Key takeaways
- 17-inch versus 36-inch capacity: the 36-inch plate offers about 453 more square inches, enough to cook separate meal components simultaneously rather than in succession.
- BTU per square inch: the 17-inch model provides roughly 47 BTU per square inch, while the 36-inch model provides about 83. The larger model therefore has both more area and stronger recovery potential, though real performance depends on wind and temperature.
- Temperature zones: one burner is simple but limited; two burners suit most households; four burners give the 36-inch model the best control for mixed meals.
- Transport: a 17-inch unit can often be lifted by one person. A 22-inch unit is manageable but awkward. A 28-inch unit usually needs a vehicle and two-person handling. A 36-inch unit should be treated as a mostly stationary appliance.
- Fuel planning: all propane models consume fuel faster at higher heat. A 20-pound propane cylinder is more practical for patio use, while camping setups often favor a smaller cylinder only when the cooking session is short and local regulations permit it.
The best Blackstone griddles depend on where you cook: choose a 17-inch tabletop model for camping and tight patios, a 22-inch model for a practical two-burner compromise, and a 36-inch model when you regularly feed a group and have permanent outdoor space.
Our top picks
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Quick answer: which size should you buy?
| Griddle size | Approx. cooking area | Burners | Approx. total BTU | Typical weight | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17-inch tabletop | 267 sq. in. | 1 | 12,500 | About 20–30 lb | Camping, balconies, 1–3 people |
| 22-inch tabletop | 339 sq. in. | 2 | 24,000 | About 30–40 lb | Small patios, families, flexible cooking |
| 28-inch | 448 sq. in. | 2 | 34,000 | About 70–85 lb | Regular home use for 3–6 people |
| 36-inch | 720 sq. in. | 4 | 60,000 | About 110–130 lb | Large families, parties, meal prep |
These are representative specifications for common Blackstone propane griddle configurations. Exact dimensions, weight, ignition system, hood, shelves, and accessories vary by model and year, so check the specification label for the specific version before buying.
Best Blackstone griddle for camping: 17-inch tabletop
The 17-inch Blackstone tabletop griddle is the easiest size to justify for camping. Its roughly 267-square-inch surface can handle several breakfast portions, a few burgers, or a batch of vegetables without requiring a full cart. It generally uses one independently controlled burner and produces about 12,500 BTU.
Its main advantage is not maximum cooking speed but minimal equipment. Put it on a stable, heat-resistant table, connect a propane cylinder, and it is ready without transporting a wheeled frame. A hard-sided cover or carrying case is useful because the exposed cooking surface can collect dust and grit during travel.
The limitations are equally important. A single burner gives you one temperature zone, so cooking bacon while holding pancakes at a lower temperature requires careful timing rather than separate heat controls. The compact surface also becomes crowded quickly when cooking for more than three people.
17-inch fit calculation
A standard burger patty occupies approximately 20–25 square inches before allowing room for a spatula. In practical use, a 17-inch surface may cook about six ordinary patties at once, but four is more comfortable if you also need space for buns or vegetables. For two campers, that is ample; for a family of five, expect multiple batches.
Best compromise: 22-inch tabletop griddle
A 22-inch Blackstone offers about 339 square inches and two burners, usually totaling around 24,000 BTU. That extra surface is more useful than the raw area suggests because the two controls create separate hot and warm zones. You can sear meat on one side while warming tortillas, toasting buns, or holding cooked food on the other.
It remains portable enough for occasional camping, tailgating, or moving between a shed and patio, although it is noticeably less convenient than the 17-inch model. The two-burner layout also makes the 22-inch size a better long-term choice for a small household that cooks outdoors several times a month.
Choose the 22-inch model when you want tabletop portability but regularly cook complete meals rather than a single type of food. It is also the safer choice if you are unsure whether a 17-inch surface will feel cramped.
Best for a patio: 28-inch Blackstone
The 28-inch size is a strong middle ground for homeowners. With approximately 448 square inches and about 34,000 BTU from two burners, it has enough room for a family meal without the footprint and weight of a 36-inch unit.
Most 28-inch versions are designed for a stand or cart rather than being carried like camping equipment. Some include folding legs, shelves, a hood, or a front shelf, but those features can change the overall storage dimensions. Measure the space with shelves extended, not just the metal cooking plate.
The two burners are useful for temperature management, but the surface is not divided into permanent zones. The center may run differently from the edges depending on wind, seasoning, ambient temperature, and burner adjustment. Rotate food when cooking a large batch instead of assuming every part of the plate is identical.
Best for groups: 36-inch Blackstone
The 36-inch Blackstone is the best choice for frequent backyard cooking and large portions. Its approximately 720-square-inch plate is nearly three times the cooking area of the 17-inch tabletop model, and four burners provide much better control over separate zones.
That capacity can accommodate breakfast for a large group, several dozen burger patties in batches, or a combination of proteins, vegetables, and buns. The 60,000-BTU class output also helps the griddle recover after cold food is added, particularly in cool or windy conditions.
The trade-off is ownership logistics. A 36-inch unit is furniture, not camping gear. Its cart needs a level, ventilated location, and its weight makes moving it over steps or uneven ground difficult. A weather-resistant cover is worthwhile, but a cover does not replace drying the cooking surface after rain or washing.
Head-to-head: cooking surface, BTU, and portability
- 17-inch versus 36-inch capacity: the 36-inch plate offers about 453 more square inches, enough to cook separate meal components simultaneously rather than in succession.
- BTU per square inch: the 17-inch model provides roughly 47 BTU per square inch, while the 36-inch model provides about 83. The larger model therefore has both more area and stronger recovery potential, though real performance depends on wind and temperature.
- Temperature zones: one burner is simple but limited; two burners suit most households; four burners give the 36-inch model the best control for mixed meals.
- Transport: a 17-inch unit can often be lifted by one person. A 22-inch unit is manageable but awkward. A 28-inch unit usually needs a vehicle and two-person handling. A 36-inch unit should be treated as a mostly stationary appliance.
- Fuel planning: all propane models consume fuel faster at higher heat. A 20-pound propane cylinder is more practical for patio use, while camping setups often favor a smaller cylinder only when the cooking session is short and local regulations permit it.
Decision matrix for choosing the right size
| Your situation | Recommended size | Why |
|---|---|---|
| One or two people, occasional camping | 17-inch | Lowest carrying burden and adequate batch size |
| Two to four people, patio and occasional travel | 22-inch | Two burners without committing to a cart-sized appliance |
| Family of four, weekly outdoor cooking | 28-inch | Good working area with more manageable storage than a 36-inch |
| Five or more people, entertaining, meal prep | 36-inch | Maximum usable area and four-zone control |
| Small balcony or narrow storage area | 17-inch or 22-inch | Check clearance and propane rules before purchase |
Grease management: the feature that affects daily use
Blackstone griddles typically direct grease toward a drain opening and removable grease cup. This is convenient, but the cup needs attention after every greasy cook. Bacon fat, burger drippings, and sugary sauces can harden in the channel and restrict flow.
Before cooking, confirm that the grease cup is seated and that the drain opening is clear. Keep a heat-safe container nearby for warm grease; do not pour it into a household sink. On a tabletop model, protect the table from spills because the small footprint leaves less room around the drain cup.
Setup and maintenance that prevent common problems
- Place the griddle correctly. Use a stable, nonflammable, well-ventilated surface outdoors and follow the clearance instructions for the model.
- Check the propane connection. Inspect the hose and regulator, then use the manufacturer’s leak-check procedure whenever a cylinder is connected or a fitting has been disturbed.
- Preheat gradually. Give the plate time to heat evenly instead of immediately turning every burner to maximum. This reduces cold spots and helps prevent food sticking.
- Scrape while warm. Remove food residue with a suitable scraper, then wipe away excess oil. Avoid flooding a hot plate with cold water, which can damage seasoning and create steam burns.
- Protect the steel plate. Apply a very thin coat of cooking oil after cleaning and drying. Excess oil becomes sticky and attracts dust.
- Store it dry and covered. Moisture is the main enemy of a seasoned steel surface. If rust appears, remove it, re-season the affected area, and investigate whether water is entering through the cover or grease system.
Durability and ownership realities
The cooking surface usually needs the most care, while grease cups, igniters, regulator hoses, and plastic knobs are the parts most likely to need replacement over time. Wind can also affect burner performance and cooking consistency, especially on a small tabletop unit. A wind guard may help where the manufacturer permits one, but never block required ventilation or alter the gas system.
For most buyers, the best Blackstone griddles are not selected by BTU alone. Pick the 17-inch model when portability is the priority, the 22-inch model when you need flexibility, the 28-inch model for routine patio meals, and the 36-inch model when cooking area and multi-zone control matter more than storage.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 17-inch Blackstone large enough for a family?
It can cook a family meal in stages, but it is usually too small for serving four or more people simultaneously. A 22-inch or 28-inch model will reduce waiting and batch cooking.
Is a 36-inch griddle suitable for camping?
Usually not. Its size and weight make it impractical for most campsites. It is better suited to a fixed patio, outdoor kitchen, or dedicated entertaining area.
Does a higher BTU rating always mean better cooking?
No. BTU helps with heating and recovery, but surface thickness, burner placement, wind, lid use, and temperature control also affect results. A smaller griddle with fewer BTUs may still be the better choice if you need portability.
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