Cooking can be a chore, what with the slicing, grilling, baking and numerous other steps needed to put a meal
together. Save the hassle with a grill and panini press, perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. These versatile devices are not only good for making beautifully pressed, deli-style paninis, but also for grilling meats and vegetables for the whole family. With so many options, choosing one can be difficult, but we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of our best picks in this list, along with the key features you should look out for.
Types of Grill/Panini Presses
There are two types of panini presses:the basic version, which is designed especially for sandwiches, and the multi-functional types that double as grills, griddles or both. (Check out our complete guides about best griddles and best raclette grills).
Basic types are suitable for sandwiches and open-topped melts. They are ideal for warming and toasting, and sometimes basic grilling. Multi-functional types can be used for pressing, grilling and even baking. They always come with removable plates so that you can switch them up to fit your needs. The most common kinds of plates are the grill and griddle, but there are also plates made for muffins, omelettes, waffles and more. Some brands have reversible plates with a grill on one side and griddle on the other to save space.
Advantages
Convenience – the biggest advantage of having a grill and panini press is convenience. No longer will you have to go through a long wait for the oven to heat just to bake a few tiny items: simply pop them into the grill and press for a hot and toasty meal to go.
Healthier – Non-stick plates do not require extra butter or oil. Some models are also designed with a slant to drain excess grease, so cooking on the grill is much healthier.
All-in-One – Use the grill and panini press as an all-in-one cooking station and save the hassle of monitoring other cooking appliances on the stove. Larger units are especially convenient for when you have guests over, as food can be prepared quickly and efficiently in big portions.
Time Saving – Most grills and panini presses have embedded heating elements that fire up quickly, and the whole process of cooking can be done in mere minutes. Since you no longer have to bust out the frying pan, oven and other appliances just to cook a meal, washing up is much easier and faster.
Features of High Quality Grill/Panini Presses
Durability – The mark of a good grill and press is durability, which includes not only the outer construction but the
quality of its inner components, such as the heating elements, controls and power cords. Once it short-circuits, the entire device is not usable, which is a common problem with cheaply-made units. Durability also covers the scratch resistance of the plates, since the non-stick coating loses its effectiveness once it is damaged.
Size – The cooking surface should be sufficient for your intended use. There are presses that are small and compact enough for two people, and larger ones that accommodate up to nine servings for large gatherings. Smaller units will be easier to store.
Plates – Plates can be removable or non-removable. Some prefer the former as it makes for easy cleaning and can be switched to make other food items, while others prefer the non-removable version as they heat up faster. If they are non-removable, ridges on the grill plates should not be too deep as it will be difficult to clean.
Even cooking – A good press should have even heat distribution throughout the plates. With many models on the market, the centre tends to get very hot while leaving the edges cold, or one plate gets hotter than the other, resulting in a burnt crust but raw middle.
Floating Hinge – A floating hinge is used to allow the press to hover over the sandwich for even pressing. Look for models with a locking mechanism to avoid the full weight of the top plate from squishing your food into a pulp.
Temperature control – Some cheaper models do not come with temperature controls and work on a preset temperature. This means that you will not be able to change it to fit your recipe, and you’ll have to keep an eye on the food to avoid burning. The good ones, on the other hand, have individual controls that let you set the heat from low, medium and high, or to a specific temperature.
Safety – Many manufacturers of grills and panini presses have done away with the on-off switch. Instead, the units work by directly plugging into a power source. This can be a hassle and a safety hazard, since users will have to remember to unplug it every time. If you’re worried about accidentally leaving it on, it is best to get one with a power on and off switch.
Design – Clamshell, sloping designs are popular because they allow grease to drain away, thus giving you healthier, less greasy foods, but flat designs have their advantages, such as ones that open up flat for skillet-style cooking. The design should be stable and not top-heavy to prevent it from toppling over when pressure is applied. Additional features like cool-touch handles are also a bonus.
Material
The body of the grill and press is usually made of plastic or stainless steel. Most of the steel types feature a shiny finish for aesthetics. The non-stick plate coatings are either ceramic or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), both of which come with their pros and cons.
PTFE is the more common of the two. A well known brand of PTFE manufacturers is Teflon. They are more durable than ceramic and stand up well to use. However, when exposed to overly high temperatures, they will release toxic fumes that are harmful. The cap temperature is 500 degrees, but it might sometimes happen even at lower temperatures, especially if the materials are cheap. PTFE is toxic to birds, so if you have birds as pets you might consider getting ceramic plates instead. To be safe, cook on low to medium heat.
Ceramic is a newer material and comes in different styles and colours. They are free from toxic substances but tend to have a shorter life span. With advancements in technology, thicker coats can be made, to last longer.
Top 15 Best Grill and Panini Presses in 2022 – Chart
Good news if you’re always having friends and family over: the Cuisinart GR-300WS works wonders for parties and
get-togethers, thanks to its large surface area which allows for more food to be cooked. Aside from making beautifully-pressed paninis, the multi-purpose device also doubles as a cooking station for grilling or searing food, from pork chops and steaks to sandwiches, bacon strips and more. Its two non-stick plates are removable and can be reversed for different cooking options. One side is ridged to cater to items like paninis and hamburgers, while the other is flat and can be used for pancakes. There are a total of six ‘modes’, namely contact grill, Panini press, full grill, full griddle, half-grill/half-griddle and top melt – making the GR-300WS a versatile device for every occasion.
Design
Measuring 14.65 x 16.22 x 8.11 inches and weighing over 16 lbs, the GR-300WS is larger and heavier than most grill and panini press models. However, the bulk is still manageable and it should fit nicely on most kitchen countertops. Since the hinges open all the way out, the device can be laid flat for a total cooking area of 240 square inches: enough to fit six large hamburger patties or up to 12 small pancakes. If you choose to use it in a ‘closed’ position, there is an adjustable sliding knob at the top which sets the distance between the two plates and locks it in place, so that food will not be squashed to a messy pulp. This feature is also handy for applications such as melting the upper layer of cheese on sandwiches. The only downside is that in this position, grease from the top plate falls easily onto the surroundings when you open the grill.
Appearance-wise, the grill has a sleek and modern appeal that goes well with contemporary kitchens. It also comes with a handle that acts as a supporting leg when opened up.
Material
Housed in a stainless steel body, the GR-300WS is sturdily constructed with a beautiful, elegant finish that is smooth and shiny. The plates, on the other hand, are typical polytetrafluoroethylene, common with most non-stick cooking utensils. For maximum efficiency and long-lasting use, care should be taken not to scratch the coating on the plates.
Settings
Impress visitors with a perfectly seared steak by making use of the grill’s Upper Sear and Lower Sear buttons. If you’re prepping for a party, leave the food cooking for up to 60 minutes while you get other things done with the timer option.
A useful feature of the GR-300WS is its dual zone temperature control, whereby the top and bottom plate’s temperature can be individually adjusted from as low as 200 all the way up to 500 Degrees Farenheit, by tweaking two knobs on the control panel. Performance varies as some users have reported a temperature difference between top and bottom, even after adjustments, resulting in unevenly cooked food.
Additional Features
Cooking should not be a hassle, and the GR-300WS strives to make the process as efficient and as convenient as possible. For example, the heating elements are placed under the plates rather than in between them, so users can remove and clean the plates in the dishwasher. This setup ensures that food is cooked more thoroughly too. If you’re cooking greasy like bacon, rest assured that the removable drip tray underneath will collect the excess fat and grease.
There is a limited three year warranty against manufacturing defects, but shipping costs for replacements are borne by the buyer, which puts off many people from returning defective units.
Pros
Multi-functional with six different options
Sturdy and long-lasting
Large surface area allows more items to be cooked
Individual temperature adjustments
Non-stick removable plates
Timer
Removable drip tray for excess grease
Cons
In ‘closed’ positions, top plate tends to drip grease onto surroundings
Inconsistent temperature control between top and bottom plates
The George Foreman brand is known all over the world for its quality grills at affordable prices, and its GRP90WGR electric countertop grill is a good choice for indoor use. Small and portable, it comes with five removable plates for a variety of functions, be it grilling, baking or griddle cooking. There are two waffle plates for waffle-making, a standard grill plate, a steak plate for meat as well as a flat griddle for pancakes. It can also function as an oven for small items.
Design
The GRP90WGR’s vivid, glossy red colour is striking and reminiscent of outdoor barbecue grills. The brand’s signature is its clamshell design, which heats the top and bottom surfaces simultaneously for even cooking, without having to flip the food. The grill’s plate cooking area measures 11.5 x 8 inches, which fits around five burger patties or two waffles. Surfaces are grooved to reduce contact area, while the bottom angles down slightly to allow grease or fluids to drain down into a removable drip tray.
However, there are design flaws that manufacturers should look into. While four of the plates wipe off or wash easily, the top grill plate is exceptionally difficult to clean due to its deep ridges that run in multiple directions, causing much frustration and time wasted among users. Another point to note is the grill’s short power cord, which runs less than two feet, forcing users to have the unit very close to a power source.
Material
Many users were disappointed with the GRP90WGR’s construction and materials, as it feels flimsier when compared to the brand’s other models – especially the plates which do not fit snugly and tend to rattle. However, it does have its redeeming points. The plates’ non-stick coating is made of standard polytetrafluoroethylene, triple-coated for extra protection and scratch resistance. The generous handles stay cool to the touch even while cooking at high temperatures.
Settings
The GRP90WGR is controlled mainly by a temperature dial on the cover, which displays a numeric 1,2,3 to represent low, medium and high heat. While it is very simple to use, the drawback is that users can’t adjust it to a specific temperature. Warming up can be a little slow but so is the case with many other models.
Additional Features
The grilling plates are dishwasher safe. They can also be handwashed with soap and water, but as mentioned, the top grill plate is difficult to clean. A removable drip tray at the bottom makes cleaning up grease and fat convenient. Instead of a beeping timer, the GRP90WGR comes two indicator lights – red for cooking and green for done. However this function is redundant as users will have to keep checking back to see if the light has gone off.
Pros
Compact size but good for family cooking
Versatile
Removable non-stick plates
Handle stays cool even while cooking
Drip tray
Easy to use
Cons
Design of top grill plate makes it very difficult to clean
Whip an entire meal up in a jiffy with Cuisinart’s Griddler Gourmet, which comes with five functions in one unit, including contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle and half grill/half griddle options. Contact grill is suitable for everything from chicken and hamburgers to juicy steaks, sealing the juices inside whilst ensuring the food is cooked thoroughly. Full grill doubles the surface size by using the grill plates in an open position, and full griddle is perfect for cooking eggs, pancakes and bacon. Alternatively, cook different items side by side with the half-grill, half griddle setup. It takes up little space in the kitchen, but due to its limited size, is best used for two people or smaller groups.
Design
The Griddler Gourmet is portable and lightweight at just over 8lbs, with the plate measuring 8.5 x 11 inches. The device opens up flat to double the size of the cooking area, while the top handle acts as a supporting leg. However, since it lacks a locking mechanism for the top plate to ‘hover’, sandwich fillings are apt to spill out as the full weight of the top is applied. Its flatness also makes it difficult for liquid and oil to run down into the drip tray below.
A major downside of the design is the spring loaded clips that hold the plates in place. As the clips are made of plastic, there is a tendency to melt or chip off from the heat of the grill, rendering the top plate useless.
Material
Cuisinart’s range of grills and panini presses are mostly housed in a stainless steel body, and the Griddler Gourmet is no exception. Although construction is sturdy, heat distribution is poor as the grill’s outer surface gets hot while cooking. The removable plates are dishwasher safe and covered in a non-stick polytetrafluoroethylene coating.
Settings
One may be intimidated by the seemingly complicated knobs on the grill’s control panel, but the Gourmet is actually simple to use. The selector knob in the middle lets users choose either the grill or griddle function, while the left and right knobs are adjustable temperature controls. These two knobs are essentially the same although they have different labels, with one indicating set increments from 200 to 425 degrees Farenheit, and the other with warm, low, medium, high and sear options. The reason for the different labels is because recipes for griddle usually specify cooking temperatures in Degrees, while recipes for a panini press specify high, medium or low. Unlike our first Cuisinart recommendation on this list, the Griddler Gourmet does not come with dual temperature control.
Additional Features
There are red and green indicator lights to let you know when the Griddler is ready to cook. A beeper would have been more convenient, as the current setup means you have to keep checking the device to know if it is ready. There is a grease tray underneath to collect drippings but this falls short of performing due to the flat design of the grill.
Pros
Versatile, five-in-one
Removable dishwasher-safe plates
Compact and portable
Easy temperature controls
Cons
Flat design makes it difficult to trap grease in tray
Poor heat distribution causes exterior to heat up while cooking
Clips holding plate made of plastic, may melt or chip off
Looking for an inexpensive panini press that offers plenty of bang for your buck? Then go for the Breville. Great for
personal use or prepping quick, simple meals for a small family, it allows you to upgrade regular sandwiches into beautifully pressed and toasted paninis. You can also use the adjustable top to create golden melts on your open-topped sandwiches. Boasting 1,500-Watts of power, the press heats up quickly and cooks evenly. The top plate is ribbed to get that signature press on the sandwiches, while the bottom plate is a flat griddle that is hot enough even for cooking eggs and pancakes. You can even use it to cook meat or burger patties in a pinch, but this will require more thorough cleaning since it does not have a grease trap.
Design
The Breville is a compact unit designed to be a basic panini press, as the plates are non-removable or reversible. It measures 13 x 11.75 x 5.25 inches, but the cooking surface is limited to the size of the plate which is 7.5 x 11 inches – enough room for two sandwiches.
A floating hinge with adjustable sliding bar allows for four height settings, namely lock, open, toast and melt. Arrange the top plate in a variety of different positions above your panini to get different results. For example, use the device as an open toaster for open-style sandwich melts, or adjust the top plate horizontally for even grilling. You can even choose the pressure you want applied to your panini, whether compactly pressed or looser to accommodate thick artisan-style breads. The panini press weighs just 8lbs, making it easy to move around different parts of the kitchen. Its slab-like legs on the bottom are non-slip for added stability.
Material
The Breville sports a non-stick, scratch-resistant Quantanium cooking surface so even though the plates are non-removable, they are easy to wipe down and clean with a damp cloth, including the ribbed plate. The press has a brushed stainless-steel housing that feels sturdy and solidly constructed. All in all, the device holds up well and should last long even with frequent use, although the exterior does tend to heat up while cooking.
Settings
As the Breville is a basic panini press, it lacks controls such as temperature adjustment, timer or even an on-off button. To switch it on, simply plug the press into a socket and a green indicator will light up once the device has heated up. The lack of a safety on-off switch can be a hazard, so the device should be kept away from small children and users should remember to unplug it after each use.
Additional Features
The Breville comes with a one-year limited warranty for manufacturing defects, a locking storage clip that holds the handle in place for easy storage, as well as a user manual with recipes included.
Pros
Quick and easy use
Heats up fast
Stable, solid construction
Floating hinge to adjust height of top plate
Non-stick plates
Cons
Non-removable plates
No temperature controls
Lacks safety on-off switch, immediately powers up once plugged. Needs to be unplugged after use
Prepare restaurant quality meals to impress family, friends and guests with the Evolve, a four-in-one grill designed for maximum cooking versatility. It comes equipped with ceramic plates for grilling and panini pressing, a bake dish for baking, sauteing and griddling, as well as a muffin pan for making muffins, single-serve quiches, meatballs and more. The large grill unit has enough space for five servings, making it ideal for the whole family. We were impressed by the speed at which it preheated, thanks to efficient heating elements strategically placed underneath the plates, although there seems to be a quality control issue with some units as users have reported uneven heating where food is overcooked in the middle but undercooked at the sides.
Design
The Evolve carries the classic clam-shell design with a slight downward slope that has been patented by the George Foreman brand. It claims to remove up to 42 percent of fat during cooking by draining excess grease into a drip tray underneath. The device offers 75 inches of cooking surface – plenty of space for up to five burger patties on the grill and six muffins in the muffin tray. An adjustable one-inch hinge accommodates everything from thick-cut sandwiches to thin wraps, while the top plate can be tweaked to slope or lie horizontally via a knob on the back. Choose from a variety of colours such as red, black and platinum to match your kitchen decor.
Material
Instead of PFTE, the non-stick coating on the removable plates is made of ceramic, allowing users to skip excess butter and oil for a healthier cooking method. They are relatively easy to clean up with water and soap or rinsed in the dishwasher, but we noted that after prolonged use the coating seems to lose its effectiveness. Although the stainless steel body is tough and sturdy, the overall construction falls short of older, better quality George Foreman models that can last for years and years. The hinge for the top plate, especially, needs to be sturdier to ensure safety when opening and closing the grill.
Settings
Cook meals to exact recipe specifications with an easy-to-use digital control panel, which allows users to set cooking times and precise temperatures, from 325 up to 450 degrees Farenheit. There is also a special searing button that increases the temperature to 500 degrees for a 90-second burst, for deliciously juicy steaks and crusts. The timer beeps to indicate when the dish is ready, but the device still needs to be manually switched off.
Additional Features
Aside from a grease tray that catches fat and oil underneath, a nice feature on the Evolve is its cool-touch release handles, which make it easy to lift the plates out even if they are still warm. The Evolve comes with a limited three-year warranty. Also included is a cord for plugging, but this is quite short, which means that the grill has to be placed very close to a power source. For those who would like to use the grill for other applications such as making waffles and omelettes, there is an option to buy separate plates to fit into the machine.
A busy lifestyle should not deter you from making healthy and delicious meals, and the Cuisinart GR-1 is a decent option for those always on the go. Designed especially for sandwiches and paninis, its compact size is perfect for those who don’t have a large kitchen, such as those living in a studio apartment or couples renting a small condo. Used within its specifications, the press works as advertised. While it can be used to grill chicken breasts or the odd patty or two, we would not recommend it as the cooking surface is small and there are no temperature controls. Owing to its small size, it heats up quickly but rather unevenly, as we noticed the top browns food items quicker than the bottom.
Design
Looks wise, the GR-1 is a neat little unit to have in the kitchen, with an elegant black base paired with a shiny metal top embossed with the brand’s logo. The entire unit measures 14.5 x 6.5 x 12 inches, but the cooking surface is limited to one or two servings, as the plates measure just 11 x 7 inches. These are non-removable, so cleaning can only be done with a wet cloth. The device does not lie flat and tilts slightly for better grease run off at the bottom, but it lacks a drip tray so cleaning is still a hassle.
The top design is a hit and miss. While it has an adjustable floating hinge to accommodate different sandwich thickness and keep the upper plate parallel to the lower one, the top itself is quite light. Some users have resorted to periodically pressing down on the panini, which defeats the purpose of having a panini press. The base, on the other hand, needs to have a wider centre of gravity. The small rubber anti-slip circles on the four ‘legs’ do not provide enough traction which can cause the press to tip over if the user is not careful.
Material
The GR-1 has a quality brushed stainless-steel housing with aluminum sides. The non-stick PTFE coating is fairly thick and there are minimal issues with flaking over time.
Settings
One area that the GR-1 loses out to similarly-priced models is the limited controls. The temperature is preset to medium and there is no way to adjust it. Indicator lights tell you when the device is ready for use but there are no other buttons. Since there is no power switch, users need to remember to switch it off by unplugging the device.
Additional Features
As the GR-1 is a basic panini press, there are no additional features other than a limited three-year warranty. Also included are a recipe book and cleaning tool.
If you’re struggling to prepare a meal for a big party but can’t be bothered with complicated controls, the answer may just be the George Foreman’s GR2144P grill and panini press. It is basic but large, able to accommodate up to nine servings of food, and uses the brand’s signature heating elements for even heat and fast temperature recovery. The grill is best used for sandwiches, paninis, and hot dogs. Heat distribution is even on the entire plate, but take note that since there is no temperature control, you will have to keep an eye on the food, especially meat, to keep it from burning.
Design
The GR2144P is one of George Foreman’s largest indoor grills, with a lofty cooking space of 144 square inches. In spite of its hefty dimensions, which total 14.5 x 19 x 5.5 inches, the grill is quite lightweight at just under 8lbs. The patented slope design promotes healthier cooking by draining excess grease into a drip tray below. There is an adjustable floating hinge to manage the thickness of food being cooked. However, we feel that this can be further improved since it only floats apart by 1.5 to 2 inches, so thicker items like porterhouse steaks or artisan-style sandwiches will be squished. The lid stays open on its own if you prefer to do open-top grilling.
Material
From afar, the GR2144P looks like an expensive item but upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that most of its housing is plastic, which would explain its lightweight. The plates are non-removable with standard PTFE non-stick coating. It is fairly durable with no issues of flaking and can be wiped clean with paper towels or damp cloth. The drip tray, on the other hand, can be taken out and cleaned in the dishwasher.
Settings
For all its size, the GR2144P has limited controls. Temperatures are preset and it takes about five to 10 minutes for the plates to heat up to 440 degrees. Heating elements will cycle on and off during the cooking process to minimise overcooking. However, since there is no temperature control, items like meat will brown quickly on the outside while still being raw on the inside, which we feel is a major flaw of the GR2144P’s cooking mechanism. The unit lacks an on-off switch and works by plugging or unplugging into a power source.
Additional Features
An indicator light flashes when the grill is hot enough for grilling, but lacks a timer or signal to notify you that the food is done. There is a dishwasher-safe drip tray for added convenience.
Reversible cooking plates are popular due to their convenience and versatility, and you’ll find both in Cuisinart’s Grid-8NFR. The plates can be flipped to the grill side or the griddle side depending on your needs, for a total of five different ‘modes’: contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle and half-grill/half griddle. The grill side is perfect for items like steak, chicken and vegetables, while the griddle side provides flawless pancakes, bacon, eggs and even seared scallops. That being said, the Grid-8NFR is rather bulky and takes up a lot of room so it is best suited to larger kitchens. ‘Hot spots’, where parts of the plate are hotter than the other, is a common problem with many grills and panini presses, but the Grid-8NFR seems to have a fairly even temperature across the entire surface, which is worth the wait for it to warm up.
Design
This is a heavy grill that weighs 20lbs. At 17 x 13 x 10 inches, it offers plenty of room for cooking. In neutral mode, it has just enough tilt to separate the grease without having the food roll around. The device opens up flat for double the surface area and skillet-style cooking. Adjust the hinged floating cover to accommodate various thicknesses, and lock it in place to keep the full weight from bearing down onto your food. The design is such that the non-stick grills snap in and out easily, but will not rattle around while inside the machine. A clean, burnished exterior completes the look.
Material
Sporting flush but easily maneuverable hinges, the grill has a stylish brushed stainless-steel housing that provides a modern aesthetic to your kitchen. The exterior looks and feels solidly built, and the PTFE non-stick coating is equally durable. The plates are dishwasher safe, as is the drip tray. The cast-metal handle provides extra weight for a beautiful, perfect press.
Settings
The Grid-8NFR has three knobs on the base, similar to its counterpart, the Griddler Gourmet. The middle knob allows users to select the grill or griddle function, while left and right knobs are used for adjusting temperature. One indicates increments from 200 to 425 degrees Farenheit and the other has labels for warm, low, medium, high and sear options. The sear is especially useful for items like steak. Sadly, it does not come with a timer.
Additional Features
An integrated drip tray promotes healthier cooking by allowing grease to drain down from the grill. Also included with the unit are gourmet recipes and a cleaning scraper tool.
Variety is the spice of life, and this griddler offers plenty. The five-in-one countertop unit sports removable and
reversible plates. Contact grill is good for cooking meat in a fast and healthy way, while full grill turns the unit into a skillet. Flip the plates over to the flat side to make bacon and eggs, or enjoy a full-blown breakfast with the half-grill/half-griddle function. Last but not least, prepare a quick and easy breakfast by using it as a panini press for sandwiches.
Design
The GR-4N may be compact in size at 17 x 13 x 10 inches, but it offers up to 200 square inches of cooking surface, thanks to a hinge which allows users to open it up all the way. The press handle transforms into a ‘leg’ to support this feature. The GR-4N comes with an adjustable hinge to cater to everything from thinly sliced potatoes to thick sirloin steaks, with even results. Removing the plates for cleaning is as easy as popping them out with the release handles. However, due to its flatness, grease run off is not as efficient as slanted models and tends to pool at the bottom plate. The design can also be improved by making the sides higher as it tends to overflow.
Material
The GR-4N boasts solid construction, which includes a stylish stainless steel base and cover, as well as a sturdy, cast-metal handle. The overall build is stable, so even if considerable weight is applied while pressing, the unit should not topple over. Plates are made from die-cast aluminium with a coating of Xylan, which makes them non-stick and dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Settings
The GR-4N gives users more control with their cooking, as it comes with two temperature controls and a function selector at its base. These knobs are labeled clearly, with one optimised for griddle ranging from 200 up to 425 degrees Farenheit, and the other for grilling from warm to sear. We also liked the fact that the GR-4N has an added safety feature to power it off instead of directly unplugging from the socket.
Additional Features
Eliminate extra grease with with the integrated drip tray. Also included are gourmet recipes and a cleaning scraper tool. There is a limited three-year warranty on the item.
If you’re looking for a practical and large-sized panini press without burning a hole in your pocket, consider the Imusa. Its usage is limited since the plates only come in the flat griddle-style, but as a purpose built device it performs well, minus the aesthetic ‘grill’ marks on the top. The press is best used for cooking items such as paninis, quesadillas and tortillas, or to heat up food. You can try to grill meat but it should be thinly sliced, like chicken tenders. However, we would not recommend doing this often since it has no drip tray to collect the grease. Powered with 1,400W, the Imusa heats up within a few minutes and cooking time is short. The heat is distributed evenly throughout.
Design
At 16.65 x 4.92 x 14.76 inches, the Imusa is large enough to place up to four paninis. The cooking surface is 12 x 10 inches. There is an adjustable floating hinge that allows up to 2.5 inches of space between the plates, but since there is no tab or locking mechanism to make it ‘hover’ over the bread, the full weight of the top often ends up flattening sandwiches that have less filling or softer breads. Our biggest concern with the lack of a locking mechanism is safety. As the design is top heavy, a jolt on the table might cause the top plate to crash down while cooking. The rubber feet at the bottom do little for its stability and there is a tendency to tip over if the handle is pressed too hard.
Material
The Imusa has an attractive appearance with a shiny silver exterior made of polished stainless steel, although this needs to be maintained well to keep it free from stains and fingermarks. The non-stick PTFE surface is removable for easy cleaning in the dishwasher. A plus point is its cool touch handles which allow users to handle the plates right after cooking. Perhaps it is a quality control issue, but there seem to be many complaints about the press’s durability and construction, which many claim to have broken down after a couple of uses.
Settings
Like many modern presses, the Imusa lacks an on-off switch and works by directly plugging it into a power source. Be sure to wait for the green indicator light to turn off before unplugging, or don’t be surprised if you see sparks. Temperatures are preset to create crisp and toasty sandwiches, but the downside is that you can’t control the heat to cook different items.
Those looking for an affordable grill-cum-panini press will find the GR0103B up to the task. Great for small families
or when you have a guest or two over, it offers plenty of room for at least six servings of food. Use the non-removable plates to quickly grill burgers, chickens, vegetables, or paninis. A dual contact heating mechanism helps to speed up the cooking process to get food out onto the table in double time.
Design
Although it measures 14.76 x 14.76 x 6.69 inches, which is on par with some of the brand’s larger grill models, the GR0103B is deceptively light for its size and weighs just under 9lbs. Utilise the 103 square inches of grilling surface to prepare several servings all at once. The grill is shaped like a clamshell with rounded sides as opposed to having square sides, and the proprietary sloped surface helps to remove fat during cooking by up to 42%. Even though the plates are non-removable, they are easy to clean off with a paper towel or damp cloth. An all black design is stylish and matches other kitchen appliances and decor well. Unfortunately, the GR0103B takes up considerable space since it can only be stored flat rather than vertically.
Material
The reason for the grill’s light weight is its plastic body, which is durable but lacks the solidity of a stainless steel finish. It is still pretty tough and should last long with proper care and usage. The durable non-stick coating on the plates is made from PTFE. The only downside is the opening hinge that connects the top and bottom plates together. It feels flimsy as it is made of plastic and does not connect from end to end, so repeated use may wear down the material.
Settings
The GR0103B does not offer much by way of controls. Temperatures are preset to medium so some experimenting might be needed to achieve the desired results with your food. Similar to many modern units, it does not have an on-off switch and operates by plugging or unplugging. A blue power indicator turns on when it is connected to a power source, and shuts off after it’s preheated and ready to cook.
Additional Features
The grill comes with a dishwasher-safe grease tray to trap excess oil and liquids underneath. There is a three-year limited warranty on the device.
Grilling and toasting food such as meat, fish and sandwiches just got easier with the De’Longhi, a basic grill and panini press. The medium-sized unit is good for small families and has efficient heating elements that fire up the plates quickly and thoroughly for even cooking. Since the plates are non-removable, the device is best used within its grilling capacities.
Design
Taking design cues from the George Foreman models, the De’Longhi has a slightly tilted surface that slopes forward to allow grease to drain away into a separate cup, thus promoting healthier cooking and less oil used. The top has a height adjustable hinge to accommodate thick cut items, and the plate can either be angled tilting or horizontal. Measuring 14.1 x 14.8 x 6 inches, the De’Longhi offers a significant amount of cooking space which should comfortably fit at least two sandwiches. It is moderately heavy at 9lbs and sports a slick, reflective exterior that looks polished and expensive.
Material
You get what you pay for with the De’Longhi. The construction of its stainless steel body is average but should hold up to regular use. The non-stick grill plates are ceramic as opposed to PTFE. These are durable and can be cleaned with a damp cloth or paper towels. Handling the device once grilling or toasting is complete is a breeze, thanks to the cool-touch metal handle. This presses down well and does not tilt due to the grill’s stable base.
Settings
The De’Longhi lacks an on-off button, and is powered up and down by plugging it into a power source. However, it allows for customised grilling and toasting with the adjustable thermostat and easy-view temperature range window. The downside? The thermostat knob itself is poorly built and can become loose, especially after repeated use. For storage, there is a safety locking system that keeps the unit upright and prevents the top from popping open.
Additional Features
An indicator light flashes to ‘ready’ when the device is warm enough for cooking. Instead of a tray, the De’Longhi comes with a small black plastic cup for collecting excess grease, but due to its small size, the cup might be easily lost. It is also rather ineffective at performing its task, resulting in grease splatters in the surroundings whenever items like meat is cooked.
Pros
Height adjustable hinge
Plenty of cooking space
Temperature control
Cool-touch metal handle
Heats up quickly
Even temperature
Cons
Average build
Non-removable plates
Temperature control dial poorly made, comes loose easily
Another affordable option to consider for a basic 2-in-1 contact grill and panini press is the GRP1060P, a medium-sized unit that accommodates up to four servings. Prepare burgers and meat for the whole family, or add grilled vegetables for a healthy, well balanced meal. Embedded heating elements ensure faster heat-up times by up to 35% compared to previous models. However, the temperature does not go as high as fixed-plate models.
Design
Measuring 12.28 x 6.5 x 13.27, the GRP 1060P offers a moderate cooking space of 60 square inches. Moving it around to different parts of the kitchen is no hassle as it only weighs 6.25lbs and it has the added benefit of removable plates for easy cleaning and maintenance. The grill bears the signature slope design. The angle is rather steep so food can slide down the plate, but this can be remedied by placing stoppers underneath. To make paninis, there is a one-inch adjustable hinge that allows the top plate to lie horizontally over the food. The platinum body is more a glossy white than silver but looks stylish and modern all the same.
Material
The GRP1060P has a plastic body and a tough non-stick coating that claims to be two times more durable than previous models. The dishes are dishwasher safe and can be removed with cool touch release handles right after cooking. While the outer construction seems fairly sturdy, there might be issues with the quality of its inner components. As this is an electric device, once it short circuits, the entire grill will be unusable.
Settings
Controls are limited, with a basic light indicator that tells when the device is ready for use. Switching it on and off requires plugging and unplugging from a power source.
Additional Features
A long and narrow drip tray sits at the front of the grill to collect grease from the bottom plate. The tray is dishwasher friendly too. There is a limited three-year warranty on the grill.
Enjoy delectable deli-style paninis all year round with the Proctor Silex, a moderate-sized panini press that is convenient and easy to use. It elevates your regular, cold ham and cheese sandwiches to the next level, complete with gooey melted cheese, toasty crust and appetising grill marks. Usage is straightforward as the plates are non-removable. It has enough cooking space to fit four medium-sized paninis, although this will be a tight fit. Using it to grill vegetables or meat is not recommended since it lacks a dripping tray and is not slanted to allow grease to run off.
Design
The Proctor Silex has an average build of 14.02 x 11.73 x 4.88 inches, with a cooking surface of 12 x 8.5 inches. Designed with space efficiency in mind, it comes with a locking mechanism for upright storage. The angle of the floating lid is adjustable and lies horizontally to accommodate paninis of any thickness, be it single slice ham or hefty artisan-style gourmet sandwiches. The lid can also be locked in place to make open-faced sandwiches. However,
cleaning can be inconvenient due to the plates’ deep ridges and the flatness of the design. Since there is no place for grease to run-off, the plates tend to accumulate gunk. They are non-removable so reaching for the cracks can be difficult.
Material
The shiny body suggests metal construction, but it is actually plastic and very lightweight at 6lbs. As such, it is not as sturdy as stainless steel models. The non-stick coating is made of PTFE.
Settings
This is a basic unit with limited controls. Temperatures are non-adjustable and the device is switched on by plugging it directly into a power source.
Additional Features
Indicator lights signal power and preheating modes.
Best for personal use, the Hamilton Beach is a compact, single or double serve panini press that does the job of up-leveling your sandwiches from cold to toasty. Heat distribution is not the best as it is hotter in the centre. Since the plates are non-removable and there is no grease tray, its usage is limited , but its small size means easy storage and it comes at a very affordable price.
Design
The Hamilton Beach offers a small cooking surface from its 10 x 8 inch plates, but the upside is the floating lid which evenly presses sandwiches of any thickness. A nice touch is the locking hinge which allows the lid to hover over items like pizza toppings and melt them without coming into contact. Anything greasy should be avoided, as the plates are non-removable and difficult to clean. The lock keeps everything in place for upright storage.
Material
The unit is made from plastic, but features a metal-like top for aesthetics. The plates are standard PTFE. Overall, construction does not feel very durable but expected of its cheap price.
Settings
There are no temperature controls on the Hamilton Beach, but indicator power and preheat lights will help you keep track of its progress. Additional Features
have to go through a long wait for the oven to heat just to bake a few tiny items: simply pop them into the grill and press for a hot and toasty meal to go.
have to go through a long wait for the oven to heat just to bake a few tiny items: simply pop them into the grill and press for a hot and toasty meal to go.
work by directly plugging into a power source. This can be a hassle and a safety hazard, since users will have to remember to unplug it every time. If you’re worried about accidentally leaving it on, it is best to get one with a power on and off switch.
electric countertop grill is a good choice for indoor use. Small and portable, it comes with five removable plates for a variety of functions, be it grilling, baking or griddle cooking. There are two waffle plates for waffle-making, a standard grill plate, a steak plate for meat as well as a flat griddle for pancakes. It can also function as an oven for small items.
including contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle and half grill/half griddle options. Contact grill is suitable for everything from chicken and hamburgers to juicy steaks, sealing the juices inside whilst ensuring the food is cooked thoroughly. Full grill doubles the surface size by using the grill plates in an open position, and full griddle is perfect for cooking eggs, pancakes and bacon. Alternatively, cook different items side by side with the half-grill, half griddle setup. It takes up little space in the kitchen, but due to its limited size, is best used for two people or smaller groups.
for maximum cooking versatility. It comes equipped with ceramic plates for grilling and panini pressing, a bake dish for baking, sauteing and griddling, as well as a muffin pan for making muffins, single-serve quiches, meatballs and more. The large grill unit has enough space for five servings, making it ideal for the whole family. We were impressed by the speed at which it preheated, thanks to efficient heating elements strategically placed underneath the plates, although there seems to be a quality control issue with some units as users have reported uneven heating where food is overcooked in the middle but undercooked at the sides.
option for those always on the go. Designed especially for sandwiches and paninis, its compact size is perfect for those who don’t have a large kitchen, such as those living in a studio apartment or couples renting a small condo. Used within its specifications, the press works as advertised. While it can be used to grill chicken breasts or the odd patty or two, we would not recommend it as the cooking surface is small and there are no temperature controls. Owing to its small size, it heats up quickly but rather unevenly, as we noticed the top browns food items quicker than the bottom.
just be the George Foreman’s GR2144P grill and panini press. It is basic but large, able to accommodate up to nine servings of food, and uses the brand’s signature heating elements for even heat and fast temperature recovery. The grill is best used for sandwiches, paninis, and hot dogs. Heat distribution is even on the entire plate, but take note that since there is no temperature control, you will have to keep an eye on the food, especially meat, to keep it from burning.
Grid-8NFR. The plates can be flipped to the grill side or the griddle side depending on your needs, for a total of five different ‘modes’: contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle and half-grill/half griddle. The grill side is perfect for items like steak, chicken and vegetables, while the griddle side provides flawless pancakes, bacon, eggs and even seared scallops. That being said, the Grid-8NFR is rather bulky and takes up a lot of room so it is best suited to larger kitchens. ‘Hot spots’, where parts of the plate are hotter than the other, is a common problem with many grills and panini presses, but the Grid-8NFR seems to have a fairly even temperature across the entire surface, which is worth the wait for it to warm up.
Imusa. Its usage is limited since the plates only come in the flat griddle-style, but as a purpose built device it performs well, minus the aesthetic ‘grill’ marks on the top. The press is best used for cooking items such as paninis, quesadillas and tortillas, or to heat up food. You can try to grill meat but it should be thinly sliced, like chicken tenders. However, we would not recommend doing this often since it has no drip tray to collect the grease. Powered with 1,400W, the Imusa heats up within a few minutes and cooking time is short. The heat is distributed evenly throughout.
panini press. The medium-sized unit is good for small families and has efficient heating elements that fire up the plates quickly and thoroughly for even cooking. Since the plates are non-removable, the device is best used within its grilling capacities.
sized unit that accommodates up to four servings. Prepare burgers and meat for the whole family, or add grilled vegetables for a healthy, well balanced meal. Embedded heating elements ensure faster heat-up times by up to 35% compared to previous models. However, the temperature does not go as high as fixed-plate models.
convenient and easy to use. It elevates your regular, cold ham and cheese sandwiches to the next level, complete with gooey melted cheese, toasty crust and appetising grill marks. Usage is straightforward as the plates are non-removable. It has enough cooking space to fit four medium-sized paninis, although this will be a tight fit. Using it to grill vegetables or meat is not recommended since it lacks a dripping tray and is not slanted to allow grease to run off.
leveling your sandwiches from cold to toasty. Heat distribution is not the best as it is hotter in the centre. Since the plates are non-removable and there is no grease tray, its usage is limited , but its small size means easy storage and it comes at a very affordable price.
