The 10 Best Flat Top Grills of 2023

Photo: Royal Gourmet

A flat top grill is one of those cooking appliances that can instantly transform your meals and even inspire the cooking creativity in you.

These grills are equipped with burners, which heat a strengthened cooking surface for even heat distribution and thorough grilling of your favorite foods.

Modern-day grills combine both grill and griddle functions for more cooking versatility. Most support grilling grates, which diversify the type of foods you can cook on them.

In our flat top grill review, we explore these value-packed appliances and their features while helping you choose the right one for your home.

10 Best Flat Top Grills – Review

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. Blackstone 1554 (Best Overall)	4 heavy-duty steel burners High 60,000-BTU heat capacity Large 720 sq. in. cooking surface 4 strong portability caster wheels
	2. Royal Gourmet PD1300 (Best Budget)	Pocket-friendly price A compact and portable unit Easy-to-clean enamel top Strong stainless-steel control panel
	3. Royal Gourmet GB8000 (Best for Events & Parties)	Superior 104,000 BTU heat capacity 8 robust independent burners Extra-large 950 sq. in. grill space Spacious storage and workspaces
	4. Blackstone 1555 (Best for Camping)	Versatile cooking configurations Compact and portable Adjustable legs for stability Durable metallic construction
	5. Blackstone 1517 (Best with 2-Burner)	Optimized 470 sq. in. grill surface Additional ample storage space Easy-start electric ignition 2 Portability caster wheels
	6. Royal Gourmet GB4001 (Easy-to-Clean)	Detachable oil drip cup Large 792 sq. in. grilling surface Easy-to-remove griddle Strong steel/stainless-steel build
	7. Royal Gourmet Regal GB2000 (Reliable for Beginner)	Decent 486 sq. in. grill space Even heat distribution Effective grease management Compact for limited spaces
	8. Royal Gourmet GD401C (Heavy-Duty with Cover)	Heavy-duty dual grill/griddle unit 2 shelves for extra workspace 4 strong portability caster wheels Protective grill cover provided
	9. Camp Chef FTG600 (Versatile Combo)	Spacious griddle/grill surfaces Effective grease management Adjustable legs for stability Strong stainless steel
	10. Blackstone 1560 (Stylish Stainless Steel Design)	Stylish stainless steel finish Decent 720 sq. in. cooking surface Easy setup with electronic ignition Easy-to-clean metallic cooktop

1. Blackstone 1554 – Best Overall Flat Top Grill

Photo: Blackstone

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 720 square inches
• Heating Output: 60,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 4

Premium build quality, 4 independent high-heat burners, and solid heavy-duty construction make the Blackstone 1554 our best overall flat top grill.

This professional-grade grill comes offers 4 high-performance burners that combine for a heating capacity of 60,000 BTUs. Completing this capacity is a large cooking capacity of 720 square inches, which is large enough for all-round home cooking.

The four independent burners on this grill are made of durable stainless steel. They offer low and high-temperature controls for enhanced cooking versatility.

Optimal even cooking is made possible through the grill’s rolled-carbon 7-gauge steel griddle top. It is guaranteed to offer a lifetime of reliable service even with intensive cooking.

Also, the entire unit is fairly portable through the 4 industrial-strength caster wheels attached to it. Two of these wheels are lockable to offer stability as you cook on the grill.

We were disappointed that the Blackstone 1554 does not come with a grill cover, especially considering the premium price you pay for the unit.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty independent burners
• High heat capacity and cooking surface
• Durable steel griddle
• Portability-enhancing wheels

Cons:

• No grill cover included

2. Royal Gourmet PD1300 – Best Budget Flat Top Grill

Photo: Royal Gourmet

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 325.9 square inches
• Heating Output: 27,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 3

Quality flat top grills don’t come cheap, but the Royal Gourmet PD1300 manages to package some impressive performance for small meals, at a pocket-friendly price.

The grill offers you 3 independently-controlled burners. The three have a combined cooking power of 27,000 BTU, which is great for meals that cook fast with minimal heat.

It is significantly compact compared to other larger units. You appreciate its compactness when grilling out on the patio, or during picnics with your loved ones. It is portable and easy to handle.

A porcelain enamel griddle has been included for more cooking versatility. The enamel coating simplifies cleaning, requiring just warm soapy water and a towel for the process.

Finally, its control panel is well-built, using stainless steel for strength and durability.

On the downside, the Royal Gourmet PD1300 has a small cooking surface of 325.9 square inches, especially compared to that of rival models.

Pros:

• Reasonably priced
• Compact and portable
• Surfaces are easy to clean
• Strengthened control panel

Cons:

• Limited grill surface

3. Royal Gourmet GB8000 – Best Flat Top Grill for Events and Parties

Photo: Royal Gourmet

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 950 square inches
• Heating Output: 104,000 BTU
• Number of Burners: 8

The superior grilling surface, multiple burners, and additional storage space make the high-performance Royal Gourmet GB8000 our best flat top grill for events and parties.

It offers 8 independently-controlled burners, which can cook multiple meals at once. They have a superior combined heat capacity of 104,000 BTU and there are 2 regulator sets included providing a stable and even flame across the 8 burners.

No other grill comes close to rivaling the 950 square inches of cooking surface that this one offers through its porcelain wire cooking grates that can hold 60 burgers or 120 hot dogs, at once, for home, church, school, and other events.

Additional workspace is provided by 2 heavy-duty folding side tables and 2 levels of strong shelves for extra storage.

Even though the Royal Gourmet GB8000 has 4 lockable wheels for portability, its 117 pounds of weight and large size can limit portability a great deal.

Pros:

• High heat capacity
• Many independent burners
• Superior grilling space
• Ample storage space

Cons:

• Not very portable

4. Blackstone 1555 – Best Flat Top Grill for Camping

Photo: Blackstone

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 477 square inches
• Heating Output: 35,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 2

Blackstone 1555 is easily our best flat top grill for camping because of its unrivaled cooking versatility and enhanced portability.

You can use the 2-burner grill in different setups. In one setup, you can use the grill box and griddle simultaneously. Alternatively, you can remove both and utilize the 2 burners directly by placing pans or pots on them.

A third way of using it by keeping the grill/griddle on, and then using the other open burner with a pot or pan.

It is portable and easy to set up, in addition to its support for multiple assembly configurations. The four legs are adjustable, allowing the unit to remain stable on uneven ground.

This grill is also built for durability. There’s the heavy-duty vented grill box, strong cast iron grates, and a cold-rolled steel griddle plate.

For only 2 burners, the Blackstone 1555 is notably pricey, and buyers on a budget may opt to explore cheaper options.

Pros:

• Versatile cooking setups
• Optimized for portability
• Convenient adjustable legs
• Durable build and finish

Cons:

• Pricey for only 2 burners

5. Blackstone 1517 – Best 2-Burner Flat Top Grill

Photo: Blackstone

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 470 square inches
• Heating Output: 30,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 2

Blackstone 1517, our best 2-burner flat top grill, combines compactness, superior build quality, and restaurant-grade performance for those cooking enthusiasts who desire a manageable outdoor grill.

Even though it offers 2 modest burners, the grill still managers a decent 470-square-inch cooking surface on the griddle, to support the preparation of sizeable meals.

During food preparation, and for storage as well, you can utilize the space provided by the grill’s 2 side shelves, and a bottom shelf you can use to store all your favorite spices and some ingredients too.

You will be thrilled by the grill’s ease assembly. Also, starting it is easy using the battery-powered push-button ignition.

Two of the grill’s legs have caster wheels to provide easy movement around the yard and in your home.

For only 2 burners, however, the price you pay for Blackstone 1517 is notably high, making this grill one of the priciest on our list.

Pros:

• Decent cooking surface
• Ample storage space
• Easy to assemble and use
• Caster wheels support portability

Cons:

• Pricey, for 2 burners

6. Royal Gourmet GB4001 – Easy-to-Clean Flat Top Grill

Photo: Royal Gourmet

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 792 square inches
• Heating Output: 52,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 4

The 4-burner Royal Gourmet GB4001 is an easy-to-clean flat top grill, which comes with a detachable oil cup to collect all stray oil drippings and minimize cleaning demands.

Also, the grill’s griddle plate comes fitted with side handles that help simplify removal during the cleaning process.

You’ll love the large 792 square-inch cooking space offered by this grill’s flat griddle plate that comes already pre-seasoned to make your favorite meals flavorful.

There are fixed side tables on both sides of the grill, which offer some additional space to hold your cooking accessories and seasoning spices with reliable stability.

Also, the control panel of this grill is made of strong stainless steel for durability. An electronic ignition system has been used, and it produces a reliable spark for hassle-free starting.

The Royal Gourmet GB4001 is a sizeable grill with ample space underneath the burner unit, but there are no integrated shelves for added storage, as one would expect.

Pros:

• Effective oil drip management
• Easy griddle removal
• Large cooking surface
• Strengthened control panel

Cons:

• No built-in storage shelves

7. Royal Gourmet Regal GB2000 – Reliable Beginner Flat Top Grill

Photo: Royal Gourmet

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 486 square inches
• Heating Output: 26,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 2

If you’re just getting started with grilling, and want a unit that can support all your grilling styles and techniques as you learn, go for the reliable Royal Gourmet Regal GB2000.

This 2-burner 26,000-BTU unit performs impressively well for a compact unit by offering you a spacious 486-square-inch cooking surface, which supports even heat distribution through its heavy-duty glossy ceramic-coated griddle.

There’s no tedious or messy cleanup with this great. It adopts an effective grease management system that uses a large collection cup to contain oil drips reliably well.

Also, its compactness is beneficial if you have limited free space around your home. If you have a small patio that cannot hold a large grill, this one will fit comfortably.

We found the surface coating of the Royal Gourmet Regal GB2000 as slightly lacking in strength, so you need to be cautious when cleaning it. Avoid abrasive cleaning tools.

Pros:

• Spacious cooking surface for the size
• Even heat distribution
• Effective grease management
• Suitable for small spaces

Cons:

• The surface coating could be stronger

8. Royal Gourmet GD401C – Heavy-Duty Flat Top Grill with Cover

Photo: Royal Gourmet

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 584 square inches
• Heating Output: 48,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 4

The heavy-duty 4-burner Royal Gourmet GD401C is designed to deliver on intensive cooking on both the griddle and grill, with easy switching between the 2 functions.

Both the grill and griddle surfaces combine for a total cooking area of 584 square inches of cooking space. This space is sufficient for medium-to-large family meals, prepared outdoor.

It offers 2 side tables that provide additional workspace. You can place your seasonings, cooking accessories, and other items on the tables with guaranteed stability.

Even though the GD401C is a sizable grill, you can transport it easily around your backyard thanks to its 4 strong caster wheels, for portability.

There’s a bonus cover provided to protect the unit from harsh outdoor elements. This is a great deal because none of the other grills offer it, and it can prove to be a pricey accessory.

We do wish it came with storage shelves built into it, as there is enough space between the frames. 

Pros:

• Heavy-duty grill and griddle
• Shelves for extra workspace
• Wheels simplify transportation
• Bonus protective cover

Cons:

• No storage shelves included

9. Camp Chef FTG600 – Versatile Flat Top Grill and Griddle Combo

Photo: Camp Chef

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 501 square inches
• Heating Output: 48,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 4

By combining grill and griddle functionalities in one unit, the Camp Chef FTG600 positions itself as a highly-versatile flat top grill.

It offers you a decent 501-inch-inch grilling surface and a large 604-square-inch griddle surface with a huge interchangeable flat top griddle, which can accommodate lots of food such as pancakes and bacon, for many people, in one go.

When you’re using the grill grate, grease is a common nuisance that can get messy. The grease management system on this grill is reliable. There’s a grease tray and catch bucket to support easy cleanup.

Also, it does offer commendable flexibility through its 2 adjustable legs (with levers). Every vital component is made using either strong steel or tough stainless steel, for durability.

We did note, however, that the Camp Chef FTG600 does not offer any facility, such as hook, to hang its heavy-duty and weighty griddle when not in use.

Pros:

• Versatile grill and griddle combo
• Effective grill management
• Adjustable legs for stability
• Durable metallic construction

Cons:

• No griddle hanging facility

10. Blackstone 1560 – Stylish Stainless Steel Flat Top Grill

Photo: Blackstone

• Fuel Type: Propane
• Grilling Space: 720 square inches
• Heating Output: 60,000 BTUs
• Number of Burners: 4

The stainless steel construction of Blackstone 1560 gives the flat top grill an elegant restaurant-style look, alongside the major boost in durability that the material delivers.

This shiny unit stands out from all other grills because of its elegance. To complement this style is a large 720-square-inch grilling surface. The griddle is thus ideal for a wide range of meals, including your favorite breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Ease of assembly is another thing to like about this grill. You can set it up and get cooking in no time. Its push ignition is battery-powered, hence more efficient than matches.

Because of the grill’s stainless steel build, the unit is built to last. Its cooktop is also made of cold-rolled steel that is not only strong but also easy to clean.

A slight issue with the Blackstone 1560 is its grease trap, which exhibited some inefficiency by occasionally allowing grease to drip down the grill’s leg.

Pros:

• Stylish build and finish
• Decent cooking surface
• Easy to assemble and use
• Strong and easy-to-clean cooktop

Cons:

• The grease trap can be inefficient

How to Buy the Best Flat Top Grill

Photo: Blackstone

1. Fuel Type

Grills are powered by different types of fuel. The most common fuel sources of fuel include liquid propane, charcoal, and electricity.

All have their advantages and disadvantages. From our review, and among most grilling experts and enthusiasts, propane is the most popular fuel source.

It is portable, long-lasting, and supports high heat capacities, such as those output by the models we have reviewed.

2. Grilling Space

Grilling space is a treasured feature when it comes to flat top grills. Large space allows the grill to accommodate a lot of food in one go.

The Royal Gourmet GB8000 especially stands out from the rest of the pack with its superior grilling space of 950 square inches. It’s worth noting, however, that grills with large grilling spaces are also sizable, and often heavy.

Small grills come in handy where portability is a priority, for instance, during camping. Also, if you have space limitations, you may have to settle for a smaller grilling space. 

3. Heat Control

In most of the flat top grills, you’ll encounter, the heat they produce is controlled through a standard panel of dials, usually located at the unit’s front.

A typical control panel has a knob or dial for each independent burner. For example, if our grill has 4 burners, then it will have an equal number of dials. Most heat controls offer both low and high-heat options for better heat management.

Grill heat control panels are mainly constructed using heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel, to ensure durability through resistance to wear.

4. Burners

The number of burners on your grill is as important as the size of the cooking surface it offers.

There are many advantages to getting a grill with many burners. In some cases, they may increase your grill’s heating capacity, which may be necessary for some cooking applications.

Also, having many burners, such as 4 and above, allows you to cook many meals as ones, especially of each burner can be used independently.

Fewer burners are beneficial to those who make small meals, such as single-servings, which may require just 1 or 2 burners.

Read More: The Best 2-Burner Gas Grills

5. Construction and Durability

Every grill owner, and anyone looking to acquire one, desire a long-lasting cooking companion that will withstand the harshness of outdoor conditions and regular cooking demands.

You’ll be pleased to know that most grill makers invest a great deal in ensuring grill durability by using strong materials such as steel. It is durable and resistant to aggressive wear.

Many of the models on our list feature steel, and stainless steel as the main material, not just the housing, but other vital components as well.

6. Versatility

A versatile flat top grill is the one that supports multiple cooking setups and configurations, allowing you to be flexible with the cooking styles. It should also support the cooking of a wide variety of meals.

Most grills will support both grilling and griddle functions, as well as the utilization of burners, independently.

The ability to use the grill box and griddle simultaneously, or even separately, such as that offered by the Blackstone 1555, bring out the versatility in a grill.

How to Clean a Flat Top Grill

Flat top grills are notorious for producing oils and grease from the foods you cook on them, and that can make for a very tedious cleaning affair. Here’s how to clean your grill effectively and with the least effort.

Tip 1: Clean after Every Use

This may appear unappealing, but cleaning the grill as soon as you’re done cooking with it not only reduces the effort needed for the process but also prevents grease accumulation.

Waiting to clean the unit after a while may complicate the grease removal process, and possibly make it tedious and time-consuming.

Tip 2: Warm Soapy Water is Very Effective

Cleaning a freshly-used grill, especially its griddle, drip pan/pot, and grates, does not require and special solutions.

Warm, soapy water and a soft sponge are very effective in removing the grease and oils. The warm water helps to soften the oils and the soap does the rest of cleaning while ensuring effective debris removal, to preserve the unit’s hygiene.

Tip 3: Use Non-Abrasive Cleaners

Most flat top grills have their metallic housing coated with a special finish that not only improves the appearance but also prevents rusting and boost longevity.

Therefore, to preserve such coatings and prevent them from chipping off, avoid using abrasive cleaners such as chemicals, tough brushes, or scouring pads. The items recommended in the previous tip are sufficient.

Conclusion

In our flat top grill review, we saw how these appliances can transform your meals and cooking, especially outdoors.

If you’re looking for the best flat top grill in the market, go for the Blackstone 1554. It is a 4-burner, high-performance grill that is spacious and durable.

If you’re on a tight budget, but still desire some great value from your grill, the Royal Gourmet PD1300 is a reliable pocket-friendly unit.

And if you regularly hold large parties and events, the extra-large Royal Gourmet GB8000, its superior cooking space, and 8 powerful burners, are the ideal choice.