The best Blackstone flat top grill depends more on how and where you cook than on buying the biggest model. For many households, a 28-inch Blackstone offers the best balance of cooking space and patio footprint. The 36-inch model makes more sense for larger meals, while 17- and 22-inch griddles are easier to take camping or tailgating.
Blackstone also sells electric E-Series griddles. These are useful when propane is impractical or when you need an electric model for an indoor-compatible setup. That makes fuel type just as important as griddle size.
For this guide, we compared five current Blackstone flat top grills across cooking space, heat control, portability, maintenance, features, and price. We also explain Blackstone’s Omnivore plate, gas versus electric models, and what you need to know about seasoning before you buy.
Quick Answer: Which Blackstone Should You Buy?
Best for large families: Blackstone Original 36″ Griddle with Hood gives you 768 square inches of cooking space and four independent heat zones.
Best for most households: Blackstone Original 28″ Griddle with Hood keeps two heat zones and a large cooking plate while taking up less patio space.
Best for camping and tailgating: Blackstone Adventure Ready 22″ Griddle with Stand combines a portable cooking surface with a hood, stand, and prep shelf.
Best compact propane model: Blackstone OTG 17″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood weighs 33 pounds and is easier to pack for trips.
Best electric option: Blackstone E-Series 17″ Electric Tabletop Griddle uses a 1,600-watt electric heating system and ceramic-coated cooking surface.
How We Chose These Blackstone Flat Top Grills
We focused on current Blackstone models that serve clearly different types of buyers. Cooking area was important, but bigger was not automatically better. A 36-inch cart can be excellent for entertaining and still be the wrong choice for a small patio or frequent travel.
We also compared the number of independent heat zones, fuel type, portability, hood and stand configuration, grease management, and maintenance. For gas models, we considered the extra care required by a seasoned steel griddle surface.
Finally, we favored models that represent Blackstone’s main size and fuel choices. That gives you a useful path from compact tabletop cooking to a full 36-inch backyard station without filling the list with several versions of almost the same griddle.
Blackstone Griddles Compared
| Model | Best For | Size | Heat Zones | Fuel | Hood / Stand | Regular Price | Main Trade-Off |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original 36″ Griddle with Hood | Large families and entertaining | 36″ | 4 | Propane | Hood + cart | $499 | Large and heavy |
| Original 28″ Griddle with Hood | Most households | 28″ | 2 | Propane | Hood + cart | $399 | Less zone control than 36″ |
| Adventure Ready 22″ Griddle with Stand | Camping and tailgating | 22″ | Multiple zones | Propane | Hood + stand | $339 | Bulkier than a bare tabletop unit |
| OTG 17″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood | Compact propane cooking | 17″ | 1 | Propane | Hood / tabletop | $159 | Limited cooking space |
| E-Series 17″ Electric Tabletop Griddle | Electric and compact spaces | 17″ | 1 | Electric | Glass hood / tabletop | $199 | Requires an electrical outlet |
1. Blackstone Original 36″ Griddle with Hood — Best for Large Families
Best for: Large households, frequent entertaining, batch cooking, and buyers who want maximum heat-zone control.
The Original 36″ Griddle with Hood is the best fit when cooking space matters more than portability. It provides 768 square inches of griddle area and four independently controlled heat zones.
Those four zones are important. You can run one section hotter for searing while keeping another cooler for eggs, vegetables, or food that is already finished. Independent testing by Food Network also highlighted four-zone cooking as one of the large Blackstone’s most useful features.
The current model uses Blackstone’s Omnivore griddle plate. It also includes rear grease management, an extendable side shelf, tool hooks, an accessory rail, and a reinforced hood. Blackstone lists the complete unit at 135 pounds.
That weight makes it movable around a patio, but not truly portable. If you regularly cook for only two or three people, a smaller model is easier to store and quicker to manage.
You can also compare other Blackstone 36-inch griddle prices on Discompare.
Pros
✅ 768 square inches of cooking space
✅ Four independently controlled heat zones
✅ Hood helps protect the cooking surface between uses
✅ Large prep and accessory-storage area
Cons
❌ Takes up substantially more patio space
❌ 135-pound weight limits portability
❌ More steel surface means more cleaning and seasoning work
Skip it if: You have a small outdoor area, cook modest portions, or expect to transport the griddle frequently.
Alternative: The Original 28″ with Hood keeps the cart-style setup while using less space.
2. Blackstone Original 28″ Griddle with Hood — Best for Most Households
Best for: Families that want a full-size backyard Blackstone without moving up to the 36-inch footprint.
The 28-inch model is the practical middle ground in Blackstone’s lineup. Its griddle plate measures about 28.75 by 18 inches, and two independently controlled heat zones let you cook at different temperatures on each side.
That is enough flexibility for many everyday meals. You can cook burgers on one side while sautéing vegetables on the other. Breakfast is also simple because pancakes and eggs do not have to share the same heat setting.
The current model includes an Omnivore plate, protective hood, rear grease management, side-shelf hooks, accessory rail, and accessory bin. It weighs 102 pounds, so it still feels like a permanent patio appliance rather than a travel griddle.
If you do not regularly cook for a crowd, the smaller size can actually be an advantage. There is less surface to preheat, clean, protect, and season.
Discompare also has Blackstone 28-inch griddle offers from multiple sellers.
Pros
✅ Two independent heat zones
✅ Smaller footprint than a 36-inch cart
✅ Hood and rear grease management included
✅ Good balance between family capacity and size
Cons
❌ Only two heat zones instead of four
❌ Still too large for easy travel
❌ Large gatherings may benefit from the 36-inch surface
Skip it if: You often entertain large groups and expect to cook several foods at different temperatures at once.
Alternative: Choose the 36″ Griddle with Hood for more surface area and four-zone control.
3. Blackstone Adventure Ready 22″ Griddle with Stand — Best for Camping and Tailgating
Best for: Campgrounds, RV trips, tailgates, vacation homes, and buyers who want more portability without cooking at table height.
The Adventure Ready 22″ sits between Blackstone’s compact tabletop units and its larger backyard carts. The included stand is the main reason to choose it. You get a proper working height without needing to find a separate table at your campsite or tailgate.
The package also includes a hood and side prep shelf. Its Omnivore plate adds integrated wind protection, which is especially useful away from a sheltered backyard cooking area.
Blackstone positions the model for campsite, tailgate, and backyard use. That makes it more flexible than a permanent 28- or 36-inch cart. However, the stand and shelf also mean you have more equipment to transport.
If compact storage matters more than a built-in stand, a 17-inch tabletop model is easier to pack.
Pros
✅ More portable than full cart-style griddles
✅ Stand provides a useful cooking height
✅ Hood protects the griddle plate between uses
✅ Side shelf adds useful prep space
Cons
❌ Stand adds bulk when packing
❌ Costs considerably more than a bare tabletop model
❌ Still needs the same steel-surface maintenance as larger gas models
Skip it if: You want the smallest possible griddle for your car, RV, or storage compartment.
Alternative: The OTG 17″ with Hood is smaller and easier to carry.
4. Blackstone OTG 17″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood — Best Compact Propane Blackstone
Best for: Couples, camping trips, tailgates, beaches, parks, and small storage spaces.
The OTG 17″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood is a better choice when portability comes first. Blackstone lists the unit at 33 pounds, which is dramatically lighter than the 102-pound 28-inch and 135-pound 36-inch carts.
It still includes several features found on larger models. You get an Omnivore griddle plate, built-in hood, rear grease management, piezo ignition, and non-slip feet.
The trade-off is space and temperature control. A 17-inch surface gives you less room to spread food out, and a single heat zone cannot match the flexibility of the larger two- and four-zone models.
That makes this a strong travel griddle, but a weaker choice for large breakfasts or multi-dish meals at home.
You can also compare a compact Blackstone griddle in Discompare’s product catalog.
Pros
✅ 33-pound design is easier to transport
✅ Integrated hood protects the surface
✅ Rear grease system simplifies cleanup
✅ Lower regular price than larger Blackstone models
Cons
❌ Only one heat zone
❌ Limited space for large meals
❌ Requires a stable table or other suitable surface
Skip it if: This will be your main backyard cooker for a family or frequent group meals.
Alternative: The Adventure Ready 22″ adds more working space and a dedicated stand.
5. Blackstone E-Series 17″ Electric Tabletop Griddle — Best Electric Blackstone
Best for: Apartments, compact kitchens, electric-only cooking situations, and buyers who do not want to manage propane.
The E-Series 17″ is fundamentally different from the four gas Blackstones above. It uses a 1,600-watt electric heating system rather than a gas burner. It also has a ceramic-coated cooking surface, LCD digital controls, and a glass hood.
The electric design removes propane from the setup. Blackstone specifically points shoppers toward its E-Series when gas is not allowed or when they want a griddle for indoor and outdoor use. Always follow the appliance instructions and any rules that apply to your building or cooking area.
The E-Series surface also changes maintenance. You do not season it like Blackstone’s cold-rolled steel gas griddles. However, you need access to a suitable electrical outlet, and the 17-inch surface remains much smaller than a 28- or 36-inch backyard model.
Pros
✅ No propane tank required
✅ 1,600-watt electric heating system
✅ Ceramic-coated surface does not use the gas-model seasoning routine
✅ Digital temperature control
Cons
❌ Requires access to electricity
❌ Much smaller cooking area than full-size backyard models
❌ Less suitable for large outdoor gatherings
Skip it if: Your main goal is cooking large outdoor meals for several people.
Alternative: The OTG 17″ gives you a similarly compact format with propane instead of electricity.
Other Blackstone Griddles We Considered
Blackstone’s catalog is much larger than these five models. We left several good products out because they solve narrower problems or overlap too closely with the main picks.
Blackstone 36″ Griddle Airfryer Combo
This model adds air-fryer drawers to a large griddle station. It can make sense for someone building an all-in-one outdoor cooking area. However, the extra functions increase cost and complexity. Most first-time buyers should choose their griddle size before paying for added appliances.
Blackstone 28″ AirFryer Combo
The same logic applies to the smaller AirFryer Combo. It adds useful flexibility, but it does not change the basic 28-inch versus 36-inch decision.
Blackstone Iron Forged 36″ Griddle
The Iron Forged line is current and well equipped. We left it out because it overlaps heavily with the Original 36″ in this guide. A direct Original versus Iron Forged comparison would be more useful than including both here.
Blackstone 22″ Tabletop Griddle
A 22-inch tabletop model is a good portable option. However, the Adventure Ready version with a stand creates a clearer use case for shoppers who want a travel setup that does not depend on finding a separate table.
What Blackstone Griddle Size Do You Need?
Choose size based on your normal meal, not the biggest party you might host once a year. More surface area gives you flexibility, but it also adds weight, storage needs, preheating area, and maintenance.
17-Inch Blackstone
A 17-inch griddle works best when compact storage and portability matter most. It suits couples, travel, occasional breakfasts, and smaller batches. The main limitation is a single cooking zone on the models in this guide.
22-Inch Blackstone
A 22-inch model adds useful space while remaining travel-friendly. It is a good size for RV owners, campers, and tailgaters who find a 17-inch surface too restrictive.
28-Inch Blackstone
A 28-inch Blackstone is the practical family size. It gives you meaningful cooking space and independent temperature zones without taking over the patio. That is why the 28″ with Hood is the most balanced choice in this guide.
36-Inch Blackstone
A 36-inch model is about flexibility as much as raw capacity. Four zones let you cook several foods at different heat levels. That matters when you make breakfast for a crowd, cook full meals outside, or entertain regularly.
What Is Blackstone’s Omnivore Griddle Plate?
Omnivore is Blackstone’s newer griddle-plate design. The company says it combines integrated wind guards, uniform heat control, warp-control features, quicker preheating and recovery, and improved fuel efficiency.
Those are manufacturer claims, so they should not be treated as proof that every Omnivore model heats perfectly evenly in every condition. However, the integrated wind protection is a practical feature for outdoor cooking, especially on portable models.
Omnivore also appears across several current Blackstone sizes. Therefore, buying the newer plate does not force you into a large 36-inch model.
Blackstone Gas vs. E-Series Electric
| Feature | Gas Blackstone | E-Series Electric |
|---|---|---|
| Energy source | Propane on models in this guide | Electric outlet |
| Cooking surface | Seasoned steel | Ceramic-coated surface |
| Seasoning | Required | No traditional steel seasoning routine |
| Indoor use | Propane models should not be used indoors | Blackstone markets E-Series for indoor and outdoor cooking |
| Best fit | Backyards, camping, tailgating | Electric-only and limited-space situations |
Safety note: Never use a propane Blackstone griddle indoors. Blackstone specifically directs indoor users toward its electric E-Series products.
Blackstone Griddle vs. Traditional Grill
A Blackstone is not automatically better than a traditional grill. The two cooking surfaces simply favor different techniques.
A flat steel griddle creates broad contact between the food and hot metal. That works especially well for smash burgers, pancakes, eggs, fried rice, vegetables, cheesesteaks, and chopped foods that could fall through grill grates.
A traditional grill leaves more of the food exposed to direct heat around the grates. It may be the better choice when you specifically want grate marks, more exposure to flame or smoke, or a familiar barbecue setup.
Many outdoor cooks can justify owning both. If you are building a larger backyard setup, you can also compare grills and outdoor cooking equipment before deciding which appliance fills the biggest gap.
What to Know Before Buying a Blackstone
Cooking Space
Do not buy by width alone. Think about how many separate foods you usually cook at once. A larger surface is most valuable when you actually use the extra area.
Independent Heat Zones
Heat zones are one of the strongest reasons to move up in size. The 36-inch model has four zones, while the 28-inch model has two. More zones help when one food needs high heat and another needs gentler cooking.
Hood vs. Hard Cover
A hood stays attached to the griddle and is convenient for everyday use. A removable hard cover also protects the steel but has to be handled separately. Neither eliminates the need for proper storage and surface care.
Portability
Wheels do not make a 135-pound griddle a camping appliance. If you plan to load the griddle into a vehicle, look at the 17- and 22-inch models first.
Propane vs. Electric
Propane gives you more freedom outdoors because you do not need an electrical outlet. Electric models simplify fuel management and open up different cooking locations. Your available space and local rules may decide this for you.
Grease Management
Current Blackstone models use rear grease collection to move grease and food debris toward a removable cup. It helps, but you still need to scrape and maintain the cooking surface after use.
Storage and Weather Protection
Steel griddle tops need protection from moisture. A hood helps cover the cooking plate, but long-term outdoor storage still benefits from a suitable weather cover and regular surface maintenance.
If you are improving the whole patio rather than buying only a griddle, our guides to the best patio heaters and best outdoor fire pits can help with the rest of the space.
Do Blackstone Griddles Need Seasoning?
Blackstone’s gas griddles use a cold-rolled steel cooking surface. That steel needs seasoning before regular cooking.
Seasoning creates a bonded layer of oil on the metal. It helps protect the steel and develops a more stick-resistant cooking surface. Blackstone recommends using very thin layers during the initial seasoning process rather than applying one heavy coat.
Seasoning is not a one-time job. Normal cooking and light oiling continue to build the surface over time. If the griddle is neglected or develops rust, the steel can also be cleaned and re-seasoned.
The electric E-Series is different. Its ceramic-coated surface does not use the same seasoning routine.
How Do You Clean a Blackstone Griddle?
For a seasoned gas griddle, cleanup should happen soon after cooking. Scrape away food and debris, use minimal water when needed, dry the surface, and finish with a very thin coating of oil.
That final layer helps protect the steel until the next cook. Blackstone advises against treating the seasoned griddle like ordinary cookware because the goal is to preserve the bonded seasoning layer.
The E-Series has a coated surface, so follow the cleaning instructions for that electric model rather than using the maintenance routine for bare steel.
Is a Blackstone Worth It?
A Blackstone is worth considering if you regularly cook foods that benefit from a broad flat surface. Breakfast, smash burgers, vegetables, fried rice, fajitas, cheesesteaks, and large batches are natural fits.
It is less compelling if you mainly want traditional grilled steaks, smoky barbecue, or an appliance that needs almost no surface maintenance. Gas Blackstones require cleaning, oiling, and attention to seasoning.
Space also matters. A 36-inch Blackstone can be excellent and still be unnecessary for a couple with a small patio. Matching the size to your normal cooking habits is more important than buying the biggest model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size Blackstone is best for a family?
A 28-inch Blackstone is a practical choice for many families because it gives you two heat zones and substantial cooking space without the footprint of a 36-inch model. Larger households and frequent entertainers may benefit from the 36-inch surface.
Is a 28-inch or 36-inch Blackstone better?
Choose the 28-inch model when space and everyday family cooking are the priority. Choose the 36-inch model when you regularly cook large quantities or want four independently controlled heat zones.
Can you use a Blackstone indoors?
Do not use a propane Blackstone griddle indoors. Blackstone recommends its electric E-Series for indoor-compatible griddle cooking. Always follow the appliance instructions and local building rules.
Does a Blackstone griddle need to be seasoned?
Blackstone gas griddles with cold-rolled steel tops need seasoning. The seasoning protects the metal and creates a more stick-resistant surface. The ceramic-coated E-Series does not use the same traditional seasoning process.
What is a Blackstone Omnivore griddle plate?
Omnivore is Blackstone’s newer plate design. Blackstone says it adds integrated wind guards, improved heat control, faster heat recovery, and better fuel efficiency compared with its older plate design.
Do I need a hood or cover for a Blackstone?
A hood or hard cover helps shield the cooking surface when it is not in use. However, it does not replace proper cleaning, seasoning, or weather protection. Outdoor owners should still protect the griddle from moisture.
Can a Blackstone replace a regular grill?
It can replace a grill for shoppers who mainly cook on a flat surface. However, a traditional grill remains useful when you prefer open grates, flame exposure, or classic barbecue techniques. Some households will get more value from owning both.
Final Verdict: Which Blackstone Flat Top Grill Should You Buy?
For most households, the Blackstone Original 28″ Griddle with Hood is the strongest balance of size, control, and backyard usability. It gives you two heat zones without committing to the much larger 36-inch footprint.
Choose the Original 36″ Griddle with Hood when entertaining and large meals are normal rather than occasional. Its four-zone layout is the biggest functional advantage.
For travel, the Adventure Ready 22″ is better when you want an included stand. The OTG 17″ is the more compact propane choice. Meanwhile, the E-Series 17″ is the clear option when electricity fits your cooking space better than gas.
Quick decision: Pick the 36″ for crowds, the 28″ for everyday family cooking, the 22″ Adventure Ready for camping, the OTG 17″ for maximum portability, and the E-Series 17″ when you want electric cooking.
Sources
- Blackstone Products — Original 36″ Griddle with Hood
- Blackstone Products — Original 28″ Griddle with Hood
- Blackstone Products — How Often Does a Griddle Need to Be Seasoned?
- Food Network — Blackstone Griddle Review
- Good Housekeeping — Best Outdoor Griddles
How we research: Discompare reviews manufacturer specifications, current product documentation, independent editorial testing, and retailer information when comparing products. Prices and availability can change, and Discompare may earn a commission from eligible retailer or price-comparison links.
Product Groups: Blackstone Original 36 Inch Griddle with Hood, Blackstone Original 28 Inch Griddle with Hood, Blackstone Adventure Ready 22 Inch Griddle with Hood and Stand, Blackstone OTG 17 Inch Tabletop Griddle with Hood, Blackstone E-Series 17 Inch Electric Tabletop Griddle
