The Cuisinart Griddler GR 5B and the GR-4N are two of the most popular multifunctional countertop grills, but they differ slightly in features and price. The main difference is that the GR 5B is a 5-in-1 appliance with a unique half grill/half griddle function, while the GR-4N is a more streamlined 4-in-1 model suitable for core grilling and panini-making tasks.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which Cuisinart Griddler is right for your kitchen.
Cuisinart Griddler GR 5B
The Griddler GR 5B is Cuisinart's more versatile and slightly larger model, designed for home cooks who want maximum flexibility from a single countertop appliance. Its key selling point is the 5-in-1 functionality, which includes the ability to use one grill plate and one griddle plate simultaneously, perfect for cooking a complete breakfast or a surf-and-turf dinner.
- What it is: A versatile 5-in-1 countertop appliance that works as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle.
- Key features: 1500 watts of power, adjustable temperature controls for grill and griddle functions, brushed stainless steel housing, and removable, reversible non-stick plates.
- Price: Typically ranges from $150 to $180.
- Dimensions: Approximately 13.75" x 12.5" x 6".
- Materials/Construction: Durable brushed stainless steel body with high-quality, dishwasher-safe non-stick cooking plates.
- Pros: A true multi-tasker with five cooking options. The half grill/half griddle feature is incredibly useful. Removable plates are easy to clean. Floating hinge easily accommodates thick paninis or steaks.
- Cons: Has a slightly larger footprint than the GR-4N. Costs a bit more upfront. The control layout can seem complex initially.
The GR 5B is ideal for larger households or anyone who loves the efficiency of cooking different types of food at the same time and values maximum versatility.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/griddler/gr-5b/
Cuisinart Griddler GR-4N
The Cuisinart Griddler GR-4N is a slightly more compact and streamlined model that focuses on the four essential functions most people need. It does away with the separate griddle temperature control and half/half function, offering a simpler, more budget-friendly appliance that still excels at core jobs like making paninis, grilling burgers, and cooking pancakes.
- What it is: A 4-in-1 countertop appliance that serves as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, and full griddle.
- Key features: 1500 watts of power, adjustable temperature with function selector, brushed stainless steel housing, and reversible, non-stick cooking plates.
- Price: Usually available for $130 to $160.
- Dimensions: Approximately 12.75" x 11.5" x 6".
- Materials/Construction: Sturdy brushed stainless steel housing with removable, dishwasher-safe non-stick plates, similar in quality to the GR 5B.
- Pros: Provides excellent value for its price. More compact size is great for smaller kitchens. Simple, intuitive control dial is very easy to use. Performs the main grilling and griddling tasks perfectly.
- Cons: Lacks the half grill/half griddle function. Less overall cooking flexibility compared to the GR 5B.
This Griddler is a great choice for individuals, couples, or small families who need a reliable workhorse for everyday cooking and don't require the extra function of the GR 5B.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/griddler/gr-4n/
Cuisinart GR 5B vs. GR-4N Comparison
Functionality & Features
This is the biggest distinction between the two models. The Cuisinart GR 5B is a 5-in-1 appliance, while the GR-4N is a 4-in-1. Both can function as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, and full griddle. The fifth function exclusive to the GR 5B is its half grill/half griddle capability. This mode allows you to use one ribbed grill plate and one flat griddle plate simultaneously when the unit lies flat.
This unique feature is perfect for making a full breakfast at once - bacon and eggs, for example - or for searing steaks on the grill side while sautéing vegetables on the griddle side. The GR 5B also has separate, more precise temperature controls for the grill and griddle functions, whereas the GR-4N uses a single selector dial for its modes.
Dimensions & Cooking Surface
The Griddler GR 5B has a slightly larger footprint and cooking surface, measuring about 13.75" x 12.5". In contrast, the Griddler GR-4N is a bit more compact at around 12.75" x 11.5". While the difference is not dramatic, the extra space on the GR 5B can be helpful when cooking for more than two people, allowing you to fit an extra burger patty or another sandwich on the plates.
Materials & Construction
Both Griddlers are built to the same high standards Cuisinart is known for. They feature durable brushed stainless steel housings that look modern and are resistant to fingerprints. Both come with removable, reversible, dishwasher-safe non-stick cooking plates. The construction quality, floating hinges, and overall durability are virtually identical, and both models typically come with Cuisinart's 3-year limited warranty.
Price & Value
The GR-4N is generally the more budget-friendly option, usually priced about $20-$30 less than the GR 5B. The GR 5B’s higher price is justified by its additional cooking function and slightly larger surface area. If you see yourself frequently using the half grill/half griddle feature to make complete meals, the extra cost offers excellent value. If you primarily want a great panini press and indoor grill, the GR-4N provides fantastic performance for less money.
Design & Usability
Both models share a similar stainless steel aesthetic that fits well in most kitchens. The primary difference in usability lies in the controls. The GR-4N uses a simple, three-dial system: one for selecting between Grill/Panini and Griddle, and one for adjusting temperature. The GR 5B has a more detailed control panel. This design offers more precise temperature control but can feel a little busier. For cleanup, both are equally convenient thanks to the pop-out, dishwasher-safe plates and integrated drip trays.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Griddler GR 5B's larger size and 5-in-1 versatility make it a superior choice for families or enthusiastic home cooks who host gatherings and would benefit from cooking two types of food at once.
The Cuisinart GR-4N is a perfect fit for smaller households, couples, or individuals with limited counter space. Its streamlined functionality covers all the core grilling and griddling needs without any extra complexity, making it a reliable and efficient appliance for daily use.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Griddlers are excellent appliances, but they cater to slightly different cooking styles and needs.
Choose the Cuisinart Griddler GR 5B if:
- You want the highest level of cooking versatility available in a single machine.
- You frequently cook complete meals with different components (e.g., steak and veggies).
- You're cooking for a family of three or more and need a larger cooking surface.
- You prefer having more precise, dedicated temperature controls for different functions.
Choose the Cuisinart Griddler GR-4N if:
- You are on a slightly tighter budget but still want top-tier quality.
- Your primary needs are making paninis, grilling, and occasional pancake-making.
- You have limited kitchen counter space and prefer a more compact footprint.
- You appreciate simple, straightforward controls and don't need the bells and whistles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Cuisinart GR 5B and GR-4N?
The primary difference is functionality. The GR 5B is a 5-in-1 model with a unique "half grill/half griddle" setting and separate temperature controls. The GR-4N is a more basic 4-in-1 model that doesn't have that specific function.
Are the cooking plates a different size?
Yes, the cooking plates on the GR 5B are slightly larger than those on the GR-4N, reflecting its overall larger dimensions. This allows you to cook slightly more food at once on the GR 5B.
Are the cooking plates from the GR 5B and GR-4N interchangeable?
No, because the appliances are different sizes, their respective plates are not interchangeable. You must use the plates designed specifically for your model.
Are the plates on both models dishwasher safe?
Yes, one of the best features of both the GR 5B and GR-4N is that the non-stick cooking plates are removable and fully dishwasher safe, making cleanup extremely easy.
Do they get hot enough to put a good sear on a steak?
Yes, both models are powered by 1500 watts and are capable of reaching high enough temperatures to put a nice sear on steaks, burgers, and other meats, especially when using the contact grill function.
How do you clean the Griddlers?
For both models, you simply press the plate release buttons, remove the cool plates, and place them in the dishwasher or wash them by hand. The integrated drip tray slides out for easy emptying and cleaning.
Which is better for a family?
The GR 5B is generally better for families of three or more due to its slightly larger cooking surface and the added versatility of the half grill/half griddle function, which is useful for preparing more complex family meals.
Is the price difference for the GR 5B worth it?
If you will regularly use the fifth "half grill/half griddle" function, the extra investment is definitely worth it. If you only plan to use the core grilling and panini features, you can save money by choosing the GR-4N without sacrificing performance in those areas.
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