Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Review
Elevate your outdoor cooking with the Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared grill, featuring even heat distribution for juicy meals without flare-ups. Perfect for any gathering!
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared is an outdoor cooker that blends innovative TRU-Infrared technology with practical features, appealing to both novice and experienced cooks. This technology ensures even heat distribution, reducing flare-ups and enhancing the flavor and juiciness of the food. Its design, while sleek and robust, can be challenging to assemble, especially for those not handy with tools. The cooker is versatile, capable of grilling, roasting, and smoking, although its cooking space might be limiting for large gatherings.
Users appreciate the even cooking results and the ease of use, thanks to its straightforward ignition system and intuitive controls. However, the outer body can get quite hot, posing safety concerns. Maintenance is relatively simple, aided by features like a removable grease tray, but some components may require regular upkeep to maintain durability.
Compared to competitors, the Big Easy offers good value with its advanced cooking technology and versatility, though it may not be the most portable or compact option. Overall, it is a reliable choice for those looking to upgrade their outdoor cooking experience, despite a few minor drawbacks.
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Introduction
If you're on the hunt for an outdoor cooker that promises to take your outdoor cooking to the next level, you might want to check out the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared. This cooker combines innovation with practicality, making it a popular choice among outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its unique cooking technology, using patented TRU-Infrared™, aims to deliver juicy, evenly cooked meals without the flare-ups that often plague traditional grills.
This model is designed to cater to both beginners and seasoned cooks, offering a blend of simplicity and advanced features. Whether you're planning a small family gathering or a larger outdoor feast, this cooker claims to handle it all with ease. However, it's essential to balance the pros with any potential drawbacks, like its somewhat limited cooking space, which could be a consideration depending on your needs.
The Big Easy TRU-Infrared showcases a sleek design that not only looks good but is also built to withstand the elements. It's important to note that while the design is robust, some users have mentioned that assembly can be a bit of a task, especially if you're not too handy with tools.
In this review, we'll delve into the various aspects of this outdoor cooker, from its design and technology to user feedback and how it stacks up against the competition. So, if you're curious about what this cooker brings to the table, read on to find out more!
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared is all about combining functionality with a sleek appearance. This cooker is built with a sturdy stainless steel construction that gives it a robust feel while ensuring durability over time. The steel exterior not only looks sharp but also helps resist rust, which is a huge plus if you plan to leave it outdoors.
The cooker features a versatile design that makes it a great choice for various cooking needs. Despite its size, it doesn't compromise on cooking capacity. You can easily fit a 16-pound turkey, an 8-pound roast, or a 6-pound pork shoulder inside, making it versatile for different cooking needs. However, it does not have built-in wheels[4].
One thing to note is the assembly process. While many users find it straightforward, it might take a bit of time for those not so handy with tools. The instructions are clear, but some parts can be a bit fiddly to fit together. Patience is key here.
The TRU-Infrared cooking technology is a standout feature, integrated seamlessly into the cooker's design. This technology helps distribute heat evenly, reducing hot and cold spots on the cooking surface. This ensures your food is cooked consistently, which is a major win for any cooking enthusiast.
On the downside, the stainless steel can be prone to showing fingerprints and smudges, so regular cleaning might be necessary to keep it looking pristine. Nonetheless, the overall build quality is solid, and it's designed to withstand frequent use without showing too much wear and tear.
In summary, the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared strikes a good balance between practicality and aesthetics, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

Features and Technology
The Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared grill packs some impressive features and technology that make it stand out in the gas barbecue market. At the core of its functionality is the TRU-Infrared cooking system, which is designed to deliver even heat distribution across the grill surface. This technology helps in reducing flare-ups, which means your food cooks evenly without sudden bursts of flame that can char your meal.
Infrared Cooking System
The TRU-Infrared system uses a unique radiant surface that shields food from direct flame and reduces hot, dry convection heat rising from the burners. This plate absorbs the heat and radiates it evenly, ensuring your food retains its natural juices while getting that perfect sear. This feature is a game-changer for those who love juicy steaks and tender chicken.
3-in-1 Cooking Versatility
One of the coolest aspects of this grill is its 3-in-1 cooking versatility. You can use it as a grill, roaster, or smoker, which adds a lot of flexibility to your outdoor cooking repertoire. Whether you want to roast a whole chicken, grill some veggies, or infuse your meat with smoky flavors, this grill has you covered. It can even fry without oil, making it a healthier option.
Temperature Control
Another noteworthy feature is the adjustable temperature control. It allows you to fine-tune the heat levels to suit different types of dishes, with temperatures ranging from 100°C to 400°C. Although some users might find it takes a bit of trial and error to master the controls, once you get the hang of it, you can achieve precise cooking results.
Cooking Capacity
The grill offers a generous cooking capacity, capable of holding up to a 21 lb turkey or 180 square inches of grilling space. This is great for family gatherings or parties, making it suitable for cooking for a crowd.
Build Material
Constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel and aluminum, the grill promises longevity. However, some components might not be as robust as expected. Regular maintenance can help in keeping these parts in good shape. Overall, the combination of advanced technology and practical features makes this grill a solid choice for both novice and seasoned grillers, despite a few minor drawbacks.

Performance and Cooking Experience
When it comes to performance, the Big Easy TRU-Infrared really stands out. This gas barbecue uses an innovative TRU-Infrared cooking system that works wonders by distributing heat evenly across the grill. This means you can say goodbye to pesky hot and cold spots that often ruin a good barbecue. The result? Juicy, evenly cooked meats every time.
The cooking experience is pretty impressive. The grill heats up quickly, saving you time when you're in a hurry to get those burgers sizzling. The infrared technology helps lock in moisture and flavor, making your meals taste better than ever. Whether you're grilling steaks, chicken, or veggies, this barbecue handles it all with ease.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cooking surface might be a bit smaller than some other models out there. If you're planning to cook for a large group, you might need to do a bit of juggling. However, for a family or a small gathering, it's just right.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the temperature control. The precise dials allow for fine-tuning, letting you sear at high heat or slow-cook at lower temperatures. It's all about versatility, and this grill delivers. However, some users have noted that it takes a bit of practice to master the heat settings perfectly.
Overall, the Big Easy TRU-Infrared provides an enjoyable cooking experience, with its ability to produce consistent and delicious results. Just make sure you're comfortable with the size limitations if you're planning a big barbecue bash!
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The ease of use is one of the most attractive aspects of the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared. With its straightforward assembly process, you can have it ready to use in no time. The clear instructions and neatly organized parts make it a breeze even for those who aren't typically handy.
Operating this grill is a joy thanks to the simple ignition system. A rotary or push-button ignition means you don’t have to fiddle with multiple controls to get it started. Just turn the knob or press the button, and you're good to go. The temperature control is intuitive, although the low temperature settings may not be as precise as desired, particularly for achieving ideal temperatures like 225°F.
When it comes to maintenance, the Char-Broil Big Easy keeps things relatively easy. The TRU-Infrared cooking system reduces flare-ups, which means less burnt residue and easier cleaning. The removable grease tray is a thoughtful addition, making it simple to dispose of drippings and keep the grill tidy.
However, not everything is perfect. The grill’s outer body can get quite hot during use, so it's essential to be cautious if you have kids or pets around. Also, while the grill grates are relatively easy to clean, they might require a bit more elbow grease if you let grime build up. Additionally, the construction quality has been noted to be somewhat cheap, and high winds can blow out the flame.
Overall, the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared strikes a great balance between convenience and functionality, making it a solid choice for anyone who wants to enjoy grilling and roasting without the hassle of cumbersome maintenance routines.

What's in the Box
When you crack open the box of the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared, you'll find everything you need to get grilling without any additional purchases. Let's break down what’s included:
- Main Cooking Unit: The centerpiece of the package, this is where all the magic happens. It's designed with a stainless steel inner liner and an air gap, but it is not particularly sturdy in construction.
- Cooking Basket: Perfect for roasting, this basket holds your food securely, ensuring even cooking all around. It can hold up to 11 kg of meat.
- Grease Tray: This handy addition helps catch drippings, making clean-up a breeze and preventing flare-ups.
- Hose and Regulator: Essential for connecting your barbecue to a propane tank, these components ensure a safe and efficient gas flow.
- Instruction Manual: A must-read to get acquainted with your new grill. It includes setup instructions, safety tips, and cooking guidelines.
- Rotary Ignition: Lights quickly and easily with the turn of a knob.
- Meat Thermometer: Included to help monitor the internal temperature of the meat.
- Cooking Racks and Rib Hooks: For grilling and roasting various types of meat.
While the box contains most essentials, it’s worth noting that a propane tank isn't included, so you’ll need to grab one separately to get started. Overall, the contents are straightforward, making setup and initial use pretty smooth. However, if you're someone who likes to have extras like grill covers or additional cooking racks, you might want to consider purchasing those separately for more versatility and protection.
Competitor Comparison
Comparing the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared to its competitors, it’s clear that this model offers some unique advantages. One of its standout features is the TRU-Infrared cooking technology, which sets it apart from the typical gas grills. This technology ensures even heat distribution, reducing flare-ups and helping to retain moisture in your food, which is something many traditional gas barbecues struggle with.
Price Comparison
When looking at price, the Big Easy sits in the mid-range category. It offers great value for the money, especially considering its technology and cooking performance. Competitors like the Weber Spirit II E-310, while offering solid performance and build quality, tend to be a bit pricier. Meanwhile, budget options like the Coleman RoadTrip 285 might be cheaper but often lack the same cooking consistency and advanced features.
Cooking Versatility
In terms of cooking versatility, the Big Easy shines with its ability to grill, roast, and smoke, all in one unit. This is a major plus over some competitors that focus solely on grilling. For example, the Blackstone 36" Gas Griddle is fantastic for flat-top cooking but doesn’t offer the roasting and smoking capabilities.
Build and Design
Build quality is another area where the Big Easy holds its ground. While not as robust as the high-end grills like the Napoleon Rogue XT 425, it is still well-constructed with durable materials, although some users have noted issues with the construction quality and assembly. Some users might find it less portable than more compact models, but it compensates with a larger cooking area.
Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use, the Char-Broil model is relatively straightforward with its easy-ignition system and simple controls. However, some users have noted that the initial setup can be a bit tricky compared to simpler models like the Cuisinart CGG-180T. Yet, once set up, the cooking process is generally hassle-free. Overall, the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared offers a compelling mix of features and performance, making it a strong contender in the competitive gas barbecue market. It might not be the cheapest or the most portable, but its cooking versatility and technology-driven performance make it a worthy choice for those looking to upgrade their outdoor cooking game.

User Feedback and Ratings
When it comes to user feedback and ratings for the Weber Summit S-670, the opinions are generally positive but not without some critiques. Many users praise the grill for its even cooking capabilities, attributing this to the stainless steel Flavorizer bars and the overall design of the grill. They appreciate how it reduces flare-ups, which is a common issue with gas barbecues. This feature seems to enhance the overall cooking experience, making it easier to achieve that perfect sear on steaks or to cook delicate items like fish without burning them.
On the flip side, some users have pointed out that the assembly process can be a bit challenging. While the instructions are generally clear, a few folks have mentioned that it takes longer than expected to put everything together. However, once assembled, users find the grill to be sturdy and reliable.
Another point of feedback revolves around the cooking space. While most users find it adequate for small to medium gatherings, a few have mentioned that it may not be sufficient for larger parties. If you're planning to host a big barbecue bash, you might need to cook in batches. The grill offers a main cooking area of 624 square inches and a warming rack of 145 square inches, totaling 769 square inches of cooking space.
The temperature control has received mixed reviews. Some users find it easy to maintain consistent heat, while others feel it takes a bit of practice to get it just right. The temperature gauge is generally accurate, but a few users suggest having a separate thermometer for precise readings.
Overall, the ratings for this barbecue are quite favorable. It has garnered a solid average rating across various platforms, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction. If you're considering this model, it might be worth reading through some of these user reviews to get a more personalized sense of what to expect.
Conclusion
The Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared stands out as a versatile option for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor cooking game. Its unique TRU-Infrared technology ensures even heat distribution, which translates to juicy, flavorful meals every time you fire it up. Whether you're roasting a turkey or grilling some burgers, this barbecue does not disappoint in terms of performance. On the flip side, some users might find the unit's size a bit limiting, especially if you're planning to cook for larger gatherings. It's not the most compact grill out there, so make sure you have enough space on your patio or backyard. When it comes to ease of use, this grill is user-friendly, making it a solid choice for both beginners and seasoned grill masters.
Maintenance is straightforward, with easy-to-clean parts that save you time and hassle. If you're comparing it to other models, you might notice that it's priced higher than some basic grills. However, the value it offers in terms of technology and cooking quality justifies the investment for those serious about outdoor cooking. Overall, the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared is a reliable choice with a few minor drawbacks. Its innovative features and consistent performance make it a worthy addition to any backyard barbecue setup.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared with natural gas?
A: No, this grill is designed for use with propane gas only. If you prefer natural gas, you'll need to look for a compatible model or consider a conversion kit if available.
Q2: How much food can this grill cook at once?
A: The cooking capacity is quite generous. You can roast up to a 21-pound turkey, which makes it perfect for family gatherings or small parties.
Q3: Does it come with a cover?
A: Unfortunately, a cover is not included in the package. You might want to purchase one separately to protect the grill from the elements and extend its lifespan.
Q4: Is assembly required, and how difficult is it?
A: Yes, some assembly is required. Users have reported that the instructions are clear, and the process is fairly straightforward, taking about 30 to 45 minutes, particularly the connection of the gas hose and electrical connection.
Q5: How do I clean the grill after use?
A: Cleaning is relatively easy. The grill features a removable grease tray and a removable porcelain-coated cooking grate, which can be wiped down with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, a mild soap might be needed.
Q6: What should I do if the ignition system fails?
A: If you experience issues with the ignition, first check the connections. The Big Easy uses a rotary or push-button ignition, so ensure it is functioning correctly. If problems persist, consult the user manual or contact customer support for further assistance.
Q7: Does it come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the Charbroil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared comes with a warranty. The burner and grates have a 2-year warranty. Be sure to check the specific terms and conditions in the product manual for details on what's covered and for how long.
Q8: Can I grill steaks and other meats, or is it just for roasting?
A: While it excels at roasting, you can also grill steaks, chicken, and other meats, thanks to its versatile cooking system that includes a grill grate.
Q9: Is it safe to use on a wooden deck?
A: Yes, it is generally safe to use on a wooden deck. However, always follow safety guidelines, such as keeping a safe distance from flammable materials and ensuring proper ventilation.
Q10: Does it require any special maintenance?
A: Regular cleaning and checking the propane connections are usually sufficient. No special maintenance is required, but it's always a good idea to inspect the grill periodically for wear and tear.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Even heat distribution
- Reduces flare-ups
- 3-in-1 cooking versatility
- Quick heating time
- Durable stainless steel build
Cons
- Limited cooking space
- Assembly can be challenging
- Outer body gets hot
- Some components lack sturdiness
Technical specifications
Product Name | Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared |
---|---|
Cooking Technology | TRU-Infrared Cooking System |
Fuel Type | Propane Gas |
Cooking Capacity | Up to 16 lbs of turkey or equivalent |
Dimensions | 20.75 x 23.5 x 16.3 inches (assembled) |
Weight | 22 kg (approximately 48.5 lbs) once constructed |
Material | Stainless Steel (burner), Porcelain Coated Cast Iron (grate), Aluminum (lid) |
Ignition System | Piezo Ignition or Rotary Ignition |
Temperature Control | Adjustable Temperature Control |
Cooking Surface | Removable Porcelain Coated Grate |
Grease Tray | Removable Grease Tray |
Warranty | 2-Year Limited Warranty (burner and grates), 1-Year Limited Warranty (other parts) |
Included Accessories | Cooking Basket, Adjustable Racks, Rib Hooks, Meat Thermometer |
Safety Features | No hot oil required, Cool-Touch Handles |
Assembly Required | Yes |
Color | Black |
Usage | Outdoor Use Only |
Additional Features | No oil required for cooking, Wood chip smoker box (in some models) |