BLACKSTONE or Coleman? Grills Compared in 2026
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This BLACKSTONE vs coleman grill comparison looks at two popular portable options for outdoor cooking. Both units are designed for mobility, making them suitable for camping or tailgating. The main difference lies in their cooking style and power source. One is a flat-top griddle using propane for versatile surface cooking, while the other is a traditional gas grill with open grates. You need to decide which format fits your meal preferences and space constraints.
Key differences
| Aspect | Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle | Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Tabletop | Portable Stand-Up |
| Cooking Area | 361 sq. in. | 285 sq. in. |
| Burners | 2 independently controlled H-shaped burners | 3 adjustable burners |
| Heat Output | not listed | 20,000 total BTUs |
| Weight | 25.3 pounds | 46.7 pounds |
| Ignition | not listed | Push-button Instastart |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle if
- You prefer the flat surface versatility of a griddle for breakfast items and stir-fries.
- You need a lighter unit that is easier to carry to remote campsites.
- You want a larger cooking area for flipping multiple burgers or pancakes at once.
Choose Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill if
- You prefer traditional grill marks and open-grate cooking for steaks and vegetables.
- You want precise temperature control with three independent burners.
- You value the convenience of push-button ignition for quick lighting.
Verdict: The Blackstone is the better choice if you prioritize cooking versatility and portability due to its lighter weight and larger flat surface. The Coleman is more suitable if you prefer traditional grilling methods and want the added power of three burners with higher BTU output. Your decision should depend on whether you cook more breakfast-style foods or classic grilled meats.
Blackstone vs Coleman Griddle Comparison
Cooking Surface Area
The Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle offers 361 square inches of cooking space, which is larger than the Coleman RoadTrip 285. You can fit up to 14 burgers or 60 hot dogs on the Blackstone simultaneously. The Coleman provides 285 square inches of grilling area. This means you have more room for large meals or batch cooking with the Blackstone. If you are cooking for a larger group, the extra surface area on the Blackstone is a practical advantage. The Coleman is sufficient for smaller gatherings but offers less total space for food preparation.
Form Factor and Height
These two products use different designs for outdoor cooking. The Blackstone is a tabletop unit with a height of 9 inches. It sits on a flat surface like a table or camp table. The Coleman is a portable stand-up grill with a height of 15.5 inches. It has its own legs for support. The stand-up design of the Coleman allows you to cook without bending over as much as you might with the lower Blackstone tabletop model. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a low-profile unit for easy transport or a taller unit for standing comfort.
Heat Output and Control
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 delivers 20,000 total BTUs of heat output. It features three adjustable burners for precise temperature control. The Blackstone 22-Inch Griddle uses two independently controlled H-shaped burners. While the exact BTU rating is not listed in the provided data for the Blackstone, its dual-burner system allows you to cook at different temperatures simultaneously. The Coleman offers more burners for zoning, while the Blackstone focuses on even heat distribution across its flat surface. You get distinct temperature zones on the Coleman, whereas the Blackstone excels at uniform flat-top cooking.
Ignition and Startup
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 includes push-button ignition for matchless lighting. This feature allows you to start the grill quickly and reliably with a simple press. The Blackstone 22-Inch Griddle data does not specify an ignition method, so you should check the manual for its lighting mechanism. If you value immediate, hassle-free startup without matches or lighters, the Coleman provides a clear advantage with its integrated ignition system. This is a significant convenience factor for outdoor cooking where quick setup is often preferred.
Portability and Weight
Portability is key for both units, but they differ in weight and handling. The Blackstone weighs 25.3 pounds, making it lighter and easier to carry than the Coleman. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 weighs 46.7 pounds. However, the Coleman includes sturdy quick-fold legs and wheels, which aid in moving it once unfolded. The Blackstone is a compact tabletop unit that is easier to lift and store. If you prioritize low weight for hiking or carrying, the Blackstone is better. If you prefer wheeled mobility on flat ground, the Coleman offers that convenience.
Grease Management System
The Blackstone 22-Inch Griddle features a patented rear grease management system. It guides excess grease through a slot into a collection cup for easy removal. This design helps manage messes on a flat-top surface. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a grill with grates, and while it likely has a drip tray, the specific grease management details are not provided in the data. The Blackstone’s system is explicitly designed for the flat-top style, making cleanup of oils and sauces straightforward. For flat-top cooking, this dedicated system is a practical benefit.
Choose your portable grill by need
You want flat-top versatility for breakfast
The Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle offers 361 square inches of cooking space. Its H-shaped burners provide independent heat control. This lets you cook pancakes and burgers at different temperatures. The rear grease management system simplifies cleanup. You get a large, flat surface ideal for diverse meals.
You prefer traditional grilling with precise heat
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 delivers 20,000 total BTUs across three adjustable burners. This setup allows for precise temperature zoning. The integrated thermometer helps you monitor heat accurately. You get a sturdy stand-up design with quick-fold legs. This unit is built for classic grilled foods and easy transport.
You need lightweight portability for camping
The Blackstone weighs only 25.3 pounds. Its compact tabletop form factor fits easily into vehicle storage. You can carry it for tailgating or camping without strain. The powder-coated steel construction is durable yet light. This makes it the better choice when every pound matters for your outdoor trips.
The products compared
Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle
Best for: portable tabletop grilling
- Cooking Area
- 361 sq. in.
- Form Factor
- Tabletop
- Primary Material
- Powder Coated Steel
- Compatible Appliance
- Griddle
- Size
- 22 Inches
- Dimensions
- 22.5 × 19 × 9 inches
View on Amazon: Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle Affiliate link
The Blackstone 1666 is a compact tabletop griddle with a 361-square-inch cooking area. It features two independently controlled H-shaped burners for precise heat management. The unit weighs 25.3 pounds and measures 22.5 inches long. It includes a rear grease management system for easier cleanup. This model suits small groups or tailgating where portability matters.
Pros
- 361 square inches of cooking space
- Two independently controlled H-shaped burners
- Patented rear grease management system
- Compact 22-inch tabletop design
Cons
- Tabletop form factor requires a separate stand
- Limited to 25.3 pounds for heavy-duty use
- No included stand or wheels for mobility
Good fit if
- You need a portable griddle for tailgating
- You want independent burner controls
- You have limited counter space
Skip if
- You need a built-in stand
- You require more than 361 square inches
- You prefer a standalone unit
Verdict: Blackstone 22" Tabletop Griddle delivers precise heat control in a compact package. It fits buyers who prioritize portability and independent burner zones over a ready-to-use stand.
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill
Best for: portable camping and tailgating
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Cooking Area
- 285 sq. in.
- Heat Output
- 20,000 total BTUs
- Burner Count
- 3
- Form Factor
- Portable Stand-Up
- Placement
- Outdoor
View on Amazon: Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill Affiliate link
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a portable stand-up propane grill designed for outdoor cooking. It delivers 20,000 total BTUs across three adjustable burners, allowing for precise temperature control. The 285-square-inch cooking area fits a moderate amount of food. Weighing 46.7 pounds, it includes quick-fold legs and wheels for easy transport. This unit suits campers and tailgaters who need reliable heat and a compact footprint.
Pros
- 20,000 total BTU heat output
- Three adjustable burners for zone cooking
- 285 square inch grilling area
- Push-button Instastart ignition
- Integrated thermometer for monitoring
Cons
- Smaller 285 sq. in. cooking surface
- Requires separate 16.4 oz propane cylinder
- No side shelves included in data
Good fit if
- You need a portable grill for camping
- You want precise temperature control with multiple burners
- You have limited storage space for a large grill
Skip if
- You require a large cooking area for big gatherings
- You prefer a fixed outdoor kitchen setup
- You want a grill with built-in side tables
Verdict: Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Grill offers balanced heat and portability for small groups. It fits buyers who prioritize mobility and adjustable burners over maximum cooking space.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle | Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | not stated | Propane |
| Cooking Area | 361 sq. in. | 285 sq. in. |
| Heat Output | not stated | 20,000 total BTUs |
| Burner Count | not stated | 3 |
| Form Factor | Tabletop | Portable Stand-Up |
| Primary Material | Powder Coated Steel | not stated |
| Placement | not stated | Outdoor |
| Application | not stated | Camping, Tailgating |
| Material | Stainless Steel | not stated |
| Compatible Appliance | Griddle | not stated |
| Size | 22 Inches | One Size |
| Dimensions | 22.5 × 19 × 9 inches | 32.1 × 18.5 × 15.5 inches |
| Weight | 25.3 pounds | 46.7 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | 1666 | 2000033052 |
Frequently asked questions
Which grill is lighter to carry?
The Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle is lighter. It weighs 25.3 pounds. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill weighs 46.7 pounds. You should choose the Blackstone if you prioritize minimal weight for transport. The Coleman is heavier due to its larger frame and propane tank integration.
Does the Blackstone come with a stand?
No, the Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle does not include a stand. It is designed as a tabletop unit. You must place it on a stable surface like a table. The verdict notes it fits buyers who prioritize portability over a ready-to-use stand. You will need to provide your own support surface.
What fuel do these grills use?
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 uses propane as its fuel type. The Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle is a griddle that typically requires a heat source, but the data specifies it is compatible with griddle setups. The Coleman is explicitly listed for outdoor use with propane. You need to ensure you have the correct fuel for the Coleman model.
Which unit is more compact in width?
The Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle is narrower. It has a width of 19 inches. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill has a width of 18.5 inches. The Coleman is slightly narrower by half an inch. However, the Blackstone is shorter in length at 22.5 inches compared to the Coleman's 32.1 inches.
Can I use the Coleman for tailgating?
Yes, the Coleman RoadTrip 285 is suitable for tailgating. Its application is listed for camping and tailgating. It is designed for outdoor placement. The unit is portable, making it easy to transport to events. You can use it for small group cooking while on the go.
What is the material of the Blackstone cooking surface?
The Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle is made of stainless steel. This material is durable and resistant to rust. It helps maintain consistent heat distribution. The stainless steel construction supports precise heat control. You can expect reliable performance for various cooking tasks on this surface.
Which grill is better for small groups?
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is ideal for small groups. It offers balanced heat and portability. The Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle is better for portable tabletop grilling. If you need independent burner zones, the Blackstone is preferred. For balanced heat in a portable format, the Coleman is the better choice for smaller gatherings.