Blackstone 17 Inch vs 22 Inch: Which Griddle Size Fits You

Choosing between a 17 inch and a 22 inch griddle depends primarily on your cooking frequency and how many people you typically serve at once. The 17 inch model is ideal for solo users or couples needing a portable, space-saving unit, while the 22 inch version provides the extra surface area required to cook complete meals for a family of four without crowding the food.

Choosing between the 17 inch and 22 inch Blackstone

The main difference between these two models is the total square inches of cooking space, which dictates how much food you can manage simultaneously. If you mostly prepare simple breakfasts or single-portion proteins, the smaller unit is easier to clean and store.

However, if you enjoy cooking multiple items like pancakes, bacon, and eggs at once, the 22-inch model prevents the common frustration of needing to cook in batches. A good rule of thumb is to calculate your typical guest count. If you consistently feed more than two people, the 17-inch model forces you to juggle cold food while waiting for the next round to finish.

Feature	17 Inch Model	22 Inch Model
Cooking Surface	~260 sq. inches	~360 sq. inches
Burner Count	1	2
Ideal For	1-2 people	3-4 people
Portability	High	Moderate

The burner configuration is a key performance element. The 22-inch model features two independent burners, allowing you to create two different temperature zones. You can sear a steak on one side while keeping vegetables warm on the other.

The 17-inch model has only one burner, meaning the entire surface stays at the same temperature. This limits your ability to manage ingredients that require different heat levels. If you frequently cook delicate items like fish alongside hearty vegetables, the single-burner unit will likely result in overcooked sides or undercooked proteins. Choose the dual-burner version if you prioritize versatility over the ability to tuck the unit into a tight storage space.

How Do They Compare for Portability and Storage?

If you frequently travel, camp, or tailgate, portability is often the deciding factor. The 17-inch version weighs roughly 25 pounds, making it light enough for one person to carry comfortably. It fits easily into most vehicle trunks or under a small storage shelf. Its compact footprint makes it the superior choice for those with limited balcony space or a desire for a minimalist patio setup.

The 22-inch griddle jumps to nearly 40 pounds. While still labeled a tabletop unit, this weight makes it cumbersome for solo transport. It requires a sturdy, oversized table or a dedicated rolling cart to handle the extra surface area. If you attempt to use a standard folding card table, the unit’s weight can cause the legs to buckle or wobble during cooking.

Use the 17-inch model if your grill spends more time in a trunk than on a patio. Choose the 22-inch version only if you have a permanent, dedicated surface where it can remain stationary throughout the season. Moving the larger unit daily is a common mistake that leads to damaged grease traps and dented hoods.

Are There Common Mistakes When Choosing?

A common mistake is assuming that a larger griddle will always cook better food. In reality, the quality of your sear depends on the heat output of the burners and the thickness of the steel plate. Both sizes use the same high-quality cold-rolled steel, so you don’t lose performance by choosing the smaller unit. The only real trade-off is the total volume of food you can handle at once.

If you’re cooking for more than four people, the 22-inch model is necessary to avoid batch-cooking fatigue. For solo trips or couples, the 17-inch unit offers superior portability without sacrificing the crust on your smash burgers.

Always measure your available table or stand space before purchasing. The 22-inch unit requires a footprint of at least 24 inches wide for safe operation, while the 17-inch version fits comfortably on most standard folding camp tables.

Another error is ignoring the fuel consumption rate. If you’re planning long-term camping trips, carry at least two extra one-pound canisters if you opt for the larger griddle.

If you notice a yellow flame rather than a crisp blue one, your air intake is obstructed by debris. Clean the burner tubes immediately to prevent carbon buildup. This simple maintenance step ensures consistent heat and prevents the uneven hot spots that ruin delicate proteins like eggs or fish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the 22 inch model on a standard folding table?

Yes, provided the table is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the steel plate and you place it on a flat, non-flammable surface. Ensure the table legs are locked and the surface doesn’t wobble during heavy scraping or flipping.

Does the 17 inch model get hot enough for searing?

It gets just as hot as the larger model because it uses the same burner technology. The only limitation is the physical size, which prevents you from searing large quantities of meat without cooling the plate down by adding too much cold food at once.

Is it hard to clean the 22 inch griddle?

It takes slightly longer to clean because of the larger surface area, but the process is identical for both. You simply scrape the debris into the grease trap while the surface is still warm and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust between uses.

Conclusion

If you prioritize maximum portability and cook for fewer than three people, the 17 inch griddle is the better choice for your needs. If you regularly cook for a family and want the versatility of two separate heat zones, choose the 22 inch model to avoid batch cooking.

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