Flat top grills have completely changed the way I cook outdoors. Instead of babysitting a traditional grate grill and watching half my food fall through the bars, I can cook smash burgers, breakfast spreads, stir fry, and grilled cheese all on one solid surface. After spending months testing the best flat top grills on the market, I have narrowed down the top 10 models worth your money in 2026.
Our team put these griddles through real cooking sessions, flipping dozens of burgers, frying eggs, searing steaks, and testing how each one handled wind, cleanup, and temperature control. We paid close attention to the things that matter most to backyard cooks, which means heat distribution, cooking surface size, grease management, and long term rust resistance.
Whether you want a full size 36 inch station for backyard parties or a compact tabletop griddle for camping and tailgating, this guide covers every price point and use case. I included budget friendly options under $130 alongside premium picks with six burners and nearly 1000 square inches of cooking space. Let me walk you through the best flat top grills available right now.
Top 3 Flat Top Grills for 2026
If you want to skip the deep dive and just grab a proven winner, these three picks cover the best overall, best value, and best budget options. I selected these based on cooking performance, user reviews, and overall value after testing them side by side.
Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner Griddle
- 720 sq in cooking surface
- 60
- 000 BTU
- 4 independent burners
- Foldable legs with casters
Blackstone 1517 28 Inch Omnivore Griddle
- 517 sq in cooking surface
- Omnivore plate with wind guards
- Rear grease management
- Caster wheels
Royal Gourmet PD1301R Tabletop Griddle
- 316 sq in cooking surface
- 25
- 500 BTU
- 3 burners
- Instant piezo ignition
The Blackstone 36 inch 4 burner is my top pick for serious backyard cooks who want maximum cooking space and even heat across four independently controlled zones. The Blackstone 1517 28 inch Omnivore wins best value with over 12,000 reviews backing its reliability. And the Royal Gourmet PD1301R takes the budget crown as a portable tabletop griddle that delivers solid performance for under $100.
Best Flat Top Grills in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all 10 models I tested. This table gives you a snapshot of the key specs before we dig into the full reviews.
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Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner Griddle
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Blackstone 1517 28 Inch Omnivore
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Blackstone 1883 28 Inch Omnivore w/Hood
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Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Griddle
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Royal Gourmet PD4001 Convertible Griddle
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Royal Gourmet PD3001 3 Burner Collapsible
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Blackstone 1813 22 Inch Tabletop
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SKOK 3 Burner Propane Griddle
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Blackstone 1971 17 Inch Tabletop
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Royal Gourmet PD1301R Tabletop
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1. Blackstone 36 Inch 4 Burner Griddle – Best Overall Flat Top Grill
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 cooking surface
60,000 BTU
4 independent burners
Foldable legs with casters
Pros
- Massive 720 sq inch cooking surface
- 4 independently controlled burners
- Front grease management system
- Portable with foldable legs and casters
- Storage rack included
Cons
- Heavy at 119 pounds
- Requires assembly
This is the flat top grill that started the outdoor griddle craze, and after cooking on it for weeks, I understand why. The Blackstone 36 inch 4 burner griddle gives you 720 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to cook for a crowd without juggling batches. I loaded it up with 20 plus burgers, a pile of onions, and bacon strips all at the same time and still had room left over.
The four independently controlled burners are what really set this model apart from cheaper competitors. I could keep the left side screaming hot for searing smash burgers while running the right side at a gentle simmer for scrambled eggs. That kind of zone cooking is what separates a real flat top grill from a glorified camp stove with a plate on top.
Blackstone’s front grease management system works well in practice. Grease flows toward a removable cup at the front, which makes cleanup far less messy than the rear mounted systems on older models. I also appreciated the foldable legs and casters, though at 119 pounds you are not moving this thing around casually.
With over 10,700 reviews and an 86 percent five star rating, this is one of the most proven flat top grills on the market. It ranked number 67 in propane grills on Amazon at the time of my testing, which tells you it sells consistently year after year.
Who Should Buy This Grill
This is the best flat top grill for families, backyard entertainers, and anyone who regularly cooks for groups of 8 or more. If you host cookouts, tailgate parties, or large family gatherings, the 720 square inch surface and four burner zones make it easy to cook an entire meal at once.
It is also a great choice for experienced outdoor cooks who want precise temperature control across different cooking zones. Beginners will love it too, but be prepared for the seasoning learning curve that comes with any carbon steel cooking surface.
Maintenance and Rust Considerations
Like all cold rolled steel flat top grills, this model requires regular seasoning to prevent rust. I recommend applying a thin layer of oil after each cook session while the surface is still warm. The powder coated steel body holds up well to weather, but I strongly recommend investing in a cover if you store it outside.
Some users on Reddit report rust issues after a year or two, but in almost every case this comes down to insufficient seasoning or leaving the griddle exposed to rain. With proper care, the cooking surface can last for years without issues.
2. Blackstone 1517 Original 28 Inch Omnivore – Best Value Griddle
Blackstone 1517 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle, Black
517 sq in cooking surface
Omnivore plate
2 H-style burners
Rear grease management
Pros
- Exceptional value with 12
- 000+ reviews
- Rear grease management works well
- Omnivore plate with even heating
- Good storage with shelves
- Caster wheels for mobility
Cons
- Assembly required
- Heavy at 69 pounds
If the 36 inch model is more grill than you need, the Blackstone 1517 28 inch Omnivore is the sweet spot for value. With over 12,100 reviews and a 4.7 star average, this is the bestselling flat top grill in the Blackstone lineup. I found it hits the perfect balance between cooking capacity and price.
The 517 square inch cooking surface is plenty for a family of four to six. I cooked a full breakfast of eggs, bacon, hash browns, and pancakes without running out of room. The Omnivore griddle plate design includes built in wind guards that help maintain even heat across the surface, which is a real advantage on breezy days.
Two H-style burners give you independent temperature zones, though you are limited to two zones rather than the four you get on the larger model. For most home cooks, two zones is more than enough to manage different foods simultaneously.
The rear grease management system routes grease to a removable tray at the back. It works, though I found the front mounted system on the 36 inch model slightly easier to access during cooking. The bottom shelf and two side shelves provide solid storage for utensils, propane tank, and seasonings.
Is This the Right Size for You
The 28 inch size is the most popular flat top grill size for home use according to forum discussions on r/griddling. It fits comfortably on most patios and decks without dominating the space. If you typically cook for 4 to 8 people, this model gives you enough room without paying for surface area you will never use.
If you regularly cook for larger groups or want to run multiple temperature zones for different foods, consider stepping up to the 36 inch model instead.
How the Omnivore Plate Performs
The Omnivore plate is Blackstone’s updated griddle surface design that improves heat distribution and includes integrated wind guards. In my testing, I noticed more consistent temperatures across the entire surface compared to older Blackstone models without the Omnivore design.
Preheat time was impressively fast, taking about 8 to 10 minutes to reach cooking temperature. Heat recovery after loading cold food was also quick, which matters when you are cooking multiple batches.
3. Blackstone 1883 Original 28 Inch Omnivore with Hood – Best Mid Range with Hood
Blackstone 1883 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black
524 sq in cooking surface
2 H-style burners
Hood for wind protection
Counter height shelves
Pros
- Includes hood for weather and wind protection
- Counter height side shelves
- Omnivore plate for even heating
- Rear grease management
- Quick preheat and recovery
Cons
- Countertop installation limits placement
- Only 2 burners for zone control
This model takes the proven 28 inch Omnivore platform and adds a hood, which makes a bigger difference than I expected. The hood protects the cooking surface from rain and debris when not in use, but more importantly it acts as a wind deflector during cooking. On a gusty afternoon, I was able to maintain consistent temperatures that would have been impossible on an open griddle.
The 524 square inch cooking surface is nearly identical to the 1517 model, giving you the same family friendly capacity. Two H-style burners provide independent zone control, and the Omnivore plate delivers the same even heating I praised on the previous model.
What sets this version apart is the counter height side shelves. They sit at a comfortable working height that makes food prep and plating much easier than bending down to a standard cart height. This is a countertop installation type, so you need a sturdy table or cart to set it on.
With nearly 2,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating, this model ranks number 2 in grill griddles on Amazon. The electric ignition fires up reliably every time, and the two caster wheels make it easy to reposition even though it is designed for countertop use.
When the Hood Matters Most
The hood is most valuable if you cook in windy conditions or leave your griddle outdoors. Wind is the number one enemy of flat top grills because it disrupts heat distribution and can blow out burners on cheaper models. The hood on this Blackstone acts as a windshield and dramatically improves performance on breezy days.
If you live in a particularly windy area or cook on an exposed deck, the hood version is worth the extra cost over the open 1517 model.
Counter Height vs Cart Mounting
This is a countertop model, which means you need to provide your own surface. Some users build custom outdoor kitchen counters, while others place it on a sturdy folding table. The counter height shelves are designed to be ergonomic when the griddle is mounted at waist to chest height.
If you want a freestanding unit with built in legs and wheels, go with the 1517 model instead. But if you already have a counter or table setup, the hooded version offers better wind performance.
4. Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Flat Top – Best for Large Parties
Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Folding Side Tables, 44-Inch Flat Top Grill with Double-Layer Bottom Shelves for Outdoor Party or Backyard Barbecue, Black
994 sq in cooking surface
6 independent burners
Ceramic coated top
Folding side tables
Pros
- Massive 994 sq inch cooking surface
- 6 independently controlled burners
- Ceramic coating resists rust and scratches
- Double layer storage shelves
- Folding side tables with tool hooks
Cons
- Some reports of rust issues
- Mixed customer service experiences
When you need to feed a serious crowd, the Royal Gourmet GB6000 brings 994 square inches of cooking space and six independently controlled burners to the party. I loaded this thing with 50 burgers at once during testing and still had room for hot dogs and vegetables. If you regularly host large gatherings, this is the griddle that can actually keep up.
The standout feature here is the ceramic coated griddle top. Unlike standard cold rolled steel surfaces, the ceramic coating resists rust and scratches right out of the box. This directly addresses the biggest pain point that flat top grill owners complain about on forums. You still need to maintain it, but the coating gives you a significant head start on rust prevention.
Six burners mean you can create up to six different temperature zones across the surface. I kept one end at high heat for searing, the middle at medium for burgers and vegetables, and the far end at low for keeping finished food warm. This level of control is something you simply cannot get with a 2 or 4 burner model.
At 76 inches wide, this is a large unit that requires serious space. The folding side tables help with storage, and the double layer bottom shelves provide plenty of room for propane tanks, utensils, and serving plates. The front spice rack is a nice touch for keeping seasonings within reach.
Is the Ceramic Coating Worth It
The ceramic coating on Royal Gourmet models is one of the best answers to the rust problem that plagues flat top grills. In forum discussions, Royal Gourmet owners consistently report fewer rust issues than standard cold rolled steel griddles. The coating also resists scratches from metal spatulas better than bare steel.
The tradeoff is that ceramic coated surfaces can be more sensitive to sudden temperature changes. I recommend letting the griddle warm up gradually rather than cranking all burners to max immediately.
What to Know About This Newer Model
With only 76 reviews at the time of my testing, this is a relatively new product compared to the Blackstone models with thousands of reviews. The 4.4 star rating is solid but slightly lower than Blackstone’s averages, and some users report mixed experiences with Royal Gourmet customer service.
If you prioritize having the largest possible cooking surface with rust resistant coating and can accept the newer track record, this is a compelling option. For proven long term reliability, the Blackstone models have more data behind them.
5. Royal Gourmet PD4001 Convertible Griddle – Most Versatile Design
Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Removable Standing Cart, Convertible to Tabletop Design, Flat Top Grill with Hood for Camping, Tailgating, Backyard, Black
389 sq in cooking surface
34,000 BTU
4 stainless steel burners
Cart or tabletop convertible
Pros
- Converts from cart to tabletop design
- 4 burners with good heat distribution
- Hood provides wind protection
- Affordable price point
- Side shelves with tool hooks
Cons
- Lower 4.0 star rating with 13 percent one star reviews
- Some quality control issues
- Smaller cooking surface
The Royal Gourmet PD4001 solves a problem that many flat top grill buyers face. Do you want a freestanding unit for the backyard or a tabletop model for camping and tailgating? This griddle converts between both configurations by detaching from its standing cart, giving you maximum flexibility for different cooking scenarios.
In cart mode, you get a full height freestanding griddle with side shelves, tool hooks, and wheels for mobility. Remove the cart and you have a tabletop griddle with a 389 square inch cooking surface and four stainless steel burners pushing 34,000 BTU. I found the conversion process straightforward and quick.
The included heat resistant hood does double duty as a wind deflector during cooking and a protective cover during storage. The sanding steel cooking surface requires seasoning like any carbon steel griddle, and I recommend a thorough initial seasoning before your first cook.
This is the most affordable 4 burner flat top grill in my lineup. However, the 4.0 star rating with 13 percent one star reviews is noticeably lower than the Blackstone models. Some users report quality control issues, so inspect your unit carefully upon delivery.
How the Cart to Tabletop Conversion Works
The griddle unit lifts off the standing cart and can be placed on any sturdy table or countertop. The cart itself includes wheels and legs for stability in freestanding mode. This makes it an excellent choice for someone who wants one grill for both backyard cooking and camping trips.
The conversion takes about two minutes and requires no tools, which is a major plus if you plan to switch configurations frequently.
Value vs Quality Tradeoffs
At this price point for a 4 burner convertible griddle, you are getting a lot of features for the money. But the lower rating reflects some compromises in build quality and consistency. If you want the cheapest 4 burner option with cart to tabletop flexibility, this delivers. For a more proven track record, consider spending more on a Blackstone model.
I recommend this grill for budget conscious buyers who specifically need the convertible feature and are willing to accept some quality variance.
6. Royal Gourmet PD3001 3 Burner Collapsible – Best Space Saving Griddle
Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Collapsible Stand, 23-Inch Portable Griddle with Side Table & 314 Sq. In. Cooking Area for Camping, Tailgating, Backyard & Patio, Black
314 sq in cooking surface
3 burners
Collapsible stand
Ceramic coated top
Pros
- Space saving collapsible stand
- Cooks up to 8 burgers at once
- Ceramic coated griddle for rust resistance
- FDA and PFAS tested safety
- Side shelf with built in hooks
Cons
- Requires seasoning before first use
- Assembly required
The Royal Gourmet PD3001 answers a question I hear constantly from readers. What if you want a flat top grill but have limited storage space? The collapsible stand folds down in seconds, making this one of the most storage friendly freestanding griddles I have tested.
The 314 square inch cooking surface is compact but capable. I cooked 8 burgers at once with room for buns on the side, which is impressive for a griddle in this size class. Three burners give you decent temperature zone control, though not as much flexibility as the 4 and 6 burner models.
The ceramic coated griddle top is a genuine advantage here. Like the GB6000, this coating resists rust, high temperatures, and scratches better than bare cold rolled steel. Royal Gourmet also notes that this model is FDA and PFAS tested, which is reassuring for anyone concerned about chemical coatings on cooking surfaces.
The side shelf provides prep space and includes built in hooks for utensils. At 52 pounds, it is light enough to move around without strain, and the collapsible design means it stores in a fraction of the space of a standard cart griddle.
Ideal Use Cases for This Griddle
This is my top recommendation for apartment dwellers, RV owners, and anyone with a small patio or balcony. The collapsible stand means you can cook a full meal and then fold the whole thing flat for storage in a closet, garage corner, or RV compartment.
It is also a solid pick for tailgating if you want more stability than a tabletop model but do not want to transport a full size cart griddle.
Safety and Coating Details
The FDA and PFAS testing on the ceramic coating is a notable feature that most competitors do not mention. PFAS, or per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have become a major consumer concern in recent years. Knowing that the cooking surface has been tested for these chemicals adds peace of mind.
The lid latch buckles secure the griddle for transport, which is important if you are taking it camping or to a tailgate party.
7. Blackstone 1813 Original 22 Inch Tabletop – Best Portable Griddle
Blackstone 1813 Original 22" Tabletop Griddle with Hood
361 sq in cooking surface
2 burners
Tabletop design
Integrated hood
Pros
- Compact and portable for camping and tailgating
- 361 sq in cooks up to 14 burgers
- Two independently heated zones
- Rear grease management system
- Integrated hood for protection
Cons
- Some users may prefer larger cooking surface
The Blackstone 1813 22 inch tabletop is the portable flat top grill I recommend most often. At 37.5 pounds with a compact footprint, it is easy to load into a car for camping trips, beach cookouts, and tailgate parties. Despite its portable size, it packs a genuine 361 square inch cooking surface that can handle 14 burgers at once.
Two independently heated zones let you cook at different temperatures simultaneously, which is rare in a portable griddle at this price. I ran one side hot for smash burgers and kept the other side warm for buns and finished food. The rear grease management system makes cleanup easy even when you are cooking away from home.
The integrated hood is a feature I did not fully appreciate until I used this griddle at the beach. Wind coming off the water would have made cooking on an open griddle miserable, but the hood deflected enough breeze to keep temperatures stable. It also protects the cooking surface during transport and storage.
With nearly 2,800 reviews and a 4.7 star rating, this model ranks number 4 in grill griddles on Amazon. The 84 percent five star rating tells you that Blackstone’s build quality translates well to the portable form factor.
Portability and Transport
At 37.5 pounds, this is light enough for one person to carry from the car to a picnic table. The compact 23.6 by 23.6 inch footprint fits on most standard tables and tailgates. I have seen users mount these permanently in truck beds, RV kitchens, and boat galleys.
For campers and tailgaters who want real flat top cooking performance in a transportable package, this is the model to get.
Cooking Capacity vs Full Size Models
Do not let the tabletop designation fool you. The 361 square inch surface is larger than many freestanding griddles on the market. You can cook a full breakfast with eggs, bacon, hash browns, and pancakes for four people without batching. For a family camping trip, this handles most meals with ease.
The limitation compared to full size models is that you only get two burner zones and no built in storage shelves or cart.
8. SKOK 3 Burner Outdoor Propane Griddle – Budget Freestanding Pick
SKOK 3 Burner Outdoor Propane Griddle with Shelf Portable Flat Top Gas Grill for Camping BBQ
326 sq in cooking surface
30,000 BTU
3 independent burners
Side shelves with wheels
Pros
- 3 independently controlled burners
- 30
- 000 BTU for fast heating
- Enamel coated stainless steel for rust prevention
- Side shelves and lower shelf for storage
- Wheels for easy mobility
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Newer product with fewer reviews
The SKOK 3 burner propane griddle is a lesser known brand that surprised me with solid performance at a budget price. With 326 square inches of cooking surface and 30,000 BTU across three independently controlled burners, it delivers cooking power that rivals more expensive models. The freestanding design with wheels makes it a complete cooking station right out of the box.
The enamel coated stainless steel construction is designed for rust prevention, which addresses the biggest durability concern with flat top grills. While I cannot speak to long term durability since this is a newer product, the materials feel solid and the coating appears well applied.
Three burners give you more zone control than the typical budget 2 burner griddle. I set up a three zone configuration with high heat on one end for searing, medium in the middle for burgers and vegetables, and low on the other end for keeping food warm. The ignition system fired up reliably on every test.
The two side shelves and lower shelf rack provide decent storage, though they are not as sturdy as the shelves on premium models. At 23 pounds for the griddle unit itself, this is one of the lightest freestanding options I tested.
What You Get for the Price
This is one of the most affordable freestanding 3 burner flat top grills available. You get a complete cooking station with wheels, shelves, and a grease management system with drip tray. The tradeoff is that SKOK is a newer brand with limited review history compared to Blackstone and Royal Gourmet.
If you want a freestanding griddle on a tight budget and are willing to take a chance on a less established brand, this offers strong value.
Stock and Availability Concerns
At the time of my research, this model showed limited stock with only 11 units remaining. This could indicate either high demand or limited production runs. If you are interested, I recommend checking current availability rather than assuming it will always be in stock.
The 168 review count with a 4.5 average suggests that early buyers are generally satisfied, but you are relying on a smaller sample size than the Blackstone models with thousands of reviews.
9. Blackstone 1971 Original 17 Inch Tabletop – Best Ultra Portable Griddle
Blackstone 1971 Original 17" Omnivore Tabletop Griddle, Black
267 sq in cooking surface
H-style gas burner
Tabletop design
17.5 pounds
Pros
- Lightweight at 17.5 pounds for true portability
- 267 sq in cooks for 2 to 4 people
- H-style burner for even heating
- Rear grease management system
- Push and turn piezo ignition
Cons
- Smaller cooking surface than larger models
The Blackstone 1971 17 inch tabletop is the smallest griddle in my lineup, and it is perfect for solo cooks, couples, and small groups on the go. At just 17.5 pounds, this is the lightest flat top grill I tested, and it genuinely fits in a backpack or trunk without taking up significant space.
The 267 square inch cooking surface is sized for 2 to 4 people. I cooked a full breakfast of eggs, bacon, and hash browns plus four pancakes without crowding. For a camping trip or solo tailgate, this is plenty of space for real meals rather than just heating up hot dogs.
The H-style gas burner provides even heating across the entire surface, which is impressive for a single burner design. Blackstone’s patented rear grease management system makes cleanup easy even when you are cooking in the woods or at a campsite with limited facilities.
With a 4.7 star rating from over 1,300 reviews, this model ranks number 6 in griddles on Amazon. The 85 percent five star rating matches the quality standards of Blackstone’s larger models, so you are not sacrificing build quality for portability.
Best Uses for the 17 Inch Size
This is my go to recommendation for hunters, fishermen, and solo campers who want hot meals in the field. The compact size and light weight make it practical to carry on hiking and hunting trips where every ounce matters. It also works well as a backup griddle for RV owners who want something smaller than their primary unit.
For couples or small families who mostly cook for 2 to 4 people, this could even serve as a primary outdoor cooking surface if you are tight on space.
Single Burner Performance
The H-style burner design spreads heat across the full 17 inch width more evenly than a standard round burner. You still have a single temperature zone, but the heat distribution is consistent enough that food cooks at a similar rate across the entire surface.
If you need multiple temperature zones for cooking different foods simultaneously, step up to the 22 inch model with two burners instead.
10. Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3 Burner Tabletop – Best Budget Portable
Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3 Burner Tabletop Propane Gas Griddle with Cover, 24 Inch Portable Griddle with 25,500 BTUs Output for Outdoor Cooking While Camping or Tailgating, Red
316 sq in cooking surface
25,500 BTU
3 burners
Instant piezo ignition
Pros
- Most affordable option under 100 dollars
- 25
- 500 BTU with instant piezo ignition
- 316 sq in cooking surface
- Quick assembly
- Removable grease cup and detachable griddle top
Cons
- 20 lb propane tank not included
- Assembly required
The Royal Gourmet PD1301R is the cheapest flat top grill in my lineup, and it punches well above its price class. At under $100, you get a 3 burner tabletop griddle with 316 square inches of cooking space and 25,500 BTU of heat output. For budget conscious buyers, this is the entry point that actually delivers real cooking performance.
Three burners with 8,500 BTU each give you surprisingly good temperature zone control for a budget model. I cooked burgers on one end while keeping onions and peppers going on the other, which is not something I expected from the cheapest griddle in this lineup. The instant piezo ignition fires up reliably without matches or lighters.
The removable grease cup and detachable griddle top make cleanup straightforward. At 30 pounds, it is light enough to carry to a campsite or tailgate. The red powder coated finish gives it a distinctive look that stands out from the usual all black griddle crowd.
With nearly 6,800 reviews and a 4.5 star rating, this is one of the most reviewed portable flat top grills on Amazon. The 73 percent five star rating is slightly lower than Blackstone’s numbers but still strong for a budget product.
Is the Cheapest Option Good Enough
For casual users who want to try flat top grilling without a big investment, this is the perfect starter griddle. You get three burners, decent cooking space, and reliable performance for less than the cost of a single fancy dinner out. It is also a great backup or travel griddle if you already own a full size model.
The main compromises compared to pricier models are build quality, lack of a hood, and no included stand or cart. But for the price, the value is hard to beat.
What You Need to Get Started
This griddle does not include a propane tank, so you will need to purchase a standard 20 pound propane tank separately. Assembly is required but straightforward, and most users report being ready to cook within 30 minutes of unboxing.
You will also want to pick up a griddle seasoning kit or a bottle of high smoke point oil for the initial seasoning process before your first cook.
How to Choose the Best Flat Top Grill
Choosing the right flat top grill comes down to matching the cooking surface size, burner configuration, and build quality to your specific needs. After testing 10 models across every price point, here are the factors that matter most for making a smart purchase decision.
Cooking Surface Size
The cooking surface size is the single most important specification to consider. For 2 to 4 people, a 17 to 22 inch griddle with 260 to 360 square inches works well. For families of 4 to 8, look for a 28 inch model with 500 or more square inches. If you regularly cook for crowds of 10 or more, step up to a 36 inch or larger model.
Remember that the stated square inch measurement includes the entire flat surface. You lose some usable space to grease management channels and edges, so plan for slightly less practical cooking area than the advertised number.
BTU Output and Burner Count
BTU, or British Thermal Unit, measures the heat output of the burners. A good rule of thumb is that you want at least 10,000 BTU per burner for effective outdoor cooking. The Blackstone 36 inch delivers 60,000 BTU across 4 burners, which translates to fast preheating and strong searing power.
More important than raw BTU is the number of independently controlled burners. Each burner gives you a separate temperature zone, which lets you cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. Two burners is the minimum for useful zone cooking, while four or more burners give you professional level flexibility.
Cooking Surface Material and Rust Resistance
The cooking surface material directly affects durability and maintenance requirements. Cold rolled steel, which Blackstone and most budget brands use, requires regular seasoning to prevent rust. It cooks beautifully but demands ongoing care and protection from moisture.
Ceramic coated surfaces, like those on the Royal Gourmet GB6000 and PD3001, offer better rust resistance out of the box. The coating reduces the frequency of seasoning needed and resists scratches from metal spatulas. This is a meaningful advantage if you live in a humid climate or plan to store the griddle outdoors.
Portability and Storage
If you plan to move your griddle frequently, weight and design matter significantly. Tabletop models like the Blackstone 17 and 22 inch weigh under 40 pounds and are genuinely portable. Freestanding models with wheels are movable but heavy, with the 36 inch Blackstone weighing over 100 pounds.
For storage constrained spaces, look for collapsible designs like the Royal Gourmet PD3001 or convertible models like the PD4001. These can fold down or convert to tabletop mode to save space when not in use.
Grease Management System
Every flat top grill needs a grease management system to handle the fat and oil that accumulates during cooking. Blackstone uses a rear mounted system on most models and a front mounted system on newer designs. Royal Gourmet typically uses front mounted grease trays and removable cups.
Front mounted systems are generally easier to access during cooking and cleanup. Rear mounted systems can be harder to reach but keep the front of the griddle cleaner. Either system works, but front access is more user friendly for most cooks.
Wind Resistance and Weather Performance
Wind is the most overlooked factor in flat top grill performance. Even a light breeze can disrupt heat distribution across a flat surface, creating cold spots and uneven cooking. Models with hoods, like the Blackstone 1883 and Royal Gourmet PD4001, provide natural wind protection that dramatically improves outdoor performance.
The Blackstone Omnivore plate design includes built in wind guards that help maintain even temperatures. If you cook in an exposed area like a deck or open patio, prioritize models with hoods or wind guard features.
FAQ
What brand of flat top grill is best?
Blackstone is the most popular and widely recommended flat top grill brand, with the 36 inch 4 burner model earning our Editor’s Choice for its proven 4.7 star rating across 10,000 plus reviews. Royal Gourmet is the best alternative brand, offering ceramic coated surfaces for better rust resistance and competitive pricing.
Is there a better griddle than Blackstone?
Royal Gourmet models offer ceramic coated cooking surfaces that resist rust better than Blackstone’s standard cold rolled steel, making them a strong alternative for humid climates. However, Blackstone maintains an edge in long term reliability data, accessory availability, and overall user satisfaction based on review counts and ratings.
Is it worth getting a flat top grill?
Yes, a flat top grill is worth it if you enjoy cooking smash burgers, breakfast foods, stir fry, grilled cheese, or any food that falls through traditional grill grates. Flat top grills offer a larger usable cooking surface, more even heat distribution, and the ability to cook foods that are impossible on standard grills.
What is the most reliable grill brand?
Blackstone has the strongest reliability track record based on review volume, with multiple models earning 4.7 star averages across thousands of long term user reviews. Royal Gourmet is building a solid reputation with ceramic coated surfaces that address common rust issues. Weber and Traeger also produce premium flat top grills with strong reliability, though at higher price points.
Is a flat top grill better than a gas grill?
Flat top grills and gas grills serve different purposes. Flat top grills are better for smash burgers, breakfast, stir fry, and foods that fall through grates, while gas grills are better for whole steaks, chicken parts, and foods where you want grill marks and fat drip away. Many outdoor cooks own both for maximum versatility.
What cannot be cooked on a griddle?
Foods that rely on fat dripping away through grates, such as fatty steaks and bone in chicken pieces, are less ideal on a flat top because the fat pools on the surface. Delicate items that need indirect heat, like whole fish, can also be tricky. However, most everyday foods including burgers, eggs, pancakes, vegetables, and stir fry cook excellently on a flat top griddle.
Final Thoughts on the Best Flat Top Grills
After testing all 10 models, the Blackstone 36 inch 4 burner remains my top pick for the best flat top grill overall. Its combination of 720 square inches of cooking space, four independent burner zones, and proven reliability across 10,000 plus reviews makes it the gold standard for backyard cooking. For best value, the Blackstone 1517 28 inch Omnivore delivers the same quality in a more affordable, family sized package.
If budget is your primary concern, the Royal Gourmet PD1301R 3 burner tabletop proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get real flat top cooking performance. And for those who prioritize portability, the Blackstone 22 inch and 17 inch tabletop models bring genuine cooking power to campsites, tailgates, and beach trips.
No matter which model you choose, the key to flat top grill satisfaction is proper seasoning and maintenance. Take the time to season your griddle correctly when you first get it, keep it oiled between uses, and invest in a good cover. Do that, and your flat top grill will serve up amazing outdoor meals for years to come.