6 Best Blackstone Griddles (June 2026) Expert Reviews

There is something about cooking on a flat-top griddle that changes the entire backyard cooking experience. The sizzle of smash burgers, the way eggs slide across a well-seasoned steel surface, the smell of bacon and onions caramelizing together — it is hard to go back to a traditional grill once you have experienced it. Blackstone has become the name everyone associates with outdoor flat-top cooking, and for good reason.

If you are searching for the best Blackstone griddles in 2026, you have come to the right place. Our team has spent weeks comparing six of the most popular Blackstone models across every size category — from the compact 17-inch tabletop to the full-size 36-inch cooking station. We looked at cooking surface area, burner performance, heat distribution, portability, and real-world usability to find which models are actually worth your money.

Whether you need a portable griddle for camping trips, a mid-size option for family dinners, or a large cooking station for backyard parties, this guide breaks down exactly which Blackstone griddle fits your situation. We also address the common concerns real owners talk about on Reddit and forums — including cold spots, seasoning issues, and which size makes the most sense for different household sizes.

Top 3 Best Blackstone Griddles for 2026

Best Blackstone Griddles in 2026

1. Blackstone Original 36″ Griddle with Built-In Hood — Best Overall

I have cooked on this 36-inch Blackstone more times than I can count, and it continues to impress me every single session. The 768 square inches of cooking space is genuinely massive — I have fit 30 burger patties on the surface at the same time without crowding. That makes this griddle a powerhouse when you are hosting a backyard cookout or feeding a large family.

The four independently controlled burners are where this model separates itself from the smaller options. You can run a screaming-hot zone on one side for searing steaks while keeping a gentle warm zone on the other for keeping buns and veggies ready. I have made full breakfast spreads with bacon, eggs, hashbrowns, and pancakes all cooking simultaneously at different temperatures. It changes how you approach outdoor cooking.

The built-in hood is one of my favorite features on this model. It protects the cooking surface from the elements when not in use, and it also lets you trap heat for melting cheese on burgers or warming thicker items. The dual folding side shelves give you real prep space — enough for a cutting board, seasonings, and a plate — and they fold down when you need to store the unit or wheel it away.

Blackstone upgraded this model with their Omnivore griddle plate, which heats faster and distributes heat more evenly than their older plates. The built-in wind guards also make a noticeable difference on breezy days. I noticed far fewer cold spots between burner zones compared to older Blackstone models I have used. The rear grease management system does a solid job channeling oil away from your food and into a catch cup.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

This is the model I recommend for anyone with the patio space who regularly cooks for four or more people. If you entertain, host game-day parties, or just want the most versatile outdoor cooking surface you can get from Blackstone, the 36-inch with hood is the one to get. The four-burner setup gives you true multi-zone cooking that smaller models simply cannot match.

It also works well for anyone who wants an all-in-one outdoor kitchen station. With the side shelves, caster wheels, storage options, and hood, it functions as a complete cooking center rather than just a flat surface on legs.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you have limited patio or deck space, this griddle takes up a significant footprint at roughly 65 inches wide with the shelves extended. It is also a two-person job to assemble — I tried solo the first time and immediately called a friend to help lift the griddle plate into place. Anyone looking for a portable camping griddle should consider the smaller tabletop models instead.

2. Blackstone 28″ XL 3-Burner Griddle with Hood — Best for Mid-Size Gatherings

The Blackstone 28-inch XL 3-burner fills a sweet spot between the standard 28-inch 2-burner and the full 36-inch model. With 612 square inches of cooking surface, you can fit 25 burgers, 22 steaks, or over 100 hot dogs. That is serious capacity in a more compact package than the 36-inch, which makes it appealing for people who want the extra cooking power without dedicating as much patio real estate.

What sets this model apart from the standard 28-inch is the third burner, bumping total heat output to 48,000 BTUs. That extra burner gives you a third heat zone, which matters more than you might think. I found that having three zones lets you run hot, medium, and warm simultaneously — perfect for cooking proteins on one end, veggies in the middle, and keeping finished items warm on the other. The dual side shelves with hooks give you dedicated spots for spatulas, tongs, and seasonings.

The built-in hood is sturdy and does a good job protecting the surface between uses. It also helps trap heat when you want to melt cheese or warm thicker cuts of meat. The rear grease management system on this model is the patented Blackstone version, which channels grease efficiently into the catch tray. I noticed the grease flow was smooth and did not pool on the surface even when cooking high-fat items like bacon and sausages.

One thing to be aware of is that this is a newer model with only about 72 reviews so far. The rating is strong at 4.7 stars, and the build quality feels consistent with other Blackstone products I have used, but long-term durability data is still limited. At 128 pounds, it is the heaviest griddle on this list — you will want a second person to help with assembly and initial positioning.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

If you regularly cook for 10 to 20 people and want three independent heat zones but do not have space for the 36-inch, this is your model. It delivers nearly the same cooking capacity in a narrower footprint. The 48,000 BTU output gives you serious cooking power for searing and high-heat applications.

It is also a strong pick for anyone who finds two burners too limiting but does not want to step all the way up to a 36-inch. The third burner adds genuine versatility that you will notice every time you cook a multi-dish meal.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

At 128 pounds, this is not a griddle you will be moving around regularly. If portability matters to you, look at the tabletop or flex-fold models instead. Also, since this is a newer product with fewer reviews, anyone who prefers to buy proven, established models might lean toward the classic 28-inch 2-burner with over 12,000 reviews.

3. Blackstone 28″ 2-Burner Propane Griddle — Best Value for Families

With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the Blackstone 28-inch 2-burner is the most proven griddle on this list. It has earned the Amazon’s Choice badge in Grill Griddles, and I can see why — it hits the sweet spot between cooking capacity, price, and usability for the average family. The 524 square inches of cooking space handles a full breakfast spread or dinner for 4 to 6 people without any issue.

I have used this model extensively and it delivers consistent results for everyday cooking. The two burners produce 34,000 BTUs combined, which is plenty for everything from smash burgers to stir-fry. The push-button ignition fires up reliably every time, and the removable griddle top makes it much easier to transport or deep clean compared to fixed-plate models.

The four caster wheels make it easy to roll this griddle around your patio or into a garage for storage. The bottom shelf and two side shelves provide useful storage and prep space. The rear grease management system works well for channeling oil away from food, and the fold-up legs are a nice touch if you need to transport it in a truck bed or trailer.

There are some trade-offs I should mention based on both my experience and what thousands of reviewers report. You will notice temperature variation across the surface — the area directly above each burner gets hotter, while the corners run cooler. This is common to all two-burner griddles and is manageable once you learn where the hot and cool zones are. Some users report the side shelf can start to lean after extended use, and the paint on the body may fade if left uncovered in the elements.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

If you are cooking for a family of 4 to 6 and want the best bang for your buck, this is the Blackstone to get. It has the track record of over 12,000 reviews to back up its reliability, and the 28-inch size fits most patios and decks without dominating the space. It is the most popular Blackstone model for a reason.

It is also an excellent first griddle for anyone new to flat-top cooking. The two-burner setup is simpler to manage than four zones, and the learning curve is shorter. The removable top means you can take it camping or to a tailgate without bringing the whole cart.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you regularly cook for more than 8 people, the 524 square inches may feel tight during big gatherings. The two-burner design means only two heat zones, which limits multi-dish cooking compared to the 3-burner or 4-burner models. Anyone doing large parties should consider the 36-inch or the 28-inch XL 3-burner instead.

4. Blackstone On-the-Go 22″ Flex-Fold Griddle — Best Portable Design

The Blackstone On-the-Go 22-inch Flex-Fold is one of the most innovative griddle designs I have seen. The legs fold up, the hood locks down, and the whole unit rolls on wheels like a suitcase. If you need a griddle that travels — whether to campsites, tailgates, or a friend’s backyard — this is purpose-built for that lifestyle.

The 361 square inches of cooking surface gives you enough room to cook for a small group, and the two independently controlled burners let you run different temperatures. The Omnivore griddle plate technology is a real improvement over standard plates — it heats faster, resists warping, and distributes heat more evenly. I noticed fewer cold spots on this model compared to older portable griddles I have tested.

The built-in wind guards are a smart addition since you are likely using this outdoors in open areas. They do help, but strong gusts will still affect performance — something to keep in mind if you cook in windy campgrounds or open parking lots. The locking hood is one of my favorite features because it protects the cooking surface during transport and means you do not need a separate cover.

At 78 pounds, this is not something you casually carry with one hand, but the wheel design and handle make it manageable to roll short distances. The side shelf with handle provides a small prep area, though it is more limited than the side shelves on the full-size models. The flex-fold mechanism works well overall, but a few owners mention the legs can try to fold up unexpectedly when you are maneuvering the unit over uneven ground.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

This is the best Blackstone griddle for anyone who prioritizes portability and storage. If you camp, tailgate, or RV regularly and want a griddle that packs down and rolls to your cooking spot, the Flex-Fold solves that problem beautifully. It is also great for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited storage space who still wants a real flat-top cooking experience.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you mostly cook in your backyard and rarely transport your griddle, the standard tabletop models offer similar cooking performance at a lower price point. The Flex-Fold design adds cost for the folding mechanism and wheels, which only matters if you actually use those features. Also, anyone cooking for more than 4 to 6 people regularly should look at the 28-inch or 36-inch stationary models for the extra space.

5. Blackstone 22″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood — Best Mid-Size Portable

The Blackstone 22-inch tabletop griddle with hood has earned Amazon’s Choice status and the trust of nearly 2,750 reviewers. It sits right in the middle of the Blackstone lineup — bigger than the 17-inch but still portable enough for camping and tailgating. The 361 square inches of cooking space can handle 14 burgers at once, which is plenty for a family dinner or a small gathering.

I like that this model includes an integrated hood, which the 17-inch does not have. The hood protects the cooking surface from dust, debris, and rain between uses, and it also traps heat when you want to melt cheese or warm things through. The stainless steel front plate gives it a cleaner, more premium look than the bare metal on some other models.

The two independently controlled burners produce 24,000 BTUs combined, giving you two heat zones for cooking different foods at the same time. The push-and-turn Piezo ignition works well — it is a simple, reliable system that does not require batteries. The non-slip feet keep the griddle stable on picnic tables, tailgate surfaces, or portable stands.

Temperature variation is something to be aware of with this model. You can see a range from roughly 275 degrees Fahrenheit in the cooler areas up to 575 degrees directly above the burners. This is normal for a two-burner tabletop unit, and you can use it to your advantage once you learn where the hot and cool spots are. The propane hookup placement on the side can be slightly awkward depending on your setup, so plan your fuel line routing before you start cooking.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

The 22-inch tabletop is ideal for campers, tailgaters, and anyone who wants a portable flat-top with enough surface area to cook a real meal. It hits the sweet spot between the ultra-compact 17-inch and the full-size cart models. If you cook for 3 to 6 people on the go, this is the size I would recommend.

It is also a strong option for anyone with a small patio or balcony who does not want a full griddle cart taking up permanent space. You can set it on a table, cook your meal, and put it away when you are done.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want a standalone griddle with wheels, storage, and side shelves, this tabletop model requires a separate surface to cook on and does not include a cart. The On-the-Go Flex-Fold model above includes wheels and a folding design for a similar cooking surface. Also, anyone cooking for large groups will find 361 square inches limiting compared to the 28-inch or 36-inch models.

6. Blackstone 17″ Tabletop Griddle — Best Budget and Beginner Pick

The Blackstone 17-inch tabletop griddle is where many flat-top cooking journeys begin — and for good reason. It is the most affordable way to get into Blackstone cooking, and at just 17.5 pounds, it is light enough to carry with one hand. Nearly 3,600 reviewers have given it a 4.7-star rating, which tells you that this little griddle punches well above its weight class.

I have cooked full breakfasts on this griddle for two people — eggs, bacon, hashbrowns, and toast — all at the same time on the 267 square inches of cooking surface. The H-style gas burner puts out 12,500 BTUs and does a surprisingly good job distributing heat across the plate. It is not going to sear a thick ribeye like the bigger models, but for everyday meals, it handles the job capably.

The rear grease management system on this model works the same way as the larger Blackstone griddles, channeling oil into a catch cup. Cleanup is straightforward — scrape the surface, wipe it down, and apply a thin layer of oil to keep the seasoning intact. The stainless steel front plate adds durability where it matters most.

The one issue I want to flag is the igniter. Multiple reviewers and my own experience confirm that the push-and-turn Piezo ignition can be inconsistent. I ended up keeping a long lighter nearby as backup, which solved the problem completely. The corners of the cooking surface also run noticeably cooler than the center, so you learn to cook in the middle and use the edges as a warming zone.

Who Should Buy This Griddle

This is the best Blackstone griddle for anyone on a budget who wants to try flat-top cooking without a big investment. It is also perfect for solo cooks, couples, or small families of 2 to 4 people who do not need massive cooking surface area. Campers and RV owners love this model because it fits on small tables and packs away easily.

If you are unsure whether flat-top cooking is for you, starting here makes sense. Many owners on Reddit describe the 17-inch as their gateway griddle — they bought it to try, fell in love with flat-top cooking, and eventually upgraded to a larger model. At this price point, the risk is minimal.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Anyone cooking for more than 4 people regularly will find 267 square inches too small. The single H-burner means only one heat zone, so you cannot run different temperatures simultaneously. If you know you are serious about flat-top cooking and have the budget, jumping straight to the 22-inch or 28-inch models saves you the cost of upgrading later.

How to Choose the Right Blackstone Griddle

Picking the right Blackstone griddle comes down to three things: how many people you cook for, where you plan to use it, and how much outdoor space you have. Let me walk you through the key factors that should drive your decision.

Size: 17, 22, 28, or 36 Inches?

The 17-inch is perfect for 1 to 4 people and ideal for camping. The 22-inch handles 3 to 6 people and strikes the best balance for portability. The 28-inch serves families of 4 to 8 and works as a stationary backyard unit. The 36-inch is for anyone cooking for 8 or more — it is the choice for entertainers and large households.

One common piece of advice from long-time Blackstone owners on Reddit is to buy the biggest size your space and budget allow. Many people who start with a 17-inch end up upgrading within a year because they discover how much they love cooking on a flat top. If you have the patio space, going straight to 28 or 36 inches saves money in the long run.

Burner Count and Heat Zones

More burners mean more heat zones, and heat zones are what make flat-top cooking so versatile. A single-burner model like the 17-inch gives you one temperature across the whole surface. Two burners let you run hot and cool zones. Three burners add a middle zone. Four burners give you the ultimate control for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.

For most families, two burners is the minimum I would recommend. It lets you sear burgers on one side while keeping onions and buns warm on the other. If you entertain or cook complex multi-dish meals outdoors, three or four burners make a noticeable difference in your workflow.

BTU Output and Heat Distribution

BTU ratings tell you the total heat output, but they do not tell the whole story. A 28-inch 2-burner at 34,000 BTUs heats its smaller surface just as effectively as a 36-inch 4-burner at 60,000+ BTUs heats its larger area. What matters more is how evenly that heat distributes across the cooking surface.

Cold spots between burners are a reality on every flat-top griddle, not just Blackstone. The area directly above each burner runs hotter, while the gaps between burners and the corners run cooler. Newer Blackstone models with the Omnivore griddle plate technology have improved this significantly, but it is not eliminated entirely. Learning where your hot and cool zones are is part of becoming a skilled flat-top cook.

Portability vs. Stationary Use

Think honestly about whether you will actually transport your griddle or if it will live in one spot on your patio. Tabletop models like the 17-inch and 22-inch are the obvious choice for camping, tailgating, and RV use. The Flex-Fold On-the-Go model offers a clever middle ground with wheels and folding legs for easy transport.

Stationary cart models with caster wheels like the 28-inch and 36-inch are designed to stay put but can be rolled around your patio or into a garage. They offer more features — side shelves, storage, built-in hoods — because they do not need to pack down small.

Seasoning and Maintenance

Every Blackstone griddle requires seasoning before first use and ongoing maintenance to prevent rust. The process is straightforward: apply a thin layer of oil, heat the surface until it smokes, and repeat 2 to 3 times. This creates a natural nonstick patina that improves with every cook.

For winter storage, clean the surface thoroughly, apply a generous coat of oil, and store the griddle in a dry, covered location. If you must leave it outside, invest in a fitted cover. Rust is the number one enemy of cold-rolled steel griddles, and prevention is far easier than trying to restore a neglected surface.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blackstone Griddles

Final Thoughts on the Best Blackstone Griddles

After comparing six models across every size category, the best Blackstone griddles for 2026 come down to what fits your life. The 36-inch Original with Hood is our top pick overall because it delivers the most versatile cooking experience with four heat zones and a massive 768-square-inch surface. The 28-inch 2-burner remains the best value pick with proven reliability from over 12,000 reviews. And the 17-inch tabletop is the perfect budget-friendly entry point for anyone curious about flat-top cooking.

The most important advice I can give is to match the griddle to your actual use case. Buy a tabletop model if you camp or tailgate. Go with a cart model if you cook at home. Size up if you entertain. And no matter which Blackstone you choose, take the time to season it properly — that single step makes the biggest difference in your cooking results over the long run.

Any of the six griddles on this list will give you a fantastic outdoor cooking experience. Pick the one that fits your space, your group size, and your budget, and you will be cooking smash burgers and breakfast platters in no time.