Best Infrared Grills 2023 – Reviews & Buying Guide
Infrared grills are gaining popularity in outdoor cooking because of the way they cook food – through radiation. They are able to radiate extremely high heat and create a perfect sear on any meat they face.
Rather than pumping out heat from a lump of charcoal or a gas burner, infrared grills radiate heat from the grates directly, which ensures the heat goes right where it needs to.
However, choosing the best infrared grill is not as easy as cooking in it since there are many models and factors to consider. So to help you choose one that will meet your needs, we have compiled a list of the best infrared grill reviews on the market and a buying guide to help you understand what to look for.
Without further ado, let’s find out which one is best for you.
At A Glance Infrared Grills 2023
Top 6 Best Infrared Grill Reviews 2023
1. Char-Broil 463370719 Performance TRU-Infrared Gas Grill
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- 3 main burners and a side burner
- Delivers 24,000 BTUs and 10,000 BTUs
- 450 square inches of cooking space
- 150 square inches swing-away rack
- Porcelain-coated grates
- Two wheels
” /]
The top spot holder in this review is the Char-Broil 463370719 Performance TRU-Infrared 3-Burner Cart Style Gas Grill. It is a well-designed stainless steel grill that is easy to use. Your food will be evenly cooked every single time because the TRU-Infrared system cooks quickly with less gas and prevents cold spots on the grill.
This grill feature three burners that put out 24,000 BTUs combined. In addition, there is a side burner that can deliver 10,000 BTUs. The side burner comes with a lid that folds down when not in use, providing extra protection as well as increased prep space.
It comes with 450 square inches of cooking space along with a 150 square inches swing-away rack that can be used for toasting buns or indirect cooking, offering additional versatility.
Moreover, the special cooking grate at the core of TRU-Infrared technology evenly spreads heat across the grill top. And as it creates a barrier between flames and food, flare-ups are history. End result- more flavorful and juicier food every time. There is also a temperature gauge mounted on the lid that allows you to monitor and control the heat.
The grates are porcelain-coated, making them rust-resistant, durable, and easy-to-clean, and the electronic ignition offers reliable push-to-start operation. There are also two wheels that provide mobility. With all these features, this grill still costs less than $400, making it one of the best infrared grill under 400.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Large primary cooking space
- A swing-away rack
- Side burner with lid
- Porcelain-coated grates
- Two wheels for easy portability
- Easy to assemble
” cons_text=”
- No option for natural gas connection
- Difficult to clean
” /]
2. Solaire SOL-EV17A Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill
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- Single burner
- 140 square inches of primary cooking area
- V-shaped grates
- Delivers 14,000 BTUs
- Ceramic and stainless steel burners
- Electronic push-button ignition
” /]
If you want a grill to take to the park or want to use it in the convenience of your backyard, the Solaire SOL-EV17A is the one. It is a compact and portable unit that you can easily take anywhere. It is by far the most portable infrared grill available in the market.
The entire unit is 20 inches wide and weighs only 15 pounds, making it the perfect grill for space savers or if you are purchasing for tailgating or camping trips.
And yes, with its 140 square inches of primary cooking area, you are obviously sacrificing a little bit of cooking space, but that’s what makes it more portable. Nonetheless, it still provides enough space to grill up to 6 burgers at once, so if you will not need more space than that often, there is no reason not to consider it.
In addition to the infrared technology, this grill is equipped with unique V-shaped grates that lock in the juice and increase the flavor of your steaks, burgers, and other foods. The single main burner can deliver 14,000 BTUs, while there is no warming rack or side burner.
It is constructed from fully welded 20 gauge 304 stainless steel for durability. With electronic push-button ignition, it heats up fast with the infrared burner made of stainless steel and ceramic. It can generate a high amount of heat within three minutes.
Due to its heat distribution capability, no cold or hot spots will be found on the resulting food item. If you get the separately sold adapter hose, you can also use the grill with larger propane tanks. Assembling it is also easy, and with its hood protection and lightweight design, it is easy to carry around.
So if you are looking for an infrared grill, you can take on road trips, this is the one.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Very lightweight and portable
- Delivers 14,000 BTU of infrared power
- Ceramic and stainless steel burners
- Electronic push-button ignition
- Solid stainless steel construction
- Comes complete with a battery
” cons_text=”
- Small grilling area
- Quite difficult to clean
” /]
3. Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Smoker Roaster & Grill
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- Smoker Roaster & grill
- 180 square inches of grilling surface
- TRU Infrared cooking surface
- A side mounted smoker box
- Temperature range of 9,000 to 18,000 BTU’s
” /]
The Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Smoker Roaster & Grill is a versatile grill with outstanding features and a reasonable price. It’s an ideal option for ribs, roast, turkey, or any other cuts of meat you enjoy grilling.
This 3-in-1 cooker from Char-Broil allows you to grill, roast, and smoke all in one unit thanks to the 180 square inches of grilling surface that can be removed to uncover a roasting basket, which can fit larger cuts of meat up to 21 pounds. And with the TRU Infrared cooking surface, there should be no flare-ups, and the results are tender and juicy.
Moreover, from outside of the unit, a side-mounted smoker box opens up. This allows you to easily add wood chips during your cook without having to open the lid and add real smoke flavor to your food.
Using the Big Easy is also easy as it weighs less than 23 pounds and has handles on both sides for easy portability. There are also four steel legs to add stability and keep the unit off the ground. And to start cooking, you just have to connect a propane tank, then turn one knob to on, and the other to light the unit. It also features a removable grease tray for easy cleanup.
The whole system operates efficiently within the temperature range of 9,000 to 18,000 BTU’s, which is great for both slow and low cooking along with higher temperatures needed to sear a steak. As you’d expect from the best infrared grill, the Big Easy has no flare ups, cooks food evenly, and locks in an incredible amount of juiciness on every cut of meat.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- 3 in 1 cooker
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- 180 square inches of cooking area plus roasting basket
- Temperature range from 9,000 to 18,000 BTU’s
- Provides even heat and no flare ups
” cons_text=”
- Needs assembly
- Don’t have wheels
” /]
4. Magma Products Newport 2 Infrared Gas Grill
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- Single burner
- 162 square inches of primary cooking space
- Lockable lid
- Viewing window
- Thermometer gauge
” /]
If you are looking for the best infrared grill under 500 dollars, you can’t go wrong with this compact, professional-grade product from Magma. With a polished stainless-steel finish, it has a sleek, elegant look. This unit is made of 100% 18-9 marine grade mirror polished stainless steel.
Measuring only 22.50 x 11.63 x 11.63 inches, it is a small option, but it still offers a respectable 162 square inches of primary cooking space, which is good enough to cook for 2 to 4 people.
It has a lockable lid that features a viewing window along with a built-in thermometer gauge. This makes it incredibly easy to monitor the heat while keeping an eye on the food. You can use standard 1 lb. disposable propane canisters, or it can also adapt to on-board CNG or LPG systems. And the dependable electronic ignition system will start it right up.
It also comes with foldable legs, which makes it easy to transport. And with a separate mounting kit, you can also use this grill on a boat. You can also separately purchase a serving shelf to effectively double your workspace. Moreover, this grill has a removable, front access grease tray that helps with the cleanup.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Durable materials
- Viewing window on the lid
- Foldable legs
- Grease management tray accessed from the front
” cons_text=”
- Single burner area which doesn’t offer much opportunity for cooking different dishes all at once
- Thermometer display only colors instead of degrees
” /]
5. Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Gas Grill
[dpressall_product product_image=”304″ pro_affiliate_url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FI0737A/?tag=vwchef-20″ feature_title=”Key Features” features_text=”
- Single burner
- 240 square inches of primary cooking space
- 80 square inches of warming rack
- Electric ignition integrated into the gas dial
- Porcelain-coated grates
” /]
The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Gas Grill is a compact option that will be ideal for you if you don’t have much available space at home.
Measuring 25.2″W x 24.4″D x 38.2″H, it offers 240 square inches of main cooking space and a warming rack of 80 square inches that sits over the grilling area. So, you will be able to taste hot, juicy food without sacrificing lots of space in your small home or on the patio.
The footprint of this grill is also small but has all the essential features required for a great barbecue. It is easy to light up with the electric ignition integrated into the gas dial that also offers a wide range of temperatures. There is a shelf at the base that keeps your propane tank secure. It also comes with two wheels for easy portability.
It features porcelain-coated grates for corrosion resistance as well as easy cleaning. And before you can use it, some assembly is required. This gas grill is small in size but huge on features – perfect for a patio or balcony.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Small footprint makes it ideal for patio and balcony
- User-friendly and easy to ignite
- Great cooking experience with basic infrared features
- Comes with two wheels
- Shelf at the base to keep propane tank secure
- Easy to clean
” cons_text=”
- It may seem tricky to some user to light with the electric ignition
” /]
6. Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill
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- Single burner
- Delivers 9,500 BTUs
- 200 square inches of cooking
- Advanced TRU-Infrared technology
- Two side handles and a carrying handle
” /]
The Char-Broil Grill2Go is a top-notch product that is ideal for weekend trips as well as balcony barbecues.
It measures a small 23.7 x 15 x 13.6 inches but has a 200 square inches of cooking surface that is enough to quick grill items for 2 to 4 people. The burner can deliver 9,500 BTUs. The cast iron infrared grates help to provide even temperature while cooking. Also, the advanced TRU-Infrared technology helps to make the cooking experience enjoyable and safe.
The whole grill sits on two heavy-duty legs that make the grill stable. It has two side handles, which make it easy to move the grill around when in use, plus, there is a carrying handle with locking clips for easy portability.
The grill has a high-impact frame with a cast aluminum firebox and lid. The lid also features a built-in temperature gauge that helps you monitor and control the heat inside and two stainless steel latches that keeps the lid close. Starting the grill is also easy with push-button ignition. The removable drip pan helps for easy cleaning.
The grill weighs under 20 pounds and comes fully assembled. It is a small, portable, road-friendly grill and a great option for cookouts.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Great for travel
- Budget-friendly
- Features dual stainless steel latches
- Reasonable cooking space
- Easy to clean
- Boasts a durable cast aluminum body
” cons_text=”
- Poor quality regulator
” /]
What Are Infrared Grills?
The word infrared refers to a method of transferring heat. Infrared grills are basically gas grills based on the recent technology where an infrared element creates a barrier between the flame and the grates. Therefore, the flame is unable to touch the grates directly.
The flames heat up the infrared element, which radiates intense heat to the cooking item. Grills such as this are ideal for outdoor cooking.
How Do Infrared Grills Work?
When electromagnetic waves are released from the heated surface, infrared radiation heats food. These waves travel in every direction at the speed of light, so they cook at incredibly high heat and very efficiently when compared to other grilling methods.
Infrared Grill Pros
- Fewer flare-ups – There are some types of infrared burners that are less likely to cause flare ups because of the sheer intensity of the heat.
- Speed – These grills can cook incredibly fast. In just around 7 minutes, they can reach 700°F.
- Even Heat – Infrared grilling distributes the heat evenly, so there are no hot spots or cool spots.
- Efficiency – Due to their fast heating capability and as they burn so hot, you can have your food cooked in a very short time.
- Easy To Clean – Infrared grills are also easy to clean. When you are done, just fire up your infrared burner, and any food left will be incinerated.
- Great For Outdoors – As infrared grills are greatly unaffected by wind and gusty weather, they are an ideal choice for outdoors.
Infrared Grill Cons
- Less Versatility – Your options become limited because of the intense heat. Searing robust meats such as beef is generally infrared burner’s come into their own. That’s why, rather than have infrared burners as your only option on the grill, many grills will offer these burners as a “searing zone” with just one or two infrared burners.
- Burns Easily – Again, such intense heat can burn your food if you are not careful. For most infrared burners, some meats like fish might be too delicate.
Infrared Grill Buying Guide
Infrared grills offer uniform heat, reduced flare-ups, and fast cooking, making them an excellent option. However, not every model is the same, so to choose one, you need to consider your own specific needs.
Here are some factors that you can consider to find the best infrared grill.
Size Matters
Naturally, the intended use of the grill will affect the size of the model you are looking for. If you are looking for something portable, your ideal choice should be lightweight, compact, and easy to carry.
A fact you should remember is that a larger grill tends to take longer to preheat. Although it is possible to cook more food on a larger grill, the food may not cook as easily. And with large infrared grills, storage could also be an issue.
And also think about whether you want to take your infrared grill on camping trips or you just want to use it at home.
Energy Source
Typically, an infrared grill runs on gas, electricity, or charcoal. So, when you are selecting an energy source, you need to take your specific needs into account. Generally, electricity is the cleanest energy source, but it may not be useful if you intend to use your grill on camping trips.
Ease of Use
While some grills just need to be plugged in to get started, others are considerably more complicated. You may not find this to be an issue if you are an expert, but it is still important to have a good idea about your grilling skills.
The Cleanup
While you are busy cooking, meats are busy dripping grease, which can cause the grill to smoke and can be very messy. Most infrared grills come with a drip tray that will allow for easy and fast cleaning.
FAQ’s
Question: Are infrared grills better than conventional grills?
Answer: For certain types of foods, yes, infrared grills are better. Some foods require high temperatures to get cooked correctly, while some can’t handle the high temperature. So, the answer depends on what food you will be cooking.
Question: If I have a conventional grill, should I upgrade to an infrared one?
Answer: If you cook a lot of meat, then yes, you should. Infrared grills can cook food faster and also make meat taste more delicious.
Question: How to Clean Infrared Grills?
Answer: Regularly cleaning your infrared grill is very important. If the grill is less used or new, you can clean the grates with a soft and wet cloth. If not, then you can use a mixture of warm water and a mild liquid detergent.
Final Thoughts
We hope your search for the best infrared grill ends here with our top-rated product list above. These grills can cook juicy meats and provide you and your guests some delicious foods.
And remember, your choice should be determined by your needs.
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