Joybuy Insights

Choosing an electric grill: how to avoid a bad buy for indoors and out

An electric grill seems simple enough: plug it in, set the temperature and start cooking. Yet many people buy a model that turns out to be too small after a few weeks, difficult to clean or unable to get hot enough. Practical shortcomings soon become apparent, particularly when you use it on a balcony, small patio or in a Dutch kitchen.

So don’t focus solely on wattage or an attractive offer. Check these three points in particular:

  • a grilling surface that suits the number of people you’re cooking for;
  • adjustable temperature and even heat distribution;
  • plates and a drip tray that are easy to clean.

Three common pitfalls when buying an electric barbecue

1. High wattage doesn’t tell you everything

A high wattage can help a grill heat up quickly, but it doesn’t tell you how large the grilling surface is or how evenly the heat is distributed. For example, a compact 2,000-watt contact grill may offer less space than a 1,500-watt table grill.

Check the surface area in square centimetres or the dimensions of the plate. A compact contact grill is often enough for one or two people. A family or group will get more use out of a plancha grill or table grill with a wide, flat surface.

2. ‘Non-stick coating’ doesn’t mean maintenance-free

A grill with a non-stick coating can make it easier to remove food, but the coating can be damaged by metal spatulas, knives and scouring pads. Also check whether the plates are removable. A fixed grilling surface can take much longer to clean over time.

According to product information from various manufacturers, some plates are dishwasher-safe. Always check exactly which parts this applies to: it usually doesn’t include the electrical base.

3. Indoor use is sometimes interpreted too broadly

A barbecue for indoors and out must be safe and suitable for the environment in which you plan to use it. An electric grill generally doesn’t produce charcoal smoke, but fatty foods can still create fumes and splashes. Use the appliance on a flat, heat-resistant surface and make sure the area is well ventilated.

A charcoal model, such as the Alpina Charcoal BBQ, is not the same as an electric barbecue. It runs on charcoal and has a ventilation system and removable ash collector. It may be suitable for outdoor use, but not for use in a kitchen or enclosed balcony space.

Which specifications matter?

Grilling surface and shape

A table grill with a flat plate is handy for vegetables, fish, eggs and thinly sliced meat. A ridged plate leaves grill marks and can be suitable for burgers, sausages and steaks. Some models combine both surfaces.

Also consider the space available. According to its product specifications, the Nedis Teppanyaki Table Grill has an extra-long 90 × 23 cm cooking plate. That gives you plenty of room to cook, but you’ll also need a wide table and enough storage space.

Temperature control

A grill with adjustable temperature gives you more control than an appliance with a single fixed heat setting. Lower temperatures are useful for delicate ingredients, while a higher setting is handy for searing.

There are several types of control:

  • five fixed heat settings, as on the Philips Table Grill HD6210/90;
  • a continuously adjustable thermostat up to 230 °C, as on the Severin PG 8564;
  • automatic programmes and sensors on various Tefal OptiGrill models;
  • a simple dial on many table barbecues.

Automatic programmes can make a grill easier to use, but check whether you can also adjust the settings manually. This matters if you want to cook more than just meat, such as bread, fish or vegetables.

Cleaning and grease collection

A grill with removable plates is usually more practical than a model with fixed parts. A removable drip tray helps collect dripping fat and makes it easier to empty.

If the grill has a non-stick coating, only use wooden, silicone or heat-resistant plastic utensils. Let the grill cool completely before removing the plates or drip tray. Never immerse the housing, plug or cord in water.

Recommended models for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Alpina electric BBQ 2000 W MT

Alpina electric BBQ 2000 W MT

Why it suits this user: This model is designed for anyone looking for a straightforward electric barbecue for a table, balcony or garden. It has a 2,000-watt output and a 43 × 35 cm grilling plate.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The specifications clearly state the dimensions, electric heating type and lack of a timer. That way, you know what you’re getting — and what you’re not — before you buy.

Key benefit & highlights

2,000 watts, suitable for use on a table, balcony or in the garden, with an indicator light and keep-warm function according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Tefal OptiGrill Elite GC7508

Tefal OptiGrill Elite GC7508

Why it suits this user: If you often grill indoors and would like extra guidance, this model offers 12 automatic programmes, a 30 × 20 cm grilling surface and a digital grilling assistant.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information specifies its 2,000-watt output, two plates, timer and dishwasher-safe parts. This makes it easy to compare the features and maintenance requirements before you buy.

Key benefit & highlights

12 programmes, searing function, adjustable temperature, timer, and dishwasher-safe plates and drip tray.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use
Severin PG 8564 Plancha Grill

Severin PG 8564 Plancha Grill

Why it suits this user: This plancha grill is designed for larger meals, with a cooking surface of 1,500 cm². Its combination of a smooth and ridged surface is handy for cooking meat, fish and vegetables.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The maximum temperature, cooking surface and automatic switch-off are all listed. The grill plate, drip tray and splash guard can also be removed for cleaning.

Key benefit & highlights

2,300 watts, continuously adjustable up to 230 °C, a 1,500 cm² cooking surface and an integrated drip tray.

Suitable for: Families who want to cook a variety of dishes
Tefal OptiGrill 4-in-1 GC7748

Tefal OptiGrill 4-in-1 GC7748

Why it suits this user: This is a multi-purpose grill for contact grilling, tabletop barbecuing, oven use and cooking complete meals. According to the specifications, the cooking surface measures 30 × 20 cm.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The four functions, adjustable thermostat, interchangeable plates and indicator are clearly described. That way, you can focus your spending on the features you’ll actually use.

Key benefit & highlights

Four cooking functions, automatic programmes, removable dishwasher-safe plates and a floating top plate.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Safe use and lower running costs

An electric grill uses electricity while heating up and cooking. The exact amount of energy it uses depends on its wattage, the temperature you choose and the cooking time. A 2,000-watt appliance running continuously for one hour would theoretically use 2 kWh, but in practice the thermostat switches off regularly once the temperature has been reached.

You can reduce energy use by:

  • preheating the grill only for as long as necessary;
  • avoiding heating the plate when it’s empty;
  • cooking the right amount of food at once;
  • keeping the drip tray and ventilation openings clean.

Always place the appliance on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Before buying, check whether the model is intended for indoor use. Outdoors, protection from rain, an earthed socket and safe positioning are important.

Frequently asked questions about electric grills

Can I use an electric grill indoors?

That depends on the model and its instructions for use. An indoor grill or contact grill is designed for use inside, but ventilation is still important. Never use an electric barbecue model in an enclosed space if the manual says not to.

How long does an electric grill last?

Its lifespan depends on how you use, clean and handle the plates. Don’t use metal utensils on a non-stick coating, avoid overheating the grill and let it cool before removing any parts. A model with replacement parts available may be more practical if you use it frequently.

Is a contact grill more energy-efficient than an oven?

Not necessarily. A contact grill often has a smaller heating surface and may need less time to heat up for a small meal. Actual energy use depends on the wattage, cooking time, amount of food and temperature selected. So compare both the wattage and your usual cooking habits.