6 Best Grills for Searing Steak 2026

This is a beast of a countertop searer—an absolute game-changer for steak lovers who demand restaurant-grade char without the smoke. With a jaw-dropping 1800W infrared burner hitting 1450°F, the VEVOR delivers one of the hottest sears possible outside a commercial kitchen, effortlessly creating that deep Maillard crust while locking in juices. The dual knob control system gives precise command over time and temperature, making it easy to go from rare to medium-rare with repeatability that even seasoned home chefs will appreciate.

In real-world testing, the 6-tier adjustable rack shines by offering flexibility few indoor grills can match. Whether you’re searing thick ribeyes on the top shelf or roasting vegetables lower down, each level provides consistent heat distribution. The thick diagonal grid leaves crisp, professional-grade grill marks and handles grease runoff efficiently thanks to its angled design. While it’s not designed for large cuts like tomahawks, its 118 sq. in. cooking surface handles two 1.5-inch steaks with room to spare—perfect for couples or small families. Just note: the fan-based cooling system works well, but the unit still emits noticeable heat during extended use.

Compared to the Kalorik Steakhouse Grill Pro, the VEVOR pushes the limits of raw searing power and versatility, though it sacrifices some sleekness in design. Where the Kalorik offers simplicity, this one leans into functionality and control, making it ideal for enthusiasts who want to experiment with layering heat zones. It’s also a stronger contender than the Hamilton Beach model when maximum heat and precision are priorities. For those seeking the hottest electric indoor sear available, this grill delivers unmatched performance for the price.

If you’re after outdoor searing fury in a compact build, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS infrared grill is nothing short of a portable powerhouse. Fueled by propane and packing a 19,000 BTU burner, it rockets to 1500°F in under five minutes—that’s salamander-level heat typically reserved for high-end steakhouses. The top-down infrared broiling method ensures rapid, even searing that locks in moisture and builds a caramelized crust without drying out the interior, solving the classic steak dilemma of overcooked centers.

During field tests—from backyard patios to tailgate parties—this grill proved incredibly versatile. The 10-tier adjustable rack allows you to fine-tune the distance between flame and food, enabling everything from flash-searing ribeyes to gently toasting garlic bread. We grilled strip steaks at the third-highest rack and achieved perfect medium-rare with a smoky, dark crust in under 4 minutes per side. The windproof pulse ignition fired reliably every time, even in breezy conditions, and cleanup was simple thanks to the removable rack and dishwasher-safe components. The included pizza stone adds unexpected value, transforming it into a mini oven.

When stacked against the VEVOR electric model, this one wins on authentic flame-driven flavor and portability, though it requires a propane tank. It lacks the indoor convenience of electric grills but dominates in heat intensity and outdoor mobility, making it the best all-around option for grilling purists. Compared to stovetop pans, it delivers more consistent, radiant heat without hot spots. For anyone who wants pro-level searing wherever they go, this is the ultimate steak-focused outdoor broiler.

The Kalorik Steakhouse Grill Pro enters the ring as a sleek, no-frills electric broiler built for one mission: replicating the steakhouse experience at home. Its ceramic superheating elements blast out 1500°F of infrared heat, delivering a sear that rivals far more expensive units. With a minimalist design and dual stainless steel grill plates, it’s engineered for speed—steaks go from fridge to seared in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners where time and mess are concerns.

In practice, the Kalorik excels at consistent, high-heat contact grilling. The two grill plates close like a panini press, searing both sides of a 1-inch sirloin simultaneously and producing deep, even char marks with minimal user input. It handled a 1.25-inch ribeye beautifully, achieving a juicy center and crisp exterior in just 6 minutes. The compact countertop profile fits easily on most kitchens, and the lack of open flame makes it safer for indoor use than gas alternatives. That said, it’s less flexible than models with height adjustment—no room for thick tomahawks or indirect cooking.

Against the Ninja GR101, the Kalorik trades multi-functionality for searing purity—it doesn’t do griddles or pancakes, but it outperforms in pure steak searing intensity. Compared to the VEVOR, it’s less customizable but more streamlined and easier to store. It’s the ideal pick for apartment dwellers or steak-focused cooks who want maximum heat with minimum hassle. If your goal is simple, repeatable, restaurant-quality sears, this broiler punches above its weight.

For the purist who trusts fire and iron, the NutriChef Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan is a stovetop titan that transforms any kitchen into a steakhouse. Crafted from enameled cast iron, it delivers exceptional heat retention and even distribution, holding steady at high temps where cheaper pans would falter. Its ridged surface creates bold, restaurant-style grill marks while lifting food above pooling fat—ideal for achieving that crispy, caramelized crust without steaming.

Real-world searing tests confirmed its dominance on gas and induction stoves. Preheated on high for 8 minutes, it delivered a perfect sear on a 1.5-inch strip steak with zero sticking, thanks to the smooth porcelain enamel coating. The side drip spout made fat drainage effortless, and the 500°F heat tolerance ensured no warping or coating breakdown. It’s also induction-ready and oven-safe, offering versatility beyond the stovetop. However, its weight and slow heat-up time mean it’s not ideal for quick meals, and it demands proper seasoning and care to avoid rust.

Compared to electric grills, this pan offers superior flavor development through direct flame contact, though it requires more skill and attention. It lacks the automation of countertop broilers but rewards technique with unmatched browning and depth of flavor. For home chefs who value craftsmanship and control, this pan is a long-term investment in better searing. When stacked against nonstick electric models, it may demand more effort, but the flavor payoff is undeniable.

Don’t let the modest specs fool you—the Hamilton Beach 25360 is the budget king of indoor searing, delivering solid performance without breaking the bank. With a peak heat of 450°F, it won’t match the 1500°F fury of infrared models, but it locks in juices and creates respectable grill marks on steaks, burgers, and fish. The PFAS-free nonstick surface ensures food releases cleanly, and the adjustable thermostat gives decent control across a 200°F–450°F range, making it suitable for delicate items like shrimp or veggies.

In daily use, this grill shines as a reliable, low-maintenance workhorse. The extra-large drip tray captures grease effectively, reducing smoke and mess—crucial for indoor cooking. It preheats in about 5 minutes, and the 118 sq. in. surface fits up to six burgers, making it great for small families. While it can’t deliver the deep char of infrared broilers, it produces a tasty, lightly caramelized crust on well-trimmed steaks. The removable plates and dishwasher-safe components make cleanup a breeze, a major win for busy households.

Against the Ninja GR101, it lacks multi-functionality and max heat, but it holds its own as a no-nonsense searing solution. It’s far more capable than basic stovetop pans for consistent indoor grilling, though it can’t compete with cast iron for browning depth. Ideal for first-time grill owners or casual cooks, it offers exceptional value for its price point. If you want dependable indoor grilling with minimal investment, this model is a smart, practical choice.

The Ninja GR101 isn’t just a grill—it’s a kitchen transformer, built for those who want steakhouse searing and breakfast griddling in one sleek unit. With interchangeable grill and griddle plates, it effortlessly switches from charred strip steaks to golden pancakes, making it the most versatile indoor cooking system in its class. Its 500°F max heat delivers a strong sear—enough to create crisp, flavorful crusts on steaks and salmon—while the edge-to-edge heating eliminates cold spots that plague cheaper models.

In testing, the perforated mesh lid proved a standout, reducing smoke and splatter without trapping steam, resulting in drier, better-seared surfaces. We cooked a 1-inch ribeye with the hood down for even heat, then opened it for final charring—a level of control rare in countertop grills. The family-sized 14-inch surface fits six burgers or a full breakfast spread, and cleanup was fast thanks to nonstick, dishwasher-safe plates. The only limitation? It doesn’t reach the nuclear temps of infrared broilers, so ultra-thick steaks won’t get that deep, even doneness without over-char.

Versus the Hamilton Beach model, the Ninja offers superior heat, flexibility, and build quality, justifying its higher cost. Compared to the Kalorik, it trades pure searing focus for multi-role mastery—you won’t get 1500°F, but you gain a full breakfast grill and griddle. It’s the best pick for families or meal-preppers who want one appliance for everything from fajitas to flapjacks. For performance, adaptability, and smart design, it’s the undisputed leader in multi-function indoor grilling.