5 Best Electric Skillets in the US

Comparative Review of Elite Electric Skillets

Design and Build Quality

The Elite Gourmet skillet showcases a resilient design with a thick cast aluminum body and a black lacquer finish, providing added durability and resistance to rusting or warping. In comparison, the BELLA skillet also boasts a durable cast aluminum base, but with an additional reinforcement of titanium for strength and scratch resistance. Hamilton Beach impresses with its Durathon ceramic nonstick surface, claiming to be four times more durable than traditional nonstick surfaces. OVENTE and Presto both feature a heavy cast aluminum build, with Presto also offering a deluxe nonstick surface both inside and out. However, the Presto skillet stands out with its built-in spout and fold-down handles for compact storage.

Functionality and Convenience

When it comes to functionality, the Elite Gourmet skillet offers rapid and even heating, thanks to its M-shaped heating element and Trigger-Release control probe for precise temperature adjustment. Hamilton Beach adds versatility with its reversible design, accommodating both left and right-handed users. The BELLA skillet provides a similar level of control with its adjustable temperature and removable probe. OVENTE emphasizes hassle-free cooking and convenience with its spacious 12-inch size and easy-to-clean non-stick surface. Presto combines functionality and convenience, with its skillet doubling as a buffet server and its tempered glass cover allowing for easy monitoring of the cooking process.

Size and Capacity

The Elite Gourmet boasts an extra-large pan dimension of 16” x 13” x 3.15”, serving 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for large family gatherings or parties. Similarly, BELLA’s large skillet size is perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. Hamilton Beach and OVENTE offer moderately sized skillets at 12" x 15" and 12-inch respectively, suitable for everyday cooking. Presto’s skillet also features large pan dimensions, but its fold-down handles provide the added advantage of compact storage.

Safety and Maintenance

All five brands prioritize safety and ease of maintenance. The Elite Gourmet, Hamilton Beach, and OVENTE skillets are all dishwasher safe, ensuring easy cleanup. The BELLA skillet, while not explicitly stated as dishwasher safe, is fully immersible and easy to clean. Additionally, the Elite Gourmet, OVENTE, and Presto skillets all feature cool-touch handles, providing an extra layer of safety during use. The Elite Gourmet and OVENTE skillets are ETL listed, verifying their safety and performance standards.

Customer Support and Warranty

Elite Gourmet and OVENTE stand out with their U.S. based customer support teams, providing reliable assistance to customers. Both brands also offer a 1-year warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction and product reliability. While Hamilton Beach, BELLA, and Presto do not explicitly mention U.S. based customer support, they have established reputations for quality products and customer service.

In summary, each electric skillet has its unique strengths, with the Elite Gourmet and BELLA skillets excelling in durability and design, Hamilton Beach and OVENTE offering versatility and convenience, and Presto providing functional design with compact storage options.