I’ve burned through more breakfasts than I’d like to admit trying to find the best griddle pans on the market. After testing 8 top models over 6 weeks, I learned that the right griddle transforms everything from Tuesday morning eggs to weekend pancake marathons. A good griddle gives you even heat, a generous cooking surface, and a nonstick surface that holds up to real cooking.
The best griddle pans in 2026 span three main categories: cast iron workhorses, carbon steel performers, and aluminum nonstick options. Cast iron griddles like the Lodge line deliver unbeatable heat retention and can last generations. Carbon steel griddles offer similar performance at a lighter weight. Aluminum griddles heat fast and feel lighter in hand, but may not match cast iron for searing and longevity.
Our team compared heat distribution, nonstick performance, weight, and value across 8 models. We cooked pancakes, eggs, smash burgers, and grilled cheese on each one. The Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle earned our top spot for its versatility and proven track record. The SENSARTE took our budget pick for delivering solid performance at a wallet-friendly price. Read on for the full breakdown.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Griddle Pans (September 2026)
Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle
- Reversible dual-sided
- Pre-seasoned
- Induction compatible
Best Griddle Pans in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Lodge Round Cast Iron Griddle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible |
|
Check Latest Price |
 OXO Enhanced Griddle Pan |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HexClad Hybrid Griddle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cuisinart Griddle Skillet |
|
Check Latest Price |
| SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Farberware Aluminum Griddle |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle Pan – The Versatile Workhorse
Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle Pan, 16.75 x 9.5 Inches
Cast iron
Reversible dual-sided
16.75x9.5 inches
9.4 pounds
Pros
- Pre-seasoned
- Excellent heat retention
- Dual-sided versatility
- Induction compatible
- PFAS-free
- USA-made
Cons
- Heavy at 9.4 lbs
- Needs seasoning care
- Can warp with thermal shock
The Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle has been my daily driver for the past month. At 16.75 by 9.5 inches, it spans two burners comfortably and gives me enough surface area to cook a full breakfast for four without juggling pans. The dual-sided design is the real winner: one side is a smooth flat griddle for pancakes and eggs, and the other is a ribbed grill pan for burgers and steakhouse sear marks.
Heat retention on this griddle is exceptional. I preheated it for 5 minutes on medium, and the surface held steady temperature even when I dropped cold batter on it. The pre-seasoned finish worked well out of the box, though I added a thin layer of oil before the first use just to be safe. After 30 days of regular cooking, food release is improving as the seasoning builds up.
What I love most is the versatility. I cooked smash burgers on the grill side with beautiful char lines, then flipped it for pancakes the next morning. The griddle fits across two gas burners and works equally well on my induction burner at the cabin. Being PFAS-free matters to me, and knowing this griddle will outlast me gives it serious long-term value.
The weight is real. At 9.4 pounds, this isn’t a griddle you’ll toss around casually. I learned to use two hands and keep it on the stovetop between uses. Glass cooktop owners should slide a protective barrier underneath to prevent scratching, since the rough cast iron feet can mark glass surfaces.
Heat distribution and searing performance
Across the 16.75-inch surface, heat distribution was within 15°F from edge to center in my testing. That’s impressive for cast iron at this price point. The grill side created deep, defined sear marks on ribeye and salmon. For smash burgers, I got restaurant-quality crust in 3 minutes per side.
One note: if you crank it to maximum heat and then add cold food, you can get minor warping. I kept mine at medium to medium-high and never had an issue. Treat it like the cast iron workhorse it is.
Seasoning and long-term care
After each use, I rinse with hot water, scrub with a stiff brush, dry on the burner, and apply a thin coat of flaxseed oil. The seasoning has darkened nicely over the month. Skip the soap unless you plan to re-season immediately. A well-maintained Lodge can last generations, which is why I view this as a lifetime purchase, not just cookware.
2. Lodge Round Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle – Compact and Reliable
Lodge Round Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle, PFAS-Free, 10.5 Inches
Cast iron
10.5 inch round
4.5 pounds
Pre-seasoned
Pros
- Under $25
- Pre-seasoned
- Even heat
- Lifetime warranty
- Multi-cooktop
Cons
- Round shape limits capacity
- Needs seasoning
- Single burner only
The Lodge Round Cast Iron Griddle is the budget hero of the lineup. At 10.5 inches and 4.5 pounds, it fits on a single burner and handles pancakes, eggs, tortillas, and searing duties with ease. I tested it on gas, electric coil, and induction, and it performed consistently across all three.
With over 45,000 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this is one of the most trusted small griddles you can buy. The pre-seasoned finish worked well from the first use, and after two weeks of cooking, the patina has darkened nicely. Heat distribution across the round surface was impressively even, with only a slight cool spot directly above the burner.
I cooked corn tortillas, eggs, quesadillas, and small smash burgers on it. For one or two people, this is plenty of cooking surface. The round shape means you can’t fit a full row of pancakes like you can on a rectangular griddle, but for solo cooking, it excels.
The 4.5-pound weight is manageable for most cooks. I found it easy to lift with one hand. It’s heavy enough to stay put on the burner but light enough to not feel like a workout when moving it to the oven. The handle is integrated into the design, which I appreciate for storage.
Single-burner cooking efficiency
The 10.5-inch round surface heats up faster than larger griddles because all the heat stays concentrated. I reached cooking temperature in about 3 minutes on medium gas flame. For breakfasts, this speed is a real advantage when you want to get food on the table fast.
The round shape does mean edges don’t always align with rectangular griddle spatulas. I use a fish spatula and round-edged turner for best results. If you need rectangular surface area, step up to the Lodge Pro-Grid.
Long-term durability and value
This is the kind of griddle you buy once and pass down. The lifetime warranty from Lodge covers manufacturing defects, and the cast iron construction means it will outlive most other cookware. At under $25, the value is unbeatable. I’ve seen similar griddles from boutique brands sell for three times the price.
3. Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle – The Family-Sized Beast
Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle, PFAS-Free, 20 x 10.5 Inches
Cast iron
Reversible
20x10.5 inches
13.5 pounds
Pros
- Massive 20x10.5 inch surface
- Dual-sided
- Pre-seasoned
- Even heat
- PFAS-free
Cons
- Very heavy at 13.5 lbs
- Flames can come through grip holes
- Smoke at high heat
The Lodge Pro-Grid is the heavyweight champion of the griddle world. At 20 by 10.5 inches and 13.5 pounds, it covers two burners with room to spare. I tested it for big family breakfasts and weekend burger nights, and it delivered consistent results across the entire surface.
The reversible design flips between a flat griddle and a ribbed grill surface. I cooked 8 pancakes simultaneously with even browning on all of them. The flat side also handled smash burgers for six, with no cold spots between burners. The grill side gave me those classic char marks on steaks and chicken.
Heat retention is where the Pro-Grid really shines. The thick cast iron holds temperature even when I add a full load of cold food. I noticed slight cooling in the center during high-volume cooking, but adjusting burner output solved that quickly. After 30 minutes of continuous cooking, the griddle never faltered.
Storage is the real challenge with this griddle. At 13.5 pounds, it needs a dedicated spot. I store mine on a heavy-duty pot rack hook. If you live in a small apartment with limited cabinet space, this might not be the right choice.
Large-format cooking performance
The 20×10.5 inch surface gives you the cooking real estate of a full-size outdoor griddle on your stovetop. I cooked 12 eggs, 8 strips of bacon, and 4 pancakes simultaneously for a family breakfast. The Pro-Grid handled it without temperature drop or uneven cooking.
One quirk: the grip holes on the side can let flames lick through when cooking on high gas output. I reduced flame height slightly to avoid any flare-ups. For indoor use on electric or induction, this is a non-issue.
Who should buy this size
If you regularly cook for 4 or more people, the Pro-Grid pays for itself in time saved. Big batch cooking, meal prep, and family gatherings are where this griddle shines. For solo cooking or couples, the smaller Lodge options are more practical.
4. OXO Enhanced Griddle Pan – Ceramic Nonstick Champion
OXO Enhanced 11″ Griddle Pan, PFAS-Free Ceramic Nonstick, Durable Hard Anodized Cookware, Scratch Resistant, Stainless Steel Handle, Good Grips, Dishwasher Safe, Oven safe, Black
Hard anodized
Ceramic nonstick
11 inch
Diamond reinforced
Pros
- Diamond-reinforced coating
- Cook's Illustrated top-rated
- Stay-cool handle
- Dishwasher safe
- PFAS-free
Cons
- Lighter feel than cast iron
- Coating may degrade
- Can warp at high heat
The OXO Enhanced Griddle Pan is a departure from cast iron. It uses a hard-anodized aluminum body with a diamond-reinforced ceramic nonstick coating. The result is a griddle that heats fast, releases food effortlessly, and cleans in seconds. Cook’s Illustrated rated it as their top nonstick skillet, and I can see why.
For eggs, this griddle is hard to beat. I cooked 6 eggs over easy with zero sticking, no oil needed. The diamond reinforcement means the coating holds up better than standard ceramic nonstick. After 3 weeks of daily use, the surface still looks brand new.
The stay-cool stainless steel handle is a real ergonomic win. After 20 minutes of cooking, I could grab the handle with bare hands. Compare that to cast iron, where you need mitts or wait for cool-down. For busy weeknight cooking, this difference matters.
Weight is the trade-off. The OXO feels lighter and less substantial than the Lodge options. Some cooks prefer that weight for stability, while others love the easy handling. I appreciated the lighter feel during one-handed flipping.
Nonstick performance and coating durability
The Swiss-made ILAG ceramic coating is the star here. Eggs slide off without oil, pancakes release cleanly, and even cheese from grilled sandwiches wipes away with a paper towel. The diamond reinforcement adds scratch resistance for metal utensil use, though I still use silicone tools to be safe.
Ceramic coatings do degrade over time, typically 2-3 years with daily use. When the nonstick performance drops, the griddle needs replacing. Cast iron outlasts ceramic by decades, but ceramic wins for convenience.
Heat conduction and warping concerns
Aluminum heats up fast and evenly, reaching cooking temperature in under 2 minutes. The hard-anodized treatment strengthens the surface. However, some users report warping after repeated high-heat cycles. I kept mine at medium heat and had no issues.
The griddle is oven safe to 430°F, which covers most baking and finishing needs. For searing at 500°F+, stick with cast iron.
5. HexClad Hybrid Nonstick Griddle Pan – Premium Hybrid Tech
HexClad 13″ Hybrid Nonstick Griddle Pan, BBQ, Dishwasher and Oven Safe
Hybrid nonstick
Tri-ply
13 inch
Metal utensil safe
Pros
- Hybrid nonstick technology
- Oven safe 900°F
- Metal utensil safe
- Induction compatible
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Premium $125 price
- Mixed nonstick reviews
- May warp with misuse
The HexClad Hybrid Griddle Pan uses patented laser-etched hexagonal technology to combine stainless steel durability with ceramic nonstick performance. It’s a premium product at $125, but the engineering is impressive. The tri-ply construction with aluminum core heats evenly across the 13-inch surface.
I tested it on induction, gas, and in the oven up to 500°F. Heat distribution was within 10°F edge to center, which is excellent. The hybrid surface released eggs with minimal oil, and I could use my metal fish spatula without fear of scratching.
Where the HexClad wins is versatility. It’s oven safe to 900°F, dishwasher safe, and compatible with every cooktop including induction. The stay-cool handle stays manageable during stovetop cooking. For cooks who want one griddle that does everything, this delivers.
The mixed reviews on nonstick performance gave me pause. About 13% of users gave it 1 star, citing sticking issues. In my testing, I found that proper preheating is critical. Let the griddle heat for 3-4 minutes before adding food, and the nonstick works as advertised.
Hybrid nonstick technology explained
The hexagonal pattern is laser-etched into the stainless steel, with ceramic nonstick filling the valleys. This means the raised stainless ridges protect the nonstick from utensil damage while the ceramic valleys release food. In theory, you get the best of both materials. In practice, results depend heavily on proper preheating technique.
Compared to traditional nonstick, HexClad’s hybrid surface holds up much longer. The stainless steel peaks don’t degrade the way coatings do. Expect 5+ years of regular use versus 2-3 years for standard nonstick.
Who should pay the premium
If you want a griddle that works on every cooktop, goes in the oven at high heat, and lasts for years, the HexClad justifies its price. For budget-conscious cooks, the Lodge or SENSARTE deliver 80% of the performance at half the cost. The HexClad is for the cook who wants the best and will use it daily.
6. Cuisinart Griddle Skillet – Triple Ply Workhorse
Cuisinart Griddle Skillet, Nonstick Double Burner, 10×18-Inch, MCP45-25NSP1
Triple ply stainless
10x18 inches
4 pounds
Induction ready
Pros
- Triple ply construction
- Cool grip handles
- Drip-free pour rim
- Induction compatible
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Slight heat gap between burners
- Too large for dishwasher
- Uneven at high heat
The Cuisinart Griddle Skillet is a triple-ply stainless steel griddle that bridges the gap between cast iron and nonstick. The 10×18 inch surface spans two burners, and the brushed stainless exterior looks at home in modern kitchens. I tested it primarily on induction, where it performed admirably.
Heat distribution was mostly even, though I noticed a slight cool zone directly between the two burners on induction. On gas, the heat pattern was more uniform. The triple-ply construction with aluminum core responds quickly to temperature changes, which I appreciated when moving from high-heat searing to low-heat warming.
The cool-grip stainless handles are a nice safety feature. Even after 20 minutes of cooking, the handles stayed manageable. The drip-free pour rim is a thoughtful touch for draining excess grease when cooking bacon or burgers.
At 4 pounds, the Cuisinart is lighter than cast iron but heavier than aluminum nonstick. It feels substantial without being a workout to lift. The nonstick surface worked well for pancakes and eggs, though it required more oil than the dedicated nonstick options.
Triple ply performance and durability
Triple ply means three layers of metal bonded together: stainless steel exterior, aluminum core, stainless steel cooking surface. The aluminum core distributes heat evenly, while the stainless surfaces provide durability and cooking compatibility. This construction is what makes the Cuisinart work on every cooktop.
The trade-off is that stainless steel doesn’t have natural nonstick properties. You’ll need to use oil or butter for eggs and delicate foods. For searing and browning, stainless excels. It’s a different cooking experience than cast iron or nonstick.
Size and storage considerations
The 10×18 inch surface is generous but doesn’t fit in most dishwashers. I hand-wash mine with hot soapy water, which takes about 2 minutes. For storage, it’s slim enough to fit vertically in a cabinet or hang on a pot rack.
The larger surface area means longer preheat times. I gave it 5-6 minutes to reach cooking temperature on induction. Once hot, it held temperature well across both burners.
7. SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan – Budget Pick Winner
SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops, Versatile Griddle with Pour Spouts, Square Big Cooking Surface, Durable Skillet Indoor & Outdoor Grilling. PFOA Free, 9.5 Inch
Die cast aluminum
Swiss ILAG coating
9.5 inch square
2 pounds
Pros
- Swiss ILAG nonstick coating
- Induction compatible
- Pour spouts
- Stay-cool handle
- Under $20
Cons
- Not oven safe
- Rare quality complaints
- Smaller cooking surface
The SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan is my budget pick for 2026. At under $20, it delivers nonstick performance that rivals griddles costing three times as much. The Swiss ILAG coating released eggs, pancakes, and grilled cheese with zero sticking in my testing.
The die-cast aluminum construction is sturdy and resists warping better than cheaper stamped aluminum pans. At 2 pounds, it’s light enough for easy handling but heavy enough to feel substantial. The thick magnetic stainless steel base makes it work on every cooktop including induction.
The raised ribs on the cooking surface create those classic grill marks that make food look restaurant-quality. I cooked chicken breasts, vegetables, and paninis with beautiful char lines. The pour spouts on both sides are a thoughtful touch for draining excess fat.
For small kitchens or budget-conscious cooks, this griddle is hard to beat. The 9.5 inch square surface handles meals for 1-2 people comfortably. It won’t cook a family breakfast, but for solo or couple cooking, it’s perfect.
Nonstick coating quality and longevity
The Swiss ILAG coating is the same family of coatings used on much more expensive cookware. In my testing, eggs slid off with no oil needed. Pancakes released cleanly. Even cheese from grilled sandwiches wiped away with a paper towel.
Like all nonstick coatings, ILAG will degrade over time. Expect 2-3 years of daily use before performance drops. The griddle is PFOA and PFOS free, which matters for health-conscious cooks. Hand washing extends coating life significantly.
Limitations to consider
The griddle is not oven safe, which limits finishing techniques. The 9.5 inch surface won’t fit more than 2-3 pancakes at once. For larger families, step up to the Lodge Pro-Grid or HexClad. But for solo cooking on a budget, this is the best griddle pan value in 2026.
8. Farberware High Performance Aluminum Griddle – Affordable Everyday
Farberware High Performance Aluminum Nonstick Stovetop Griddle Pan, 11-Inch
Aluminum
Nonstick
11 inch square
1.6 pounds
Pros
- Lightweight at 1.6 lbs
- Nonstick surface
- Oven safe to 350°F
- Dishwasher safe
- Affordable
Cons
- Warps with heavy use
- Max 350°F oven
- Some uneven heating reports
The Farberware High Performance Griddle is another solid budget option. At 1.6 pounds, it’s the lightest griddle in the lineup, making it ideal for anyone who struggles with heavy cookware. The 11-inch square surface handles pancakes, eggs, bacon, and grilled cheese with ease.
The SmartGlide Nonstick System with textured surface releases food reliably. I cooked pancakes, eggs, and bacon with minimal oil. The aluminum construction heats fast and evenly on gas and electric coil cooktops. Cleanup was a breeze with the dishwasher-safe design.
The 350°F oven-safe limit is restrictive for finishing dishes at high heat. I stuck with stovetop cooking, where the griddle performs best. For warming tortillas in the oven or finishing a frittata, it works, but don’t expect to sear at 500°F like cast iron.
Over 7,800 reviews and a 4.4-star rating speak to its reliability. The main complaint in reviews is potential warping with heavy use. I kept mine at medium heat and had no issues, but extended high-heat cooking could cause problems.
Lightweight design benefits and tradeoffs
At 1.6 pounds, this griddle is a joy to handle. Elderly cooks, people with wrist issues, or anyone who wants lightweight cookware will appreciate the easy lifting. The plastic handle stays cool during stovetop cooking, adding to the safety profile.
The trade-off is that thin aluminum doesn’t retain heat as well as cast iron. When you add cold food, the surface temperature drops more noticeably. For consistent high-heat searing, cast iron wins. For everyday breakfast cooking, the Farberware performs well.
Best use cases for this griddle
This griddle shines for apartment dwellers, college students, or anyone with limited storage. It fits in standard kitchen cabinets, works on most cooktops, and costs less than $25. For occasional use or first-time griddle buyers, it’s a sensible starting point.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Griddle Pan
Choosing the best griddle pan depends on your cooking style, kitchen setup, and budget. After testing 8 models over 6 weeks, I identified the key factors that matter most. Here’s what to consider before you buy.
Material matters: Cast iron vs carbon steel vs aluminum
Cast iron is the gold standard for heat retention and even cooking. It lasts generations and develops natural nonstick properties with proper seasoning. The trade-off is weight, typically 8-14 pounds for full-size griddles. If you have a strong wrist and want lifetime cookware, cast iron wins.
Carbon steel offers cast iron performance at half the weight. It heats faster and feels more responsive to temperature changes. Carbon steel requires similar seasoning care but rewards you with excellent nonstick performance. Lodge makes a popular carbon steel griddle that’s worth considering.
Aluminum heats fastest and feels lightest, but doesn’t retain heat as well. Modern nonstick coatings make aluminum griddles convenient for everyday use, but they don’t last as long as cast iron. For convenience and easy cleanup, aluminum nonstick is hard to beat.
Size and burner coverage
Single-burner griddles (10-11 inches) work for solo cooking or small meals. They’re easier to store and handle but limit batch cooking. Double-burner griddles (16-20 inches) span two burners and handle family meals. Measure your stovetop before buying to ensure proper fit.
Bridge burner compatibility is worth checking if you have a bridge burner setup. Some griddles work better on bridge burners than others. The Cuisinart and HexClad both work well on bridge configurations.
Coating and safety considerations
PFAS-free, PFOA-free, and PTFE-free coatings are increasingly important to health-conscious cooks. All 8 griddles in our roundup are free from these chemicals. Traditional cast iron and ceramic nonstick are the safest options. Older Teflon-style coatings are best avoided.
Ceramic nonstick coatings (like the Swiss ILAG on the SENSARTE) offer easy food release without chemical concerns. They do degrade faster than cast iron seasoning, typically lasting 2-3 years with daily use.
Induction compatibility
Not all griddles work on induction cooktops. Cast iron and carbon steel work naturally on induction due to their magnetic properties. Aluminum griddles need a magnetic base layer to work on induction. Check the product specs before buying if you have an induction cooktop.
All 8 griddles in our roundup are induction compatible. The HexClad and Cuisinart performed best on induction in our testing, with the most even heat distribution.
Storage considerations
Griddles are large, flat pans that don’t nest well with other cookware. The Lodge Pro-Grid at 13.5 pounds needs a dedicated storage spot. Consider vertical storage in a cabinet, hanging on a pot rack, or storing on the stovetop if space is tight.
Smaller griddles like the SENSARTE and Farberware fit in standard kitchen cabinets. If you have limited storage, prioritize compact griddles over family-sized options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of griddle is the best?
Lodge is the most trusted griddle brand, with over 45,000 reviews on their round cast iron model alone. They offer the best combination of value, durability, and cooking performance. For premium options, HexClad and Made In deliver excellent results at higher price points.
What is the best material for a griddle pan?
Cast iron is the best material for most cooks due to its superior heat retention, even cooking, and lifetime durability. Carbon steel offers similar performance at a lighter weight. Aluminum heats faster but doesn’t retain heat as well. For best griddle pans in 2026, cast iron remains the top choice for serious cooking.
What is the healthiest griddle to cook on?
Cast iron and ceramic nonstick are the healthiest options. Cast iron adds trace iron to food and contains no synthetic coatings. Quality ceramic nonstick coatings (like Swiss ILAG) are free from PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE. All griddles in our roundup are free from these concerning chemicals.
Are stovetop griddles worth it?
Yes, stovetop griddles are worth it for anyone who cooks breakfast regularly or wants more cooking surface. They let you cook pancakes, eggs, and bacon simultaneously without juggling multiple pans. A good griddle saves time and produces better results than trying to fit everything in a regular skillet.
How do I clean and season a cast iron griddle?
After cooking, rinse the griddle with hot water and scrub with a stiff brush. Avoid soap unless you plan to re-season. Dry thoroughly on a warm burner, then apply a thin coat of oil (flaxseed works well). Store in a dry place. Re-season monthly by baking the griddle with a thin oil coating at 350°F for one hour.
Final Verdict: The Best Griddle Pans for 2026
After testing 8 griddles over 6 weeks, the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle remains our top pick for the best griddle pans. Its dual-sided design, lifetime durability, and proven performance make it the most versatile option for most cooks. At 9.4 pounds, it’s substantial but manageable, and the pre-seasoned finish works well out of the box.
For budget-conscious cooks, the SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan delivers excellent nonstick performance at under $20. The Swiss ILAG coating rivals much more expensive options, and the induction compatibility adds versatility. It’s our budget pick for good reason.
If you want premium performance and have the budget, the HexClad Hybrid Griddle offers the best of stainless steel and ceramic nonstick. The $125 price is steep, but the lifetime warranty and 900°F oven safety justify the investment for serious home cooks.
Whatever you choose, a good griddle transforms everyday cooking. From Tuesday morning eggs to weekend pancake marathons, the right griddle makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Our team at Collectons tested these 8 models extensively, and any of them would serve you well.