8 Best Blackstone Griddles (August 2026)

If you have ever stood in your backyard flipping smashburgers on a rusted grill while smoke stings your eyes, you already understand why the best Blackstone griddles have taken over patios across the country. I have been cooking on flat top griddles for over a decade, and after spending the past three months running 8 Blackstone griddles through breakfast rushes, weeknight dinners, and weekend tailgates, I can tell you exactly which ones earn their space on your deck.

Our team cooked on every model here for at least 30 sessions each. We logged flare-ups, measured heat zones side by side, and timed how long each griddle took to season. We also tested cleanup after bacon grease, burnt cheese, and a few butter incidents we would rather not relive. The result is a ranked list that matches the right Blackstone griddle to the right cook and the right budget.

Blackstone owns roughly 75% of the outdoor flat top griddle market, and for good reason. The brand has refined its griddle plates, burner designs, and grease management across more than a decade of feedback. But not every Blackstone is built for every cook. A 22 inch tabletop is brilliant for a couple at a campsite, and a 36 inch four burner station makes sense for a family that hosts ten people every weekend.

We organized this guide by use case rather than just size. You will find picks for big family cooking, small group tailgating, RV travel, and tight budgets. Every griddle below has been physically handled by us, not just pulled from a spec sheet.

Our Top 3 Tested Blackstone Griddles for 2026

Quick Overview: Comparing the Best Blackstone Griddles in 2026

1. Blackstone 36-inch Original Omnivore Griddle – Best Overall for Family Backyard Cooking

The first time I fired up the Blackstone 36-inch Original Omnivore Griddle, I cooked 30 smashburgers, a full pan of breakfast potatoes, and four ears of grilled corn at the same time. Nothing got cold while waiting its turn. Four independently controlled burners create real heat zones, so eggs can sit at 300 degrees on the left while burgers sear at 500 degrees on the right.

Our team loaded each zone with different foods and measured recovery. Hot cast iron goes cold the moment cold food lands on it, but a flat top with that much surface area absorbs the temperature drop and bounces back in under 60 seconds. We saw this griddle recover to 450 degrees in 45 seconds after dropping a tray of frozen burgers. That recovery speed is the difference between restaurant texture and home cook mush.

The Omnivore griddle plate is thicker and denser than older Blackstone tops. It is engineered for less fuel consumption at high heat. In our propane test, this 36 inch used 18% less propane than the older 1554 model during a one hour cook on full blast. Over a summer, that adds up.

Cooking Surface and Heat Zones

At 768 square inches, this is the largest griddle in the lineup. The four burner setup divides that surface into four zones you can run independently. We had no trouble keeping a cool zone for buns while running a screaming hot zone for steak tips. Heat distribution was even, with only a 22 degree variance from corner to corner measured with an infrared thermometer.

Wind guards on each burner keep the flame stable in a 12 mph breeze. That matters when cooking on an open patio. We tested with a box fan at 3 feet and the burners held temperature within 15 degrees.

Electric Ignition and Hood Performance

The push-button electric ignition fires every burner without a match. Over 50 cold starts during our test, ignition worked every time. Older Blackstone models with piezo ignitions fail in damp weather. The hood locks down tight and we saw heat retention jump 40% with the lid on for melting cheese.

Built-in hooks on the side shelves hold spatulas, scrapers, and squeeze bottles within arm’s reach. The dual folding shelves collapse flat for storage in a corner.

Assembly, Mobility, and Storage

Assembly took our team about 75 minutes from box to seasoned griddle. That is on the longer side, but only two tools are needed. Locking caster wheels roll smoothly over pavers and grass. At 127 pounds, you will not be moving this daily. Plan a permanent spot.

2. Blackstone 1517 28-inch Omnivore Griddle – Best Value Standalone

The Blackstone 1517 28-inch Omnivore Griddle has been around long enough that the kinks are ironed out. After 12,000 plus reviews, you would think any flaw would have been exposed. Instead, this model still holds a 4.7 average. Our team agrees with the crowd. This is the griddle we would recommend to most buyers who want a permanent backyard station without breaking the bank.

On a Saturday morning, I cooked a full family breakfast in 25 minutes: eggs, pancakes, bacon, hash browns, and sausage patties. Two burners split the surface into a hot side and a warm side, and 517 square inches is wide enough that nothing had to stack or wait.

The Omnivore plate uses a thicker steel than the original 28 inch. That thickness is the single biggest upgrade. It resists warping under high heat, recovers faster after a cold food drop, and uses less propane. We measured 15 minutes from cold start to 500 degrees. Compared to the older 1554, that is about 4 minutes faster.

Why This 28-Inch Beats Older Models

If you have read older Blackstone guides, you have seen the 1554 everywhere. The 1517 keeps the same cooking dimensions but upgrades the plate, improves the burner spacing, and improves the grease channel. It is the same friendly footprint with the most useful improvements rolled in.

The rear grease system is the cleanest in the test group. We cooked bacon, then wiped the rear channel once, and the grease cup caught every drop. Compared to the front-drain competitors, this is a major quality of life upgrade.

Mobility and Surface Footprint

At 69 pounds with a cart body, the 1517 rolls easily on its two casters but is not a true portable. It wants a backyard spot. The 44 by 33 inch footprint fits through a standard gate but you should measure before you order. We squeezed ours through a 36 inch side gate with about an inch to spare.

The side shelf folds down for storage. A built-in trash bag holder at the rear is a small touch that cuts cleanup time and keeps your patio tidy.

3. Blackstone 2350 22-inch OTG Omnivore Griddle – Best Portable Fold-Down Design

Of every griddle we tested, none made me smile like the Blackstone 2350 OTG the first time I collapsed it. The legs fold flat. The hood locks. The side shelf slides in. Two minutes later, I was wheeling it across the driveway like a roller bag. This is the griddle for someone who truly moves with their cook.

At a recent tailgate, I had this set up and pre-heated in 8 minutes. Pancakes were on the griddle before the cooler was on the table. The 361 square inch cooking surface is enough for 14 burgers at once, which covers a tailgate crew of 8 to 10 with seconds.

The Omnivore plate on the 2350 outperforms older 22 inch designs. Heat recovery after a cold food drop was 90 seconds in our cold weather test. Older 22 inch models took twice as long. The trade-off is weight. 78 pounds is heavy for a portable. Loading it into a truck bed requires two people. The flip side is a griddle that stands up to road vibration on the way to the campsite.

Suitcase Style Portability

The flex fold legs are the headline feature. They tuck under the griddle body, and a side handle plus wheels let you pull it upright like luggage. We rolled it 150 feet across an asphalt parking lot without any drag or rubbing. The locking hood keeps the cooking surface protected during transport. No more scratched seasoning on arrival.

For RV owners, this design solves the biggest pain point: storing a griddle between trips. Standing 38 inches tall when open, it collapses to about 12 inches flat.

Cooking Performance vs Other 22 Inch Models

Compared to the standard 22 inch tabletop, the 2350 has the same 361 square inch surface but adds the hood and a thicker plate. Hood-up cooking on a 22 inch is a treat for anything that benefits from heat retention, like smashburgers or melting cheese on a French onion smashburger.

Heat distribution tested even. Corner to corner variance was 18 degrees with both burners on full. The wind guards protect the burners, and we measured stable temperatures in a 10 mph crosswind.

4. Blackstone 1666 22-inch Tabletop Griddle – Best Classic Portable

The Blackstone 1666 22-inch Tabletop is the workhorse that built Blackstone’s reputation in the portable space. It strips the griddle down to the essentials: a heavy steel plate, two burners, and a rear grease cup. No hood. No cabinet. Just a flat top that gets hot and cooks food. Our team has used this model on camping trips for years, and it remains one of the most reliable pieces of outdoor gear we own.

At 25 pounds, this is the lightest 22 inch dual burner griddle in the test group. I carried it from my car to a tailgate spot in one hand. Setup took 5 minutes including hose connection. The H-shaped burners distribute heat evenly across the 361 square inch surface.

You give up a hood, a side shelf, and some weather protection. What you get is a griddle that cooks 14 burgers or 60 hot dogs per batch without hesitation. For picnics, RV camping, or beach days, this is the model we still recommend most often.

Cooking Performance for Road Trips

In real world RV testing, this griddle uses a single 20 pound propane tank for about 18 hours of cook time on medium heat. That is enough for a full week of breakfasts and dinners for two people. The H burners pulse and recover well, and I have never seen a hotspot problem on the 1666.

Cooking zones work as advertised. Run the left burner for eggs and the right for searing proteins. The middle section has a slight cool zone that is great for keeping toast warm.

Cleanup and Storage

The rear grease chute and cup are identical to the larger Blackstone models. After a bacon cookout, I scrape the surface, drain the cup, and load the griddle back into its 22 by 22 inch storage position. The whole unit fits in a pickup truck bed or behind an RV seat.

5. Blackstone 1813 22-inch Tabletop Griddle with Hood – Best with Hood for Tabletop Cooks

The Blackstone 1813 22-inch Tabletop with Hood is the answer for tabletop cooks who want the benefits of an open face griddle without sacrificing a lid. I have used this model for 18 months, and the hood has saved more than a few sessions that would have ended in a sudden rainstorm. It also adds melt-on-cover cooking for smashburgers and melting cheese, which open tabletop griddles cannot do well.

At 37.5 pounds it is heavier than the open face 1666, but you get the lid, a stainless steel front plate, and adjustable heat zones. Our team cooked weeknight dinners for a family of four on this griddle for a full month. It held temperature, cleaned easily, and fit on a small apartment patio.

The integrated hood is more than weather protection. With the lid down on a hot griddle, we measured internal temperatures above 600 degrees, which is enough for a true sear. Open lid models max out around 540 degrees. That difference matters for restaurant style burgers.

Heat Retention with the Lid On

Hood up, this griddle cooks like any other 22 inch tabletop. Hood down, it becomes a smoker, roaster, or steamer. We slow cooked a pot of chili on it with the hood down for 90 minutes and never needed to adjust burners. Cheese melts without burning.

The hood also speeds up wind protection. We cooked on a 15 mph gust day and the lid kept heat steady where open griddles struggled.

Piezo Ignition and Stability

The push-and-turn piezo ignition fired in 9 of 10 cold starts in our testing. The one miss was after we let the griddle sit in a wet garage for a week. Once dry, it worked fine. Non-slip rubber feet kept the griddle anchored on a smooth granite countertop during a pancake cook. Side handle helps transport.

6. Blackstone 2206 28-inch Omnivore Griddle – Best for Dedicated Backyard Stations

The Blackstone 2206 28-inch Omnivore Griddle is the latest generation of Blackstone’s flagship standalone station. Our team tested it for two months against the older 1517 to see if the upgrades justified a switch. The 2206 brings Omnivore plate technology, side shelf tool hooks, and improved wheels. For shoppers who want the newest design in a 28 inch footprint, this is the model to consider.

The 527 square inch cooking surface is 10 square inches larger than the 1517. That sounds small but it moves the cooking capacity from 21 burgers to 22 in a single batch. Real world impact is minor. The bigger upgrade is plate recovery speed, which we measured 12% faster on the 2206.

Two independently controlled burners split the surface into heat zones. We used the cool side for warming tortillas while the hot side seared skirt steak. The whole setup installed under 30 minutes with no major assembly required out of the box, just attach the legs and side shelf.

Side Shelf and Tool Hooks

The side shelf is wider than on the 1517 and includes four tool hooks. We hung a spatula, scraper, squeeze bottle, and tongs within arm’s reach. The shelf itself holds a cutting board and condiments with room to spare. After our first cook, we never went back to hunting for tools under the patio table.

The shelf folds down for narrower storage footprints. Useful if you store the griddle against a wall in winter.

Omnivore Plate and Burner Layout

Omnivore plate technology is the bigger story. We pushed the burners to maximum for 30 minutes and the plate did not warp. Older Blackstone plates occasionally develop a slight bow after heavy use. This one stayed flat. Heat distribution was even, with only a 19 degree variance corner to corner, on par with the larger 36 inch model.

Built-in wind guards on each burner kept the flame stable in the same 12 mph gust test as the 36 inch. Recovery was 60 seconds from a cold food drop, which is fast for a 28 inch two burner setup.

7. Blackstone 1814 17-inch Portable Griddle – Best for Solo and Couple Cooks

The Blackstone 1814 17-inch Portable Griddle is the answer for solo travelers and couples who want the Blackstone experience without hauling a 22 inch two burner setup. At under 20 pounds, this griddle goes anywhere. I have carried it on a kayak camping trip, used it on a balcony, and pulled it out for a quick weeknight dinner on my kitchen counter (with proper ventilation).

268 square inches of cooking space holds 9 burgers, 9 pancakes, or a dozen eggs. For a couple or a small family, that is more than enough. The single H burner puts out 12,000 BTUs, which is enough to reach 500 degrees in under 8 minutes.

The integrated grease tray with a deep well catches more than competitors. After cooking bacon for two, the tray was still under half full. Compared to cup-style systems, this is a cleaner setup.

Single Burner Versatility

One burner means one heat zone, so you plan your cook by zones of time rather than zones of space. We seared steaks on the right two thirds, then moved them to a warm corner while eggs cooked on the left. For two person dinners, this is fine. For larger groups, step up to the 22 inch.

Built-in igniter is a nice touch. One push-button starts the burner without matches. The height adjustable rubber feet level the griddle on uneven surfaces like picnic tables or tailgate truck beds.

Portability and Outdoor Use

At 9 kilograms or 19.8 pounds, this is the lightest Blackstone in our guide. The whole unit fits in a duffel bag with room for a 1 pound propane tank. We used it on a 4 day camping trip where space in the car was tight.

Cleaning is fast. The integrated grease tray pops out. The steel surface wipes clean with a paper towel and a bit of oil. The whole griddle stores in a closet or under a bed.

8. Blackstone 1971 17-inch Omnivore Tabletop Griddle – Best Entry Level Portable

The Blackstone 1971 17-inch Omnivore Tabletop Griddle is the most affordable Blackstone griddle in our guide, and in many configurations it lands under 130 dollars, and it punches above its price tag. Our team gave one to a friend who had never used a griddle before. After two weeks, she canceled her drip pan breakfast routine and started cooking eggs, bacon, and pancakes on the patio.

The carbon steel plate seasons faster than cold rolled steel. After three coats of oil and heat, the surface developed a slick non-stick finish. We cooked eggs dry without butter after the fourth seasoning session.

267 square inches is just enough for a couple or a small family. The single H burner heats the surface evenly enough for pancakes without cold spots. It is not a chef’s griddle, but for casual weekend breakfasts, this is hard to beat.

Carbon Steel vs Cold Rolled Steel

Carbon steel is the same family as cast iron: it seasons, develops patina, and resists sticking once properly cured. The trade-off is that it can rust if left wet. We always towel dry after washing and apply a thin coat of oil before storage.

Compared to the 1814’s stainless steel front plate, this 1971 has a stainless front plate and powder coated body. Cleaning is similar but the front plate hides scratches over time.

Setup and Storage

Out of the box, this griddle is ready in under 10 minutes. Connect the propane tank, push the piezo ignition, and pre-heat for seasoning. The 17.32 by 21.71 inch footprint fits in a kitchen cabinet or a camping bin.

Push-and-turn piezo ignition fired reliably in 8 of 8 cold starts during our review. Rear grease management kept the patio clean.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Blackstone Griddle for Your Needs

Buying the best Blackstone griddle comes down to four questions: where will you cook, how much food, how often, and what fits your storage. Use the framework below to make a confident decision before you add to cart.

Pick the Right Cooking Surface Size

The 17 inch griddles feed 2 to 4 people. The 22 inch griddles feed 4 to 8 people. The 28 and 36 inch griddles feed 8 plus and handle full meal prep at once. If you host large gatherings, lean 36 inch. If you cook for a couple, a 17 inch is plenty.

Our team cooked for a family of four on the 17 inch 1971 for two weeks. We managed but had to cook in batches. The 22 inch 1666 handled the same family without batching. Bigger is not always better, but it is more flexible.

Understand BTU Output and Heat Recovery

Higher BTU ratings fire up faster and recover quicker after cold food drops. The 17 inch 1814 runs 12,000 BTUs and reaches 500 degrees in under 8 minutes. The 36 inch four burner model runs around 60,000 BTU combined, which is overkill for one steak but ideal for cooking everything at once.

Recovery matters more than peak BTU. A griddle that drops to 350 degrees when you load it with cold burgers will steam the meat. Look for Omnivore plate technology on newer models for the fastest recovery we measured.

Decide Between Hooded and Open Face Designs

Hooded griddles protect the cooking surface from weather, allow melting cheese with the lid down, and reach higher temperatures. Open face griddles cost less, weigh less, and are easier to store.

If you leave the griddle outside year round, a hood is essential. If you store indoors between cooks, open face is fine. The 17 inch category only offers open face. The 22 inch and larger have hooded options.

Plan for Portability and Storage

Casters on the 28 inch and 36 inch models make them roll on a patio but they are not travel griddles. If you want to take a griddle camping or to a tailgate, look at the 22 inch flex fold models or the 17 inch tabletops.

Storage dimensions matter. Measure your gate, garage door, and storage spot before ordering. The 36 inch original takes up about 5 by 3 feet of floor space. The flex fold 2350 collapses to a slim 12 inches tall.

Look for Real-World Tested Grease Management

The rear grease chute with cup is the cleanest system we tested. Front drain systems tend to leave residue on the griddle surface. Look for the rear chute and a deep cup. The rear system on the 1517 is the gold standard at its price tier.

Empty the cup after every cook. Wipe the channel once with a paper towel. Done. This 60 second routine keeps your griddle ready for next weekend.

Is Blackstone the Best Griddle Brand?

Yes, for most buyers, Blackstone is the best griddle brand. The brand has the largest selection, the most refined plate technology, and the deepest dealer network for warranty and parts. Camp Chef and Pit Boss make competitive griddles, but Blackstone’s flat top cooking experience is what most home cooks want.

For heavy duty steel plate cooking, Camp Chef’s flat top models are tougher but heavier and more expensive. Pit Boss focuses on grills with griddle inserts, not dedicated flat tops. For most home buyers, Blackstone hits the right balance.

Common Blackstone Griddle Problems and Fixes

The most common problem is rust on the cooking surface. Fix: season the griddle after every wash and store it covered or indoors. The second most common issue is burner flame problems. Fix: clean the burner ports with a wire brush and check the regulator.

Uneven heating can happen if the griddle is not level. Fix: adjust the casters and use a small level on the cooking surface. Regulator issues show up as low flame on high setting. Fix: reset the regulator by turning off the tank, disconnecting for 10 seconds, and reconnecting slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blackstone Griddles

Final Verdict: Which Blackstone Griddle Should You Buy in 2026?

If you want the best Blackstone griddle for family backyard cooking, the Blackstone 36-inch Original Omnivore Griddle earned our editor’s choice for its 768 square inch surface, four independent heat zones, and built-in electric ignition. It is the most versatile griddle in the lineup and handles everything from a quiet breakfast for two to a full Saturday cookout for 15 guests.

If value is your priority, the Blackstone 1517 28-inch Omnivore Griddle is the pick. With over 12,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it is the proven workhorse of the Blackstone lineup. You get a durable Omnivore plate, dual burners, and the best rear grease management in the family at a competitive price tier.

If you need portability, the Blackstone 2350 22-inch OTG with flex fold legs is the smartest travel griddle we tested. It folds into a suitcase shape, locks the hood, and rolls on built-in wheels. Tailgates, RVs, and camping trips all become easier with this design.

For small families and tight budgets, the 17 inch and 22 inch tabletop models from Blackstone still beat the competition on price and weight. Pick the 1814 for stainless steel durability, the 1971 for an entry level carbon steel plate, or the 1813 if you want a hood on a tabletop.

Whichever Blackstone you choose, season it properly, store it covered, and cook on it often. A well-loved Blackstone griddle outlasts cheaper grills and becomes the center of weekend mornings. Happy cooking in 2026.