8 Best Griddle Grills of 2026

The BLACKSTONE 1883 Original 28” Griddle is a powerhouse built for backyard chefs who demand serious cooking real estate and precise heat control. With 524 square inches of cooking space and dual H-style burners delivering 34,000 BTUs, this griddle handles everything from a weekend breakfast feast to a midday smash burger session with ease. Its rear grease management system is a game-changer—no more messy splatter or clogged trays—making post-cook cleanup almost enjoyable. If you’ve ever struggled with cold spots or uneven searing, this flat top answers the call with robust, consistent performance right out of the box.

In real-world use, the griddle heats up fast and holds temperature impressively, even when searing multiple steaks or cranking out pancakes for a crowd. The independently controlled burners let you create distinct zones: low and slow on one side, high-heat sear on the other—perfect for cooking eggs while browning bacon. The counter-height side shelves are a back-saver, offering ample room for prep and plating without hunching over. That said, it doesn’t fold or move as easily as some portables, and the lack of a cover in early models was a flaw—though this version includes an integrated protective hood, a smart upgrade for weather protection.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet GB4000P, the BLACKSTONE 1883 trades raw power and size for a more compact, stable build that’s ideal for permanent backyard setups. While it doesn’t offer the same 766 sq. in. sprawl, it delivers better heat retention and long-term durability thanks to its thick steel construction. It’s the go-to for home cooks who want premium features without the pro-level complexity, striking a balance between performance and practicality. For those stepping up from basic grills, this model offers more cooking intelligence and usability than most at its tier.

When cooking for a crowd is the mission, the Royal Gourmet GB4000P 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle steps up with jaw-dropping capacity and pro-level firepower. Boasting 766 square inches of pre-seasoned steel cooking surface and four 13,000 BTU burners totaling 52,000 BTUs, this griddle is built for tailgates, family reunions, and weekend warrior breakfast spreads. The foldable side shelves with tool hooks and knife strip add serious convenience, turning this into a mobile command center for outdoor chefs. If you’ve ever wished your griddle had more room, more power, and smarter storage, this model delivers on all fronts.

During testing, the GB4000P proved exceptionally responsive, heating up in under 10 minutes and maintaining high temps across the full surface—even in light wind. The stainless steel burners are durable and provide even flame distribution, minimizing hot spots that plague cheaper models. We cooked 15 pancakes, 10 eggs, and 8 burgers simultaneously with zero crowding, and the rear grease tray slid out cleanly, making cleanup a breeze. However, the sheer size means it’s less ideal for small patios, and the legs feel slightly narrow under full load, creating a slight wobble when leaning on the shelves.

Against the BLACKSTONE 1883, the GB4000P wins on raw cooking space and total BTU output, making it the clear choice for large gatherings. But it sacrifices some build rigidity and doesn’t offer the same even heat retention over long sessions. Still, for those who prioritize maximum capacity and versatile prep space, this griddle outshines most in its class. It offers more cooking real estate and smarter tool integration than any other mid-tier flat top, making it a standout for social cooks.

The Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle is a kitchen workhorse that brings professional-grade versatility to your stovetop. Measuring 9.5 x 16.75 inches, it perfectly spans two burners and gives you two cooking surfaces in one: a flat griddle on one side, ribbed grill on the other. Whether you’re searing steaks with restaurant-style char or flipping fluffy pancakes, this pan transitions effortlessly between tasks. Made in the USA from pre-seasoned cast iron, it delivers superior heat retention and even cooking, all without PFAS or non-stick chemicals—ideal for health-conscious families.

In practice, the Lodge griddle heats slowly but holds temperature like a champ, making it perfect for steady searing or slow-cooking hash browns without scorching. The ribbed side creates beautiful grill marks and lifts food above grease, while the flat side is ideal for delicate items like eggs or grilled cheese. It works flawlessly on gas, electric, induction, and even over a campfire, proving its rare adaptability across cooking environments. However, its heft makes it awkward to handle, and without proper care, it can rust—so post-cook maintenance is non-negotiable.

Compared to the Chefman electric griddle, the Lodge model offers far better sear power and durability, though it lacks temperature controls and requires manual heat management. It’s not for those seeking convenience—but for cooks who value time-tested performance and chemical-free cooking, it’s unmatched. For stovetop purists, this pan delivers more flavor, better browning, and longer lifespan than any electric alternative.

The Blackstone 28 Inch Original Omnivore Griddle 2206 redefines even heating and fuel efficiency in outdoor flat-top cooking. Thanks to Blackstone’s patented Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology, this model eliminates hot spots and warping, delivering uniform heat distribution across its 527 sq. in. surface—a major leap over traditional steel plates. With two independently controlled burners, you can manage multiple dishes at once, from simmering onions to high-heat searing, all without flavor transfer. Add in the smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handle, and you’ve got a griddle that’s as mobile as it is powerful.

Real-world testing showed the Omnivore plate heats up faster and stabilizes quicker than standard models, maintaining consistent temps even in 40°F weather. The rear grease management system works flawlessly—just push debris back and let it funnel into the cup. The side shelf with tool hooks keeps essentials within reach, though it’s smaller than some competitors’. While it doesn’t match the Royal Gourmet’s BTU output, it compensates with smarter heat engineering and reduced propane consumption, making it ideal for long cook sessions.

When stacked against the original BLACKSTONE 1883, this Omnivore version offers superior heat consistency and portability, but sacrifices the counter-height design and integrated hood. It’s not the largest or most powerful, but it’s the smartest performer in its size class. For those who prioritize even cooking and fuel economy over sheer size, this griddle delivers next-level precision in a portable package.

The Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo is a flavor chameleon, blending the speed of gas with the smoky depth of charcoal in one compact unit. With dual fuel capability, you can fire up the 12,000 BTU U-shaped burner for quick pancakes or load charcoal for a weekend brisket with authentic wood-kissed flavor. The 187 sq. in. cast-iron griddle and 140 sq. in. grill grate give you dedicated zones for simultaneous cooking—perfect for breakfast hash on the griddle and sausages on the grill. It’s the ultimate flavor-flexible rig for purists who won’t compromise on taste.

In testing, switching between fuel types was simple, though charcoal takes longer to heat and requires more cleanup. The griddle side heats evenly, but the grill section has slightly uneven flame distribution due to its compact burner design. The dual lids help trap heat and smoke, enhancing flavor when grilling, and the slidable grease trap and ash tray make post-cook cleanup manageable. However, the 327 sq. in. total cooking area feels cramped when using both zones fully, limiting large-group capacity.

Compared to the MELLCOM 3-burner, this combo offers more flavor versatility but less cooking space and power. It’s not the fastest or largest, but it’s uniquely suited for cooks who crave charcoal taste without sacrificing gas convenience. For those who want dual cooking methods in one affordable unit, it provides more culinary freedom than single-fuel griddles at this price point.

The Blackstone Omnivore 36” Griddle is the undisputed king of outdoor cooking stations, earning its title as the Best Overall with a perfect blend of size, intelligence, and durability. Featuring four independently controlled burners and 36 inches of cooking surface, it delivers restaurant-scale capacity with Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology ensuring laser-straight heat distribution across every inch. Whether you’re hosting a brunch party or running a backyard steakhouse, this griddle handles it all—no hot spots, no warping, no compromises.

In real use, the 36” Omnivore shines brightest when multitasking: searing ribs on one end, sautéing peppers in the middle, and flipping pancakes on the far side—all at once, all evenly. The two folding side shelves and magnetic tool strip keep everything organized, while the rear grease system keeps messes contained. The hard cover is a must-have for longevity, protecting the surface from rain and debris. It’s heavy, yes—but that weight translates to rock-solid stability and superior heat retention.

Against the Royal Gourmet GB4000P, it matches in power and surpasses in build quality and heat consistency. While both offer massive surfaces, the Blackstone’s Omnivore plate and four-zone control give it a clear edge in precision. It costs more, but you’re paying for engineered performance, not just size. For serious outdoor chefs, this griddle offers the most complete, professional-grade experience available.

The MELLCOM 3 Burner 30000 BTU Outdoor Gas Griddle is a portability pioneer, designed for adventurers who want serious cooking power on the move. Its modular, split-design cart lets you use the griddle standalone on a countertop or assemble it into a full mobile station—perfect for camping, tailgating, or small patios. With a 450 sq. in. thick cast iron plate and tri-zone burner system, it delivers excellent heat retention and precise control, preheating in under 5 minutes thanks to wind-resistant vent slots.

On the trail, this griddle proved incredibly stable and easy to transport, thanks to locking casters and a secure propane holder. The side table doubles as a lid, a clever space-saving trick, and the 8mm oil-leak holes prevent pooling and flare-ups. However, the burners max out at 30,000 BTUs, so it’s less aggressive than the Royal Gourmet or Blackstone 36”. And while the cast iron offers great sear, it’s slower to heat than steel and requires careful drying to avoid rust.

Compared to the Blackstone 28” Omnivore, it trades some heat speed and brand recognition for greater modularity and camping readiness. It’s not the fastest or largest, but it’s the most adaptable for off-grid cooking. For those who value ultra-portability and multi-environment use, it delivers more design innovation and field versatility than any other griddle here.

The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is a budget-savvy countertop hero, delivering surprising performance for indoor cooking on a dime. With a 10 x 20 inch nonstick surface and 1500 watts of power, it heats up quickly and offers plenty of room for family breakfasts or small dinner spreads. The removable temperature control makes cleaning a breeze—just pop it off and toss the plate in the sink or dishwasher. At just $39, it’s an unbeatable entry point for anyone needing extra cooking space without outdoor setup.

In daily use, it excels at pancakes, grilled cheese, and eggs, maintaining steady heat across most of the surface. The slide-out drip tray captures grease effectively, promoting healthier cooking with less oil. However, hot spots appear near the center, and it lacks the sear power of gas or cast iron models. It’s also not ideal for large meals or high-heat searing, and the plastic housing feels lightweight compared to premium builds.

Against the Lodge stovetop griddle, it wins on convenience and cleanup but loses on browning, durability, and flavor development. It’s not built to last a decade, but it’s perfect for apartments, dorms, or occasional use. For those who want a no-fuss, easy-clean electric griddle, it offers more value and functionality than any other sub-$50 option.