Camp Chef vs Blackstone: Which Grill is Right For You?

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Grilling is a favorite pastime for many people. They love to be able to cook outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine that accompanies it. However, choosing a grill can be tough. There are many factors to consider, including size, features, and price.

In this blog post, we will compare two of the most popular grills on the market: Camp Chef vs Blackstone Grills. We will help you decide which grill is right for you.

What to Consider When Choosing a Grill

When choosing between Camp Chef and Blackstone, it is important to consider your cooking needs, available space in your outdoor kitchen, and how often you plan on using the grill.

Size

One of the first things to consider when buying a grill is how big you need it to be. If you are looking for something small and easy to transport, Blackstone Grills may be the right option for you.

They also offer larger grills that can cook up to 100 hamburgers.

Features

What other features do you want your grill to have? Some grills come with storage bags; others have side tables; some even come with barbeque tools.

Check the features of the Camp Chef Outdoor Cooking System and Blackstone Grills before deciding on your grill.

Price

Do you want an inexpensive alternative? Blackstone Grills are usually less expensive than the Camp Chef Outdoor Cooking System. Do you want to invest in something with more bells and whistles? If so, be prepared to pay a higher price for your grill.

Camp Chef Overview

Ty Measom, an outdoorsman and food lover, was disappointed in the poor quality equipment in the market and decided to develop a flat top Camp Chef grill in the 1990s.

The Camp Chef became one of the most popular in the market as it blew the competition out of the water. Adventurers became interested in the simple and durable design, and from there, the company became famous and saw its profits soar.

The manufacturer continues to be a leader in innovation and outdoor cooking with pellet grills, cast iron cooking pieces, and flat-top grills. Their products are practical, high performance, and meant for outdoor spaces, and most brands don’t keep up with the quality of Camp Chef.

Camp Chef Flat Top Grill

The Camp Chef Flat Top Grill is a four-burner grill fueled by propane gas and has 604 square inches of cooking surface area.

Moreover, the cooking surface is interchangeable, meaning a chef can seamlessly switch back and forth between the traditional grill grates and griddle cooking surface depending on the cooking needs. Using the grill grates will leave beautiful marks on your food and is ideal for veggies, burgers, meats, and other food.

The four gas burners produce about 12,000 BTUs/hr and have a heat dispersing design that ensures no spots are left on the cooking surface, a common issue with other gas flat-top grills.

The burners have an efficient ignition system that gets you going with a press of a button. Although the heat on the burners might be affected by the winds, they can support a temperature range of about 225-500 degrees Fahrenheit despite the adverse weather changes.

The temperature will sear the steaks evenly, and you could also lower it for more finesse when you want to make the griddle pancakes or any food that does not need as much heat.

The grill has additional design features like a propane holder which holds the propane tank to the grill. The dual shelf open cart design also gives the user a lot of space to store the cooking accessories or extra space when cooking. With the built-in rolling wheels, you can also move the grill from one point to another.

The grill also has foldable side shelves on the sides of the cooking surface and is quite spacious.

The shelves make it possible to organize your cooking, and one of the notable features is the ease of cleaning. The grill has an array of built-in clean-up features with a grease management system consisting of a catch bucket, grease tray, and micro-adjustable griddle levers that easily channel grease into a collection area.

Camp Chef offers a one-year warranty on their flat top grill series, which might be less coverage than other notable brands. However, the quality of their top grills is great, and most chefs will not even need the warranty or use it at all.

Pros
  • The interchangeable flat top provides maximum versatility on the cooker
  • It has a large cooking surface
  • The stainless burners offer consistent and uniform heating
  • Has a reasonable price
  • The built-in wheels are heavy-duty
  • The grill has foldable side shelves and an efficient grease management system
  • It has a quick ignition system
Cons
  • The warranty on their goods is short compared to other notable brands

Blackstone Grills Overview

A grilling company in the US, Blackstone was founded in 2008. The company has been known for developing grill and griddle models.

They offer both portable and stationary grilling options, including a double burner tabletop model and larger models with multiple burners and side tables. The grills are designed with durability, convenience, and efficiency in mind.

Blackstone grills are perfect for those who want something easy to transport but large enough to cook food for several people at once. The smallest griddle can prepare up to four burgers at once, and the largest can handle 100 hamburgers.

Blackstone grills also have heavy cast aluminum grates, making them easy to clean and the non-stick surface will allow for quick cooking.

Blackstone 1554 Cooking 4 Burner Flat Top Gas Grill

The Blackstone 1554 Cooking 4 Burner Flat Top Gas Grill is practical for outdoor cooking, and despite the budget and size preference, you will find a brand that meets your needs.

The Blackstone 36 inches flat top grill is the most common brand. It has a large 720 square inches of surface area, making it ideal for cooking for large crowds. It is large enough to host 4 burners allowing a user to cook different foods simultaneously.

Blackstone is made of high-quality stainless steel materials, and the burners are solid and thick, thus lasting more than expected. The thick rolled steel makes cooking easier as it allows for even heat distribution making it ideal for first-time cooks.

The burners have different control mechanisms making it possible to control the heat on each burner. The heat control is versatile as you can cook different meals on the same burner at different times and heat levels.

You would even keep the food warm by adjusting the temperatures to the most suitable levels, as this is what you would need for your outdoor party. It retains the food flavors, and juices ensure your food tastes better.

The ignition system is smooth as it uses an easy push-button, reducing the hassle of fuss ignition. You can also easily move the unit from one place to another as it has industrial-grade caster wheels. Moreover, the wheels have a locking system that keeps the grill in place when you need to move it.

Pros
  • The 36 inch top has 4 burners with multiple cooking options
  • It is made of high-grade stainless steel for durability
  • You can adjust the temperature for each burner
  • It has an easy to use start button ignition system
  • Uses industrial grade caster wheels for maneuverability
  • It is easy to clean
Cons
  • You have to season this grill after you buy it

The Main Differences Between Camp Chef and Blackstone

Camp ChefBlackstone
Price
Both the cooking systems are affordable, but Camp Chef can be pricey.

You can find Blackstone at a lower price.
Cart Design
It has a cart-style unit design with a set of shelves beneath the cooktop. It has two wheels to move it around easily.

It is a cart-style cooking mechanism with a four-wheel, which keeps it stable on rough terrains.
Surface Area
The surface takes some time to heat up but won’t have any cold surfaces once the heat is evenly distributed. It has 2 cooking surfaces such as the grill and steel grilling grates.

The steel frame offers longevity, and the griddle surface is impressive with efficient burners which allow heat control on the specific cookers.
Surface Area
It provides 604 square inches as a griddle surface and 501 square inches as a traditional grill.

It provides 720 square inches as a griddle surface, making it ideal for grilling during events such as parties.
Storage
It has large storage space as it comes with shelves and a firebox beneath. You can store plates, utensils, and other supplies on the shelves adjacent to the grill.

It does not have a large storage space for cooking accessories and spices.
Heat Zone
The stainless burners offer a combined output of 48,000 BTUs with 12,000 BTUs designated to each burner.
It has a top surface that takes some time to heat up; this is not adequate for proper heat distribution.

Its stainless burners offer about 60,000 BTUs/hr, an average of 15,000 BTUs per burner. However, this is not more powerful as the BTUs refer only to the energy expended. Since Blackstone has a large surface area, it could need more BTUs than Camp Chef to achieve similar heating. It offers 4-ozone heat control, which is effective and convenient for cooking more meals.
Heat Zone
Although it heats up slowly, it retains heat well and accomplishes an admirable job with everything from stir-fries to eggs.

It offers heat retention with independently controlled burners to adjust the amount of heat.
Heat Zone
Its ignition switch controls all four burners. When you turn the propane, you choose the burners to switch on by turning the knobs to the desired settings.

The burners are heated in sequential order, which means you would switch one burner at a time following a chronicle order.
Assembly
Camp chef is easy to assemble and does not need any seasoning, as it is made of nonstick capabilities right out of the box.

Blackstone takes a little time to assemble, but you need to season the surface once you have cleaned it.
Grease Management
The grease system is more reliable and user-friendly, and it has a tough which runs along the front of the grill’s surface, collecting any grease.

Features a poor grease management system located at the rear of the griddle with a small home that leads to a drop cup that hangs beneath the cooking surface. The system works in theory, but the grease tends to miss the cup running down the grill’s leg.
Blackstone
It has a one-year warranty which excludes paint and finishes.

It has a one-year warranty which is inclusive of the paint and finishes.

Which Grill is Right For You – The Verdict!

After reviewing both grills, it’s time to decide which one will work best for you.

So which grill should you buy?

Blackstone Grill is an excellent choice if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck. It’s less expensive than Camp Chef, and it offers a steel frame for durability and longevity.

However, if you want something with more bells and whistles or a large storage area, then Camp Chef might be the right choice for you.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Blackstone a Good Brand?

Blackstone is one of the most popular brands when it comes to outdoor grilling and cooking. And for a good reason – its grills are known for their versatility and durability. The Blackstone 4-burner grill is a great option for those who want to be able to cook different types of food at the same time.

The separate heat control system means you can cook different items at different temperatures, which is perfect for large gatherings. The large surface area also comes in handy when you’re cooking for a crowd – it can accommodate a lot of food and keep it warm for a long time. In short, Blackstone is a great brand that offers the best versatility and performance.

Is Blackstone the Best Flat Top Grill?

Yes, it is the best flat top grill as it offers flexibility with heat control over a large surface. Moreover, it can cook different food on the various burners as it is easy to control the heat on the burners.

It keeps the food warm over a long time and comes with a one-year warranty that includes paints and finishes.

Are Blackstone Griddles Good for Camping?

The grills are ideal for camping as it has four wheels controlled by a locking system that keeps the grills on the move whenever necessary. The temperature control makes it ideal for comping as you can simultaneously cook different meals on the surface.

It also keeps the food warm in a cold outdoor environment, providing a warm treat during camping.

Are Blackstone Grills Safe?

When grilling, safety should always be a top priority. After all, you’re working with open flames and hot coals. Fortunately, Blackstone Grills are designed with safety in mind. The grills have an efficient burner control system that switches on and off with the push of a button.

You won’t have to worry about leaving the grill unattended. Additionally, the interlocking wheels make the grill stable on even the roughest terrain. So whether you’re grilling at the park or in your backyard, you can rest assured that your Blackstone Grill is safe and secure.

How Often Should You Clean Your Blackstone Griddle?

You should clean the Blackstone after every use to make it effective and long-lasting in the long run. Grease build-up can impact the grill’s efficiency.

Before using the griddle, you might need to clean it and season it for a better cooking experience.

Are Camp Chef Smokers Insulated?

Camp Chef Smokers are a great way to cook your food all year round. With their fiberglass-insulated blanket, you can smoke and grill your food regardless of the outside temperature. This makes them perfect for cooking in the winter and summer.

In addition, their insulation helps to keep the heat in, so your food will cook faster and more evenly. Whether you’re cooking for a large group or just yourself, Camp Chef Smokers is a great option to consider.

Can I Leave My Camp Chef Outside?

Whether or not you can leave your camp chef outside depends on the climate. If you live in an area with mild weather, there’s no reason why you can’t leave it outside. However, if you live in an area with the scorching heat or extreme cold, it’s best to bring it inside. This is because extreme weather can damage the camp chef and make it less effective.

In addition, the campsite might not be the best place for it if there’s a lot of foot traffic. So if you’re not sure about the weather, it’s always best to avoid caution and bring your camp chef inside.

Do Camp Chef Grills Rust?

If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting grill, Camp Chef grills are a great option. They’re made of stainless steel, resistant to rust and corrosion. That means you can enjoy your grill for many years without worrying about the finish being damaged by the elements. And because they’re so easy to clean, you’ll always be able to keep your grill looking like new.

Can I Use My Camp Chef Pellet Grill in the Rain?

Whether cooking for a large group or enjoying a quiet night at home, your Camp Chef pellet grill is a versatile and convenient way to get the perfect meal. However, you should avoid using your grill in the rain, as this can damage the unit and reduce its lifespan.

While some models are designed to be used in all weather conditions, most pellet grills are not meant to be exposed to wet weather. In addition to damaging the unit, using your grill in the rain can create a dangerous situation by increasing the risk of fire or electrocution.

So while it may be tempting to fire up your grill in the middle of a storm, it’s best to wait until the sun comes out before you start cooking.

Do You Need to Season Camp Chef Pellet Grills?

Seasoning a grill is important to prevent food from sticking and to help create a nonstick surface. The Camp Chef Pellet Grill is made of a nonstick surface and does not need seasoning before cooking. However, if the Camp Chef Pellet Grill is brand new, you should go through the full seasoning process.

Seasoning the grill is simple and only takes a few minutes. First, preheat the grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, coat the entire surface of the grill with cooking oil. Then, turn off the grill and let it cool for 30 minutes. Finally, wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel. Seasoning the grill will help ensure that your food doesn’t stick and cooks evenly.

What Is the Difference Between a Flat Top Grill, a Regular Grill, and a Griddle?

A grill is a piece of cooking equipment that consists of a grated surface over which food can be cooked. A flat top grill is a type of grill that has a smooth, flat surface. A regular grill has a grate with raised ridges, while a griddle has a flat surface with no ridges.

Grilling is a method of cooking food that involves direct exposure to radiant heat. The food is placed on a grill, which is then placed over a source of heat, such as charcoal or gas. Grilling typically results in food that is cooked evenly on all sides and has a slightly charred flavor.

Flat top grills are becoming increasingly popular for home cooking, as they offer a number of advantages over regular grills and griddles. First, flat top grills provide a more even cooking surface, which means that food is less likely to stick or burn. Additionally, flat top grills are easier to clean than regular grills, as there are no ridges for grease and debris to get trapped in.

Finally, flat top grills can be used for a variety of cooking methods, such as searing, sautéing, and even baking.

If you’re looking for a versatile piece of cooking equipment that is easy to use and clean, a flat top grill is a great option. However, if you’re primarily interested in grilling, a regular grill will still give you great results.

Conclusion

You can achieve the right grilling experience with the right grills. However, the market has many griddles, making it impossible to pick one easily.

This Camp Chef and Blackstone comparison offers the best information which can help you choose the favorable griddle.

The flat-top grills have no holes and openings. Its flat surface can cook food directly and is heated with several burners leading even to heat distribution, and enhancing your cooking experience. Good luck finding the most appropriate griddle which meets your needs.

Bobby Johnson

When he's not writing about barbecue, you can find Bobby smoking meat for friends and family. He's been a backyard pitmaster for roughly half his life, and has worked with nearly every cut of meat. Not everyone has a hands-on guide to teach them BBQ, but that's what Bobby hopes to do with Electric Smoker HQ. He wants to help people create amazing food that they can be proud of.