Royal Gourmet vs BIG HORN: Grills Compared by Specs
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This royal gourmet vs BIG HORN grill comparison focuses on two distinct outdoor cooking approaches. Both units are designed for outdoor placement, but they serve different culinary needs. The Royal Gourmet is a traditional charcoal grill with an offset smoker, offering ample space for slow cooking. In contrast, the BIG HORN is a portable propane infrared searing station. You need to decide between low-and-slow barbecue or high-heat searing based on your specific cooking style and available space.
Key differences
| Aspect | Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker | BIG HORN 21-Inch Infrared Propane Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Propane |
| Heating Method | Conventional charcoal with offset smoker | Top-down infrared |
| Cooking Area | 823 Square Inches | not listed |
| Form Factor | Grill | Tabletop |
| Material | Porcelain-enameled steel and chrome-plated steel | Stainless steel |
| Application | Camping | Searing |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker if
- You want large cooking capacity for smoking and grilling large cuts of meat
- You prefer the flavor profile and control of charcoal fuel
- You need a standalone unit with side tables and storage shelves
Choose BIG HORN 21-Inch Infrared Propane Grill if
- You prioritize rapid heating and high-temperature searing for steaks
- You need a compact, portable unit that fits on a table
- You want easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe stainless steel components
Verdict: The Royal Gourmet suits those who want traditional charcoal smoking and large cooking capacity. The BIG HORN is better for users who need portable, high-heat searing capabilities. Choose the model that aligns with your preferred fuel source and available counter space.
Royal Gourmet vs BIG HORN Specs
Fuel type
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S runs on charcoal. This traditional fuel source requires you to manage fire and ash manually. You adjust airflow with vents and control heat by changing grate height. The BIG HORN uses propane gas. It features dual infrared burners that deliver 19,000 BTU. Gas ignition is immediate, and you can adjust heat with knobs. Propane offers convenience and consistent temperature control without the cleanup of charcoal dust. The Royal Gourmet provides smoky flavor, while the BIG HORN offers speed and ease. You choose based on whether you prefer traditional smoke or modern convenience.
Cooking capacity
The Royal Gourmet offers 823 square inches of cooking area. This includes 475 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel grates, 151 square inches of warming rack, and 197 square inches in the offset smoker. This large surface area suits big gatherings or slow smoking large cuts. The BIG HORN is a tabletop unit with a 21-inch width. Its data does not list total square inches, but the chamber is designed for searing rather than bulk cooking. The adjustable 7-tier rack allows zone cooking, but the overall footprint is much smaller. If you need to cook for a crowd, the Royal Gourmet provides significantly more space.
Form factor
The BIG HORN is a portable tabletop grill. It measures 21.2 inches wide, 21.4 inches long, and 14.1 inches high. Its compact design makes it easy to move and store. It fits well on patios, balconies, or camping tables. The Royal Gourmet is a large, stationary grill. It measures 51.7 inches wide, 28.6 inches long, and 46.9 inches high. It weighs 45.2 pounds and includes side tables and a bottom shelf. This unit is built for a fixed outdoor kitchen spot. The BIG HORN wins for portability and small spaces, while the Royal Gourmet is for permanent setups.
Heat performance
The BIG HORN uses top-down infrared burners to reach 1500°F in five minutes. This intense heat is ideal for searing steaks and creating a Maillard reaction. It locks in moisture and reduces smoke. The Royal Gourmet relies on charcoal heat. You control temperature by adjusting the grate height and using air vents. The lid thermometer helps monitor heat. While it cannot reach the extreme searing temperatures of the infrared BIG HORN, it excels at low-and-slow smoking via the offset chamber. The BIG HORN is better for fast searing, while the Royal Gourmet is better for controlled smoking.
Material build
The BIG HORN is crafted from rust-resistant stainless steel. This material is durable and easy to clean. All components are detachable and dishwasher-safe, which simplifies maintenance. The Royal Gourmet uses porcelain-enameled steel for the grates and chrome-plated steel for the warming rack. These materials are standard for charcoal grills but may require more manual cleaning to prevent rust and buildup. The stainless steel construction of the BIG HORN offers superior longevity and easier upkeep for users who want a low-maintenance grill.
Which grill matches your cooking style
You want traditional charcoal flavor
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S uses charcoal fuel for authentic smoky taste. Its offset smoker adds 197 square inches of cooking space. You control heat by adjusting the grate height or airflow vents. The porcelain-enameled steel grates cover 475 square inches. This setup suits slow cooking and smoking tasks that require precise temperature management over long periods.
You need fast high-heat searing
The BIG HORN grill reaches 1500°F in five minutes using propane. Its dual infrared burners deliver 19,000 BTU of heat for rapid searing. You get independent control knobs for different doneness levels. The stainless steel construction resists rust and simplifies cleanup. This tabletop unit is ideal for cooking steaks, ribs, and fish quickly with minimal smoke.
You need portable tabletop convenience
The BIG HORN measures 21.2 inches wide and fits on tables. You can move it easily for camping or small patios. The 7-tier adjustable rack offers versatile cooking zones. You benefit from dishwasher-safe components and a removable rack guide. This portable propane grill saves space while providing professional-grade infrared heating for efficient outdoor cooking.
The products compared
Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
Best for: Charcoal grilling with smoke flavor
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Cooking Area
- 783 sq. in.
- Placement
- Outdoor
- Application
- Camping
- Features
- Thermometer, Side Shelf, Offset Smoker
- Style
- Barrel
View on Amazon: Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Affiliate link
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S combines a charcoal grill with an offset smoker. It offers 823 square inches of cooking space, including 475 square inches of main grates and 197 square inches in the smoker. The adjustable charcoal pan lets you control heat intensity. A lid thermometer helps you monitor temperatures. This setup suits you if you want smoke flavor and versatile outdoor cooking capacity.
Pros
- 823 square inches total cooking area
- Offset smoker for smoke flavor
- Adjustable lifting rack for heat control
- Built-in lid thermometer
Cons
- Charcoal fuel requires manual lighting
- Heavy at 45.2 pounds
- Bottom shelf holds only 20 pounds
Good fit if
- You want smoke flavor from an offset smoker
- You need high cooking capacity for groups
- You prefer charcoal over gas or pellets
Skip if
- You want quick gas ignition
- You need to move the grill often
- You require heavy-duty side storage
Verdict: Royal Gourmet CC1830S Charcoal Grill and Smoker fits you if you prioritize smoke flavor and large cooking space over convenience. It is a solid choice for dedicated charcoal grilling.
BIG HORN 21-Inch Infrared Propane Grill
Best for: high-heat steak searing
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Heat Output
- 19,000 BTU
- Burner Count
- 2
- Form Factor
- Tabletop
- Primary Material
- Stainless steel
- Placement
- Outdoor
View on Amazon: BIG HORN 21-Inch Infrared Propane Grill Affiliate link
The BIG HORN SRGG22502 is a tabletop propane grill with 19,000 BTU output from two infrared burners. It reaches 1500°F in five minutes for intense searing. The 21.2-inch width offers ample space for steaks and ribs. You get independent control knobs for different doneness levels. The stainless steel build ensures durability and easy cleaning. This unit suits those who want restaurant-quality results outdoors.
Pros
- Reaches 1500°F for rapid searing
- Two independent infrared burners
- 19,000 BTU heat output
- Dishwasher-safe stainless steel parts
- Includes pizza stone
Cons
- Tabletop form factor limits portability
- No temperature display visible in specs
- Requires propane tank connection
Good fit if
- You want high-heat steak searing
- You have limited counter space
- You prefer easy cleanup
Skip if
- You need a built-in grill
- You cook for large crowds
- You want electric ignition
Verdict: BIG HORN 21.2-inch Infrared Grill delivers intense heat for precise searing in a compact footprint. It fits users who prioritize cooking performance over large capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker | BIG HORN 21-Inch Infrared Propane Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Propane |
| Cooking Area | 783 sq. in. | not stated |
| Heat Output | not stated | 19,000 BTU |
| Burner Count | not stated | 2 |
| Form Factor | not stated | Tabletop |
| Primary Material | not stated | Stainless steel |
| Placement | Outdoor | Outdoor |
| Application | Camping | not stated |
| Material | not stated | Stainless Steel |
| Features | Thermometer, Side Shelf, Offset Smoker | not stated |
| Use | not stated | Searing |
| Style | Barrel | not stated |
| Compatible Appliance | Smoker | not stated |
| Heating Method | not stated | Infrared |
| Dimensions | 28.6 × 51.7 × 46.9 inches | 21.4 × 21.2 × 14.1 inches |
| Weight | 45.2 pounds | not stated |
| Size | Grill | 21.2 inch |
| Color | Black | Silver |
| Model | CC1830S | SRGG22502 |
Frequently asked questions
Which grill is better for making large batches of food?
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is the better choice for large batches. It measures 51.7 inches wide and includes an offset smoker. This design provides ample cooking space for feeding a crowd. The BIG HORN is much smaller at 21.2 inches wide. It is not designed for high-volume cooking.
Can I take the BIG HORN grill camping?
Yes, you can take the BIG HORN grill camping. It has a portable form factor and weighs significantly less than the Royal Gourmet. The Royal Gourmet weighs 45.2 pounds and is too heavy for easy transport. The BIG HORN fits in a compact footprint for outdoor adventures.
Does the Royal Gourmet grill come with a smoker?
Yes, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S includes an offset smoker. This feature allows you to add smoke flavor to your food while grilling. It is compatible with smoker appliances. The BIG HORN does not have a smoker. It uses infrared heating for direct searing instead.
Which grill is easier to move around the patio?
The BIG HORN is easier to move. It is a portable unit designed for compact spaces. The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a large stationary grill. It measures 46.9 inches in height and 28.6 inches in length. Its size and weight make it difficult to relocate frequently.
What fuel type does the BIG HORN grill use?
The BIG HORN grill uses propane gas. It is a gas grill that provides quick heat for searing steaks. The Royal Gourmet uses charcoal as its fuel source. Charcoal requires manual management of fire and ash. Propane offers a different cooking experience focused on convenience and high heat.
Is the Royal Gourmet grill suitable for slow smoking?
Yes, the Royal Gourmet grill is suitable for slow smoking. It features an offset smoker design that enhances smoke flavor. The large cooking area supports longer cooking times. The BIG HORN is designed for high-heat searing. It does not support the low-and-slow cooking method required for smoking.
Which grill has a stainless steel body?
The BIG HORN grill has a stainless steel body. This material helps with durability and heat retention. The Royal Gourmet grill is black and does not list stainless steel in its material specs. The BIG HORN model SRGG22502 is built for outdoor use with a metallic finish.
Do I need more than one grill for searing and smoking?
You can use the Royal Gourmet for both tasks if you buy one unit. It combines a grill and an offset smoker. The BIG HORN is specialized for searing only. If you want both capabilities in a single purchase, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S covers both needs without buying two separate devices.