The Char-Broil Commander grill offers a compelling alternative to high-priced Kamado grills without sacrificing performance or features. This in-depth review explores the Commander's design, assembly, and cooking capabilities, revealing its surprising ease of use and impressive versatility. We delve into its temperature control, heat retention, and overall cooking results, comparing its performance to more expensive competitors. From initial setup to the final, perfectly seared steak, we examine every aspect of this innovative grill.Discover if the Char-Broil Commander truly delivers on its promise of a Kamado-style experience at a fraction of the cost. This review covers everything from its sleek, modern design and straightforward assembly to its exceptional temperature control and ability to achieve that perfect sear. We detail its performance across various cooking methods – grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting – and ultimately assess whether it's a worthwhile investment for the serious grill enthusiast seeking both quality and value.
Pros And Cons
- Easier to manage than other Kamado-style grills
- All-in-one design; no need for extra accessories
- Smokes, grills, bakes, roasts
- Double-sided insulated steel for better heat retention
- Waist-height dampers for easy airflow control
- Includes ash catcher, smoke ring holder, drip pan, deluxe plate with cutout, and vegetable roaster at no extra cost
- Capable of high temperatures for searing
- Fast cooking times
- Consistent temperature control for smoking
- One round of charcoal can provide a 10-12 hour smoke
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Char-Broil Commander arrived well-packaged, ready for assembly. The double-walled insulated steel construction immediately impressed me. This feature ensures excellent heat retention, similar to a well-insulated oven, reducing heat loss and fuel consumption.
The grill's design is sleek and modern, a far cry from the bulky, cumbersome Kamado grills I've seen before. Its size is perfect for backyard use, without being overwhelmingly large or difficult to maneuver.
Initial setup was surprisingly straightforward. The included instructions were clear and concise, and the assembly process was much simpler than I anticipated. This is a huge advantage over some of the more complicated Kamado grills on the market.
Features and Functionality
The Commander boasts a versatile design that allows for grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. The inclusion of essential accessories like the ash catcher, smoke ring holder, and drip pan is a significant plus, eliminating the need for costly add-ons.
The waist-height dampers for controlling airflow are a game-changer. This design makes temperature regulation simple and intuitive, unlike the often-awkwardly-placed dampers on other Kamado grills. It's a thoughtful design that greatly enhances the user experience.
The deluxe plate with a cutout opening is another practical feature. Adding more fuel mid-cook is quick and easy without the hassle of disassembling any parts of the grill.
Cooking Performance and Results
The Commander's ability to reach incredibly high temperatures is impressive, allowing for that sought-after steakhouse sear. I was amazed at how quickly the grill heated up and maintained a consistent temperature.
The food cooked on the Commander was incredibly flavorful and perfectly cooked, demonstrating the exceptional performance of this grill. The meats had beautiful char marks and the interior was cooked to perfection.
Whether grilling, smoking or baking, this grill delivered exceptional results. The even heat distribution ensured consistent cooking, regardless of the type of food I was preparing.
Value and Overall Impression
The Char-Broil Commander offers incredible value for its price. It’s significantly less expensive than comparable Kamado grills, while maintaining a similar level of performance and functionality.
The ease of use and the inclusion of all necessary accessories make this grill extremely user-friendly, even for beginners. Temperature control was accurate and consistent, which greatly improved my cooking experience.
Overall, the Char-Broil Commander is a highly recommended grill for those seeking a Kamado-style experience without the premium price tag. Its versatility, ease of use, and excellent cooking performance make it a worthwhile investment for any serious grill enthusiast.