Reveal the ultimate review of the Royal Gourmet PD1305H gas grill combo!

Description

Grilling Performance

Firing up the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo felt like preparing for a culinary showdown. With a combined 29,000 BTUs distributed across three burners, this grill heats up fast and maintains consistent cooking temperatures. I tested it with a range of foods—burgers, chicken thighs, and even some grilled zucchini. The heat distribution was mostly even, though I noticed the grill section occasionally ran a bit cooler than the griddle. For breakfast, I whipped up pancakes and eggs on the griddle, and let me tell you, it performed beautifully. However, if you’re after searing steaks with those perfect grill marks, you might find the flame intensity a tad underwhelming compared to high-end models.

Cleaning

Cleaning up after a BBQ session is often the least exciting part, but this grill made it relatively painless. The porcelain-enameled griddle surface was a breeze to wipe down, and the removable grease cup was a lifesaver. I cooked bacon on it, and the grease management system did its job well, preventing any messy overflow. That said, the grill grate did require a bit more elbow grease to scrub off charred bits, especially after cooking marinated meats. If you’re like me and value a straightforward cleaning process, this aspect might be both a relief and a minor annoyance.

Features

The 3-in-1 versatility of this grill-griddle combo truly stood out. Switching between the griddle, grill grate, and side burner was seamless. I used the side burner to boil water for corn on the cob while grilling burgers—talk about multitasking! The multifunctional lid was another pleasant surprise. It functions as a protective cover or transforms into a side shelf, holding seasonings or utensils, though its 10-pound weight limit means you’ll need to keep heavier items elsewhere. Piezo ignition is battery-free, and it started up reliably every time I used it. If you’re into tailgating, camping, or just backyard barbecues, these features make it a versatile option.

Strengths

• Effortless heat-up with 29,000 BTUs across three burners.
• Multifunctional lid doubles as a side shelf.
• Porcelain-enameled griddle ensures even heat distribution.
• Compact design perfect for outdoor gatherings or RV use.

Temperature Control

I tried cooking different types of food at various temperatures, and the controls were intuitive. Each burner has its own adjustment knob, allowing for precise control whether you’re searing, simmering, or slow-cooking. However, I did notice that the grill side sometimes lagged in reaching higher temperatures compared to the griddle. This made me rely heavily on the griddle for most of my cooking tasks. If you’re planning to use it for grilling thick cuts of meat, you may need to preheat it a bit longer to ensure optimal results.

Portability & Storage

At 32.7 pounds, this grill is lighter than some of its bulkier competitors, but don’t expect to carry it around like a picnic basket. I found it manageable to transport for a weekend camping trip, though it’s best suited for car camping rather than long treks. Its compact dimensions—18.9″D x 31.3″W x 9.45″H—easily fit into the storage compartment of my RV. However, if storage space is tight, you might need to get creative with placement.

Durability

The steel and porcelain-coated construction felt sturdy, and the powder-coated finish gave it an extra layer of resilience against outdoor elements. That said, this isn’t a grill to leave out in the rain. I noticed that some reviews mentioned minor denting during shipping, so handle it with care. After a few weeks of regular use, the griddle and grill surfaces held up well, with no signs of warping or significant wear.

Warranty

Having a warranty is always a comforting backup, though I didn’t encounter any issues that required me to use it. The manufacturer provides coverage, but always make sure to confirm the details before purchasing. It’s worth noting that some buyers experienced shipping damages, so knowing you’re covered can offer peace of mind.

Areas for Improvement

• Grill section could use stronger flame output for optimal searing.
• Requires an adapter for 1lb propane tanks, which isn’t included.
• Some parts feel lightweight, needing careful handling.

Other Options

When comparing this grill-griddle combo to similar models, the Blackstone 22″ Portable Gas Griddle comes to mind. Blackstone’s griddle provides a larger cooking surface and stronger flame output, making it a favorite for searing enthusiasts. However, it lacks the side burner functionality and 3-in-1 versatility of the Royal Gourmet PD1305H. If portability is your primary concern, you might prefer the Cuisinart CGG-180, although it sacrifices cooking space for its ultra-compact design. In terms of versatility, this grill definitely holds its own.

True Value

This grill-griddle combo offers excellent value for its price point. The versatility of having a griddle, grill, and side burner in one compact unit is a major selling point. While it doesn’t quite match the performance of premium grills, it delivers solid results for everyday outdoor cooking. For the price, you’re getting a lot of functionality packed into a relatively small and portable package.

Additional information