For most people, the Blackstone griddle is the better choice due to its proven performance, superior heat distribution, and a massive ecosystem of accessories. However, the Member’s Mark griddle offers incredible value, often including a lid and other features for a lower price, making it the ultimate winner for budget-conscious buyers who want an all-in-one package.
Thinking about getting a flat-top griddle? It’s a great choice. Suddenly, your backyard can turn into a diner, serving up perfect pancakes, smash burgers, and sizzling fajitas. But when you start shopping, you’ll quickly run into two heavy hitters: Blackstone and Member’s Mark. It can feel like choosing between two great tools—both promise to do the job, but which one is right for your garage… or in this case, your patio?
Meet the Contenders: A Quick Look at Each Brand
Before we dive into the nuts and bolts, let’s get to know the two brands squaring off in this competition. One is the famous original, and the other is the powerful store-brand challenger.
Blackstone: The Original Griddle Giant
If you’ve heard of outdoor griddling, you’ve heard of Blackstone. They basically created this category and have become the go-to name for backyard flat-top cooking. Think of them as the trusted, name-brand tool you see in every pro’s workshop. They are known for their reliable performance, a huge community of users, and an endless list of accessories you can buy to customize your setup. Blackstone has built a reputation on quality and has a model for just about every need, from massive 36-inch units to portable tabletop versions for camping.
Member’s Mark: The Sam’s Club Powerhouse
Member’s Mark is the exclusive brand for Sam’s Club. They are famous for offering high-quality products at a very competitive price. Think of them as the surprisingly good tool set you find that costs half as much but does 95% of the same job. The Member’s Mark griddle has gained a huge following because it often comes packed with features—like a built-in lid and sturdy shelves—that you’d have to buy separately with other brands. It’s designed to give you the most bang for your buck right out of the box.
Head-to-Head Battle: Member’s Mark vs. Blackstone
Alright, let’s put these two griddles on the lift and see how they really stack up. We’ll compare them across the most important categories, from how they’re built to how they cook your bacon and eggs.
1. Build Quality and Materials
A griddle is a long-term investment, so it needs to be tough. The main thing to look at here is the cooktop itself. It’s usually made of rolled carbon steel. The thickness of that steel matters for holding and distributing heat.
- Blackstone: Blackstone griddles typically feature a heavy, thick rolled-steel cooktop that is excellent at retaining heat. The frame is solid, and the legs are sturdy, though some users feel the side shelves on certain models could be a bit more robust. Overall, it’s a well-built machine designed to last for years.
- Member’s Mark: The Member’s Mark griddle also uses a heavy rolled-steel cooktop, often just as thick as Blackstone’s. Many users are impressed with the overall sturdiness, especially considering the price. The frame is heavy-duty, and it often feels more substantial than you’d expect from a “store brand.” Some models even have stainless steel accents that add to the premium feel.
Winner: It’s a tie. Both brands offer solid construction that should stand up to years of use. Member’s Mark often surprises with its heavy-duty feel for the price.
2. Cooking Performance and Heat Distribution
This is where the magic happens. A great griddle heats evenly without major hot or cool spots. This is mostly determined by the burner system underneath the cooktop.
- Blackstone: Blackstone typically uses an “H” or “I” pattern for its burners. Their 36-inch models feature four independently controlled burners, giving you fantastic zone control. You can have one side screaming hot for searing steaks and the other on low to keep veggies warm. Their system is well-tested and known for providing consistent, even heat across the majority of the surface.
- Member’s Mark: Member’s Mark griddles, especially the popular 5-burner models, also offer excellent zone cooking. The extra burner can provide more granular control over your cooking surface. However, some users report that the heat distribution can be a little less even than a Blackstone, with some potential cooler spots around the edges. It’s a minor difference that most beginner cooks may not even notice.
Winner: Blackstone. Their burner system is refined and trusted to deliver incredibly even heating, which is a key factor for pro-level results.
3. Grease Management System
Griddling can produce a lot of grease. Where that grease goes is a huge factor for ease of use and cleanup. A bad system means a messy patio and a frustrating experience.
- Blackstone: Most Blackstone models feature their patented rear grease management system. A small channel at the back of the cooktop funnels all grease into a disposable aluminum tray. It’s simple, effective, and out of the way. You just scrape everything to the back.
- Member’s Mark: Many Member’s Mark griddles have a front-access or side-access grease trap. It’s a trough or cup located at the front or side corner of the griddle. While it works well, some users find it can get in the way of cooking, and it can be a bit more visible and messier than Blackstone’s rear system.
Winner: Blackstone. The rear grease trap is a smarter, cleaner design that has become the industry standard for a reason.
4. Features and Included Accessories
What do you get right out of the box? This is where the value proposition really comes into play. A griddle is more than just a hot slab of metal.
- Blackstone: A base model Blackstone often comes with just the griddle itself. You get the stand, the cooktop, and the burners. Things like a lid or cover, side shelf accessories, and tools are usually sold separately. This à la carte approach lets you build your perfect setup, but the costs can add up quickly.
- Member’s Mark: This is where Member’s Mark shines. Their griddles almost always come as a complete package. You’ll often find a heavy-duty lid/hood, sturdy side shelves, a paper towel holder, and tool hooks all included in the price. It’s designed to be a one-and-done purchase.
Winner: Member’s Mark. The sheer amount of included features for the price is almost impossible to beat.
5. Price and Overall Value
Let’s talk money. For most of us, this is the deciding factor. We want the best performance without breaking the bank.
- Blackstone: As the leading brand, Blackstone commands a higher price. You’re paying for the name, the research and development, and the massive community support. A standard 36-inch Blackstone griddle can be significantly more expensive than its Member’s Mark counterpart, especially once you add the cost of a lid.
- Member’s Mark: Value is the core mission of the Member’s Mark brand. Their griddles are priced very aggressively. You often get a larger cooking surface with more burners and more included features for less money than a smaller, more basic Blackstone model.
Winner: Member’s Mark. In terms of pure dollars-to-features value, it’s the clear winner.
Comparison at a Glance
Here’s a simple table to break down the key differences between a typical 36-inch model from each brand.
| Feature | Blackstone Griddle | Member’s Mark Griddle |
|---|---|---|
| Cooktop | Heavy rolled carbon steel | Heavy rolled carbon steel |
| Burners | Typically 4 independently controlled burners | Often 5 independently controlled burners |
| Grease Management | Patented rear grease trap (clean and efficient) | Front or side grease cup (functional but can be messy) |
| Included Lid/Hood | Usually sold separately (adds cost) | Almost always included in the box |
| Side Shelves | Standard, sometimes basic | Often large and robust with extra features |
| Accessory Ecosystem | Massive; hundreds of official and third-party options | Limited; fewer custom-fit accessories available |
| Price | Higher starting price | Lower price, more features included |
Which Griddle Should You Buy?
So, after all that, who is the ultimate winner? The truth is, it depends on what kind of person you are. There’s no single right answer, but there is a right answer for you.
Choose the Blackstone Griddle if:
- You Value Brand Reputation: You want the original, the most recognized name in the game with a proven track record.
- You Love to Customize: You want access to the largest possible selection of accessories, from custom-fit covers to specialized cooking tools.
- You Want the Best Performance: You prioritize the most even heat distribution and the superior rear grease management system.
- Community is Important: You want to join a huge online community of Blackstone owners sharing recipes, tips, and tricks.
Choose the Member’s Mark Griddle if:
- Budget is Your Top Priority: You want the absolute most for your money and a lower upfront cost.
- You Want an All-in-One Package: You prefer to get everything you need, including a lid and great shelves, in one box without having to buy extras.
- You’re a Sam’s Club Member: You can easily pick one up and benefit from their return policy and member service.
- “Good Enough” is Great for You: You don’t need the absolute best-in-class performance, but you want a rock-solid griddle that will cook amazing food for your family.
First Steps: How to Season Your New Griddle
No matter which griddle you choose, your first job is to season the cooktop. This is a critical step that creates a non-stick surface and protects the steel from rust. Think of it like breaking in a new engine. Don’t skip it!
Seasoning is the process of baking thin layers of oil onto the steel. Here’s a simple, can’t-mess-it-up guide:
- Wash the Cooktop: Start by washing the new griddle surface with warm, soapy water to remove any factory coatings or debris. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it completely with paper towels.
- Turn Up the Heat: Fire up all the burners on high. Let the griddle heat up for about 10-15 minutes. The steel will start to discolor and darken—this is normal!
- Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Turn off the burners. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of a high-smoke-point oil onto the surface. Good choices include flaxseed oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Using a wad of paper towels held by tongs, spread the oil in a very thin, even layer across the entire surface, including the sides and edges.
- Wipe It Off: This is the key step. Take a clean wad of paper towels and wipe off all the excess oil. You want it to look dry. Trust the process; there’s still a microscopic layer of oil left.
- Bake It On: Turn the burners back on high. Let the griddle smoke. This smoke is a sign that the oil is polymerizing, or bonding, to the steel. Wait until the smoke mostly stops, which takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 3 through 5 at least 3-4 more times. Each layer will make the surface darker, shinier, and more non-stick. Your goal is a uniform, dark black finish.
For food safety, always ensure you’re cooking foods to their proper internal temperatures. The USDA provides a helpful chart of safe minimum cooking temperatures that’s great to have handy in your grilling area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a griddle and a grill?
A grill cooks with direct flame over grates, giving you those classic char marks and a smoky flavor. A griddle cooks on a solid, flat metal surface, similar to a giant frying pan. It’s better for foods that would fall through grill grates, like eggs, pancakes, chopped veggies, and smash burgers.
Can I use metal spatulas on my griddle?
Absolutely! In fact, you should. Metal spatulas are perfect for smashing burgers, chopping food directly on the surface, and scraping the griddle clean. Don’t worry about scratching the seasoned surface; it’s very durable.
How do I clean my griddle after cooking?
Cleaning is easy. While the griddle is still warm, use your metal spatula to scrape any food debris into the grease trap. Then, pour a little water on the hot surface to steam-clean any stuck-on bits. Scrape again. Finally, wipe down the surface with a paper towel and apply a very thin coat of cooking oil to protect it from rust.
Which is better for camping, Blackstone or Member’s Mark?
Blackstone has a much wider range of portable models, like their 17-inch and 22-inch tabletop griddles, which are specifically designed for camping and travel. While you could technically transport a larger Member’s Mark griddle, Blackstone is the clear winner for portability.
Does a lid really matter on a griddle?
Yes, a lid (or hood) is incredibly useful. It allows you to trap heat, which is great for melting cheese on burgers, steaming vegetables, or even doing some light baking. It also protects your griddle surface from the elements when not in use. This is a major reason why the Member’s Mark, which includes a lid, is such a great value.
What kind of propane tank do these griddles use?
Both the large Blackstone and Member’s Mark griddles use a standard 20-pound propane tank, the same kind you use for a typical gas grill. Always follow proper grilling and propane safety guidelines when connecting and using your tank.
Is the seasoning process the same for both brands?
Yes, the seasoning process is identical. Both griddles use a rolled carbon steel cooktop that requires seasoning to become non-stick and prevent rust. The steps outlined above will work perfectly for either brand.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins the Griddle Showdown?
So, we’ve laid out all the parts on the workshop floor. We’ve inspected the build quality, tested the performance, and checked the price tag. What’s the final call in the Member’s Mark griddle vs. Blackstone debate?
If we have to crown one “Ultimate Winner” based on pure, out-of-the-box value, the trophy goes to the Member’s Mark griddle. For a lower price, you get a powerful, well-built machine that comes loaded with the features you need, like a lid and ample shelf space. For the average family looking to get into the world of outdoor griddling without a massive investment, it is an unbeatable deal.
However, that doesn’t mean the Blackstone griddle isn’t a champion in its own right. It wins in the categories of performance refinement, brand legacy, and customization. If you’re a serious enthusiast who wants the best heat control, the proven rear-grease system, and access to an endless world of accessories, the Blackstone is worth the extra cost. It’s the tool for the person who wants the best and is willing to pay for it.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. You can’t go wrong with either. Both will help you make incredible food and create lasting memories in your backyard. Just choose the one that fits your budget and your style, and get ready to start cooking.
