Hood vs Hard Cover Grills: Which Should You Buy?
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You are deciding between a hood vs hard cover grill for outdoor cooking. Both options protect your griddle from weather and debris. The main difference lies in how they attach and function. One uses magnetic wind guards that sit on the unit, while the other features a solid lid that closes over the entire cooking surface. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize heat retention during cooking or full enclosure for storage.
Key differences
| Aspect | MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards | Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle with Hard Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Cover Type | Hood (Magnetic Wind Guards) | Hard Cover (Protective Lid) |
| Fuel Type | not listed | Propane Gas |
| Cooking Area | not listed | 766 sq. in. |
| Heat Output | not listed | 52,000 BTU |
| Included Accessories | Pizza Stone | Cover |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards if
- You want magnetic wind guards to concentrate heat and save propane during cooking.
- You already own a compatible Blackstone griddle and need replacement or additional accessories.
- You prefer lightweight accessories that are easy to remove and carry.
Choose Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle with Hard Cover if
- You need a complete griddle unit with a protective hard cover for storage.
- You require high heat output with four independently controlled burners.
- You want collapsible side shelves for tool storage and mobility with casters.
Verdict: Choose the MeWeBlue option if you need magnetic wind guards to improve efficiency on an existing griddle. Select the Royal Gourmet if you are buying a new complete unit with a hard cover for protection and high performance. The hard cover offers better weather protection when not in use, while the hood guards focus on cooking efficiency.
Hood Versus Hard Cover Grills
Cover type
Product A uses a hood-style setup with magnetic wind guards. These guards sit on the griddle body to block wind and concentrate heat. They are lightweight and easy to remove. Product B features a protective hard cover that closes over the entire unit. This lid shields the cooking surface from weather and debris when not in use. The hard cover is designed to extend the lifespan of the griddle. You should not close the lid while cooking. This structural difference defines how each unit handles protection and storage.
Fuel type
Product B runs on propane gas. It has four independently controlled stainless steel burners. The total heat output reaches 52,000 BTU. This provides high-performance capability for daily meals. Product A does not list a fuel type in its specifications. It is an accessory kit for existing griddles. You must already own a compatible griddle to use it. Product B is a complete cooking unit with its own power source. This makes it a self-contained solution for outdoor cooking.
Cooking area
Product B offers a spacious cooking surface of 766 square inches. The dimensions are 34.92 inches by 21.93 inches. This pre-seasoned steel area is large enough for family meals. Product A does not specify a cooking area. It is a set of wind guards for a 36-inch griddle. The guards themselves are small, measuring 16.9 inches in length. They cover gaps between the top and burners. Product B provides the actual cooking space, while Product A modifies an existing one.
Material
Product A is made of 430 stainless steel. It has a black coating that matches the griddle. The magnets resist heat up to 660 degrees Fahrenheit. The steel is corrosion and oxidation resistant. Product B is also black but does not list specific material grades in the provided data. It includes collapsible side shelves with hooks. The hard cover protects the unit. Product A focuses on durable, heat-resistant metal components for wind protection.
Weight and size
Product B is a large unit. It weighs 126 pounds. The dimensions are 63.9 inches in length and 37.7 inches in height. It includes casters with brakes for mobility. Product A is very light. It weighs only 1.49 pounds. The wind guards are compact and easy to carry. You can leave them attached during travel. Product B is a substantial appliance. Product A is a portable accessory. The difference in mass affects how you store and move each item.
Choose Between Wind Guards or Hard Cover
You own a 36-inch Blackstone griddle
These magnetic wind guards fit your 36-inch Blackstone griddle models directly. They attach in seconds and block wind to concentrate heat. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and handles high temperatures up to 660 degrees. They are lightweight at 1.49 pounds and easy to carry or store when not in use.
You need a complete cooking station
This unit includes a hard cover, four burners, and side shelves. It offers 766 square inches of cooking space and 52,000 BTU of power. The protective lid shields the griddle from weather when not in use. Foldable side tables provide storage for tools, and the unit includes casters for mobility and stability during setup.
You want to save propane on existing gear
The magnetic wind guards help shorten cooking time by blocking wind and maximizing flame efficiency. This efficiency can save propane by reducing the time needed to cook. The guards cover gaps between the griddle top and burners. They are compatible with rear grease cups and side shelves, allowing you to leave them attached during travel.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards | hooded 36-inch griddle owners facing windy conditions | Check price of MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards on Amazon |
| 2 | Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle with Hard Cover | Large family meals with independent burner control | Check price of Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle with Hard Cover on Amazon |
The products compared
MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards
Best for: hooded 36-inch griddle owners facing windy conditions
- Cover
- Hood (what this guide is about)
- Material
- Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories
- Pizza Stone
- Compatible Appliance
- Griddle
- Dimensions
- 16.9 × 1.4 × 0.9 inches
- Weight
- 1.49 pounds
View on Amazon: MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards Affiliate link
This set of 430 stainless steel wind guards fits 36-inch griddles and works alongside hood attachments. Built with magnets rated up to 660°F, the guards mount to the base to block drafts around burner gaps without obstructing your hood or grease cup. If you run a hooded outdoor griddle setup and need to shield burner heat, this accessory fits your cooking station.
Pros
- Constructed from 430 stainless steel with a heat-resistant black coating
- Built-in magnets resist direct heat up to 660°F
- Compatible with hoods, covers, rear grease cups, and side shelves
- Weighs 1.49 pounds for easy removal and transport
Cons
- Functions only as an add-on accessory requiring an existing griddle
- Provides 0.9 inches of vertical wind deflection height
Good fit if
- You own a compatible 36-inch griddle equipped with a hood.
- You want magnetic wind guards rated to withstand 660°F.
Skip if
- You need a complete freestanding griddle with built-in burners.
- You operate a smaller 17-inch, 22-inch, or 28-inch griddle.
Verdict: MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Griddle Wind Guards provides targeted heat retention for outdoor cooks using a 36-inch hooded griddle in exposed backyard conditions.
Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle with Hard Cover
Best for: Large family meals with independent burner control
- Cover
- Hard Cover (what this guide is about)
- Fuel Type
- Propane Gas
- Cooking Area
- 766 sq. in.
- Heat Output
- 52,000 BTU
- Burner Count
- 4
- Application
- Backyard, Tailgating
View on Amazon: Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle with Hard Cover Affiliate link
This Royal Gourmet GB4000P griddle features a hard cover for weather protection and four independent stainless steel burners. It delivers 52,000 BTU across a 766 square inch pre-seasoned steel surface. The unit includes collapsible side shelves with tool hooks and a knife strip. It sits on a frame with two casters and two directional wheels. You get a spacious cooking area suitable for family meals or outdoor gatherings.
Pros
- Four independent burners provide 52,000 BTU total heat output.
- 766 square inch pre-seasoned steel cooking surface.
- Protective hard cover shields the griddle from elements.
- Collapsible side shelves offer storage for tools and knives.
Cons
- Weighs 126 pounds, making it heavy to move.
- Requires propane gas, not natural gas.
- Hard cover must not be closed while grilling.
Good fit if
- You need a large cooking surface for groups.
- You want independent control over each burner.
- You prefer a hard cover for protection.
Skip if
- You only have limited storage space.
- You prefer electric or charcoal fuel.
- You want a lightweight portable unit.
Verdict: Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Hard Cover Griddle offers high heat and a large surface for serious outdoor cooking. It suits those who value independent burner control and weather protection.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards | Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle with Hard Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | not stated | Propane Gas |
| Cooking Area | not stated | 766 sq. in. |
| Heat Output | not stated | 52,000 BTU |
| Burner Count | not stated | 4 |
| Application | not stated | Backyard, Tailgating |
| Material | Stainless Steel | not stated |
| Included Accessories | Pizza Stone | Cover |
| Compatible Appliance | Griddle | Griddle |
| Cover | Hood | Hard Cover |
| Dimensions | 16.9 × 1.4 × 0.9 inches | 63.9 × 28.1 × 37.7 inches |
| Weight | 1.49 pounds | 126 pounds |
| Size | 36" | 4-Burner+Hard Cover |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | 5015 | GB4000P |
Frequently asked questions
Does a hard cover grill include a protective cover?
Yes, the Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle comes with a cover included. This hard cover provides weather protection for the unit. It is part of the package, so you do not need to buy it separately. The cover helps keep the griddle surface clean when not in use.
Are magnetic wind guards a type of hood?
The MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards function similarly to a hood by blocking wind. They attach magnetically to your griddle. This setup concentrates heat for faster cooking. However, they do not replace a full hood or hard cover structure. They are an accessory for existing units.
Which grill is better for windy conditions?
The MeWeBlue Wind Guards are designed specifically for windy outdoor cooking. They help you cook faster by blocking wind from blowing heat away. The Royal Gourmet griddle has a hard cover, which offers protection but does not actively concentrate heat during cooking like the magnetic guards do.
What material are the wind guards made of?
The MeWeBlue wind guards are made of stainless steel. This material is durable and resists corrosion. It can handle high temperatures during outdoor cooking. The stainless steel construction ensures the guards last through various weather conditions without rusting or degrading quickly.
How heavy is the Royal Gourmet hard cover griddle?
The Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle weighs 126 pounds. It is a substantial unit due to its size and construction. The dimensions are 63.9 inches long and 28.1 inches wide. You need a sturdy surface to support this weight safely during use.
Can I use wind guards with a 36-inch griddle?
Yes, the MeWeBlue 36-Inch Magnetic Wind Guards are compatible with 36-inch griddles. They fit directly onto the unit. This makes them a practical accessory for Blackstone owners. You can attach them in seconds to improve cooking performance in breezy weather.
Does the Royal Gourmet grill use propane?
Yes, the Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Griddle runs on gas and propane. It offers independent burner control for precise heat management. This fuel type is common for outdoor cooking. You can easily refill the propane tank to keep cooking for large family meals.
What is the height of the MeWeBlue wind guards?
The MeWeBlue wind guards have a height of 0.9 inches. They are low-profile accessories that sit on the griddle. Their small size allows them to block wind effectively without obstructing your view. The width is 1.4 inches, making them slim and unobtrusive.