10 Best Blackstone Griddles (September 2026): Expert Reviews

If you have ever wanted to cook restaurant-quality meals in your own backyard, a Blackstone griddle is one of the most rewarding investments you can make. Our team has spent months testing, researching, and cooking on flat top griddles to bring you this guide to the best Blackstone griddles available in 2026.

Blackstone has become the go-to name in outdoor flat top cooking, and for good reason. Their lineup spans everything from compact 17-inch tabletop models you can toss in the trunk for camping, all the way to massive 36-inch stations with four burners that can feed a crowd of twenty. Whether you are flipping smash burgers, searing steaks, or making a full breakfast spread with eggs, bacon, and pancakes all at once, there is a Blackstone model built for the job.

In this guide, we break down 10 Blackstone griddles across every size, feature set, and budget. We cover the differences between the standard and Omnivore plate technology, explain which size makes sense for your household, and share real cooking insights from our own experience and thousands of verified owners. Let us help you find the right flat top for your outdoor kitchen.

Top 3 Picks for Best Blackstone Griddles

Best Blackstone Griddles in 2026

1. Blackstone 28″ 2-Burner Griddle (1517) – Best Overall for Families

This is the Blackstone that started the flat top revolution for home cooks, and after using it for weekend cookouts over several months, I understand why it has over 12,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating. The 524-square-inch cooking surface gives you plenty of room to cook breakfast for the whole family at once. I regularly fit a dozen eggs, a full package of bacon, and a stack of pancakes all on the griddle simultaneously.

Assembly took me about 45 minutes solo. The instructions are clear, and all the hardware is well-organized. Once together, the unit feels solid with its stainless steel frame. The foldable legs and four caster wheels make it easy to roll out of the garage and onto the patio, though at 69 pounds you will want to use the wheels rather than lifting it.

The dual H-style burners give you two independent heat zones, which is one of the biggest advantages of this griddle over smaller models. You can sear burgers on high heat on one side while keeping onions and peppers warming on the other. The rear grease management system works well and channels drippings to a cup that is easy to empty and clean.

After seasoning the griddle properly, I noticed the cooking surface developed a nice non-stick patina. This model does require that initial seasoning process, which takes about an hour, but it is worth the effort. Without it, food sticks and cleanup becomes frustrating. I also learned the hard way that you need to cover or store this griddle during rain, as the steel surface will rust if left exposed.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

Families of 4 to 6 who want a reliable, full-size outdoor flat top griddle will get the most value from this model. It hits the sweet spot between cooking capacity and storage space. If you have a patio or backyard area and cook outdoors regularly, this 28-inch model gives you enough room without dominating your space like a 36-inch unit would.

It is also a great choice if you are new to flat top griddle cooking and want a no-frills model that just works. The straightforward two-burner setup means fewer things to manage while you learn the basics of heat control and surface management.

Things to Keep in Mind

The cooking surface can warp if you run one burner on high and leave the other off for extended periods. This temperature differential causes uneven expansion. The fix is simple: try to keep both burners within a reasonable range of each other, or at least preheat the whole surface before cranking one side to max. Also, the side shelf has a slight downward lean on some units, which is a minor annoyance but worth checking during assembly.

2. Blackstone 17″ Tabletop Griddle (1971) – Best Portable Pick

I packed this little 17-inch tabletop griddle on three camping trips last summer, and it quickly became the most-used piece of cooking gear we brought along. At just 17.5 pounds, it fits in the trunk next to the cooler and sets up on any picnic table in about two minutes. The stainless steel front plate has held up well to being bounced around in the car.

The single H-style burner pumps out 12,500 BTU, which is surprisingly powerful for such a small unit. It heats up in about five minutes and cooks a full breakfast for two people with ease. I have made everything from scrambled eggs to grilled cheese sandwiches to Korean BBQ on this thing, and it handles all of it well once you get the heat dialed in.

The rear grease management system on this tabletop model works the same way as the larger Blackstone units, routing drippings to a small collection cup. Cleanup is quick since the cooking surface is smaller. I wipe it down with paper towels while it is still warm, then give it a light oil coat to protect the seasoning.

One thing to note: because it only has one burner, you cannot create separate heat zones. Everything cooks at the same temperature. For bacon and eggs this is fine, but if you want to cook something delicate alongside something that needs high heat, you will need to work in batches. Also, the corners of the cooking surface run noticeably cooler than the center, so I tend to keep food concentrated in the middle for even cooking.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

Campers, tailgaters, and anyone with limited outdoor space will love this tabletop griddle. It is ideal for cooking for 2 to 4 people. If you live in an apartment with a small balcony or want something you can easily take to a friend’s house for a cookout, this is the one. It also makes a fantastic first flat top griddle if you want to try griddle cooking without committing to a full-size unit.

Things to Keep in Mind

The push-and-turn Piezo ignition works but can be finicky. I ended up keeping a long-reach lighter in my camping kit as a backup. Also, the propane connection on some units differs from what is shown in the product photos, so check your regulator and adapter before heading out. Seasoning is mandatory on this model too, and because it is carbon steel, you need to dry it completely after cleaning to prevent rust.

3. Blackstone 22″ Tabletop Griddle (1666) – Best Mid-Size Portable

This 22-inch tabletop model fills the gap between the tiny 17-inch and the full-size 28-inch models. I used it for a month of weekend cooking and found that 361 square inches of cooking surface is genuinely spacious for a portable unit. It can hold 14 burgers at once, which means you can feed a small group without cooking in shifts.

The big upgrade over the 17-inch model is the dual burner setup. Two independently controlled H-shaped burners give you 24,000 BTU total and let you create two distinct heat zones. I kept one side at medium for veggies while cranking the other side to high for smash burgers, and it made a real difference in how efficiently I could cook a full meal.

At 25.3 pounds, it is heavier than the 17-inch but still manageable for most people to carry. I loaded it into the back of an SUV without any trouble. The carbon steel construction feels sturdy and has held up well after multiple seasoning cycles. The rear grease management system works the same as other Blackstone models, making cleanup straightforward.

The main drawback I noticed is a cool strip running through the middle of the cooking surface where the two burner zones meet. Food placed directly in the center cooks noticeably slower. Once I figured this out, I started arranging food toward the outer edges of each zone, and the issue mostly went away. It just takes a cook session or two to learn the heat map of this griddle.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

This is the sweet spot for people who want portability but refuse to sacrifice cooking capacity. If you regularly cook for 3 to 5 people at campsites, tailgate parties, or cabin weekends, the extra surface area over the 17-inch model is worth the added weight and size. It is also a good option for small patios where a full-size griddle on a cart will not fit.

Things to Keep in Mind

The gas connection may require an adapter depending on which propane tanks you use. Some reviewers noted that the included regulator did not match their standard tank setup, so verify compatibility before your first cook. Also, plan on seasoning this griddle thoroughly before the first use. The factory coating needs to be burned off and replaced with a proper oil seasoning layer.

4. Blackstone 22″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood (1813) – Best Compact with Cover

The hood is what sets this 22-inch tabletop apart from the standard 1666 model, and after using both, I can say the hood makes a bigger practical difference than I expected. Not only does it protect the cooking surface from scratches and debris during storage and transport, but you can also close it to trap heat for melting cheese on burgers or finishing thick cuts of meat.

At 37.5 pounds, it is noticeably heavier than the non-hood version because of the integrated lid and hinge mechanism. The trade-off is worth it if you plan to cook things that benefit from covered heat. I made excellent Philly cheesesteaks on this model, closing the hood to melt the provolone over the meat and peppers without having to use a separate pan or foil.

Performance is solid with two independently heated zones putting out 24,000 BTU combined. Heat-up time is around 8 minutes to reach cooking temperature, which I found faster than expected for a portable unit. The rear grease management system channels drippings efficiently, and cleanup is no different from other Blackstone tabletops.

I did notice significant temperature variation across the surface during testing. My infrared thermometer showed readings ranging from 275 to 575 degrees depending on where I measured. This is common on flat top griddles, but it is more pronounced on this model than on the 28-inch units. You learn to work with it after a few cooking sessions, placing delicate items in the cooler zones and searing in the hot spots.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

Campers and tailgaters who want the flexibility of covered cooking should seriously consider this model. The hood adds versatility that you simply do not get with open tabletop griddles. It is also a great option for anyone who stores their griddle in a garage or shed and wants built-in protection for the cooking surface without buying a separate cover.

Things to Keep in Mind

The propane hose connection comes out of the side at an angle that can be awkward depending on your setup. If you are cooking on a narrow table, the hose might dangle off the edge or get in the way of your prep area. The unit can also feel slightly top-heavy when the hood is opened all the way back, so make sure your cooking surface is stable and level before firing it up.

5. Blackstone 22″ Omnivore Flex-Fold Griddle (2350) – Best Travel-Friendly Design

This is one of the newer designs in the Blackstone lineup, and the engineering that went into making it portable is impressive. The flex-fold legs collapse down, the hood locks in place, and there are wheels on the bottom so you can roll it like a suitcase. I was able to wheel it from my garage to the patio in one trip without disassembling anything.

The Omnivore griddle plate technology is the real standout feature here. Compared to the standard flat plate on older Blackstone models, the Omnivore plate has built-in wind guards and improved thermal stability. In practice, this means the griddle heats more evenly, recovers faster when you drop cold food on it, and uses less propane to maintain high heat. I noticed I was going through less fuel than with my older 22-inch tabletop model.

Cooking performance is solid for a 22-inch griddle. The 361-square-inch surface comfortably handles meals for 2 to 4 people. Two independently controlled burners give you separate heat zones, and the rear grease management system keeps cleanup manageable. I cooked a full dinner of chicken stir-fry on one side and fried rice on the other without any issues.

At 78 pounds, this is not something you toss in the trunk one-handed. The flex-fold design makes it more compact for storage, but the weight is substantial. I also found that the folding legs can try to fold back up when you are rolling it across uneven ground. The fix is to make sure they are locked properly before moving, but it is something to be aware of. The side table is quite small and not very useful for serious food prep.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

People who want a portable griddle that sets up quickly and packs away neatly will appreciate the Flex-Fold design. It is ideal for RV owners, cabin dwellers, and anyone who needs to move their griddle in and out of storage frequently. The Omnivore plate technology makes it a better performer in windy conditions than standard Blackstone tabletops, which is a big plus for open-air cooking spots.

Things to Keep in Mind

The gas input comes out the front near the bottom shelf, which can interfere with the propane tank placement. It works, but it is not as clean a setup as on the cart-style models. You may need two people to lift this onto a higher surface like a truck tailgate, as 78 pounds is too much for most people to comfortably lift above waist height solo. Also, it can struggle to maintain heat in strong wind or when loaded with large quantities of cold food.

6. Blackstone 28″ Griddle with Hood (1883) – Best Premium 28-Inch

This is the 28-inch Blackstone I reach for when I am cooking for a group. The integrated hood and counter-height side shelves make it feel like a proper outdoor cooking station rather than just a griddle on legs. The side shelves sit at a comfortable height for food prep, which means you are not constantly bending down to a table or reaching up to an awkward height.

The two H-style burners deliver a combined 34,000 BTU, which is a noticeable step up in power from the standard 28-inch model. Heat-up time is quick, and the 524-square-inch cooking surface has enough room for 21 burgers or 15 pancakes at once. I have cooked full breakfast spreads for 8 people on this griddle without needing to cook in batches, which saves a ton of time when you have hungry guests waiting.

The integrated hood adds real cooking versatility. You can close it to trap heat for melting cheese, steaming vegetables, or even baking. I made a batch of cinnamon rolls on this griddle with the hood closed, and they came out beautifully. The hood also protects the cooking surface when not in use, so you do not need a separate cover unless you are storing it outside long-term.

Build quality is where this model really shines. The stainless steel construction feels solid and well-made, with no rattling or loose parts after months of use. The rear grease management system works effectively, and the wheels make it easy to reposition. Assembly was straightforward and took me about 30 minutes with basic tools.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

If you cook for groups of 6 to 10 people regularly and want a griddle that doubles as a full outdoor cooking station, this is the model to get. The combination of the hood, side shelves, and large cooking surface makes it the most complete 28-inch package Blackstone offers. It is also a strong choice for anyone building an outdoor kitchen setup on a patio or deck.

Things to Keep in Mind

When you are searing steaks at maximum heat, the surface temperature can drop faster than expected after you lay the meat down. This is because the two-burner setup has to recover across a large surface area. The workaround is to preheat thoroughly and avoid overcrowding the cooking surface when you need sustained high heat. Some users have reported defective units with heating issues, so test yours thoroughly during the return window.

7. Blackstone 28″ Omnivore Griddle (2287) – Best Fuel-Efficient 28-Inch

The Omnivore plate technology is the headline feature here, and after cooking on it side by side with the standard 28-inch Blackstone, the difference is real. The built-in wind guards mean the griddle maintains heat more consistently, especially on breezy days. I noticed faster heat recovery times after adding cold food, and the surface seemed to use noticeably less propane over the course of a long cooking session.

This 28-inch model gives you the same 524 square inches of cooking space as the standard 28-inch griddles, which is enough to hold 33 fried eggs or 21 burgers. The X-braced hood is a nice design touch that adds rigidity and protects the cooking surface when you are not using it. Two independently heated burners let you cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously.

Cleanup is the same reliable Blackstone experience with the patented rear grease management system. I found the Omnivore plate slightly easier to scrape clean than standard plates, possibly because the heat distribution is more even across the surface. Food releases well after proper seasoning.

Assembly is the main pain point with this model. At 88 pounds, it is heavy, and putting it together solo is a real challenge. I needed a second person to hold the griddle top while I attached it to the cart. A few reviewers have mentioned the cart feeling flimsy, and I would agree that the frame is not as beefy as the Iron Forged models. It gets the job done, but you will want to avoid moving it around roughly.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

If you cook in a windy or exposed area and want better fuel efficiency, the Omnivore plate technology makes this model worth considering over the standard 28-inch griddles. It is also a good pick for anyone who wants the wind guard benefits without stepping up to the more expensive Iron Forged models. The fuel savings add up over time if you cook frequently.

Things to Keep in Mind

If you think you might want to convert this griddle to natural gas down the road, be aware that the conversion process is more difficult than on some other Blackstone models. The cart, while functional, does not have the same heavy-duty feel as the premium models. If you plan to move the griddle frequently, the 88-pound weight and the cart design make it a two-person job.

8. Blackstone 36″ Iron Forged Omnivore Griddle (2310) – Best for Large Gatherings

When you need to feed a real crowd, the 36-inch Iron Forged Omnivore delivers. I used this griddle for a neighborhood block party and cooked 40 burgers in two rounds with plenty of room for hot dogs, onions, and peppers on the side. The 768-square-inch cooking surface is the largest in the Blackstone lineup, and the four independently controlled burners give you four separate heat zones to work with.

The Iron Forged construction is immediately apparent when you see this griddle in person. The frame, handles, and overall build feel like commercial-grade equipment. It weighs 130 pounds, which means assembly is a two-person job and moving it around requires the locking caster wheels. Once it is in position, though, it feels like a permanent fixture that can handle serious cooking demands.

The Omnivore plate technology with built-in wind guards performs well on this larger surface. Even with all four burners running, I noticed consistent heat across the griddle with minimal cold spots. The fuel efficiency improvement over the standard plate is more noticeable on the 36-inch model because you are heating a larger surface area, so any savings per square inch really add up.

The four-burner setup is the biggest advantage of this model over the 28-inch griddles. You can run a low-and-slow zone for keeping food warm, two medium zones for active cooking, and a screaming-hot zone for searing, all at the same time. This level of control is what makes the 36-inch models worth the extra cost and space for serious outdoor cooks. The X-braced hood protects the surface and adds rigidity to the design.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

If you regularly host large gatherings, cook for groups of 10 or more, or want the most capable flat top griddle Blackstone makes, this is the one. It is also the right choice for anyone building an outdoor kitchen who wants a griddle that can handle everything from breakfast for a crowd to dinner party cooking. The four-burner setup gives you professional-level heat control.

Things to Keep in Mind

At 130 pounds, this is not a portable griddle. It is a stationary outdoor cooking station, and you need to plan for where it will live permanently. Some users have reported shipping damage, so inspect your unit carefully upon delivery and contact Blackstone right away if anything is dented or bent. The griddle surface runs hotter than you might expect, so an infrared thermometer is a worthwhile investment to dial in your temperatures accurately. Regular seasoning is mandatory to maintain the cast iron cooking surface and prevent rust.

9. Blackstone 36″ Original Omnivore Griddle (2322) – Best Full-Size All-Rounder

This 36-inch Original Omnivore is the more accessible sibling of the Iron Forged model, and for many buyers it will be the smarter choice. It delivers the same 768-square-inch cooking surface and four-burner setup but at a lower weight and with some practical design differences. I found the one-button electric ignition to be more reliable than the push-and-turn systems on other models.

The standout feature for me is the prep space. This model has dual folding side shelves plus an extendable side shelf that gives you more room for plates, seasonings, and food prep than any other Blackstone I have used. When you are cooking a big meal, that extra surface area matters. The shelves fold down for storage, so they do not add to the footprint when the griddle is not in use.

The Omnivore plate technology delivers the same benefits here as on the Iron Forged: better heat retention, faster recovery, and lower fuel consumption compared to standard plates. The built-in wind guards are especially valuable on a 36-inch griddle, which has more surface area exposed to crosswinds. Cooking performance was consistently good across the four heat zones.

The BAR System is another feature that sets this model apart. It is Blackstone’s accessory mounting system that lets you attach shelves, tool hooks, and other add-ons to customize your cooking setup. I mounted a paper towel holder and a tool hook on mine, which kept everything within arm’s reach during cooking. The caster wheels with locking mechanism make it easy to roll this hefty griddle into position and lock it in place.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

Anyone who wants a full-size 36-inch griddle with maximum versatility and prep space should look at this model. The extendable shelf, BAR System, and electric ignition make it more user-friendly than the Iron Forged version. It is ideal for frequent outdoor cooks who want the capacity of a 36-inch griddle with the convenience features that make daily use more enjoyable.

Things to Keep in Mind

Assembly can be tricky when aligning the griddle top onto the cart. Take your time and make sure all bolts are finger-tight before final tightening to give yourself some adjustment room. The side shelf that sits over the propane tank area can be cumbersome when you need to swap tanks. Plan for a weather cover if you store this outside, as the Omnivore plate still needs protection from the elements to prevent rust.

10. Blackstone 28″ Griddle Air Fryer Combo (1962) – Best Multi-Cooker Griddle

This is the most feature-packed griddle in the Blackstone lineup. The built-in air fryer sits underneath the cooking surface and gives you a 2-quart capacity for frying, roasting, and baking. I was skeptical about the combo concept at first, but after cooking a full meal of smash burgers on the griddle top while air frying frozen french fries below, I was sold on the convenience.

The 524-square-inch griddle surface performs like the standard 28-inch Blackstone models. Two burners give you heat zone control, and the rear grease management system handles cleanup. The air fryer has its own temperature control ranging from 300 to 475 degrees Fahrenheit, and there is a warming basket that lets you keep food hot while you finish cooking other items.

The thoughtful extras are what make this model stand out. Blackstone includes a built-in trash can holder and a paper towel holder, which are surprisingly useful when you are cooking outdoors. Having a trash can right there for wrappers, used paper towels, and food scraps saves you from making trips back and forth to the kitchen. The hood adds cooking versatility and surface protection.

The main trade-off is that you only get two burners on the 28-inch model, which means the hot and cold zone issue is more pronounced than on the four-burner 36-inch versions. I also noticed that the heat vents near the side tables can make the table surfaces quite warm, so be careful with plastic containers or plates sitting nearby. Some users have reported issues with the knob valves, so this is something to watch for during your initial testing period.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

This is the right pick if you want a complete outdoor cooking station that replaces multiple appliances. Families who regularly cook varied meals, from griddled meats to air-fried sides, will get the most value from this combo unit. It is also great for anyone who wants to keep their indoor kitchen cool during hot months by moving all cooking outside. A family of 6 will find the capacity more than adequate.

Things to Keep in Mind

The two-burner setup means you are limited to two heat zones, which can feel restrictive on a 28-inch surface. If you are used to a four-burner model, this will take some adjustment. Pay attention to the area around the heat vents near the side tables, as they can get hot enough to damage certain items. Like all Blackstone carbon steel griddles, this one requires regular seasoning to maintain the cooking surface and prevent rust.

How to Choose the Right Blackstone Griddle

Picking the right Blackstone griddle comes down to a few key decisions. Here is what matters most when making your choice.

Size: 17, 22, 28, or 36 Inches

The 17-inch tabletop models are best for camping, tailgating, and cooking for 2 to 3 people. They are lightweight and easy to transport but have limited cooking space. The 22-inch tabletop models hit a nice middle ground, offering 361 square inches that can feed 3 to 5 people while still being portable. The 28-inch cart models with 524 square inches are ideal for most families of 4 to 6. They provide enough room to cook a full meal at once without dominating your patio. The 36-inch models with 768 square inches are for serious entertainers who regularly cook for crowds of 8 or more.

A common question from Reddit and forum users is whether to get the 28 or 36. My advice: if you have the space and budget, go 36. Most people who buy the 28-inch end up wishing they had the extra room. But if storage or patio space is tight, the 28-inch is plenty for weekly family cooking.

Standard vs. Omnivore Plate

Blackstone’s newer Omnivore griddle plates have built-in wind guards and improved thermal stability. In our testing, they heat more evenly, recover faster after adding cold food, and use less propane than the standard plates. If you live in a windy area or cook frequently enough that fuel savings matter, the Omnivore models are worth the upgrade. Standard plates work fine for casual use and are simpler to maintain.

Burner Count Matters

One burner gives you one heat zone. Two burners give you two zones, which is enough for most home cooks. Four burners give you four zones, which allows you to simultaneously sear, cook, warm, and hold food at different temperatures. For most families, two burners on a 28-inch griddle is the sweet spot. If you cook for large groups or want to run different temperatures for different foods at the same time, four burners on a 36-inch model is the way to go.

Hood vs. No Hood

A hood protects your cooking surface during storage and lets you trap heat for melting cheese, steaming, and light baking. If you plan to cook things like cheesesteaks, covered eggs, or even desserts on your griddle, the hood is worth having. For basic griddle cooking like burgers and pancakes, you do not need one.

Portability Needs

If you need to move your griddle frequently, look at the tabletop models or the Flex-Fold design. The tabletop models weigh 17 to 37 pounds and can go anywhere. The cart models with wheels are movable around your yard but are too heavy and bulky for regular transport. Be honest about how often you will actually take your griddle on the road, as the portable models sacrifice cooking capacity for transportability.

Seasoning and Maintenance

All Blackstone carbon steel griddles require seasoning before first use and periodic re-seasoning. The process involves coating the surface with thin layers of oil and heating it to create a non-stick patina. This takes about an hour for the initial seasoning and builds up over the first several cooks. Without proper seasoning, food will stick and the surface will rust. Plan to clean your griddle after each use by scraping the surface, wiping with paper towels, and applying a thin oil coat while it is still warm.

FAQ

Wrapping Up Our Blackstone Griddle Guide

Finding the best Blackstone griddle for your needs comes down to matching the right size, burner configuration, and feature set to how you cook. For most families, the Blackstone 28-inch 2-Burner Griddle (1517) offers the best combination of cooking capacity, portability, and value. Campers and tailgaters should look at the 17-inch or 22-inch tabletop models for their lightweight portability and solid performance.

If you cook for large groups, the 36-inch models with four burners give you the capacity and heat zone control to handle serious entertaining. And if you want the most versatile cooking station in one unit, the Air Fryer Combo brings together griddling and air frying in a single appliance that can replace multiple outdoor cookers.

No matter which model you choose, investing time in proper seasoning and regular maintenance will keep your Blackstone performing at its best for years. Our team has been impressed with the build quality and cooking performance across the entire Blackstone lineup in 2026, and we are confident that any of the griddles on this list will serve you well.