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- How Consumer Reports determined the top flat-top grills for 2026
- Why the LoCo 36-inch griddle topped the rankings
- Where LoCo fits in the outdoor-cooking market
- What real users are saying about the LoCo griddle
- How LoCo compares to Blackstone and Weber
- Practical buying tips for flat-top griddle shoppers
Flat-top grills have exploded in popularity, and this year a relatively unknown contender beat household names. Consumer Reports’ latest testing named a LoCo model the highest-rated griddle, surprising fans who expected Blackstone or Weber to take the crown. Here’s what the tests, user reports, and specs actually reveal about the grill tech people are talking about in 2026.
How Consumer Reports determined the top flat-top grills for 2026
Consumer Reports combined lab testing with a decade of purchase data to rank griddles. The organization pulled information from thousands of verified owners and ran controlled performance tests.
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What the evaluation included
- Over 35,000 consumer purchases evaluated from 2014 to 2024.
- Expert lab tests measuring heat evenness, preheat time, and temperature range.
- Scores blended lab findings with owner feedback when available.
The final list reflects both objective lab results and long-term purchaser behavior. For several models, however, owner-satisfaction data lagged behind lab evaluations.
Why the LoCo 36-inch griddle topped the rankings
LoCo’s 36-inch griddle earned the highest overall score from Consumer Reports, outperforming many familiar brands in the lab. It scored particularly well for heat consistency and temperature range.
- Overall score: 79 (highest in the flat-top category).
- Even performance: 5 out of 5 in lab tests.
- Temperature range: 5 out of 5.
- Preheat performance: 3 out of 5.
Those numeric scores highlight the LoCo’s ability to maintain steady heat across the griddle surface. That trait is critical for searing, pan-frying, and cooking multiple items at once.
Where LoCo fits in the outdoor-cooking market
LoCo is based in Columbus, Georgia, and focuses on a range of outdoor-cooking equipment. Its lineup includes small tabletop griddles and larger freestanding models.
- Models range from 16-inch tabletop units to the 36-inch freestanding griddle.
- Complementary products include boiling carts, stands, and fryers.
- LoCo targets users building full outdoor cooking setups rather than one-off buyers.
The company positions itself as a brand for serious home cooks and outdoor chefs. Its 36-inch model aims to compete with mainstream favorites on performance rather than brand recognition.
What real users are saying about the LoCo griddle
Online forums and Reddit threads show a mixed experience among owners. Many praise cooking performance, while others report mechanical and build issues.
- Positive notes: excellent cooking surface and even heat distribution.
- Critical notes: problems with smart temperature control and occasional burner errors.
- Build concerns: loose handles and flimsy cabinet shelves were mentioned.
Performance tends to get high marks, but durability and control electronics draw more complaints. That split explains why expert labs rated the unit highly while owner-satisfaction data remain sparse.
How LoCo compares to Blackstone and Weber
Blackstone remains the most recognized name in flat-top grilling, and Weber also holds a strong position. Consumer Reports ranked those brands close behind LoCo in 2026.
- LoCo 36-inch: overall score 79.
- Blackstone 28-inch: overall score 74.
- Weber 28-inch: overall score 72.
Blackstone is known for affordability and wide availability. Weber appeals to buyers who prefer established grill makers. LoCo’s edge comes from top lab marks for heat consistency. That said, Blackstone and Weber have larger owner-feedback samples, which can reveal real-world reliability trends more quickly.
Practical buying tips for flat-top griddle shoppers
- Decide on size: larger griddles cook more food but need more space and fuel.
- Check heat evenness ratings if you cook varied items at once.
- Assess preheat times when speed matters for weekend breakfasts.
- Look for warranty and service options for electronics and burners.
- Read owner reviews for long-term durability notes, not just lab scores.
Balance performance metrics with real-owner feedback before you commit. Lab excellence does not always guarantee trouble-free ownership.
