The Cuisinart Elite Griddler and the Breville Smart Grill are two of the best indoor grills on the market, but they target different users with different priorities. The Cuisinart is a versatile 6-in-1 multi-cooker focused on flexibility and value, while the Breville is a premium, high-tech machine engineered for grilling precision and even cooking.
Here’s what you need to know to decide between Cuisinart's convenience and Breville's performance.
Cuisinart Elite Griddler
The Cuisinart Elite Griddler is designed to be a workhorse appliance that replaces multiple gadgets on your countertop. It functions as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle, making it extremely versatile for everything from morning pancakes to evening burgers. Its main appeal lies in its flexibility and affordable price point.
- What it is: A multi-functional indoor cooking appliance that combines a grill and griddle.
- Key features: Reversible and removable non-stick plates, dual-zone temperature controls, adjustable top cover with six preset heights, opens flat for a large 240 sq. inch grilling surface.
- Price: Typically around $150 to $180.
- Dimensions: 14.6" x 16.2" x 8.1"
- Materials/Construction: Brushed stainless steel housing with removable, dishwasher-safe non-stick cooking plates.
- Style: Functional and practical with a classic stainless steel appliance look that fits in most kitchens.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price. Multi-functional design saves counter space. Removable, dishwasher-safe plates make cleanup simple. Dual-zone temperature control offers cooking flexibility.
- Cons: Lacks the precise temperature sensors of more expensive models. The build feels less premium than the Breville. Can produce less even heat across the entire surface area.
This Griddler is ideal for home cooks who need a capable, all-in-one appliance for a wide variety of meals without breaking the budget.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/grills/gr-300wsp1/
Breville Smart Grill
The Breville Smart Grill is a premium appliance focused on one thing: perfect grilling. It uses "Element IQ" technology with embedded heating elements and sensors that detect temperature drops and rapidly recover heat, ensuring professional-level searing and consistent results. While it can also function as a panini press and open into a flat BBQ mode, its core strength is its smart, precise grilling performance.
- What it is: A high-performance smart indoor grill designed for precision cooking.
- Key features: Element IQ technology for even heat and rapid recovery, embedded heating elements in removable plates, digital temperature and timer display, adjustable height control for delicate foods, opens 180 degrees into a large flat grill surface.
- Price: Usually costs between $250 and $350.
- Dimensions: 16" x 14" x 5"
- Materials/Construction: High-quality die-cast aluminum body and a brushed stainless steel finish with non-stick Quantanium plates.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and minimalist with a high-end feel and an intuitive digital interface.
- Pros: Superior heat consistency and temperature control. High-quality, durable materials and construction. Smart features ensure excellent grilling and searing results. Modern design looks great on the counter.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than the Cuisinart. Less versatile, as it lacks a dedicated griddle plate out of the box (available for separate purchase). Heavier and slightly larger footprint.
The Smart Grill is built for grilled food enthusiasts who want restaurant-quality results at home and are willing to pay for precision and superior design.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/en/products/grills-presses/bgr820.html
Cuisinart Elite Griddler vs. Breville Smart Grill Comparison
Materials & Construction
There's a noticeable difference in the build quality between the two. The Cuisinart Elite Griddler features a standard stainless steel housing that is durable and functional for everyday use. In contrast, the Breville Smart Grill uses a robust, heavy die-cast aluminum body with a brushed stainless steel finish.
This gives the Breville a more premium, substantial feel and contributes to its excellent heat retention. Both are built to last, but the Breville feels like a more high-end piece of equipment.
Features & Versatility
Versatility is where the Cuisinart truly shines. With its reversible grill/griddle plates, it easily transitions from making French toast in griddle mode to grilling steaks. Opening it flat creates a massive, dual-zone cooking surface perfect for family breakfasts. This 6-in-1 capability is its main selling point.
The Breville is primarily a grill. While it opens flat for BBQ-style grilling, it comes with two ribbed grilling plates. A flat griddle plate is available as a separate purchase. Its real "feature" is the smart Element IQ technology, which provides surgically precise temperature management for a perfect cook every time. The Breville focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well, while the Cuisinart aims to do many things very well.
Style & Aesthetics
The aesthetic difference is clear. The Cuisinart has a classic kitchen appliance look - functional, with straightforward knobs and indicator lights. It blends in without drawing much attention.
The Breville Smart Grill is designed to be a centerpiece. Its clean lines, premium finish, and minimalist digital display give it a modern, sophisticated appearance that complements upscale, contemporary kitchens.
Price & Value
At around $150-$180, the Cuisinart Elite Griddler offers incredible value. For a relatively low price, you get a highly versatile cooker that handles almost any indoor grilling or griddling task.
The Breville Smart Grill, priced between $250-$350, comes with a premium price tag. The justification is in its performance and build quality. For those who frequently grill and demand perfect results, the advanced tech and superior components offer value through flawless execution and longevity.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both are excellent appliances, but they serve completely different needs and budgets.
Choose the Cuisinart Elite Griddler if:
- You're on a budget and want the most functionality for your money.
- You need an all-in-one appliance for grilling, griddling, and making paninis.
- Simple controls and easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe parts are your top priorities.
- You cook for a family and would use the large, dual-zone flat press for big meals like pancakes and bacon.
Choose the Breville Smart Grill if:
- Grilling performance is your ultimate priority, and you want consistent, perfect results.
- You appreciate premium materials, high-end construction, and a sleek, modern design.
- You need precise temperature control for cooking steaks, seafood, and other delicate foods.
- You are willing to invest more for a specialized tool that excels at its primary function.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Cuisinart Griddler and Breville Smart Grill?
The main difference is versatility versus precision. The Cuisinart is a versatile 6-in-1 cooker with grill and griddle plates included, making it a great all-rounder. The Breville is a dedicated high-precision grill with smart technology for superior temperature control and even cooking.
Which one is easier to use?
The Cuisinart is arguably simpler, with straightforward knobs for choosing function and temperature. The Breville uses a digital screen and dial, which is very intuitive but has more specific settings (like 'Low', 'Panini', 'Sear') to learn.
Are the plates on both models dishwasher safe?
Yes, the removable cooking plates on both the Cuisinart Elite Griddler and the Breville Smart Grill are non-stick and dishwasher safe, making cleanup easier for both models.
Can you tell the difference in grilling performance?
For most users, both grills perform well. However, grilling enthusiasts will notice a difference. The Breville's smart sensors and embedded heating elements provide a more even sear and consistent temperature, which is especially noticeable when cooking thick steaks or delicate items like fish.
Is the Breville Smart Grill worth the extra money?
It depends on your needs. If you grill often and get frustrated with uneven results from other appliances, the Breville's precision and build quality will likely feel worth the investment. If you're a casual user who values flexibility, the Cuisinart offers better overall value.
Which one is better for a family?
The Cuisinart Griddler is often better for families due to its versatility. Opening it flat creates a large, two-zone griddle perfect for making pancakes, eggs, and bacon simultaneously. Its multi-functionality adapts well to a wider variety of family meals.
Does the Breville Smart Grill have a griddle function?
The base model Breville Smart Grill comes with two ribbed grilling plates. It does not include a flat griddle plate, but one can be purchased separately to add that functionality.
Will these indoor grills set off a smoke alarm?
Any indoor grill can produce smoke, especially when cooking fatty foods at high temperatures. Both models manage grease well with drip trays. To minimize smoke, ensure the grill is clean before use, avoid excessive oil, and choose leaner cuts of meat. Proper ventilation, like a range hood, is always recommended.
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