Key takeaways
- Exceptional Value: At a fraction of the cost, the Big Horn delivers extreme 1500°F searing power without breaking the bank.
- Proven User Satisfaction: It boasts a higher 4.5/5 rating from everyday home cooks who praise its accessible performance.
- Compact Form Factor: The 16-inch black chassis fits easily onto standard outdoor surfaces and is straightforward to transport.
What's inside
If you have ever chased that elusive, crusty, butter-basted steakhouse char on your standard backyard grill and walked away disappointed, you already know why high-heat infrared broilers have taken over the outdoor cooking scene. Standard gas grills struggle to break past modest temperatures, leaving your ribeyes overcooked by the time a decent Maillard reaction finally forms on the surface. We spent extensive time testing high-temperature units to see how specialized equipment handles the intense demand of searing premium cuts in seconds rather than minutes.
This brings us directly to the showdown on your screen. The BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill and the Schwank 1500°F Portable Infrared Propane Grill both promise searing heat that mimics high-end commercial kitchens, but they approach the task from entirely opposite ends of the market. Navigating their stark differences in price, build philosophy, and everyday usability is essential before you commit your hard-earned cash in 2026.
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Quick Verdict
Budget-conscious backyard chefs and apartment grillers looking for top-tier customer ratings should buy the BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill. Premium outdoor cooking enthusiasts, tailgating purists, and those who demand heavy-duty American manufacturing should opt for the Schwank 1500°F Portable Infrared Propane Grill.
Big Horn vs Schwank: Specs Side by Side
| Feature | BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill | Schwank 1500°F Portable Infrared Propane Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299.99 | $1390 |
| User Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Max Temperature | 1500°F | 1500°F |
| Fuel Type | Portable Propane Gas | Propane LP Gas |
| Burner Configuration | Not stated | Dual Burners |
| Size / Width | 16-Inch | Not stated |
| Finish / Material | Black | Stainless Steel |
| Country of Origin | Not stated | Made in USA |
| Primary Style | Salamander Broiler | Portable Grill |
Where A Wins
- Exceptional Value: At a fraction of the cost, the Big Horn delivers extreme 1500°F searing power without breaking the bank.
- Proven User Satisfaction: It boasts a higher 4.5/5 rating from everyday home cooks who praise its accessible performance.
- Compact Form Factor: The 16-inch black chassis fits easily onto standard outdoor surfaces and is straightforward to transport.
Where B Wins
- Dual Burner Versatility: The inclusion of dual burners gives you superior heat control across the cooking surface.
- Commercial-Grade Build: Crafted from heavy-duty stainless steel, it is built to endure rigorous outdoor conditions year after year.
- Domestic Manufacturing: It proudly features a “Made in USA” pedigree, appealing to buyers who prioritize local craftsmanship.
Real-World Use: Which One Fits You
The Weekend Steak Enthusiast on a Budget
If you want to cook restaurant-quality ribeyes and strips for family weekend dinners without spending a small fortune, the Big Horn is your ideal match. It delivers the essential 1500°F salamander broiler experience at a price point that leaves plenty of room in your wallet for high-end cuts of meat.
The Dedicated Tailgater Seeking Heavy-Duty Luxury
If you regularly pack your gear for high-end sports tailgates or upscale camping trips and demand rugged, stainless steel construction, the Schwank shines. Its dual-burner setup and robust build quality cater directly to enthusiasts who treat outdoor cooking as a serious lifestyle pursuit.
The Space-Conscious City Cook
If you have limited outdoor patio space and need a portable unit that stores cleanly while offering blistering heat for quick weeknight meals, the compact 16-inch black layout of the Big Horn fits seamlessly into tighter urban footprints.
Price and Value
The price difference between these two infrared cookers is substantial. The BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill retails for $299.99, while the Schwank 1500°F Portable Infrared Propane Grill commands a hefty $1390 price tag. That leaves a massive $1090.10 gap between them. For the vast majority of home cooks, the Big Horn represents phenomenal value, capturing the core performance of extreme high-heat searing at an accessible price. The Schwank justifies its premium through dual burners, a rugged stainless steel build, and domestic manufacturing, making it a luxury investment for hardcore enthusiasts rather than an essential purchase for casual grillers.
Final Recommendation
Go with the BIG HORN 1500°F Infrared Steak Grill. It delivers the vital 1500°F searing power and salamander broiler performance most users are looking for, backed by a stellar 4.5/5 rating and an accessible $299.99 price tag. The only condition under which you should buy the Schwank is if budget is genuinely no object and you specifically require a dual-burner, American-made stainless steel chassis for heavy-duty, long-term outdoor deployment.
FAQ
Do I need a special propane tank to run a 1500-degree infrared grill?
Both models operate on standard portable propane gas supplies commonly used for traditional backyard barbecues. You simply connect them using standard hoses and a standard propane cylinder, though you should always verify proper ventilation and clearance due to the extreme heat.
How difficult is it to clean a salamander broiler?
Because these units reach extreme temperatures, most food drippings and grease vaporize instantly during the cooking process. Routine maintenance usually involves wiping down the exterior and managing the grease tray according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Is 1500 degrees too hot for cooking steaks?
Not at all, provided you use the proper technique. This intense infrared heat creates a rapid, flawless crust and locks in juices within a minute or two per side, preventing the interior of your meat from overcooking.
Why is there such a massive price gap between the Big Horn and the Schwank?
The pricing disparity comes down to materials, burner design, and manufacturing location. While Big Horn focuses on accessible consumer-grade portable styling, Schwank utilizes heavy-duty stainless steel, dual burners, and domestic production which significantly increases manufacturing costs.
See also: our full roundup Best 1500 Degree Grill in 2026: Tested and Ranked.
