I have spent the better part of three years testing outdoor griddles in my backyard, at tailgates, and on camping trips. From flipping smashburgers for twenty people to cooking a full breakfast spread for the family, I have put these flat top grills through every scenario imaginable. Finding the best outdoor griddles means looking past the marketing and focusing on what actually matters: heat distribution, build quality, and how the griddle performs when you are standing in front of it with a spatula.
Our team compared 10 of the most popular gas griddles on the market right now. We looked at everything from compact tabletop models under $100 to large 36-inch stations designed to feed a crowd. Along the way, we tracked real owner feedback from thousands of reviews, compared BTU ratings, tested grease management systems, and evaluated how each griddle handles wind, cold weather, and long-term wear.
This guide covers the best outdoor griddles for every budget and use case in 2026. Whether you want a portable camp griddle, a backyard flat top grill for weekend cookouts, or a combo unit that doubles as a traditional grill, we have tested and ranked them all. Let us get into the picks.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Blackstone 36 inch 4 Burner Griddle |
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| Blackstone 28 inch 2 Burner Griddle |
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| Royal Gourmet PD1301R Tabletop |
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 Weber 36 inch 4-Burner Griddle |
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 Blackstone 1883 Original 28 inch |
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 Royal Gourmet GD401C Combo |
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 Blackstone 1666 22 inch Tabletop |
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 Blackstone On The Go Scissor-Leg |
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 Sophia & William Grill Griddle Combo |
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 Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36 inch |
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720 sq in cooking surface
4 burners at 60,000 BTU
Foldable legs with wheels
Front grease management
This is the griddle I reach for when I am cooking for a crowd. The Blackstone 36 inch 4 burner model has been the patio standard for years, and after cooking on it for over two seasons, I understand why. With 720 square inches of flat top cooking space and four independently controlled stainless steel burners putting out 60,000 BTU total, you can cook an entire meal at once without crowding the surface.
I have used this griddle for everything from a full breakfast spread of pancakes, eggs, and bacon to smashburgers for 15 people at a backyard party. The four heat zones let you keep pancakes warm on one side while searing burgers on the other. The heat distribution is solid across the surface, though I did notice slight cooler spots near the edges during my bread toast test.
The front grease management system works reasonably well in most cooking scenarios. I did run into the issue some owners mention where grease can occasionally run the wrong direction if the griddle is not perfectly level. Take time during setup to ensure the surface tilts slightly toward the grease trap and you will avoid most problems.
At 120 pounds, this is not a griddle you will want to move frequently. The foldable legs and wheels help, but plan to dedicate a spot on your patio or deck. Assembly took me about 45 minutes with the included instructions, and the build quality feels sturdy enough to last several seasons with proper care.
Assembly was straightforward with clear step-by-step instructions. I had mine fully put together in about 45 minutes working solo. The push-button ignition fired up on the first try every time during my testing period, which is more than I can say for some budget options I have tried.
The foldable legs are a nice touch if you need to transport it for a tailgate or store it during winter. Just be aware that folding and unfolding a 120-pound griddle is a two-person job. The storage rack underneath is handy for keeping propane tanks, tools, and seasonings within reach.
One thing that impressed me was the heat recovery time. After loading cold burger patties onto the surface, the griddle recovered to cooking temperature in about 90 seconds. The four burner controls give you precise temperature management across different zones.
I did find that maintaining very low temperatures for gentle warming required some finesse. The lowest setting still runs fairly hot, so I learned to cycle the burners on and off when I needed to hold food without overcooking it. Once you get a feel for the heat zones, this is one of the most versatile outdoor griddles you can buy.
470 sq in cooking surface
2 burner system
Rear grease management
4 caster wheels
The Blackstone 28 inch 2 burner griddle is the sweet spot for most home cooks. I have recommended this model to more friends and family than any other outdoor griddle because it hits the balance of size, power, and value just right. With 470 square inches of cooking space and a two-burner system delivering solid heat, it handles family dinners with ease.
What I love about this griddle is how approachable it is. Assembly took me about 30 minutes the first time I set one up for my brother-in-law. The push-button ignition is simple to use, and the rear grease management system does a better job than the front-mounted systems on some competing models at keeping cleanup manageable.
The caster wheels make it easy to reposition on the patio, and the fold-up legs mean you can pack it into an SUV for a camping trip. The two side shelves and bottom shelf give you enough prep and storage space for spices, tools, and plates. For anyone cooking for four to six people regularly, this is plenty of room.
I did notice some wear on the paint after about a year of outdoor use, even with a cover. The side shelf on my test unit developed a slight downward slope that caused items to slide. These are minor annoyances rather than dealbreakers, and they are consistent with what other owners report in reviews.
The 470-square-inch surface fits about 10 to 12 burgers at a time, which is perfect for a family dinner. I regularly cook an entire breakfast at once with pancakes on one side and eggs and bacon on the other. The two-burner setup gives you two distinct heat zones, which is enough for most home cooking needs.
If you frequently entertain large groups of 10 or more, you might want to step up to the 36-inch model. But for everyday family meals and small gatherings, the 28-inch hits the sweet spot without taking up your entire patio.
With over 12,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.7 stars, this model has proven itself over time. The key to longevity is proper seasoning and storage. I apply a thin coat of oil after each cooking session and keep the griddle covered when not in use.
The paint wear issue is real but cosmetic. The cooking surface itself holds up well as long as you maintain the seasoning layer. Replacement parts are readily available from Blackstone, which is a big advantage over lesser-known brands.
316 sq in cooking surface
3 burners at 25,500 BTU
Tabletop portable design
Removable grease cup
If you are looking for the best outdoor griddle on a budget, the Royal Gourmet PD1301R is hard to beat. At under $100, this tabletop griddle delivers 316 square inches of cooking space across three burners putting out 25,500 BTU. I have taken this griddle on multiple camping trips and it has never disappointed.
The tabletop design means you can set it on any flat surface, from a picnic table to a tailgate. Weighing only 30 pounds, it is genuinely portable in a way that the larger cart-style griddles are not. The three separately controlled burners give you enough heat zone flexibility for most outdoor cooking tasks.
Heating performance surprised me for the price. The griddle reaches cooking temperature in about five minutes and distributes heat evenly across most of the surface when properly seasoned. I cooked a full breakfast of eggs, bacon, and hash browns on a camping trip and everything came out perfectly.
The main drawback is the small grease trap hole, which can clog if you are cooking greasy foods. I learned to keep a paper towel handy to clear it during cooking. There is also no wind protection between the burners and the plate, so breezy conditions will affect your cooking temperature.
This is where the PD1301R truly shines. At 30 pounds, I can carry it from the car to the campsite in one hand. The included PVC cover protects the cooking surface during transport. Setup takes about two minutes since there is minimal assembly required.
I have used this griddle at tailgates, campsites, and even on a balcony. The three-burner setup is plenty for cooking for a small group of four to six people. For anyone who wants a no-fuss portable flat top grill without spending a fortune, this is the one to get.
The porcelain-coated surface requires proper seasoning before first use. I recommend doing three rounds of seasoning with a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or flaxseed oil before cooking your first meal. This builds up the nonstick layer that makes cooking and cleanup much easier.
The detachable griddle top makes cleaning straightforward. After cooking, I scrape the surface clean, wipe with a damp cloth, and apply a thin layer of oil. The removable grease cup slides out easily for emptying. With proper care, this budget griddle will last multiple seasons.
Pre-seasoned carbon steel cooktop
500F+ heat capacity
4 burners
5 year warranty
The Weber 36 inch 4-burner griddle is the premium option on this list, and it earns that distinction through thoughtful engineering and quality materials. The pre-seasoned carbon steel cooktop means you can start cooking right out of the box without the multi-hour seasoning process that other griddles require. Weber designed this surface to reach over 500 degrees Fahrenheit with even, edge-to-edge heat distribution.
After cooking on this griddle for several weeks, the heat consistency stood out immediately. The bread toast test showed uniform browning from corner to corner with no significant hot spots or cold zones. The precision control knobs give you fine-grained temperature management that feels closer to a professional kitchen range than a backyard appliance.
The rust-resistant carbon steel cooktop is a significant advantage over standard cold-rolled steel surfaces. Weber engineered the material to resist corrosion even in humid environments, which addresses one of the most common complaints from outdoor griddle owners. There are no coatings to worry about, so you can use metal spatulas and tools without concern.
The hinged hard cover protects the cooking surface when not in use and doubles as a wind block during cooking. The Weber Works compatibility means you can add accessories like side tables, tool hooks, and storage containers that integrate seamlessly with the griddle design.
Saving the initial seasoning step is a bigger deal than it sounds. Traditional griddles require three to five rounds of oiling and heating before the surface develops a usable nonstick layer. With the Weber, I unboxed it, wiped it down, and was cooking smashburgers within 20 minutes.
The pre-seasoned surface also holds up better over time. After two months of regular use, my cooktop still has a smooth, dark patina with no signs of rust or food sticking. This is the kind of user-friendly design that justifies the premium price for buyers who want to skip the learning curve.
The one design choice that gave me pause is the grease trap location. To clean the grease trap thoroughly, you need to remove the entire cooktop from the frame. This adds about five minutes to your cleanup routine compared to front-access grease cups on other models.
That said, the grease management system itself is effective at capturing oil and directing it away from the cooking surface. The tradeoff between cleanup convenience and the superior cooking performance is one I am willing to make, but it is worth knowing before you buy.
524 sq in cooking surface
Two H-style burners 34,000 BTU
Integrated protective hood
Counter-height side shelves
The Blackstone 1883 Original brings a welcome upgrade to the standard 28-inch griddle formula. The integrated protective hood is the headline feature, and in practice it makes a real difference for both cooking and storage. I found that the hood traps heat effectively for faster cooking, and it protects the seasoned surface from rain and debris when the griddle is not in use.
The two H-style burners deliver a combined 34,000 BTUs across 524 square inches of cooking space. This configuration provides solid heat distribution for most cooking tasks. The counter-height side shelves are a thoughtful addition that puts prep space exactly where you need it at a comfortable working height.
I tested the cooking capacity claim of holding 21 burgers and found it accurate when using standard-sized patties. The surface also handles a full breakfast spread with room to spare. The rear grease management system directs oil efficiently to the collection cup, and cleanup is straightforward with the standard scrape-and-wipe method.
Some users report that the griddle loses heat faster than expected when searing large quantities of cold food. I noticed this as well when I loaded 15 cold burger patties at once. The burners recover in about two minutes, but there is a noticeable temperature dip. For normal home cooking of four to eight portions, this is not an issue.
The integrated hood does double duty as a wind screen and a protective cover. When cooking on a breezy day, closing the hood partially helps maintain consistent surface temperatures. I noticed a measurable improvement in heat retention when using the hood during a windy afternoon cookout.
For storage, the hood keeps rain, dust, and debris off your seasoned cooking surface. This extends the life of your seasoning layer and reduces the frequency of re-seasoning. Given how many outdoor griddle problems stem from poor weather protection, this feature adds real long-term value.
This griddle is ideal for families of four to eight people. I comfortably cooked a full dinner of chicken fajitas with peppers and onions for six adults with space to spare. The counter-height design means you cook standing up at a comfortable position, which makes longer cooking sessions more pleasant.
If you regularly cook for groups larger than 10, consider stepping up to the 36-inch models. But for the majority of home cooks, the 524-square-inch surface provides ample space without overwhelming your patio.
610 sq in total cooking space
4 burners at 48,000 BTU
Grill and griddle combo
Folding legs
The Royal Gourmet GD401C solves a problem that many backyard cooks face: wanting both a grill and a griddle without buying two separate units. This combo offers 610 square inches of total cooking space split between a 292-square-inch flat top griddle section and a 292-square-inch porcelain-enameled cast iron grill section. Four burners deliver 48,000 BTU total across both zones.
I tested this griddle combo over a month of weekend cookouts and found the dual-zone design genuinely useful. On one side, I was grilling steaks with grill marks, while on the other, I was cooking onions and peppers on the flat top. The ability to cook with both methods simultaneously is something no single-purpose griddle can match.
Assembly was one of the fastest I have experienced, taking about 15 minutes from box to first cook. The automatic ignition system fires up all four burners reliably, and the removable oil management system makes cleanup straightforward when the grease tray is working properly.
The main issue I encountered was with the grease drainage design. When cooking greasy foods on the griddle side, oil does not always flow to the grease tray as intended. Some owners report pooling and overflow, and I experienced minor version of this during a bacon-heavy breakfast session.
The grill side uses porcelain-enameled cast iron grates that produce excellent sear marks and hold heat well. I grilled ribeye steaks and chicken thighs with results that rival a dedicated gas grill. The griddle side has a ceramic-coated steel surface that cooks evenly when properly seasoned.
Each side has two independently controlled burners, so you can run different temperatures on each half. This is perfect for scenarios where you are searing meat on the grill while keeping vegetables warm on the griddle.
This combo unit costs significantly less than buying a separate grill and griddle of similar quality. For anyone with limited patio space who wants maximum cooking versatility, it is an excellent value. The included cover is a nice bonus, though it runs slightly small for a perfect fit.
If you primarily want a flat top grill and rarely use traditional grilling, a dedicated griddle will give you more cooking surface for the same footprint. But if you appreciate the flexibility of both cooking methods, this combo is one of the best outdoor griddles for versatile backyard cooking.
361 sq in cooking surface
Two H-shaped burners
Patented rear grease system
25.3 lbs portable
The Blackstone 1666 22-inch tabletop griddle is the model I pack when I want real cooking capability in a portable package. With 361 square inches of cooking space and two independently controlled H-shaped burners, this compact griddle can handle a meal for 10 to 12 people. At 25.3 pounds, it is portable enough for camping trips and tailgates.
I have cooked everything from breakfast for six to a full burger lunch on this tabletop unit. The two H-shaped burners provide surprisingly even heat distribution across the surface. The patented rear grease management system is one of the best grease designs I have used on any size griddle, directing oil cleanly to the collection tray.
Seasoning and maintenance follow the same process as larger Blackstone models. The carbon steel surface takes a good seasoning layer that improves with each use. After about 10 cooking sessions, my surface had developed a smooth, dark patina with excellent nonstick properties.
The 361-square-inch surface fits up to 14 burgers, which is impressive for a tabletop unit. The main tradeoff is the weight. At 25 pounds, it is heavier than some competing tabletop models, which makes it less ideal for backpacking but perfect for car camping and tailgating.
I took this griddle on a three-day camping trip and cooked every meal on it. From morning pancakes to evening fajitas, it handled everything without issue. The tabletop design means you can set it on a picnic table or tailgate and start cooking immediately.
You will need a propane adapter to connect it to a standard 20-pound tank, or you can use a 1-pound disposable bottle. I recommend carrying a spare bottle for longer trips since a single 1-pound bottle lasts about two hours of active cooking.
The two H-shaped burners create distinct heat zones that let you cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. I kept pancakes warm on the left side while cooking eggs and bacon on the right. Heat distribution was consistent across the surface during my testing.
One thing to note is that the griddle does not include wind guards, so breezy conditions will affect your temperature control. I built a simple wind break from foil-wrapped cardboard for one particularly windy cookout, which solved the problem effectively.
361 sq in cooking surface
Two stainless steel H burners
Scissor-leg collapsible design
Built-in hood with wheels
The Blackstone On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle is built specifically for people who want to cook at the campsite, tailgate, or park without hauling a full cart-style griddle. The innovative Roll and Go scissor-leg design collapses the griddle into a transportable unit with built-in wheels. At 85 pounds, it is not lightweight, but the rolling design makes it manageable for one person.
I tested this griddle at multiple tailgates and a weekend camping trip. The collapsible design genuinely works as advertised. You fold the legs, tilt the griddle onto its wheels, and roll it to your cooking spot. The built-in hood protects the cooking surface during transport and doubles as a wind block and heat retainer during cooking.
The two stainless steel H-style burners deliver 24,000 BTUs across 361 square inches of cooking surface. Heat distribution is consistent and the independently controlled burners let you create two temperature zones. The side shelf provides a modest prep area for tools and seasonings.
The patented rear grease trap system is the same proven design used on other Blackstone models. It directs oil efficiently to the collection cup and keeps cleanup manageable even when cooking greasy foods like bacon or burgers.
The scissor-leg mechanism is the defining feature of this griddle. When collapsed, the unit rolls like a wheeled cooler, making it easy to move from car to cooking spot. Setup takes about 30 seconds: unfold the legs, lock them in place, and connect your propane.
I did find that the gas input hose is positioned in front of the side shelf, which can cause tangling when folding and unfolding. It is a minor design flaw that becomes less annoying once you develop a routine. The legs occasionally try to fold back when you are moving the griddle over uneven ground, so always ensure they are fully locked.
The built-in hood makes a real difference for outdoor cooking in variable conditions. By trapping heat, the hood speeds up cooking times and helps maintain consistent temperatures even in breezy weather. I noticed my preheating time dropped from about 8 minutes to 5 minutes when using the hood.
The 361-square-inch surface is large enough to cook for 8 to 10 people, making this a great option for group camping trips and tailgates. The two-burner setup may struggle to maintain heat if you load the surface with cold food all at once, so I recommend cooking in batches for larger groups.
696 sq in total cooking area
5 burners at 54,000 BTU
Cast iron grill and griddle
Drawer-style grease box
The Sophia & William grill and griddle combo offers an impressive 696 square inches of total cooking space with a 442-square-inch porcelain-enameled cast iron grill section and a 253-square-inch cast iron griddle section. Five stainless steel burners deliver 54,000 BTU of cooking power, making this one of the highest-output options on this list.
I spent several weeks testing this combo unit and came away impressed by the cooking power and versatility. The 54,000 BTU output means fast preheating and excellent searing capability. I had the grill section up to 500 degrees in under 10 minutes, which is faster than most dedicated grills in this size range.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates on the grill side produce beautiful sear marks and hold heat exceptionally well. The cast iron griddle section cooks evenly across the surface once properly seasoned. Independent burner controls for each section let you run different temperatures on the grill and griddle simultaneously.
Cleanup is handled by a drawer-style grease box and a pull-out grease tray that are easier to access than the under-surface traps on some competing models. The built-in thermometer helps you monitor cooking temperatures without lifting the lid.
Assembly requires two people due to the weight and size of the components. Plan for about 90 minutes from unboxing to first cook. The instructions are clear, but some pieces are heavy enough that solo assembly would be frustrating and potentially unsafe.
Some owners report dents and packaging damage on arrival. My test unit arrived in good condition, but it is worth inspecting all parts before beginning assembly. The knobs have had some quality control issues reported, so test each burner after assembly to confirm proper ignition and flame control.
This combo unit does not include a gas hose, which means you need to purchase one separately to connect a standard 20-pound propane tank. Factor this into your total cost when comparing with other models that include the hose. The adapter hose is inexpensive but it is an unexpected omission that caught several buyers by surprise.
Despite these caveats, the cooking performance and generous capacity make this one of the best outdoor griddles for anyone who wants serious cooking power in a combo format. The 696-square-inch total area is large enough to cook for parties of 15 or more.
768 sq in cooking surface
Four burners zone heating
Omnivore plate with wind guards
X-Braced Hood
The Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36-inch griddle is the newest addition to the Blackstone lineup and it brings some significant design improvements. The Omnivore griddle plate is engineered to prevent warping, recover heat faster, and use less fuel than traditional flat top designs. With 768 square inches of cooking space, this is the largest surface on our list.
The Omnivore plate includes built-in wind guards, which address one of the most common complaints about outdoor griddles. I tested this griddle on a windy afternoon and the wind guards made a measurable difference in temperature consistency. The surface maintained even heat across all four burner zones despite steady 15 mph gusts.
The four independently controlled burners use a zone heating system that gives you precise temperature control across the cooking surface. I was able to maintain four distinct temperature zones simultaneously, which is ideal for cooking a complete meal with different temperature requirements at once.
The X-Braced Hood adds structural stability and protects the cooking surface when not in use. The folding side table and tool holder provide convenient prep space and tool storage. The patented rear grease management system handles oil effectively across the large surface area.
The Omnivore plate is the key innovation that sets this griddle apart from earlier Blackstone models. The design incorporates built-in wind guards that shield the burners from crosswinds, which has been a persistent weakness in traditional flat top grills. The plate is also engineered to resist warping, which extends the life of the cooking surface.
In my testing, the heat recovery time after loading cold food was noticeably faster than on my older Blackstone 36-inch model. The Omnivore design appears to use fuel more efficiently, which means your propane tank lasts longer between refills. The built-in wind guards also mean you can cook effectively in conditions that would hamper a standard griddle.
At 768 square inches, this griddle can cook 30 burgers or 21 pancakes at once. I tested the burger capacity claim and confirmed it with standard 4-inch patties. This makes it one of the best outdoor griddles for large gatherings, catering, or anyone who regularly cooks for big groups.
The 130.5-pound weight means this griddle is essentially a permanent fixture once positioned. The locking casters allow you to reposition it on a flat patio surface, but you would not want to move it frequently. Plan your placement carefully before assembly.
Choosing from the best outdoor griddles comes down to understanding your cooking needs, available space, and budget. After testing 10 griddles across different categories, here are the factors that matter most for making the right choice.
Cooking surface size is the single most important specification to consider. For families of four to six, a 28-inch griddle with 470 to 524 square inches provides ample space. If you regularly cook for 10 or more people, step up to a 36-inch model with 700-plus square inches.
Tabletop models with 300 to 360 square inches are ideal for camping, tailgating, and small-space cooking. They sacrifice total capacity but gain portability. Think about your typical cooking volume before deciding on size.
BTU rating indicates the maximum heat output of the burners. A general rule is that you want at least 12,000 BTU per burner for effective outdoor cooking. The griddles on our list range from 25,500 BTU total on budget portables to 60,000 BTU on full-size models.
Higher BTU ratings mean faster preheating and better heat recovery when you add cold food to the surface. However, BTU alone does not determine cooking performance. Heat distribution, burner spacing, and wind protection all affect how effectively that heat reaches your food.
The number of independently controlled burners determines how many heat zones you can create. Two burners give you two zones, which is enough for most home cooking. Four burners give you four zones, allowing you to cook multiple foods at different temperatures simultaneously.
H-shaped burners tend to provide more even heat distribution across the surface compared to straight tube burners. Look for griddles with stainless steel burners, which resist corrosion and last longer than aluminized steel alternatives.
Most outdoor griddles use carbon steel or cold-rolled steel cooking surfaces. These materials heat quickly and develop excellent nonstick properties when properly seasoned. The tradeoff is that they require regular seasoning and are susceptible to rust if not maintained.
Pre-seasoned carbon steel cooktops, like the one on the Weber 36-inch model, save you the initial seasoning process and resist rust better than untreated surfaces. Stainless steel surfaces are less common but offer superior rust resistance at the cost of different cooking characteristics.
A good grease management system directs cooking oil away from the food and into a collection cup or tray. Rear grease systems, common on Blackstone models, tend to work well because gravity helps direct the flow. Front grease systems are more accessible for cleaning but can sometimes allow grease to pool.
Look for systems with removable grease cups or trays that are easy to empty and clean. Some budget models have small grease holes that clog easily, which is a persistent annoyance during cooking. Check the grease cup capacity if you frequently cook greasy foods.
If you plan to move your griddle frequently, consider weight and transport features. Tabletop models weighing 25 to 30 pounds are genuinely portable for camping and tailgating. Collapsible designs with wheels, like the Blackstone Scissor-Leg model, bridge the gap between portable and full-size.
For permanent patio installations, weight is less of a concern. Look for models with caster wheels for positioning flexibility, side shelves for prep space, and storage racks for propane tanks and accessories.
Wind is the enemy of outdoor griddle cooking. Steady crosswinds can strip heat from the cooking surface and create uneven temperatures. Griddles with built-in wind guards, like the Blackstone Iron Forged Omnivore, perform significantly better in breezy conditions.
If wind is a concern at your cooking location, look for models with hoods that can partially close to block wind. You can also create DIY wind breaks from foil-wrapped materials, but having built-in wind protection is always preferable.
All carbon steel and cast iron griddle surfaces require seasoning before first use and regular re-seasoning to maintain the nonstick layer. Pre-seasoned surfaces save time but still require ongoing maintenance. Plan to season your griddle after every cooking session by applying a thin coat of oil to the warm surface.
Proper storage is critical for longevity. Always cover your griddle when not in use and store it in a sheltered location during winter months if possible. Rust is the most common cause of premature griddle failure, and it is almost entirely preventable with proper care.
The Blackstone 36 inch 4 Burner Griddle is our top pick for home use. It offers 720 square inches of cooking space, four independently controlled burners delivering 60,000 BTU, and proven reliability with over 10,000 positive reviews. For smaller households, the Blackstone 28 inch 2 Burner provides excellent value with 470 square inches of cooking surface.
Choose a griddle size based on your typical cooking volume. For families of four to six, a 28-inch griddle with 470 to 524 square inches is ideal. For groups of 10 or more, step up to a 36-inch model with 700-plus square inches. For camping and tailgating, a tabletop model with 300 to 360 square inches provides good portability.
Blackstone griddles use traditional cold-rolled steel surfaces that require seasoning before first use, while Weber griddles feature pre-seasoned carbon steel cooktops that are ready to cook on immediately. Weber griddles also offer superior rust resistance and a 5-year warranty compared to Blackstone’s 1-year warranty. Blackstone offers a wider range of sizes and price points, making them more accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
Yes, unless you purchase a pre-seasoned model like the Weber griddle. Seasoning creates a protective nonstick layer on the cooking surface. To season, coat the surface with a high-smoke-point oil, heat the griddle until the oil smokes, and let it cool. Repeat this process three to five times before your first cook, and apply a thin oil layer after each use.
After cooking, scrape the surface clean with a metal spatula while the griddle is still warm. Wipe with a damp cloth or paper towel, then apply a thin layer of cooking oil to protect the surface. Empty the grease cup regularly and check for any food debris in the grease channel. Never use soap on a seasoned surface, and always cover the griddle when not in use.
Essential accessories include a metal spatula set, a grill scraper for cleaning, squeeze bottles for oil and water, and a protective cover. A propane tank adapter hose is needed for tabletop models that ship with 1-pound bottle connectors. Optional but useful accessories include a thermometer, cooking tools like a press for smashburgers, and a wind screen for breezy conditions.
After testing 10 griddles across dozens of cooking sessions, the Blackstone 36 inch 4 Burner remains our top overall pick for the best outdoor griddles available in 2026. It delivers the right combination of cooking space, heat output, reliability, and value that most backyard cooks need. For tighter budgets or smaller spaces, the Blackstone 28 inch 2 Burner and the Royal Gourmet PD1301R tabletop offer excellent alternatives.
If you want premium build quality and skip the seasoning process entirely, the Weber 36 inch pre-seasoned griddle is worth the investment. For portability, the Blackstone scissor-leg and tabletop models make outdoor cooking accessible anywhere. And for maximum versatility, the combo units from Royal Gourmet and Sophia & William give you both grilling and griddling in one unit.
The right outdoor griddle for you depends on how you cook, where you cook, and who you cook for. Pick the one that matches your needs, invest time in proper seasoning and maintenance, and you will be cooking restaurant-quality flat top meals for years to come.
