Joybuy Insights

Choosing an electric grill: a practical guide to type, power and cleaning

An electric grill is ideal for preparing a quick meal in the kitchen, on the balcony or on a terrace where charcoal and gas are less practical. However, there is a huge range to choose from, from a compact table grill and contact grill to a plancha grill with a cooking surface of almost a metre.

The product name does not always tell you how well an appliance suits your needs. Pay particular attention to its construction, grilling surface and how easy it is to clean.

Common pitfalls when choosing an electric grill

1. High wattage is not everything

A 2,400-watt grill will generally heat up quickly, but wattage alone says nothing about the usable cooking area or temperature control. A small, high-powered contact grill may be less suitable for a family than a larger electric table barbecue with slightly lower wattage.

Always check:

  • the grilling surface in cm² or the dimensions;
  • the number of temperature settings;
  • whether the heat is distributed evenly across the plate;
  • whether the plug and wattage are suitable for a standard Dutch socket.

2. “Non-stick coating” does not mean maintenance is unnecessary

A grill with a non-stick coating still requires careful use. Metal spatulas, knives and forks can damage the coating. Also check whether the plate is genuinely removable and whether it is dishwasher-safe. With some models, only the drip tray and separate components can go in the dishwasher.

A fixed plate can work perfectly well, but it is harder to clean thoroughly. Grease and baked-on residue are more likely to remain, particularly around the edges and drainage channel.

3. An electric barbecue is not automatically suitable for indoor use

A model sold as an outdoor barbecue may require additional ventilation. Conversely, an indoor grill is not always designed for use on a balcony or in the garden. Read the instructions and check the recommended positioning.

Also bear in mind:

  • sufficient clearance around the appliance;
  • a flat, heat-resistant surface;
  • distance from curtains, paper and other flammable materials;
  • allowing the appliance to cool before removing the plates or storing it away.

Important specifications to compare

Grill type: contact grill, table grill or plancha

A contact grill usually heats from above and below. This is practical for toasted sandwiches, burgers and thin cuts of meat. A floating lid can be helpful when ingredients vary in thickness.

A table grill or electric table barbecue generally has one open cooking surface. This is better suited to grilling together at the table, but you will need to turn the ingredients yourself. A plancha grill often has a smooth plate for fish, vegetables and smaller ingredients. A combination of smooth and ribbed surfaces offers greater variety.

A teppanyaki grill usually has a wide, flat hotplate. This is useful for entertaining, but requires more storage space.

Surface area and size

For one or two people, a compact grill plate may be sufficient. For a family, a surface area of around 1,000 to 1,500 cm² is more practical. An extra-long plate, such as 90 x 23 cm, is particularly useful when several people want to eat at the same time.

Measure beforehand:

  • the space on your worktop or garden table;
  • the storage space in a cupboard;
  • the distance from walls and other heat-sensitive materials;
  • the length of the power cord.

Temperature control and grease collection

A grill with adjustable temperature gives you greater control when cooking different ingredients. Meat often requires a different temperature from fish, vegetables or bread. Five settings are easy for many households to manage, while a stepless thermostat allows more precise adjustment.

A removable drip tray prevents grease from collecting around the plate. This makes cleaning easier, but the tray must be emptied regularly. According to the product description, a water reservoir can help to reduce smoke and odours on some models. Do not regard this as a guarantee of smoke-free use.

Our recommendations for different user profiles

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

Alpina electric BBQ 2000 W MT

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this model can be used on a table, balcony or in the garden, and has a 43 x 35 cm grill plate. The included stand offers additional flexibility.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specified dimensions, 2,000-watt power rating and range of suitable locations make the choice more concrete than simply relying on the term “barbecue”.

Main benefit & advantages

Electric heat source, indicator light and a rack for accessories.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Tefal OptiGrill 2in1 Intelligent Contact Grill

Tefal OptiGrill 2in1 Intelligent Contact Grill & BBQ

Why it suits this profile: The GC772D combines contact grilling with a 180-degree open position. According to the product description, it has 9 automatic programmes, four temperature levels and a cooking indicator.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The automatic programmes are linked to specific ingredients; however, always check the instructions and your preferred cooking method.

Main benefit & advantages

Removable dishwasher-safe plates, non-stick coating and 2,100-watt power.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Nedis Teppanyaki Table Grill

Nedis Teppanyaki Table Grill

Why it suits this profile: The extra-long 90 x 23 cm hotplate is designed for entertaining and larger groups. With five heat settings, you can prepare different ingredients one after another.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specific plate dimensions help prevent you from buying a compact table grill for a large group. The separate drip tray makes maintenance easier.

Main benefit & advantages

1,800 watts, non-stick coating and a removable drip tray.

Suitable for: Families and balcony owners
Fritel Barbecue BBQ 2246

Fritel Barbecue BBQ 2246

Why it suits this profile: This model has a rectangular grilling surface measuring 50 x 25 cm and a power rating of 2,200 watts. The thermostat can be adjusted for use as an electric barbecue or table grill.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The plate dimensions, thermostat and removable grill plate can all be checked in advance. This makes it easier to see whether the appliance suits your table and cleaning routine.

Main benefit & advantages

2,200 watts, adjustable thermostat and a spacious rectangular grill plate.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about electric grills

Can I use an electric grill on a balcony?

That depends on the model and the local rules set by your building or council. Choose an appliance that, according to the product information, is suitable for outdoor use, place it on a stable surface and keep sufficient distance from walls and flammable materials. Do not use an extension lead that is not suitable for the specified wattage.

How many watts does an electric grill need?

A compact grill often has a power rating of around 1,200 to 1,500 watts. Larger models are regularly rated between 1,800 and 2,400 watts. In addition to wattage, consider the grilling surface, thermostat and heating time. High wattage is particularly useful when the plate is large and the heat is distributed evenly.

How do I clean an electric grill?

Switch off the appliance, unplug it from the socket and allow everything to cool completely. Then remove the grill plates and drip tray if permitted by the instructions. Clean separate components with a soft sponge or in the dishwasher where this is explicitly allowed. Never immerse the housing, plug or cable in water.