The Best Electric Grills to Purchase Today
Do you love to have the ability to grill even when the weather is terrible outside? If you do, or you don't like dealing with charcoal or gas, an electric grill is for you.
Electric grills are versatile cooking tools. Many of them include options for use as a griddle, panini press, and more. Most can be used both inside and out.
Additionally, the temperature of electric grills can be easier to control than with gas or charcoal.
Finally, electric grills are the perfect solution for those living in apartments that don't allow gas or charcoal grills on their balconies. They are also an excellent option for RV'rs.
Read on below to find our top picks for the best electric grills!
Top Picks for Electric Grills
In a hurry? Here are our top picks for the best electric grills.
More details are provided about each grill below.
Additionally, below the electric grill reviews is a comparison chart to help you compare the best electric grills.
Best Overall
Runner
Up
Best Countertop
Best Premium
Best Budget
Best Electric Grills
1. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
The George Foreman GGR50B Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill is a versatile grill that is perfect for small families and those living in apartments.
The removable stand makes it ideal for use both outside and inside. This grill can be used on a table, counter, or the included pedestal.
And the domed lid helps ensure adequate airflow for even cooking.
If you're going to store this grill outside, I highly recommend getting the George Foreman Round Grill Cover to protect it from the elements. The cover is heavy-duty, water-resistant, and has a handle on top for easy removal and storage.
Just be aware, it is best to set it up on the pedestal away from high traffic areas.
Key Features:
- Adjustable temperature control
- Five heat settings
- 240 sq in grilling surface
- 1,440 watts
- Removable stand
- Nonstick coating
- Domed grill lid
- Removable grill plate for easy cleaning
- 29.13" x 29.13" x 39.49"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill is our top pick for the best electric grill.
Because of its versatility and size, it is an excellent option for those with a small deck or patio, who like the option to use it indoors as well.
2. Weber Q1400 Electric Grill
While most electric grills use solid grates, the Weber Q1400 Electric Grill uses grates that are similar to those on traditional grills.
With 8.25 watts per square inch, this grill can hold heat better than most other electric grills.
The Weber Q1400 is only for outdoor use. And it can fit up to six hamburgers at the same time, making it the perfect size for a couple or small family.
Key Features:
- Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron grates
- 1,560 watts
- Infinite temperature control
- 189 sq in grill area
- 6-foot cord
- Removable catch pan
- Cast aluminum lid and body
- 14.5" x 27" x 16.5"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The Weber Q1400 is a close runner up for the best electric grill.
It is an exceptional performing electric grill. If it could be used indoors and came with a stand, it would be our top pick.
Weber Portable Cart
The Weber 6557 Q Portable Cart is perfect for making it easy to move the Weber Q1400 around.
The grill locks in place with spring-loaded locking pins.
And the cart can be folded down, with the grill attached, to be taken with you wherever you go. It even has a locking indicator on the leg to ensure it is ready to start your grill.
3. Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler
The Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler, as the name implies, is a multi-functional cooking machine.
You can use it as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, or half grill/half griddle.
The cooking plates are designed to drain grease into the integrated drip tray, are removable, and are dishwasher safe. The plates are also reversible, having a grill on one side and a griddle on the other.
The Cuisinart Griddler is perfect for making everything from eggs, pancakes, bacon, and sausages for breakfast; quesadillas, grilled cheese, and paninis for lunch; and hamburgers or steak for dinner.
Key Features:
- Multi-functional
- Non-stick, removable, dishwasher-safe plates
- 100 sq in of cooking space closed
- 200 sq in of cooking space open
- 1,500 watts
- 13.5" x 11.5" x 7.12"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler is our top pick for the best counter-top electric grill.
The versatile cooking abilities of this electric grill makes it an excellent choice for your kitchen counter.
Other Cuisinart Options
Cuisinart has two other excellent options for electric grills.
Cuisinart Electric Griddler
The Cuisinart Electric Griddler is similar to the Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler, but it has digital controls using an LCD.
You can adjust the temperature between 175-450°F, and it has the same five cooking options as the 5-in-1 Griddler, as well as a sear function.
Cuisinart Griddler Deluxe
The Cuisinart Griddler Deluxe is an upgraded version of the 5-in-1 Griddler.
The Deluxe model has the five different cooking options and the sear option but includes an additional option, the top melt. The height of the top cover can be adjusted at six different positions.
Dual-zone temperature control is included. The grill has 1,800 watts of power and can sear at 500°F for up to two minutes.
4. Kenyon Frontier Stainless Steel Electric Grill
If you are looking for a high-end, portable electric grill, the Kenyon Frontier Stainless Steel Electric Grill is for you.
The Kenyon Portable Tabletop Grill can be used indoors or outdoors. And with 1,300 watts of power, it can reach 600°F.
Kenyon grills are designed, assembled, and shipped from the USA and are guaranteed to never rust.
A custom-fitted portable grill cover and a portable grill cart are also available for your Kenyon Frontier Electric Grill.
Key Features:
- 1,300 watts
- 155 sq in of cooking space
- Non-stick, removable, dishwasher-safe grate
- Marine-grade 304 stainless steel construction
- Digital touch controls
- Automatic shutoff
- Concealed heating element to eliminate flare-ups
- 21" x 12" x 9"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The Kenyon Frontier is a pricey grill, especially when most electric grills are hundreds less.
However, Kenyon grills are well-built and worth the money. This would be the top-rated in our list of best electric grills if there weren't so many cheaper options, but the key word there is cheaper.
Built-In Alternative: Kenyon Texan
Like the Kenyon Frontier, the Kenyon Texan All Seasons Built-In Electric Grill, while pricey, is a top-of-the-line electric grill.
If you are building a built-in grill in the backyard, or even in your actual kitchen, the Kenyon Texan is an excellent choice.
It has two 1,500 watt elements for dual-zone control that are in direct contact with the cooking surface. It can preheat up to 600°F within 10 minutes. And to complement the dual zones, it has a split lid design so you can open one side (zone) without affecting the other.
The Kenyon Texan has a waterproof touch control panel and includes an automatic safety shut off as well. And like the Kenyon Frontier, the non-stick grates are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
5. Ovente Electric Cooking Grill
The Ovente Electric Grill is ideal if you are looking for a budget-friendly, simple electric grill.
This indoor grill has a 13" x 10" cooking plate. It uses an adjustable temperature control with a removable temperature probe to adjust the cooking temperature.
An indicator light illuminates while the grill is preheating and goes out to let you know the grill is at the proper temperature to begin cooking.
Key Features:
- 130 sq in of cooking space
- 1,000 watts
- Preheating indicator light
- Removable, non-stick cooking surface
- Grease channel to divert grease to the drip pan
- 17.7" x 11.8" x 3"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The Ovente Electric Cooking Grill is a budget-friendly choice if you're looking for a simple-to-use indoor electric grill without any extra features.
6. Hamilton Beach Electric Searing Grill
The Hamilton Beach Electric Searing Grill is an excellent little indoor electric grill.
Something other grills of this design don't have is a window to allow you to monitor your food without opening the lid.
Additionally, this grill has lights indicating when it is powered up and when it is preheated.
This grill has an adjustable temperature knob and can reach 450°F to sear your meat.
Key Features:
- 118 sq in of cooking space
- 1,200 watts
- Extra-large drip tray
- Removable safe hood, plate, and drip tray for cleaning
- 12.4" x 16.7" x 6.8"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The Hamilton Beach Electric Searing Grill is a decent-sized indoor electric grill that is easy to clean and performs well.
7. T-fal OptiGrill
The T-fal OptiGrill implements different grilling cycles and automatic sensor cooking instead of merely setting a temperature. It even adjusts for the size and thickness of your food.
The grill has six automatic cooking programs for burgers, poultry, sandwiches, sausage, red meat, and fish. It also has indicator lights and beeps indicating when your food is rare, medium, and well-done.
Additionally, there is a frozen food and a manual cooking mode.
The non-stick plates and drip tray are removable and dishwasher safe.
Key Features:
- 1,800 watts
- 93 sq in of cooking space
- Automatic Programs and thickness adjustment
- 6 cooking programs and 2 cooking modes
- Removable, dishwasher safe plates and drip tray
- 14" x 13" x 6"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The T-fal OptiGrill uses what they call Precision Grilling Technology and Automatic Sensor Cooking to achieve great grilling results.
While most people love the way this grill cooks, there are several who struggle with it as well.
If you like gadgets and new technology, this may be the indoor electric grill for you. However, if you just want a simple grill, one of the others on the list is a better choice for you.
8. Techwood Raclette Grill
If you don't know what raclette cooking is, it is similar to fondue. Raclette is a semi-hard cheese that is used for this.
The Techwood Raclette Grill is a gourmet, smokeless grill with versatile cooking options.
First, it can be used as a grill, or you can flip the grill plate over and use it as a griddle.
Additionally, there are eight individual grill pans that can be used for melting raclette cheese, or for cooking sides and sauces.
Key Features:
- 1,500 watts
- 166 sq in of cooking space
- Reversible, non-stick grill/griddle plate
- Adjustable thermostat and indicator lights
- 8 individual grill pans
- 392-536°F temperature range
- 9" x 19.5" x 5"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The Techwood Raclette Grill is great for parties. The unique design and versatile cooking options make it an excellent choice for those who like to create sauces and dips to go along with their grilled foods.
9. hOmeLabs Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill
The hOmeLabs Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill has a built-in smoke extractor system.
This grill reduces any smoke and odors from spreading throughout your home using a water tray, smoke extractor fan, and the tempered-glass lid. It will help avoid setting off the smoke detectors too.
Temperature is controlled using the LED panel, and the grill also has overheat protection.
And the unit includes a grill plate and a griddle plate that greatly expands the options of what you can cook.
Key Features:
- 1,500 watts
- Digital control panel
- Non-stick grill and griddle plates
- Grill/griddle plates, drip tray, and water tray are dishwasher safe
- 108 sq in of cooking space
- Tempered-glass lid
- 200-450°F temperature range
- 11.8" x 19.5" x 7.7"
Pros
Cons
Conclusion:
The hOmeLabs Indoor Electric Grill is a good choice if you want to ensure you minimize smoke when grilling inside.
However, keep in mind that depending on what you cook, there will still likely be smoke. It has a smoke reduction system, not a smoke elimination system.
Comparison of the Best Electric Grills
Here is a comparison table of the electric grills listed above to make comparing the main features easier.
Grill | Total Cooking Area (sq in) | Cooking Power (watts) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | 240 | 1.440 | Best overall | |
  | 189 | 1.560 | Runner up | |
  | 100 (closed) | 1,500 | Best counter top grill | |
  | 155 | 1,300 | Best premium | |
  | 130 | 1,000 | Best budget | |
  | 118 | 1,200 | Includes viewing window | |
  | 93 | 1,800 | Most techy | |
  | 166 | 1,500 | Versatile for heating sauces and dips | |
  | 108 | 1,500 | Best for smoke reduction |
What to Look For When Buying an Electric Grill
When looking for the best electric grills, there are several features to consider. These include:
Cooking Area and Space
The amount of cooking area is the first factor you should consider when purchasing an electric grill.
Most of the electric grill models are designed to be used on the countertop and are on the smaller side in terms of cooking space. But they can typically cook for 2-4 people.
If you have limited counter space, pay attention to the dimensions to ensure you have enough room.
Temperature Control and Cooking Power
Most of the electric grills have a single temperature control. These temperature controls vary from specific settings to infinite settings. And some are temperature specific while others are general heat settings (low, medium, high).
You'll want to keep this in mind if you have specific temperature controls for your cooking. If you are just using it as a standard grill, exact temperatures aren't as important.
As far as cooking power goes, electric grills are rated by the wattage - most range between 1,000 and 1,500 watts. However, you'll want to keep in mind the size of the grill as well. Watts per square inch is a good indication of how fast an electric grill will heat up, as well as its ability to maintain heat.
Cleaning
Keeping some electric grills can be a chore. Since you'll likely store your electric grill inside, you'll want to keep it cleaner than you typically do with a grill outside.
A highly-rated accessory to help you keep your electric grill clean is the OXO Good Grips Electric Grill and Panini Press Brush.
This brush is made of soft, flexible bristles that are safe for non-stick cookware. It also includes a silicone wiper blade to help clean grill surfaces and is ideal for most indoor electric grill surfaces.
You also want to pay attention to what parts are removable and which ones are dishwasher safe. This can save you a lot of time and hassle when it comes to keeping your indoor electric grill clean.
Portability
By design, most of the electric grills are on the smaller size and highly portable.
However, if you are buying one to use at a campsite, picnics, or tailgating, you'll need to ensure you have access to power.
Additionally, you may want one that has a stand or a stand you can purchase to make it easier to use wherever you may be.
Quality of Materials and Build
While most electric grills won't be exposed to the weather like traditional grills, you still want one that is well built.
The most important part of an electric grill is going to be the grill itself. Ideally, it should be made of a non-stick finish for easy cleaning.
Extra Features
There are several other features to consider, as well.
- Is it easy to clean (grease diversion/collection)?
- Is a cover (if used outside) or other accessories included?
- Different cooking modes available?
- Does it have a lid?
- Is the power cord long enough?
- How good is the warranty?
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Grills
Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about the best electric grills.
What are the Advantages of Electric Grills?
Electric grills are ideal because they can be used indoors or in areas where charcoal or gas grills are prohibited. It is common in apartment complexes and condominium units to have rules against the use of other types of grills.
Electric grills are typically small and are excellent if you need a portable grill for camping, tailgating, and picnics. Just ensure you have a source of power for your grill.
Additionally, electric grills are ideal for cooking small meals. They can be more energy-efficient and avoid heating your home as much compared to a full-size oven.
Related: Best Infrared Grills
What are the Disadvantages of Electric Grills?
The primary disadvantage of using an electric grill is the loss of taste compared to cooking with open flame. This is most prevalent when compared to charcoal grills, but there is a difference compared to gas grills as well.
Another disadvantage of electric grills is that most are not nearly as powerful as a gas or charcoal grill. This means they can take longer to preheat, don't maintain heat as well, and may have uneven heat across the cooking surface.
Why Use an Electric Grill?
The main reason to use an electric grill is to be able to grill when the weather doesn't allow for outdoor grilling.
Additionally, many apartment complexes and condominiums don't allow the use of gas or charcoal grills on balconies or near the buildings. Electric grills enable people who live there to be able to still enjoy grilling.
Are Electric Grills As Good as Charcoal or Gas Grills?
Electric grills have improved in their performance over time, but they will never be able to produce results similar to gas or charcoal grills.
Some people don't mind not having the smokey flavoring a traditional grill provides, but for most people, something is lacking when burgers, steaks, chicken, and more aren't prepared over an open flame.
In the end, it is really personal preference when it is related to taste, but the power of charcoal and gas also outperforms electric grills.
Can Electric Grills be Preheated?
Yes, electric grills can be preheated. And typically, it is recommended to preheat electric grills since they aren't as powerful as gas and charcoal grills. Having an electric grill preheated helps sear meat and ensure even cooking.
Can I Use Extension Cords With an Electric Grill if Its Cord Is Too Short?
Yes, you can use an extension cord with an electric grill. However, it may lower the available power to the grill if it is too long or if it isn't appropriately rated (AWG - American wire gauge rating) for the wattage.
Can I Use an Electric Grill Outside?
Not all electric grills are designed to be used outside. However, if there are no adverse weather conditions (rain, snow, high humidity, high wind), it is probably okay to use an indoor electric grill outside. Just ensure you take proper precautions to create an environment similar to using it inside and be sure to put it back inside when done.
Can All Electric Grills be Used Inside?
No, not all electric grills can be used inside. Be sure to follow your grill's manufacturer's instructions on the proper usage. Using an electric grill inside that isn't designed for inside use may expose you and others to harmful levels of smoke.
Summary of the Best Electric Grills
If you live in an apartment, have limited space, or just want an option to grill when there is nasty weather outside, an electric grill is an excellent choice to consider.
There are wide variations in the types and performance of electric grills, so ensure that you do your homework, so you get what you need.
I hope this article helped you in your search for the best electric grill for your needs.