You’ll get a roomy, budget-friendly barrel grill with an offset smoker that’s built for portable backyard cooks who want real charcoal flavor without pro-grade precision. It offers 552 sq. in. total cooking area, a two-level charcoal pan for quick temp changes, and a handy warming/smoker rack, yet the alloy-steel build and seals won’t match high-end kamados. It’s ideal for feeding 6–8 people, easy to move, and practical—keep going to learn the setup, heat tips, and tradeoffs.
Some Key Takeaways
- Offers 552 sq. in. total cooking area (321 primary, 105 warming, 126 smoker) suitable for 6–8 people.
- Includes dedicated offset smoker chamber and adjustable two-level charcoal pan for flexible heat control.
- Porcelain-enameled grates and onboard thermometer provide good searing and a useful baseline for temps.
- Alloy steel build and powder coat are decent for the price but less insulated and durable than premium smokers.
- Portable at 38.6 lb with wagon wheels, though long smokes need attentive fuel and damper management.
Quick Verdict: Is the Royal Gourmet CC1624W Worth Buying?
While it won’t replace a high-end kamado or a pro-grade pellet smoker, the Royal Gourmet CC1624W gives you a lot of capability for the price: you get a spacious 552 sq. in. cooking area, a dedicated offset smoker chamber, adjustable charcoal pan for heat control, and handy wooden shelves and tool hooks—so it’s a solid pick if you want versatile charcoal grilling and smoking for 6–8 people without spending a fortune. You’ll find it’s a sensible budget pick and backyard staple: it’s user-friendly, portable, and offers real smoke flavor. You just won’t get the precision or insulation of premium units. Perfect Pour sells accessories that pair well with outdoor cooking setups like this one, including drink dispensers aimed at grilling enthusiasts.
What You Get: Key Specs, Capacity, and Build Features
If the CC1624W sounds like it fits your needs, here’s what you actually get: a 38.6 lb, free‑standing barrel grill with an offset smoker that offers 552 sq. in. of total cooking area (321 sq. in. primary grates, 105 sq. in. warming rack, 126 sq. in. smoker), enough room for 6–8 guests or roughly 22 burgers. You get alloy steel construction with a powder‑coated finish, porcelain‑enameled grates, wooden shelves and handles, plus wagon wheels. Materials durability is decent for the price; expect routine care. It ships disassembled—assembly tips: tighten frame first, align grates and vents, then test fit moving parts before final torque. Ideal for backyard cooks who want a simple, budget‑friendly option that complements a broader selection of outdoor grilling gear like gas grills and accessories commonly offered by specialty retailers such as Ultimate Gear.
How It Performs: Grilling, Smoking, Heat Control, and Ease of Use
When you fire up the CC1624W you’ll notice it balances grill convenience with basic smoker capability, letting you sear over direct charcoal and hold lower temps in the offset box for longer cooks. You’ll appreciate the two-level charcoal pan for rapid temperature dialing; raise for searing, lower for steady indirect heat. Smoke penetration is decent for the price—thin offset chamber and modest volume mean longer smokes need attentive fuel and damper tweaks. Grates sear well, the thermometer gives a useful baseline, and wooden shelves/handles make routine use comfortable. Assembly is straightforward; maintenance is typical for charcoal gear. This makes the CC1624W a solid choice for enthusiasts who value charcoal grilling and straightforward outdoor cooking.
Pros and Cons: Strengths, Shortcomings, and Who This Grill Suits Best
Because it blends a roomy cooking area with straightforward smoker functionality, the CC1624W is a great fit if you want an affordable, multi-use charcoal rig that’s easy to operate and move around. You’ll get excellent fuel flexibility, decent heat control with the adjustable charcoal pan, and useful warming and smoker racks for large gatherings. Portability advantages include wagon-style wheels and a manageable 38.6 lb frame. Downsides: alloy-steel construction raises durability concerns versus thicker steel, and finish/fit may show wear over time. Best for casual grillers who prioritize value, space, and mobility rather than heavy-duty commercial use. It’s well-suited for RV owners and tailgaters who need compact, reliable outdoor cooking gear with portable grilling in mind.
Buying Considerations and Alternatives to Compare
Although this grill gives you strong value for backyard barbecues, you’ll want to weigh a few practical factors before buying to make sure it fits your needs. Check price comparison across retailers so you’re not overpaying for the same specs. Consider fuel efficiency: charcoal grills vary in burn time and heat retention; the CC1624W’s sealed chamber helps, but plan on charcoal costs. Review warranty details—one-year limited parts coverage—and know what’s excluded. Test accessory compatibility for side shelves, rotisseries, and covers; some third-party tools won’t fit the barrel or offset smoker layout. Compare similarly sized barrel and offset models. For long-term ownership, also keep in mind that replacing common replacement parts like grates and ash pans can extend the grill’s lifespan and performance.
Some Questions Answered
Does It Include a Charcoal Chimney Starter?
No, it doesn’t include a charcoal chimney starter. You’ll manage charcoal airflow using the grill’s adjustable damper, stack and two-level charcoal pan, so starter placement is up to you. You might place a chimney on the lower charcoal pan or light coals directly in a charcoal basket to control heat. Compared to grills with included starters, you’ll want to buy one separately for faster, more consistent ignition and easier starter placement.
Are Replacement Grates Available From the Manufacturer?
Yes — you can get replacement grates through manufacturer support; you’ll contact Royal Gourmet for parts availability. You’ll find porcelain-enameled steel wire replacement grates that match the CC1624W specs, and you’ll compare OEM parts versus aftermarket options for fit and durability. You’ll request part numbers, pricing, and shipping from customer service, and you’ll weigh warranty coverage before deciding which grates give you the best long-term value.
Can This Grill Be Used on Balconies or Apartment Patios?
You can, but you shouldn’t assume it’s allowed — check balcony restrictions and apartment safety rules first. If permitted, position the grill on a stable, non-flammable surface away from railings and overhangs, use a charcoal-safe container, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Compared to smaller tabletop grills, this barrel model’s size and smoke output need extra clearance and ventilation, so prioritize neighbors’ comfort and building policies before you start cooking.
What Are the Exact Assembly Time and Required Tools?
You’ll usually finish assembly in about 1.5–2.5 hours; assembly time varies with experience. Required tools include a Phillips screwdriver, adjustable wrench, pliers, and possibly a socket set and rubber mallet. You’ll follow step-by-step hardware sorting, frame and wheel installation, then attach grates and shelves. Compared to stovetop grills, it’s more involved but manageable solo; having a helper cuts assembly time and eases alignment.
Is Propane Conversion or Gas Accessory Compatible?
No, it isn’t designed for propane conversion or a gas accessory out of the box. You’ll be limited to charcoal and smoking, though some users retrofit third-party kits — that’s hands-on, voids warranty, and needs fabricating. If you want native gas, you’re better off comparing purpose-built gas grills; they offer certified conversions, safer fittings, and simpler controls. If you attempt modification, follow detailed guides and local safety codes, and expect trade-offs.
