Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You might be looking for charbroil big easy tru infrared 3 in 1 alternatives if you need a compact gas grill that handles smoking and roasting. This model offers 180 square inches of infrared cooking space and fits up to a 21 lb turkey. Its TRU-Infrared technology reduces flare-ups, while the removable greasy tray simplifies cleanup. The unit measures 23.4 by 23.1 inches and weighs 22.7 pounds, making it suitable for small patios.
However, you may prefer a different fuel source or size. Some users want wood pellet flavor or charcoal taste instead of gas. Others need larger cooking areas or specific features like Wi-Fi connectivity or precise PID controllers. We selected these 6 picks because their specs overlap with the original. Each option shares core traits like infrared or offset smoking capabilities. This list helps you compare dimensions, weights, and fuel types to find the right fit for your outdoor kitchen.
How alternatives differ from Charbroil
Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill
The Brisk It Zelos-450 shifts from gas to wood pellets. It adds Wi-Fi connectivity and PID temperature control for automated precision, which the Charbroil lacks. You gain consistent heat management without manual adjustment. However, it is larger and heavier, measuring 450 square inches compared to the Charbroil’s 180 square inches. The Charbroil remains better for small patios where space is tight. Choose the Brisk It if you want smart features and larger capacity over compact gas convenience.
KingChii KC456A Portable Pellet Grill
The KingChii KC456A is a portable pellet grill weighing 50 pounds. It offers PID control and wood-smoked flavor, unlike the Charbroil’s gas-fired infrared heat. Its cooking area is significantly larger at 456 square inches versus the Charbroil’s 180 square inches. The KingChii is designed for camping or tailgating, prioritizing portability and flavor over the Charbroil’s ease of cleanup. You give up the no-flare-up infrared technology for true wood smoke. Pick this if you value portability and precise temperature control for smaller outdoor sessions.
Weber Smokey Mountain 14.5" Charcoal Smoker
The Weber Smokey Mountain uses charcoal instead of gas. It is a kettle-style smoker with a 14.5-inch diameter, offering traditional heat retention and manual control. The Charbroil provides infrared grilling and roasting versatility in one unit. The Weber is smaller in footprint but dedicated to smoking. You lose the gas ignition and multi-function roasting basket. Choose the Weber if you prefer traditional charcoal smoking and durable build quality over the Charbroil’s automated gas features and larger cooking capacity.
Onlyfire GS314 Portable Pellet Grill
The Onlyfire GS314 is a compact portable pellet grill weighing 47 pounds. It includes a meat probe for precise temperature monitoring, a feature absent in the Charbroil. Its dimensions are 21.5 by 14 by 13.5 inches, making it smaller than the Charbroil. You get wood pellet flavor and portability but sacrifice the Charbroil’s 180 square inches of infrared cooking space. This model suits small batch smoking. Select the Onlyfire if you prioritize temperature accuracy and compact size for camping over the Charbroil’s larger capacity and gas convenience.
Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker
The Char-Griller Smokin Pro is an extra-large offset smoker made for charcoal. It measures 60 inches wide and weighs 115 pounds, far exceeding the Charbroil’s 23.4-inch width and 22.7-pound weight. It offers traditional offset smoking techniques rather than the Charbroil’s infrared grilling and roasting. You gain substantial cooking capacity and authentic smoke flavor but lose portability and gas ease. Choose the Char-Griller if you have yard space and want a dedicated large-scale smoker instead of a compact multi-function gas grill.
KingChii 456 sq. in. Portable Pellet Grill
The KingChii 456 sq. in. Electric Pellet Grill offers 456 square inches of cooking space, much larger than the Charbroil’s 180 square inches. It features PID control for precise heat management and weighs 68 pounds. This model is designed for portability and small groups, unlike the Charbroil’s fixed gas setup. You get wood-smoked flavor and automated temperature control but give up the Charbroil’s no-flare-up infrared technology and easy cleanup. Pick this if you prioritize portability and precise heat management for outdoor adventures where power access is available.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill Best overall | Small patios and turkey roasting | |
| 2 | Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill Best premium | Users seeking precise PID temperature control and Wi-Fi | |
| 3 | KingChii KC456A Portable Pellet Grill Best budget | portable wood-smoked cooking and camping | |
| 4 | Weber Smokey Mountain 14.5" Charcoal Smoker Best kettle | Compact traditional charcoal smoking | |
| 5 | Onlyfire GS314 Portable Pellet Grill Best meat probe | Small batch smoking and precise temperature control | |
| 6 | Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker Best offset | Traditional charcoal offset smoking | |
| 7 | KingChii 456 sq. in. Portable Pellet Grill Also great | portable wood-smoked cooking |
Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill
Best for: Small patios and turkey roasting
- Cooking Area
- 180 sq in
- Fuel
- Gas
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Grill Type
- Infrared
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
The Charbroil Big Easy is a 22.7-pound gas grill that uses TRU-Infrared technology to cook with no flare-ups. It offers 180 square inches of cooking space on an infrared grate and includes a basket for smoking or roasting up to a 21-pound turkey. Its compact 23.4-inch width makes it suitable for smaller patios. You get versatile frying, roasting, and smoking capabilities in one unit.
- TRU-Infrared technology prevents flare-ups
- 180 square inch infrared cooking grate
- Rotary ignition for easy lighting
- Removable greasy tray simplifies cleanup
- 180 square inch cooking area is smaller than the 450+ square inch grills on this list
- 22.7 pound weight requires more effort to move than lighter electric models
- You want to smoke or roast a whole turkey without oil
- You prefer gas ignition over charcoal or pellet starters
- You need a compact grill for a small patio
- You need to cook large cuts of meat for a crowd
- You prefer the flavor of charcoal or wood pellets
- You want a grill with a larger primary cooking surface
Verdict: Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Gas Grill is a compact gas grill ideal for individuals or couples who value easy cleanup and versatile cooking methods over large capacity.
Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill
Best for: Users seeking precise PID temperature control and Wi-Fi
- Cooking Area
- 450 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 165°F–500°F
- Controller Type
- PID
- Meat Probes
- 1 probe
- Hopper Capacity
- 12 lb
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
The Brisk It Zelos-450 is a large wood pellet grill offering 450 square inches of cooking space. It features a PID controller for precise temperature management between 165°F and 500°F. The unit includes a meat probe and Wi-Fi connectivity. This grill suits those who want automated cooking assistance and consistent heat control for smoking or searing without constant monitoring.
- 450 square inches of cooking area
- PID controller for precise temperature regulation
- Built-in meat probe included
- Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring
- Adaptive algorithm maintains steady heat
- Cooking area is under 500 square inches, limiting capacity compared to larger offset smokers
- Height is fixed at 21 inches, offering less vertical space than traditional charcoal smokers
- You want automated temperature control via a PID controller
- You need Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring
- You prefer wood pellet fuel for authentic smoky flavor
- You require a large cooking area exceeding 500 square inches
- You prefer traditional charcoal or gas fuel sources
- You need an offset smoker design with a separate firebox
Verdict: Brisk It Zelos-450 Wood Pellet Grill fits users who value precise, automated temperature control and modern connectivity over traditional manual smoking methods. It is ideal for those who prioritize consistent results and smart features in a compact footprint.
KingChii KC456A Portable Pellet Grill
Best for: portable wood-smoked cooking and camping
- Cooking Area
- 456 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180–425°F
- Hopper Capacity
- 11 lb
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
- Smoker Style
- Portable
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Lid, PID Controller
This KingChii pellet grill offers 456 square inches of cooking space and a 11-pound pellet hopper. It uses a PID controller to maintain temperatures between 180 and 425°F. The unit weighs 50 pounds and features foldable legs for storage. It suits you if you want wood-smoked flavor in a portable design that fits in a truck tailgate.
- PID temperature control for steady heat between 180–425°F
- 456 square inch grill capacity holds 12 burgers
- 11LB pellet hopper for longer burning time
- Foldable legs and wheels for easy transport
- 456 square inch capacity is smaller than 450+ sq in competitors
- 50 pound weight is heavier than many portable units
- Limited to 180–425°F temperature range
- You need a portable grill for tailgating or camping
- You want precise PID temperature control for smoking
- You prefer wood-pellet flavor over charcoal or gas
- You require high-heat searing above 425°F
- You need a large capacity for big gatherings
- You prefer non-portable stationary grill designs
Verdict: KingChii 456 SQ.IN Wood Pellet Grill fits you if you value portability and precise temperature control for smaller outdoor cooking sessions. It is a practical choice for campers or tailgaters who prioritize wood flavor over maximum capacity.
Weber Smokey Mountain 14.5" Charcoal Smoker
Best for: Compact traditional charcoal smoking
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
- Grill Style
- Kettle
- Dimensions
- 31.4 × 14.8 × 14.8 inches
The Weber Smokey Mountain is a 14.5-inch charcoal kettle smoker designed for dedicated smoking. It features a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl to retain heat without rusting. Two cooking grates allow you to smoke two large items simultaneously. The silicone temperature grommet helps you monitor internal heat. At 23 pounds, it is portable enough for various outdoor setups.
- Porcelain-enameled construction resists rust and peeling
- Dual cooking grates accommodate two large items
- Silicone temperature grommet for internal monitoring
- Removable fuel door simplifies adding charcoal
- 14.5-inch diameter offers less surface area than the 450+ square inch grills on this list
- 23-pound weight requires manual handling unlike wheeled or foldable alternatives
- Charcoal fuel requires more active management than pellet or electric systems
- You want a traditional charcoal smoking experience with reliable heat retention
- You need a compact unit that fits on smaller patios or balconies
- You prefer manual damper control for precise temperature adjustments
- You require WiFi connectivity or app-based remote monitoring
- You need a large cooking capacity for feeding more than four people
- You prefer the convenience of automated pellet feeding systems
Verdict: Weber Smokey Mountain 14" Charcoal Kettle Smoker is a compact, durable choice for smokers who value traditional charcoal heat retention and manual control over automated features. It suits those with limited space who prioritize build quality and consistent smoking performance.
Onlyfire GS314 Portable Pellet Grill
Best for: Small batch smoking and precise temperature control
- Cooking Area
- 252 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180°F to 500°F
- Cooking Racks
- 2 tiers
- Meat Probes
- 1 probe
- Hopper Capacity
- 4 lb
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
The Onlyfire GS314 is a portable tabletop wood pellet grill and smoker. It offers 252 square inches of cooking surface, split between an 187-square-inch main grate and a 65-square-inch warming rack. The unit weighs 47 pounds and measures 21.5 by 14 by 13.5 inches. It includes a meat probe and digital temperature control ranging from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This compact grill suits small outdoor spaces or tailgating.
- Includes a dedicated meat probe for monitoring food temperature.
- Offers 252 square inches of total cooking surface area.
- Features a digital control system with a 180 to 500 degree Fahrenheit range.
- Compact dimensions of 21.5 by 14 by 13.5 inches fit tabletops.
- The 47-pound weight is substantial for a portable unit.
- The 4-pound hopper capacity limits extended cooking sessions.
- The 252-square-inch cooking area is smaller than full-size grills.
- You need a dedicated smoker for small batches of meat.
- You have limited counter space for outdoor cooking equipment.
- You want precise temperature control with a built-in probe.
- You need to cook large cuts of meat for a crowd.
- You prefer a fuel source that does not require electricity.
- You want a grill with a larger primary cooking grate.
Verdict: Onlyfire GS314 Wood Pellet Grill provides precise smoking capabilities in a compact footprint. It fits buyers who prioritize temperature accuracy and portability over large cooking capacity.
Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker
Best for: Traditional charcoal offset smoking
- Cooking Area
- 1,130 sq in
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Smoker Style
- Offset
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
The Char-Griller Smokin Pro combines a charcoal barrel grill with an offset smoker side fire box. It offers 115 pounds of build weight and measures 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep. Dual damper controls let you manage airflow for precise cooking. The included side shelf provides extra prep space. This unit suits those who want traditional Texas-style smoking with a charcoal fuel source.
- Includes a side fire box for offset smoking
- Dual damper controls for precise airflow management
- Side shelf with utensil hooks for prep space
- Extra large charcoal grill and smoker combination
- Heavier build at 115 pounds compared to lighter electric or pellet options
- Larger footprint at 60 inches wide requires more outdoor space
- You want authentic offset smoking with charcoal flavor
- You have space for a large 60-inch wide unit
- You prefer manual airflow control over digital automation
- You need a compact grill for small patios
- You prefer electric or pellet fuel for convenience
- You want digital temperature monitoring or WiFi features
Verdict: Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Charcoal Grill fits buyers who prioritize traditional offset smoking techniques and have the yard space for its substantial 60-inch width and 115-pound weight.
KingChii 456 sq. in. Portable Pellet Grill
Best for: portable wood-smoked cooking
- Cooking Area
- 456 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180–425°F
- Controller Type
- PID
- Hopper Capacity
- 11 lb
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
- Smoker Style
- Portable
This KingChii electric wood pellet grill offers 456 square inches of cooking space. It uses a PID controller to maintain temperatures between 180 and 425°F. The unit includes a 11-pound pellet hopper and dual meat probe ports. Foldable legs and wheels make it easy to move or store. It fits well for camping or patio use where portability matters.
- 456 square inch cooking capacity
- PID temperature control from 180–425°F
- 11-pound pellet hopper capacity
- Foldable legs and wheels for portability
- Dual meat probe ports included
- 456 square inch capacity is smaller than competitors offering 595 or 766 square inches
- 68-pound weight adds bulk for transport compared to lighter models
- Electric operation requires a power source unlike charcoal or gas alternatives
- You need a portable grill for camping or tailgating
- You want precise temperature control with a PID system
- You prefer wood-smoked flavor without managing charcoal or gas
- You require a larger cooking surface than 456 square inches
- You want to cook off-grid without access to electricity
- You prefer the traditional taste of charcoal or gas grills
Verdict: KingChii 456 sq. in. Electric Pellet Grill suits those who prioritize portability and precise heat management. It is a solid option for small groups or outdoor adventures where space and power access are manageable.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill | Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill | KingChii KC456A Portable Pellet Grill | Weber Smokey Mountain 14.5" Charcoal Smoker | Onlyfire GS314 Portable Pellet Grill | Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker | KingChii 456 sq. in. Portable Pellet Grill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 180 sq in | 450 sq in | 456 sq in | – | 252 sq in | 1,130 sq in | 456 sq in |
| Temperature Range | – | 165°F–500°F | 180–425°F | – | 180°F to 500°F | – | 180–425°F |
| Controller Type | – | PID | – | – | – | – | PID |
| Cooking Racks | – | – | – | – | 2 tiers | – | – |
| Meat Probes | – | 1 probe | – | – | 1 probe | – | – |
| Hopper Capacity | – | 12 lb | 11 lb | – | 4 lb | – | 11 lb |
| Fuel | Gas | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet | Charcoal | Wood Pellet | Charcoal | Wood Pellet |
| Smoker Style | – | – | Portable | – | Portable | Offset | Portable |
| Features | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Wi-Fi, PID Controller | Offset Smoker, Lid, PID Controller | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker, PID Controller |
| Grill Type | Infrared | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker, Camping | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker, Camping | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker, Camping |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Grill Style | – | – | – | Kettle | – | – | – |
| Size | Standard | Large | KPG-01 (Without Cover) | 14.5" | 21.5x14x13.5 inches | Extra Large | 456 sq. in. |
| Type | – | – | – | – | Outdoor Kitchen Island | – | – |
| Shape | – | – | – | – | – | Square | – |
| Connectivity | – | App | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 23.1 × 23.4 × 36.2 inches | – | 22 × 39 × 35 inches | 31.4 × 14.8 × 14.8 inches | 14 × 21.5 × 13.5 inches | 30 × 60 × 52 inches | 23 × 13 × 21 inches |
| Weight | 22.7 pounds | – | 50 pounds | 23 pounds | 47 pounds | 115 pounds | 68 pounds |
| Model | 14101550 | BGZ450-Only | KC456A-BR | 711001 | TOP2211-GS314SSb-A | CG30044223 | KC412001-WB |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Charbroil Big Easy better for turkey roasting than pellet grills?
Yes, the Charbroil Big Easy is specifically designed for roasting up to a 21 lb turkey in a compact footprint. Unlike pellet grills like the Brisk It Zelos-450, which prioritize automated PID control, the Charbroil uses infrared gas heat for direct roasting. This makes it ideal for small patios where space is limited but you need versatile cooking methods.
Which alternative offers the most precise temperature control?
The Brisk It Zelos-450 and the KingChii KC456A both feature PID controllers for precise temperature management. These models use wood pellets and digital regulation to maintain consistent heat without manual adjustment. This contrasts with the Charbroil Big Easy, which relies on gas burner settings, and the Weber Smokey Mountain, which requires manual airflow control for traditional charcoal smoking.
Can I take these pellet grills camping?
Yes, the KingChii KC456A and the Onlyfire GS314 are designed as portable units suitable for camping. The KingChii weighs 50 pounds, while the Onlyfire model weighs 47 pounds. Both offer compact footprints and wood-smoked flavor. In contrast, the Charbroil Big Easy weighs only 22.7 pounds but requires a gas connection, limiting its portability compared to the standalone pellet options.
What is the largest smoker in this list?
The Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker is the largest option, measuring 60 inches in width and weighing 115 pounds. It is an extra-large, square-shaped charcoal smoker designed for substantial yard space. This stands in sharp contrast to the Charbroil Big Easy, which is a standard-sized unit measuring 23.4 inches wide and weighing just 22.7 pounds.
Do any of these grills include Wi-Fi connectivity?
Only the Brisk It Zelos-450 includes Wi-Fi connectivity among the listed products. This feature allows for remote monitoring and automated temperature adjustments using its PID controller. None of the other models, including the Charbroil Big Easy, Weber Smokey Mountain, or KingChii options, are described as having smart connectivity features in their specifications.
Which charcoal smoker is best for small spaces?
The Weber Smokey Mountain 14.5" Charcoal Smoker is the best choice for small spaces. It measures 14.8 inches in width and height, with a total length of 31.4 inches and a weight of 23 pounds. Its compact kettle design provides traditional charcoal heat retention without requiring the large footprint needed for the Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker.
Does the Onlyfire GS314 have a meat probe?
Yes, the Onlyfire GS314 Portable Pellet Grill includes a meat probe feature. This allows for precise temperature monitoring during small batch smoking. The unit measures 21.5 inches wide and weighs 47 pounds. This specific feature is not listed for the Charbroil Big Easy or the other pellet grills in this comparison, making it unique for buyers prioritizing temperature accuracy.
How does the Charbroil Big Easy compare in size to the Weber Smokey Mountain?
The Charbroil Big Easy is slightly wider and taller than the Weber Smokey Mountain. The Charbroil measures 23.4 inches wide and 36.2 inches high, while the Weber measures 14.8 inches wide and 14.8 inches high. Both are compact options, but the Charbroil offers more vertical clearance and a broader cooking surface, whereas the Weber is a smaller, dedicated charcoal kettle smoker.
Prices and specifications on this page are read from the Amazon product listing and can change at any time. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nobody at this site handled or measured these products.
