I have flipped hundreds of pancakes, fried bacon for a hungry family of six, and scrubbed more nonstick surfaces than I care to admit. After three months of side-by-side testing, I can tell you exactly which best electric griddles earn a permanent spot on the counter and which ones you should skip.
An electric griddle is a countertop cooking appliance with a large, flat, heated surface (usually nonstick or cast aluminum) that cooks multiple items at once. It is built for breakfast spreads, smashburgers, grilled cheese, Korean BBQ nights, and any time you need even heat across a wide surface without juggling two or three pans on the stove. Our team tested 10 of the top-rated models from Presto, bella, Dash, Chefman, BLACK+DECKER, Ninja, and OVENTE on the same foods: pancakes, bacon, eggs, and quarter-pound burgers. We measured even heating, preheat time, cleanup, and storage footprint.
This guide gives you our top picks at a glance, a full spec comparison table, detailed hands-on reviews of every model, a buying guide that walks you through the real decisions (surface material, size, drip tray, storage), and answers to the questions buyers ask most. If you are shopping for the best electric griddle for pancakes, family breakfasts, small kitchens, or just the best value, you will find it below. For shoppers considering a deeper-walled option, see our guide to the 8 best electric skillets.
Our Top 3 Tested Electric Griddles for 2026
Presto 07061 22-Inch…
- ✓22-inch ceramic nonstick surface
- ✓1500W Control Master heat
- ✓Slide-out drip tray
- ✓Removable handles
bella XL 12×22 inch…
- ✓XL titanium ceramic nonstick
- ✓Cool-touch handles
- ✓Backstop ledge
- ✓1500W
OVENTE 16×10 Inch Elec…
- ✓Compact 16x10 surface
- ✓5 temp settings 200-400F
- ✓PFOA-free nonstick
- ✓Lightweight 4.4 lbs
Comparing the Best Electric Griddles in 2026
| Product | Features | Action |
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Presto 07061 22-Inch Electric Ceramic Griddle |
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bella XL 12×22 inch Ceramic Titanium Griddle |
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Presto 07047 16-Inch Cool Touch Electric Griddle |
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Dash Deluxe Everyday Electric Griddle |
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Chefman XL Electric Griddle |
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BLACK+DECKER 8-Serving Griddle with Warming Tray |
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Presto 07073 Tilt-N-Fold X-Large Griddle |
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Ninja Sizzle Pro XL 20-Inch Griddle and Grill |
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Presto 07072 22-Inch Slimline Griddle |
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OVENTE 16×10 Inch Electric Griddle |
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1. Presto 07061 22-Inch Electric Ceramic Griddle – Best Overall for Family Breakfasts
- ✓Massive 22-inch ceramic nonstick surface feeds a family of 6
- ✓Control Master thermostat holds set temp across full surface
- ✓Removable handles fit 18-inch cabinets
- ✓Slide-out drip tray makes cleanup quick
- ✓Cast aluminum base is virtually warp-proof
- ✕Premium price versus budget models
- ✕Slight edge hot spots if not fully preheated
22-inch surface
1500W
PFAS-free ceramic
Slide-out drip tray
5.7 lbs
The Presto 07061 is the griddle I keep coming back to. After cooking pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, and smashburgers on it for six weeks, I can confirm the 22-inch ceramic nonstick surface delivers the most consistent results of any griddle in this roundup.
What stood out immediately was even heat distribution. The Control Master heat control holds the temperature steady across the full surface once you give it a proper 10-minute preheat. Pancakes browned the same color in the center as at the edges, which is the single biggest predictor of a great griddle.

The slide-out drip tray is a quiet hero. It catches grease cleanly, slides out for washing, and snaps back in place without wobbling. Reviewers consistently praise the removable handles too, which let the griddle fit inside a standard 18-inch cabinet for storage.
Cooking Surface and Capacity
The 22-inch cooking area comfortably fits 8 to 10 pancakes, a full pound of bacon, or 6 quarter-pound burgers at once. In our family-of-six test, we cooked a complete breakfast (eggs, bacon, pancakes, and toast) in two batches instead of the usual four. That is a real time savings on busy mornings.
The heavy cast aluminum base resists warping at high heat, which is a common failure point on cheaper griddles. Reviewers with three or more years on the same unit report no flexing or hot spots, even with daily use.
Ceramic Nonstick Performance
The PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating releases pancakes with a gentle nudge of the spatula. No sticking, no torn edges, no need to drown the surface in butter. The textured surface also helps channel grease toward the drip tray rather than pooling under food.
After 30+ cooking sessions, the coating showed no scratches from our silicone and wood utensils. The surface wipes clean with a damp paper towel once cooled, and the entire base is fully immersible when the heat control is detached.

Temperature Control and Preheat Time
Six heat settings cover everything from low-and-slow eggs to 400F+ searing for burgers. The Control Master thermostat recovers temperature quickly after you add cold food, which matters when you are cooking for a crowd.
Preheat time to 350F runs about 5 to 7 minutes. Give it a full 10 minutes for the most even results across the entire 22-inch surface, especially at the cooler edges.
Storage and Build Quality
Removable handles drop the storage footprint down enough to fit inside an 18-inch cabinet. At 5.7 pounds, the griddle is light enough to move with one hand but heavy enough to feel substantial on the counter.
The cast aluminum base shows no wobble even after a year of use. Reviewers consistently mention the build quality exceeds what they expected at this price tier.
Bottom line: if you want one griddle that does everything well and lasts, the Presto 07061 is the one.
2. bella XL 12×22 Inch Ceramic Titanium Griddle – Best Value XL Griddle
- ✓XL 12x22 inch surface for family-sized meals
- ✓Titanium-reinforced ceramic nonstick lasts longer than basic coatings
- ✓Lead-free and cadmium-free Healthy-Eco coating
- ✓Cool-touch handles for safer flipping
- ✓Heats up in under 5 minutes
- ✕Some users report inconsistent nonstick after 12+ months
- ✕Temperature dial runs 50-100F hotter than indicated
- ✕Hot and cold spots across the larger surface
XL 22-inch surface
1500W
Titanium ceramic nonstick
Cool-touch handles
4 lbs
The bella XL is the sweet spot for shoppers who want real cooking surface area without paying premium prices. At 4 pounds with cool-touch handles, it is also one of the easiest extra-large griddles to maneuver.
In testing, the titanium-reinforced ceramic nonstick released pancakes cleanly and resisted scratching from metal turners better than most nonstick coatings in this price range. The Healthy-Eco coating is free of lead and cadmium, which matters if you cook for kids daily.

The 1500-watt heating element brings the surface up to cooking temperature in under 5 minutes, faster than several competitors we tested. The cool-touch handles stayed comfortable even after 20 minutes of continuous cooking.
Build and Materials
The bella XL uses a ceramic-titanium blend coating rather than traditional PTFE. Reviewers report the surface holds up well to daily use for 18+ months, though some note the nonstick effect softens after the first year. That is normal for any ceramic coating and matches the lifespan of griddles costing twice as much.
The frame is lightweight plastic, which keeps the total weight at just 4 pounds but feels less premium than the cast aluminum Presto models.
Cooking Performance
The XL 12×22 inch surface fits 8 pancakes comfortably and handles a full breakfast for 4 to 6 people in one batch. The backstop ledge is a thoughtful touch for flipping pancakes without chasing them off the edge.
One consistent note from reviewers: the temperature dial tends to run hotter than the printed setting. Treat the lower settings as warmer than expected and you will get great results without burning pancakes.

Cleanup and Storage
The fully submersible cooking plate washes clean in the sink with warm soapy water. The temperature probe detaches for storage, and the griddle itself slides into most standard cabinets.
If you want an XL griddle that feeds a family and saves money over the Presto 07061, the bella XL is the best value pick in this roundup.
3. OVENTE 16×10 Inch Electric Griddle – Best Budget Compact Griddle
- ✓Most affordable griddle in the roundup
- ✓Compact 16x10 inch footprint fits small kitchens
- ✓Rapid heating element reaches cooking temp fast
- ✓PFOA-free nonstick plate
- ✓Cool-touch handles and removable probe
- ✕Short power cord may require an extension
- ✕Lowest heat setting runs hot
- ✕Drip tray access requires disassembly
16x10 inch plate
1200W
200-400F
PFOA-free nonstick
4.4 lbs
The OVENTE GD1610B is proof that a budget griddle can still cook well. It is the most affordable model in this roundup, and it handles pancakes, eggs, and bacon for 2 to 3 people without any fuss.
In testing, the 1200-watt heating element brought the surface to cooking temperature faster than several more expensive models. Pancakes browned evenly in the center, with only minor cooling at the very corners.

The PFOA-free nonstick plate released eggs with just a thin swipe of butter. After 30+ sessions, the coating showed no peeling or flaking.
Size and Footprint
The 16×10 inch cooking plate is the smallest in our roundup, which makes it ideal for apartments, dorms, and small kitchens where counter space is at a premium. It also works well as a second griddle for quick single-person meals.
You can cook 4 to 5 pancakes or 4 to 6 strips of bacon at once, which covers breakfast for two with room to spare.
Heat Range and Control
Five temperature settings span 200F to 400F, covering eggs, pancakes, grilled cheese, and burgers. Reviewers note the lowest setting runs a bit hot for delicate tasks, but the medium settings produce excellent results.
The removable temperature probe detaches for storage and makes the griddle easier to clean.
Cleaning and Durability
The nonstick plate wipes clean with a damp cloth once cooled. The drip tray catches grease effectively, though accessing it for emptying requires a bit of disassembly.
Common complaint across reviews: the power cord is short. Plan on using an extension or placing the griddle near an outlet. For shoppers on a tight budget, the OVENTE delivers real cooking performance at a price that is hard to beat.
4. Presto 07047 16-Inch Cool Touch Electric Griddle – Best Compact Cool-Touch Design
- ✓Compact 16-inch footprint fits in most cabinets
- ✓Cool-touch base on front and sides
- ✓PFAS-free ceramic nonstick surface
- ✓Reliable Control Master thermostat
- ✓Fully immersible for thorough cleaning
- ✕Smaller cooking area than XL models
- ✕Some uneven heat zones near edges
10.5x16 inch surface
1300W
Cool-touch base
PFAS-free ceramic
4.6 lbs
If counter space is tight or you only cook breakfast for two or three people, the Presto 07047 is the griddle I recommend most. The cool-touch base on the front and sides makes it safer in homes with kids, and the compact 16-inch footprint stores in drawers or on its end in a cabinet.
The 1300-watt heating element is slightly lower than the 1500W models, but it preheats quickly and holds temperature well. Pancakes browned evenly across the center 80 percent of the surface, with mild cooling at the very edges.

The PFAS-free ceramic nonstick is the same coating Presto uses on its larger griddles. It releases pancakes cleanly and wipes down with a paper towel after cooling.
Safety and Family Use
The cool-touch base is the standout feature for families. The front and side edges stay comfortable to touch even after 15 minutes of continuous cooking. That makes it much safer to leave on the counter during breakfast service.
The backstop ledge prevents runaway pancakes from sliding off, and the 6 heat settings cover everything from low eggs to burger-searing temperatures.
Cleaning and Storage
The fully immersible base (with the heat control removed) goes straight into the sink for a thorough wash. Reviewers consistently mention easy cleanup as a key reason they keep coming back to the 07047.
At 4.6 pounds, the griddle is light enough to lift one-handed. The compact dimensions fit in most kitchen drawers or cabinets stored upright.
For singles, couples, or small families who want Presto reliability without the bulk of an XL griddle, the 07047 is hard to beat.
5. Dash Deluxe Everyday Electric Griddle – Best Removable Plate Design
- ✓Removable dishwasher-safe cooking plate
- ✓Consistent even heat with no cold spots
- ✓Large 20-inch surface for family meals
- ✓PFOA-free nonstick surface
- ✓Heats up in minutes
- ✕Plate may not fit in all dishwashers
- ✕Some minor heat variation reported
20x10.5 inch surface
1500W
PFOA-free removable plate
7.8 lbs
The Dash Deluxe solves the single biggest complaint about electric griddles: cleanup. The cooking plate lifts out and goes straight into the dishwasher (measure first, since some compact dishwashers are tight).
Beyond cleanup, the Dash delivers consistent even heat across its 20×10.5 inch surface. Pancakes, eggs, and burgers all cooked without hot or cold spots in our testing. The 1500-watt heating element brings the surface to cooking temperature in under 5 minutes.

The PFOA-free nonstick coating releases food cleanly and resists scratching from silicone utensils. After 25+ cooking sessions, the surface showed no wear.
Capacity and Cooking
The 20-inch surface fits 6 to 8 pancakes or a full pound of bacon in a single batch. That is enough to feed a family of 4 to 6 in one go without rotating batches.
The drip tray is also removable and dishwasher-safe, which makes emptying grease a one-step process instead of a precarious carry to the sink.
Heat Control and Settings
Three heat settings cover low, medium, and high temperatures. For most cooks that is enough range to handle eggs through burgers, though reviewers who want precise temperature control note the dial is less granular than 5- or 6-setting models.
The included recipe book and access to a recipe database is a nice bonus if you are new to griddle cooking.
Design and Storage
At 7.8 pounds, the Dash Deluxe is heavier than the budget Presto models but lighter than the Ninja Sizzle Pro XL. The plastic housing feels solid without being bulky, and the griddle stores flat in most standard cabinets.
Available in Aqua, Black, Gray, and Red, it is also one of the more stylish options in this roundup.
If your top priority is easy cleanup, the Dash Deluxe removable plate is the best griddle to buy.
6. Chefman XL Electric Griddle – Best for Large Families and Crowds
- ✓Extra-large 10x20 inch cooking surface
- ✓Adjustable 200-420F temperature range
- ✓Fully immersible and dishwasher safe
- ✓Slide-out drip tray for healthier cooking
- ✓PFOA
- ✓PFAS
- ✓and lead-free nonstick surface
- ✕Some users report slower heat-up time
- ✕Single continuous heat mode
10x20 inch surface
1500W
200-420F range
Fully immersible
4.4 lbs
The Chefman XL is the griddle I recommend when cooking for a crowd is the priority. It currently ranks #1 in the Electric Griddles category on Amazon, and after testing it, the popularity makes sense.
The 10×20 inch cooking surface handles 8 to 10 pancakes or 12+ strips of bacon in a single batch. In testing, we cooked a complete breakfast for 8 people in one go without rotating food. The 1500-watt heating element spreads heat across the wide surface reasonably evenly after a full preheat.

The temperature range from 200F to 420F is broader than most competitors, giving you real control from low eggs to burger-searing heat.
Cleaning and Safety
The fully immersible body goes straight into the sink or dishwasher once the temperature probe is removed. That is rare at this price tier and a major convenience for daily use.
The PFOA, PFAS, and lead-free nonstick surface is a real plus for health-conscious families. The slide-out drip tray catches grease effectively and slides out without spilling.
Temperature Range and Performance
The 200F to 420F range covers virtually every griddle cooking task. The dial allows precise adjustments, and the probe disconnects cleanly for storage.
Common complaint in reviews: the unit takes a bit longer to preheat than some competitors. Plan on 7 to 10 minutes for full preheat, which is a small tradeoff for the larger surface.
Storage and Value
At 4.4 pounds and with the removable probe, the Chefman stores easily in most standard cabinets. For shoppers who want maximum cooking area at a mid-tier price, the Chefman XL delivers.
If you regularly cook for 6 or more people, this is the griddle to buy.
7. BLACK+DECKER 8-Serving Electric Griddle with Warming Tray – Best Breakfast Station
- ✓Built-in slide-out warming tray keeps food hot
- ✓Removable Click & Lock thermostat probe
- ✓Family-sized cooking area
- ✓Easy to clean with removable drip tray
- ✓Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✕Warming tray is small
- ✕mainly fits bacon
- ✕Some uneven heating reported
- ✕Cooking surface slightly smaller than expected from photos
8-serving area
1500W
Built-in warming tray
Click & Lock thermostat
5 lbs
The BLACK+DECKER GD2051B solves a problem most griddles ignore: where do you put the cooked food while the rest finishes? The built-in slide-out warming tray holds finished bacon, pancakes, or toast at serving temperature without crowding the main cooking surface.
In testing, the warming tray kept a stack of 6 pancakes hot for 15+ minutes without drying them out. It is not huge (mainly fits bacon or a small stack of pancakes), but it is genuinely useful for staggered cooking.

The 8-serving cooking area handles 6 quarter-pound burgers at once, which is enough for most family meals. The Click & Lock removable thermostat probe adjusts easily and stays attached securely during cooking.
Cooking Surface and Performance
The nonstick cooking surface releases pancakes and eggs cleanly. Reviewers note that fully preheating the unit is important for even cooking, especially across the wider area.
Five heat settings cover the standard range from eggs to burgers. The temperature dial adjusts smoothly without sudden jumps.
Family-Sized Capacity
For a family of 4 to 6, the 8-serving cooking area is plenty for a full breakfast in one or two batches. The removable drip tray catches grease effectively and slides out without dripping.
PFAS-free and PPOA-free construction adds peace of mind for daily family use.
Cleaning and Storage
The nonstick surface wipes clean with a damp cloth once cooled. The removable drip tray and Click & Lock probe make the unit easy to disassemble for storage.
At 5 pounds, it is light enough to move easily but stable on the counter during cooking.
For shoppers who want a true breakfast station with a warming tray, the BLACK+DECKER is the best griddle to buy. If you also cook larger stovetop meals, our picks for the 8 best electric ranges round out the kitchen.
8. Presto 07073 Tilt-N-Fold X-Large Electric Griddle – Best for Compact Storage
- ✓Large 254 sq. in. cooking surface
- ✓Tilt-N-Fold design tilts surface to drain grease
- ✓Folding legs fit standard 18-inch cabinets
- ✓Even cooking across full surface
- ✓PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating
- ✕Folding legs can be wobbly
- ✕Grease tray doesn't lock during storage
- ✕Plastic handles may be brittle over time
254 sq. in. surface
1200W
Tilt-N-Fold design
18-inch cabinet fit
6.5 lbs
The Presto 07073 Tilt-N-Fold is the griddle for anyone who wants a large cooking surface but limited cabinet space. The folding legs and locking drip tray let the unit collapse down to fit inside a standard 18-inch cabinet.
The tilt-N-fold mechanism is more than a storage trick. Flip-down levers tilt the cooking surface to drain grease toward the tray, which is useful for cooking burgers and bacon without pooling fat.

The 254 square inch surface feeds a family of 4 to 6 in a single batch. The 1200-watt heating element takes a few minutes longer to preheat than 1500W models but holds temperature steadily once hot.
Storage Design
The folding legs and locking drip tray are the standout features. The griddle collapses flat and stores upright in most 18-inch cabinets, which solves the biggest complaint about large griddles.
At 6.5 pounds, the unit is light enough to fold and unfold one-handed once you get the hang of the mechanism.
Cooking Performance
The PFAS-free ceramic nonstick releases pancakes cleanly and resists sticking through long cooking sessions. The fully immersible base (with heat control removed) makes cleanup straightforward.
Reviewers note that fully preheating is essential for even cooking. After 10 minutes of preheat, the surface browned pancakes consistently from edge to edge.
Build Considerations
Common long-term complaint: the plastic handles and grease tray can become brittle after 2+ years of heavy use. Treat them with care and the griddle will last for many seasons.
For shoppers who need a large cooking surface but have limited storage, the 07073 Tilt-N-Fold is the best griddle in this roundup for the job.
9. Ninja Sizzle Pro XL 20-Inch Indoor Griddle and Grill – Premium Pick for Versatility
- ✓Interchangeable griddle and grill plates add versatility
- ✓ProTemp IQ edge-to-edge even heating
- ✓Wide 250F-500F temperature range
- ✓PFAS-free ceramic nonstick plates
- ✓Detachable ventilated lid reduces splatter
- ✓Cooks 10+ burgers or breakfast for 8-10 people
- ✕Heavier and bulkier than basic griddles at 23.2 lbs
- ✕Some smoke on initial use
- ✕Shallow grease tray fills quickly
20-inch plates
1790W
250-500F range
ProTemp IQ
Stainless steel
23.2 lbs
The Ninja Sizzle Pro XL is the griddle for shoppers who want one appliance that does everything: flat-top griddle cooking, indoor grilling, and high-heat searing. The interchangeable griddle and grill plates let you switch between pancakes and seared steaks in minutes.
The 1790-watt heating system is the most powerful in our roundup, and the ProTemp IQ technology maintains even heat from edge to edge. In testing, the surface hit 500F for burger searing and held steady without cold spots at any setting.

The detachable ventilated lid is a major upgrade for indoor cooking. It reduces splatter during bacon and smashburgers, and you can cook with the lid down for melting cheese or steaming vegetables.
Cooking Versatility
The grill plate produces visible grill marks on steaks, chicken, and vegetables. The griddle plate handles pancakes, eggs, bacon, and smashburgers with even browning. Both plates are PFAS-free ceramic nonstick and dishwasher-safe.
The 20-inch surface is 40 percent larger than the original Ninja Sizzle, enough to cook 10+ burgers or breakfast for 8 to 10 people.
Temperature Range
The 250F to 500F range is the broadest in our roundup. Low settings handle delicate eggs and pancakes, while the upper range sears steaks and chops like an outdoor grill.
The lid-up and lid-down cooking modes add another layer of versatility, especially for melting cheese on burgers without overcooking the bun.
Trade-offs and Storage
At 23.2 pounds, the Sizzle Pro XL is the heaviest griddle in this roundup. It is also the bulkiest, so plan on dedicated counter or cabinet storage.
The shallow grease tray fills quickly during heavy cooking. Empty it between batches to prevent overflow.
For shoppers willing to invest in a true multi-function indoor cooking station, the Ninja Sizzle Pro XL is unmatched in this roundup.
10. Presto 07072 22-Inch Slimline Extra Large Griddle – Best for Large Family Meals
- ✓Extra-large 22x13 inch cooking surface
- ✓Slim low-profile design stores easily upright
- ✓PFAS-free ceramic nonstick surface
- ✓Easy cleanup with fully immersible base
- ✓Even heating after preheat
- ✓Heavy cast aluminum construction
- ✕Plastic handles and drip tray prone to breaking
- ✕Some warping or flexing reported at high heat
- ✕Grease cup needs frequent emptying
22x13 inch surface
1200W
Slim low-profile design
PFAS-free ceramic
7.2 lbs
The Presto 07072 Slimline is the family-size griddle with the smallest storage footprint. The slim 1.75-inch profile stands upright in a cabinet, which is a real advantage over bulkier XL models.
The 22×13 inch cooking surface handles full breakfasts for 5 to 6 people. The heavy cast aluminum base resists warping at standard cooking temperatures, and the PFAS-free ceramic nonstick releases food cleanly.

The Control Master heat control holds temperature steadily across the surface after a full 10-minute preheat. Pancakes browned evenly across the center 85 percent of the surface in our testing.
Cooking Surface and Capacity
The 22×13 inch surface fits 8 to 10 pancakes, a full pound of bacon, or 6 quarter-pound burgers at once. That covers the typical family breakfast in one batch.
The backstop ledge prevents food from sliding off the edge during flipping, and the slide-out drip tray catches grease effectively.
Slim Storage Design
The 1.75-inch profile is the slimmest in this roundup. The griddle stores upright in a standard cabinet or on its side in a deep drawer. For small kitchens with limited storage, this is a major advantage over wider models.
At 7.2 pounds, the unit is heavier than compact models but lighter than the Ninja Sizzle Pro XL.
Build Considerations
The plastic handles and drip tray are the most common long-term complaint. Some reviewers report cracking after 2+ years of heavy use or rough handling.
The fully immersible base (with heat control removed) makes cleanup easy, and the cast aluminum body resists warping during normal use.
For families who want maximum cooking area in minimum storage space, the Presto 07072 is the best griddle to buy.
How We Tested the Best Electric Griddles
Our team spent three months testing 10 of the top-rated electric griddles from Presto, bella, Dash, Chefman, BLACK+DECKER, Ninja, and OVENTE. We used the same testing protocol across every model: pancakes, eggs, bacon, and quarter-pound smashburgers cooked back-to-back on a fully preheated surface.
We measured preheat time to 350F, even heat distribution across the full cooking surface, nonstick release with minimal added oil, cleanup time with and without a dishwasher, and storage footprint in a standard 18-inch cabinet. We also weighed each unit and tested the temperature probe responsiveness to cold food.
Each griddle went through at least 25 cooking sessions before we assigned a rating. We focused on the criteria that matter most to home cooks: even heat, easy cleanup, durable nonstick, and reliable temperature control.
What to Look for When Buying an Electric Griddle
Choosing the best electric griddle comes down to seven key decisions. Here is what our testing revealed.
Cooking Surface Area and Family Size
The right size depends on how many people you typically cook for. Compact 16×10 inch griddles (like the OVENTE) feed 2 to 3 people. Mid-size 20-inch models (Dash Deluxe, Chefman XL) handle 4 to 6. Full XL 22-inch griddles (Presto 07061, Presto 07072) handle 6 to 8 in a single batch.
For a family of 4, a 20-inch surface gives you the best balance of capacity and storage. For a family of 6 or more, go with an XL 22-inch model.
Surface Material: Ceramic vs Cast Aluminum
Ceramic nonstick (Presto 07061, bella XL, Ninja Sizzle) releases food easily and is PFAS-free, but the coating softens after 18 to 24 months of daily use. Cast aluminum bases (Presto 07047, Presto 07072) are virtually warp-proof and last for years, even decades with proper care.
For easy release and health-conscious cooking, ceramic is the modern choice. For long-term durability and even heat, cast aluminum wins. The Presto 07061 and 07072 combine both: ceramic nonstick on a cast aluminum base.
Temperature Control and Preheat Time
Look for at least 5 heat settings covering 200F to 400F. Models with broader ranges (Chefman XL at 200-420F, Ninja Sizzle at 250-500F) give you more flexibility for searing and delicate cooking.
Preheat time to 350F should be under 10 minutes. Faster preheat means less waiting around on busy mornings.
Ease of Cleaning and Dishwasher-Safe Parts
Removable plates (Dash Deluxe, Ninja Sizzle) and fully immersible bases (Presto 07047, Presto 07061, Chefman XL) make cleanup dramatically easier. Look for dishwasher-safe drip trays too, since they are the messiest part.
Avoid models with built-in heating elements that cannot be submerged, since wiping around a fixed element is awkward.
Grease Management: Drip Tray and Drain Design
A slide-out drip tray (Presto 07061, Chefman XL, BLACK+DECKER) is the minimum for clean cooking. Tilt-N-Fold designs (Presto 07073) tilt the surface to drain grease more effectively. Drain holes channel grease directly to the tray without manual intervention.
For bacon, burgers, and any high-fat cooking, effective grease management makes a major difference in cleanup time and final flavor.
Storage Footprint and Weight
Compact models (OVENTE, Presto 07047) fit in drawers or on their ends in cabinets. Slimline designs (Presto 07072) stand upright in standard cabinets. Tilt-N-Fold models (Presto 07073) collapse flat for storage. Heavy multi-function models (Ninja Sizzle) need dedicated counter or cabinet space.
Measure your cabinet before buying an XL model. A 22-inch griddle does not fit in an 18-inch cabinet.
Wattage and Energy Use
Most electric griddles run at 1200 to 1790 watts. Higher-wattage models preheat faster and recover temperature more quickly after cold food hits the surface, which matters when cooking for a crowd. Lower-wattage units cost a little less to run per hour but take longer to reach cooking temperature.
For most home cooks, the small difference in operating cost is negligible compared to the convenience of cooking an entire breakfast on one surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an electric grill and an electric griddle?
An electric grill has raised ridges that mimic outdoor grilling and leave char marks on food. Grease drains between the ridges into a tray below. An electric griddle has a flat, smooth surface (usually nonstick or cast aluminum) that is better for pancakes, eggs, bacon, grilled cheese, and any food that benefits from full-surface contact. Griddles handle delicate foods better, while grills excel at searing meats and vegetables.
What can you cook on an electric griddle?
Electric griddles handle pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast, hash browns, burgers, smashburgers, grilled cheese, quesadillas, paninis, fish fillets, Korean BBQ, vegetables, stir-fry, and even morning-after Thanksgiving leftovers. The flat surface is ideal for anything that benefits from even heat across a wide area. Most griddles reach 400-450F, enough for searing burgers and chops.
How do you clean an electric griddle?
1. Unplug the griddle and let it cool for 10 minutes (warm but not hot). 2. Remove the temperature probe and drip tray. 3. Wipe the cooking surface with a paper towel to remove grease and food bits. 4. For stuck-on food, use a soft sponge with warm soapy water. Avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers, which damage nonstick coatings. 5. For fully immersible models, submerge the base (with the probe removed) in the sink. 6. Dry thoroughly before storing. 7. Wash the drip tray in the sink or dishwasher if it is rated dishwasher-safe. 8. For cast iron griddles, apply a thin coat of oil after cleaning to prevent rust.
Are electric griddles worth it?
Yes, electric griddles are worth it for anyone who regularly cooks breakfast for two or more people, loves hosting brunch, or wants to cook smashburgers and grilled cheese indoors. They free up stovetop burners, cook multiple items at once with even heat, and are easier to clean than a skillet. The main tradeoff is storage space: XL models take up significant cabinet room. For small households or rare griddle use, a skillet may be enough.
What size electric griddle do I need?
For 1-2 people, a compact 16×10 inch griddle (like the OVENTE) handles 4-5 pancakes at once. For a family of 4, a 20-inch surface (Dash Deluxe, Chefman XL, Ninja Sizzle) feeds everyone in 1-2 batches. For a family of 6 or more, go with an XL 22-inch model (Presto 07061, Presto 07072). Allow at least 3-4 inches of clearance on each side of the griddle for safe handling, and measure your cabinet or storage space before buying.
Do electric griddles use a lot of electricity?
Most electric griddles run at 1200 to 1790 watts. A 1500W griddle draws about 1.5 kWh per hour of cooking. Cooking a full breakfast for a family of 4 typically uses about 0.5-0.75 kWh. Compared to a stovetop griddle, electric models heat more efficiently because all the energy goes directly into the cooking surface rather than escaping around the pan.
Final Verdict: Which Electric Griddle Should You Buy?
After three months of testing 10 top-rated models, the Presto 07061 22-Inch Electric Ceramic Griddle remains our EDITOR’S CHOICE. It combines the largest cooking surface in the roundup with the most reliable even heating, a PFAS-free ceramic nonstick that lasts, and removable handles that fit standard 18-inch cabinets. For most families, it is the best electric griddle available.
If you want the best value, the bella XL 12×22 inch Ceramic Titanium Griddle delivers XL cooking capacity at a budget-friendly price, with titanium-reinforced ceramic that holds up well to daily use. For shoppers on a tight budget, the OVENTE 16×10 Inch Electric Griddle is the most affordable option that still cooks well.
For families of 6 or more who cook breakfast every weekend, the Chefman XL and Presto 07072 Slimline are both excellent choices. For shoppers who want one appliance that does it all, the Ninja Sizzle Pro XL is the premium pick with interchangeable griddle and grill plates and 500F max heat.
Whatever you choose, our best electric griddles roundup for 2026 gives you a model that fits your kitchen, your budget, and the way you actually cook. Use the comparison table above to match the right griddle to your needs, and check the latest price on Amazon before you buy.


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