Blackstone Griddles vs. the Traeger Flatrock Flat Top Grill

Key Takeaway: I have two main takeaways. First, consider purchasing a griddle instead of a grill. Second, both Traeger and Blackstone griddles are exceptional choices.

The outdoor griddle has emerged as an alternative to the once-dominant grill.

Blackstone was the first to capitalize on the outdoor griddle and now offers 22 models. Traeger, a leader in pellet stoves, has also entered the arena with their unique features.

Now, you may be wondering which is better. In this article, you will learn about the differences in construction and cleanability for Traeger and Blackstone flattop grills.

Additionally, you will see a cooking test video showcasing pancakes, eggs, bacon, and Philly cheesesteaks with onions and peppers.

This article focuses more on visual demonstrations of how each griddle cooks and cleans rather than a detailed explanation of the variances.

Let's look at both companies and what they bring to the table.

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Blackstone Products

Blackstone Outdoor Griddle

Founded in 2008 by CEO Roger Dahle, Blackstone Products is a leading brand in the outdoor cooking industry. Focusing on innovation and quality, they offer a range of 22 griddle models designed to meet various cooking needs and budgets.

Their dedication to customer satisfaction and unique features like the patented rear grease management system and fold-and-go design have earned them a loyal customer base.

Today, Blackstone continues to push the boundaries of outdoor cooking technology, inspiring individuals to create unforgettable culinary experiences in the great outdoors.

Blackstone Outdoor Griddles

Blackstone offers 22 flattop griddles, from portable models to larger 36-inch griddles in both gas and electric.

Traeger

Traeger Wood-Fired Pellet Grill

Traeger Grills, an Oregon-based company, gained recognition for its innovative use of all-natural flavored wood pellets in grilling.

The story of Traeger Grills began when Joe Traeger, preparing to cook for his family, found his gas grill engulfed in flames. Determined to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer barbecue, he set out the next day to construct a grill that utilized wood pellets, minimizing the risk of fire and flare-ups.

In 1988, the first Traeger grill was introduced, marking the beginning of their journey.

Since then, Traeger Grills has expanded its product line to include six models of BBQ grills, along with smokers, a range of spices, sauces, rubs, and even branded apparel.

Traeger Flatrock Flat Top Grill

Traeger's latest addition, the "Flatrock" flat-top grill, uses propane instead of wood pellets.

While Traeger has built its reputation on wood pellet grills, this model deviates from their signature style.

Blackstone Griddles vs. the Traeger Flatrock Flat Top Grill

Overall Construction

Both Traeger and similarly priced Blackstone models feature separate cooking zones.

Traeger distinguishes itself with its "U" shaped burners, which they assert provide enhanced heat and superior temperature control.

Both grills performed well in our tests, including the more affordable Blackstone option.

Regarding construction, Traeger showcased better overall quality, boasting fold-out tables for added convenience.

Design

Traeger takes the lead as its units are enclosed, while Blackstone grills are open from the burner to the griddle. If you live in a windy area (like Boston), the wind will occasionally blow the Blackstone out.  

Cleanability

The biggest difference between Traeger and Blackstone lies in their cleanability.

Blackstone presents a challenge as its clean-up tray is located at the back, requiring cleaning over the hot griddle.

Moreover, the grease container is small, leading to quick filling, particularly if you cook a substantial amount of bacon and need to clean it afterward.

In contrast, Traeger offers a superior design for cleanability. With the grease tray placed at the front, you can conveniently sweep grease and residue toward the front.

Additionally, Traeger provides a large, easily removable grease container as a spacious jar.

Overall, Traeger's cleanability is better due to its user-friendly design featuring a front-facing grease tray and a generously sized, effortlessly removable grease container.

Which Cooks Better?

Both cooked well. The "chef" was our outside sales manager, Bobby Joyce, a loyal Blackstone griddle owner for three years.

Key Takeaways

Traeger is the better griddle. But that's not the whole story.

First, at $499, Blackstone will cook a lot of food well. It doesn't have three zones, but the heat transfers just fine.

If you want great value, Blackstone is a good choice. I was impressed. However, Traeger is the better griddle.  

I don't think the "U" shaped burners make much of a difference, at least in our tests.

The fold-out tables and accessories are convenient, but Blackstone has similar features in their more expensive griddles.

The cleanability of having the grease receptacle on the front is a better way to go. The Traeger grease tray is much easier to remove and clean and holds much more grease.

The enclosed design is much better on those windy fall, winter, and spring days. Traeger won't blow out, while Blackstone will.  

Traeger is the better choice at the more expensive end, yet both should be considered.  

Additional Resources

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