Blackstone With Air Fryer: Complete Guide & Is It Worth It?
A Blackstone with air fryer combines two outdoor cooking methods in one appliance: a large flat-top griddle and an integrated air fryer. The idea is simple. You can cook burgers, eggs, pancakes, vegetables, steaks, or other foods directly on the griddle while using the air fryer section for fries, chicken, frozen foods, and other dishes that benefit from circulating hot air.
This combination can be appealing if you already enjoy outdoor griddle cooking and want the convenience of air frying without bringing a separate countertop appliance outside.
But there is an important distinction to understand before buying one: Blackstone’s air-fryer-equipped models are not all identical. Size, drawer configuration, cooking surface, controls, and other features can vary by model and generation.
This guide explains how a Blackstone with an air fryer works, what the current configurations offer, what you can cook, how the griddle and air fryer work together, what the limitations are, and whether adding an air fryer is actually worth the extra cost and space.
What Is a Blackstone With an Air Fryer?
A Blackstone with an air fryer is an outdoor griddle that incorporates an air-frying section into the same cooking station.
Instead of having:
- a standalone outdoor griddle
- a separate countertop air fryer
- another surface for holding cooked food
The combination appliance brings several of these functions together.
The main cooking surface remains a flat-top griddle. Depending on the model, the integrated air fryer may use one or more drawers positioned below or around the griddle area.
This setup is particularly useful for meals where different foods need different cooking methods.
For example, you could prepare:
- burgers on the griddle
- fries in the air fryer
- vegetables on the griddle
- chicken pieces in the air fryer
- pancakes on the griddle
- cooked food in a warming drawer, where provided
The result is more of an outdoor cooking station than a traditional countertop air fryer.
If you are unfamiliar with the basic air-frying process, our Air Fryer Complete Guide explains the main components, cooking method, capacity considerations, and practical fundamentals.
How Does a Blackstone With Air Fryer Work?
The appliance essentially combines two different cooking systems.
The Griddle Section
The flat-top griddle uses direct heat underneath the cooking surface.
This makes it suitable for foods that benefit from direct contact with a hot cooking surface, including:
- burgers
- steaks
- eggs
- pancakes
- bacon
- vegetables
- sandwiches
- fajitas
The large surface also makes it easier to cook several foods at the same time.
The Air Fryer Section
The integrated air fryer uses a heating system and airflow to cook food inside a drawer or basket.
This is useful for foods where circulating hot air can help produce a browned or crisp exterior.
The exact design depends on the Blackstone model, so you should not assume that every Blackstone air fryer has identical controls, heating performance, drawer capacity, or electrical requirements.
Why Combine Them?
The biggest advantage is not necessarily that the integrated air fryer replaces a dedicated countertop air fryer.
Instead, its value comes from having the air fryer available while you are already cooking outdoors.
That can be convenient when a meal needs several different cooking methods.
Blackstone With Air Fryer Models
Blackstone has produced several griddle-and-air-fryer configurations, and the lineup has changed over time.
That makes model identification important.
Current Blackstone listings include both 28-inch and 36-inch air-fryer configurations, while older products and model numbers can have different specifications. Blackstone’s product-manual library also lists an Air Fryer Combo under model 1868.
For that reason, it is better to compare models by their actual specifications rather than assuming that every product called a “Blackstone with air fryer” works the same way.
28-Inch Blackstone With Air Fryer
The 28-inch category is aimed at buyers who want a smaller overall cooking station than a 36-inch model.
Blackstone’s current lineup includes a 28-inch AirFryer Combo, and the manufacturer’s current new-products page lists it as an Original Series product.
The 28-inch format can make more sense when:
- You have limited outdoor space
- You cook for a smaller household
- You want a more manageable griddle footprint
- You do not need the largest possible cooking surface
- You still want integrated air-frying functionality
The smaller size does not automatically mean the appliance is better for every buyer. The key question is whether the available griddle area and air-fryer capacity match the way you normally cook.
Before buying, check the exact product page and model number because Blackstone has offered multiple 28-inch configurations.
36-Inch Blackstone With Air Fryer
The 36-inch configuration is designed for larger outdoor cooking setups.
Blackstone currently lists a 36-inch Griddle Airfryer Combo with four independently controlled heat zones, 768 square inches of griddle cooking space, two 4-quart air-fryer drawers, and a 4-quart warming drawer.
The manufacturer also lists an Original 36-inch Griddle Airfryer Combo with a 36-inch Omnivore Griddle Plate, dual 4-quart air-fryer drawers, a 4-quart warming drawer, rear grease management, storage, and an extendable side shelf.
That makes the 36-inch format more appropriate for people who regularly cook larger outdoor meals.
It can provide enough working space to prepare several foods simultaneously without relying on a small tabletop cooking area.
A Note About Specifications
Do not automatically transfer specifications from one 36-inch Blackstone air fryer model to another.
Blackstone has different generations and configurations, so features such as
- drawer arrangement
- warming drawer
- side shelves
- storage
- burner configuration
- hood design
- controls
can vary.
Always check the exact model before buying.
Blackstone 28-Inch vs. 36-Inch With Air Fryer
| Feature | 28-Inch Configuration | 36-Inch Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Overall footprint | Smaller | Larger |
| Griddle space | More compact | Much larger |
| Outdoor space needed | Less | More |
| Large-meal cooking | More limited | Better suited |
| Air fryer setup | Model dependent | Some current models use dual 4-quart drawers. |
| Warming drawer | Model dependent | Available on some models |
| Best fit | Smaller outdoor setups | Larger households and frequent outdoor cooking |
The right choice depends more on your cooking habits and available space than on the number printed in the product name.
What Can You Cook on a Blackstone With an Air Fryer?
One of the strongest reasons to consider the combination is flexibility.
The griddle and air fryer allow you to use different cooking surfaces during the same meal.
Foods for the Griddle
The flat-top surface is well suited to:
- burgers
- steaks
- eggs
- pancakes
- bacon
- sausages
- vegetables
- grilled sandwiches
- fajitas
- chopped meat
- breakfast foods
Foods for the Air Fryer
The air fryer section can be useful for:
- French fries
- frozen fries
- chicken pieces
- potato wedges
- vegetables
- reheating certain foods
- breaded foods
- other foods normally prepared in an air fryer
The exact cooking time and temperature should always be based on the food, recipe, and specific appliance instructions rather than assuming that a countertop air fryer setting will transfer perfectly.
Can You Use the Griddle and Air Fryer at the Same Time?
This is one of the biggest practical advantages of the combination.
When the model’s design allows both sections to operate together, you can prepare different parts of a meal simultaneously.
For example:
Griddle: burgers and onions
Air fryer: fries
Warming drawer: cooked food that needs to stay warm
This can reduce the need to move between indoor and outdoor cooking areas.
However, simultaneous operation does not mean that both cooking systems behave identically.
The griddle is a direct-contact cooking surface, while the air fryer relies on heated airflow. Each section has its own heat characteristics and limitations.
Blackstone Air Fryer vs. a Dedicated Countertop Air Fryer
This is where buyers should be realistic.
A Blackstone with an air fryer is primarily an outdoor griddle with an added air-frying function.
A dedicated countertop air fryer is primarily an air fryer.
That distinction matters.
A Dedicated Air Fryer May Be Better If:
- Air frying is your main cooking method
- You cook mostly indoors
- You want compact storage
- You want dedicated air fryer controls
- You want an appliance designed primarily around air frying
A Blackstone With Air Fryer May Make More Sense If:
- You already enjoy outdoor griddle cooking
- You regularly cook outside
- You want fries or side dishes while using the griddle
- You have enough outdoor space
- You prefer one large cooking station instead of several separate appliances
An independent WIRED review of the Iron Forged 36-inch model found the integrated air fryer useful for foods such as fries and potatoes but also noted that its air fryer baskets were slower and less precise than dedicated countertop basket fryers.
That is an important distinction.
The built-in air fryer should be viewed as an integrated convenience feature, not automatically as a replacement for every dedicated countertop air fryer.
Advantages of a Blackstone With Air Fryer
Multiple Cooking Methods
You can use the flat-top surface and air fryer during the same outdoor meal.
That is the main reason to consider the combination.
More Outdoor Cooking Flexibility
You can prepare the main food and side dishes outside without repeatedly going back into the kitchen.
Large Griddle Surface
Larger configurations provide substantial cooking space for group meals.
The current Iron Forged 36-inch model, for example, has 768 square inches of griddle cooking space.
Integrated Warming Space
Some models include a warming drawer, which can be useful when different foods finish at different times.
Fewer Separate Appliances
If your outdoor setup already needs a griddle, adding an integrated air fryer can reduce the need for another appliance taking up space.
Limitations of a Blackstone With Air Fryer
The combination also has trade-offs.
It Takes More Space
A large outdoor griddle is not a small appliance.
A current 36-inch Iron Forged Airfryer Combo is listed by Blackstone at approximately 66.5 inches wide, 43 inches tall, and 30.5 inches deep.
Measure your available space before purchasing.
Also consider how the appliance will be stored or protected when it is not being used.
It Costs More Than a Basic Griddle
Adding air-fryer functionality increases the complexity and cost of the cooking station.
You should therefore ask whether you will actually use the air fryer.
If you rarely cook fries, chicken, vegetables, or other air-fryer foods outdoors, the additional cost may not provide much practical value.
The Air Fryer Is Not Necessarily Equal to a Countertop Model
Independent testing of the Iron Forged model found slower air-fryer heating and less precise temperature control compared with dedicated countertop basket fryers.
That does not make the integrated air fryer useless. It simply changes how you should think about it.
Its biggest value is convenience during outdoor cooking.
Air Fryer Performance
Performance can vary between models, so avoid assuming that one review applies perfectly to every Blackstone air-fryer configuration.
For the Iron Forged 36-inch model, WIRED reported that the air-fryer system uses a propane burner for heat and a separate electric fan for airflow. The review also noted that the fan requires an electrical outlet.
This is an important practical consideration.
You may have a propane-powered outdoor appliance but still need access to electricity for part of the air-fryer system.
The exact design can vary by model, so check the specifications for the specific Blackstone you are considering.
Heat Consistency on the Griddle
Large griddles can have temperature differences across the cooking surface.
This matters when preparing several foods simultaneously.
In independent testing of the Iron Forged 36-inch model, WIRED observed significant temperature variation across the griddle surface and noted that users need to learn the appliance’s hotter and cooler areas.
That is a useful reminder not to judge a large griddle solely by its advertised burner power.
Actual cooking performance depends on the entire heating system, surface design, burner arrangement, wind conditions, food load, and cooking technique.
Blackstone Griddle Seasoning
If you choose a Blackstone griddle with a steel cooking surface, seasoning and maintenance become part of ownership.
The cooking surface needs appropriate care to help protect it from rust and maintain its cooking characteristics.
Do not treat seasoning as a one-time task that means you never need to maintain the surface again.
Regular cooking, scraping, cleaning, drying, and appropriate maintenance all matter.
This is one area where a Blackstone differs significantly from many countertop air fryers.
You are buying an outdoor griddle first, so griddle maintenance comes with the territory.
Cleaning a Blackstone With an Air Fryer
Cleaning involves more than wiping down the air fryer drawer.
You have several areas to consider:
- griddle cooking surface
- grease-management system
- air fryer drawers or baskets
- warming drawer, where equipped
- exterior surfaces
- food residue around cooking areas
The griddle surface requires its own cleaning routine, while removable air-fryer components should be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not use cleaning methods simply because they are common for countertop air fryers. The griddle surface has different materials and maintenance requirements.
A dedicated cleaning routine is especially important if the appliance is stored outdoors.
Blackstone With Air Fryer Safety
Outdoor cooking requires attention to both the griddle and air-fryer components.
Keep the appliance in an appropriate outdoor location with adequate clearance and ventilation.
Important considerations include:
- Follow the manufacturer’s placement instructions.
- Keep combustible materials away from hot surfaces.
- Do not use an outdoor propane appliance in an enclosed indoor space.
- Keep electrical connections protected and appropriately positioned.
- Do not block required airflow.
- Keep children away from hot surfaces.
- Handle air-fryer drawers carefully because they can become extremely hot.
- Clean grease buildup regularly.
- Inspect components if you notice unusual damage or operating problems.
A Blackstone with an air fryer combines multiple heat sources and systems, so safe operation should take priority over convenience.
For broader air fryer safety fundamentals, see our Air Fryer Safety guide.
Does a Blackstone With Air Fryer Need Electricity?
This depends on the specific model.
Some Blackstone air-fryer configurations incorporate an electric fan or other electrical components even though the main griddle and air-fryer heating system may use propane.
For example, WIRED reported that the Iron Forged 36-inch model’s air-fryer airflow uses a 75-watt fan that needs an outlet.
Therefore, do not assume that “propane-powered” means the entire appliance works without electricity.
Check the exact model’s manual and specifications before planning your outdoor setup.
Common Buying Mistakes
Choosing the Largest Model Automatically
Bigger is not automatically better.
A 36-inch appliance can provide a lot of cooking space, but it also requires more room.
Ignoring the Air Fryer’s Role
Ask yourself how often you will actually use the integrated air fryer.
If your cooking is almost entirely griddle-based, a simpler griddle may be more appropriate.
Assuming All Blackstone Air Fryers Are the Same
This is one of the biggest mistakes.
Different models and generations can have different:
- drawer configurations
- cooking surfaces
- warming drawers
- controls
- storage
- electrical requirements
- burner arrangements
Always check the exact model.
Forgetting Storage
Outdoor appliances still need protection from weather and moisture.
Consider where the unit will live when it is not being used.
Buying Without Measuring
Measure the space first.
Do not rely only on the advertised griddle width. Consider the complete footprint, shelves, hood, clearance, and the space required to operate the appliance comfortably.
What to Check Before Buying
Before purchasing a Blackstone with an air fryer, compare these factors.
1. Griddle Size
Choose a cooking surface that matches your normal meal size.
2. Air Fryer Capacity
Check the actual drawer or basket capacity rather than assuming the capacity based on the overall size of the griddle.
3. Number of Air Fryer Drawers
Some larger configurations have dual air-fryer drawers.
4. Warming Drawer
A warming drawer can be useful when different foods finish at different times.
5. Electrical Requirements
Check whether the air fryer fan or other components require an outlet.
6. Fuel Type
Verify the fuel system and whether it matches your outdoor setup.
7. Dimensions
Measure the complete appliance footprint.
8. Storage
Think about weather protection and where the appliance will stay between uses.
9. Cleaning
Consider whether you are comfortable maintaining both a griddle and an air-fryer system.
10. Actual Cooking Habits
This is the most important point.
Buy the appliance for how you actually cook, not simply because the feature list looks impressive.
Who Should Buy a Blackstone With an Air Fryer?
A Blackstone with an air fryer can make sense for you if:
- You enjoy outdoor cooking
- You frequently use a griddle
- You cook for several people
- You want air-fryer functionality outside
- You have enough space
- You are comfortable maintaining a griddle
- You want multiple cooking methods in one station
It can be particularly useful for meals where the main dish and side dishes need different cooking methods.
Who Should Not Buy One?
A Blackstone with an air fryer may not be the right choice if:
- You primarily cook indoors
- You have very limited outdoor space
- You rarely use a griddle
- You mainly want an air fryer
- You want simple countertop operation
- You do not want regular griddle maintenance
- You do not want a large outdoor appliance
In those situations, buying a dedicated countertop air fryer and a simpler cooking appliance may make more sense.
Is a Blackstone With Air Fryer Worth It?
The answer depends on what you want from the appliance.
If you are primarily looking for an air fryer, a dedicated countertop model may be a more logical purchase.
If you already want a large outdoor griddle and would regularly use an air fryer for side dishes, the combination becomes much more attractive.
The integrated air fryer does not need to outperform a countertop air fryer to be useful.
Its real advantage is convenience.
You can cook the main meal on the griddle and prepare a complementary side in the air fryer without bringing another appliance outside.
Independent testing supports this distinction. WIRED found the integrated air fryer useful for foods such as fries and potatoes but also found it slower and less precise than dedicated countertop air fryers.
So the buying question should not simply be
“Is the Blackstone air fryer better than a countertop air fryer?”
A better question is
“Will having an air fryer integrated into my outdoor griddle make my normal cooking easier?”
If the answer is yes, the combination can justify its added size and cost.
Blackstone With Air Fryer: Final Buying Checklist
Before placing an order, check:
- Exact Blackstone model
- Griddle size
- Air fryer drawer capacity
- Number of air-fryer drawers
- Warming drawer availability
- Fuel requirements
- Electrical requirements
- Overall dimensions
- Available outdoor space
- Storage plan
- Cleaning requirements
- Warranty
- Current price and availability
- Whether you will actually use the air-fryer function
Product prices and availability can change, so verify the current listing before purchasing. Blackstone’s current lineup includes a 36-inch Griddle Airfryer Combo and a 28-inch AirFryer Combo, but listings and availability can change over time.
FAQs
What is a Blackstone with an air fryer?
It is an outdoor Blackstone griddle that incorporates an air-frying section into the same cooking station. Depending on the model, the air fryer may use one or more drawers and may include additional features such as a warming drawer.
Can you use the griddle and air fryer at the same time?
Some Blackstone air-fryer models are designed to let you use both cooking sections during the same meal. Always follow the specific model’s instructions.
Does a Blackstone air fryer need electricity?
Some models do. For example, the Iron Forged 36-inch configuration reviewed by WIRED uses an electric fan for airflow. Requirements vary by model, so check the specific manual before buying.
Is a Blackstone with an air fryer better than a regular air fryer?
Not necessarily. A dedicated countertop air fryer may offer more precise and convenient air-frying performance, while the Blackstone combination offers the advantage of integrating air frying into an outdoor griddle setup.
Does Blackstone make 28-inch and 36-inch air-fryer griddles?
Blackstone’s current lineup includes both 28-inch and 36-inch air-fryer configurations. Exact features vary by model, so compare the specific product specifications before purchasing.
Can you cook burgers and fries at the same time?
When the model is designed for simultaneous operation, you can cook food on the griddle while preparing fries or another suitable food in the air-fryer section.
Is a Blackstone with an air fryer worth the money?
It can be worth it if you regularly cook outdoors and want both griddle and air-fryer functionality in one station. If air frying is your main priority, a dedicated countertop air fryer may be a better fit.
Final Conclusion
A Blackstone with air fryer is best understood as a versatile outdoor griddle with an added air-frying function, rather than as a direct replacement for a dedicated countertop air fryer.
Its biggest strength is convenience. You can cook burgers, steaks, breakfast foods, vegetables, and other foods on the griddle while preparing fries, chicken, or other suitable foods in the integrated air fryer.
The right model depends on your available space, cooking habits, desired griddle size, air-fryer capacity, electrical requirements, and how often you expect to use both cooking systems.
For buyers who already want a Blackstone griddle and regularly cook outdoors, the integrated air fryer can be a useful addition. For someone who mainly wants an air fryer for everyday indoor cooking, a dedicated countertop model may be the simpler choice.
The key is to choose based on how you actually cook, not simply how many features the appliance has.
