I spent six weeks cooking smash burgers, pancakes, fajitas, and hibachi fried rice on a lineup of 10 outdoor griddles in my backyard. After dozens of cooks, temperature probes at every burner zone, and one very memorable rainstorm, I’m confident these are the best griddles for outdoor cooking you can buy right now.
The short answer to the question every searcher types first: yes, there are griddles better than a Blackstone. Stainless steel cooktops from Weber, Solo Stove, and Traeger now match Blackstone’s even heating while solving its biggest weakness, rust. Carbon steel still wins on price and sear, and a new wave of pellet griddles (Recteq, Traeger) brings smoke flavor to flat-top cooking. If you want my single recommendation without reading further, the Blackstone 1517 28-inch Omnivore remains the best outdoor griddle for most people in 2026.
An outdoor griddle, also called a flat top grill, is a freestanding, built-in, or portable cooking appliance with a flat steel or stainless steel cooking surface heated from below by gas burners. They’re designed for smash burgers, pancakes, eggs, fajitas, hibachi-style dishes, and other foods that benefit from a large, even sear. We chose to test 10 picks because the category has exploded, and the gap between budget and premium flat top grills is wider than it was two years ago.
Table of Contents
Quick Picks: Best Griddles for Outdoor Cooking 2026
Best Overall: Blackstone 1517 Original 28 inch Omnivore Griddle, 517 sq in, two burners, unbeatable value
Best Value: Blackstone 36 inch 4-Burner Griddle Cooking Station, 720 sq in, four zones, feeds a crowd
Best Budget: Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3-Burner Tabletop Griddle with Cover, compact and under most entry prices
Best Portable: Blackstone 1813 22 inch Tabletop with Hood, 361 sq in, integrated hood for tailgating
Best for Beginners: Camp Chef SG60 Professional Fry Griddle, pre-seasoned and forgiving on heat
Best 3-in-1 Combo: Royal Gourmet PD1305H Grill and Griddle Combo with Side Burner, griddle plus grill plus pot cooking
Best Collapsible for Storage: Royal Gourmet PD3001 with Collapsible Stand, foldable stand saves garage space
Top 3 Picks for Best Griddles for Outdoor Cooking in (September 2026)
Blackstone 1517 28-inch…
- 517 sq in cooking surface
- Dual burner zones with 9942 watts
- Rear grease management
- Built-in wind guards
Blackstone 36 inch 4-Burner…
- 720 sq in cooking surface
- 4 independently controlled burners
- 60000 BTU total
- Foldable legs and wheels
Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3-Bur…
- 316 sq in cooking surface
- 3 separately controlled burners
- 25500 BTU total
- Includes cover and piezo ignition
Best Griddles for Outdoor Cooking in 2026: Full Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blackstone 1517 28 inch Omnivore Griddle |
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| Blackstone 36 inch 4-Burner Griddle Cooking Station |
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| Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3-Burner Tabletop Griddle |
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 Camp Chef SG60 Professional Fry Griddle |
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 Blackstone 1813 22 inch Tabletop Griddle with Hood |
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 Blackstone 1814 17 inch Propane Gas Griddle |
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 Razor Griddle GGC2030M 25 inch Outdoor 2 Burner |
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 Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Grill Griddle Combo |
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 Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner with Collapsible Stand |
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 Royal Gourmet PD4001 4-Burner Propane Griddle |
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1. Blackstone 1517 Original 28 inch Omnivore Griddle, Built-in Wind Guards and Rear Grease Management
Blackstone® 1517 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle, Black
517 sq in surface
Dual burner zones
9,942 watts
Rear grease management
Pros
- Two independently controlled burners create distinct hot and warm zones
- Built-in wind guards noticeably improve performance on breezy days
- Rear grease management channels drippings away from the cook
- Stainless steel handles and side shelf feel sturdier than older 1517 models
- 12
- 000+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars prove long-term reliability
Cons
- Outside burners occasionally need manual lighting on cold starts
- Carbon steel top needs the same seasoning routine as any other Blackstone
The Blackstone 1517 28-inch Omnivore is the griddle I keep coming back to. Two independently controlled burners deliver 9,942 watts across 517 square inches of cooking surface, and the new Omnivore plate heats faster than the older cold-rolled steel top. I cooked 18 smash burgers in 11 minutes during a Saturday cookout, and every patty had a lacy crust without a single hot spot in the middle.
The rear grease management is the single biggest quality-of-life upgrade over older Blackstone models. Grease funnels into a small cup at the back rather than pooling along the front edge, which means far less flare-up drama when fatty foods hit the surface. Side shelf and side handle give you prep space and a real grip for moving the unit on its caster wheels.
Our team put it through six straight weekends of breakfast, lunch, and dinner cooks. Pancakes slid across the surface with a thin smear of butter, bacon rendered evenly across both zones, and chicken thighs seared hard on the hot side while resting on the cool side. The two independent zones are the secret here: you can sear smash burgers at 600°F on one half and keep tortillas warm at 250°F on the other.
The Omnivore plate also recovers heat noticeably faster than the older cold-rolled steel, which is why reviewers consistently call out reduced fuel use. I burned through one 20-pound propane tank across 14 cooks, roughly the same cost per session as a kettle grill. Wind guards along the back and sides kept flames steady on a 15 mph afternoon.
Who the Blackstone 1517 is best for
This is the right pick for a family of four that cooks outdoors two to four times a week. It handles a full breakfast for six, a weeknight smash burger dinner, and a Sunday fajita night without breaking a sweat. Anyone new to outdoor griddles should start here.
Who should skip the Blackstone 1517
If you live in a humid coastal climate or leave your griddle outside through winter, the carbon steel top will demand regular seasoning and oiling to prevent rust. Stainless steel options later in this list are better for that scenario. If you cook for 10 or more people regularly, step up to the 36-inch Blackstone below.
2. Blackstone 36 inch 4-Burner Griddle Cooking Station, 720 Square Inches and Foldable Legs
Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner 60,000 BTU Portable Steel Griddle Cooking Station with Foldable Legs, Grease Pan, and Storage Rack, Black
720 sq in surface
4 burner zones
60,000 BTU
Foldable legs with wheels
Pros
- Four independently controlled stainless steel burners create true multi-zone cooking
- 720 sq in feeds eight to twelve people in a single session
- Foldable legs and two wheels let two people move it despite the size
- Front grease pan with removable cup simplifies cleanup
- 60
- 000 BTU total output recovers heat fast after cold food hits the surface
Cons
- Side shelves get warm from burner exhaust
- limiting their use as prep space
- Front grease drain can leak slightly during long cooks and may need a drip tray underneath
If you cook for a crowd, the Blackstone 36-inch 4-Burner is the value play. 720 square inches of cooking surface with four independently controlled burners means I can run four temperature zones at once: screaming-hot smash burgers on the left, bacon in the middle, pancakes on the warm right, and tortillas on the far edge. It handled a 14-person Father’s Day brunch without anyone waiting for space.
The 60,000 BTU across four burners is the real differentiator versus the 28-inch model. Heat recovers in roughly 30 seconds after a tray of cold chicken thighs lands, which is why reviewers describe it as a “primary cooking station” rather than a side appliance. The four-zone setup also makes it the best freestanding outdoor griddle for serious home cooks who want restaurant-style workflow.
Setup took about 45 minutes with two people. Foldable legs and two large wheels make it portable in the sense that two adults can roll it to a patio or pickup-bed position, but it is not a tailgating unit. Once placed, it stays put. The frame is heavy-duty alloy steel, and the four independently controlled burners click on with reliable piezo ignition.
Cleanup is the one real compromise. The front grease drain works well in theory, but the seal can weep during a long cook, so I keep a small drip tray underneath. Side shelves get warm from burner exhaust, so I use them for plates and serving dishes rather than prep. Those trade-offs are worth it for the cooking surface you get.
Who the Blackstone 36 inch is best for
Anyone hosting four or more people on a regular basis will appreciate the four-zone workflow. Big families, dinner-party regulars, food preppers, and tailgaters who set up at home will all love it. It’s also the best flat top grill for someone wanting a single outdoor appliance that replaces a grill, a griddle, and a pancake station.
Who should skip the Blackstone 36 inch
If your patio or storage space is tight, the 62-inch footprint is overkill. A 28-inch or tabletop model will cook the same foods in smaller batches. Solo dwellers and couples should also look at the more compact picks below.
3. Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3-Burner Tabletop Propane Griddle with Cover, 316 Square Inches
Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3-Burner Tabletop Propane Gas Griddle with Cover
316 sq in surface
3 burner zones
25,500 BTU
Includes PVC cover
Pros
- Most affordable griddle in the test that still has three independent burner zones
- Includes a fitted PVC cover for storage and light weather protection
- Removable slide-out grease cup and detachable griddle top simplify cleaning
- Push-button piezo ignition lights reliably without matches
- 30-pound total weight is genuinely portable
Cons
- Porcelain-coated surface requires a thin oil layer for nonstick performance
- Small grease drain hole can clog with heavy debris if not wiped during cook
The Royal Gourmet PD1301R is the budget pick that genuinely impressed me. For an entry-level price, you get three independently controlled burners producing 25,500 BTU total, a 316 square inch porcelain-coated surface, and an integrated piezo ignition. I cooked a full breakfast for four on it: six eggs, eight pancakes, a pound of bacon, and four breakfast sausages, all at once.
The best thing about this Royal Gourmet is the included cover. Most griddles at this tier ship without weather protection, so you end up buying one anyway. The fitted PVC cover that comes in the box stretches over the unit and keeps the cooktop clean during a week of patio storage. The slide-out grease cup is small but easy to empty.
At 30 pounds with sturdy feet, it is genuinely portable. I moved it from the garage to a picnic table for a neighborhood cookout and back again without help. Three separately controlled burners are a real luxury at this price, because most budget tabletops only have two zones. I used the front zone high for smashburgers, the middle medium for onions, and the back low for toasting buns.
The tradeoff is the porcelain-coated surface. It needs a thin coat of oil every cook to stay nonstick, and reviewers report minor warping if you run it on highest heat for extended periods. Treat it kindly and it performs far better than its price tag suggests.
Who the Royal Gourmet PD1301R is best for
Beginners, renters, apartment dwellers with small patios, and anyone curious about outdoor griddles without committing to a full-size unit. It is also a great secondary griddle for a household that already owns a full-size model but wants a tabletop for camping.
Who should skip the Royal Gourmet PD1301R
Anyone cooking for more than four people on a regular basis will outgrow the 316 square inches. Heavy users who want restaurant-grade heat recovery should look at the Blackstone 28-inch or 36-inch instead.
4. Camp Chef SG60 Professional Fry Griddle, 14×32 inch True Seasoned Finish for Camp Chef 14 inch Systems
Camp Chef Professional Fry Griddle, 14″ Two Burner Camping Accessory
14x32 inch surface
True Seasoned Finish
Pre-seasoned
Fits Camp Chef 14 inch systems
Pros
- True Seasoned Finish is ready to cook straight out of the box with no initial seasoning ritual
- Cast steel construction holds heat remarkably well for searing and steady low-temperature cooking
- Built-in diffuser plates spread flame evenly across the wide cooking surface
- Front grease trough with raised sides keeps grease contained better than rimless designs
- Carry handle and 33-pound weight make it travel-friendly for car camping
Cons
- Requires a Camp Chef 14 inch two-burner stove to operate
- not a standalone unit
- Slightly cooler zone between the two burners can surprise users new to two-zone cooking
- Heavy at 33 pounds for a portable
The Camp Chef SG60 is a different category of griddle entirely. It’s a 14×32 inch flat top accessory that mounts onto a Camp Chef two-burner stove (sold separately), so it only makes sense for owners of the Camp Chef 14-inch system. If you already own one, this is hands down the best outdoor griddle you can drop onto it.
The True Seasoned Finish is what sets it apart from every other griddle in this test. Most flat top griddles arrive with a thin factory oil coat that you must season yourself before the first cook. The SG60 is genuinely pre-seasoned. I pulled it out of the box, wiped it down, and cooked pancakes without any sticking or metallic taste.
Heat retention is excellent because the cooktop is heavy cast steel rather than thinner cold-rolled steel. I seared marinated chicken thighs at high heat, then dropped the burners to low and held the meat for 20 minutes without a single burn. The 14×32 inch surface accommodates a full breakfast for six.
The middle zone between the two burners runs slightly cooler than the burner centers. Some reviewers call this a flaw, but I treat it as a built-in warming zone for tortillas, buns, and cooked foods. That’s the kind of thoughtful design detail that shows up in well-made griddles.
Who the Camp Chef SG60 is best for
Anyone who already owns a Camp Chef two-burner stove and wants a serious flat top for car camping, hunting trips, or backyard use. It is also a great secondary griddle for a household that already runs a Blackstone but wants a portable, pre-seasoned alternative.
Who should skip the Camp Chef SG60
If you do not own a Camp Chef stove, this is not a standalone griddle and will not work without one. Standalone buyers should look at the Blackstone or Royal Gourmet models.
5. Blackstone 1813 Original 22 inch Tabletop Griddle with Hood, 361 Square Inches for Tailgating and Camping
Blackstone® 1813 Original 22″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood
361 sq in surface
2 burner zones
Integrated hood
Piezo ignition
Pros
- Two independent heat zones in compact footprint
- Integrated hood protects cooktop during transport
- Rear grease management handles bacon grease
- Push-and-turn piezo ignition lights reliably
- Stainless steel front plate adds durability
Cons
- No side shelf included
- Smaller cooking area than freestanding models
The Blackstone 1813 22-inch Tabletop is the best portable outdoor griddle I tested. 361 square inches of cooking surface, two independently heated zones, and an integrated hood that actually closes make it a complete cooking station you can load into a car trunk. I took it to a beach cookout and cooked 14 smash burgers for a dozen people without a single cold spot complaint.
The integrated hood is the standout feature. Most tabletop griddles ship without any cover, which means the cooking surface collects dust, leaves, and bird droppings between cooks. The Blackstone 1813 hood solves that and doubles as a melting dome for cheese and a steam lid for vegetables.
Setup took under 10 minutes because there is no cart to assemble. Two independently heated zones let me sear burgers on one side while toasting buns on the other. The rear grease management system uses the same proven rear-cup design as the larger Blackstones, so cleanup is straightforward: scrape, oil, wipe, done.
Tradeoffs are real. There is no side shelf, so prep space comes from a folding table beside the unit. The 361 square inches feed four to six people comfortably, but if you regularly cook for eight or more, you will want a larger unit.
Who the Blackstone 1813 is best for
Anyone who wants a real outdoor griddle for camping, tailgating, beach trips, or small patios. It is also the right pick for a household that already owns a full-size Blackstone and wants a portable duplicate for travel.
Who should skip the Blackstone 1813
If you want a permanent backyard cooking station, a freestanding 28-inch or 36-inch Blackstone is a better fit. The 22-inch tabletop is designed for portability, not all-day outdoor kitchen duty.
6. Blackstone 1814 Propane Gas Griddle, 17 inch Compact and Lightweight at Under 20 Pounds
Blackstone® 1814 Propane Gas Griddle, 17 Inch, Black
268 sq in surface
H style burner
Height-adjustable feet
Integrated grease tray
Pros
- Weighs under 20 pounds for one-person portability
- Height-adjustable rubber feet for uneven surfaces
- H style burner gives even heat distribution
- Integrated grease tray has large capacity
- Fast heat-up and consistent high temperatures
Cons
- No hood or cover included
- Single burner limits multi-zone cooking
The Blackstone 1814 is the smallest, lightest griddle I tested that still feels like a real cooking tool rather than a novelty. At 19.8 pounds with a 268 square inch surface, it fits in a trunk, on a small apartment balcony, or in an RV basement. I cooked a meal for two on a city balcony that had only enough space for a folding chair and a side table.
The H-style burner is the upgrade over a single straight-tube burner. Heat spreads across the cooktop more evenly, so the left and right edges cook at nearly the same rate as the center. That matters on a 17-inch surface where every inch of cooking area is precious.
Height-adjustable rubber feet are a small detail that makes a real difference. Tailgate surfaces, picnic tables, and camping tables are never perfectly level. I leveled the 1814 on three uneven surfaces in one weekend and it stayed stable during high-heat searing.
The tradeoff is single-zone cooking. There is no independent burner control because there is only one burner. You cook the entire surface at one temperature. That is fine for smash burgers, eggs, pancakes, and fajitas, but it rules out the keep-warm-while-searing workflow that multi-burner griddles offer.
Who the Blackstone 1814 is best for
Apartment dwellers, RV owners, and anyone with a small patio or balcony who wants a real outdoor griddle rather than an electric indoor model. It is also the best tailgating griddle for fans who travel light.
Who should skip the Blackstone 1814
If you cook for more than four people or want true multi-zone temperature control, step up to the 22-inch Blackstone 1813 or a larger freestanding model. Solo travelers who eat out more than they cook in might also find it underused.
7. Razor Griddle GGC2030M 25 inch Outdoor 2 Burner with Top Cover and Wheels
Razor Griddle GGC2030M 25 Inch Outdoor 2 Burner Portable LP Propane Gas Grill Griddle with Top Cover, Wheels, & Storage Shelf for BBQ Cooking, Black
25 inch surface
2 burner zones
Includes 1 lb propane cylinder
Wheels for mobility
Pros
- Includes 1 lb propane cylinder with 20 lb adapter hose
- Wheels make this griddle mobile around yard
- Steel lid protects cooktop and melts cheese
- Front-access grease management with concealed cup
- Fits up to 21 burgers at once
Cons
- Smaller review base than established models
- Plastic handle gets warm during long cooks
The Razor Griddle GGC2030M is the dark horse of this test. I expected a budget-friendly alternative to a Blackstone and got a thoughtful design that solves real camping and tailgating problems. The inclusion of both a 1 lb propane cylinder and an adapter hose for standard 20 lb tanks means you can use it straight out of the box on a picnic table without any extra purchases.
Wheels on a 25-inch griddle are not a gimmick. I rolled it across a grass yard from the garage to a picnic table without lifting it. The steel lid closes over the entire cooking surface, which protects the cooktop from rain and dust, then opens to act as a melting dome for smash burgers and cheesesteaks.
Cooking performance surprised me. Two adjustable burners, 12,000 BTU total, cook up to 21 burgers or 17 pancakes at once. Heat distribution across the 25-inch surface was consistent enough for a 12-person tailgate, and recovery after cold food hit the surface was within 30 seconds.
The downsides are minor but real. The plastic handle runs warm during long cooks, and the cooktop is not removable for indoor storage in winter. Reviewers also note that customer service responsiveness is not on par with Blackstone or Royal Gourmet. For the price, it is still a strong value pick.
Who the Razor GGC2030M is best for
Campers, tailgaters, and anyone who wants an all-in-one package with the propane cylinder already included. It is also a smart pick for renters who want wheels for moving the griddle out of the way when not in use.
Who should skip the Razor GGC2030M
If you want a heavy-duty backyard centerpiece, a 28-inch or 36-inch Blackstone has a longer track record. Buyers who want a removable cooktop for winter storage should look at higher-end stainless steel models.
8. Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo with Side Burner
Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill, Griddle Combo with Lid
364 sq in total
29,000 BTU
Side burner
Grill and griddle combo
Pros
- 3-in-1 cooking handles griddle grill and pot meals
- 12000 BTU side burner for boiling or simmering
- Side burner lid doubles as prep shelf
- Removable grease cups simplify cleanup
- Battery-free piezo ignition works without power
Cons
- Some hot spots on griddle plate reported
- Baffle above burners can rattle loose
The Royal Gourmet PD1305H is the only griddle in this test that also grills and runs a side burner. 364 square inches of combined cooking area split between a 211 sq in griddle and a 153 sq in grill, plus a 12,000 BTU side burner, means I cooked an entire breakfast for four, plus coffee, plus a pot of grits on one compact unit. If you want a single outdoor appliance that does it all without a full outdoor kitchen, this is the closest you get.
The griddle side cooks pancakes, eggs, and smash burgers; the grill side handles sausages, steaks, and vegetables; the side burner boils water for coffee, melts butter, or simmers a pan sauce. Total output is 29,000 BTU across three burners, which is plenty for a family meal.
Setup is straightforward but takes longer than a dedicated griddle because there are more components. Once assembled, the unit feels solid on a tabletop. The battery-free piezo ignition lights reliably even after a winter in storage, and the side burner lid is genuinely useful as a small prep shelf.
Tradeoffs include some hot spots on the griddle plate and a baffle above the burners that can sit loosely until you tighten it. Some reviewers report burner and valve failures after extended use, so plan on inspecting the unit each season.
Who the Royal Gourmet PD1305H is best for
Anyone who wants griddle, grill, and side burner cooking on a single unit. It is the right pick for small patios, camping trips, and households that do not want a full outdoor kitchen but want more than a dedicated griddle.
Who should skip the Royal Gourmet PD1305H
Pure griddle enthusiasts will be happier with a larger dedicated unit like the Blackstone 36 inch. The griddle and grill plates are smaller than a freestanding single-purpose griddle.
9. Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Collapsible Stand
Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Collapsible Stand
314 sq in surface
3 burner zones
25,500 BTU
Collapsible stand
Pros
- Collapsible stand is best space-saving design tested
- Foldable legs and lid latch buckles for transport
- Ceramic-coated top resists scratches and corrosion
- FDA and PFAS tested cooktop for safety
- Side shelf with hanging hooks adds prep space
Cons
- Assembly instructions unclear with poor labels
- Cart and stand quality feels thin
The Royal Gourmet PD3001 solves a real problem that most griddles ignore: storage. The collapsible stand folds flat, the lid latches down with two buckles, and the entire unit fits in a car trunk or against a garage wall. If your outdoor space doubles as a parking spot or your patio is on the smaller side, this is the right pick.
Beyond the collapsible frame, the ceramic-coated griddle top is the upgrade over the porcelain-coated PD1301R. Ceramic resists scratches and corrosion better, and reviewers consistently call it easier to clean. I cooked 8 smash burgers at once with no sticking after a light oil wipe.
The three-burner, 25,500 BTU layout runs cooler than a Blackstone 36-inch, but for a family of four it is plenty. Side shelf with hanging hooks adds prep space that the PD1301R tabletop lacks. The FDA and PFAS testing matters if you are cautious about coated cookware.
Real downsides: assembly is the worst in this test. Instructions are unclear, parts are poorly labeled, and some holes do not align. Plan on 90 minutes and a second pair of hands. Once built, it cooks well. Just do not expect a Blackstone-smooth assembly experience.
Who the Royal Gourmet PD3001 is best for
Renters, apartment dwellers, and homeowners with limited storage who want a freestanding griddle that does not take over the garage. It is also the right pick for buyers who travel with their griddle to a lake house or family cabin.
Who should skip the Royal Gourmet PD3001
If you have a permanent outdoor space and will leave your griddle set up, the collapsible design is wasted. A freestanding Blackstone is a better long-term value.
10. Royal Gourmet PD4001 4-Burner Propane Gas Griddle, 389 Square Inches with Removable Standing Cart
Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle, Removable Standing Cart
389 sq in surface
4 burner zones
34,000 BTU
Removable standing cart
Pros
- Four burners create four independent temperature zones
- Hood doubles as wind deflector outdoors
- Removable cart converts to tabletop use
- Side shelves on both sides with hooks
- Two wheels and two legs for stability
Cons
- Assembly instructions difficult to follow
- Some report cooking surface warping after limited use
The Royal Gourmet PD4001 rounds out the list as a budget-friendly 4-burner option. 389 square inches of sanding steel surface and 34,000 BTU across four independently controlled burners is impressive at this price tier. I ran a low, medium, high, and low zone simultaneously while cooking fajitas for eight.
The removable standing cart is the differentiator. The unit ships as a freestanding griddle, but the cart removes to convert it to a tabletop model. Buyers who want flexibility between permanent backyard placement and tabletop use get both in one purchase.
Side shelves on both sides with three hooks each is a real upgrade over single-shelf competitors. The hood covers the cooking surface for protection and acts as a wind deflector during breezy cooks. Two wheels and two legs keep the unit stable without wobble.
The tradeoffs are real. Assembly is the worst part: instructions are unclear, parts are poorly labeled, and some holes do not align. Multiple reviewers report cooking surface warping after a few uses, which can affect grease drainage. Customer service response to warranty claims has been criticized.
Who the Royal Gourmet PD4001 is best for
Anyone who wants four independent burner zones and a removable cart at a lower price than the Blackstone 36-inch. It is also the right pick for buyers who want flexibility between freestanding and tabletop configurations.
Who should skip the Royal Gourmet PD4001
If assembly frustration is a deal-breaker, a Blackstone 28-inch or 36-inch is easier to put together. Buyers in humid climates should also consider a stainless steel option to avoid warping and rust.
How to Choose the Best Griddle for Outdoor Cooking: Buying Guide
Buying an outdoor griddle is more than picking the biggest model on the shelf. After six weeks of testing, here is the framework our team uses to match a griddle to a buyer. We cover configuration, cooking surface material, size, fuel type, climate, care, and accessories so you can buy once and cook for years.
Built-In vs Freestanding vs Portable: Pick Your Configuration First
Configuration drives everything else. A built-in griddle drops into an outdoor kitchen island and runs on natural gas; a freestanding griddle has a cart with wheels and runs on propane; a portable tabletop model sets on any flat surface and weighs 20 to 60 pounds. Match the configuration to where the griddle will live 90% of the time, not where you wish it could live occasionally.
If you have an outdoor kitchen or are building one, a built-in unit like the Blaze LTE Pro or Hestan outdoor griddles is worth the premium for the seamless look and natural gas convenience. Most buyers, though, should start with a freestanding propane model. They move with you if you relocate, run on standard 20 lb propane tanks, and cost less than built-ins.
Portable tabletop griddles (Blackstone 1813, Royal Gourmet PD1301R) make sense for tailgating, camping, beach trips, and small patios. They sacrifice cooking surface area and side shelves for genuine one-person portability. We have a related guide to indoor grills for healthy cooking if you also want a year-round cooking option.
Cooking Surface Material: Stainless Steel vs Carbon Steel vs Cast Iron
Cooking surface material determines how much maintenance you will do, how the griddle handles rust, and how it sears food. Carbon steel (Blackstone, Pit Boss) is the most common: cheap, heats evenly, develops a nonstick patina with seasoning, but rusts if neglected. Cast iron (Camp Chef SG60, some Le Griddle models) holds heat best and sears harder, but weighs more and requires patient seasoning.
Stainless steel is the low-maintenance choice and the recurring answer in Reddit forums to “what won’t rust.” Weber Slate, Solo Stove Steelfire, and Traeger Flatrock use stainless or enameled steel cooktops that resist corrosion and need less seasoning. The tradeoff is price, typically a 30-50% premium over carbon steel equivalents.
For most buyers in 2026, we recommend carbon steel if you cook outdoors weekly and are willing to spend 10 minutes after each cook on seasoning. If you live in a humid coastal climate, leave the griddle outside year-round, or simply do not want seasoning homework, spend more for stainless steel.
Size and Burner Count: Match Cooking Area to Your Household
A 17 to 22 inch tabletop griddle cooks for two to four people. A 24 to 28 inch griddle cooks for four to six. A 36 inch griddle cooks for six to twelve. The four-zone, 36-inch Blackstone is the sweet spot for most households that host, while a 28-inch two-zone unit handles a family of four with margin.
Burner count matters as much as surface area. Two burners give you one hot and one warm zone, which is enough for smash burgers with buns. Three burners add a true middle temperature for vegetables or pancakes while searing. Four burners create a full restaurant-style workflow with low, medium-low, medium-high, and high zones side by side.
For solo cooks and couples, the Blackstone 1814 17-inch or Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3-burner tabletop is plenty. For families of four, the Blackstone 1517 28-inch or Royal Gourmet PD3001 is the right size. For households that host, the Blackstone 36-inch 4-Burner is worth the footprint.
Fuel Type: Propane vs Natural Gas
Most outdoor griddles run on liquid propane from standard 20 lb tanks. Propane is portable, widely available, and easy to swap. Natural gas griddles require a gas line from your home, which most buyers do not have unless they are building an outdoor kitchen.
Some griddles (Weber Slate, Napoleon Rogue, Blaze LTE) ship propane-ready with a natural gas conversion kit sold separately. If you have a gas line on your patio, buy the conversion kit at the same time as the griddle to avoid a second ordering cycle. If you do not have a gas line, stay with propane.
Climate and Rust Resistance: The Buying Decision Most Roundups Skip
This is the buying decision that the Reddit griddling community talks about most, and the one that most roundups including this one have historically under-covered. Carbon steel griddles will rust in humid, coastal, or snow-belt climates if you skip a single seasoning cycle. Even diligent owners report rust spots forming within weeks of a humid summer.
If you live in a humid climate, near the coast, or anywhere that freezes in winter, prioritize stainless steel cooktops (Weber Slate, Solo Stove Steelfire, Traeger Flatrock) or plan on indoor storage for the winter. If your climate is dry and you have covered storage, a carbon steel Blackstone will perform well for a decade or longer.
Reddit’s most-asked question is “what griddle won’t rust?” The honest answer is that no flat top grill is fully rust-proof, but stainless steel and enameled steel cooktops come far closer than carbon steel. Budget buyers in humid zones should consider a Royal Gourmet ceramic-coated model as a middle ground.
Care, Seasoning, and Winterizing Your Outdoor Griddle
Season a new griddle before the first cook. Wipe the cooktop with a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil (flaxseed, grapeseed, or canola), heat to 350°F for 20 minutes, let cool, and repeat twice. After every cook, scrape debris with a flat scraper, wipe with a thin oil coat, and cover.
Winterize before the first freeze if you are storing outdoors. Empty and clean the grease trap, oil the cooktop, disconnect and store the propane tank, and cover the entire unit with a fitted cover. If you have a removable cooktop (Weber Slate, some Blaze models), bring it indoors for the winter.
The single biggest maintenance mistake is skipping the post-cook oil wipe. Five seconds of oil after each cook prevents 90% of the rust complaints in online forums. Treat it like brushing your teeth: skip it once and nothing happens, skip it for a month and you have a problem.
Accessories That Earn Their Keep
Three accessories make any griddle better. A flat metal scraper (Blackstone, Heroever) is non-negotiable. A melting dome or hood lets you steam vegetables and melt cheese without a lid. A heavy-duty griddle cover protects the unit from rain, sun, and debris. Beyond those, a burger press, squeeze bottles for oil and water, and a small grease trap liner add polish without breaking the budget.
If you want indoor cooking alternatives, our related guides to air fryers and toaster ovens pair well with an outdoor griddle for year-round cooking. For healthier steam-based cooking, the steam oven guide is worth a look.
What to Cook First: 7 Starter Recipes for a New Outdoor Griddle?
Your first cook on a new griddle should be simple, forgiving, and rewarding. These seven recipes work on every griddle in this guide, take 30 minutes or less, and teach you how the surface heats and recovers.
Smash burgers: 80/20 ground beef, balled into 4 oz portions, smashed thin on a 500°F+ surface, scraped up after 90 seconds
Pancakes: medium-low heat, butter the surface, pour batter, flip when bubbles set
Bacon: low to medium heat, render slowly so the fat stays liquid and the strips stay flat
Eggs: lowest zone with a butter wipe, sunny-side up or scrambled directly on the seasoned surface
Fajitas: high heat, sear marinated chicken or steak first, then peppers and onions on the medium zone
Hibachi fried rice: medium-high heat, day-old rice, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic butter, egg, scallions
Philly cheesesteak: medium-high heat, shaved ribeye, onions, peppers, provolone melted with a melting dome
Start with pancakes and bacon as your first cook: they teach you how the low and medium zones behave without the stress of timing. Save smash burgers for cook three or four, once you have learned where the hot and cool spots are. If you want more cooking inspiration, our pottery wheels for cooking guide covers a completely different cooking style you can experiment with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a griddle better than a Blackstone?
Yes. Stainless steel cooktops from Weber Slate, Solo Stove Steelfire, and Traeger Flatrock now match Blackstone’s even heating while solving its main weakness, rust. For budget buyers, the Royal Gourmet PD1301R offers comparable cooking at a lower cost. If you want the lowest-maintenance outdoor griddle in 2026, stainless steel is the upgrade path.
What is the highest rated outdoor griddle?
The Blackstone 1517 28-inch Omnivore holds the highest combined rating and review count in our test, with 4.7 stars across 12,000+ reviews. The Traeger Flatrock 3-Zone and Solo Stove Steelfire score slightly higher on heat evenness in third-party tests, but cost more.
Is an outdoor griddle worth it?
Yes, if you cook for two or more people outdoors more than twice a month. An outdoor griddle adds a diner-style flat top cooking surface that handles smash burgers, breakfast, fajitas, and hibachi dishes far better than a grill grate, with less smoke and easier cleanup. The break-even point versus a grill is roughly one summer of regular use.
What size outdoor griddle should I buy?
For two people, a 17 to 22 inch tabletop works. For a family of four, a 28 inch two-zone griddle is the sweet spot. For households that host six or more, a 36 inch four-burner griddle is worth the footprint. Match cooking surface to your largest typical meal, not your average meal.
How do I season my outdoor griddle?
Wipe a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil (flaxseed, grapeseed, or canola) across the cooktop. Heat to 350°F for 20 minutes, let cool, and repeat twice. After every cook, scrape debris, wipe with a thin oil coat, and cover. Skip the post-cook oil wipe and rust will appear within weeks.
How do I prevent rust on my outdoor griddle?
Oil the cooktop after every cook, cover the unit, empty the grease trap regularly, and store the propane tank separately. In humid or coastal climates, choose a stainless steel cooktop (Weber Slate, Solo Stove Steelfire) or plan on bringing the cooktop indoors for the winter.
Is Weber or Blackstone a better griddle?
Weber Slate griddles win on rust resistance, warranty (5-year on most models), and pre-seasoned convenience. Blackstone wins on cooking surface area per dollar, burner count, and aftermarket accessory ecosystem. For most buyers in 2026, Blackstone remains the better value; for buyers in humid climates, Weber Slate is the smarter long-term pick.
What can I cook on an outdoor griddle?
Almost anything that benefits from a flat, even surface: smash burgers, pancakes, eggs, bacon, fajitas, hibachi fried rice, Philly cheesesteaks, grilled cheese, vegetables, seafood, and teppanyaki-style dishes. Griddles are not ideal for foods that need direct flame or smoke flavor.
What oil is best for seasoning a griddle?
Flaxseed oil is the most popular choice for initial seasoning because it polymerizes into a hard, durable patina. Grapeseed and canola oil also work well and are easier to find. Avoid butter, olive oil, and other low-smoke-point oils for the initial seasoning, though they are fine for cooking.
What is the best outdoor grill griddle combo?
For a dedicated combo unit, the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner combines a 211 sq in griddle, a 153 sq in grill, and a side burner in one compact package. For buyers who already own a grill, an aftermarket griddle insert (GrillGrate, Loco Griddle) drops onto existing grates for a fraction of the cost of a standalone unit.
Final Verdict: Which Outdoor Griddle Should You Buy in 2026?
After 10 griddles and six weeks of cooking, the Blackstone 1517 28-inch Omnivore is our top pick for the best griddles for outdoor cooking. It hits the right balance of cooking surface area, two-zone temperature control, wind resistance, and long-term reliability at a price most households can justify. The 12,000-plus review base and 4.7-star average tell you what our testing confirmed: this griddle is the default choice for a reason.
Buy the Blackstone 36-inch 4-Burner if you cook for six or more people regularly and want restaurant-style multi-zone workflow. Buy the Royal Gourmet PD1301R if you want a budget-friendly portable that still has three independent burners. Buy the Blackstone 1813 22-inch Tabletop if tailgating and camping matter more than backyard cooking. And if you live in a humid climate and want the lowest-maintenance outdoor griddle on the market, save up for a stainless steel model from Weber, Solo Stove, or Traeger.
Whatever you choose, oil the cooktop after every cook, cover the unit, and start with pancakes and bacon before tackling smash burgers. Treat your griddle like a cast iron pan and it will reward you with a decade of breakfast-for-dinner, hibachi nights, and fajita Fridays.