Blackstone griddles have surged in popularity, becoming a must-have for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Known for their versatility and ease of use, choosing the right Blackstone griddle can feel overwhelming with so many models available. This guide breaks down the key differences between Blackstone griddles to help you compare and select the ideal flat top grill for your cooking needs.
Size Comparison: Choosing the Right Griddle for Your Needs
Blackstone griddles primarily come in four widths: 17, 22, 28, and 36 inches. The size you need depends on how much cooking space you require and how many people you typically cook for.
17-inch Blackstone Griddles: Compact and Portable
The 17-inch Blackstone griddle is the most portable option, featuring a single burner delivering approximately 12,500 BTUs. Its compact size makes it perfect for camping, RV trips, balconies, or smaller patios. Despite its smaller footprint, a 17-inch griddle can cook about 9 medium-sized hamburgers at once, comfortably serving 2 to 4 people. This size is ideal for individuals or small families who prioritize portability and ease of storage.
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22-inch Blackstone Griddles: Versatility for Small Groups
Stepping up in size, the 22-inch Blackstone griddle offers increased cooking space and the added benefit of dual burners. This allows for independent heat zones, enabling you to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. Like the 17-inch model, the 22-inch griddle remains portable and suitable for smaller groups, but provides more cooking flexibility. It’s a great choice for those who want a balance of portability and expanded cooking capabilities. An electric 22-inch version is also available for indoor use.
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28-inch Blackstone Griddles: Stepping Up Your Cooking Game
The 28-inch Blackstone griddle marks a significant increase in cooking capacity. Moving up to this size doubles the burger capacity compared to the 22-inch, allowing you to cook for larger gatherings. The increased surface area is particularly useful for cooking complete meals at once, like pancakes, eggs, and bacon for a crowd, all ready at the same time. This size is a popular choice for families and those who entertain regularly, offering a substantial cooking area without being overly bulky.
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36-inch Blackstone Griddles: The Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Station
For those seeking maximum cooking space, the 36-inch Blackstone griddle is the flagship model. Often seen as the centerpiece of outdoor kitchens, this griddle boasts four independently controlled heat zones and a total of 60,000 BTUs. The expansive 768 square inches of cooking surface can handle massive quantities of food, perfect for large parties or events. If you frequently cook for large groups or desire the most versatile outdoor cooking experience, the 36-inch griddle is the top choice.
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Feature Comparison: Exploring Blackstone Griddle Types
Beyond size, Blackstone offers different griddle configurations to enhance functionality, including combo units with air fryers and range tops.
Blackstone Griddle Combo Units: Air Fryer and Range Top Options
Blackstone’s innovative combo units integrate additional cooking appliances with their griddles.
Air Fryer Combos: Exclusively offered by Blackstone, these models combine a griddle with a built-in air fryer. This adds significant versatility, allowing you to air fry sides, appetizers, or even desserts while using the griddle top for main dishes. Air fryer combos are available in both 17-inch and 36-inch sizes.
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Range Top Combos: These units feature a side burner, similar to a traditional gas range, alongside the griddle. This range top expands your cooking options, enabling you to prepare sauces, boil water, or use pots and pans while simultaneously griddling. Range top combos are available with the 28-inch griddle.
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Price Comparison: Understanding Blackstone Griddle Costs
Generally, the larger the Blackstone griddle, the higher the price. 17-inch griddles are the most affordable, ranging from around $200 to $300+, with air fryer combos at the higher end. 36-inch griddles start around $400 and can exceed $1000 for models with air fryers or range tops. Consider your budget and desired features when comparing prices across different sizes and configurations.
BTU and Heat Output: What You Need to Know
BTU, or British Thermal Unit, measures the heat output of a burner. Higher BTU ratings mean quicker heating and hotter maximum temperatures. Blackstone griddle burners typically range from 12,000 to 15,000 BTUs per burner. More BTUs are generally beneficial, especially for larger griddles, as they ensure even heat distribution across the larger cooking surface and faster recovery time when adding cold food.
Where to Buy Blackstone Griddles: Retailer Options
Blackstone griddles are widely available through various retailers, both online and in-store. You can find a comprehensive selection on the official Blackstone website, categorized by size and price. Major retailers also carrying Blackstone griddles include:
For a complete list of authorized retailers, visit blackstoneproducts.com/pages/about-us.
Choosing the best Blackstone griddle involves considering your cooking needs, the number of people you typically cook for, available space, and budget. By comparing sizes, features, and prices, you can confidently select the perfect Blackstone griddle to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.
