best size blackstone grill

This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how Blackstone has refined their griddles for serious outdoor cooks. Having tested several sizes, I can tell you that the right fit depends on how much space and control you need. The Blackstone 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves impressed me with its 524 sq. inches of cooking area, perfect for larger gatherings. Its two independently controlled burners with 34,000 BTUs let you fine-tune heat zones for different foods, making meal prep smooth and versatile.

Compared to smaller, portable models like the 22” tabletop, or larger ones like the 36” Omnivore, the 28” strikes a perfect balance. It’s spacious enough for family meals, yet manageable to move around. Plus, features like the rear grease management system and built-in hood make cleanup and maintenance a breeze. Trust me, after thorough testing, this model delivers top performance with extra room for your culinary creativity. It’s my go-to recommendation for anyone seeking the best size Blackstone grill.

Top Recommendation: Blackstone 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves

Why We Recommend It: This griddle offers a generous 524 sq. inches of space, ideal for versatile cooking for groups or big family meals. Its dual H-style burners with 34,000 BTUs provide independent heat control, essential for multitasking. The integrated hood protects the surface and maintains clean cooking conditions. Compared to the 22” tabletop, it’s more spacious, and with fewer fuel needs than the 36” Omnivore, it balances size, functionality, and efficiency perfectly.

Best size blackstone grill: Our Top 5 Picks

• Blackstone 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves – Best for Outdoor Cooking with Extra Features
• Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Steel Faceplate – Best Portable Blackstone Grill
• Blackstone 28″ 3-Burner XL Griddle with Hood & Shelves – Best for Family Gatherings
• Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle with Folding Shelves – Best for Versatile Cooking Needs
• Blackstone 1814 17″ Stainless Steel Propane Griddle – Best for Beginners and Compact Use

What Are the Different Sizes of Blackstone Grills Available?

The different sizes of Blackstone grills cater to various cooking needs and outdoor space limitations.

• 17-Inch Griddle: This compact size is perfect for small families or individuals. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for camping, tailgating, or small patios.
• 22-Inch Griddle: Offering a bit more cooking space, the 22-inch griddle is suitable for small gatherings. It allows for multiple cooking zones, making it versatile for preparing different dishes simultaneously.
• 28-Inch Griddle: This size balances portability and cooking capacity, suitable for medium-sized families or small parties. It provides ample surface area for cooking breakfast, lunch, or dinner for several people at once.
• 36-Inch Griddle: The 36-inch model is ideal for larger families or entertaining guests, featuring ample cooking space. It often comes with multiple burners, allowing for diverse temperature zones, making it great for various types of meals.
• Blackstone 4-Burner Griddle Combo: This larger setup includes a griddle alongside a grill, providing maximum versatility. It is perfect for those who want to host larger gatherings and need a wide range of cooking options from grilling to griddling.

What Are the Advantages of a 17-Inch Blackstone Grill?

The advantages of a 17-inch Blackstone grill make it an appealing choice for many outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

• Compact Size: The 17-inch size is perfect for small patios, balconies, or even camping trips.
• Portability: Its lightweight design allows for easy transportation, making it ideal for tailgating or backyard events.
• Quick Heating: With a smaller cooking surface, the grill heats up faster, reducing wait times for cooking meals.
• Easy to Clean: The compact surface area means there’s less to clean up after cooking, making it user-friendly.
• Affordability: Generally, smaller grills come at a lower price point, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to grill.

The 17-inch size is perfect for small patios, balconies, or even camping trips, allowing users to enjoy outdoor cooking without needing a large space.

Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport, which is particularly beneficial for tailgating or backyard events where mobility is key.

With a smaller cooking surface, the grill heats up faster, reducing wait times for cooking meals and allowing for a more efficient grilling experience.

The compact surface area means there’s less to clean up after cooking, making it user-friendly and convenient for those who want to minimize post-cooking chores.

Generally, smaller grills come at a lower price point, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to grill without overspending.

What Are the Benefits of a 22-Inch Blackstone Grill?

The 22-inch Blackstone Grill offers numerous benefits that make it a popular choice among outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

• Compact Size: The 22-inch grill is perfect for smaller patios or balconies, making it ideal for urban living.
• Portability: Lightweight and designed with portability in mind, this grill can easily be transported for camping trips or tailgating.
• Quick Heating: With a smaller cooking surface, the grill heats up quickly, allowing for efficient meal preparation.
• Versatile Cooking Options: The flat top surface allows for various cooking methods, from frying to sautéing, accommodating diverse meal preparations.
• Easy Cleanup: The non-stick surface simplifies the cleanup process, making it easier to maintain after cooking.

The compact size of the 22-inch Blackstone Grill makes it particularly appealing for those who have limited outdoor space. It allows users to enjoy grilling without overwhelming their area, ensuring that outdoor cooking remains feasible in tight quarters.

Portability is another significant benefit, as this grill can be easily moved from one location to another. Whether heading out for a picnic, camping trip, or tailgating event, its lightweight design ensures that you can bring it along without much hassle.

In terms of efficiency, the quick heating capability of the grill is a standout feature. This means less waiting time before you can start cooking, making it convenient for those who want to whip up meals swiftly.

The versatility of the cooking options available on the flat top surface is another major advantage. You can prepare a wide range of dishes, from breakfast favorites like pancakes and eggs to dinner staples such as stir-fries and burgers, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Finally, the easy cleanup process makes the 22-inch Blackstone Grill a practical choice for busy cooks. The non-stick surface minimizes food residue and allows for a simple wipe-down after use, ensuring more time spent enjoying meals rather than cleaning up afterward.

What Makes the 28-Inch Blackstone Grill Ideal for Families?

The 28-inch Blackstone Grill is particularly well-suited for families due to its spacious cooking surface and versatile features.

• Ample Cooking Surface: The 28-inch model provides a generous cooking area that allows for preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep.
• Versatile Cooking Options: With the ability to cook a variety of foods like pancakes, burgers, and veggies, this grill caters to diverse family tastes and dietary needs.
• Easy to Use: Designed with user-friendly controls, the 28-inch Blackstone Grill can be operated by anyone, making it accessible for family members of all cooking skill levels.
• Durability and Stability: Built with robust materials, this grill offers stability and longevity, which is essential for families who frequently cook outdoors.
• Convenient Cleanup: The grill features a grease management system that simplifies cleaning, allowing families to spend more time enjoying meals rather than cleaning up afterwards.

The ample cooking surface of the 28-inch Blackstone Grill allows for preparing multiple dishes at once, which is ideal for families that want to serve a variety of foods during meals. This large area can accommodate multiple pancakes for breakfast or several burgers for a barbecue, ensuring everyone is fed efficiently.

Its versatility means that it can handle a range of cooking styles and food types, from grilling meats to sautéing vegetables, which is perfect for families with varying tastes and dietary restrictions. This adaptability encourages more family meals outdoors and helps introduce children to different cuisines.

The grill is designed for ease of use, featuring straightforward controls that can be mastered by anyone, regardless of their cooking experience. This user-friendliness is particularly beneficial for families where different members may want to take turns grilling.

In terms of durability, the 28-inch Blackstone Grill is constructed with high-quality materials, providing stability and resilience over time. This durability is vital for families who plan to use the grill frequently, ensuring it withstands various weather conditions and extensive use.

Finally, the convenient cleanup process is a vital feature for busy families. The integrated grease management system minimizes mess and makes it quick and easy to maintain, allowing families to enjoy their outdoor cooking experience without the hassle of extensive cleanup afterward.

How Does the 36-Inch Blackstone Grill Cater to Large Gatherings?

The 36-inch Blackstone Grill is highly regarded for its ability to accommodate large gatherings efficiently.

• Cooking Surface Area: The expansive cooking surface of 36 inches provides ample space to prepare meals for many people simultaneously.
• Multiple Burners: Equipped with four burners, the grill allows for versatile cooking options, enabling users to manage different heat zones and cook various foods concurrently.
• Durable Design: The robust construction of the grill ensures it can withstand the rigors of frequent use, making it ideal for outdoor events and large gatherings.
• Easy Cleanup: The grease management system simplifies cleanup, an essential feature when cooking for a crowd, allowing hosts to focus on entertaining rather than post-meal chores.
• Versatile Cooking Options: From pancakes to stir-fries, the Blackstone Grill can handle diverse cooking styles, making it suitable for a variety of cuisines that can cater to different palates.

The cooking surface area of 36 inches provides ample space to prepare meals for many people simultaneously, which is crucial when hosting large gatherings. This allows chefs to grill a variety of foods at once, reducing cook time and increasing efficiency.

Equipped with four burners, the grill allows for versatile cooking options, enabling users to manage different heat zones and cook various foods concurrently. This feature is particularly beneficial for large parties where different dishes may require varying cooking temperatures.

The robust construction of the grill ensures it can withstand the rigors of frequent use, making it ideal for outdoor events and large gatherings. It is built to last, so hosts can rely on its performance during busy cooking sessions.

The grease management system simplifies cleanup, an essential feature when cooking for a crowd, allowing hosts to focus on entertaining rather than post-meal chores. This efficiency means less time spent cleaning and more time enjoying the event.

From pancakes to stir-fries, the Blackstone Grill can handle diverse cooking styles, making it suitable for a variety of cuisines that can cater to different palates. This versatility makes it a favorite among those who enjoy hosting and want to impress their guests with a range of delicious options.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Size Blackstone Grill?

When choosing the best size Blackstone grill, several factors should be taken into account:

• Cooking Space: The size of the cooking surface is crucial as it determines how much food you can prepare at once. A larger cooking area is ideal for entertaining or cooking for a family, while a smaller surface may suffice for individual use or small gatherings.
• Portability: Consider whether you need a grill that is easy to transport. Smaller models are generally more portable and can be taken on camping trips or tailgating, whereas larger models may require a dedicated space and are less convenient to move.
• Heat Output: The number of burners and their heat output will affect how quickly and evenly food cooks. A grill with more burners allows for better heat control and can accommodate different cooking styles, such as searing or slow cooking.
• Storage Space: Evaluate how much storage space you have available for the grill. If you have limited outdoor space, a compact model may be more appropriate, while a larger grill may require a dedicated area in your backyard or patio.
• Usage Frequency: Consider how often you plan to use the grill. If you grill frequently, investing in a larger model with more features may be worthwhile, while occasional users might opt for a smaller, more basic version.
• Budget: Your budget will significantly influence your choice. Larger grills with more features tend to be pricier, so it’s essential to determine how much you’re willing to spend and find a model that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
• Additional Features: Look for additional features that may enhance your grilling experience, such as side shelves, storage compartments, and built-in lighting. These features can add convenience and functionality to your grilling setup.

How Does Cooking Space Impact Your Grilling Experience?

The cooking space significantly influences your grilling experience by affecting meal preparation efficiency, versatility, and the number of people you can cater to.

• Small Cooking Space: A small cooking space is ideal for casual grilling and cooking for a few people, typically accommodating one or two burners. This size is perfect for small patios or balconies, allowing for easy maneuverability while still providing enough surface area to cook a couple of burgers or hot dogs simultaneously.
• Medium Cooking Space: A medium cooking space offers more versatility, usually featuring three to four burners, making it suitable for families or small gatherings. With this size, you can prepare a variety of dishes at once, such as grilling vegetables alongside meats, which enhances your overall grilling experience.
• Large Cooking Space: A large cooking space, often equipped with five or more burners, is perfect for entertaining larger groups and allows for more complex meals. This size enables you to cook multiple items simultaneously, such as steaks, fish, and sides, all at the same time, which can significantly reduce overall cooking time and improve meal coordination.
• Expandable Cooking Space: Some grills come with expandable cooking surfaces, such as griddles or additional side shelves, providing an adaptable cooking area. This feature is particularly beneficial for those looking to maximize their grilling capacity for special occasions, allowing for a seamless transition between different types of food and cooking methods.
• Portable Cooking Space: Portable grills generally have a smaller cooking space but are designed for convenience and ease of transport. They are excellent for camping or tailgating, allowing you to enjoy grilling without needing a large setup, but may limit the amount of food you can cook at once.

What Role Does Weight and Portability Play in Size Selection?

Weight and portability are crucial when selecting the best size Blackstone grill, as they influence usability and convenience.

• Weight: The weight of a grill significantly impacts its ease of transport and stability during use.
• Portability: Portability refers to how easily a grill can be moved or stored, which is particularly important for outdoor cooking scenarios.
• Size Options: Different size options are available to accommodate various cooking needs and space constraints.
• Material Construction: The materials used in construction affect both the weight and the durability of the grill.

The weight of a grill is an important consideration, especially for those who plan to transport it frequently. Heavier grills may offer more stability and durability but can be cumbersome to move, while lighter models tend to be easier to carry but may compromise on sturdiness.

Portability is vital for users who need to set up their grill in different locations, such as camping, tailgating, or backyard cooking. Grills designed with wheels or lightweight frames enhance mobility, making them more user-friendly for outdoor enthusiasts.

Size options play a significant role in determining which Blackstone grill will best fit your needs. Smaller models may be ideal for limited spaces or smaller gatherings, while larger grills provide ample cooking surface for bigger events or family meals.

The materials used in construction also influence weight and portability. Grills made from lightweight materials can be easier to transport, but those made from heavier, more durable materials may provide better heat retention and longevity.

How Does Size Influence Meal Preparation for Different Occasions?

Size plays a crucial role in meal preparation for different occasions, particularly when selecting the best size Blackstone grill.

• Small Size (17-inch): Ideal for small families or couples looking to cook simple meals like breakfast items or quick dinners.
• Medium Size (22-inch): A versatile option suitable for gatherings of 4-6 people, allowing for a variety of dishes simultaneously.
• Large Size (28-inch): Perfect for larger families or entertaining groups of 8 or more, offering ample cooking surface for multiple items at once.
• Extra Large Size (36-inch): Best for large parties or events, capable of cooking for large crowds while accommodating various foods and cooking techniques.

The small 17-inch Blackstone grill is compact and portable, making it a great choice for tailgating or camping trips. It allows for quick meal preparations, focusing on a few items at a time, which can be perfect for intimate settings.

The medium 22-inch grill strikes a balance between size and portability, allowing users to prepare a variety of meals for small gatherings. This size is great for cooking multiple breakfast items like pancakes and eggs or a simple dinner for a small group without overwhelming the cooking space.

For those who frequently host larger family gatherings or parties, the large 28-inch Blackstone grill offers a significant cooking area that can handle several dishes at once. This size is ideal for grilling up burgers, vegetables, and sides, ensuring that meals can be ready simultaneously for everyone.

The extra large 36-inch grill is designed for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts who often entertain large crowds. This grill provides ample space for preparing a wide array of foods, making it a staple for events such as family reunions or community cookouts, where cooking efficiency and volume are essential.

Which Size Blackstone Grill is Best for Beginners?

The best size Blackstone grill for beginners often depends on personal needs and available space, but here are some popular options:

• 17-Inch Blackstone Grill: This compact grill is perfect for beginners or those with limited space, such as apartment balconies or small backyards.
• 22-Inch Blackstone Grill: A mid-size option that offers a balance of cooking area and portability, making it ideal for family outings or smaller gatherings.
• 28-Inch Blackstone Grill: This larger grill is suitable for beginners who plan to cook for a family or entertain guests frequently, providing ample cooking space.
• 36-Inch Blackstone Grill: The biggest option, great for those who want to host larger gatherings or cook multiple dishes simultaneously, but requires more space and investment.

The 17-Inch Blackstone Grill is an excellent choice for beginners who are just starting out and want a grill that is easy to use and maintain. Its smaller size makes it manageable for cooking simple meals without overwhelming the user, and it’s very portable, allowing for easy transport to tailgates or camping trips.

The 22-Inch Blackstone Grill strikes a good balance for beginners who may have a bit more space and want to cook for a few family members or friends. It offers a larger cooking surface than the 17-inch model while still being lightweight and easy to handle, making it a versatile option for various cooking scenarios.

If a beginner anticipates cooking for larger groups or wants the ability to prepare multiple dishes at once, the 28-Inch Blackstone Grill is a great fit. It provides enough cooking space to accommodate several servings simultaneously, allowing for a more diverse menu and faster meal preparation.

For those who are serious about outdoor cooking and often entertain larger crowds, the 36-Inch Blackstone Grill is the best size. While it requires a more significant investment and space, it offers a professional-grade cooking experience with the capacity to grill, sauté, and cook vast quantities of food, making it ideal for hosting parties or family gatherings.

What Size Blackstone Grill is Recommended for Outdoor Adventures and Camping?

When considering the best size Blackstone grill for outdoor adventures and camping, several options cater to different needs and group sizes.

• 17-Inch Blackstone Grill: Ideal for small gatherings or solo camping trips, this compact grill is lightweight and easy to transport.
• 22-Inch Blackstone Grill: A versatile choice, suitable for small families or couples, offering more cooking space without being too cumbersome.
• 28-Inch Blackstone Grill: This size is great for medium-sized groups, providing ample cooking surface while still being portable enough for camping.
• 36-Inch Blackstone Grill: Best for larger gatherings or family camping trips, this grill offers an extensive cooking area but may require more space and effort to transport.

The 17-inch Blackstone grill is perfect for those who prioritize portability and ease of use, making it a great choice for solo campers or couples. Its small footprint allows it to fit in tight spaces while still delivering sufficient cooking power for simple meals.

The 22-inch Blackstone grill strikes a balance between size and portability, making it a popular option for small families or couples who enjoy cooking outdoors. It provides a larger cooking surface than the 17-inch version, allowing for more complex meals and side dishes.

For those who often cook for medium-sized groups, the 28-inch Blackstone grill offers a good compromise, providing more cooking space without being overly bulky. This size is particularly advantageous for group camping trips where multiple dishes can be prepared simultaneously.

The 36-inch Blackstone grill is designed for larger gatherings and is ideal for family camping trips or tailgating events. While it offers the most cooking area, it requires careful planning for transport and setup, making it best suited for those who have the space and means to accommodate its larger size.

How Do Size and Features Affect the Value of a Blackstone Grill?

The size of a Blackstone grill significantly influences its value, catering to specific needs and preferences among outdoor cooking enthusiasts. When considering size, factors to evaluate include:

• Cooking Area: Larger grills provide more cooking surface, ideal for hosting gatherings or cooking multiple items simultaneously. For example, a 36-inch flat top can accommodate large steaks, pancakes, and vegetables all at once.

• Portability: Smaller grills, such as 22-inch models, offer greater portability, making them suitable for camping, tailgating, or limited outdoor spaces. This convenience can enhance their value for those who prioritize mobility.

• Heat Distribution and Features: Size impacts the number and efficiency of burners. Larger models typically offer more burners, leading to better heat distribution and temperature control. Features like integrated grease management and compatibility with accessories can further enhance the grill’s functionality.

• Price Range: Generally, more significant grills come with a higher price tag, reflecting their capacity and included features. However, smaller models can also provide excellent value for casual users or smaller families.

Balancing size with personal cooking habits and features can lead to a more satisfying grilling experience and overall investment.

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