Best Sandwich Makers & Panini Presses of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Sandwich makers and panini presses are versatile kitchen appliances that can help you create delicious meals in no time. These appliances are perfect for making toasted sandwiches, paninis, grilled cheese, and more. They come in different sizes and styles, from compact models that are perfect for small kitchens to larger ones that can handle multiple sandwiches at once. Some models even come with adjustable temperature controls, so you can cook your sandwiches to perfection. With a sandwich maker or panini press, you can easily prepare a quick and tasty meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Hamilton Beach Panini Press Grill (25460A) Cover #TOP 1
Hamilton Beach Panini Press Grill (25460A)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Cuisinart Griddler 5-1 Cover #TOP 2
Cuisinart Griddler 5-1
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Ovente Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates Cover #TOP 3
Ovente Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Sandwich Makers & Panini Presses

#TOP 1

Hamilton Beach Panini Press Grill (25460A)

25460AG
Chrome Finish
Hamilton Beach Panini Press Grill (25460A) Cover
Hamilton Beach Panini Press Sandwich Maker & Electric Indoor Grill with Locking Lid, Opens 180 Degrees for any Thickness for Quesadillas, Burgers & More, Nonstick 8" x 10" Grids, Chrome (25460AG)

The Hamilton Beach Panini Press is a versatile sandwich maker that can be used to prepare paninis, quesadillas, fruit turnovers, and more. Its floating lid design ensures even pressure on sandwiches of any size, eliminating the need to flip them over. The nonstick grids help heat and brown the sandwiches, resulting in warm and crispy results. The sandwich maker also features a top lid lock that can be used to prepare open-face sandwiches or bruschetta. To ensure optimal results, the sandwich maker should be preheated for 6 minutes before use. The built-in ready light turns green when the press is ready to cook. The Hamilton Beach Panini Press can be stored upright, making it easy to fit into a kitchen cabinet or discreetly on a countertop.

What We Like
Versatile
Floating lid design
Nonstick grids
#TOP 2

Cuisinart Griddler 5-1

GR-4NP1
Gridder
Cuisinart Griddler 5-1 Cover
Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1

The Cuisinart Griddler is a versatile product that offers five different cooking functions in one, including contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle. The removable and reversible nonstick cooking plates are dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean, and also act as a drain for grease, promoting healthy cooking. The integrated drip tray collects grease and is easy to store. The griddler also features customizable temperature controls, red/green indicator lights for easy operation, and a sturdy panini-style handle with a hinged floating cover that adjusts to the thickness of food. The griddler comes with an instruction manual that includes gourmet recipes for users to enjoy.

What We Like
Versatile 5-in-1 cooking functions
Removable and reversible nonstick cooking plates
Customizable temperature controls

Ovente Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates

GPS401B
GPS401B
Ovente Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates Cover
OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates, Indicator Lights, Cool Touch Handle, Easy to Clean and Store, Perfect for Cooking Breakfast, Grilled Cheese, Tuna Melts and Snacks, Black GPS401B

The Ovente Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates is a versatile kitchen essential that allows you to make sandwiches, omelets, French toast, and more. Its fast-heating element provides even heating and toasting, and the indicator lights let you know when it's on and ready for cooking. The non-stick coating makes it easy to clean, while the heat-resistant stainless steel body with anti-skid feet ensures maximum safety. The plates are finished with a durable non-stick coating, allowing the easy release of the food without bruising the bread.

What We Like
Fast-heating element provides even heating and toasting
Non-stick coating makes it easy to clean
Versatile and can make various breakfast foods
Heat-resistant stainless steel body with anti-skid feet ensures maximum safety
Durable non-stick coating allows easy release of food without bruising the bread
#TOP 4

Chefman 4 Slice Panini Press

Panini Press Grill
Black
4 Slice
Chefman 4 Slice Panini Press Cover
Chefman Panini Press Grill and Gourmet Sandwich Maker Non-Stick Coated Plates, Opens 180 Degrees to Fit Any Type or Size of Food, Stainless Steel Surface and Removable Drip Tray, 4 Slice, Black

The Chefman Panini Press offers versatile cooking options for all your sandwich and grilling needs. With just a button, you can press your favorite sandwiches or open it to a full 180 degrees to grill burgers, veggies, and more. The floating hinge design accommodates sandwiches of various thicknesses, making it perfect for quick meals or family gatherings. Its compact size is excellent for small kitchens or road trips, ensuring easy storage. Plus, the non-stick grill plates and removable drip tray simplify cleanup, so you can enjoy your delicious creations without the hassle.

What We Like
Versatile cooking options
Compact and space-saving
Easy to clean
Adjustable for thick sandwiches
#TOP 5

Chefman Electric Panini Press Grill and Sandwich Maker

RJ02-180
Black
2 Slice
Chefman Electric Panini Press Grill and Sandwich Maker Cover
Chefman Electric Panini Press Grill and Gourmet Sandwich Maker w/ Non-Stick Coated Plates, Opens 180 Degrees to Fit Any Type or Size Food, Dishwasher Safe Removable Drip Tray, Stainless Steel/Black

The Chefman Electric Panini Press Grill and Sandwich Maker is a versatile appliance that can be used to press sandwiches, grill burgers, steaks, veggies, and more. The floating hinge adjusts to accommodate any size sandwich, and the non-stick coated grill plates make for effortless cleaning. Its compact size takes up little counter or shelf space, making it ideal for small kitchen spaces, dorm rooms, offices, and even bringing on road trips. With the press of a button, this grill opens at 180 degrees to fit any type or size food. Perfect for quick meals, summer parties, or family events.

What We Like
Adjustable floating hinge accommodates any size sandwich or food
Compact size ideal for small kitchen spaces and easy storage
Opens 180 degrees for grilling burgers, steaks, veggies, and more
#TOP 6

Proctor Silex Panini Press Sandwich Maker and Electric Indoor Grill

25440PS
Black
Proctor Silex Panini Press Sandwich Maker and Electric Indoor Grill Cover
Proctor Silex Panini Press Sandwich Maker and Electric Indoor Grill, 1000 watts, Easy Clean Nonstick Grids, Compact Upright Storage, Black (25440PS)

The Proctor Silex Panini Press Sandwich Maker and Electric Indoor Grill, also known as the Proctor Silex Panini Press, is a versatile kitchen appliance that allows you to easily make a variety of hot pressed sandwiches and grill your favorite foods. The durable, nonstick ceramic plates make cleaning a breeze, and the 70" square cooking surface can accommodate either two thick sandwiches or one long sandwich. The floating lid ensures even cooking on both sides, so you can stack your sandwiches high without worrying about uneven cooking. The compact design of the Panini Press allows for easy upright storage, and the lid latch keeps it securely closed when not in use. Additionally, the drip tray catches grease and drippings, keeping your countertops cleaner. With the Proctor Silex Panini Press, you can enjoy delicious sandwiches and grilled foods with ease and convenience.

What We Like
Versatile
Easy to clean
Compact design
#TOP 7

Breville Duo Panini Press

BSG520XL
Breville Duo Panini Press Cover
Breville Panini Press, Duo 1500-Watt Nonstick, Brushed Stainless Steel

The Breville Duo Press is a powerful 1500-watt panini maker designed for quick and even cooking. Its nonstick cooking surface ensures your sandwiches slide right off, making cleanup a breeze. The flat bottom plate cooks your food thoroughly, while the ribbed top plate gives your sandwiches those professional grill marks. With a floating hinge and four height settings, you can easily adjust the press to accommodate different sandwich thicknesses, ensuring perfect results every time.

What We Like
Fast cooking
Nonstick surface
Adjustable height settings
Easy cleanup
#TOP 8

Aigostar Breakfast Sandwich Press with Non-Stick Surface

300002RYG
Flat
Flat
Aigostar Breakfast Sandwich Press with Non-Stick Surface Cover
Aigostar Sandwich Maker with Non-stick Deep Grid Surface for Egg, Ham, Steaks Compact Electric Grill Tostadora de Pan Black, ETL Certificated, Roy

The Aigostar Sandwich Maker is perfect for making hot sandwiches quickly and conveniently. In just 5 minutes or less, you can make delicious sandwiches with crispy outer crusts and melted cheese. The non-stick cooking plates make for effortless food release and easy cleaning without the need for oil or butter. This compact and portable sandwich grill is great for dorm rooms and all sized kitchens, and the cool-touch locking handle ensures safe operation and convenient portability. With a 750 watt motor and automatic thermostat, this sandwich maker is also perfect for grilling egg, whole chicken breasts, steaks, panini, focaccia, pita, baguette and more. An ideal gift for housewarming, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or wedding.

What We Like
Quick and convenient hot sandwiches in just 5 minutes or less
Non-stick cooking plates for easy cleaning and healthier eating
Compact and portable design for easy storage and portability
750 watt motor and automatic thermostat for versatile grilling capabilities
Ideal gift for housewarming, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or wedding
#TOP 9

Gotham Steel Sandwich Maker with Nonstick Surface

2108
Black
double sandwich
Gotham Steel Sandwich Maker with Nonstick Surface Cover
Gotham Steel Nonstick Panini Press Sandwich Maker, 2in1 Breakfast Sandwich Maker Grill / Sandwich Press Grill with Indicator Light, Grilled Cheese Maker Makes 2 Sandwiches with Easy Cut Edges

The Gotham Steel Sandwich Maker is the perfect kitchen appliance for anyone who loves to have a quick and healthy breakfast. The ultra-nonstick cooking surface is reinforced with ceramic and titanium to deliver the ultimate food release, making it easy to clean with just a damp cloth. The indicator lights let you know when sandwiches are ready, and the cool-touch locking handle ensures safe operation. With this sandwich maker, you can make four perfectly toasted pocket sandwiches in less than 5 minutes, start to finish. Plus, it's compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for dorm rooms and all sized kitchens.

What We Like
Easy to use and clean with ultra-nonstick cooking surface
Cool-touch locking handle ensures safe operation and convenient portability
Indicator lights let you know when sandwiches are ready
Perfectly toasts bread and seals with diagonal indentation for easy slicing in half
Compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for dorm rooms and all sized kitchens
#TOP 10

IMUSA Stainless Steel Panini Press

GAU-80350
Silver
Large
IMUSA Stainless Steel Panini Press Cover
IMUSA Stainless Steel Panini Press Electric with Adjustable Temperature Settings and Nonstick Plates, 1200W

The IMUSA Panini Press is designed for those who appreciate convenience in the kitchen. Its compact size allows it to fit on any countertop, making it ideal for small spaces while still providing ample cooking area. The durable cast aluminum plates ensure even heat distribution, enhancing your cooking results. With nonstick surfaces, food releases easily, making cleanup a breeze. The adjustable temperature settings and indicator lights help you cook your meals perfectly, while the locking storage clip and rubber feet offer stability and versatility during use.

What We Like
Compact design
Durable materials
Nonstick surfaces
Adjustable temperature settings
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a panini press and a sandwich press?

A panini press is specifically designed for grilling sandwiches, typically with flatbread like a baguette. On the other hand, a sandwich maker is a more versatile appliance that can be used for grilling sandwiches and making other types of food, such as omelets, pancakes, and quesadillas.

2. Can you use a panini press as a sandwich maker?

While both panini presses and sandwich makers can be used to make hot sandwiches, they have different features and benefits. Sandwich makers are simpler appliances with two plates joined by a hinge, similar to waffle makers and quesadilla makers.

3. What's the difference between a panini maker and a sandwich toaster?

Panini makers are versatile appliances that are perfect for grilling sandwiches, meats, vegetables, and more. On the other hand, sandwich toasters are specialized devices specifically designed for making toasted sandwiches.

4. Can you use any bread in a panini press?

While you can use any bread for a panini sandwich, Ciabatta bread is often considered the best choice for making the best-grilled sandwich.

5. Do you toast bread before putting it in a panini press?

Toasting the bread before putting it in a panini press is not necessary. Simply place the slices of bread on the griddles of a hot panini press and cook until they are crisp and golden brown. Other breads, such as sandwich bread or whole wheat bread, can also be used.

6. Can you put aluminum foil in a panini press?

While putting aluminum foil in a panini press is possible, it can stick to certain breads. To protect the plates and make cleaning easier, it is recommended to use baking paper instead of aluminum foil.

Editor's Notes

During our sandwich makers & panini press research, we found 16 sandwich makers & panini press products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 536,248 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sandwich makers & panini presses list. We found that most customers choose sandwich makers & panini presses with an average price of $29.02.

The sandwich makers & panini presses are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sandwich makers & panini presses, including Hamilton Beach, Cuisinart, OVENTE, Chefman, Proctor Silex. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.