Is the Zojirushi Gourmet Sizzler Worth It?
Based on tests by America's Test Kitchen (Feb 2026). How we score
Save $126Depends. Presto for most people.
Amazon prices as of Sep 29, 9:38 PM EDT (details)
Why
America's Test Kitchen loved "the size of this model’s cooking surface, which was the largest in our lineup," and its pancakes "emerged fluffy and golden brown from edge to edge." But it has no grease tray, so "we had difficulty removing any collected grease or fat," and its coating contains PFAS. ATK's Best Buy, the Presto, earned the same performance rating and gives you easier cleanup for far less. Buy the Zojirushi if you want the biggest cooking surface and a removable plate.
Cheaper alternatives, scored against the Zojirushi
Cool-Touch Electric Griddle and Warmer Plus
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
America's Test Kitchen's Best Buy matched the Zojirushi's performance rating: "We detected some hot spots, particularly near the power connection, but that didn’t affect our cooking results." Its plate isn't removable, but "the griddle is dishwasher-safe and can be fully submerged once the heat control unit is removed," and unlike the Zojirushi it has a grease tray. Its surface is smaller (210 vs 237.5 sq in) and tops out at 400°F. Neither listing states a warranty.
| Criterion | Zojirushi | Presto |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 2/3 | 2/3 |
| Ease of use | 3/3 | 2/3 |
| Cleanup | 2/3 | 3/3 |
From America's Test Kitchen: The Best Electric Griddles (updated Feb. 25, 2026)
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Electric Griddles (updated Feb. 25, 2026), Manufacturer specs via Amazon listing
Common questions
Does the Zojirushi Gourmet Sizzler have a grease tray?
No. America's Test Kitchen found it was the only griddle it tested without one. Walls slightly over an inch tall keep food on the plate; to empty grease, you lift the plate out and pour it off.
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Electric Griddles (updated Feb. 25, 2026), Manufacturer specs via Amazon listing
