BLACKSTONE or Cuisinart? Griddles Compared in 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The BLACKSTONE vs cuisinart griddle comparison highlights two distinct cooking tools. Both brands offer durable surfaces for outdoor or indoor meals. The main difference lies in their form factor and intended use. The Blackstone 1517 is a large, standalone outdoor griddle with a substantial cooking area. The Cuisinart plate is a smaller, reversible cast iron accessory designed for stovetops or existing grills. You need to decide if you want a dedicated station or a versatile insert.
Key differences
| Aspect | Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle | Cuisinart Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Plate |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standalone outdoor griddle with wheels and shelves | Reversible cast iron plate for stovetops or grills |
| Cooking Area | 517 sq. in. | 15.75" x 9" |
| Material | Not listed | Cast Iron |
| Placement | Outdoor use only | Stovetop, electric range, or grill |
| Dimensions | 44" W x 33" H x 22.8" L | 19" L x 9.5" W x 0.8" H |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle if
- You need a large, dedicated outdoor cooking station for groups.
- You want a unit with built-in wind guards and rear grease management.
- You prefer a standalone appliance with side shelves for prep space.
Choose Cuisinart Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Plate if
- You want to use your existing stove or grill for added versatility.
- You prefer the heat retention and even cooking of cast iron.
- You need a reversible surface for both ribbed grilling and flat griddling.
Verdict: The Blackstone 1517 suits those who want a large, dedicated outdoor griddle with ample space. The Cuisinart plate is better for cooks who need a versatile, reversible insert for stovetops or existing grills. Choose based on whether you need a standalone unit or a portable accessory.
Griddle Specs Compared Directly
Cooking surface area
The Blackstone 1517 offers a massive 517 square inches of cooking space. This large Omnivore griddle plate allows you to cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner simultaneously. You can prepare eggs, pancakes, steak, and quesadillas all at once. In contrast, the Cuisinart reversible plate provides a much smaller 15.75 by 9 inch surface. This compact size is suitable for stovetops or small grills. If you need to feed a crowd or cook large batches, the Blackstone provides significantly more room. The Cuisinart is better for single servings or small kitchens.
Portability and weight
The Blackstone 1517 weighs 69 pounds and measures 44 inches wide by 22.8 inches long. It includes two caster wheels and a side handle for maneuverability. You can move this large unit to fit your outdoor space. The Cuisinart plate is far lighter and more portable. It measures 19 inches long by 9.5 inches wide and weighs only enough to be a removable plate. You can place it on a stove, campfire, or grill. For easy transport and storage, the Cuisinart is the clear choice. The Blackstone is a stationary appliance once set up.
Material and heat retention
The Cuisinart plate is made of durable cast iron. This material ensures maximum heat retention and even cooking across the surface. It is pre-seasoned and reversible, offering a ribbed side for grill marks and a flat side for pancakes. The Blackstone griddle plate is described as an Omnivore design with built-in wind guards. The data highlights faster preheat and recover times with less fuel use. While both offer durable surfaces, the Cuisinart provides the specific benefit of cast iron heat retention. The Blackstone focuses on efficient heat distribution and wind protection.
Versatility and placement
The Cuisinart plate is designed for stove tops, electric ranges, campfires, or direct placement on a grill. It transforms any heat source into a multi-function cooking station. The Blackstone 1517 is a standalone outdoor griddle unit. It is built for outdoor use with rear grease management and side shelves for prep space. You cannot place the Blackstone on a standard indoor stovetop. If you need indoor versatility or use a campfire, the Cuisinart is more flexible. The Blackstone is specialized for dedicated outdoor cooking setups.
Included features and storage
The Blackstone 1517 includes a bottom shelf and two side shelves for food storage and prep. It also features a rear grease management system for quick cleanup. The unit comes with a 1-year limited warranty. The Cuisinart plate is a single component with convenient handles. It does not include shelves, grease management systems, or wheels. It is a simple, reusable insert. If you want built-in storage and organized cleanup, the Blackstone provides more features. The Cuisinart is a basic plate without additional accessories.
Choose the Right Griddle for Your Needs
You need large outdoor cooking capacity
The Blackstone 1517 provides 517 square inches of cooking space. Its 28-inch size allows you to prepare meals for large groups. You get side shelves for prep and a rear grease management system. This standalone unit is designed for outdoor use with caster wheels for easy movement.
You want versatile indoor or outdoor cooking
The Cuisinart plate fits on stovetops or grills. Its reversible design offers a flat side for eggs and a ribbed side for grill marks. Made from durable cast iron, it retains heat well. The compact 15.75 by 9-inch size suits smaller kitchens or camping trips.
You prefer a portable, multi-surface option
This Cuisinart griddle plate works on electric ranges, gas grills, or campfires. The cast iron construction ensures even cooking. Its small footprint makes it easy to store. You can flip it to switch between searing steaks and cooking delicate breakfast items without needing a dedicated outdoor station.
The products compared
Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle
Best for: large batch outdoor patio cooking
- Cooking Area
- 517 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Burners
- 2
- Compatible Appliance
- Griddle
- Dimensions
- 22.8 × 44 × 33 inches
- Weight
- 69 pounds
View on Amazon: Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle Affiliate link
This standalone griddle gives you 517 square inches of cooking space on a 28-inch Omnivore plate with integrated wind guards. Measuring 44 inches wide and weighing 69 pounds, the unit includes two side shelves, a bottom shelf, two caster wheels, and rear grease management. It suits cooks wanting a dedicated outdoor cooking station with integrated food prep surfaces.
Pros
- 517 square inches of cooking space
- Omnivore plate with built-in wind guards
- Two side prep shelves and bottom storage shelf
- Rear grease management system
Cons
- 69-pound weight requires effort to lift
- Large 44-inch by 22.8-inch footprint occupies notable patio space
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty
Good fit if
- You need 517 square inches of cooking area for batch meals.
- You want built-in shelves for food prep and tool storage.
Skip if
- You lack patio space for a 44-inch wide freestanding frame.
- You want a compact stovetop plate that stores in a cabinet.
Verdict: Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle fits outdoor cooks who need 517 square inches of dedicated surface area and integrated prep shelving. Its 69-pound frame and wide footprint require permanent patio space.
Cuisinart Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Plate
Best for: compact portable cooking and grill marks
- Surface Material
- Cast Iron
- Cooking Dimensions
- 15.75" x 9"
- Fuel Type
- Electric, Gas
- Compatible Appliance
- Griddle
- Dimensions
- 19 × 9.5 × 0.75 inches
View on Amazon: Cuisinart Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Plate Affiliate link
This Cuisinart reversible griddle plate offers a 15.75 by 9 inch cooking surface made from durable cast iron. The flat side handles eggs and pancakes, while the ribbed side creates grill marks on steaks. It fits on stovetops, campfires, or directly on your grill. The pre-seasoned surface ensures even heat retention. You get convenient handles for easy maneuverability on electric or gas appliances.
Pros
- Reversible design with flat and ribbed sides
- 15.75 by 9 inch cast iron cooking area
- Pre-seasoned surface for even heat retention
- Compatible with stovetops, campfires, and grills
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than the 28-inch Blackstone
- Requires manual seasoning maintenance
- Not a standalone unit with its own heat source
Good fit if
- You want grill marks on steaks
- You have limited outdoor space
- You use a portable grill or campfire
Skip if
- You need a large cooking surface for crowds
- You want a dedicated outdoor griddle unit
- You prefer electric heating control
Verdict: Cuisinart Reversible Cast Iron Griddle provides versatile cooking on a compact cast iron plate. It suits campers or small outdoor kitchens needing grill marks, but lacks the capacity of larger standalone griddles.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle | Cuisinart Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Plate |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 517 sq. in. | not stated |
| Fuel Type | Propane | not stated |
| Burners | 2 | not stated |
| Surface Material | not stated | Cast Iron |
| Cooking Dimensions | not stated | 15.75" x 9" |
| Material | not stated | Cast Iron |
| Compatible Appliance | Griddle | Griddle |
| Dimensions | 22.8 × 44 × 33 inches | 19 × 9.5 × 0.75 inches |
| Weight | 69 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 28 Inch | 19" x 9.5" x 0.8" |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | 1517 | CCP-2000 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Blackstone 28-inch griddle heavy to move?
Yes, it is quite heavy. The unit weighs 69 pounds. This weight provides stability during cooking but makes it difficult to transport. You should plan to keep it in one location rather than moving it frequently for camping or tailgating.
What are the overall dimensions of the Blackstone 1517?
The Blackstone 1517 measures 44 inches in width, 22.8 inches in length, and 33 inches in height. These substantial dimensions require a dedicated outdoor space. The large footprint accommodates the 28-inch cooking surface and side shelves for food preparation.
Can the Cuisinart griddle plate be used on gas burners?
Yes, it works with gas fuel types. The product data lists gas as a compatible fuel source alongside electric. This versatility allows you to use the cast iron plate on various portable stoves or indoor burners depending on your setup.
How thick is the Cuisinart cast iron plate?
The plate is 0.8 inches thick. The height spec lists 0.75 inches, which indicates a substantial thickness for heat retention. This mass helps maintain consistent temperatures and creates distinct grill marks on your food during the cooking process.
Does the Cuisinart griddle have a non-stick coating?
The data specifies the material as cast iron. It does not mention a non-stick coating. Cast iron typically requires seasoning to create a natural non-stick surface. You must maintain this seasoning regularly to ensure proper cooking performance and prevent rust.
Which griddle is better for cooking for a large family?
The Blackstone 28-inch model is better for large groups. It offers a 28-inch cooking surface for substantial capacity. The Cuisinart plate is only 19 inches long and designed for compact use. You will have much more room to cook multiple items at once with the Blackstone.
Is the Cuisinart griddle portable enough for camping?
Yes, it is designed for compact portable cooking. Its dimensions of 19 by 9.5 inches make it easy to pack. Unlike the heavy standalone Blackstone, this cast iron plate fits easily into small outdoor kitchens or camping gear for versatile meal preparation.