Char-Broil Performance TRU-Infrared Grill vs Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Char-Broil Performance TRU-Infrared Grill is designed to elevate your backyard cooking experience with advanced infrared cooking technology. It evenly distributes heat across the entire cooking surface, eliminating hot and cold spots to ensure your food stays juicy and flavorful. Built with durable stainless steel and featuring electronic ignition, this grill combines longevity with effortless startup. Whether you are searing steaks or slow-cooking vegetables, it provides precise temperature control and versatile performance for everyday grilling enthusiasts.
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a lightweight, portable propane grill designed for camping, tailgating, and backyard cookouts. Its fold‑flat design fits into a compact case, making transport and storage effortless. The grill delivers even heat across a 285‑square‑inch cooking surface and includes a built‑in temperature gauge for precise cooking. Features like a removable grease management system, interchangeable cooking grates, and a sturdy, rust‑resistant frame make it versatile for everything from burgers to low‑and‑slow smoking. With a quick‑connect propane hose and a detachable side table, the RoadTrip 285 balances performance with convenience for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Prevents flare-ups effectively
- Even heat distribution across grates
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Convenient side burner included
- Compact, fold‑flat design for easy transport
- Large 285 sq in cooking area for a portable grill
- Integrated temperature gauge for precise cooking
- Removable grease management system simplifies cleanup
- Assembly can be time-consuming
- Heavier than traditional non-infrared grills
- Propane tank sold separately
- No built‑in smart or app connectivity
- Propane tank required, limiting use where gas isn’t available
- Limited to propane fuel; cannot use charcoal
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Alternatives to Char-Broil Performance TRU-Infrared Grill
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A high-performance 3-burner gas grill built for reliable backyard cooking.
Leave‑in probe with alarms and timer for perfect outdoor cooking
Compact, fold‑flat grill with 285 sq in cooking space for on‑the‑go grilling.
Alternatives to Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill
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28-inch outdoor flat-top griddle with a hood, magnetic toolbar and integrated side shelf storage.
Two-burner portable camp stove with 20,000 BTU per burner and 215 square inches of cook space.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThe Coleman RoadTrip offers a compact, fold‑flat design with 285 sq in cooking space, while the Char‑Broil provides a larger 450 sq in area and infrared heat but is bulkier.
Key differences
- •Portability: Coleman folds under 32 in, Char‑Broil is a 54‑in tall stationary unit.
- •Cooking area: Char‑Broil 450 sq in vs. Coleman 285 sq in.
- •Heat technology: Char‑Broil uses TRU‑Infrared for flare‑up control; Coleman uses standard propane burners.
- •Setup: Coleman includes quick‑connect hose; Char‑Broil requires separate propane tank and longer assembly.
- •Price: Coleman $399 vs. Char‑Broil $349.
Portability & Size
Coleman folds to 31.5 in length, fits in a compact case; Char‑Broil is 54.1 in long and not foldable.
Cooking Capacity
Char‑Broil offers 450 sq in primary area, 165 sq in more than Coleman's 285 sq in.
Heat Technology
Char‑Broil’s TRU‑Infrared prevents flare‑ups and provides even heat; Coleman uses conventional propane burners.
Price
Char‑Broil MSRP $349 is $50 cheaper than Coleman's $399.
Warranty
Both provide a 1‑year limited warranty.
Ease of Cleaning
Coleman has removable grease tray and drip pan; Char‑Broil mentions porcelain‑coated grates but no specific cleanup feature.
Setup Complexity
Coleman includes quick‑connect hose for fast setup; Char‑Broil requires separate propane tank and longer assembly.
Choose Char-Broil Performance TRU-Infrared Grill if…
Best for backyard users who want a larger cooking surface and infrared heat for consistent results.
Choose Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill if…
Ideal for campers, tailgaters, or anyone needing a lightweight, easy‑to‑transport grill.
Common questions
Which grill is easier to transport?
Coleman folds flat to under 32 in, making it far more portable than the 54‑in tall Char‑Broil.
Does either grill include a side burner?
Only the Char‑Broil lists a side burner; Coleman does not mention one.
What is the price difference?
Coleman costs $399, while Char‑Broil is $349, a $50 difference favoring Char‑Broil.