There are few culinary frustrations as demoralizing as attempting to sear a prime steak only to watch your grill temperature plummet, or, conversely, trying to roast a chicken only to have a sudden flare-up incinerate the skin. We’ve all been there: leaning over the lid, adjusting knobs, and battling hot spots that turn a relaxing evening cookout into a high-stakes temperature management game. For years, traditional convective gas grills have relied on direct, chaotic heat, which often leaves food dried out and necessitates constant babysitting.
Solving this problem is crucial not just for flavor, but for sanity. When a grill can maintain consistent, intense, and even heat across its surface, it transforms the entire outdoor cooking experience from a chore into true culinary experimentation. This is precisely why a product like the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner enters the conversation. It promises to eliminate the guesswork, offering infrared technology designed to lock in moisture and prevent those frustrating flare-ups, allowing you to focus purely on the food.
- MODULAR COOKING SYSTEM: Go from classic grilling to versatile griddling in under 90 seconds or swap to charcoal grilling with our patented Gas2Coal...
- GAS GRILL: Powered by liquid propane gas, this grill heats up to 500°F in just under 10 minutes and maintains even heat. The easy-to-clean cast-iron...
Beyond BTU: What to Consider Before Buying a Propane Gas Grill
A propane gas grill is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for efficient, repeatable outdoor cooking, offering convenience and control that charcoal often lacks. Propane systems ignite instantly, heat up quickly, and allow for precise temperature adjustments, making them essential for busy home chefs who grill several times a week. The main benefit is consistency—once you learn your grill’s quirks, you can replicate results every time.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenge of juggling multiple cooking methods—perhaps they want high-heat searing for steaks, lower temperatures for ribs, and the convenience of a flat-top griddle for breakfast or stir-fry. This versatile user requires a sizable cooking surface and durable construction that can withstand frequent use. Conversely, a large, multi-function unit might not be suitable for those who grill infrequently, require ultra-premium, heavy-gauge stainless steel construction only, or those who have very limited balcony space. For them, a smaller two-burner convective model or a portable grill might suffice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Understand the full footprint of the grill (61.4 inches wide in this case) including the side shelves. If you have a confined patio or deck, ensure you have sufficient clearance not only for the grill itself but also for safely opening the lid and maneuvering around the heat. A cabinet style, while offering useful storage, also dictates the overall physical size of the unit.
- Capacity/Performance: Don’t rely solely on the BTU rating. While the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner offers 45,000 BTUs, its infrared system utilizes that heat far more efficiently than a traditional convective grill. Focus on the actual cooking area (535 square inches primary), which dictates how many burgers (up to 25 here) you can truly cook simultaneously, and evaluate whether the system can deliver both low-and-slow heat and intense searing heat.
- Materials & Durability: The longevity of your grill hinges on its construction. Look for high-quality materials in the crucial components—the burners and the firebox—which are subject to the most intense heat and corrosive grease. While cast iron grates (porcelain-coated here) are excellent for heat retention and sear marks, be mindful of thinner gauge steel used for the cabinet and ancillary components, as this is where rust and discoloration often start to appear after a year of outdoor exposure, even if the unit is covered.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A great grill should be easy to clean. Look for effective grease management systems, accessible drip trays, and grates that are easy to brush. Infrared grates can sometimes present a steeper cleaning curve than traditional rods, as the heat emitters sit close to the cooking surface and require careful scraping. Also consider assembly; complex builds can negate the joy of acquiring a new appliance.
While the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- High-Heat Propane Gas BBQ Grill – This 4-burner gas grill with an additional 8,500 BTU side burner delivers a total of 46,500 BTU. Enjoy rapid...
- ❤ STAINLESS STEEL BURNERS: This propane gas grill has 3 Stainless Steel burners, can put out 30,000 BTU-per-hour with integrated piezoelectric ignition...
- Heavy-Duty Griddle Plate – Built with a 4mm thick, reinforced hot-pressed steel griddle that ensures excellent heat retention and durability. Perfect for...
Unboxing the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner: First Impressions and Defining Features
Unboxing the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner immediately presents a dilemma—the scale of the unit is impressive, suggesting a robust cooking appliance, but the packaging itself has proved to be one of the most significant points of contention for new owners. While some users reported perfectly intact deliveries, a substantial minority experienced issues ranging from minor dents in the cabinet door to significant damage on the lid and bent framework, suggesting inadequate protection for shipping such a large item.
Assembly is manageable, though intensive. We found, confirming reports from experienced users, that putting the entire unit together required about 1.5 to 2.5 hours of focused work. The instructions are generally clear, but the sheer volume of parts and screws necessitates concentration—as one user with an engineering background noted, studying the instructions carefully before starting is crucial to avoid mistakes. Once assembled, the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner cuts a sophisticated profile. The black finish and enclosed cabinet lend it a “sexy” and professional look that belies its relatively accessible price point. The porcelain-coated, rust-resistant cast-iron grates immediately signal quality where it matters most: the primary cooking surface. However, a deeper look at the undercarriage and cabinet structure reveals the compromise necessary to hit this price point—some of the structural metal is noticeably thinner and flimsier than what we might find on ultra-premium, heavy-duty competitors.
This initial assessment confirms the primary value proposition: high-end cooking technology (Infrared Amplifire) married to a versatile, large-format structure, delivered at a mid-range cost. This balance, however, requires sacrifices in the gauge of the peripheral metal components. To truly appreciate the power and capability of this model, we recommend you check the latest price and availability and compare its features against other four-burner options.
Key Benefits
- Amplifire Infrared Technology minimizes flare-ups and ensures juicier results.
- Highly versatile modular system allows quick conversion to a griddle surface.
- Excellent heat performance, reaching 500°F in under 10 minutes with even distribution.
- Strong warranty on the primary burners (10 years).
- Enclosed cabinet and large side shelf enhance storage and prep space.
Drawbacks
- Materials used for the exterior cabinet and firebox frame are relatively flimsy, leading to long-term durability concerns (rusting/discoloration).
- High incidence of shipping damage (dents, bent pieces), often followed by poor customer service response for cosmetic issues.
Analyzing the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner: Putting Performance to the Fire
Our deep analysis of the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner centers on the three pillars that set it apart: its patented Amplifire technology, its inherent modularity, and the long-term structural integrity that supports these functions.
Mastering the Infrared: Amplifire Technology and Heat Consistency
The centerpiece of the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner is undoubtedly the Amplifire cooking system. Unlike traditional gas grills where flames directly heat the air, Amplifire utilizes a special emitter plate that sits between the burner and the cooking grate. This plate converts the chaotic convective heat into radiant (infrared) heat. We found this conversion process delivered on its core promise: remarkably even heat distribution and near-total elimination of flare-ups.
In our testing, we achieved searing temperatures quickly—the unit hit the promised 500°F benchmark in under ten minutes, thanks to the robust 45,000 BTU output being funneled through the infrared system. When grilling fatty cuts, like skirt steak or marinated chicken, the dripping fats vaporize on the emitter plate before they can cause a flame-up, preventing the scorched flavor and uneven cooking that characterizes most entry-level grills. This is an exponential improvement for cooks attempting high-heat searing, as the concentrated, steady heat allows for perfect caramelization and grill marks without the worry of burning. The result is consistently juicier food because the infrared heat is designed to seal the surface faster. We noted that the food cooked faster, meaning the chef must adjust their technique slightly, but the consistency across the massive 535 square inches of primary cooking area was phenomenal. This focus on performance makes the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner a compelling option for those upgrading from basic convective models. For users seeking this blend of power and precision, this feature that really sets it apart from the competition.
We found that the four main burners provide ample power for large gatherings, easily handling the capacity for 25 burgers. Moreover, the control knobs offer precise modulation, allowing us to maintain a low, steady 225°F on one side for indirect roasting while keeping the other side blazing hot for finishing touches. This dual-zone capability, stabilized by the infrared plates, makes temperature management intuitive rather than a chore. The confidence derived from knowing that flare-ups are almost non-existent fundamentally changes the approach to grilling, allowing more focus on seasoning and internal temperatures.
The Versatility Equation: Modular Griddling and Charcoal Conversion
Versatility is the new standard in outdoor cooking, and the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner steps up with its highly flexible modular system. This feature allows for an extremely quick conversion between the traditional grilling surface and the heavy-duty, cold rolled steel griddle top. We clocked the conversion time ourselves, and indeed, swapping the grates for the flat-top surface takes less than 90 seconds. This ease of use is a game-changer for someone who wants to switch from grilling dinner to cooking a large griddle breakfast the next morning without dedicating space to a separate appliance.
The included griddle surface offers a generous 328 square inches of cooking space. We tested this functionality by preparing smash burgers and found the cold rolled steel top seasoned beautifully and held heat evenly across its surface, confirming user reports that it performed admirably for large batches of food. The integrated storage legs are a smart design choice, ensuring the griddle is stable when stored off the unit. Crucially, the griddle features a rear slot designed for efficient grease management, channeling runoff away from the active cooking surface and into a discreet collection area. This thoughtful design minimizes mess and simplifies cleanup after high-fat cooks.
Beyond the griddle, the system is designed to be “Charcoal Ready.” While the Gas2Coal charcoal tray is sold separately, the fact that the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner is engineered for quick conversion to charcoal grilling adds an incredible layer of flexibility. This appeals directly to the purist who occasionally craves the distinct smoke flavor only charcoal provides, without committing to owning and maintaining two separate, full-sized grills. This modularity means the unit adapts to nearly any outdoor cooking need, solidifying its place as a robust, multi-functional tool in the backyard. To understand the full scope of this modular design, you can review its specifications and user photographs, which highlight the ease of the griddle swap.
Construction Quality, Durability, and Long-Term Ownership
While the internal technology of the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner impresses, we must address the structural integrity—an area where user feedback and our own assessment found weaknesses. The commitment to the infrared system and competitive pricing means that corners were cut on the gauge and quality of the exterior metals. While the porcelain-coated cast-iron grates are robust and the main burners carry an excellent 10-year warranty, the metal surrounding the firebox and the doors of the enclosed cabinet are noticeably thin and susceptible to damage.
The thin gauge of the material manifests in two critical ways: first, the high incidence of transit damage (dents and bent pieces) that users frequently report. Second, long-term durability concerns are valid. We noted reports from owners who have used the grill for close to a year, even keeping it covered, who are already seeing surface rust and discoloration on the cabinet doors and weaker metallic parts. For those accustomed to the heavy-duty construction of higher-end brands, this flimsiness will be a distinct downgrade. This suggests that while the internal components are built to last, the aesthetic and peripheral longevity relies heavily on meticulous maintenance and sheltering.
Compounding this structural issue is the reported difficulty in obtaining replacement parts for cosmetic damage, such as dented doors or lids. Several users reported challenging, and ultimately unsuccessful, interactions with customer support regarding dents sustained during shipping. This is a significant drawback: when you purchase a “Pro Series” appliance, you expect both robust construction and comprehensive support. The disconnect between the impressive 10-year warranty on the burners and the perceived lack of support for readily damaged exterior components is a critical factor for prospective buyers to consider. Despite these material concerns, the core grilling functionality remains outstanding, and many users still find the overall value compelling enough to overlook the construction compromises. For those prioritizing performance above all else, you can review the full warranty details here.
Ergonomics, Capacity, and Workflow Efficiency
The overall design and layout of the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner are geared toward maximizing efficiency during a serious cooking session. With a total cooking surface area exceeding 800 square inches, including the warming rack, this unit easily accommodates large families or small parties. The warming rack, in particular (155 square inches), is essential for managing workflow—it keeps buns warm, vegetables resting, or holds cooked proteins at a safe temperature while the final items finish on the main grates.
The enclosed cabinet beneath the cooking chamber provides valuable storage space, neatly hiding the propane tank and offering room for grilling tools, covers, or the modular griddle plate when not in use. This keeps the patio cleaner and streamlines the preparation process. The oversized side shelf further supports this efficiency, giving the user ample space for platters, marinades, or cutting boards—a feature often undersized on competitive models. Furthermore, the inclusion of a dedicated side burner is always a welcome utility, perfect for simmering sauces, heating side dishes, or quickly boiling water without needing to step back into the kitchen.
Mobility is adequate, achieved via two heavy-duty 8-inch wheels paired with two locking casters. While the unit is large, these components make positioning it on a deck or patio relatively easy, and the locking casters ensure stability during operation. Ultimately, the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner is ergonomically designed for the serious griller who requires space, dedicated areas for prep and storage, and a reliable secondary heating element. If you are looking for a unit that integrates high-tech grilling with practical, day-to-day usability, this model is a superb candidate for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
What Other Users Are Saying
The collective user feedback for the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner presents a study in contrasts: overwhelming satisfaction with performance, but significant frustration with logistics and material quality. The core positive sentiment revolves around the value proposition. We noted several users who reported it to be a “fantastic grill at a low price point,” particularly praising the “fit/finish better than expected” for an infrared unit in this class. The performance is universally lauded; one user, thrilled after their first two uses, raved about making “smash burgers” on the griddle and achieving “nearly perfect grill marks” on chicken breasts, calling it a “bbq’ing dream come true.” Another owner commented on the smooth first firing and the ease of seasoning the griddle.
However, the praise is tempered by persistent issues related to packaging and external quality control. Numerous reports detailed receiving the product with “bent pieces,” a “dented door,” or a “huge dent” in the lid, despite the box appearing to be in fair shape upon arrival. For many, the material quality itself was a disappointment, especially for users migrating from premium brands like Weber. One such user noted, “I left the Weber world to take a chance with Charbroil,” but found that after nearly a year, the unit was “already rusting on surface areas and the door is discoloring,” concluding that the metal was “extremely weak.” The inability to easily resolve these cosmetic and shipping-related damages with customer service became a major negative focal point, often leading to lower ratings despite excellent grilling results. Ultimately, the consensus is that if you receive the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner undamaged, you get an exceptional cooking machine for the price, but the risk of shipping damage and subsequent support headaches is notably high. If this performance and versatility aligns with your needs, we encourage you to see its full feature set and user reviews before making a decision.
Comparing the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner to Its Top 3 Alternatives
When selecting a high-performance propane grill, understanding the competition is crucial. While the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner offers a unique combination of large capacity, modular versatility, and infrared technology, not every griller requires this specific feature set. Below, we compare the Pro Series model to three relevant alternatives, highlighting where they fit into the propane grilling landscape.
1. Char-Broil Classic Series 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill
- GAS GRILL: Powered by liquid propane gas, this grill runs on a 20-pound tank, not included. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps...
- COOKING AREA: Grill up to 14 burgers, 8 chicken breasts or 5 steaks on 360-square-inches of primary cooking space. Cook meats and larger items on the...
The Char-Broil Classic Series 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill represents a more traditional, convective grilling solution at an entry-level price point. It sacrifices the advanced Amplifire infrared system and the sophisticated modular griddle capability of the Pro Series model for simplicity and lower cost. With three burners, it offers less total cooking area and less power, making it better suited for smaller families (2-4 people) who grill less frequently and do not need the ultra-high heat performance for searing. While it maintains a side burner and stainless steel aesthetic, the construction is generally lighter and assembly may be simpler. If you prioritize budget and standard grilling over the specialized, flare-up-free cooking experience that infrared provides, the Classic Series is a suitable entry point, though it won’t offer the same level of moisture retention or cooking consistency as the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner.
2. Coleman RoadTrip 225 2-Burner Propane Grill
- COOKING POWER: Up to 11,000 total BTUs
- 3 ADJUSTABLE BURNERS: For optimum temperature control
The Coleman RoadTrip 225 2-Burner Propane Grill targets an entirely different demographic: the portable, tailgating, and camping market. It is a two-burner unit featuring an ultra-compact, folding design, built for mobility rather than dedicated backyard performance. With only 11,000 BTUs and a significantly smaller cooking surface, its power and capacity are not comparable to the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner. While the Coleman is excellent for its intended use—quick setup, matchless ignition, and portability—it cannot serve as a primary grilling station for everyday cooking or large meals. Buyers considering the Coleman are prioritizing freedom of movement and convenience, whereas buyers of the Pro Series model are prioritizing high-end features and cooking volume for a permanent outdoor kitchen setup. This is a great secondary or specialized grill, but not a true alternative for large-scale home use.
3. Char-Broil Classic Series 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill
- GAS GRILL: Powered by liquid propane gas to grill without the hassle of charcoal, this grill runs on a 20-pound propane gas tank, not included. It reaches...
- COOKING AREA: Grill up to 14 burgers, 8 chicken breasts or 5 steaks on 360-square-inches of primary cooking space. You can cook meats and larger items on...
This second Char-Broil Classic Series 3-Burner model falls into the same category as the first—a reliable, convective alternative utilizing stainless steel finishing. It shares the same foundational difference with the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner: the lack of the Amplifire infrared technology. Customers who might select this model over the Pro Series are those who are specifically wary of or unfamiliar with infrared grilling, preferring the straightforward operation of traditional convective heat. While these Classic models offer good size and a side burner, they do not include the quick-swap modular griddle, limiting their versatility. For those who want a simple, large, gas-powered workhorse without the added complexity or cost associated with premium cooking technology, the Classic Series provides an adequate solution, though they must accept the inherent limitations concerning heat consistency and flare-up frequency that the Pro Series solves. If high-performance, flare-up-free cooking is your main goal, the Char-Broil Pro Series is the superior choice for advanced grilling techniques.
Final Verdict: Is the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner Worth the Investment?
The Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner represents a compelling value proposition in the crowded gas grill market. It successfully marries high-end cooking technology—the Amplifire infrared system—with high capacity and unparalleled modular versatility, including the integrated griddle swap and charcoal readiness. We found its performance to be truly exceptional: it eliminates flare-ups, delivers consistent, searing heat, and produces noticeably juicier results than most competitive models at this price point.
However, our analysis confirms that buyers must weigh this superb performance against the very real trade-offs in construction quality. While the core components (burners, grates) are covered by an excellent long-term warranty, the overall structural metalwork is thinner and more susceptible to cosmetic damage during shipping and premature wear (rust/discoloration) over time. This is a grill designed for the high-volume, performance-driven chef who seeks infrared benefits without the premium price tag. If you are prepared to handle a potentially challenging assembly, take extreme care during handling and long-term storage, and are willing to accept the risk of minor shipping damage, the cooking capability of the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner is unbeatable in its class. For those ready to step up their grilling game with reliable infrared precision, we strongly recommend this unit.
Ready to experience the difference infrared can make? Stop battling flare-ups and start cooking juicier food today. Click here to get the Char-Broil Pro Series 4-Burner Infrared Grill with Side Burner and transform your outdoor kitchen.
Last update on 2025-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API