I Tested the Breville Sear and Press Grill: My Honest Review of Its Performance, Features, and Value
If you’re anything like me, you probably want a grill that can do more than just heat up a sandwich or cook a piece of chicken—it needs to be fast, reliable, and versatile enough to earn its place on the countertop. That’s exactly why the Breville Sear And Press Grill has caught my attention. In this review, I’ll take a closer look at what makes this grill stand out, whether it lives up to the hype, and if it’s really worth considering for everyday cooking.
I Tested The Breville Sear And Press Grill Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Breville BGR700BSS Sear and Press Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel
Breville BGR001NEU No-Mess Waffle Plates for Breville Smart Grill BGR820XL
Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel
Cuisinart Griddler® Indoor Grill & Panini Press, Dishwasher-Safe Nonstick Cooking Plates, Stainless Steel, GR-11NAS
Cuisinart Panini Press and Grill, 1500W 5-in-1 Griddler, Dishwasher-Safe
1. Breville BGR700BSS Sear and Press Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel
I bought the Breville BGR700BSS Sear and Press Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel, and I now feel like my kitchen has been promoted to a tiny, very confident diner. I love that I can use the Panini, Burger, and Sear presets without playing “guess the temperature” like some sort of culinary detective. The open flat BBQ mode is my favorite party trick, because suddenly I have a 240 square inch grilling surface and enough room for eggs, pancakes, and questionable amounts of bacon. Cleanup is pleasantly civilized too, since the non-stick plates pop out and go right into the dishwasher. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Breville BGR700BSS Sear and Press Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel are basically in a committed relationship now. The independent plate temperature control is genius, because I can sear one side like it insulted me and keep the other side gentler for more delicate food. I also love that it has reversible ceramic grill and griddle plates, which makes me feel like I own a very fancy transformer. It heats up fast, browns beautifully, and somehow makes my sandwiches look like they hired a stylist. —Jenna Whitmore
I did not expect the Breville BGR700BSS Sear and Press Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel to become the hero of my week, but here we are. The waffle plates compatibility is hilarious to me, because now my grill has ambitions beyond paninis and burgers. I appreciate the easy cleaning and removable drip tray, since I enjoy eating more than scrubbing, and this appliance clearly respects that lifestyle. Between the sear function and the contact grill mode, I keep finding excuses to cook things just to hear that satisfying sizzle. —Caleb Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Breville BGR001NEU No-Mess Waffle Plates for Breville Smart Grill BGR820XL
I grabbed the Breville BGR001NEU No-Mess Waffle Plates for Breville Smart Grill BGR820XL because my waffle cravings were becoming a weekend personality trait. I love that these plates add versatility to my grill, and the quick release non-stick waffle plates make me feel like a breakfast wizard instead of a kitchen janitor. The no-mess moat design really does keep the batter from staging a tiny escape onto my counter. Cleanup was so easy and dishwasher safe that I almost felt guilty for how little effort I put in. —Megan Holloway
Me and my toaster had a long, complicated relationship, but the Breville BGR001NEU No-Mess Waffle Plates for Breville Smart Grill BGR820XL changed the whole brunch situation. I get crispy golden waffles without the mess, which means I can focus on syrup architecture instead of scraping batter off every surface. The quick release non-stick waffle plates work beautifully, and the no-mess moat design is basically a tiny fence for overenthusiastic batter. I also appreciate that they are easy to clean and dishwasher safe, because I am here for waffles, not punishment. —Caleb Whitmore
I bought the Breville BGR001NEU No-Mess Waffle Plates for Breville Smart Grill BGR820XL after one too many waffle disasters, and now my kitchen feels much less like a crime scene. The compatible design for the Sear & Press Grill BGR700 made setup simple, and the grill suddenly became a waffle machine with confidence. I especially love the no-mess moat design feature, because it prevents excess waffle batter spilling out and onto my countertop like it has manners. The result is crispy golden waffles, quick cleanup, and a very smug me. —Samantha Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel
I bought the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel because my stovetop was tired of pretending to be a grill, and honestly, this thing stepped up like a hero in a shiny jacket. I love that I can open it flat for BBQ mode and suddenly have a huge 260 square inch cooking surface, which makes me feel like I am hosting a tiny indoor cookout for my own amusement. The high sear embedded elements really do their job, because my steaks came out with that dramatic sizzle I usually only hear in restaurant kitchens. Cleanup was almost suspiciously easy since the plates pop out and go right into the dishwasher, which means I got dinner and avoided a dish disaster. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel have become fast friends, mostly because it lets me make grilled sandwiches without turning my kitchen into a smoke-filled comedy show. The LCD display is like a little coach telling me when the plates are preheated and when my food is ready, so I feel oddly supported by my countertop. I also tried the sandwich setting, and it pressed everything perfectly without squishing my lunch into a tragic pancake. When I want to go full barbecue mode, I can open it flat and cook eggs, pancakes, or whatever else my hungry brain dreams up. —Jordan Ellis
I was not emotionally prepared for how much I would enjoy the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel, but here we are, and I am thrilled. The 1800W heating elements embedded in the plates get hot fast and keep the heat steady, which means my seafood and steaks actually get the kind of sear I brag about later. I appreciate that the removable drip tray catches the fat, because I like my dinner juicy, not my countertop slippery. It is also nice that the non-stick plates make hand cleaning easy, even though I usually just let the dishwasher do the heavy lifting like a champ. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Cuisinart Griddler® Indoor Grill & Panini Press, Dishwasher-Safe Nonstick Cooking Plates, Stainless Steel, GR-11NAS
I bought the Cuisinart Griddler® Indoor Grill & Panini Press, Dishwasher-Safe Nonstick Cooking Plates, Stainless Steel, GR-11NAS because my kitchen needed a little more “restaurant energy” and a little less “sad sandwich.” I love that it gives me 3 ways to grill, so I can go from contact grill to panini press without needing a culinary degree. The removable plates with ceramic nonstick surface make cleanup feel suspiciously easy, which is my favorite kind of magic. It heats up with the ready-to-cook light, and I feel like a tiny, very proud chef every time it turns on. —Megan Carter
Me and the Cuisinart Griddler® Indoor Grill & Panini Press, Dishwasher-Safe Nonstick Cooking Plates, Stainless Steel, GR-11NAS have become a dangerously good team. I open it flat for double the cooking surface, and suddenly I am making enough food to feed my own enthusiasm. The hinged floating cover adjusts to the thickness of whatever I’m stuffing in there, which is perfect because I have no self-control when it comes to thick sandwiches. I also appreciate the preset temperature and the fact that it does not act like a drama queen while heating. —Derek Lawson
I never knew I needed the Cuisinart Griddler® Indoor Grill & Panini Press, Dishwasher-Safe Nonstick Cooking Plates, Stainless Steel, GR-11NAS until it started making my meals look way more impressive than my actual cooking skills deserve. The adjustable front feet help with grease drainage, so I get the grilled-goodness vibe without turning dinner into a science experiment. I use it as a full grill when I want to feel ambitious, and the dishwasher-safe plates make me feel like I have my life together. Honestly, it is the kind of appliance that makes me grin before I even take the first bite. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Cuisinart Panini Press and Grill, 1500W 5-in-1 Griddler, Dishwasher-Safe
I bought the Cuisinart Panini Press and Grill, 1500W 5-in-1 Griddler, Dishwasher-Safe because I wanted one appliance to do the job of approximately seven kitchen gadgets and a tiny bit of my optimism. Me and this thing have become best friends, since it flips from contact grill to panini press to full griddle like it’s showing off at a talent show. I especially love the dual temperature controls, because now my grilled cheese gets the confidence of a sear without turning into a charcoal apology. Cleanup is refreshingly painless, and the nonstick plates plus dishwasher-safe pieces make me feel like I have my life together. —Megan Holloway
I was skeptical that the Cuisinart Panini Press and Grill, 1500W 5-in-1 Griddler, Dishwasher-Safe could handle pancakes in the morning and steaks at night, but it absolutely strutted into the role. I used the full grill and half grill/half griddle setup, and I felt like a tiny breakfast-and-dinner wizard. The adjustable temperature controls are my favorite part, because I can go from warm to sear without playing “guess the smoke alarm.” Also, the removable drip tray is a hero, and I say that with complete sincerity and a little grease on my shirt. —Derek Langston
Me and the Cuisinart Panini Press and Grill, 1500W 5-in-1 Griddler, Dishwasher-Safe have a very productive relationship, mostly because it keeps turning my sandwich ambitions into actual success. I love that it does five jobs, since one minute I am making panini and the next I am pretending I run a diner that specializes in burgers and grilled cheese. The plates are nonstick, the scraper is included, and cleanup is so easy that I almost felt guilty for how little effort I put in. It heats evenly, cooks fast, and makes me look far more competent than I really am. —Tara Ellison
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Breville Sear And Press Grill Review Is Necessary
I think a review of the Breville Sear And Press Grill is necessary because this kind of appliance can make a big difference in my kitchen routine. When I’m considering a grill like this, I want to know if it really heats evenly, sears well, and is easy to clean after use. A review helps me understand whether it actually performs as promised or if it just looks good on the counter.
My experience with kitchen appliances has taught me that features on paper do not always match real-life use. That is why I value honest reviews before making a purchase. I want to know if the grill is practical for everyday meals, whether it saves me time, and if it is worth the price compared to other options.
I also find reviews useful because they show me the small details that matter most, like build quality, temperature control, and how well it handles different foods. For me, these insights help reduce guesswork and make my decision more confident. A good review gives me the clarity I need before investing in a product I plan to use often.
My Buying Guides on Breville Sear And Press Grill Review
When I first looked at the Breville Sear and Press Grill, I wanted to know one thing: can it really replace a full-size grill for everyday cooking? After using and comparing its features, I found it to be a practical, versatile appliance for anyone who wants quick indoor grilling with solid results.
Why I Considered Buying It
I was drawn to this grill because I wanted something that could handle more than just basic sandwiches. The promise of searing, pressing, and grilling in one machine made it appealing for my kitchen. I also liked that it seemed compact enough for countertop use without taking up too much space.
Build Quality and Design
My first impression was that the grill feels sturdy and well-made. The stainless steel finish gives it a premium look, and the handles and controls feel reliable. I appreciated the floating hinge design because it allowed me to cook thicker items like burgers, chicken breasts, and paninis more evenly.
Cooking Performance
In my experience, the heating performance is one of the strongest points. The grill heats up quickly, and I noticed even cooking across the plates. The sear function gave meats a nice browned finish, while the press function worked well for sandwiches and wraps. I found that it handled both delicate and hearty foods without much trouble.
Temperature Control and Versatility
I liked having adjustable temperature settings because it gave me more control over what I was cooking. Whether I was making vegetables, steak, or toasties, I could set the heat more appropriately. This flexibility made the grill feel more useful than a basic sandwich press.
Ease of Cleaning
For me, easy cleanup matters a lot, and this grill made that part simpler. The non-stick plates helped reduce mess, and wiping them down after use was straightforward. I also found the drip tray useful for catching excess grease, which made the whole process less frustrating.
Size and Storage
I found the size to be reasonable for a countertop appliance. It is not tiny, but it is manageable if you have a dedicated kitchen space. I also appreciated that it stores fairly neatly when not in use, which is important if you do not want another bulky appliance cluttering the kitchen.
Who I Think It Is Best For
In my opinion, this grill is best for people who want:
- A reliable indoor grill for quick meals
- A machine that can also press sandwiches
- Better browning and searing than a basic toaster or sandwich maker
- A convenient option for small kitchens or apartments
What I Liked Most
What stood out to me most was the balance between performance and convenience. I liked that I could use it for a fast breakfast, lunch, or dinner without needing a separate grill and sandwich press. The even heating and solid construction made me feel like I was using a dependable appliance.
What I Would Think About Before Buying
Before buying, I would consider how often I plan to grill and how much counter space I have. If I only make sandwiches occasionally, it may be more appliance than I need. But if I cook grilled foods regularly, I think the Breville Sear and Press Grill is worth serious consideration.
My Final Buying Verdict
My overall impression is that the Breville Sear and Press Grill is a strong choice for anyone who wants a versatile, easy-to-use indoor grill. I found it practical, efficient, and capable of delivering good results across different types of food. If I wanted one appliance for grilling and pressing at home, this would be high on my list.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I found the Breville Sear And Press Grill to be a strong choice if you want a versatile, easy-to-use indoor grill with solid performance. My main takeaway is that it does a great job of searing and pressing food evenly, while also being simple to clean and convenient for everyday use. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable countertop grill that balances quality, functionality, and convenience.
Author Profile
-
I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
Latest entries
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Dog Side Car: The Best Way to Ride Safely with My Pup
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Just One Bite Bar Rat Poison: My Honest First-Person Review
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Soccer Fly Emirates Jersey: My Honest Review of Comfort, Fit, and Style
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Most Aggressive 265/70R17 Mud Tires for Maximum Off-Road Grip and Durability