There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly toasted sandwich—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.
But standing over a stovetop flipping bread with a spatula? No thanks.
That’s where a sandwich maker or panini press swoops in to save your lunch break. These compact kitchen heroes turn “meh” sandwiches into golden, melty masterpieces in minutes.
Below are the 7 best sandwich makers & panini presses for 2025 that make quick lunches a whole lot tastier.
Breville Smart Grill & Panini Press (BGR820XL)
- 1800W high power for fast preheat and searing
- Removable nonstick plates (dishwasher-safe)
- Adjustable height / floating hinge
- Durable stainless steel build
Why I like it: This is the Cadillac of panini presses—heavy-duty, precise, and versatile. Whether you’re pressing a simple grilled cheese or grilling steak indoors, the Breville delivers consistent, evenly cooked results with gorgeous grill marks.
Best for: Serious home cooks who want a premium, long-lasting press.
Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 (GR-4NP1)
- Reversible grill/griddle plates
- 5 cooking functions: press, grill, griddle, half & half
- Adjustable temperature dials
- Removable dishwasher-safe plates
Why I like it: A true multitasker—perfect for sandwiches, pancakes, burgers, or quesadillas. Its reversible plates make it a breakfast-to-dinner workhorse that doesn’t take much counter space.
Best for: Families or anyone who loves one appliance that can do it all.
Chefman Electric Panini Press (Budget Pick)
- Compact, lightweight design
- Nonstick plates for easy cleanup
- Floating hinge for thick sandwiches
- Indicator lights for ready-to-cook
Why I like it: Don’t want to drop big bucks? Chefman’s press gives you crispy grilled sandwiches without draining your wallet. It’s simple, fast, and perfect for small kitchens.
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers and students.
Hamilton Beach Panini Press & Gourmet Sandwich Maker
- Floating lid for even toasting
- Nonstick cooking surface
- Compact footprint for easy storage
- Indicator lights for preheat/ready
Why I like it: A solid mid-range option that’s easy to use and reliable. It’s not overly complicated—just plug in, preheat, and press. Great for quick lunches and gooey grilled cheese nights.
Best for: Households that want a no-fuss press with dependable results.
George Foreman 4-Serving Panini Press
- Large surface fits 2–4 sandwiches
- Nonstick coating for easy food release
- Sloped design to drain fat
- Cool-touch handle for safety
Why I like it: George Foreman has been the king of countertop grills for decades. This press is perfect when you’re making multiple sandwiches at once—less waiting, more eating.
Best for: Families or anyone who meal preps sandwiches in batches.
Krups Panini & Grill Press
- Sturdy stainless steel design
- Wide cooking surface
- Even heating for consistent browning
- Floating hinge for thick breads
Why I like it: Krups offers solid European engineering with simple controls. It’s not flashy, but it delivers evenly browned paninis without over-complicating things.
Best for: Shoppers who want reliable, mid-range performance.
OSTBA Panini Press Grill
- 1200W power for quick heating
- Removable, dishwasher-safe plates
- Adjustable temperature control
- Compact and affordable
Why I like it: OSTBA brings a feature-packed press at a surprisingly low price. Removable plates at this price point are rare, making it a strong budget-friendly contender.
Best for: Bargain hunters who still want removable plates.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Sandwich Maker
Not all presses are created equal. Here are the key factors to keep in mind before buying:
1. Plate Type
Nonstick is standard, but removable dishwasher-safe plates make cleaning so much easier. Bonus points if they’re reversible (flat & ridged).
2. Floating Hinge
Essential for thicker sandwiches—keeps pressure even without flattening your fillings into oblivion.
3. Power & Heat
Higher wattage = faster heating + better searing. Look for 1000W+ for quicker results.
4. Size
Singles and couples may be fine with compact presses, but families should opt for larger surfaces that can handle 3–4 sandwiches at once.
5. Extras
Temperature controls, timers, and indicator lights are small features that make life easier.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Shop / Check Price |
|---|---|---|
| Breville Smart Grill | Premium performance & durability | Shop Here |
| Cuisinart Griddler | Family-friendly versatility | Shop Here |
| Chefman Panini Press | Best budget option | Shop Here |
| Hamilton Beach | Reliable mid-range choice | Shop Here |
| George Foreman | Batch sandwich-making | Shop Here |
| Krups Grill Press | Stylish mid-range performance | Shop Here |
| OSTBA Panini Press | Budget with removable plates | Shop Here |
FAQs
Can I cook more than sandwiches in a panini press?
Yes! You can grill veggies, quesadillas, thin steaks, and even reheat pizza slices. Some models double as flat griddles for pancakes or eggs.
Are removable plates really necessary?
Highly recommended. Removable plates make cleanup dramatically easier—especially if you’re dealing with melted cheese or grease.
What size press should I get?
If you cook for one or two, a compact model is fine. For families or entertaining, go with a press that can handle 3–4 sandwiches at a time.
How do I prevent soggy sandwiches?
Use sturdy bread, avoid overly wet fillings, and preheat the press properly. High heat gives you that crisp exterior while keeping the insides melty.
The Bottom Line
Best Premium: Breville Smart Grill for top performance. Best Family Pick: Cuisinart Griddler. Best Budget: Chefman Panini Press. Whatever your budget, a good press will make weekday lunches quicker, tastier, and way less boring.