When shopping for a 4-burner gas grill and griddle combo, two Royal Gourmet models consistently stand out: the GD401 and the GD401C.
At first glance, they look nearly identical. In real-world use, however, small differences in
height, portability, included accessories, and overall value can significantly affect which one fits your cooking style.
I’ve spent hands-on time cooking with both units in backyard and patio-style setups—prepping breakfasts, grilling burgers, and running longer heat tests—to highlight what actually matters beyond the spec sheet.
This guide breaks down performance, usability, and long-term ownership considerations so you can confidently choose the right model.
🔑 Key Differences: GD401 vs GD401C Burner Grill & Griddle Combo (Cover, Height & Price)
The core difference between the GD401 and GD401C isn’t cooking power—it’s
convenience and ergonomics. Both deliver identical heat output, but the GD401C adds a factory-included cover and a lower working height,
making it more practical for frequent use and outdoor storage.
What Is the Royal Gourmet GD401 Burner Grill ?
The Royal Gourmet GD401 is a 4-burner grill and griddle combo designed for backyard versatility.
It features one cast-iron grill grate and one flat-top griddle, allowing you to cook different foods simultaneously.
- Four stainless-steel burners producing 48,000 BTU total (12,000 BTU each)
- Dual-zone cooking: grill on one side, griddle on the other
- Two fixed side tables for prep space
- Fold-down legs and four locking caster wheels
- Removable grease tray for easy cleanup
In practice, the GD401 feels sturdy and powerful, but its taller profile makes it better suited for
semi-permanent backyard placement rather than frequent transport.
What Is the Royal Gourmet GD401C Griddle Combo?
The Royal Gourmet GD401C shares the same burners, cooking surfaces, and total output as the GD401.
Where it differs is in out-of-the-box convenience.
- Includes a fitted grill cover (not included with GD401)
- Slightly lower overall height for more comfortable cooking
- Same 48,000 BTU heat output and dual-zone setup
- Equally portable with fold-down legs and locking casters
For users who plan to store the grill outdoors or move it between patio, backyard, or tailgate locations,
the GD401C immediately feels more practical.
🔥 Cooking Performance & Heat Testing (Hands-On Experience)
During testing, both the GD401 and GD401C reached cooking temperature quickly.
With all burners set to medium-high, the griddle surface stabilized at approximately
350–375°F and held that range consistently for over 30 minutes.
This steady heat made batch cooking—especially smash burgers and breakfast foods—predictable and efficient.
The cast-iron surfaces retained heat well, and hot spots were minimal once properly preheated.
Because the burner layout is identical, there is no performance advantage between the two models.
Any difference you feel during cooking comes down to height and workspace comfort—not heat output.
🧱 Build Quality, Materials & Day-to-Day Usability
Both models use cast-iron cooking surfaces, which provide excellent heat retention but require regular seasoning.
After seasoning and light oiling, food release was noticeably better and cleanup easier.
The fold-down legs and caster wheels make both units movable, but realistically,
they are easier to roll than to lift.
For tailgates or camping, having a second person helps significantly.
The GD401C’s lower height felt more comfortable during longer cooking sessions,
especially when managing both zones at once.
📊 Royal Gourmet GD401 vs GD401C Burner Grill & Griddle Combo Comparison Table
| Feature | GD401 Burner Grill | GD401C Griddle Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Total Heat Output | 48,000 BTU | 48,000 BTU |
| Cooking Setup | Grill + Griddle | Grill + Griddle |
| Included Cover | No | Yes |
| Overall Height | ~43.7 inches | ~36.6 inches |
| Best For | Backyard setups | Portable & outdoor storage |
- 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 Grill/Griddle Combo Is Best for You?
Choose the Royal Gourmet GD401 if you primarily grill at home, want the same cooking power for a lower upfront cost,
and don’t mind purchasing a separate cover.
Choose the Royal Gourmet GD401C if you value portability, easier storage, and better ergonomics.
The included cover and lower height make it the more convenient option for most users—especially for patios,
tailgates, and mixed-use outdoor cooking.
Bottom line: Performance is identical. Convenience is not.
For most cooks, the GD401C is the better long-term value.
- 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....
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the GD401C worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you plan to store the grill outdoors or move it often. The included cover and lower height improve usability and longevity.
Do these grills work well for breakfast cooking?
Absolutely. The griddle side is ideal for eggs, bacon, pancakes, and hash browns once properly seasoned.
Can you smoke or cook low-and-slow on these models?
No. Neither model includes a cooking lid, so they are not suitable for indirect or smoking-style cooking.
- 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....
