Joybuy Insights

Choosing an electric grill: find the right model for your kitchen

An electric grill can be a practical addition for breakfast, lunch, barbecue-style dishes and quick evening meals. However, a teppanyaki plate, contact grill, tabletop grill and grill pan all work quite differently. You may not realise you’ve made the wrong choice until after buying: the cooking surface may be too small, cleaning may take too long or the temperature may be difficult to control.

That’s why Joybuy’s Product Recommendation Officer advises you to focus on specifications you can check, rather than eye-catching marketing claims.

Three common pitfalls when choosing an electric grill

1. Mistaking high wattage for a large cooking surface

Higher wattage can help a grill heat up faster, but it doesn’t tell you how much food you can cook at once. Always check the plate dimensions and stated capacity. A compact electric grill measuring, for example, 48 × 20 cm, is a good fit for a couple, but may be less practical for a family.

For four to six people, a grill plate for 2 to 6 people with plenty of width is a more convenient choice. Also check whether the whole surface is usable, or whether space is taken up by edges, ridges or a grease channel.

2. “Non-stick” without clear care instructions

A non-stick grill isn’t automatically scratch-resistant or dishwasher-safe. Check:

  • what the plate is made of;
  • whether the product information states that the coating is PFAS-free;
  • whether the plate is removable;
  • whether it can be washed in the dishwasher;
  • which utensils and cleaning products you can use.

Some models need to be washed by hand, even if the coating is easy to wipe clean. Don’t use metal utensils on a coated plate, and don’t heat an empty grill for longer than necessary.

3. Treating claims about less smoke or grease as guaranteed results

Brands may promise reduced smoke, odours or grease. Treat these percentages as manufacturer claims, not guaranteed results in every kitchen. For example, according to its own research, George Foreman says the 28000-56 model produces 87% less smoke and odour. Your experience will depend on factors including the ingredients, temperature and ventilation.

A drip tray and sloping plate can help drain away grease, but they don’t make ventilation unnecessary. Place an indoor grill on a stable, heat-resistant worktop and follow the instructions.

Key specifications to check before you buy

Cooking surface and layout

A smooth surface works well for eggs, pancakes, fish and marinated ingredients. A ridged section creates chargrilled lines and lets moisture or grease drain away. The Fritel Grill Teppanyaki GT 1375 combines a smooth teppanyaki zone with a ridged section on a 48 × 20 cm plate.

A larger tabletop grill, such as the Fritel Teppanyaki TY 1689, with a 700 × 220 mm cooking surface, gives you more room to cook several ingredients at once. It’s handy for a family breakfast or a small barbecue around the table.

Temperature control

A separate thermostat with several settings gives you more control than a model that only switches on and off. Check how many settings are available and whether the thermostat is detachable. This makes cleaning easier, but never let the electrical connection get wet.

Automatic control can be useful on a contact grill. According to the product description, Tefal OptiGrill models use a sensor to measure the thickness of the food and adjust the programme accordingly. Treat this as a handy feature, not a guarantee of a particular level of doneness.

Cleaning, grease drainage and safety

Look for a removable drip tray, a pouring spout or drainage channel, and removable plates. Also check for:

  • a CE mark on the product;
  • a suitable earthed connection;
  • the length of the power cord;
  • cool-touch handles or insulated sections;
  • clear instructions;
  • safe placement indoors and, where appropriate, outdoors.

A grill for indoor and outdoor use is only suitable for outdoor use if the manufacturer says so. Don’t use an electrical appliance in the rain, on a wet surface or close to flammable materials.

Recommended models for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Fritel Grill Teppanyaki GT 1375

Fritel Grill Teppanyaki GT 1375

Why it suits this profile: This compact model is designed for 1 to 2 people and, according to the product information, is also suitable for small groups of 2 to 3 people, at home or on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The plate dimensions and capacity are clearly stated. The detachable thermostat and grease drain give you more control over cooking and cleaning.

Key benefits and features

1360 W, five temperature settings, a smooth and a ridged zone, and a non-stick coating stated to be PFAS-free according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Tefal GC7178 OptiGrill+

Tefal GC7178 OptiGrill+

Why it suits this profile: A good choice for households that often cook meat, fish, burgers or sandwiches and value automatic programmes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The two removable plates and drip tray mean less cleaning by hand. The listed programmes also make it clear how a contact grill differs from a simple grill plate.

Key benefits and features

2000 W, six automatic programmes, dishwasher-safe plates according to the product information, and a stated capacity of 4 to 5 people.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use
Fritel Teppanyaki TY 1689

Fritel Teppanyaki TY 1689

Why it suits this profile: This long tabletop grill is designed for families and small groups who want to cook several ingredients at once.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 700 × 220 mm dimensions make it easy to check how much cooking space is available. The product specifications also list an adjustable thermostat and removable drip tray.

Key benefits and features

Large aluminium cooking surface, five temperature settings, grease collection and, according to the product information, suitability for indoor and outdoor use.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.

Electric grill, grill pan or contact grill?

A grill pan is a good choice if you already have a hob and want to keep extra appliances to a minimum. According to the product information, the Tefal Jamie Oliver grill pan also works on induction hobs and has a pouring spout. An electric grill, on the other hand, has its own heating element, so it’s more flexible on the table or outdoors, provided outdoor use is permitted.

A contact grill usually heats from both above and below, making it handy for paninis, burgers and cuts of meat. A teppanyaki plate generally has an open surface, so you can cook several smaller ingredients side by side. Choose based on how you like to cook, not just the word “grill”.

Frequently asked questions

How much power does an electric grill need?

The power you need depends on the size and design of the grill. Compact models around 1360 W are suitable for smaller portions. Larger contact grills often have a power rating of around 1500 to 2000 W. As well as wattage, always check the thermostat controls, plate size and heating time.

Can I use an electric grill indoors?

Yes, if the manufacturer says the model is suitable for indoor use. Place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface, leave space around the housing and make sure the room is ventilated. Even a model with grease drainage can produce smoke or odours.

How do I clean an electric grill safely?

Let the grill cool down completely, unplug it and remove the thermostat if the instructions say to do so. Clean the plates with a soft sponge. Never immerse the housing, plug or electrical connection in water. Check beforehand whether the parts are dishwasher-safe; this doesn’t apply to every non-stick grill.