Ultimate Grill-off: Blackstone Vs Loco Griddle – Who’s The Boss?
What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Blackstone Griddle vs Loco head-to-head, examining their features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.
- Loco griddles offer a range of innovative features, such as a built-in griddle scraper, a large grease reservoir, and a magnetic tool bar.
- If you prioritize a spacious cooking surface, even heat distribution, and affordability, the Blackstone Griddle is an excellent choice.
In the world of outdoor cooking, two titans stand tall: Blackstone Griddle and Loco. Both brands offer a range of high-quality griddles designed to elevate your grilling experience. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Blackstone Griddle vs Loco head-to-head, examining their features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Griddle Surface
Blackstone Griddle: Blackstone griddles boast a spacious cooking surface, typically ranging from 28″ to 36″. The griddle top is made of rolled steel, providing even heat distribution and excellent heat retention.
Loco: Loco griddles also feature large cooking surfaces, ranging from 28″ to 38″. However, their griddle tops are constructed from a combination of cast iron and stainless steel. Cast iron offers superior heat retention and searing capabilities, while stainless steel promotes easy cleaning.
Heating System
Blackstone Griddle: Blackstone griddles utilize a powerful propane burner system, with burners ranging from 15,000 to 25,000 BTUs. This allows for precise temperature control and rapid heating.
Loco: Loco griddles employ a unique “Loco Flame” system that combines propane and air for optimal combustion. This system produces intense heat, up to 30,000 BTUs, and offers excellent temperature control.
Features
Blackstone Griddle: Blackstone griddles come equipped with various convenient features, including grease management systems, built-in igniters, and adjustable legs. Some models also feature side shelves and tool hooks for added convenience.
Loco: Loco griddles offer a range of innovative features, such as a built-in griddle scraper, a large grease reservoir, and a magnetic tool bar. Their griddles also have a unique “Loco Lid” that allows for indirect cooking and smoking.
Performance
Blackstone Griddle: Blackstone griddles are renowned for their exceptional heat distribution and searing capabilities. They excel at cooking large batches of food quickly and evenly.
Loco: Loco griddles deliver intense heat that is perfect for searing steaks, grilling vegetables, and creating restaurant-quality dishes. Their cast iron surface provides excellent heat retention, making them ideal for slow-cooking and smoking.
Durability
Blackstone Griddle: Blackstone griddles are constructed from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. Their steel griddle tops are durable and easy to clean.
Loco: Loco griddles are also built to last, with cast iron and stainless steel griddle tops that are highly resistant to wear and tear. Their solid construction ensures longevity and reliability.
Value
Blackstone Griddle: Blackstone griddles offer excellent value for money, providing a feature-rich cooking experience at a competitive price point.
Loco: Loco griddles may come at a slightly higher price, but they offer premium features and exceptional performance that justify the investment.
The Verdict
Both Blackstone Griddle and Loco offer high-quality griddles that cater to different needs and preferences. If you prioritize a spacious cooking surface, even heat distribution, and affordability, the Blackstone Griddle is an excellent choice. However, if you seek intense heat, innovative features, and superior durability, the Loco griddle may be your ideal match.
The Final Word
The ultimate choice between Blackstone Griddle vs Loco depends on your individual cooking style and budget. By carefully considering the features, performance, and value of each brand, you can make an informed decision that will elevate your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which griddle is better for large gatherings?
A: Both Blackstone and Loco offer griddles with spacious cooking surfaces that can accommodate large groups.
Q: Can I use a Blackstone griddle for smoking?
A: While Blackstone griddles do not come with built-in smoking capabilities, you can purchase a dedicated smoker box attachment.
Q: Which griddle is easier to clean?
A: Loco griddles have a slight edge in terms of ease of cleaning due to their cast iron surface, which is naturally non-stick.
Q: Are Blackstone griddles durable?
A: Yes, Blackstone griddles are made from high-quality steel and are designed to withstand outdoor cooking conditions.
Q: Can I use a Loco griddle on an apartment balcony?
A: Yes, Loco griddles are propane-powered and can be used on balconies or other outdoor spaces where charcoal or wood grills are not permitted.