Panini presses vs. electric grills: Which one’s right for you?

With today’s busy lifestyles, many home cooks prefer kitchen gadgets that make preparing snacks and meals a snap. Both panini presses and electric grills fit this criteria and are perfect for preparing hot sandwiches, vegetables, steaks, fish and more. However, it’s important to understand their similarities and differences before you buy. 

Panini presses are available in manual and electric models and are designed to cook both sides of food. Electric grills are often referred to as indoor grills and may feature an open or contact design. Contact electric grills work similarly to panini presses. In fact, both appliance names are frequently used interchangeably. 

Panini press

Both electric and manual panini presses get their name from cooking by pressing a heat source on both sides of the food. Electric panini presses are the most popular type. They feature a top and bottom with cooking plates that heat up and cook food. Once the cooking surfaces are hot and food is placed on the bottom plate, the hinged top is pressed down to cook the food in minutes. 

While some models have standard hinges, others have floating hinges that make it possible to open the lid completely and accommodate thick foods. Manual presses have a simple design that’s made to be paired with a heat source such as an outdoor grill. After being heated, the press is used to apply heat to the top of food while the main heat source cooks the bottom side. 

Electric panini presses are available in various sizes. Quality manual models are made of cast iron that retains heat and cooks evenly. Well-made manual presses cost between $20 and $40. Electric panini presses range in price from $25-$130. Those on the lower end of the price spectrum are smaller and have limited controls. Models that have large cooking surfaces and variable heat controls typically cost more. 

Panini press pros

• Whether you’re cooking for one or for a large household, there’s a panini press available that will match your cooking style.
• If you choose a press with a floating hinge, you’ll be able to cook thick sandwiches in minutes. 
• Some panini presses have removable cooking plates, which simplifies cleanup. 
• Compact panini presses are easy to stash in a cabinet for storage. 

Panini press cons

• Panini presses that don’t have variable temperature controls may undercook or burn some types of foods. 
• Manual models are limited and require a primary heat source. 
• Presses with fixed plates are challenging to clean. 
• Large models can be awkward to maneuver and store. 

Best panini presses

Cuisinart Griddler

This versatile press is packed with features including dual temperature controls, a spacious cooking surface, floating hinge and nonstick plates. It can be used in the open or closed position, which makes it useful for preparing a wide range of foods and snacks. 

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Hamilton Beach Electric Panini Press

Although fairly basic, this panini press cooks to perfection thanks to the floating hinge and nonstick cooking plates. It’s also an affordable choice that makes it a good option for beginners or occasional use. 

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Ovente Electric Panini Press Grill

Budget-minded shoppers will love this model's price and performance. It warms up quickly and cooks evenly for excellent results. The floating hinge allows the nonstick cooking plates to accommodate thick sandwiches. 

Sold by Amazon and Macy’s

Electric grill

Also called indoor grills, electric grills come in three main varieties: flat, flat with a lid and contact. Flat models are also called open grills and work similarly to outdoor grills. While many don’t include a lid, some flat grills come with a cover that locks in heat and steam while cooking. Contact electric grills are similar to panini presses, as they feature a hinged top that closes over food so both sides can cook at the same time. Grilling enthusiasts often prefer a flat model that cooks much like their backyard barbecue grill. 

Indoor grills with a few features cost between $20 and $100. Just like panini presses, small models with few features are the most affordable. Feature-packed electric grills and those with a large cooking surface cost as much as $300 or more.

Electric grill pros

• Contact electric grills may have convenient features that are similar to panini presses, including variable temperature controls and removable cooking plates. 
• They’re great for barbecue lovers who want to keep grilling when the weather turns cold and inclement.  
• Electric models heat quickly and cook thoroughly. 
• The cooking plates are made to resemble those of outdoor grills for authentic results. 

Electric grill cons

• Some models are bulky and take up a lot of space. 
• It takes longer to cook food on flat electric grills. They're also limited when it comes to making hot sandwiches. 
• Electric grills don’t get as hot as outdoor grills, which may be a deal-breaker for some grillers. 
• High-end models with lots of features come with a learning curve. 

Best electric grills

Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill

In addition to preparing large portions, you can cook in multiple ways with this roomy grill that also works as an air fryer, oven, roaster, dehydrator and broiler. The control panel features smart settings for precise results. 

Sold by Amazon and Macy’s

T-fal OptiGrill

With 1,800 watts of power, this grill is praised for cooking quickly and evenly. Nine cook settings take the guesswork out of preparing some of your favorite dishes. 

Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Macy’s

George Foreman Electric Indoor/Outdoor Grill

The design and large cooking surface of this electric grill make it perfect for preparing food for multiple people. It boasts convenient features including adjustable temperature controls, a durable lid and a removable stand. 

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Should you get a panini press or electric grill?

Because panini presses and electric grills can be used to prepare similar types of foods, either one will suffice if you plan to use your new appliance for preparing a variety of main dishes and snacks. However, if making hot sandwiches is your goal, a panini press is your best choice. Opt for an indoor grill with a flat, open surface if you want results that are more like cooking on an outdoor grill. 

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Jennifer Manfrin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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