Buying Guide for the Best Electric Indoor Grill
Choosing an electric indoor grill can make enjoying grilled foods at home easy and convenient. To find the best fit, think about the types of meals you want to prepare, how much space you have available, and how many people you'll typically be cooking for. Take a good look at the grill’s features to ensure it suits your cooking habits and comfort level. Comparing the main specifications will help ensure you get a grill that’s easy to use, maintain, and delivers the results you want.Grilling Surface AreaThe grilling surface area tells you how much food you can cook at once, usually measured in square inches. This matters because a larger surface lets you grill more food, which is great for bigger families or entertaining guests, while a smaller one is often easier to store and quicker to heat up. Small grills (around 60-90 sq in) are best for singles or couples, medium grills (100-140 sq in) suit small families or meal prepping, and large grills (150 sq in or more) fit those who entertain or cook larger portions. Pick a size that's big enough for your typical use but will still fit your countertop comfortably.
Temperature ControlTemperature control refers to how precisely you can set or adjust the grill’s heat. It's important because different foods need different temperatures to cook properly—veggies and fish require lower heat, while meats may need higher. Some grills have fixed settings (like low, medium, high), and others offer adjustable controls with a temperature dial. Basic controls are fine for simple grilling, while more precise ones are better if you plan to cook a variety of foods or try out more complex recipes. Think about your cooking style: if you like experimenting, go for models with wide and accurate temperature ranges.
Nonstick SurfaceA nonstick surface prevents food from sticking and makes cleaning much easier. This feature is valuable for people who grill foods that can be messy (like marinated meats or cheesy sandwiches) or want to minimize cleanup time. The quality of nonstick surfaces can vary—some are basic, some have enhanced coatings with extra durability. If you value hassle-free cleaning and want to use less oil, look for effective nonstick coatings, but understand they still need gentle care to avoid scratches.
Drip TrayA drip tray is a removable tray that catches excess fat and juices, helping reduce smoke and making cleanup easier. This feature is important for healthier cooking, since it allows fats to drain away from your food, and for keeping your kitchen tidy. Some grills have larger, dishwasher-safe drip trays, while others are smaller or need to be hand-washed. If your focus is on low-fat cooking or easy maintenance, check how accessible and capacious the drip tray is.
Lid Type and HeightThe lid design affects what types of food you can cook and how evenly they grill. Some indoor grills have attached floating lids that press down (good for paninis or burgers), while others have high, hinged lids you can close over thicker foods like chicken breasts or steaks. If you mainly want to make sandwiches or thin cuts, a flat or pressing lid is fine, but if you’ll be grilling thick portions, a taller or adjustable lid will give you more flexibility and prevent squishing your food.
Removable PlatesRemovable plates are grilling surfaces you can take out for washing, often in the dishwasher. This matters because fixed plates can make cleaning awkward, especially if there's burnt-on residue. Removable plates are particularly handy if you use your grill often, as they save time and effort. For ease of maintenance, especially if you dislike scrubbing, prioritize grills with plates that are easy to take out and reattach.
Power (Wattage)The power, usually measured in watts, influences how quickly the grill heats up and how well it maintains cooking temperatures. Higher wattage (1,200 watts or more) typically means faster preheating and better heat recovery, which is helpful for grilling thicker foods or cooking several batches. Lower wattage can be fine for occasional use or simple recipes but may struggle with tougher cuts. If efficiency and speed are your priorities, choose a grill with higher wattage.