10 Best Panini Presses 2025 in the United States

The Cuisinart Electric Griddler FIVE is a versatile kitchen tool that goes beyond a typical panini press by offering five cooking functions — including contact grill, full grill, full griddle, and a half grill/half griddle option. Its cooking surface features removable, reversible non-stick plates which are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easy. The floating hinge design allows it to accommodate thicker sandwiches or meats comfortably, while the stainless steel build adds a sturdy feel. Temperature control is highly adjustable, ranging from 175°F to 450°F, and includes a sear function to enhance the flavor of meats and fish. The built-in LCD display and digital controls show the function, temperature, and timer, which makes operating the grill straightforward even for beginners.

The unit weighs nearly 12 pounds and measures over 16 inches wide, so it may take up significant counter space and be less convenient to move or store. Its wattage (60 watts) is relatively low compared to some other grills, which might mean longer preheating times. The product comes with a three-year limited warranty and is well-loved by users, reflected in its high ratings. This grill suits those wanting an all-in-one appliance that can handle sandwiches, grilling, and griddling with ease, especially if counter space and weight are not primary concerns.

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.

The Cuisinart GR-11NAS Griddler is a versatile appliance that functions as a panini press, contact grill, or full grill, making it an excellent choice for users seeking more than just a simple sandwich maker. Its floating hinge adjusts well to different food thicknesses, accommodating everything from thin sandwiches to thicker cuts. The removable plates feature a ceramic non-stick surface, aiding in easy cleaning and reducing the chance of food sticking. Additionally, the griddler can open flat to double the cooking surface, transforming into a griddle for cooking larger quantities at once.

This model includes a preset temperature control with indicator lights that signal when it’s ready to cook, simplifying the grilling process even for those with limited experience. The stainless steel construction offers a sturdy feel, and at just over 8 pounds, it is relatively easy to move while remaining stable on the countertop. However, the temperature settings are preset rather than fully adjustable, limiting precise control over cooking heat for certain recipes. Furthermore, although the plates are removable, cleaning may be more time-consuming compared to fully dishwasher-safe options.

The compact size fits well in most kitchens, though it might feel somewhat bulky in spaces with very limited counter area. For those seeking a flexible and reliable panini press that also serves as a grill and griddle, this model delivers strong performance and user-friendly features at a good value.