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10 Best Indoor Grills for 2026 That Bring the BBQ Inside

Smoke-free indoor grills that sear like outdoor BBQ—but only these 10 models deliver restaurant-quality results worth your investment.

Kitchen Products · Buyer's Guide

10 Best Indoor Grills for 2026 That Bring the BBQ Inside

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You’ve probably heard that indoor grills can replicate authentic BBQ flavor without the smoke and hassle of outdoor cooking. While they won’t perfectly match charcoal’s smoky char, today’s models come remarkably close with advanced searing technology and temperatures exceeding 500°F. Whether you’re battling winter weather, apartment restrictions, or simply craving convenience, the right indoor grill can transform your cooking routine. Here’s what separates the best performers from disappointing substitutes.

Before You Buy

Top-ranked models include George Foreman 4-Serving (#2), Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS (#3), and Ninja GR101 (#6) based on reviews and ratings.

High-wattage grills (1,450–1,800 watts) reaching 500°F deliver authentic sear marks and faster cooking for restaurant-quality results indoors.

Advanced smoke control systems using water trays, grease channels, and ventilated lids minimize indoor smoke while draining excess fat.

Cooking surfaces range from 60 to 200+ square inches; larger grills serve families while compact models suit couples.

Versatile models offer 5–6 functions including grilling, air crisping, baking, and dehydrating with dishwasher-safe, PFAS-free nonstick plates.

Our Selection

Our Top Indoor Grill Picks

Budget-Friendly Pick
Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/ Non-Stick Surface

Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/ Non-Stick Surface

Wattage · 1120 watts
Cooking Surface · 150 square inches
Maximum Temperature · Warm to sear (adjustable)
Best Value
Ninja 14″ Electric Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101)

Ninja 14″ Electric Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101)

Wattage · 1450 watts
Cooking Surface · 14-inch plates
Maximum Temperature · 500°F
Best for Searing
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill 118 sq. in

Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill 118 sq. in

Wattage · 1500 watts
Cooking Surface · 118 square inches
Maximum Temperature · 450°F
Editor’s Choice
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill

Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill

Wattage · 1760 watts
Cooking Surface · 9 x 12-inch grill grate
Maximum Temperature · 500°F
Most Versatile
Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 Indoor Grill (GR-4NNAS)

Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 Indoor Grill (GR-4NNAS)

Wattage · 1500 watts
Cooking Surface · 11.5W x 13.5D inches (dual plates)
Maximum Temperature · 425°F (griddle mode)
Best for Beginners
Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B)

Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B)

Wattage · 1300 watts
Cooking Surface · 14-inch circular surface
Maximum Temperature · 450°F
Most Popular
George Foreman 4-Serving Electric Grill and Panini Press

George Foreman 4-Serving Electric Grill and Panini Press

Wattage · 1800 watts
Cooking Surface · 60 square inches
Maximum Temperature · Not specified
Best for Parties
Electric Indoor Grill 1500W with Griddle Plate

Electric Indoor Grill 1500W with Griddle Plate

Wattage · 1500 watts
Cooking Surface · 18.7D x 5.29W inches
Maximum Temperature · Adjustable (not specified)
Best Overall
Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (EG201)

Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (EG201)

Wattage · 1760 watts
Cooking Surface · 10 x 10-inch grill grate
Maximum Temperature · 500°F
Professional Grade
Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle (GX101)

Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle (GX101)

Wattage · Not specified
Cooking Surface · 20-inch plates
Maximum Temperature · 500°F
At a Glance

Compare the Picks

Product
Wattage
Cooking Surface
Maximum Temperature
Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/ Non-Stick Surface
Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/ Non-Stick Surface
Budget-Friendly Pick
1120 watts
150 square inches
Warm to sear (adjustable)
Ninja 14″ Electric Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101)
Ninja 14″ Electric Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101)
Best Value
1450 watts
14-inch plates
500°F
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill 118 sq. in
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill 118 sq. in
Best for Searing
1500 watts
118 square inches
450°F
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill
Editor’s Choice
1760 watts
9 x 12-inch grill grate
500°F
Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 Indoor Grill (GR-4NNAS)
Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 Indoor Grill (GR-4NNAS)
Most Versatile
1500 watts
11.5W x 13.5D inches (dual plates)
425°F (griddle mode)
Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B)
Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B)
Best for Beginners
1300 watts
14-inch circular surface
450°F
George Foreman 4-Serving Electric Grill and Panini Press
George Foreman 4-Serving Electric Grill and Panini Press
Most Popular
1800 watts
60 square inches
Not specified
Electric Indoor Grill 1500W with Griddle Plate
Electric Indoor Grill 1500W with Griddle Plate
Best for Parties
1500 watts
18.7D x 5.29W inches
Adjustable (not specified)
Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (EG201)
Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (EG201)
Best Overall
1760 watts
10 x 10-inch grill grate
500°F
Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle (GX101)
Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle (GX101)
Professional Grade
Not specified
20-inch plates
500°F

Swipe to see all specs · full write-ups below

The Full Story

More Details on Our Top Picks

01 / 10

Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/ Non-Stick Surface

Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/ Non-Stick Surface
Our Verdict
Budget-Friendly Pick
View Latest Price

The Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill is perfect for apartment dwellers and condo residents who want to grill indoors without smoke. With 1,120 watts of power and five adjustable temperature settings, it delivers consistent heat across its 150 square inches of non-stick cooking surface—ideal for searing steaks, cooking burgers, or grilling vegetables and fish.

An innovative water tray system cools grease on contact, minimizing smoke and preventing flare-ups. Both the grill plate and water tray are dishwasher safe for quick cleanup, while cool-touch handles and automatic overheat protection ensure safe operation. Enjoy year-round indoor grilling without triggering smoke alarms.

Wattage
1120 watts
Cooking Surface
150 square inches
Maximum Temperature
Warm to sear (adjustable)
Cooking Functions
Indoor grilling (1 function)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (grill top and water tray)
Item Weight
5.3 pounds
Additional Feature
Multi-zone cooking system
Additional Feature
Water tray cools grease
Additional Feature
Cool-touch plastic handles
02 / 10

Ninja 14″ Electric Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101)

Ninja 14″ Electric Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101)
Our Verdict
Best Value
View Latest Price

The Ninja GR101 14″ Electric Griddle and Indoor Grill offers versatile cooking with its interchangeable nonstick grill and flat-top griddle plates, letting families prepare six burgers, pancakes, or mixed proteins at once. Powered by a 1450-watt system, it heats to 500°F with even edge-to-edge coverage for perfect searing.

Designed for convenience, it features a perforated mesh lid, high walls, and built-in grease management to reduce smoke and mess. Both cooking plates are dishwasher-safe and easily removable for quick cleanup. Priced at $79.99, it holds a 4.6-star average from 2,965 reviews and ranks sixth among electric contact grills.

Wattage
1450 watts
Cooking Surface
14-inch plates
Maximum Temperature
500°F
Cooking Functions
Grill and griddle (2 functions)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (plates and components)
Item Weight
7.8 pounds
Additional Feature
Perforated mesh lid
Additional Feature
Hood-up or hood-down
Additional Feature
Fits six burgers/pancakes
03 / 10

Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill 118 sq. in

Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill 118 sq. in
Our Verdict
Best for Searing
View Latest Price

The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill offers 118 square inches of grilling space and reaches temperatures up to 450°F, delivering restaurant-quality sear marks anytime. With an adjustable temperature range from 200°F to 450°F, it provides precise control for grilling steaks, seafood, or vegetables. The PFAS-free nonstick grill grate prevents sticking and is dishwasher safe, as are the drip tray and lid.

Monitor your food through the viewing window without losing heat, while power and preheat indicator lights keep you informed. An extra-large drip tray efficiently captures grease, and over 31,000 customer reviews attest to its reliability.

Wattage
1500 watts
Cooking Surface
118 square inches
Maximum Temperature
450°F
Cooking Functions
Indoor grilling (1 function)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (grill plate, drip tray, lid)
Item Weight
8.1 pounds
Additional Feature
Viewing window monitor
Additional Feature
Red/green indicator lights
Additional Feature
PFAS-free nonstick grate
04 / 10

Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill

Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill
Our Verdict
Editor’s Choice
View Latest Price

Ninja’s Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill delivers restaurant-quality results with precision and ease. The integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking, featuring 4 protein settings and 9 doneness levels—from rare to well-done—so you get perfect results every time. With Cyclonic Grilling Technology, the grill uses 500°F hot air and a 500°F grill grate to create authentic char-grilled marks, while the Smoke Control System keeps indoor smoke to a minimum.

Six versatile cooking functions—Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate—make it easy to prepare a wide variety of meals. Its XL capacity is ideal for large families, and the ceramic-coated, dishwasher-safe parts ensure quick, hassle-free cleanup.

Wattage
1760 watts
Cooking Surface
9 x 12-inch grill grate
Maximum Temperature
500°F
Cooking Functions
6-in-1 (Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (grill grate, basket, pot)
Item Weight
25 pounds
Additional Feature
Cyclonic Grilling Technology
Additional Feature
Foodi Smart Thermometer
Additional Feature
75% less fat
05 / 10

Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 Indoor Grill (GR-4NNAS)

Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 Indoor Grill (GR-4NNAS)
Our Verdict
Most Versatile
View Latest Price

The Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 offers maximum versatility in a compact design, making it a top choice for indoor grilling. It features five cooking options: contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and a hybrid half grill/half griddle setup. Reversible PFAS-free nonstick plates handle a variety of foods, from pancakes to steaks, and dual temperature controls offer precise heating from 200°F to 425°F.

Powered by 1500 watts, it ensures even heating across its 13.5-inch cooking surface. Cleanup is easy with dishwasher-safe plates and a removable drip tray. Backed by 48,975 customer reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it ranks #3 in sandwich makers and delivers reliable performance for everyday cooking.

Wattage
1500 watts
Cooking Surface
11.5W x 13.5D inches (dual plates)
Maximum Temperature
425°F (griddle mode)
Cooking Functions
5-in-1 (Contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, half/half)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (plates and drip tray)
Item Weight
11.5 pounds
Additional Feature
Floating cover design
Additional Feature
Reversible nonstick plates
Additional Feature
Cleaning/scraping tool included
06 / 10

Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B)

Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B)
Our Verdict
Best for Beginners
View Latest Price

The Elite Gourmet EMG-980B Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill makes family gatherings and weekend cookouts effortless with restaurant-quality indoor grilling. Its 14-inch nonstick surface fits six servings, and the circular heating element reaches 450°F across five settings for precise cooking. The tempered glass lid allows you to monitor food without losing heat, while the removable drip tray channels fat away for healthier meals and cool-touch handles ensure safety.

All components—including the grill plate and drip tray—are dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup. With 12,554 customers giving it an average of 4.4 stars, this 1300-watt grill delivers reliable performance and versatility for everyday use.

Wattage
1300 watts
Cooking Surface
14-inch circular surface
Maximum Temperature
450°F
Cooking Functions
Indoor grilling (1 function)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (plate, tray, lid, base)
Item Weight
6 pounds
Additional Feature
Circular heating element
Additional Feature
Tempered glass lid
Additional Feature
Heat-resistant base/handles
07 / 10

George Foreman 4-Serving Electric Grill and Panini Press

George Foreman 4-Serving Electric Grill and Panini Press
Our Verdict
Most Popular
View Latest Price

The George Foreman 4-Serving Electric Grill and Panini Press features a 60-square-inch cooking surface, ideal for preparing meals for four. Its George Tough nonstick coating is three times more durable than standard surfaces, eliminating the need for oil or butter while making cleanup easier. The grill preheats 35% faster and uses a sloped design to drain up to 42% of fat, promoting healthier cooking.

With removable, dishwasher-safe plates, switching between grilling burgers and pressing paninis is effortless. Weighing just 9.9 ounces and delivering 1800 watts of power, this compact, dual-function appliance combines performance and convenience. Backed by 31,292 customer reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it ranks #2 among electric contact grills.

Wattage
1800 watts
Cooking Surface
60 square inches
Maximum Temperature
Not specified
Cooking Functions
Grill and panini press (2 functions)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (removable plates)
Item Weight
9.9 ounces
Additional Feature
George Tough nonstick coating
Additional Feature
35% faster heating
Additional Feature
42% fat drainage
08 / 10

Electric Indoor Grill 1500W with Griddle Plate

Electric Indoor Grill 1500W with Griddle Plate
Our Verdict
Best for Parties
View Latest Price

The NAUQUOHZ Electric Indoor Grill is a 1500W powerhouse built for Korean BBQ lovers and home chefs seeking restaurant-quality results. With dual-zone cooking, it supports interchangeable grill and griddle plates, plus includes three raclette cheese pans for versatile meal options. Its smokeless technology allows for worry-free indoor use, and the adjustable temperature control handles everything from searing meats to melting cheese with precision.

Constructed with durable cast iron and stainless steel, this 6.1-pound grill combines performance and longevity. Dishwasher-safe components simplify cleanup, making it ideal for busy households. Backed by a 4.3-star rating from 152 reviews, it currently ranks #8 in electric contact grills—proof of its standout performance in 2026.

Wattage
1500 watts
Cooking Surface
18.7D x 5.29W inches
Maximum Temperature
Adjustable (not specified)
Cooking Functions
2-in-1 (Grill and griddle)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (detachable plates)
Item Weight
6.1 pounds
Additional Feature
3 raclette cheese pans
Additional Feature
Dual-zone cooking
Additional Feature
Grill net included
09 / 10

Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (EG201)

Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (EG201)
Our Verdict
Best Overall
View Latest Price

The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (EG201) delivers restaurant-quality char-grilled results at home with its Cyclonic Grilling Technology, combining 500°F cyclonic air and a high-density grill grate for even, surround searing. It quickly cooks frozen foods to perfection in under 25 minutes while minimizing smoke thanks to its advanced Smoke Control System.

With six versatile functions—Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate—the EG201 offers flexibility for a wide range of meals. The 10×10-inch grill grate, 4-quart crisper basket, and 6-quart cooking pot are all dishwasher safe and feature a PTFE/PFOA-free ceramic coating for easy cleanup and healthy cooking.

Wattage
1760 watts
Cooking Surface
10 x 10-inch grill grate
Maximum Temperature
500°F
Cooking Functions
6-in-1 (Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Yes (grill grate, basket, pot)
Item Weight
21.5 pounds
Additional Feature
Splatter shield included
Additional Feature
GrillControl digital settings
Additional Feature
Equivalent full-sized grill BTU
10 / 10

Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle (GX101)

Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle (GX101)
Our Verdict
Professional Grade
View Latest Price

Families who want restaurant-quality indoor grilling without the smoke will love the Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle (GX101). With a spacious 20-inch cooking surface—40% larger than the Sizzle GR101—it effortlessly feeds 8 to 10 people. ProTemp IQ Technology ensures even, edge-to-edge heat from 250°F to 500°F, outperforming the Blackstone 36 Griddle in consistency. Switch between flat-top and grill plates for versatile meals, from hibachi favorites to weekend breakfasts.

The detachable ventilated lid minimizes splatter, while the 100% PFAS-free ceramic nonstick surface cleans up with ease. A removable grease catch makes cleanup simple, keeping your kitchen mess-free.

Wattage
Not specified
Cooking Surface
20-inch plates
Maximum Temperature
500°F
Cooking Functions
2 functions (Griddle and grill)
Dishwasher-Safe Components
Not specified (quick-clean design)
Item Weight
Not specified
Additional Feature
ProTemp IQ Technology
Additional Feature
40% larger surface
Additional Feature
Detachable ventilated lid
How to Choose

Factors to Consider When Choosing Indoor Grills

grill features matter

When you’re shopping for an indoor grill in 2026, you’ll need to evaluate several key features that directly impact your cooking experience. The size of the cooking surface, temperature control precision, and smokeless technology determine whether the grill meets your household’s needs. You should also examine the durability of the nonstick coating and how easily you can clean and maintain the unit after each use.

The cooking surface size of an indoor grill—ranging from 60 to over 150 square inches—determines how much food you can cook at once. For families or those who host often, a surface over 110 square inches allows for multiple burgers, veggies, and proteins in a single batch. Compact 60 to 80 square inch models suit singles or couples with limited space and smaller meals.

Opt for grills with dual-zone surfaces to prevent flavor transfer, or choose models with removable or reversible plates that offer both griddle and grill options. These features enhance versatility and effectively expand your cooking area.

A wide temperature control range, ideally 200°F to 500°F, is essential for versatile indoor grilling. This range accommodates everything from slow-cooking delicate vegetables to searing thick steaks, ensuring juices are locked in while preventing burning or undercooking.

Look for precise thermostats with adjustable settings or preset levels that maintain consistent heat for baking, roasting, or broiling. Models reaching 500°F deliver the intense heat needed for authentic grill marks and outdoor-style flavor, transforming your grill into a flexible cooking powerhouse.

Smokeless design is essential for effective indoor grilling, with top models using water trays between heating elements and drip zones to cool and condense smoke before it escapes. Sloped surfaces and grease channels direct fat away from hot components, significantly reducing flare-ups and smoke generation.

Advanced grills feature sealed heating systems, insulated lids, and precise ventilation controls to contain smoke while maintaining steady cooking temperatures. Nonstick surfaces prevent burnt-on residue, and integrated fans or exhaust systems filter and recirculate air, capturing grease without external venting—enabling truly smoke-free indoor grilling.

The quality of your indoor grill’s nonstick coating impacts cooking performance, cleanup ease, and durability. Opt for PFAS-free, multi-layer coatings that resist scratches and offer lasting food release without harmful chemicals. Ceramic-based options provide a PTFE- and PFOA-free alternative, tolerating high heat without toxic fumes and reducing the need for added oils.

Choose coatings engineered for dishwasher-safe use to maintain performance through repeated cleaning cycles. High-quality surfaces prevent flaking and peeling, ensuring long-term reliability and convenience.

When shopping for an indoor grill, prioritize models that make cleanup effortless. Look for removable, dishwasher-safe cooking plates and drip trays to avoid time-consuming hand washing. Nonstick, PFAS-free coatings prevent food buildup, allowing quick wipe-downs, while cool-touch handles and sealed bases keep grease off exterior surfaces, reducing deep cleaning.

Choose grills with detachable lids featuring smooth, non-porous finishes that resist smoke and grease. Raised edges and integrated grease channels direct drippings away from heating elements, preventing flare-ups and minimizing residue. These smart design features mean less frequent and less intensive cleaning, so you spend more time cooking and less time scrubbing.

A minimum of 1500 watts is recommended for even heat distribution on larger indoor grills up to 150 square inches, ensuring quick preheating and consistent temperatures for effective searing. Models with higher wattage, like 1760 watts, deliver faster results and maintain the high heat needed for char-grilling.

Grills below 1300 watts often struggle to sustain peak temperatures, leading to longer cook times. Units between 1300 and 1760 watts typically reach 450°F to 500°F, offering versatility across various foods, and when paired with efficient heating elements, can char-grill frozen items in under 25 minutes.

Today’s indoor cooking stations go beyond grilling, offering 6-in-1 functionality with grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate settings. Interchangeable nonstick plates—like flat griddles and grill surfaces—let you switch from pancakes to paninis in seconds, while dual-zone systems enable efficient multitasking, such as grilling meat on one side and roasting veggies on the other.

Precise temperature control from 200°F to 500°F ensures perfect results for delicate melts or seared steaks. Removable griddles, grills, and drip trays make changing modes and cleaning up quick and effortless, turning a single appliance into a versatile, all-day cooking hub.

Safety should never be compromised when choosing an indoor grill. Look for essential features like cool-touch handles and exteriors to prevent burns, and ensure the model has automatic overheat protection that shuts off the unit if it becomes too hot. Certified grills with cETL or ETL marks meet trusted electrical and safety standards, giving you peace of mind during use.

Choose grills with non-toxic, PTFE/PFOA-free nonstick coatings to avoid hazardous fumes at high temperatures. Built-in smoke control systems are also critical, reducing indoor air pollution and fire risks. These safety-focused features work together to ensure reliable, clean, and hazard-free indoor grilling.

Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Indoor grills can’t fully replicate that authentic smoky flavor you’d get from outdoor charcoal or wood grills. However, you’ll find some high-end models with smoke infusion features that’ll come pretty close to mimicking traditional BBQ taste.

Don’t let smoke be your kitchen’s kryptonite. You’ll prevent alarms by using your grill’s lowest heat setting, ensuring proper ventilation, keeping it clean, and cracking a window while running your exhaust fan at full power.

Yes, they’re safe for small apartments or dorms if you follow proper ventilation guidelines. You’ll need to guarantee adequate airflow, keep smoke detectors functional, maintain clearance from walls, and never leave your grill unattended while cooking.

You’ll hilariously watch griddles cook pancakes flat like they’re steamrolling breakfast, while electric grills give you those sexy sear marks. Grill presses? They’re basically angry sandwich-squishers that compress food from above, making paninis their hostages.

You shouldn’t use metal utensils on non-stick surfaces as they’ll scratch and damage the coating. Instead, opt for silicone, wood, or heat-resistant nylon utensils to protect your grill’s non-stick finish and extend its lifespan considerably.

Found Your Match?

Whichever pick suits your space best, check the current price above — availability and deals change often.

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