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A contact grill can prepare steaks, fish, vegetables, paninis and sandwiches with very little preparation. However, a long list of features does not always mean you have found the right appliance. It is common to buy a model that promises plenty of versatility but is difficult to clean, offers too little space or lacks sufficient temperature control in everyday use.
This guide explains what households, families, working people and barbecue enthusiasts should look for when buying one.
A high wattage generally speeds up heating, but on its own it says little about how well the appliance will perform in practice. The size of the grilling surface, heat distribution and the ability to set the temperature appropriately for the food are also important.
An 800 W sandwich maker may be sufficient for toasties. For several portions of meat or vegetables, a larger surface and more stable temperature control are usually more important than the highest possible power rating.
A non-stick grill plate can help reduce food sticking to the surface. For cleaning, however, it is crucial whether the plates can be removed and whether the product information states that they are dishwasher-safe. The housing itself must never be immersed in water, as is generally the case with electrical appliances.
A drip tray is also useful. It can collect dripping fat and liquid, making it easier to clean the worktop.
Depending on its design, a 3-in-1 contact grill can be used as a contact grill, table grill or panini grill. However, when the appliance is opened out, the usable surface is not always doubled. Before buying, you should therefore check the actual plate dimensions and the amount of space available in your kitchen.
Compact plates are often sufficient for one or two people. Families should look for a larger surface so that several foods can be prepared at the same time. An opening table grill is a good choice if you want to grill at the table or cook for several people.
You should also check:
Variable or multi-level temperature control gives you more control than a fixed heating temperature. Meat, fish, vegetables and sandwiches all have different heat requirements. Some appliances have separate thermostats for the upper and lower plates.
Automatic programmes, such as those on the Tefal OptiGrill, can make operation easier. Even so, you should continue to monitor the thickness of the food, cooking time and desired consistency. A timer or display does not replace safe handling of hot surfaces.
Look for clearly specified materials such as aluminium, stainless steel or cast iron, as well as details of the coating used. Removable plates are generally more practical for everyday use than permanently fitted grilling surfaces. Statements such as ‘dishwasher-safe’ should explicitly refer to the plates and drip tray.
Do not use metal utensils on delicate coatings. After use, the appliance should be allowed to cool completely before removing the plates or drip tray.
Why this product suits this profile: This model delivers 1600 W of power, a 30 × 17 cm grilling surface and three positions: closed, opened out or as a table grill. This makes it suitable for sandwiches, paninis and smaller everyday portions.
The removable, dishwasher-safe grill plates and drip tray reduce the effort required for cleaning. The fixed temperature of around 200 °C should be considered a limitation before buying.
Compact design, three operating positions, 1600 W of power and removable grill plates.
Why this product suits this profile: This appliance offers 2100 W of power, nine automatic programmes, a cooking progress indicator and the option to use it as a contact grill or indoor grill.
The programmes and automatic detection of food thickness help avoid the problem of imprecise fixed-temperature cooking. The app functions are additional features and are not necessary for every type of use.
Automatic programmes, removable dishwasher-safe plates and 2-in-1 functionality.
Why this product suits this profile: Two independently adjustable digital thermostats, a 180-degree opening and a plate surface measuring 29 × 23 cm provide flexibility for different foods and quantities.
Separate temperature controls prevent the upper and lower surfaces from having to operate at the same heat level. The plates are removable and, according to the product information, dishwasher-safe.
Digital dual thermostats, height-adjustable upper plate and flat operation as a table grill.
Why this product suits this profile: This appliance combines natural stone and a ceramic-coated grill plate with eight individual pans. It is designed for cooking together at the table and for larger groups.
The eight pans and variable temperature setting are clearly designed for several people. However, at 49 × 25 cm, this appliance is wider than a compact contact grill.
Eight coated pans, natural stone surface, variable temperature control and keep-warm area.
We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.
An electric grill requires a suitable, earthed socket with the voltage specified on the rating plate. Appliances rated at 2,000 W theoretically use 2 kWh when operated for one hour. The actual cost depends on the heating time, duration of use and your electricity tariff.
Place the grill on a stable, heat-resistant surface and keep it away from curtains, paper and other flammable materials. The grill plates remain hot after the appliance has been switched off. Allow it to cool completely before cleaning or storing it.
Suitable foods include paninis, sandwiches, toasties, burgers, poultry, fish and vegetables. For thick foods, an adjustable lid height and sufficiently large plates are useful. The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of the food, its starting temperature and the temperature selected.
Its lifespan depends on how frequently it is used, how it is cleaned and how the coating is treated. Removable plates can make maintenance easier. Use suitable kitchen utensils, avoid abrasive cleaning products and store the appliance in a dry place once it has cooled completely.
A direct comparison is only possible under the same conditions. A contact grill heats a smaller surface and may have a shorter heating time for individual portions. For several large portions, the advantage may be smaller. The key factors are the power rating, operating time and your electricity tariff.