10 best sandwich toasters for posh paninis and cheese toasties

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, takes just minutes to prepare.

Whether it's the best food processor or the most efficient pressure cooker, adding the right kitchen gadgets to your home can be a culinary game-changer, and the same goes for a toastie maker, too. From simple, two-slice budget sandwich presses to deep-fill toasters capable of accommodating chunkier bread slices (ideal if you're using homemade bread fresh from your bread maker) as well as a huge range of other food choices, 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 cookbooks to the top air fryer, we've taken a deep dive into the Mumsnet forums - the largest online network of parents in the UK - and cross referenced our research with authentic consumer reviews and opinions from food industry experts. 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.

Best sandwich toasters at a glance

• Best overall: Breville VST025 Sandwich Panini Press and Toastie Maker, £32

• Best budget: Cookworks 2-Portion Sandwich Toaster, £13

• Best for families: George Foreman Large Grey Steel Grill 25051, £50

• Best multi-functional: Russell Hobbs Deep Fill 3-in-1 Sandwich, Panini & Waffle Maker, £39

• Best deep fill: Cuisinart Overstuffed Toasted Sandwich Maker, £79

• Best for versatility: Breville Ultimate Deep Fill Sandwich Toaster, £35

• Best stovetop: Jean-Patrique Stovetop Toastie Maker, £20

• Best panini maker: Netta Panini Maker & Health Grill, £38

• Best alternative: Lakeland Toastabags, £9

• Best with removable plates: Tefal Snack Time SW343D40 Sandwich and Waffle Maker, £50

Here are the best sandwich toastie makers UK 2024.

1. Best overall sandwich toaster: Breville VST025 Sandwich Panini Press and Toastie Maker

Price on writing: £32 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

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 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

What Mumsnet users say

"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." (Brand recommended by Mumsnet user pinkfluffybunny)

"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 hotdogs (must be cut circular); jalapeño primula with chopped up red onion; grated mozzarella with chopped up red onion and hoisin sauce." (Advice from Mumsnet user JorahsMistress)

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. And, much like the best slow cooker, this handy kitchen gadget saves time and effort with delicious results, while being compact enough to slide back into the cupboard after use.

2. Best budget sandwich toaster: Cookworks 2-Portion Sandwich Toaster

Price on writing: £13 | Buy now from Argos

Key specs

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

What we like

• Handle stays cool to prevent burns

• Locking clip

• Reheating function is great for forgotten toast

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

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 level model: a reheat function. Useful if you want to warm up a half-eaten sandwich without overcooking and spoiling the filling. It’s a nice function and something you’d probably use more 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.

3. Best sandwich toaster for families: George Foreman Large Grey Steel Grill 25051

Price on writing: £50 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

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 we like

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

• Can also grill other items at same time

What we don't like

• You may need to use toasting bags to help keep it clean

What Mumsnet users say

"George Foreman grill. So easy for toasties. It also means you can use rolls and other sized breads." (Recommended by Mumsnet user Agadorsparticus)

"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." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user RightOnTheEdge)

Our verdict

First and foremost, this George Foreman appliance is a grill 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 was the product that 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, where the 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. Plus, don't miss our guide rating the best George Foreman grill for more top products from the brand.

4. Best multi-functional sandwich toaster: Russell Hobbs Deep Fill 3-in-1 Sandwich, Panini & Waffle Maker

Price on writing: £39 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

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 we like

• Removable plates are dishwasher safe

• Heats up quickly

• Durable

What we don't like

• Pricey

What Mumsnet users say

“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.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user MintyCedric)

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 if you're looking for something indulgent to go alongside donuts or chips fresh from the deep fat fryer, this sandwich toaster has you covered.

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.

5. Best deep fill sandwich toaster: Cuisinart Overstuffed Toasted Sandwich Maker

Price on writing: £79 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

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 we like

• Compact size

• Removable dishwasher-safe plates

• Five-year guarantee

What we don't like

• Pricey

What Mumsnet users say

"This is the one you need for toasties." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user DonKeyshot)

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 food storage containers.

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

6. Best versatile sandwich toaster: Breville Ultimate Deep Fill Sandwich Toaster

Price on writing: £35 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

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

What we like

• Accommodates most fillings

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

What we don't like

• Sides of the machine can become hot

What Mumsnet users say

"Honestly can't beat a Breville. You forget all about having one and then eat toasties for about three weeks straight." (Wise words from Mumsnet user KatnissNeverdone)

"I have this one, love the removable plates for easy cleaning." (Recommended by Mumsnet user Clottedcreamfudge)

Our verdict

Like our top-ranking Breville sandwich toaster, this deep fill version boasts a versatility which takes the culinary possibilities far beyond 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’re dishwasher safe. 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.

As a functioning toaster, 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

Price on writing: £20 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

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

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

What Mumsnet users say

"Just do them in a frying pan... So much less faff." (Type of sandwich toaster recommended by Mumsnet user Damnautocorrect)

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!

8. Best panini maker: Netta Panini Maker & Health Grill

Price on writing: £38 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size: 30.5 × 25.5 × 11cm | Power: 1500W | Sandwich capacity: Two | Key features: Ridged plate surface; built-in fat drip tray; hinged lid; adjustable temperature gauge

What we like

• Built-in 'power' and 'ready' lights

• Hinged lid makes it capable of toasting thicker sandwiches, baguettes, etc

What we don't like

• Pricey

What Mumsnet users say

"We use ours a lot, normal sandwiches are nice in it too, and wraps. I like those sandwich thins in it too." (Type of product recommended by Mumsnet user ouchmyfeet)

Our verdict

If you’re partial to a panini or like a cafe-style finish to your toasted sandwich, then this is a very nice option. The clean design features two large rectangular plates with ridges that’ll give your sandwiches a lovely chargrilled effect. The toaster will also handle a range of breads like naan breads, pita, tortillas, ciabattas and even your traditional English teacake!

The plates put pressure on your sandwich but it won’t seal the bread together so you’ll need to be a little careful with what you choose to put inside to avoid everything oozing out. The advantage of this design is that you can pretty much fill the sandwich as deep as you like.

The plates are not removable, but it’s easy to wipe them down while still attached to the device. This is a smart-looking machine that will look pretty on your kitchen worktop (while also being compact enough to slot into your cupboard next to your bento boxes) and it’ll also make you some eye-catching sandwiches to boot.

9. Best alternative sandwich toaster: Lakeland Toastabags

Price on writing: £9 | Buy now from Lakeland

Key specs

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

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

What Mumsnet users say

"Reusable toasting bags and your ordinary toaster. Available for a few quid at any supermarket." (Recommended by Mumsnet user FadedRed)

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 toaster to heat through. You’ll need to be careful to use appropriately-sized bread slices as you’ll need to be sure they 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 with conventional sandwich toasters - just pop away in the drawer or pack away in a spare lunch box when not using.

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

10. Best sandwich toaster with removable plates: Tefal Snack Time SW343D40 Sandwich and Waffle Maker

Price on writing: £50 | Buy now from Tefal

Key specs

Size: 36 × 20 × 28cm | Power: 700W | Sandwich capacity: Not specified | Key features: Locking latch; interchangeable dishwasher-safe plates; LED temperature indicator

What we like

• Interchangeable plates - you can buy up to 14 extra compatible plates as well

• Comes with plate storage containers

What we don't like

• Pricey

What Mumsnet users say

“Tefal Snack Time is a brilliant waffle maker. It also has sandwich plates and you can buy others e.g. panini, bagels. I don't think its performance is compromised at all by being multi-purpose.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user everythingisginandroses)

"We have this one. Genius. Loads of different interchangeable plates." (Recommended by Mumsnet user Lunariagal)

Our verdict

This toaster is designed to be a double-functioning machine that makes delicious toasted sandwiches and indulgent waffles simply by interchanging the plates. Since the plates are not only easy to remove, but also non-stick and dishwasher safe, the toaster is extremely easy to maintain and keep clean.

Tefal is a trusted brand when it comes to kitchen appliances and the price tag reflects this, but the product is built to last and if you want to satisfy your sweet and savoury cravings without having to fork out for two separate devices, this is the machine for you.

Related: Change up your mealtimes with the best recipe boxes according to Mumsnet users

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 feature 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! Also grill toasters don’t tend to have removable plates. 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.

Which is the best sandwich maker or 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!)

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 our recommendations

We did some research across the wider web, looking at which sandwich toasters had won accolades or been featured in ‘best buy’ lists across websites and print media, and what customer reviews said about them.

We also consulted independent review sites, as well as scouring the internet for honest reviews from the public, to ensure we were bringing you an honest summary of sandwich toasters for 2024.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.

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