The hard cover is essential in my opinion. Especially if you plan to leave your Griddle outdoors between uses. Quality of the cover is excellent: sturdy, but not too heavy. Assembly is a quick four screws to attach the handles and parking hooks. Be sure to check the directions to do it right.
Solid, well fitting, very well made for what it is. That said, it's awkward and must be leaned up against our table when not in use. To use the attached hanging hooks, the griddle must be place away from walls, railings, or anything else. I would've much preferred being able to purchase a 36" griddle with an attached roll-back hood, but this isn't even an option, unless you purchase the griddle/air fryer combo. There are holes on either side near the back of the griddle that appear might accommodate a hood, but there is no hood available. If I'm wrong and just not seeing this accessory, would love to hear from y'all.
Not heavy duty. Design flaw: the interior hooks hit the griddle too. This does not hinge from the griddle… This seems like an afterthought. Perhaps they could t get the tops with a hinge that you could easily raise or lower?
Easy to assemble and fit well. My grill has the rear grease trap so the lid hangs off back at about a 30d angle resting on the grease trap. Not sure what the long term effects will be.