Griddle cooking has gained immense popularity among outdoor cooking enthusiasts in recent years and for a good reason.

As more people are exploring outdoor cooking, the market has responded with a range of griddles to choose from.

While the Blackstone griddle had already established its dominance in the outdoor griddle realm, a new contender quietly emerged on the scene, overshadowing the recent releases of the Weber Griddle and the premium-priced Traeger Flatrock.

A mere week prior to these launches, HALO made an unexpected foray into the full-sized griddle market with their much-anticipated Elite series griddles.

Halo Griddle and Blackstone both have carved distinct niches for themselves in the cooking realm, each offering a unique set of features tailored to specific needs. 

Traeger Flatrock vs Halo Griddle

While both aim to elevate the cooking experience, they do so in differing contexts and settings. 

After spending some quality time with these appliances, we’re here to share our thoughts. In this grillcusines.com guide, we’ll cover:

— An in-depth comparison of Halo Griddle vs Blackstone

–Covering strengths and limitations to determine which might best suit individual preferences and requirements.

— And much more

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Things to Know About Halo Griddle

The Halo Griddle is a distinctive kitchen appliance that has garnered attention for its unique design and functionality.

At its core, the halo flat top griddle is primarily designed for efficient and even heating, making it ideal for various dishes that require consistent heat distribution.

One of the standout features of the halo elite griddle is its circular heating element. This ensures that the entire surface of the griddle heats up uniformly, eliminating cold spots often found in traditional griddles.

The even heating ensures that food items, whether pancakes, bacon, or grilled sandwiches, are cooked perfectly throughout.

Types of Halo Griddle

The Halo Griddle has evolved, accommodating various culinary needs and preferences. While the main principle of even heating remains a constant, there are several types of Halo griddle to consider:

1. HALO Elite2B Griddle:
   • Two burners
   • Price: $699.99
   • Griddle surface area: 480 square inches
   • Natural gas compatible
2. HALO Elite3B Griddle:
   • Three burners
   • Price: $899.99
   • Griddle surface area: (size not specified)
   • Natural gas compatible
3. HALO Elite4B Griddle:
   • Four burners
   • Price: $999.99
   • Griddle surface area: 720 square inches
   • Natural gas compatible

Each type of Halo Griddle offers unique features and cooking capabilities. The choice of which one to go for depends on your cooking requirements and the size of the cooking surface you need.

Additionally, all Halo Elite griddles are designed with attention to detail, including features like a convertible design, built-in leveler, windproofing, and efficient grease management.

Halo Griddle Features

The Halo flat top griddle has garnered attention for good reasons. Its unique design and functionality bring several benefits to the table:

1- Quality and Construction

From the moment you lay eyes on the HALO Griddle, you can tell it’s built to last. The quality is top-notch, reminiscent of premium grills like the Weber Genesis.

The griddle’s hood is heavy and insulated, a departure from the flimsy metal often found on other griddles. Its sturdy handle adds to the overall robust feel.

The griddle top is impressively heavy-duty, even compared to the competition Blackstone, Traeger Flatrock, and Weber griddle.

It’s designed to hold up to high temperatures, making it perfect for achieving that sought-after sear on steaks or a perfect crust on your favorite burgers. The recessed surface ensures that wind won’t disrupt your cooking, allowing you to achieve consistent, high-temperature cooking.

2. Even Heating

One of the most significant advantages of the Halo Griddle is its promise of even heating. Thanks to its circular heating element, users can bid farewell to cold spots, ensuring that all dishes are cooked uniformly.

3. Temperature Control

The HALO Griddle offers a wide temperature range, heating up to an impressive 850°F. It’s excellent for searing and maintaining high heat for various cooking styles.

However, some users have noted that achieving lower temperatures may require a bit of finesse, as it’s not thermostatically controlled. It’s best to manage low heat by adjusting preheat times to maintain your desired temperature.

4. Versatility and Heat Retention

One of the standout features of the HALO Griddle is its versatility. It’s designed with Dual Zone cooking, allowing you to control each burner independently. You can create different cooking zones, making it perfect for multi-zone cooking or even heat distribution.

Heat retention is where the HALO Griddle truly shines. It excels in maintaining consistent heat, making it perfect for cooking multiple rounds of dishes like Smash Burgers without sacrificing that coveted crust. The windproof design ensures that your cooking process remains uninterrupted.

5. Easy Maintenance

Thanks to its non-stick surface, cleaning the Halo Griddle is a breeze. Food residue rarely sticks, making the cleanup process quicker and more convenient.

6. Smart Storage

The griddle comes with practical storage solutions, including a swiveling warming rack that can be conveniently stowed away when not in use.

HALO offers a comprehensive griddle tool set that includes tongs, spatulas, a scraper, and even squirt bottles. These utensils are heavy-duty and designed to withstand rigorous griddle cooking.

The griddle tool set also includes a pair of magnetic holders to keep your utensils organized and accessible.

7. Efficient Grease Management

Managing grease on a griddle can be a messy affair, but not with the HALO Griddle. It directs grease to the back of the griddle and includes a handy rubber squeegee for effortless cleanup.

8. User-Friendly Details

HALO pays attention to the finer details that make outdoor cooking a breeze. For instance, the inclusion of magnets for marketing materials ensures they won’t interfere with your cooking experience, exemplifying HALO’s commitment to user convenience.

9. Windproof Design

The griddle is designed to be windproof, featuring a lip that runs around the perimeter. This ensures that the wind won’t disrupt your cooking process, maintaining consistent heat.

10- Burner Ignition

Halo’s burners are battery-powered, eliminating the need for an electrical outlet. Plus, a clear viewing hole allows you to monitor burner status easily.

11. Lid Included

Halo griddle, comes with a lid. The inclusion of a lid can be a valuable feature for certain cooking methods, such as using the griddle for baking or roasting, as it helps trap heat and maintain even cooking temperatures.

Drawbacks of Using Halo Griddle

While the halo flat top griddle offers numerous advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider:

1. Limited Size Options

Compared to some other brands, the Halo Griddle may have limited size options. This could be restrictive for those who often cook for larger groups or need a more extensive cooking surface.

2. Learning Curve

For those accustomed to traditional griddles, the Halo Griddle might present a slight learning curve, especially in understanding its heating dynamics and optimal temperature settings.

3. Heat Retention

While the Halo Griddle is known for its even heating, some users have reported that it may not retain heat as well as other griddles. This could be a consideration for those who prefer to cook at consistently high temperatures.

4. Price Point

Given its innovative design and features, the halo elite griddle might come at a higher price than some conventional griddles in the market. This could be a deterrent for those on a tighter budget.

Things to Know About Blackstone

Blackstone is a brand that has become synonymous with high-quality outdoor grilling products, particularly their flat-top grills.

These grills have found a niche in the market, combining the traditional barbecue experience with the versatility of a griddle.

A key feature of Blackstone grills is their expansive cooking surface. This allows users to cook multiple food items simultaneously, making it ideal for large gatherings or family meals. Whether you’re grilling steaks, frying eggs, or sautéing vegetables, the Blackstone grill can handle it all simultaneously.

Features of Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone is a name that resonates with many outdoor grilling enthusiasts. Over the years, this brand has established itself as a benchmark in the realm of outdoor cooking, and much of this reputation is attributable to its features:

1-Generous Cooking Surface

One of the standout features of Blackstone products is their generous cooking space. Blackstone griddles come in various sizes, with cooking surfaces ranging from 17 inches to over 36 inches. This large surface area lets users cook multiple dishes simultaneously, making it ideal for hosting parties or family gatherings.

2- Durable Construction

Blackstone griddles are typically constructed with a durable steel frame and a thick cold-rolled steel cooking surface. This robust build ensures longevity and can withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking.

They’re designed to endure varying weather conditions, from intense sun to rain, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.

3. Adjustable Heat Zones

A distinctive feature of many Blackstone grills is the ability to adjust heat zones. This allows users to cook at different temperatures on the same grill surface, perfect for dishes that require varied heat levels.

4. Integrated Grease Management System

A built-in grease management system, often including a grease tray or cup and a rear grease drain, makes cleanup easy. Excess grease is channeled away from the cooking surface, preventing flare-ups and making maintenance a breeze.

5. Portable

Many Blackstone griddles feature a foldable design with removable legs and a collapsible side shelf. This makes them portable and easy to transport for outdoor events or camping trips.

6- Even Heat Distribution

Despite some potential hotspots, Blackstone griddles are designed to provide relatively even heat distribution across the cooking surface, allowing for consistent results.

7- Affordability

Blackstone griddles are often praised for offering excellent value for their price, making them an attractive option for both beginners and experienced outdoor chefs.

Given the robust construction of Blackstone grills, users can be assured of their longevity. This makes them a valuable investment, often outlasting other similar products in the market.

8. Versatile Cooking

With the expansive surface and adjustable heat zones, users can grill, fry, sauté, and do much more all at once. From breakfast to dinner, Blackstone grills offer unparalleled versatility.

9. Ease of Use

With user-friendly ignition systems and clear temperature controls, even those new to grilling can find their way around a Blackstone grill with ease.

10. Community Engagement

Blackstone offers a wealth of online resources, from recipes to tutorials. This active engagement with the community ensures users have ample support and inspiration for their culinary adventures.

Drawbacks of Blackstone

Despite its many great fearures, there are certain considerations to bear in mind with Blackstone products:

1. Size and Portability

Given their expansive cooking surfaces, Blackstone grills can be quite large. This could be a concern for those with limited outdoor space or those looking for a portable solution.

2. Initial Setup

While Blackstone grills are relatively easy to use, the initial assembly and setup might be challenging for some, especially those not accustomed to assembling larger outdoor appliances.

3. Seasoning Process

Seasoning a Blackstone griddle can be a bit tricky for beginners. It requires a specific process of applying oil and heating the surface to create a non-stick coating.

Head-to-Head Comparison : Halo Griddle vs Blackstone

While both Halo Griddle and Blackstone cater to cooking enthusiasts, they serve different niches and come with distinct features.

Understanding these differences can help buyers make more informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences.

1- Primary Use and Setting

The halo flat top griddle is predominantly designed for indoor use, catering to those who desire a griddle experience within the comforts of their kitchen.

On the other hand, Blackstone is renowned for its outdoor grilling products, making it more suitable for patios, backyards, and outdoor gatherings.

For enthusiasts who love the experience of cooking in the open air, Blackstone is hard to beat.

2- Design and Even Heating

One of the defining features of the halo elite griddle is its circular heating element, ensuring even heat distribution across the entire griddle surface.

Blackstone grills, while providing even heating, are more traditional in their design, focusing on a flat-top grill experience with adjustable heat zones.

To determine how evenly these griddles heat up and cook put them through a bread test. Bread slices serve as the test subjects, and the griddles were preheated to around 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit.

Preheating Blackstone griddle to 350°F took about six minutes. The bread slices were then carefully arranged on the griddle surface, and the timer was set for 10 minutes.

The results showed a slightly even browning, with the central region exhibiting the most consistent heat.

The Halo griddle took approximately eight minutes on the low setting to reach around 300°F. Bread slices were placed on the Halo griddle, and the timer was set for 10 minutes.

The Halo griddle surprised by delivering even heating across the surface, with less pronounced hotspots compared to the Loco and Blackstone griddles.

3- Cooking Surface Area

Blackstone grills are known for their expansive cooking surfaces, allowing for the preparation of multiple dishes simultaneously.

In contrast, the Halo Griddle tends to have a more compact design, catering more to everyday cooking needs rather than large gatherings.

4- Material and Build

While both brands prioritize durability, they have different constructions based on their primary use. Halo elite griddles are typically designed for indoor use, emphasizing a balance between weight, durability, and aesthetics.

Blackstone grills are built for the outdoors, using robust materials that can withstand various weather conditions and the wear and tear of outdoor usage.

5- Versatility in Cooking

Blackstone grills, with their large surface and adjustable heat zones, offer a versatile cooking experience. Users can grill, fry, sauté, and more, all at the same time. Halo Griddles, while versatile in their own right, are more suited for tasks typical of indoor griddles, such as making pancakes, sandwiches, or frying eggs.

6- Portability and Storage

Given their design for indoor use, many Halo Griddles are more compact and easier to store in standard kitchen cabinets. Blackstone grills, especially the larger models, require more dedicated space, both when in use and for storage.

Which One is Better: Halo Griddle vs. Blackstone

When evaluating the merits of Halo Griddle and Blackstone, the question isn’t necessarily which one is categorically better but rather which one is better suited for individual needs and preferences. Both brands offer distinct features that appeal to different audiences.

Let’s compare the Halo Elite Griddles with different Blackstone Griddles available on the market:

Halo Elite4B Griddle vs. Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle (1554)

• The Halo Elite4B has four burners, while the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle has four independently controlled burners.
• Price-wise, the Halo Elite4B is priced at $999.99, while the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle (1554) is generally priced lower, making it a more budget-friendly option.
• Griddle surface area is larger on the Halo Elite4B at 720 square inches compared to the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle, which offers 720 square inches as well.
• Both griddles are natural gas compatible with conversion kits available.

Halo Elite3B Griddle vs. Blackstone 28-Inch Griddle (1517)

• The Halo Elite3B has three burners, while the Blackstone 28-Inch Griddle (1517) has two independently controlled burners.
• Price-wise, the Halo Elite3B is priced at $899.99, whereas the Blackstone 28-Inch Griddle is generally more affordable.
• Griddle surface area is larger on the Halo Elite3B; however, the Blackstone 28-Inch Griddle is more compact and portable.
• Both griddles are natural gas compatible with conversion kits available.

Halo Elite2B Griddle vs. Blackstone 22-Inch Griddle (1666)

• The Halo Elite2B features two burners, whereas the Blackstone 22-Inch Griddle (1666) has one independently controlled burner.
• The price point for the Halo Elite2B is $699.99, while the Blackstone 22-Inch Griddle is usually priced lower, making it a budget-friendly choice.
• Griddle surface area is larger on the Halo Elite2B, providing more cooking space.
• Both griddles offer natural gas compatibility with conversion kits.

Key Takeaways: Blackstone Vs Halo Griddle

In the contest of Halo Griddle vs Blackstone, it’s evident that both brands bring substantial value to the culinary table. 

The decision isn’t a straightforward matter of one being superior to the other but hinges on individual needs, preferences, and cooking contexts. 

• Halo Elite Griddles generally offer more burners and larger cooking surfaces compared to their Blackstone counterparts, making them suitable for larger gatherings and cooking versatility.
• Blackstone Griddles are often more budget-friendly options, making them attractive to those looking for affordability.
• Both brands offer natural gas compatibility, adding convenience to outdoor cooking setups.

Ultimately, the choice between a Halo Elite Griddle and a Blackstone Griddle depends on your specific cooking needs, budget, and preferences for features and cooking space. B assessing your specific requirements and understanding the distinct offerings of each brand, you can make an informed decision that enriches your cooking journey.