Hamilton Beach 38518 Electric Griddle

Yes, for the right buyer. The Hamilton Beach 38518 Electric Griddle ranks #5 in our Best Griddles Under $50 list (best hamilton). Its biggest strength: removable drip tray. The main caveat: uneven edge heating.

Based on our research it suits budgets under $50. It's ranked #5 of 10 in our Best Griddles Under $50 list.

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: uneven edge heating; basic build; coating wear.

Hamilton Beach, 200 sq in, Under $30 and Simple.

Worth comparing: Presto 07030 Cool Touch Electric Griddle, Black+Decker GD2051B Family Griddle and Oster DuraCeramic Reversible Grill and Griddle. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.

375°F to 425°F actual surface temperature for Maillard crust formation. At 375°F: a golden-brown crust forms in 45 to 60 seconds after smashing. At 425°F: crust forms in 30 to 40 seconds, more aggressive searing with slightly more char. Below 350°F: the patty steams rather than sears, producing a grey exterior instead of a brown crust. Check actual surface temperature with a laser thermometer, the control dial setting is not the surface temperature. Most griddles rated 400°F reach 350°F to 380°F actual surface temperature.

An electric griddle works well for home smash burgers with two caveats: it must reach and sustain 375°F+ at the cooking surface, and it must recover temperature quickly when cold patties are added. Adding 2 to 3 cold beef balls drops the surface temperature significantly. The Blackstone electric and Cuisinart Griddler Deluxe maintain temperature adequately for 2 to 4 patties at a time. For more than 4 simultaneous patties: a Blackstone outdoor flat-top gas griddle or a commercial electric griddle handles the load better.