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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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”.
Electric heat source, indicator light and a rack for accessories.
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.
The automatic programmes are linked to specific ingredients; however, always check the instructions and your preferred cooking method.
Removable dishwasher-safe plates, non-stick coating and 2,100-watt power.
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.
The specific plate dimensions help prevent you from buying a compact table grill for a large group. The separate drip tray makes maintenance easier.
1,800 watts, non-stick coating and a removable drip tray.
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.
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.
2,200 watts, adjustable thermostat and a spacious rectangular grill plate.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
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.
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.
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.