Chefman Panini Press Grill and Gourmet Sandwich Maker Non-Stick Coated
Quick take
This Chefman contact grill is designed for fast sandwiches and paninis, and it can also open flat to 180° for grilling items like burgers, vegetables, and more. With non-stick coated plates, a floating hinge for different thicknesses, and a removable drip tray, it targets easy everyday cooking and cleanup. The biggest thing to double-check is control, since reviewers note there is no temperature control, which may not suit people who want to dial in sandwich browning.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Opens to 180° for grill-style cooking plus classic pressed panini results.
- Floating hinge adjusts to fit thin to thicker sandwiches.
- Non-stick coated plates and a removable drip tray make cleanup simpler.
- Compact footprint is easier to store in small kitchens or offices.
Cons
- No temperature control is available, which can make it harder to prevent over-browning for some sandwich types.
- Some users find the on/off approach less convenient (plug-in and unplug).
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence points to strong everyday usefulness. Many shoppers describe quick heating, even results, and consistently crisp sandwiches with good cheese melt. Cleanup is a recurring positive theme, helped by the removable drip tray and non-stick plates. The adjustable hinge and ability to press different sandwich thicknesses also show up as a practical advantage. On the limitations side, the review evidence is mixed on control, with some users specifically calling out the lack of temperature control and reporting sandwiches can come out burnt if timing is not adjusted.
What this panini press grill does well
Pressed panini results for everyday sandwiches
The unit is built around contact grilling, so bread gets warmed and crisped while fillings are pressed. Buyers commonly highlight crisping performance and melting results, which is exactly what you want from a sandwich maker meant for paninis.
180° open-flat grilling for more than sandwiches
If you want one appliance that can handle both pressed sandwiches and grill-style cooking, the 180° open-flat design is the key feature. When opened flat, it can be used for items like burgers, fish, chicken, and vegetables, plus other meals you might otherwise cook on a skillet or separate grill.
Adjusts to thickness with a floating hinge
The floating hinge is intended to accommodate different sandwich sizes, from thinner builds to heartier, more stuffed options. That adjustability matters for avoiding uneven pressing, especially when you switch between lighter sandwiches and thicker ones.
Cleaning and usability, the practical stuff
Non-stick plates plus a removable drip tray
Grease management is part of the design, with a sloped approach intended to route grease toward the back. The removable drip tray gives you a straightforward way to handle drippings, and the non-stick coated plates help reduce sticking during both cooking and wiping.
Compact size for small spaces
At about 12 inches deep by 13.5 inches wide and 5.25 inches high, it is positioned for counter use without dominating your kitchen. This makes it a reasonable option for dorm rooms, offices, and smaller apartments where storage space is limited.
Pros and cons for different types of buyers
Best for
- People who want a single device for pressed sandwiches and occasional grill-style meals.
- Buyers prioritizing easy cleanup, non-stick cooking surfaces, and a removable drip tray.
- Homes where you want a compact countertop appliance that can be stored away easily.
Consider carefully if
- You need temperature control to fine-tune browning. Review feedback highlights that lack of control can lead to burnt sandwiches depending on timing and food type.
- You prefer convenience features like an easily accessible on/off button. Some users report having to plug and unplug it.
Chefman panini press grill and gourmet sandwich maker Non-Stick coated specs at a glance
- Capacity: designed for four sandwiches or two large paninis on the closed cooking surface
- Cooking reach: opens flat to 180° for grilling
- Power: 1000 watts, 120 volts
- Plates: non-stick coated with stainless steel surface area
- Drip tray: removable
- Hinge: floating, adjustable to different thicknesses
- Controls: manual, with 4 settings mentioned (temperature control is not indicated)
Is it worth it? Our verdict
The Chefman Panini Press Grill and Gourmet Sandwich Maker Non-Stick Coated is a strong fit for buyers who mainly want fast, pressed sandwiches with easy cleanup, plus the option to cook food on a flat surface occasionally. If you are sensitive to over-browning or rely on precise temperature changes, you may find the lack of temperature control frustrating and want to choose a model with more adjustable heat features. For most casual lunch and dinner use, the combination of 180° grilling, adjustable fit, and non-stick cleanup-focused design makes it a practical countertop pick.
How to get better results (especially without temperature control)
- Start with shorter cook times, then adjust, especially for delicate breads and thin sandwiches.
- Use the floating hinge to avoid excessive pressure on very thin builds, which can make browning happen faster.
- Choose fillings that melt well and pair them with bread types that crisp evenly.
View latest price and buy now
FAQ
Does the Chefman panini press open flat to use as a grill?
Yes. It can open to 180° so you can use it for grill-style cooking, not just pressed sandwiches.
Is it good for thick and thin sandwiches?
The floating hinge is designed to adjust to different sandwich thicknesses, helping the press fit more builds without requiring exact sizing.
How easy is it to clean?
It uses non-stick coated plates and includes a removable drip tray, which are intended to make wiping and grease management easier.
Is there temperature control?
Temperature control is not clearly indicated, and review feedback specifically mentions the absence of temperature control. If you need fine control to prevent burning, plan to rely on timing and setting adjustments.
How many sandwiches can it make at once?
The closed cooking surface is designed for four sandwiches or two large paninis.
Specifications
| Product Title | 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 |
|---|---|
| Category | Home & Kitchen > Kitchen & Dining > Small Appliances > Specialty Appliances > Sandwich Makers & Panini Presses |
| Brand | Chefman |
| Manufacturer | Chefman |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 6.4 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12"D x 13.5"W x 5.25"H |
| Brand Name | Chefman |
| Included Components | Drip Tray, Grill, User Guide |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00816458021678 |
| UPC | 816458022125 816458021678 |
| Part Number | RJ02-180-4-R |
| Item Type Name | Non-Stick Coated Plates, Opens 180 Degrees to Fit Any Type or Size of Food, Stainless Steel Surface and Removable Drip Tray |
| Material Type Free | Lead Free, PFAS Free, PFOA Free |
| Other Special Features of the Product | Manual |
| Wattage | 1000 watts |
| Voltage | 120 |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 12"D x 13.5"W x 5.25"H |
| Product Style | Adjustable |
| Warranty Type | limited warranty |
| Special Feature | Manual |
| Style | Adjustable |
Available variants
Size
- 4 Slice - Digital
- 4 Slice - Standard
- 4 Slice - Standard (Pack of 2)
Recommended next
Cuisinart Griddler Indoor Grill, Panini Press, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-in-1 Grilling, Dishwasher-Safe Nonstick Cooking Plates, GR-4NNAS, Stainless Steel
The Cuisinart Griddler is a versatile 5-in-1 indoor grill and sandwich press with reversible nonstick plates, dual temperature control, and an easy-clean drip tray. It’s a solid pick for people who want one countertop appliance for panini, grilled cheese, and griddle-style breakfasts, with the tradeoff that you may need to use cooking spray or butter for stickier foods.
Yedi Total Package 6-in-1 Digital Indoor Grill, Waffle Maker, Panini Press, Griddle, with Deluxe Accessory Kit
The Yedi Total Package is a compact 6-in-1 indoor contact grill that swaps between grill, griddle, and waffle plates, with separate top and bottom temperature control and easy dishwasher-clean drip tray. It’s a strong choice for households that want one appliance for sandwiches, breakfast, and casual grilling, but waffle performance may not match specialty waffle makers for crisp, airy results.
Dash Mini Maker Set (Mini Waffle Iron, Mini Griddle & Heart Waffle)
The Dash Mini Maker Set is a compact 3-pack designed for small, single-serving hot meals. It heats quickly with nonstick surfaces for easy release and cleanup, and it works well for quick waffles, chaffles, eggs, and mini sandwiches, with a main caveat around lid closure on bulkier portions.
Hamilton Beach Panini Press Sandwich Maker & Electric Indoor Grill with Locking Lid, Opens Wide to Fit Any Thickness for Quesadillas, Burgers & More, Nonstick 8" x 10" Grids, Chrome (25460MNA)
A straightforward panini press and indoor grill that heats up quickly, presses evenly with a floating lid, and delivers crisp, toasted sandwiches without flipping. The main tradeoff is safety and control, since the lid runs very hot and there is no advanced temperature control, so it needs attentive use.