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Blackstone owns the griddle category, full stop. Weber's Slate is their first real attempt to compete, and it's clearly aimed at people who looked at Blackstone and wanted something more refined. Two very different philosophies on what a backyard griddle should be.
Quick Verdict
Buy the Weber Slate 36 ($799) if you want the best build quality, included rust-resistant top, and you're a Weber loyalist. Buy the Blackstone 36 ($499) if you want the most cooking horsepower per dollar and the largest aftermarket community.
The Contenders
Weber Slate 36
$799
Cooks who want a refined, longer-lasting griddle with a pre-seasoned rust-resistant top
Check PriceBlackstone 36
$499
Volume griddle cooks who want maximum surface and the proven flat-top platform
Check PriceCategory Breakdown
Cooking Surface
Winner: WeberTie on size — both around 720+ sq in. Weber wins on coating: pre-seasoned, rust-resistant top that's much more forgiving for beginners. Blackstone's raw steel is the gold standard once seasoned, but it punishes you if you skip maintenance.
Heat Output & Zones
Winner: BlackstoneBlackstone wins. Higher BTU output and more aggressive heat zones make smashburgers and high-volume cooks easier. The Weber heats more evenly but doesn't get as ferociously hot.
Build Quality
Winner: WeberWeber wins decisively. Better cart, better hood, better wheels, better warranty. The Blackstone is fine but feels its price. The Weber will look new in five years.
Ecosystem & Accessories
Winner: BlackstoneBlackstone wins big. Years of accessories, hoods, lids, wind guards, breakfast kits. Weber's ecosystem is just starting. If you love accessorizing, Blackstone is the better long-term home.
Value
Winner: BlackstoneBlackstone wins. $300 cheaper for the same cooking area. The Weber's premium is real (better build, better top) but Blackstone gives you more cooking dollar-for-dollar.
Final Verdict
Buy the Weber Slate if budget isn't tight and you want the best-built griddle on the market. Buy the Blackstone 36 if you want maximum surface and heat for the money, and don't mind seasoning maintenance.
Buying Advice
If you have never owned a griddle, the Weber's pre-seasoned top removes the biggest barrier (the seasoning learning curve). If you already know your way around a flat top, the Blackstone is the smarter buy.
