10 Best Panini Press 2025 in the United States

The Cuisinart GR-4NP1 Panini Press stands out as a versatile kitchen appliance that combines five functions in one: a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle. This flexibility makes it a great choice for those who love to experiment with different cooking methods. With a size of 11 inches by 9 inches, the cooking surface is spacious enough for multiple sandwiches or other items, catering well to families or gatherings.

One of its notable strengths is the adjustable temperature control, which allows for precise cooking based on the food type. The non-stick plates are not only easy to clean—thanks to their removable and dishwasher-safe feature—but they also help in cooking healthier meals by draining excess grease. The floating hinge is a thoughtful addition, adapting to the thickness of various foods, ensuring even cooking.

The Cuisinart Panini Press also comes with practical features like red/green indicator lights for operational ease and an included scraping tool for hassle-free cleaning. Additionally, the limited three-year warranty offers reassurance regarding its durability. However, some users have pointed out that the weight of 11.44 pounds may make it less portable than lighter alternatives. While the stainless steel design is sleek, it can get hot to the touch during use, which may require extra caution. Also, while it's designed for multiple cooking styles, some might prefer a dedicated panini press for specific tasks.

The Hamilton Beach Panini Press offers a versatile cooking solution for making hot sandwiches, grilling burgers, steaks, chicken, and even vegetables. The floating hinged lid allows for pressing sandwiches of various thicknesses, which is great for diverse recipes. The non-stick plates ensure easy food release and straightforward cleanup. Cooking meals in 10 minutes or less is a significant advantage, making it suitable for busy individuals looking for quick meal preparation.

The compact and upright storage design helps save counter space, an important feature for those with limited kitchen space. Additionally, the slide-out drip tray effectively reduces mess by collecting fat as food cooks, and it is dishwasher-safe, which adds to the convenience of cleaning.

The main drawbacks include having only one heat setting, which may limit precise temperature control for more delicate recipes. The non-removable plates might also make deep cleaning a bit challenging compared to models with removable plates. Despite these minor inconveniences, the Hamilton Beach Panini Press is a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable, easy-to-use kitchen appliance for sandwiches and grilled foods at home.

The GEORGE FOREMAN® Contact Submersible™ Grill is a versatile appliance suitable for those looking to cook up to 5 servings, making it ideal for family meals. One of its standout features is its ability to be entirely washed in the dishwasher after removing the control panel, which makes cleaning significantly easier. The grill also boasts fast heat-up, claimed to be 30% quicker than a previous model, which is great for those needing a time-efficient cooking solution.

Another strength is the advanced non-stick coating, which is reportedly three times more durable than standard coatings, enhancing longevity and ease of use. The adjustable temperature control allows for more precise cooking, catering to various cooking needs and preferences. The inclusion of dishwasher-safe components like the drip tray adds to the convenience factor.

However, there are some limitations. The grill does not feature a floating hinge, which might limit the types of food you can press and cook evenly, such as thicker sandwiches or paninis. Additionally, while the plates are non-stick, they are not removable, which could make manual cleaning more cumbersome compared to models with removable plates. Despite its versatility in cooking different foods, it may not be as specialized in delivering the perfect panini press experience due to the lack of a floating hinge. This George Foreman grill offers great convenience, quick cooking times, and easy cleaning, making it suitable for general grilling needs, especially for families, but it may not be the best choice if you are specifically looking for a panini press with advanced features.