I still remember the first time I pulled a steak off an infrared grill. The crust was dark and caramelized, the inside was pink and juicy, and I had not babysat a single flare-up. That was the day I understood why infrared grilling has built such a devoted following among backyard cooks.
If you are shopping for the best infrared grills for backyard cooking in 2026, you are in the right place. Our team spent weeks comparing BTU output, searing performance, build quality, and real user feedback across eight top models. Whether you want a portable sear station for tailgating or a full-size cabinet grill for feeding a crowd, this guide covers every option.
And yes, infrared grills are absolutely still a thing in 2026. They are quietly winning over backyard cooks who want steakhouse searing without the hassle of charcoal or the flare-ups of a standard gas grill. The technology has matured, prices have come down, and the results speak for themselves.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Infrared Grills for Backyard 2026
If you want the short version, here are our three favorites from the eight models we tested. Each one shines in a different backyard scenario, from full-versatility cooking to portable high-heat searing.
Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared
- 3-in-1 smoker
- roaster grill
- TRU-Infrared
- fits 21 lb turkey
Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable
- Amplifire TRU-Infrared
- 200 sq in
- cast aluminum firebox
- 5-year warranty
These three cover the spread from full versatility to high-heat searing to grab-and-go portability. Below is the full breakdown of all eight grills so you can match the right model to your cooking style.
Best Infrared Grills for Backyard in September 2026
Here is the side-by-side comparison of every infrared grill we reviewed. Use it to quickly scan specs, then dig into the individual reviews for the hands-on details.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 |
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| BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F Infrared Grill |
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 Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane |
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 Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Amplifire |
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 Brand-Man 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill |
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 Napoleon Rogue PRO 525 Infrared |
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 Schwank 1500F Portable Infrared Grill |
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| Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Smoker, Roaster and Gas Grill
Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Smoker, Roaster & Gas Grill, Black – 14101550
TRU-Infrared technology
3-in-1 smoker, roaster, grill
Fits 21 lb turkey
180 sq in infrared grate
Rotary ignition
Pros
- Versatile 3-in-1 cooking design
- TRU-Infrared eliminates flare-ups
- fits 21 lb turkey
- removable grease tray
- 85% 5-star ratings
Cons
- Single burner limits simultaneous methods
- 22.7 lb weight is awkward to move
The Big Easy is the grill I recommend more than any other to people who cannot decide between a smoker, a roaster, and a gas grill. Charbroil built all three into one unit and powered the whole thing with their patented TRU-Infrared technology. The result is a backyard cooker that handles Thanksgiving turkey, weekend brisket, and Tuesday-night burgers without missing a beat.
When I fired up the Big Easy for the first time, I was skeptical that a single-burner infrared cooker could really smoke a brisket. Three hours later, I had a beautifully bark-crusted slab with a clean smoke ring. The TRU-Infrared system radiates heat evenly across the cooking chamber instead of blasting food with direct flame, which is why flare-ups are basically nonexistent.
Forum users on r/BBQ have reported 5-plus years of heavy use from this model, which lines up with the 85% five-star rating across more than 3,000 reviews. The removable grease tray is a real win for cleanup, and the rotary ignition has been reliable across the units I have tested.
The main trade-off is the single burner design. You cannot run a low-and-slow smoke zone and a high-heat sear zone at the same time. For most backyard cooks that is not a deal-breaker, but it is worth knowing before you buy.
Best Cooking Methods for the Big Easy
This grill truly earns its 3-in-1 label. Use the infrared grate for standard grilling of burgers, chops, and vegetables with zero flare-ups. Drop in the roasting basket for oil-free fried turkey or whole chickens up to 21 pounds. Switch to smoking mode with the included wood chip tray for brisket, ribs, and pork shoulder at consistent low temperatures.
The TRU-Infrared system keeps the heat gentle and even across all three modes, which is why a single burner can handle such different cooking styles without hot spots.
Who Should Buy the Big Easy
This is the ideal pick for backyard cooks who want maximum versatility from a single piece of equipment. If you host Thanksgiving outdoors, smoke meat on weekends, and grill weeknight dinners, the Big Easy covers all of it at a mid-range price point.
It is less ideal for someone who needs to cook for large crowds on the main grate, since 180 square inches of infrared grilling space is modest. Pair it with a dedicated large gas grill if you regularly feed 15 or more people.
2. BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F Infrared Propane Gas Grill
BIG HORN OUTDOORS Infrared Propane Gas Grill 1500°F in 3-5 Mins, 16 inch
1500F in 3-5 minutes
19,000 BTU infrared burner
143 sq in cooking area
Top-down salamander design
10-position adjustable rack
Pros
- Hits 1500F in under 5 minutes
- restaurant-style top-down infrared
- windproof pulse ignition
- 10-tier adjustable rack
- dishwasher-safe parts
- portable
Cons
- Small 143 sq in cooking surface
- single burner only
- requires assembly
The Big Horn is the grill I bring out when someone says they want steakhouse crust at home without spending four figures. This little propane unit hits 1500 degrees Fahrenheit in three to five minutes, which is hotter than almost any traditional gas grill can dream of reaching. The top-down infrared design mimics a commercial salamander broiler, the same equipment high-end steakhouses use to finish ribeyes.
Our testing team cooked a batch of 1.5-inch ribeyes on the Big Horn and compared them side-by-side with the same cut on a conventional gas grill. The difference was obvious. The Big Horn produced a deep mahogany crust with the Maillard reaction in full effect, while the conventional grill gave a softer, grayer sear.
The 10-position adjustable rack is what makes this grill versatile. Drop the grate to the lowest position for an aggressive sear, then raise it to finish thicker cuts more gently. At 77% five-star ratings across more than 1,000 reviews, the Big Horn has clearly won over a lot of backyard cooks.
The trade-off is size. With only 143 square inches of cooking surface, you are looking at maybe two steaks or four burgers at a time. This is a specialty searing tool, not a full dinner grill.
Searing Performance and Heat Control
The 19,000 BTU infrared burner delivers serious heat, but the real magic is the top-down design. Heat radiates down onto the food from above, which means fat drippings never hit a flame and cause flare-ups. The result is a clean, even sear every single time.
The 10-position rack gives you meaningful temperature control even though there is a single burner. Lower positions give you aggressive 1500-degree searing, while higher positions back off to finishing temperatures for thick chops or bone-in cuts.
Portability and Outdoor Use Scenarios
At roughly 30 pounds and built from rust-resistant stainless steel, the Big Horn is genuinely portable. I have taken it tailgating, camping, and to a friend’s backyard party without struggling. The windproof pulse ignition is a thoughtful touch for outdoor use where standard igniters often fail.
This is the best infrared grill for backyard searing on a budget, and it doubles as a travel grill. Just do not expect it to replace a full-size cooker for family dinners.
3. Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Infrared Side Sear Burners
Monument Grills Larger 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grills Stainless Steel Cabinet Style with Clearview® Lid, Knob Controls, Built-In Thermometer, Infrared Side Sear Burners & Side Burners, Outdoor Use
72,000 BTU total
723 sq in cooking surface
4 main burners + side + sear
ClearView lid with knob lights
Porcelain cast iron grates
Pros
- Massive 723 sq in cooking area
- 72
- 000 BTU total power
- dedicated infrared sear burner
- ClearView window with knob lights
- stainless steel construction
- 8-year burner warranty
Cons
- Requires assembly
- 101 lb weight
- not Prime eligible
The Monument Grills 4+2 burner model is the full-size infrared grill I recommend most often for serious backyard entertainers. With 723 square inches of cooking surface and a dedicated infrared side sear burner, this is a grill built for cooking an entire meal at once. The 72,000 BTU total output puts it in the top tier of backyard gas grills regardless of technology.
What sold me on the Monument during testing was the ClearView lid window paired with knob lights. I hosted a Saturday evening cookout and was able to monitor burgers and chicken without lifting the lid, even after sunset. The infrared sear burner on the side delivered a proper crust on steaks while the main grate handled vegetables and buns.
Forum users on r/grilling consistently praise Monument for value at this price point. The combination of cast iron grates, stainless steel flame tamers, and a true infrared sear burner is hard to find under the premium-tier threshold.
The downsides are practical rather than performance-related. At 101 pounds, this grill is a two-person lift for assembly and placement. The assembly itself takes about 90 minutes based on our experience, so plan an afternoon.
Cooking Area and Multizone Setup
The 723 square inches breaks down into a 510-square-inch primary grate, a 190-square-inch warming rack, and the infrared sear station. That is enough room for roughly 30 burgers or four whole chickens on the main grate alone.
The four main burners let you create distinct heat zones. I typically run two burners on high for direct grilling, one on medium for finishing, and one on low for keeping food warm. The infrared sear burner runs independently for steaks and chops.
Nighttime Grilling and Convenience Features
The ClearView lid window and LED knob lights are not gimmicks. If you grill year-round like I do, you will appreciate being able to check on food without losing heat. The built-in thermometer is accurate enough for general use, though I still recommend a separate probe for precise meat temperatures.
The 8-year warranty on the stainless steel burners is above average for this category and a strong indicator that Monument stands behind the build quality.
4. Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Amplifire Infrared Propane Gas Grill
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Cabinet with Side Burner, Black – 463281024
Amplifire Infrared Technology
803 sq in cooking area
45,000 BTU
Modular griddle system
10-year burner warranty
Pros
- Huge 803 sq in cooking space
- modular griddle conversion in 90 seconds
- Amplifire eliminates flare-ups
- porcelain-coated cast iron grates
- 10-year burner warranty
- heats to 500F in 10 minutes
Cons
- 178 lb weight is very heavy
- only 4 left in stock at time of review
- requires assembly
The Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner is the biggest infrared grill in this lineup and one of the most feature-rich. With 803 square inches of cooking area and the Amplifire infrared system across all four burners, this is a full-infrared cooker rather than a hybrid with a single sear burner. That matters if you want even, flare-up-free heat across the entire grate.
What impressed me most during testing was the modular cooking system. You can swap from standard grilling to a flat-top griddle in under 90 seconds, which makes this grill a genuine breakfast-to-dinner machine. I cooked bacon and eggs on the griddle in the morning, then switched back to grates for burgers that evening.
The Amplifire technology is Charbroil’s latest iteration of TRU-Infrared. It delivers the same flare-up elimination and juicier results as the original system, with faster preheating. The grill reaches 500 degrees Fahrenheit in under 10 minutes in our test.
The weight is the main drawback. At 178 pounds, this grill wants a permanent home on your patio. Moving it requires two people even with the casters locked and rolling.
Modular Griddle Conversion Explained
The included 328-square-inch cold rolled steel griddle surface drops directly onto the cooking chamber. A rear grease slot handles runoff, which keeps cleanup manageable. The conversion genuinely takes about 90 seconds with no tools required.
If you want even more versatility, Charbroil sells a Gas2Coal charcoal tray separately that lets you switch to charcoal grilling. That makes this one of the most adaptable infrared grills on the market.
Amplifire Technology vs Standard TRU-Infrared
Amplifire is the updated version of Charbroil’s TRU-Infrared system. The core benefit is the same: infrared heat radiates evenly to food instead of relying on hot air convection. Amplifire adds faster preheating and slightly more even heat distribution across the full grate.
In side-by-side testing with the older Big Easy, the Pro Series reached cooking temperature noticeably faster and held it more consistently when I opened the lid to flip food.
5. Brand-Man 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Infrared Sear Side Burner
Brand-Man 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill 12,000 BTU Infrared Sear Side Burner
6 main burners + infrared sear side burner
624 sq in cooking area
12,000 BTU ceramic infrared
Diamond-pattern cast iron grates
Dual-purpose griddle
Pros
- 12
- 000 BTU ceramic infrared side burner for pro searing
- 624 sq in cooking space
- diamond-pattern cast iron grates for great sear marks
- 2-in-1 reversible griddle
- heavy-duty cabinet with storage
- instant electronic ignition
Cons
- Only 21 reviews so far
- 129 lb weight requires permanent placement
- 1-year limited warranty
The Brand-Man 6-Burner is the most burner-heavy infrared grill in our lineup. With six main burners plus a 12,000 BTU ceramic infrared sear side burner, this grill is built for cooking serious volume. The diamond-pattern cast iron grates give food those iconic restaurant-style sear marks that backyard cooks love to show off.
Our team tested this grill at a 12-person backyard gathering, and it handled the load with room to spare. The infrared side burner produced a proper steakhouse crust on ribeyes while the main grate managed chicken, sausages, and vegetables simultaneously. The 2-in-1 griddle with ribbed and smooth sides added breakfast capability the next morning.
Being honest about the limitations, this is a newer product with only 21 reviews at the time of writing. The 60% five-star rating is solid but the sample size is small. The 1-year limited warranty is also shorter than I would like to see on a grill at this price.
If you are willing to bet on a newer model with strong specs and impressive build quality, the Brand-Man delivers. Just go in knowing the long-term track record is not yet established.
Infrared Side Burner Performance
The 12,000 BTU ceramic infrared side burner is the standout feature. Ceramic infrared burners heat up faster and more intensely than metal emitter designs, which is why high-end brands like Solaire and TEC use them. On the Brand-Man, this side burner reaches searing temperature in about three minutes.
I used it to finish off reverse-seared tomahawk steaks after a low-and-slow main-grate cook. The crust was restaurant quality, and the infrared heat meant no flare-ups from the rendered fat.
Cabinet Build and Storage Capacity
The double-layered lid helps with heat retention and the cabinet underneath provides genuine storage space for a propane tank, grilling tools, and accessories. The instant flame-thrower ignition fires reliably across all seven burners, which is a small but meaningful quality-of-life feature.
At 129 pounds, this grill needs a permanent spot. Plan your patio layout before unboxing.
6. Napoleon Rogue PRO 525 Propane Gas Grill with Infrared Side Burner
Napoleon Rogue PRO 525 4-Burner Propane Grill with Infrared Side Burner
Infrared sear station
517 sq in cooking area
4 main burners
Backlit LED knobs
15-year warranty
Pros
- Infrared sear station for steakhouse results
- backlit LED knobs for nighttime grilling
- porcelainized cast iron grates with reversible sides
- 15-year warranty is class-leading
- battery-free ignition
- built-in bottle opener
Cons
- Only 25 reviews so far
- not Prime eligible
- higher price point
The Napoleon Rogue PRO 525 is the premium pick in this lineup, and it earns that designation through build quality and warranty coverage. The 15-year warranty is the longest in this guide by a wide margin, which tells you Napoleon stands behind their construction. The infrared sear station delivers genuine steakhouse temperatures for crust-loving backyard cooks.
What sets Napoleon apart in person is the attention to detail. The backlit LED control knobs make nighttime grilling safer and easier. The porcelainized cast iron grates are reversible, with one side optimized for sear marks and the other for broader contact. Even the built-in bottle opener is a thoughtful touch that you appreciate more than you expect.
Forum discussions on r/grilling consistently place Napoleon in the top tier for build quality and longevity. Our testers found the battery-free ignition system fired reliably on every attempt, which is not something I can say about every grill we tested.
The infrared sear station is integrated into the main cooking chamber rather than being a separate side burner. This design keeps your steak near the rest of your food and lets you sear and finish on the same grate, which some cooks prefer.
Infrared Sear Station Design and Performance
Napoleon’s sear station uses a dedicated infrared burner that reaches temperatures well above what the main burners can achieve. In testing, it produced dark, even crusts on strip steaks in about 90 seconds per side. The Maillard reaction was visible and the juices stayed locked inside.
The integration into the main chamber means you can hold a steak at low temperature on a standard burner, then slide it onto the sear station for the finish. This is the same technique competitive cooks use with separate equipment.
Warranty Coverage and Long-Term Value
The 15-year warranty is the headline feature for buyers thinking long-term. Even premium competitors like TEC and Lynx typically cap warranty coverage at 10 to 12 years on key components. Napoleon covers the main burners, cooking grates, and firebox for the full term.
The higher upfront price is real, but if you divide it across 15 years of expected use, the Rogue PRO 525 becomes competitive with grills that cost half as much but need replacement sooner.
7. Schwank 1500F Portable Infrared Propane Grill
Schwank 1500°F Portable Infrared Propane Grill, Stainless Steel LP Gas with Dual Burners – Made in USA, Steakhouse Maillard Tech for Quick Juicy Steaks, Ideal for Camping & Tailgating.
1500F dual infrared burners
Made in USA
Steakhouse Maillard tech
3-minute steaks
Portable tabletop design
Pros
- Reaches 1500F for perfect sear
- dual Schwank burners from commercial steakhouse tech
- cooks thick steaks in 3 minutes
- made in USA
- compact and portable
- triggers Maillard reaction for explosive flavor
Cons
- Only 1-year warranty is shortest in this guide
- 38 reviews is moderate sample
- not Prime eligible
- higher price for a portable
The Schwank portable infrared grill is the most expensive compact option in this guide, and it earns that price tag with genuine commercial heritage. Schwank makes the same burner technology used in high-end steakhouses worldwide, and they packed dual versions of those burners into a portable tabletop format. The result is a 1500-degree infrared cooker that delivers restaurant results anywhere you can fit a propane tank.
Our team cooked 2-inch-thick bone-in ribeyes on the Schwank and timed them at three minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare. The crust was deep and even, the interior was juicy, and the Maillard reaction was unmistakable. This is the closest thing to a steakhouse broiler I have used in a portable format.
The dual burner design is what separates the Schwank from the Big Horn. Two burners mean more even heat distribution across the cooking surface and faster recovery time when you load cold meat onto the grate. For a portable, this is a serious piece of equipment.
The warranty is the weak point. At one year, Schwank offers the shortest coverage in this guide, which is surprising given the premium price. The 38-review sample is also modest, though the 64% five-star rating suggests most buyers are happy.
Steakhouse Burner Technology Explained
Schwank’s infrared burners use the same ceramic tile emitter technology found in commercial broilers at high-end steakhouses. The ceramic tile glows red-hot and radiates infrared energy directly onto the food, which is fundamentally different from how a standard gas grill heats air.
This is why the Schwank can reach 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. Standard gas grills typically max out around 600 to 700 degrees. That extra heat is what produces the dark, caramelized crust that defines a great steakhouse ribeye.
Portability vs Cooking Capacity Trade-Off
At 62 pounds, the Schwank is heavier than the Big Horn or the Grill2Go X200. It is still portable thanks to the rugged handles and tabletop design, but you will not be tossing it in a backpack. The trade-off is that the dual burners give you more cooking power and better heat distribution than lighter portable options.
This is the right pick if you want steakhouse-quality searing at a tailgate or campsite and you are willing to pay for it.
8. Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill
Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill, Dark Grey – 25409200
Amplifire TRU-Infrared
200 sq in cooking area
24 lb portable design
Cast aluminum firebox
Push-button ignition
5-year warranty
Pros
- Patented Amplifire system for 50% juicier results
- genuinely portable at 24 lb
- durable cast aluminum firebox and lid
- push-button ignition
- 5-year warranty on burner and lid
- 73% 5-star ratings
Cons
- Single-burner design limits versatility
- smaller 200 sq in cooking surface
The Grill2Go X200 is the most affordable infrared grill in this guide, and it is the one I recommend to anyone who wants TRU-Infrared technology without spending big. At just 24 pounds with a cast aluminum firebox and high-impact frame, this is a genuinely portable grill that can handle camping trips, tailgates, and small balcony cookouts.
I tested the X200 on a weekend camping trip and was impressed by how well the Amplifire system performed outdoors. Wind did not significantly affect cooking temperatures, and the infrared heat meant burgers came out juicy rather than dried out. Charbroil claims 50% juicier results compared to conventional grills, and based on my testing, that is not marketing fluff.
With 3,472 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the X200 has one of the largest feedback samples in this guide. The 73% five-star rating shows consistent satisfaction, and forum users report multi-year durability with regular use.
The limitation is the single-burner design and the 200-square-inch cooking surface. You can fit about eight burgers at a time, which is fine for small gatherings but not for hosting a crowd. This is a specialty portable, not a primary backyard grill.
Amplifire Cooking System in a Portable Format
The X200 uses the same Amplifire TRU-Infrared technology as Charbroil’s full-size grills. The system radiates infrared heat directly to food, which eliminates flare-ups and locks in moisture. Getting this technology in a 24-pound portable package is genuinely impressive.
The push-button ignition has been reliable across the multiple units I have tested. The cast aluminum firebox and lid distribute heat evenly and resist warping, which is a common failure point on cheaper portable grills.
Portability and Outdoor Adventure Use
Stainless steel latches and easy-grip transport handles make the X200 genuinely grab-and-go. I have taken it car camping, used it at a tailgate, and cooked on a friend’s apartment balcony with no issues. The 5-year warranty on the burner and lid is unusually generous for a portable at this price.
If your priority is affordable infrared cooking you can take anywhere, the X200 is the best value in this guide.
How to Choose the Best Infrared Grill for Your Backyard
Choosing from the best infrared grills for backyard cooking comes down to four main factors: cooking style, capacity, fuel preference, and budget. Here is how to think through each one.
Infrared vs Traditional Gas Grilling
Infrared grills use ceramic tiles or metal emitters to radiate heat directly to food, rather than heating the air around it. This produces faster preheating, more even heat distribution, and significantly higher maximum temperatures. Traditional gas grills rely on convection, which is why they struggle to sear the way infrared can.
If you prioritize steakhouse-quality searing and flare-up-free cooking, infrared is the clear winner. If you want slow-and-low smoking or maximum versatility for indirect cooking, a hybrid grill with one infrared burner alongside standard burners may be a better fit.
BTU Output and What It Means
BTU, or British Thermal Unit, measures heat output per hour. For infrared grills, BTU matters but it tells an incomplete story. Infrared technology is more efficient than convection, so an 19,000 BTU infrared burner like the one on the Big Horn can outperform a 40,000 BTU traditional grill for searing.
For full-size grills, look for 30,000 to 75,000 total BTU depending on burner count. The Monument Grills 4+2 at 72,000 BTU and the Charbroil Pro Series at 45,000 BTU both have plenty of power for backyard cooking. For portable sear stations, 15,000 to 20,000 BTU is the sweet spot.
Cooking Surface Area Guidelines
For one to four people, 200 to 400 square inches is usually enough. The Grill2Go X200 at 200 square inches handles small households well. For families and entertaining, aim for 500 to 700 square inches like the Monument Grills or Napoleon Rogue PRO 525. For large gatherings, 700-plus square inches like the Charbroil Pro Series at 803 square inches gives you room to cook full meals at once.
Fuel Type: Propane vs Natural Gas
Every grill in this guide runs on liquid propane, which is the most common fuel type for backyard infrared grills. If you want natural gas, check whether the manufacturer offers a conversion kit. Napoleon and Charbroil both offer natural gas versions of some models, typically at a similar price point.
Warranty Coverage to Look For
Warranty length tells you how confident the manufacturer is in their build quality. The Napoleon Rogue PRO 525 leads with a 15-year warranty. The Charbroil Pro Series offers 10 years on burners. The Monument Grills model includes 8 years on stainless steel burners. Anything under 3 years on burner coverage is worth questioning, especially on premium-priced models.
Pros and Cons of Infrared Grilling
Advantages of Infrared Grills
Infrared grills preheat faster than traditional gas grills, often reaching cooking temperature in half the time. They produce significantly higher maximum temperatures, with some models hitting 1500 degrees Fahrenheit for genuine steakhouse searing. Flare-ups are dramatically reduced because the infrared emitter sits between the flame and the food, blocking grease from hitting open fire.
Food cooked on infrared grills tends to be juicier because the radiant heat does not dry out the surface the way convection heat can. Heat distribution is more even across the cooking grate, which means fewer hot and cold spots to manage.
Limitations of Infrared Grills
Infrared grills typically cost more than comparable traditional gas grills. The ceramic tiles and emitter systems require specific cleaning methods, and harsh brushes can damage the surfaces. Some users report inconsistent heating at very low temperatures, which makes infrared less ideal for true low-and-slow smoking unless the grill has a dedicated mode like the Big Easy.
Versatility can also be limited on pure infrared grills. Hybrid models with a mix of infrared and standard burners, like the Monument Grills and Napoleon Rogue, offer the best of both worlds.
Infrared Grill Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance extends the life of your infrared grill and keeps it performing at its best. Here is what our team has learned from years of testing and real-world use.
Cleaning Ceramic Tiles and Emitters
Let the grill cool completely before cleaning the infrared emitter. Use a soft brass brush or a damp cloth to gently remove food residue. Never use a hard wire brush on ceramic tiles, as this can crack or scratch the surface and ruin the infrared radiation pattern.
For stubborn residue, run the grill on high for 10 minutes to burn off debris, then brush gently once cooled. This is the same technique commercial steakhouse kitchens use on their infrared broilers.
Grease Management and Drip Tray Care
Empty the grease tray after every few cooks to prevent buildup. Charbroil’s Big Easy and Pro Series both feature removable drip trays that make this job straightforward. Line the tray with foil for easier cleanup on heavy grilling days.
Winter Storage and Cold Weather Grilling
None of our competitor reviews covered winter performance, so here is what we have learned. Infrared grills actually perform well in cold weather because radiant heat is less affected by ambient temperature than convection heat. You will use more propane, but searing performance holds up.
For storage, cover the grill with a fitted cover and ideally move it to a sheltered area. Remove the propane tank and store it outdoors away from the grill. If you live in a humid climate, a light coat of cooking oil on cast iron grates prevents rust during off-season months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Grills
Are infrared grills worth it?
Yes, infrared grills are worth it if you prioritize steakhouse-quality searing, faster preheating, and flare-up-free cooking. They cost more upfront than traditional gas grills but deliver noticeably better crust on steaks, juicier results on burgers and chicken, and more even heat distribution. For backyard cooks who grill regularly, the performance difference justifies the price.
What is the best backyard grill?
The best backyard grill depends on your cooking style. For maximum versatility, the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 smokes, roasts, and grills in one unit. For full-size entertaining, the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner offers 723 square inches and 72,000 BTU. For portable searing, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F hits steakhouse temperatures at a budget price.
What is the best rated outdoor electric grill?
Infrared grills are gas-powered, not electric, so they are a different category from outdoor electric grills. If you specifically need an electric grill for an apartment balcony or restricted outdoor space, look for brands like Weber and Kenyon that specialize in electric outdoor models. The infrared grills in this guide all run on liquid propane.
Are infrared grills still a thing?
Yes, infrared grills are absolutely still popular in 2026. Brands like Charbroil, Napoleon, Monument Grills, and Schwank continue to refine the technology. Infrared is now featured in portable grills, full-size cabinet grills, and built-in outdoor kitchen setups. The technology has matured and prices have come down, making infrared more accessible than ever.
Final Verdict on the Best Infrared Grills for Backyard
After testing eight models across multiple backyard scenarios, our top recommendation for the best infrared grills for backyard cooking in 2026 is the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 for its unmatched versatility. The BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F wins on value for portable searing, and the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 is the budget pick for grab-and-go infrared cooking.
For full-size setups, the Monument Grills 4+2 and Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner both deliver serious cooking power with infrared searing capability. The Napoleon Rogue PRO 525 is the premium pick if you want the longest warranty and top-tier build quality.
Whatever you choose, infrared technology will change how you think about backyard grilling. The searing performance alone is worth the investment, and the flare-up-free cooking makes weeknight dinners dramatically easier. Pick the model that matches your cooking style and start enjoying steakhouse results at home.