Head to head
Presto 16-Inch vs De'Longhi Livenza (2026)
Two large electric skillets compared: round 16-inch versus 12x18-inch rectangle, 1200 W versus 1500 W.
#1 in our rankings · Best overall
Presto 16-Inch Electric Skillet (06852)
Best for: Families and hosts who cook for four or more at the table.
#3 in our rankings · Best for batch cooking
De'Longhi Livenza Electric Skillet (BG45)
Best for: Cooks who prep large batches or entertain often.
Our recommendation
Our take: Choose the Presto 16-inch for everyday family cooking: the proven Control Master thermostat, easier storage, and 1200 W circuit-friendliness make it the more practical daily driver. Choose the De'Longhi Livenza when maximum batch capacity is the job; its 216 square inches and 1500 W move the most food fastest.
Surface shape and area
De'Longhi's 12x18-inch rectangle offers about 216 square inches versus the Presto's 16-inch round at about 201. The rectangle fits sheet-pan-style layouts and more items in a single layer; the round shape heats slightly more evenly and stores in standard spaces.
Power and circuits
De'Longhi's 1500 W preheats faster but consumes 83 percent of a 15-amp circuit, risking tripped breakers alongside other appliances. Presto's 1200 W is gentler on shared circuits and still fully capable; it just takes a minute or two longer to preheat.
Temperature control
Presto's Control Master has a decades-long reputation for steady heat backed by extensive owner reports. The De'Longhi's adjustable thermostat is competent but lacks that track record. For low-and-slow braising, the Presto inspires more confidence.
Choose Presto 16-Inch Electric Skillet (06852) if…
- You want the most proven, reliable large skillet.
- Your kitchen circuit is shared with other appliances.
- Storage space favors a round shape.
Choose De'Longhi Livenza Electric Skillet (BG45) if…
- Maximum single-batch capacity is the priority.
- You meal-prep or entertain in volume.
- Faster preheating matters to you.
Spec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Presto 16-Inch Electric Skillet (06852) | De'Longhi Livenza Electric Skillet (BG45) |
|---|---|---|
| Price tier | Mid-range | Mid-range |
| Cooking surface | 16-inch | 12 x 18 inches |
| Power | 1200 W | 1500 W |
| Heat control | Control Master, removable | — |
| Lid | Tempered glass | Tempered glass |
| Body | Cast aluminum, nonstick | — |
| Thermostat | — | Adjustable |
| Coating | — | Nonstick |
| Best for | Families and hosts who cook for four or more at the table. | Cooks who prep large batches or entertain often. |
| Skip if | You cook for one or two; 16 inches is more skillet than you need to store. | Storage space is tight; the wide rectangular shape is awkward in standard cabinets. |
Strengths and limitations
Presto 16-Inch Electric Skillet (06852)
Strengths
- 16-inch surface fits a full family meal; most rivals top out at 12 inches.
- Control Master heat control maintains the set temperature without the wide swings of cheaper thermostats.
- Tempered glass lid lets you monitor food and doubles as a serving cover.
Limitations
- Large footprint demands real cabinet or pantry space.
- 1200 W heats a big surface a bit slower than 1500 W rivals.
- Nonstick coating needs hand washing to last; it is not dishwasher-safe.
De'Longhi Livenza Electric Skillet (BG45)
Strengths
- 12 x 18-inch cooking surface is among the largest in its class.
- 1500 W delivers faster preheating than 1200 W rivals.
- Adjustable thermostat with a tempered glass lid for covered braising.
Limitations
- Rectangular shape does not fit round cabinet organizers or standard lid racks.
- Heavier than round skillets when full.
- Higher wattage can trip older kitchen circuits if other appliances run simultaneously.
How they fit the wider field
- Presto 16-Inch Electric Skillet (06852): ranked #1 (Best overall) in The 10 Best Electric Skillets of 2026. Read the full Presto 16-Inch Electric Skillet (06852) review.
- De'Longhi Livenza Electric Skillet (BG45): ranked #3 (Best for batch cooking) in The 10 Best Electric Skillets of 2026. Read the full De'Longhi Livenza Electric Skillet (BG45) review.
Neither one quite right? The full rankings cover 10 picks matched to different buyers.
Made your call?
Questions, answered
Which is better for pancakes?
The De'Longhi fits more pancakes per batch, so it wins on throughput. The Presto's steadier thermostat gives slightly more even browning per pancake. For a family breakfast, the De'Longhi's capacity usually matters more.
Which lasts longer?
Owner longevity reports favor the Presto, with many units running 10-plus years. The De'Longhi has a shorter track record in this category. Both need the same nonstick care: hand wash, no metal utensils, no aerosol spray.