Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grills: Barrel and Smoker Lineup Compared

As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.

Choosing the right outdoor cooker comes down to how you balance direct high-heat searing with indirect low-and-slow smoking. Backyard cooks deciding between a dedicated barrel cooker and a dual-zone offset configuration must weigh cooking capacity, airflow mechanics, and firebox access. A standard royal gourmet barrel grill emphasizes straightforward direct grilling over an adjustable coal bed, while a royal gourmet offset smoker routes smoke and indirect heat from an auxiliary side chamber across the main barrel. Understanding how these distinct airflow dynamics and cooking chambers function will help you decide which royal gourmet charcoal grill to buy for your patio layout and cooking style.

The Royal Gourmet lineup divides cleanly into two main formats: traditional barrel units and deluxe crank-adjustable carts. The barrel series, which includes both standalone cookers and offset smoker variations, utilizes lever-adjusted charcoal pans and round cooking chambers designed for smoking and roasting. Meanwhile, the deluxe CD-series cart models introduce front-loading fuel access doors and precision crank handles to elevate or lower the firebed without opening the hood. Whether you are searching for the best royal gourmet charcoal grill for smoking whole briskets or a compact cart for weeknight burgers, this royal gourmet charcoal grill comparison breaks down the exact specifications across all six models.

Criteria matrix What each model in this report is credited with

Rows are the criteria that come up in the pros and cons listed for this lineup. A check means the criterion is named in this report’s write-up of that model; a dash means it is not. Criteria that apply to every model, or to only one, are left out because they separate nothing.

Criterion	CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal 8.6/10	CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill 8.8/10	CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset 9.8/10	CD2030AN Deluxe 30-Inch Charcoal 8.0/10	CC1830 28 Inch Barrel 9.6/10	CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill 8.0/10
Offset smoking	✓Named	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	Not named	✓Named
Sq. in. cooking	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	✓Named	Not named	Not named
Offset smoker	✓Named	✓Named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	Not named
Integrated tool hooks	Not named	Not named	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	Not named
Front charcoal access	Not named	Not named	Not named	✓Named	Not named	✓Named
Folding side table	Not named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	Not named	✓Named
Fuel access door	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	Not named
Assembled weight	Not named	Not named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	✓Named
Criteria named	4 / 8	3 / 8	5 / 8	3 / 8	1 / 8	4 / 8

Built from the wording of this report, not from a bench test. A dash is not a fault: it only means the write-up does not mention that point for that model. Scores next to each model are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback.

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grills Lineup at a Glance

The Models in Detail

Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal

Best for: Couples wanting lightweight barrel grilling

Pros

• Lightweight 34.2 lb body
• 626 sq. in. cooking space
• Integrated tool hooks

Cons

• Single side shelf only
• No front fuel access door

Best for: Backyard cooks wanting ample shelf space

Pros

• 627 sq. in. cooking area
• Dual prep tables
• Easy-dump ash pan

Cons

• No offset smoker box
• Fixed two-level pan adjustment

The Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal is a traditional standalone barrel grill built for direct grilling and steady lid-down roasting. Its primary cooking surface provides 443 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, supplemented by a 184 square inch chrome-plated steel wire warming rack, yielding 627 square inches of combined space. Heat regulation relies on a side air vent that cuts off oxygen flow to extinguish coals when cooking finishes, working alongside an adjustable smoke stack and a lid-mounted gauge to monitor temperature fluctuations. An integrated tool holder and both front and side tables provide dedicated landing zones for platters, tongs, and seasonings.

Fire management on this model centers on an adjustable fire grate system featuring lifting handles that position the charcoal pan at two different heights. This two-tier adjustment controls the exact proximity between the glowing embers and the food above, making it simple to transition from high-heat searing to gentle baking. For post-cook maintenance, the adjustable fire grate doubles as an easy-dump ash pan for mess-free cleanup. This model measures 27.95 inches deep, 42.56 inches wide, and 48.66 inches high. It is an ideal match for patio cooks who want a dedicated barrel cooker with expansive prep surfaces, though buyers seeking dedicated offset smoking will look toward the CC1830S instead.

Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill

Best for: BBQ beginners exploring offset smoking

Pros

• 823 sq. in. total space
• Dedicated offset smoker box
• Convenient side firebox door

Cons

• No grill cover included
• Lower shelf 20 lb limit

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill expands traditional barrel cooking by incorporating a firmly attached 197 square inch offset smoker box alongside the main chamber. In total, the unit provides 823 square inches of cooking space, divided among 475 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire primary grates, a 151 square inch chrome-plated warming rack, and the offset smoker chamber. The side smoker draws smoke and heat into the main barrel for indirect cooking, while its dedicated side door lets you add charcoal, replenish wood chunks, or clear out spent ashes without disturbing the primary cooking grates. An adjustable side air vent stokes the fire instantly when oxygen is needed.

Inside the main barrel, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S features a two-level height-adjustable charcoal pan to control temperatures during direct grilling sessions. External features include an easy-to-read lid thermometer, folding side table, front shelf, integrated tool holder, and a bottom wire shelf rated to hold up to 20 pounds of evenly distributed accessories. The entire cart configuration measures 28.56 inches deep, 51.69 inches wide, and 46.89 inches high, with a total weight of 45.2 pounds. While shoppers looking at classic options like a bbq grill weber charcoal setup often focus purely on kettle airflow, this offset design is built specifically for backyard beginners who want dedicated indirect smoking capacity without sacrificing standard direct grilling capability.

Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset

Best for: Smoker fans needing complete weather protection

Pros

• Heavy-duty cover included
• 823 sq. in. cooking area
• Side fuel access door

Cons

• Fixed two-tier charcoal adjustment
• Heavier assembled weight

The Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset shares the fundamental architecture and cooking dimensions of the S model while adding an all-weather protective accessory. It delivers 823 square inches of total cooking area, combining 475 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, a 151 square inch warming rack, and the 197 square inch offset smoker chamber. The package includes a custom-fitted grill cover made of heavy-duty fabric designed to withstand outdoor weathering and shield the steel body from moisture. Heat-resistant handles, a lid-mounted thermometer gauge, and integrated tool hooks round out the exterior appointments.

Fuel management on the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC utilizes a two-level height-adjustable charcoal pan engineered to hold up to 4.4 pounds of charcoal. The offset firebox attaches securely to ensure tight air and smoke circulation, featuring a dedicated side access door for effortless fuel additions and ash removal during long smoking sessions. Measuring 28.56 inches deep, 51.69 inches wide, and 46.89 inches high with an assembled weight of 48.5 pounds, the cart features a lower storage rack with a 20-pound capacity limit. This model is tailored for smoking aficionados who want a turnkey offset package with weather protection included out of the box, whereas buyers who already own outdoor storage may prefer the standalone barrel options.

Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Deluxe 30-Inch Charcoal

Best for: Large gatherings and party hosting

Pros

• 719 sq. in. cooking area
• Smooth crank-handle pan adjustment
• Front charcoal access door

Cons

• Heavier 73.2 lb footprint
• No offset smoking chamber

The Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Deluxe 30-Inch Charcoal departs from the barrel format, offering a heavy-duty deluxe cart design tailored for large-scale outdoor entertaining. It features 498 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates paired with a 221 square inch chrome-plated steel wire warming rack, providing 719 square inches of total space, with the listing also noting a 746 square inch total cooking surface specification. The chassis is constructed from alloy steel and stainless steel with a powder-coated finish, weighing in at 73.2 pounds and measuring 58.66 inches wide, 28.74 inches deep, and 50.39 inches high. Dual collapsible side tables equipped with integrated S-hooks provide expansive prep room while folding down compactly when storage space is tight.

Precision temperature management is the defining strength of the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN. Instead of fixed notch settings, it utilizes a smooth crank handle to continuously fine-tune the height of the charcoal pan, which accommodates up to 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg) of charcoal. A front charcoal access door lets you stoke embers or add briquettes directly without opening the main lid, preserving cooking heat and chamber humidity. Ventilation is governed by a sliding side damper and a lid-mounted smoke stack, with internal conditions tracked by a built-in thermometer. Cooks seeking substantial capacity beyond what a traditional old smokey charcoal grills setup delivers will appreciate the deluxe front-loading workflow and massive fuel reservoir on this model.

Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel

The Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel offers a streamlined, lightweight barrel platform focused strictly on high-performance direct grilling and versatile lid-down roasting. It provides 626 square inches of total cooking area, split between 475 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and a 151 square inch chrome-plated steel wire warming rack. Temperature tracking is handled by a lid-mounted thermometer gauge, while airflow is regulated via an adjustable smoke stack and a side air vent that can be closed completely to cut off oxygen and extinguish remaining coals after cooking.

For heat regulation, the Royal Gourmet CC1830 incorporates a two-level height-adjustable charcoal pan that alters the distance between the glowing coals and your meat. A side shelf with integrated tool hooks holds spatulas and seasoning rubs, while two heavy-duty wheels make moving the grill across a deck or patio effortless. Weighing just 34.2 pounds with overall dimensions of 40.87 inches wide, 22.6 inches deep, and 47.36 inches high, it is the most nimble barrel grill in the lineup. It represents an excellent, clutter-free choice for couples and small families who want authentic charcoal flavor without the added footprint of an offset firebox.

Royal Gourmet CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill

Best for: Small patios needing precision temperature control

Pros

• Crank-handle charcoal adjustment
• Front charcoal access door
• Folding side table

Cons

• Compact 490 sq. in. capacity
• No offset smoking box

The Royal Gourmet CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill condenses the advanced features of the deluxe cart series into a space-efficient 24-inch profile. Offering 490 square inches of total cooking space, it combines 384 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates with a 106 square inch stainless steel warming rack, providing enough grilling area to serve up to 10 people. The grill features a front charcoal access door fitted with a heat-resistant spring handle, allowing you to add fuel seamlessly while keeping the hood closed to prevent heat loss. A folding side table offers prep space during cooking and tucks away cleanly afterward.

Airflow and fire control on the Royal Gourmet CD1824M are governed by two adjustable air vents, an integrated lid thermometer gauge, and a removable ash tray that slides out for rapid cleaning. Like its larger deluxe counterpart, it features a front crank handle that smoothly adjusts the elevation of the charcoal pan, which holds up to 4.5 pounds of fuel. With dimensions of 40.63 inches wide, 23.43 inches deep, and 41.14 inches high, and an assembled weight of 40.1 pounds, it offers a sturdy cart configuration. While compact shoppers comparing mid-sized backyard units or a captiva designs grill might look at various cart form factors, this unit excels for small patios that require the precise temperature management of a crank-action fire pan.

Matching a Model to Your Setup

• For dedicated low-and-slow barbecue with complete weather protection included, choose the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset.
• For smoking pork shoulders and briskets on a budget without an included cover, select the Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill.
• For large parties requiring maximum direct grilling area and front-access charcoal reloading, opt for the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Deluxe 30-Inch Charcoal.
• For compact urban patios needing precision crank-adjusted heat control and folding shelves, pick the Royal Gourmet CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill.
• For traditional backyard barrel grilling with front and side work tables, go with the Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal.
• For a lightweight, highly mobile barrel cooker ideal for simple family meals, choose the Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel.

Before You Buy

Before purchasing any model from this lineup, pay close attention to what the manufacturer listings do not include. Aside from the CC1830SC model, which explicitly includes a heavy-duty fabric cover in the box, none of the other grills come with weather covers, meaning you will need to source separate outdoor protection to shield the steel bodies from rain and humidity. Furthermore, none of the listings include charcoal chimneys, starter fuels, or grilling utensils, so you must supply these essential tools separately to operate the units.

Assembly specifications and metal gauge thicknesses are also largely omitted from the manufacturer listings. The product descriptions do not specify the exact gauge of the sheet steel used in the barrel bodies or offset chambers, nor do they detail the estimated assembly time or specific tools required for initial setup. While the listings note maximum charcoal pan capacities for select models—such as 4.4 pounds for the CC1830SC, 7.5 pounds for the CD2030AN, and 4.5 pounds for the CD1824M—the listings do not specify maximum fuel weights for the CC1830V or CC1830 barrel models.

FAQ

What is the primary difference between the Royal Gourmet CC1830S and CC1830SC?

The core specifications, dimensions, and cooking areas of both models are identical, offering 823 square inches of total space with an attached 197 square inch offset smoker. The primary difference is that the CC1830SC includes a heavy-duty fabric grill cover in the package, whereas the CC1830S does not include a cover.

How does an offset smoker box operate on these grills?

An offset smoker box is mounted to the side of the main barrel to create an indirect heat source. Charcoal and wood chunks burn inside the smaller side chamber, allowing heat and smoke to circulate through the main barrel and exit via the smoke stack, cooking meats slowly without exposing them to direct flames.

How do the crank-handle charcoal pans differ from the lifting rack models?

The deluxe cart models, such as the CD2030AN and CD1824M, feature an external crank handle that provides continuous, fine-tuned height adjustments for the charcoal pan. In contrast, the barrel models, including the CC1830V, CC1830, and CC1830S, use manual lifting handles or racks that adjust between two fixed height levels.

Can you add charcoal during cooking without opening the main lid?

On the deluxe cart models like the CD2030AN and CD1824M, you can add charcoal through a dedicated front access door with a heat-resistant handle. On the offset smoker models, you can add charcoal into the side smoker box via its side door. On the standalone barrel models like the CC1830 and CC1830V, you must lift the main hood to access the charcoal pan directly.

What are the cooking grates made of across these grills?

Across all six models, the primary cooking grates are made of porcelain-enameled steel wire. The warming racks are constructed from chrome-plated steel wire on most models, with the CD1824M specifying a stainless steel warming rack.