WHAT GRIDDLE SHOULD I BUY? - Traeger Flat Rock and Halo Elite Go HEAD to HEAD!

[@bobjackson7516]

Thanks man, your videos are extremely helpful. I'm very close to dropping a grand on a griddle, and would be lost without your content. At this point, it looks like the FlatRock is what I'm going with. Rock on, thanks to you and your wife for the time spent.

[@paulsanders1373]

Neil, great comparison, video. My halo elite 4B griddle. It was my first venture into propane griddles on my way between Traeger and the Halo and ultimately obviously settled on the Halo. I to was take back at first with the extreme heat as I mentioned to you in the message I thought I could smelt iron with this griddle but quickly learning How to manage the zones watching your videos and others has helped me tremendously. Thus far I only have use the 9.5 regulator setting to cook with.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

yes sir.....thanks bud...

[@austinhill5550]

yeah sounded like there is a pretty big learning curve to dial in on using this griddle and getting comfortable with the zone variance.

[@mmoore102]

Love your upfront honesty with your reviews. Never allow your viewers to mold your opinion..

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I appreciate that!

[@kathyream]

Hey Neal, we had the same issue with the propane tank. My husband called Traeger customer service and they said that there was an issue with the hanger on some that were manufactured at the same time, with is too short. They sent him a new hanger, free of charge and it works perfectly now.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Well I will have to call...thank you

[@sirdimos1]

The Flatrock is my introduction to griddle cooking. I've had it for about a month now and I've had so much fun cooking on it. Treager has always taken care of me after cooking on 3 different of their pellet smokers and the Flatrock.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thats awesome....appreciate that.....

[@steveop123]

Very well resented sir . Honest, forthright, and unbiased comparison of the two beast griddles. I imagine that many folks "on the fence" will benefit from this vlog, as well as many of the others you and Amy have presented . Griddle on !

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey Steve....appreciate that...really do...thank you

[@SteveSmith-st1rf]

Agree..they need to improve and appreciate your videos

[@ethanmiller3935]

Great review! Just got the halo as our first griddle a couple weeks ago! Like you said, if its your first one you have 0 bad habbits so the learning curve for it is different than if your used to others. Keep up the good work!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thank you..

[@bubbaburgess2823]

I love how honest you are. That is a great video

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I appreciate that.....truly

[@gr8bassplayer]

I got lucky and got a 3 burner Halo for $200 brand new. It’s my first griddle, and it’s been a blast so far. Thank you for all of your information, it’s helped so much!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

DANG>>>>>.great find...absolutely....man thats a steal....good griddle for sure

[@gosman949]

so is the 3 burner, bassplayer, hot too, or more controllable than the 4 burner?

[@ScottysBackYardBBQ]

gotta go with the halo. it looks like a tank. love the adjustable burners. fire zones.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Absolutely...thats what this was all about....getting it out there and letting you all decide based on your needs...thanks Scotty

[@joshwhiteford]

All in on the Halo griddle! Great comparison video.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for watching!

[@bella.core34]

Halo is the winner for me. Being able to close the lid and obtain the heat retention makes the most sense.

[@olddawgdreaming5715]

Thanks Neil and Amy, great information on both grills. Stay safe around there and keep up the great videos. OLD DAWG DREAMING Fred.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks, you too Fred....

[@michaelbenke3557]

Your review was great! I own a Traeger thanks to you. Your initial comments were perfect. You missed nothing. I have propane pipes in on our new patio which eliminates the need for a tank & everything that comes with tank. The biggest hassle, for me, is the open handle holes. Very poor design. I am having a sheet metal company make up covers that can be removed when needed. The biggest cooking feature is it’s great temp control. A true low temp is easy to acquire. Your suggestions on seasoning was on point. Now my top is seasoned totally. No unseasoned areas. In short, the Traeger is perfect for me! I am so appreciative of you efforts in providing the reviews of all of the grills. I was able to evaluate the features & pick the one that fit me like a glove. Thanks again!!!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey thats awesome.....That to me is music to my ears...Taking the information I give and letting others make the big decision....Thank you..

[@death818]

I bought the Traeger Flat Rock. large tables are a huge plus, cooks wonderfully. Large grease chute and collection basket is very nice also.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for sharing! I love mine...

[@MrHCify]

I got the Traeger. First time griddler this summer and I’ve been loving it 😍

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Great to hear!.....that tone is running through my head after reading Ive been loving it...da da da daahhh da...im loving it...ahhhah

[@jasonrobinson6046]

Would love to see you review the LoCo brand griddle with digital temp gauges

[@gregchappell6462]

Great video! As always, you’re informative & honest with your reviews. Very helpful to us newbies wha are getting ready to purchase his own griddle.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jakespencer8077]

Great review Neal. Your instructional videos are very in depth and it’ll definitely help me out if I can ever part from the old BlackStone. Both of them seem legit but I really like the side trays on the Traeger.

[@StealthJackson12B]

Got the Flatrock and very content with it. Great review.

[@murdog04]

Thanks so much for sharing. Really like the comparison. I own the Flat-Rock and absolutely love it. I have had it for a little over two months now and got 20 or so cooks on it. Love smash burgers and cheese steaks on it. Cooking breakfast might be my favorite though.

[@gharv1313]

Excellent comparison Neal! Definitely a lot of options there , they both look to do a fantastic job! I think Halo would intrigue me the most with all the heat zones! Cheers brother 🍻

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Absolutely...thats what its all about....

[@rbrown5141]

Neil is awesome, he is so on point! Ordering my Flatrock today from Ace Hardware!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey thats awesome....I still cook on mine...and still think today its my favorite....

[@wyrwolff]

Great comparison guys. Love the "SQUIRREL!" moment around the 22min mark 😂 One question that just occurred to me when you were talking about the Halo's regulator.....could you get a 3rd party regulator that dropped it even *lower* to get a lower temp on low?.... (how many derivatives of the word "low" can be used in one sentence 🤣 )

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Good question! haahahaha I honestly do not know...

[@malcolmscales4192]

I love this question, would be interested to know the answer as well.

[@rickeymulkey8080]

Another one that you did very well. Your knowledge of cooking on these griddles is the best I have watched you do! Now let's do some cooking on both!!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks so much

[@LeadMunitions]

I got the Traeger about a month ago...absolute game changer!! i cook on it al least 3 night a week. Love it!! couple of small issues just to be aware of. One, the Traeger cover made for the Flatrock is 100% useless..Two, the front panel that surrounds the control knobs cracked about a week in. Have no idea why but Traeger replaced it no questions asked. Overall one of my best purchases of 2023!!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey thanks for mentioning that....

[@livejames9374]

seems there’s some quality issues with Traeger. Battery door, propane holder and now this cracking. Has it been reliable since?

[@LeadMunitions]

@@livejames9374 it has! Cooks beautifully!!

[@livejames9374]

@@LeadMunitions great. I’m torn, but I guess whatever choice is a win

[@johnpace6836]

FYI: I just bought a Flatrock a couple months ago - The propane bracket is a known problem to Traeger - I called them and they sent me new brackets and the curved holder. The new curved holder is a bit longer so it does not slip out of the front bracket. Their customer service is good, no cost (other than time) to me.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey I appreciate that....really...

[@btm2011mtb]

Nice review. Cant believe the Char Griller Flat Iron Premium 4 burner has never been talked about on here. Foldable shelfs, long front basket for all spices etc. Hangers on one shelf, magnetic hanger on other shelf. Heavy thick griddle plate, side and rear wind guards. As you talked about on the HALO, the Flat Iron has an Insulated hood. Maybe its because it is carried at a big box hard store starting with an "M". Love all your videos, I have learned everything from you about griddle life. :)

[@TheFlatTopKing]

What big box store...with "M".....I am not sure If I have ever seen one...in person

[@drw1926]

@@TheFlatTopKing The only one I can think of is Menard's, but they're not national. Midwest only I believe. Definitely not in Texas.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@drw1926 got ya. Yeah I’m in Tennessee and only familiar with them when I lived in Wyoming about 10 years ago

[@btm2011mtb]

@@TheFlatTopKingYes Menards- not sure why I just said “M”

[@jasonbecker4997]

I got that griddle from Menards a couple weeks ago and really like it! It’s my first griddle, but a hundred years ago I did cook in restaurants on the industrial stainless flattops. The Chargriller seems pretty well made with decent options, especially for the price of $400 after the rebate. I haven’t had any issues with temp control either. I’ve watched a bunch of reviews before and since I bought it, and I’m still happy with my decision. Would love to see this channel pick one up and give a much more experienced review than I can.

[@luckyfreebie1897]

Own the same Traeger smoker since 1998…won’t die…so love the brand and really liked the flatrock a lot. I ended up buying the Halo since it was the same price during 4th of July sale. The main reason I chose the Halo was the griddle design…location of where the grease goes and the side panels on the the Halo I felt was a better design. I felt the Traeger grease hole location takes up a lot of useable space if you don’t want to lose food falling into the hole, and the handle cut out locations on the sides also cause food to spill out unless you block the holes. Both are great choices…and thanks for a great honest review!

[@gosman949]

where did you buy the Halo and did you have to assemble yourself?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Very well said...and what I try to preach everyday...you as in the audience get the information and determine what you like and dont...what you just mentioned is music to my ears....thank you

[@luckyfreebie1897]

@@gosman949bought direct from Halo website and had to assemble it.

[@luckyfreebie1897]

@@TheFlatTopKing…and this is my first griddle! No bad habits!😂

[@festival3rocker]

@5:43 really put the size into perspective - thanks!

[@mannypuerta5086]

Great technical, experienced review. Thanks.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for watching Manny...

[@lilnape2604]

I have the halo. I will say, I don’t understand why you will ever need to wait 15 minutes before a cook. I’d have my food on the griddle well before that time and easily stay in the 350 area the whole cook. It’s a benefit that the thing is a efficient if you’ll allow it, especially with cook time as you’ll be a quarter of the way through a cook by the time others are getting up to temp.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Just confused by the comment. Just exactly what I said in the video. People cook at different paces. I film and have to love ingredients re shoot etc while filming. So i don’t have stop watch on the ready to start cooking. I will give you all the props in the world. I have about 30 cooks in so far and can NOT regardless of ingredients or zone cooking keep it that low. Yeah once the cold ingredients get put on it lowers. But so does every other griddle on the world. So wince the ingredients heat up and come to temp so does the griddle. The it makes it to hot without lowering the dials or turning off burners

[@lilnape2604]

@@TheFlatTopKing I’m wondering if the reason for our differing experiences are environmental. Does you covered deck area get a breeze or not have great air flow and retains heat? I’m in NC so I wouldn’t think our ambient temperatures are too different.

[@reltius2993]

Used my Halo for the first time this morning for breakfast and enjoyed it; it didn’t scorch my eggs like I was worried about. I understand what you mean about being able to use the whole griddle of the traeger at the same temp. I agree the flame windows are worthless I can’t see anything thru mine to see if the halo is on. I eat a lot of steak so that was a big reason I wanted the halo thinking that 700 degrees would be good to sear off a steak at like a steakhouse. My preferred method is a reverse seared ribeye on the smoker, then sear it off on the grill. Before I had to start getting my charcoal going halfway thru the smoking process and it wastes a lot of charcoal for one steak. Haven’t done it yet but with the halo searing off my reverse seared smoked steaks will be much easier than charcoal. We will see how much I miss the charcoal flavor though.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey great comment...absolutely...thats exactly why we do these...people get the information and use it to there advantage based on their needs....glad it went well for the first time...cheers

[@crashcopter6000]

Yep. Weber 36" - confirmed. Great video!

[@kencmid]

I absolutely love my Traeger

[@lieut89]

I've had the Flat Rock for a couple of months now and it cooks very nice.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome.....

[@Scott144K]

I recently bought the Traeger. It's the 4th griddle I've owned, and I still use 3 of them. Traeger at home, Blackstone at the cabin and Campchef for camping. I sold the ceramic Pitboss because the ceramic cooktop is infuriating. I'm really happy with the Traeger except for the grease trap location and propane level meter that isn't accurate at all even after calibrating. Despite the warning, I do close the hood to melt cheese, etc. I also love how the temp is pretty consistent all the way to the edges. I still absolutely still love my Blackstone despite the hot spots. I would buy it again in a second.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Now thats great insight...thank you...

[@ivanabakumov9373]

Im gonna be a Weber Slate guy. Those grills are so fresh

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I 100 agree..we will be reviewing that one for sure...

[@johnhacker8121]

appreciate your comparison appeared to be very objective. obvious different styles of cooking required. if this is your only griddle either is good. if one has more than one griddle might seem great to purchase similar cooking styles griddles thanks again

[@jaybooth4815]

Great review Neal! Both have their pros and cons. The wind protection from the Halo is a huge issue for me in choosing a griddle. I'm still on the fence. One of these days we need to connect. Thanks again my friend for your honest and valued opinion! Cheers brother!

[@gosman949]

the Traeger has wind protection too.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Totally agree

[@joenadeau6530]

Thinking of getting either the 2 or 3 burner Halo. They just feel more solid, but will check out the Traeger again.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Its such a tuff choice between the two...both great units...i just prefer the even lower temps on the Traeger...personal preference....

[@bobbicatton]

Great information! Your overview and comparison videos are sure to help anyone in the market for a new griddle👍😊

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for watching Bobbi....both are good and have way different ways of getting there...

[@stein84]

Hell yeah, you made a video for a question I had!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Awesome....what was it....

[@stein84]

@@TheFlatTopKing I like the idea of the Halo and its lid and rack, but I like the look of the Traeger better.

[@fernandosuarez5815]

Can you please do a review on the Weber slate griddle

[@curtdunlap6818]

Nice comparison review, but my money would be on the Traeger, I like that the side tables are huge and don't get hot. My Blackstone tables aren't as huge and without the wind blockers, they get very hot! Plus it looks like the heat is more controllable, based upon what you said and demoed . If I wanted a blast furnace, I'll get one! 😁 Actually, I did get one for my son, but I digress. That grease bucket is awesome too. Traeger needs a different location for the trap. Right in the left front corner would be better than where it is now. Just my opinion, but I think these would be key points if I were getting an upscale griddle. Thanks Neal. PS. I second the "SQUIRREL" moment that @wyrwolff made! 😂

[@limulus61]

I'm in a 2600sq ft townhouse with a pretty large, covered deck. I have a Kamado grill on the deck. I also have a pellet smoker which is kept in the garage. I'm now intrigued by griddles and I want a smaller one so I can keep it in the garage and still fit our cars. Blackstone and Pit Boss make 22" models, but that seems just a little small. The Halo 2B is 480 sq in. vs 339 sq in for the Blackstone and that seems about right for the two of us (kids are grown and in different states). From what I see online and on KZbin, I like the cart and the wheels and the burner system on the Halo better. It is 3x more expensive, but I'm willing to pay that for features and quality. On the humorous side, your reviews are intense! I know you prefer the Traeger and I'm afraid you may come through the screen and slap me if I buy the wrong one.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

hhahahhah No trust me...my opinion is just that...my opinion based on my experience and need....no reason as all to shy away from anything I recommend...Halo will be a great griddle for you....truly....just matter of preference

[@limulus61]

@@TheFlatTopKing I wound up buying a Camp Chef 600 Portable. Since I'll need to store it in the garage, I think it's the better option for me and I get a bigger cooking surface to burn my food. Plus, I can use the leftover money to buy a case for the griddle top.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@limulus61 awesome…

[@brettmorrical6978]

Great video. Thanks! Still the Trager for me and it isn't very close.

[@fredw.7560]

Idk if you have ever addressed this in past, but when you talk about griddles getting too hot on low.. have you ever done a test when outside air temps are low like below 60* and windy?? Where i live theres been times in the morning temps are in the 30s but nice enough to to cook breakfast.. basically what i’m have you done a comparison on griddle in cold temps to see how they maintain temps?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Well...i have not reviewed...but have done a how to griddle in the winter...

[@fredw.7560]

@@TheFlatTopKing gotcha i’ve been off and on with alot of your over the year or so mostly for recipe ideas and yeah some tip and tricks.. but i’ll go back and see if i can find the winter one.. but like what you’re doing keep it up!!

[@rickzabala6020]

I don't know if I will purchase a flattop griddle or plancha. I have couple of griddles but not a dedicated one. But your review & derailed information was pretty good. Should I want one I have a couple to consider.

[@victorbenner539]

The halo seems to be a great griddle. That said at about $1,000 it should be. At just under $300 the basic model 4 burner 36" Blackstone just makes so much more sense for me. I'm not a only one cooker type of guy. My grills ( I have 4 webber kettles for example) my smokers WSM's, Offset and my large Lonestargrillz IVS. I'm covered a lot of ways so I just need a simple large griddle to do griddle things. But fir folks who are just starting out ir limited in space to use it makes sense to go with a high end griddle. And I believe either of these units would be great. Great video and have a great day 🌤 😀

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks VIctor...appreciate that...very well said...

[@victorbenner539]

@TheFlatTopKing thanks. You have a great channel and I believe you do a great job if doing evaluations plus great instruction on how to use them. I was surprised at the quick reply today,thanks. Fyi I'm doing 3 racks of baby backs today and a 12lb turkey tomorrow. Both cooks my 22" Webber Smoky Mountain. I don't understand why so many folks only cook turkey at Thanksgiving. When they go on sale around that time I buy between 12 and 20 turkeys depending on the sale price and load up one of my freezers. That way I have great tasting turkey all year long at a wonderfully low price. Ok enough from me, may you and your family have a great day 🌤 😀.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@victorbenner539 Funny you say that...we had a tradition in Wy to have the half way mark thanksgiving....same idea...to good to have just once a year

[@Jimydog72]

Having watched you cook on each of these multiple times I would lean towards the Traeger. First!

[@chewbacca7856]

I just need consistent temps from 300 to maybe 450 for the stuff i cook. Webber 3 burner takes the cake for that. I dont cook for a platoon so i dont need all that square footage. I think i would get the halo though if i was in the market for such a thing.

[@livejames9374]

There’s 3, 2 and 1 burner versions of the halo.

[@rafaelsmith681]

Yeah...I currently have a Blackstone 36 and its really hard to get it to be at a consistent low 300s. The Halo is just overkill for what I actually use griddle for. 450-500max is all i need. I just want a griddle that if I set burners to low...its actually low (300-325). I just don't get why they make these things capable of crazy temps that nobody needs and sacrifice reliably reaching temps they do need. I guess BTUs sell. I do need the real estate of the BS so maybe Webber will make a 4 burner. For now ill stick with BS...spending $1k for a griddle that will still give me the same issues seems silly and most likely be worse for low temps seems silly.

[@livejames9374]

@@rafaelsmith681 Weber already has a 4 burner version out. It’s great.

[@rafaelsmith681]

@@livejames9374 Yeah not 2min after I posted I went and saw they had one. D

[@rafaelsmith681]

@@livejames9374 One thing I do not like about the Weber is the grease trap "bucket" looks pretty flimsy and that it could be dangerous to handle and spill?

[@pjwroblewski]

Thanks for another excellent video.

[@howardgoldberg5728]

Hello! Fantastic review as are all the videos - you rock and keep up the good work! Love the passion that exudes from your work! I am a new subscriber and new to the outdoor griddle - don't have one yet, but I have been smoking and BBQing for decades year-round in an upstate New York climate. Any thoughts/experience on how the minimum temp and/or temp stability would change, if at all, when griddlin' in sub freezing temps? Would a Halo, with its heating power, be able to keep up better in such cold conditions, or would any griddle be ok regardless of air temp? I could see how a griddle cover that can be used during cooking would greatly benefit cold climate griddle use. Also, does the Traeger offer a natural gas kit as the Halo does for those who have a hookup? Thanks for your help and for igniting the griddling passion!!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Really appreciate that....thank you...Yes they make them with a natural gas hookup...I do have a video...Can I griddle in the Winter...is should answer a bunch of questions

[@mikeh11]

Good evening. Love your videos! Curious on what model you would recommend for taking camping. We have a camper trailer setup so the unit would have to at least be able to be transported in the box of a pickup truck. Any suggestions? Something collapsible on the market? Any insight would help. Thank you kindly!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Well the Halo can be and has Different models that are smaller. The Pit Boss Deluxe 4 burner as well...Camp Chef as some as well...

[@austinhill5550]

So halo doesn't have a "low setting" wouldn't call a base starting temp of 500° low. And a hood that I wouldn't see a use for. Think for casual use I would go with the Traeger. I wish the grease trap was a little further left but i usually don't swipe food towards me on a flat top. Great review answered alot of questions I had.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thank you....

[@PoliticallyIncorrect90]

A couple issues from other videos on the Flatrock: Do you experience food sliding out the open side handles? And, does your gas gauge actually work?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Yes...we put dollar tree dough scrapers on the side...1.25 for one...and for the gas gauge....I honestly dont use it....it needs power for that function and I just dont need it...I have other propane gauges...

[@billwilliams4281]

Nice comparison of both flat tops. Good stuff. Ever thought about reviewing the Logo Griddle?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I have ....but it needs power to operate...something as of today that keeps me from buying it

[@briananderson3626]

Great video. Have you had any experience with the Grilla Primate? Are you planning to reivew?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I have not....I dont think I will but honestly many things I have reviewed I didnt think I was going to...

[@chrisbarker7125]

Love your channel. One review I've not been able to find is how the Blackstone, Traeger, Halo, etc compare to the permanent installed griddles by Coyote, Blaze and others compare?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

that not a fair comparison....stainless vs rolled steel...the would 100 react differently

[@brandonmiler801]

Great video Neal. I love these reviews. I love my Blackstone, its a workhorse, but Traeger has sparked my interest. The grease trap on the Blackstone, I like to push my grease towards the back, but the trap itself, seems to get caught when Im taking it out, or if im not careful, when I take the cover off, it catches the grease trap and ive knocked it to the ground before. I sweep my food from right to left as well, and the grease trap in the cooking surface on the Traeger, along with the handle holes in the side worries me a bit even with your scrapers in place. It seems like I use every inch of my griddle top so Im concerned with the grease trap hole in the cooking surface. Love the paper towel holder. Truth be told Im scared to death of the Halo haha. Im just not sure what the benefit is of a griddle that gets so hot. Also, Lmk when you get that Smoke That seasoning ready, I'd love to purchase to test it out at home. I own a bbq business here in MO and Im always looking to try something new. Thanks again Neal and Amy for another great video.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey bud...thanks for reaching out...yeah absolutely will let ya know..heck hopefully the whole world will know...hahhahah I agree about the Halo...i like it but when filming...it just gets hot faster than what I like...then you have to adjust on and off based on the temps you want...or zone cooking...although I zone cook alot...I do it on my own account...then you lose valuable cooking space....one side too hot...other side...blah blah....thats why I honestly like the Traeger...I bought dollar tree bench scraper for the griddle handle holes...with the grease trap...like anything you just learn to cook around it...etc

[@TeXasDadBod]

All Traeger flat rock have been recalled as of December 1, 2023 for leaking propane even when completely shut off as some people don’t turn off the propane directly at the tank call Traeger ASAP for replacement parts. no licensed retailer is allowed to sell them. This is why they look to be sold out online but it’s because they are currently fixing the issue.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Interesting...i have now heard 4 Different reasons...hahahah not saying yours is wrong...but heck who knows...mine is still going strong..Will be interesting to see what actual happens...especially at this tome of the year...im sure this hurts them in sales..people will buy....if they dont have...which puts other brands in homes...

[@Redpilled2001]

Please help me! I’ve watched your comparisons multiple times…I was stuck between the Halo and Traeger. We have a Traeger smoker and we are happy with their quality and customer service. So I finally decided on the Flatrock for his Christmas present…went to buy it and it’s recalled! Now I’m stuck in analysis paralysis again with time running out. Do we know when the Flatrock will be back in stock? Should I go ahead and pull the trigger on the Halo?

[@alvinsmith8250]

After a year, you should do a follow-up review on all of the griddles and rank them.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@alvinsmith8250 great idea… unfortunately I don’t keep em that long.

[@alvinsmith8250]

@@TheFlatTopKing Understood. Based on how long you had them, can you rank them (in your opinion)? I'm in the market and have been leaning towards the Flat Rock.

[@stonerscravings]

Another great comparison. I’m happy with the MM and not going to get in trouble with another griddle purchase though 😂

[@TheFlatTopKing]

hahahaha You know its going to happen...that proch is going to look like my deck after we are done..ahahhaha

[@Enjoyrving]

Good review. I’ll just stick with my cheap ol blackstone

[@adam_becker]

Have you tested the heating temps with natural gas? I plan to use the conversion kit for natural gas and I hope that offers a little less heat overall

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I dont have NG available..I do know from all the information we have gathered...that NG definitely heats less...

[@funfunnyfunnest]

Do either of these have a natural gas conversion kit?

[@davidball8]

Great video comparing the two models. Im wondering if you can or should have done the low test on the Halo with just the front burners on? In my opinion that would have been low. 🤷🏻‍♂️ Keep on doing what you do.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks David...unfortunately that would not help...we have done videos on the temps when the front is ON,...the front only is on....no low med or high...thus hitting higher temps...then your arms are over high heat to reach somewhat cooler temps in the back..

[@jaymcglasson7661]

Just like always great review thanks for all the info. Have you ever considered using a round flat top? I would say Evo But they're restaurant greade and about fifty two hundred But There is one out there, that's 46 inches tall and the round cooking surface is 30 inches made by Cuisinart it's a 3 burner Was just wondering.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I have not...I have seen em but just havent had to have one...definitely something I could look at though

[@journeymancurmudgeon3113]

If you had a single griddle, how would you set up a workstation with prep area and room for utensils and gear? I need to build a station for my Blackstone, and I'm trying to plan for maximum efficiency

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hey I still struggle today with that answer..we are actually planning on remodeling our deck and inside breakfast area because of that...nothing crazy like demo but mire efficiency like you said...if you find the secret let us know...

[@BryanS-df7qc]

Neal! Get your hands on the brand new Camp Chef Gridiron and let us know!! You the man

[@TheFlatTopKing]

its already put together...probably filming today

[@BryanS-df7qc]

Awesome!!!

[@JohnnyKawalski]

Just the review I wanted. Now I just need to find $800 ish

[@SinisterMD]

I know they're not as big but what are your thoughts on electric griddles, like the 22" Blackstone electric griddle? No need to purchase propane but you would have to be able to plug it in. Any experience with those? I know some even use them indoors though I would think that smoke would be an issue with certain dishes.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I personally do not...

[@ToddParker]

The real question is for the money does anything beat Weber? Known for consistent temperatures side to side, front to back, with even cooking why would anyone on a budget spend $300 to $500 more depending on the deal you find? I am asking because come prime day I am hoping to spot a deal and pull the trigger on my first flat top for my birthday gift! Kindly chime in, anyone who has experience and an opinion on this. Minus the bells and whistles; I think the primary consideration is "how does it cook and how long will it last?" Will the these two cook better and last longer than the competition at a lower price point like the Weber or Camp Chef? I am not including the ones that have the coated surface because I want to use metal utensils.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

LIke anything price will always is a factor...in the big scheme of things...NO....the Weber will be just fine...its my second favorite as of today....If i had to chose with all my experience I would still pick the traeger as of today..but that can change with technology and new releases from other brands...

[@bradgiez6192]

I would never pay top dollar for a griddle that hasn't proved it self as a top of the line product. Only after a few years one the market would I consider spending the money. Even weber came out as a mid price point griddle when new on the market. Now I haven't bought a griddle yet as my climate would be very hard on a griddle. At this point pit boss might be my only option.

[@joshjones9687]

Future griddle owners do your research. The Char-Griller 4 burner Flat Iron Premium Gas Griddle meets and exceeds both of these units in the categories that matter and for HALF the cost of both of these.

[@bradhelfrich6602]

Believe me I have done a ton of research, I bought the Weber 36" the best performance griddle out there, even heat distribution, seasons well, and actually has a low. For the price you can't beat it.

[@gosman949]

never heard of it.

[@jonathancohen8061]

You mentioned having a cart that is separate from the griddle. Do you have any brand/model that you like. And thanks for all of the information you provide.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Yes I do!...I think I have a link....but more importantly...Lowes and Home Depot have very similar ones to mine....I have one from Harbor Freight....rolling tool box with wooden top

[@jonathancohen8061]

​@@TheFlatTopKing thank you! I will check them out.

[@D-Mag]

Halo makes a separate cart if you want it

[@thomasoney9694]

I'm not a Traeger fan in general, mainly bc they seem over-priced. But this Traeger Flat Rock is Top Shelf imo. Their next Model will be better.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

yeah....apparently they have hired some new marketing and engineering people to change that idea of the company so they introduced the Timberline than the Ironwood and Flat Rock all based on changing that...the price is still high but the quality is really there to support it...

[@praetorxyn]

You forgot the mention that the Trager comes in the best box ever that you can turn into a toy. All jokes aside, Trager is easily the better pick for me. If I hadn't bought my Pit Boss already and had seen your eview the Traeger before buying a griddle, that's probably the one I would have bought. I just hope that when Traegar refreshes this griddle they get rid of those stupid holes in the sides of the griddle walls.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I dont know what they are changing...but they are working on the new one....

[@masonado]

I've been trying to find the Traeger in stock for the last month and no luck. I talked to someone at an Ace Hardware which is listed as a platinum dealer on the Traeger site and was told Traeger recalled all Flatrocks to fix something with the dials. No further information was available but she said that was the reason why no one had them in stock.

[@frankmarullo228]

Good morning guys ! I have a question for you Neal when not filming for you tube do you do a lot of. cooking on your griddle for your family ? Love your guys stuff. THANK YOU FRANK FROM MONTANA.. PS.. I asked my daughter to order me one of each of your seasings. ( at 69 years old not into paying for stuff over the computer. My daughter does so I give her the cash and she goes for it . ....

[@TheFlatTopKing]

NOt that much...i try to hit the grills and smokers when not filming...seasonings are on the way my friend

[@thomasoney9694]

I'm same way. I tend to rotate between Akorn Auto Kamado, Pit Boss and Griddle. Currently waiting on a new heat rod igniter tho.

[@gosman949]

I'm 73, and fluent with high technology things. No excuses!

[@robertbernal3180]

Great review Neal on both griddles. I don’t have to worry about those two griddles because l can’t afford them. But the things that you pointed out were great. Imagine if a griddle was made with the positive things that you pointed out and combined them to make one griddle. It would be amazing. Again Neal you are a expert when it comes to griddling. You really know everything about it.👏👏👏

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thats my goal one day....to create the best damn griddle on the market

[@robertbernal3180]

I bet you right now that you are going to succeed. 👍🏽

[@jayroser9876]

Absolutely you will have your own grill company Flat Top King 🤴 and that's the one I want.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@jayroser9876 I appreciate that....

[@alexquintero7540]

Decent comparison. I actually own the Halo griddle and I completely and totally love it. In general your videos are great and it give me lots of ideas for griddling so keep the content coming. You may want to consider checking out the grease trap cover plates from Halo, makes it easy to make sure you don’t lose food which is nice when doing a ton of stir fried rice or anything like that. I’ll also say that the last test showing the heat test after 15 minutes probably shouldn’t be seen as a bad thing for the Halo. The fact that it can get into cooking temperature faster is a bonus for me, especially when closing the lid it’s ready to cook quickly which means I don’t have to wait around. Last thing I’ll say is that I generally don’t have any issue keeping at a lower temperature. I’m in Utah and so I don’t know if the elevation changes things but I have the regulator on it’s normal setting and I can cruise at around 350 while cooking breakfast things (food in and out cools it down enough for me and then if I see it getting a smidge higher I’ll just switch a burner to the single burner). Like you said, it comes down to preference but because I usually cook large amounts of food the Halo takes the prize for me all day everyday. Thanks!

[@AllPhillyinATX]

Love my Halo. Build quality is far superior. A griddle with a hood that you can use while cooking........game changer. I may be biased but the Traeger seems flimsy and the grease trap location is a head scratcher. Very fair review and I love the channel. Keep putting out quality content and you deserve all the dedicated followers/fans and friends you have made from this channel. Looking forward to the next video.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for the comment...I took a piece out because it sounded like I was arguing with with viewers and that was not my goal...i was just trying to defend misinformation.. with that said...what I took out is exactly what you said... "food in and out cools it down enough for me and then if I see it getting a smidge higher I’ll just switch a burner to the single burner" I mentioned that I hear that alot about the Halo...that the way to keep the temp down is to add food and it cools it down....THAT is 100 correct....but its the same with every griddle....any food you add to any griddle will lower the temp...however the Halo is so strong and thick that the temps rise extremely fast....which brings me back to your last comment and WHY I mentioned that zone cooking is more important on this griddle....you said you only tuned on 1 burner...That was what I was trying to say and I think I missed the mark....thanks for taking time and commenting....

[@rickmartin712]

Nice video and good explanation! Thanks! I just watched a video on the Members Mark 5 burner. It’s all SS except the griddle, looks real nice. I suggest you buy one and let us know lol 😂…

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thanks for the info!

[@1DrBar]

I'm curious as to the temp differential if one ligths two of the burners with both front and back, and keeps the other two off - what low temp would one get at about 12 inches from the far side over the turned off burners?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I am assuming you are asking about the Halo....when fully heated on just two burners on low...12 inches to the side i would think about 400 ish....

[@1DrBar]

@@TheFlatTopKing Thanks. I've come to the conclusion that flat tops are not for much of my style of cooking. I'm considering instead to perhaps buying the setup you have shown in your other video with the Weber and the grill griddle insert. I would use the insert, probably exclusively. As far as grills, I'm charcoal all the way, mostly for the ritual of the practice and zen of working with coals.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@1DrBar Cant argue with that...actually cooking on charcoal and wood tomorrow...griddle style ahahah Bigger things are coming...just have not announced yet...I LOVE charcoal...if you look at my first videos...thats how I started...time to get back to my roots...

[@madchiller1985]

Someone needs to review the new Recteq Smokestone

[@gosman949]

I can only hope that the Traeger and Halo both, being first generation products, will improve with their next generations and then it will be time for me to buy.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

good idea...thanks....I do know that Traeger is working on part 2....

[@mozberg2191]

I'm itching to pull the trigger but really want to wait for gen 2

[@plazdiddy]

What are your thoughts about the Grilla Grills Primate?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I have not tested yet...but I am getting something similar...gas grill griddle...

[@bigvisk1125]

The grilla grills primate has an insuated hood. Gril or gridde or combo.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Thank you...im sure any gas grill would be insulated though...Weber etc...

[@bigvisk1125]

@@TheFlatTopKing ya but it also functions as a full griddle. Lift out the grates put in a full size griddle. Or you can get a 2/3 size griddle. It looks interesting

[@RobbinsJoe]

How long until a manufacturer puts a digital pad on their griddle where you can type in the temperature you want to cook on ?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Hopefully tomorrow hahhahha

[@timh8543]

Do you know if either one of these units can be adapted to natural gas?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I do know the Halo can...not 100 about the traeger....

[@n0rbakn0rbak38]

Can you review the Primate Griddle

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I am doing something similar this week...not the Primate but close

[@tomivy11]

Love that shirt!!!

[@TheFlatTopKing]

TY

[@BrianStDenis-pj1tq]

It seems to me that... it should be a requirement that a griddle can hold a 350 degree or so temp, and not rise. Its similar to grilling. We control charcoal fires by restricting the air or by choosing the right amount of coal. A griddle that can't go on low, I'd not buy. Thanks for your reviews.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Amen....I completely agree

[@NoJokeSnoke]

Tip of the hat on the yellow cap! Complements to the Chef! +/- = HALO

[@matthewkralik9426]

I don’t own a griddle yet but these are the two that I have been looking at. I like the halo but the high heat is my only thing that I’m concerned about. I had an idea but I don’t know if it would be possible. Could you make some kind of heat shield for one set of burners? Let me know what you think.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Not sure the question....im not following...what is a heat shield for one set of burners...I have aslo just released an updated review on the Halo if interested....goes over heat etc

[@matthewkralik9426]

What I'm saying is take a piece of stainless steel etc. Put it between the the first set of burners and griddle top to reduce the amount of heat to the griddle so you have a section of top that is cooler I hope that's a little clearer to what I was trying to say.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@matthewkralik9426 got ya. I’m Understanding now. I mean camp chef does something similar. One problem is the halo comes with horizontal l brackets and welds for anti warping.

[@jerryspringer4953]

I bought the one Johnny uses.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Camp Chef....yeap...I started my channel with that one...you can see in earlier videos...

[@markb.1259]

Neal, you said the Halo cannot maintain 300°, it just blows past it. What would the temperature stabilize at if only HALF of one burner (LOW setting?) were on and all other burners were off?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

The front burners do not have settings...just one for off...with the front on...easily 500 degrees....We did a video about it on the Griddle Group...the only adjustments can be made is when the whole burner is on...

[@markb.1259]

@@TheFlatTopKing Thank you Sir! I appreciate your reply. Please make more TACOS!!! 🙂

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@markb.1259 I just saw a video and making my twists. Crispy pork tacos confit style

[@markb.1259]

@@TheFlatTopKing Get Hoppin' Cookie.... Mid-Rats is comin'!!! (U.S. Navy MCPO Ret.) 🙂

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@markb.1259 hey thanks for your Service. Cooking in the chiefs mess was my all time favorite. I would do it again hahahaha.

[@griddlecookeatandmore]

It does a great job with pizzas. Ive made homemade crust and all and i cooked a frozen pizza on it and was great.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Halo?....

[@griddlecookeatandmore]

@@TheFlatTopKing yes on the Halo.

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@griddlecookeatandmore thanks

[@TheFlatTopKing]

@@griddlecookeatandmore Thats on my list for sure...i think it might really highlight some features....I wish the cooking rack was a little wider...but thats not possible for everyday cooking...I think i Have a good idea in mind....

[@livejames9374]

@@TheFlatTopKingcheck out the versa pizza maker

[@tbellmer]

Does it make a difference in heat that the Halo has 4 vs 3 burners?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

I honestly do not know...I do know the box says the same thing...300 - 750...so I can only assume yes...but dont hold me to it..

[@livejames9374]

If you had to pick any one griddle to cook with from here on out, what would it be?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

LIke in the video....i publicly said it....as of today Traeger.....yes that can change with any new information...

[@livejames9374]

@@TheFlatTopKing ahhh gotcha. In a comment in this video you made it seem like you like your old blackstone better

[@michaelklasen2104]

Should i get a weber 36 inch or a blackstone 36 its gonna be my first griddle?

[@TheFlatTopKing]

Well thats a tuff one...I have a pros and cons videos with both of them in the same videos..

[@michaelklasen2104]

Well if you were to pick one which one would you choose?

[@livejames9374]

@@michaelklasen2104Weber