In brief: The best electric grill for you depends on your needs. Large freestanding grills with lids are ideal for classic BBQ nights. Compact tabletop and contact grills are great for small households or low-fat cooking. Key factors include wattage, cooking area and convenient features such as temperature control and removable plates. Our comparison will help you find the right grill.
Electric grills tested: What matters most in 2026?
Want to enjoy grilling without the hassle of charcoal or gas? An electric grill is a great choice. It’s easy to clean, heats up quickly and is often allowed on balconies. With so many models to choose from, though, finding the right one can be tricky. Our 2026 review and comparison highlights models that stand out for performance, ease of use and cooking results.
We looked at a range of models, from large freestanding grills for backyard parties to compact tabletop grills for one-person households. The key criteria include wattage, cooking area, temperature control and ease of cleaning.
Contents
What types of electric grills are available?
Before choosing a model, think about which type best suits your needs. The main types differ quite a bit in how they’re used.
Freestanding grills: A backyard classic
These grills look similar to their gas-powered counterparts. They sit on their own stands, often with wheels for easy moving. Many models have a lid, which allows for gentle cooking with indirect heat. They offer the most cooking space and are ideal for groups. One example from our range is the , a versatile freestanding and tabletop grill with plenty of power.
Tabletop grills: Compact and versatile
Perfect for a small balcony, patio or even indoor use, tabletop grills are lightweight and save space. They’re a good fit for 2-4 people. One model with a handy glass lid that lets you keep an eye on your food is the . The lid helps retain heat and can save energy.
Contact grills: Fast and low-fat
Also called double-sided grills or low-fat grills, these cook food from both sides at once. That makes them especially quick to use, and excess fat often drains away for a lighter meal. The is a typical example of this style and works well for steaks, sandwiches and vegetables.
Specialty grills: For specific preferences
This category includes kebab grills and rotisserie grills, for example. They’re designed for a particular cooking method. The lets you make chicken skewers or kebab meat like a pro. These grills are a niche option, but hard to beat for their intended purpose.
Explore our full selection of electric grills and other grills for your backyard.
What to look for in an electric grill
There’s no one-size-fits-all grill. Keep these points in mind before you buy.
Power and temperature control
Wattage indicates a grill’s maximum power. More watts generally mean a higher maximum temperature and faster preheating. For good searing, look for at least 1800-2000 Watt. Still, precise temperature control matters more than wattage alone because it lets you manage the cooking process.
Cooking area and materials
How many people do you usually cook for? The cooking area is typically listed in square centimetres. Keep in mind that you may not be able to use the entire surface at once. Grill plates are often made of nonstick-coated cast aluminum or enameled cast iron. Nonstick coatings are easy to maintain, while quality cast iron holds heat exceptionally well.
Tip: Check the grill plates
When possible, choose a grill with removable plates. They’re much easier to clean, and many are even dishwasher-safe.
Features and accessories
A built-in thermometer, a grease tray and a handy place to store the power cord are useful features. Sturdy wheels are a big plus on freestanding grills. Think about which extras will make your grill easier to use day to day.
Best Electric Grills of 2026 Compared
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of selected top models from several categories. Use the table to compare key specs and features at a glance.
Our top-rated electric grills, compared:
| Model | Customer rating | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 2-in-1 Induction Cooktop & Grill | – | Currently unavailable |
| XXL Freestanding and Tabletop BBQ Grill, 2200 Watt | – | Currently unavailable |
| BBQ Tabletop Grill with Glass Lid VG 200 | – | Currently unavailable |
| Contact Grill / Tabletop Grill “Low Fat Grill”, Copper/Black, 900 Watt | – | Currently unavailable |
| Design Grill XXL BBQ V-Shape, EBBQ 1002 L | – | Currently unavailable |
The best model for you depends on how you plan to use it. Need plenty of cooking space and flexibility? A large freestanding grill is hard to beat. If you want something easy to use and simple to store, a compact tabletop grill is a better fit.
Warning: Check the power supply
High-powered grills over 2000 Watt often need their own 230V outlet with adequate circuit protection. Before buying a powerful grill, make sure the outlet you plan to use, especially on a balcony, can handle it. Avoid using extension cords.
How to Get the Most from Your Electric Grill
A few simple tips can help you get the best results from your new electric grill.
Preheat Your Grill Properly
Give your grill enough time to heat up fully. The listed preheating time is only a guide. It may take longer in cold or windy conditions, or with large cast-iron plates. Add your food only once the plate is evenly hot.
Grilling Meat, Vegetables and More
You can cook almost anything on an electric grill. Choosing the right temperature is key: steaks and burgers need high heat, while fish and vegetables often cook best at medium to low temperatures. If your grill has a lid, use it for larger cuts of meat or slow cooking.
Note: No Open Flame
Because there’s no flame using up oxygen, electric grills produce very little smoke. This also means you can’t smoke food with wood chips the way you would on a charcoal grill. Some high-end models, however, have a separate smoker box.
Cleaning and Care: Keep Your Grill in Top Condition
Proper care can significantly extend the life of your electric grill.
Always let the grill cool completely after use. Remove larger bits of food with a grill scraper or soft brush. Don’t use metal tools on nonstick plates, as they can damage the coating.
Wash removable plates by hand with warm water and a little dish soap, or put them in the dishwasher if the manufacturer says they’re dishwasher-safe. Wipe the housing with a damp cloth. Keep water away from the electronics.
Electric Grill Safety
Electric grills are considered very safe, but there are still a few rules to follow.
Always place the grill on a stable, heat-resistant, nonflammable surface. Keep it a safe distance from flammable materials such as awnings, patio umbrellas, and wooden furniture. Never leave the grill unattended while it’s on, especially around children or pets.
After grilling, turn off the grill and unplug it. Then you can start cleaning.
Our Final Verdict
Choosing the right electric grill comes down to your priorities. Want an authentic BBQ experience with plenty of cooking space? A powerful freestanding grill like the is a great choice. Prefer a space-saving, versatile grill that’s easy to use? Consider a compact tabletop grill with a lid () or a convenient contact grill ().
If you love specialties like doner kebabs or chicken skewers, consider a grill designed for the job, such as the .
Consider your space, how much cooking area you need, and your budget. With this 2026 review and comparison, you’re sure to find the right grill for your needs. Whatever style you choose, an electric grill makes outdoor cooking easy and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the main advantages of an electric grill?
- Electric grills are easy to maintain, heat up quickly, and are often suitable for covered areas such as balconies. They produce no open flame or hot coals, which makes them safer and greatly reduces smoke. You can adjust the temperature precisely, making it easier to control your cooking.
- Can you really get a good sear on an electric grill?
- Yes. Modern electric grills reach high temperatures and can create classic grill marks and a browned, grilled flavor with special ridges or ceramic stones. They can deliver results comparable to charcoal or gas grills, especially lidded models that provide consistent heat all around.
- How many watts should a good electric grill have?
- For fast heating and good cooking results, look for at least 1800 to 2200 Watt. Compact tabletop grills for 1-2 people can work well with 900-1400 Watt. Higher wattage generally means a higher maximum temperature and a shorter preheating time.
- What types of electric grills are available?
- The main types include freestanding grills, often with lids and wheels; compact tabletop grills; contact grills, also called double-sided grills; and specialty grills such as doner kebab grills or induction grills. The best type depends on your available space and how you like to grill.
- Are electric grill plates easy to clean?
- Many models have removable, nonstick grill plates that are dishwasher-safe. Some high-performance grills have cast-iron plates, which need special seasoning and care but can last a lifetime.