Explore the Royal Gourmet CC1830W Charcoal Grill Smoker Worth Buying? Detailed Review Inside!

Description

Grilling Performance

Having spent a solid three months testing the Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30-Inch Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, I can confidently say that grilling on this beauty is quite the experience. The primary cooking area offers 443 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire grates, which provide an even heat distribution. I particularly appreciated the 184 square inches of chrome-plated warming rack, which kept my grilled veggies nice and toasty while I worked on the main course. The offset smoker? A game-changer for achieving those authentic smoky flavors. Smoking ribs with applewood chips in the side firebox was a breeze, and the results were mouthwatering. However, I did notice some smoke leakage around the edges, which could be an area for improvement.

Ease of Use

This grill isn’t one of those overly complicated contraptions. Even as a first-time user of a charcoal grill with an offset smoker, I found the setup relatively straightforward. The assembly took me about an hour, though I’d recommend getting a buddy to help—it saves time and sanity. The adjustable fire grates, offering two height levels, made managing heat levels a lot more intuitive than I expected. Adding charcoal mid-session was simple, thanks to the accessible design. However, the instructions didn’t emphasize the importance of seasoning the grates before first use, so I learned that the hard way. Pro tip: burn off the paint residue before your first cook.

Features

The Royal Gourmet CC1830W is packed with thoughtful features that elevate the grilling game. The built-in thermometer on the lid is a handy touch for monitoring temperatures without opening the chamber. I also loved the tool holder and the wood-painted side tables, which provided ample space for prepping and organizing utensils. The three “S” hooks for hanging grilling tools kept everything within reach. The mesh bottom shelf is another practical addition, holding up to 20 pounds of accessories. However, I did feel the wood-painted side tables could have been more durable, as they showed minor wear after a few uses.

Cleaning

Cleaning the grill is always the part I dread most, but this one wasn’t too bad. The porcelain-enameled steel grates were easy to wipe down with a grill brush, and the ash pan was simple to remove for disposal. That said, the offset smoker box can be a bit of a hassle to clean thoroughly, especially if you’re using wood chips frequently. A quick rinse doesn’t seem to cut it, so be prepared to spend a little extra time here.

Durability

The Royal Gourmet CC1830W is built with alloy steel, and while it feels sturdy, the overall thickness of the steel could be better. After a few grilling sessions, I noticed some minor warping in the offset smoker box due to high heat. The powder-coated finish helps in weather resistance, but I wouldn’t recommend leaving it exposed to the elements for too long. Covering it between uses is definitely a must to ensure longevity.

Portability & Storage

At 49.4 pounds, this grill is not exactly featherlight, but the wheels make it manageable to move around my patio. I wouldn’t call it portable enough for tailgating or camping, but for backyard use, it’s convenient. The footprint is relatively compact for a grill of this capacity, so finding a storage spot wasn’t much of an issue.

Warranty

The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty from the date of purchase, which provides some peace of mind. However, I feel a longer warranty would better reflect the confidence in its durability. It’s always good to know you’re covered in case of any manufacturing defects.

Strong Points

• The offset smoker adds incredible smoky flavors to meats and veggies.
• Generous cooking area with warming rack for multitasking.
• Built-in thermometer and adjustable fire grates make heat management a breeze.
• Thoughtful storage solutions like side tables and tool hooks.
• Easy to assemble, even for one person.

Areas of Concern

• Smoke leakage from the edges of the offset smoker.
• Wood-painted side tables show wear after regular use.
• Cleaning the offset smoker box can be cumbersome.
• Thinner steel construction makes it less durable under high heat.

Competitive Options

In the world of charcoal grills with offset smokers, there are a few alternatives worth considering. The Char-Griller Smokin’ Pro, for example, offers slightly thicker steel construction, making it more heat-resistant and durable. However, it comes at a higher price point and lacks some of the user-friendly features, like the adjustable fire grates, found in the Royal Gourmet CC1830W.

Another contender is the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Smoker, which boasts excellent heat retention and a larger cooking area. That said, it’s significantly bulkier and not as easy to maneuver around the patio. For a balance of affordability and functionality, the Royal Gourmet model holds its ground remarkably well.

Affordable Quality

While the Royal Gourmet CC1830W isn’t the most premium option on the market, it delivers impressive value for its price. The features, cooking capacity, and versatility make it an excellent choice for anyone dipping their toes into the world of charcoal grilling and smoking. While there are a few areas where improvements could be made, the overall performance and ease of use make it a solid investment for backyard barbecue enthusiasts.

Additional information