7 Best Nexgrill Tabletop Griddle Picks for Outdoor Cooking | BestOutsideGear
Choosing the right griddle changes how you handle outdoor meals, whether you’re flipping pancakes at a campsite or searing steaks for a large group. The wrong choice can lead to uneven cooking, stubborn cleanup, or a unit that’s simply too heavy to move comfortably. These picks differ primarily in their footprint, heat control, and portability features. Every pick below is judged on the same three things: what it’s strong at, what it gives up, and what living with it would ask of you.
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1. Daytona 3-Burner Gas Griddle
Best for: Large families hosting backyard cookouts for 8-12 people.
This 30-inch griddle offers 630 square inches of space. It runs on 45,000 BTUs to ensure fast preheating across the hot rolled steel surface. A heavy-duty lid is included to protect the griddle from outdoor elements when not in use.
Strengths:
- Large 630 square inch cooking surface.
- High 45,000 BTU total heat output.
- Durable hot rolled steel cooking surface.
- Includes protective heavy-duty steel lid.
- Designed specifically for outdoor cookouts.
Trade-offs:
- Requires significant space for storage.
- Heavy footprint limits portable use.
Living with this unit means you have a dedicated station for large meals.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large groups | Fits 10-12 burgers at once |
| Backyard chefs | High heat for searing |
| Meal preppers | Spacious 630 sq inch top |
2. Daytona 2-Burner Gas Grill
Best for: Those needing a balance of space and portability.
This model features dual burners and 530 square inches of space. It is compact enough for patios while offering room for diverse meals. The steel surface requires seasoning to maintain non-stick qualities.
Strengths:
- Compact footprint for smaller areas.
- Dual burners for heat control.
- 530 square inches of space.
- Durable steel construction.
- Versatile for camping or backyard.
Trade-offs:
- Less surface area than 3-burner.
- Requires manual seasoning maintenance.
You’ll find this griddle easy to manage for weekend trips or small patio gatherings.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Patios | Small footprint design |
| Campers | Portable and versatile |
| Small families | Dual burners for variety |
3. Nexgrill Portable 1-Burner
Best for: Solo travelers or couples camping on the go.
This 1-burner griddle offers 271 square inches of space. It arrives with an LP hose and regulator. The Piezo ignition system lights the grill without external tools.
Strengths:
- Very compact and easy to store.
- Includes LP hose and regulator.
- Reliable Piezo ignition system.
- Removable grease cup for cleanup.
- Protective lid keeps it clean.
Trade-offs:
- Single burner limits temperature zones.
- Smaller 271 square inch surface.
This griddle is built for those who prioritize ease of setup and storage.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Tailgating | Simple, compact setup |
| Solo cooking | Quick ignition system |
| Limited space | Easy to store away |
4. Nexgrill 1666 22-Inch Griddle
Best for: Small groups wanting a durable, portable cooking surface.
This 22-inch griddle features 361 square inches of space. It uses a patented rear grease management system to guide drips into a collection cup. Its powder-coated steel construction handles outdoor conditions.
Strengths:
- Rear grease management system.
- Independently controlled H-shaped burners.
- Compact 22-inch design.
- Durable powder-coated steel.
- Fits up to 14 burgers.
Trade-offs:
- No integrated lid mentioned.
- Requires space for grease cup.
You’ll enjoy the flexibility of having two burners to cook different foods at once.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Camping | Compact and portable |
| Breakfast cooks | Even heat distribution |
| Small groups | Fits 14 burgers |
5. Nexgrill 2350 Omnivore Griddle
Best for: Travelers who want a suitcase-style portable grill.
This model includes an integrated hood and folding legs for easy transport. The griddle plate features built-in wind guards to maintain heat. It also provides a side shelf for extra workspace.
Strengths:
- Integrated locking hood for transport.
- Folding legs and side shelf.
- Wind guard plate technology.
- Two independently controlled burners.
- Durable powder-coated steel construction.
Trade-offs:
- Slightly heavier due to hood.
- Fixed shelf space.
Living with this griddle is simple because it collapses like a suitcase for storage.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Frequent travelers | Collapsible suitcase design |
| Windy locations | Built-in wind guards |
| Meal prep | Handy side shelf |
6. Nexgrill 1814 17-Inch Griddle
Best for: Hikers and campers needing a lightweight option.
This 17-inch griddle is designed for maximum portability. Adjustable rubber feet ensure stability on uneven ground. The integrated grease tray catches drips, and the stainless steel surface wipes clean.
Strengths:
- Very compact and lightweight.
- Height-adjustable rubber feet.
- Large integrated grease tray.
- Fast heat-up time.
- Fits in a car trunk.
Trade-offs:
- Features a 316-square-inch cooking surface.
- Single H-style burner.
This unit is perfect for the minimalist cook who wants to move quickly.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Hiking/Camping | Very lightweight |
| Uneven ground | Adjustable rubber feet |
| Easy cleanup | Wipe-clean surface |
7. PD1502H Portable 2-Burner Gas Griddle with Hood
Best for: Backyard cooks who prefer a hood for airflow.
This model includes an integrated hood for protection. It offers 211 square inches of space and 17,000 BTUs of power. The piezo igniter allows for battery-free ignition.
Strengths:
- Integrated hood with handle.
- Piezo igniter, no batteries.
- 17,000 BTU total power.
- Removable grease cup.
- Durable 3.5mm thick top.
Trade-offs:
- Smaller 211 square inch area.
- Requires manual cleaning of cup.
You’ll find this griddle easy to maintain, as the grease drain hole directs all messes into the cup.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Quick meals | Fast-heating burners |
| Outdoor storage | Integrated protective hood |
| Easy start | Battery-free piezo ignition |
Side by Side
This table helps you compare the specific features and capacity of each griddle to see which one fits your storage and cooking needs best.
How to Judge One of These
Cooking Surface Material
The griddle top material determines heat retention and longevity. Most models use hot rolled steel for even heat conduction. You must season this surface with oil before your first use to create a non-stick barrier. Always check the manufacturer’s official maintenance guidelines to maintain your specific surface in good condition for years.
Heat Output and Control
BTU ratings show power, but control allows versatility. Multiple burners allow temperature zones for searing and warming. Look for independently controlled knobs if you plan to cook different types of food at the same time.
Grease Management
A good grease system simplifies cleaning. Rear or side grease cups are most convenient. A simple, well-placed drain hole ensures that cleaning is just a matter of emptying a cup rather than scrubbing the entire unit.
Portability and Storage
For portability, look for folding legs, locking hoods, or handles. Collapsible units are easier to manage than those with fixed legs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a tabletop griddle enough for a full family meal?
Yes, most tabletop griddles provide enough space for a family of four or more. Models like the 3-burner versions offer over 600 square inches, which easily handles burgers or pancakes for a larger group. Smaller 17-inch units are better suited for couples or individuals on the go. Match the square inch rating to your group size to avoid cooking in batches.
What does the first week with a new griddle look like?
Your first week will be mostly about seasoning the steel surface to build up a non-stick layer. You’ll heat the griddle, apply a thin layer of oil, and let it burn off, repeating this process a few times. This simple step is vital for preventing rust and ensuring your food doesn’t stick during future cooks. Once seasoned, the surface will darken, which is a sign that it’s ready for regular use.
Does the griddle require many replacement parts?
The listing doesn’t mention the frequency of part replacement. Keep the steel seasoned and covered to prevent rust.
What can I not cook on a flat top griddle?
A griddle is extremely versatile, but it isn’t meant for foods that require deep immersion or have a high liquid content that needs to boil. You can’t use it for soups, stews, or anything that needs to be submerged in water. It is ideal for searing, frying, and sautéing.
Is the simplest pick here enough for me?
If you’re only cooking for yourself or a partner and want to save space, the most compact model available is plenty.
Conclusion
The Nexgrill Daytona 3-Burner is the top choice for those who host large backyard gatherings, while the Nexgrill 1814 17-Inch Griddle is the most portable pick for hikers and campers who need to travel light. Before you finalize your choice, verify the dimensions of your storage space to ensure the unit fits comfortably.
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I am an outdoor enthusiast and gear researcher passionate about camping, hiking, backpacking, and outdoor adventures. I enjoy testing gear, comparing products, and sharing practical advice to help readers make informed decisions. At BestOutsideGear, I create honest gear reviews, buying guides, and outdoor tips to help adventurers choose the right equipment with confidence.
