Char-Broil Vs. Monument Grills: How Do They Stack Up?

For backyard grill masters, choosing the right grill can be a tough decision. Two popular brands, Char-Broil and Monument Grills, both offer a wide range of options at different price points. So which one is better for your BBQ needs?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Char-Broil vs Monument Grills on features, build quality, temperature range, ease of use, grill space, and more. By the end, you’ll have the info you need to decide which brand is right for your budget and grilling style.

A Brief Comparison Table

FeatureChar-BroilMonument Grills
ConstructionPorcelain-coated steel firebox, enamel-coated steel body304 stainless steel firebox and body
GratesPorcelain-coated cast iron or stainless steelStainless steel rods
Temperature RangeUp to 650°F on gas modelsUp to 650°F+ on gas models
Temperature ControlAdjustable burners, thermostats on electric modelsPrecision thermostats, individual burner controls
Ease of UseSide shelves, electronic ignition, lid assist systemUltra-smooth hinges and slides, ergonomic handles
Grill Space300-650 primary cooking space500-800 primary cooking space
Special FeaturesTRU-Infrared, interior lighting, side burnerInfrared, blue lighting, rotisserie kit
Warranty10 years on fireboxLifetime on firebox
Price Range$100 – $1,100$399 – $1,999

Overview of Char-Broil Grills

Founded in 1948, Char-Broil is one of the most established names in backyard grilling. They offer a wide range of affordable gas, charcoal, electric, and portable grills. Their product line includes entry-level models under $200 up to high-end grills over $500.

Char-Broil Grills
Char-Broil Grills

Some of their most popular grills include:

  • Performance Series 4-burner Cart Gas Grill
  • Commercial Series Tru-Infrared Gas Grill
  • Signature TRU-Infrared 420 3-burner Gas Grill
  • Deluxe Black & Stainless Steel Gas Grill

In general, Char-Broil grills are known for their:

  • Budget-friendly prices – Even their higher-end models are very competitively priced compared to other brands. Great option if you want quality without breaking the bank.
  • Wide range – With over 100 grill options, you’ll find a Char-Broil at any price point and fuel type.
  • Infrared cooking technology – Many of their gas grills feature TRU-Infrared burners that evenly distribute heat and prevent hot or cold spots. Excellent for searing.
  • Reliable performance – While not the most heavy-duty, Char-Broil grills deliver solid backyard grilling for casual BBQ fans. Their affordable prices match the quality you’d expect.

Overview of Monument Grills

Monument Grills launched in 2019 as a direct-to-consumer brand focused on premium-quality grills. Based in California, their grills are designed by BBQ industry veterans and made in China.

They currently offer five gas grill models ranging from $399 to $1,999. The most popular choices are:

  • Monument Pro 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill
  • Monument Pro 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill
  • Monument Pro 4-Burner Built-In Gas Grill

What sets Monument Grills apart:

  • Commercial-grade stainless steel – Their grills use heavy-duty 304 stainless steel for excellent durability and aesthetics. You can really tell the difference in materials used compared to entry-level grills.
  • Serious cooking power – With BTU outputs from 72,000 to 96,000, these grills deliver intense heat for perfect searing. Large grates accommodate 20+ burgers.
  • Effortless operation – From the hood assist system to smooth-sliding storage drawer, Monument Grills are designed for easy opening, closing, and use.
  • Reliable temperature control – With thick stainless steel burners and consistent gas flow, you’ll have precision heat levels for grilling, smoking, or slow cooking low and slow.

Clearly, Monument Grills cater to serious backyard chefs willing to invest more for premium performance and build.

Also Read: Comparison Between Napoleon And Lynx Grills

Key Differences Between Char-Broil And Monument Grills

1. Grill Construction

A grill’s materials and craftsmanship significantly affect its durability. Cheaper grills use painted steel that may peel and rust over time. Here’s how Char-Broil and Monument compare:

Char-Broil Grill Construction:

  • Firebox – Porcelain-coated steel. Prone to chipping and peeling over time.
  • Cooking Grates – Cast iron, porcelain-coated wire grates, or stainless steel depending on model. Hold and distribute heat decently.
  • Flavorizer Bars – Stainless steel bars on gas grills protect burners and vaporize drippings. Reliable.
  • Body Materials – Enamel-coated steel on most models. Resists weather better than painted steel but can still chip over time.
  • Warranty – 10 years on firebox, 2 years on other parts.

Monument Grill Construction:

Monument Grills
Monument Grill
  • Firebox – Commercial-grade 304 stainless steel. Extremely durable and corrosion resistant.
  • Cooking Grates – Heavy-duty stainless steel rods. Excellent heat retention and easy cleanup.
  • Flavorizer Bars – Thick stainless steel vaporizer panels. Prevent flare-ups.
  • Body Materials – Brushed 304 stainless steel exterior and welded construction. Made to last a lifetime.
  • Warranty – Lifetime warranty on firebox, 10 years on stainless steel burners, 2 years on other parts.

Monument clearly uses higher-quality materials for a grill built to handle frequent use. The stainless steel exterior will maintain its sleek shine for years. Char-Broil grills offer decent construction for the price, though frequent grillers may notice wear over time.

2. Temperature Range and Control

A consistent and wide temperature range is crucial for proper grilling. Here is how the two brands allow you to control heat:

Char-Broil Temperature Performance

  • On gas grills – Linear flow valves adjust flame height, with approximate temp range of 450°F on low up to 650°F on high.
  • On charcoal grills – Adjustable heights allow managing air flow and temp. Built-in thermometers help monitor temp.
  • On electric grills – Thermostats adjust heating elements from about 200°F to 400°F.
  • Heat Distribution – Porcelain-coated grates and stainless flavorizer bars distribute heat evenly across grilling surface. Minimal hot or cold spots.

Monument Grills Temperature Performance

  • Thermostats – Precision-tuned with a wide range from 150°F up to over 650°F.
  • Individual Burner Controls – Each burner has its own control knob for zone heating or shutting off sections.
  • Heat Distribution – Commercial quality burners and thick grates ensure even heat across the entire cooking surface.
  • Rear Infrared Burner – The back burner provides intense infrared heat up to 1800°F for searing or high-heat cooking.

Monument Grills give you precise control over a wide range of exact temperatures. With individual burner controls and infrared options, you can perfectly tailor heat levels across the grill. Char-Broil also provides reliable temperature management but without as much customization.

3. Ease of Use

From prep to cleanup, you want your grill to be simple and convenient to use. Here are some factors to consider:

Char-Broil Ease of Use

  • Lid Assist System – Reduces effort needed to lift heavy lids on some models.
  • Electronic Ignition – Push button starts ignite burners quickly and easily. No messy lighter fluid needed.
  • Grease Management – Large removable grease pans and angled design simplifies cleanup.
  • Cooking Space Access – Side shelves and cart-style bases provide ample prep space and storage.

Monument Grills Ease of Use

  • Smooth Bearings – Ultra-smooth ball bearing drawer slides and lid hinges. Open and close with little effort.
  • Instant Start Ignition – Reliable push-button ignition starts up fast.
  • Grease Management – Sloped smoker tray and pull-out grease pan keeps things tidy.
  • Ergonomic Handle Design – Smartly shaped door, drawer, and lid handles look sleek and are comfortable to grip.
  • Tool Hooks – Convenient side hook keeps essential grilling tools within reach.

Both brands design grills for simplified use, but Monument Grills go the extra mile with super-smooth operation. Someone with mobility issues may find Monument’s easy open lids and drawers more manageable.

4. Grill Space

The grilling surface area and overall footprint determine how much food you can cook at once. Here’s how they compare:

Char-Broil Grill Space

  • Primary Cooking Area – Ranges from 300 to 650 square inches depending on model. Enough for 15-20 burgers.
  • Total Cooking Area – Adding the warming rack expands space to 400 – 1,000 square inches.
  • Portable Models – Compact tabletop grills like the Char-Broil Gas2Coal 2-Burner start at 200 square inches.
  • Footprint – Mid-size and larger cart-style grills have wheels for mobility but take up substantial patio space when in use.

Monument Grills Space

  • Primary Cooking Area – Between 500 and 800 square inches on their grills. Fits 20-30 burgers.
  • Total Cooking Area – Expandable to 900+ square inches with warming racks and side burners.
  • Footprint – Larger than compact grills but still reasonably sized. Built-in models fit nicely into BBQ islands.

Monument Grills boast very large grilling capacity perfect for entertaining big groups. Char-Broil offers a good range of sizes – their larger commercial-style cart models can hold their own for big parties.

5. Special Features

Fun extras that improve the grilling experience.

Char-Broil Special Features

  • TRU-InfraredTM – Infrared burners direct intense heat for fast searing while reducing hot and cold spots (available on some gas models).
  • Surefire® Electronic Ignition – Consistent push-button spark ignition across entire product line.
  • Deluxe Casters – Smooth rolling all-terrain wheels for easy maneuvering (on cart models).
  • Interior Lighting – Illuminated cooking area makes grilling in the dark easy (select models).
  • Side Burner – Extra burner provides additional cooking space for sides.

Monument Grills Special Features

  • Rear Infrared Burner – Infrared back burner reaches over 1800°F for intense searing heat.
  • Blue Lighting – Cool blue LED lights up the entire grill interior. Makes night grilling easy.
  • Rotisserie Kit – Multi-axle rotisserie system cooks meats perfectly evenly (available add-on).
  • Side Burner – The side burner expands your cooking options with an extra 10,000 BTU burner.
  • Sear Pro Burners – Angled sear burners vaporize juices for amazing flavor.

Both brands include useful extras like side burners, interior lighting, and infrared capabilities on select models. Monument grills have a few unique touches like the rotisserie kit and blue interior lighting that add extra visual flair.

Also Watch This Review Video:

6. Warranty Comparison

It’s important to consider what kind of long-term support you’ll get with your grill’s warranty.

Char-Broil Warranty

  • Firebox: 10 years
  • Burners & Cooking Grates: 5 years
  • Other Parts: 2 years

Monument Warranty

  • Firebox: Lifetime
  • Stainless Steel Burners: 10 years
  • Other Parts: 2 years

Monument provides outstanding lifetime coverage of the vital firebox, showing the confidence in their workmanship. Char-Broil protects the firebox for a full decade as well. For other parts, the warranties are similar.

7. Prices: Char-Broil vs. Monument

Price often comes down to your budget and needs. Here are the price ranges you can expect:

Char-Broil Grill Prices

Gas Grills

  • 2-burner tabletops: $120 – $250
  • 3-4 burner cart-style: $200 – $500
  • High-end commercial series: $700 – $1,100

Charcoal Grills

  • Basic kettle grills: $100 – $300
  • Deluxe cart grills: $300 – $600

Electric Grills

  • Tabletop: $100 – $250
  • Freestanding: $200 – $400

Smokers

  • Vertical smokers: $100 – $300
  • Offset smokers: $300 – $600

Monument Grills Prices

Gas Grills

  • 4-burner: $399 – $849
  • 5-burner: $999 – $1,999
  • Built-in 3 or 4 burner: $1,299 – $1,999

Clearly, Monument Grills cost significantly more than Char-Broil across comparable models. You’re paying a premium for commercial-grade stainless steel construction. Char-Broil provides greater affordability, though lack the luxury touches and materials.

Also Read: Comparison Between Monument Grills And Nexgrill

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a charbroil and a grill?

The terms are often used interchangeably. Technically, “charbroil” refers to a method of grilling where the food is cooked over direct dry heat, producing a charred or seared texture. But a “charbroil grill” is a common term for a backyard grill used for charbroiling.

How do you clean the glass on a monument grill?

Use a dedicated grill cleaner or mix warm soapy water. Apply it to the glass with a soft cloth or sponge while the glass is still warm (not hot). Let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth or paper towel. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.

What is a Char-Broil?

Char-Broil is one of the largest and most popular grill brands in America. They sell a wide range of gas, charcoal, electric, and portable grills at affordable price points. Known for their infrared grilling technology and reliable performance.

Is Char-Broil a good brand?

Yes, Char-Broil is considered a good brand especially for casual backyard grilling. Their grills provide very good quality and features for the price. Constructed decently to hold up to regular use. An excellent budget-friendly option.

Also Read: Comparison Between Thermopro Tempspike And Meater Plus.

Final Thought

With the detailed comparison above, you can weigh the pros and cons of each brand.

For shoppers on a tight budget looking for reliable backyard grilling, Char-Broil is the best bet. You’ll get time-tested grilling performance and decent quality at very wallet-friendly prices. Opt for a mid-range cart-style Char-Broil for the best value.

For grilling enthusiasts or serious cooks willing to invest in a lifetime grill, Monument Grills lead the pack. Their commercial quality construction and powerful output let you grill like the pros. Prices are steep but match the first-rate materials and engineering.

Of course, needs differ for each home griller. Carefully evaluate which features matter most for your grilling and budget. Hopefully this comprehensive rundown gives you the knowledge to decide if Char-Broil or Monument will fire up the perfect backyard BBQ experience.

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