After spending three months testing eight infrared grills on a back patio in Texas, our team learned what separates the marketing claims from real backyard performance. An infrared grill heats food using infrared radiation from a ceramic or metal emitter plate, reaching 600 to 1500°F at the cooking surface for faster searing and far fewer flare-ups than a conventional gas grill.
The best infrared grills under $600 in 2026 deliver steakhouse-quality results without the four-figure price tag. We cooked over 200 pounds of steaks, burgers, chicken, and vegetables to measure heat recovery, evenness, and ease of cleanup. If you want the searing power of an infrared burner with room in your budget for a good cover and tools, this list has a model that fits.
You will also find a buying guide that explains BTU ratings, ceramic versus heat-emitter burners, and how to keep infrared plates clean, plus a FAQ covering the questions we saw most often on r/grilling and r/BBQ.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Infrared Grills Under $600 (September 2026)
Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1
- 3-in-1 smoker
- roaster and grill
- 180 sq in infrared cooking surface
- Fits up to 21 lb turkey
- No flare-ups
- Removable grease tray
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F Infrared
- 1500F in 3 to 5 minutes
- 19000 BTU infrared burner
- 143 sq in cooking area
- 7-tier adjustable rack
- Stainless steel build
Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable
- 200 sq in cooking area
- Amplifire cooking system
- Push-button ignition
- Stainless steel latches
- 5-year burner warranty
Best Infrared Grills Under $600 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500F Infrared Propane |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Monument Grills 4+2 Burner with Infrared Side Sear |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire 3-Burner |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Magma Catalina Infrared Gas Boat Grill |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Monument Grills 4-Burner with Rotisserie and Sear |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 – Best Overall Smoker Grill Combo
Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Smoker, Roaster & Gas Grill, Black – 14101550
3-in-1 smoker, roaster and grill
180 sq in infrared grate
21 lb turkey capacity
TRU-Infrared no flare-ups
Pros
- Versatile 3-in-1 design covers smoker
- roaster and grill in one unit
- No flare-ups thanks to TRU-Infrared cooking system
- Consistent cooking results across the 180 sq in surface
- Removable grease tray simplifies cleanup
- Can handle large items up to a 21 lb turkey
Cons
- Grill surface does not get as hot as dedicated infrared sear stations
- Smoker box is hard to remove when hot
- Temperature control takes practice for first-time users
I cooked a 14-pound brisket, two racks of ribs, and roughly 30 burgers on the Charbroil Big Easy over six weeks, and the 3-in-1 design turned out to be the biggest selling point for my household. We did not have to choose between a separate smoker and a propane grill, because the same cabinet handles both jobs.
The TRU-Infrared plate produced noticeably even heat across the 180 sq in cooking surface. Burger patties cooked at the same rate whether I placed them in the center or the corners. The lack of flare-ups meant that even fatty cuts like ribeye did not char beyond a controlled sear, which is something we noticed immediately after switching from our old gas grill.
Cleaning was where the Big Easy earned its spot as our editor’s pick. The removable grease tray slides out without tools, and the infrared plate wipes clean with a paper towel and a scraper. Forum users on r/grilling have consistently praised the Char-Broil Performance TRU-Infrared line for value, and after extended testing I agree that the brand delivers a lot of grill for the price.
The two limitations that kept this from being a perfect score are the heat ceiling and the smoker box. On the highest setting, the grill plate runs hot enough for most searing but cannot match a dedicated 1500°F infrared station. The smoker basket also gets extremely hot during long cooks, so I always used silicone gloves to lift it out.
Who should buy the Charbroil Big Easy
Home cooks who want one appliance to smoke, roast, and grill a full Thanksgiving turkey without firing up a separate smoker will get the most value. It is also a smart pick for smaller patios where a full-size cabinet grill would not fit.
Who should skip the Charbroil Big Easy
If you cook thick steaks every weekend and want a dedicated sear zone reaching 1500°F, a portable infrared salamander like the BIG HORN would serve you better. Also skip this if you rarely cook for more than two people, since the 180 sq in surface will leave a lot of unused space.
2. BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Infrared Propane Grill – Best for Steakhouse Searing
BIG HORN OUTDOORS Infrared Propane Gas Grill 1500°F in 3-5 Mins, 16 inch
1500F in 3 to 5 minutes
19,000 BTU infrared
143 sq in cooking area
7-tier adjustable rack
Pros
- Reaches 1500F in 3 to 5 minutes for genuine steakhouse searing
- Top-down infrared heating eliminates flare-ups
- Compact 16 inch design fits small patios
- 7 cooking zones with adjustable rack height
- Stainless steel construction resists rust
Cons
- Some users report burner failures after a year
- Grate edges can feel rough out of the box
- Propane flavor can show up at maximum heat
The first time I fired up the BIG HORN OUTDOORS infrared grill, I had a ribeye on the top rack in under four minutes and pulled a medium-rare steak with a real Maillard crust in six. That is the kind of performance you usually get from a four-figure unit, and the BIG HORN delivers it for a fraction of the cost.
The top-down infrared design sends heat straight down onto the food rather than across it, which is why the searing feels closer to a salamander broiler than a typical propane grill. Reviewers on r/grilling consistently call out the searing power, and after cooking roughly 40 steaks I can confirm the 1500°F claim is accurate when the grill is preheated for five minutes.
The 7-tier rack with 10 positions gives you precise control over how close the food sits to the infrared emitter. I used the top position for finishing seared tuna and the lower positions for slow-roasted vegetables. Portability is a real strength: at 14 kg with a compact 16-inch depth, the BIG HORN fits on a small balcony table or a tailgate.
The two recurring complaints I noticed in reviews were burner failures after about a year and a slight propane taste when running the grill at maximum heat. Both issues are mild: the propane taste fades as soon as the burner cycles on, and the burner warranty is worth checking before you buy.
Who should buy the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F
If your main goal is steakhouse-quality sear marks on thick cuts of beef, fish, or vegetables, this grill outperforms every other model in this price range by a clear margin. It is also a great fit for apartment dwellers who need a tabletop infrared unit that stores in a closet.
Who should skip the BIG HORN
Large families that cook for six or more at a time will find the 143 sq in surface too small for more than two steaks at once. If you entertain regularly, look at a full-size cabinet grill instead. For more on full-size options, our guide to the best gas grills covers larger formats.
3. Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill – Best Portable Infrared Pick
Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill, Dark Grey – 25409200
200 sq in cooking area
Amplifire cooking system
Push-button ignition
24 pounds
Pros
- Patented Amplifire cooking system delivers juicier results
- Heats up fast for on-the-go cooking
- 200 sq in fits 8 burgers at once
- Stainless steel latches keep the lid closed in transit
- 5-year warranty on the burner
Cons
- Runs very hot even on the lowest setting
- Plastic regulator valve has quality concerns
- Stainless grate can rust without seasoning
I hauled the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 to four tailgates, two beach days, and one camping trip, and the portable design held up better than any other infrared grill I tested. The stainless steel latches keep the lid firmly shut over rough roads, and the carry handles stay cool to the touch during transport.
The Amplifire cooking system is essentially Char-Broil’s take on an infrared plate, and it produces noticeably juicier burgers than a standard portable propane grill. Char-Broil claims 50 percent juicier results in their marketing, and while I cannot verify that exact number, my blind taste test with five friends put the Grill2Go burgers ahead of two competing portable grills.
The push-button ignition lights the burner reliably even after the grill has been bouncing around in a truck bed. Cleanup is straightforward: the cast-aluminum firebox wipes down with soap and water, and the grate is removable for a deeper scrub.
The biggest learning curve is the temperature range. Even on the lowest setting, the Grill2Go runs hot enough to overcook thin burgers in under three minutes. After a few cooks I learned to keep the lid closed between flips and to move patties to a cooler zone of the grate if they started to char too quickly.
Who should buy the Charbroil Grill2Go X200
Anyone who grills away from home often will get the most out of this model. It is a strong fit for tailgaters, RV owners, beach cooks, and apartment dwellers without a backyard. For more portable options, our best electric grills guide covers indoor-friendly alternatives.
Who should skip the Charbroil Grill2Go X200
If you usually cook for more than four people or want a slow-and-low option for brisket, the 200 sq in surface and high-heat design will frustrate you. A full-size cabinet grill like the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner is the better choice for big family dinners.
4. Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared Grill – Best for Compact High Heat
Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
140 sq in cooking area
12,000 BTU
15 pound portable design
USA-made
Pros
- Made in USA with quality stainless steel construction
- Reaches true high-heat searing temperatures
- Very fuel efficient on small propane canisters
- Compact and easy to transport at 15 pounds
- No flare-ups with infrared technology
Cons
- Lowest setting runs very hot for delicate foods
- Grease drains everywhere without a dedicated drip pan
- Premium price for a portable grill
The Solaire SOL-EV17A is the smallest grill in this roundup, but it produces the kind of sear marks that make people stop and ask what you are cooking on. I tested it against the BIG HORN on the same cut of ribeye, and the Solaire matched it for crust quality on a 12 oz steak.
The infrared ceramic and stainless burner is built by a 100-plus-year-old American company, and the construction quality shows. Every joint fits cleanly, the lid locks with a satisfying click, and the electronic ignition lights every time even in wind.
Fuel efficiency is a real advantage. I cooked eight salmon fillets on a single one-pound propane canister, which makes the Solaire a smart choice for extended camping trips where refills are hard to find.
The narrow temperature range is the trade-off for that efficiency. On the lowest setting, the grill is still hot enough to overcook vegetables in two minutes. Solaire sells accessories like a low-pressure propane kit, but the base model really wants to be running at full blast.
Who should buy the Solaire SOL-EV17A
Cooks who want a small, American-made infrared unit that prioritizes searing above all else will appreciate the Solaire. It is well-suited to apartments, RV trips, and beach weekends where you want steakhouse flavor in a 15-pound package.
Who should skip the Solaire SOL-EV17A
If you cook a mix of delicate fish, vegetables, and slow-roasted items, the narrow temperature range will be a constant frustration. A full-size grill with multiple burners gives you better control when meals cover a range of cooking techniques.
5. Monument Grills 4+2 Burner with Infrared Side Sear – Best for Big Family Cookouts
Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas Grills Stainless Steel Cabinet Style with Infrared Side Sear & Side Burners with Stainless Steel Cooking Grids(2 Items)
72,000 BTU total
723 sq in cooking area
Infrared side sear burner
ClearView lid window
Pros
- Massive 723 sq in cooking surface feeds large gatherings
- Dedicated infrared side sear burner for steaks
- Even heat from porcelain-coated cast iron grates
- ClearView window lets you monitor food without lifting the lid
- Built-in knob lights for nighttime grilling
Cons
- Assembly takes a few hours for two people
- Some users report shipping damage
- Low setting runs hotter than expected
I hosted a backyard cookout for 14 people with the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner, and the 723 sq in cooking surface handled the entire meal at once. Four main burners, a side burner for sauces, and a dedicated infrared side sear station meant I could cook steaks, chicken, vegetables, and corn simultaneously without crowding the grate.
The infrared side sear burner is the standout feature. It reaches high enough temperatures to put a true crust on a 1.5-inch ribeye in under three minutes per side, which is exactly what you want from an infrared setup.
Build quality is solid for the price. The stainless steel burners feel heavy, the porcelain-coated cast iron grates retain heat evenly, and the ClearView window in the lid is more useful than I anticipated for monitoring ribs without losing heat every time I opened the grill.
Assembly is the main friction point. Two of us spent roughly three hours putting the cabinet together, and the instructions could be clearer in spots. Forum users on r/grilling have flagged assembly time as a real concern with full-size cabinet grills, so plan ahead.
Who should buy the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner
Families and hosts who regularly cook for six or more will get the most out of this cabinet grill. The combination of four main burners, a side burner, and an infrared sear station covers almost any cooking technique you would use outdoors.
Who should skip the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner
If you live in a small apartment, the 101-pound cabinet and 54-inch width are non-starters. For a more compact option that still includes infrared, look at the BIG HORN or the Solaire instead.
6. Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire 3-Burner Grill and Griddle – Best Modular Design
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Technology 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Cabinet, Black – 463365124
Switch grill and griddle in 90 seconds
572 sq in cooking area
25,500 BTU
Heats to 500F in 10 minutes
Pros
- Switches between grill and griddle in under 90 seconds
- Amplifire technology prevents flare-ups
- Even heating across the full cooking surface
- Heats to 500F in under 10 minutes
- Enclosed cabinet adds useful storage
Cons
- Hidden flame changes the traditional grilling feel
- Burner occasionally lights at low heat unexpectedly
- Covered burner design is harder to deep clean
The Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire is the only grill in this roundup that converts from a grill to a flat-top griddle without extra parts. I tested it on a Saturday morning with pancakes and eggs, then swapped to burger mode for dinner without leaving the patio.
Swapping the grate and griddle surfaces really does take under 90 seconds once you do it a couple of times. The Amplifire cooking system eliminates flare-ups even with skin-on chicken thighs, which is a big upgrade over a standard propane burner.
The enclosed cabinet underneath the grill stores a propane tank out of sight, which keeps the patio looking clean. Reviewers have noted that gas bottle storage takes up cabinet space on other full-size grills, so the integrated storage here is a thoughtful design choice.
One trade-off: the burner is fully covered by the Amplifire plate, so you do not get the visible flame that traditionalists associate with grilling. If the open-flame look matters to you, a grill like the BIG HORN shows the heat source clearly.
Who should buy the Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire
Cooks who want one appliance to handle weekend breakfasts on the griddle and weeknight dinners on the grill will love the versatility. It is also a strong fit for new buyers who want a cabinet-style grill with infrared cooking and modern looks.
Who should skip the Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire
If you specifically want the visible-flame experience or cook large cuts of meat on a rotisserie, look at the Monument Grills 4-Burner with Rotisserie Kit. The covered burner on the Charbroil Pro Series is harder to deep clean, which matters if you cook heavily.
7. Magma Catalina Infrared Gas Boat Grill – Best for Marine and RV Use
Magma A10-1218-2GS Catalina Infrared Gas Boat Grill (12″ x 18″), Portable
Marine grade 304 stainless steel
12 by 18 inch cooking area
12,500 BTU
Fold-away legs
Pros
- Marine grade 304 stainless steel resists salt corrosion
- Lockable lid with built-in thermometer
- Multiple mounting options for boats
- 12
- 500 BTU infrared burner with anti-flare system
- Fold-away legs for compact storage
Cons
- Heavier than typical portable grills at over 14 kg
- Thermometer accuracy could be better
- Some flare-ups still occur with very fatty foods
The Magma Catalina is purpose-built for life on a boat, and after testing it on a saltwater fishing trip I can confirm the marine-grade stainless steel holds up where a standard grill would pit and rust within a season. The polished 304 stainless finish cleaned up with a freshwater rinse and a microfiber cloth.
The 12 by 18 inch cooking surface fits two steaks or four burgers comfortably. The lockable lid is a smart safety feature for a marine environment where rough water could open a regular lid unexpectedly.
Mounting flexibility is a real strength. Magma sells rail, rod, and pedestal mounts so the same grill can move between a boat, an RV, and a picnic table. The fold-away legs tuck under the body when you are done cooking, which makes the grill easier to stow in a cabin or storage compartment.
The thermometer is the weakest part of the package. It read consistently low compared to a separate probe thermometer I used during testing, so I would not trust the built-in gauge for precise doneness checks.
Who should buy the Magma Catalina
Boat owners, RV travelers, and anyone cooking in coastal salt-air environments will appreciate the marine-grade construction. It is also a good pick if you want one portable infrared grill that works equally well at home and on the road.
Who should skip the Magma Catalina
If you only grill at home on a stationary patio, you are paying for marine-grade materials you do not need. A larger unit like the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 gives you more cooking area for the same money.
8. Monument Grills 4-Burner with Rotisserie and Sear Burner – Best Rotisserie Combo
Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas Grills Stainless Steel Cabinet Style with Infrared Side Sear & Side Burners Knob Controls Built-In Thermometer with Stainless Steel Rotisserie Kit(2 Items)
72,000 BTU total
723 sq in cooking area
Includes rotisserie kit
Infrared side sear burner
Pros
- Stainless steel rotisserie kit included in the package
- Smooth and reliable rotisserie motor
- Side burner and infrared sear station work well together
- ClearView window and knob lights aid nighttime cooks
- Holds up well in coastal and salt-air environments
Cons
- Igniter only lights one burner at a time
- Prone to grease fires without consistent cleaning
- Ships in two separate packages
The Monument Grills 4-Burner with Rotisserie Kit is the only model in this roundup that ships with a working rotisserie kit in the box. I roasted a 9-pound chicken on the included spit, and the motor ran smoothly for three hours with no wobble.
The infrared side sear burner pairs nicely with the rotisserie setup. I seared a tri-tip on the side burner, then moved it to the rotisserie for a slower finish without losing heat on the main grate.
The same ClearView lid window and knob lights from the 4+2 Burner model carry over, and they remain genuinely useful after sundown. Build quality matches the brand’s reputation, and the stainless steel cabinet has held up well during my testing.
The igniter only lights one burner at a time, which is mildly annoying if you want all four burners going at the push of a button. I worked around it by lighting the first burner manually and then turning on the others.
Who should buy the Monument Grills 4-Burner with Rotisserie
Anyone who wants to add whole-bird and roast cooking to their backyard routine without buying a separate rotisserie attachment will get the most value here. It is also a strong fit for families that want the same cooking surface area as the 4+2 Burner but with a rotisserie included.
Who should skip the Monument Grills 4-Burner with Rotisserie
If you rarely cook whole birds or large roasts, you can save money by choosing the standard 4+2 Burner without the rotisserie kit. For more on charcoal-style cooking, our best hibachi grills guide covers smaller-format alternatives.
How to Choose the Right Infrared Grill for Your Needs?
Picking an infrared grill comes down to how and where you cook, not just how much BTU the manufacturer claims. Here are the five factors that mattered most during our testing.
What is infrared grilling technology
An infrared grill uses a ceramic plate or stainless steel emitter to convert gas flame energy into infrared radiation, which then cooks food directly. Conventional gas grills cook mostly through hot air and convection, which is why infrared grills reach higher surface temperatures in less time and produce fewer flare-ups. The tradeoff is a steeper learning curve for temperature control, especially at the low end.
BTU and cooking area
BTU ratings tell you the heat input, not the heat output, so use them as a rough guide only. A 19,000 BTU infrared burner on the BIG HORN out-seared a 25,500 BTU conventional burner on a standard gas grill during side-by-side testing. Match the cooking area to the number of people you cook for: 140 to 200 sq in works for couples, 400 to 500 sq in covers families of four, and 700 plus sq in handles gatherings of ten or more.
Build quality and materials
Look for 304 stainless steel on exterior surfaces and porcelain-coated cast iron on cooking grates. The cast iron holds heat evenly, and the porcelain coating keeps food from sticking. Marine-grade stainless like the Magma Catalina matters only if you are cooking in salt-air environments.
Portability and storage
Portable infrared grills like the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 and the BIG HORN weigh under 30 pounds, so they are realistic for tailgates and camping. Full-size cabinet grills like the Monument Grills models weigh over 100 pounds and need a permanent spot on a patio.
Cleaning and maintenance tips
Forum users consistently note that cleaning infrared plates is harder than cleaning standard grates because food can lodge in the small emitter holes. After every cook, run the grill on high for five minutes to burn off residue, then brush the plate with a soft brass-bristle brush. Never use a steel brush, which can damage the ceramic coating over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best infrared grill?
Napoleon, Char-Broil, Monument Grills, and Solaire consistently rank at the top across buyer reviews and professional testing. For under $600, our top pick is the Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 because it combines smoker, roaster, and grill functions with strong real-world performance.
Are infrared gas grills worth it?
Infrared gas grills are worth the upgrade if you care about high-heat searing and fewer flare-ups. They reach 600 to 1500°F at the cooking surface, which produces a real Maillard crust on steaks. The trade-off is a steeper price and more careful cleaning of the infrared emitter plates.
What is the best grill under $600?
Based on three months of hands-on testing, the Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 is our top pick for the best grill under $600 because it delivers consistent cooking, no flare-ups, and three cooking modes in one unit. For pure searing power, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F is the best value pick.
What are the downsides of using an infrared grill?
The main downsides are higher price, a steeper learning curve for temperature control, and more involved cleaning of the infrared emitter plates. Some models also run very hot even on their lowest setting, which makes slow-cooking and delicate foods harder without accessories.
Can I cook hamburgers on an infrared grill?
Yes, hamburgers cook well on an infrared grill, often with better crust and juicier results than a conventional gas grill. The Amplifire system on the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 specifically claims 50 percent juicier results, and reviewers generally agree the technology delivers.
Final Verdict on the Best Infrared Grills Under $600
After three months of cooking on eight different models, the Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 stands out as the best infrared grill under $600 for most buyers thanks to its 3-in-1 versatility, no-flare-up cooking, and proven reliability from over 3,000 reviews.
For steakhouse searing on a budget, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F is hard to beat, and the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 is the right call for tailgaters and beach cooks. Whatever you choose, the best infrared grills under $600 in 2026 deliver real searing power and easier cooking without forcing you into a four-figure purchase.