in the extra cost. Also, the grill is not portable - no folding legs or compact design, so it's strictly for stationary backyard use.

Overall, this is a practical recommendation for the serious backyard cook who wants one grill that can handle a variety of meals. It swaps between modes quickly, cooks evenly, and includes the griddle without extra charge. If you have a patio or deck and regularly host gatherings, this Charbroil Pro Series delivers versatility and solid performance without the price tag of a premium brand. Just be ready for the weight and assembly, and it'll serve you well for years of outdoor cooking.

The BIG HORN 2 Burner Infrared Gas Grill is a compact tabletop propane grill that packs serious heat. Designed for steak lovers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts, this grill reaches an impressive 1500F in about 5 minutes, thanks to its dual infrared burners that deliver 19,000 BTUs of power. It's not your typical backyard grill - this is a specialized steak cooker and salamander broiler that brings restaurant-style top-down heating to your patio, campsite, or tailgate party.

This grill is best suited for backyard grillers who want perfect sears on steaks, BBQ enthusiasts looking to experiment with high-heat cooking, and campers or tailgaters who need a portable but powerful propane grill. The tabletop design means it fits easily on a picnic table or counter, and the stainless steel build adds durability for outdoor use. However, it's not ideal for low-and-slow smoking - this is all about fast, intense heat.

In real-world use, the cooking performance is impressive. The infrared burners heat up quickly and evenly, giving you consistent searing across the cooking surface. The top-down heating helps lock in moisture and reduces smoke compared to traditional grills, so your steaks come out juicy with a nice crust. The 7-tier adjustable rack lets you control the distance from the heat, so you can sear at high heat or move food higher for gentle finishing. The included pizza stone adds versatility for baking pizzas or flatbreads.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The stainless steel construction resists rust, though it's not heavy-duty like some premium grills. All components detach easily for cleaning, and the rack guide is removable for quick wipe-downs. The grill is lightweight enough to carry, but it lacks wheels or folding legs, so portability is limited to carrying it by hand. Setup is straightforward - just attach a propane tank and you're ready to cook.

One limitation is the cooking space. At 21.2 inches wide, it's fine for a few steaks or burgers, but not enough for feeding a crowd. Also, since it's a tabletop model, you'll need a stable surface to place it on. The lack of a lid thermometer means you'll rely on visual cues for temperature, though the high heat makes it easy to judge.

Overall, the BIG HORN Infrared Gas Grill is a solid choice for anyone who prioritizes searing performance and portability. It's perfect for weekend BBQs, tailgating, or patio cooking where you want fast, high-heat results. If you're looking for a smoker or a grill for large parties, this isn't it. But for steak lovers and outdoor cooks who want that restaurant-quality sear, it delivers.

The BIG HORN grill excels at high-heat cooking thanks to its dual infrared burners that hit 1500F in minutes. This makes it ideal for searing steaks, burgers, and chops to perfection. The top-down heating mimics a salamander broiler, giving you even heat distribution and reducing flare-ups. You can control each burner independently, so you can cook two different doneness levels at once - great for families with mixed preferences. The 7-tier adjustable rack adds flexibility, letting you move food closer for a quick sear or higher for slower cooking. The included pizza stone works well for baking pizzas, flatbreads, or even reheating leftovers.

This tabletop grill is designed for portability. It's compact enough to fit in a car trunk for tailgating or camping trips, and the stainless steel build is lightweight but durable. Setup is simple: just place it on a stable surface, connect a standard propane tank, and you're ready to cook. There are no wheels or folding legs, so you'll need to carry it by hand, but it's not heavy. Cleanup is easy too - all parts detach and are dishwasher-safe. Just remember to do a pre-use inspection to remove any dust or debris from shipping.