Genesis Griddle insert vs Blackstone

[Greg Ross-MN]

Has anyone used both? Curious how well the inset works vs a Blackstone. I'm in the process of consolidating my toys. I have a 28" Blackstone, Oklahoma Joe's Bronco, CharBroil Patio Bistro gasser and a MB Gravity series. I'm considering getting a Genesis E325 with the insert and selling the Patio Bistro and Blackstone.

 

[Fred Smith]

Has anyone used both? Curious how well the inset works vs a Blackstone. I'm in the process of consolidating my toys. I have a 28" Blackstone, Oklahoma Joe's Bronco, CharBroil Patio Bistro gasser and a MB Gravity series. I'm considering getting a Genesis E325 with the insert and selling the Patio Bistro and Blackstone.

I think it works well and it's a perfect fit on the Genesis 400 series version. The 300 is identical except size. Only down side is you have to exchange griddle for grates not they also make smaller version of you want just a small griddle. Lots of choices but the choice comes down to preference. I personally don't cook but I like cool things around.

 

[TomRc]

I used to have a griddle insert but eventually made the switch to a stand-alone griddle. I have no regrets and use the griddle as much as the grill or more. Blackstone has done a great job on marketing so we all know their name but the Camp Chef family of griddles are better made and more robust IMO. For me, size was the deciding factor in switching over to a dedicated freestanding griddle. I cook breakfast for 6 or more people twice a weekend throughout the summer at our camp and it’s nice to be able to land everything hot and ready on the table at the same time. I may have purchased my Camp Chef griddle for the size benefits but, as I look back at it today, it’s the grease management system that keeps me happiest vs the old insert.

 

[Jon Tofte]

I think the amount of use is a big factor in looking at stand alone vs. insert. For me, griddle use will only be occasional, so the insert for my Summit is all I really need.


However, if I was a heavier user like @TomRc describes, a stand alone makes a lot of sense. I haven't looked at them very carefully, but from my brief look, I also like the Camp Chef. I am sure there are (or will be soon) some reviews comparing Camp Chef, Blackstone and now Weber's entry.

 

[TomRc]

If you can find a discontinued Camp Chef FTG-600 before stock runs out, you can have the best of both worlds. The griddle lifts off to reveal a 4 burner grill below and each has it’s own grease management system. TBH - I’ve never used mine as a grill. But, if someone is looking for a single appliance multi-tasker, it may be worth tracking one down before they’re gone. The new “updated” model eliminates the grill and now includes a swing up cover / lid instead...not really an improvement in my eyes.