Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
For most home cooks, the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grill Press is the best all-purpose choice. Its 8-inch round footprint suits smash burgers, bacon, grilled cheese, and steaks, while its 3.5-pound cast-iron body provides substantial passive pressure without being as cumbersome as an oversized press.
This is a researched 2026 buying guide rather than a report of hands-on product testing. The shortlist below is based on manufacturer specifications, intended uses, care instructions, and design differences. Claims about searing, sticking, handle comfort, durability, and comparative cooking performance should be confirmed through standardized testing before being described as tested results.
One important distinction: these are passive grill presses, not electric panini makers. They are designed for use on grills, flat-top griddles, cast-iron skillets, and stovetops. A hot cooking surface supplies the heat; the press supplies weight and contact.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Our recommended grill presses
- Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grill Press — best overall for smash burgers and general pressing
- Lodge 6.75-inch Rectangular Grill Press — best compact rectangular press for steaks and sandwiches
- Cuisinart XL cast iron grill press — best for large batches
- Victoria Cast Iron Grill Press — best budget wood-handle option
- The Chef’s Press 3-piece Grill Set — best lightweight, dishwasher-safe multi-press set
Prices and availability change frequently. The manufacturer price snapshots used for this guide were approximately $24.95 for the Lodge round press, $27.95 for the Lodge rectangular press, $29.99 for the Cuisinart XL, $19.99 for the Victoria, and $82 for The Chef’s Press set. Treat those figures as research snapshots, not guaranteed current prices.
Quick comparison
| Model | Best for | Material and weight | Notable limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodge Round Grill Press | Smash burgers and everyday pressing | Seasoned cast iron; 3.5 lb; 8-inch round | Hand-wash and oil care |
| Lodge Rectangular Grill Press | Steaks, chops, sandwiches | Seasoned cast iron; 2.64 lb; 6.75 × 4.5 inches | Less pressure than heavier models |
| Cuisinart XL CGPR-223 | Several items at once | Cast iron; 5.1 lb; 10 × 10 inches | Large and less maneuverable |
| Victoria Grill Press | Budget buying with a wood handle | Preseasoned cast iron; exact current size should be verified | Not oven-safe because of the wood handle |
| The Chef’s Press Grill Set | Lightweight multi-item pressing | 7-gauge stainless steel; two 13-oz presses and one 18-oz press | Much lighter than cast iron for smash burgers |
1. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grill Press: best overall
The Lodge round press is the strongest starting point for most buyers because its shape and weight match the most common use: pressing burgers on a skillet or flat griddle. The press has an 8-inch round footprint and weighs 3.5 pounds, giving it considerably more passive pressure than lightweight stainless-steel weights.
#1 Best Overall
- BURGERS – Perfect for smash burgers with beautiful grill marks BACON – Keeps strips flat and cooks evenly STEAKS – Helps sear and cook evenly THIN MEATS – Works great on any flat-top griddle or outdoor grill.
- FOOD-GRADE CAST IRON & SAFETY FIRST Crafted from premium cast iron with a BPA-free, heat-resistant handle, this 7.1-inch round press is built for high-heat performance without compromising safety. Fully compliant materials ensure no harmful chemicals leach into your food—so you can smash with confidence whether you're cooking for kids or a crowd.
- FULL-COVERAGE DESIGN FOR JUICY, CRISP EDGES Oversized at 7.08 inches to fully cover 1/3 to 1/2 lb patties, this press delivers even contact for that perfect smash every time. No more uneven edges or undercooked spots—just consistently crispy, caramelized crusts that lock in juices, ideal for gourmet burgers, breakfast sausage patties, or seared vegetables.
- NON-SLIP GRIP & STABLE SMASHING Designed with an ergonomic, non-slip handle and a flat, stable base to prevent sliding or tilting during use. Whether you're pressing down on hot griddles, cast iron skillets, or flat-top grills, you get full control with minimal effort—reducing the risk of burns or accidental spills.
- EASY-CLEAN, NO-CRACK DESIGN The seamless cast iron body means no crevices where food gets stuck. Pre-seasoned for a naturally non-stick surface, it wipes clean in seconds and resists rust when properly dried. A low-maintenance workhorse that stays kitchen-ready without the hassle of special cleaning routines.
Lodge lists the press for smash burgers, bacon, steaks, grilled cheese, and similar foods. It is made in the USA, naturally seasoned, usable on any heat source, and listed by Lodge as free of PFAS. “Naturally seasoned” should not be confused with a factory PTFE nonstick coating; this is a cast-iron cooking surface that depends on seasoning and proper care.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Why choose it
- The round base fits individual burger patties naturally.
- Its 3.5-pound weight is substantial enough for pressing without requiring a very large tool.
- It can be used on a grill, stovetop, cast-iron skillet, or flat-top griddle.
- It is more versatile than a press designed only for sandwiches.
Trade-offs
Cast iron is heavier and more maintenance-intensive than stainless steel. Lodge recommends hand washing, thorough drying, and oiling after cleaning. The round shape is also less efficient than a rectangle when covering a long sandwich, chicken breast, or steak.
Best for: cooks who want one durable press for smash burgers and general skillet or griddle work.
Suggested shopping term: cast iron grill press.
2. Lodge 6.75-inch Rectangular Grill Press: best compact rectangular press
The Lodge LGP3 has a 6.75-by-4.5-inch rectangular pressing surface and weighs 2.64 pounds. Its shape is a better match for grilled cheese, panini-style sandwiches, pork chops, chicken, and steaks than a round burger press.
The press has a coiled handle and a hammered base. Lodge describes it as seasoned with vegetable oil, made in the USA, and intended for grill and griddle use. As with the round model, the care routine is hand washing, drying, and oiling.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Why choose it
- The rectangular base covers more of an elongated cut or sandwich.
- At 2.64 pounds, it is easier to reposition repeatedly than a five-pound press.
- The coiled handle separates the hand from some of the heat radiating from the press.
- It is smaller and easier to store than an XL press.
Trade-offs
The lower weight means less passive downward force than the Lodge round press or the Cuisinart XL. That may be an advantage for delicate sandwiches, but cooks seeking rapid smash-burger flattening may prefer a heavier model. The exact cooking result will also depend on the patty, surface temperature, parchment use, and time under pressure.
Best for: cooks who primarily press sandwiches, steaks, chicken, or chops and want a compact cast-iron tool.
Suggested shopping terms: Lodge rectangular grill press or Lodge LGP3 grill press.
Rank #2
- YOUR NEW GO-TO PRESS: The Lodge Cast Iron Grill Press is the perfect kitchen tool for beginners, home cooks and chefs. The sturdy piece is perfect for smash burgers or for grilling steaks or chicken. Put American cast iron to work in your home and keep authentically good food in the family.
- SEASONED COOKWARE: Seasoning is simply oil baked into the iron, giving it a natural, easy-release finish and helps prevent your pan from rusting. Lodge pre-seasons all cast iron cookware with 100% natural vegetable oil: no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The more you use Lodge the better the seasoning will get!
- RUST? DON’T PANIC! IT’S NOT BROKEN: When your pan arrives you may notice a spot that looks like rust. It is simply oil that has not fully carbonized. With regular use and care the spot will disappear. If you do notice rust simply scour the affected area with steel wool, wash with warm water, dry, and rub with vegetable oil.
- FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it is a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America. Lodge products are made in the USA with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free material.
3. Cuisinart XL Cast Iron Grill Press: best for large batches
The Cuisinart XL CGPR-223 is the outlier in this group. It has a 10-by-10-inch pressing surface and weighs 5.1 pounds. Cuisinart says it can press six burgers, four sandwiches, or two steaks at the same time.
That large coverage makes it the most logical choice for family-size griddle cooking or a cookout where several items need to remain flat. It has a wooden handle and is intended for grills, barbecues, cookouts, and indoor griddles.
Why choose it
- The broad base can cover multiple patties or sandwiches.
- Five pounds supplies considerable passive pressure across a large area.
- The wood handle may be more comfortable to grip than bare metal during stovetop use.
- It is suited to users who cook batches rather than one item at a time.
Trade-offs
A 10-by-10-inch press takes more storage space and can be awkward to maneuver on a small skillet. Its size may also be excessive if you usually cook one burger or sandwich. The wooden handle is a potential comfort advantage, but heat behavior and long-term durability should be verified in hands-on testing rather than assumed from the handle material.
Best for: families, hosts, and griddle users who regularly press several foods simultaneously.
Suggested shopping terms: Cuisinart XL grill press or 10-inch cast-iron grill press.
4. Victoria Cast Iron Grill Press: best budget wood-handle option
Victoria’s preseasoned cast-iron grill press is a lower-priced alternative for burgers, bacon, steaks, grilled cheese, panini-style sandwiches, and quesadillas. It has a textured bottom and a natural wood handle, and Victoria lists it for stovetop, flat-top, and grill use.
Victoria recommends preheating the press over indirect heat, hand washing without soap, drying it thoroughly, and applying a light coat of oil. The manufacturer specifically states that this model is not oven-safe because of its wood handle.
Why choose it
- It offers a budget-oriented route into cast-iron pressing.
- The wood handle may be more comfortable for repeated stovetop handling.
- The textured base is intended for contact with foods such as burgers, bacon, steaks, and sandwiches.
- It can serve both grill and flat-top cooking needs.
Trade-offs
The oven restriction is important. Grill compatibility does not automatically mean oven safety, and Victoria’s wood handle is the reason this model should not be placed in an oven. The available manufacturer information also does not expose all dimensions and weight, so verify the exact size from the current retail listing before buying. Its care requirements are likewise less convenient than a dishwasher-safe stainless-steel alternative.
Rank #3
- 【HEAVY-DUTY CAST IRON GRILL PRESS】 :Our barbeque grill press is made of heavy duty food grade cast iron. Use the grill weight to press out unwanted grease and fat, safe to use in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, griddle, or campfire. The press can also be seasoned like cast-iron skillets to create a non-stick surface.
- 【SAFE-TOUCH ,COMFORT-GRIP WOOD HANDLE】: Wooden handle, has ergonomic design to reduce hand fatigue while ensuring a secure and comfortable grip. Made of natural wood, the handle of meat press is smooth without any burrs, insulate heat transfer that's heat-proof and always remain cool to touch. Firmly attached to the cast iron smash burger press with two screws.
- 【LESS TIME COOKING, MORE TIME EATING】: Healthy cooking, burger smasher for griddle can transfers heat evenly to food when pressing it. At the time it prevents food like bacon from curling, it can also prevents some part will be over cooked, some are still raw. Press out unwanted excess fat and oils from meats for healthy grilling and shorten the cooking time.
- 【PROFESSIONAL TEXTURED DESIGN GROOVED BOTTOM】: Our kitchen grill press is designed to give your meats and sandwiches restaurant quality grill marks, keeps the press positioned, and prevents bacon from curling, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes!
- 【WIDE APPLICATIONS】: Bacon press for griddle is a professional indoor kitchen and outdoor BBQ, camping flat top grill tool. The smash burger press can be used on various surfaces, including grills, griddles, flat tops, teppanyaki, skillets pans, and induction stoves. Ideal for food like bacon, sandwich, burgers, chicken, steak, Paninis.
Best for: shoppers who want a traditional cast-iron press and wood handle at a lower listed manufacturer price.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Suggested shopping terms: Victoria cast-iron grill press or budget cast-iron meat press.
5. The Chef’s Press 3-piece Grill Set: best lightweight multi-press set
The Chef’s Press Grill Set is not a direct substitute for a heavy cast-iron burger weight. It contains two 13-ounce presses and one 18-ounce press, each listed at approximately 5 by 6.5 inches and made from 7-gauge stainless steel. The design is intended for denser foods and allows multiple presses to be stacked or used separately.
The set is most compelling for cooks who want several small weights for bacon, vegetables, chicken, sandwiches, quesadillas, or other foods that benefit from broad contact and even pressure. The manufacturer’s broader product information states that Chef’s Press products are dishwasher-safe, which gives this set a meaningful maintenance advantage over the cast-iron models.
Why choose it
- Three separate presses allow several foods to be handled at once.
- The individual pieces are much lighter and easier to move than cast iron.
- Stainless-steel construction and dishwasher-safe care simplify cleanup.
- The pieces can be stacked when additional pressure is useful.
Trade-offs
The individual weights are dramatically lighter than the 2.64-, 3.5-, and 5.1-pound cast-iron presses. Whether they flatten a smash burger quickly enough depends on the patty, cooking surface, and technique. That question should be tested directly rather than answered from weight alone. The set also costs more than any single cast-iron press in the cited manufacturer price snapshots.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsBest for: cooks who prioritize easy cleanup, several simultaneous presses, and low lifting weight over maximum downward force.
Suggested shopping terms: Chef’s Press grill set or dishwasher-safe grill press.
How to choose the right grill press
Start with the food you press most often
- Smash burgers: choose a round, relatively heavy press such as the Lodge round model. A press should flatten the patty quickly and evenly during the initial sear.
- Sandwiches and panini-style cooking: a rectangular press covers bread more naturally. The Lodge rectangular model is the most compact fit; the Cuisinart XL is better for several sandwiches at once.
- Steaks, chicken, and chops: prioritize coverage, stability, and a handle that remains comfortable near the hot cooking surface.
- Bacon and vegetables: multiple lightweight presses can be more convenient than one heavy weight, especially when several portions cook simultaneously.
Use weight and footprint together
More weight generally supplies more passive pressure, but it does not automatically produce better food. A large press spreads its weight over more area; a smaller press concentrates contact but covers less food. Shape, handle design, preheating, cooking temperature, parchment technique, and the cooking surface all matter.
Rank #4
- ART OF THE MARK: Preheat and press to create mouthwatering grill marks on anything you grill.
- WOODEN HANDLE: The stylish, stay-cool wooden handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- EXTRA LARGE: The 10" x 10" surface is perfect for pressing 6 burgers, 4 sandwiches, or 2 steaks at once.
- DURABLE: Heavy-duty 5.1-pound cast iron for superior, even heat distribution and durability.
For example, the Cuisinart XL is the heaviest and largest model in this group, but that does not make it the best choice for a single small skillet. Conversely, The Chef’s Press set is easier to handle and clean, but its lighter weights may not supply enough force for the fastest smash-burger technique.
Recommended Free Tools
Check your cooking surface
Measure the skillet or griddle before buying. A 10-by-10-inch press can overhang a small pan, while a 6.75-by-4.5-inch press is easier to position on a typical home skillet. On an outdoor flat-top or large griddle, the Cuisinart’s broad footprint becomes more useful.
Decide how much maintenance you will tolerate
Seasoned cast iron needs a simple but consistent routine: wash by hand according to the manufacturer’s instructions, dry completely, and apply a thin layer of oil. Leaving moisture on the surface can encourage rust. The Chef’s Press set is the better fit for someone who wants dishwasher-safe cleanup and does not want to maintain a seasoned surface.
For cast-iron owners, a cast iron care oil, suitable scrub brush, and heat-resistant gloves can solve practical cleaning and handling problems. These are secondary accessories, not substitutes for choosing the right press.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to use a grill press for smash burgers
- Preheat the skillet or griddle. Use the cooking temperature called for in your burger recipe and allow the surface to heat evenly.
- Use a consistent patty size. Testing or comparing presses is meaningful only when the meat weight and patty shape are the same.
- Place the meat on the hot surface. A loosely formed ball or patty is typically easier to flatten than a densely packed one.
- Add parchment if sticking is a concern. A square of parchment between the press and meat can help the press release cleanly while still transferring pressure.
- Press once and hold consistently. Repeatedly lifting and pressing changes the contact pattern and makes comparisons less reliable.
- Remove the press when the patty has reached the desired thinness. Continue cooking according to the recipe, then clean and dry the press promptly.
A suitable smash burger spatula is useful because thin patties can adhere to the cooking surface even when the top releases cleanly. Use a broad, sturdy turner appropriate for the skillet or griddle rather than relying on the press to do every part of the job.
How these presses should be tested before claiming a winner
Because manufacturer specifications cannot establish comparative cooking performance, a genuine “tested and reviewed” article should use the same conditions for every model:
- Pressure: record listed weight and contact dimensions, then compare how quickly each press flattens the same portion of meat.
- Smash burgers: use the same meat weight, initial patty temperature, griddle temperature, parchment protocol, and press time. Record sticking, release, final thickness, and browning.
- Steaks and chicken: compare coverage, stability, repositioning, and handle comfort over a hot surface.
- Sandwiches: assess browning, compression, bread damage, cheese leakage, and ease of repositioning.
- Cleaning: measure hand-wash effort, drying time, oiling needs, and any early signs of rust or seasoning loss. Test the stainless-steel set’s dishwasher-safe claim separately from cast iron.
- Storage: check whether each press fits common 10- to 12-inch skillets and griddles and whether the handle remains stable when lifted.
- Repeated use: evaluate whether a 5.1-pound press is practical for repeated batches and whether wood handles remain comfortable and stable.
Until those tests are documented, “best” should be understood as a recommendation based on design fit and published specifications—not a measured ranking of finished food.
Grill press versus electric panini maker
A grill press is a passive weight. It does not contain heating elements, set a cooking temperature, or automatically cook both sides of a sandwich. You supply the heat with a skillet, griddle, grill, or flat top.
An electric panini appliance is a separate category. It heats from powered contact plates and may offer temperature controls, hinged lids, or multiple cooking configurations. Choose an electric appliance if you want an all-in-one countertop machine. Choose a grill press if you already own a hot cooking surface and want a simpler, more flexible tool that can also press burgers, bacon, steaks, and vegetables.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Models not included as current primary recommendations
The older Cuisinart CGWM-020 three-pound press is listed by Cuisinart as discontinued and out of stock. It should not be treated as a current primary recommendation unless a live retailer listing and remaining stock are independently confirmed.
Best Value
- Heavy Duty Press Design: The Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Press features heavyweight cast iron construction designed to help create evenly pressed burgers and grilled sandwiches
- Steady Cooking Pressure: This rectangle cast iron press applies consistent weight across cooking surfaces to help support browning, crisp edges, and evenly pressed sandwiches
- Comfortable Spiral Handle: This cast iron grill press features a spiral handle designed for a comfortable grip and confident control while pressing and cooking favorite foods
- Naturally Seasoned Surface: This non-toxic grill press is seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil and develops additional character with continued use over time
- About Lodge Cast Iron: Made in the USA, Lodge cookware is versatile and as easy to clean as it is to cook with; taste a difference in your cooking with cast iron
Also avoid describing any of these presses as “nonstick” in the PTFE-coated-appliance sense. Seasoned cast iron can become easier to release food from with proper use and maintenance, but that is different from a factory-applied nonstick coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best grill press for smash burgers?
The Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grill Press is the best fit on specifications for most smash-burger cooks. Its 8-inch round base matches burger patties and its 3.5-pound weight provides substantial passive pressure. Actual release and browning performance should be confirmed through hands-on testing.
Can a grill press go in the oven?
Do not assume that grill compatibility means oven safety. Victoria specifically says its wood-handle press is not oven-safe. Check the exact manufacturer instructions for any other model before placing it in an oven.
Are cast-iron grill presses nonstick?
They are not factory PTFE nonstick appliances. Seasoned cast iron can provide easier food release when properly maintained, but it still requires hand washing, thorough drying, and periodic oiling.
Is a grill press the same as a panini maker?
No. A grill press is a passive weight used on a separate hot skillet, griddle, or grill. An electric panini maker supplies its own heat and cooks through powered contact plates.
How heavy should a burger press be?
There is no universal ideal weight. Heavier presses generally provide more passive pressure, but footprint, patty size, surface temperature, parchment use, and technique also affect results. The listed models range from 13-ounce stainless-steel pieces to a 5.1-pound cast-iron XL press.
The Bottom Line
Choose the Lodge round press for the broadest everyday use and smash burgers. Choose the Lodge rectangular model for compact sandwich and steak pressing, the Cuisinart XL for multiple items, Victoria for a lower-priced wood-handle design, and The Chef’s Press set for lightweight, dishwasher-safe multi-item cooking. None should be selected solely by weight: match the press’s shape, size, care requirements, and handle design to your cooking surface and routine.
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.
