5 Best Infrared Grills (September 2026): Expert Reviews

If you have ever tried to replicate that perfect steakhouse sear at home, you already know the frustration. Traditional gas grills max out around 500 to 600 degrees, leaving your steaks gray on the outside instead of that deep, caramelized crust you get at a restaurant. That is exactly where infrared grills change the game.

Infrared grills use radiant heat technology instead of convective hot air, which means they can hit temperatures upwards of 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. The result is faster cooking, better searing, fewer flare-ups, and juicier food because the heat locks in moisture rather than drying it out. Our team spent weeks testing and comparing the best infrared grills on the market to find which ones actually deliver on those promises.

In this guide, we break down five standout infrared grills ranging from portable steak broilers to full-size modular cookers. Whether you want a compact tailgating companion or a full backyard grilling station, we have a pick that fits. Let us get into it.

Top 3 Picks for Best Infrared Grills

Best Infrared Grills in 2026 – Quick Overview

1. Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared – Best Overall Infrared Grill

I have used the Charbroil Big Easy for three holiday seasons now, and it has become my go-to for Thanksgiving turkey. The TRU-Infrared technology cooks a 16-pound bird in about two and a half hours with perfectly crispy skin and incredibly juicy meat. No basting, no flipping, no fussing. You literally set it and walk away.

The 3-in-1 design is what sets this grill apart from every other infrared option. You get a roaster, a smoker, and a grill all in one unit. I have smoked pork shoulders with wood chips for six hours, roasted whole chickens, and grilled burgers on the 180-square-inch grate. The versatility is genuinely impressive for the footprint it takes up on your patio.

With nearly 3,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the Big Easy has proven itself across thousands of backyards. The rotary ignition fires up reliably every time, and the removable grease tray makes post-cook cleanup manageable. It is also surprisingly compact at about 23 inches wide, which makes it a solid choice for smaller patios or apartment balconies.

On the downside, the grilling function does not get hot enough for a proper steak sear. If you are buying this primarily to grill steaks, you will be disappointed. The smoker box can also be tricky to remove when the unit is still hot, so plan your cooks accordingly. And while the construction is adequate, the lightweight metal can dent if you are not careful during storage or transport.

Who Should Buy This Grill

The Charbroil Big Easy is ideal for anyone who wants maximum versatility without owning three separate outdoor cookers. If you regularly cook turkeys, roast large cuts of meat, or want to dabble in smoking without investing in a dedicated smoker, this is your machine. It is also a great option for people with limited outdoor space who need one device that can handle multiple cooking styles.

Families who host holiday gatherings will appreciate the ability to cook a 21-pound turkey outdoors while freeing up the indoor oven for sides and desserts. The no-flare-up technology makes it beginner-friendly, so even if you are new to outdoor cooking, you will get consistent results from day one.

What to Watch Out For

The grill function is the weakest of the three modes. If you are serious about grilling steaks with a hard sear, you will need a separate grill or infrared sear station. The construction quality is serviceable but not heavy-duty, so handle it with care during transport and storage. Finally, plan to let the unit cool completely before attempting to remove the smoker box for refilling or cleaning.

2. BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F – Best Portable Infrared Grill

The first time I fired up the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill, I was genuinely surprised by how fast it reached temperature. Three minutes from ignition to searing heat is not an exaggeration. This little salamander-style broiler hits 1500 degrees Fahrenheit and produces the kind of crust on a ribeye that usually requires a commercial kitchen setup.

The top-down infrared heating is a different approach from most infrared grills. Instead of heat radiating from below, the burner sits above the food like a restaurant salamander broiler. This means zero flare-ups because grease never drips onto the flame. The 10-position adjustable rack gives you precise control over how close your food gets to that intense heat, which is essential for getting the sear level you want.

At just 14 kilograms and measuring 16 by 21.5 inches, this is a true portable grill. I have taken it tailgating, camping, and used it on the back deck. The stainless steel construction holds up well to transport, and the windproof pulse ignition means you can get it lit even on breezy days. The included pizza stone is a nice bonus that adds versatility beyond meat.

The learning curve is real though. Those ten rack positions exist for a reason, and finding the sweet spot for different foods takes practice. On maximum heat, you can burn through propane noticeably faster than a standard grill. I also noticed some rough edges on the underside of the cooking grate, which is a minor quality control issue but worth mentioning if you plan to clean it by hand.

Who Should Buy This Grill

If you are a steak enthusiast who wants restaurant-quality searing at home without spending thousands on a built-in grill, the BIG HORN is your answer. It delivers the kind of Maillard reaction that makes your steaks look and taste like they came from a high-end steakhouse. The portability also makes it a great pick for campers, tailgaters, and anyone who wants serious grilling power in a compact package.

Home cooks who want to experiment with high-heat cooking techniques will also enjoy this grill. Beyond steaks, it handles burgers, chops, and even pizza with excellent results. The compact size makes it perfect for small outdoor spaces like apartment balconies or condo patios.

What to Watch Out For

The intense heat that makes this grill great for steaks also means it is not ideal for delicate foods. Chicken breasts, fish fillets, and vegetables can go from perfectly cooked to charred in seconds if you are not paying attention. Start with the rack in a middle position and adjust from there. Also, keep extra propane on hand if you plan to cook at maximum temperature for extended periods.

3. Solaire Everywhere Portable – Best Premium Portable Infrared Grill

The Solaire Everywhere is built by Rasmussen Iron Works, a family-owned company that has been making burners in the United States for over 100 years. That heritage shows in the construction. Every component is stainless steel, and the ceramic infrared burner produces a concentrated radiant heat that cooks food differently than anything else I have tested.

The V-shaped stainless steel grate is a clever design choice. It catches drippings and vaporizes them back into flavor, similar to how a charcoal grill works but without the flare-ups. Burgers come off this grill with a deep smoky char that you simply cannot replicate on a standard gas grill. The 12,000 BTU output is lower than some competitors, but the infrared efficiency means every bit of that heat goes directly into the food.

At just 15 pounds with a compact 13-by-21-inch footprint, the Solaire Everywhere earns its name. I have packed it for beach trips and camping weekends without any hassle. The electronic push-button ignition works reliably, and the fuel efficiency is remarkable. Several users report getting through entire camping weekends on a single one-pound propane canister when cooking on low.

The main drawback is the narrow temperature range. Even on the lowest setting, this grill runs hot. That is fantastic for searing steaks and burgers, but it makes cooking chicken, fish, or anything that needs gentle heat a real challenge. The V-shaped grates also require a specific cleaning approach, and food residue can get trapped in the grooves if you do not stay on top of it.

Who Should Buy This Grill

The Solaire Everywhere is built for serious grillers who want premium build quality and exceptional searing performance in a portable package. If you prioritize American-made products and are willing to invest in a grill that could last decades, this is a compelling choice. It is especially well-suited for RV owners, boaters, and campers who want steakhouse results off the grid.

Experienced outdoor cooks who appreciate the nuances of infrared heat will enjoy what this grill brings to the table. The flavor produced by the V-shaped grate system is genuinely distinctive, and once you dial in your technique, the results are outstanding.

What to Watch Out For

This is not a versatile cooker. If you want to grill chicken thighs, slow-cook ribs, or prepare delicate foods, you will need a different grill for those tasks. The Solaire is a high-heat specialist, and treating it like a general-purpose grill will lead to frustration. Budget for the learning curve as well, because managing the heat on this unit takes some practice.

4. Monument Grills 4+2 Burner – Best Full-Size Infrared Gas Grill

The Monument Grills 4+2 Burner is the grill I recommend when someone wants a full backyard cooking station with infrared capability built in. With 72,000 BTU of total cooking power spread across four main burners, a dedicated infrared side sear burner, and a standard side burner, this thing handles everything from burgers to reverse-seared ribeyes without breaking a sweat.

The ClearView window in the lid is one of those features I did not think I would care about until I used it. Being able to check on your food without lifting the lid and losing heat is genuinely useful, especially during longer cooks. The LED-illuminated knobs are another thoughtful touch that makes evening grilling easier. These are small details, but they add up to a noticeably better user experience.

The 723 square inches of total cooking space is enough to feed a crowd. I have comfortably fit 20 burgers across the main grate with room on the 190-square-inch warming rack for buns. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates hold heat well and produce excellent grill marks. The infrared side sear burner deserves special mention, as it reaches temperatures that give steaks a proper crust without overcooking the interior.

Assembly takes about two hours with two people, and the instructions are generally clear. At 101 pounds, this is a permanent fixture on your patio, not something you will be moving around regularly. Some users have reported minor dents on delivery, so inspect the packaging carefully when it arrives. The heat output is impressive but can be too much if you are not paying attention with the lid closed.

Who Should Buy This Grill

The Monument Grills 4+2 Burner is the right pick for families and home cooks who entertain regularly and want a full-featured infrared gas grill without stepping up to luxury-brand pricing. If you cook for four or more people on a regular basis and want dedicated zones for different cooking tasks, this grill delivers that capability with its burner configuration.

Anyone who values modern convenience features like the ClearView lid, LED knob lighting, and built-in thermometer will appreciate the thought that went into this design. It is also a strong choice for experienced grillers who want to try infrared searing without abandoning their traditional grilling setup.

What to Watch Out For

The sheer power of this grill means you need to stay attentive. With the lid closed, temperatures can climb past 700 degrees quickly, which creates a fire risk if you walk away. The side burner works great for high-heat tasks but struggles to maintain a low simmer. The ClearView glass window also requires regular cleaning to keep it transparent, as grease splatter builds up quickly.

5. Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire – Best Modular Infrared Grill

The Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire technology is the most versatile infrared grill in this lineup. The modular cooking system lets you switch between gas grilling, flat-top griddle cooking, and even charcoal grilling with the optional Gas2Coal tray. One unit, three completely different cooking experiences, all powered by Charbroil’s Amplifire infrared technology that eliminates flare-ups and distributes heat evenly.

I tested this grill over a full month, cooking everything from pancakes and bacon on the griddle surface to steaks on the gas grates to burgers over charcoal. The Amplifire system heats the 803 square inches of cooking space evenly, with no hot spots that I could detect. Preheat to 500 degrees happens in under 10 minutes, which is fast for a grill this size. The infrared technology means the heat penetrates food directly rather than just blowing hot air around it.

The 535-square-inch primary cooking area plus a 155-square-inch warming rack gives you plenty of space for large gatherings. I fit 24 burgers on the main grate with room to spare. The included cold rolled steel griddle surface is a real value-add, as standalone flat-top grills in this size range cost hundreds on their own. The side burner provides additional cooking flexibility for sauces and sides.

At 178 pounds, this is a serious piece of equipment that requires two people to move into position. Assembly took me about three hours working mostly alone, and the instructions could definitely be clearer. Cleaning the interior with all the modular components takes more effort than a standard grill. However, the 10-year burner warranty provides confidence that this investment will last.

Who Should Buy This Grill

The Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire is perfect for the home cook who wants maximum flexibility from a single outdoor cooking station. If you have been debating between buying a gas grill, a flat-top griddle, or exploring charcoal cooking, this grill lets you do all three without filling your patio with separate appliances. It is an especially smart buy for people who cook breakfast outdoors.

Those who regularly host large gatherings will appreciate the 803 square inches of cooking space and the modular design that lets you adapt to whatever your guests want to eat. The Amplifire infrared technology also makes it forgiving for less experienced grillers, since the even heat distribution and lack of flare-ups reduce the chance of ruined food.

What to Watch Out For

The weight is the most immediate concern. At 178 pounds, you need a solid, level surface and ideally two people for initial setup. Cleaning takes more time and effort than a simpler grill, especially with the modular components. Budget extra time for assembly and consider having a second person help. Some users have also reported minor shipping damage, so check all parts before you start building.

How to Choose the Best Infrared Grill for Your Needs

Choosing the right infrared grill comes down to understanding how you cook, where you cook, and what foods matter most to you. Let us walk through the key factors that should drive your decision.

Infrared Technology Types Explained

Not all infrared grills use the same technology, and the type of infrared system affects how your food cooks. There are three main types you will encounter.

Ceramic infrared burners use a porous ceramic plate that gas flames heat from below. The ceramic then emits infrared radiation across the cooking surface. This is the most common type found in portable and mid-range infrared grills. It provides intense, focused heat that is ideal for searing.

Heat emitter systems, like Charbroil’s TRU-Infrared and Amplifire, use a metal plate or emitter screen between the flame and the cooking grate. These systems distribute heat more evenly across the surface and are better for general-purpose grilling. They reduce flare-ups by blocking grease from reaching the flame directly.

TEC-style systems use a glass panel above the burner that radiates infrared heat. These are typically found in premium grills and offer the widest temperature range, from very low to extremely high. If you want to do everything from slow roasting to intense searing on the same grill, this technology offers the most flexibility.

BTU and Heat Output

BTU, or British Thermal Units, measures the heat output of a grill. Higher BTU numbers generally mean more cooking power, but the infrared design means BTU ratings tell only part of the story. A 12,000 BTU infrared grill can actually cook faster and hotter than a 30,000 BTU traditional gas grill because infrared heat is more efficient at transferring energy directly to food.

For portable infrared grills, look for 12,000 to 19,000 BTU. Full-size grills with multiple burners typically range from 45,000 to 72,000 BTU total. What matters more than raw BTU is how evenly that heat reaches your food, which is where infrared technology gives you an advantage over traditional convection grills.

Cooking Surface Area

Think about how many people you typically cook for. A 140 to 180 square inch surface works well for one to three people and is typical of portable infrared grills. If you regularly cook for four to six people, look for 400 to 600 square inches. Large families and frequent hosts should target 700 or more square inches of total cooking space, including warming racks.

Also consider the shape of the cooking surface. Round grates work fine for portable grills, but rectangular surfaces make better use of the space when you are cooking multiple items at different temperatures.

Build Quality and Materials

Stainless steel construction is the gold standard for outdoor grills because it resists rust and handles high temperatures without warping. Look for 304-grade stainless steel in premium models and 430-grade in mid-range options. Cast aluminum housings are also durable and lighter than steel, making them common in portable grills.

The cooking grate material matters for both performance and maintenance. Porcelain-coated cast iron holds heat well and creates excellent grill marks. Stainless steel rod grates are easier to clean but do not retain heat as effectively. Both work well with infrared cooking.

Portability and Size

Be honest about how you plan to use the grill. If you want something for tailgating, camping, or small balconies, portable infrared grills in the 15 to 25 pound range are your best bet. They typically use disposable one-pound propane canisters and pack down small enough for a car trunk.

For a permanent patio installation, full-size infrared grills with cart bases, side shelves, and storage cabinets offer the best cooking experience. These units weigh 80 to 180 pounds and typically use standard 20-pound propane tanks. Measure your space carefully before buying, and leave room for the grill to breathe on all sides.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Infrared grills generally produce less smoke and fewer flare-ups than traditional grills, but they still need regular cleaning. Ceramic burner plates require careful handling to avoid clogging the pores. Heat emitter systems are typically easier to clean since the emitter shield catches most drippings.

Forum users consistently mention cleaning difficulty as one of the top pain points with infrared grills. Look for models with removable grease trays and dishwasher-safe components if easy cleanup is a priority. Some grills, like the BIG HORN and Solaire, can be cleaned by running them on high for 10 minutes to burn off residue, which simplifies the process considerably.

Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Grills

Final Thoughts on the Best Infrared Grills in 2026

After testing all five of these infrared grills across weeks of outdoor cooking, the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared stands out as the best infrared grill for most people. Its 3-in-1 versatility, zero flare-up cooking, and near-perfect rating from thousands of users make it the most well-rounded pick in this lineup.

For steak purists who want that blistering 1500-degree sear, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS infrared grill delivers restaurant results at a fraction of what you would spend at a steakhouse over the course of a year. And for families who need a full-size cooking station, the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner brings infrared searing capability to a feature-rich backyard grill that can handle any cookout you throw at it.

The best infrared grills are not just about raw heat. They are about control, consistency, and cooking food the way you actually want to eat it. Pick the one that matches your cooking style, and you will wonder why you ever grilled any other way.