9 Best Indoor Grills for 2026

This multifunctional powerhouse redefines what an indoor grill can do—seamlessly blending low-smoke grilling, air frying, and dehydrating into one sleek appliance. With a 500°F max temperature and 360° 3D air circulation, it delivers steakhouse-quality sear marks and juicy interiors without ever triggering your smoke alarm. The sealed lid design is a game-changer for apartment dwellers or winter grilling, keeping odors and smoke contained while locking in heat for consistent results.

In real-world use, the 7-in-1 digital functions shine—switching from crispy fries to roasted chicken thighs is as simple as turning a dial. The 5.2-quart chamber handles family-sized meals with ease, and the oversized viewing window means no more lifting the lid and losing heat. During testing, vegetables caramelized beautifully and burgers grilled evenly—though thicker cuts required occasional flipping for uniform doneness. The ceramic-coated accessories resist scratches and wipe clean effortlessly, though the unit itself takes up considerable counter space.

Compared to the Cuisinart Griddler or George Foreman models, this isn’t just a grill—it’s a kitchen command center. It outperforms basic contact grills in versatility and matches higher-end air fryers in browning capability. Ideal for meal preppers, health-conscious cooks, and small families, it trades compactness for capability. While pricier than single-function grills, its feature density and performance justify the investment when stacked against simpler alternatives.

For sandwich lovers and brunch enthusiasts, the Cuisinart Griddler is a precision-engineered dream—delivering crisp paninis, golden pancakes, and perfectly seared steaks with dual adjustable temperature controls. Its 5-in-1 functionality (contact grill, full griddle, half grill/half griddle, etc.) makes it a space-smart solution for small kitchens needing big versatility. The ability to set independent heat zones ensures bacon sizzles while eggs gently cook—no guesswork, no hotspots.

Real-world testing confirms its griddle superiority: fluffy pancakes browned evenly, and paninis achieved that elusive crispy exterior with melted core thanks to the floating hinge. The nonstick plates released food without residue, and the removable drip tray caught grease efficiently—both dishwasher-safe for hassle-free cleanup. However, it struggles with thick steaks over 1” due to limited lid clearance, and the 425°F max falls short for true searing compared to 500°F rivals.

Pitted against the Ninja GR101 or Hamilton Beach searing grill, this model prioritizes sandwich and breakfast performance over high-heat char. It’s the go-to for panini perfection and weekday breakfasts, not steakhouse searing. While less powerful than high-temp grills, its precision, durability, and consistent results make it a standout value for those who prioritize sandwiches and morning meals over smoke-infused sear marks.

The George Foreman Fully Submersible Grill is a cleaning revolution—literally. For anyone who dreads scrubbing greasy grills, this model’s dishwasher-safe body (after removing the control panel) is a game-changing innovation. The 3X tougher nonstick coating lives up to its claim, effortlessly releasing burgers and grilled cheese without oil, while the adjustable hinge accommodates thick chicken breasts or stacked sandwiches with ease.

In testing, the fast 30% quicker preheat meant meals started faster than older George Foreman models, and the 4-serving surface handled weekday dinners efficiently. The vertical storage saves counter space—ideal for dorms or tiny kitchens. However, the lack of temperature control means it cooks at a fixed high heat, risking overcooked thin foods like fish fillets. While it grills well, it lacks sear precision or low-temp options for delicate items.

Next to the Elite Gourmet EMG-980B or Chefman models, this grill wins on cleanability and durability, not versatility. It’s best for low-maintenance users who want a set-it-and-forget-it appliance. Though it can’t match the customizable heat zones of pricier grills, its ease of cleaning and rugged build make it unbeatable for fuss-free grilling in busy households.

The George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill is a budget-savvy workhorse that punches above its price with 35% faster heating and easy-dishwasher cleanup. Its 60-square-inch surface fits four burgers or a full family meal, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners. The removable plates are a standout—pop them out, toss in the dishwasher, and skip the scrubbing entirely.

During testing, it browned chicken and grilled veggies evenly, though heat distribution wasn’t perfectly uniform near the edges. The George Tough nonstick coating held up well, resisting scratches and eliminating the need for oil. The drip tray captured grease effectively, reducing splatter and odors. However, like most contact grills, it lacks precise temperature control, operating best for standard grilling, not delicate searing or low-temp cooking.

Compared to the Cuisinart Griddler or Ninja GR101, it’s stripped down but effective—no griddle option, no temp dials, just reliable grilling. For first-time buyers or college students, it delivers core functionality without fluff. While it can’t match high-end searing or versatility, its affordability and dishwasher-safe plates make it the smart pick for budget-conscious cooks who still want clean, healthy meals.

Don’t let the price fool you—the Elite Gourmet EMG-980B is a smoke-smart budget marvel that delivers real grilling satisfaction under $35. With a 14-inch nonstick surface, it feeds up to six and handles steaks, salmon, and veggies in one go. The adjustable thermostat (up to 450°F) and tempered glass lid let you monitor cooking without heat loss—rare at this price point.

In practice, the circular heating element heated evenly, and the removable drip tray and grill plate made post-meal cleanup a breeze. The glass lid helped retain moisture in chicken and kept fish from drying out. However, the non-adjustable hinge limits thick cuts, and the base can feel flimsy during vigorous flipping. While not as durable as metal-bodied grills, it exceeded expectations for entry-level performance.

Stacked against the Chefman or George Foreman models, it offers more cooking space and better heat control for just a few dollars more. It’s perfect for renters, small families, or occasional grillers who want versatility without overspending. Though not built for heavy daily use, its combination of size, adjustability, and value makes it the best bang-for-buck indoor grill in the sub-$40 category.

The Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill is a flexibility champion, uniquely bridging indoor convenience and outdoor portability with its tool-free stand assembly. Its massive 240 sq. in. cooking surface dwarfs competitors—fitting 12 burgers or a whole chicken—making it the top pick for large families or weekend hosts. The 550°F max heat delivers solid sear marks, and the central grease channel funnels drips cleanly into the cup, minimizing mess and flare-ups.

In real-world use, it excelled at feeding crowds: ribs, kebabs, and veggies grilled simultaneously without overcrowding. The 6-foot cord allowed flexible placement on balconies or patios, and the nonstick surface released food cleanly. However, it’s too large for small kitchens, and the stand, while sturdy, adds setup time. Without a lid, it lacks moisture retention for thicker cuts, leading to slightly drier results on chicken breasts.

Compared to the Ninja GR101 or Hamilton Beach models, it sacrifices precision searing and lid control for sheer capacity. It’s not for apartment dwellers, but perfect for patios, RVs, or outdoor entertaining. While less compact than indoor-only grills, its spacious cooking area and dual-use design make it the ultimate crowd-pleaser when space and power matter most.

If juicy, restaurant-style sear marks are your grilling holy grail, the Hamilton Beach Searing Grill delivers with 450°F precision heat that locks in flavor and moisture. The PFAS-free nonstick grate ensures safe, stick-free cooking, while the removable lid and plate make cleanup effortless—both dishwasher safe. The viewing window is a subtle but brilliant touch, letting you monitor doneness without interrupting the sear.

Testing confirmed its meat mastery: steaks developed a rich crust, burgers stayed juicy, and fish fillets released cleanly. The adjustable 200°F–450°F range allowed for gentle shrimp grilling or aggressive steak searing. The extra-large drip tray captured grease efficiently, reducing smoke. However, the 118 sq. in. surface, while ample for six, feels tight when grilling multiple thick items at once.

Versus the Ninja GR101 or Cuisinart models, it’s narrower in function but superior in searing performance. It lacks interchangeable plates or griddle options, but excels at one thing: meat. Ideal for steak lovers and health-focused cooks, it offers better flavor control and safety (PFAS-free) than many rivals. While not the most versatile, its searing precision and cleanability make it a top-tier choice for carnivores.

The Chefman Smokeless Indoor Grill is a small-kitchen hero, engineered for space efficiency and smoke control without sacrificing performance. Its removable water tray cools falling grease, minimizing smoke and odors—a must for apartments or smoke-sensitive homes. The adjustable heat knob (warm to sear) allows precise cooking, from gently warming leftovers to charring chicken with confidence.

In testing, the nonstick surface performed flawlessly, releasing even sticky foods like grilled cheese. The 1120W power heated quickly, and the cool-touch handles and auto shut-off enhanced safety—ideal for families or solo cooks. Cleanup was a breeze: the grill top and water tray are dishwasher-safe. However, the cooking surface is smaller than family-sized models, best for 2–4 servings.

Compared to the Elite Gourmet or George Foreman grills, it trades size for smoke control and safety. It’s perfect for singles, couples, or compact kitchens where ventilation is limited. While not for large meals, its smokeless design, safety features, and ease of use make it the smartest pick for urban dwellers who want real grilling flavor without the fumes.

The Ninja GR101 earns its title as Best Overall by blending 500°F searing power, interchangeable plates, and edge-to-edge heating into one versatile, family-ready system. Whether you’re charring strip steaks or flipping pancakes, the removable grill and flat-top griddle plates deliver professional results. The perforated mesh lid reduces smoke and splatter, while the hood-up or hood-down cooking gives control over browning and melting.

Real-world tests showed perfectly seared salmon, evenly cooked veggies, and fluffy pancakes—no hotspots, no sticking. The 14-inch surface feeds 4–6, and the dishwasher-safe components simplify cleanup. The 500°F max heat outpaces most rivals, creating restaurant-quality char. However, the lid doesn’t seal tightly, so moisture escapes during slow grilling, and the unit is heavier than budget models.

Against the Cuisinart Griddler or Hamilton Beach, it offers more heat, better sear, and greater versatility. It’s ideal for families, entertainers, and serious home cooks who want one appliance to do it all. While pricier than entry-level grills, its performance, build quality, and flexibility make it the most complete indoor grilling solution in its class.