How to Buy an Electric Skillet

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: September 3, 2020 References

Electric skillets are quick, convenient, and able hold a consistent temperature even better than a pan on a normal stove.^{[1]
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Research source} Their even heat distribution makes them perfect for cooking pancakes, donuts, meat, breakfast foods, and soups. Purchasing one can speed up your cooking process and eliminate the need for a stovetop, so you can cook anywhere with a power source. Before making your purchase, it’s important to think about features like skillet size and lid styles, and how these will best suit your budget, kitchen, and cooking style.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:
Planning before your Search

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Set a budget. How much do you want to spend on this kitchen appliance? Electric skillets generally cost between $15 to $150, depending on the overall quality and additional features included.
- The price range for a quality skillet is generally around $30-50.
- Some features that are worth the extra cost are a locking lid, a drainage spout, non-stick coating, and an adjustable steam vent.^{[2]
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Determine how much counter space you have for the electric skillet. Look at where you’ll keep the appliance and measure out the area if you need to. Electric skillets come in a variety of sizes, so this will help you purchase the perfect size for your space.
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Decide which shape of electric skillet will fit on your counter. The three shape options include round, oblong, and rectangular. The shape does affect cooking space—round gives you a smaller amount space to cook in, while oblong and rectangular provide a bit more room.^{[3]
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Choose a size based on the number of people you’ll be cooking for. The number of people you’re cooking for will determine the amount of food you’ll need to prepare, and therefore how large of a skillet you’ll need. Will you be using the electric skillet to prepare family breakfasts, use in a restaurant, or serve large parties?
- The standard skillet diameter of 9-10” is perfect for a family of two to three.^{[4]
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- A larger skillet with a 12-14” diameter serves four to six people.^{[5]
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- For parties, events, and restaurants, jumbo skillets provide the largest cooking space with a 16” diameter.^{[6]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 3:
Finding the Right Model for You

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Check the temperature controls. Electric skillets use temperature dials that can be turned from low to high. Commercial skillets can generally go up to 400 degrees.
- Keep in mind that 400 degrees isn’t quite hot enough to deep fry food. If you’ll be deep-frying with your electric skillet, make sure to find a model that can go up to 450 degrees.^{[7]
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- Another temperature feature to look for is a “keep warm” option. This is usually found on higher-end electric skillets and increases the appliance’s functionality.^{[8]
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Determine features you’ll need for your cooking style. What kind of dishes will you make with the electric skillet? The skillet will already make the cooking process more convenient, but what other features could make your cooking process even easier?
- For example, if you make lots of soups and stews, it’s worth getting a glass lid. That way, you’ll be able to see the contents inside without lifting the lid.^{[9]
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Get a skillet with high sides if you deep-fry or cook large meals. This feature also makes it easy to braise and fit any oddly shaped foods into the skillet.^{[10]
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- If you cook lots of meat and other chunky foods, choose a lid with a high dome. The elevation will give you more cooking space inside the skillet.^{[11]
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Find a model with heat-resistant handles. This feature increases the appliance’s durability and keeps you safe while cooking. To prevent burns, make heat-resistant handles a priority.^{[12]
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Choose a locking glass lid. A glass lid lets you check the food cooking inside without lifting the lid and letting heat escape. The ability to the lock the lid is also important when transporting the skillet with food inside, such as from the kitchen to the backyard.^{[13]
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Make sure to choose a skillet with a nonstick surface. If the appliance doesn’t have this feature, your food is more likely to burn and stuck, making the skillet more difficult to clean. For this reason, nonstick coating is a must-have feature.^{[14]
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Look for a dishwasher-safe model if you don’t like washing dishes. Making a mess in the kitchen is practically inevitable, so choose a skillet that will be easy to clean. Dishwasher-safe models are the most convenient when it comes to clean-up.
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Check if all the parts are detachable for ease of cleaning. Detachable appliance design increases functionality and makes the cleaning process faster. This should include the power cord as well.^{[15]
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:
Purchasing Your Skillet

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Browse electric skillets online to compare prices. Once you’ve decided all the features that you’ll need, look for models on some online stores. Online searches are perfect for easy price comparison. Check the websites of big-box stores to find a wide selection.
- Browse with search filters to quickly find the features you’re looking for.
- Find several that fit your search criteria and compare prices.
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Look at customer reviews. Make sure to check the reviews left by customers who have purchased the appliance. Note any areas of concern or benefits and take those into account as you shop around.
- Avoid any products with reviews that mention hot spots or bubbly, easily damaged nonstick coating. These defects indicate that the product is cheaply made.
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Purchase online or in-store. Once you’ve found the perfect model and feel confident about its quality, it may be easiest to purchase it online. If the appliance you’re interested in is stocked at a store nearby, you may want to see it in person before you make a decision.
- Call the store location ahead of time and ask if they have the model you’re looking at in stock.
4
Look into getting a warranty if you’ll be using the appliance often. When purchasing, consider getting a warranty. This could come in handy if the electric skillet will be heavily used, such as in a restaurant setting or for regular events.