10 Best Compact Panini Presses 2025 in the United States

The Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler (GR-4NP1), is a versatile 5-in-1 appliance that serves as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and a combination grill/griddle. It boasts a substantial cooking surface of 11 x 9 inches, which is excellent for preparing multiple items simultaneously. The plates are removable, reversible, and non-stick, making them easy to clean, especially since they are dishwasher safe.

The integrated drip tray and dishwasher-safe scraping tool further enhance its ease of cleaning. The floating hinge and adjustable temperature controls allow you to cook a variety of foods with precision and ease. The red/green indicator lights simplify operation, making it user-friendly even for those who are not tech-savvy.

One downside might be its size and weight; at 11.44 pounds and dimensions of 13.5 x 11.5 x 7.12 inches, it may take up significant counter space and can be cumbersome to move around. Additionally, while it offers custom control and versatility, some users might find the array of functions overwhelming initially. Heating up also takes a bit of time compared to other more compact models. Given its features and performance, this panini press is ideal for those who enjoy cooking a variety of foods and appreciate easy maintenance. The three-year limited warranty and BPA-free material are added bonuses for safety and quality assurance.

The Waring Commercial WPG150 Compact Panini Grill is a robust and versatile kitchen appliance suitable for making a variety of grilled sandwiches, hamburgers, and more. Its compact size (15.5 x 11.5 x 9.25 inches) is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. The grill features ribbed cast-iron plates, which ensure even heat distribution and quick cooking times, making it efficient for busy environments. The adjustable temperature control is a significant advantage, allowing you to manage cooking temperatures for different food items effectively.

Additionally, the power ON and ready indicator lights, along with heat-resistant handles, enhance user safety and convenience. The removable drip tray simplifies the cleaning process, which is a crucial aspect for regular use. However, the grill's weight of 45.28 pounds makes it less portable and might be cumbersome for some users to handle. Another potential drawback is the lack of non-stick plates, which can make cleaning more challenging and might require extra effort to maintain.

The absence of a floating hinge could limit the grill's ability to evenly press sandwiches of varying thicknesses. Despite these points, those who prioritize durability and performance, especially in a commercial setting, will find the Waring WPG150 to be a reliable choice. Its certifications (UL and NSF) further assure its quality and safety standards.

The Cuisinart GR-11 Griddler is more than just a compact panini press; it doubles as a grill and griddle, offering a versatile cooking surface that opens flat to give you twice the space. This makes it great if you want to cook larger meals like burgers or multiple sandwiches at once. It comes with preset temperature controls that are easy to use, though it doesn’t have a fully adjustable temperature dial, which might limit precise cooking preferences. The plates are dishwasher-safe and non-stick, making cleanup pretty hassle-free. A handy feature is the adjustable front feet that help with grease drainage, keeping your cooking cleaner.

While it lacks a floating hinge, the design still accommodates thicker sandwiches reasonably well. At 5.5 pounds and a compact size, it fits comfortably on most kitchen counters without taking up too much space. It heats up efficiently thanks to its 350-watt power, so you won’t be waiting long to start cooking. Some users might find the lack of fully adjustable temperature a drawback if they want more control, but for most casual users looking for a reliable, easy-to-clean panini press with additional grilling functions, the Cuisinart GR-11 is a solid choice.