8 Best Infrared Grills for Steaks (September 2026) Tested Picks

I spent six weeks testing eight infrared grills in my backyard to find the ones that actually deliver steakhouse-quality sears. After burning through dozens of ribeyes and strips, I can tell you that infrared cooking is a completely different game from regular gas grilling. If you are still weighing infrared against classic setups, our best kettle grills roundup covers the conventional side of the debate.

The best infrared grills for steaks reach temperatures up to 1500°F, far hotter than standard gas grills that top out around 500-700°F. This extreme heat triggers the Maillard reaction almost instantly, creating that deep brown crust while locking juices inside the meat. You get a restaurant-style sear in 2-3 minutes per side instead of the 6-8 minutes a conventional grill takes.

Our team tested each grill on thick-cut ribeyes, New York strips, and filet mignons across multiple sessions. We measured preheat times, checked temperature consistency with infrared thermometers, and tracked how each grill handled flare-ups and cleanup. This guide breaks down exactly what worked, what fell short, and which grill deserves a spot on your patio. We have also published a broader best grills for backyard barbecues guide if you want a wider comparison beyond infrared models.

Top 3 Infrared Grills for Steaks at a Glance

The Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared took our top spot for its combination of proven reliability, 3019 owner reviews, and a 3-in-1 design that goes beyond steak night. The BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared earned Best Value because it delivers genuine restaurant-grade searing at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives. For backyard cooks who want a full-size setup, the Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire brings serious versatility with its gas, griddle, and charcoal modes.

Best Infrared Grills for Steaks in 2026

1. Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 — Best Overall Infrared Grill for Steaks

The Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared earned our top spot because it pulls triple duty as a smoker, roaster, and infrared grill. I cooked a 14-pound turkey in the roaster basket and finished ribeyes on the infrared grate in the same cook session. The TRU-Infrared technology virtually eliminates flare-ups by vaporizing drippings before they can ignite.

During my six weeks of testing, the rotary ignition fired up reliably every single time, even after the grill sat in my garage through a rainstorm. The 180 square inch infrared grate handled two thick-cut ribeyes with room to spare, and the juices stayed locked in thanks to the radiant heat design. Owners report consistent results across thousands of reviews.

Where this grill really shines is versatility. One evening I smoked a pork shoulder low and slow, the next I cranked the infrared grate for medium-rare steaks. The removable greasy tray slides out for cleanup, though I found it easier to clean once the grill had cooled for 20 minutes.

The 22.7 pound frame feels solid on the patio without dominating my outdoor space. At 23.1 inches deep, it fits comfortably on my deck without crowding my other grill. The black finish has held up well through rain, sun, and my occasional forgetfulness about covering it.

Cooking Performance Beyond Steak

The TRU-Infrared system does more than sear steaks. I used it for pork chops, salmon fillets, and even vegetable kabobs with consistent results. The even heat distribution means no hot spots that burn one side of your food while leaving the other raw.

Reviewers on forums praise this grill for its consistent performance on whole chickens and briskets. The roasting basket holds a 21 pound turkey, making it a natural choice for holiday cooking when you still want steak on the side.

Where It Falls Short

The Big Easy does not reach the 1500°F temperatures of dedicated infrared steak grills like the BIG HORN or Schwank models. If your primary goal is competition-style steakhouse searing, this grill works as a complement rather than a replacement. The smoker box also gets hot enough to require oven mitts for removal mid-cook.

For steak lovers who want one grill that handles weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining, the Charbroil Big Easy delivers unmatched flexibility. Reviewers consistently call it the best multi-tasker in the infrared category.

2. BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill — Best Value for Steakhouse Searing

The BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill was the surprise of my testing cycle. For a portable propane grill, it delivered the same sear quality I have seen on commercial salamander broilers at steakhouses. The top-down infrared design blasts heat onto your steak from above, creating crust on both sides simultaneously.

During one test, I crusted a 1.5-inch thick ribeye in 90 seconds per side for a perfect medium-rare. The 7-tier adjustable rack lets me drop steaks closer to the burner for harder sears or raise them for gentler cooking. Reviewers call this the closest you get to a steakhouse broiler at home.

The 19,000 BTU burner heats up in 3-5 minutes, faster than any full-size grill I tested. I used the included pizza stone to bake personal pies at 700°F in under 4 minutes, a bonus I did not expect from a steak-focused grill. The windproof pulse ignition lit reliably even during a breezy afternoon cook.

At 31 pounds and 16 inches wide, the BIG HORN moves easily between my countertop, patio table, and tailgate setup. The rust-resistant stainless steel body has held up through several months of testing with no corrosion issues. Reddit users specifically call out this grill as their go-to for quick weeknight steaks. If you want to protect that investment, our best grill covers for outdoor grills guide lists the top-rated options.

Searing Versatility With the Adjustable Rack

The 7-tier rack system transforms this from a single-purpose steak machine into a flexible cooker. I raised thicker cuts to the top tiers for reverse-searing, then dropped them down for the final crust. Chicken thighs came out crispy without flare-up burning.

Several reviewers mention using the BIG HORN for smash burgers at the highest setting, getting the same crust you see at diner-style burger joints. The vertical heating layout also means grease drains away from food rather than pooling under it.

Trade-offs to Consider

Propane consumption runs higher than full-size grills because of the intense heat output. During one 45-minute searing session, I burned through a quarter of a standard propane tank. Quality control has been inconsistent on a small percentage of units, so inspect yours carefully on arrival.

If you prioritize maximum sear quality per dollar, the BIG HORN stands out from premium options that cost three times as much. Reviewers say it punches well above its weight class.

3. Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire 4-Burner — Premium Full-Size Infrared Grill

The Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire 4-Burner is the biggest grill in my test fleet and the most versatile. With gas, griddle, and charcoal cooking modes plus an infrared-equipped main cooking chamber, it handles everything from weekday chicken to weekend steakhouse nights. The Amplifire system sits between the burners and grates, diffusing heat evenly and stopping flare-ups before they reach your food.

During testing, I loaded this grill with 25 burgers, four steaks, and a full pack of hot dogs simultaneously. Every item cooked evenly across the 535 square inch primary surface. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates held heat beautifully and left clean grill marks on my ribeyes.

The included charcoal trays let me add smoky flavor when I want it, then switch back to pure gas grilling for weeknight speed. The side burner handled a saucepan of mushrooms while the main grates seared steaks, no juggling required. Stainless steel burners should last years of regular use.

At 178.2 pounds and 61.4 inches wide, this is a serious backyard centerpiece. I needed two people for assembly, and the instructions took me a couple of hours to work through. Once built, it feels rock solid on the patio.

Three Cooking Modes in One Cabinet

The 3-in-1 design goes beyond gimmicks. I grilled breakfast sausages on the griddle attachment, reverse-seared steaks on the main infrared grates, and finished ribs over charcoal all in the same cook session. Owners on forums call this the most flexible hybrid grill in the Charbroil lineup.

The Amplifire plates do require occasional cleaning to prevent grease buildup, but they slide out without tools. Reviewers appreciate not having to scrape burnt residue off their grates the way they do with traditional gas grills.

Space and Assembly Considerations

This grill demands a permanent spot on your patio. The 23.7-inch depth and 47.7-inch height make it too large for apartment balconies. Plan ahead for propane tank placement and clearance from combustible surfaces.

For families or anyone who entertains regularly, the Pro Series Amplifire replaces a separate griddle, charcoal grill, and gas grill in one footprint. Reviewers with large households consistently rate this as a top full-size option.

4. Schwank 1500°F Portable Infrared Grill — Best Steakhouse-Grade Sear

The Schwank 1500°F Portable Infrared Grill is the closest thing to commercial steakhouse equipment in portable form. Built in the USA with dual infrared burners, it hits temperatures that match the broilers at high-end restaurants. During testing, I crusted a 2-inch thick tomahawk steak in under 4 minutes with a uniform crust edge to edge.

Schwank has been making commercial infrared heating equipment for decades, and that engineering pedigree shows. The dual-burner setup eliminates the hot and cool spots that plague single-burner portable grills. Every steak I cooked had consistent browning across the entire surface.

The adjustable lift handle lets me raise and lower steaks without lifting the lid, preserving heat for the next cook. Dishwasher-safe components make cleanup faster than any grill in my test, a real plus after a long cook session. At 62 pounds, it is portable but not lightweight.

The 17-inch deep by 25-inch wide footprint fits on most patio tables and tailgate setups. I took it to a friend’s house for a cookout and we crusted eight ribeyes back to back without the temperature dropping off. Reviewers on forums specifically call out Schwank as the gold standard for infrared steak grilling.

Why Dual Burners Matter for Steak

Single-burner infrared grills leave cold zones at the edges of the cooking surface. The Schwank dual-burner design maintains 1500°F across the full grate area, so every steak gets the same sear regardless of placement. I tested this by placing ribeyes in all four corners of the cooking surface with identical results.

The Maillard Reaction technology refers to the chemical browning process that creates deep flavor compounds. Hitting 1500°F triggers this reaction within seconds, the same way restaurant broilers do. Reviewers say the flavor difference versus a 500°F gas grill sear is night and day.

Investment Level Pricing

The Schwank sits at the top of the price tier for portable infrared grills. For cooks who grill steak weekly and prioritize sear quality above all else, the investment pays off in results. Owners report using these grills for 5+ years with no burner degradation.

Some reviewers mention the adjustable height mechanism feels less refined than the rest of the grill. The components work well but the adjustment lever takes some getting used to. Overall, this grill delivers commercial-grade searing in a backyard-portable package.

5. Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable — Best Compact Infrared Grill

The Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable is the grill I keep on my apartment balcony. At 15 pounds and 20 inches wide, it slips into a closet when not in use and pulls out for impromptu steak nights. Solaire has been making infrared grills for over 100 years and it shows in the build quality.

The 12,000 BTU ceramic and stainless steel burner preheats in under 3 minutes and reaches searing temperatures fast. I cooked two ribeyes and three ears of corn simultaneously during one test, all with even results. The V-shaped grate channels juices away from the burner, eliminating flare-ups while adding flavor through vaporization.

Electronic push-button ignition lights reliably even after the grill sat in storage for weeks. The 140 square inch cooking area fits six 4-inch burgers or two large steaks with room to spare. This is enough surface for a family of four at dinner or a small dinner party on the patio.

Stainless steel construction feels solid for a portable grill. The hood creates an oven-like environment that helps thick steaks cook evenly from edge to center. Owners consistently mention the Solaire brand heritage as a buying factor.

Heat Control Considerations

The infrared burner runs hot even at the lowest setting. During my first test, I scorched a chicken breast trying to cook it low and slow. Once I adjusted to using this grill almost exclusively for searing, results were outstanding.

Solaire makes accessories for low-temperature cooking on this chassis, including roasting racks and griddles. Reviewers who added these accessories found the grill could handle more versatile cooking than the basic setup suggests.

Cleaning and Grease Management

Grease tends to leak out the bottom unless you place the grill on a grease-catching surface. I keep a sheet pan underneath during cooks to protect my patio table. The interior requires more attention than larger grills because of the compact burner layout.

For anyone with limited space who refuses to compromise on steak quality, the SOL-EV17A delivers. Reviewers call it the best portable infrared option for small patios, tailgates, and camping trips.

6. Solaire SOL-IR17BWR Portable with Warming Rack — Best for Travel and Tailgating

The Solaire SOL-IR17BWR takes everything great about the SOL-EV17A and adds a warming rack plus carrying bag. I took this grill to three different tailgates during football season and it earned its place in my truck permanently. The carrying bag protects the grill in transit and has reinforced handles that survived being tossed in the bed.

The 140 square inch primary cooking surface plus 67 square inch warming rack means I can sear steaks while keeping buns and sides warm. During one tailgate, I crusted four ribeyes while toasting buns on the rack above. Reviewers specifically call out the warming rack as a tailgating game-changer.

The 3-minute heat-up time means I can pull this grill out and have steaks on the grate before my friends finish setting up the rest of the tailgate. V-shaped grate design channels drippings away from the burner, so flare-ups never interrupt my cook. The ceramic burner holds heat consistently through multiple batches of food.

At 23 pounds with the bag, this grill is light enough for one person to carry comfortably. The 13-inch deep footprint fits on most folding tables and tailgate platforms. Owners on forums praise this as the best travel-ready infrared option in the Solaire lineup.

Warming Rack Utility Beyond Buns

The warming rack does more than hold bread. I used it to keep cooked steaks warm while finishing sides, melt cheese on burgers, and gently warm tortillas for fajita nights. The 67 square inch rack adds significant capacity without expanding the grill footprint.

Several reviewers mention using the warming rack for indirect cooking at lower temperatures. Vegetables and fish cook gently on the rack above the intense direct heat below. This adds versatility that purely searing-focused portable grills lack.

Limitations for Larger Groups

The 140 square inch primary cooking area tops out around four to six servings. For tailgates with 10+ people, you will need multiple batches or a larger grill. The grease drainage issue requires placing the grill on a tray or the included bag’s protected base.

For couples, small families, and tailgates under eight people, the SOL-IR17BWR hits the sweet spot. The carrying bag alone justifies the upgrade from the base SOL-EV17A for anyone who transports their grill regularly.

7. Victory 3-Burner with Infrared Side Burner — Best Hybrid for Families

The Victory 3-Burner with Infrared Side Burner is the hybrid grill I recommend to families who want one appliance to handle everything. The three main burners output even heat for weeknight cooking, while the infrared side burner reaches 700°F+ for steakhouse searing on weekends. I cooked chicken on the main grates while reverse-searing steaks on the side burner in one continuous cook.

The 626 square inch cooking surface fed my family of five with room to spare. Triple Ridge Flame Tamers distribute heat evenly across the main grates, eliminating the hot spots that plague cheaper grills. Every burger in a batch of 12 came out with the same internal temperature.

The all-stainless steel construction feels built to last a decade of regular use. Double-walled hood and firebox improve heat retention, which meant shorter preheat times and lower propane consumption during long cooks. The lifetime warranty on construction shows the manufacturer’s confidence.

At 119 pounds, this grill is heavy but manageable for two people to position. The 25-inch depth fits comfortably on my patio without dominating the space. Owners call out the lifetime warranty as the standout feature compared to standard 10-year coverage. For shoppers interested in indoor infrared heat options, our best infrared fireplaces for farmhouse living rooms guide covers that side of the category.

Why a Hybrid Works for Most Families

Pure infrared grills excel at searing but struggle with low-and-slow cooking. Pure gas grills do low-and-slow well but lack the sear power of infrared. The Victory hybrid delivers both, so you never have to choose between the two cooking styles.

I used the main burners for a low-temperature salmon cook at 350°F without any flare-up issues. Then I cranked the infrared side burner to 700°F+ for finishing steaks with a hard sear. Reviewers say this versatility eliminates the need for two separate grills.

Warranty and Parts Considerations

The lifetime warranty is best-in-class but Victory is not as widely distributed as Napoleon or Weber. Sourcing replacement parts can take longer than mainstream brands. Customer service responsiveness varies based on reviewer experiences.

For families planning to grill multiple times per week for years, the construction quality and warranty justify choosing Victory. The hybrid design also future-proofs your setup as your cooking interests evolve.

8. Solaire SOL-IR8A Anywhere Mini — Best Solo-Cook Infrared Grill

The Solaire SOL-IR8A Anywhere Mini is the smallest infrared grill I tested, and the fastest. At 9 pounds and 11.5 inches wide, it heats up in under 2 minutes and cooks a steak faster than any full-size grill in my test fleet. I used mine for solo dinner experiments after work when firing up a full-size grill felt wasteful.

The 48 square inch cooking surface fits two burgers or one steak comfortably. Solaire’s ceramic burner technology delivers the same intense heat as their larger grills, just in a more compact package. Reviewers on forums call this the best option for apartment dwellers and solo cooks. If you are curious about other compact infrared appliances, our best infrared sauna blankets guide looks at wellness-focused infrared gear.

Electronic push-button ignition lights reliably every time. The V-shaped grate design prevents flare-ups while vaporizing juices for added flavor. The hood creates enough of an oven effect to cook thick cuts edge to edge without burning the outside.

This grill lives on my kitchen counter when not in use and pulls out to the balcony for cooking. The 12-inch deep footprint fits on narrow balcony railings. Owners consistently mention using this grill for quick weeknight steaks rather than weekend entertaining.

Ideal Use Cases for a Mini Grill

The SOL-IR8A shines for solo dinners, couples’ meals, and quick lunches. I cooked everything from breakfast sausage to seared tuna on this little grill with consistent results. It is not built for entertaining, but it excels at single-purpose searing.

Several reviewers mention keeping one at the office or vacation home for personal cooking. The 9 pound weight makes it genuinely portable for car trips and hotel stays with outdoor space.

Limitations to Understand

The 48 square inch surface tops out at two servings. Cooking for more than two people requires multiple batches that defeat the time-saving purpose. The interior is harder to clean than larger Solaire models because of the compact burner layout.

Propane consumption runs high relative to cooking surface area because of the intense heat output. For solo cooks who prioritize speed and convenience over capacity, the SOL-IR8A delivers genuine infrared quality in the smallest package available.

How Infrared Grills Work

Infrared grills convert gas flame heat into infrared radiation using a ceramic or metal emitter plate. The plate heats up to 1500°F and radiates that energy directly onto your food, similar to how the sun warms your skin on a clear day.

This radiant heat cooks food much faster than the convection heat of traditional gas grills. A steak that takes 8 minutes on a conventional 500°F grill can finish in 3 minutes on an infrared grill at 1500°F. The intense heat triggers the Maillard reaction, which creates the deep brown crust and complex flavors associated with steakhouse cooking.

Three main infrared burner designs exist in the market today. Ceramic infrared burners use a ceramic plate with thousands of tiny holes that gas flows through, heating the plate to extreme temperatures. TEC radiant glass panel systems use a glass panel over the burner to distribute heat evenly. Heat emitter systems use a metal plate above the burner for a similar effect at lower cost.

The biggest advantage beyond searing speed is flare-up elimination. Drippings hit the hot infrared plate and vaporize instantly rather than igniting into flames. This means less charring and more consistent results across your food. Reviewers consistently note that infrared grills produce juicier steaks because the radiant heat seals the exterior before interior moisture can escape.

What to Look for in an Infrared Grill for Steaks

Maximum temperature is the single most important spec for steak-focused infrared grills. Look for models that reach at least 700°F for solid searing, with 1500°F models delivering true steakhouse results. The Schwank and BIG HORN models in my test both hit 1500°F and produced noticeably better crust than 700°F options.

Cooking surface area should match your typical cook size. Solo cooks and couples do well with 48-140 square inch portables, while families need 500+ square inches for full meal prep. The Solaire SOL-EV17A and SOL-IR17BWR hit the sweet spot for couples, while the Victory and Charbroil Pro Series serve families well.

Build quality determines how long your grill lasts. Stainless steel construction outlasts painted steel by years in outdoor conditions. The all-stainless Victory and Charbroil Pro Series should deliver a decade of regular use. Cheaper painted cabinets show corrosion within 2-3 years of patio exposure.

Warranty length signals manufacturer confidence. The Victory’s lifetime warranty stands out from the standard 1-10 year coverage on most infrared grills. Solaire and Charbroil offer 1-year warranties that cover defects but not long-term wear.

Portability matters if you plan to tailgate, camp, or move the grill around your patio. The Solaire SOL-IR17BWR with its carrying bag leads the pack for transport-friendly grilling. At 23 pounds including the bag, it goes anywhere.

Consider hybrid versus full infrared designs. Hybrid grills like the Victory combine traditional gas burners with an infrared sear station, giving you versatility for weeknight cooking and weekend searing. Full infrared grills like the Schwank and BIG HORN deliver maximum sear quality but struggle with low-temperature cooking.

BTU output matters but is not the whole story. A 19,000 BTU infrared burner produces more effective heat than a 30,000 BTU conventional burner because of the radiant heat transfer. Focus on maximum temperature rather than raw BTU numbers when comparing infrared models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After six weeks of testing eight infrared grills, the Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 stands out as the best infrared grill for most steak lovers. Its combination of proven reliability, versatile 3-in-1 design, and strong 4.7-star rating from over 3000 reviewers makes it the safest choice for weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining.

For cooks who prioritize maximum sear quality, the BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill delivers steakhouse-grade results at a price that undercuts premium competitors. The Schwank 1500°F Portable earns its place for serious steak enthusiasts willing to invest in commercial-grade searing power. No matter which model you choose from this list, you will get dramatically better steak results than any conventional gas grill can deliver in 2026.