If you’re pursuing restaurant-quality sears at home, infrared searing delivers intense, focused heat that locks in moisture and creates a crusty crust in minutes. This guide highlights five grills with infrared searing capabilities, explaining who each model is best for and why they stand out. Whether you cook for a weekend family, host big backyard barbecues, or need a compact travel-friendly option, there’s a fit here for you.
Type of buyer overview: • For steak lovers who want a true sear, look for an infrared burner or side sear zone. • For large gatherings, prioritize high total BTU output and ample cooking space. • For portable setups, prioritize compact size and quick ignition. • For all-in-one versatility, consider models with multiple grilling surfaces, including griddles or warming racks. The table below compares the five selections to help you choose quickly.
| Product | Infrared Feature | Cooking Space (approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand-Man Grills | 12,000 BTU infrared side sear burner | 624 sq. in. + warming rack | Steak lovers seeking true sear crust |
| Flintex | Infrared searing via burner array | 625 sq. in. | Large backyard grills with diverse grates |
| BIG HORN OUTDOORS | Infrared top-down sear (1500°F capability) | Compact surface, table-top size | Portable sear station for on-the-go cooking |
| ADREAK | Infrared side burner included | Prominent main area + side burner | Versatile outdoor kitchen setup |
| Charbroil Pro Series | Amplifire infrared technology | Gas/griddle/charcoal 3-in-1 surface | All-in-one flavor versatility |
Brand-Man Grills 6-Burner Infrared Sear Grill
This 6-burner propane grill centers a 12,000 BTU ceramic infrared side sear burner designed to deliver intense, concentrated heat quickly. The diamond-pattern porcelain-enameled cast iron grates optimize heat retention and create distinct sear marks, while the 624 square inches of grilling space accommodates multiple cuts or sides. An integrated warming rack slides automatically away when the lid opens, maximizing grilling area for flipping and serving. Best for steak lovers and home chefs who want a professional crust without rotating fuel sources.
Caution: Infrared sear power requires close lid control to prevent over-charring, and long sessions should monitor for even heat distribution across the grate surface.
Flintex Multi-Function 6-Burner Grill
The Flintex model frames a broad 625 square inches of cooking space with multiple grate configurations, suitable for big backyard gatherings. Its infrared searing capability helps achieve restaurant-quality crusts quickly, while the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates resist chipping and maintain even heat. Best for families or hosts who want a robust, versatile cooking station with ample surface area and a mix of grates and griddle options.
Limitation: As a multi-function grill, setup may require more assembly and space compared with compact units.
BIG HORN OUTDOORS Infrared Grill 16-Inch Mini Seer
This compact infrared grill focuses on top-down searing with a high-temperature capability, delivering sizzling results in a small footprint. It’s designed for portability and quick heat-up, making it ideal for patio tables, tailgates, or travel. Best for single- or small-family cooks who want fast, intense searing without a large barbecue footprint.
Want to avoid overcooking? The compact design requires close attention to flame control to maintain consistent results across the cooking surface.
Propane Gas Grill With Infrared Side Burner
This 4+1 stainless steel gas grill pairs a robust main burner system with a dedicated infrared side burner for searing, plus a side burner for sauces or veggies. The expansive main cooking surface can handle many burgers at once, and the warming rack adds extra serving capacity. Best for cooks who want robust BTU output and flexible heat zones in one outdoor kitchen setup.
Limitation: The number of separate burners may require careful heat management to prevent hot spots across the main grate area.
Charbroil Pro Series With Amplifire Infrared
The Charbroil Pro Series integrates infrared technology with a 3-in-1 concept: grill, griddle, and, optionally, charcoal. This flexibility supports a wide range of cooking styles, from searing steaks to frying breakfast on the griddle, while maintaining robust sear performance. Best for diners who want a single grill to cover multiple cooking techniques while retaining strong infrared searing for crust formation.
Note: The 3-in-1 approach can complicate heat management if switching between fuel modes during a single cook session.
Buying Guide
- Infrared power and sear quality: Look for dedicated infrared burners or side burners with enough BTU to achieve quick surface heats, typically 10,000 BTU or more per infrared zone.
- Cooking area: Assess total square inches and whether you need a warming rack, a griddle, or additional side burners for sauces and sides.
- Grate material: Diamond-pattern or porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat well and resist chipping, contributing to better searing marks and durability.
- Heat distribution: Consider models with heat plates or designed to minimize hot spots so searing is consistent across the surface.
- Portability vs. built-in: For portable use, prioritize compact dimensions and quick ignition. For backyards, focus on stability, storage, and cabinet space.
- Maintenance and durability: Stainless steel construction and rust-resistant coatings extend grill life, especially in humid climates.
- Versatility: If you want more than searing, choose grills offering griddles, multiple surfaces, or charcoal options to expand cooking styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is infrared searing and why is it beneficial? Infrared searing uses high heat to quickly lock in juices and create crusts, enhancing flavor and texture beyond traditional burners.
- Is infrared searing suitable for all foods? It excels with steaks, chops, and poultry where crust formation matters; delicate fish may require moderated direct heat.
- Do all grills with infrared burners require special accessories? Not necessarily, but a good set of heat-resistant gloves and proper grill tools help manage high-heat searing safely.
- How do I prevent uneven searing across the grate? Ensure even flame distribution, preheat adequately, and rotate or reposition food as needed for uniform crust formation.
- Are infrared grills harder to maintain? Maintenance is similar to standard gas grills, with regular cleaning of grates and burners to prevent clogs and ensure consistent heat.
- Can I use a grill with an infrared side burner for everything? Infrared side burners are great for searing; alternately, use other burners for broader cooking and cooking sauce reductions.