Compact griddles have become my go-to for outdoor cooking. Whether I’m heading out camping, tailgating with friends, or just grilling in the backyard, I’ve learned that not all portable griddles are created equal. Two models that have really stood out to me recently are the Blackstone 1971 and the Blackstone 1814. Both are 17-inch tabletop griddles designed for convenience, but they have a few key differences that set them apart. After cooking multiple meals on each, I can confidently say both perform beautifully — but they cater to slightly different needs.
Key Difference at a Glance: Blackstone 1971 vs 1814 Griddle
The Blackstone 1971 is all about simplicity, portability, and efficient cleanup, while the Blackstone 1814 adds a few comfort upgrades — like a built-in hood and a sturdier build.
In short:
- The 1971 model is lighter and easier to carry, ideal for campers and travelers.
- The 1814 model is heavier but more complete, great for home use or longer outdoor stays where you want a bit more cooking control and protection.
- Griddle on the Go: Bring this Blackstone 17-inch tabletop griddle on your next camping, hunting, or tailgating adventure to make great meals on the go. This...
- MAKE EVERY OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DELICIOUS with Black Stone griddle. Perfect for the backyard or the great outdoors, this flat top griddle makes cooking on-the-go...
Comparison Table: Blackstone 1971 vs 1814 Griddle
| Features | Blackstone 1971 | Blackstone 1814 |
| Cooking Surface | 267 sq. in. | 268 sq. in. |
| Burner Type | H-Style Burner | H-Style Burner |
| BTU Output | 12,500 BTUs | 12,000 BTUs |
| Material | Stainless Steel with Powder-Coated Frame | Stainless Steel with Hood |
| Grease Management | Rear Grease Management System | Front Integrated Grease Tray |
| Weight | 17.5 lbs | 35.2 lbs |
| Ignition Type | Push-and-Turn Piezo Ignition | Built-in Igniter |
| Portability | Lightweight, Easy to Carry | Heavier, Hood Adds Bulk |
| Best For | Travel, Camping, Quick Setups | Home Use, Frequent Outdoor Cooking |
| Check Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design & Build Quality
The first thing I noticed when unboxing both griddles was the difference in weight and build feel.
The Blackstone 1971 immediately felt like the more portable of the two. It’s compact, light (just 17.5 pounds), and fits comfortably in a car trunk or camper storage. The stainless steel front panel adds a modern touch, while the powder-coated steel frame gives it enough durability for outdoor conditions. The non-slip feet are a small but important detail — once you set it on a picnic table or countertop, it stays put.
The Blackstone 1814, on the other hand, has a noticeably sturdier frame and a built-in stainless steel hood. That hood is more useful than I expected — not just for keeping debris out, but also for trapping heat when cooking thicker cuts of meat. However, that extra metal adds significant weight. At over 35 pounds, it’s not something you casually toss into your trunk every weekend.
From a design standpoint, I’d say:
- The 1971 wins for portability and minimalism, perfect for travelers.
- The 1814 wins for durability and convenience when you plan to keep it semi-stationary.
- Griddle on the Go: Bring this Blackstone 17-inch tabletop griddle on your next camping, hunting, or tailgating adventure to make great meals on the go. This...
- MAKE EVERY OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DELICIOUS with Black Stone griddle. Perfect for the backyard or the great outdoors, this flat top griddle makes cooking on-the-go...
Cooking Performance
Both models use Blackstone’s signature H-style burner, and both deliver consistent heat across the griddle top. The 1971 packs a slightly higher output (12,500 BTUs), while the 1814 comes in at 12,000 BTUs. In practice, that difference isn’t huge — both heat up quickly and distribute temperature evenly from edge to edge.
When I tested them side by side, the 1971 heated up a few seconds faster and was excellent for high-heat searing, like smash burgers or bacon. The 1814, with its hood, provided more controlled cooking — I could close the lid to melt cheese or keep pancakes warm between batches. The hood also slightly accelerates cooking, especially in windy conditions where the flame can struggle.
Both griddles handled breakfast meals, burgers, veggies, and even chicken beautifully. The difference lies in control: the 1814’s hood gives you more flexibility, while the 1971’s open-top layout feels quicker and freer for outdoor cooking.
- Griddle on the Go: Bring this Blackstone 17-inch tabletop griddle on your next camping, hunting, or tailgating adventure to make great meals on the go. This...
Ease of Use
If convenience is what you’re after, both models score high. The 1971 uses a push-and-turn Piezo ignition system that lights instantly. The single control knob is responsive, making temperature adjustment effortless. It’s a plug-and-cook experience — just hook up your propane, turn it on, and you’re ready to cook.
The 1814 includes a similar built-in igniter, but it feels slightly more premium. The hood makes it easier to manage heat in varying weather, and I appreciated that the grease tray slides out neatly from the front. The only downside? It takes a bit more space to open and operate comfortably.
If you’re someone who likes quick setups and fast cleanup, the 1971 wins. But if you want a touch more control and structure, the 1814 feels more complete.
- MAKE EVERY OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DELICIOUS with Black Stone griddle. Perfect for the backyard or the great outdoors, this flat top griddle makes cooking on-the-go...
Grease Management & Cleanup
One of the biggest upgrades in Blackstone’s portable griddles is their grease management systems, and this is where their difference really shows.
The Blackstone 1971 features the rear grease management system, which I personally prefer. It channels grease away from the cooking surface into a disposable cup at the back, making post-meal cleanup fast and tidy. For bacon or anything fatty, this system keeps the cooking area clean and splatter-free.
The 1814, however, uses a front grease tray that’s integrated below the cooking surface. It’s convenient to access but tends to fill up faster. During longer cooking sessions (like burgers followed by pancakes), I found myself emptying it more often.
In short:
- 1971 = cleaner design and easier maintenance.
- 1814 = more traditional front tray, slightly more hands-on cleanup.
- Griddle on the Go: Bring this Blackstone 17-inch tabletop griddle on your next camping, hunting, or tailgating adventure to make great meals on the go. This...
- MAKE EVERY OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DELICIOUS with Black Stone griddle. Perfect for the backyard or the great outdoors, this flat top griddle makes cooking on-the-go...
Portability & Storage
There’s no contest here — the Blackstone 1971 is far easier to move around. Its lightweight build makes it perfect for camping, tailgating, and spontaneous weekend cookouts. It fits easily into small storage spaces and doesn’t require any assembly once unpacked.
The 1814, although labeled as “portable,” feels more like a semi-stationary model. The extra weight and attached hood make it less convenient to carry frequently. That said, if you have a dedicated camping trailer or cook in your backyard most of the time, the 1814 offers better protection for the griddle surface and a more stable setup.
Blackstone 1971 Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Front Plate
- Griddle on the Go: Bring this Blackstone 17-inch tabletop griddle on your next camping, hunting, or tailgating adventure to make great meals on the go. This...
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly portable
- Rear grease management system keeps cleanup simple
- Powerful 12,500 BTU burner with even heating
- Stable non-slip feet and durable stainless-steel front plate
- Quick ignition and responsive heat control
Cons:
- No hood for heat retention
- Smaller grease cup capacity
- Slightly less protection for the cooking surface during transport
Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Griddle
- MAKE EVERY OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DELICIOUS with Black Stone griddle. Perfect for the backyard or the great outdoors, this flat top griddle makes cooking on-the-go...
Pros:
- Includes hood for protection and better cooking control
- Excellent heat distribution across the surface
- Sturdy, well-built frame
- Integrated grease tray for easy emptying
- Great for small families and stationary setups
Cons:
- Heavier, less portable
- Slightly lower BTU output
- Hood adds extra bulk for transport
Final Verdict: Which One Is Worth It?
After using both extensively, I can say that neither model disappoints — it just depends on how you plan to use it.
If your focus is portability, the Blackstone 1971 is the clear winner. It’s light, compact, and perfect for campers, hikers, and anyone who loves outdoor cooking on the go. The rear grease system and quick ignition make it a joy to use anywhere.
But if you want a griddle that feels a bit more premium and versatile, the Blackstone 1814 earns its place. The hood is a genuine advantage for better heat control, and its sturdier design makes it ideal for home patios, RV setups, or longer trips.
My Recommendation:
If I could only keep one, I’d go with the Blackstone 1971. It’s the perfect balance between portability, performance, and price. The rear grease system is cleaner, it’s easier to carry, and it performs just as well as its heavier sibling.
That said, if you prefer cooking with a lid and don’t mind the extra weight, the 1814 might suit your cooking style better — especially if your griddle rarely leaves your patio.
Either way, both of these 17-inch models deliver the same core Blackstone promise: great heat, great flavor, and great memories — anywhere you cook.
