In brief: A tabletop grill is ideal for grilling together at the table because it offers an open grilling surface and can hold several portions at once. A contact grill cooks food from both sides, takes up little space and heats up quickly. For a balcony, an electric grill is usually the simplest option, provided your lease and building rules allow it.
A tabletop grill is ideal for grilling together at the table because it offers an open grilling surface and can hold several portions at once. A contact grill cooks food from both sides, takes up little space and heats up quickly. For a balcony, an electric grill is usually the simplest option, provided your lease and building rules allow it.
A small grill has to do several jobs: it should heat up quickly, fit your available space and be easy to clean after a meal. Tabletop and contact grills approach these tasks differently. Their design affects the grilling experience, cooking time and space required.
When grilling on a balcony, you also need to consider your lease, building rules, smoke and fire safety. In the kitchen, quick preheating, compact dimensions and a clean work surface matter more. This guide to the main types of grill explains when an electric grill is especially useful.
What is the difference between a tabletop grill and a contact grill?
A tabletop grill has an open grilling surface. The food sits directly above the heating element or heat source. You turn steaks, vegetables and sausages yourself, choosing how long each side stays on the grill plate.
A contact grill has two heated plates. The lid closes over the food, cooking it from above and below. This shortens cooking time, and you do not need to turn the ingredients. The enclosed design helps contain splatters, but you still need to clean it.
Open grilling surface or closed grill plates?
The open surface makes a tabletop grill a sociable choice. Several people can reach the food, add ingredients and see how much it is browning. Depending on the model, you can grill with electricity, gas or charcoal.
A contact grill is more like a kitchen appliance. It works well for panini, toast, wraps, vegetables, fish fillets and smaller cuts of meat. Ribbed plates leave grill marks, while smooth plates brown food more evenly. An adjustable-height lid helps keep delicate ingredients from being crushed.
| Feature | Tabletop grill | Contact grill |
|---|---|---|
| Grilling surface | Open, usually larger and easy to reach | Between two heated plates |
| Turning food | You turn the food yourself | Usually not necessary |
| Grilling experience | Grilling together at the table | Quick cooking in the kitchen |
| Typical ingredients | Steaks, sausages, vegetables, corn | Panini, toast, fillets, sandwiches |
| Space required | Depends on the surface and stand | Compact, but needs room to open |
Which grilled dishes suit each appliance?
Choose a tabletop grill when you want to cook several ingredients on the surface at once. Peppers, zucchini, corn on the cob and halloumi do well over open heat. Sausages and steaks are also easy to keep an eye on and turn as needed.
- Tabletop grill: A good choice for shared meals, different levels of doneness and larger ingredients.
- Contact grill: A good choice for individual portions, sandwiches and even cooking from above and below.
- Electric tabletop grill: Suitable for balconies, patios and indoor spaces with good ventilation, if the manufacturer approves indoor use.
Pro tip
Place thin, evenly sized pieces on a contact grill. Ingredients of different thicknesses cook unevenly because the lid touches the highest point first.
Which types of grill are suitable for balconies and patios?
When grilling on a balcony, the heat source matters just as much as the cooking surface. An electric grill has no open flame and is easy to put away once it has cooled. Gas and charcoal grills deliver a different barbecue flavor, but need more space, fuel and attention.
Why is an electric grill often a good choice for a balcony?
An electric grill starts at the flick of a switch and heats up without charcoal or a gas bottle. An adjustable thermostat lets you cook vegetables gently or sear meat at a higher temperature. However, heating fat can still produce smoke and odors, so don’t place the grill directly under an awning or against a closed wall.
The is an electric tabletop grill with an adjustable thermostat, a nonstick coating and 1.600 Watt of power. It’s a good fit for households looking for a compact grilling surface and easy temperature control. The nonstick surface makes it easier to remove fish, vegetables and marinated food.
When are gas and charcoal grills suitable?
Gas grills heat up quickly and offer precise temperature control. The portable folding grill combines gas cooking with a compact freestanding and tabletop design. Check the connections, hose and stability before each use. Never leave a gas bottle in direct sunlight or right beside the hot grill.
Charcoal delivers intense radiant heat and a classic smoky flavor. The folding charcoal grill is designed for outdoor use and folds down to save space. Charcoal grills must only be used outdoors. Smoke, sparks and carbon monoxide make them unsuitable for indoor spaces and enclosed balconies.
The round has a 34 cm diameter cooking surface and is ideal for small outdoor gatherings. Its round shape lets several people reach the food from different sides. For a larger group, you’ll need to cook in batches or choose a grill with a larger surface.
“There is no general ban on barbecuing on a balcony.”
This statement describes the legal position, but you should also check your rental agreement. House rules may prohibit charcoal grills or set specific times for barbecuing. Even where grilling is generally permitted, it’s important to be considerate of your neighbors.
When is a tabletop grill the better choice?
A tabletop grill is a good choice when grilling is part of the meal. Place it on a stable table, spread the ingredients over the cooking surface and serve the food as it’s ready. This style of grill is especially suited to small groups on a balcony, patio or in the garden.
Which groups is a tabletop grill suitable for?
A round 34 cm grill surface is enough for a small group if you cook in batches. A larger model is more convenient when you want to cook meat, vegetables and side dishes at the same time. The size affects not only how much you can cook, but also how much space there is between the ingredients.
The is an XXL freestanding and tabletop grill with 2.200 Watt of power. Use it on a suitable table or set it up on its stand. Its larger cooking surface makes it a good option for households that want room to grill beyond the kitchen table.
Which features make a tabletop grill practical?
Look for temperature controls that are easy to reach. A thermostat helps keep delicate vegetables from burning too quickly and lets steaks develop a rich crust. A fat collection tray makes cleaning easier, but you’ll still need to remove any burnt-on residue.
- Grill surface: Measure your table and leave enough space around the appliance.
- Stability: Make sure the feet and table support are secure before heating the grill.
- Heat: Even heat distributes across the food more effectively than a small hot spot.
- Transport: Carry handles and folding components make it easier to move the grill between the balcony and storage area.
- Cleaning: Removable trays and coated surfaces save time after grilling.
Browse the selection for gardens and patios in the Grills and Fire Pits category, where you can compare different designs and outdoor accessories. For items such as barbecue tongs, brushes and heat-resistant mats, visit Grills and Barbecue Accessories.
Important note
Don’t place a hot grill on plastic, under an enclosed roof or right beside flammable furniture. Never leave a gas or charcoal grill unattended, and make sure the charcoal is completely extinguished before moving or disposing of the grill.
When is a contact grill worth it?
A contact grill is worth it when you want to cook a small amount of food quickly. The top plate rests on the food and heats it at the same time. This saves you from having to turn the food and means you don’t need to watch it as closely while it cooks.
Why does a contact grill cook so quickly?
Both plates heat the food at the same time. A thin chicken fillet, grilled cheese sandwich or panini sits directly between two hot surfaces. Cooking time still depends on thickness, starting temperature and power. Avoid opening the lid repeatedly, as heat will escape.
Its compact design is ideal for a small kitchen. Once the grill is preheated, place a serving on it, close the lid and check on it after a short time. A contact grill is especially handy for one or two people who want a quick meal with little preparation.
What are its limitations?
A contact grill cannot replace a large open tabletop grill. The lid limits the height of the food, and the plates divide the cooking surface into smaller portions. Whole ears of corn, large pieces of vegetables or several sausages may not fit, depending on the model.
It is also less suitable for grilling together at the table. A contact grill is usually kept in the kitchen and used to prepare portions one after another. However, its closed design helps contain splatters and creates even grill marks at the right temperature.
Clean the plates once they have cooled. Unplug the appliance, wipe away grease with a paper towel and use only suitable soft cloths on the coating. Do not let water get into the heating element or electrical connections.
How do you choose an electric grill?
Wattage is not the only factor to consider when buying a grill. A powerful grill needs a cooking surface that matches its output, reliable temperature control and a design that suits your everyday needs. Before buying, check where the appliance will sit and how you will clean and store it after use.
What wattage and cooking surface do you need?
1.600 Watt is sufficient for a compact electric tabletop grill and smaller portions. An appliance with 2.200 Watt will usually regain heat more quickly after you add several ingredients. However, power alone does not guarantee even browning. The heating element, grill plate material and temperature control also matter.
Measure the space you need, including the handles and room to open the lid. A contact grill needs clearance above and behind it so you can open the lid safely. A tabletop grill needs space all around it so you can easily reach the grill tools and food.
Which features save time and effort?
An adjustable thermostat helps you cook different ingredients. Vegetables need a different temperature from thin steaks or delicate fish. A nonstick coating makes food easier to remove, while a ridged surface creates grill marks. If you use the appliance frequently, removable plates and a dishwasher-safe drip tray are worth considering.
Also check the cord length, carrying handles and control placement. The cord must not stretch across a walkway. An indicator light shows whether the appliance is heating or has reached the set temperature. In everyday use, details like these matter more than an extra design feature.
Which appliances are suited to which uses?
- : electric tabletop grill with thermostat, nonstick coating and 1.600 Watt for compact grilling areas.
- : BBQ stand and tabletop grill with 2.200 Watt for a larger cooking surface and flexible use.
- : round camping and tabletop grill with a 34 cm cooking surface for gatherings on the go.
- : folding gas grill with a portable stand and tabletop grill design for suitable outdoor areas.
- : folding charcoal grill for outdoor use on the go.
For marinades, grill plates, tongs and cleaning accessories, the BBQ and Smoking category has useful additions. Choose accessories to suit your appliance. A brush for cast iron works differently from a soft cloth for a delicate nonstick coating.
Additional tips
Set aside a permanent, dry place for your electric grill. Store the appliance only when it is completely cool and clean. This helps prevent grease odours in the cabinet and extends the life of the coating, cord and thermostat.
How do you grill safely and keep things clean?
Safety starts with choosing the right spot. The surface must be level, stable and heat-resistant. Keep paper, fabrics, dry plants and other flammable items away from the grill.
What should you know about grilling on a balcony or patio?
Read your lease and any community rules before setting up the grill. They may cover charcoal, gas, permitted hours or grilling in general. An electric grill should also be positioned so smoke does not blow directly into a neighbour’s home.
Use a suitable extension cord if the electric grill’s cord is not long enough. Do not run cords under rugs, pinch them in doors or let them lie in puddles. Turn off the appliance after grilling and pull the plug out by its body, not by the cord.
Gas and charcoal require extra precautions. With a gas grill, check that the connection is leak-free and keep the cylinder upright. Extinguish charcoal with water or let it cool completely. Store fuel away from the heat source.
How do you keep food and the grilling surface clean?
Keep raw meat separate from salad, bread and ready-to-eat food. Use separate plates and tongs for raw and cooked ingredients. Never put cooked food back on the plate that held raw meat.
Poultry, ground meat and thick cuts need enough heat and cooking time. If in doubt, check the internal temperature with a clean thermometer. Remove excess marinade before placing food on the grill so sugar and oil do not burn unnecessarily.
“Poultry should always be cooked thoroughly.”
Wait until the grilling surface is cool enough to touch before cleaning it. Remove larger bits of food with a wooden or plastic scraper, empty the drip trays and clean coated surfaces without harsh scouring agents. With a contact grill, the plates stay cleaner for longer if you wipe away grease and crumbs after each use.
The choice is clear: choose a tabletop grill for grilling together and cooking a variety of ingredients. Choose a contact grill for quick individual portions in the kitchen or for a small household. For balconies and patios, an electric grill is usually the easiest option to get started, as long as the appliance, location and community rules are a good fit.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a tabletop grill or a contact grill better for a balcony?
- An electric tabletop grill is usually a good choice for a balcony if you want to grill together on an open surface. A contact grill is better for small portions, sandwiches and quick cooking without having to turn the food. Check your lease and building rules before buying. Smoke, grease and noise can still be an issue with an electric grill.
- What is the difference between a tabletop grill and a contact grill?
- A tabletop grill usually has an open cooking surface. You place the food on it and turn it yourself. A contact grill has two heated plates that cook food from above and below. Tabletop grills are ideal for sharing a meal, while contact grills are better for quick cooking, small portions and limited space.
- Which grill is best for a small patio?
- A compact electric tabletop grill is a good choice for a small patio because you do not need to store a gas cylinder or dispose of charcoal. Choose a grill with a cooking surface that suits your household, an adjustable thermostat and easy-to-clean parts. A contact grill is a good fit if you mainly make panini, vegetables or individual pieces of meat.
- How many watts should an electric grill have?
- Wattage shows how much power a grill uses, but it is not the only factor that affects cooking results. Also consider the thermostat, cooking surface and heat retention. For small electric tabletop grills, 1,600 watts is a practical choice; larger 2,200-watt models usually recover heat faster after you add a lot of food.
- Can I grill with charcoal on a balcony?
- Charcoal grilling on a balcony may be restricted by your lease, building rules or local regulations. Even when permitted, charcoal produces smoke, sparks and carbon monoxide. Only use a charcoal grill outdoors, on a stable, non-combustible surface and well away from awnings, furniture and plants.
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