Traditional grills frustrate BBQ enthusiasts with flare-ups, uneven cooking, and limited food options. The best flat top grill transforms outdoor cooking through its versatile surface and precise temperature control.
Home cooks and professional chefs have embraced flat top grills, also known as outdoor griddles. These propane-powered cooking stations combine generous cooking space with superior heat distribution. The cooking surface lets you prepare everything from breakfast classics to hibachi-style dinners. This guide gets into seven flat top grills and compares their features, performance, and value to help you choose the right one for your outdoor cooking needs.
Image Source: Blackstone Products
The Blackstone 36-inch Griddle Station is the life-blood of the flat top grill market. This flagship model combines strong construction with versatile cooking capabilities and shows why Blackstone leads the outdoor cooking equipment industry.
This griddle packs an impressive 768 square inches of cooking surface that measures 35¾ inches wide by 21½ inches deep. The unit stands firmly on four industrial-strength wheels that make it easy to move around. You’ll love the foldable side shelves (20½” W x 13¼” D) that give you extra workspace. A built-in paper towel holder and rear grease management system make cleanup a breeze.
The practical construction features:
Four independently controlled burners power this flat top grill, delivering a combined 60,000 BTUs of cooking power. The heat output lets you cook up to 30 burgers or 126 hot dogs at once. Each heat zone works independently so you can cook different foods at different temperatures across the surface.
Prices vary between retailers. The standard 36-inch model costs $399.00 at Blackstone’s official store. Budget-conscious buyers can find better deals:
This griddle’s value goes beyond its original price. Its versatility replaces multiple cooking appliances, making it a budget-friendly investment for outdoor cooking fans. The strong construction, rear grease management system, and industrial-strength wheels will give you years of reliable service.
Blackstone also offers premium models with hard covers and stainless steel construction. These versions cost more but add durability and cooking options. The standard model has everything you need to rank among the best flat top grills in its class, while premium versions suit those who want extra features.
Image Source: Weber
Weber’s 36-inch Gas Griddle sets new standards for flat top grills with its precise engineering and decades of grilling expertise. This premium cooking station brings together Weber’s quality and modern griddle technology.
The heart of this best flat top grill is its 756 square inches of cooking surface. Two sturdy side tables provide ample space for food prep and serving, along with four tool hooks that add convenience. A front-access grease management system with a high-capacity pull-out tray and disposable liners makes cleanup quick and simple.
Key design features include:
Four high-efficiency stainless steel burners power this griddle with a combined 60,000 BTUs. The surface temperature reaches beyond 500°F and delivers excellent searing results. Heat spreads evenly across the cooking surface with only slight temperature differences in the corners.
Weber’s SNAP-JET individual ignition technology ensures reliable starts and precise temperature control. The aluminized steel cookbox retains heat perfectly while fighting off corrosion.
Weber backs this griddle with a 5-year limited warranty that covers rust-through and burn-through of key components. The carbon steel cooktop goes through an intense transformation process with extreme heat and pressure. This creates a case-hardened surface that fights moisture and rust.
The aluminized steel cookbox stands up to regular use and weather changes. At 198 pounds, this griddle ranks among the heaviest flat tops available, showing its strong construction and stability. The pre-seasoned cooking surface needs no initial seasoning and works well with metal utensils without surface damage.
Image Source: Camp Chef
The Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 600 makes use of breakthroughs and practical features to deliver exceptional cooking performance. This best flat top grill stands out because of its precise temperature control and superior heat management system.
The grill’s reliable framework uses several structural features that boost stability and performance. The cooking surface spans 604 square inches with four burners that generate 48,000 BTUs. The built-in wind deflectors and large heat diffusion plate work together to maintain steady cooking temperatures in tough weather.
The construction features:
This flat top grill shines when it comes to versatility and can feed 50-100 people every hour. The pre-seasoned surface comes treated with 100% plant oils, so you can start cooking right away without seasoning. Heat spreads evenly across the cooking surface thanks to the large diffusion plate underneath.
You can control temperature through three settings – Low, Medium, and High – to adjust heat based on what you’re cooking. The wind deflectors and heat diffusion plate team up to keep temperatures steady across the entire surface.
Camp Chef created a quick dual grease management system that makes cleanup simple. The griddle has a built-in grease trough and drain system with a catch cup that holds up to three cups of runoff grease. The pre-seasoned surface needs minimal care, but regular cleaning helps maintain its best performance.
The grill comes with these maintenance features:
Camp Chef backs this grill with a 1-year warranty, showing confidence in its build quality and performance. The mix of solid construction, cooking options, and easy maintenance makes the Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 600 a top choice for outdoor cooking.
Image Source: Traeger Grills
Traeger, a newcomer to the flat top grill market, brings its premium grilling expertise to outdoor griddles with the innovative Flatrock model. This best flat top grill sets new standards for heat distribution and cooking precision through its advanced engineering.
The Flatrock’s unique design features a 594 square inch carbon steel cooking surface. The Triple U-burner system delivers twice the burner-to-cooktop coverage you’ll find in standard patio griddles. The FlameLock™ Construction shields flames from wind and uses 28% less propane than standard griddles.
The griddle’s core features include:
The TruZone™ temperature control system delivers precise cooking through three independent zones. Users can sear proteins at high heat while keeping sides warm at lower temperatures in different zones. Tests showed temperature variations up to 100°F between neighboring zones.
The cooking surface heats up to 560°F in just 25 minutes. U-shaped burners and heat shield insulation technology work together to maintain consistent heat distribution across each zone. The FlameLock™ construction keeps temperatures steady even when it’s windy outside.
The Flatrock stands out with premium features that make cooking more enjoyable. The P.A.L. Pop-and-Lock™ Accessory Rail system lets you arrange tool hooks, storage bins, and roll racks exactly how you want them. You’ll find the EZ-Clean Grease Keg mounted on the front for easy access, and its components are dishwasher-safe.
The griddle’s smart fuel gage measures propane levels in 20% increments. Weight-based sensors track fuel levels and display them through LED indicators. Flame sensor lights above each burner control knob give you clear visual feedback on burner status.
A 5-year limited warranty backs the Flatrock, showing Traeger’s trust in its build quality. The price tag might be higher than other options, but its precise temperature control, even heat distribution, and premium features make this flat top grill worth considering for serious outdoor cooking fans.
Image Source: Pit Boss Grills
The Pit Boss Ultimate Griddle stands out from other flat top grills with its game-changing ceramic coating technology that outdoor cooking enthusiasts love.
This grill’s standout feature is its non-stick armored ceramic cooking surface that makes it different from standard models. You can start cooking right out of the box because it doesn’t need any original seasoning. The ceramic coating protects your griddle from scratches and rust while making sure food doesn’t stick.
The ceramic surface gives you:
The Ultimate Griddle comes with lift-off technology that makes it perfect for outdoor cooking adventures. The griddle top weighs 90-pounds, but its smart design lets you take it to campsites and tailgating events easily. It looks great in your backyard and moves around without hassle.
A well-built cart keeps the grill stable whether you’re cooking or moving it. The grill rolls smoothly on four heavy-duty wheels, and you can fold down the side shelves when you need extra workspace.
You’ll love how this Ultimate Griddle needs almost no maintenance and cooks just about anything. The ceramic coating means you can forget about the constant upkeep that cast iron surfaces need. People who own this grill say it works great for everything from smash burgers to hibachi-style cooking.
The 4-burner heating platform lets you control the temperature just the way you want. With 421 square inches of cooking space, you can cook big family meals with heat that spreads evenly across the surface.
Owners really appreciate these practical benefits:
The griddle really shines when you need high heat. Users say it’s excellent for searing and getting that perfect crust on smash burgers. You’ll need to use non-metal utensils with the ceramic surface, but that’s a small trade-off for easier cleaning and less maintenance.
Image Source: Nexgrill
The Nexgrill 4-Burner Griddle stands out as a compelling option in the best flat top grill market with its impressive specifications and competitive price. This versatile cooking station packs powerful heating capabilities into its ample cooking space.
A hot-rolled steel cooking surface of 756 square inches forms the heart of this griddle, backed by four stainless steel burners. The heavy-duty stainless steel lid protects the cooking surface during storage. Several practical design elements make this griddle highly functional:
The FastVac™ Grease Management System aids in cleaning drippings and food residue. Some users note that the mild hot-rolled steel construction is nowhere near as warp-resistant as cold-rolled steel alternatives.
Four independently controlled burners generate a total power output of 60,000 BTUs. Each burner outputs 15,000 BTUs, letting you control different cooking zones with precision. The pre-seasoned surface works great for everything from breakfast classics to dinner entrées.
The heavy-duty stainless steel lid helps retain heat while cooking. Large gatherings and family meals become easier to manage since the spacious cooking area fits up to 37 burgers at once.
Budget-conscious buyers will find the Nexgrill an attractive option in the flat top grill market. The standard model costs $449.00, though sales can bring the price down to $299.00. The package comes with several premium features:
A 1-year warranty covers essential components and manufacturing defects. The warranty period might be shorter than competitors, but the features and build quality provide excellent value for cost-conscious grill enthusiasts.
The griddle’s original performance impresses users, with 66.84% giving five-star ratings. Reviews on durability and maintenance requirements vary – some users praise its longevity while others express concerns about surface care and rust prevention.
Image Source: LoCo Cookers
LoCo Cookers SmartTemp Griddle revolutionizes flat top grill technology by bringing digital precision to outdoor cooking with its IQ Temperature Regulation system. This best flat top grill marks a major step forward in temperature control and cooking consistency.
The SmartTemp system uses advanced thermocouple sensors right under the griddle surface to monitor and adjust temperatures. You can control temperatures in 25-degree increments with the digital system, which lets you cook precisely from 250 degrees up to searing temperatures.
Key smart features include:
The griddle’s IQ Temperature Regulation Technology keeps cooking temperatures exact through its smart feedback system. Gas flow adjusts automatically based on surface temperature readings, and compensates for cooling effects from wind.
Temperature control specifications:
BroadBand Tube Burners spread heat evenly across the cooking surface and eliminate hot and cold spots common in traditional griddles. You can cook different foods at the same time by setting different temperatures in separate zones.
The SmartTemp Griddle combines smart temperature control with practical design features. The cooking surface has a built-in leveling system that guides grease to the drain, and a large grease cup makes cleanup easy. Side shelves come with built-in utensil pegs to help with food preparation.
The griddle’s sturdy design features:
The 36-inch model gives you 740 square inches of cooking space, while the 26-inch version provides 467 square inches. You can cook breakfast favorites and dinner entrées at the same time thanks to the multi-zone design with precise temperature control.
SmartTemp moves beyond basic “Low-Medium-High” controls to give home cooks restaurant-level precision. Each zone maintains its own temperature, so you can sear meat in one area while keeping sides warm in another. This precise control helps you avoid common problems like food being overcooked or undercooked that often happen with regular griddles.
| Model | Cooking Surface Area | BTU Output | Number of Burners | Notable Features | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blackstone 36-inch Griddle Station | 768 sq. inches | 60,000 BTUs | 4 | Magnetic tool bar, Foldable side shelves, Built-in paper towel holder | Not mentioned |
| Weber 36-inch Gas Griddle | 756 sq. inches | 60,000 BTUs | 4 | Hinged hard cover, Digital temperature display, SNAP-JET ignition | 5-year limited |
| Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 600 | 604 sq. inches | 48,000 BTUs | 4 | Built-in leveling system, Wind deflectors, Pre-seasoned surface | 1-year |
| Traeger Flatrock Griddle | 594 sq. inches | Not mentioned | 3 (Triple U-burner) | TruZone™ temperature control, FlameLock™ Construction, P.A.L. Pop-and-Lock™ system | 5-year limited |
| Pit Boss Ultimate Griddle | 421 sq. inches | Not mentioned | 4 | Ceramic non-stick coating, Lift-off design, No seasoning required | 2-year |
| Nexgrill 4-Burner Griddle | 756 sq. inches | 60,000 BTUs | 4 | FastVac™ Grease Management, Stainless steel lid, Individual ignition | 1-year |
| LoCo Cookers SmartTemp Griddle | 740 sq. inches (36″ model) | 15,500 BTUs per burner | Not mentioned | IQ Temperature Regulation, Digital controls, SureSpark ignition | Not mentioned |
Flat top grills come in options that work well for any cooking style and budget. High-end models from Weber and Traeger Flatrock stand out with their precise temperature controls and 5-year warranties. Blackstone and Camp Chef’s mid-range models give you plenty of cooking space and practical features. Budget-friendly Nexgrill delivers professional-grade performance at a competitive price.
Picking the right flat top grill depends on several key features. The cooking surface spans from 421 to 768 square inches, so you can choose based on how many people you usually cook for. Full-size models pack a punch with 48,000-60,000 BTUs spread across multiple burners. Manufacturers have created smart solutions for temperature control – Traeger’s TruZone™ system and LoCo Cookers’ digital controls are great examples.
Your perfect grill match depends on how you plan to use it. People who host often should look at models with bigger cooking areas and multiple heat zones. Low-maintenance fans will love Pit Boss’s ceramic coating or Weber’s seasoned surface. Lighter models with lift-off designs and solid wheels work best if you need to move your grill around.
These seven models show how flat top grills have evolved way beyond simple steel plates over burners. Better materials, smarter controls, and improved heat management make each brand unique. Every manufacturer brings their own trailblazing solutions to common cooking challenges.
Q1. What are the key differences between a flat top grill and a traditional grill?
A flat top grill has a smooth, flat cooking surface, unlike a traditional grill’s grates. This allows for more versatile cooking, including foods that might fall through grates. Flat tops provide even heat distribution and are great for cooking smaller items like eggs and pancakes.
Q2. How do I maintain and clean a flat top grill?
Regular maintenance involves scraping off food debris after each use and wiping the surface with a cloth. For deeper cleaning, use warm water and a grill stone or scraper. Some models have special coatings that simplify cleaning. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care.
Q3. Can a flat top grill replace my regular outdoor grill?
While a flat top grill offers versatility for cooking various foods, it may not completely replace a traditional grill. Flat tops excel at cooking foods that benefit from a flat surface, but they don’t provide the same char-grilled flavor that comes from food drippings hitting hot coals or flames.
Q4. What features should I look for when buying a flat top grill?
Key features to consider include cooking surface size, number of burners, BTU output, temperature control options, and construction quality. Additional features like side shelves, built-in storage, and portability can also be important depending on your needs.
Q5. Are flat top grills suitable for large gatherings or events?
Yes, flat top grills are excellent for large gatherings. Many models offer expansive cooking surfaces that can accommodate multiple dishes simultaneously. Their ability to cook a variety of foods quickly makes them ideal for events where you need to prepare large quantities of food efficiently.
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