Portable grills are the unsung heroes of outdoor cooking. Whether it’s a weekend camping trip, a family picnic, or a small backyard dinner, nothing beats firing up a compact grill that can deliver restaurant-level searing power wherever you go.
After testing both the Royal Gourmet GT1001 and GT2001 on multiple occasions — from tailgates to park barbecues — I realized that these two models share a lot in common but also differ in subtle, meaningful ways. Both are sleek, stainless steel tabletop grills with 10,000 BTU power and nearly identical dimensions, yet their build feel, design philosophy, and user experience tell two very different stories.
Let’s dive into what sets them apart and which one, in my opinion, offers the best value for your outdoor cooking adventures.
Key Difference at a Glance: Royal Gourmet GT1001 vs GT2001 Portable Grill
The Royal Gourmet GT1001 feels like a more refined, thoughtfully built unit, designed for those who appreciate sleek construction, compact portability, and easy cleanup. It’s the more “polished” of the two.
The GT2001, on the other hand, is a slightly more rugged, travel-friendly version with dual handles and travel locks, offering better grip and handling. While performance remains nearly identical, its portability features make it a little more convenient for frequent travelers. In short — the GT1001 feels built for elegance and simplicity, while the GT2001 leans into mobility and practicality.
- Portable Design: Folding support legs and latching hoods with compact handle make it easy to carry or store to the decks, patios, camping, tailgating and more....
- Portable Designs: With folding support legs, travel locks, and two comfortable handles, it is easy to carry to decks, patios, camping, picnic, or anyplace you...
Comparison Table: Royal Gourmet GT1001 vs GT2001 Portable Grill
| Feature | Royal Gourmet GT1001 | Royal Gourmet GT2001 |
| Dimensions | 17.32″D x 27.36″W x 14.37″H | 17.24″D x 27.72″W x 14.2″H |
| Weight | Slightly lighter | Slightly heavier |
| Cooking Area | 285 sq. in. (214 + 71) | 285 sq. in. (214 + 71) |
| Burner Output | 10,000 BTU | 10,000 BTU |
| Material | Stainless steel body | Stainless steel body |
| Fuel Type | Propane (1 lb tank) | Propane (1 lb tank) |
| Handles | One handle | Two handles |
| Cleanup System | Removable grease tray | Removable grease cup |
| Portability Features | Folding legs, lockable lid | Folding legs, travel locks, dual handles |
| Check Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that struck me when unboxing both models was their solid stainless steel construction. They both look professional, durable, and well-crafted — no flimsy parts or cheap finishes here.
The GT1001, however, feels slightly more premium in hand. Its finish has a smooth, brushed-steel aesthetic that gives it a refined, almost modern look. It’s perfect for patios, decks, or anyone who values a clean, professional appearance.
The GT2001, meanwhile, gives off a more utilitarian vibe. The addition of two side handles and travel locks screams “on-the-go.” It’s the one I’d grab for a road trip or camping excursion simply because it’s easier to carry.
If you care about sleekness and aesthetics, the GT1001 wins. But if practicality and portability come first, the GT2001 edges it out.
- Portable Design: Folding support legs and latching hoods with compact handle make it easy to carry or store to the decks, patios, camping, tailgating and more....
- Portable Designs: With folding support legs, travel locks, and two comfortable handles, it is easy to carry to decks, patios, camping, picnic, or anyplace you...
Ease of Assembly and Portability
Both models are ready to go within minutes. I assembled each in less than 15 minutes — no complicated tools, no frustration.
The GT1001 has a single sturdy handle and folding legs that click into place, making it easy to store or transport in a car trunk. However, the GT2001 improves on this slightly with two handles and travel locks that secure the lid tightly. That small addition makes a big difference when moving it around or carrying it to a campsite.
In terms of weight, they’re nearly identical — both light enough to carry single-handedly but with enough heft to feel stable on a tabletop. For everyday portability, the GT2001 feels just a bit more travel-optimized.
- Portable Design: Folding support legs and latching hoods with compact handle make it easy to carry or store to the decks, patios, camping, tailgating and more....
Cooking Performance
Performance-wise, both grills impressed me equally. Each features a stainless steel U-shaped burner capable of producing 10,000 BTUs, which is more than enough for a tabletop grill of this size. The heat distribution is surprisingly even, and I never noticed cold spots during my tests.
On the GT1001, I grilled chicken skewers, steaks, and even vegetables — and the results were fantastic. The stainless steel grates seared perfectly and cleaned up easily afterward.
The GT2001 delivered the same level of cooking quality, especially for burgers and sausages during my tailgate session. Both grills reached searing temperature within about 5 minutes and maintained consistent heat throughout. If we’re being picky, the GT1001’s stainless steel grates hold heat slightly better, offering that extra crisp sear. But it’s a close call — both perform beautifully.
- Portable Designs: With folding support legs, travel locks, and two comfortable handles, it is easy to carry to decks, patios, camping, picnic, or anyplace you...
Ease of Use
Both models are equipped with push-button ignition systems, which light up instantly. The flame control is straightforward — one central knob that gives you full command over the burner’s intensity.
Where the GT1001 stands out is its removable stainless-steel grease tray, which is wide and catches everything efficiently. The GT2001 uses a grease cup, which is fine but slightly less convenient to empty mid-cook. In terms of daily usability, I found the GT1001 easier to maintain, while the GT2001 is easier to carry and move.
Cleanup and Maintenance
Cleanup is often the deciding factor for me — and here’s where small details matter.
The GT1001’s large grease tray can be removed easily, even while cooking. It slides out effortlessly and covers a broader area, preventing drips from making a mess underneath.
The GT2001’s grease cup is functional but not as spacious, so it needs to be emptied more often, especially during longer grilling sessions. That said, both grills are still incredibly easy to maintain thanks to their stainless steel surfaces. A simple wipe-down and you’re good to go.
- Portable Design: Folding support legs and latching hoods with compact handle make it easy to carry or store to the decks, patios, camping, tailgating and more....
Features and Extras
Both models are minimalist in nature — they focus on doing one thing really well: portable gas grilling.
However, the GT2001 adds those small but valuable travel-oriented touches like dual handles and travel locks, which make it slightly more practical for mobility.
The GT1001, on the other hand, emphasizes a sleeker design and superior grease management, making it a better choice for stationary setups or small home patios.
Royal Gourmet GT1001 Portable Grill
- Portable Design: Folding support legs and latching hoods with compact handle make it easy to carry or store to the decks, patios, camping, tailgating and more....
Pros:
- Premium stainless steel finish
- Large removable grease tray for easy cleaning
- Compact folding design
- Even and powerful heat distribution
- Quick ignition system
Cons:
- Only one handle
- Slightly less secure for transport than GT2001
- Designed more for stationary use
Royal Gourmet GT2001 Portable Grill
- Portable Designs: With folding support legs, travel locks, and two comfortable handles, it is easy to carry to decks, patios, camping, picnic, or anyplace you...
Pros:
- Dual handles and travel locks for excellent portability
- Strong stainless steel build
- Even heating with a 10,000 BTU burner
- Compact and reliable
- Quick ignition system
Cons:
- Smaller grease cup (less convenient for long sessions)
- Slightly heavier build
- Less refined look than GT1001
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After grilling with both, here’s my honest take:
If you’re after a compact, elegant tabletop grill for your patio, balcony, or small gatherings, go for the Royal Gourmet GT1001. It’s easy to clean, stylish, and feels more premium overall.
But if you’re the kind who’s constantly on the move — tailgating one weekend, camping the next — the GT2001 is the smarter buy. Its dual handles and travel locks make carrying it around effortless, and it’s rugged enough to handle life on the road.
Both grills deliver top-notch performance for their size and price, but if I had to pick just one for all-around versatility, I’d choose the GT2001. The added portability features simply make outdoor life easier without sacrificing cooking power or durability.
