Royal Gourmet GD401 vs. GD401C: The Tale of the Tailgate Titan

Choosing the right outdoor cooker usually involves a compromise between the charred flavor of a grill and the flat-top versatility of a griddle. However, after wheeling the Royal Gourmet GD401 and its counterpart, the GD401C, onto my patio, I realized that having both in one unit is a game-changer for backyard hosting. These 4-burner hybrids are designed for the high-volume cook who wants to flip pancakes on one side while searing burgers on the other.

But don’t let the nearly identical model numbers fool you. While they share the same 48,000 BTU heart and dual-zone layout, one comes tailored for longevity with an included protective shield, while the other focuses on a slightly different height profile. I’ve put both through a rigorous weekend of tailgating and breakfast prep to see which combo truly earns its spot in your trunk.

The Key Difference: The Protective Bundle and Height Profile

The primary key difference between the Royal Gourmet GD401 and the GD401C is the inclusion of a specialized grill cover and a slight variation in the listed height and weight. The GD401C is essentially the “Complete” bundle, arriving with a heavy-duty, water-resistant grill cover designed to protect the dual cooking surfaces from the elements.

While the core cooking specifications—like the 584 square inches of total space and 48,000 BTU output—are identical, the GD401 is often marketed as the standalone portable unit, whereas the GD401C is positioned as the total package for campers. Additionally, the GD401 stands slightly taller at 43.7 inches, compared to the GD401C’s listed height of 36.6 inches, which can affect the ergonomics for taller cooks during long sessions.

Comparison Table: Royal Gourmet GD401 vs. GD401C

Feature	Royal Gourmet GD401	Royal Gourmet GD401C
Total Cooking Space	584 sq. in. (Dual Zones)	584 sq. in. (Dual Zones)
Total BTU Output	48,000 (4 x 12,000)	48,000 (4 x 12,000)
Included Accessories	Standalone Unit	Custom Grill Cover Included
Height	43.7 Inches	36.6 Inches
Ignition System	Automatic Electronic	Automatic Electronic
Portability	Folding Legs & Locking Casters	Folding Legs & Locking Casters
Side Tables	Two Fixed Tables	Two Fixed Tables
Best For	Backyard Variety	Camping & Tailgating
Buy Now	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

Detailed Comparative Review: My Experience

I took these units from the box to the backyard to see if the assembly and cooking performance lived up to the “portable” marketing. Having used high-end standalone griddles and traditional gas grills separately, I was skeptical about whether a combo unit could do both well without sacrificing heat consistency. After a marathon session of hash browns, bacon, and flame-licked steaks, here is how they felt in the real world.

Design and Portability: Built for the Move

The first thing I noticed when unboxing the GD401 and GD401C was how sturdy they felt despite the “portable” label. Both feature folding legs, which is a brilliant touch for a 4-burner unit. I was able to fold the legs down and slide the unit into the back of my SUV with relative ease, though at roughly 100 lbs, you’ll definitely want a second set of hands.

The GD401C’s inclusion of the cover is a massive perk. After a dusty afternoon at a tailgate, being able to wipe down the griddle and immediately toss a fitted cover over it gave me peace of mind. The GD401, while identical in build quality, felt a bit “exposed” until I sourced my own cover. Interestingly, the height of the GD401 felt more natural for my 6-foot frame; the GD401C feels a bit lower to the ground, which is great for stability on uneven camping turf but might be a stretch for your back over a long afternoon.

Cooking Performance: Dual-Zone Power

I fired up both units using the automatic ignition system, and they both roared to life on the first click. The four 12,000 BTU burners are split—two under the griddle and two under the grill grates.

• On the Griddle side, I achieved a beautiful, even sear on some smash burgers. The heat distribution was surprisingly uniform for a portable unit.
• On the Grill side, the flames were consistent. I didn’t experience the massive flare-ups you often get with cheaper combos, thanks to the way the drip management is handled.

Having 292 square inches for each zone meant I never felt crowded. I could comfortably toast buns on the griddle while the meat finished on the grill.

Ease of Use: Prep Space and Cleanup

The two fixed side tables are a lifesaver. When you’re cooking at a campsite, prep space is usually at a premium. I had plenty of room for my seasoning rubs and spatula sets. The lower bar design is also a clever addition; I hung my tongs and cleaning brushes right within reach.

Cleanup is usually where I lose interest in griddles, but Royal Gourmet’s removable oil management system made it tolerable. The grease tray is easy to pull out and empty. On the GD401C, because I had the cover, I found that the griddle surface stayed seasoned and rust-free much longer between uses compared to the GD401, which I left uncovered for one rainy night (a mistake I won’t repeat).

Functions: Versatility at its Best

These aren’t just for burgers. I used the griddle side for a full “diner-style” breakfast—eggs, pancakes, and sausage—while using the grill side to warm up some pre-cooked breakfast potatoes. The versatility of being able to manage two entirely different cooking styles on one gas tank is the primary reason to buy these models. Both the GD401 and GD401C handled the transition between high-heat searing and low-heat warming without a hitch.

Royal Gourmet GD401 Grill Griddle Combo

Pros:

• Better Ergonomics: The 43.7-inch height is more comfortable for taller cooks.
• Portable Power: Folding legs make it a titan for beach trips or park cookouts.
• Dual Cooking: Eliminates the need to bring two separate cookers.
• Easy Assembly: I had this up and running in about 20 minutes.

Cons:

• No Cover: You have to buy protection separately to prevent rust.
• Storage Size: Even folded, it takes up significant trunk space.

Royal Gourmet GD401C Grill Griddle Combo

Pros:

• Total Value: The included cover is essential for maintaining the griddle plate.
• Compact Height: The lower 36.6-inch profile makes it very stable on grass or dirt.
• High Output: 48,000 BTUs provides plenty of heat for cold-weather camping.
• Cleanup: The oil management system is consistent and reliable.

Cons:

• Lower Stance: Might feel a bit short for some users during long cook sessions.
• Weight: At over 100 lbs, the “portable” label requires some muscle.

The Final Recommendation: Which Combo Wins?

I recommend the Royal Gourmet GD401C if you are a frequent camper or tailgater. The fact that it comes with a custom-fitted cover is worth the investment alone. Griddles are notorious for rusting if they aren’t protected from moisture, and the GD401C ensures you have that protection from day one. Its slightly lower profile also makes it feel more “at home” on rugged terrain.

I recommend the Royal Gourmet GD401 if you primarily want a versatile cooker for your patio or backyard and you are on the taller side. The extra height makes a noticeable difference in comfort, and if you already have a storage shed or a universal cover, the “C” bundle might not be a necessity for you.

For my money, the GD401C is the smarter buy. The cover is a non-negotiable accessory for a griddle combo, and getting it as part of the package saves you the headache of finding one that fits those unique 66-inch dimensions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use the griddle and grill at the same time?

A: Absolutely. They have independent burners and knobs, so you can have the grill on high for steaks and the griddle on low for sautéing onions.

Q: Does it come with a propane tank?

A: No, you will need a standard 20 lb propane tank.

Q: Is the griddle plate pre-seasoned?

A: It has a protective coating, but I highly recommend a thorough cleaning and a proper seasoning with flaxseed or vegetable oil before your first cook to ensure a non-stick surface.

Q: How do the legs fold?

A: There are simple locking pins on the legs. Once released, the legs tuck under the main body, and the side tables can be managed to make the unit much more compact for travel.