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An electric grill lets you cook steaks, fish, vegetables, paninis and sandwiches without having to set up a traditional barbecue. But some purchases quickly disappoint: an appliance that's too small for the whole family, a temperature that's difficult to control, or cleaning that's more laborious than expected.
Before comparing an electric plancha, a contact grill or an electric barbecue, it's worth focusing on the features that really matter, rather than just the marketing promises.
A power rating of 2,000 or 2,200 W will generally get the appliance up to temperature quickly, but it doesn't tell you how much food you can cook at once. A compact contact grill can have a high wattage while offering a fairly small cooking surface.
For two people, a plate of around 28 × 22 cm may be sufficient. For a family or meals with several people, a surface of 47 × 37 cm, 50 × 25 cm or larger will be far more comfortable. A large plate avoids having to cook in batches, but it also takes up more space on your worktop and in your cupboards.
Without a removable drip tray, juices and fats can build up on the plate or spill onto your worktop. Check that the tray is removable and easy to access, especially if you regularly cook meat or marinated foods.
A tilted plate or one with grooves helps the fat to drain away. That doesn't mean you can ignore checking the tray level during cooking or emptying it once the appliance has cooled down.
A non-stick plate makes it easier to remove food and can reduce the need for added fat. However, it does require a little care. Metal utensils, abrasive sponges and harsh cleaning products can scratch the coating.
Choose models where the plates or drip tray are dishwasher-safe, when this is clearly stated. The motor unit, power cord and removable thermostat must never be submerged.
A closed contact grill heats both sides at the same time. It's particularly good for thin steaks, croque-monsieur, sandwiches and paninis. A model that opens flat to 180° turns into a larger cooking surface, which is handy for vegetables, seafood or several pieces at once.
An electric plancha with an open plate generally offers a more even surface for cooking eggs, fish, vegetables and other delicate items. Mixed plates, with one smooth side and one ridged side, let you vary your cooking without needing multiple appliances.
An adjustable thermostat is far more versatile than a simple on/off switch. Moderate temperatures are ideal for vegetables and delicate foods, while higher settings suit meats that need to be seared quickly.
Models with two independent thermostats let you control each plate separately. This feature can be invaluable for cooking different foods at the same time, but it often makes the appliance heavier and bulkier.
The claim indoor and outdoor grill must be confirmed in the manufacturer's instructions. An appliance designed for indoor use should not be used in the rain or in a damp environment. Even an electric barbecue intended for the patio must be placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from any flammable materials.
In the UK, choose an appliance that comes with clear safety instructions, a voltage compatible with your home supply, and precise cleaning guidance. Hot parts must be kept out of reach of children.
Why this choice suits this profile: This 2,000 W contact grill offers an easy-to-use format for everyday meals, with a 295 × 245 mm cooking surface and a 180° opening.
The adjustable thermostat means you're not stuck with a simple on/off switch. The drip tray and non-stick plates also make cleaning easier.
2,000 W power, cool-touch handle, 180° opening and die-cast aluminium plates with non-stick coating.
Why this choice suits this profile: This multifunction grill is designed for households that want to switch between closed grilling, open grilling and oven-style cooking, with more precise control.
Its two independent thermostats and temperature probe allow for more precise settings than a single control.
2,200 W power, searing function up to 265 °C, three programmes and dishwasher-safe plates according to the product sheet.
Why this choice suits this profile: Its 100 × 23 cm plate is designed for large gatherings, family meals and simultaneous cooking across a long surface.
Its very large surface reduces the need for multiple batches. The removable thermostat and drip tray also make cleaning easier.
1,800 W power, capacity for up to 10 people, five temperature levels and cool-touch handles.
We've put together a comprehensive, real-time updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.
Yes, but only if the instructions say it's suitable. Place it out of the rain and damp, on a stable surface, and use an appropriate socket. An appliance designed exclusively for indoor use must not be placed on an exposed patio.
Between 1,000 and 1,500 W, an appliance is mainly suitable for sandwiches, paninis and small portions. For faster family cooking, models with 1,800 to 2,200 W have a greater heat reserve. However, this power must be considered alongside the cooking surface and available ventilation.
The cost depends on the appliance's power and how long it's used. A 2,000 W model used for 30 minutes theoretically consumes 1 kWh, before accounting for heating cycles. To keep your bills down, preheat the appliance according to the instructions, avoid opening the lid unnecessarily and unplug it as soon as cooking is finished.