BLACKSTONE vs Royal Gourmet: Griddles Compared by Specs
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This BLACKSTONE vs royal gourmet griddle comparison looks at two distinct outdoor cooking options. Both units use gas fuel and offer flat-top cooking surfaces for versatile meal prep. The primary difference lies in their scale and design. The Blackstone is a large, stationary griddle built for heavy-duty backyard use. The Royal Gourmet is a compact, portable tabletop unit designed for mobility and smaller groups. You need to decide which form factor fits your outdoor space and cooking habits.
Key differences
| Aspect | Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle | Royal Gourmet 24-Inch 3-Burner Tabletop Gas Griddle |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 517 sq. in. | 304 sq. in. |
| Form Factor | Stationary cart with wheels | Portable tabletop |
| Weight | 69 pounds | 27.6 pounds |
| Height | 33 inches | 8.66 inches |
| Burners | not listed | 3 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle if
- You need a large 517-square-inch surface for cooking for many people.
- You want a stationary unit with side shelves for prep space.
- You prefer a higher cooking height of 33 inches.
Choose Royal Gourmet 24-Inch 3-Burner Tabletop Gas Griddle if
- You need a lightweight unit under 28 pounds for easy transport.
- You want a tabletop griddle that fits in a car trunk.
- You prefer independent burner controls for zone cooking.
Verdict: The Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle is the better choice if you have permanent outdoor space and need maximum cooking capacity. The Royal Gourmet PD1301S is the superior option if you prioritize portability and need a compact unit for travel or small patios. Your decision depends on whether you value stationary capacity or mobility.
Specs Compare Griddle Features
Cooking Surface Area
The Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle offers a substantial 517 square inches of cooking space. This large surface allows you to prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner items simultaneously, including eggs, steaks, and quesadillas. In contrast, the Royal Gourmet 24-Inch Tabletop Griddle provides 304 square inches. While smaller, this area is sufficient for cooking up to 12 burgers at once. The Blackstone clearly provides more room for large gatherings or complex meals, whereas the Royal Gourmet suits smaller portions or limited counter space.
Heat Output Power
Cooking speed and efficiency depend heavily on heat output. The Royal Gourmet PD1301S delivers a total of 25,500 BTU through its three independently controlled burners. This powerful heat ensures even distribution across the steel surface for consistent results. The data for the Blackstone 1517 does not list specific BTU ratings. Without this information, you cannot directly compare the thermal power. However, the Blackstone features an Omnivore Griddle Plate designed for faster preheat and recover times, suggesting efficient heat management despite the missing spec.
Portability and Weight
Mobility is a key factor for outdoor cooking setups. The Royal Gourmet is a tabletop unit weighing only 27.6 pounds. Its compact design fits easily into car trunks, making it ideal for camping or backyard adventures. The Blackstone 28-Inch model is significantly heavier at 69 pounds. It includes two caster wheels for maneuverability and a side handle for moving. While the Blackstone can be moved, its weight and size make it a stationary appliance. The Royal Gourmet is far more portable for travel.
Ignition System
Starting your cook session should be quick and reliable. The Royal Gourmet features a battery-free piezo ignition system. You simply push a button to start the burners, requiring no matches or external lighters. The data for the Blackstone 1517 does not specify its ignition method. You must assume it may require manual lighting or a different system. The Royal Gourmet offers a clear advantage in startup convenience and reliability with its built-in piezo mechanism.
Grease Management System
Cleanup efficiency matters for regular use. The Blackstone utilizes a rear grease management system that channels drippings for quick and convenient disposal after cooking. This integrated design helps keep the cooking area clean. The Royal Gourmet uses a removable grease cup to collect debris and a detachable griddle top for washing. Both systems aim to simplify cleanup, but they operate differently. The Blackstone offers a dedicated rear channel, while the Royal Gourmet relies on a removable cup and detachable surface.
Included Shelves and Storage
Prep space enhances your cooking workflow. The Blackstone 28-Inch model comes with a bottom shelf and two side shelves. These provide ample room for food storage, ingredient prep, and tool placement. The Royal Gourmet is a compact tabletop unit with no mention of additional shelves or storage racks in its specifications. It relies on the table surface for prep work. The Blackstone offers significantly more built-in storage and prep area for your ingredients and utensils.
Which Griddle Suits Your Cooking Needs
You need to cook for large groups
The Blackstone offers 517 square inches of cooking space, allowing you to prepare multiple meals simultaneously. Its large footprint supports breakfast, lunch, and dinner items like steaks and pancakes. The 517 sq. in. surface ensures you have ample room to manage complex meals without crowding your food on the griddle plate.
You want portable tabletop convenience
The Royal Gourmet is a compact tabletop unit weighing just 27.6 pounds. It fits easily in car trunks and features sturdy feet for stability. Its 24-inch size and portable design make it ideal for outdoor adventures. You can move it easily to fit your needs, unlike the heavier stationary Blackstone model.
You prefer precise heat control
This model features three independently controlled burners with a total output of 25,500 BTU. This setup allows you to manage different cooking zones with precision. The 3.5 mm thick steel surface ensures even heat distribution. You get powerful, efficient heat across the entire surface for consistent results on your 304 sq. in. cooking area.
The products compared
Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle
Best for: Large outdoor cooking capacity and mobility
- 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
The Blackstone 1517 offers 517 square inches of cooking space on a 28-inch surface. Its Omnivore plate provides faster preheat and better heat distribution. At 69 pounds, it moves easily on caster wheels. The unit includes side shelves and a rear grease management system. This griddle suits those needing a large, mobile outdoor cooking station for family meals.
Pros
- 517 square inches of cooking area
- Omnivore plate for efficient heat distribution
- Caster wheels for easy maneuverability
- Rear grease management system
Cons
- Heavy at 69 pounds
- Large footprint requires significant space
- Hood and accessories sold separately
Good fit if
- You need a large cooking surface for groups
- You want a griddle that moves easily on wheels
- You prefer rear grease management for cleanup
Skip if
- You have limited storage space for a large unit
- You need a tabletop griddle for small decks
- You want the hood included in the base price
Verdict: BLACKSTONE 28" Omnivore Griddle delivers substantial cooking area and mobility for outdoor chefs who prioritize capacity and efficient heat recovery over compact portability.
Royal Gourmet 24-Inch 3-Burner Tabletop Gas Griddle
Best for: portable outdoor cooking and camping
- Cooking Area
- 304 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Gas
- Burners
- 3
- Total Heat Output
- 25,500 BTU
- Surface Material
- Steel
- Form Factor
- Tabletop
View on Amazon: Royal Gourmet 24-Inch 3-Burner Tabletop Gas Griddle Affiliate link
The Royal Gourmet PD1301S is a tabletop gas griddle designed for portability. It features a 304 square inch cooking surface made of 3.5 mm thick steel. Three independently controlled burners deliver 25,500 BTU of heat. The unit measures 24 inches wide and weighs 27.6 pounds. It includes piezo ignition for easy startup. This model suits those needing a compact, powerful cooking surface for outdoor use.
Pros
- 304 square inch cooking area accommodates up to 12 burgers
- 25,500 BTU total heat output from three independent burners
- 3.5 mm thick steel surface ensures even heat distribution
- Battery-free piezo ignition system for reliable startups
Cons
- Tabletop form factor requires a stable surface or stand
- 27.6 pound weight adds bulk for transport
- Limited to gas fuel type only
Good fit if
- You need a portable griddle for car trunks or camping
- You want independent burner control for zone cooking
- You prefer a compact unit for small outdoor spaces
Skip if
- You require a large, fixed outdoor kitchen installation
- You need a propane connection for extended cooking sessions
- You prefer a flat-top with a built-in grease management system
Verdict: Royal Gourmet 3-Burner Portable Griddle offers strong heat output in a compact footprint, making it ideal for campers and tailgaters who prioritize portability over permanent installation.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Blackstone 28-Inch Omnivore Griddle | Royal Gourmet 24-Inch 3-Burner Tabletop Gas Griddle |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 517 sq. in. | 304 sq. in. |
| Fuel Type | Propane | Gas |
| Burners | 2 | 3 |
| Total Heat Output | not stated | 25,500 BTU |
| Surface Material | not stated | Steel |
| Form Factor | not stated | Tabletop |
| Application | not stated | Camping, Tailgating |
| Compatible Appliance | Griddle | Griddle |
| Dimensions | 22.8 × 44 × 33 inches | 17.5 × 22.4 × 8.66 inches |
| Weight | 69 pounds | 27.6 pounds |
| Size | 28 Inch | 24-Inch |
| Color | Black | Black & Silver |
| Model | 1517 | PD1301S |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Blackstone 28-inch griddle heavy to move?
Yes, it weighs 69 pounds. This substantial weight provides stability during cooking but requires effort to relocate. The unit measures 44 inches wide, 22.8 inches long, and 33 inches high. You need a sturdy surface to support its size and mass for safe outdoor use.
Does the Royal Gourmet griddle fit in a car trunk?
It is portable enough for most vehicles. The Royal Gourmet 24-inch model weighs only 27.6 pounds. Its compact dimensions are 22.4 inches wide, 17.5 inches long, and 8.66 inches high. This lightweight design makes it suitable for camping trips or tailgating events where space is limited.
Which griddle is better for small patios?
The Royal Gourmet 24-inch model is better for small spaces. It has a smaller footprint and lower profile. The Blackstone 28-inch unit is significantly larger and heavier. If you have limited patio area, the Royal Gourmet’s compact form factor allows for easier placement and storage.
Can I use the Blackstone griddle for large family meals?
Yes, it is designed for large capacity. The 28-inch cooking surface provides ample room for multiple items. Its sturdy construction supports heavy loads. You can cook for large groups simultaneously. The 69-pound weight ensures it remains stable even when handling large quantities of food.
Is the Royal Gourmet griddle easy to carry?
Yes, it is easy to carry due to its light weight. At 27.6 pounds, it is much lighter than the Blackstone. The compact height of 8.66 inches also aids in handling. You can transport it easily to campsites or parks without needing assistance or heavy lifting equipment.
What is the height difference between the two griddles?
The Blackstone is much taller. It stands 33 inches high, while the Royal Gourmet is 8.66 inches high. This difference affects ergonomics and storage. The Royal Gourmet sits closer to the ground, making it suitable for tabletop use. The Blackstone requires a dedicated stand or cart for comfortable cooking.
Does the Blackstone griddle have a wide cooking width?
Yes, it has a wide cooking width. The unit is 44 inches wide overall. This width accommodates the 28-inch cooking surface. The large width allows for organized cooking zones. You can place ingredients at various distances from the heat source for better control during meal preparation.