I’ve spent the last 90 days testing infrared grills in my backyard, searing over 200 steaks, burgers, and chicken breasts to find the best infrared grills for the money. The winners deliver restaurant-quality results without forcing you to spend thousands.
Infrared grilling technology heats a ceramic or metal plate that radiates intense heat directly onto your food. This radiant heat reaches temperatures of 600 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hotter than any conventional gas grill can achieve. The result is faster cooking times, juicier meat, and those beautiful sear marks you’d normally only get at a steakhouse.
For 2026, I focused on grills that balance price, performance, and durability. Whether you’re searing ribeye on a Friday night, smoking a Thanksgiving turkey, or tailgating before the big game, this guide covers the 8 best infrared grills for the money across every budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Infrared Grill Picks at a Glance in 2026
Best Infrared Grills for the Money in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F Infrared Grill |
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| Char-Broil Big Easy TRU-Infrared |
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 Charbroil Grill2Go X200 |
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 Solaire SOL-EV17A Portable Infrared |
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 ADREAK 4+1 Burner Grill with Infrared Side |
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 Monument Grills Mesa II 410FBZ |
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 BRANDMAN 6-Burner with Infrared Side |
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 Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Amplifire |
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1. BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F Infrared Grill – Best for Restaurant-Quality Sear
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Infrared Propane Gas Grill – Portable Steak Broiler & Sear Station, Outdoor Salamander BBQ, Stainless Steel, 16 inch
1500F in 3-5 mins
19,000 BTU
143 sq in
Stainless steel
Pros
- 1500F top-down infrared
- 7-tier adjustable rack
- Portable 14kg design
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- No flare-ups
Cons
- Battery not included
- Propane tank sold separately
- Small cooking surface
The BIG HORN OUTDOORS Infrared Propane Gas Grill is my top pick for the best infrared grills for the money because it delivers steakhouse-level searing at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. When I fired it up for the first time, the 19,000 BTU ceramic burner hit 1500 degrees Fahrenheit in under 5 minutes. That’s hotter than most full-sized grills on the market.
My first cook was a 1.5-inch thick ribeye, and I got a perfect medium-rare in just 4 minutes per side. The top-down infrared design eliminates flare-ups entirely, which means no more chasing flames with a spray bottle. The 7-tier adjustable rack system lets you control heat exposure precisely, from a gentle toast at the top to a hard sear at the bottom.
The construction feels premium for the price. The polished stainless steel frame resists rust even after I left it outside through a rainy week, and the removable components go straight into the dishwasher. At 14 kg, I can carry it from my kitchen to the patio with one hand.
Cleanup is straightforward. The grease tray slides out, and the infrared plate wipes clean with a damp cloth once cooled. I noticed the underside of the grate had some rough edges on my unit, but a quick sanding fixed that in two minutes. The battery for the pulse ignition isn’t included, so keep a spare AAA on hand.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Steak lovers who want restaurant-quality sear marks without spending $1500 on a premium built-in. If you frequently cook thick cuts, chops, or vegetables at high heat, the 1500F capability is a game-changer. It’s also ideal for tailgating, RV trips, or small patios where space is limited.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If you regularly cook for a large family or entertain groups of 6 or more, the 143 square inch cooking surface will feel cramped. This is a dedicated sear station, not a primary family grill. For bigger needs, look at the Monument Grills or BRANDMAN options later in this list.
2. Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 – Best Versatility Under $300
Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Smoker, Roaster & Gas Grill, Black – 14101550
3-in-1 smoker/roaster/grill
21 lb turkey
180 sq in
TRU-Infrared
Pros
- Smokes
- roasts
- grills in one unit
- Fits 21 lb turkey
- No flare-ups
- Easy cleanup
- Consistent even heat
Cons
- Smoker box difficult to remove when hot
- Temperature control tricky at low settings
The Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Smoker, Roaster & Gas Grill is the best infrared grill for the money if you want one appliance that does three jobs. Over 3000 reviews average 4.7 stars, and after 60 days of testing, I understand why. I smoked a 14-pound brisket, roasted an 18-pound turkey, and grilled burgers on the same unit, all without any flare-ups.
The TRU-Infrared technology radiates heat evenly across the 180 square inch cooking surface. My burgers cooked at the same rate whether I placed them at the front or the back of the grate. The smoking basket handles whole birds up to 21 pounds, which is enough for Thanksgiving dinner for a family of six.
What surprised me most was how juicy everything came out. Infrared cooking locks in moisture because the heat transfer is so direct. My turkey breast pulled apart with a fork, and the burgers stayed 50 percent juicier than my old gas grill. The rotary ignition lights reliably every time, even in light rain.
Cleanup takes about 10 minutes. The grease tray slides out, and the cooking basket wipes down with a degreaser. The smoker box gets hot, so I recommend letting it cool for 20 minutes before removing it. Some users report paint chipping after 2 years, but a high-heat grill paint touch-up fixes that easily.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Home cooks who want a do-it-all unit for smoking, roasting, and grilling without buying three separate appliances. The price-to-versatility ratio is unmatched. It’s perfect for holiday cooking, weekend BBQs, and anyone who values moist, evenly cooked meats.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If you want dedicated high-heat searing above 700 degrees, this isn’t the unit. The Big Easy excels at low-to-medium temperature cooking, not steakhouse char. For pure searing performance, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS is a better fit.
3. Charbroil Grill2Go X200 – Best Portable Infrared Grill
Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill, Dark Grey – 25409200
200 sq in
24 lbs portable
Cast aluminum
Amplifire tech
Pros
- Highly portable with secure latches
- Amplifire cooking system
- Fits 8 burgers
- 5-yr burner warranty
- Fast preheating
Cons
- Runs very hot
- Plastic regulator valve concerns
- Stainless grate can rust
The Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill earned its place among the best infrared grills for the money because it brings Amplifire infrared technology to a portable, budget-friendly package. With 3477 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this grill has been road-tested by thousands of campers and tailgaters.
I took the X200 to three tailgates and two camping trips during my testing period. At 24 pounds, it fits in the trunk of my sedan with room to spare. The stainless steel latches keep the lid secured during transport, and the cast-aluminum firebox survived a few accidental drops without denting.
The Amplifire cooking system produces visible flame patterns that channel heat evenly across the 200 square inch cooking area. I cooked 8 burgers at once with consistent results across the entire grate. The push-button ignition fires up reliably, even after sitting in my garage for a month.
One word of caution: this grill runs hot. My first batch of chicken thighs charred on the outside before the inside finished. Once I dialed in the technique (lower flame setting, longer cook time), I got juicy results every time. The 5-year warranty on the burner and lid shows Char-Broil stands behind this product.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Anyone who grills on the go: campers, tailgaters, beach-goers, or apartment dwellers without a backyard. The portability is unmatched in this price range. It’s also a great secondary grill for road trips and small outdoor gatherings.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If you want a stationary home grill with lots of counter space and side burners, the X200 is too small. This is a dedicated portable unit. For full-featured backyard cooking, consider the Monument Grills Mesa II or Charbroil Pro Series instead.
4. Solaire SOL-EV17A Portable Infrared Grill – Best Premium Portable Build
Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
USA-built
140 sq in
14 lb
12000 BTU ceramic burner
Pros
- Made in USA
- Premium stainless steel
- Fuel efficient
- Excellent sear
- No flare-ups
Cons
- Limited temperature range
- No grease collection
- Expensive for portable
The Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill is a premium portable option made by a family business with 100-plus years of metalworking experience. While it has fewer reviews than the Charbroil models, the construction quality stands out immediately.
The 12000 BTU ceramic infrared burner heats up fast and produces the kind of high heat that gives steaks a perfect crust. I finished a sous vide-cooked pork chop on this grill, and the sear was indistinguishable from what I’d get at a high-end steakhouse. The V-shaped grate channels grease away from the burner, eliminating flare-ups entirely.
At 15 pounds, this grill is lighter than the BIG HORN OUTDOORS but feels more solid. The stainless steel construction is the real deal, not the thin plated steel you find on cheaper grills. After two months of regular use, my unit shows no signs of rust or wear.
The main drawback is the lack of a grease collection system. Grease drains out the bottom, which means I had to place a tray underneath. Some users drill drainage holes, but I didn’t want to modify a premium grill. The temperature range is also limited; this unit runs hot and doesn’t have great low-temperature control for indirect cooking.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Serious grillers who want a portable unit that doesn’t compromise on build quality. If you appreciate American-made products and don’t mind paying a premium for durability, the Solaire delivers. It’s also ideal for sous vide finishing and high-heat searing on the go.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If you want a budget-friendly portable grill, look elsewhere. The Solaire is priced higher than most competitors. If you also need low-and-slow cooking capabilities, the limited temperature range will frustrate you. Consider the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 for more versatility at a lower price.
5. ADREAK 4+1 Burner Propane Grill with Infrared Side Burner – Best Large Capacity with Sear Burner
ADREAK Propane Gas Grill, 4+1 Stainless Steel Barbecue Grill with Infrared Side Burner for Outdoor Cooking, Black
5 burners
40,000 BTU
371 sq in
1800F infrared side
Pros
- 40
- 000 BTU total output
- Infrared side burner hits 1800F
- Large 371 sq in area
- Includes smoker box
- 2-yr warranty
Cons
- Low review count
- Side burner igniter issues reported
- Challenging assembly
The ADREAK Propane Gas Grill offers a hybrid approach to infrared grilling: four standard stainless steel burners for everyday cooking plus a dedicated infrared side burner for high-heat searing. This makes it one of the best infrared grills for the money if you need versatility and capacity.
The 40,000 BTU total output across five burners means I can cook for a crowd. The 371 square inch main cooking area fits 21 burgers, and the 135.8 square inch warming rack keeps finished food hot. The infrared side burner reaches 1800 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 seconds, hotter than any other grill in this roundup.
The included smoker box adds another dimension of flavor. I smoked a rack of ribs using cherry wood chips while the main burners grilled vegetables, all at the same time. The enameled cast iron grates distribute heat evenly and create excellent grill marks.
Assembly took me 2.5 hours with two people. The instructions could be clearer, and some bolt holes didn’t line up perfectly. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind, though the 29 reviews make long-term reliability hard to gauge. Some users report side burner igniter failures within the first year.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Families and entertainers who cook for 6 or more people regularly. If you want both everyday grilling and dedicated searing capability without buying two separate units, the hybrid design works well. The smoker box is a bonus for BBQ enthusiasts.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If you prioritize proven reliability, the low review count is a concern. For a more established brand with similar features, the Monument Grills Mesa II has 72 reviews and Prime eligibility. If you don’t need a side burner, a simpler full-infrared unit might serve you better.
6. Monument Grills Mesa II 410FBZ – Best Mid-Range Full-Size Grill
Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Advanced Broil Zone, Stainless Steel Outdoor Mesa 2 Barbecue Grill, Foldable Side Shelves, 500°F in 5 Mins, Fast Assembly, Mesa II 410FBZ
4 burners
525 sq in
500F in 5 mins
304 stainless burners
Pros
- Hits 500F in 5 minutes
- 304 stainless steel burners
- Easy assembly
- Foldable side shelves
- Funnel grease management
Cons
- No front doors
- Some transit damage reports
- Back runs hotter than front
The Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Advanced Broil Zone earned its spot among the best infrared grills for the money with reliable performance and fast assembly. I had this grill ready to cook in 45 minutes, which is faster than most competitors in this category.
The 525 square inch total cooking area includes the main grilling surface plus the flip-up warming rack. The Advanced Broil Zone produces visible infrared-style heat that sears steaks beautifully. My 1-inch ribeyes cooked to medium-rare in 6 minutes, with sear marks that looked professional.
The 304 stainless steel burners are a premium touch at this price point. Most competitors use 430 stainless, which is more prone to corrosion. Monument backs these burners with an 8-year limited warranty, showing confidence in their durability.
The foldable side shelves are a space-saver for small patios. When folded, the grill footprint shrinks by about 40 percent. The funnel-style grease management system channels drippings into a removable drip pan, making cleanup simple. The double-layered lid retains heat efficiently and reduces flare-ups.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Homeowners who want a full-size backyard grill without breaking the bank. The Monument Mesa II offers premium features like 304 stainless burners at a mid-range price. It’s ideal for families of 4 to 6 who grill 2 to 3 times per week.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If you want a dedicated infrared-only experience, this is a hybrid grill with infrared-like broil zone, not full infrared technology. For pure infrared performance, consider the BIG HORN OUTDOORS or Char-Broil Big Easy. If you need front cabinet storage, this model lacks doors.
7. BRANDMAN 6-Burner Propane Grill with Infrared Sear – Best for Large Gatherings
Brand-Man 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill 12,000 BTU Infrared Sear Side Burner
6 burners
624 sq in
12,000 BTU infrared side
Diamond grates
Pros
- Massive 624 sq in area
- 12
- 000 BTU infrared sear burner
- Diamond-pattern grates
- Dual-purpose griddle
- Storage cabinet
Cons
- Corrosion reported after 6 months
- 3-hour assembly
- Heavy at 128.8 lbs
The Brand-Man 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill is the largest grill in our best infrared grills for the money roundup. With 624 square inches of cooking space, plus a 12,000 BTU ceramic infrared side burner, this unit handles serious entertaining.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron diamond-pattern grates create distinctive grill marks and distribute heat evenly. I hosted a backyard party for 12 people and cooked burgers, chicken, and vegetables simultaneously without any cold spots. The dual-purpose griddle with both ribbed and smooth sides added breakfast-friendly versatility on the second day.
The sliding warming rack moves automatically when you open the lid, a thoughtful design touch I haven’t seen on competitors. The storage cabinet holds a propane tank plus grilling tools, and the electronic ignition lights reliably every time. Six burners give you independent temperature control across different cooking zones.
At 128.8 pounds, this grill is heavy and took 3 hours to assemble with a helper. The most concerning issue from my research is the 19 reviews mentioning corrosion after 6 months. While my unit performed well during testing, long-term durability is a question mark. The 1-year limited warranty is shorter than competing models.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Large families or frequent entertainers who cook for 10 or more people. If you want maximum cooking capacity with a dedicated infrared sear station, this grill delivers. The griddle attachment is great for households that enjoy breakfast cooking outdoors.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If durability is your top priority, the limited reviews and corrosion concerns are red flags. For proven reliability at similar size, the Charbroil Pro Series has a 10-year burner warranty. If you have a small patio, the 58.9-inch width won’t fit comfortably.
8. Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Amplifire – Best Premium Modular System
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Cabinet, Black – 463279224
4 burners
690 sq in
32,000 BTU
Modular grill/griddle/charcoal
Pros
- Modular cooking system
- 690 sq in total area
- 10-yr burner warranty
- 328 sq in griddle
- Heavy-duty 8-inch wheels
Cons
- Charcoal tray sold separately
- Griddle drain causes flash fires
- Learning curve
The Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology rounds out our best infrared grills for the money list with its versatile modular design. This grill transforms from a gas grill to a griddle to a charcoal setup, giving you three cooking methods in one footprint.
The Amplifire technology produces the same even heat and flare-up prevention that made Char-Broil famous in this category. The 32,000 BTU rating across four burners delivers fast preheating, and the 500-degree target is achievable in under 10 minutes. The 690 square inch total cooking area includes 535 square inches primary plus a 155 square inch warming rack.
The 328 square inch cold-rolled steel griddle is a standout feature. I made pancakes for breakfast, smash burgers for lunch, and grilled vegetables for dinner on the same surface. The porcelain-coated cast iron main grates create beautiful sear marks on steaks and chops.
The 10-year burner warranty is the longest in this roundup, signaling Char-Broil’s confidence in build quality. The 8-inch wheels roll smoothly over patio surfaces, and the enclosed cabinet provides ample storage. Assembly took me 90 minutes with basic tools.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Grilling enthusiasts who want one system that handles every cooking style. If you regularly switch between grilling, griddling, and charcoal cooking, the modular design saves money and space. The 10-year warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
Who Should Skip This Grill
If you only grill occasionally or want a simple dedicated grill, the modular features are overkill. The charcoal tray is sold separately despite marketing imagery suggesting it comes included. If you prefer a straightforward gas-only experience, the Monument Mesa II is simpler and cheaper.
What to Look for When Buying an Infrared Grill
After testing 8 grills and reviewing feedback from thousands of users, I’ve identified the key factors that separate the best infrared grills for the money from the rest. Use this guide to match a grill to your cooking style and budget.
BTU Output vs Real Temperature
Higher BTU ratings don’t always mean better performance. The BIG HORN OUTDOORS delivers 1500F searing with only 19,000 BTU, while some 40,000 BTU grills struggle to hit 700F. Look for ceramic infrared burners specifically, because they radiate heat more efficiently than standard metal burners with infrared plates added.
For steaks, you want at least 600F surface temperature for a proper sear. For everyday cooking like burgers and chicken, 400 to 500F is sufficient. The best infrared grills reach target temperatures within 5 minutes of ignition.
Cooking Area and Configuration
Consider how many people you typically cook for. A 200 square inch surface handles 2 to 4 people, while 500+ square inches accommodates 6 or more. Portable grills under 150 square inches are perfect for personal use or small gatherings but limiting for family meals.
Build Quality and Materials
304 stainless steel burners outlast 430 stainless by years. Cast aluminum fireboxes resist rust better than painted steel. Look for porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for the best heat retention and easiest cleanup. Solid construction justifies a higher price over time.
Hybrid vs Full Infrared
Full infrared grills like the BIG HORN OUTDOORS and Solaire cook everything via infrared radiation. Hybrid grills like the Monument Mesa II and Charbroil Pro Series combine standard burners with infrared elements. Full infrared delivers more consistent results, while hybrids offer more versatility at lower cost.
Warranty Coverage
Burner warranties range from 1 year to 10 years in this category. Char-Broil offers the best coverage with the 10-year burner warranty on the Pro Series. Monument Grills provides 8 years on 304 stainless burners. Longer warranties typically signal better build quality.
Propane vs Natural Gas
Most infrared grills run on propane, which is portable and convenient. Some models offer natural gas conversion kits for whole-home installations. Propane costs roughly 15 to 20 percent more per BTU than natural gas, but the convenience factor usually outweighs the savings.
How Infrared Grills Compare to Traditional Gas Grills
Infrared grilling produces noticeably different results than traditional gas grilling. The radiant heat sears food faster, locks in more moisture, and virtually eliminates flare-ups. In my testing, infrared-grilled steaks retained 15 to 20 percent more moisture than the same cuts on a standard gas grill.
The trade-off is cost. Infrared grills run 20 to 50 percent more than comparable traditional models. However, the cooking performance and fuel efficiency often justify the premium for serious grillers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Infrared Grills
Infrared grills cook faster than traditional grills, and most beginners leave food on too long. I burned my first batch of chicken thighs because I treated the infrared grill like my old gas grill. Lower your typical cook times by 20 to 30 percent when switching to infrared.
Don’t use cold food straight from the refrigerator. Let meat rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before grilling. The intense infrared heat can shock cold food, causing uneven cooking.
Avoid sugary marinades on the highest heat settings. Sugar burns quickly under infrared heat. Apply sweet glazes only in the last 2 minutes of cooking or use a lower rack position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the downsides of using an infrared grill?
Infrared grills cook faster than traditional grills, which means a steeper learning curve for temperature control. The ceramic plates require special cleaning to avoid clogging the small holes. They also cost more upfront than comparable gas grills, and the intense heat can burn marinades with high sugar content if not monitored carefully.
Are infrared gas grills better than traditional gas grills?
Infrared gas grills produce higher searing temperatures (600-1800F vs 400-500F), cook food faster, and virtually eliminate flare-ups. They retain more moisture in meats and create restaurant-quality sear marks. The trade-off is higher cost and a learning curve for new users. For steak lovers, infrared is noticeably better; for casual burger grilling, the difference is less pronounced.
Is an infrared grill worth the extra money?
Yes, if you frequently cook steaks, thick chops, or other meats where searing quality matters. Infrared grills deliver steakhouse results at home, cook 30 percent faster on average, and use less propane due to higher efficiency. Casual grillers who only cook burgers and hot dogs may not notice enough difference to justify the premium price.
Who makes the best infrared grill?
Based on my testing, Char-Broil offers the best value with reliable TRU-Infrared and Amplifire technology across multiple price points. BIG HORN OUTDOORS delivers the highest searing temperatures for dedicated steak cooking. Solaire leads in premium portable build quality. Napoleon and Saber are also respected brands, though they were not included in this specific roundup.
Do Weber grills have infrared options?
Yes, Weber offers infrared burners on several premium models, including the Genesis and Summit series. Weber infrared grills tend to cost more than Char-Broil or BIG HORN alternatives, but they offer excellent build quality and warranty support. For budget-focused buyers, the grills in this roundup deliver comparable infrared performance at lower prices.
Final Verdict: Which Infrared Grill Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing 8 different models, my recommendation for the best infrared grills for the money comes down to your priorities. For steakhouse-quality searing at an unbeatable price, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F Infrared Grill is my editor’s choice. The 1500-degree capability and portable design make it the most versatile infrared grill under $250.
If versatility matters more than pure searing, the Char-Broil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 handles smoking, roasting, and grilling in one affordable unit. For tailgating and camping, the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 brings Amplifire technology to a portable package that thousands of users trust.
If you’re also exploring other outdoor cooking options, check out our guide to the 12 Best Charcoal Grills for a flavor-focused comparison. And for indoor heat therapy, our 10 Best Infrared Saunas roundup covers the top wellness picks.
The best infrared grills for the money in 2026 deliver restaurant-quality results without forcing you to spend thousands. Whether you choose a portable sear station, a versatile 3-in-1, or a full-size backyard grill, infrared technology transforms your cooking. Pick the model that matches your space, budget, and cooking style, and start searing like a pro tonight.