You’ll get a versatile 759 sq. in. dual-fuel grill that lets you sear on a two-burner propane side and smoke or char on a charcoal chamber. Propane heats faster and holds steady across cast-iron grates, while charcoal gives hotter radiant spots and deeper smoke but needs more tending. Stainless lid and burners resist corrosion; ash tray and grease cup simplify cleanup. It’s great value for flexible backyard cooks — scroll on to see hands-on performance, setup tips, and who it’s best for.
Some Key Takeaways
- Dual-fuel design offers propane convenience and steady heat plus charcoal flavor and high radiant searing in one 759 sq. in. combo unit.
- Cast iron grates, stainless steel lid/burners, and powder-coated frame balance searing performance and corrosion resistance for the price.
- Propane heats faster and provides consistent zones; charcoal yields smoky flavor but needs more tending and produces uneven hotspots.
- Slide-out ash tray, removable grease cup, and two wheels plus two lockable casters simplify cleanup and mobility.
- Best for budget buyers wanting flexibility for backyard gatherings up to ~30 burgers; not ideal for competition-level smoking.
Quick Specs and What Makes the ZH3002N Unique
While it looks like two separate grills, the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N combines a 592 sq. in. main cooking area plus a 167 sq. in. warming rack to give you 759 sq. in. total—enough to handle about 30 burgers at once—and lets you choose between propane and charcoal in a side-by-side layout. You get dual fuel versatility with cast iron grates, stainless steel lid and burners, plus a slide-out ash tray and removable grease cup for easier cleanup. The 64 x 64-inch footprint and two-burner design balance heat control and space, giving clear cooking capacity for gatherings. Perfect for patio enthusiasts, it fits well into a curated selection of portable grills and accessories for outdoor cooking and patio space enthusiasts.
Gas vs. Charcoal Performance: Heat, Cooking Area, and Real-World Grilling Tests
Because the ZH3002N gives you both fuel options side-by-side, you can directly compare how propane and charcoal behave in similar conditions. You’ll notice propane reaches set temps faster and offers steadier heat distribution across its cast iron grates, making searing predictable and multitier cooking easier within the 592 sq. in. primary area. Charcoal delivers higher radiant heat spots and that smoky nuance in flavor comparison tests, though it needs more tending and produces uneven zones you’ll manage with vents and ash tray adjustments. Real-world grilling showed gas for convenience and consistency, charcoal for depth of taste and controlled hotspot work. If you enjoy outdoor living, the combo design also complements your patio grilling setup by offering versatile options for different cookouts.
Build Quality, Materials, Mobility, and Durability You Can Expect
After comparing gas and charcoal performance, it’s worth looking at how the ZH3002N’s materials and construction hold up in everyday use. You’ll notice cast iron grates deliver searing and cast iron longevity if you season and protect them. Stainless steel lid, burners, and control panel resist corrosion better than cheaper alloys. The powder coated resilience of the frame and shelves reduces chipping and rust outdoors, though exposed edges can wear over time. Mobility is practical: two 6-inch wheels plus two lockable 3-inch casters let you reposition the 103.6-pound unit with minimal strain. Overall, expect sturdy, serviceable build quality. This grill pairs well with charcoal grill gear favored by patio cooking enthusiasts.
Setup, Maintenance, and User-Friendly Features (Assembly, Cleanup, Warranty)
Although the ZH3002N requires some assembly out of the box, most users will find the process straightforward if they follow the illustrated manual and sort parts beforehand; expect about 60–90 minutes with two people. Use assembly tips: lay out hardware, tighten fasteners finger-tight then torque, install wheels and casters last. For cleanup, the slide-out ash tray and removable grease cup speed routine maintenance; clean grates with a stiff brush and wipe stainless surfaces to prevent corrosion. Keep spare seals and check burner ports periodically. Warranty process is one year via Royal Gourmet customer service—retain receipts and photos for claims. Consider adding dedicated grill cleaning tools to your patio gear to keep your unit performing well and protect surrounding outdoor surfaces.
Who Should Buy This Grill and Final Recommendation
If you want flexible grilling without buying two separate units, the ZH3002N is a strong choice: it lets you run high-heat searing on the gas side while maintaining low-and-slow charcoal smoking next door, and its 759 sq. in. total cooking area easily handles family gatherings or weekend cookouts for up to about 30 burgers. You should buy this if you want versatility on a moderate budget—budget buyers get dual-fuel flexibility, decent materials, and easy cleanup. Casual entertainers who switch techniques mid-event will appreciate the side-by-side control and warming rack. Serious competition smokers may want dedicated units instead. Many patio enthusiasts also favor products that enhance their outdoor grilling experience, such as gas grills and accessories designed for patio enjoyment.
Some Questions Answered
Can I Use Natural Gas With This Grill Instead of Propane?
No, not directly — you can convert it, but you’ll need a proper natural gas conversion kit and possibly professional installation. Propane grills use different pressure and orifices; conversion kits swap regulators, hoses, and jets to match natural gas. Compare kit compatibility, warranty impact, and local codes before proceeding. If you’re unsure, get a certified technician to install the conversion kit to guarantee safe pressure settings, leak-free connections, and proper burner performance.
Are Replacement Parts Readily Available From Royal Gourmet?
Yes — you can usually get parts directly from Royal Gourmet or third-party sellers. You’ll find replacement knobs and replacement grates available through the manufacturer’s parts department, major online retailers, and aftermarket suppliers. Compare pricing, material quality (cast iron vs. stainless), and warranty before you buy. Keep model ZH3002N handy for compatibility checks, and contact Royal Gourmet support if you need OEM components or fitment advice.
Does the Charcoal Side Support Indirect/Rotisserie Setups?
Yes — you can do indirect cooking on the charcoal side, but rotisserie compatibility is limited. You’ll control charcoal airflow with the adjustable vent and slide-out ash tray to create low, even heat for indirect setups. The grill lacks a built-in rotisserie motor or dedicated spit mounts, so you’ll need an aftermarket rotisserie kit or external motor and custom mounting. Compared to gas side, charcoal gives better heat control for indirect roasting.
Is the Grill Suitable for Use on Wooden Decks or Balconies?
You can use it on a wooden deck or balcony, but you shouldn’t do so without precautions. The combo puts out concentrated heat and ash that can cause heat damage and scorch marks; you’ll want a heavy-duty fireproof mat and adequate deck ventilation underneath. Compare distance recommendations for gas and charcoal: keep burners and vents clear, avoid overhanging structures, and never leave it unattended. Regularly clean grease and ash to reduce fire risk.
Can the Warming Rack Be Removed for Larger Items?
Yes — you can remove the warming rack to fit larger items. The removable grate lifts out easily, giving you more vertical clearance compared to fixed racks on cheaper combos. With the rack out, you’ll gain useful storage space above the main grates during prep or rest, and you’ll get more room for tall roasts or rotisseries. Just stow the warming rack in cabinet storage to keep it handy.
