I’ve owned two Charbroil Pro Series grills over the past two years. The first was a 3-burner model that I bought in 2023. Earlier this year, I upgraded to the 4-burner with a side burner. This review comes from real experience – the good, the bad, and the burnt burgers.
Let me start with why I chose these grills and what I learned along the way.
Why I Bought My First Charbroil Pro Series
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My old Weber was dying. The grates were rusted through, and one burner had given up completely. I wanted something versatile. My family loves pancakes and bacon on weekend mornings, but we also do traditional grilling. The idea of switching between gas, griddle, and charcoal cooking without buying three different appliances appealed to me.
The price point seemed reasonable compared to buying separate units. At $649 for the 3-burner model, it cost less than a decent gas grill plus a quality griddle. I pulled the trigger during a Memorial Day sale.
First Impressions and Setup
The box arrived heavier than expected. The Charbroil Pro Series dimensions showed 23.7″ x 55.4″ x 47.7″ for my 3-burner, but moving 153 pounds of grill parts humbled me quickly.
The assembly took me five hours. Yes, five hours. The instructions were decent, but some steps confused me. The handle installation nearly broke my patience. Small parts kept falling into the cabinet frame. My advice: clear your entire garage floor and recruit a helper.
The finished product looked solid. The enclosed cabinet design gave it a premium appearance compared to my old open-cart Weber. The griddle storage system impressed me – the griddle hangs neatly from rails when not in use.
Real-World Performance: Gas Grilling
The Amplifire cooking system worked as advertised for the most part. I rarely experienced flare-ups, which had plagued my old grill. Heat distribution proved fairly even across the 430 square inches of cooking space. I could cook 12 burgers without hot spots ruining half of them.
Temperature control felt responsive. The grill reached 500°F in about 8 minutes, matching the marketing claims. The cast-iron grates held heat well and created nice sear marks on steaks and chicken.
But I discovered some limitations. On windy days, maintaining low temperatures (250-300°F) became tricky. The burners struggled to stay consistent below their comfort zone. For slow cooking or smoking, this grill isn’t ideal.
The Griddle Game-Changer
This feature sold me on the Pro Series concept. The 284-square-inch cold-rolled steel surface transformed our weekend mornings. I could cook pancakes, eggs, and bacon simultaneously while my family enjoyed coffee on the deck.
The griddle heats evenly and holds temperature well. Seasoning it properly took some trial and error – treat it like cast iron cookware. Once seasoned, cleanup became manageable with a scraper and some oil.
The grease management system works adequately. The rear slot channels most drippings into the collection tray. Some splattering is unavoidable, but it’s no worse than indoor griddle cooking.
I’ve used the griddle for smash burgers, stir-fries, and even quesadillas. The versatility exceeded my expectations. My kids now request “griddle breakfast” every Saturday.
Charcoal Mode Reality
The Gas2Coal system sounded awesome in theory. In practice, it’s more complicated. You need to buy the charcoal trays separately ($67.99 for the 3-burner set). Installation is straightforward – just drop them over the burners.
Temperature control with charcoal proved challenging. Getting even heat across all three zones took practice. The enclosed cabinet limited airflow, making temperature adjustments slower than a traditional charcoal grill.
Cleanup after charcoal cooking is messy. Ash gets everywhere, and the cabinet design traps debris. I used charcoal mode about ten times before deciding it wasn’t worth the hassle for my cooking style.
Why I Upgraded to the 4-Burner Model
After 18 months with the 3-burner, I wanted more cooking space. Family gatherings had outgrown the 430 square inches. The 4-burner with side burner offered 535 square inches plus the bonus burner for sides or sauces.
The Charbroil Pro Series 4 burner gas grill dimensions (23.7″ x 61.4″ x 47.7″) fit my patio perfectly. The side burner proved useful for warming tortillas while grilling fajita meat.
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Assembly Round Two
Learning from my first experience, the 4-burner assembly went smoother. I organized all the hardware first and read each step twice before starting. Still took three hours, but felt less chaotic.
The 4-burner weighs 187 pounds fully assembled. Moving it required help, even with the wheels. Plan your final placement carefully.
Long-Term Ownership Issues
After two years with these grills, some problems have emerged:
Rust: Despite the porcelain coating, rust spots appeared on the grates after one winter. I store the grills covered, but moisture still finds a way in. Regular maintenance helps, but expect some corrosion over time.
Griddle Warping: My original griddle developed a slight warp after heavy use. It still functions, but oil pools in one corner now. The replacement cost $89, which stung.
Ignition Problems: The battery-powered ignition system became unreliable after about a year. I keep a lighter handy now. This seems common based on other owner reports I’ve read.
Heat Shield Damage: The thin aluminum heat shields under the cooking grates dented easily. They still work, but look shabby. Replacement parts are available but add to the ownership cost.
Maintenance and Care
These grills require more maintenance than simple gas grills. The modular design creates more surfaces to clean and more places for grease to accumulate.
I deep clean mine every month during grilling season. This involves removing the grates, griddle, and heat shields for thorough washing. The enclosed cabinet traps more debris than open designs.
The Charbroil Pro Series cover is essential. I learned this the hard way when my first grill sat uncovered for one rainy week. The $35.99 cover pays for itself in rust prevention.
Comparing My Experience: Pro Series vs Alternatives
Having owned both Pro Series models, I can compare them to other options I considered or used at friends’ houses.
Charbroil Pro Series vs Commercial Series
| Feature | Char-Broil Pro Series | Char-Broil Commercial Series |
|---|---|---|
| Key Features | Includes a griddle and an enclosed cabinet for storage. | Costs less but lacks the griddle and enclosed cabinet. |
| BTU | A 3-burner model is rated at 25,500 BTU. A 4-burner model is rated at 38,500 BTU. | A 4-burner model is rated at 32,000 BTU. |
| Dimensions (4-Burner Model) | Width: 55.4 inches; Depth: 23.7 inches; Height: 47.7 inches | Width: 57 inches; Depth: 22 inches; Height: 47.5 inches |
| Primary Cooking Area | A 3-burner model offers 412 sq. in. A 4-burner model offers 535 sq. in. | A 4-burner model offers 525 sq. in. |
| Other Cooking Areas | A 4-burner model includes a 200 sq. in. warming rack. | A 4-burner model includes a 200 sq. in. warming rack. |
| Main Burners | Available in 2, 3, and 4-burner configurations. | Available in 2, 3, and 4-burner configurations. |
| Side Burner | Some models include a side burner. | Some models include a side burner. |
| Grill Technology | TRU-Infrared cooking system | TRU-Infrared cooking system |
| Ignition | Electronic | SureFire® Electronic Ignition |
| Availability | Available at select retailers and directly from Char-Broil. | Often a Lowe's exclusive. |
Charbroil Pro Series vs Weber Spirit
| Feature | Char-Broil Pro Series | Weber Spirit E-310 |
|---|---|---|
| Build & Materials | Made with Type 430 stainless steel, which can be prone to rusting over time. | Made with a higher grade of stainless steel and porcelain. Feels more solid and durable with thicker materials and better hardware. |
| Longevity | User experiences suggest a shorter lifespan, with some reporting them lasting approximately 5 years. | Reputable for its longevity. Many users report their Weber grills lasting 10+ years with proper maintenance. |
| BTU | A 4-burner model is rated at 32,000 BTU. | A 3-burner model is rated at 24,000 BTU. |
| Cooking Area | A 4-burner model offers 535 sq. in. total cooking area (335 primary). | A 3-burner model offers 450 sq. in. total cooking area (360 primary). |
| Grilling Performance | Known for its TRU-Infrared technology which provides high, even heat and helps retain moisture. | Known for reliable and consistent performance, with excellent heat distribution and control. |
| Dimensions (4-Burner Model) | Width: 55.4 inches; Depth: 23.7 inches; Height: 47.7 inches. | Width: 48.3 inches; Depth: 26.6 inches; Height: 46.2 inches (lid closed). |
| Warranty | Varies, but typically includes 10 years on burners and 2-3 years on other parts. | Comes with a solid warranty, including 10 years on the cook box, lid, and burners. |
Charbroil Pro Series vs Performance Series
| Feature | Char-Broil Pro Series | Char-Broil Performance Series |
|---|---|---|
| Key Features | Includes a modular griddle system and an enclosed cabinet for storage. | Features a cabinet design to conceal the propane tank, but lacks a griddle. |
| BTU | A 4-burner model is typically rated at 32,000 BTU for the main burners. Some models have a high-performance sear burner. | A 4-burner model is typically rated around 32,000 BTU to 42,000 BTU, depending on the specific model and side burner. |
| Dimensions (4-Burner Model) | Width: 61.4 inches; Depth: 23.7 inches; Height: 47.7 inches. Side shelves are often fixed. | Width: 50.3 inches; Depth: 22.4 inches; Height: 44.9 inches. Side shelves may fold. |
| Primary Cooking Area | A 4-burner model offers a primary cooking area of 535 sq. in. | A 4-burner model offers a primary cooking area of 435 sq. in. |
| Other Cooking Areas | A 4-burner model includes a 202.3 sq. in. warming rack. | A 4-burner model includes a 130 sq. in. warming rack. |
| Grill Technology | TRU-Infrared cooking system for even heat and no flare-ups. | TRU-Infrared cooking system for even heat and no flare-ups. |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition, sometimes with SureFire® technology. | Electronic ignition for reliable starts. |
| Grates | Semi-gloss coated cast iron grates for better heat retention and sear marks. | Porcelain-coated cast iron grates, which are rust-resistant and easy to clean. |
Real Talk: Should You Buy One?
After living with these grills for two years, here’s my honest assessment:
Buy if you:
- Actually want to do griddle cooking regularly
- Have limited space for multiple appliances
- Don’t mind extra maintenance requirements
- Value versatility over specialized performance
- Can handle assembly challenges
Skip if you:
- Only do traditional grilling
- Want something that “just works” without fuss
- Expect Weber-level durability at this price
- Don’t have patience for learning curves
- Want true infrared cooking technology
Read more: Traeger Pro 22 Review
Pros and Cons
| pros | cons |
|---|---|
|
|
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The Bottom Line
The Charbroil Pro Series delivers on its core promise of versatility. The griddle function alone justifies the purchase for many families. Gas grilling performance is adequate, though not exceptional.
Build quality is acceptable but not impressive. Expect some maintenance issues after the first year. The “infrared” marketing overstates the technology, but actual performance is reasonable.
At current pricing, these grills offer fair value for buyers who will use the multiple cooking modes. If you’re a traditional grilling purist, spend your money elsewhere.
My family enjoys ours despite the quirks and maintenance needs. Saturday morning griddle breakfasts have become a cherished tradition. The ability to cook different foods simultaneously helps when entertaining.
Would I buy another Pro Series? Probably, but I’d also seriously consider Weber if my budget allowed. The Pro Series scratches our versatility itch at a price we can afford. Sometimes that’s enough.
FAQs
- What is TRU-Infrared technology?
It’s a patented cooking system that uses stainless steel emitter plates to evenly distribute heat, prevent flare-ups, and lock in the food’s natural juices. The heat is transferred directly to the food through infrared radiation, rather than through hot air.
- How do I clean the TRU-Infrared grates and emitter plates?
After grilling, turn the burners on high to burn off any residue. Then, use a non-wire grill brush with the Char-Broil-specific nylon bristles to scrape away any remaining debris. A deeper clean with a degreaser and hot water can be done periodically.
- Can I use charcoal on a Char-Broil Pro Series gas grill?
Yes, many Pro Series models are designed to be “hybrid” grills. They come with a special charcoal tray that fits over the burners, allowing you to use gas to light the charcoal and then switch to a charcoal-only cook for that classic smoky flavor.
- What is the “griddle” feature and how does it work?
Some Pro Series grills include a heavy-duty, cold-rolled steel griddle top that can be placed over the grates. This allows you to cook things like smash burgers, breakfast items, stir-fries, and other foods that aren’t suited for traditional grill grates.
- How do I prevent rust on my grill?
Regular cleaning is key. Also, consider buying a fitted grill cover to protect it from rain, snow, and humidity. It’s also recommended to lightly coat the interior surfaces with vegetable oil after use to help prevent rust.
- Why is the lid thermometer reading a different temperature than my food thermometer?
The thermometer on the lid measures the air temperature inside the grill’s cooking chamber, not the temperature at the grate surface. The grate temperature can be much hotter. For accurate cooking temperatures, it’s best to use a separate digital meat or grate thermometer.
- My grill isn’t heating up properly. What could be the problem?
Common issues include a tripped excess flow valve on the propane tank, a leak in the gas line, or clogged burner ports. Make sure the tank valve is opened slowly and fully. Check for leaks with a soapy water solution, and use a wire brush to clean any debris from the burner ports.
- How do I get the electronic ignition to work?
Ensure the battery is fresh and correctly oriented. Check that the electrode is positioned properly near the burner’s gas ports. If it’s sparking but not lighting, there might be an issue with gas flow.
- Are replacement parts easy to find?
Yes, Char-Broil sells replacement parts directly on their website, and you can also find them at many online and physical retailers.
- How long will my Char-Broil Pro Series grill last?
With proper care and maintenance, a Char-Broil grill can last for many years. However, its lifespan can vary depending on usage, storage, and the climate. Regular cleaning and covering the grill are the best ways to extend its life.
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