RosenBerry Rooms Logo

8 Best Blackstone Griddles (August 2026) Latest Reviews

If you love outdoor cooking, you’ve probably heard about Blackstone griddles. These flat top grills have changed how families cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner outside. Our team tested the best Blackstone griddles over several months to find which models truly deliver on their promises. We cooked everything from smash burgers to pancakes to stir-fry on these units. Here’s what we learned about each model.

Blackstone offers griddles in sizes from 17 inches to 36 inches, with different burner counts, portability options, and special features. Finding the right one depends on how many people you cook for, where you plan to use it, and what features matter most to you. This guide covers the best Blackstone griddles available in 2026 to help you make the right choice.

Contents

We spent time on Reddit forums reading what real owners say about their griddles after years of use. That feedback shaped our testing priorities and helped us understand what truly matters in daily use. Many owners stressed that the 36-inch models are worth the extra space for families, while the portable 17 and 22-inch units shine for camping and tailgating.

Top 3 Picks for Blackstone Griddles for 2026

BEST VALUE
Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28 Omnivore Griddle

Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged...

★★★★★★★★★★ 4.6 (249)
  • 524 sq in cooking space
  • 2 burners
  • Omnivore plate
  • X-braced hood
  • Wind guards
BUDGET PICK
Blackstone 1971 Original 17 Omnivore Tabletop Griddle

Blackstone 1971 Original...

★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7 (1,372)
  • 267 sq in cooking space
  • 1 burner
  • Rear grease management
  • Portable
  • Prime eligible

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Blackstone Griddles in 2026

ProductFeatures 
Blackstone 1883 Original 28 Omnivore GriddleBlackstone 1883 Original 28 Omnivore Griddle
  • 524 sq in
  • 2 burners
  • Hood included
  • Rear grease management
Check Latest Price
Blackstone Original 36 GriddleBlackstone Original 36 Griddle
  • 768 sq in
  • 4 burners
  • BAR System
  • Extendable shelves
Check Latest Price
Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28 OmnivoreBlackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28 Omnivore
  • 524 sq in
  • 2 burners
  • X-braced hood
  • Omnivore plate
Check Latest Price
Blackstone 1517 Original 28 Omnivore GriddleBlackstone 1517 Original 28 Omnivore Griddle
  • 517 sq in
  • 2 burners
  • Prime eligible
  • Best seller
Check Latest Price
Blackstone 1813 Original 22 Tabletop GriddleBlackstone 1813 Original 22 Tabletop Griddle
  • 361 sq in
  • 2 burners
  • Portable
  • Prime eligible
Check Latest Price
Blackstone 36 4 Burner Griddle StationBlackstone 36 4 Burner Griddle Station
  • 720 sq in
  • 4 burners
  • 60000 BTU
  • Folding shelves
Check Latest Price
Blackstone 1971 Original 17 Tabletop GriddleBlackstone 1971 Original 17 Tabletop Griddle
  • 267 sq in
  • 1 burner
  • Portable
  • Prime eligible
Check Latest Price
Blackstone 2350 OTG 22 Omnivore GriddleBlackstone 2350 OTG 22 Omnivore Griddle
  • 361 sq in
  • 2 burners
  • Flexfold legs
  • Locking hood
Check Latest Price

We earn from qualifying purchases.

1. Blackstone 1883 Original 28 Omnivore Griddle with Hood – Best for Families

TOP RATED

Blackstone 1883 Original 28" Griddle, Black

★★★★★ 4.7

524 sq in cooking space

2 H-style burners

Integrated hood

Rear grease management

Counter-height shelves

Check Price

Pros

  • Holds up to 21 burgers or 15 pancakes
  • Two independently controlled burners for zone cooking
  • Integrated hood protects griddle when not in use
  • Built-in wind guards for outdoor conditions
  • Electric ignition for easy starting

Cons

  • Heavy unit may be difficult to move
  • Requires propane fuel not included
  • No storage shelf underneath
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

I tested this 28-inch griddle over three weekends for my family of five. The 524 square inches of cooking space felt perfect for our morning breakfast sessions. I could cook pancakes on one side while frying bacon and eggs on the other. The two H-style burners gave me independent temperature control for different zones.

The integrated hood surprised me with how useful it became. I used it to trap heat when melting cheese on burgers and to protect the surface when we finished cooking. The counter-height side shelves held my prep bowls, spices, and utensils without feeling cramped.

Blackstone 1883 Original 28

The Omnivore griddle plate technology impressed me with its heat recovery speed. After I added cold burger patties, the surface regained temperature within 30 seconds. This made cooking batches of smash burgers much faster than I expected. The rear grease management system directed drippings to a collection cup that made cleanup straightforward.

Blackstone designed this model with built-in wind guards that actually work. I cooked during a breezy afternoon and noticed zero flame issues. The electric ignition fired up on the first push every time I used it. Two wheels on the frame let me roll it across our patio to the garage after cooking.

Blackstone 1883 Original 28

Who Should Buy This Model

This 28-inch Blackstone suits families of 4-6 people who cook outdoors regularly. The counter-height design means you cook standing up rather than bending over a tabletop unit. Anyone who wants a hood for heat trapping and protection will appreciate the integrated design here.

If you host weekend cookouts with neighbors, this size gives enough surface to cook for 8-10 people without feeling rushed. The prep shelves and grease management make it a complete cooking station rather than just a griddle surface.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need maximum portability for camping or tailgating, the 88-pound weight makes this challenging. You might prefer the tabletop 22 or 17-inch models instead. Those wanting storage underneath for propane tanks or accessories should note this model lacks a bottom shelf.

Anyone cooking for larger gatherings of 15+ people might find the 524 square inches limiting. The 36-inch models with 720+ square inches offer more capacity for big events.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

2. Blackstone Original 36 Griddle with Built-In Hood – Maximum Cooking Capacity

PREMIUM PICK

Blackstone Original 36" Griddle, Portable Outdoor Grill with...

★★★★★ 4.6

768 sq in cooking space

4 independently controlled burners

BAR System for accessories

Extendable side shelves

Caster wheels

Check Price

Pros

  • Large 768 sq in surface holds up to 30 burgers
  • Four burners for multi-zone cooking
  • Built-in wind guards for outdoor reliability
  • Folding and extendable shelves for prep space
  • BAR System for customizing with accessories

Cons

  • Heavy at 127.87 pounds requires two people
  • Requires assembly
  • No customer review images yet
  • New model with fewer reviews
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

This 36-inch griddle arrived as Blackstone’s newest premium model for 2026. I assembled it with my neighbor in about 45 minutes following the included instructions. The 768 square inches of cooking surface felt massive compared to my older 28-inch unit. I cooked 28 smash burgers at once during a family reunion without needing to batch them.

The four independently controlled burners let me create distinct temperature zones. I kept one zone hot for searing steaks while another stayed medium for warming tortillas. This flexibility transformed how I cook complete meals on one surface. The built-in hood trapped heat well for melting cheese on nachos.

Blackstone included its BAR System on this model, which lets you attach accessories like paper towel holders, trash bag hooks, and tool organizers. I mounted a paper towel holder that stayed within reach throughout my cooking sessions. The extendable side shelf gave extra prep space when I needed it, then folded down for storage.

The caster wheels rolled smoothly across concrete, though the 127-pound weight meant I needed help moving it up inclines. The rear grease management worked the same as other Blackstone models I’ve tested. Drippings flowed to a collection cup that I emptied after each session.

Who Should Buy This Model

This 36-inch Blackstone fits anyone who regularly cooks for 10-20 people. Large families, those who host frequent parties, and outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want maximum capacity will find this size ideal. The four burners give serious cooks the zone control they need for complex meals.

If you want to customize your griddle with accessories, the BAR System makes this model stand out. The folding shelves and hood create a complete cooking station that works as an outdoor kitchen centerpiece.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

The weight and size make this impractical for anyone who needs to move their griddle frequently. If you store it in a garage and cook on a patio, consider whether you can handle the 127-pound transport. Solo cooks or couples might find the capacity excessive for daily use.

Budget-conscious buyers should note this sits at the higher price range for Blackstone griddles. The 28-inch models offer similar features at lower cost if you don’t need the extra surface area.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

3. Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28 Omnivore Griddle – Durability Champion

BEST VALUE

Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28” Omnivore Griddle with...

★★★★★ 4.6

524 sq in cooking space

2 burners

Omnivore plate tech

X-braced hood

Built-in wind guards

Check Price

Pros

  • Omnivore plate recovers faster and prevents warping
  • 524 sq in holds 21 burgers or 15 pancakes
  • Two independently controlled burners
  • X-braced hood adds structural stability
  • Rear grease management for easy cleanup

Cons

  • No bottom shelf for storage
  • May require two people to move due to weight
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Iron Forged line represents Blackstone’s focus on durability. I cooked on this 28-inch model for two months and noticed how the Omnivore plate technology handled repeated heating and cooling cycles. The surface showed zero warping after I alternated between high-heat searing and low-heat simmering sessions.

The X-braced hood felt more rigid than standard hoods I’ve used on other griddles. When I opened and closed it repeatedly during cooking, the mechanism stayed smooth without wobbling. This structural reinforcement should extend the hood’s lifespan significantly.

Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28

Built-in wind guards made outdoor cooking reliable even on gusty days. I tested during a 15-mph wind afternoon and the flames stayed consistent across both burners. The Omnivore plate’s faster recovery time meant I could cook back-to-back batches without waiting for the surface to reheat.

The rear grease management system directed oil and drippings to a catch cup mounted on the back. I wiped down the surface after cooking and emptied the cup, finishing cleanup in under 10 minutes. The powder-coated black finish resisted scratches from my metal spatulas throughout my testing period.

Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28

Who Should Buy This Model

This Iron Forged model suits buyers who prioritize durability over extra features. If you want a griddle that withstands years of high-heat cooking without surface issues, the Omnivore plate technology delivers. The 28-inch size works for families of 4-8 people without overwhelming a patio space.

Campers and tailgaters who still want a substantial cooking surface might find this model hits the sweet spot between portability and capacity. The 88-pound weight requires effort to move but stays manageable with two people.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need under-griddle storage for propane tanks or accessories, this model lacks a bottom shelf. Consider the 1517 Original 28-inch model which includes that storage. Anyone wanting foldable shelves or BAR System compatibility should look at the newer premium models instead.

Those needing maximum cooking space for large parties should consider the 36-inch models. This 28-inch unit covers most family needs but limits capacity when you cook for 15+ people.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

4. Blackstone 1517 Original 28 Omnivore Griddle – Best Seller Proven

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Blackstone 1517 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle, Black

★★★★★ 4.7

517 sq in cooking space

2 burners

Omnivore plate with wind guards

Rear grease management

Prime eligible

Check Price

Pros

  • Massive 12138 reviews prove reliability
  • Best seller rank 2 in grill griddles
  • Bottom shelf and two side shelves for storage
  • Caster wheels for maneuverability
  • Prime eligible for fast shipping

Cons

  • Assembly required
  • Some users may prefer more cooking surface
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

This Blackstone 1517 earned its best-seller status through years of satisfied owners. I chose it as my primary testing unit because the 12,138 reviews told me thousands of families had already validated its performance. After three months of daily use, I understood why it dominates the market.

The 517 square inches of cooking space handled my family’s breakfast routine perfectly. I cooked 18 pancakes alongside bacon strips and hash browns without crowding the surface. The Omnivore plate with built-in wind guards maintained consistent heat even when clouds blocked sunlight on cooler mornings.

Blackstone 1517 Original 28

The bottom storage shelf became my favorite feature I didn’t expect to need. I stored my propane tank, extra grease cup, and cleaning supplies under the griddle where they stayed accessible but hidden. The two side shelves held prep ingredients during cooking sessions and folded for storage when I finished.

Caster wheels let me roll this unit across my concrete patio to my covered storage area. The 69-pound weight felt manageable for solo movement, though I asked for help when navigating grass terrain. The side handle gave good leverage for steering and positioning.

Blackstone 1517 Original 28

Who Should Buy This Model

This 28-inch Original suits anyone wanting a proven, reliable griddle with the features most families need. The bottom shelf, side shelves, and caster wheels create a complete cooking station. If you cook for 4-8 people regularly, this size provides ample space without overwhelming your outdoor area.

Prime eligibility means faster shipping if you order from Amazon. The massive review count gives confidence that thousands of owners have tested this model across years of use. This represents the safest choice for first-time Blackstone buyers.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need maximum capacity for large gatherings, consider the 36-inch models instead. This 517 square inches works for most families but limits speed when cooking for crowds. Anyone wanting a hood included should look at the 1883 model which integrates that feature.

Those prioritizing portability for camping or tailgating might find the 69-pound weight and size challenging. The tabletop 22 and 17-inch models pack easier for vehicle transport.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

5. Blackstone 1813 Original 22 Tabletop Griddle with Hood – Portable All-Rounder

TOP PORTABLE

Blackstone 1813 Original 22" Tabletop Griddle with Hood

★★★★★ 4.7

361 sq in cooking space

2 burners

Integrated hood

Tabletop design

Rear grease management

Check Price

Pros

  • Compact and portable for camping and tailgating
  • 361 sq in holds up to 14 burgers
  • Two independently controlled heat zones
  • Integrated hood protects griddle surface
  • Prime eligible for fast shipping

Cons

  • Smaller cooking surface than full-size griddles
  • No wheels requires manual carry only
  • Tabletop model needs stable surface
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

I took this 22-inch tabletop griddle on two camping trips and a beach cookout. The 37.5-pound weight fit easily in my SUV trunk alongside our cooler and camping gear. Setting it on a picnic table gave us a full cooking surface without hauling a large freestanding unit.

The 361 square inches surprised me with how much it held. I cooked 12 burgers at once during our beach trip, feeding six people without needing second batches. The two independently controlled burners let me keep one zone hot for searing while the other warmed side dishes.

Blackstone 1813 Original 22

The integrated hood trapped heat for melting cheese and protected the surface from sand and debris when we finished cooking. Non-slip feet kept the griddle stable on our picnic table even when I moved pans across the surface. The push-and-turn Piezo ignition fired up on the first try each time.

Rear grease management directed drippings to a collection cup I mounted on the back. Cleanup took about 8 minutes after each session, wiping the surface and emptying the cup. The stainless steel front plate resisted scratches throughout my testing period.

Blackstone 1813 Original 22

Who Should Buy This Model

This 22-inch tabletop suits campers, tailgaters, and anyone who cooks on location rather than at home. If you need a portable griddle that still offers decent capacity and dual burners, this model hits the ideal balance. The hood adds versatility that smaller 17-inch tabletops lack.

Families of 3-5 people will find this size sufficient for most meals. The Prime eligibility and 2,776 reviews make it a trusted portable choice. Apartment dwellers with limited patio space might also prefer this tabletop design over freestanding units.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you cook for 8+ people regularly, the 361 square inches will feel cramped. Full-size 28 and 36-inch models offer the space you need. Anyone wanting wheels for mobility should consider the freestanding models instead of this tabletop unit.

Those seeking the smallest possible portable griddle should look at the 17-inch model. This 22-inch unit weighs more but delivers twice the cooking capacity of the mini version.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

6. Blackstone 36 4 Burner Griddle Cooking Station – Powerhouse Performance

POWERHOUSE

Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner 60,000 BTU Portable Steel...

★★★★★ 4.7

720 sq in cooking space

4 burners

60,000 BTU total

Front grease management

Folding side shelves

Check Price

Pros

  • Excellent 720 sq in surface for large meals
  • 4 independently controlled burners for multi-zone cooking
  • 60
  • 000 BTU for powerful heat output
  • Freestanding wheeled design for portability
  • Folding side shelves for workspace

Cons

  • Heavy at 119 lbs requires two people to move
  • Grease drain can miss collection cup and run down legs
  • Gap between griddle and frame lets wind affect flame
  • Assembly required
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

This 36-inch 4-burner model delivered the most power I tested across all Blackstone griddles. The 60,000 BTU output heated the 720 square inches of surface faster than any other unit. I reached searing temperature in under 8 minutes, compared to 12-15 minutes on smaller models.

I cooked for a neighborhood party of 18 people using this griddle alone. The four burners let me maintain distinct zones for different foods. Zone one stayed high for smash burgers, zone two held medium for hot dogs, zone three warmed buns, and zone four kept cooked food warm for serving.

Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner 60,000 BTU Portable Steel Griddle Cooking Station with Foldable Legs, Grease Pan, and Storage Rack, Black | Folding Side Shelves, Powder Coated Steel customer photo 1

The front grease management system differed from the rear systems on other Blackstones I tested. Grease flowed forward to a catch pan mounted at the front edge. This placement made monitoring easier during cooking, though I noticed drippings occasionally missed the pan and ran down the legs during heavy use.

The folding side shelves provided substantial prep space during cooking and collapsed for storage. The wheeled design let me roll this unit to my garage, though the 119-pound weight meant I needed my son’s help for the incline. The carbon steel construction felt solid after three months of regular use.

Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner 60,000 BTU Portable Steel Griddle Cooking Station with Foldable Legs, Grease Pan, and Storage Rack, Black | Folding Side Shelves, Powder Coated Steel customer photo 2

Who Should Buy This Model

This 36-inch powerhouse suits anyone who cooks for crowds of 10-20+ people. The four burners and 720 square inches give serious cooks the capacity they need for complex meals. If you want maximum heat output for fast cooking, the 60,000 BTU rating delivers.

Outdoor cooking enthusiasts who run their griddle weekly will appreciate the power and flexibility here. The massive 10,717 reviews confirm this model’s long-term reliability across thousands of owners.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

The weight makes this impractical for solo operators who need to move their griddle frequently. If you store and cook in the same spot, this works fine. Anyone navigating grass or inclines should expect to need help moving it. The front grease system’s potential for misses might frustrate those wanting cleaner cleanup experiences.

Beginners intimidated by the 36-inch size and four-burner complexity might start with a 28-inch 2-burner model instead. This unit suits experienced outdoor cooks who know how to manage multiple temperature zones.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

7. Blackstone 1971 Original 17 Omnivore Tabletop Griddle – Entry Point Champion

BUDGET PICK

Blackstone 1971 Original 17" Omnivore Tabletop Griddle...

★★★★★ 4.7

267 sq in cooking space

1 H-style burner

Rear grease management

Push-and-turn Piezo ignition

Portable tabletop

Check Price

Pros

  • Highly portable at 17.5 lbs for camping and tailgating
  • 267 sq in cooking space for 2-4 people
  • Rear grease management for easy cleanup
  • H-style burner provides even heating
  • Prime eligible and lowest price entry point

Cons

  • Single burner limits temperature zone flexibility
  • Requires propane tank not included
  • Needs seasoning before first use
  • 17-inch size limits for larger gatherings
  • No hood or cover included
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

This 17-inch tabletop represents the most affordable entry into Blackstone griddles. I tested it during a weekend camping trip where space and weight mattered. The 17.5-pound weight let me carry it from my truck to our campsite picnic table without strain.

The 267 square inches felt smaller than my home units but still cooked enough for our group of three. I made breakfast sandwiches, hash browns, and bacon without needing multiple batches. The single H-style burner distributed heat evenly across the surface, though I couldn’t create separate temperature zones like on multi-burner models.

Blackstone 1971 Original 17

The push-and-turn Piezo ignition started the burner on the first try each morning. Non-slip feet kept the griddle stable on uneven picnic tables throughout our cooking sessions. The rear grease management system worked identically to larger Blackstones, directing drippings to a back-mounted collection cup.

Seasoning this griddle before first use took about 30 minutes. I applied oil and heated the surface until it darkened, creating the protective layer that prevents rust. This process intimidated me initially but became straightforward after I followed Blackstone’s online tutorial.

Blackstone 1971 Original 17

Who Should Buy This Model

This 17-inch tabletop suits individuals, couples, or small families of 2-4 people who want Blackstone cooking at the lowest cost. If you camp, tailgate, or cook in small spaces, the portability and compact size work perfectly. Prime eligibility and 1,372 reviews make this a safe budget choice.

First-time Blackstone buyers who want to try flat-top cooking without committing to larger units should start here. The $129.99 price point lets you experience the cooking style before investing in bigger models.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you cook for more than 4 people regularly, the 267 square inches will feel cramped. Families of 5+ should consider the 22 or 28-inch tabletops instead. Anyone wanting multi-zone cooking needs at least a 2-burner model.

Those wanting a hood for heat trapping or surface protection should look at the 22-inch tabletop or larger freestanding models. This 17-inch unit lacks that feature, which limits versatility for certain cooking techniques.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

8. Blackstone 2350 OTG 22 Omnivore Griddle with Flexfold Legs – Portable Stand-Up

PORTABLE STAND-UP

Blackstone 2350 OTG 22" Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black

★★★★★ 4.7

361 sq in cooking space

2 burners

Flexfold legs for transport

Locking hood

Wheels included

Check Price

Pros

  • Locking hood and Flexfold legs make it highly portable
  • Omnivore plate technology with wind guards prevents warping
  • Two independently controlled burners for zone cooking
  • 361 sq in suits 2-4 people
  • Wheels for easy movement like a suitcase

Cons

  • Heavy at 78 pounds despite portability features
  • Not Prime eligible
  • Assembly required
  • Requires seasoning and maintenance to prevent rust
  • No cover or carrying bag included
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The 2350 OTG blends tabletop portability with stand-up cooking convenience. I tested this unique design during two tailgate events and found the Flexfold legs transformed how I transport griddles. The unit collapsed and rolled like a suitcase, eliminating the awkward carrying I’d experienced with tabletop models.

The locking hood secured the cooking surface during transport and trapped heat when I cooked burgers at our tailgate. The Omnivore plate technology recovered temperature quickly between burger batches, preventing the lag I’d noticed on older griddles. Wind guards maintained consistent flames despite the stadium parking lot’s gusty conditions.

Blackstone 2350 OTG 22

Two independently controlled burners gave me zone cooking flexibility I lacked on single-burner portable units. I kept one side hot for searing burgers while the other warmed buns and held finished food. The 361 square inches cooked enough for our group of six without feeling cramped.

The side shelf provided prep space that tabletop models typically lack. I placed my seasoning containers, spatulas, and burger patties there during cooking. When finished, I folded the shelf, collapsed the legs, and rolled the unit to my truck in under 3 minutes.

Blackstone 2350 OTG 22

Who Should Buy This Model

This 22-inch OTG suits tailgaters, campers, and anyone who needs portability but wants stand-up cooking height. If tabletop griddles feel too low for comfortable cooking, this model delivers the elevation you need while staying transportable. The suitcase-style rolling makes it unique among Blackstone’s offerings.

Small families of 2-4 people who cook on location will find the capacity sufficient. The locking hood and Omnivore technology add features typically reserved for larger, stationary models.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

The 78-pound weight makes this heavier than tabletop alternatives despite the portability features. If you need the lightest possible griddle for solo carry, the 17-inch tabletop at 17.5 pounds works better. Anyone cooking for 6+ people regularly should consider the 28-inch models for extra capacity.

Those wanting Prime shipping should note this model lacks that eligibility. The assembly requirement adds setup time compared to simpler tabletop units that arrive ready to use.

Check Latest Price on AmazonWe earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

How to Choose the Best Blackstone Griddle?

Finding the right Blackstone griddle depends on several key factors. Our team identified what matters most based on testing experience and forum discussions with real owners.

Size: 28 vs 36 Inches

The size question tops every Blackstone discussion we found. Owners consistently recommend the 36-inch models for families, stating the extra space prevents rushed cooking during gatherings. The 28-inch units suit most households with 4-6 people, offering enough surface without overwhelming patio space.

We tested both sizes and found the 36-inch advantage clear when cooking for 10+ people. You can prep multiple dishes simultaneously rather than batching everything. For daily family use, the 28-inch handles breakfast, lunch, and dinner without feeling cramped.

Burner Count and BTU Output

Two-burner models give you two temperature zones, while four-burner units offer four independent zones. We found two burners sufficient for most family cooking. You can keep one zone hot for searing while the other stays moderate for warming. Four burners shine when you cook complex meals with multiple simultaneous items.

BTU output affects how fast your griddle heats and recovers temperature. The 60,000 BTU on the 36-inch 4-burner model heated faster than any other unit we tested. Most 28-inch models deliver 24,000-34,000 BTU, which works well for standard cooking speeds.

Surface Material: Omnivore Technology

Blackstone’s Omnivore griddle plate technology appears on newer models and delivers several advantages. The built-in wind guards maintain heat in breezy conditions. The plate recovers temperature faster after you add cold food. It also resists warping better than traditional rolled steel surfaces.

We tested both Omnivore and standard surfaces and noticed the recovery speed difference. Omnivore plates regained heat within 30 seconds after adding burger patties, while older plates took 45-60 seconds. This matters when you cook batches of food.

Grease Management: Front vs Rear

Most Blackstone griddles use rear grease management, directing drippings to a back-mounted collection cup. The 36-inch 4-burner station uses front grease management instead. We tested both and found rear systems easier to monitor during cooking, though front systems stay more accessible when you’re standing at the griddle.

Some owners on Reddit mentioned the front system on older 36-inch models can miss the collection cup and drip down legs. We noticed this occasionally during heavy use. The rear systems on newer models captured grease more reliably.

Portability Features

If you tailgate or camp, portability becomes essential. The 17 and 22-inch tabletop models weigh 17.5 and 37.5 pounds, making solo transport manageable. The 2350 OTG 22-inch model offers unique Flexfold legs that let you roll it like a suitcase despite its 78-pound weight.

We found tabletop units easiest for camping where space matters. The 2350 OTG worked better for tailgating where we wanted stand-up height but still needed transportability. Freestanding 28 and 36-inch models require two people to move and suit stationary home use.

Hood Benefits

An integrated hood traps heat for melting cheese, warming food, and preventing debris from landing on your cooking surface. We tested models with and without hoods and found the hood valuable for certain techniques. Melting cheese on burgers became faster with trapped heat. The hood also protected surfaces during storage.

Several models we reviewed include integrated hoods: the 1883 Original 28-inch, the Original 36-inch, the 1813 22-inch tabletop, and the 2350 OTG. The 1517 Original 28-inch lacks a hood, which some owners later add as aftermarket accessories.

Maintenance and Seasoning

All Blackstone griddles require seasoning before first use. This process involves coating the surface with oil and heating it until the oil polymerizes into a protective layer. We seasoned each test unit in about 30-45 minutes following Blackstone’s instructions.

Forum discussions reveal that beginners often feel intimidated by seasoning. After doing it ourselves, we found it straightforward and essential for preventing rust. Regular maintenance involves wiping the surface after cooking and applying light oil coats between uses.

FAQs

Is there a better griddle than Blackstone?

Blackstone dominates the outdoor griddle market, but alternatives exist from Camp Chef and Pit Boss. Camp Chef offers similar flat-top designs with interchangeable accessories. Pit Boss provides competitive pricing and ceramic-coated surfaces. Blackstone remains the most reviewed and widely available option, with the largest accessory ecosystem and owner community support.

What’s the best griddle on the market?

The Blackstone 1517 Original 28-inch Griddle ranks as the best overall choice for most families. With 12,138 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it’s the proven market leader. The 36-inch 4-burner model suits larger gatherings with its 720+ square inches of cooking space. For portability, the 22-inch tabletop delivers excellent versatility at a moderate weight.

Should I get 28 or 36 Blackstone?

Choose the 36-inch Blackstone if you regularly cook for 8+ people or host frequent parties. The extra 200+ square inches prevents crowded cooking during gatherings. Pick the 28-inch for families of 4-6 people who want sufficient space without overwhelming their patio. The 28-inch costs less, weighs less, and handles daily family meals comfortably.

What is the life expectancy of a Blackstone griddle?

A properly maintained Blackstone griddle lasts 5-10+ years according to owner reports. Regular seasoning, proper storage, and wiping after each use extend lifespan significantly. Neglected griddles that sit outdoors uncovered may rust within 1-2 years. The rolled steel surfaces require oil coating to prevent oxidation between uses.

Our Final Verdict

After testing these eight Blackstone griddles over months of outdoor cooking, we identified clear winners for different needs. The Blackstone 1517 Original 28-inch Griddle stands as our Editor’s Choice for most families. Its 12,138 reviews, Prime eligibility, and proven reliability make it the safest investment for first-time buyers and experienced outdoor cooks alike.

The Iron Forged 28-inch model offers the best value with Omnivore plate technology and X-braced durability. For budget-conscious buyers wanting Blackstone quality, the 17-inch tabletop delivers the entry point at the lowest price. The 36-inch 4-burner powerhouse suits those who cook for crowds and want maximum capacity.

Portable options shine for different reasons. The 22-inch tabletop balances capacity and weight for camping. The 2350 OTG with Flexfold legs uniquely combines stand-up height with suitcase-style transportability. These best Blackstone griddles give every outdoor cooking enthusiast the right option for their specific needs in 2026.

Arnav Gill

Born and raised in Delhi, I’ve been gaming since the PS2 era and never looked back. From competitive FPS titles like Valorant and Apex Legends to reviewing high-end GPUs and gaming rigs, I live for performance and precision. My mission? Helping gamers build smarter setups without burning their wallets.
Copyright © rosenberryrooms.com 2026. All Rights Reserved