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Buying your first griddle—or upgrading to a bigger, better model—is an exciting step in your outdoor cooking journey. But with so many sizes, fuel options, and feature sets available, the decision can quickly become overwhelming. Should you go with a portable 22-inch model for camping or a massive 36-inch drop-in for your built-in outdoor kitchen? Is propane better than natural gas? And what about those extra features like hoods, wind screens, and storage?

This comprehensive griddle buying guide breaks down every major decision point, from griddle size and fuel type to must-have features. By the end, you'll know exactly which Blackstone griddle fits your space, your cooking style, and your budget.

Why Your Griddle Size Matters Most

The first and most important decision is cooking surface area. Griddle size directly dictates how much food you can cook at once, which determines whether you can feed your family of four in one batch or need to cook in rounds. Here's a quick breakdown of common sizes and their best uses:

Griddle Size	Cooking Surface	Best For	Ideal User
17-inch	~170 sq in	Camping, tailgating, small meals	Solo campers or couples
22-inch	~340 sq in	Small patios, balconies, 2-3 people	Apartment dwellers, small families
28-inch	~470 sq in	Standard backyard cooking, 4-6 people	Most home cooks
36-inch	~720 sq in	Large families, parties, meal prep	Serious outdoor cooks, entertainers

For most households, the 28-inch size strikes the perfect balance. It offers enough space for a dozen burgers, a full breakfast spread, or a large batch of stir-fry, yet it fits comfortably on a standard patio table or cart. A standout option in this category is the 28" Griddle with Hood, which adds a hinged lid for heat retention and protection from the elements—a feature that dramatically expands your cooking versatility.

When to Go Big: The 36-Inch and Beyond

If you regularly cook for crowds of six or more, or if you enjoy meal-prepping dozens of portions at once, the 36-inch griddle is your ticket. Its dual independently controlled burners let you create distinct heat zones: high heat for searing on one side, low heat for warming on the other. For those building a permanent outdoor kitchen, consider a drop-in model like the Blackstone 50" Outdoor Kitchen Module with 36" Drop-in Griddle. This modular unit combines a 36-inch griddle with prep space, storage, and a sleek built-in look that elevates any backyard.

Propane vs Natural Gas: Which Fuel Is Right for You?

Fuel choice affects convenience, cost, and installation complexity. Here's how propane and natural gas compare:

• Propane: Portable, widely available, and ideal for freestanding griddles. Propane tanks (typically 20 lbs) last 10-20 hours of cooking, depending on heat level. Refills are cheap and quick. Best for renters, campers, or anyone who wants the flexibility to move their griddle.
• Natural Gas: Delivered via a permanent gas line to your outdoor kitchen. No tank refills, no running out of fuel mid-cook. Natural gas burns cleaner and is often cheaper per BTU. However, installation requires a licensed plumber and a fixed location. Best for permanent outdoor kitchens or homeowners with a dedicated gas stub.

Most Blackstone griddles ship with a propane regulator but can be converted to natural gas with a conversion kit. If you're planning a long-term outdoor kitchen, natural gas is the no-hassle winner. For portability and simplicity, stick with propane.

Key Features to Compare

Beyond size and fuel, modern griddles come with an array of features that can enhance your cooking experience. Here are the most important to consider:

Hood vs Open Grilling

A hood (or lid) allows you to trap heat, melt cheese, steam vegetables, or even bake small items like personal pizzas. The 28" Griddle with Hood is a perfect example—its hood turns a flat top into a mini convection oven. Without a hood, you rely entirely on the open griddle surface, which is better for high-heat searing and stir-frying but limits cooking techniques.

Wind Screens

Wind is the enemy of temperature control. Even a light breeze can cause uneven heating and flare-ups. A dedicated BLACKSTONE 28" WIND SCREEN attaches to the sides of your griddle to shield burners from gusts, ensuring consistent cooking temperatures. If you live in a breezy area, this is an affordable upgrade that makes a huge difference.

Storage and Accessories Integration

Look for griddles with side shelves, magnetic tool strips, or accessory hooks. For example, the Magnetic Tool and Beverage Holder attaches directly to the griddle frame, giving you a place to hang spatulas and tongs while keeping a cold drink within reach. Such thoughtful design details make cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Ignition and Temperature Control

Most Blackstone griddles feature a piezo or battery-powered push-button ignition. Higher-end models offer dual or triple burners with independent control, allowing you to create distinct heat zones. If you plan to cook different foods simultaneously (e.g., searing steak on one side and sautéing onions on the other), multi-burner control is essential.

Portable vs Stationary Griddles

Your intended use dictates whether you need a portable or stationary griddle:

• Portable (17-22 inch): Lightweight, easy to carry, and often foldable. Perfect for camping, tailgating, or small balconies. Some models come with a carry bag for transport.
• Cart-Mounted (28-36 inch): Wheeled carts with side shelves and storage. Stable enough for regular backyard use but still movable. The best option for most homeowners.
• Drop-In/Built-In (36 inch): Designed to be installed into an outdoor kitchen countertop. Permanent, heavy-duty, and requires professional installation. Ideal for those who want a seamless, high-end look.

Accessories That Complete Your Griddle Setup

Once you've chosen your griddle, the right accessories unlock its full potential. For beginners, a Smash Burger Kit turns your flat top into a smash burger station with a heavy-duty press and parchment paper rounds. For flavor experimentation, the Sweet Teriyaki Seasoning adds an umami-sweet glaze to meats, vegetables, and even fried rice. Other essentials include a quality griddle cover (to protect against weather), a grease cup liner system, and a sturdy spatula set.

Budget Considerations: What to Spend

Griddle prices range from under $200 for a basic 17-inch portable model to over $1,200 for a premium 36-inch drop-in with full outdoor kitchen module. Here's a rough guide:

• Entry-Level ($100-$300): 17-22 inch portable griddles. Good for occasional use or camping.
• Mid-Range ($300-$600): 28-inch cart models with hoods. The sweet spot for most families.
• High-End ($600-$1,200+): 36-inch cart or drop-in griddles with multiple burners, large cooking surface, and built-in storage.

Remember that the griddle is just the start. Factor in the cost of a cover, a propane tank (if not included), and essential accessories like spatulas and a grease management system.

Final Recommendation

For the best all-around value, the 28" Griddle with Hood is hard to beat. It offers enough space for most families, the hood adds cooking versatility, and the price is reasonable. If you're building a permanent outdoor kitchen, invest in the Blackstone 50" Outdoor Kitchen Module with 36" Drop-in Griddle for a professional-grade setup that will last for years.

Ready to Choose Your Perfect Griddle?

We hope this guide has clarified the key decisions—size, fuel, features, and budget. Now it's time to put that knowledge into action. Explore our full range of Blackstone griddles and find the model that matches your outdoor cooking dreams. Whether you're a weekend breakfast warrior or a backyard entertainer, the perfect griddle is waiting for you.