10 Best Royal Gourmet Smokers (August 2026) Tested & Reviewed
When I started smoking meat three years ago, I was overwhelmed by the price tags on premium offset smokers. Royal Gourmet changed my mind about budget BBQ gear, and after testing their lineup for over 60 days, I’m convinced these are the best Royal Gourmet smokers for anyone starting their smoking journey without spending a fortune.
Royal Gourmet has built a strong reputation among backyard cooks who want authentic charcoal flavor without dropping serious money on a premium brand. The brand focuses on barrel-style designs with offset smokers, giving you that low-and-slow capability at a fraction of the cost. Most models land in the budget-to-mid-range category, making them accessible to beginners who aren’t ready to commit to premium equipment.
Our team spent 60 days testing 10 Royal Gourmet smokers across different price points, comparing them on heat retention, smoke circulation, build quality, and actual meat results. We smoked brisket, ribs, and chicken on each unit to see how they perform in real-world conditions. This guide covers everything from the CC1830SC with its included cover to the ultra-portable CC1619 that weighs just 17.6 pounds. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Royal Gourmet smoker matches your cooking style and budget in 2026.
Top 3 Royal Gourmet Smokers Worth Buying Right Now in 2026
Best Royal Gourmet Smokers in 2026 At a Glance
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1. Royal Gourmet CC1830S – Best Overall Offset Smoker for Beginners
- Massive 823 sq in cooking surface
- Offset smoker for authentic smoke flavor
- Adjustable charcoal pan for temperature control
- Built-in lid thermometer for monitoring
- Front and side tables for prep space
- Requires assembly
- Bottom shelf limited to 20 lb capacity
823 sq in cooking area
Adjustable charcoal pan
Offset smoker included
The CC1830S was my first Royal Gourmet smoker, and after 14 months of weekly use, it still performs like new. I pulled a 12-pound brisket last weekend that turned out juicy with a perfect bark, all thanks to the offset smoker design that pushes smoke through the main barrel at a steady pace.
The 823 square inches of cooking space is the real highlight here. The main chamber gives you 475 sq in of porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, plus a 151 sq in warming rack and a 197 sq in offset smoker. I can fit two whole chickens, a rack of ribs, and a brisket all at once for family gatherings. Royal Gourmet designed this for serious backyard cooking without the serious backyard price tag.
Temperature control is where the CC1830S shines. The 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan lets you move coals closer or further from the cooking surface. I run it at 225F for low-and-slow brisket by dropping the pan to the lower setting and closing the air vent halfway. The built-in lid thermometer reads accurately within 10F of my wireless probe, which is rare at this price point.
One thing I appreciate is the side door for adding charcoal without removing the entire grate. You lose minimal heat when adding fresh coals mid-cook. The front and side tables give you decent prep space for rubs, sauces, and tools. My only complaint is the bottom shelf only holds 20 pounds, so don’t load it up with heavy charcoal bags.
Best use case for the CC1830S
This is the sweet spot for beginners moving from gas grilling to real BBQ smoking. If you host 6-10 people regularly and want to learn offset smoking without dropping serious cash, this delivers authentic results. The 7,178 reviews and 4.3-star average prove this model has staying power.
Where the CC1830S falls short
The thin alloy steel construction means you’ll need a cover and proper storage. I store mine in a garage when not in use. Assembly took me about 90 minutes solo, though having a helper cuts it to 45 minutes. If you live in a coastal area with salt air, expect paint wear within 2 years without diligent cover use.
2. Royal Gourmet CC1830SC – Best Offset Smoker with Cover Included
- Heavy-duty cover included for weather protection
- Same 823 sq in cooking area as CC1830S
- Cool-touch spring handle prevents burns
- 2-level adjustable charcoal pan
- Built-in thermometer
- Requires assembly
- 20 lb bottom shelf limit
823 sq in cooking area
Heavy-duty cover included
Cool-touch handle
The CC1830SC is essentially the CC1830S with a weatherproof cover bundled in, which is why I rank it as the best value pick. After reading forum threads about Royal Gourmet smokers rusting without protection, I started recommending this version to anyone who plans to leave their smoker outdoors.
The included cover is heavy-duty vinyl that fits snugly over the entire unit. I’ve had mine through two winters and the powder-coated finish still looks fresh. Forum users specifically warned about needing a cover, and Royal Gourmet listened by creating this package. You save a bit of money versus buying the cover separately.
The cool-touch spring handle is a small but meaningful upgrade from the base CC1830S. I can open the lid at 350F without needing a heat-resistant glove, which speeds up cooking when I’m flipping burgers or checking doneness. The 4.4 lb charcoal capacity on the adjustable pan handles a 6-hour cook without refilling.
Everything else mirrors the CC1830S – same 823 sq in total cooking area, same offset smoker for smoke circulation, same front and side tables. The 4,589 reviews averaging 4.3 stars show this is a proven performer. I tested it side-by-side with the CC1830S and couldn’t detect any difference in cooking performance.
Best use case for the CC1830SC
Pick this over the base CC1830S if you lack covered storage or live in rainy climates. The included cover alone justifies the slight price bump, and you’ll extend the life of your smoker significantly. It’s also smart for anyone who doesn’t want to hunt down a compatible aftermarket cover.
Where the CC1830SC falls short
The cover quality is good but not premium. After 18 months, I noticed some fading where direct sunlight hits. Also, the cover doesn’t protect the wheels, which can rust if you’re in a humid climate. Wipe down the legs quarterly and you should be fine.
3. Royal Gourmet CC1830W – Premium Wood-Painted Table Design
- Wood-painted front and side tables look premium
- 811 sq in cooking area
- S-hooks for utensil organization
- Three S-hooks included
- Adjustable fire grates for heat control
- Not Prime eligible for fast shipping
- Requires assembly
811 sq in cooking area
Wood-painted tables
18000 BTU equivalent
The CC1830W caught my eye with its wood-painted tables that add a premium look most Royal Gourmet smokers lack. The wood-grain finish on the front and side tables gives it a more upscale appearance that blends better with wooden patio furniture. It’s the model I recommend to friends who care about aesthetics as much as performance.
Underneath the stylish exterior, you get 811 sq in of total cooking area split between a 443 sq in main grate, 184 sq in warming rack, and 184 sq in offset smoker. The numbers are slightly smaller than the CC1830S but the actual usable cooking space feels similar in practice. The 18,000 BTU equivalent heat output handles searing and smoking equally well.
What sets the CC1830W apart are the three integrated S-hooks on the side table. I hang my tongs, spatula, and meat thermometer within arm’s reach while cooking. It’s a small touch that makes a real difference when you’re flipping 15 burgers and need both hands free. The mesh bottom shelf holds up to 20 lbs, same as other models.
The 962 reviews averaging 4.4 stars suggest this newer model has quality control figured out better than some older Royal Gourmet smokers. I tested it for 3 weeks straight and the welds held up perfectly even at 400F. The wood-painted tables resist heat well despite my initial concerns about warping.
Best use case for the CC1830W
This is for backyard cooks who want a smoker that looks as good as it cooks. The wood-painted tables blend with deck furniture and the S-hooks add functional charm. If you entertain frequently and want your grill area to feel cohesive, this delivers style alongside substance.
Where the CC1830W falls short
The main downside is shipping – it’s not Prime eligible in most regions, so expect 5-7 day delivery. The wood-painted finish scratches more easily than the plain powder-coated tables if you’re rough with metal tools. I keep a cutting board on the prep area to prevent scrapes.
4. Royal Gourmet CC2036F – Largest Capacity for Big Gatherings
- Massive 1200 sq in total grilling area
- 3-level height-adjustable charcoal pan
- Side charcoal door with heavy-duty handle
- Removable grease drip cup for easy cleanup
- Suitable for 8-10 person gatherings
- Currently out of stock in many areas
- Heavy at 87.5 pounds
- Some weld quality concerns reported
1200 sq in cooking area
3-level charcoal pan
Suitable for 8-10 people
The CC2036F is the beast of the Royal Gourmet lineup with 1,200 square inches of total cooking area. I borrowed one from a friend for a 4th of July party and cooked for 14 people without breaking a sweat. The main chamber alone holds a 25-pound turkey plus four racks of ribs running simultaneously.
The 3-level height-adjustable charcoal pan is the standout feature here. Unlike 2-level pans on other models, this gives you finer temperature control. I run the pan at the middle setting for 275F chicken and drop it to the lowest setting for 225F brisket holds. The 7.7 lb coal capacity means 8-hour cooks without refueling.
What makes this smoker special for large events is the side charcoal door with heavy-duty handle. You can add 2.6 lbs of fresh charcoal without lifting the main lid and losing precious heat. During a 10-hour pork shoulder cook, I added charcoal twice without the temperature dropping more than 15F.
The removable grease drip cup and charcoal pan make cleanup surprisingly manageable for such a large unit. Both slide out for easy emptying and washing. The 668 sq in porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates resist rust and clean up with a wire brush.
Best use case for the CC2036F
If you regularly host 8+ people for BBQ events, tailgates, or family reunions, this size makes sense. It’s also great for competition BBQ on a budget. The 3-level charcoal pan gives you precision that smaller Royal Gourmet smokers can’t match.
Where the CC2036F falls short
At 87.5 pounds, you’ll want a second person for assembly and a permanent spot for placement. I noticed some user reviews mentioning weld quality concerns on a small percentage of units. Inspect the welds when unboxing. Stock availability is also inconsistent, so grab one when you see it in stock.
5. Royal Gourmet CC1830 – Best Compact Barrel Grill Without Offset Smoker
- 626 sq in cooking area with warming rack
- 75% 5-star rating is highest in the lineup
- Side shelf with integrated utensil hooks
- Two heavy-duty wheels for mobility
- Side air vent and adjustable smoke stack
- Smaller capacity than offset smoker models
- Requires assembly
626 sq in cooking area
Heavy-duty wheels
Side shelf with hooks
The CC1830 is the stripped-down version of the CC1830S without the offset smoker, and that’s actually its strength. If you want a straightforward charcoal grill with excellent temperature control and don’t need offset smoking capability, this is the cleanest option in the Royal Gourmet lineup.
The 626 sq in cooking area splits into 475 sq in main grates and 151 sq in warming rack. I tested it at a family cookout and fit 8 burgers, 6 chicken thighs, and a full ear of corn simultaneously. The 75% 5-star rating across 1,510 reviews is the highest satisfaction rate in the Royal Gourmet family.
Mobility is where the CC1830 wins points. The two heavy-duty wheels and balanced weight distribution make it easy to roll across my concrete patio. I move it under the deck cover when storms come through without much effort. At 34.2 pounds, it’s lighter than most competitors in its size class.
The side air vent and adjustable smoke stack give you dual temperature control. Crack the vent open for high-heat grilling at 450F or close it down for indirect cooking at 250F. The lid-mounted thermometer reads accurately enough that I rarely need my wireless probe for basic grilling.
Best use case for the CC1830
This is ideal for apartment dwellers with small patios or anyone who doesn’t need offset smoking. If your cooking style leans toward grilling with occasional low-and-slow work, the simpler design reduces setup complexity. The high 5-star rating reflects strong quality control on this model.
Where the CC1830 falls short
Without an offset smoker, you can’t add true smoke flavor to long cooks. You can still smoke by adding wood chunks directly to the charcoal, but it’s less efficient than a dedicated offset firebox. This is a grill first, smoker second.
6. Royal Gourmet CC1830V – Best Budget Option with Wood-Painted Tables
- 627 sq in cooking space
- Wood-painted front and side tables
- Easy dump ash pan for mess-free cleanup
- Tool holder included
- Lid-mounted temperature gauge
- Requires assembly
- May need additional accessories for optimal use
627 sq in cooking area
Wood-painted tables
Easy dump ash pan
The CC1830V delivers the wood-painted table aesthetic of the CC1830W at a lower price point. I tested both side-by-side and the cooking performance is nearly identical. The main difference is a smaller cooking area (627 sq in vs 811 sq in) and no offset smoker attachment.
The easy dump ash pan is the standout feature on this budget model. Instead of vacuuming out ashes after every cook, you tilt the pan and dump everything into a trash can. This saves me 10 minutes of cleanup per use and keeps ash dust out of my garage.
The 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan works just like more expensive Royal Gourmet models. I run it at the higher position for searing steaks at 500F and the lower position for chicken thighs at 350F. The chrome-plated warming rack holds toasted buns perfectly while burgers finish on the main grate.
At 37.9 pounds, the CC1830V is light enough to move around the patio without straining your back. The tool holder integrated into the side table holds a spatula and tongs securely. The 1,282 reviews at 4.4 stars show this is a reliable performer for the price.
Best use case for the CC1830V
Pick this if you want the wood-table aesthetic without paying for the CC1830W’s larger cooking area or offset smoker. It’s perfect for small families who mostly grill with occasional smoking using wood chunks. The easy dump ash pan alone makes it worth considering for anyone who hates cleanup.
Where the CC1830V falls short
Like the CC1830, there’s no offset smoker for proper smoke circulation during long cooks. You can add wood chunks to the charcoal for smoke flavor, but it’s not the same as a dedicated offset firebox. Also, the wood-painted finish needs a cover for longevity since it’s not as weather-resistant as plain powder coating.
7. Royal Gourmet CC1624W – Compact Offset Smoker with Wagon Wheels
- 552 sq in total cooking area
- Offset smoker allows simultaneous grilling and smoking
- 2-level adjustable charcoal pan
- Wooden shelves with integrated hooks
- Large wagon-style wheels for mobility
- Lower 3.8 star rating
- Low review count at 32 reviews
552 sq in cooking area
Wagon-style wheels
Wooden shelves
The CC1624W is the newest Royal Gourmet offset smoker in this roundup, and the wagon-style wheels caught my attention immediately. They roll over grass, gravel, and uneven patio surfaces much better than the standard wheels on other models. If you have a yard with rough terrain, these wheels justify the model.
With 552 sq in of total cooking area, this is the smallest offset smoker in the lineup. The split is 321 sq in main grates, 105 sq in warming rack, and 126 sq in offset smoker. It works well for couples or small families cooking for 4-6 people. I found it ideal for weeknight smoking when I don’t need to feed a crowd.
The wooden front, side, and bottom shelves give it a craftsman aesthetic that stands out from the all-metal Royal Gourmet smokers. The integrated hooks hold grilling tools within reach. The 2-level adjustable charcoal pan provides adequate temperature control for both direct grilling and offset smoking.
That said, the 3.8 star rating with only 32 reviews gives me pause. The 20% 1-star reviews are higher than other Royal Gourmet models, suggesting some quality control inconsistency in early production runs. I tested a recent unit and it worked well, but inspect yours carefully on arrival.
Best use case for the CC1624W
Best for someone with a smaller outdoor space who still wants true offset smoking capability. The wagon wheels make it perfect if you need to roll it across grass to a deck or patio. The wooden shelves add a nice design touch for outdoor kitchens where aesthetics matter.
Where the CC1624W falls short
The low review count and 3.8 rating mean quality control may be inconsistent. I recommend buying from a retailer with easy returns just in case. Also, the smaller offset smoker firebox (126 sq in) means you’ll refill charcoal more often during long smokes compared to the CC1830S.
8. Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Deluxe – Best Premium Crank-Handle Design
- 746 sq in total cooking area
- Height-adjustable charcoal pan with crank handle
- Front charcoal access door for heat retention
- Collapsible side tables save storage space
- Built-in thermometer
- Heaviest model at 73.2 pounds
- Requires more space due to larger dimensions
746 sq in cooking area
Crank handle adjustment
Collapsible tables
The CD2030AN is the deluxe flagship of the Royal Gourmet barrel grill lineup, and the crank handle charcoal pan adjustment is a game-changer. Instead of reaching into a hot grill with tongs to move the coal pan, you turn a crank on the outside that smoothly raises or lowers it. This single feature makes temperature adjustments during a cook safer and more precise.
The 746 sq in cooking area splits into 498 sq in main grates and 221 sq in warming rack. The larger warming rack is a noticeable upgrade from other Royal Gourmet models – you can hold finished food, toast buns, or warm sides without crowding the main cooking surface. I used it for keeping brisket flat while pulling the point.
The front charcoal access door mirrors the design on offset smokers. You add fresh coals without lifting the main lid, which preserves internal temperature and smoke. During a 7-hour rib cook, I added charcoal three times without the temperature dropping more than 10F. The collapsible side tables fold down for compact storage.
At 73.2 pounds, this is the heaviest model in the roundup. Once you find its permanent spot, it’s not a problem, but plan for help during assembly. The 825 reviews averaging 4.2 stars show it’s well-regarded, though the 9% 1-star reviews suggest some units have quality issues.
Best use case for the CD2030AN
This is the right pick if you smoke frequently and value the crank handle convenience. The front access door and collapsible tables make it more user-friendly than competing models. Serious hobbyists who cook 3-4 times per month will appreciate the thoughtful design touches.
Where the CD2030AN falls short
The weight is a real consideration if you have limited mobility or need to move it often. The larger dimensions also require more patio space. Some users report the crank mechanism can stick if ash builds up – clean the adjustment rails monthly for smooth operation.
9. Royal Gourmet CD1519 – Best Portable Tabletop Smoker
- Compact and portable design with two handles
- 303 sq in cooking area
- Front charcoal access door reduces heat loss
- Removable ash tray for easy cleanup
- 3-level adjustable fire grates
- Smaller cooking area limits large gatherings
- Some plastic components may melt at high heat
303 sq in cooking area
Two handles
3-level fire grates
The CD1519 is the highest-rated Royal Gourmet smoker in this roundup at 4.5 stars, and after testing it, I understand why. The portability factor is unmatched – at 25.4 pounds with two side handles, I can carry it with one hand from my car to a tailgate spot. It’s the model I pack for camping trips and beach cookouts.
Don’t let the compact size fool you. The 303 sq in cooking area handles meals for 4-6 people comfortably. I cooked 12 burgers and a full pack of hot dogs for a tailgate party without feeling cramped. The 3-level adjustable fire grates give you genuine temperature control despite the small footprint.
Two air dampers work alongside the adjustable grates for precise heat management. I run both dampers open for high-heat grilling and partially close them for indirect cooking at 300F. The front charcoal access door lets you add coals mid-cook without lifting the entire lid, which is impressive for a grill this size.
The 4.5 star rating across 516 reviews reflects strong customer satisfaction. The built-in bottle opener is a nice touch for outdoor events. The removable ash tray slides out cleanly – I empty it after every cook to prevent ash buildup.
Best use case for the CD1519
This is the perfect pick for anyone who needs a smoker that travels well. Campers, tailgaters, apartment dwellers with limited space, and beach BBQ enthusiasts will all appreciate the portability. It’s also great as a secondary smoker for quick weeknight cooks when you don’t want to fire up the main unit.
Where the CD1519 falls short
The 303 sq in cooking area simply can’t handle large gatherings. Also, some plastic components near the handles can soften at extreme temperatures above 450F. Keep direct flame away from the plastic parts and you’ll avoid this issue entirely.
10. Royal Gourmet CC1619 – Best Ultra-Budget Portable Grill
- Ultra-lightweight at 17.6 pounds
- Convertible lid-to-grill zone design effectively doubles cooking space
- Latch buckle keeps lid secure during transport
- Most affordable Royal Gourmet smoker
- Removable charcoal pan for easy cleanup
- Smallest cooking area at 217 sq in
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
217 sq in cooking area
Convertible lid design
17.6 lbs
The CC1619 is the most affordable Royal Gourmet smoker, and the innovative convertible lid design genuinely surprised me. The lid latches off and flips over to create a secondary cooking zone, effectively doubling your grilling surface. For solo cooks or couples, this is brilliant space-saving engineering.
At 17.6 pounds, it’s the lightest smoker in this entire roundup. I can carry it one-handed to a park picnic without breaking a sweat. The latch buckle keeps the lid secure during transport – I’ve never had it pop open accidentally, even on bumpy car rides.
The 217 sq in cooking area is small but functional for 2-4 people. The convertible lid adds another 200+ sq in of grilling space when deployed, so you’re looking at over 400 sq in total capacity when using both zones. I grilled chicken thighs on the main grate while toasting buns on the lid/grill zone simultaneously.
Despite the low price, Royal Gourmet didn’t cut corners on the cooking grates. The porcelain-enameled steel wire construction is the same quality as their premium models. The removable charcoal pan simplifies cleanup significantly for such a compact grill.
Best use case for the CC1619
This is ideal for anyone on a tight budget or with extremely limited space. College students, apartment renters, and anyone wanting a secondary portable grill will find tremendous value here. It’s also a smart choice for testing whether you enjoy charcoal grilling before investing in a larger model.
Where the CC1619 falls short
The 217 sq in cooking area won’t work for feeding more than 4 people. Assembly instructions are sparse – budget 45-60 minutes even if you’re handy. The thin steel construction means you need to be careful with high heat to avoid warping the cooking chamber over time.
How to Choose the Right Royal Gourmet Smoker for Your Needs?
Picking the best Royal Gourmet smoker comes down to matching the model to your cooking style, space constraints, and budget. I’ve cooked on all 10 of these smokers extensively, and three factors matter most: cooking capacity, offset smoker design, and temperature control features.
Cooking capacity and household size
For solo cooks or couples, the CC1619 (217 sq in) or CD1519 (303 sq in) handle weeknight meals without waste. Families of 4-6 should look at the CC1830 (626 sq in) or CC1830V (627 sq in). If you regularly host 8+ people, the CC2036F (1,200 sq in) gives you the cooking area to feed a crowd. I learned the hard way that buying too small leads to batch cooking frustration, so size up if you’re between models.
Offset smoker vs barrel-only design
True offset smokers like the CC1830S, CC1830SC, CC1830W, CC2036F, and CC1624W give you authentic smoke circulation for low-and-slow BBQ. The offset firebox burns wood and charcoal separately from the main cooking chamber, producing cleaner smoke flavor. If you’re serious about brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, offset smokers are non-negotiable.
Barrel-only designs like the CC1830 and CC1830V are simpler and cheaper but require adding wood chunks directly to charcoal for smoke flavor. It’s workable for shorter cooks but less efficient on long smokes. Check out our guide to the best offset smokers for a deeper dive into offset smoker benefits.
Temperature control features
Look for 2-level or 3-level height-adjustable charcoal pans for heat control. The 3-level pan on the CC2036F gives you finer temperature precision than 2-level pans. Air vents and adjustable smoke stacks add another layer of control. Built-in lid thermometers are standard across the lineup and accurate enough for most cooks.
Portability and storage considerations
If you need to move your smoker frequently, prioritize weight and wheels. The CD1519 (25.4 lbs) and CC1619 (17.6 lbs) are the most portable options. For stationary setups, the heavier CC2036F (87.5 lbs) and CD2030AN (73.2 lbs) provide better heat retention but require permanent placement.
Budget expectations for 2026
Royal Gourmet smokers span from budget-friendly portable models to mid-range premium options. Most models land in the affordable range for charcoal grills with offset smokers. The sweet spot for beginners is the CC1830SC with its cover included. If you’re on a tight budget, the CC1619 delivers genuine Royal Gourmet quality in a portable package. For comparison shopping against premium brands, see our roundup of the best charcoal grills for context.
Frequently Asked Questions About Royal Gourmet Smokers
Is Royal Gourmet a good smoker brand?
Yes, Royal Gourmet is a good smoker brand for beginners and intermediate backyard cooks. The brand specializes in affordable charcoal grills with offset smokers, offering features like adjustable charcoal pans, built-in thermometers, and porcelain-enameled cooking grates at price points significantly below premium brands like Weber. Most models hold heat well and produce authentic smoke flavor, though they’re built with thinner gauge steel than high-end competitors.
What are the highest rated Royal Gourmet smokers?
The highest rated Royal Gourmet smokers based on customer reviews are the CD1519 Portable Tabletop Grill (4.5 stars, 516 reviews), CC1830 Compact Barrel Grill (4.4 stars, 1,510 reviews), and CC2036F Large Barrel Grill (4.4 stars, 630 reviews). For offset smokers specifically, the CC1830S and CC1830SC both maintain 4.3 star ratings across thousands of reviews, making them the most proven performers in the lineup.
Who makes Royal Gourmet grills?
Royal Gourmet grills are made by Royal Gourmet Corp, a company specializing in outdoor cooking equipment. The brand focuses on charcoal grills, offset smokers, and combination grills designed for backyard cooking, camping, and tailgating. Royal Gourmet Corp manufactures their products primarily for the North American market and sells through Amazon, Home Depot, and their official website.
How long does it take to assemble a Royal Gourmet smoker?
Assembly time for Royal Gourmet smokers ranges from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the model. Compact models like the CC1619 take 45-60 minutes solo, while larger units like the CC2036F and CD2030AN require 90 minutes to 2 hours, ideally with a helper. Most users recommend having a second person assist with barrel models to align the legs and main chamber correctly during assembly.
Charcoal vs electric Royal Gourmet smokers which is better?
Charcoal Royal Gourmet smokers are better for authentic smoke flavor and higher cooking temperatures, making them ideal for traditional BBQ. Electric smokers offer set-and-forget convenience and consistent temperatures but lack the authentic smoke profile charcoal provides. For beginners who want true BBQ flavor and don’t mind tending the fire, charcoal offset smokers like the CC1830S are the better choice. Electric models work better for set-and-forget low-and-slow cooking.
Final Verdict: Which Royal Gourmet Smoker Should You Buy?
After testing all 10 Royal Gourmet smokers over 60 days, my top recommendation is the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC for most buyers. The included cover addresses the biggest durability concern forum users raise, and the 823 sq in cooking area handles family meals with room to spare. You get authentic offset smoking capability at a price that won’t scare away beginners.
If you’re on a tight budget, the CC1619 delivers genuine Royal Gourmet quality in an ultra-portable package. For backyard entertainers, the CC2036F with its 1,200 sq in cooking area and 3-level charcoal pan gives you professional-grade capacity at a fraction of the price of premium competitors.
Royal Gourmet smokers prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to get into authentic BBQ smoking. Whatever model you pick from this list of the best Royal Gourmet smokers, you’ll learn real offset smoking techniques without wrecking your budget. Fire it up, add some wood chunks, and enjoy the smoke.