The Cuisinart Griddler is a multifunctional countertop appliance that serves as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, and full griddle, whereas the Cuisinart Griddle is a dedicated flat-top cooking surface. The key difference is versatility versus specialty, the Griddler offers multiple cooking styles in a compact unit, while the traditional Griddle provides a single, large surface ideal for big batches of breakfast foods.
Here's everything you need to know to choose the right Cuisinart appliance for your kitchen.
Cuisinart Griddler® FIVE
The Cuisinart Griddler® FIVE is a popular 5-in-1 kitchen gadget designed for maximum versatility. Its core appeal comes from its interchangeable, reversible plates that allow it to function as a contact grill for burgers, a panini press for sandwiches, a full grill for steaks or veggies, a full griddle for pancakes, or a half-grill/half-griddle for cooking different items at once. Its compact design and modern features make it a fixture in small kitchens and apartments.
- What it is: A versatile 5-in-1 countertop appliance with removable grill and griddle plates.
- Key features: Reversible non-stick plates, LCD display, digital temperature control (175-450°F), Sear Function, floating cover for even cooking, opens flat to double cooking surface to 200 sq. inches.
- Price: Around $99.95
- Style: Sleek brushed stainless steel housing with black accents for a clean, modern look.
- Materials/Construction: Durable stainless steel exterior with PFOA-free non-stick cast-aluminum cooking plates that are dishwasher safe.
- Pros: Extremely versatile with five cooking options in one. Compact footprint saves counter space. Removable plates are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Precise digital controls offer accurate cooking.
- Cons: Smaller cooking surface can be limiting for larger families. Can create grease splatter when used in the open position. Requires storage space for the unused set of plates.
The Griddler FIVE is ideal for those who value versatility and want one appliance that can handle everything from crispy paninis to grilled chicken, especially if cooking for one or two people.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/grills/gr-5b/
Cuisinart Griddle Cool-Touch
The Cuisinart Griddle Cool-Touch is a straightforward, dedicated electric griddle focused on doing one job exceptionally well: flat-top cooking. It boasts a large cooking surface great for preparing big family breakfasts of pancakes, bacon, eggs, and hashbrowns all at once. Its simplicity and spaciousness make it a favorite for weekend cooks, entertainers, and anyone who needs to serve multiple people at the same time.
- What it is: A large, single-function electric griddle designed for high-volume, flat-surface cooking.
- Key features: Expansive 18" x 11.5" cooking surface (~207 sq. inches). Removable, non-stick griddle plate for easy cleaning. Adjustable temperature control up to 450°F. Integrated slide-out drip tray.
- Price: Around $79.95
- Style: Functional and utilitarian with a large black cooking surface and sturdy base with side handles.
- Materials/Construction: PFOA-free non-stick cooking surface, and a heat-resistant base with cool-touch side handles for safe maneuvering.
- Pros: Huge, uninterrupted cooking area is perfect for families or meal prepping. Simple to operate with just one temperature dial. Generates even heat across the entire surface. Removable plate is easy to hand wash.
- Cons: Only performs one function (griddling). Its large footprint takes up significant counter and storage space. Lacks the advanced digital controls or features of the Griddler.
This dedicated electric griddle is the tool for anyone who regularly cooks breakfast for a crowd and prioritizes a large, simple cooking surface over multifunctionality.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/grills/gr-35/
Cuisinart Griddler vs. Griddle Comparison
Functionality & Versatility
This is the most significant point of comparison. The Griddler FIVE is the clear winner in versatility, offering five distinct cooking methods in a single machine. Its ability to act as a contact grill, panini press, and full grill gives it a functional range the dedicated Griddle can't match. You can make pressed sandwiches, grill steaks indoors, cook eggs, and then toast buns, all with one appliance.
The Griddle Cool-Touch is a one-trick pony, but it's an excellent trick. Its sole purpose is griddling on a flat-top, and it does so without the compromises of a combination unit. It excels at tasks where an open, spacious surface is non-negotiable, like flipping a half-dozen pancakes or cooking a full pound of bacon side-by-side.
Cooking Surface & Capacity
While the total square inches are surprisingly similar (200 sq. inches for the opened Griddler vs. ~207 for the Griddle), their shapes are completely different. The Griddler’s surface is split into two separate 100 sq. inch plates when opened flat, which is great for separating items but can be restrictive for larger foods.
The Griddle Cool-Touch, by contrast, gives you one immense, continuous surface. This allows you to cook multiple large items fluidly, move things around easily, and cook for more people at once without having to separate items onto two distinct heating zones.
Size & Storage
For storage, the Cuisinart Griddler is more practical for most households. It folds into a compact cube measuring roughly 13.5" x 11.5" x 7.12", making it easy to tuck away inside a cabinet. Its self-contained design protects the cooking plates when not in use.
The Cuisinart Griddle Cool-Touch is larger and has an awkward shape for storage. At around 20 x 12 x 4 inches, it's a long, flat appliance that requires a dedicated large shelf or pantry space. Its bulkiness can be a real drawback in smaller kitchens.
Price & Value
Both models provide solid value, but for different users. The Griddler offers incredible value for its price through sheer versatility. For around $100, you get an appliance that replaces several others, saving both money and counter space. If you plan to use its grill and panini press functions, its value is unmatched.
The Griddle trades function for size, offering a massive cooking area for a slightly lower price point. If your primary need is a large flat-top for big weekend meals, paying less for this specialized tool is the better financial choice than buying a do-it-all device whose extra features you might not use.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Cuisinart appliances are excellent, but they are built for entirely different cooking needs and kitchen scenarios.
Choose the Cuisinart Griddler if:
- You live in an apartment or have limited kitchen space.
- You want one appliance that can grill burgers, press sandwiches, and make pancakes.
- You typically cook for just one or two people at a time.
- You value modern features like an LCD screen and precise digital temperature control.
Choose the Cuisinart Griddle if:
- You regularly host breakfast or brunch for family and friends.
- You need a large, uninterrupted cooking surface to make multiple items at once.
- You already own an outdoor grill and just need a specialized indoor flat-top.
- You prefer simple appliances with straightforward, analog controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Griddler and Griddle?
The main difference is function. The Griddler is a versatile 5-in-1 tool that can grill, griddle, and press paninis. The Cuisinart Griddle is a dedicated single-purpose appliance with a large, flat cooking surface designed specifically for griddling.
Can the Cuisinart Griddler make pancakes?
Yes, absolutely. By using the flat, reversible griddle plates and laying the machine open, you get two griddle surfaces. However, each surface is smaller than a dedicated griddle, so you won't be able to make as many pancakes at one time.
Which model is better for a large family?
The Cuisinart Griddle Cool-Touch is much better for large families. Its expansive, continuous surface allows you to cook a complete breakfast of eggs, bacon, and multiple pancakes all at the same time, making meal service much more efficient.
Are the non-stick surfaces safe?
Yes, both the Griddler and Griddle feature PFOA-free non-stick cooking surfaces, which align with modern health and safety standards for kitchenware.
How do you clean the Cuisinart Griddler and Griddle?
Both models are designed for easy cleaning. The Griddler's removable plates are dishwasher safe. The dedicated Griddle features a removable plate that can be easily washed by hand in the sink. Both include drip trays to catch excess grease.
Does the Griddler press a good panini?
Yes, this is one of its strongest features. The weighted lid and floating hinge ensure even contact and pressure, creating classic grill marks and a perfectly melted interior on sandwiches.
Is the electric griddle good for more than just breakfast?
Definitely. A large electric griddle is great for making quesadillas for a crowd, searing multiple hamburger patties (smashed style), sautéing vegetables, or even teppanyaki-style cooking.
Which one is easier to store?
The Griddler is easier to store. Its compact, foldable design allows it to fit neatly into most kitchen cabinets. The dedicated Griddle's long, flat shape is bulkier and can be awkward to find an appropriate storage spot for.
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