Electric grills are becoming increasingly popular among grill enthusiasts due to their convenience, easy cleanup, and lack of need for fuel or fire. Unlike traditional charcoal and gas grills, electric grills can be used indoors and outdoors, making them an excellent option for year-round grilling.

After testing about 15 electric grills, we have decided to share the best ones on the market. We’ll also provide a buying guide to help you choose the best electric grill. Whether you’re looking for a compact electric grill for your apartment balcony or a larger one for backyard barbecues, we’ve got you covered.

Why Choose an Electric Grill?

There are many reasons to choose electric grills, and here are a few of them.

Convenience: Electric grills are incredibly convenient because they can be used indoors and outdoors. You don’t need to worry about the weather or the availability of fuel, making them an excellent choice for year-round grilling.

Easy to Use: Electric grills are easy to use and require minimal setup time. Plug them in, wait a few minutes for them to heat up, and you’re ready to start cooking. There’s no need to deal with messy charcoal or gas tanks.

Easy to Clean: Electric grills are also easy to clean, which is a significant advantage over other grills. They don’t produce ash or grease, so there’s no need to clean up a mess after you cook.

Versatility: Electric grills come in various sizes and styles, making them suitable for various cooking needs. Whether cooking for a small family or hosting a large outdoor party, you can find an electric grill that meets your needs.

Energy-Efficient: Electric grills are energy-efficient, meaning they consume less electricity than other grills. They’re also eco-friendly, as they don’t produce harmful emissions.

Factors to Consider

Size: Electric grills come in various sizes, so it’s essential to consider how much space you have and how much food you’ll need to cook. If you’re cooking for a large group, you’ll need a bigger grill, whereas a smaller grill is ideal for solo cooking or small families.

Power: Electric grills have different power ratings, which can affect the cooking time and temperature. Higher-wattage grills tend to cook faster and get hotter than lower-wattage models, so choosing a grill that can handle the cooking you plan to do is crucial.

Temperature Control: Look for electric grills with precise temperature control, which allows you to adjust the heat to your desired level. Some models come with thermostats, while others have adjustable dials, so choose a grill that suits your preference.

Cooking Surface: Consider the type of cooking surface you prefer, such as a non-stick surface or a cast iron grill plate. Non-stick surfaces are easier to clean, while cast iron grills offer better heat retention and searing.

Durability: Choose an electric grill built to last, with sturdy materials and quality construction. Look for models with high-quality components, such as stainless steel or aluminum, that can withstand frequent use and exposure to the elements.

Price: Electric grills come at various price points, so it’s essential to consider your budget. While cheaper models may be tempting, investing in a high-quality electric grill can pay off in the long run with better performance, durability, and features.

The Best Electric Grill

Weber electric table grill Q 1400

The Weber Q 1400 electric grill is a compact and stylish tabletop grill that’s perfect for those who want the convenience of electric grilling without sacrificing performance. It has a sleek dark gray finish and compact design, making it easy to use and store and its powerful 2,200 W heating element provides excellent heat output for efficient cooking.

One of the key features of the Weber Q 1400 electric grill is its durable and high-quality construction. The grill is made of cast aluminum, a great material for outdoor cooking because it’s lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. The grill also has a porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate, which helps distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface and provides excellent searing for meats and vegetables.

Another great feature of the Weber Q 1400 electric grill is its easy-to-use temperature control. The grill has a built-in thermostat that allows you to adjust the temperature to your desired setting easily, and the control knob is conveniently located on the front of the grill for easy access. The grill also has a large heat reflector that helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of hot spots.

In terms of cooking area, the Weber Q 1400 electric grill has a 189 square inch cooking surface, which is more than enough space to cook for a small family or group of friends. The grill also has a removable catch pan that makes cleaning up after cooking quick and easy.

Pros:

• Compact and easy to use
• Durable cast aluminum construction
• Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate provides even heating and great searing
• Built-in thermostat for easy temperature control
• Large heat reflector helps distribute heat evenly
• Removable catch pan makes cleaning up after cooking easy

Cons:

• Relatively small cooking area may not be sufficient for larger gatherings
• No side tables or storage areas for food or cooking tools
• Some users may prefer the flavor of charcoal or gas grilling

Price:

The Weber Q 1400 electric grill is priced at around $359 on Amazon, which may be a bit higher for a tabletop electric grill. However, given its high-quality construction, excellent performance, and durability, many users find it a good price value.

Outdoorchef electric grill with lid Minichef

The Outdoorchef electric grill with lid Minichef 420 E is a compact and portable grill that’s perfect for those who want the convenience of electric grilling without sacrificing flavor or performance. This grill features a lid that helps trap heat and smoke for great flavor and even cooking, and its compact size makes it easy to transport and store.

One of the key features of the Outdoorchef Minichef 420 E electric grill is its versatile cooking surface. The grill has a 16.5-inch diameter cooking surface, which is large enough to cook for a small group of people, and the lid allows you to cook various foods, from steaks and burgers to vegetables and fish. The grill also has an adjustable heat control that lets you easily adjust the temperature to your desired setting.

Another great feature of the Outdoorchef Minichef 420 E electric grill is its durable and high-quality construction. The grill is made of high-quality materials designed to withstand outdoor use, including a porcelain-enameled steel cooking grate and a powder-coated steel body. The grill also has a removable drip tray that makes cleaning after cooking quick and easy.

Regarding portability, the Outdoorchef Minichef 420 E electric grill is very easy to transport and store. It has a compact and lightweight design, and the lid can be locked in place for easy carrying. The grill also has a built-in cord wrap, making storage and transportation even more convenient.

Pros:

• Portable and easy to transport and store
• Lid allows for versatile cooking options and helps trap heat and smoke for great flavor
• Adjustable heat control for easy temperature adjustments
• Durable and high-quality construction
• Removable drip tray for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Relatively small cooking surface may not be sufficient for larger gatherings
• No side tables or storage areas for food or cooking tools

Price:

The Outdoorchef Minichef 420 E electric grill is priced at around $218.67 on Amazon, a great value for a high-quality and versatile electric grill that’s easy to use and transport. Many users find it to be an excellent investment for outdoor cooking.

Tepro tabletop electric grill Victorville

The Tepro tabletop electric grill in Victorville is sleek and stylish, perfect for small spaces and outdoor gatherings. This grill features a black grill plate that adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor cooking setup, while its compact size makes it easy to store and transport.

One of the key features of the Tepro Victorville electric grill is its compact design. The grill’s small footprint makes it ideal for small outdoor spaces, such as balconies or patios. Despite its small size, the grill still has a cooking surface of 14 inches by 14 inches, which is large enough to cook for a small group of people.

Another great feature of the Tepro Victorville electric grill is its adjustable temperature control. The grill has a built-in thermostat that allows you to easily adjust the temperature to your desired setting and cook various foods perfectly. The grill also has a removable drip tray that makes cleaning after cooking quick and easy.

Regarding portability, the Tepro Victorville electric grill is very easy to transport and store. It has a compact and lightweight design, and the grill plate can be removed for easy cleaning and storage. The grill also has a built-in cord wrap, making storage and transportation even more convenient.

Pros:

• Stylish and elegant design with a black grill plate
• Compact and lightweight design is ideal for small outdoor spaces
• Adjustable temperature control for easy cooking
• Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
• Easy to store and transport with a built-in cord wrap

Cons:

• Relatively small cooking surface may not be sufficient for larger gatherings
• No lid to trap heat and smoke for added flavor

Price:

The Tepro Victorville electric grill is priced at around $79, a great value for a compact and stylish electric grill that’s easy to use and transport. Many users find it an excellent investment for outdoor cooking in small spaces.

Char-Broil Electric Grill All-Star

The Char-Broil Electric Grill All-Star 120 B is a compact, powerful electric grill perfect for small outdoor spaces and balconies. Its compact design makes it easy to store and transport, and it has a powerful 1,500-watt heating element that heats up quickly and evenly.

The new All-Star 120 electric grill can be used in various ways. The simple separation of the grill from the trolley makes it a mobile grill for weekend trips. It is also a perfect grill station for home, whether on the balcony or terrace. The small device can be placed almost anywhere.

Thanks to the innovative TRU infrared grill system, your grilled food will be up to 50% juicier. The system converts heat from the grill into infrared heat; This reduces airflow and prevents the meat from drying out. In addition, the heat is evenly distributed over the grill surface, and the formation of flames is avoided. This way, you get incomparable grill quality and maximum enjoyment.

Another great feature of the Char-Broil Electric Grill All-Star 120 B is its temperature control system. The grill has a built-in thermostat that allows you to easily adjust the temperature to your desired setting and cook various foods perfectly. The grill also has a warming rack that keeps food warm while you finish cooking other items.

Pros:

• Compact and powerful design is ideal for small outdoor spaces
• Adjustable temperature control for easy cooking
• Warming rack keeps food warm while you finish cooking other items
• Easy to store and transport with foldable legs and built-in cord wrap

Cons:

• Relatively small cooking surface may not be sufficient for larger gatherings
• No lid to trap heat and smoke for added flavor

Price:

The Char-Broil Electric Grill All-Star is priced at around $491.03 on Amazon, which may be a bit higher for a tabletop electric grill. However, given its high-quality construction, excellent performance, and durability, many users find it a good price value.

The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill

The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill is compact and lightweight, making it easy to use and store. It has a non-stick cooking surface that measures 118 square inches, providing enough room to cook multiple servings at once. The grill also comes with a removable hood, allowing you to access and flip your food during cooking easily.

Temperature Control:

The grill features adjustable temperature control, which allows you to choose the right temperature for cooking different types of food. The temperature can be set anywhere between 200°F to 450°F, giving you enough flexibility to cook various dishes. The grill also has a preheat indicator light that lets you know when the grill is ready to use.

Ease of Use:

The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill is easy to use and clean. A drip tray collects excess oil and grease, which can be removed and washed in the dishwasher. The grill plate is also removable and can be cleaned easily with a soft cloth or sponge. The grill’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to store when not in use.

Cooking Performance:

The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill provides a consistent and even heat distribution, which allows you to cook food evenly. The grill’s searing function lets you sear meat to lock in the juices and flavor, while the adjustable temperature control allows you to cook food to your desired level of doneness. The grill is great for cooking various dishes, including burgers, steaks, and vegetables.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use and store.
• Adjustable temperature control allows you to cook a variety of dishes.
• Non-stick cooking surface is easy to clean.
• Removable hood allows for easy access and flipping of food.
• Drip tray collects excess oil and grease for easy cleanup.

Cons:

• Limited temperature range may not be sufficient for some recipes.
• No lid or cover can make it difficult to achieve a smoky flavor or keep food warm after cooking.

Price:

The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill typically costs around $85 on Amazon, making it a relatively affordable option for those looking to grill indoors.

Other Great Electric Grills to Consider

George Foreman ($99 on Amazon)

Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill – This versatile grill can be used indoors or outdoors and features a non-stick cooking surface, adjustable temperature control, and a removable stand for easy transport.

Cuisinart Outdoor Electric Tabletop Grill ( $149.90 on Amazon)

This portable grill has a compact design that’s perfect for small outdoor spaces and features a powerful 1,500-watt heating element, adjustable temperature control, and a drip tray for easy cleanup.

Philips Smokeless Indoor Grill 

This indoor grill uses advanced infrared technology to cook food evenly and minimize smoke and splattering. It features non-stick, dishwasher-safe grilling plates and a drip tray for easy cleanup.

Masterbuilt Veranda Electric Grill

This outdoor grill has a large cooking surface and a powerful 1,650-watt heating element and features adjustable temperature control, a removable drip tray, and a built-in temperature gauge for precise cooking.

Zojirushi EB–CC15 Indoor Electric Grill 

This indoor grill has a large, non-stick cooking surface and features adjustable temperature control, a drip tray for easy cleanup, and a cool-touch handle for safe and easy transport.

Electric Grill Buying Guide

Types of Electric Grills

Electric grills come in various types, and choosing the right one depends on your needs and preferences. Here are the three main types of electric grills:

Indoor Electric Grills

Indoor electric grills are designed for use inside your home, typically in your kitchen or countertop. They are smaller than outdoor electric grills and ideal for cooking small portions of food, such as sandwiches, vegetables, and meats. Indoor electric grills are perfect for those who want to grill all year round, regardless of the weather.

Outdoor Electric Grills

Outdoor electric grills are larger and more powerful than indoor ones, making them suitable for outdoor use, such as on your patio, balcony, or backyard. They come in various sizes and styles, ranging from small tabletop models to large freestanding units. Outdoor electric grills are perfect for those who love entertaining guests and cooking larger portions of food, such as burgers, steaks, and vegetables.

Portable Electric Grills

Portable electric grills are designed for on-the-go grillings, such as camping, tailgating, or picnicking. They are small, lightweight, and easy to transport, making them ideal for travel. Portable electric grills come in different shapes and styles, from tabletop models to suitcase-style designs.

Key Features to Look for in an Electric Grill

When choosing an electric grill, several key features ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are some of the essential features to look for:

Size and Cooking Area

The size of the electric grill determines how much food you can cook at once. If you have a large family or plan to entertain guests frequently, a larger grill with a bigger cooking area is ideal. However, a smaller grill will suffice if you have limited space or only plan to cook for yourself or a small group.

Temperature Control

The ability to adjust the grill’s temperature is crucial, as it allows you to cook various foods at different temperatures. Some electric grills come with a thermostat, which maintains a constant temperature throughout cooking. Others have adjustable heat settings that allow you to control the temperature manually.

Power Rating

The power rating of an electric grill determines how quickly it heats up and how hot it gets. Higher-wattage grills tend to cook faster and get hotter than lower-wattage models. However, a high power rating also means higher electricity consumption, so choose a grill that balances performance with energy efficiency.

Cooking Surface

The type of cooking surface on an electric grill affects how the food is cooked and how easy it is to clean. Non-stick surfaces are easier to clean, while cast iron grills offer better heat retention and searing. Some grills also have interchangeable plates for grilling, griddling, and baking.

Durability

An electric grill is an investment, so choose a model that is built to last. Look for grills with high-quality components, such as stainless steel or aluminum, that can withstand frequent use and exposure to the elements. Additionally, choose a grill with a good warranty to protect your investment.

How to Use and Maintain Your Electric Grill

Once you’ve chosen an electric grill, you must learn how to use and maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips on how to use and maintain your electric grill:

Preheat the Grill

Before cooking on your electric grill, preheat it for several minutes to allow it to reach the desired temperature; This ensures even cooking and prevents food from sticking to the surface.

Use the Right Utensils

Avoid using metal utensils on your electric grill, as they can scratch the surface and damage the non-stick coating. Instead, use gentle silicone or wooden utensils on the grill’s surface.

Clean After Each Use

Cleaning your electric grill after each use is essential to prevent food buildup and maintain optimal performance. Allow the grill to cool down completely before cleaning it. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to wipe down the cooking surface, and never immerse the grill in water or any other liquids.

Store the Grill Properly

When not in use, store your electric grill in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. If the grill has removable parts, such as cooking plates, remove them and clean them separately before storing them.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on using and maintaining your electric grill; This ensures that you use the grill correctly and don’t void the warranty by using it improperly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are electric grills as good as gas or charcoal grills?

Electric grills have advantages over gas or charcoal grills, such as ease of use, convenience, and reduced smoke and odor. However, they may not offer the same flavor or sear marks as gas or charcoal grills. It ultimately depends on personal preference and cooking needs.

Can I use my electric grill indoors?

Most electric grills are designed for outdoor use only, as they produce heat and smoke. However, some electric grills, such as countertop models with a smokeless feature, are designed for indoor use. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using your electric grill indoors.

Can I cook a variety of foods on an electric grill?

Electric grills can cook various foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, and desserts. However, adjusting the temperature and cooking time based on the food being cooked is essential to ensure even cooking.

How long do electric grills last?

The lifespan of an electric grill depends on several factors, such as usage, maintenance, and quality. An electric grill can last several years or even a decade with proper use and maintenance.

How do I know when the grill is ready to cook?

Most electric grills have an indicator light that turns on when the grill is ready to cook. Additionally, you can test the temperature by placing your hand several inches above the cooking surface. If you can hold your hand there for several seconds, the grill is not hot enough. If you can only hold your hand there for a few seconds, the grill is ready to cook.

Last thought

In conclusion, electric grills are a convenient and efficient way to enjoy grilled food without the hassle of traditional charcoal or gas grilling. They come in various types, sizes, and price ranges, making it easy to find one that fits your needs and budget. When choosing an electric grill, it’s important to consider factors such as size, temperature control, portability, and ease of cleaning. Following proper maintenance and usage guidelines, an electric grill can provide you with delicious grilled meals for years.