10 Best Panini Presses 2025 in the United States

The Cuisinart GR-11 Griddler is a versatile 3-in-1 panini press and grill that offers a flexible cooking surface by opening flat to double its size. This makes it great not only for sandwiches but also for grilling burgers and steaks, which is handy if you want a multi-purpose appliance. It features preset temperature control that simplifies cooking by removing guesswork, though it does not offer fully adjustable temperature settings, which some users might miss if they want more control. The non-stick plates are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easier, and the floating hinge adapts to different thicknesses of food, which helps with even grilling. The adjustable front feet help with grease drainage, adding to its practical design.

Constructed with brushed stainless steel, it feels sturdy and durable, and its relatively compact size (about 11 x 13 inches) fits comfortably on most kitchen counters without taking too much space. At 5.5 pounds, it is moderately heavy but still manageable to move or store. It runs on 350 watts, which is typical for appliances of this kind, so it should heat up efficiently. Customers appreciate its performance and ease of use, as reflected in high ratings.

The Cuisinart GR-11 serves as a reliable, easy-to-clean panini press that also doubles as a grill, especially suitable for those who enjoy cooking a variety of foods beyond just sandwiches. If you prefer very precise temperature control or a larger cooking surface strictly for paninis, this might not be the perfect fit.

The Cuisinart Panini Press, also known as the GR-4NP1, is a versatile kitchen appliance perfect for anyone who loves making sandwiches, grilling, or cooking breakfast items. One of its standout features is its 5-in-1 functionality; it serves as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle, accommodating a variety of cooking needs. The adjustable temperature control and floating hinge allow you to cook different food sizes with ease, which is great if you're preparing sandwiches or larger items.

The non-stick plates are removable and dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The integrated drip tray also helps collect grease, promoting healthier cooking options. The unit's solid build quality in brushed stainless steel adds a touch of durability and style to your kitchen, and the limited 3-year warranty offers some peace of mind regarding its longevity.

On the downside, some users may find the weight of 11.44 pounds a bit heavy for storage or portability. While the design is generally user-friendly, those unfamiliar with cooking appliances might need to spend some time getting accustomed to the controls and features. Additionally, although the non-stick surface performs well, it’s important to follow care instructions to maintain its effectiveness over time.

The Chefman 5-in-1 Digital Panini Press is designed to cater to a variety of cooking needs, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to add versatility to their kitchen. Its ability to function as a sandwich maker, griddle, and an indoor grill means it can handle everything from paninis to pancakes and burgers. This flexibility is enhanced by adjustable temperature controls, allowing users to achieve their desired level of crispiness with ease.

One of the standout features is the floating hinge, which accommodates larger sandwiches, ensuring even cooking regardless of size. The removable, reversible non-stick plates make cleanup straightforward, as they can go straight into the dishwasher, which is a significant time-saver for busy cooks.

In terms of build quality, the stainless steel construction gives it a modern look while also contributing to durability. Additionally, with a weight of just over 9 pounds, it’s compact enough for smaller kitchens, making it a practical choice for those with limited counter space. There are a few considerations to keep in mind, such as the adjustable temperature range which some users may find can be too hot for certain foods, leading to uneven cooking if not monitored closely. The panini press's size may also be a limiting factor for those who frequently cook for larger groups, as it can only handle a few sandwiches at a time.