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REAL FYREGriddle Buyer’s Guide 2025: Blackstone, Blaze, Coyote, Twin Eagles & Wildfire Compared
When Blackstone Shines and When a Stainless Built-In Makes More Sense
If you’re new to griddling, Blackstone’s freestanding models are a fantastic entry-level choice—affordable, versatile, and easy to wheel out for weekend cooks. That said, if you’re planning a permanent built-in outdoor kitchen, a premium stainless steel griddle (think Blaze, Coyote, Wildfire, or Twin Eagles) is usually the smarter long-term move thanks to better corrosion resistance, lower maintenance, and cleaner integration with your island. In this guide, we’ll show you when Blackstone shines—and when stepping up to stainless makes the most sense.
Neglected carbon steel griddles can rust quickly outdoors—especially when built into BBQ islands without proper protection or care.
Premium 304 stainless steel griddles like this Blaze Griddle are designed to resist rust, making them a smarter long-term choice for outdoor kitchens.
While the 36-inch Blackstone griddle is a backyard favorite for casual cooking, it’s not always the right choice for a built-in outdoor kitchen. Blackstone’s carbon steel surface requires constant seasoning, careful cleaning, and full protection from moisture—otherwise, rust can set in fast, especially in humid or coastal climates. Unlike premium stainless steel griddles, Blackstone models can warp, corrode, and become high-maintenance when exposed to the elements year-round.
Pro Tip: A built-in griddle should be as durable as the island around it. If you’re investing in an outdoor kitchen, look for 304 stainless steel griddles from brands like Blaze, Coyote, Twin Eagles, or Wildfire. These models are designed to withstand the weather, require less upkeep, and maintain their sleek look over time.
Our Top Selling Griddles
Griddle performance isn’t just about big BTU numbers or shiny knobs—it’s about materials, durability, and long-term value. If you want an affordable freestanding setup that brings instant weekend vibes, a ~$1,500 Blackstone is a killer starter: tons of cooking space, easy to wheel out, and perfect for smash burgers, fajitas, and breakfast-for-dinner nights. Just remember, that carbon-steel top needs regular seasoning and a little TLC to keep rust at bay—think of it like a cast-iron skillet’s bigger cousin.
Building a permanent island? That’s when it pays to level up. Premium built-ins from Blaze, Coyote, and Twin Eagles use 304 stainless griddle surfaces and heavier plates that shrug off corrosion, hold heat like champs, and look slick year after year. Less upkeep, cleaner integration, and serious longevity. Below, we’ll compare the best flat tops of 2025 so you can pick the right fit—Blackstone for budget-friendly freestanding fun, or stainless for a long-haul built-in that anchors your outdoor kitchen. 🍳🔥
| Griddle Model | Cooking Performance | BTUs / Burners |
|---|---|---|
 Blackstone Select 36-Inch Freestanding Griddle | Sleek cabinet-style freestanding design with some 304 stainless framing, a folding hood, and tool drawers. However, the cooking surface is carbon steel—not stainless—which increases the risk of rust over time in humid environments. Best for short-term or covered patios. | 60,000 BTUs (4 burners) |
 Blaze LTE+ 30-Inch Gas Griddle | 304 stainless steel, reinforced cold-rolled steel surface, dual griddle burners (30,000 BTUs), flame thrower ignition, LED-lit knobs, spring-assisted hood. | 30,000 BTUs (2 burners) |
 Twin Eagles 30-Inch Teppanyaki Griddle | Made in USA with 304 stainless steel, dual burners (40,000 BTUs), hot surface ignition, LED control lights, solid stainless top cover for durability. | 40,000 BTUs (2 burners) |
 Wildfire Ranch PRO 15-Inch Gas Side Griddle | Compact built-in design with black 304 stainless steel, single burner (17,000 BTUs), LED knob, heat indicator, perfect for sides & small meals. | 17,000 BTUs (1 burner) |
 Coyote 30-Inch Flat Top Griddle | 304 stainless steel body, dual burners (34,000 BTUs), flame-thrower ignition, LED knobs, compact built-in for outdoor kitchens. | 34,000 BTUs (2 burners) |
Why Do Some Griddles Cost $1,500 While Others Reach $3,500?
Not all flat-top griddles are built the same, and the price tag often tells the story. For around $1,999, the new Blackstone Select 36-Inch Freestanding Griddle (6008) delivers excellent cooking power with a durable cabinet base, built-in hood, and even some 304 stainless steel on the body. But here’s the catch: its cooking surface is made of carbon steel, not stainless. That means it can rust over time without careful maintenance and seasoning, especially in humid or coastal environments.
Compare that to the Blaze LTE PRO 40-Inch Griddle, a $3,499 built-in model with a fully reinforced 304 stainless steel cooking surface. It not only offers premium durability, but also comes loaded with digital temp controls, leveling screws, spring-assisted lid, and a drop-in grease trough. These are the kinds of features you want for a permanent outdoor kitchen setup built to last 10–15 years or more.
If you just need a freestanding griddle that performs well and looks sharp, the Blackstone Select is a solid pick. But if you’re building a full outdoor kitchen and want long-term rust resistance, 304 stainless steel is the way to go. It’s more than just a metal, it’s peace of mind for your investment.
Impressive for casual outdoor cooking with 304 stainless steel framing and a powerful 60,000 BTU system. However, the carbon steel cooking surface can rust if not properly seasoned and maintained, making it less ideal for long-term built-in setups.
Built for luxury and durability with a 304 stainless steel griddle surface that resists rust and delivers consistent high-end results. Ideal for built-in kitchens where longevity and weather resistance are a must.
Final Thoughts: Which Flat Top Grill Wins?
When it comes to choosing the best flat top griddle for your outdoor space, it all depends on your cooking needs, design goals, and long-term expectations. While portable models like the 36-inch Blackstone griddle are popular for entry-level use, they often fall short in outdoor kitchen environments where rust, maintenance, and durability become real concerns.
For a truly built-in solution that offers long-lasting performance and premium style, stainless steel griddles from brands like Blaze, Coyote, Twin Eagles, and Wildfire deliver unmatched value and reliability.At Best of Backyard, we specialize in helping you create the ultimate outdoor kitchen with custom BBQ islands, high-end griddles, and everything you need to cook in comfort and style. Ready to bring your vision to life? Click below to explore our outdoor kitchen design services or browse our main site for inspiration and expert support.
Looking for help choosing the right built-in griddle? Visit our Riverside, CA showroom down below, or contact us for personalized outdoor kitchen advice.
❓ Blackstone Griddles FAQ
Does Best of Backyard sell Blackstone products?
No, Best of Backyard does not currently sell Blackstone griddles either in-store or online.
What are the best alternatives to Blackstone for an outdoor kitchen?
If you’re investing in an outdoor kitchen, skip the maintenance-heavy carbon steel and go for a Blaze griddle, Twin Eagles Teppanyaki Griddle, Coyote 30-Inch Griddle or Wildfire 15-Inch Griddle. These built-in models provide lasting performance, easier care, and stylish finishes—ensuring your backyard setup stays beautiful for years to come.
What is the best built-in griddle for a custom BBQ island?
The best built-in griddle depends on your cooking style and space, but top-rated options include the Blaze LTE+ Griddle, Coyote 30-Inch Flat Top Griddle, Twin Eagles Teppanyaki Griddle, and Wildfire 15-Inch Side Griddle. All of these models are specifically designed for built-in installation, long-term durability, and upscale outdoor cooking.
Why is stainless steel better than carbon steel for outdoor griddles?
Stainless steel resists rust, corrosion, and weather damage much better than carbon steel—especially in long-term outdoor installations. While Blackstone griddles need regular seasoning and care, 304 stainless steel models deliver a lower-maintenance and longer-lasting solution. That’s why they’re often considered the best flat top griddle for built-in BBQ islands.
How does a Blaze griddle compare to other premium griddles?
The Blaze griddle stands out for its combination of high performance, durability, and value. Made with 304 stainless steel and backed by a lifetime warranty, the Blaze LTE+ 30-Inch Griddle offers excellent heat control, an easy-to-clean surface, and premium features like LED knob lighting—all at a more accessible price point than some luxury competitors. For homeowners seeking the best built-in griddle without breaking the bank, Blaze remains one of the top choices.
