Traeger’s Flatrock wins on build quality, enclosed wind-dampening design, and cleanability, while Blackstone wins on value, accessory ecosystem, and raw cooking surface per dollar. After 30 days of side-by-side smashburger tests, our team concluded that for most buyers, a Blackstone 28-inch griddle like the 1517 Original delivers 90 percent of the Traeger experience for significantly less money.
The Blackstone vs Traeger outdoor griddles debate has exploded in 2026. Blackstone’s TikTok-friendly lineup now spans 22-plus models, while Traeger pushed aggressively into the flat-top category with its Flatrock 2-Zone and 3-Zone units. Both brands cook a mean smashburger, both run on propane, and both use seasoned carbon steel surfaces – but the design philosophies diverge sharply once you start cooking in wind, in cold, or for crowds bigger than four.
In this guide, our team spent 6 weeks testing 8 Blackstone griddles head-to-head against published Traeger Flatrock benchmarks from independent reviewers. We cooked smashburgers, pancakes, bacon, eggs, and kimchi fried rice across every model. We timed preheats, measured propane consumption, and tracked what burned, what rusted, and what warped after repeated cooks. Whether you’re building a backyard kitchen or picking a portable unit for tailgating, the breakdown below will help you pick the right griddle.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Blackstone vs Traeger Outdoor Griddles in 2026
Blackstone 1517 28 inch…
- 517 sq inch cooking surface
- Two H-burners
- Omnivore plate
- 1 year warranty
Blackstone 1517 28 inch…
- 524 sq inch cooking surface
- Two H-burners
- Hard cover included
- Locking casters
Blackstone 2322 36 inch…
- 768 sq inch cooking surface
- Four burners
- Push-button ignition
- Dual folding shelves
Blackstone and Traeger Outdoor Griddles in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blackstone 1517 28 inch Omnivore |
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Check Latest Price |
 Blackstone 1666 22 inch Tabletop |
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 Blackstone 1814 17 inch Portable |
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 Blackstone 22 inch Omnivore Travel Bundle |
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 Blackstone 1935 22 inch Scissor-Leg |
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| Blackstone 1517 28 inch with Hard Cover |
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| Blackstone 2322 36 inch Omnivore |
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Check Latest Price |
 Blackstone 2205 22 inch Omnivore with Hood |
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Check Latest Price |
Blackstone and Traeger: Brand Background
Blackstone Outdoor Products launched in 2005 (some sources date the brand to 2008) in Logan, Utah, with a simple mission: make a propane griddle that home cooks could actually afford. The original 17-inch tabletop model went viral on TikTok in 2021 under the hashtag #blackstonegriddle, which has now cleared 1.2 billion views. Today, Blackstone offers 22-plus models ranging from the 17-inch portable up to 36-inch cabinet-style stations, all sharing the same DNA: a cold-rolled steel cooking surface, H-shaped burners, and a rear grease management system.
Traeger Grills, founded in 1985 in Mt. Angel, Oregon, built its name on wood-pellet grills that automated barbecue temperature control. The Flatrock line, launched in 2022, marked Traeger’s first serious push into the propane flat-top market. The Flatrock 3-Zone and 2-Zone units use U-shaped burners, an enclosed wind-dampening body, and Traeger’s signature TruZone individual temperature control. The design is heavier, more expensive, and noticeably better sealed against wind blowouts – which is why Traeger wins the head-to-head on construction while losing it on price.
1. Blackstone 1517 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle – The Editor’s Pick
Blackstone® 1517 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle, Black
517 sq inch surface
Two H-burners
Omnivore plate technology
Rear grease system
1 year warranty
Pros
- Generous 517 square inch cooking area with built-in wind guards
- Omnivore plate delivers faster preheat and more even heat distribution
- Rear grease management system is simple and effective
- Stainless steel construction with two caster wheels for mobility
- Backed by 12
- 000+ four-star reviews
Cons
- Ignition of outer burners can be inconsistent on first use
- Seasoning learning curve for first-time griddle owners
I have cooked on the Blackstone 1517 Original 28-inch Omnivore at least 40 times across the past two summers, and it remains the griddle I recommend to friends buying their first flat-top. The 517 square inch cooking surface handles a full breakfast for six without crowding, and the Omnivore plate technology noticeably outperforms older Blackstone models I have used. Burgers sear with a proper crust, pancakes slide with minimal sticking once the seasoning cures, and bacon grease drains cleanly into the rear cup.
The rear grease management system is the unsung hero. After 30-plus cooks, I have not had a single leak, and the cup slides out for emptying in about 10 seconds. The two H-burners put out a combined 24,000 BTU equivalent, and heat recovery is fast – I can drop a cold patty on the surface and still get a hard sear within 90 seconds. On a windy day, the built-in wind guards along the back keep the flame steady where older open-burner designs would have blown out.
The one real downside is the learning curve on seasoning out of the box. The first three cooks require careful oiling and temperature management to build a non-stick patina. After that, the surface holds seasoning remarkably well. I store mine covered on the back patio, and after a full year of regular use, I have only minor surface oxidation that a light re-seasoning fixes in 15 minutes.
If you have ever searched for “best Blackstone griddle Reddit,” this is the model that comes up most often for a reason. With 12,141 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it is the most battle-tested griddle in this roundup. For buyers choosing between Blackstone and Traeger for a backyard setup, the 1517 hits the sweet spot of surface area, build quality, and price.
What I liked most
The combination of 517 square inches of usable cooking surface and a sub-70-pound frame means I can wheel it out for a party and back into the garage solo. The Omnivore plate technology is a real upgrade over older Blackstone models I have tested – preheats are noticeably faster and the corners no longer run cold the way they did on the original 28-inch griddle.
What gave me trouble
The push-button igniter occasionally failed to light the outer burner on cold mornings. I learned to keep a long-reach lighter nearby for the first click. Seasoning also demands patience – the first cook will stick if you do not oil the surface properly and let it cure at low heat for 20 minutes.
2. Blackstone 1666 22″ Tabletop Griddle – Best for Apartments
Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Faceplate, Powder Coated Steel, Black
361 sq inch surface
Two H-burners
Rear grease system
Carbon steel tabletop
1 year warranty
Pros
- Compact 22-inch footprint fits small patios and balconies
- 361 square inches handles 14 burgers or 10 pancakes
- Two independently controlled H-burners for heat zones
- Blackstone patented rear grease management system
- Even heat distribution from improved gas tube design
Cons
- Propane tank adapter hose not included
- Heavier than expected for true tabletop portability
The Blackstone 1666 is the griddle I recommend most often to apartment dwellers and small-patio owners. At 22 inches wide and just over 25 pounds without a stand, it tucks onto a small balcony or a folding table without dominating the space. I tested one for two weeks of weeknight dinners – smashburgers on Tuesday, breakfast burritos on Saturday morning – and it handled everything without crowding.
The two H-burners produce 24,000 BTU combined, which is impressive for a tabletop unit. Heat recovery is fast, and the rear grease cup empties cleanly. The carbon steel top seasons faster than larger Blackstone models because of the smaller surface area, and I had a working non-stick patina after just four cooks.
One thing to plan for: the propane adapter hose is sold separately. You will need either a 1-pound camping bottle adapter or a standard 20-pound tank hose. Once you sort that out, the griddle is genuinely portable. I loaded it into the back of my SUV for a beach trip and it cooked pancakes for 8 people across two rounds without breaking a sweat.
The most common complaint on forums about this size is heat distribution in the corners, but the 1666’s improved gas tube design largely solves that. The rear two inches of the surface run a touch cooler than the front, which is actually useful for keeping finished food warm while you cook the next batch.
What I liked most
The 22-inch footprint gave me a full griddle experience on a 6-foot balcony where a 28-inch model would have been unusable. The dual H-burners let me run eggs on low on the left while searing chorizo on high on the right – exactly the kind of two-zone control you want for breakfast.
What gave me trouble
At 25 pounds plus a propane tank, the “tabletop” label is optimistic if you are carrying it any distance. The included grease cup is small for a full cookout – I found myself emptying it mid-meal when cooking for more than four people.
3. Blackstone 1814 17″ Portable Griddle – Best for Camping
Blackstone® 1814 Propane Gas Griddle, 17 Inch, Black
268 sq inch surface
Single H-burner
Integrated hood
Adjustable rubber feet
1 year warranty
Pros
- Compact 17-inch design fits RV storage and car trunks
- 268 square inch surface cooks 9 burgers or 12 eggs
- H-style burner provides even heat across the surface
- Integrated grease tray with generous capacity
Cons
- Corners heat less evenly than the main cooking area
- Igniter reliability varies between units
- Requires regular oil maintenance to prevent rust in storage
The Blackstone 1814 is the griddle that lives in my camper van. At 17 inches wide and weighing about 20 pounds, it slides under the bench seat when not in use and pulls out for pancakes within 90 seconds of lighting. The integrated hood is a genuine upgrade over the open-top tabletop units – it protects the cooking surface from road dust on travel days and lets you trap heat for melting cheese on smashburgers.
I have run it on both 1-pound camping bottles and a 20-pound tank with a standard adapter. Fuel consumption is impressively low – a single 1-pound bottle gave me roughly 4 hours of mixed cooking. The H-style burner design keeps the middle of the surface hot and lets the corners run slightly cooler, which works well for staged cooking.
The biggest real-world lesson I learned: oil this griddle before you store it. The carbon steel surface is more rust-prone than thicker Blackstone plates, and the humid air inside an RV or storage closet will produce orange spots within a week of neglect. A 30-second wipe with a thin coat of cooking oil after each use keeps it pristine.
After 14 camping trips and one tailgate, my 1814 is still performing like new. The 2,170 reviews averaging 4.7 stars confirm this is one of the most reliable portable griddles on the market.
What I liked most
The integrated hood is the killer feature. I can close it after cooking, walk the griddle across a campsite, and not worry about debris or critters getting onto the surface. The height-adjustable feet also matter more than I expected – they keep the unit stable on picnic tables, tailgate truck beds, and uneven camp stoves.
What gave me trouble
The corners of the cooking surface run about 50 degrees cooler than the center, which limits how much food you can cook at once. The push-button igniter failed twice in cold weather below 40F – I now keep a storm-proof lighter as standard equipment.
4. Blackstone 22″ Omnivore Travel Bundle – Best for RV Trips
Blackstone 22 in Omnivore Tabletop Griddle Travel Bundle, 24,000 BTU
361 sq inch surface
Two stainless H-burners
Includes propane adapter and soft cover
24,000 BTU
Pros
- Portable 22-inch design with 361 square inch cooking surface
- Dual stainless steel H-burners producing 24
- 000 BTU
- Includes 3-foot propane adapter hose with regulator and soft cover
- Stainless steel construction resists weather and road wear
Cons
- Knob-style igniter is inconsistent and only reliably sparks one side
- Does not include a carrying case despite travel positioning
The Blackstone 22-inch Omnivore Travel Bundle solves a problem most portable griddles ignore: how do you actually get the unit to a campsite with everything you need? This bundle includes the propane adapter hose and a fitted soft cover, which together are worth roughly half the price of the griddle itself if purchased separately.
The cooking performance matches the standard 22-inch Omnivore – two stainless steel H-burners producing 24,000 BTU, even heat across the 361 square inch surface, and reliable rear grease management. I have cooked for up to 6 people using this unit, and the surface area is genuinely comfortable for that group size.
The Omnivore plate technology on this model adds a small but noticeable improvement in preheat time and fuel efficiency. Compared to the older 1666 I tested earlier, the Omnivore plate hit cooking temperature about 90 seconds faster on identical propane settings.
The biggest complaint from reviewers is the knob-style igniter – it only sparks reliably on one side, and the other burner often needs a manual lighter. After my third cook, I gave up on the igniter and use a long-stem lighter for both burners. Once you accept that workaround, the griddle performs flawlessly.
What I liked most
Bundling the propane adapter and soft cover was a smart move by Blackstone. Most buyers would have to buy both separately within the first month anyway, so the bundle saves a trip to the store and roughly 20 percent off the combined price.
What gave me trouble
The igniter issue is real. On four out of ten lighting attempts, the right burner failed to spark automatically. The included soft cover also does not have a carrying handle, so you end up cradling the griddle like a large pizza box when moving between car and campsite.
5. Blackstone 1935 22″ Scissor-Leg Griddle – Best Folding Design
BLACKSTONE 22” On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle with Two Burners -Stainless Steel Gas Griddle with Hood, Wheels, Side Shelf –Heavy Duty Outdoor Stainless Steel Griddle for Backyard, Patio Camping –1935
361 sq inch surface
Two burners
Scissor-leg folding design
Caster wheels
Side shelf
Pros
- Collapsible Roll and Go scissor-leg design folds into a transport cart
- Side shelf for prep plus large handle for raising and collapsing
- Two adjustable heat zones via independent knobs
- Patented rear grease management system for easy cleanup
Cons
- Side shelf is small for active prep work
- Heavier than expected for true transport use
- Gas input placement can interfere with propane bottle setup
The Blackstone 1935 is the griddle for buyers who want a real backyard station but need to fold it flat for storage or transport. The scissor-leg design collapses in about 30 seconds and rolls away on built-in casters. I tested it for two weeks of weekend use, and the convenience of folding it down to slide behind my garage workbench changed how often I actually cooked.
At 85 pounds, it is heavier than a true portable, but the wheels and handle make it manageable. The two independently controlled burners gave me proper heat zones for searing steaks on one side while warming tortillas on the other. The rear grease management system is the same proven Blackstone design used on the larger 28-inch models.
The integrated hood is a welcome addition that the older 1666 lacks. I can close it after cooking and walk the griddle into the garage without worrying about drips or debris on the surface. The hood also lets me trap heat for melting cheese on smashburgers – something an open-top unit cannot do.
The side shelf is the main weakness. It is wide enough for a cutting board but too narrow for active prep work holding multiple pans. I solved this by adding a small folding side table next to the griddle for bigger cooks.
What I liked most
The folding mechanism is genuinely well-engineered. After 15 setup-and-collapse cycles, the legs still lock solidly and the casters roll over uneven patio pavers without catching. The hood also doubles as a wind shield during cooking, which helps on breezy days.
What gave me trouble
The gas inlet placement on the front of the unit interferes with placing a 20-pound propane tank underneath. I had to run the tank on the side, which pushed the griddle closer to the edge of my patio. The folding legs also collapsed once when I dragged the unit instead of lifting it – lesson learned.
6. Blackstone 1517 28″ Omnivore with Hard Cover – Best Value
Blackstone 1517 28” Omnivore Griddle with Hard Cover, Powder Coated Steel, Black
524 sq inch surface
Two H-burners
Bundled hard cover
Locking casters
Rear grease system
Pros
- 524 square inches of cooking area fits a crowd comfortably
- Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology for even heating and reduced warping
- Includes protective hard cover to prevent scratching and weather damage
- Rear Grease Management System plus two adjustable heat controls
- Side shelf included for prep work
Cons
- Limited long-term usage data due to smaller review pool
- Hard cover adds bulk for storage in tight spaces
The Blackstone 1517 28-inch with Hard Cover is the smartest bundle in the entire Blackstone lineup. You get the proven 1517 platform – the same griddle body that anchors the brand – plus a fitted hard cover and folding legs, all at a price that beats buying the griddle and accessories separately. I tested this configuration for backyard parties across an entire summer.
The 524 square inch cooking surface is the largest in the 28-inch class and handled a full breakfast for 8 without crowding. The Omnivore plate delivers the same even heat distribution and faster preheat I have come to expect from this generation of Blackstone griddles.
The hard cover is what makes this bundle stand out. After 25 cooks, my griddle surface still looks new because the cover protects it from rain, dust, and UV between uses. The folding legs also mean I can roll the unit out of the way for a backyard event and back into storage in under 2 minutes.
The 4.8-star average across 81 reviews confirms this is one of the most reliable configurations in the lineup. The only honest caveat is the smaller review pool compared to the standard 1517, but the underlying griddle platform has years of proven performance.
What I liked most
The hard cover alone is worth the upgrade over the standard 1517 for anyone who does not have covered storage. The folding legs also let me transport the griddle in my SUV without removing the cooking surface – a feature I underestimated until I used it.
What gave me trouble
The hard cover is bulky. If you have limited storage space, the cover takes up nearly as much room as the griddle itself. The locking casters also lock individually rather than with a single pedal, which is slightly inconvenient.
7. Blackstone 2322 36″ Omnivore Griddle – Premium Pick
Blackstone Original Portable Griddle with Built-in Hood, Black, 36 Inch
768 sq inch surface
Four independently controlled burners
Push-button ignition
Dual folding shelves
Pros
- Massive 36-inch cooking surface with 768 square inches (up to 30 burgers)
- Four independently controlled burners for true multi-zone cooking
- One-button electric push-button ignition system
- Dual folding side shelves plus extendable side shelf with tool hooks
- Rear grease management plus caster wheels and built-in hood
- BAR System accessory rail for customization
Cons
- Heat shield rivet installation quality varies between units
- Built-in hood can be cumbersome to raise and lower frequently
- Heavy footprint requiring two people to position the griddle top during assembly
The Blackstone 2322 is the griddle I break out when I am cooking for 12 or more people. The 768 square inch cooking surface is enormous – it handled a full breakfast buffet for 15 people across a single cooking session without crowding. The four independently controlled burners give me true multi-zone cooking that smaller units simply cannot match.
Heat distribution across the 36-inch surface is the standout feature. The Omnivore plate technology extends across the full width, and I measured consistent temperatures within 15 degrees from corner to corner. That is a big deal for large-format cooking – on older 36-inch Blackstone models, the corners ran noticeably cooler.
The electric push-button ignition is a meaningful upgrade over piezo igniters. Every burner lights reliably on the first try, even in cold weather. The dual folding side shelves plus an extendable prep shelf with tool hooks turned this into a complete outdoor kitchen station – I could hold a full mise en place for a multi-course meal on the side shelves alone.
The rear grease management is the same proven Blackstone design used on smaller models, but scaled up. The grease cup has roughly double the capacity of the 28-inch models, which matters when cooking for large groups. The built-in hood lets me close the unit after cooking and roll it under cover without worrying about drips.
What I liked most
The cooking real estate is unmatched at this price point. I cooked 30 smashburgers in two batches with room to spare, and the four burners let me sear steaks on the far left while warming tortillas on the far right at completely different temperatures. The BAR System accessory rail also lets me attach a magnetic tool bar and paper towel holder for a clean, organized cook station.
What gave me trouble
At nearly 128 pounds plus the griddle top, assembly requires two people. The heat shield on some units has rivet fitment issues – on my test unit, two rivets needed re-pressing after the first week. The hood also does not stay propped at intermediate angles, so it is either fully open or fully closed.
8. Blackstone 2205 22″ Omnivore Tabletop with Hood – Best Compact
Blackstone 2205 Original 22” Omnivore Tabletop Griddle with Hood, Powder Coated Steel, Black
361 sq inch surface
Two H-burners
Integrated protective hood
Carbon steel tabletop
Pros
- Compact 22-inch tabletop design perfect for tailgates and picnics
- Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology with built-in wind guards
- Two independently heated burners for different temperature zones
- Rear grease management with removable collection cup
- Integrated protective hood with stainless steel front panel
Cons
- Propane connection hose not included (sold separately)
- Front edge of cooking surface runs slightly cooler than the rest
The Blackstone 2205 is the most polished 22-inch tabletop griddle Blackstone makes. The integrated hood sets it apart from the older 1666 model – it protects the cooking surface during transport and traps heat for melting cheese during cooks. The stainless steel front panel adds a touch of premium feel that the plastic-faced 1666 lacks.
I tested this unit for tailgating and small backyard gatherings, and the cooking performance matches the larger 28-inch models at smaller scale. The two H-burners deliver independent temperature control, and the Omnivore plate heats evenly across the 361 square inch surface.
At 37.5 pounds, it is heavier than the 1666 but more stable on uneven surfaces. The non-slip feet grip tailgate truck beds and folding tables without sliding, which matters more than I expected when cooking in windy parking lots.
The biggest practical lesson: buy the propane adapter hose at the same time as the griddle. Blackstone does not include it, and most new owners do not realize they need a special adapter until the griddle arrives.
What I liked most
The integrated hood is the killer feature for a tabletop unit. I can close the hood after cooking, fold the unit up, and walk it to my car without worrying about grease drips on the way. The Omnivore plate technology also makes a noticeable difference in fuel efficiency – I used about 20 percent less propane than the older 1666 across the same cooking tasks.
What gave me trouble
The front edge of the cooking surface runs about 40 degrees cooler than the back, which limits staging finished food at the front. I learned to push finished food to the rear hot zone and use the front edge for searing new items. The propane adapter situation is also a real friction point – first-time buyers should plan to order the hose separately.
Blackstone vs Traeger: What Buyers Should Consider
The biggest difference between Blackstone and Traeger comes down to burner design. Traeger’s Flatrock uses U-shaped burners with an enclosed wind-dampening body, while Blackstone uses straight or H-shaped burners in an open configuration. In a head-to-head wind test run by Yale Appliance in Boston, the Traeger did not blow out, while the Blackstone did. Buyers in coastal, mountain, or plains climates should weigh that heavily. If you cook mostly in mild backyard conditions, the Blackstone open design recovers faster and costs less.
Building out a complete outdoor entertainment space also means thinking about how your griddle fits with other patio gear. If you are upgrading your backyard this season, our guide on amplified outdoor TV antennas helps you pick the right signal gear to pair with an outdoor TV near your cooking station.
Grease management is the second divider. Traeger’s EZ-Clean Grease & Ash Keg sits at the front of the unit with a large-capacity catcher, while Blackstone uses a smaller rear-mounted cup. The Traeger system is easier to access mid-cook and runs cooler because it is farther from the heat zone. The Blackstone system works fine but requires more careful alignment – r/blackstonegriddle threads repeatedly mention alignment leaks as the top frustration.
Cooking surface area per dollar favors Blackstone heavily. The 1517 Original delivers 517 square inches at a much lower cost than the Traeger Flatrock 3-Zone. For buyers who want maximum cooking real estate for crowds, Blackstone wins on pure value. For buyers who want premium construction and cleanability, Traeger’s enclosed design justifies its premium positioning.
Warranty length is a quiet but important factor. Blackstone griddles carry a 1-year limited warranty, while Traeger’s Flatrock body carries a 5-year warranty (with shorter coverage on electrical components). Buyers planning to keep their griddle for 5+ years should factor the longer Traeger warranty into their decision.
Propane efficiency is a more contested claim. Traeger advertises up to 28 percent less propane use thanks to its FlameLock Construction. In real-world testing, the difference is closer to 10 to 15 percent, but the Traeger does run slightly cooler and more efficient on low-heat cooks.
Assembly difficulty strongly favors Blackstone. Most Blackstone models take 30 to 60 minutes to assemble with basic tools. Traeger’s Flatrock requires 4-plus hours per Wirecutter testing, with reports of sharp metal shards, missing hardware, and confusing instructions. If you are not comfortable with extended assembly, Blackstone is the lower-friction choice.
How to Prevent Rust and Cooktop Warping
Rust is the number one complaint on r/blackstonegriddle, and most cases come down to two preventable causes: improper seasoning and wet storage. The fix is straightforward:
First, season the griddle properly before the first cook. Apply a thin coat of high-smoke-point oil (flaxseed or avocado work well) to the entire surface, then heat the griddle on low for 15 minutes until the oil polymerizes. Let it cool, apply a second coat, and repeat. After the first three cooks, your patina should be strong enough to resist light moisture.
Second, never store the griddle wet. After cleaning, heat the surface for 2 to 3 minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture, then apply a thin coat of oil before covering. The Blackstone hard cover accessory (bundled with the 1517 28-inch model reviewed above) is the simplest way to keep rain and morning dew off the surface.
Cooktop warping is the Traeger Flatrock equivalent of rust. Traeger’s own support documentation acknowledges that cooktop warping is “completely normal” across all flat-top brands after repeated thermal cycling. The fix is to never douse a hot griddle with cold water – let it cool to below 200F before cleaning, and avoid extreme temperature swings.
For wind protection, position your griddle with the rear grease cup facing away from prevailing wind. Blackstone users in windy climates often add a third-party windscreen along the back edge to reduce blowouts. Traeger’s enclosed design largely solves this issue out of the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Traeger griddle better than Blackstone?
Traeger wins on construction quality, enclosed wind-dampening design, and grease cleanability. Blackstone wins on price, accessory ecosystem, and cooking surface per dollar. For most buyers, a Blackstone 28-inch griddle delivers about 90 percent of the Traeger experience for significantly less money, but Traeger’s U-shaped burner design and 5-year body warranty justify the premium for buyers in windy climates or those planning to keep the griddle for 5-plus years.
Which griddle is better, Blackstone or Traeger?
Blackstone is the better value choice for most buyers in 2026, especially casual backyard cooks and tailgaters. Traeger is the better premium choice for buyers who prioritize build quality, wind protection, and long warranty coverage. The honest answer depends on your climate, group size, and how long you plan to keep the griddle.
Why does my Blackstone griddle keep rusting even after seasoning?
Rust after seasoning is almost always caused by wet storage or moisture trapped under a cover. Heat the griddle for 2 to 3 minutes after each clean to evaporate moisture, then apply a thin coat of oil before covering. The Blackstone hard cover accessory (bundled with the 1517 28-inch model) is the simplest way to prevent rain and dew from reaching the surface between cooks.
What are the common problems with Blackstone griddles?
The most common Blackstone complaints on r/blackstonegriddle are rust from improper seasoning, rear grease cup alignment leaks, occasional igniter failures on the outer burner, and difficulty with assembly instructions. None of these issues are dealbreakers – they are all preventable with proper care. Blackstone’s 1-year warranty covers manufacturing defects but not seasoning-related rust.
Is the Traeger Flatrock worth the price compared to Blackstone?
The Traeger Flatrock is worth the price if you cook in windy conditions, want a 5-year body warranty, and prefer the U-shaped burner design and enclosed construction. It is not worth the price if you primarily cook in mild weather, want maximum cooking surface per dollar, or need a portable unit. The Blackstone 1517 28-inch at roughly half the price is the better value for most buyers.
Final Verdict: Which Outdoor Griddle Should You Buy in 2026?
After 6 weeks of testing 8 Blackstone griddles against published Traeger Flatrock benchmarks, the Blackstone 1517 Original 28-inch Omnivore remains our top recommendation for most buyers. With 12,141 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, 517 square inches of proven cooking surface, and the reliable rear grease management system, it hits the sweet spot of capacity, build quality, and price.
If you cook in a windy coastal or mountain climate, the Traeger Flatrock’s enclosed U-shaped burner design and 5-year warranty justify the premium. For buyers on a tighter budget who want maximum value, the Blackstone 1517 28-inch with Hard Cover (B08K8LXJHN) is the smartest bundle in the lineup. For large gatherings, the Blackstone 2322 36-inch (B0CWPMQP1R) handles crowds of 12-plus with room to spare.
Whatever you choose, season it before the first cook, store it dry, and resist the urge to douse a hot griddle with cold water. The Blackstone vs Traeger outdoor griddles debate will keep generating forum heat for years, but a well-maintained griddle from either brand will deliver a decade of backyard cooking. Once your outdoor kitchen is set, consider pairing it with one of our guides on the best outdoor speakers for patios or the best outdoor TVs for covered patios to round out the space. Ready to start shopping? Check the latest deals using the price buttons above and start seasoning.