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Best Commercial Charbroiler Reviews

Last updated on Apr 10, 2026

Whether you're grilling up steaks, burgers, poultry, or vegetables, a commercial charbroiler is a must-have tool for any foodservice operation. These appliances sear foods at extremely high temperatures, imparting that perfect smoky flavor and texture that customers crave and helping you achieve the right level of doneness. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best one for your specific needs. To simplify the process, we've conducted thorough industry research, gathered customer feedback, and consulted with our foodservice experts to compile a list of the top commercial charbroilers.


Shop All Commercial Charbroilers

Check out our top choices for the best commercial charbroilers:

  1. Best Radiant Charbroiler: Globe GCB36G-SR
  2. Best Ceramic Charbroiler: Garland G30-BRL
  3. Best Infrared Charbroiler: Vulcan VTEC25-1
  4. Best Lava Rock Charbroiler: Star Star-Max 6036CBF
  5. Best Budget Charbroiler: Avantco Chef Series CAG-36-RC

Best Radiant Charbroiler

Best Radiant Charbroiler: Globe GCB36G-SR

The Globe GCB36G-SR is equipped with three U-shaped burners that deliver a powerful 120,000 BTUs of heating power for thorough cooking and even heat distribution. One of the standout features of this unit is its adjustable pilot for each burner, conveniently located on the front panel, allowing for easy temperature adjustments. It is field convertible to radiant, char rock, or combination setups. Additionally, the unit comes with a liquid propane gas conversion kit and regulator, offering flexibility in fuel options. For added stability and convenience, it is equipped with 4" adjustable stainless steel legs.

Shop the Globe GCB36G-SR | $2,326.00

Read customer reviews for the Globe GCB36G-SR.

Runner Up: Cooking Performance Group CR-CPG-24-NL

Pros
  • Field convertible to radiant, char rock, or combination
  • Insulated double wall construction ensures superior heating efficiency
  • Includes liquid propane gas (LP) conversion kit and regulator
  • 4" adjustable stainless steel legs
Cons
  • Radiant charbroilers have slower recovery times

Best Ceramic Charbroiler

Best Ceramic Charbroiler: Garland G30-BR

Featuring one 15,000 BTU burner for every 6" of grill space, the Garland G30-BRL ensures intense and consistent heat distribution to the ceramic briquettes. Constructed with a durable stainless steel front, sides, and backguard, this charbroiler is built to withstand the wear and tear associated with a commercial kitchen environment. The lift-off grease trough makes cleaning a breeze, and its grates, which are removable in 6" sections, are designed for ease of maintenance. Additionally, each grate is reversible, featuring a broad, rounded bar pattern on one side and a fine diamond pattern on the other.

Shop the Garland G30-BRL | $6,022.00

Runner Up: Garland GF18-BRL

Pros
  • Stainless steel exterior and low profile backguard
  • Dual-sided cast iron broiler racks
  • Heavy-duty ceramic briquettes
  • 4" sanitary legs for counter-mount applications
Cons
  • Ceramic charbroilers require more maintenance than other heat sources
  • Countertop units offer less cooking area

Best Infrared Charbroiler

Best Infrared Charbroiler: Vulcan VTEC25-1

The Vulcan VTEC25-1 features patented IRX infrared burner technology and heavy-duty steel infrared emitter panels, enhancing cooking efficiency for increased yield while significantly reducing energy consumption. It boasts individual high-range heat control valves for each burner, providing precise temperature control for each cooking zone. Its direct ignition piezo spark igniters are not only reliable but also user-friendly. With no need for standing pilots, starting the charbroiler is a breeze. Moreover, the use of infrared burner technology means that there is no hot air blowing around your food, retaining up to 30% more moisture compared to conventional charbroilers.

Shop the Vulcan VTEC25-1 | $7,023.00

Read customer reviews for the Vulcan VTEC25-1.

Runner Up: Vulcan VTC24B-LP

Pros
  • Patented IRX infrared burner technology uses less energy for higher output
  • Reduces flareups for better results
  • Direct piezo spark igniters; one high range control for each burner
  • Stainless steel sides, control panel, trim, and backsplash
Cons
  • Users report emitter panels are prone to warping
  • Infrared charbroilers are more prone to rust

Best Lava Rock Charbroiler

Best Lava Rock Charbroiler: Star Star-Max 6036CBF

The Star Star-Max 6036CBF is equipped with three H-style cast iron burners, delivering a total of 120,000 BTUs. The burners are strategically spaced 12" apart, with individual control knobs that offer precise temperature management. To ensure operator safety and comfort, this charbroiler is designed with a cool-to-the-touch stainless steel bull nose, acting as a protective barrier for the control knobs, shielding them from heat and providing a comfortable working environment.

Shop the Star Star-Max 6036CBF | $3,163.05

Runner Up: Cooking Performance Group CL-CPG-36-NL

Pros
  • Field convertible to liquid propane
  • High-quality H-style cast iron burners and reversible grates with incline option
  • Includes stainless steel splash guard, high-capacity water pan, and grease trough
  • Heavy-duty, chrome-plated cast zinc knobs for manual burner control
Cons
  • Lava rock units are more difficult to clean
  • Briquettes must be replaced over time

Best Budget Charbroiler

Best Budget Charbroiler: Avantco Chef Series CAG-36-R

The Avantco Chef Series CAG-36-RC fits seamlessly on your kitchen countertop, making it a space-efficient solution that allows you to maximize every inch of your workspace. Equipped with three burners that can be individually set to different temperatures, it excels at grilling a variety of items such as burgers, shrimp, or vegetable skewers. It uses radiants, located just above the burners, to deflect heat towards the cooking surface, allowing for efficient heating. The ability to control each burner independently gives you the flexibility to cook different types of food simultaneously without any hassle.

Shop the Avantco Chef Series CAG-36-RC | $549.00

Read customer reviews for the Avantco Chef Series CAG-36-RC.

Runner Up: Cooking Performance Group CR-CPG-24-NL

Pros
  • Capitalize on cooking space with 3 independent burners to allow for maximum productivity
  • Equipped with removable angled cast iron top grates for better flame control
  • Uses cast iron radiants to deflect heat towards cooking surface
  • Field convertible to liquid propane; orifices included
Cons
  • Radiant charbroilers have slower recovery times
  • Users report durability concerns with knobs

How We Chose These Commercial Charbroilers

While curating our list, we identified key purchasing considerations like heat source, installation type, and control style, each of which varies depending on the type of charbroiler you purchase, which can impact the workflow of your kitchen. There isn't a one-size-fits-all option when it comes to commercial charbroilers. Your choice should be based on a thorough evaluation of your commercial and culinary goals to ensure that the option you select meets your specific needs and requirements.

Charbroiler Heat Source

A charbroiler's heat source is the main method it uses to generate and maintain heat during operation. Depending on what you're cooking and how long you're cooking it, the heat source can significantly impact the quality and consistency of your food.

  • Ceramic charbroilers: Ceramic charbroilers are equipped with ceramic briquettes positioned above the burners. These briquettes absorb and evenly distribute heat, reducing the likelihood of flare-ups. This feature is particularly beneficial when cooking a variety of foods that require consistent heat levels to achieve optimal results.
  • Infrared charbroilers: Infrared charbroilers are designed with specialized infrared burners that offer high heat output while consuming less energy. Although they may come at a higher initial cost, infrared charbroilers can save you money in the long run due to their energy efficiency and performance capabilities.
  • Lava rock charbroilers: Lava rock charbroilers utilize a bed of ceramic stones located above the burner. These stones facilitate even heat distribution across the cooking surface, ensuring that your food is cooked uniformly. Additionally, as juices and fats drip onto the lava rocks, they create a smoky flavor that enhances the taste of your dishes.
  • Radiant charbroilers: Radiant charbroilers feature an angled metal component called a radiant, positioned directly above the burner to heat the cooking surface. This design prevents drippings from coming into contact with the heat source, reducing the risk of flare-ups and ensuring efficient heating for consistent cooking results.

Charbroiler Installation Type

Installation type refers to where your charbroiler is located in the kitchen and whether it is in a fixed position. This aspect impacts the overall flexibility in your space and the order of operations you follow while cooking.

  • Countertop charbroilers: Countertop charbroilers are placed on any flat surface in your kitchen. This makes them ideal for smaller operations with limited space or mobile food businesses, offering the versatility to be moved around as needed.
  • Drop-in charbroilers: Drop-in charbroilers are inserted into a pre-fabricated opening in the countertop. This installation type provides a fixed location for the charbroiler, ensuring a seamless and integrated look in your kitchen setup. Drop-in charbroilers are great for establishments looking for a permanent cooking solution with a clean and professional appearance.
  • Freestanding charbroilers: Freestanding charbroilers are larger models that stand directly on the floor. These units offer a sturdier base and are typically chosen for high-volume cooking operations that require a more robust setup, making them suitable for busy commercial kitchens.

Charbroiler Control Type

Control type impacts how much input you have into the way your charbroiler cooks, affecting how you adjust temperature, heat distribution, and time. It affects your ability to adjust temperatures on the fly and set your unit to the desired conditions.

  • Infinite operation charbroilers: Infinite charbroilers are designed to heat up to one constant temperature and do not offer variable heat settings. These units are perfect for busy environments where quick cooking is essential. They are simple to use and provide a no-fuss approach to cooking, ideal for establishments with fast-paced line cooking setups.
  • Manual charbroilers: Manual charbroilers feature basic knobs for quick and convenient temperature control. These units are well-suited for high-volume operations where you are cooking bulk foods at the same temperature.
  • Thermostatic charbroilers: Thermostatic charbroilers offer enhanced temperature control, allowing you to choose specific heat settings based on the foods you're preparing. This type of charbroiler provides more precision in cooking and is ideal for establishments that require varying heat levels for different menu items.

Charbroilers are known for their efficiency and versatility, making them ideal for a wide range of menu items. Whether you're looking for a heavy-duty charbroiler for high-volume use or a compact unit for smaller kitchens, our selection caters to a diverse range of kitchen setups and preferences.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.

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