Royal Gourmet PD1301R vs Bayou Classic 1118
Both the Royal Gourmet PD1301R and the Bayou Classic 1118 are propane-capable outdoor cookers that appeal to backyard cooks who want more versatility than a standard grill provides. The PD1301R is a flat-surface propane griddle cooker rated at 8,500 BTU with 319 square inches of cooking area, finished in red with an alloy steel and porcelain build. The Bayou Classic 1118 is a stainless steel outdoor cooker that weighs 27.22 lb and measures 11.6 x 11.6 x 15.4 inches, built for high-output outdoor boiling and frying tasks. At $97.98, the PD1301R costs about $45 less than the Bayou Classic 1118 at $142.88, though both carry strong user ratings. With over 6,700 reviews at 4.5 stars, the PD1301R has a larger feedback base than the 1118's 2,500 reviews at 4.7 stars.
Quick winner
The Royal Gourmet PD1301R wins on price and review volume for griddle-style outdoor cooking, while the Bayou Classic 1118 edges ahead on rating and stainless steel durability for boiling and frying tasks.
Key differences, measured
- The Royal Gourmet PD1301R is 31% cheaper ($97.98 vs $142.88).
- The Royal Gourmet PD1301R is 2.8 lb heavier (30.0 lb vs 27.22 lb).
- Amazon buyers rate the Bayou Classic 1118 0.2 stars higher across 9,209 combined reviews.
Side-by-side specs
| Spec | Royal Gourmet PD1301R Outdoor Cooker | Bayou Classic 1118 Outdoor Cooker |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $97.98 | $142.88 |
| Rating | ||
| Material | Alloy Steel, Porcelain | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Red | Silver |
| Dimensions | 25 X 16.3 X 7.9 In | 11.6 X 11.6 X 15.4 In |
| Weight | 30.0 lb | 27.22 lb |
The two contenders
Royal Gourmet PD1301R Outdoor Cooker
The Royal Gourmet PD1301R runs on propane and delivers 8,500 BTU across a 319 square inch cooking surface, giving you room to cook multiple items at once. Its alloy steel and porcelain construction keeps weight at a manageable 30 lb, and the compact 25 x 16.3 x 7.9 inch footprint makes it easy to store. At $97.98 it is one of the more affordable propane outdoor cookers with a large cooking area in this category. More than 6,700 buyers have rated it 4.5 out of 5 stars, pointing to reliable consistent performance for everyday outdoor cooking.
Buy this if: Cooks who want a flat propane cooking surface for breakfast items, stir fry, or burgers at a price under $100. Anyone who needs a lightweight, compact griddle cooker they can move around the yard or take to a tailgate.
Check price on AmazonBayou Classic 1118 Outdoor Cooker
The Bayou Classic 1118 is built from stainless steel and weighs 27.22 lb, with a vertical form factor measuring 11.6 x 11.6 x 15.4 inches that suits high-heat boiling and frying applications. Stainless steel construction makes it more resistant to rust and easier to clean after heavy use outdoors. It is priced at $142.88, which is higher than the PD1301R, but its 4.7 star rating across 2,500 reviews shows a very satisfied customer base. The compact cylindrical footprint works well on a patio table or standalone stand for crab boils, fish fries, and similar high-volume cooking sessions.
Buy this if: Backyard cooks who regularly do large-batch boiling or frying, such as turkey fries, crawfish boils, or seafood batches, and want a stainless steel build that holds up to repeated high-heat use. Buyers who prioritize long-term durability and are willing to spend about $45 more for stainless construction.
Check price on AmazonFrequently asked questions
Which cooker is better for everyday backyard griddling?
The Royal Gourmet PD1301R is better suited for flat-surface griddle cooking, with 319 square inches of cooking area and 8,500 BTU of propane heat. Its alloy steel and porcelain build is designed for direct cooking on the surface. The Bayou Classic 1118 is shaped for boiling and frying rather than flat griddle work, so if everyday griddling is the goal the PD1301R is the more practical pick.
Is the Bayou Classic 1118 worth the higher price?
At $142.88 versus the PD1301R's $97.98, the Bayou Classic 1118 costs about $45 more. That premium buys you stainless steel construction, which resists corrosion better than alloy steel over years of outdoor use. If you plan to cook large boiling or frying batches frequently and want a cooker that needs less maintenance, the 1118's durability argument holds up. For lighter or more varied outdoor cooking the PD1301R delivers more value per dollar.
How do the ratings and review counts compare?
The Royal Gourmet PD1301R has a 4.5 star rating from over 6,700 reviews, giving it one of the larger feedback pools in this outdoor cooker category. The Bayou Classic 1118 carries a slightly higher 4.7 star average from 2,500 reviews. Both ratings indicate strong buyer satisfaction, but the PD1301R's larger review count provides a wider cross section of real-world feedback.
Can I use either cooker to reach USDA safe cooking temperatures?
Both cookers are capable of generating enough heat for outdoor cooking tasks, and you should always use a reliable meat thermometer and follow USDA safe cooking temperatures for any poultry, pork, or ground meat you prepare. Neither product comes with a built-in thermometer, so a separate probe thermometer is a practical addition for any outdoor cooking setup.