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10 Best Panini Waffle Maker 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hamilton Beach Panini Press Sandwich Maker & Electric Indoor Grill with Locking Lid, Opens 180 Degrees for any Thickness for Quesadillas, Burgers & More, Nonstick 8" x 10" Grids, Chrome (25460AG)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,211
Size and Capacity
Cooking Plates
Temperature Control

Most important from
21981 reviews

Size and Capacity
The floating hinged lid presses sandwiches evenly without crushing, adapting to various thicknesses for perfect results every time.
Cooking Plates
Dual nonstick grill plates cook food evenly on both sides, cutting meal prep time to under 10 minutes.
Temperature Control
It heats up quickly right after plugging in, delivering consistent, even cooking without the need to flip sandwiches excessively.
Versatility
This press doubles as a grill for burgers, steaks, chicken, vegetables, and even fruit, making it a versatile kitchen gadget.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleanup is hassle-free with durable nonstick ceramic plates and a dishwasher-safe drip tray that keeps countertops mess-free.
Build Quality and Durability
The lock-down feature compresses sandwiches perfectly, allowing you to multitask while cooking.

The Hamilton Beach Panini Press Sandwich Maker is a versatile kitchen gadget designed primarily for making paninis, but it also works well for quesadillas, burgers, and even warm open-face sandwiches thanks to its locking lid that can open flat. Its 8" x 10" nonstick cooking plates with a floating lid adjust to sandwich thickness, helping to evenly press and brown your food without needing to flip it. The press has a built-in indicator light that turns green when it's preheated and ready, which simplifies the cooking process.

At 1400 watts, it heats up reasonably fast and offers two temperature settings for basic control. The size is compact enough for easy storage, and its chrome finish makes it look stylish on your countertop. Cleaning is straightforward due to the nonstick coating, though the plates are not removable, so some careful wiping is needed. The build quality is solid for home use, but it’s made mostly of metal and plastic parts from China, so it may not feel as heavy-duty as some higher-end models.

This panini press is a great option if you want an affordable, easy-to-use sandwich maker that can handle various foods. While it may not provide advanced temperature control or removable cooking plates for extra cleaning convenience, it excels at delivering consistently toasted sandwiches with minimal effort, making it suitable for everyday casual cooking.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,211
Size and Capacity
Cooking Plates
Temperature Control

Most important from
21981 reviews

Size and Capacity
The floating hinged lid presses sandwiches evenly without crushing, adapting to various thicknesses for perfect results every time.
Cooking Plates
Dual nonstick grill plates cook food evenly on both sides, cutting meal prep time to under 10 minutes.
Temperature Control
It heats up quickly right after plugging in, delivering consistent, even cooking without the need to flip sandwiches excessively.
Versatility
This press doubles as a grill for burgers, steaks, chicken, vegetables, and even fruit, making it a versatile kitchen gadget.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleanup is hassle-free with durable nonstick ceramic plates and a dishwasher-safe drip tray that keeps countertops mess-free.
Build Quality and Durability
The lock-down feature compresses sandwiches perfectly, allowing you to multitask while cooking.
#3

George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Electric Grill and Panini Press, George Tough Non-Stick Coating, Drip Tray Catches Grease, Black

Rating
9.7
Size and Capacity
Cooking Plates
Temperature Control

Most important from
30549 reviews

Size and Capacity
Compact size is perfect for small meals, though might need a second batch for more than two people.
Cooking Plates
Easy to clean thanks to removable plates, making it more likely to be used frequently.
Temperature Control
Heats up quickly and grills food evenly on both sides without needing to flip it.
Versatility
Versatile in cooking various foods like turkey burgers, chicken breasts, hot dogs, grilled cheese, and more.
Ease of Cleaning
Drains fat effectively, collecting it in an easy-to-clean reservoir.
Build Quality and Durability
Highly durable non-stick coating, but avoid using sprays with added chemicals to maintain it.

The George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Electric Grill and Panini Press is designed to be a versatile and user-friendly kitchen appliance. With its compact size of 12x12 inches, it manages to provide enough space to prepare meals for up to four people, making it ideal for small families or individuals with limited kitchen space.

The grill features advanced George Tough non-stick coating, which is highly durable and eliminates the need for added fats like butter or oil, promoting healthier cooking. The removable grill plates are dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleanup process, which is a big plus for busy users. One of the standout features is the 35% faster heating capability, reducing the waiting time before you can start cooking. This efficiency can be particularly beneficial for quick meal preparations.

It is worth noting that the grill's wattage is quite high at 1800 watts, so it may not be the most energy-efficient option on the market. Additionally, while the product boasts a robust build quality, some users might find the ceramic material less appealing than metal alternatives in terms of durability. The grill comes with a 3-year limited warranty, providing some peace of mind regarding its long-term use. The included drip tray also helps manage grease, contributing to easier maintenance and healthier meals. This George Foreman grill and panini press is well-suited for those looking for a compact, easy-to-clean, and efficient cooking appliance, though its higher power consumption and ceramic build might be points to consider for some users.

Rating
9.7
Size and Capacity
Cooking Plates
Temperature Control

Most important from
30549 reviews

Size and Capacity
Compact size is perfect for small meals, though might need a second batch for more than two people.
Cooking Plates
Easy to clean thanks to removable plates, making it more likely to be used frequently.
Temperature Control
Heats up quickly and grills food evenly on both sides without needing to flip it.
Versatility
Versatile in cooking various foods like turkey burgers, chicken breasts, hot dogs, grilled cheese, and more.
Ease of Cleaning
Drains fat effectively, collecting it in an easy-to-clean reservoir.
Build Quality and Durability
Highly durable non-stick coating, but avoid using sprays with added chemicals to maintain it.

Buying Guide for the Best Panini Waffle Maker

Choosing the right panini or waffle maker can greatly enhance your kitchen experience, allowing you to make delicious sandwiches and waffles with ease. To find the best fit for you, it's important to consider several key specifications. These specs will help you understand the capabilities of different models and how they align with your needs. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Size and CapacityThe size and capacity of a panini or waffle maker determine how much food you can prepare at once. This is important because it affects how many servings you can make in one go. Smaller models are great for individuals or small families, while larger models are better for bigger families or entertaining guests. Consider how many people you typically cook for and choose a size that fits your needs.
Cooking PlatesCooking plates are the surfaces where your food is cooked. They can be fixed or removable, and they come in different materials like non-stick or cast iron. Non-stick plates are easier to clean and require less oil, making them a healthier option. Removable plates are convenient for cleaning. If you plan to use your maker frequently, opt for non-stick, removable plates for ease of use and maintenance.
Temperature ControlTemperature control allows you to adjust the heat settings to achieve the perfect cooking temperature for different types of food. This is important for ensuring your paninis or waffles are cooked evenly and to your desired level of crispiness. Basic models may have a single temperature setting, while more advanced ones offer adjustable controls. If you like experimenting with different recipes, choose a model with adjustable temperature settings.
Indicator LightsIndicator lights show when the appliance is preheated and ready to use, and when your food is done cooking. This feature is important for convenience and ensuring your food is cooked properly. Look for models with clear, easy-to-read indicator lights to make your cooking process smoother and more efficient.
VersatilitySome panini and waffle makers come with interchangeable plates or additional features that allow you to cook a variety of foods, such as grilling vegetables or making pancakes. This versatility can be a great advantage if you want to use the appliance for more than just paninis or waffles. Consider your cooking habits and choose a model that offers the versatility you need.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning is crucial for maintaining your appliance and ensuring it lasts a long time. Models with removable, dishwasher-safe plates are the easiest to clean. Non-stick surfaces also help with easy cleanup. If you want to minimize the time spent on cleaning, look for these features in your panini or waffle maker.
Build Quality and DurabilityThe build quality and durability of a panini or waffle maker determine how long it will last and how well it will perform over time. Stainless steel models are generally more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Consider how often you plan to use the appliance and choose a model with a sturdy build to ensure it can withstand regular use.

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