10 Best Grilled Cheese Makers 2026 in the United States

The Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, is a versatile 5-in-1 appliance, functioning as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle. This makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen, especially for those who enjoy a variety of grilled and pressed dishes. It features removable and reversible non-stick cooking plates, which are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easy and convenient.

The integrated drip tray helps in collecting grease, promoting healthier cooking, and it also stores away neatly. The red/green indicator lights simplify operation by signaling when the unit is ready to cook or has reached the desired temperature, and the included scraping tool aids in the cleaning process. Its floating hinge allows it to adjust to different food thicknesses, and the adjustable temperature controls with a selector knob for grill or griddle functions provide custom control over your cooking.

Additionally, the sturdy panini-style handle ensures ease of use and handling. The appliance is built with brushed stainless steel, giving it a durable and sleek look. Weighing 11.44 pounds, it is relatively easy to move and store. However, at 1500 watts, it might consume a substantial amount of power, which is something to consider if you are energy-conscious. The product dimensions are 13.5”D x 11.5”W x 7.12”H, making it compact enough for most kitchen counters. One potential drawback is the limited 3-year warranty, which may not be adequate for some users seeking long-term assurance of durability.

The Hamilton Beach Panini Press Sandwich Maker is a versatile small kitchen appliance that works well for grilled cheese sandwiches, paninis, quesadillas, and more. Its floating lid adjusts to sandwich thickness, giving even pressure and consistent browning without needing to flip, which is convenient for users who want fuss-free cooking. The non-stick grids measure 8" by 10", providing enough space for typical sandwiches but might feel small for larger or multiple portions.

It features a simple indicator light that signals when the unit is ready to cook, though it lacks adjustable temperature controls, limiting precision for some recipes. Cleaning is fairly easy thanks to the non-stick surface, but the press itself isn’t dishwasher safe, so wiping down after use is necessary. The locking lid is useful for making open-faced sandwiches or warming pizzas. While its plastic build keeps it lightweight and easy to store upright, it may not feel as sturdy as metal-bodied competitors. The bright red finish adds a stylish touch to any countertop.

This model is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable, no-frills sandwich press that delivers consistent results, especially if you primarily want a device for grilled cheese and paninis without advanced temperature settings.

The Hamilton Beach Panini Press is a versatile and user-friendly appliance that works well for grilled cheese and a variety of sandwiches, thanks to its floating hinge which adjusts to different thicknesses. Its 95 square inches of nonstick grill surface cooks food evenly on both sides at once, speeding up meal preparation to about 10 minutes or less. This nonstick coating also makes cleaning easier, especially with the included scraper tool and a dishwasher-safe drip tray that catches grease to reduce mess.

The press is compact, with an upright storage option and a latch to keep it closed, which helps save counter space. While it only has a single temperature setting and lacks indicator lights, many users find it straightforward and effective for everyday use. The build is solid, featuring stainless steel and materials free from harmful chemicals like PFOA and lead.

It serves as a dependable choice for anyone looking for a practical sandwich maker or indoor grill that’s easy to clean and stores neatly, even though it doesn’t offer precise temperature control or readiness indicators.