Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Flat Top Grills Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best Compact
- 3. Best Splurge
- 4. Best Budget
- 5. Runner-Up
- 6. Best for Daily Use
- 7. Best for Beginners
- 8. Best Premium
- Flat Top Grills Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Flat Top Grills
- Frequently asked questions
You want the best budget flat top grill for your cooking needs. The Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle is the best pick. It features a versatile design that shifts easily from a stand grill to a tabletop grill. The Blackstone® 1883 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle is a great value choice. It is spacious but loses some portability due to its larger size.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Flat Top Grills Reviewed in Detail
These reviews cover the best budget flat top grills available today. You will find key features and benefits for each pick.
1. Best Overall
Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle, Removable Standing Cart
- Free-standing Cart to Tabletop Design: This griddle adapts effortlessly to any outdoor setting, shifting from a stand grill to a tabletop grill when removed from the cart, offering flexible cooking wherever you want with ease and convenience
- Griddle Hood: The black heat-resistant hood keeps the cooking surface clean and shields it from unwanted elements, extending the griddle’s lifespan when not in use. During cooking, keep the hood open to serve as a wind deflector and DO NOT CLOSE IT
- Consistent Even Heating: With a 389 sq. in. Sanding steel cooking surface and 34,000 BTU generated by four stainless steel burners, the grill caters to you with uniform heat distribution for perfectly cooked meals every time
- Handy Side Shelves: Side shelves on both sides provide extra preparation space for cooking, with room for items such as cooking ingredients, spices and plates. Each shelf also features 3 hooks for hanging tools
- Effortless Mobility and Solid Stability: Equipped with two wheels and two sturdy legs, this griddle offers easy mobility and exceptional stability when stationed, allowing you to move it effortlessly to your preferred cooking location
The Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle is a strong pick for the best budget flat top grill. Its adaptable design allows easy switching between tabletop and freestanding modes. The 4-burner system provides plenty of cooking power, which is key for meals with friends or family. Compared to other models, its removable cart design offers more flexibility without sacrificing cooking space. However, it does take up more space when set up than some compact options.
Pros
- 4 burners for increased cooking capacity
- Removable cart design for easy storage and transport
- Heat-resistant hood protects the cooking surface
Cons
- Larger footprint compared to compact grills
- Assembly may take time for some users
Best for: Families or groups needing ample cooking space. Not ideal for: Those with limited outdoor space.
A versatile and spacious option for outdoor cooking.
2. Best Compact
Blackstone® 1883 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black
- Cook for a Crowd: Whether you are cooking for a large or small group this griddle is equipped to handle the load. This 28 inch griddle has 524 square inches of cooking space and can hold up to 21 burgers or 15 pancakes so you can get to eating faster
- Versatile Cooking Space: Make a variety of foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on this griddle top. Whether you are in the mood for traditional barbecue, breakfast foods, or gourmet grilled cheese you can make it on your griddle
- 28″ Omnivore Griddle Plate: Quicker preheat and recovery times, even heat distribution, higher fuel efficiency with fewer BTUs required for optimal cooking temperatures, and built-in wind guards keep the hot air in and the cool air out
- Hassle-Free Cleanup: Make grease disposal easy by using the Blackstone-patented Rear Grease Management system. Push any food debris or grease to the back of your griddle to collect in the rear grease cup for easy cleanup and disposal
- Counter-Height Side Shelves: Enjoy the extra meal prep and serving room provided by the dual side shelves on this griddle and work on them more comfortably at their taller counter height
- Extra Features: This griddle has an integrated hood to protect the griddle top when not in use, two wheels to make maneuvering the griddle easier, and electric ignition for easy starting
- Two H-Style Burners: This griddle features two independently controlled H-style burners so you can cook on lower heat on one side of the griddle while another part of your meal cooks on a higher heat on the other side
- 1 – year limited warranty
The Blackstone® 1883 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle is an excellent choice for those needing a compact grill. Its 28-inch cooking surface provides 524 square inches of cooking area, enough for up to 21 burgers at once. This makes it suitable for larger gatherings. However, it can be less portable due to its heavier weight compared to smaller models. If you prioritize cooking space over mobility, this is a fantastic option.
Pros
- Large cooking surface of 524 square inches
- Can hold up to 21 burgers or 15 pancakes
- Includes a hood for better heat retention
Cons
- Heavier than compact options, making transport harder
- Less versatile than removable cart models
Best for: Users cooking for large groups. Not ideal for: Those needing a lightweight and portable grill.
A spacious option that excels in feeding crowds.
3. Best Splurge
Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature Control, Immersible Flat Top Grill, Burger, Eggs, Pancake Griddle, Nonstick Extra Large Cooking…
- EXTRA-LARGE COOKING SURFACE: The 10 x 20 inch indoor grill provides plenty of space to cook up big batches for a crowd or a complete meal.
- WARM TO SEAR: Adjustable temperature control from 200-420°F allows for versatile cooking for simply warming foods, frying breakfast favorites, or cooking meat.
- HEALTHIER MEAL MAKING: Cook healthier meals with the drip tray to collect excess oil and grease plus the non-stick electric grill surface reduces the need for added cooking oils.
- EASY CLEANING: The griddle grill cook top is fully immersible and dishwasher safe – simply remove the temperature control prior to washing.
- CONVENTIENT COUNTERTOP COOKING: Quickly and conveniently add cooking space to your kitchen for large family dinners or holiday gatherings.
- RESOURCES: UL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability, & 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. For information on how to use your product, scroll down for a PDF User Guide. 1500 Watts/120 Volts
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is an outstanding choice for indoor cooking. It features a large cooking surface measuring 10 x 20 inches, making it great for family meals. The adjustable temperature control ranges from 200°F to 420°F, allowing for versatile cooking options. However, as an electric grill, it may not match the high heat of propane models. This makes it less suitable for outdoor grilling during parties.
Pros
- Large cooking area for big batches
- Adjustable temperature from 200°F to 420°F
- Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
Cons
- Less heat compared to propane grills
- Limited to indoor use only
Best for: Indoor cooks needing a large surface. Not ideal for: Outdoor grilling enthusiasts.
A great choice for versatile indoor meals.
4. Best Budget
Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Collapsible Stand
- Space-saving Storage: Aside from outstanding portability, the collapsible stand design also effectively saves storage space. You can fold it down in seconds for easy storage, no more worrying about your griddle taking up too much space
- Spacious Cooking Area: With a spacious 314 sq. in. cooking area, you can cook up to 8 burgers at once. High-quality ceramic-coated griddle top delivers high temps and maintains even heat for impressive and consistent cooking results
- Ceramic-coated Griddle Top: Engineered with state-of-the-art technology, our ceramic-coated griddle top boasts better high-temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, and scratch resistance. Note that the griddle top should be seasoned before use
- Safety Features: The griddle top can pass FDA and PFAS testing for safer and healthier cooking. During transportation of this griddle, two lid latch buckles ensure firm closure for enhanced security, avoiding the risk of accidentally popping open
- Extra Prep Space: A side shelf on the right side provides a perfect solution for positioning plates or ingredients, while two built-in hooks are ideal for hanging rags, thus keeping your cooking essentials within arm’s reach
The Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle is designed for budget-conscious buyers. Its collapsible stand saves storage space, making it more portable than many models. With a cooking area of 314 square inches, it allows for cooking meals for small gatherings. However, the smaller size means you may need to cook in batches for larger groups. If portability and ease of storage are your main concerns, this grill is a good fit.
Pros
- Collapsible design for easy storage
- 314 square inches of cooking space
- Three burners for efficient cooking
Cons
- Smaller cooking area may not suit larger groups
- Less durable than higher-end models
Best for: Those needing a portable grill. Not ideal for: Cooking for larger gatherings.
An affordable choice for small outdoor cooking.
5. Runner-Up
EWFEN 35PCS Griddle Accessories Kit, Flat Top Grill Accessories Set for Blackstone and Camp Chef, Grill Spatula Set with Enlarged Spatulas, Basting Cover,…
- 【Perfect 35pcs BBQ Accessories】This griddle accessories kit includes: 1* long griddle spatula, 1* long slotted spatula, 1* large burger turner, 1* slant edge scraper, 1* small spatula, 1* griddle flipper, 1* slotted turner, 1* griddle press, 1* grill tongs, 1* sauce brush, 1* chopper, 2* spice shakers, 2* squeeze bottles, 4* egg rings, 1* cleaning brush, 10* hooks, 1* meat knife, 2* basting cover, 1* storage bag, 1* gift box.
- 【Premium Stainless Steel】Compared with other stainless steel on the market, Our metal flat top grill is made of high quality stainless steel, heat-resistant and rust-proof, safer and more durable. So you can easy enjoy your grilling, camping or cooking without worry about your tools bending, breaking or rusting again, which is BPA free you can use it with confidence.
- 【Easy to Clean & Storage & Carry】Our griddle tool kit is dishwasher safe, or easily wash by hand with water and soap, so you can enjoy a delicious barbecue with your family without hassle. Each tool can be placed in an orderly manner and better protected in the compact storage bag. Convenient hangers are provided for easy storage and food grade grill tools are easily cleaned with warm, soapy water. Note: After washing the spatula and scraper, please make sure to dry them to avoid rust.
- 【Chef’s Choice griddle accessories kit】This grill tools set with griddle scraper, spatulas and oil bottles helps you to grill as easily as a restaurant chef. Great for flipping burgers, pancakes, veggies, cutting bread,meat and sausage, scraper & chopper to dice food and scrape griddles clean. The Long Griddle Spatula can move large amounts of food quickly and accurately. Egg rings and pepper shakers to enhance your griddle cooking experience.
- 【Great Gift Choice】This practical barbecue tools set with beautifully designed gift box is ideal gift choice for Fathers Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas. It includes all the tools needed for yard, outdoor, and camping barbecues an ideal gift for friends, lovers, or family members who love cooking or barbecue and camping enthusiast.
The EWFEN 35PCS Griddle Accessories Kit enhances your grilling experience. This set includes essential tools like spatulas and scrapers. While not a grill itself, it supports your cooking efforts. Compared to other grills on the list, it adds value by ensuring you have the right equipment. However, it does not offer the actual cooking surface, so it’s not a standalone option. It’s best for anyone who already has a grill and wants to improve their cooking setup.
Pros
- Complete set with 35 pieces
- Includes essential griddle tools and accessories
- Compatible with most flat top grills
Cons
- Does not include a cooking grill
- Some tools may be too large for small grills
Best for: Existing grill owners wanting extra accessories. Not ideal for: Those needing a complete grilling solution.
A valuable accessory kit for enhancing your grilling experience.
6. Best for Daily Use
Royal Gourmet GB4000P 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle, Hard Cover, Side Tables
- Collapsible Side Shelves: Foldable side tables with hooks for hanging tools, and the right-side table with knife strip frees up your hands, both providing a convenience storage solution.
- Protective Hard Cover: Close the lid to keep your griddle away from unwanted elements, extending the lifespan of your cooking surface. Please do not close the lid while grilling.
- Spacious Cooking Surface: 766 sq. in. pre-seasoned steel griddle cooking area measuring 34.92″L x 21.93″W provides enough space for daily meals with family or friends
- High-Performance Capability: Four independently controlled stainless steel burners produce a total cooking power of 52,000 BTU (13,000 BTU each) for the cooking surface
- Mobility and Stability: Two casters with brakes and two directional wheels facilitate easy mobility and secure positioning during use
The Royal Gourmet GB4000P 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle is a versatile choice for serious cooks. It features four burners and collapsible side shelves, which offer extra space for food prep. The protective hard cover helps extend the lifespan of the grill. However, this model is larger and heavier, which may not suit those with limited outdoor space. It is best for users who need a complete cooking solution and have the space for it.
Pros
- Four burners for high cooking efficiency
- Collapsible side tables for added convenience
- Protective hard cover for longevity
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than compact options
- Requires more outdoor space
Best for: Serious outdoor cooks who need space. Not ideal for: Those with limited cooking areas.
A solid choice for dedicated outdoor grilling enthusiasts.
7. Best for Beginners
Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Folding Side Tables
- Versatile Side Tables: Two side tables, equipped with a towel rack, a knife holder and tool hooks, keep cooking essentials handy and offer ample prep space to place seasonings, tools and plates. In addition, it can be folded down for better storage
- Ceramic-coated Griddle Top: Ceramic-coated gas griddle top boasts rust-and-scratch resistance, acid-and-alkali resistance and corrosion resistance. It delivers optimal heat distribution and even cooking on the propane griddle surface and is easy to clean
- Double-layer Shelves: Double-layer shelves at the bottom offer two big storage parts to orderly accommodate utensils, boxes, etc
- Extra Large Cooking Surface: An overall 994 sq. in. cooking surface holds up to 50 burgers at once, serving 9-10 people. Large cooking space and six independently controlled burners allow you to cook various foods simultaneously
- Upgraded Storage Cart: Our upgraded storage cart features plenty of storage space where you can organize grill essentials orderly and eliminate mess: double-layer shelves on the left, front spice rack on the right, a cylinder base behind the rack
The Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Propane Gas Griddle is designed for large gatherings. With six burners, it offers a massive cooking surface for those who cook often. The folding side tables add extra prep space, making it practical for events. The downside is its size; it is not portable and requires significant outdoor space. This grill is suited for users who often cook for many people and have the necessary area.
Pros
- Massive cooking area with six burners
- Folding side tables for additional prep space
- Durable ceramic-coated surface
Cons
- Not portable due to its weight
- Requires a lot of outdoor space
Best for: Cooking for large groups or events. Not ideal for: Casual cooks with limited space.
A powerhouse for those who frequently entertain outdoors.
8. Best Premium
Blackstone® 1517 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle, Black
- Versatile Cooking Surface: With 517sq inches of cooking space, this griddle allows you to cook breakfast, lunch and dinner. Cook eggs, pancakes, quesadillas, grilled cheese, steak, potatoes, Teppanyaki style foods and more. Also enjoy a bottom shelf and two side shelves for food storage and prep
- Omnivore Griddle Plate: Built-in wind guards, faster preheat and recover times, better heat distribution, and less fuel use per cook make the Omnivore Griddle Plate a powerful, efficient cooking surface
- Maneuverability: Conveniently move the griddle to fit your needs using the two caster wheels
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting performance for all your outdoor cooking
- Side Shelf and Side Handle: Added prep space with easy access to your cooking tools on the side shelf, and easily move the griddle with the side handle.
- Rear Grease Management: Equipped with a Rear Grease Management system that efficiently makes cleanup quick and convenient after every use
- 1 – year limited warranty
The Blackstone® 1517 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle is perfect for those seeking a premium flat top grill. Its spacious 517 square inches of cooking area allows for multiple cooking styles, from breakfast to dinner. The bottom shelf offers additional storage for tools and ingredients. However, its premium features come with a larger footprint, which may not suit everyone. This grill is suitable for serious cooks looking for versatility and quality.
Pros
- Spacious cooking surface of 517 square inches
- Versatile for various cooking styles
- Includes bottom shelf for added storage
Cons
- Larger footprint may not fit small spaces
- Higher weight makes transport difficult
Best for: Cooks wanting a premium grilling experience. Not ideal for: Users with limited outdoor space.
An excellent choice for serious grilling enthusiasts.
Flat Top Grills Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows the best budget flat top grill options. Each column highlights important features, prices, and sizes. Look at this table to find the best choice for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle | Best Overall | Royal Gourmet Corp | $239 | Check |
| 2 | Blackstone® 1883 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle with Hood | Best Compact | Blackstone | $399 | Check |
| 3 | Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature… | Best Splurge | Chefman | $39.99 | Check |
| 4 | Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle with… | Best Budget | Royal Gourmet Corp | $197.74 | Check |
| 5 | EWFEN 35PCS Griddle Accessories Kit | Runner-Up | EWFEN | $29.99 | Check |
| 6 | Royal Gourmet GB4000P 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle | Best for Daily Use | Royal Gourmet Corp | $297.05 | Check |
| 7 | Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Propane Gas Griddle with… | Best for Beginners | Royal Gourmet Corp | $557.14 | Check |
| 8 | Blackstone® 1517 Original 28" Omnivore Griddle | Best Premium | Blackstone | $249.99 | Check |
| 9 | VEVOR Gas Griddle | — | VEVOR | $188.54 | Check |
| 10 | Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle Pan | — | Lodge | $39.95 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from reliable online sources. We examined customer reviews, manufacturer specs, and expert opinions. We looked at over 20 flat top grills to ensure a well-rounded selection.
How we built this shortlist
We built this shortlist by focusing on budget-friendly grills with good ratings. We prioritized features like size, portability, and cooking capacity. Only grills with at least 4-star ratings made this list.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out grills that did not meet our size and quality standards. Models lacking essential features like adjustable heat controls were eliminated. Any grill with poor customer feedback was also removed.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We relied solely on existing data from customer reviews and manufacturer information. No scores were invented or subjective opinions included.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every three months. We will review new models and adjust our selections based on user feedback and emerging trends. This ensures you have the latest information.
What to look for
Cooking Surface Size
The size of the cooking surface matters a lot. Larger grills allow you to cook more food at once. A good rule is to choose a grill with at least 300 square inches for family meals.
Heat Control Options
Adjustable heat settings are important for different cooking needs. Look for grills with a temperature range from 200°F to 500°F. This range helps you cook various foods evenly.
Fuel Type
Grills can run on propane or electricity. Propane grills offer higher heat for outdoor cooking. Electric grills are great for indoor use, especially in small spaces.
Portability
If you plan to move your grill often, consider its weight and design. Grills with wheels or collapsible stands are easier to transport. A weight under 50 pounds is a good target.
Material Quality
The material affects durability and heat retention. Stainless steel is strong and resistant to rust. Look for griddles made from high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting use.
How to Choose Flat Top Grills
Decide Between Propane and Electric
Choose propane for outdoor grilling and electric for indoor use. Propane grills heat up quickly and have a higher temperature range. Electric grills are safer in enclosed spaces but may have limited heat.
Check for Additional Features
Consider grills with extra features like lids and side tables. Lids help trap heat, making cooking faster. Side tables provide space for food prep, which is helpful during large cooking sessions.
Look for Cooking Space
Aim for a cooking space of at least 300 square inches. This allows you to prepare meals for multiple people. A larger cooking area is more convenient for family barbecues.
Evaluate Temperature Control
Ensure the grill has adjustable temperature settings. A range from 200°F to 500°F is ideal. This flexibility lets you cook different types of food to perfection.
Consider Portability Needs
If you need to move the grill, check its weight and design. Grills with wheels or collapsible features are easier to transport. A lightweight grill under 50 pounds is ideal for travel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best budget flat top grill?
The Royal Gourmet PD4001 is considered the best budget flat top grill. It offers a versatile design and excellent cooking capacity.
How much cooking space do I need?
A cooking space of at least 300 square inches is recommended for family meals. This size allows you to cook for multiple people at once.
Are propane grills better than electric ones?
Propane grills generally heat faster and reach higher temperatures. Electric grills are safer for indoor use but may have limited heat.
What features should I look for?
Look for adjustable temperature controls, ample cooking space, and additional features like lids and side tables. These improve your cooking experience.
How often should I clean my flat top grill?
Clean your grill after each use to maintain its condition. Regular cleaning helps prevent food buildup and rust.
Shopping around? We have 19 more flat top grill guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR refrigerators ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center U.S. Department of Agriculture
About the author
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