Pros and Cons Flat Top Grills - Blackstone vs Camp Chef vs Pit Boss

[@johnknestis3851]

When I first got my Blackstone the hot spots troubled me. As I’ve used it I’ve found I know where the hot spots are and I use it to my advantage. Eggs in the front and sides, bacon in the middle. Burgers in the center, buns on the outside.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

100 absolutely correct...Great points...I should have mentioned that. TY

[@michaelh7770]

Yep I can do burgers in the middle and toast the buns in the cooler areas. It’s actually a benefit. Just need to map the griddle and keep an IR temp gun handy.

[@garygarlock8080]

Those hot spots will grow the more layers of seasoning you put down before cooking. The black expands each coat.

[@dieselXJ]

Watch the cook at your favorite breakfast spot, they have learned the hot spots on their comercial griddles. Its part of the art of their trade.

[@joelcopeland3018]

You did a great job with this video. My Blackstone is all I have ever cooked on, so I love it. My wife bought it for me for our anniversary/ my birthday - July 2 and 3 - She said herself that it was the best money we ever spent. I'm 63 years old and am retired. I cook on it constantly. You name it I've tried it... fish, seafood, hotdogs, burgers, fried rice, lo mien, steak, ham, chicken sausage, bacon, veggies... Anything you can cook on a stove you can cook on a griddle.... it is basically a giant skillet.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Right on! Sounds great and sounds like you are really enjoying your griddle. Thanks for commenting...

[@joannaacevedo1209]

This video helped me pick out the perfect griddle for my husband for Father’s Day… i will be picking the Camp Chef. Thank you so much 🙏🏼

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Ty Joanna....he will love it..

[@abelgarc]

Thank you for the good work and the information you bring to me I'm a griller and a smoker guy I have a small gridde that I used to put inside the grill but I already got me a sidekick and by all means the best theme in your show is the screensaver on the TV behind you God bless America thank you,💯‼️✅

[@TheFlatTopKing]

HHAHAHAH thanks Abel...GBA

[@TandemTuba]

Re: warping, it's really just physics. You heat up metal, it's going to warp a little bit when it cools down, no matter how slowly especially on a piece so large. You can do little things to mitigate it, but it's just part of the gig! Great video!

[@sherrilambert9984]

Someone shared this with me sir and I must say I have never seen a video of anything that was so thorough. Your in depth commentary and analysis was very, very good. You pretty much left no questions that I could think of. Very well done. (I subscribed. 😊)👍

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad you enjoyed it and Thanks so much for the support..really appreciate that. Reach out if we can help

[@stevencharles4333]

Well done, sir. Quick to your points. Balanced, very objective, appreciate the clarity offered by your assistant. I have a 22" Blackstone - I'm keeping it but upgrading to a larger size but a different brand simply because of my research and certain features I want or don't want on a larger size. thank you.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome, thank you!

[@bobbicatton]

There truly are pros and cons to each of these, and so much comes down to personal preferences. This video pointed out things I wouldn't have even known to consider. Lessons learned for my next purchase👍😊

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Bobbi.

[@sd8023]

That is by far the best blog I’ve seen about the griddles I’m in the market and it is confusing so I love your feedback on this thank you very much..

[@TheFlatTopKing]

You are so welcome! When you get ready and need a push let me know and maybe i ian help push you in the right direction

[@tjgim]

Heat disbursement on a Blackstone is awesome. The hot spot is very similar to a griddle at a Japanese Steakhouse. It allows you to move around the food you want to speed up or slow down. Especially if people want their meats at different temperatures.

[@WhiteDove73-888]

Yes, this!

[@timothyzimmerman8962]

Great comparison. I like that your not pushing one over the other just because you have some financial interest in one or the other. Keep up the good work.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I just try to look in the mirror and ask what would you guys like to see. How would I like it to be done...In todays world its so hard to be honest because of blow back.....

[@raychang8648]

I love your unbiased attention to detail. Much love from Taiwan.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thank you very much! Thats awesome....Long way away...

[@miccaronigames4832]

Damn hopefully China don’t go fuck y’all up, don’t worry us Americans got u homie

[@jeffcone3702]

Thank you so much for all the info and your opinions. I agree with you that it's up to the person who uses whatever griddle. There's no wrong choice. My preference is my Blackstone griddle, 4 burner. And if I'm not gonna use it alot, I can always pick up the griddle plate itself ,and store in garage to limit rust/mold building up. Thanks again for all of the information, it helps!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Jeff..

[@apace003]

You don't need to light all four burners. No need for another griddle.

[@janakharp]

This was a fantastic video! I'm just now researching the griddles for a gift for my husband, of course with his insight as well, but I take time to do more of the research usually. Now that the Traeger griddle is out as well as the Weber griddle...I'll have to go back and view or find a video review of that to compare all the things addressed in this video. Thank you so much!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for the comment

[@rodderbob]

Two things to note on the PB Ultimate. First, if you push that silver wire bale at the top of the tank all the way down on the rim it will act like a spring clamp........no more dropped tanks. Second, the 4 burner Ultimate (maybe a more equal comparison to the other two) griddle top is 18 x 36, your comments on the left most burner would still apply to it as it is the same configuration. The area near the drain is nice for melting butter in a pan without burning it when needed.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Bob can you message me about the tank thing....I have tried multiple things and I have found a solution.. Heck even after filming that day I moved them again and it fell again

[@voiceofreason33916]

It might just be the type of propane tank being used. I have no issue with my PB as that top bale goes all the way down to make it very secure. Also, based on a video that came out earlier in the week where the PB brass stated that metal utensils were ok to use, well I did for the first time yesterday. I think as long as you’re careful, as described in this video, it will be fine. One other note: I did find a great loge skillet brush (non-metal) that worked like a champ in the clean up process.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@voiceofreason33916 thanks vince. I will try it out. Just curious for me do you find yourself moving your griddle around alot..

[@jessethabarber]

I thought it was a bad design too and figured it out after a minute, it def will hold the tank. It's almost like the middle piece clips on to the tank. What's your email flat top king? I'll email you a pic.

[@ronniefergason4429]

You're correct. You're supposed to push it down where it pinches it to hold it sturdy.

[@jsodeman1]

I just bought the Pit Boss due to the ease of cleaning and maintenance. I know myself and I won't be cooking on it all the time and I won't take the time to keep it maintained. I'm also building an outdoor kitchen this summer and I know it will easily install into my design. Thanks for the videos and keep em coming!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey buddy I would live to see that when its done. Reach out to me and let me know.

[@michaelwolfson278]

Yeah I am thinking about doing the same thing. I have a Big Joe and I want to add a griddle to the team. I wish there were more kitchen design samples available online. Any ideas on where I can visit for ideas?

[@GB-zw6bq]

Agree on the ease of cleaning and maintenance. I bought a PB for that reason. I don’t use very often and worry about rust.

[@michaelfreehling1914]

Love watching your videos. I'm not big in cooking but my oldest son is. Last year bought him a CC for bday. He loves it and the great thing for me I get invited over to eat. That's what I'm talking about. Have a blessed day

[@mvblitzyo]

WOW ! what an amazing education on what I wanted to know about what I was shopping for thanks SOO much for putting together a most excellent video on flat grills Joe ..

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jsutty7530]

on the pitboss…that upper propane arm actually pushes down onto the lip of ur tank and your tank will not move when you move the griddle…it takes alittle force to get both sides in but works great

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I had another person reach out and say that..i tried it like that and video it and still the thing fell. I will work on it more. Thanks for helping out

[@olddawgdreaming5715]

Thanks for sharing all that information about the three different flat top grills. Quite interesting without the complaining about each of the faults , it's a work with it situation that is doable as you pointed out. Great job. Fred.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Fred...appreciate that

[@seanparker8423]

Thanks for your informative pros and cons on these griddles.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Absolutely...reach out if we can help

[@mikepj1025]

I have the blackstone 28” for camping. I absolutely love it. The 2 negatives I can share is that if it’s tilted towards the grease trap on uneven surfaces, I’ve lost many eggs in the grease trap when I pour them on the grill. The second negative is the ignition system. Mine never worked from day one so I just use a bbq lighter. Great video.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for your input MIke....I have troubles on my Pit Boss with the far right igniter as well...

[@michaelh7770]

At the risk of being that guy, did you put in a fresh battery?

[@mikepj1025]

@@michaelh7770 lol. I have. I see the spark but it just doesn’t ignite.

[@OurBackwoodsHomestead]

Great video I just bought the 28" Blackstone with the 3 bars under the platform to help with warping. I do wish it had the drain in the front as well. I haven't even used it yet just got it. thanks for the great info!

[@charlescahoon3557]

I went with Camp Chef four burner about three years ago and love it. I have mine under a palapa so moving it isn’t a big issue. I have had no issues with it. I did buy a stainless hard top just to help keep the top clean between uses and it hangs off the back and works great as a wind block and grease splatter.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome bud....yea I loved mine...i never had problems either...good choice

[@inmyopinion6836]

OUTSTANDING Brother! ! ! What a great unbiased truth telling ! I really enjoyed this. As a maker I now see more than ever what ... I ...... want in a flat top griddle to put by my Pizza oven-smoker . I'll send you some pics when I do this.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Yeah absolutely...very soon we will be making an updated video with new griddles....New Blackstone...Traeger and Weber

[@inmyopinion6836]

@@TheFlatTopKing Thanks !

[@adriand83]

My guy. Thank you for this video. Great break down of the pros and cons. ✊🏽

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Well i appreciate that...cheers

[@JimCantu]

Great review!!! Thank you for all of your unbiased opinions, they were all very informative and honest. You and your wife make an awesome team! Definitely subscribing and looking forward to seeing more of your videos and recipes!!

[@Mdogbrown]

This video is amazing. I’m looking to purchase my first griddle and this was very helpful. I don’t grill a ton and I didn’t realize the pros of the ceramic. It never occurred to me that I might have rust issues if I don’t grill for a month or two. However, I might grill more often if I had one. Always done charcoal and nothing else.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful! Definitely a tough decision...when you narrow it down let me know and maybe we can get you past the finnish line

[@Mdogbrown]

@@TheFlatTopKing ended up with 36” rolled steel. I’ve cooked burgers and chicken thighs. So far, so good. After using it, I will definitely be cooking more for the family.

[@adamrenissance3322]

Great review, My wife helps me clarify what I'm saying too. I have just started looking. You gave me a lot to think about. Good luck.

[@WLeonardAthas]

I have the Camp Chef. I took a high pressure high temperature hydraulic hose and affixed it to the grease nipple and run it down to a small bucket where I have tin foil bucket inside of the bucket. The bucket I use has a screw on lid and I cut some slits to accommodate the diameter of the hose. This has worked great. With this set-up, I keep the shelf down on occasion and since I don't move my griddle hardly at all it works well for me.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Is there a way you can look up our FB page The Griddle Group and tag me in some pics...I would love to see the set up.. No pressure

[@WLeonardAthas]

@@TheFlatTopKing The high pressure aspect is because those hydraulic hoses are super strong and had a lot of metal of some sort inside and that protects the hose from the temperature of the grease. I'll take some photos and if there is an email address I can use then it can come directly to you. Or I could text to a cell phone number. I follow your FB page so I'll try that first and then check here to see if you've received them.

[@philipcalvit3071]

I have a Blackstone and I hate the grease trap. I’ve lost food in the thing. I’ve knocked it off moving it to the wall and it’s hard to get all the drippings to go in it. Your videos are spot on. I’m headed to the fb group you mentioned. Thanks again.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Yes sir...thanks bud

[@neumandd]

I very much appreciate your style and terminology. I am a gas or charcoal griller and am just considering a griddle. I will watch more of your videos to help me decide. Keep up the EXCELLENT work.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful! reach out if you narrow it down and struggle for the final push

[@PappyDC1]

Great video and fair honest opinion of all 3 grills. This video helped me make my decision on a grill. I bought the Pit Boss Ultimate 3 burner a few days ago. Already had several cooks that were awesome and even better with the easy clean-up. In my grill search I asked a couple of buddies about their Blackstones. Both highly recommended the BS product. I know that one friend is "always fussing" with his BS and in some ways I think, likes to tinker with the seasoning, etc. Personally, I have cast iron pans and a kettle and enjoy cooking on them. I thought whatever grill I get is going to sit outside on a semi-sheltered deck for 9 months of a year. I went ahead and bought the Pit Boss because of the ceramic coating. I have good quality silicone grill tools. It really is super easy to clean. I'll probably cook 2-3 times a week so I should be OK. Of course, time will tell. I was also impressed with the build quality of the PB, but can't compare to Camp Chef or BS as I'm not familiar with the products. I'm sure they are good build too. Thanks, Pappy

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey Pappy....I absolutely SWEAR by a wooden scraper by Earlywood...made in montana I have the links listed in the description below....i swear by em..

[@tvm2209]

Thanks for all your tips and tricks brother! Also your wife’s (I assume) occasional fill ins in the video make it 10x better haha😂

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I appreciate that...

[@garybarss1950]

Great job on explaining the pros and cons.was worth watching

[@TheFlatTopKing]

TY Gary

[@mikaylajbmartin]

I’m just discovering these brands today. Thx for the vid!!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

ty for commenting..

[@gabester1]

Can't wait to see your next griddle comparison video with the new Traeger Flatrock...looks like they let the others do a bunch of their R&D for them and improved on a lot of the weaknesses.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I dont know if I will be getting it...for 900 it seems pretty high end.....BUT never say never

[@chrisbrehm5136]

Thank you for the review. I think I am leaning Pit Boss. Main reasons: I will use sparingly and will build it into an outdoor kitchen. The grease trap won’t be sticking out on the left (CC) or stuck behind and impossible to clean (BS). I also have a pit boss smoker and use it all the time and I absolutely love it.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Good choice! I just got my first Pit Boss smoker...

[@mikebruce2758]

To use your phrase, you nailed it “personal preference “! I almost didn’t watch it because it was 30 minutes, but you were concise and to the point! TRITE: Only come away (I was hoping for) all the way through is do they all cool down the same. My Bstone is under my walkout deck. So I need to get it clean, eat while the food is hot and get it covered. Yup, Bstone has a cover but…..the deck above me let’s water thru, so I bought a cover. Can’t put the cover on, so I timed it, from turn off to cool enough to cover is 7 minutes. I can hear ya man, always one in every bunch that picks fly …….. out of the pepper. Keep um comin sailor!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Mike and much appreciated taking the time to watch.

[@robertrohrer2117]

thanks for this video. I'm looking to buy my 1st flat top grill. I will be coming back to this video , thanks again

[@TheFlatTopKing]

No problem 👍

[@raising8]

We are a family of 10 and LOVE our griddle!! We have a stainless 36" Blackstone without the air fryer and we take it camping with us regularly... Besides the top being a bit heavy, the whole thing folds up nicely and sits between the toolbox and the 5th wheel hitch. Thanks for the video!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

That is awesome...big family..I guess you find the 36in adequate to accommodate that size of family...if so I can relay that information to people asking

[@n.a.garciafamily]

Large family here and this comment is super helpful. Thank you!

[@hoovdog5059]

Another outstanding comparison video. You can always count on the King to be totally unbiased. I have the Blackstone 36 airfryer combo and love it. The huge air fryer baskets hold a lot of food and heat very evenly. Thanks for taking the time to go deep into these griddles.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey thanks bud....much appreciated

[@pcmaroon30]

After watching your video I came to the conclusion of going with a Blackstone. Mostly because of longevity of the griddle top has been proven versus Pit Boss. Look forward to more cooks!

[@mhammer5]

I like Camp Chef for a lot of reasons. Camp Chef has an igniter for each burner, Blackstone burners can only light up due to a cascade.

[@Popeang5634]

I went with the blackstone as well. So easy to use. Minimal maintenance and I can be rough on my cooks too!

[@howardbarlow578]

Very thorough comparison, Neal. I think about griddles as I do about cell phones. In this day and age, there is no reason to have one with any deficiencies. Take the best features of all and combine them into one that covers it all. Yes, there are patents and such, but they are always overcome. Of course, as time goes by, new thoughts and ideas will arise. But, there is simply no excuse to have either product lacking in features. Give me a minute, I need to put my soapbox away.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Great prospective Howard.

[@qmcclendon7611]

Loved this presentation. I’m a new Blackstone owner and gathering flat top knowledge.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad you enjoyed it! We have plenty of videos that help beginners out...

[@Bubby1025]

I just now bought the camp chef because of this video. Also bought the hood, and the pizza oven.. looking forward to many great cooks

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome! Thank you!...They didn't not have those options when I bought mine...great choice....

[@Bubby1025]

I post cooking content on Tiktok with 120k followers. Never had success with KZbin

[@iswhatitis2744]

Excellent channel just subscribed. For me camp chef…. Even heat ,grease trap//Individual ignite-If I’m just cooking one or two hotdogs or a couple of burgers I do not need to heat the whole surface. I find your delivery and the tone of your voice very listenable same with your gal friend.I like how she interjects and keeps you smart😊🍔

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for the sub and welcome to the family....

[@steve219big]

I’ve had the Blackstone for 7 months. I have the built on hood but I don’t have the air fryers. I don’t understand why someone wants to airfry anything. My cons on the Blackstone is the sweet spot you mentioned. I cook on low to medium low. So my sweet spot is even smaller. But i’m retired and not in any hurry. Another is the little canal indention they put in the middle of the top so the grease will flow. I don’t need that. I push my grease with no problem. There is a lot of heat coming out the sides. I have to be careful not to put things on my side shelves so that they melt or get too hot to handle. My cons are small. I can live with it. Nothing is perfect, so I deal with it. I love my Blackstone. With the hood and a few utensils I bought, I have around $650 in it. I use it 3 to 4 times a week. I cook on low to med.-low so maybe I won’t have a warping problem. Burgers are better every time I use it. Philly cheesesteaks with thin sliced ribeye is a treat. They are around $15.00 a sandwich but they are the best cheesesteak I’ve had in my life. And i’m 64, I’ve had a few. Lol. My suggestion is, go buy a Blackstone. No air fryer needed. That’s just a gadget. Believe me that big flattop will keep you busy. You don’t want any distractions down below.

[@firedude0120]

I have two blackstones, a 36 inch and a 22 inch. The 22 inch warped on me early on from using cold food. After a couple more uses it evened itself back to normal. I haven't every had any issues on the 36 inch. They are all good it really comes down to personal preference.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

amen...

[@impetiousdoom]

I’m new to the griddle grills. Very enlightening information provided here. Thank you

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful! reach out if you need help

[@johnnymiller8603]

Hello. I just got Blackstone and subscribe to your channel and love them both. I look forward to watching all of your videos. I’m a Navy veteran also so I love when you reference the Navy. I speak that language too.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Welcome to the family...Hoorah GO NAVY..what where and when

[@johnnymiller8603]

I was in from 1985 to 2010. I was a flight engineer on P-3 aircraft. Retired as Senior Chief.

[@davidtester3866]

To clean the grease trap on the front of the Camp Chef, cut a lemon in half and use juicy side down, and rub it back and forth to clean that area while griddle still hot. it will clean and make the are very nice. Has worked in my restaurant and find it the only way to keep it like new.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Do you have stainless steel griddles or rolled steel in your restaurants

[@elconquistadorII]

Great review . Now I know I want the Camp Chef. Thank you

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for watching!

[@TheSkitd]

I did fried rice on my 36" Blackstone last night and it was the first time I cranked everything up on high. Everything turned out great and this was one of the main reasons for buying the flat top. No warpage. The one thing I always do is preheat all 4 burners on the same setting and then I will turn single burners off or up or down. I have a Pit Boss pellet smoker and what Bob and the others are talking about with the tank holder is that you need to turn the tank so the rolled handle is in the back, then the u-shaped wire goes on the inside and just keep pushing it down.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I can only give fair warning....it might not have warped this time or never but cooking on high can get you there fast...only trying to be honest.. Thanks the the tank. I still have problems out of it. Maybe its just my tank or equipment

[@stonerscravings]

As someone who’s ready to buy another bigger griddle. I really appreciate this!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Kelly buy all three…

[@stonerscravings]

@@TheFlatTopKing Dylan thanks you for your input 🤣. Seriously, he would okay all 3 if I wanted them ❤️

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@stonerscravings hahahahahaha. Get all 3 different ones than got so we can have a huge pro and con

[@stonerscravings]

@@TheFlatTopKing love this idea. I currently have a very small cuisinart 360. It is a wonderful flat top. I wanted an EVO. This was my alternative. Before that I put a little griddle on my grill and made amazing hibachi, smash burgers, etc. I’m totally ready to have options. I’m 51 years old. I’ve earned options 😂❤️

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@stonerscravings i wanted the evo as well. Just not the 4,000 to go with it.

[@xdarnokx]

The black stone hot spot is a feature to me. I like being able to move things off the heat

[@davidsmith5766]

love my camp chef did tons of research before purchase the heat defuser and wind deflector is what sold me mine stays put so no worries on moving it great video

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Very cool! Thanks David...

[@erokbrewmeister9231]

Neal, I love you man ! You are such a humble dude and so knowledgeable about these griddles. I need to get those white spatulas, but I cannot find them anywhere on Amazon or anyplace else for that matter. Cheers Bro from the Chi !

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey thanks bud...definitely harder to get now...you would think that they would see these things selling like crazy and would want to keep in stock...

[@eunicebrothers1950]

Love, love, love all your videos. You are truly the KING of all griddle contents on KZbin. Thank you for all your hard work. I would like to seek your advice on the Pit Boss Deluxe griddle. It comes with either a hood or two side shelves that fold over to become the lids. What do you think are the pros and cons about both models? Want to buy a Pit Boss but don't know what style of lids is better. How important is it to have a hood vs just fold over shelves as lids? Would appreciate your expert advice! Thank you.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Your in luck...I actually have an updater version of this Pros and Cons ..along with the 4 burner Pit Boss Deluxe griddle review separate ....

[@eunicebrothers1950]

@@TheFlatTopKing I saw that review also, we'll done as well. I mostly am torn between the hooded lid versus the shelf that folds in to create a lid. I know the hooded lid would allow me to melt, cheese and all. But I'd like the fold in lid for space saving reason. How important is it to have the hooded lid for windshield and cheese melting in your opinion?

[@jonboi1492]

Such a great video! I had not even considered buying a griddle but now I'm convinced I can't really live a full life without one. Great explanations and rationale for all the pros/cons. More research needed on my end but you gave me an awesome headstart.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thank you...I aslo have another video that looks at it from different angles...8 things to consider before buying a flat top grill

[@sabrinaspencer2758]

So looks like I need all three… lol j/k thanks for taking the time to do this .

[@TheFlatTopKing]

ahahhahaha...tough one for sure...I just sold my Camp Chef and it was extremely hard but it came down to ... you guessed it, pros and cons.. My Blackstone has 4 caster wheels and a domed hood. I built my deck bigger a year ago and now its over run with cooking things...that wasn't the idea...so I had to go and it came down to the small things

[@rangersmith4652]

Thanks for this comparison. And thanks to Flat Top Queen for certain clarifications.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cedaroakfarm8596]

All based on good use, cooking and experience. Well done.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Craig....

[@Dreadylock9170]

very informing video, I got the camp chef versatop single burner because it's small enough for fixing meals for 2 people and it's like 24 lbs for traveling with, it's my first griddle. I like the grease thing in the front. I've learned a great deal from your video

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Sounds great!

[@johncrawford4104]

I picked up the Camp Chef and love griddle cooking. However I find that the "Low" setting is still way too hot. I also never set it above low and my griddle warped (unfortunately away from the grease trap). I did call them and their customer service is amazing. They sent me out a new top but I haven't put it on yet. I am trying to max out all my mistakes on the warped top first.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Yeah thats why I have preached from day one that low is hot enough....to many people think its a Ferrari and step on the petal wide open...if you preheat long enough it will get to hot...They all do...All 3 of mine do. That is also why I get so frustrated when I get hammered for saying what temp I cook on...its so unreliable and inconsistent with a ton of variables...

[@danielgarcia228]

Had the camp chef for 5 years, very happy with my purchase

[@gregoryking9348]

@@TheFlatTopKing I'm a 64 yo widower living alone so don't need a cook surface larger than 22" so went with the Blackstone of that size. Comes with lid (feels thin and chintzy but does what it's needed to), and has foldable legs. I followed the instructions to season it and it says to turn both burners to high. I did that. I even bought Blackstone branded seasoning fat (duck fat?). It warped toward the center. It's not a 'huge' deal?...but cooking with butter or oils on the higher sides drowns what's in the low center, and leaves the food on the edges high and dry.

[@bokettom]

The three notches in front of the high setting can be used to achieve a lower temperature. The one closest to off will give you the lowest flame. Be mindful though if there is a decent wind it will blow the burner out.

[@yurbeeinwatched]

I came for the griddle. I stayed for the shirt. That's a badass shirt dude.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

ahhaha I will take all the support I can get...I literally just posted an updated version about this and new griddles this year. Blackstone, Weber, and Traeger

[@MiguelGonzalez-um3cx]

Great video presentation and information my friend, I have the 36” Black Stone very much love it but still learning how to use it. Very helpful info and thanks for sharing another great video!👌🏽

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey Miguel... wanted Thanks brother

[@harleyrdr1]

EXCELLENT VID! I’m looking to get a FT soon OR I’m going to make one for my own for my smoker/grill. SUBSCRIBED! 👍🏻

[@TheFlatTopKing]

hey thats great x2...welcome to the family...reach out if I can help

[@readingmaniac54]

Thank you for the great information I want a Flat Top Grill.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

TY....definitely alot out there...

[@melvinwoodruff905]

Thanks for your very thorough evaluation

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alans6767]

I am in the market but there was nothing that stood out as "I have to have that" or "no way I want that". Good video covered a lot of areas for me to think some more on. I got one of those spatulas, it is nice.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Right on Thanks Alan...any idea which way you are leaning.

[@randymcconnell7082]

I’ve had my Blackstone for 6-7 years. I’ve used cast iron skillets in the house so seasoning this flat top wouldn’t be a biggy. Well it was but I got it figured out. My Blackstone is 36” with grease drain in the front trough. I hate it because of the dripping down the front onto the legs. Makes a mess especially when I cook 4 pounds of bacon at a time. I still love cooking on it. Thanks

[@fredt.3530]

Although I have a Blackstone already and don’t plan to get any more, awesome review, you’re the best.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Fred....

[@absalomrogers4310]

Great video!! I have had the camp chef since last year and love it!! Only thing I hate about any griddle is the clean up!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

True...

[@davidblow7255]

Greetings again from Toronto. Great video, thank you. I am a happy Blackstone owner at home, with the 17 inch one at our trailer as well. One issue that deserves a mention is wind. I do have the wind guards on my Blackstone’s which does help, it is a pain at times though. How does the Pit Boss fare wind wise? I do love the portability factor with thoughts to an upgrade at the trailer. Thanks again to you and your wife for flint these.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

We wanted to mention wind but I honestly couldn’t say anything because by deck protects a lot of it. I just didn’t have enough good and bags to say and how to help besides the Blackstone wind guards them selves.

[@DavidGarcia5300]

Good Video! I enjoyed your take and agree with it.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome, thank you!

[@luckislonggone9233]

Great video, thanks for sharing, very informative.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for watching!

[@dopeconcepts1607]

This was well made! Great details! Excellent!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thank you very much!

[@TheCajunNinja]

6:42 that jump 🤣

[@markm921]

I have the Camp Chef, I removed the side "Handles" and mounted Harbor Freight long magnets on each side Coverted it to Natural Gas, and the biggest and most worthy change, I installed caster wheels in place of the leveling legs which required me to change the large wheels to a 7" wheel. I can move it around, not as easy as the Blackstone but way better. If I had it do over agin, I would of purchased the Blackstone simply due to the wheels and ease of converting to NG, and back again.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Great MODS...i have tried several caster wheels but couldn’t ever get the griddle level I was always way off....I said forget it...I agree with you for some including me I want the wheels...

[@cbrSpeedster1]

Awesome review, however, You left out a very popular grill and that's the Chargriller flat top.... I think it's just as good or better than the ones in the review. I've been using mine for a year and don't have any complaints.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Well in fairness I dont have one so thats why it was left off...I would never try to do a review where my opinion might sway someone in buying something unless I have tried it myself...I have heard really good things about em and a guy in our griddle group on Facebook has one and really shows it off

[@malcolmboynton7652]

Once again a great video. I have an older no frills Blackstone. Hot and cold spots. I also have a ton of tools. Some high end and some not so much. Trick is to learn the tool and work it to your advantage as best as possible. On a different note, ceramic coating sounds great but where does that crap go when you mess it up? That's why i went back to strictly cast iron and carbon steel fry pans years ago. No more teflon in my belly. Cheers.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Malcolm for the comment...I am not 100% sure but I think there is a huge difference in Teflon and this material. I will try to get more info but in today technology world its not even comparable to the old or even new Teflon. I am by no means swaying the decision one way or the other just trying to get the facts... Just curious how old is your blackstone...which model. Is the grease in the front or back

[@apace003]

@@TheFlatTopKing All non-stick surfaces fail. Age and type do not matter.

[@Buck1954]

This video was very informative. You have done your job so well, that Camp Chef is on back order for the 600 portable. If I could figure out where to get the burners, I would build my own. I'm mounting mine in a metal frame outboard of a raised porch under an extended roof. So, portable versions are attractive to me. All the tables and shelves will be inboard the porch enclosure. The front mounted grease trough is a problem for me. I saw a video where a fellow cut the trough into the side and it works well. The grease collection pan will be removed when not in use. I think a griddle could be reshaped using a torch. It would be work, and if done wrongly could damage it worse.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Yeah...thats always a possibility...thats honestly why I do not do things like that...the average person is not able to...so it puts pressure on the idea..and if gone wrong...but I completely understand....I do actually have an updated Pro and Cons with different griddles if interested

[@eddwinnas]

Really nice job explaining and thorough. Great job bro.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks bud

[@ryana3991]

I have been waiting for this video and I'm glad to see you got it published. Like your honest pros/cons for each griddle and also like how you didn't give your pick but are rather leaving that to the watcher of your video. I would have a stationary griddle and it would be on my back deck exposed to the elements. If I had to pick, I would get a Camp Chef with an aftermarket cover. Thanks for the honest reviews and now looking forward to mouth watering food creations. Having worked in WY at a restaurant, I look forward to the day you cook up rocky mountain oysters for your followers. Thanks FTK!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

HAHAHAHAHAHAH has to be steer oysters...I dont like bull oysters.

[@ryana3991]

@@TheFlatTopKing I will love reading the comment section on that video!!! Take care and great video.

[@davidc8735]

You guys are a great team! Thanks for the video 😃

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for watching!

[@aaimginggraphics2411]

i love that comparison!!

[@rickolson-51]

I have the same model CC and followed the instructions to the letter about first starting it up but the second time I used it the top made a loud pop and warped...I called CC and sent them pictures they sent me a new top without any hassles. We love the CC griddle and it's operated great for the two years we've owned it.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome

[@michaeldeckert6023]

My first video watching you both do this comparison. I don't own a flat top. Not too often I will subscribe to a channel immediately. This is something I've thought about buying for myself and I want to see more. This is an excellent video I appreciate what you both showed in the comparisons. Can't wait to see more...

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome! Thank you and thanks for the Sub....

[@duffyreef]

I bought a Royal Gourmet just because of the quality . After visiting a home depot that had a ton of blackstones that were apparently un sold from the prior season they looked 10 years old not for me! Tim from N.J.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Interesting.... how do you like the royal gourmet so far..where do you buy em

[@duffyreef]

Really like it, so far so good The only thing I would change is the burner dials have stops on both directions and when trying to shut off from low position it stops at high rather than off made this mistake twice. bought on amazon deal directly with manufacturer for options . Tim@@TheFlatTopKing

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@duffyreef thanks bud.

[@TheBubbascrub]

just subbed, thanks for the honest video and love from the uk.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome, thank you! Heard on the grapevine that some griddle companies are coming your way...cheers

[@TheBubbascrub]

@@TheFlatTopKing yeh exactly why i started looking, really want the blackstone 4 burner.

[@29morso]

I like your review of all three, but the Blackstone even though it's 36 inches the legs fold neatly under, and the entire base is light and can be easily transported, only thing heavy is the griddle itself and can be removed, thanks for the video enjoyed it.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Would that be a different model...

[@marceld6061]

The propane bottle cover is good when using in colder weather. As the gas is released the side of the bottle will frost up and get cold. The cover would keep the frost to a minimum and actually help with efficiency of propane delivery. In winter, I have seen bottles freeze up and stop working.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Interesting..thanks for the informative information I will relay

[@ernestlooker4015]

I was a lot of good information and a lot of things to think about thank you and most of all thank you for being honest

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful! You are very welcome

[@estereodigitalsound]

Nice reviews; as future reference, it would be nice to use a temp gun to measure the heat distribution on the plates. Thank you for your reviews.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

For reviews videos or for cooking videos

[@michaelh7770]

@@TheFlatTopKing I’d say for both. It’s much less vague than hot cold medium, etc. It would help quantify the heat distribution and max temperatures. iI’s funny that every oven recipe gives an exact oven temperature, but so many griddle recipes don’t call out a cooking surface temperature.

[@QuadView]

I’m sure the edges that stand up act like heat sinks. Great video.

[@barrybebenek8691]

Thanx so much for this video. I’ve gotten hooked by your channel and am going to invest in one of this griddles. I appreciated the topic you mentioned with the PB. For me, only being used once and a while, the ease of maintenance is my big deciding factor. (Plus I would never give up my PB smoker!). One note on the PB for you though: push the metal hook down hard to lock in the tank, and the metal rods blocking the shelf are too loose to be structural so just remove the front one. 🇨🇦👍🏼

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome! Thank you! I agree with you 100...i have received a pit boss smoker since then and I would never give it up....game changer when you can add meats to the griddle from the smoker

[@rickhoupt6933]

Great review, I initially wanted a Camp Chef but wasn’t available so I got the 3 burner Blackstone which is more equivalent to the others in size. After a year I’m very happy with my Blackstone as I’m sure would have been with the CC. I like the plate underneath as opposed to angle iron. Also I don’t mind pushing grease to rear however as you showed here I like the ability to be able to scrape off cleaning tool in grease tray which you can’t do with the Blackstone. So exactly as this video say’s. The pros and cons are mostly preference as opposed to defects. However not a fan of ceramic. I love the steel.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks Rick great insight...

[@ModernDecay70]

Very infromative video. Thanks for sharing the knowledge. Ive been in the market for one of these for a long time but havent pulled the trigger. im leaning toward the Blackstone.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Well if you get close and have a question. just reach out. Maybe I can help you get over the hump

[@tohm61]

Great video. I had a Blackstone last year and didn’t like it. Bought the Pit Boss 3 burner this year and love it. I have cooked on it 3 times a week since getting get. Actually looking at buying the 5 burner Pit Boss to replace my charcoal grill.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Man thats awesome...I am glad you commented...so many people just absolutely hate about it and I am like heck I read the comments and have a group on FB and all they do is rave about it . BUT when I say I LIKE it I am being not truthful because they sent it to me. Can I use this comment for future comments..

[@tohm61]

@@TheFlatTopKing of course, some people will hate just because. Who cares if pit boss gave you a griddle to review, i find that your reviews are open and honest, Really enjoy all your videos and insight on the flat tops and the tools to go with. Thanks also for Your Service.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@tohm61 much appreciated Tim. Thanks

[@jerryhubbard4461]

I have owned the Blackstone 36 inch for several years. I got. mine before they made the grease trap in the back. Personally, I don't want the grease trap in the back because food also can fall off the griddle into the trap. I like the Blackstone I have and very pleased with its perfornance.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thats cool....i dint know to recently by a commenter that they had it that way...