Key takeaways
- Budget: Portable tabletop griddles and entry-level Blackstone models, which cover the basics.
- Mid-range: Larger Blackstone models, including those with hoods and four zones. Griddle King lists Blackstone in the lower to mid price band.
- Premium: Weber Slate and Traeger Flatrock. Buyers pay for build quality, warranty, zoning and wind performance.
For most backyard cooks, a Blackstone griddle such as the 36-inch Omnivore suits buyers who want the most cooking space and accessory support for the money, the Weber Slate suits buyers who value build quality and a rust-resistant cooktop, and the Traeger Flatrock suits buyers who want a premium, wind-resistant, zoned griddle with a longer warranty. Roundups from Bob Vila, Smoked BBQ Source and Barbecue Men in 2026 share that general split. The best outdoor griddle for you depends on cooking space, portability and how much you will cook at once.
Our top picks
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Outdoor Griddles at a Glance
| Model | Best for | Key points reported | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blackstone Omnivore 36-inch | Value and large cooking space | Backyard Ranked reports about 769 square inches of surface and four independent heat zones; Bob Vila names the hood version best overall | Carbon steel needs seasoning and care; one-year warranty per one review |
| Blackstone 28-inch | Mid-size patios and families | Smaller footprint than the 36-inch; widely available accessories and parts | Fewer burners and less space |
| Weber Slate 36-inch | Build quality and even heat | Barbecue Men cites a rust-resistant cooktop and even heat | Higher cost than comparable Blackstone models |
| Weber Slate 22-inch | Tabletop or small patios | Bob Vila names it best tabletop, though heavy for portable use | Heavy; limited cooking area |
| Traeger Flatrock 3-zone | Premium zoned cooking | Reviewers cite a TruZone zoning system and wind-resistant FlameLock design; one source lists a five-year warranty | Premium tier; bulky |
| Portable tabletop griddle | Camping and tailgating | Smaller propane-fed units sold by several makers | Limited surface; uneven heat on some models |
What Separates One Griddle from Another
Cooking surface and burners
Cooking area decides how many burgers, pancakes or fajita vegetables fit at once. A 36-inch griddle with four burners handles a crowd, while 22 to 28 inches suits a family. Independent burner zones let you set one side searing hot and another side warm, which is useful when cooking different foods at once. The Blackstone Omnivore 36-inch is the model Backyard Ranked and Bob Vila highlight for this reason.
Material and build
Most griddles use rolled carbon steel, which heats evenly and develops a nonstick seasoning layer when oiled properly. Rust is the main enemy: after use, clean the surface, apply a thin coat of oil and, if the maker sells one, use a cover or hood. Weber’s Slate uses a different surface that Barbecue Men calls rust-resistant, which can appeal to buyers who dislike seasoning chores. Heavier steel generally holds heat better but weighs more.
Zoning and wind performance
Traeger positions the Flatrock around a TruZone system and a wind-resistant design called FlameLock, according to Thirsty Bear. These matter on breezy patios where flames can go out or lose power. The trade-off is premium pricing.
Warranty and parts
Thirsty Bear notes Blackstone has the widest range of models and the best availability of parts and accessories, while the Flatrock reportedly carries a five-year warranty against Blackstone’s one year. Check the current terms from the maker before you buy, since warranties change.
Portable griddles
Tabletop propane griddles are popular for camping and tailgates. They usually run on small propane cylinders and trade surface area for portability. Heat can vary more across the surface, so expect hot and cool spots.
Budget Tiers
- Budget: Portable tabletop griddles and entry-level Blackstone models, which cover the basics.
- Mid-range: Larger Blackstone models, including those with hoods and four zones. Griddle King lists Blackstone in the lower to mid price band.
- Premium: Weber Slate and Traeger Flatrock. Buyers pay for build quality, warranty, zoning and wind performance.
Fit, Safety and Care Notes
- Space. Measure your patio, leaving clearance on all sides as the maker’s manual requires. Gas appliances need open, ventilated spaces away from walls, overhangs and flammable material.
- Fuel. Most use a 20-pound propane tank, with small cylinders for tabletop models. Some models can connect to natural gas with a kit; follow the manual and use a qualified installer.
- Grease management. Empty the grease cup regularly and clean the trap. Grease buildup is a fire risk.
- Seasoning and rust. Season a new carbon steel top as instructed, oil lightly after each cook and cover the griddle.
- Safety. Never use a gas griddle indoors or in a garage. Check hoses for leaks with soapy water, keep children and pets away, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. If you smell gas, turn the supply off and move away from the unit.
- Weight. Large griddles are heavy. Plan to assemble with a helper.
Pick X If You Want…
| Pick this | If you want… |
|---|---|
| Blackstone Omnivore 36-inch | The most surface area and the biggest accessory ecosystem |
| Blackstone 28-inch | A family-size griddle without the large footprint |
| Weber Slate 36-inch | A rust-resistant top and Weber build quality |
| Weber Slate 22-inch | A compact tabletop option with solid construction |
| Traeger Flatrock | Zoned cooking and wind resistance at a premium |
| Portable tabletop griddle | Camping, tailgates and small patios |
Alternatives to Consider
- Flat-top insert for a gas grill: A cheaper way to add griddle cooking if you already own a compatible grill.
- Cast-iron plancha or skillet: Lets you griddle on an existing grill or campfire without a dedicated unit.
- Electric outdoor griddle: Suitable for covered patios where gas is not an option; confirm outdoor ratings with the maker.
Practical Buying Checklist
Decide how many people you usually feed. A couple cooking weekend breakfasts rarely needs the largest model, while a family that hosts regularly will appreciate four independent burners and a large surface. A bigger griddle also needs more fuel, more cleaning time and more storage space.
Think about where it will sit. A griddle needs open air, a stable level base and distance from walls, fences, railings and overhangs. Measure the cart, the side shelves and the hood, then compare to your patio. If you plan to move it often, look at the wheels and weight in the maker’s specification, since large steel griddles are heavy.
Look closely at the burner layout and ignition. Independent zones let you sear on one side while keeping food warm on another, and a reliable electronic igniter saves frustration on cool mornings. Grease management is just as important: a well-placed rear or side grease trap makes cleanup easier and reduces the chance of grease overflowing.
Finally, price in extras. Many owners add a cover, a hood if it is not included, a scraper, squeeze bottles, a cleaning brick and oil. Blackstone’s large accessory market is a point in its favor according to Thirsty Bear, whereas premium brands may include more in the package. Read the warranty terms and note whether they cover the burners, the cooktop and the cart separately.
Mistakes to Avoid
Common mistakes include skipping the first seasoning, leaving the cooktop wet after cleaning, and overloading a cold surface with food before the steel has heated evenly. Others are pushing the griddle too close to a wall, letting grease build up, and storing it uncovered through a wet season. Preheat patiently, scrape while warm, oil lightly, and follow the maker’s instructions for propane connections and leak checks. Seasonal use also matters. In cold or windy weather a griddle takes longer to heat and burns more propane, so a hood, windscreen or sheltered spot helps. In humid climates, rust can return quickly if the surface is left bare, which is why many owners oil the top after every cook. Before storing a griddle for winter, clean it thoroughly, oil it, disconnect the propane cylinder and cover it, following the maker’s storage guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which outdoor griddle is best overall?
It depends on the roundup, but Blackstone models lead many lists for value, with the Omnivore 36-inch named by both Bob Vila and Backyard Ranked. Barbecue Men puts the Weber Slate 36-inch first for most people. Traeger’s Flatrock is the premium alternative.
Do I need to season a griddle?
Carbon steel tops generally need seasoning to build a nonstick layer and resist rust. Follow the maker’s instructions for the first seasoning and oil lightly after each cook. Some surfaces, like the one on the Weber Slate, are described as more rust-resistant.
What size griddle should I buy?
For a couple or small family, a 22 to 28 inch griddle is usually enough. If you cook for groups, a 36-inch with several zones gives more room. Remember your patio space and storage as well.
Can I use a griddle in the rain?
Many makers advise against operating gas appliances in wet conditions, and rain on a hot steel top promotes rust. Use a hood or cover, and follow the manual’s instructions on weather and placement.
Is a more expensive griddle worth it?
Premium models like the Flatrock offer features such as zoning, wind resistance and a longer warranty. If you cook often or in breezy locations, those can be worth the extra cost. Casual cooks may do fine with a mid-range model.
How do I keep a griddle from rusting?
Clean it while warm, wipe it dry, apply a thin coat of cooking oil and cover it. Store it in a dry place, and re-season the top if you see rust or dull patches.
