Choosing the best infrared or gas grill is key for anyone who wants to enjoy perfectly cooked meals outdoors. Infrared grills provide intense, even heat that sears food quickly while gas grills offer versatile cooking with steady flame control. Below is a summary table of top-rated grills combining these technologies, followed by detailed reviews to help you make an informed choice.
| Product | Brand | Cooking Technology | Main Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill | BIG HORN OUTDOORS | Infrared Burner, Propane Gas | Ultrafast heating up to 1500°F with pizza stone |
| Char-Broil® Performance Series™ Amplifire™ 2-Burner Grill | Char-Broil | Infrared Cooking Technology, Propane Gas | Amplifire system prevents flare-ups, even heat |
| Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner with Side Burner & Griddle | Char-Broil | Gas Grill with Optional Charcoal Tray | Modular system with griddle and fast heating |
| Char-Broil® Performance Series™ TRU-Infrared 3-Burner Grill | Char-Broil | TRU-Infrared Cooking Technology, Propane Gas | Flare-up prevention, 50% juicier food cooking |
| Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Rotisserie | Monument Grills | Propane Gas with Infrared Side Sear | Large 723 sq in surface with cast iron grates |
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill
The BIG HORN OUTDOORS Small Infrared Grill offers powerful performance with a 19,000 BTU infrared burner heating to 1500°F in 3-5 minutes. This allows you to achieve a perfect sear similar to a restaurant salamander broiler. Its top-down infrared heating locks in moisture and flavor while reducing smoke. This compact grill includes a pizza stone useful for baking, making it versatile for grilling steaks, ribs, and gourmet dishes. The windproof pulse ignition provides reliable and quick startup in any outdoor setting. Its portability is ideal for backyard cookouts and camping adventures, making fast, energy-efficient cooking accessible anywhere.
Char-Broil® Performance Series™ Amplifire™ 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill
This 2-burner Char-Broil Performance Series grill delivers reliable propane gas power with a 20-pound tank. It offers 405 square inches of cooking space enough for 16 burgers or 4 steaks. The innovative Amplifire cooking system uses an emitter plate that transfers heat directly to the grate, vaporizing drippings and enhancing food flavor. This technology prevents flare-ups, maintains even heat, and cooks juicy grilled food consistently. A warming rack provides indirect heat to keep food warm, which is convenient for varied cooking needs. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and easy maintenance.
Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Propane Grill With Side Burner
The Charbroil Pro Series provides versatile cooking options with 4 burners and a side burner all powered by liquid propane. The grill heats to 500°F in under 10 minutes, featuring porcelain-coated cast iron grates for excellent heat retention and rust resistance. It includes a 328-square-inch cold rolled steel griddle that provides even heat, drainage for grease, and the ability to hang when not in use. The modular system allows switching between classic grilling, griddling, or charcoal grilling (charcoal tray sold separately) increasing its adaptability for various cooking preferences.
Char-Broil® TRU-Infrared 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner
The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared 3-Burner Grill features advanced infrared cooking technology to prevent flare-ups and deliver even heat distribution. The 3 burners produce high heat over 600 square inches of cooking area, including a large primary grate and warming rack. This grill can cook up to 50% juicier food by vaporizing drippings and returning flavor to the food. The propane-powered grill heats quickly and maintains consistent temperatures. It is suitable for grilling multiple meats simultaneously with the added convenience of a side burner for cooking sauces or sides.
Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill With Infrared Side Sear
The Monument Grills 4-Burner Grill packs 72,000 BTU of power across four stainless steel burners plus a dedicated side burner and high-heat sear burner. This setup ensures rapid heating and versatile cooking for large gatherings. It features 723 square inches of cooking space combining a 513 sq in primary grate and 210 sq in warming rack. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates retain heat evenly while stainless steel flame tamers improve heat distribution and flavor. It includes a built-in thermometer and a rotisserie kit for additional cooking methods, enhancing overall grilling flexibility.
Buying Guide For Infrared And Gas Grills
Selecting the right grill depends on your cooking needs, space, and preferences. Here are key factors to consider when choosing between infrared and gas grills or combination models:
Heating Technology
- Infrared Grills use radiant heat from ceramic or metal emitters to sear food quickly at very high temperatures, ideal for steaks and quick cooking.
- Gas Grills use direct flame heat offering better temperature control and versatility suitable for slow cooking, smoking, or searing.
Cooking Space
Consider the total cooking area relative to how many people you typically cook for. Larger grills with warming racks and secondary burners provide flexibility for multi-dish meals.
Portability Versus Size
- Compact and portable infrared grills are excellent for tailgating or camping.
- Cabinet-style gas grills with multiple burners suit backyard use and larger groups.
Build Materials and Durability
Look for stainless steel construction for rust resistance and longevity. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates ensure even heat retention and ease of cleaning.
Additional Features
- Pulse or electronic ignition for quick, safe startup
- Infrared side sear burners for high heat finishing
- Modular cooking options (griddle, charcoal trays)
- Rotisserie kits for varied cooking styles
Fuel Type and Availability
Propane is widely available and portable, while some grills also allow connection to larger natural gas lines. Electric grills offer convenience but lack the intense searing of gas or infrared.
Choosing a grill that balances heating performance, cooking surface, and features suitable to your outdoor lifestyle will help you achieve restaurant-quality results with every cookout.