Which Char-Broil Infrared Grill Should You Actually Buy?
6 models comparedSeptember 22, 202611 min read
Specs below are quoted from each Amazon listing. Scores are the average rating Amazon buyers left. Nothing on this page was handled or measured by us.
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A charbroil infrared grill works differently than a standard gas cooker by placing a radiant barrier between the burners and your food. Traditional convection grills pull hot air across the grates, which dries out meat and allows dripping grease to trigger flare-ups. Char-Broil solves this through charbroil amplifire infrared technology and TRU-Infrared systems. These barriers distribute radiant warmth evenly across heavy cooking grates, preventing hot spots and producing up to 50 percent juicier food without constant burner adjustments.
In this char-broil infrared grill comparison, we examine six distinct models to help you decide which char-broil infrared grill to buy for your patio or travel gear. These options differ in cooking style and footprint: two 4-burner cabinets offering hybrid charcoal or dedicated griddling, a mid-sized 3-burner station, an oil-free vertical turkey roaster, a portable tabletop grill, and an official replacement grate kit.
Which Char-Broil Infrared Grill Should You Buy
For cooks who want gas, flat-top griddling, and charcoal on one patio station: Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared (model 463281024). see 1 of 6
For large gatherings needing 4-burner searing, dual cooking racks, and fast griddle swaps: Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared (model 463279224). see 1 of 6
For holiday cooking, whole turkeys, vertical smoking, and oil-free frying: Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1. see 3 of 6
For smaller decks requiring modular griddling within a narrower cabinet: Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Technology (model 463365124). see 4 of 6
For tailgating, camping trips, and mobile grilling: Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill. see 5 of 6
For restoring even heat and flare-up prevention to an existing grill: Charbroil Professional replacement grate and emitter kit. see 6 of 6
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Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Technology
Best for Mid-sized patios needing modular griddle cooking
Pros
Narrower 55.4-inch cabinet profile
Fast 60-second griddle transitions
Even Amplifire heat distribution
Protective enclosed lower cabinet
Cons
Single interior rack level
Fewer burners than 4-burner units
Best for Families wanting high-capacity gas and griddle cooking
Pros
60-second griddle accessory swap
Four burners with two racks
Amplifire flare-up prevention
Enclosed lower storage cabinet
Cons
No side burner included
No charcoal cooking support
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared
Best for Cooks wanting gas, griddle, and charcoal versatility
Pros
3-in-1 gas, griddle, charcoal design
Includes dedicated side burner
Porcelain-coated cast iron grates
Generous 802.9 square inch area
Cons
Heavy 178-pound total weight
Requires wide 61-inch patio space
The Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared 4-burner propane grill 463281024 is the most versatile full-sized cooker in the brand’s lineup. This 3-in-1 hybrid design eliminates the need for multiple patio appliances by letting you grill over gas, sear on the included griddle insert, or cook over charcoal using dedicated trays. You can ignite charcoal briquettes directly with the gas burners without a chimney, and ash cleanup involves simply lifting out the cooled trays. Compared to standard models in our char broil propane grill overview, this configuration adds an integrated side burner alongside four main burners.
The exclusive Amplifire cooking system radiates heat through heavy porcelain-coated cast iron grates to eliminate flare-ups and produce up to 50 percent juicier foods. Across 802.9 square inches of cooking space, precise dials deliver steady heat from high sears to gentle griddling. The heavy cabinet measures 23.7 inches deep by 61.4 inches wide and 47.7 inches high, weighing 178.2 pounds. A double-door enclosed cabinet secures your propane tank and tools, backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
This hybrid grill best suits outdoor entertainers who want complete menu versatility across gas, charcoal, and griddle formats. If your deck cannot accommodate a 61-inch station, or if you prefer to avoid charcoal ash, the dedicated gas-and-griddle models provide a streamlined fit.
Hybrid 3-in-1 platform includes griddle insert and charcoal lighting trays
Generous 802.9-square-inch cooking surface with four main burners and one side burner
Amplifire infrared system eliminates flare-ups and locks in juices
Enclosed storage cabinet with porcelain-coated cast iron grates and 3-year warranty
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared
The Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared 4-burner grill and griddle 463279224 is designed for cooks who want high-output grilling and flat-top capability without managing charcoal. This 2-in-1 outdoor gas grill switches between traditional grilling and griddling using the included griddle insert accessory. Engineered for fast transitions, it lets you swap setups in 60 seconds or less to cook burgers, chicken, breakfast bacon, or smash burgers on the same frame.
Powered by the Amplifire cooking system, this 4-burner grill delivers even temperature control across heavy porcelain-coated cast-iron grates. The infrared barrier eliminates flare-ups and seals in moisture for juicier results across two interior cooking racks and three power levels. Measuring 23.7 inches deep, 61.4 inches wide, and 47.7 inches high, it weighs 177 pounds inside an enclosed storage cabinet backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
This model suits large families that prioritize speed, high volume, and griddle cooking. The listing does not specify a side burner or charcoal trays for this unit. If your cooking routine requires charcoal briquettes or a side burner for sauces, choose the 463281024 hybrid model above.
Swaps between open-grate grilling and griddling in 60 seconds or less
Four main stainless steel burners paired with two internal racks
Amplifire infrared design eliminates flare-ups and retains moisture
Fully enclosed lower cabinet with heavy porcelain-coated cast iron grates
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Best for Pitmasters smoking whole turkeys and large roasts
Pros
Holds up to 21-pound turkey
Oil-free TRU-Infrared roasting
Compact 22.7-pound vertical frame
Includes 180 sq in top grate
Cons
Modest top grill grate size
Single-burner vertical format
The Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 smoker, roaster, and gas grill is a dedicated vertical cooker engineered for large roasts and poultry. Powered by gas and built with a black alloy steel body, this unit uses Char-Broil’s TRU-Infrared technology to circulate radiant heat evenly without flare-ups. The internal roasting basket fits a turkey up to 21 pounds, allowing you to slow-roast, smoke, or fry poultry with no cooking oil.
Beyond vertical smoking, the cooker includes a 180-square-inch infrared grill grate mounted directly on top for grilling steaks, burgers, and chops. A rotary ignition dial ensures easy lighting, while a removable grease tray simplifies post-cookout cleanup. The compact upright body measures 23.1 inches deep, 23.4 inches wide, and 36.2 inches high, weighing only 22.7 pounds.
The Big Easy is the best charbroil infrared gas grill option for barbecue fans who specialize in holiday turkeys, smoked ribs, and oil-free roasts. It yields to the wide Pro Series cabinets when you need to flip dozens of burgers for a neighborhood gathering.
Vertical roaster and smoker basket holds whole turkeys up to 21 pounds without oil
TRU-Infrared technology provides consistent heat without flare-ups
Features 180-square-inch top infrared grill grate and rotary ignition
Lightweight 22.7-pound alloy steel frame with removable grease tray
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The Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Technology 3-burner 463365124 brings modular grill-and-griddle performance to a narrower footprint. Measuring 23.7 inches deep, 55.4 inches wide, and 47.7 inches high, this 3-burner model is six inches narrower than its 4-burner siblings, making it an ideal choice for smaller decks and patios. It weighs 150.7 pounds and features an enclosed cabinet base that keeps propane equipment and tools out of sight.
This modular system includes a griddle insert accessory that allows you to swap between gas grilling and griddling in 60 seconds or less. Equipped with three stainless steel burners and one rack, it uses the Amplifire cooking system to distribute uniform heat across porcelain-coated cast-iron grates. By blocking flare-ups, it retains up to 50 percent more moisture in your food, backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
This model is ideal for everyday family cooking where space is limited but griddle versatility is essential. It gives way to the 4-burner models if you regularly cook for large crowds requiring extra burner capacity and secondary warming racks.
Narrower 55.4-inch cabinet profile tailored for mid-sized patios
Modular 2-in-1 system swaps between grilling and griddling in 60 seconds
Three stainless steel burners powered by Amplifire technology
Porcelain-coated cast iron grates with enclosed storage cabinet
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Best for Campers and tailgaters needing portable infrared heat
Pros
Cast-aluminum firebox and lid
Lightweight 24-pound tabletop build
Push-button reliable ignition
Cooks up to 8 burgers
Cons
Single burner limits heat zones
Compact 200 square inch surface
For cooking away from home, the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill delivers genuine infrared performance in a travel-ready design. Built for mobile use, it features a rugged cast-aluminum firebox and lid mounted inside a high-impact frame with stainless steel latches and carrying handles. Those evaluating portable setups against balcony options like a charbroil electric grill outdoor unit will value the off-grid versatility this gas tabletop model provides.
Weighing 24 pounds, this tabletop cooker features Char-Broil’s Amplifire cooking system over a single stainless steel burner to prevent windy flare-ups and produce 50 percent juicier food. The non-stick grate provides 200 square inches of cooking space, accommodating up to eight burgers at once. Push-button ignition ensures easy lighting, with dimensions of 24.8 inches deep, 26 inches wide, and 15.7 inches high. It includes a 5-year warranty on the burner and lid, plus a 1-year warranty on grates and parts.
The Grill2Go X200 is built for tailgaters, campers, and RV enthusiasts who need durable, flare-up-free searing on the road. Its single-burner tabletop format yields to full-sized Pro Series cabinets when you need multiple temperature zones for large home cookouts.
Cast-aluminum lid and firebox with high-impact frame and locking latches
Single-burner Amplifire system stops flare-ups and preserves juices
Compact 200-square-inch non-stick surface cooks up to eight burgers
Push-button ignition and 24-pound portable frame with 5-year burner warranty
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Best for Current owners restoring existing infrared grill grates
Pros
Porcelain cast-iron and alloy steel
Eliminates flare-ups on older grills
Scales across 2 to 4 burners
Direct manufacturer fit
Cons
Sold in individual sections
Not for Performance series grills
Worn-out grates do not require replacing an entire grill. The Charbroil Professional, Signature & Commercial Series TRU-Infrared replacement grate and emitter (model 3297527R04) restores original cooking performance to aging grills. Built with alloy steel emitter plates and porcelain-coated cast-iron grates, this kit re-establishes radiant heat transfer, eliminates flare-ups, and retains meat juices across worn cooktops.
Each section measures 17 inches deep by 6 inches wide and 1.3 inches high. It is compatible with 2015 and newer Char-Broil Commercial, Signature, or Professional Series TRU-Infrared gas grills. You can identify your model year by the last two digits of the model number on the back of the grill or inside the product guide. The listing notes that this kit is not compatible with Char-Broil Performance Series TRU-Infrared grills. Purchase three sections for a 2-burner grill, four sections for a 3-burner grill, or five sections for a 4-burner grill.
This replacement kit suits current Char-Broil grill owners who want to rebuild their cooker’s heat distribution rather than purchase a new freestanding appliance. Shoppers without a compatible Commercial, Signature, or Professional grill will need one of the complete standalone cookers above.
Restores TRU-Infrared heat distribution and eliminates flare-ups
Compatible with 2015 and newer Commercial, Signature, and Professional grills
Constructed from alloy steel emitters and porcelain-coated cast-iron grates
Modular 6-inch by 17-inch dimensions scale across multiple grill sizes
What Sets These Models Apart
Model
Cooking System
Burner Setup & Fuel
Dimensions & Weight
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared (463281024)
Amplifire Infrared (Grill, Griddle, Charcoal)
4 Main Burners + 1 Side Burner (Gas & Charcoal)
23.7″D x 61.4″W x 47.7″H, 178.2 lbs
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared (463279224)
Amplifire Infrared (Grill & Griddle)
4 Main Burners (Propane Gas)
23.7″D x 61.4″W x 47.7″H, 177 lbs
Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1
TRU-Infrared (Smoker, Roaster, Grill)
Vertical Roaster & Top Grate (Propane Gas)
23.1″D x 23.4″W x 36.2″H, 22.7 lbs
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Technology (463365124)
Modular Amplifire System
3 Main Burners (Propane Gas)
23.7″D x 55.4″W x 47.7″H, 150.7 lbs
Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill
Amplifire Portable Infrared
1 Main Burner (Propane Gas)
24.8″D x 26″W x 15.7″H, 24 lbs
Charbroil Professional Emitter Kit (3297527R04)
TRU-Infrared Replacement
Modular Emitter Grate (Fits 2 to 4 Burners)
17″D x 6″W x 1.3″H, Modular Section
Figures in this table are copied from the Amazon listings for these models.
Buying Tips for Char-Broil Infrared Grills
Choosing the best charbroil infrared gas grill begins by matching the grill’s footprint and features to your cooking style. If you want the freedom to cook bacon and eggs on a griddle, sear steaks over gas, or smoke ribs over charcoal, a 4-burner Pro Series hybrid provides unmatched flexibility. However, measure your deck space before ordering: these 61-inch cabinets need ample clearance. If your space is tighter, the 3-burner Pro Series offers the same fast griddle transition in a 55-inch width.
Maintaining infrared emitters is essential for long-term cooking consistency. Because radiant barriers sit directly under the grates to catch drippings and prevent flare-ups, keeping the micro-perforations clear ensures proper heat distribution. Run your burners on high for 10 to 15 minutes after cooking to burn food residue to ash, then gently sweep the cooled grates and emitters with an appropriate grill brush.
Finally, decide whether you need an entirely new cooker or just replacement parts. If your current grill body is in good condition, installing fresh modular emitters can restore peak performance at a fraction of the effort. Checking charbroil infrared grill reviews and verified model numbers will ensure your upgrade fits your backyard perfectly.
FAQ
How does a charbroil infrared grill prevent flare-ups?
A charbroil infrared grill places a perforated radiant emitter barrier directly between the gas burners and cooking grates. Drippings land on the hot metal barrier and instantly vaporize into flavorful smoke rather than dripping onto the burners, eliminating sudden flare-ups and retaining natural juices.
What is the difference between Amplifire and TRU-Infrared technology?
Both Amplifire and TRU-Infrared are Char-Broil radiant systems that eliminate flare-ups and distribute heat evenly. Amplifire is the current system found on newer Pro Series cabinet and portable grills, while TRU-Infrared is featured on specialty cookers like The Big Easy and earlier Commercial or Professional models.
How do you clean Char-Broil infrared emitter plates?
Run the grill on high for 10 to 15 minutes with the lid closed after cooking to burn drippings to ash. Once the unit cools, lift off the grates and gently brush away loose ash from the emitter perforations using a soft nylon or brass bristle brush.
Can you use charcoal in every Char-Broil infrared grill?
No, charcoal is only permitted in designated hybrid models like the Pro Series 463281024, which includes dedicated charcoal trays. Using charcoal in standard gas-only infrared cabinets or portable tabletop models can damage the firebox and void your warranty.
Can The Big Easy 3-in-1 be used for regular gas grilling?
Yes, while The Big Easy 3-in-1 is known for vertical roasting and smoking, it includes a 180-square-inch infrared grill grate positioned over the top opening for standard high-heat searing of burgers, steaks, and chops.