The best countertop grill depends on what you cook and how much counter and storage space you have. For a versatile contact-and-open grill, Food Network named the Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler its best overall pick in a review updated February 5, 2026. Its other picks favor value, all-in-one cooking, and a larger cooking area. Those are editorial choices from Food Network Kitchen—not universal test results—so use the comparison below to match a format and exact model to your household.
Which countertop grill format fits your kitchen?
“Countertop grill” covers several kinds of electric indoor appliance. The main difference is how the food meets the cooking surface and what else the appliance can do.
- Contact grills and panini presses heat food between two plates. They suit sandwiches and foods that cook well with heat from both sides. Some models open flat for a larger cooking surface.
- Open indoor grills provide a single grill surface rather than pressing food between plates. Some models add a lid or a specialized searing feature.
- Grill-and-griddle combinations use reversible or dual plates to switch between ridged grilling and a flatter cooking surface. Confirm which plate setup comes with the exact model.
- Multifunction grills may combine grilling with air frying or other modes. They can replace more than one appliance, but typically need more counter or storage space.
Food Network’s 2026 guide describes indoor grills as a way to reduce or avoid smoke associated with outdoor grill fuels, but cooking still produces steam and vapors. “Smokeless” should not be read as zero emissions.
Top countertop grill picks, with the model differences that matter
Food Network Kitchen’s review, updated February 5, 2026, says its team tested burgers, white bread, and salmon. Its category awards are useful starting points, not a guarantee that the winner will suit every kitchen. Manufacturer specifications below apply to the named model and should not be assumed to apply to an entire brand family.
#1 Best Overall
- SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE: The Cuisinart Griddler Indoor Grill offers five ways to grill as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle.
- 5-IN-1 COOKING: This Cuisinart panini press and grill can handle everything from pancakes and sausages to grilled cheese to steaks, hamburgers, and panini.
- DUAL TEMPERATURE CONTROLS: Adjustable temperature controls adjust from "warm" to "sear" in grill/panini mode, and from 200°F to 425°F in griddle mode, ensuring everything is perfectly cooked every time.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The panini grill press sandwich maker includes a set of nonstick grill/griddle plates, removable drip tray, and a cleaning/scraping tool that’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The PFAS-free Cuisinart Griddler Indoor Grill comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
| Model | Best fit | What the cited source establishes | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler / Griddler Five | Versatile grilling and griddling | Food Network named the 5-in-1 Griddler its best overall pick. Its review describes reversible grill/griddle surfaces and contact or open-flat configurations. Cuisinart’s catalog lists multiple Griddler variants. [Food Network; Cuisinart] | Exact model, included plate configuration, current price, and footprint; variants are not interchangeable. |
| Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill, model 25371MN | Value-oriented, straightforward grilling | Food Network named its reviewed Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill best value and noted a compact design and straightforward operation, but a small cooking area and no temperature setting on that reviewed unit. Hamilton Beach lists model 25371MN as cooking up to six burgers and measures it at 5.25 H × 12.5 W × 11.5 D inches. [Food Network; Hamilton Beach] | Match the exact product to 25371MN; do not confuse it with the searing models or assume its features apply to them. |
| George Foreman Contact Smokeless Ready Grill, GRS6090BX | Contact grilling with removable plates | George Foreman lists variable temperature control, a 90 sq. in. surface, a 4–6 serving estimate, removable dishwasher-safe plates and drip tray, and a 3-year limited warranty. [George Foreman] | Read the manual for cleaning directions and verify the exact model before buying. |
| George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate & Panini Grill, GRP1065BX | Simple contact grilling and panini pressing | George Foreman lists four servings, dishwasher-safe removable plates, a drip tray, a temperature indicator, and a 3-year limited warranty. Its 35% faster heat-up statement compares the model with GRP004B. [George Foreman] | The faster-heat-up figure is a manufacturer comparison with a named model, not a general speed benchmark. |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer | Large multifunction cooking | Food Network named it best large indoor grill in its 2026 guide. Ninja lists six functions and a built-in thermometer and positions it for large families. [Food Network; Ninja] | Countertop and storage space, current inventory and price, and the exact functions included in the listing. |
| Hamilton Beach 25360MN Electric Indoor Searing Grill | Adjustable searing temperature | Hamilton Beach lists a removable dishwasher-safe plate and an adjustable 200°F–450°F range for this model. [Hamilton Beach] | Confirm the model number and controls; it is not the same as the basic value pick. |
| Hamilton Beach 25375 Indoor Searing Grill with Hot/Cold Smoke Infuser | Cooking with a smoke-infusion feature | Hamilton Beach’s catalog lists this specialty model with a hot/cold smoke infuser. [Hamilton Beach] | Check the exact listing and included accessories before purchase. |
Food Network also named the Gourmia FoodStation 5-in-1 Smokeless Grill & Air Fryer its “Best All-In-One Food Station” in the same review. That is an editorial award; the sources summarized here do not provide the product specifications needed for a like-for-like feature comparison.
How to choose the right model
Start with how many people you usually cook for
Compare cooking area and appliance footprint, not just a serving estimate. George Foreman gives GRS6090BX a 90 sq. in. surface and estimates 4–6 servings; Hamilton Beach says 25371MN cooks up to six burgers. These are different manufacturer descriptions, not comparable capacity tests. If you routinely cook for a group, check whether the cooking surface can handle the food in one batch and whether the appliance fits where you plan to use or store it.
Rank #2
- ADVANCED GEORGE TOUGH NONSTICK COATING: There’s a lot to love about this nonstick coating. It’s 3x¹ more durable, easy to clean, and removes the need for butter and oil.
- 35% FASTER HEATING: Less time heating, more time eating.The improved heating elements preheat 35% faster to get you from plug-in to plate in record time.
- REMOVABLE GRILL PLATES: Easy cleanup is essential, and that’s what the removable grill plates are all about. Pop them in the dishwasher after grilling and they’ll be ready to go for your next meal.
- 4 SERVINGS: Tight on kitchen space? The 60-square inch grill is the most popular George Foreman Grill, with space for a tasty main course for four, or a complete meal with veggies and other sides.
- INCLUDED COMPONENTS: Dishwasher Safe Removable Plates
Decide whether you need temperature control
A basic grill can be a good fit if you want straightforward operation, while a broader temperature range offers more control over cooking. The Hamilton Beach 25360MN listing specifies 200°F–450°F adjustable temperature; the 25375 adds a smoke infuser instead. George Foreman lists variable temperature control on GRS6090BX. Check the exact product listing for controls rather than relying on a family name.
Balance extra modes against size and complexity
A reversible Griddler can support grill and griddle cooking, while the Ninja Foodi Smart XL adds air-frying and other functions. Those options make sense when the household will use the added modes. If you mainly want to press sandwiches or grill a few portions, a simpler contact grill may take up less space and be easier to store.
Rank #3
- [SWIFTLY PREPARES A WIDE RANGE OF DISHES]: Cook steaks, burgers, chicken, fish, pork, vegetables, and more right in your kitchen. This electric indoor grill is perfect for keto or paleo diets.
- [GRILLS WITH LESS FAT]: While grilling indoors, excess fat drains away from your food into a detachable drip tray that's safe for the dishwasher.
- [SPACIOUS NONSTICK GRILLING AREA FOR 6 BURGERS]: Grill up to six hamburgers simultaneously on the cremic-coated cooking surface powered by 1500 watts. The floating hinge makes it easy to grill thicker items like big steaks and boneless pork chops.
- [SERVE TASTY MEALS IN NO TIME]: Quickly whip up meals with the Family-sized Contact Grill. Its raised grids create attractive grill marks, ensuring your food looks as appealing as it tastes.
- [TEMPERATURE CONTROL AND EASY CLEANUP]: Adjust the heat from low to high, up to 425 ℉, with the preheat light indicating when the grill is ready. Plus, the nonstick plates prevent sticking and are simple to clean once cooled.
Check what actually comes apart for cleaning
Removable plates and drip trays can make cleanup easier, but dishwasher safety is model-specific. George Foreman lists dishwasher-safe plates and a tray for GRS6090BX; its GRP1065BX page lists dishwasher-safe removable plates. Hamilton Beach lists a removable dishwasher-safe plate for 25360MN. Check the exact manual for washing instructions and do not assume a feature carries across a brand’s lineup.
Measure the counter and storage location
For model 25371MN, Hamilton Beach lists dimensions of 5.25 H × 12.5 W × 11.5 D inches. For other models, confirm the current manufacturer dimensions, including clearance needed to open the lid or use the appliance safely. A large cooking surface or multiple functions may come with a larger storage footprint.
Rank #4
- EASY CLEAN SUBMERSIBLE GRILL: Dishwasher-safe design for easy cleanup—remove the control panel and wash all parts. Avoid aerosol sprays to maintain nonstick efficiency.
- FAST HEAT-UP & ADJUSTABLE HINGE: Preheats 30% faster* for quick meals. The 3/4" hinge adjusts to thick foods; ensure even thickness for perfect browning (*vs. GRP0004B).
- DURABLE NONSTICK COATING: 3X tougher nonstick plates* for easy grilling and cleanup, lasting durability, and no oil needed (*vs. standard George Tough coating).
- COMPACT DESIGN & EASY STORAGE: Space-saving vertical storage—same 4-serving size with 35% less counter space* (*vs. GRP1060B).
- FAMILY SIZE GRILL: Cook up to 4 servings at once, perfect for family meals, sandwiches, burgers, and more.
What “smokeless” means—and what it does not
Indoor grills are designed to reduce or avoid smoke associated with outdoor grill fuels, but food cooking can still create steam and vapors. George Foreman’s GRS6090BX page says it reduces smoke “by up to 85%” compared with its RPGD3994 model when grilling specified ¼ lb 80/20 burgers with a clean grill and drip tray. That is a manufacturer claim under stated conditions, not an indoor-air guarantee or a result that can be generalized to other foods or appliances.
How to use “best” ratings and product claims
Food Network’s awards reflect its review and stated testing, not a universal ranking. Its February 5, 2026 update names the Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler best overall, the Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill best value, the Gourmia FoodStation best all-in-one food station, and the Ninja Foodi Smart XL best large indoor grill. Choose among them by format, capacity, controls, cleaning, and space rather than by award label alone.
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- INTERCHANGEABLE GRILL & GRIDDLE PLATES: From char-grilled strip steaks to sizzling fajita veggies, unlock delicious flavors any time of the day using the interchangeable grill and griddle plates.
- 500°F MAX HEAT: Reach temperatures of up to 500°F for high-heat grilling and searing and get better char-grilled marks right from your kitchen. (vs. PowerXL Smokeless Grill Elite).
- EDGE-TO-EDGE COOKING: No hot spots. No cold spots. Just even, edge-to-edge heating for perfectly cooked dishes every time.
- LOW SMOKE GRILL: The perforated mesh lid helps to control smoke in your kitchen and reduce splatter, and the plates are equipped with high walls and grease catches for a pleasant cooking experience.
- FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: The 14’’ grill and griddle plates fit a half dozen burgers and pancakes to feed a family of 4-6 people.
Manufacturer figures also need their comparison attached. George Foreman’s GRP1065BX page says it heats up 35% faster than model GRP004B; that does not establish a general heat-up advantage over other grills. Prices and inventory can change, and product families may include versions with different plates or features, so verify the exact model and current listing before ordering.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
