Royal Gourmet’s GD401 series has become one of the most popular budget-friendly grill and griddle combo options for backyard cooks, campers, and tailgaters. At first glance, the GD401 and GD401C look nearly identical—but small differences in height, portability, accessories, and long-term maintenance can make one a much better fit for you. This 2026 comparison focuses on real ownership concerns—ergonomics, cleaning, transport weight, and cooking limitations—rather than just repeating the manufacturer’s spec sheet.
Quick Verdict (2026)
🏆 Best Overall for Most Buyers: Royal Gourmet GD401C — lower profile, lighter weight, and includes a weather cover.
✅ Best for Tall Users: Royal Gourmet GD401 (Taller Version) — more comfortable working height and hanging bar with S-hooks.
- Combination of gas grill and griddle with two individual cooking zones | Easy assembly...
- Product dimensions – 66.1" L x 21.8" W x 43.7" H | Clearance space around product –...
- Automatic ignition system delivers fast and easy start-up with four big knobs on the...
- Two fixed side tables provide ample space for food preparation. Lower bar design keeps...
- With fold-down legs for compact storage and four locking casters for easy moving, it is...
- Combo Design: Combination of gas grill and griddle with two individual cooking zones, each...
- Portable: Easy to assemble within 15 minutes. With fold-down legs for compact storage and...
- Automatic Ignition System: Automatic ignition system delivers fast and easy start-up with...
- No Fussy Cleanup: Removable oil management system facilitates easy cleanup.
- Ample Preparation Spact: Two fixed side tables provide ample space for food preparation....
Why You Can Trust This Comparison
This guide is written with long-term usability in mind.
The analysis is based on verified 2026 manufacturer specifications,
owner feedback from BBQ and griddle communities, and real-world cooking scenarios
where combo grills often show their strengths—and their flaws.
The goal is simple: explain what actually matters once the grill is assembled and in use.
Main Differences Between GD401 and GD401C
- GD401: Taller working height (~43.7″), includes a lower hanging bar with S-hooks for tools.
- GD401C: Shorter height (~36.6″), lighter weight, and includes a fitted weather cover.
Cooking performance is identical—the differences are about comfort, protection, and portability.
Cooking Performance: Real Strengths and Real Limitations
Grill & Griddle Output
Both models feature separate grill and griddle zones powered by independent burners.
This allows you to cook burgers on one side while preparing eggs, bacon, or vegetables on the griddle.
Heat output is sufficient for everyday backyard cooking, though it is not designed for steakhouse-level searing.
The Biggest Limitation: No Lid
The most common complaint from owners is the lack of a lid or hood.
Because there is no lid, these grills struggle with:
- Melting cheese evenly on burgers
- Cooking thick chicken breasts without drying them out
- Any form of indirect or convection-style cooking
Expert Tip: Budget $10–$15 for a stainless steel melting dome or basting cover.
Using a dome on the griddle side dramatically improves cheese melting and moisture retention,
making the GD401 series far more versatile.
Setup & Portability: Are They Actually “Portable”?
Both the GD401 and GD401C are often marketed as portable grills.
While the legs do fold for transport, it’s important to understand the reality.
Ease of Transport Note: These units weigh between 82 and 94 lbs.
They are “car-portable” for camping or tailgating, but not something most people will want
to carry solo for long distances.
Assembly is straightforward, though the griddle plate is heavy and easier to install with two people.
Once assembled, the GD401C’s lower height and lighter weight make it slightly easier to move into storage.
Height & Ergonomics: This Matters More Than You Think
- GD401: ~43.7″ tall (taller model with hanging bar and S-hooks)
Royal Gourmet GD401 Portable Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo with...
- Combination of gas grill and griddle with two individual cooking zones | Easy assembly...
- Product dimensions – 66.1" L x 21.8" W x 43.7" H | Clearance space around product –...
- Automatic ignition system delivers fast and easy start-up with four big knobs on the...
- Two fixed side tables provide ample space for food preparation. Lower bar design keeps...
- With fold-down legs for compact storage and four locking casters for easy moving, it is...
- GD401C: ~36.6″ tall (standard height)
Royal Gourmet GD401C 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo with...
- Combo Design: Combination of gas grill and griddle with two individual cooking zones, each...
- Portable: Easy to assemble within 15 minutes. With fold-down legs for compact storage and...
- Automatic Ignition System: Automatic ignition system delivers fast and easy start-up with...
- No Fussy Cleanup: Removable oil management system facilitates easy cleanup.
- Ample Preparation Spact: Two fixed side tables provide ample space for food preparation....
If you are over 6 feet tall, the GD401’s taller frame can reduce back strain during longer cooking sessions.
If you are under 5’10”, the GD401C generally feels more comfortable and stable.
Materials, Rust Risk & Maintenance Warning
Royal Gourmet uses a mix of materials across both models:
- Griddle: Ceramic-coated steel
- Grill Grates: Porcelain-enameled cast iron
The ceramic coating helps prevent sticking, but it can chip if metal scrapers are used aggressively.
Once chipped, the exposed steel becomes more vulnerable to rust.
Maintenance Tip: Use wooden or silicone tools on the griddle,
clean gently, lightly season after washing, and always dry before covering.
The GD401C’s included cover provides a real advantage for rust prevention.
GD401 vs GD401C: Quick Specs Comparison
| Specification | Royal Gourmet GD401 | Royal Gourmet GD401C |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cooking Area | 606 sq. in. | 606 sq. in. |
| Working Height | ~43.7″ (Taller) | ~36.6″ (Standard) |
| Weight | 94.4 lbs | 82.2 lbs |
| Included Accessories | Hanging bar, S-hooks | Weather cover |
- Combination of gas grill and griddle with two individual cooking zones | Easy assembly...
- Product dimensions – 66.1" L x 21.8" W x 43.7" H | Clearance space around product –...
- Automatic ignition system delivers fast and easy start-up with four big knobs on the...
- Two fixed side tables provide ample space for food preparation. Lower bar design keeps...
- With fold-down legs for compact storage and four locking casters for easy moving, it is...
- Combo Design: Combination of gas grill and griddle with two individual cooking zones, each...
- Portable: Easy to assemble within 15 minutes. With fold-down legs for compact storage and...
- Automatic Ignition System: Automatic ignition system delivers fast and easy start-up with...
- No Fussy Cleanup: Removable oil management system facilitates easy cleanup.
- Ample Preparation Spact: Two fixed side tables provide ample space for food preparation....
Final Verdict: Which Royal Gourmet Combo Should You Buy?
Choose the GD401 if you are tall and want a more comfortable working height
with built-in tool storage.
Choose the GD401C if you prefer easier storage, lighter weight,
and better protection from rain and humidity.
Cooking performance is identical—but ergonomics, portability, and maintenance
are where the real differences lie.
