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The best sandwich toasters for posh paninis and cheese toasties

From posh paninis to crispy waffles and the traditional cheese toastie, the best sandwich toaster will help you whip up a family-favourite snack or meal in no time.

By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated May 22, 2024

Selection of the best toastie makers

Who doesn’t love a toasted sandwich? Whether it’s piping hot oozy cheese, meatballs and tomato sauce, or chocolate and banana, whatever your favourite filling, a well-made toastie can be the ultimate comfort food - and with the best sandwich toaster, they takes just minutes to prepare.

From simple budget sandwich presses to deep-fill toasters capable of accommodating chunkier bread slices, our guide aims to bring you the very best sandwich toaster options to suit all requirements and budgets.

As with all our kitchen guides - reviewing everything from the best American fridge freezers to the top lunch boxes - we started by taking a deep dive into the Mumsnet forums, the largest online network of parents in the UK. We carefully combed through Mumsnetter suggestions of the toastie makers they've tried, tested and loved, compiling a shortlist of the top options. Then, we cross referenced this research with authentic consumer reviews and opinions from food industry experts to ensure all our recommendations are top notch.

Whether you're after a multi-functional sandwich toaster capable of making brownies, French toast and even a Victoria sponge, or just want a compact, no-frills gadget for the humble cheese toastie, we've got you covered. Here are the best sandwich toasters 2024.

1
Best sandwich toaster overall

Breville VST025 Sandwich Panini Press and Toastie Maker

What we like
  • Flat aluminium plates are easy to clean

  • Can be used for a wide range of food options

  • Good price

What we don't like
  • Quite small for large families

Key specs

Price on writing: £32 | Size: 11.6 x 14.4 x 5.2cm | Power: 1000W | Sandwich capacity: Three | Key features: Floating top plate accommodates different sized sandwiches, paninis and other items

What Mumsnet users say
pinkfluffybunny · Tried & Tested
Our Breville is a recent purchase. We love, love, love it. It's used several times a week. My favourite filling is tuna and onion mayo with sweet chilli sauce. My husband's favourite is ham and cheese with slices of red onion.
See Post
JorahsMistress · Recommended
I adore my Breville, couldn't live without it. I've used it for a few different combos but my faves are: triangle cheese (Laughing Cow usually) with chopped up tinned hot dogs (must be cut circular); jalapeño primula with chopped up red onion; grated mozzarella with chopped up red onion and hoisin sauce.
See Post
Our verdict

With many Mumsnetters admitting that they grew up thinking a toasted sandwich was simply known as 'a Breville', we couldn't rank the best sandwich toasters without giving the top spot to the king of the toastie, Breville. And, at just over £30, the VST025 Sandwich Press is an affordable option for most families - though there is a larger 'four-slice' option too if you find it's not quite roomy enough.

With flat non-stick aluminium plates which are easy to clean and a floating top plate so you can stuff as much as you'd like into your toastie, baguette or panini of choice, the Breville is as versatile as it is practical. Reviewers love the even-cooking capabilities as much as the easy wipe-clean surfaces.

This handy kitchen gadget saves time and effort with delicious results, while being compact enough to slide back into the cupboard after use.

Related: The best integrated dishwasher for a streamlined kitchen

2
Best budget sandwich toaster

Cookworks 2-Portion Sandwich Toaster

What we like
  • Handle stays cool to prevent burns

  • Locking clip

  • Reheating function is great for forgotten toast

  • Great value

What we don't like
  • Best suited to smaller, sliced loaves of bread as larger ones don't fit without overhang

  • Some reviewers say it takes a while to heat up

Key specs

Price on writing: £15 | Size: 22.2 × 22.7 × 8.1 cm | Power: 820W | Sandwich capacity: Two | Key features: Handle locking clip; reheat function

Our verdict

This toaster is a great buy if you’re looking for a small, efficient product for a very decent price. It also has an interesting feature that you wouldn’t expect for such a basic model: a reheat function, which is useful if you want to warm up a half-eaten sandwich without overcooking and spoiling the filling. It’s a nice feature to have and something you’d probably use more often than you’d think, especially for children who are often happy to eat half a sandwich, then come back to the other half later. This way you can simply reheat and give it back to them as if it was just made!

The toaster may be on the small side, but for the price, this little appliance definitely does a good job of toasting a decent sandwich.

Related: The best oven cleaner and glass cleaner for sprucing up your kitchen

3
Best sandwich toaster for families

George Foreman Large Grey Steel Grill 25051

What we like
  • Can be used for a wide variety of toasted sandwiches from wraps to paninis

  • Versatile

  • Good size for families

What we don't like
  • You may need to use toasting bags to help keep it clean

  • Pricey (but offers good value)

Key specs

Price on writing: £50 | Size: 40 × 37 × 11cm | Power: 1850W | Sandwich capacity: Not specified | Key features: Extra large plates; stands upright for compact storage; drip tray to remove excess fat during cooking

What Mumsnet users say
Agadorsparticus · Recommended
George Foreman grill. So easy for toasties. It also means you can use rolls and other sized breads.
See Post
RightOnTheEdge · Tried & Tested
A George Foreman-type grill is a really easy way to do them and you can also cook a lot of other things on them as well so better than a toastie machine which is shaped in triangles.
See Post
Our verdict

First and foremost, this George Foreman grill is an appliance that you can cook your family dinner on, but the plates are extremely versatile and double up perfectly well as a very efficient sandwich toaster. In fact, when we headed over to the Mumsnet forums, it received a huge number of recommendations, despite not actually being billed as a traditional toasted sandwich maker.

It won’t seal your sandwich together like a traditional toastie, but it will happily cope with thickly sliced bread and deep fillings, and you’ll be able to experiment with a wide variety of bread styles like paninis, ciabattas, focaccias… the list goes on!

It’s perfect for large families, as its convenience lies in being able to grill multiple sandwiches at a time. It’s also a stylishly designed piece of kit and it can be placed in an upright position for easy storage.

It’s not the cheapest product on the market, but considering the many features it offers, we think it’s great value for money as you'll certainly find plenty of uses for it.

4
Best multi-functional sandwich toaster

Russell Hobbs Deep Fill 3-in-1 Sandwich, Panini & Waffle Maker

What we like
  • Removable plates are dishwasher safe

  • Heats up quickly

  • Durable

  • Three-year guarantee

What we don't like
  • Pricey

Key specs

Price on writing: £50 | Size: 23 × 25 × 10.5cm | Power: 760W | Sandwich capacity: Two | Key features: Removable plates (dishwasher safe); deep-fill sandwich plates, waffle plates and grill plates included

What Mumsnet users say
MintyCedric · Tried & Tested
I have this combined panini, waffle and toastie maker and it's bloody marvellous! Been going strong for nearly three years. Heats up quickly, easy to clean and really good for all three functions.
See Post
Our verdict

This sandwich toaster definitely has convenience covered. With three non-stick plates to choose from, you can interchange between a waffle maker, a deep-fill sandwich toaster and a grill to cook almost anything your heart desires. And the removable plates can go into the dishwasher so it’s very easy to maintain and keep clean.

The sandwich plates hold up to two portions, and the deep-fill grooves are very generously sized, so it can make indulgent, deli-worthy toasties in a matter of minutes.

If you’re a family with mixed opinions over whether a cafe-style sandwich or a panini is preferable, then everyone will love with this machine as the grill plates can be used to create toasted sandwiches made from pretty much any type of bread you can think of, from thick loaves to ciabattas to hot pita pockets. It’s also a practical size for cupboards and worktops.

It’s not as attractive as some other options on our list, but it’s a well-designed appliance that will be a great addition to any household.

Related: The best kettle, tried and tested

5
Best deep fill sandwich toaster
What we like
  • Compact size

  • Removable dishwasher-safe plates

  • Five-year guarantee

What we don't like
  • Pricey

Key specs

Price on writing: £80 | Size: 24 × 28 × 11cm | Power: 1000W | Sandwich capacity: Two | Key features: Extra large plates and deep pockets; removable plates (dishwasher safe); variable temperature control

What Mumsnet users say
DonKeyshot · Tried & Tested
This is the one you need for toasties.
See Post
Our verdict

This is definitely the sandwich toaster to buy if you like big portions! It boasts extra large plates with deep grooves to allow for plenty of filling.

It also has the added bonus of an adjustable temperature control, which is important for a deep fill machine, as the more filling you add to your sandwich, the lower heat setting you’ll require in order to ensure even cooking throughout.

Its stylish design will look lovely on your kitchen countertop, while also being compact enough to slot neatly into your kitchen cupboard alongside your Tupperware and other kitchen gadgets.

It’s an efficient and reliable toastie maker, so if you do have the money to spend, it’s definitely worth going for.

Related: The best fridge freezer according to Mumsnetters

6
Best affordable deep fill sandwich toaster

Breville Ultimate Deep Fill Sandwich Toaster

What we like
  • Accommodates most fillings

  • Detachable plates can be turned so it makes other dishes (including pancakes and waffles)

  • Good price

What we don't like
  • Sides of the machine can become hot

Key specs

Price on writing: £35 | Size: 30 × 27 × 13cm | Power: 850W | Sandwich capacity: Two | Key features: Cool-touch handle; built-in cord storage

What Mumsnet users say
KatnissNeverdone · Tried & Tested
Honestly can't beat a Breville. You forget all about having one and then eat toasties for about three weeks straight.
See Post
Clottedcreamfudge · Recommended
I have this one, love the removable plates for easy cleaning.
See Post
Our verdict

Like our top-ranking Breville sandwich toaster, this deep fill version boasts a versatility which takes the culinary possibilities far beyond just toasting sandwiches. Mumsnetters have been using this particular sandwich toaster for years, with Clottedcreamfudge pointing out that you can also make "lovely pancakes, omelettes and fried eggs", presumably using the flat side of the interchangeable non-stick plates.

This sandwich toaster also makes life really simple when it comes to cleaning up. The plates are very straightforward to remove and they can be popped in a full-sized or slimline dishwasher. It also has cord storage, a handle lock, and a flat rear panel to allow it to be as compact as possible and stored upright.

Reviewers report that it does a great job, and the deep plates allow you to add quite a generous filling to your sandwich while still managing to seal things together and avoid messy leaks. The toaster will also handle a range of bread slice sizes.

7
Best stovetop sandwich toaster

Jean-Patrique Stovetop Toastie Maker

What we like
  • Quick and easy to use

  • Simple, rustic design

  • Can be used outdoors on BBQs or campfires

What we don't like
  • Can be tricky to put back together if taken apart

  • Only toasts one sandwich at a time

Key specs

Price on writing: £20 | Size: 37.7 x 15.5 x 3.9cm | Power: n/a | Sandwich capacity: One | Key features: Non-electric option, can be used indoors and outdoors

Our verdict

If you're after a simple sandwich toaster, which you can store with your pots and pans, that doesn't require electricity or any faffing about with removable plates, toasting settings, etc, then this stovetop option from Jean-Patrique could be a great alternative to the usual electric sandwich toasters. Available in black, silver and copper, this toaster has a lovely rustic look to it and - best of all - it can be used outside over a campfire or on a BBQ thanks to its heat-resistant handles.

While the smaller size of this sandwich toaster may mean it's not such a practical option for families, it features a non-stick surface so should be easy enough to clean - though be warned, several users reported that it can be tricky to get back together if it comes apart.

Related: The best tea towels to add to your kitchen

8
Best alternative to a sandwich toaster
What we like
  • Can be used with a conventional toaster

  • Reusable up to 500 times (according to Lakeland)

  • Three-year guarantee

What we don't like
  • You don't get the 'seal' from a conventional toastie maker

Key specs

Price on writing: £8 for two | Size: 15 × 20cm | Power: n/a | Sandwich capacity: One per bag | Key features: Pack of two bags; freezer, dishwasher and microwave safe

Our verdict

The Toastabag is a genius invention. Very cheap and extremely effective, this is a great option if you don’t have the cash to splash on a more expensive sandwich toaster, or if you just don't have the space to store one.

All you need to do is prep your sandwich, pop it into the bag and then slot it straight into your two-slice or four-slice toaster to heat through. You do need to be careful and use appropriately-sized bread slices as they need to fit inside your toaster comfortably in order to get the best results.

It’s a cheap enough product to take a chance on and see if it works for you. We also think it's a great option to pack for a self-catering holiday, too (as long as you’ll have a toaster at your destination). They're also laughably small and easy to store compared to conventional sandwich toasters - just pop away in the drawer when not using.

The bags are designed using a clever non-stick material, making them pretty easy to clean, and Lakeland claim they can each be used up to 500 times, making them excellent value for money.

How do you choose the best sandwich toaster?

It’s important to figure out which style of sandwich you and your family prefer. Once you have your answer, you ultimately have two choices:

Traditional toastie maker

If you like a traditional, sealed toastie-style sandwich (basically a hot pocket of oozing cheese or something similar) then all you need is a toaster with plates that features triangular grooves to hold a couple of square-shaped slices of bread loaded with your chosen filling. These are great at keeping hot melted cheese sealed inside the sandwich without it leaking all over the place.

Depending on the model, the plates offer shallow or deep grooves to accommodate a range of different fillings so it’s worth having a think about the kind of sandwiches you’d like to create. You’ll also want to think about how many sandwiches you plan to make at a time. Sandwich toasters tend to make either two or four portions at a time. The main issue with a toastie maker is that it can only really handle classic sliced bread and isn’t designed for chunkier breads like ciabattas and paninis.

Flat plate grill-style sandwich maker

If you’re partial to a cafe-style sandwich or a panini, then a machine that acts like a sandwich ‘press’ is best for you. These machines offer two large flat (or ridged) heated plates that simply press down on the sandwich. They can accommodate almost any bread style and you can be generous with fillings as there’s usually plenty of space between the two plates.

The downside is that it won’t seal your sandwich together like a more traditional toastie maker, so you’ll need to be careful when handling the sandwich before and after cooking to ensure the filling doesn't leak. Grill toasters don’t tend to have removable plates too. They are easy to wipe down, but if you prefer a dishwasher-safe option, then this might not be the best design for you.

Flat plate toasters can often be larger appliances, so consider your storage space before purchasing.

What is the best sandwich toaster?

Our top pick is the Breville Sandwich Panini Press and Toastie Maker. Ticking a lot of boxes, this versatile toaster from a reputable brand would be a great addition to your kitchen. And it’s reasonably priced, too.

For so many Mumsnetters, you can't go wrong with Breville sandwich toasters (and don't forget, it's the brand which inspired the Mumsnet Classics pancakes in the sandwich toaster thread - yes it's from 2016, but Mumsnetters have been talking about it far more recently!)

Related: The best dishwasher tablets according to Mumsnet users

How do you make the best toasted sandwich?

This topic is hotly disputed and it’s safe to say that the answer is very much down to personal opinion.

With that said, here are a few suggestions to get you started:

  • Know the type of sandwich toaster you have and which bread style works best in it. A machine with triangular grooves will work best with traditional sliced bread, while a machine with large flat grill plates can cope with almost any type of bread including paninis, ciabattas, tortillas and thick farmhouse loaves.

  • Next, you’ll need to know how much filling your toaster can accommodate and choose your ingredients accordingly.

  • Some people like to drizzle a little oil or spread some butter on the outer sides of the bread so they crisp up nicely during the cooking process. This is optional but worth experimenting with.

Then you should be good to go!

Need some recipe inspiration? We looked into some online recommendations from Mumsnetters ranging from classic combos to unusual pairings:

“I make a sandwich filling using equal parts of tinned tuna and grated extra mature cheddar. Add a bit of mayo to moisten, season and place between two slices of buttered bread. Yum.”

“Blue cheese, pear, rocket and walnut. Had this in first class on a train heading home for Christmas once. Bonza.”

“My favourites are probably pasta bake sandwiches or potato waffle sandwiches with salt and BBQ sauce.”

How do I clean my sandwich toaster?

The cleaning process depends on the type of appliance you have. You’ll find that almost all sandwich toasters are kitted out with non-stick plates and these surfaces are incredibly easy to wipe clean. Even bits of leftover cheese that inevitably ooze out, harden and stick to the metal plates will come off effortlessly.

However, if you want to make life really easy for yourself, make sure you buy a model with detachable plates. Usually these are dishwasher safe so your cleaning time can be reduced to almost nothing at all.

Some grill-style toasters come with drip trays attached, usually to catch excess fat that drips off the plates. Remember to pull these out and give them a good clean after each use.

Otherwise, a wipe down with a damp sponge should do the trick to ensure the main body of the toaster is kept hygienically clean.

How we chose the best sandwich toaster

Products tried and tested by Mumsnet users

When it comes to kitchen gadgets, our Mumsnet community have tried a huge range of products - including the good, the bad and the ugly. We first sought out the trusted opinions of the Mumsnet users, many of whom have a favourite toastie maker that they rate, recommend and use in their own home (Breville, we're looking at you!)

Expert recommendations

Next, we looked for reviews and feedback from food industry experts on the best sandwich toasters. We want to be confident that the products we recommend are fit for purpose, so we looked out for award-winning products or those that were well regarded in the food industry.

Authentic consumer reviews

Finally, to bring you our definitive list of the best sandwich toasters you can buy today, we thoroughly investigated genuine, in-depth customer reviews on retailer sites such as Amazon, Argos, John Lewis, and Lakeland and to get wider consumer experiences regarding our shortlist of the best toastie makers.

About the author

Mum-of-three Jenny Wonnacott is a Content Editor for Mumsnet, specialising in writing, editing and optimising parenting-related content. As a parent of three primary school-aged children, Jenny is passionate about making Mumsetters' lives easier through rigorous research of all items recommended in reviews and buyers' guides.

She regularly tests out products for Mumsnet, assessing whether their quality withstands the wear and tear of everyday life, including the best toasters, so she knows a thing or two about what makes a great product for a family home.

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