Char Broil Tru Infrared Grill2go X200 Portable Gas Grill Review

Char-Broil Tru-Infrared Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill Review

The Char-Broil Tru-Infrared Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill is designed for grilling enthusiasts who seek a compact and transportable option. This grill utilizes Char-Broil's Tru-Infrared cooking system, aiming to provide even heat distribution and prevent flare-ups. This review will delve into the Grill2Go X200's features, performance, durability, and overall value to help prospective buyers make informed decisions.

The Grill2Go X200 aims to offer a practical solution for tailgating, camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities where a full-sized grill would be impractical. The grill's portability stems from its compact design, locking lid, and sturdy legs, which contribute to its ease of transport and setup. It is intended to provide a grilling experience comparable to larger, stationary grills while maintaining a portable footprint.

Design and Construction

The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 features a robust construction intended to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor use. The body of the grill is typically constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel or powder-coated steel, depending on the specific model and year of manufacture. This construction aims to provide resistance against rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the grill. The locking lid is an essential design element, securing the grilling surface during transit and preventing accidental openings.

The grill's cooking surface is comprised of a porcelain-coated cast iron grate. Porcelain coating can help prevent food from sticking and simplifies the cleaning process. Cast iron provides good heat retention and distribution, contributing to even cooking. The design incorporates Char-Broil's Tru-Infrared cooking system, which separates the flame from the cooking grate with a specially designed emitter plate. This plate is designed to distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface and minimize flare-ups by preventing drippings from directly contacting the flame.

The Grill2Go X200's legs are designed for stability on various surfaces. They are often foldable, adding to the grill's portability by reducing its overall size during transport. Some models may include rubber feet to prevent slippage and protect surfaces.

The grill is powered by a small, disposable propane cylinder (typically a 16.4-ounce cylinder), which is connected via a regulator. The control knob allows users to adjust the flame and heat level. The igniter, often a push-button electronic ignition system, is designed for easy and reliable start-up. The overall design emphasizes ease of use, transportability and durability.

Performance and Cooking

The performance of the Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 hinges on the effectiveness of its Tru-Infrared cooking system. The system is designed to distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, eliminating hot spots and cold zones commonly found in traditional gas grills. The emitter plate, positioned between the burners and the cooking grate, plays a critical role in this process.

The Tru-Infrared system also claims to minimize flare-ups. By vaporizing drippings on the emitter plate, the system reduces the likelihood of flames erupting and charring the food. This is supposed to result in more consistent cooking and less need for constant monitoring. However, some users report that flare-ups are not entirely eliminated, especially when cooking high-fat foods.

The grill heats quickly, reaching cooking temperatures within minutes. The temperature control knob allows users to adjust the heat level from low to high, providing flexibility for cooking various types of food. The grill's relatively small size may limit the amount of food that can be cooked at one time, but it is generally sufficient for preparing meals for a small group (2-4 people).

The porcelain-coated cast iron grate contributes to effective searing. It retains heat well and transfers it to the food, resulting in desirable grill marks. However, the surface area of the grate is limited, which could be a factor when cooking larger items or multiple items simultaneously.

Cleaning the Grill2Go X200 involves removing the cooking grate and the emitter plate. The porcelain-coated grate is generally easy to clean, although some food residue may require scrubbing. The emitter plate needs to be cleaned periodically to remove accumulated grease and debris. The frequency of cleaning depends on how often the grill is used and the types of food that are cooked on it.

Portability and Convenience

The core selling point of the Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is its portability. The grill's compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to transport. The locking lid secures the cooking surface during travel, preventing spills and messes. The folding legs provide stability when the grill is in use and fold away for compact storage.

The grill's reliance on a small propane cylinder contributes to its portability. These cylinders are readily available at most camping supply stores, hardware stores, and gas stations. However, the limited capacity of these cylinders means that they need to be replaced or refilled frequently, especially when cooking for extended periods.

Setting up the Grill2Go X200 is a straightforward process. The legs unfold easily, and the propane cylinder connects quickly to the regulator. The push-button electronic ignition system ensures reliable start-up. The grill is ready to use within minutes of unpacking it.

The compact size of the Grill2Go X200 may also be a limitation. The cooking surface is smaller than that of a full-sized grill, which may restrict the types and quantities of food that can be cooked at one time. This could be a concern for users who frequently cook for larger groups.

Overall, the Grill2Go X200 excels in portability and convenience. Its compact size, lightweight construction, locking lid, and folding legs make it an ideal choice for grilling on the go. However, users should be aware of its limited cooking capacity and the need to replace propane cylinders frequently.

Durability and Maintenance

The durability of the Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is dependent on the materials used in its construction and how well it is maintained. Models constructed from stainless steel tend to be more resistant to rust and corrosion than those made from powder-coated steel. However, even stainless steel is susceptible to corrosion if it is not properly cleaned and maintained.

The porcelain-coated cast iron grate is durable but can chip or crack if subjected to excessive heat or physical impact. It is important to handle the grate carefully and avoid using abrasive cleaning tools that could damage the porcelain coating.

The emitter plate, part of the Tru-Infrared cooking system, is also susceptible to wear and tear. Over time, accumulated grease and debris can corrode the plate, affecting its performance. Regular cleaning is essential to prolong the lifespan of the emitter plate.

Maintenance of the Grill2Go X200 involves cleaning the cooking grate, the emitter plate, and the burner area. The cooking grate can be cleaned with a wire brush or a scraper. The emitter plate should be removed and cleaned with a degreaser or a grill cleaner. The burner area should be inspected periodically and cleaned to remove any obstructions that could affect the flame.

Proper storage of the Grill2Go X200 is also critical to its durability. When not in use, the grill should be stored in a dry and protected location to prevent rust and corrosion. A grill cover can help protect the grill from the elements and extend its lifespan.

The life span of the Grill2Go X200 can be significantly affected by climate conditions. Salt air and extreme temperature fluctuations can degrade the exterior. It is recommended that the unit is stored indoors during periods of inclement weather, especially coastal areas.