Buying Guide for the Best Breville Sandwich Makers
Choosing the right sandwich maker can make your breakfasts, lunches, or snacks much easier and tastier. When picking a sandwich maker, it's important to think about how you'll use it, the kinds of sandwiches you like to prepare, and specific features that might make your cooking experience more enjoyable or convenient. The key specs are designed to help you find a model that fits your needs, and knowing what each means can guide you toward a product you’ll love.Plate Type and CoatingThe plate is the heated surface where you place your sandwich. It’s important because it affects both how evenly your sandwich cooks and how easy it is to clean up afterwards. There are usually removable or fixed plates, and coatings are typically non-stick. Non-stick plates make cleaning quick and ensure food doesn’t get stuck, which is essential if you don’t want your bread tearing or your fillings sticking. Some sandwich makers offer removable plates, which are easier to wash by hand or in the dishwasher. If you plan to use your sandwich maker frequently or want to minimize maintenance, opt for non-stick, removable plates. If occasional use and simplicity suffice, fixed non-stick plates will do the job.
Capacity and SizeCapacity refers to how many sandwiches you can make at once, and the overall size affects how much counter or storage space the appliance occupies. Sandwich makers can typically make one to four sandwiches at a time. If you have a bigger family or like to prepare food for several people at once, choose a larger capacity. If you live alone or have minimal kitchen space, go for a compact unit. Think about your routine and kitchen size to decide which is best for you.
Shape and CutThe shape and cut of the sandwich plates will determine what kind of sandwich you get. Some makers cut and seal the sandwiches diagonally, creating classic 'pockets' that are easy and fun to eat, especially for kids. Others may just toast the sandwich without sealing the edges. If you like your sandwiches with sealed edges to keep the filling inside, choose a model that cuts and seals. If you prefer open sandwiches or want more flexibility in bread types and shapes, opt for a flat or grill-type plate.
Heating Speed and EvennessThis refers to how quickly the sandwich maker heats up and how evenly it distributes heat. Faster heating is better for busy mornings, while even heating ensures your sandwich is cooked all the way through. Some models have indicator lights or automatic temperature controls to help with this. If consistent, perfect results matter to you, look for good, even heating and clear indicators. If you're often in a rush, prioritize faster heat-up times.
VersatilitySome sandwich makers can also grill, toast, or make waffles if they come with interchangeable plates. This is useful if you want your appliance to do more than one job in your kitchen. If you like variety, choose a model with multiple functions or attachments. If you just want a simple sandwich, a basic model will be enough.
Ease of CleaningCleaning can make or break the experience of owning a kitchen appliance. Features like non-stick coatings, removable plates, and drip trays make cleanup easier. If you want to avoid scrubbing, look for these features. If cleaning is not a concern, or you use the appliance rarely, a more basic model will work.
Safety FeaturesMost sandwich makers come with features like cool-touch handles, non-slip feet, and automatic shut-off. These are important if you have kids helping in the kitchen or if you multitask and might forget about the appliance. Choose a model with the right features for your household – cool-touch handles are good for family use, while automatic shut-off is helpful for peace of mind.