7 Best Salamander Grills of 2026

Unleash restaurant-grade searing power in your kitchen with the B.B. Prime Salamander Broiler Bundle—an absolute powerhouse built for steak aficionados and precision cooks. Boasting a 1500-degree infrared burner, this unit reaches optimal cooking temperature in just three minutes, delivering instant, blistering heat that locks in juices and creates a caramelized crust unmatched by conventional ovens or pans. Its dual-wall stainless steel construction not only ensures durability but also provides superior heat retention and safety during extended use, making it ideal for high-volume home chefs or weekend entertainers chasing that perfect Maillard reaction.

In real-world testing, the broiler consistently delivered professional-level searing results across ribeyes, filets, and even delicate fish fillets when using the lower heat settings. The multi-level cooking zones allow you to fine-tune distance from the heat source, giving you control over everything from gentle browning to aggressive charring. Whether melting cheese on French onion soup or finishing off a crème brûlée with a golden top, its flare-up free design and integrated warming tray keep the process clean and efficient. However, while its countertop footprint is compact (11”W x 18”D), it does require dedicated space due to the fixed overhead heating element and pull-out drip tray.

Compared to electric models like the Popfoodex or YUNLAIGOTOP units, the B.B. Prime stands out with its infrared intensity and rapid response, offering a more authentic salamander experience akin to commercial kitchens. Where others rely on slower conduction heating, this model’s direct high-heat radiation mimics professional broilers found in steakhouses. It’s best suited for serious home cooks who prioritize speed, performance, and sear quality over budget-friendliness. While pricier than most countertop melters, its build quality, heat output, and versatility justify the investment compared to mid-tier electric options.

The Popfoodex Salamander Broiler brings commercial kitchen durability into the home with its 8mm-thick stainless steel heating element and full-grade stainless body, making it a standout for those who value long-term resilience and sleek aesthetics. This isn’t just another cheese melter—its precise temperature control up to 550°F enables everything from gentle browning to aggressive searing, all while maintaining even heat distribution thanks to its robust U-shaped heating layout. With a 17.8” x 15.5” cooking surface and 4-tier rack adjustment, it handles large steaks, pizzas, and multiple sandwiches with ease, solving the common problem of cramped broiling space in budget units.

During real-world use, the Popfoodex proved highly reliable for melting cheese on nachos, finishing grilled burgers, and browning gratins, with minimal hotspots and consistent overhead heating. The non-stick grate and removable crumb tray made cleanup a breeze after messy meals, reducing downtime significantly compared to fixed-element models. While it doesn’t reach the extreme temperatures of infrared burners (like the B.B. Prime), it compensates with excellent heat stability and user-friendly controls, especially for cooks who prefer gradual adjustments over instant blast heat. That said, preheating takes about 6–8 minutes, slightly slower than top-tier models.

When stacked against the YUNLAIGOTOP or WQV models, the Popfoodex delivers superior build quality and cooking consistency, positioning itself as a premium electric option without crossing into prosumer pricing. It’s ideal for home chefs seeking restaurant-style finishing tools with commercial-grade materials. Though it lacks wall-mount flexibility, its sturdy countertop presence and durable steel construction offer better longevity than thinner, lightweight alternatives. For those prioritizing durability and even heating, it outperforms similarly priced units in both performance and finish.

If you’re chasing perfectly melted cheese, golden raclette pulls, or buttery toasted sandwiches, the WQV 2000W Salamander Broiler is engineered for one thing: melting mastery. Its dual-mode functionality as both a raclette grill and overhead broiler makes it uniquely versatile, especially with its wide 50°C–300°C (122°F–572°F) temperature range that allows delicate control for gooey cheese without scorching. The U-shaped heating elements span the entire chamber, ensuring even coverage across multiple servings—ideal for dinner parties or family-style dining where consistency matters.

In practice, this unit excels at melting, browning, and light grilling tasks, delivering crisp sandwich crusts and flawlessly melted cheese on burgers or tartiflette. The adjustable grill height with anti-scald handles gives safe, precise control over cooking distance, while the lower oil catch tray keeps drips contained and simplifies cleanup. It performs reliably whether mounted on the wall or placed on the counter, making it a smart fit for kitchens with limited space. However, despite its 2000W power, it struggles with deep searing or thick steaks, lacking the radiant intensity needed for true steakhouse finishes.

Compared to the B.B. Prime or BIG HORN models, this isn’t a searing machine—it’s a specialist in low-to-mid heat applications. It outshines basic melters like the B0DXP328Z3 with higher wattage and better heat spread, but falls short when you need high-heat broiling. It’s best suited for cheese lovers, sandwich enthusiasts, and small restaurants needing a dedicated melter. While not a full replacement for high-temp broilers, its dual-use design and wall-mount flexibility offer more value than single-purpose units at a similar price point.

The B0DXP328Z3 salamander broiler punches well above its weight as the most affordable entry into electric overhead broiling, offering core functionality without frills. With 1500W power and multiple U-shaped heat pipes, it delivers surprisingly even top-down heat across a 17.7” x 10.2” cooking area, making it effective for melting cheese, toasting paninis, or lightly grilling proteins. Its 4-level rack adjustment and precise knob-controlled thermostat (122–572°F) give users meaningful control over cooking intensity, solving the all-too-common issue of one-size-fits-all heating in budget models.

Real-world tests showed solid performance for cheese-heavy dishes, open-faced sandwiches, and small appetizers, with minimal cold spots and decent browning capability. The heat-sink design on the chassis helps dissipate excess warmth, improving safety and extending component life during frequent use—rare in this price range. However, the lower build thickness and basic finish make it feel less durable than stainless steel counterparts, and the heating element takes nearly 9 minutes to stabilize, which can slow service during busy meals. Still, for casual use, it gets the job done.

Against pricier models like the Popfoodex or WQV, this unit clearly trades longevity and power for accessibility. It’s no match for commercial-duty builds, but for dorm rooms, food trucks, or home kitchens on a tight budget, it offers a functional, space-saving solution. It lacks the premium feel of higher-end models, but its wall-mount design and large cooking zone maximize utility where cost is the deciding factor. For beginners or light users, it provides essential broiling features at a fraction of the cost, though expecting steakhouse sear marks would be unrealistic.

Fire up the flame anywhere with the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Infrared Propane Grill, a true outdoor salamander that brings 1500°F infrared heat to patios, campsites, and tailgates. Powered by a 19,000 BTU burner, it reaches searing temperatures in under five minutes, delivering restaurant-quality crusts on steaks, chops, and ribs with minimal smoke and maximum flavor retention. Its top-down infrared heating mimics professional kitchen broilers, locking in juices while enhancing natural drippings—making it a dream for carnivores who crave that perfectly charred, juicy interior.

Out in the field, this portable unit proved incredibly efficient—searing thick ribeyes in under 4 minutes with even heat distribution across the 13” chamber. The 10-tier adjustable rack allowed fine-tuning from delicate fish to deep searing, while the windproof pulse ignition ensured reliable starts even in breezy conditions. The included pizza stone adds surprising versatility, turning it into a mini outdoor oven for flatbreads or roasted veggies. However, it requires a propane tank (not included) and isn’t suitable for indoor use, limiting its convenience compared to electric models.

Versus electric countertop broilers like the B08K3DV52V or YUNLAIGOTOP, this model dominates in raw heat output and outdoor performance, but sacrifices indoor usability and precise low-temp control. It’s the go-to for grillers who want maximum sear power on the move, especially campers, RV travelers, or backyard hosts. While heavier than some portables, its stainless steel build and detachable dishwasher-safe parts make it durable and easy to maintain. For those who demand real flame-based searing, it outperforms all electric melters in intensity and authenticity.

The B08K3DV52V salamander broiler strikes a smart balance between professional function and mid-range affordability, making it a top pick for home cooks and small eateries needing reliable overhead broiling without overspending. Its 1500W upper heating system delivers fast, focused heat across a 17.7” x 10.2” cooking zone, ideal for melting cheese, toasting sandwiches, or finishing off casseroles with a golden crust. The wall-mounted design saves counter space, while the 50–300°C (122–572°F) temperature knob and height-adjustable grill offer solid control for various cooking tasks.

In daily use, it heats up in about 6–7 minutes, performing well for melting, browning, and light grilling, though it lacks the intensity for deep searing on thick cuts. The large oil pan effectively captures drips, reducing smoke and simplifying cleanup—especially useful in compact kitchens. Its thick brushed stainless steel body resists corrosion and feels more premium than budget models, though it’s not quite as rugged as the Popfoodex. One limitation is that the wall-mount hardware isn’t included, which can be a minor setback for first-time installers.

Compared to the WQV or YUNLAIGOTOP models, this unit offers better heat containment and slightly more robust construction, positioning it as a dependable mid-tier choice. It doesn’t have raclette features or 2000W power, but it delivers consistent, even heating for common broiling needs. It’s perfect for apartments, delis, or sandwich shops where space and reliability matter. While not the most powerful, its space-saving wall-mount design and commercial-ready build offer better value than entry-level melters.

The YUNLAIGOTOP 2000W Salamander Broiler is a hidden gem of value, delivering high-wattage performance at an unbeatable price, making it the best bang-for-buck in the lineup. With 2000W power and multiple U-shaped heating tubes, it heats up faster and more evenly than most in its class, achieving full browning in under 6 minutes—perfect for busy mornings or quick meal prep. Its 4-level height adjustment and rubberized handles make it safe and flexible for different food sizes, from towering sandwiches to thin fish fillets.

In real-world use, it handled melting, grilling, and toasting with impressive consistency, easily outperforming cheaper 1500W units in speed and coverage. The extra-large grill (17.72” x 9.65”) lets you cook multiple items at once, ideal for families or small cafes. Its space-saving footprint and dual tabletop/hanging design make it adaptable to cramped kitchens, dorms, or food trucks. However, the plastic knobs and thinner steel body hint at cost-cutting, and prolonged use can cause slight warping over time—so it’s best for moderate, not commercial-grade, use.

Against the WQV or Popfoodex models, it offers similar features at nearly half the price, making it the smartest upgrade from budget broilers. While it doesn’t match the durability of stainless steel leaders, its performance-to-price ratio is unmatched. It’s ideal for budget-conscious cooks, students, or side-line food vendors who need reliable melting and light grilling. For those who want maximum functionality without overspending, it clearly outshines higher-priced rivals in efficiency and versatility per dollar.