Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo Review: The Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Workhorse?

There’s a familiar scene that plays out every time we pack for a camping trip or a tailgate party. The trunk of the car becomes a frustrating game of Tetris with bulky, single-purpose cooking gear. There’s the portable grill for burgers, the separate flat-top griddle for breakfast pancakes, and then the wobbly, single-burner camp stove for the essential morning coffee. It’s a cumbersome collection that takes up precious space, requires multiple fuel sources, and triples the cleanup time. I recall one particularly chaotic morning at a campsite, trying to balance a sputtering pot of water on a tiny stove while flipping bacon on a griddle that was sliding off the end of a picnic table. It was at that moment I knew there had to be a better, more integrated way to handle outdoor cooking. The dream was a single, powerful, and portable unit that could do it all. This search for a streamlined, all-in-one outdoor kitchen led us directly to the doorstep of the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo.

What to Consider Before Buying a Portable Propane Grill

A portable propane grill is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for unlocking culinary freedom in the great outdoors. Whether you’re at a national park, the stadium parking lot, or simply enjoying your apartment balcony, these devices provide the power and control of a home kitchen in a compact form. The main benefit is convenience—instant, adjustable heat without the mess and wait-time of charcoal. They eliminate the logistical nightmare of packing multiple cooktops, allowing you to sear, sauté, grill, and boil from a single, reliable appliance.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who frequently cooks away from home. Think RV enthusiasts, dedicated campers, tailgating crews, and families who love picnicking at the park. It’s also a perfect fit for those with limited outdoor space, like a small patio or balcony, who still want the versatility of a multi-function cooker. On the other hand, it might not be suitable for those who exclusively grill for large crowds in their backyard and need a massive, stationary unit. A charcoal purist who savors the ritual and specific flavor of charcoal grilling would also likely look elsewhere. For those needing immense, raw power for things like deep frying a turkey or brewing beer, a dedicated high-BTU outdoor cooker would be a better alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Pay close attention to the unit’s footprint (D x W x H) and weight. Since this is a tabletop model, ensure you have a sturdy, level surface capable of supporting it. Consider its packed-down size for transport and storage; will it fit comfortably in your vehicle or RV storage bay alongside your other gear?
• Capacity/Performance: The total BTU (British Thermal Unit) output is a primary indicator of power. The Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo boasts 29,000 BTUs across three burners, which is substantial for its size. Also, look at the cooking area in square inches (364 sq. in. here) to determine if it can handle the amount of food you typically cook for your group.
• Materials & Durability: The construction materials directly impact longevity and performance. A powder-coated steel body offers good resistance to the elements. Cooking surfaces made of porcelain-enameled steel, like those on this model, are prized for their non-stick properties and ease of cleaning, which is a massive advantage when you’re away from a proper kitchen sink.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features like a battery-free piezo ignition system are a godsend in the field, providing reliable startups without fuss. Think about cleanup. A well-designed grease management system with a removable collection cup is non-negotiable for quick and tidy maintenance. The easier it is to clean, the more you’ll want to use it.

Finding the right portable grill means balancing these factors to fit your specific outdoor lifestyle. It’s about maximizing function while minimizing fuss.

While the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing a Versatile Powerhouse

The Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo arrived securely packaged, with all components neatly organized and protected. Right out of the box, it was clear this was a thoughtfully designed piece of equipment. As confirmed by several user experiences, the final assembly was remarkably straightforward and took only a few minutes, primarily involving attaching the handles and control knobs. What immediately stood out was the substantial feel of the unit. The steel body feels robust, and the powder-coated finish gives it a durable, quality appearance. The most impressive component, however, was the porcelain-enameled griddle plate. As one user noted, it was “heavier than I expected and very nice,” a sentiment we wholeheartedly share. This isn’t a flimsy sheet of metal; it’s a solid cooking surface designed to hold and distribute heat effectively. The stainless steel handles add a premium touch, and the sturdy lids for both the griddle and side burner feel secure, with the side burner lid being strong enough to double as a convenient prep shelf. Firing it up for the first time with the piezo ignition was instantaneous—a satisfying click and a confident whoosh of the flame. It immediately felt like a serious upgrade, ready to consolidate our scattered camp kitchen into one sleek, powerful hub. For anyone looking to see its full feature set and user reviews, the initial quality is a great sign of what’s to come.

A Deep Dive into the Royal Gourmet PD1305H’s Field Performance

A spec sheet can only tell you so much. The true test of any piece of outdoor gear is how it performs under real-world conditions. We took the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo on a long weekend camping trip to put its much-touted versatility to the ultimate test, cooking every single meal on it. From sunrise breakfasts to late-night dinners, we pushed its limits to see if it truly is the all-in-one solution it claims to be.

The 3-in-1 Cooking System in Action: From Sizzle to Sear

The core promise of this unit is its triple-threat capability, and we’re thrilled to report it delivers spectacularly. Our first morning, we fired up the 211 sq. in. griddle side. The two 8,500 BTU burners underneath provided surprisingly even heat across the entire surface. We cooked a full breakfast spread simultaneously: crispy bacon on one side, fluffy pancakes in the middle, and fried eggs on the other. There were no discernible hot or cold spots, a testament to the “Master Even Heat Control” system. This aligns perfectly with user reports praising how well it “cooks very evenly.”

For lunch, we switched to the 153 sq. in. grill. While not massive, it was plenty of space for a half-dozen burgers and a pack of hot dogs. The porcelain-enameled grate produced excellent sear marks and, thanks to the flame tamers, we experienced minimal flare-ups. But the real game-changer was using these functions in tandem. While the burgers were grilling, we simultaneously used the powerful 12,000 BTU side burner to heat a large pot of chili. This burner is no afterthought; it’s a legitimate, high-powered stove that brought a gallon of liquid to a boil faster than many standalone camp stoves we’ve used. This ability to boil, grill, and griddle all at once from a single propane tank is the feature that truly sets the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo apart from the competition. It fundamentally changes the workflow of an outdoor kitchen, making complex meals simple and efficient.

Design, Portability, and Build Quality Under Scrutiny

At 32.7 pounds, the unit hits a sweet spot between being substantial and portable. It’s light enough for one person to carry from the car to the picnic table without strain, yet heavy enough that it feels stable and secure during use. The compact, low-profile design (31.3″ wide) means it sits comfortably on a standard campsite picnic table or a tailgate without dominating the entire space. We confirmed what one user noted: you need a stable, adaptable table to get the most out of it. The alloy steel frame feels solid, and the powder-coated finish held up well to being moved around and exposed to the morning dew.

We paid close attention to the details. The stainless steel handles are comfortable and feel secure. The lids are a fantastic feature. The main griddle lid protects the surface during transport and helps with melting cheese or steaming vegetables. The side burner lid, as one user astutely pointed out, is rated for a 10 lb. load and is “strong enough for to use as a shelf.” We constantly used it as a staging area for plates, spices, and utensils, which was incredibly handy. The integrated tool holders are a small but welcome touch that keeps tongs and spatulas off the dirty table and within easy reach. While some users wished for a dedicated carrying bag, we found the unit’s compact, boxy shape and secure lids made it relatively easy to transport as-is, though a cover would certainly be a worthwhile accessory to protect this valuable outdoor cooking asset.

Mastering Heat Control, Ignition, and Effortless Cleanup

The total 29,000 BTU output is more than just a number; it translates to real-world performance. The grill gets hot quickly, significantly reducing pre-heat time so you can get cooking faster. The three independent control knobs offer excellent flame modulation, allowing for precise temperature adjustments across the different cooking zones. We could keep pancakes warm on a low setting on one side of the griddle while searing sausages on high on the other. This level of control is often lacking in more basic portable grills.

The piezo ignition is flawless. With a simple push and turn of the knob, each burner ignited on the first try, every single time. Not having to worry about dead batteries, wet matches, or lost lighters is a huge relief, especially when you’re out in the elements. But perhaps the most celebrated feature, both in our tests and among other users, is the ease of cleanup. The porcelain-enameled surfaces are fantastic. After cooking greasy bacon and burgers, a simple scrape and a wipe-down with a paper towel were all it took to get the griddle clean. The removable grease cup, positioned conveniently at the side, catches all the drippings and slides out for easy disposal. This hassle-free maintenance, praised by users as “easy cleanup,” makes you far more likely to cook elaborate meals, knowing you won’t be stuck scrubbing for an hour afterward.

What Other Users Are Saying

After our extensive testing, we dug into broader user feedback to see how our experience compared, and the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The dominant theme is that the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo is the “perfect camping cook stove.” Many users, like us, celebrate its ability to replace multiple devices, with one stating, “It is replacing an electric griddle and a portable gas grill in our camper.” The combination of its light weight, easy cleaning, and even cooking performance is repeatedly highlighted as a major win.

One user enthusiastically declared it the “Best purchase ever!” after a camping weekend, a sentiment we can easily understand. The practicality and versatility shine through in reviews, with another noting, “My husband loves it. Took camping for first time, and cooked all meals on it.” However, the feedback isn’t without constructive criticism. The most common request, which we echo, is the desire for a better storage solution: “only issue is I wish it had a better case/cover!” Another user reported a minor issue with a missing part, a “cover on the gas style for the flat deck,” which seems to be an infrequent shipping hiccup rather than a design flaw.

How Does It Stack Up? The Royal Gourmet PD1305H vs. The Competition

The Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo excels in versatility and portability, but it exists in a crowded market. To understand its unique position, it’s crucial to compare it against other popular options that buyers might consider.

1. Char-Broil Classic Series 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill

The Char-Broil Classic is a more traditional, entry-level backyard grill. Its primary advantage is a larger main grilling area and a classic cart-style design with side shelves, offering more prep space. However, it completely lacks the portability and the integrated griddle of the Royal Gourmet. This is a solid choice for someone who needs a stationary grill for their patio on a budget and has no plans to take their cooking on the road. If your priority is grilling burgers for a small family at home, the Char-Broil is a contender. If you need a do-it-all device for camping, tailgating, or RV life, the Royal Gourmet’s versatility is unmatched.

2. ROVSUN 3 Burner Propane Gas Stove

The ROVSUN stove represents a completely different approach to outdoor cooking. With a staggering 225,000 BTU output, this is not a grill but a high-power outdoor stove designed for massive pots. It’s the perfect tool for deep frying, home brewing, or cooking for a very large crowd with stockpots. It excels at raw heating power but offers none of the finesse or functionality of the Royal Gourmet. It can’t grill or griddle. This is a specialized tool for specific, high-heat tasks. A buyer would choose the ROVSUN for boiling crawfish for 50 people, not for making pancakes and bacon at a campsite.

3. Char-Broil Performance Series 4-Burner Gas Grill

The Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner is a significant step up into the world of serious backyard grilling. It features a full cabinet for propane tank storage, more burners, a larger cooking surface, and a more robust build than the Classic series. It competes with full-sized grills and is designed for the homeowner who entertains regularly. Its side burner adds some versatility, but it is in no way portable. This alternative is for the person building a permanent outdoor kitchen setup. The Royal Gourmet, in contrast, is for the person who wants to take their kitchen with them wherever they go. The choice here is clear: permanent home setup vs. ultimate portability and flexibility.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Royal Gourmet PD1305H the Right Choice for You?

After putting the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo through its paces, we can say with confidence that it’s a phenomenal piece of equipment that brilliantly delivers on its promise of 3-in-1 versatility. It is, without a doubt, one of the best all-around outdoor cooking solutions for anyone on the move. Its powerful burners, even heat distribution, and incredibly easy cleanup make it a joy to use, effectively eliminating the need to pack three separate appliances.

It’s the perfect companion for campers, RV owners, tailgaters, and anyone with a small patio who refuses to compromise on their culinary ambitions. While it may not replace a massive, six-burner grill for a huge backyard party, it wasn’t designed to. Its strength lies in its intelligent, compact design that packs an incredible amount of function into a portable package. The minor drawback of not having a dedicated carry bag is easily outweighed by its outstanding performance and value. If you’re tired of the camp kitchen chaos and want one reliable unit that can do it all, this is the answer you’ve been looking for. We wholeheartedly recommend it.

Ready to revolutionize your outdoor cooking experience? Check the latest price and availability for the Royal Gourmet PD1305H today.