Looking Beyond the Oklahoma Joe's Laredo 900 Charcoal Smoker? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How each alternative compares

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S offers a wider footprint at 51.7 inches compared to the Laredo 900’s 47.5 inches. It weighs 45.2 pounds, which is significantly lighter than many heavy-duty steel counterparts. This model prioritizes casual backyard smoking over high-volume cooking. You get an offset smoker design similar to the Laredo but with a more compact length of 28.6 inches. If you value adjustable heat and traditional smoke flavor without the bulk of a 916-square-inch unit, this is a practical choice. It sacrifices some total cooking capacity for easier maneuverability and a smaller overall presence on your patio or deck.

Realcook Medium Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker

The Realcook Barrel Charcoal Grill focuses on traditional barrel aesthetics and manual heat management. It is smaller than the Laredo 900, measuring 39 inches wide and 23.4 inches long. This unit is ideal for users who prefer dedicated smoking capabilities over digital convenience. It lacks the expansive 916-square-inch cooking area, making it better suited for those with adequate space who want a traditional look. The manual control system requires more attention than automated systems. If you prioritize authentic barrel design and steady smoke flavor for smaller batches, this medium-sized grill offers a focused alternative to the larger, more versatile Laredo 900.

COMVIEE Charcoal Grill Temperature Probe Kit

The COMVIEE Temp Probe is a direct replacement sensor for specific Masterbuilt digital charcoal grills, not a standalone grill. It weighs only 0.63 ounces and is designed to restore accurate temperature monitoring to existing setups. This product is for buyers who already own compatible Masterbuilt models and need to fix broken sensors. It does not offer cooking space or smoking capabilities like the Laredo 900. If you are looking for a complete grill, this is not the solution. However, if your current digital charcoal grill has lost temperature precision, this probe kit provides a targeted fix to maintain consistent cooking conditions without replacing the entire unit.

SUNLIFER Offset Charcoal Grill and Smoker

The SUNLIFER Offset Charcoal Grill provides 512 square inches of cooking space, which is significantly less than the Laredo 900’s 916 square inches. It weighs 34 pounds, making it highly portable for small group backyard smoking. This model fits users who prioritize portability and manual control over large capacity. It is a solid option for cookouts with two to four people. The dimensions are compact at 39.7 inches wide and 21.6 inches long. If you need a smaller, lighter grill for occasional use rather than large family gatherings, the SUNLIFER offers a practical alternative that sacrifices cooking volume for ease of storage and movement.

Masterbuilt 16 lb Hardwood Lump Charcoal

The Masterbuilt 16 lb Hardwood Lump Charcoal is a specialized fuel source, not a grill. It is designed for existing charcoal grills, particularly Masterbuilt Gravity Series models. This product fits you if you already own a compatible grill and want premium hardwood fuel. It does not provide cooking space, offset smoking, or temperature control features. If you are comparing grills, this item is an accessory to enhance flavor. It is best for users who already have a charcoal setup and want to upgrade their fuel source for better smoke quality and burn consistency, rather than those looking for a new cooking appliance.

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker with Cover

The Royal Gourmet CC1830SC is a charcoal grill with an offset smoker and an included cover. It shares the same dimensions as the CC1830S, measuring 51.7 inches wide and 28.6 inches long. It weighs 48.5 pounds, making it slightly heavier than the standard version. This model provides solid capacity for backyard smokers who value manual control and included protection. It fits your needs if you prioritize cooking volume over digital convenience. The included cover adds convenience for outdoor storage. If you want the same offset smoker functionality as the Laredo 900 but with a protective cover included, this is a direct alternative with similar manual heat management features.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Oklahoma Joe's Laredo 900 Charcoal Smoker and Grill

Best for: Large family gatherings and big cuts of meat

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

916 sq. in.

Primary Material

Steel

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Dimensions

32.6 × 47.5 × 47.7 inches

View on Amazon: Oklahoma Joe's Laredo 900 Charcoal Smoker and Grill Affiliate link

The Oklahoma Joe's Laredo 900 is a barrel-style charcoal smoker and grill with 916 square inches of total cooking area. It includes 358 square inches of warming rack space. The unit features adjustable airflow controls and porcelain-coated grates. Its steel construction retains heat well. This model suits you if you need ample space for large cuts and sides.

Pros

• 916 sq. in. total cooking area
• Adjustable side air damper and smokestack
• Full-length pull-out ash pan
• Porcelain-coated cooking grates
• Rolls on 8-inch wagon-style wheels

Cons

• Requires assembly
• No digital temperature display
• Manual airflow control only

Good fit if

• You need space for large briskets and sides
• You prefer traditional charcoal flavor
• You want easy ash cleanup

Skip if

• You want electric convenience
• You need precise digital temperature control
• You have limited deck space

Verdict: Oklahoma Joe's Laredo 900 Charcoal Smoker is a high-capacity charcoal grill for cooks who prioritize space and traditional smoke flavor over digital precision.

2 Also great

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker

Best for: Casual backyard smoking and grilling

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

783 sq. in.

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping

Features

Thermometer, Side Shelf, Offset Smoker

Style

Barrel

View on Amazon: Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Affiliate link

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a charcoal grill with an offset smoker. It offers 823 square inches of total cooking space, including 475 square inches of main grates and a 197 square inch smoker chamber. The unit weighs 45.2 pounds and measures 51.7 inches wide. You get a height-adjustable charcoal pan for temperature control. This setup suits you if you want a versatile outdoor cooking station for camping or backyard use.

Pros

• 823 square inches of total cooking area
• Offset smoker for smoke flavor
• Adjustable lifting rack for heat control
• Built-in lid thermometer

Cons

• Bottom shelf holds only 20 lb
• No digital temperature probes
• No included cover in specs

Good fit if

• You need extra smoker space
• You want adjustable heat control
• You cook for small groups

Skip if

• You need large capacity
• You want digital controls
• You need heavy storage

Verdict: Royal Gourmet CC1830S Charcoal Grill provides solid cooking space and smoker functionality for casual outdoor cooks. It fits you if you value adjustable heat and smoke flavor over high-tech monitoring.

3 Also great

Realcook Medium Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker

Best for: Traditional barrel smokers with manual control

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

510 sq. in.

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping, Backyard

Style

Barrel

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

View on Amazon: Realcook Medium Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker Affiliate link

The Realcook Barrel Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker offers 510 square inches of cooking space. Its dual-chamber design includes a main grill and side smoker. Adjustable air vents and a chimney damper help you manage heat. A built-in temperature gauge monitors progress without lifting the lid. The unit features a front shelf and bottom rack for storage. It measures 39 inches wide and 41 inches high.

Pros

• 510 sq. in. total cooking area
• Dual-chamber barrel design with offset smoker
• Built-in temperature gauge for monitoring
• Adjustable air vents and chimney damper
• Front shelf and bottom rack for storage

Cons

• Requires proper assembly for optimal sealing
• Manual temperature control only
• No digital display or remote monitoring

Good fit if

• You want a dedicated barrel-style smoker
• You need manual heat control precision
• You have space for a 39-inch wide unit

Skip if

• You prefer digital temperature controls
• You need a smaller footprint than 39 inches
• You want a unit that requires no assembly

Verdict: Realcook Barrel Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker suits those who prefer traditional barrel aesthetics and manual heat management. It fits users with adequate space who value dedicated smoking capabilities over digital convenience.

4 Best budget

COMVIEE Charcoal Grill Temperature Probe Kit

Best for: replacing broken sensors in Masterbuilt Gravity grills

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Control Type

Digital

Weight

0.63 ounces

View on Amazon: COMVIEE Charcoal Grill Temperature Probe Kit Affiliate link

This COMVIEE temperature probe kit replaces the sensor in Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 digital charcoal grills. It features a 4-inch stainless steel probe and a 17-inch braided steel mesh lead. The unit covers a temperature range from -60°F to 900°F. You get one probe with a protective cover. It is designed for users who need a replacement part for their existing digital smoker rather than a new cooking appliance.

Pros

• Compatible with Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 models
• Stainless steel probe measures up to 900°F
• 17-inch braided steel mesh lead for reach
• Includes protective cover for the probe

Cons

• It is an accessory, not a standalone grill
• Screws and nut are not included
• Does not work with other brand smokers

Good fit if

• You own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series smoker
• Your current temperature probe is damaged or inaccurate
• You need a replacement part for digital control

Skip if

• You are looking for a complete charcoal grill
• You use a pellet grill or wood smoker
• You want a probe for non-Masterbuilt units

Verdict: COMVIEE Temp Probe for Masterbuilt Gravity is a direct replacement sensor for specific Masterbuilt digital charcoal grills. It fits buyers who already own these models and need to restore accurate temperature monitoring to their existing setup.

5 Also great

SUNLIFER Offset Charcoal Grill and Smoker

Best for: small group backyard smoking

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

512 sq in

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping, Backyard

Features

Offset Smoker

Style

Barrel

View on Amazon: SUNLIFER Offset Charcoal Grill and Smoker Affiliate link

This SUNLIFER charcoal grill and offset smoker offers 512 square inches of cooking area in a portable 34-pound design. It features a dual-chamber layout with adjustable air vents for precise temperature control. The unit includes a built-in thermometer, stainless steel handles, and two storage shelves totaling 467 square inches. It suits small gatherings where mobility and compact storage matter more than massive capacity.

Pros

• 512 sq. in. total cooking surface
• Offset smoker chamber for smoke flavor
• Adjustable air vents for heat control
• Built-in thermometer for monitoring
• Portable cart-style wheels

Cons

• Smaller 512 sq. in. capacity than larger offset smokers
• Manual temperature adjustment only
• No included thermometer probe for food

Good fit if

• You need a portable smoker for small groups
• You want precise airflow control with vents
• You have limited storage space

Skip if

• You require digital temperature controls
• You need to cook for large crowds
• You prefer electric or gas ignition

Verdict: SUNLIFer 512 sq in Charcoal Grill Smoker fits users who prioritize portability and manual control over large capacity. It is a solid option for backyard cookouts with two to four people.

6 Best kettle

Masterbuilt 16 lb Hardwood Lump Charcoal

Best for: Fuel for Masterbuilt Gravity Series grills

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Style

Kettle

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Dimensions

5.75 × 15 × 27 inches

Weight

16 pounds

View on Amazon: Masterbuilt 16 lb Hardwood Lump Charcoal Affiliate link

This is a 16-pound bag of 100% premium hardwood lump charcoal. It is designed for use with Masterbuilt Gravity Series grills and other charcoal cooking products. The charcoal is fired in artisan style kilns. It provides a clean burn for optimal flavor. The bag measures 15 by 27 by 5.75 inches. It suits you if you prefer hardwood over briquettes.

Pros

• 100% premium hardwood composition
• 16-pound net weight
• Clean burn for optimal flavor
• Ideal for Gravity Series grills

Cons

• Not a grill or smoker unit
• Requires separate purchase of cooking appliance
• Limited to charcoal fuel type only

Good fit if

• You own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series grill
• You prefer hardwood lump charcoal over briquettes
• You want a clean burning fuel source

Skip if

• You need a complete grill or smoker
• You prefer gas or pellet fuel
• You want a large capacity bag

Verdict: Masterbuilt Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal is a specialized fuel source for existing charcoal grills. It fits you if you already own a compatible grill and want premium hardwood fuel.

7 Best premium

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker with Cover

Best for: Large batch charcoal cooking and smoking

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

783 sq. in.

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping, Backyard

Features

Thermometer, Offset Smoker

Included Accessories

Cover

View on Amazon: Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker with Cover Affiliate link

The Royal Gourmet CC1830SC offers 823 square inches of cooking space, split between a 475-square-inch main grate, a 151-square-inch warming rack, and a 197-square-inch offset smoker. It weighs 48.5 pounds and includes a protective cover. This setup suits you if you need ample room for large cuts and want the flexibility of separate heat zones for smoking and grilling.

Pros

• 823 square inches of total cooking area
• Includes heavy-duty protective cover
• Adjustable 2-level charcoal pan for heat control
• Front and side tables for workspace

Cons

• No digital temperature probe included
• Lid thermometer is manual only
• Requires manual ash removal via side door

Good fit if

• You need extra space for large roasts
• You want to smoke and grill simultaneously
• You prefer manual heat adjustment

Skip if

• You want precise digital temperature monitoring
• You need a compact footprint
• You prefer gas or pellet fuel

Verdict: Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill provides solid capacity for backyard smokers who value manual control and included protection. It fits your needs if you prioritize cooking volume over digital convenience.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• jamo studio series s 810 subwoofer alternatives
• thor kitchen 36 inch s series alternatives