Hot air flow has always been the primary method of barbecuing, and this is thanks to the gas grill and the charcoal grill. However, modern technology has allowed us to cook our meals through radiation methods.
The best infrared grill gives a new perspective on the traditional barbecue and enables us to cook meat uniquely.
Since we like to remove our carbon footprint and cook meals much faster, the infrared grill makes it possible with the ability to heat up much quicker. The dry airflow helps the food to retain more moisture and enhance the flavor.
Here, we will write about some of the best infrared grills and how you can find the right one.
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Best Infrared Grills on the Market Today
The infrared grill might not be as popular as many of the other grills, but there are quite a few of them available to choose from.
To ensure that you find the right one, we have done some research and cooked a few meals to see how they perform. Eventually, we were left with 9 of the best infrared grills available today.
Starting this list, we have one of the most useful options you can choose.
The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Smoker Roaster & Grill has the shape of a regular grill. However, with the help of modern technology, it incorporated infrared for a thorough and more even cooking experience to keep the meat flavorful.
The grill has a 180 square inch cooking surface and thanks to the durable construction, it can hold up to 25-pounds of meat with ease.
Additionally, you only need to adjust one knob to change the temperature, and it connects to a standard propane tank. The addition of a smoker box will give you some more versatility to work with.
The Char-Broil grill is simple and easy to carry, allowing you to use the carry handle while moving it around.
Unfortunately, it does not bode well if you want to move away from the grill. The biggest downside is that it can occasionally spike in temperatures when you are using the smoker, and this will lead to unevenly smoked meat.
Aside from this small blunder, the grill is still extraordinarily functional and features a durable base for long-term cooking.
It looks stylish and reduces the amount of energy you use in most gas grills to make it cheaper. The price is affordable for an outdoor grill, and this one will be great when you are on the road.
- Lightweight with carrying handles
- Durable construction
- 3-in-1 design
- Affordable price
- Smoker box does not hold temperatures that well
One of the best options you can choose when you are looking for a great brand is Weber.
The Weber 45010001 Spirit II E-310 3-burner liquid propane grill is not marketed as an infrared grill. However, the radiant heat feature does everything that an infrared grill will do to ensure that meat is not overcooked and remains juicy.
It features 529 square inches of cooking space, and this is more than enough for entertaining at your home. The non-stick surface will ensure that nothing burns onto the grids, which allows you to quickly wipe them clean when you’re done the grilling. Wheels have been attached to the unit, allowing you to move it around as needed.
When you use the burners at full blast, the unit can reach a power output of 30,000 BTU per hour, which is more than enough to have your meal ready in a short amount of time.
The only downside is that it will burn through your propane gas rapidly, and this is one of the most expensive power sources you can have for a grill.
Since the unit is designed to give you value, we have not put too much emphasis on the price. Weber is one of the leading brands, giving you value for your money, and the customer service is always ready to help with issues.
This is the ideal family infrared grill to have around your home for large gatherings and entertainment.
- Massive 529 square inch cooking surface
- Non-stick surface
- Weber is a top-class brand
- Enormous power output
- Uses propane gas quite rapidly
Phillips has been one of the leading brands for a couple of years now, and this is apparent when we look at the Philips Avance Indoor Grill HD6371/94.
This small grill has been designed with a cooking area of around 112 square inches, making it perfect for the smaller families that are looking for a quick grilling solution.
The Philips Avance grill can also reach a staggering 446 degrees Fahrenheit, which is perfect for most quick meals or when you need to sear something. Once you are done, the grilling surface is entirely removable and allows you to wash it. The non-stick coating will prevail to ensure nothing sticks to the surface.
Not only is the grill designed to promote healthy living, but you will also receive a free cooking book with healthy recipes. This will show you how to get the maximum of your grill and get the best possible results when you are cooking meals.
Additionally, it is lightweight and works with an electrical power source of around 120-volts.
The only issue is the price and Phillips does have a hefty price tag on this unit when we look at many of the others. The price is in the range of the larger grills, but you will also have a decent warranty to ensure you it will last.
This is one of those grills you will use for an extended period in your home.
- Portable design
- Can be disassembled for a thorough cleaning
- Reaches up to 446-degrees Fahrenheit
- Includes a cooking book
- It is expensive
If you need something that can stand on some surface and even be used for your camping trips, it is hard to beat the Magma Products Newport 2 Infra Red.
It features a propane gas tank that powers the infrared feature to give you even cooking experience. Additionally, it ensures all your meat is cooked to perfection the way you like it.
Marine grade polished stainless steel has been used for the overall construction, and this ensures that the grill is durable.
The 162 square inch cooking surface is slightly larger than most of the portable grills. It can potentially accommodate a couple of family members at the same time to enjoy a healthy meal.
While it will have a consistent heat source and the wind does not have too much of an impact, the unit is mostly designed for grilling. It does not heat pans and other stainless steel units that effective when they are on the grill. This might dissuade you from using it with your kettle to make a fresh cup of coffee in the morning.
Another downside is the price, and this is one of the more expensive options that you can choose. However, when you need something lightweight with a lot of grilling space, it will be one of the best units you can choose.
We would recommend it for outdoor endeavors and specifically camping trips in the backcountry.
- Lightweight and portable
- Large 162 square inch cooking surface
- Extremely durable design
- Retains temperatures well
- Not ideal for heating pans
Char-Broil is one of the leading brands when it comes to the top grills. The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable TRU-Infrared Grill has a shape that is almost like a cooler.
However, the portable grill is designed to make traveling more comfortable and allows you to cook while you are on the road or tailgating at events.
The unit features a cast aluminum construction that can hold up to almost everything that nature throws your way on your trip. It has a massive cooking area of 200 square inches and can cook food efficiently for the entire family - a perfect way to socialize while you are on the road.
The unit does not use much in terms of the power source, and the liquid propane of a 1-pound cylinder should last you quite a long time when you are cooking.
One of the only downsides is the weight, and this unit is relatively heavy compared to most of the portable options. However, this is all due to the durable components it is made of.
One of the biggest surprises is the price, and this one stands out as one of the most affordable infrared grills on the market today. It has been designed to ensure you can effectively move around while you’re cooking.
- Affordable
- Durable construction
- Portable for traveling
- Does not use a lot of gas
- 200 square inch cooking surface
- Heavy to move around
If you need a grill you can use both indoor and outdoor; then this Tenergy one is your best pick. It offers up to 80% less smoke than any other indoor grill on the market. It’s a one-of-a-kind product for all of you chefs who love to grill indoors on a Sunday afternoon.
The smoke-less technology has got to be one of the best features this grill has to offer. The heat is only distributed to the top grill rack surface with the infrared system while the cooling rack catches oils before they turn into smoke. How amazing is that?!
The unique infrared technology will allow you to grill vegetables, fish, meat, and poultry without creating cold zones. The entire surface is evenly heated to distribute the same amount of treatment for all food.
Everybody appreciates an easy clean-up, and that is one of the reasons why we value this grill. It’s easy to clean with minimal effort, thanks to the non-stick coating and dishwasher-safe parts.
It’s easy to use as well! It will take you less than a few minutes to start grilling once you assemble the rack and turn the heat on. The grill heats up under six minutes to 446 degrees Fahrenheit so that you can cook like a pro!
The Tenergy grill comes with overheat protection and an automatic shutdown when the internal temperature is too high for a sound mind.
- Evenly distributes heat
- Heats up quickly
- Non-stick coated grates
- Up to 80% less smoke
- No medium-heat setting
Another Char-Broil product is on our list, but this one is meant for those in need of a bigger cooking capacity. It offers a traditional grill design with up to 310 square inches of cooking space. It’s incredible if you need to cook food for a bigger crowd.
The Char-Broil 463655621 includes the TRU-infrared technology that creates less smoke and an even heat distribution. You can rest sure knowing all of your patties and burgers will be cooked evenly. Plus, it does not create sudden flare-ups!
Like the previous pick, this one also comes with non-stick coated grates that are easy to clean afterward. You can make up to 16 burgers at once and leave no party guests waiting for their order.
With the fast and reliable start-ups, the grill has an electronic ignition system powered by AAA batteries. Also, the lid-mounted temperature gauge makes sure to monitor and control the heat at all times.
You will also find that this Char-Broil 463655621 grill has a lot of prep space available. It features two side shelves which you can use as a food preparation station. It’s an extra workspace everyone needs!
The cabinet underneath the grill is there to offer you enough space for a propane bottle, tools, and other grilling accessories.
The grill also has two stainless steel burners for long-lasting performance and years of cooking adventures.
- Extra workspace
- Temperature control
- Enough space for 16 burgers
- Removable grease pan
- It takes a bit longer to assemble
The Simple Living Advanced Indoor Smokeless BBQ Grill is one of the smaller grills we have on this list but still packs a massive infrared punch.
The grill has a cooking surface of around 112 square inches, which might not be a lot, but can still hold eight hamburger patties with ease when it is fully stacked.
It has all the infrared benefits, and the grill itself will heat up in just a couple of minutes. The cooking temperature can be controlled while it is on, but it will retain the set cooking temperature without any fault.
Once you are done, the non-stick coating on the grilling surface will make it easy and straightforward to clean.
The Simple Living grill can reach a massive 446 degrees Fahrenheit of maximum cooking temperature. It might be high, but you can use it when something needs to be cooked in just a couple of minutes.
Since the grill is small, it is much easier to carry and use it indoors, with no gas that will be harmful or dangerous to your home. It is not the ideal grill if you have a big family, but will allow you to cook much faster and create those healthy meals we all like.
The Simple Living grill is lightweight and fully functional, with all the accessories already included. We would recommend it for indoor purposes and to entertain smaller families in your home.
- Small and portable
- Non-stick surface
- Cooks meals without drying them out
- Reasonably priced
- Not ideal for large families or gatherings
Want to start the annual neighborhood BBQ but don’t feel like using gas or charcoal? No need to worry; this Char-Broil patio grill is everything you need! It’s an electric option you are going to love and an excellent investment for your culinary creations.
If you lack space in your yard, you can always place this grill on the patio! It has convenient dimensions, so it’s small enough for tight-spaced but big enough to cook 12 burgers at once.
This Char-Broil infrared grill features a 240 sq inch cooking space with porcelain-coated grates and a removable warming rack.
You will never again go overboard with temperature as this grill includes an integrated knob control. Adjust the desired temperature to your liking and cook the steaks and burgers safely.
Moreover, one of the most important features is the TRU-infrared technology that prevents sudden flare-ups and offers an evenly distributed heat.
Cleaning the grill can be an actual hassle, especially after you just finished your delicious meal. Luckily, the Char-Broil grill has easy-to-clean grates. They are rust-free and do not allow the food to stick to them. Would you believe me if I told you you would never again spend hours scrubbing the grill?
Another valuable feature is the removable grease tray that is easy to access. The clean-ups will be a whole lot less messy.
- TRU-Infrared technology
- Non-stick coated grates
- Easy to clean
- Evenly distributes the heat
- Temperature control
- Convenient dimensions
- It takes too long to heat up
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Infrared Grill
The options mentioned above are some of the best infrared grills you can find. However, there are many more you can choose from.
This guide will allow you to have a basic understanding of the features you need to look for in infrared grills on the market today.
1. Cooking Surface
The cooking surface is one of the many outstanding features you will be looking for. You can check this based on the grill’s dimensions, and it will show you how many meals you can cook at any given time.
If you are looking for a grill for the family, you need to go in the range of 200 square inches. However, smaller grills will heat up faster for a rapid cooking experience.
2. Durability
The grill should be durable to ensure you can use it for many years. While most of these grills are reasonably expensive, you will look for some form of stainless steel with an aluminum outer construction.
One of the best materials to choose from is cast aluminum, but it can also be one of the most massive options.
3. Power Source
Even though your infrared grill will have radiant heat, you should consider looking at the power source.
The top portable grills will use liquid propane, while most indoor grills have a simple plug that you need to put in the right socket. Your needs will determine this, whether you need it to be portable or if you need something to cook on while indoors.
4. Design
Lastly, the design is essential when you are buying a new grill. The larger grills are practical for large gatherings, and they have many side burners that will help with the cooking as well.
However, make sure it will fit your budget, and that you really need to use these features. Additionally, various accessories also need to be accounted for.
FAQs
What is the difference between infrared grills and regular gas grills?
Infrared grills use electric elements to distribute the heat to the food on the grates. The heat that is transferred to the food is the same heat that cooks the food. Therefore it’s juicier and tender.
Gas grills work by heating the air around the plates. Even though it works by air circulation, it can dry your food a bit.
If you want the meat to be cooked faster, then we recommend using infrared grills.
What is the advantage of infrared grilling?
The most significant advantage to infrared grills is the end cooking result! They cook the food by retaining most of the juices, so the meat is much more flavorful and tender to taste.
It’s a fantastic investment if you prefer faster cooking time and even heat distribution. Plus, they use infrared radiation that uses less fuel. Most of them will have a self-cleaning function that makes the job a whole lot easier. Plus, if you are grilling on a windy day, the wind won’t interfere with the heat!
Is infrared cooking bad for your health?
Generally, infrared cooking emits the same electromagnetic energy that is used by microwave ovens. A high degree of infrared waves can penetrate through food molecules and alter the beneficial components.
These alterations are best seen in Vitamin B12 degradation, the loss of glucosinolate, and the development of bacterias.
However, there are no links that connect infrared cooking with cancer. It would help if you still took precautions when cooking with infrared grills and burners due to the high heat emissions.
Are infrared grills hard to clean?
The ones with a non-stick coating are not hard to clean! Of course, if you come across an older model with regular grill grates, you are in for some heavy-duty cleaning.
Most of them are removable, so you can soak them for an hour to make sure you get all the gunk out. Luckily for us, you can find many models on the market that offer safe dishwasher parts.
Which One Is the Best?
If we consider all the grills, it can be somewhat hard to select one of them as the best overall.
However, the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Grill is one of the complete options and features many side burners and decent power output. It is one of the best infrared grills you can use in your home.
If you need something smaller, the Philips Avance Indoor Grill HD6371/94 is one of the most effective for smaller homes. Not only does it use an electrical power point, but it is easy to clean and can still cook for most of the family.
Wrap-Up
The best infrared grill allows you to cook your meals quickly without the additional worry of the meat being dry. Since most of the fat and oils also melt away, these grills are a little healthier than others.
If you want to ensure that the grill will give you everything you’ve paid for, these are some of the best infrared grills to consider.