12 Best Flat Top Grills
We can’t do this. Burgers, grilled cheese, bacon, and the best flat top grills are all up for grabs. All this to say: We tested flat-top grills with blood, sweat, and tears. For those who aren’t acquainted, outdoor griddles are essentially propane-powered adaptations of the huge flat-tops that your favorite diner’s short-order chefs use to produce a wide variety of delectable dishes. The big chunks of carbon steel that make up the cooktops of flat-top grills are grateless, unlike gas or charcoal barbecues.
Even though they can’t achieve low-and-slow cooking, grill marks, or smoky taste, flat-top grills are perfect for browning and searing. You can prepare items that aren’t normally grillable outdoors on a flat-top grill because of its large cooking surfaces, walls, and several burners. You can also employ various heat zones. Envision a hearty breakfast spread with fried rice, peppers, onions, bacon, and pancakes. If you’re a fan of flat-top stoves, you’ll love using one of the best flat-top grills. After much testing, we have determined that these outdoor griddles are the finest of their kind.
Contrasting features such as dimension, number of heaters, gas resources, and also its main usage; we have actually developed a listing of the 12 Best Flat Top Grills of 2020 for Indoor & Outdoor Use level grills to acquire.
Contents
- 1 Our Tests
- 2 Our Top Picks
- 3 12 Best Flat Top Grills
- 3.1 1. Blackstone 1883 Original 28” Grill with Integrated Hood
- 3.2 2. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved
- 3.3 3. Cuisinart CGG-403 3-in-1 Grill, Griddle, and Pizza Oven
- 3.4 4. Blackstone 36-inch 4-burner flat top outdoor gas grill
- 3.5 5. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill
- 3.6 6. CAMP COOK FLAT TOP GRILL
- 3.7 7. BLACKSTONE OUTDOOR APARTMENT TOP GAS GRILL-GRIDDLE TERMINAL
- 3.8 8. Blackstone Grills Tailgater Flat Top Grill
- 3.9 9. Blackstone Original 28 Inch Omnivore Griddle
- 3.10 10. Blackstone 1971 Original 17” Tabletop Griddle
- 3.11 11. Captiva Designs 27 in Flat Top Griddle Grill with Ceramic Coated Cast Iron Pan
- 3.12 12. BLACKSTONE 1554 Apartment Top Gas Frying Pan Terminal
- 4 Other best flat top grill types we tested
- 4.1 1. Blackstone 36 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill
- 4.2 2. SKOK 3 Burner Gas Griddle with Hood- 23.3 Inch Outdoor Propane Griddle-45000 BTU Propane Fuelled
- 4.3 3. Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 600
- 4.4 4. Royal Gourmet GD401 4-Burner Flat Top Grill
- 4.5 5. Pit Boss 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Flat Top Grill
- 5 Considerations When Choosing a Flat Top Grill
- 6 Best Flat Top Grills: FAQs
- 7 Final Thought
Our Tests
For the heating test, we used an infrared thermometer to measure the grill’s temperature at various spots on the cooktop for 10 minutes to assess its uniform heating. We continued to do this periodically during testing as well.
Twelve grilled cheeses were spread out on the grills to gauge their uniformity when subjected to low heat. In order to assess the level of browning, we turned the grilled cheeses over halfway through cooking. It was a heat map of grilled cheese!
For the morning meal, we counted the number of bacon, pancakes, and fried eggs that could fit on each griddle. In this experiment, we cooked the bacon in a medium heat zone and the pancakes and eggs in a low one.
We cooked smashed burgers on medium-high heat on each grill to test them. We lightly toasted the burger buns on the other side of the grill.
We tested the grills’ ease of use and ignition as part of our usability and cleanup procedures. We used a spoon to scrape any food debris into the drip tray in between each test. We tested how simple it was to wipe the drip tray as part of the last step of the testing process.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Blackstone 1883 Original 28” Grill with Integrated Hood
- Runner-up – George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill
- Best Feature – Cuisinart CGG-403 3-in-1 Grill, Griddle, and Pizza Oven
- Best Function – Blackstone 36-inch 4-burner flat top outdoor gas grill
- Best For Outdoor Activities: Camp Chef Flat Top Grill
- Top Choice: Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill
- Great Value: Blackstone 1853 Flat Top Gas Grill
12 Best Flat Top Grills
1. Blackstone 1883 Original 28” Grill with Integrated Hood
The Blackstone 1883 Original 28” Griddle is a solid choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want versatility without sacrificing durability. Its spacious steel griddle top heats evenly, making it ideal for breakfast, burgers, stir-fry, and more. The integrated protective hood helps shield the cooking surface from weather and debris, extending the griddle’s lifespan. Counter-height side shelves add practical prep space, while the powder-coated steel frame ensures long-term rust resistance. Easy ignition and efficient heat control make this griddle beginner-friendly yet powerful enough for experienced grillers. For patios, backyards, or tailgating, this Blackstone model delivers reliable performance and excellent value.
Specifications:
- 28-inch flat top cooking surface
- Integrated protective hood
- Powder-coated steel construction
- Counter-height side shelves
Pros:
- Even heat distribution is ideal for large meals
- Built-in hood protects the griddle surface
- Compact yet spacious enough for families
- Durable steel frame for outdoor use
Cons:
-
No built-in grease management system
2. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved
The George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill is perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone needing a smoke-free grilling solution. Its electric design eliminates the need for gas or charcoal while still delivering satisfying grill marks and even heat. With a 15-serving capacity, it’s great for family meals or small gatherings. The removable stand allows seamless transition from patio grill to countertop use indoors. Nonstick grilling plates make cleanup quick and easy. Apartment-approved and compact, this George Foreman grill is a convenient, space-saving option for year-round grilling without compromising on taste.
Specifications:
- Electric-powered flat cooking surface
- 15-serving capacity
- Removable stand for indoor/outdoor use
- Apartment-approved design
Pros:
- Smoke-free electric operation
- Suitable for balconies and apartments
- Easy to clean nonstick surface
- Quick heat-up with consistent results
Cons:
-
Not a true traditional griddle surface
3. Cuisinart CGG-403 3-in-1 Grill, Griddle, and Pizza Oven
The Cuisinart CGG-403 Pizza Oven stands out with its innovative 3-in-1 design, functioning as a pizza oven, grill, and griddle. Built from durable stainless steel, it offers excellent heat retention and long-lasting performance. The pizza oven feature delivers crisp crusts and evenly melted toppings, while the grill and griddle expand your cooking options. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for patios or balconies. Easy-to-use controls allow precise temperature management across different cooking styles. For users seeking versatility in a single appliance, this Cuisinart model offers impressive flexibility and professional-style results.
Specifications:
- 3-in-1 design: grill, griddle, pizza oven
- Stainless steel construction
- Compact tabletop design
Pros:
- Multi-functional cooking options
- Excellent for pizzas and flat-top meals
- High-quality stainless steel durability
- Great heat retention
Cons:
- Smaller cooking surface
- Not ideal for large gatherings
4. Blackstone 36-inch 4-burner flat top outdoor gas grill
The Blackstone 2210 Original 36” Omnivore Griddle is designed for serious outdoor cooks who need maximum space and efficiency. Its expansive 36-inch cooking surface easily handles large meals, making it ideal for entertaining. The Omnivore griddle plate technology improves heat distribution while reducing fuel consumption. Dual side shelves provide ample room for prep, tools, and ingredients. Built with powder-coated steel, the frame offers excellent durability in outdoor conditions. Whether cooking breakfast for a crowd or hosting backyard cookouts, this Blackstone griddle delivers professional-level performance and convenience.
Specifications:
- 36-inch Omnivore griddle surface
- Two large side shelves
- Powder-coated steel frame
Pros:
- Large surface perfect for entertaining
- Improved fuel efficiency with Omnivore design
- Excellent heat control zones
- One of the best flat top grills for outdoor cooking
Cons:
-
Requires more storage space
5. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill
The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill is a compact yet powerful option for indoor grilling. With adjustable temperature control reaching up to 450°F, it delivers authentic searing results without smoke or flames. The 118-square-inch cooking surface comfortably serves up to six people, making it suitable for family meals. Its PFAS-free removable nonstick grate ensures healthier cooking and easy cleanup. The stainless steel exterior adds durability and a modern look. Ideal for kitchens with limited space, this grill offers reliable performance and flavorful results year-round.
Specifications:
- 450°F maximum temperature
- 118 sq. in. cooking surface
- PFAS-free removable nonstick grate
- Stainless steel exterior
Pros:
- Safe for indoor use
- Adjustable temperature control
- Easy cleanup with removable grate
- Compact and countertop-friendly
Cons:
-
Limited capacity for large meals
6. CAMP COOK FLAT TOP GRILL
The Camp Chef FTG600 Flat Top Propane Grill and Griddle is built for outdoor chefs who value power and flexibility. Its large flat-top cooking surface allows you to prepare everything from pancakes to steaks with consistent heat. Propane operation ensures quick startup and precise temperature control. Sturdy side shelves provide convenient prep and serving space, enhancing workflow during cookouts. Designed with durability in mind, this griddle is ideal for backyards, campsites, and outdoor events. For those seeking a robust propane griddle with generous cooking space, the Camp Chef FTG600 is a dependable choice.
Specifications:
- Large flat top propane griddle
- Side shelves for prep space
- Heavy-duty steel construction
Pros:
- Powerful propane burners for high heat
- Ideal for camping and backyard cooking
- Large surface for batch cooking
- Solid build quality
Cons:
-
Heavier than standard griddles
7. BLACKSTONE OUTDOOR APARTMENT TOP GAS GRILL-GRIDDLE TERMINAL
The Blackstone 1517 28-inch flat top griddle is a versatile choice for outdoor cooking, camping, and backyard grilling. With two independently controlled burners, it delivers consistent heat distribution for cooking breakfast, burgers, stir-fry, and more. The spacious rolled steel cooking surface offers plenty of room while remaining compact enough for travel-friendly setups. Its rear grease management system makes cleanup fast and hassle-free, helping reduce mess during long cooking sessions. Built with durability in mind, this propane-fueled griddle features a sturdy frame that withstands frequent outdoor use. For campers and casual grillers seeking reliability and portability, this Blackstone griddle delivers excellent performance and value.
Specifications:
- 28-inch cold-rolled steel griddle surface
- Dual propane burners with even heat zones
- Rear grease management system
- Portable outdoor/camping-friendly design
Pros:
- Excellent heat control for breakfast, burgers, and stir-fry
- Rear grease system simplifies cleanup
- Strong build quality for outdoor use
Cons:
- No hood included
- Requires seasoning before first use
8. Blackstone Grills Tailgater Flat Top Grill
Designed for flexibility and ease of use, the Blackstone 1517 28-inch outdoor griddle is ideal for camping trips and backyard gatherings. Its dual-burner propane system allows precise temperature control, making it easy to cook multiple foods at once. The flat top cooking surface heats evenly, helping achieve restaurant-style searing and crisp edges. A built-in rear grease management system channels excess oil away from food, simplifying cleanup after cooking. Compact yet powerful, this outdoor griddle balances portability with performance. If you need a dependable flat top grill for outdoor adventures or casual home use, this Blackstone model is a strong contender.
Specifications:
- 28-inch flat top cooking area
- Two independently controlled burners
- Propane-powered outdoor griddle
- Compact footprint for camping
Pros:
- Reliable performance at an affordable price
- Ideal size for small families or trips
- Even heating across the surface
Cons:
-
Limited workspace compared to 36-inch models
9. Blackstone Original 28 Inch Omnivore Griddle
The Blackstone 28-inch Omnivore griddle stands out with its advanced Omnivore griddle plate designed for faster preheating and improved fuel efficiency. Equipped with a protective hood, it allows safer storage and better heat retention while cooking. Side shelves add valuable prep space, enhancing convenience during outdoor meals. This flat top grill includes useful accessories like seasoning and griddle gloves, making it beginner-friendly right out of the box. Its sturdy construction and even heat distribution make it suitable for everything from pancakes to steaks. For those seeking a premium outdoor griddle with thoughtful features, this Blackstone model delivers impressive versatility.
Specifications:
- 28-inch Omnivore griddle plate
- Integrated hood and side shelves
- Includes seasoning and griddle gloves
- Improved heat efficiency design
Pros:
- Faster preheat and fuel efficiency
- Hood protects the surface from the weather
- Added accessories increase value
Cons:
-
Heavier than basic 28-inch models
10. Blackstone 1971 Original 17” Tabletop Griddle
The Blackstone 1971 Original 17-inch tabletop griddle is perfect for small spaces, camping, and tailgating. Its compact size makes it easy to transport while still providing ample cooking space for quick meals. The stainless steel front plate adds durability and a polished look, while the powder-coated steel frame ensures long-lasting use. Despite its smaller footprint, this tabletop griddle offers even heat distribution for consistent cooking results. It’s easy to set up, simple to clean, and reliable for on-the-go grilling. For users who want portability without sacrificing performance, this Blackstone tabletop griddle is an excellent choice.
Specifications:
- 17-inch tabletop flat top
- Stainless steel front plate
- Compact and lightweight
- Propane-powered
Pros:
- Perfect for camping and tailgating
- Easy to transport and store
- Simple, durable design
Cons:
- Limited cooking space
- Not ideal for large gatherings
11. Captiva Designs 27 in Flat Top Griddle Grill with Ceramic Coated Cast Iron Pan
The Captiva Designs 27-inch flat top griddle grill offers powerful performance with its three-burner system delivering up to 33,000 BTUs. The ceramic-coated cast iron pan provides excellent heat retention while being easier to clean than traditional surfaces. Designed for outdoor barbecues and parties, this griddle allows simultaneous cooking of multiple foods with consistent results. Its solid construction and user-friendly controls make it suitable for both beginners and experienced grillers. Whether hosting gatherings or preparing family meals, this flat top griddle combines durability, high heat output, and cooking efficiency for dependable outdoor performance.
Specifications:
- 27-inch ceramic-coated cast iron surface
- 3 burners, 33,000 BTU output
- Propane-powered outdoor griddle
- Sturdy cart-style design
Pros:
- High heat output for searing
- Ceramic coating improves nonstick performance
- Great value for a 3-burner setup
Cons:
-
Ceramic coating requires careful maintenance
12. BLACKSTONE 1554 Apartment Top Gas Frying Pan Terminal
The Blackstone 1554 36-inch Omnivore griddle is built for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Featuring a large cooking surface, it’s ideal for feeding crowds at backyard parties or family events. The Omnivore griddle plate enhances heat efficiency while reducing propane consumption. Folding side shelves provide convenient prep space and easy storage when not in use. Constructed with durable powder-coated steel, this griddle is designed for long-term outdoor reliability. With excellent heat control, ample space, and thoughtful design, this Blackstone flat top grill is a top-tier option for those who want professional-level outdoor griddle performance.
Specifications:
- Large 36-inch Omnivore griddle surface
- Folding side shelves for prep space
- Powder-coated steel frame
- Propane-fueled outdoor flat top grill
Pros:
- Ideal for large families and parties
- Omnivore plate improves heat retention
- Folding shelves save storage space
Cons:
-
Takes up more patio space
Other best flat top grill types we tested
Here are some of the best flat-top grills based on various tests and reviews:
1. Blackstone 36 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill
- Features: Large cooking surface, multiple burners, and a built-in grease management system.
- Pros: Versatile cooking options, easy to clean, and excellent heat distribution.
2. SKOK 3 Burner Gas Griddle with Hood- 23.3 Inch Outdoor Propane Griddle-45000 BTU Propane Fuelled
- Features: Compact design, two burners, and a stainless steel finish.
- Pros: Portable, easy to assemble, and great for small spaces.
3. Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 600
- Features: Integrated grease management, adjustable heat zones, and a large cooking area.
- Pros: Ideal for outdoor cooking, sturdy construction, and excellent for various foods.
4. Royal Gourmet GD401 4-Burner Flat Top Grill
- Features: Four burners, a large cooking surface, and a built-in grease cup.
- Pros: Affordable, good heat control, and easy to transport.
5. Pit Boss 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Flat Top Grill
- Features: Stainless steel construction, two burners, and a griddle cooking surface.
- Pros: Durable, even heat distribution, and great for breakfast foods.
Considerations When Choosing a Flat Top Grill
When choosing a flat top grill, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure you select the best option for your needs:
1. Size and Cooking Area
- Cooking Surface Area: Consider how much food you plan to cook at once. Larger surfaces are ideal for cooking for families or parties.
- Physical Size: Ensure it fits in your outdoor space or kitchen.
2. Material
- Grill Surface: Look for materials like stainless steel or cast iron. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, while cast iron offers excellent heat retention.
- Frame Construction: A sturdy frame will enhance durability and stability.
3. Heat Source
- Gas vs. Electric: Gas grills offer quick heat and high temperatures, while electric grills are convenient for indoor use.
- Number of Burners: More burners provide better heat control and versatility for cooking different foods simultaneously.
4. Temperature Control
- Adjustable Heat Zones: Multiple heat zones allow for cooking different items at varying temperatures.
- Thermometers: Built-in thermometers help monitor cooking temperatures accurately.
5. Portability
- Wheels and Weight: If you plan to move your grill, look for models with wheels and a manageable weight.
- Foldable Design: Some models offer folding legs for easier storage.
6. Ease of Cleaning
- Grease Management: A good grease management system helps prevent flare-ups and makes cleaning easier.
- Removable Grates: Grates that can be easily removed facilitate thorough cleaning.
7. Temperature Range
- High Heat: Essential for searing and achieving a nice crust on meats.
- Low Heat: Useful for cooking delicate items or keeping food warm.
8. Price and Warranty
- Budget: Set a budget before shopping to narrow your options.
- Warranty: A good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the grill’s longevity.
9. Accessories and Features
- Side Shelves: Extra workspace can be useful for prep.
- Storage: Cabinets or shelves for storing utensils and supplies.
- Built-in Lighting: Helpful for nighttime cooking.
10. Brand Reputation and Reviews
- Research Brands: Look for well-reviewed brands known for quality and customer service.
- User Reviews: Read experiences from other users to gauge performance and durability.
A wide range of functions is provided by these alternatives, making them suitable for a variety of cooking styles and requirements! By taking into account these aspects, you will be able to choose a flat top grill that is the most suitable for your cooking style.
Best Flat Top Grills: FAQs
How to clean a flat-top grill?
Scrape food into the drip tray using a metal spatula or scraper to clean a flat-top grill. Use a little water to remove and scrape difficult, stuck-on particles, but dry the grill completely. Clean the drip tray and oil the surface after cleaning.
Does a flat-top grill require seasoning?
Flat-top grills require seasoning like carbon steel cookware. Pre-seasoning recommendations vary by manufacturer, but be sure to wipe the stovetop with neutral oil after cooking and cleaning to avoid corrosion.
How should a flat-top grill be stored?
To avoid rusting, cover the grill before storage. Keep the grill dry in a shed or garage for long-term storage.
How do flat top grills vary from griddles?
Flat-top grills are propane-powered griddles. It’s bigger than a countertop electric griddle. This space enables you to prepare plenty of meals at once, while propane heats the surface. Due of its nonstick coating, electric griddles don’t become as hot, which is nice.
Final Thought
It might be challenging to choose the ideal grill from the wide variety available. We compared twelve different flat-top grills in terms of how well they cooked food uniformly, how simple they were to clean, and other features. If you’re looking for a flat-top grill, we’ve got you covered with a list of 12 excellent picks that are great for both inside and outdoors.
In order to help you choose the ideal grill for your house or patio, we have included a brief description of each product on this page. With any luck, you now have a better idea of which kind would be the best fit for your requirements, thanks to this data. Which product piqued your interest? Post a comment below and tell us if we omitted any fantastic choices!
Examining these fantastic Best Flat Top Grills has been a blast. The choice of product is now entirely up to you. We recommend doing more research if any of these goods pique your interest. The objective is to get all the information you can about the smoker before buying it.
As an associate editor at Southernsmokebbq, Riddley Schirm Gemperlein began working for the site in 2021 and has spent the last six years doing product testing. Gas grills are only one of several types of grills that she has reviewed for the site.
Kelly Grace has been an editor at Southernsmokebbq for over three years. She has line cooking experience and has worked for America’s Test Kitchen before. The Traeger Ironwood XL was scrutinized by her.
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