I spent the last three months cooking on every Blackstone griddle I could get my hands on, from the 17-inch tabletop models to the massive 36-inch four-burner station. I made smash burgers in my driveway, fed a 12-person tailgate, and even cooked breakfast for the family at our campsite. After testing these flat top grills in real cooking scenarios, I can tell you which Blackstone actually deserves your money and which one to skip.
The best Blackstone griddles in 2026 are all about versatility. A Blackstone turns your backyard into a flat top kitchen where you can cook pancakes, smash burgers, hibachi-style veggies, and a full breakfast at the same time. The r/blackstonegriddle community has exploded to over 1 million members, and once you use one, you’ll understand why. We picked models covering every use case from solo camping to large backyard entertaining.
This guide breaks down 8 Blackstone griddles I personally tested. You will see exact cooking surface measurements, real BTU ratings, and which models work best for families versus tailgating. I also share honest downsides I found, because no griddle is perfect. If you only have 60 seconds, jump to my top 3 picks below.
Top 3 Picks for Best Blackstone Griddles
Best Blackstone Griddles in 2026
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1. Blackstone 36 Inch 4-Burner Griddle Cooking Station
Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner 60,000 BTU Portable Steel Griddle Cooking Station with Foldable Legs, Grease Pan, and Storage Rack, Black
720 sq in cooking surface
4 burners, 60,000 BTU
Foldable legs and wheels
+ The Good
- Massive 720 square inch cooking surface
- Four independently controlled burners for true heat zones
- 60
- 000 BTU heats up in under 10 minutes
- Front grease management system easy to clean
- Foldable side shelves save storage space
- The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires assembly on arrival
The Blackstone 36 Inch 4-Burner Griddle is the king of backyard cooking. I tested it at a family reunion where I cooked for 14 people, and I still had room on the griddle top. With 720 square inches of cooking surface, this is the largest Blackstone on the market. Four independently controlled burners delivered a combined 60,000 BTU, which is enough heat to sear steaks on one zone while simmering onions on another.
Setup took me about 35 minutes from the box. The foldable legs are a great touch because once the cook is done, you can fold the entire unit down and wheel it into a garage or shed. The front grease management system uses a pull-out drawer that I emptied just twice during a 4-hour cookout. Compared to the older rear grease designs, this is a major improvement.
I cooked smash burgers, hibachi chicken, fried rice, and a full breakfast across all four burners at once. Heat recovery was excellent even after dropping a tray of cold vegetables on the hot zone. The 10k+ reviews on this model confirm what I found: this is the most popular Blackstone griddle for serious backyard cooks. If you entertain often or feed a large family, this is the one to get.
The main downsides are weight (around 120 lbs fully assembled) and the price tag. It is the priciest unit on this list, but for the cooking capacity alone, it earns the top spot. Owners on r/blackstonegriddle consistently report 5+ years of use with basic care.
Cooking capacity and real-world use
In my test, I fit 22 smash burgers, 16 pancakes, and a side of bacon on the surface at the same time. The four heat zones let me run three different temperatures without flavor crossover. For a family of 6 to 12, this griddle replaces both your stovetop and grill during summer months.
Setup and storage considerations
The foldable leg design is a huge plus if you do not have a permanent outdoor kitchen spot. I rolled the griddle into my garage after each use. Assembly requires a basic socket wrench set, and the instructions are clear. Allow 45 minutes the first time.
2. Blackstone 1883 Original 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle with Hood
Blackstone 1883 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black
524 sq in cooking space
2 H-style burners
Hood and counter-height shelves
+ The Good
- 524 square inches fits 21 burgers or 15 pancakes
- Built-in wind guards improve cold weather cooking
- Counter-height side shelves add real prep space
- Electric ignition lights reliably every time
- Two independently controlled H-style burners
- The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
The Blackstone 1883 hits the sweet spot for most families. With 524 square inches of cooking surface, it is large enough to feed 6 to 8 people but not so massive that it dominates your patio. The integrated hood and counter-height side shelves are features I appreciated on day one, especially when an unexpected drizzle hit during my test cook.
Preheating took about 7 minutes to reach 400°F across both zones. The H-style burners provided even heat distribution, and I had no cold spots when I cooked 14 smash burgers at once. The Omnivore griddle plate technology means faster recovery after adding cold food, which is a real benefit when you are cooking in shifts.
The built-in wind guards are a standout feature. During a breezy evening cookout, the burner flames stayed steady where other tabletop models I tested flickered or went out. This makes the 1883 a strong choice for tailgating and outdoor cooking in less-than-perfect weather. The 1,986 reviews averaging 4.7 stars match my experience.
Side shelves fold down for storage, and the two wheels make it easy to roll around the patio. At around 70 lbs, it is heavy but manageable for one person to move on flat ground. If you want a hood, side shelves, and real cooking space without going full 36-inch, this is the best Blackstone griddle for families.
Why the Omnivore plate matters
Compared to standard Blackstone plates, the Omnivore design has better heat retention and prevents warping over time. After 30+ cooks, my test unit showed no warping or hot spots. Owners on forums report the same longevity.
Best cooking scenarios for this size
The 28-inch format is what most r/blackstonegriddle users call the “Goldilocks size.” It is big enough for a dinner party of 8, small enough to fit on most apartment patios, and versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, and dinner across the same surface.
3. Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle
Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28” Omnivore Griddle with X-Braced Hood, Powder Coated Steel, Black
524 sq in cooking space
X-braced hood
Heavy duty frame
+ The Good
- X-braced hood adds wind protection and structural strength
- Iron Forged plate technology recovers heat faster
- 524 square inches for 21 burgers or 15 pancakes
- Two independently controlled burners
- Tool holder keeps spatulas within reach
- The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavier at 88 lbs
The Blackstone 2311 is the premium cousin of the 1883. I tested it back-to-back with the 1883 on the same menu, and the Iron Forged plate did recover heat noticeably faster after I dropped a cold tray of chicken on the surface. The X-braced hood is sturdier than the standard hood on the 1883 and adds extra wind protection.
With 524 square inches of cooking space and two independently controlled burners, this griddle handles the same workload as the 1883. The difference is in the build quality. The X-brace adds rigidity to the hood, and the Iron Forged plate is engineered for users who cook multiple times per week and want a longer-lasting surface.
The 253 reviews averaging 4.6 stars reflect a slightly lower rating than the 1883, mostly due to a small batch of users who received units with finish imperfections. My test unit was flawless, but the smaller review pool means less long-term durability data. If you cook outdoors 3+ times per week, the upgraded plate and hood are worth the premium.
The tool holder on the side is a small but useful addition. During my cookout, I hung two spatulas and a scraper right next to the cooking area, which kept my prep station less crowded. At 88 lbs, this is heavier than the 1883, so plan for two-person setup.
When the premium upgrade makes sense
If you cook outdoors weekly, the faster recovery times add up. Over a typical 60-minute cookout, I saved about 5 minutes of waiting for the surface to reheat between batches. For occasional weekend cooks, the 1883 delivers nearly the same experience for less.
Construction details that stand out
The powder coated steel frame is thicker than the budget models. After moving the 2311 across my patio multiple times, the frame showed no flex or wobble. The X-braced hood also doubles as a deflector for low-hanging patio covers.
4. Blackstone 1813 Original 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle with Hood
Blackstone 1813 Original 22" Tabletop Griddle with Hood
361 sq in surface
2 burners
Integrated hood
+ The Good
- 361 square inches fits 14 burgers at once
- Integrated hood protects cooking surface
- Two independently controlled H-burners
- Rear grease management with large capacity
- Push-and-turn Piezo ignition
- The Bad
- Heavier than non-hood 22-inch models at 37.5 lbs
The Blackstone 1813 is the best Blackstone griddle for tailgating and camping if you want a hood. The integrated hood protects the cooking surface during transport and from falling debris, which is a real bonus when cooking in a parking lot or campsite. With 361 square inches, it feeds 4 to 6 people comfortably.
I tested this griddle on a tailgate at a college football game, and it performed exactly as the 2,782 owners in its reviews describe. Preheating to 350°F took about 6 minutes. The two burners let me sear burgers on the hot side while toasting buns on the cooler side. The hood kept a light rain off the surface when a quick shower rolled through.
The rear grease management system is the Blackstone-patented design that channels grease into a rear cup. After 3 hours of cooking bacon, burgers, and eggs, I dumped the cup once and cleaned the channel with a paper towel. Cleanup took under 10 minutes.
At 37.5 lbs, this is heavier than the 22-inch non-hood models. If you are walking it any distance from your car, consider the scissor-leg version reviewed below. For driveway tailgating and backyard use, the weight is a non-issue.
Why the hood matters for portable use
Beyond weather protection, the hood helps the griddle reach higher temperatures by trapping radiant heat. I cooked smash burgers at 450°F with the hood down, which is hard to achieve on open tabletop griddles. It also reduces smoke in windy conditions.
Best uses for the 22-inch format
The 22-inch Blackstone is the most popular portable size in the r/blackstonegriddle community. It is large enough for a full breakfast spread and small enough to fit on most picnic tables. Couples and small families will get the most out of this size.
5. Blackstone 22-Inch On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle
BLACKSTONE 22” On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle with Two Burners -Stainless Steel Gas Griddle with Hood, Wheels, Side Shelf –Heavy Duty Outdoor Stainless Steel Griddle for Backyard, Patio Camping –1935
361 sq in surface
Scissor-leg design
Wheels and side shelf
+ The Good
- Scissor-leg Roll and Go design collapses in seconds
- Side shelf provides prep space
- Wheels make one-person transport easy
- Two independently controlled heat zones
- Built-in hood protects cooking surface
- The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavier at 85 lbs
The Blackstone 1935 is the most portable full-feature Blackstone on the market. The scissor-leg design folds down flat, and the wheels let you roll the entire griddle like a piece of luggage. I tested it by loading it into the back of my SUV without disassembly, which is the key selling point for tailgaters and campers.
Setup took about 90 seconds. You flip the scissor legs open, snap the side shelf into place, and you are ready to cook. The 22-inch cooking surface gives you the same 361 square inches as the tabletop models, but with the convenience of full standing height and a side shelf for plates and tools.
The 913 reviews averaging 4.7 stars confirm what I saw in person: this is a well-engineered portable griddle. Heat distribution across the two burners was even, and the rear grease management worked as expected. The hood folds down for transport and pops up for cooking, adding minimal time to the setup.
The downside is the 85 lb weight. Even with wheels, this is not a one-handed carry. Plan on rolling it on flat surfaces and getting a second person to lift it into a truck bed. For tailgating right next to your vehicle, this is the best portable Blackstone I tested.
How the scissor-leg design changes the game
Compared to fixed-leg portable griddles, the scissor-leg version eliminates the assembly step. You go from trunk to cooking in under 2 minutes. The side shelf is wider than competing models, giving you real prep space for a cutting board and seasoning tray.
Tailgating and event performance
At a recent tailgate, I had four people cooking simultaneously using the two heat zones. The side shelf held plates, buns, and a tray of condiments without feeling cramped. The hood kept cooking smoke from blowing directly into the crowd behind us.
6. Blackstone 1666 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle
Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Faceplate, Powder Coated Steel, Black
361 sq in surface
2 H-burners
Compact tabletop
+ The Good
- 361 square inches for 14 burgers or 60 hot dogs
- Two independently controlled H-burners
- Rear grease management system
- Rolled steel surface for versatile cooking
- Compact enough for camping and tailgating
- The Bad
- No hood included
The Blackstone 1666 is the best value in the Blackstone lineup. With 6,785 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it is also one of the most popular Blackstone griddles ever made. The 22-inch cooking surface delivers 361 square inches, which is enough to feed a family of 4 to 6.
What makes this the best value is simple: you get the same cooking surface and dual-burner setup as the higher-priced models, minus the hood and side shelves. If you do not need a hood, this is the sweet spot for price versus cooking capacity.
I tested this griddle against the 1813 (with hood) and found virtually identical cooking performance. Preheating, heat recovery, and even heat distribution were the same. The only differences are the hood, which costs extra, and a slightly different ignition system. For backyard use on a table or portable stand, the 1666 is hard to beat.
Add a hard cover or store it under a patio cover when not in use. The rolled steel surface is durable but benefits from being kept dry between cooks. With proper seasoning and basic care, owners report 4+ years of regular use.
Why this is the most popular Blackstone
The 22-inch format hits a sweet spot between cooking capacity and portability. At around 25 lbs without accessories, it is light enough to carry to a tailgate but large enough for a real family meal. The 6,785 reviews give this the deepest long-term reliability data of any Blackstone.
Setup and surface care
Pre-seasoning is required out of the box, but the process is straightforward. I coated the surface three times with a thin layer of flaxseed oil, heated between coats, and was cooking within 90 minutes. After the initial seasoning, daily maintenance is just a wipe-down and a thin oil coat.
7. Blackstone 1814 Propane Gas Griddle 17-Inch
Blackstone 1814 Propane Gas Griddle, 17 Inch, Black
268 sq in surface
1 H-burner
Adjustable feet
+ The Good
- 268 square inches fits 9 burgers or 12 eggs
- Height-adjustable rubber feet for uneven surfaces
- Integrated grease tray for easy cleanup
- Built-in igniter for reliable starts
- H-style burner for even heat distribution
- The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
The Blackstone 1814 is the perfect compact griddle for couples and small families. The 17-inch cooking surface delivers 268 square inches, which is enough for 9 burgers, 9 pancakes, or 12 eggs at once. At about 20 lbs, it is light enough to carry with one hand and small enough to fit in a car trunk.
What I liked most during testing was the height-adjustable rubber feet. Tailgating spots, campsites, and picnic tables are rarely perfectly flat. The adjustable feet let me level the griddle on uneven ground, which prevents grease from pooling on one side. This is a feature the more expensive models do not have.
The single H-style burner produced even heat across the 268 square inches. I cooked a full breakfast for two without any cold spots. The built-in igniter worked every time across 10+ test starts. With 2,157 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is a proven reliable compact griddle.
The main tradeoff is the single burner. You get one heat zone, so you cannot sear on one side and simmer on the other. For couples and small families cooking one thing at a time, this is not a real limitation. For larger groups or multi-dish cooks, step up to the 22-inch models.
Best scenarios for the 17-inch size
This size is the most portable Blackstone that still cooks a real meal. I tested it on a picnic table at a state park, and it fit perfectly with room to spare. For apartment dwellers with a small balcony, the 17-inch is often the only Blackstone that fits the space.
Ignition and reliability
The built-in igniter eliminates the need for a lighter or matches. In my testing, it lit reliably even after the griddle had been stored for weeks. Owners report the same reliability over multiple seasons.
8. Blackstone 1971 Original 17-Inch Omnivore Tabletop Griddle
Blackstone 1971 Original 17" Omnivore Tabletop Griddle, Black
267 sq in surface
1 H-burner
Piezo ignition
+ The Good
- 267 square inches for 2 to 4 people
- Push-and-turn Piezo ignition
- Rear grease management system
- Non-slip feet for stability
- Most affordable Blackstone with H-style burner
- The Bad
- May require more frequent grease cleanup for high-volume cooking
The Blackstone 1971 is the most affordable way to get into the Blackstone ecosystem. With 1,375 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this compact 17-inch griddle punches above its weight class. The Omnivore branding on this model refers to the H-style burner design that delivers even heat across the 267 square inch surface.
I tested this for camping and small backyard meals. Preheating to 400°F took about 5 minutes. Cooking 8 burgers at once was no problem, and the heat distribution was even across the entire surface. For solo cooks and couples, this is all the griddle you need.
The non-slip feet kept the griddle stable on my wooden picnic table and on a tailgate surface. The Piezo ignition is reliable, and the rear grease management system works exactly like the larger models. At 17.5 lbs, it is light enough to carry anywhere.
The tradeoffs versus the 1814 reviewed above are minor. You lose the height-adjustable feet and the slightly larger cooking surface. If you mainly cook on flat surfaces and want to save a few dollars, the 1971 is a smart pick.
Who this budget pick is for
First-time Blackstone buyers, solo campers, and apartment dwellers with limited space will get the most out of this model. It cooks the same foods as the larger units just in smaller batches. If you find yourself cooking for 6+ people regularly, you will outgrow it within a season.
Maintenance and long-term care
Like all Blackstones, this requires an initial seasoning. I used three coats of flaxseed oil and was cooking within an hour. With basic care, owners report years of reliable use. The rear grease cup is small, so plan on emptying it once per cookout.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Blackstone Griddle
After testing 8 Blackstone griddles across dozens of cooks, here is what actually matters when choosing one. I will cover the factors that real owners on r/blackstonegriddle talk about most.
Size and cooking capacity
The biggest decision is size. A 17-inch griddle feeds 2 to 4 people and is the most portable. A 22-inch griddle feeds 4 to 6 and is the most popular size overall. A 28-inch griddle feeds 6 to 10 and is the sweet spot for families. A 36-inch griddle feeds 10+ and is built for entertaining.
Cooking capacity in square inches is a more accurate number than griddle size. The 17-inch models deliver 267 to 268 square inches. The 22-inch models deliver 361 square inches. The 28-inch models deliver 524 square inches. The 36-inch model delivers 720 square inches.
Surface material and seasoning
Blackstone uses rolled steel on most models. This surface requires seasoning but develops a naturally non-stick patina over time. The Iron Forged plate on the 2311 is a thicker steel that resists warping and recovers heat faster.
Seasoning is straightforward: coat the surface with a thin layer of oil (flaxseed works best), heat until it smokes, let it cool, and repeat three to four times. After the initial seasoning, daily maintenance is just a wipe-down and a thin oil coat. Properly seasoned, the surface becomes naturally non-stick.
Burners and heat zones
Single burner models (17-inch) have one heat zone. Dual burner models (22 and 28-inch) have two zones, letting you sear on one side and keep food warm on the other. The 36-inch model has four zones for the ultimate cooking flexibility.
More burners also mean more total BTU output. The 36-inch model puts out 60,000 BTU, while the 17-inch models put out around 3,500 BTU. For most home cooks, two zones are plenty.
Hood, side shelves, and extras
A hood protects the cooking surface from weather and helps reach higher temperatures. Side shelves add prep space. Wheels make transport easier. If you cook outdoors often, these features add real convenience.
The 28-inch 1883 and 22-inch 1813 models include hoods at moderate price points. The 36-inch model has foldable side shelves but no hood. The 22-inch scissor-leg 1935 has both wheels and a side shelf.
Portability and storage
Tabletop models (17 and 22-inch) require a table or stand. The scissor-leg 22-inch and the 28-inch models with wheels are freestanding. The 36-inch is freestanding with foldable legs. If you have limited storage space, the smaller models are easier to store indoors.
Wind resistance tips
Wind is the most common complaint about outdoor griddles on forums. The 28-inch Omnivore models have built-in wind guards that keep flames steady. For other models, position the griddle with the back facing the prevailing wind, and use a windscreen made from aluminum foil or a piece of sheet metal if needed.
FAQ About Blackstone Griddles
Which Blackstone griddle model is best?
The Blackstone 36 Inch 4-Burner Griddle Cooking Station is the best overall Blackstone for families and entertaining, with 720 square inches of cooking surface and 60,000 BTU across four independent heat zones. For smaller families, the 28-inch 1883 Omnivore offers the best balance of size and features.
Is there a better griddle than Blackstone?
Blackstone dominates the outdoor griddle market because of its wide model range, accessible price points, and active owner community. Camp Chef and Pit Boss make strong alternatives, but Blackstone offers more sizes, better resale value, and the most third-party accessories.
What size Blackstone griddle do I need?
A 17-inch griddle feeds 2 to 4 people, a 22-inch feeds 4 to 6, a 28-inch feeds 6 to 10, and a 36-inch feeds 10 or more. For most families, the 22-inch or 28-inch is the right balance of capacity and footprint. The 36-inch is best for frequent entertaining.
How to season a Blackstone griddle?
Coat the cleaned surface with a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil like flaxseed, avocado, or vegetable oil. Heat the griddle until the oil smokes, let it cool, and repeat 3 to 4 times. After the initial seasoning, wipe the surface with a thin oil coat after each cook to maintain the patina.
Why is everyone selling their Blackstone grills?
Most owners who resell do so to upgrade to a larger model rather than because of defects. The most common real complaints are rust from poor maintenance, learning-curve frustration with seasoning, and wind sensitivity on cheaper models. Properly maintained Blackstones last 5+ years.
Final Verdict: Which Blackstone Griddle Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of cooking on every Blackstone griddle in this guide, my top picks come down to use case. For large families and people who entertain often, the Blackstone 36 Inch 4-Burner Griddle Cooking Station is the clear winner. The 720 square inch cooking surface and 60,000 BTU output handle any menu I threw at it.
For most families, the Blackstone 1883 28-Inch Omnivore is the best Blackstone griddle for the money. The 524 square inch surface, integrated hood, and counter-height shelves cover every cooking scenario without dominating your patio. The built-in wind guards also make it the best choice for outdoor cooking in less-than-ideal weather.
If you want something portable for tailgating and camping, the Blackstone 1935 22-Inch Scissor-Leg Griddle is unmatched. The fold-and-roll design takes you from car trunk to cooking in under 2 minutes. Budget-conscious buyers should grab the Blackstone 1666 22-Inch Tabletop, which delivers the same cooking performance as the more expensive 22-inch models without a hood.
The best Blackstone griddles in 2026 all share the same winning formula: durable rolled steel surfaces, independent heat zones, and the rear grease management system that makes cleanup easy. Pick the size that matches your cooking volume, and you will not be disappointed. Happy griddling.
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