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Buyers Guide: Choosing a Contact Grill

The craving for juicy grilled steak, crispy paninis, or aromatic vegetables lasts all year round—regardless of whether you have a garden or balcony. A contact grill offers a practical solution for your kitchen. It enables fast, hassle-free cooking and, thanks to its design, supports low-fat grilling.

This article serves as a guide. It explains which features to look for when making your selection and presents a range of models for different needs to help make your purchasing decision easier.

What to Look for When Choosing a Contact Grill

Choosing the right appliance depends on your individual cooking habits and needs. Three key aspects will help guide your decision.

1. Power and Temperature Control

The power, measured in watts, is an indicator of how quickly the grill heats up and how consistently it can maintain high temperatures. For searing steaks to create a caramelised crust, models with 2000 watts or more are recommended. An adjustable thermostat also allows you to precisely tailor the heat to the food being grilled—from gentle cooking for vegetables to the high heat required for a steak grill.

2. Grill Plates: Material and Cleaning

The grill plates are the heart of any contact grill. Models with non-stick plates made of cast iron or die-cast aluminium ensure excellent heat distribution and prevent food from sticking. A crucial factor for everyday convenience is cleaning. A contact grill with removable plates that are also dishwasher-safe significantly reduces cleaning effort.

3. Design and Versatility

Modern contact grills are often more than just an indoor electric grill. Many devices can be opened up completely flat, doubling the grilling surface to function as a tabletop grill. A floating top plate (often referred to as a "floating hinge") adjusts to the thickness of the food, which is ideal for filled sandwiches or for use as a panini maker. Pay attention to the size of the grilling surface to ensure it is sufficient for the number of people in your household.

Our Top Contact Grills

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of appliances that cater to different priorities.

Tefal SuperGrill 2000 Watt

Tefal SuperGrill 2000 Watt

Why This Model Stands Out The Tefal SuperGrill combines a solid 2000-watt performance with thoughtful features. Its adjustable thermostat offers four settings for different types of food. The device is particularly versatile thanks to its two cooking positions: as a classic contact grill or opened flat as a large tabletop grill (plancha position).

Advantages

  • Precise Temperature Control: The 4-setting thermostat allows for customised grilling results.
  • Versatile Use: Can be used as a contact grill and as a 180° tabletop grill.
  • Easy Cleaning: The non-stick, die-cast aluminium plates are removable and dishwasher-safe.
  • Efficient Fat Drainage: The plates are slightly sloped, allowing excess fat to flow directly into the drip tray.

Who is this device for? This model is an excellent choice for users looking for a versatile, all-round appliance for regular use who value easy cleaning and precise temperature settings for a wide variety of foods.

SK - 223 Household Steak Grilling Machine

SK - 223 Household Steak Grilling Machine

Why This Model Stands Out The SK-223 is designed as a compact and multifunctional indoor grill. With its 750-watt power output, it is particularly well-suited for use as a panini maker and sandwich maker. The floating top plate automatically adjusts to the thickness of sandwiches or smaller cuts of meat, ensuring even pressure.

Advantages

  • Compact Design: The appliance is space-saving and can be stored vertically.
  • Double-Sided Heating: Simultaneous cooking from the top and bottom shortens preparation time.
  • Specialised for Sandwiches: The flexible hinge design is ideal for paninis and toasties.
  • Easy Operation: An indicator light shows when the operating temperature has been reached.

Who is this device for? Ideal for individuals, couples, or households with limited kitchen space. Anyone primarily looking for a device for quick meals like grilled sandwiches, paninis, or smaller portions will find this a practical solution.

Braun MultiGrill 9 Pro CG9160

Braun MultiGrill 9 Pro CG9160

Why This Model Stands Out The Braun MultiGrill 9 Pro is aimed at discerning users. With a high power output of 2200 watts and a selectable Boost function that heats the plates up to 265°C, it is designed for searing steaks. A standout feature is the ability to control the temperature of the top and bottom plates independently. An included food probe helps to achieve the perfect level of doneness.

Advantages

  • High Power with Boost Function: Ideal for creating an intense crust (searing) on steaks.
  • Separate Temperature Control: Maximum control thanks to individually adjustable plates.
  • Integrated Food Probe: Allows for cooking to perfection.
  • Three Grilling Positions: Can be used as a contact grill, an open BBQ grill, or in an oven mode with the top plate raised.

Who is this device for? This appliance is designed for home cooks and grilling enthusiasts who value maximum power, precise control, and professional results, especially when preparing high-quality meat.

Discover More Options

The models presented cover a broad spectrum. If you haven't found the right appliance for your specific needs, you can find more alternatives.

Discover a wider selection of appliances in our Indoor Grills category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How does low-fat grilling work with a contact grill? Most contact grills feature slightly sloped grill plates. During the grilling process, excess fat from meat or fish melts, runs down through the grooves in the plates, and collects in a designated drip tray. This prevents the food from cooking in its own fat.

2. Can a contact grill also be used as a sandwich maker? Yes, a contact grill is very well-suited for use as a sandwich maker or for preparing paninis. Models with a floating top plate ("floating hinge") are particularly practical for this, as they adjust to the thickness of the sandwich and brown it evenly without crushing it.

3. What is the advantage of removable grill plates? The key advantage is significantly easier cleaning. Fixed plates must be cleaned on the appliance itself, which can be cumbersome. Removable plates can be easily taken out and cleaned separately under running water or, if specified by the manufacturer, in the dishwasher.