Brand Hub

Char-Broil Hub

Budget gas grilling done right.

Char-Broil is the brand most American cooks start with and many never leave. The Performance Series and TRU-Infrared lineup deliver legitimate gas grilling for $200-400 — the price range where Weber doesn't really play. The Big Easy is one of the most underrated holiday cooking tools you can buy. This hub covers every Char-Broil review, comparison, and how-to.

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Char-Broil is the brand most American cooks start with and many never leave. The Performance Series and TRU-Infrared lineup deliver legitimate gas grilling for $200-400 — the price range where Weber doesn't really play. The Big Easy is one of the most underrated holiday cooking tools you can buy. This hub covers every Char-Broil review, comparison, and how-to.

Why Char-Broil owns the budget tier

Char-Broil grills cost half what comparable Webers cost and last about 6-8 years instead of 15. For many buyers, that's the right trade-off — you can buy two Char-Broils across a decade and spend less than one Weber. The TRU-Infrared lineup is the standout — it produces more even heat and fewer flare-ups than conventional burners at the same price.

The TRU-Infrared advantage

TRU-Infrared puts a perforated stainless plate over the burners. Drippings can't reach the flame, so flare-ups are eliminated. Heat distributes more evenly because the plate radiates infrared. The downside: searing intensity is slightly lower than direct flame. For most weeknight cooking, the trade-off is worth it.

The Big Easy

Char-Broil's Big Easy oil-less turkey fryer is one of the smartest holiday cooking purchases under $150. Cooks a 16-lb turkey in 2.5 hours with no oil, crispy skin, juicy meat. Far safer than deep frying and arguably produces a better result. We recommend it every Thanksgiving.

Every Char-Broil review

4 models tested

From around the web

Frequently asked

Are Char-Broil grills any good?
For the price, yes. They're not Webers — they last 6-8 years vs 15 — but they cost half as much. For first-time buyers and renters, Char-Broil is the smart starter brand.
Is TRU-Infrared worth it?
Yes. No flare-ups, more even heat, easier to clean. The slightly lower searing intensity is rarely noticeable in real-world cooking. Worth the small price premium.
How long does a Char-Broil grill last?
6-8 years with basic maintenance. The burners and grates are the most common failure points; both are replaceable for $30-80.
Char-Broil vs Weber Spirit?
Weber wins on build quality, warranty, and longevity. Char-Broil wins on upfront cost. If you can stretch to a Spirit, do — you'll save money over a decade.