If you’re wondering which Blackstone to buy, you’re not alone.
Blackstone makes multiple sizes and versions, and at first glance, they can look very similar.
The truth is, the “best” Blackstone depends on:
How many people you cook for
Whether you need portability
How much patio space you have
How often you host
Whether you want extra features like a hood or air fryer
Let’s break this down clearly so you can choose the right model confidently.
Table of Contents
The Most Important Question: How Many People Do You Cook For? – Which Blackstone to Buy?
This is the #1 deciding factor.
Cooking for 1–2 people occasionally?
Cooking for a family of 4?
Hosting neighborhood parties?
Size matters more than you think.
Best for Most Homes (3–6+ People)
36-Inch Blackstone (The Flagship Choice)
For most backyard cooks, the 36-inch model is the most recommended.
Why?
Because space equals flexibility.
You get:
Four independently controlled burners
Large cooking surface
Multiple heat zones
Room for full breakfast spreads
Capacity for large gatherings
You can cook:
Eggs, bacon, and hash browns simultaneously
20+ burgers at once
Fajitas in multiple zones
Smash burgers and buns together
Even if you’re only cooking for 3–4 people regularly, the extra space prevents crowding and makes temperature control easier.
36″ Iron Forged with Hood (Omnivore Plate)
Newer 36” models include:
Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology
Wind resistance improvements
Faster preheat
Better fuel efficiency
Integrated hood
The Omnivore plate is designed to:
Heat up faster
Distribute heat more evenly
Reduce warping
Use less propane
The hood also helps with:
Heat retention
Cheese melting
Weather protection
If you have patio space and cook often, this is the safest long-term choice.
36” Griddle Air Fryer Combo
This is a premium option.
It includes:
Standard 768 sq. in. griddle surface
Air fryer drawers
Warming drawer
This model is ideal if you want:
Fries or wings cooking underneath
Main dishes cooking on top
An all-in-one outdoor station
It’s more complex, but great for heavy entertainers.
Best for Small Families (2–4 People)
28-Inch Blackstone (Balanced Choice)
If the 36-inch feels too large, the 28-inch series is a strong middle ground.
Why it works:
More compact footprint
Still large enough for full meals
Easier to manage heat
Lower fuel use
The 3-burner version is recommended over the 2-burner.
Why?
Better zone independence.
You can create:
High heat searing zone
Medium cooking zone
Low warming zone
It’s perfect for:
Small patios
Townhomes
Families of four
28” Omnivore Version
The Omnivore version includes:
Improved wind resistance
Faster heating
Better heat consistency
Many bundles also include seasoning and gloves.
If you live in windy areas, Omnivore upgrades are worth considering.
Best for Portability & Camping
If you plan to travel, portability becomes priority.
22-Inch Portable Blackstone
This is the sweet spot for camping and tailgating.
Features:
Two H-style burners
Dual heat zones
Compact frame
Fits in trunk or RV storage
It comfortably cooks for:
2–4 people
It’s also easy to clean and transport.
For most campers, this is the ideal balance between power and size.
17-Inch Tabletop Blackstone
The most compact model.
Single burner
Lightweight
Highly portable
Best for:
Solo travelers
Couples
Small camping setups
It lacks multi-zone control, but it’s incredibly easy to carry.
Quick Size Comparison
17” – Solo or couples, ultra portable
22” – Camping & small family trips
28” – Small families, limited patio space
36” – Most homes, hosting, versatility
If you’re unsure, most experienced owners say:
Buy bigger than you think you need.
Space equals flexibility.
Key Features to Look For
Regardless of size, prioritize these features.
Omnivore Griddle Plate
Introduced in late 2023.
Benefits:
Heats up approximately 20% faster
Uses less propane
Improved wind resistance
Better heat distribution
If buying new, Omnivore models are worth considering.
Rear Grease Management System
Modern Blackstones use rear grease management.
This allows you to:
Scrape grease backward
Collect it in removable cup
Reduce flare-ups
Simplify cleanup
Older side-drain systems are less convenient.
Hard Hood vs Soft Cover
Integrated Hood:
Protects from weather
Acts as steam dome
Improves heat retention
Soft Cover:
Protects from rain
Requires separate purchase
If you cook often outdoors, built-in hood is more practical.
Side Shelves & Storage
Some models include:
Folding shelves
Magnetic tool strips
Bottle openers
Cabinet storage
Propane tank enclosure
If organization matters to you, choose models with built-in storage.
36 in Flat Top Grill – Complete Buyer Guide for Backyard Cooking
Gas vs Electric Consideration
If cooking indoors is required, electric is the only safe option.
If cooking outdoors, gas offers:
Higher heat
Better searing
Larger sizes
Most buyers choosing size are considering gas models.
Common Buyer Mistakes
Buying too small
Ignoring heat zones
Skipping hood option
Underestimating hosting needs
Not checking patio space
Measure your cooking area before purchasing.
Which Blackstone Is Right for You?
Choose 17” if:
You travel solo
You cook occasionally
You need ultra portability
Choose 22” if:
You camp frequently
You cook for 2–4 people
You want compact flexibility
Choose 28” if:
You have a small patio
You cook for a family of four
You want strong zone control
Choose 36” if:
You host gatherings
You cook full meals often
You want maximum flexibility
You don’t want to upgrade later
36 in Flat Top Grill – Complete Buyer Guide for Backyard Cooking
Final Recommendation
If you have space and budget, the 36-inch model is the most future-proof option.
It handles:
Small family dinners
Large parties
Multi-component meals
Breakfast spreads
But if space or portability is priority, the 22-inch or 28-inch models are excellent choices.
The right answer depends entirely on your cooking lifestyle.
