Explore the Royal Gourmet GA4402S Gas Grill Review: Is It Worth the Investment?

Description

Grilling Performance

Testing the Royal Gourmet GA4402S 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill has been quite the culinary adventure. I’ve grilled everything from thick steaks to delicate vegetables, and the results have been impressive. The five burners, including a side burner and sear burner, deliver a total output of 54,000 BTUs, which means it has plenty of power to handle almost any grilling scenario. Whether I was cooking burgers for a group or just grilling a quick dinner, the heat distribution felt consistent across the stainless steel grates. That said, the sear burner left me wanting more. While it’s marketed as a “searing station,” I found it lacked the intense heat needed to get those classic grill marks on my steaks. It felt more like a strong stove burner than a true searing feature.

Ease of Use

Using this gas grill has been mostly straightforward. The electronic ignition system is a lifesaver and has consistently fired up the burners with just one push. My old grill used to frustrate me with unreliable ignitions, but this one has been a breeze. Adjusting the flame intensity for different cooking needs is simple with the control knobs, which have a sturdy, premium feel. I had my teenage son help me out one evening, and even he found it intuitive to operate. However, assembly was another story. The illustrated instructions were a bit of a puzzle, and it took me a couple of hours (and a few retries) to put everything together. If you’re not mechanically inclined, this step might test your patience.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill has been surprisingly fuss-free. The removable grease tray and chrome-plated warming rack make maintenance manageable. After each use, I simply slide out the grease tray and rinse it under warm water, which keeps it looking pristine. The stainless steel grates are easy to clean too, but they do require some elbow grease to keep them shiny and free of residue. I’ve adopted a routine of scrubbing them down with a sponge after every use to prevent buildup. However, the side burner area can be a bit tricky to clean due to its compact design.

Features

The Royal Gourmet GA4402S is packed with thoughtful features. The built-in thermometer on the double-layer lid has been handy for monitoring internal temperatures without opening the grill and losing heat. The right-side table provides extra prep space, which has been a lifesaver when juggling multiple dishes. I’ve used it to chop veggies and hold my spices while grilling. The enclosed cabinet underneath is a convenient storage space for propane tanks and grilling accessories, keeping everything within easy reach. The locking caster wheels make moving the grill a breeze, but they’re sturdy enough to keep it stationary while cooking. However, one of my favorite features is the generous 632 square-inch cooking surface. It comfortably fits enough food for a family gathering, which has been perfect for entertaining.

Durability

The stainless steel construction of this grill feels robust and built to last. The double-layer lid, burners, and cooking grates all exude quality. I’ve used it for months now, and despite its exposure to the elements, it’s held up well without noticeable rust or wear. However, I did notice that some panels arrived with minor dents during delivery, which was disappointing. While I managed to assemble it without issue, it made me wonder about the packaging process. Overall, though, it’s a solidly built grill that seems ready to withstand frequent use.

Temperature Control

One of the standout aspects of this grill is its precise temperature control. The adjustable knobs allow me to fine-tune the heat levels for different zones, making it easy to cook multiple items simultaneously. I’ve grilled veggies on a lower setting while searing steaks on high heat, and both turned out perfectly. The built-in thermometer is a useful addition, though I occasionally cross-check it with a separate meat thermometer for accuracy. However, the sear burner’s limited heat output means it doesn’t quite live up to the expectations set by the rest of the grill.

Portability & Storage

With its compact design and locking caster wheels, moving this grill around my patio has been effortless. I’ve wheeled it out of storage and into position for backyard parties without breaking a sweat. The enclosed cabinet provides ample storage space for propane tanks, grilling tools, and even a few bags of charcoal for my smoker. It’s a well-thought-out design for those who need a balance of portability and utility. However, at 87.1 pounds, it’s not exactly lightweight, so moving it up or down stairs would be quite the task.

Warranty

The one-year manufacturer warranty is a nice safety net but feels a bit short for a product of this caliber. I haven’t had any issues requiring warranty service yet, but knowing I’m covered for only a year is a bit limiting. I’d recommend registering the grill right away to ensure you’re protected.

Strong Points

• High-powered burners with a total output of 54,000 BTUs ensure consistent heat distribution.
• Generous cooking surface of 632 square inches accommodates large gatherings.
• Stainless steel construction provides durability and weather resistance.
• Convenient features like a built-in thermometer, removable grease tray, and enclosed storage cabinet.

Areas for Improvement

• Assembly instructions can be confusing and time-consuming.
• The sear burner lacks sufficient heat for effective searing.
• Occasional quality control issues, such as dented panels, during delivery.

Product Alternatives

When comparing this grill to competitors, such as the Weber Spirit II E-310, a few differences stand out. The Weber grill is renowned for its superior searing capabilities and slightly more user-friendly assembly process. However, it doesn’t offer a side burner or as much storage space. Another option, the Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner grill, is similarly priced but lacks the robust stainless steel build and premium features like the locking caster wheels and enclosed cabinet. If you’re looking for a grill that balances features, size, and performance, the Royal Gourmet GA4402S holds its own against these rivals. However, if searing is a top priority, you might want to explore other options.

Money’s Worth

Considering the range of features and build quality, this grill offers decent value for the price. The stainless steel construction, multiple burners, and ample cooking space make it a strong contender in its category. While the sear burner’s performance doesn’t meet expectations, the overall grilling experience still feels premium. For those looking to entertain family and friends without breaking the bank, this grill is a practical choice. However, if budget allows, investing in a model with a more powerful searing feature might be worth considering.

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