Blackstone 1554 vs 1866: A Comprehensive Comparison

If you’re on the hunt for a flat top grill that delivers professional-grade results, Blackstone is a name that’s hard to ignore. As an outdoor enthusiast myself, I’ve had the pleasure of using both the Blackstone 1554 and 1866 models. Today, I’m going to compare these two popular grills in this article on “Blackstone 1554 vs 1866”. Let’s dive in to see which one comes out on top. On 3fortygrill.com, you can explore an in-depth analysis of Blackstone 1971 VS 1650.
Blackstone 1554 VS 1866

Key Differences Between Blackstone 1554 AND 1866

The main difference between the Blackstone 1554 and 1866 is their size and portability. The 1554 has a larger cooking surface of 720 square inches and features four independently controlled 15,000 BTU stainless steel burners for a total of 60,000 BTUs, whereas the 1866 has a smaller cooking surface of 448 square inches and two independently controlled H-shaped burners with a total of 30,000 BTUs.

The 1554 is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and can cook for large groups, making it ideal for backyard cooking, recreational cooking, or commercial grade cooking. It also has side and bottom shelves for food storage and prep, and a rear grease management system to make clean-up easier. In contrast, the 1866 is a more compact option with a hood and hardcover that makes it easier to transport and store. It is designed for hosting BBQ sessions, entertaining guests, and preparing multi-course meals for family and friends.

FeatureBlackstone 1554Blackstone 1866
Product Dimensions62.5"D x 22"W x 36"H‎25.6 x 40.2 x 19.5 inches
ColorBlackBlack
MaterialSteelAlloy Steel
Burners42
Griddle Size720 sq. inches470 sq. inches
Heat Zones42
BTUs6000030000
Ignition SystemBattery powered push buttonElectric
HoodNoYes
CoverNoHard Cover included
PriceBuy on AmazonBuy on Amazon

Overview of Blackstone 1554 is a gas griddle cooking station

The Blackstone 1554 is a gas griddle cooking station with four burners, specially designed to provide restaurant-grade, professional-level cooking experience at home. It is propane-fueled and offers 720 square inches of flat top grilling, which is perfect for cooking a variety of dishes, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I have personally used this griddle, and I must say, it is simple to use and assemble, making it an ideal replacement for standard grills or BBQs.

One of the most impressive features of the Blackstone 1554 is its innovative rear grease management system. As someone who loves to cook juicy meat, I understand how tedious cleaning up can be, but with this patented grease trap, all the mess is collected, making after-cooking clean-up a breeze. Another excellent feature of this griddle is the four independently controlled 15,000 BTU stainless steel burners that allow for versatile cooking options. The burners are controlled low to high, and the griddle is propane-fueled by a standard 20lb tank with an accommodating tank storage tucked nicely under the left side shelf.

Durability and longevity are key features of the Blackstone 1554. Built with a powder-coated black steel frame, stainless steel burners, and a thick cold-rolled steel cooktop, it is easy to clean, making post-meal cleanup a breeze. Additionally, it comes with a bottom shelf and two side shelves for food storage and prep, making it the perfect outdoor cooking station for families and large groups.

When it comes to outdoor cooking, Blackstone is a brand that stands out. Founded by outdoor enthusiasts, the company has a vision of providing quality outdoor griddles and grills that can cook for large groups and families. In 2005, they launched the 36” Blackstone griddle, which is still popular for backyard cooking, bringing families and friends together for fun and food. I am one of those who have benefited from Blackstone products, including the Blackstone 1554.

While using the Blackstone 1554, I have discovered that it eliminates the hassle of kerosene, charcoal, and matches, and it includes an easy start, battery-powered push-button ignition. With the simple push of a button, the griddle is ready to go, taking the headache away from outdoor cooking and allowing me to spend more time enjoying the outdoors. With its controllable heat zones, I can cook a variety of foods, including eggs, pancakes, quesadillas, grilled cheese, steak, potatoes, teppanyaki-style foods, and more.

Pros √

  • Innovative rear grease management system for easy clean-up
  • Replace standard grill for versatile cooking options
  • Four independently controlled 15,000 BTU burners for controllable heat zones
  • Durable with powder-coated steel frame and stainless steel burners
  • Large cooking surface of 720 sq inches
  • Portable with casters and accommodating tank storage

Cons ×

  • Large size may not be suitable for small spaces
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Overview of The Blackstone 1866 Patio Cart Griddle

The Blackstone 1866 Patio Cart Griddle. As a proud owner of this 28-inch black griddle, I can confidently say it has revolutionized my outdoor cooking experience. With a total weight of 131 pounds, the Blackstone 1866 is a sturdy, durable and reliable cooking station that has helped me cook delicious meals for my family and friends. In this overview, I will highlight the features and benefits of the Blackstone 1866, including a comparison with the Blackstone 1554 model.

One of the standout features of the Blackstone 1866 is its fully functional kitchen cart design. This griddle is a backyard staple that allows you to host fun BBQ sessions, entertain guests and prepare multi-course meals. With a large cooking surface, this griddle is perfect for cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including eggs, pancakes, quesadillas, grilled cheese, steak, potatoes, teppanyaki-style foods, and more. The 1866 model is an upgrade from the Blackstone 1554, offering a larger cooking surface that can fit up to 16 steaks and 72 hot dogs.

The Blackstone 1866 features a hood that helps retain heat and prevent splatter while cooking. The hard cover is a valuable addition that helps protect the griddle when not in use. The cover fits snuggly over the griddle and cart, keeping it protected from dust and debris. This feature has made my life so much easier as I don’t have to move the griddle every time I’m done cooking.

The Blackstone 1866 is built to last with its alloy steel material. This griddle is durable, sturdy, and able to withstand high-temperature cooking. It is perfect for outdoor cooking, with a portable design that allows you to move it around your backyard easily. The Blackstone 1866 is easy to clean and maintain, making post-meal clean-up a breeze. The 1866 model also includes a convenient grease management system that collects all the grease and makes after-cooking clean-up a breeze.

Compared to the Blackstone 1554 model, the Blackstone 1866 offers superior features and benefits. The 1866 model has a larger cooking surface, a hood, and a hard cover that helps protect the griddle from dust and debris. Additionally, the Blackstone 1866 features a more modern design and a portable kitchen cart that makes outdoor cooking a fun and exciting experience. Overall, the Blackstone 1866 is the perfect addition to your outdoor cooking arsenal. It is a durable, reliable and efficient griddle that will help you cook delicious meals for your family and friends for years to come.

Pros √

  • Fully functional outdoor kitchen for hosting and entertaining
  • Individually controlled burners with electric ignition system for versatile cooking options
  • Hard cover included for protection
  • Large cooking surface for its size
  • Durable with alloy steel material

Cons ×

  • Heavy weight may be difficult to move around
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Conclusion

After comparing the features and specifications of Blackstone 1554 and Blackstone 1866, it’s clear that the Blackstone 1554 is the clear winner. The Blackstone 1554 offers a larger cooking surface, more controllable heat zones, and an innovative rear grease management system. Additionally, the 1554 is more durable and easy to clean, making it a perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy entertaining large groups of family and friends. If you’re looking for a restaurant-grade griddle that will last for years, the Blackstone 1554 is the way to go.

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About the author

Claire Bella

Claire Bella is an American food blogger and recipe developer. She has also contributed to several other blogs, including Serious Eats, The Kitchn, and food52. Claire recipes have been featured in publications such as Bon Appétit, The New York Times, and Martha Stewart Living.