Best Infrared Grill of 2026: Charbroil The Big Easy Review

The Pit Boss 150 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker brings real hardwood flavor to your outdoor adventures. Designed as a tabletop model, it is perfect for tailgating, camping, or small backyard cookouts. With 256 square inches of cooking space and a two-tiered rack, you can grill burgers, smoke ribs, or sear steaks all in one portable unit.

Key standout features include an automatic start-up and cool-down system that simplifies operation and cleanup. The flame broiler reaches up to 1,000°F for instant direct heat searing, a rarity in portable pellet grills. Customers praise the consistent temperature control from 180°F to 500°F, making it easy to smoke low and slow or grill hot and fast. Real-world reviews highlight delicious results on everything from tri-tip to jerky.

Build quality is solid with alloy steel construction and porcelain-coated steel grates that resist rust and are easy to clean. The stainless steel handles and matte black finish give it a sleek look. At 43 pounds, it is sturdy but still manageable for transport thanks to the latch-lock lid and dual handles. The 7-pound hopper provides enough pellets for typical cooking sessions, though longer smokes may require a refill.

Potential drawbacks include the relatively small cooking area, which may limit large gatherings. Some beginners may need a short learning curve to master pellet grill techniques. A few customers noted minor assembly quirks, but overall the grill is well-received with a 4.5-star average rating from over 1,200 reviews.

Overall, the Pit Boss 150 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a portable, versatile wood pellet grill that smokes and sears. It delivers authentic hardwood taste in a compact package at a competitive price. Backed by a 5-year warranty, it offers great value for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

This Big Horn Outdoors 1500°F Infrared Propane Gas Grill is a compact, high-performance portable grill designed for steak lovers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts. It replicates the power of restaurant salamander broilers in a tabletop form, making it ideal for camping, tailgating, or backyard barbecues.

The standout feature is its 19,000 BTU infrared burner that reaches 1500°F in under five minutes, delivering intense top-down heat for perfect searing. This technology locks in moisture and flavor, producing juicy steaks with a crisp crust. The one-touch pulse ignition ensures reliable startup even in windy conditions.

Built with rust-resistant stainless steel, the grill is durable and easy to maintain. The 7-position adjustable rack allows versatile cooking from searing to baking, and the included pizza stone adds flexibility. All components are detachable and dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup.

One potential drawback is that the propane tank and battery for ignition are not included, requiring separate purchase. The cooking area is limited to 16 inches, so it may not be suitable for large gatherings. Additionally, the intense heat requires careful attention to avoid burning.

Overall, this grill delivers exceptional searing performance in a portable package. It is a great investment for anyone who values high-heat cooking and wants restaurant-quality results on the go. Its compact size and robust build make it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.

Brand: Big Horn Outdoors
Product Dimensions: 16 x 21.5 x 15.4 inches
Color: Silver
Fuel Type: Propane
BTU: 19,000
Material: Stainless Steel
Special Feature: Portable

The Magma Catalina Infrared Gas Boat Grill is a premium portable propane grill designed for serious outdoor cooking on boats, during camping trips, or at tailgates. Crafted from 100% 304 mirror-polished stainless steel, it offers exceptional corrosion resistance for harsh marine environments, making it a top choice for boat owners who need a reliable grill that lasts.

Its standout feature is the infrared cooking system, which delivers even, high heat up to 12,500 BTUs for perfect searing and reduced flare-ups. Real-world performance is impressive: the grill heats up quickly, holds heat well, and cooks burgers and steaks evenly. The electronic ignition, powered by a AAA battery, ensures instant starts without matches, and the lockable lid with a thermometer and window lets you monitor cooking without lifting the lid.

Build quality is excellent, with heavy-gauge stainless steel throughout, including the handle and frame. The fold-away legs make it easy to transition from tabletop to storage, and the removable grease tray simplifies cleanup. However, the grill is heavy, weighing around 40 pounds, which may be a drawback for those who frequently carry it.

Some drawbacks include an inaccurate thermometer that many users find useless, and occasional flare-ups despite the infrared design. Additionally, the included 1lb propane valve may not function properly with all small tanks, requiring an adapter. These issues, while not deal-breakers, are worth noting.

Overall, the Magma Catalina Infrared Grill is a well-built, high-performance portable grill ideal for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability and cooking quality. If you can overlook the weight and thermometer, it delivers excellent results and should last for years with proper care.

The Pit Boss 440 Mahogany Series is a mid-sized wood pellet grill designed for backyard enthusiasts who want versatility and convenience without premium pricing. This grill suits anyone from weekend grilling beginners to experienced pitmasters looking for a reliable workhorse that handles smoking, grilling, and everything in between.

The standout features include the innovative Flame Broiler Lever that lets you switch between direct and indirect heat instantly, and the LED digital control board that takes the guesswork out of temperature management. With a 518-square-inch cooking surface split between a main level and upper rack, you can smoke ribs on one level while searing steaks on another. The wide 180-500F temperature range handles low-and-slow smoking sessions as well as high-heat searing, making this grill genuinely versatile for 8 different cooking methods.

Build quality is solid with heavy-duty steel construction, a high-temp powder-coat finish, and convenient metal wheels for easy movement. The stainless steel thermometer and bottom shelf add practical touches. The grill runs on 100% natural hardwood pellets with no chemicals or additives, which translates to authentic smoky flavor in your food. The 40,000 BTU output and convection cooking design ensure even heat distribution across the cooking surface.

The main limitation is the 5-pound pellet hopper, which requires refilling more frequently than larger models during extended cooking sessions. Additionally, the grill requires a 120-volt electrical outlet for the digital controls and auto igniter, so placement depends on proximity to power. First-time users may need a brief learning curve with the digital control system, though it becomes intuitive quickly.

The Pit Boss 440 delivers exceptional value for a feature-rich pellet grill. If you want restaurant-quality results, reliable performance, and the flexibility to cook multiple ways without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice that will serve you well for years of backyard cooking.

Cooking Capacity and Area
Total cooking area: 518 square inches
Main cooking level: 373 square inches
Upper rack: 145 square inches
Burger capacity: 20 (4-inch burgers)

Temperature and Performance
Temperature range: 180F to 500F
BTU output: 40,000 BTU
Igniter: 200-watt auto igniter
Cooking method: Convection cooking with Flame Broiler Lever for direct/indirect heat

Control and Monitoring
Control type: Dial-in digital with LED display
Features: Temperature adjustment and fuel tracking without opening lid
Power: 120 volt, 50/60 Hz, 3.1 amp, 3-prong plug

Construction and Materials
Frame: Heavy-duty steel
Finish: High-temp powder coat in Mahogany color
Cooking grids: Porcelain-coated steel
Accessories: Stainless steel thermometer, bottle opener, bottom shelf, hopper lid side shelf
Wheels: Two large metal wheels for transportation
Hopper capacity: 5 pounds of wood pellets

Fuel
Type: 100% natural hardwood pellets (Oak and Mesquite)
No chemicals, additives, artificial flavors, spray scents, or glues

Is This Grill Right for You?
The Pit Boss 440 is ideal if you want a single grill that handles smoking, grilling, roasting, and baking without needing separate equipment. It works well for families and small gatherings, though the 518-square-inch surface may feel tight for very large parties. If you value ease of use and digital convenience over manual control, this grill eliminates the stress of temperature monitoring.

Space and Installation Considerations
The grill requires a 120-volt electrical outlet for operation, so plan placement accordingly. The dual wheels make repositioning simple even in smaller yards. Consider that the 5-pound hopper works best for cooking sessions under 4-5 hours without refilling, so have extra pellets on hand for longer events.

Maintenance and Fuel
Using 100% natural wood pellets ensures authentic flavor and reduces buildup compared to lower-quality fuel. Stock up on premium hardwood pellets from Pit Boss or compatible brands for consistent results. The porcelain-coated steel grids are durable and easy to clean with standard grill brushes.

Learning Curve
The digital control system is user-friendly but takes a few cooks to master. Start with simple smoking sessions to get comfortable with temperature settings before attempting complex multi-zone cooking on both levels simultaneously.

The Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner with Amplifire Infrared Technology is a modular cooking system designed for backyard enthusiasts who want grilling, griddle cooking, and charcoal smoking without purchasing three separate appliances. With a 4.6-star rating and solid customer feedback, this grill delivers on its promise of versatility and consistent cooking performance. It's perfect for homeowners who love experimenting with different cooking methods and want the flexibility to adapt their menu based on mood and occasion.

The standout feature is the Amplifire exclusive cooking system, which uses infrared technology to eliminate hot and cold spots that plague traditional grills. This means your steaks sear evenly, your chicken cooks through without drying out, and flare-ups become a non-issue. The included griddle insert (328 square inches) lets you cook pancakes, grilled cheese, or fajitas alongside your grilled proteins, making it easy to prepare complete meals on a single cooking surface. The ability to swap to a charcoal tray in seconds adds authentic smoky flavor when you crave it.

Build quality is solid with porcelain-coated cast-iron grates that resist rust and help achieve professional grill marks, plus a heavy-duty cold-rolled steel griddle surface. The 535-square-inch primary cooking area accommodates up to 25 burgers or 18 chicken breasts in one session, and the 155-square-inch warming rack handles indirect cooking and food warming. The grill reaches 500 degrees in under 10 minutes with efficient 45,000 BTU output, and heavy-duty 8-inch wheels with locking casters make repositioning simple.

Potential drawbacks include the Gas2Coal charcoal tray being sold separately, which adds cost if you want the full three-mode experience. The grill weighs 187 pounds, so placement requires planning. Additionally, while the 10-year burner warranty is excellent, the 3-year firebox warranty and 1-year parts coverage are more limited than some competitors offer.

Verdict: The Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner is an excellent choice for serious backyard cooks seeking versatility without compromise. The Amplifire technology genuinely improves cooking results, the included griddle adds tremendous value, and the modular design keeps your patio compact while offering three cooking experiences. If you regularly host gatherings and want flexibility to match your menu to your mood, this grill delivers professional-grade results at a competitive price point.

Cooking Capacity and Dimensions

Primary cooking area: 535 square inches. Warming rack: 155 square inches. Total grilling space: 802.9 square inches. Griddle surface: 328 square inches. Dimensions: 23.7 x 61.4 x 47.7 inches. Weight: 187 pounds.

Heating and Performance

Fuel type: Propane gas (compatible with natural gas). BTU rating: 45,000. Maximum temperature: 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat-up time: Under 10 minutes. Cooking system: Amplifire exclusive infrared technology.

Construction and Materials

Grates: Porcelain-coated cast iron. Griddle surface: Cold-rolled steel. Cabinet: Steel construction. Wheels: Two 8-inch heavy-duty wheels plus two locking casters.

Included Accessories

Griddle insert with storage legs. Oversized side shelf. Warming rack. Two heavy-duty wheels with locking casters.

Warranty Coverage

Burners: 10 years. Firebox: 3 years. All other parts: 1 year.

Who Should Buy This Grill?

This model suits homeowners who cook frequently and want flexibility to switch between grilling, griddle cooking, and charcoal smoking. If you entertain regularly and prepare diverse menus, the 535-square-inch cooking surface and modular design make meal prep efficient. The Amplifire technology appeals to cooks who value consistent results and want to minimize flare-ups and temperature inconsistencies.

Who Might Consider Alternatives?

If you primarily grill steaks and burgers without needing griddle or charcoal modes, a simpler 2 or 3-burner model may better suit your needs and budget. If you lack adequate patio space for a 61-inch-wide grill, Charbroil offers smaller Pro Series options with 2 or 3 burners. If extended warranty coverage is important, compare competitor offerings before deciding.

Setup and Maintenance Tips

Plan your placement before delivery, as the 187-pound weight requires proper positioning. Assemble the side shelf and secure the locking casters to prevent accidental rolling. Clean the porcelain-coated grates after each use to maintain their rust resistance. Store the griddle insert indoors during off-season to extend its lifespan. If purchasing the Gas2Coal charcoal tray separately, ensure it fits your grill model.

Getting Maximum Value

Use the included griddle to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, reducing overall cooking time for gatherings. Experiment with the Amplifire system at different temperature settings to find your preferred cooking style. Take advantage of the 10-year burner warranty by registering your product and keeping purchase documentation. The side shelf and warming rack enable efficient meal prep and keeping food at serving temperature during entertaining.