If you had told me ten years ago that I’d be grilling steaks indoors with almost no smoke, I probably would’ve laughed and handed you a pair of charcoal tongs. But here we are.
Modern Ninja grills have changed the game for home cooks who want grilled flavor without firing up a backyard smoker every time.
As someone who spends most weekends tending a smoker or standing over a grill grate, I was skeptical at first. Indoor grills usually promise a lot and deliver something closer to a lukewarm panini press.
But Ninja grills surprised me. The heat is real. The grill marks are legit. And the versatility is what really wins people over.
Most models don’t just grill. They air fry, roast, bake, and even dehydrate, turning one appliance into a small outdoor kitchen.
So in this guide, I’m breaking down the top 10 Ninja grills, including the good, the bad, and the features that actually matter when you’re cooking real food.
Let’s fire things up.
Quick Comparison of the Best Ninja Grills
Before diving into the full reviews, here’s a quick snapshot of the most popular Ninja grills and what they’re best at.
| Model | Cooking Functions | Capacity | Best For |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill | Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake | Large | Families |
| Ninja AG301 Indoor Grill | Grill, Air Crisp, Roast | Medium | Beginners |
| Ninja AG401 6-in-1 Grill | Grill, Bake, Roast, Air Fry | Medium | Versatility |
| Ninja IG651 XL Pro | Grill + Griddle | Large | Big meals |
| Ninja Woodfire OG701 | Outdoor grill + smoker | Large | Backyard cooking |
| Ninja AG300 | 4 cooking functions | Compact | Small kitchens |
| Ninja Woodfire Pro OG751 | Grill + smoker | Large | BBQ lovers |
| Ninja Sizzle Smokeless | Grill + griddle | Compact | Apartments |
Each one of these Ninja grills targets a slightly different type of cook. Some are built for quick weeknight meals. Others are practically full backyard replacements.
How We Chose the Best Ninja Grills
There are a lot of Ninja grills out there now, and not all of them deserve a permanent spot on your counter. When I tested and compared these models, I looked at a few key things that really matter when you’re cooking.
Cooking Power and Performance
A grill lives and dies by heat and consistency. If it can’t sear a steak or crisp chicken skin, it’s not doing its job.
The best Ninja grills use Cyclonic Grilling Technology, which blasts super-heated air around the food. In practice, that means:
- Better browning
- Faster cooking
- Less flipping and babysitting
Versatility
Many of these grills are really multi-cookers in disguise. Some models offer up to six or seven cooking functions, including:
- Air frying
- Roasting
- Baking
- Dehydrating
That versatility makes Ninja grills extremely useful for small kitchens.
Capacity
Some grills handle two burgers. Others can cook a full rack of ribs or multiple steaks at once.
Capacity matters if you’re feeding:
- a family
- guests
- or just yourself after a long day.
Ease of Cleaning
If cleaning the grill feels like a punishment, people stop using it. The best Ninja grills have nonstick grill grates and dishwasher-safe baskets, which makes cleanup far easier than scrubbing a charcoal grate.
The Ultimate List of the Top 10 Ninja Grills
Now let’s get into the good stuff.
1. Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill (FG551)
If you want the best all-around Ninja grill, this one sits comfortably at the top.
The Smart XL Grill comes with a built-in thermometer that takes the guesswork out of cooking meat. As a pitmaster, I appreciate any gadget that keeps someone from overcooking a perfectly good steak.
Key features include:
- Smart Cook System thermometer
- XL grilling surface
- 6 cooking functions
- Powerful cyclonic heat
What I like most about this model is how even the cooking is. Chicken breasts come out juicy, steaks develop real grill marks, and burgers stay tender instead of drying out.
Pros
- Precise temperature control
- Large cooking capacity
- Extremely versatile
Cons
- Takes up counter space
- Pricier than entry models
Best for: Families and serious home cooks.
2. Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill (AG301)
If you’re new to Ninja grills, this is often the best starting point.
The AG301 doesn’t have every bell and whistle, but it nails the basics. It grills well, air fries nicely, and cooks food quickly.
One night I tossed frozen chicken wings into it just to test the air fryer mode. Twenty minutes later I had crispy wings that could rival a sports bar.
Features include:
- 5 cooking modes
- Air Crisp technology
- Compact design
Pros
- Affordable price
- Easy to use
- Great everyday grill
Cons
- Smaller capacity
- No smart thermometer
Best for: Beginners and small households.
3. Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (AG401)
This model adds a little more power and flexibility compared to the AG301.
The AG401 includes six cooking functions, making it closer to a full kitchen appliance than just a grill.
You can:
- grill steaks
- bake small casseroles
- air fry fries
- roast vegetables
The grill plate holds heat well, which means you actually get that seared crust that grill lovers want.
Pros
- Versatile cooking options
- Reliable heat output
- Solid mid-range price
Cons
- Slightly bulky
- Learning curve with settings
Best for: Cooks who want one appliance that does almost everything.
4. Ninja Foodi XL Pro Grill & Griddle (IG651)
This grill is built for people who cook large meals or weekend brunch spreads.
The standout feature here is the griddle plate, which lets you cook pancakes, eggs, and smash burgers like you’re running a diner.
I tested it with a batch of smash burgers, and the crust it produced was surprisingly legit.
Features include:
- Grill and griddle combo
- Smart thermometer
- XL cooking capacity
Pros
- Excellent for large meals
- Very versatile cooking surface
- High heat capability
Cons
- Large footprint
- Premium price
Best for: Big families or weekend entertainers.
5. Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill (OG701)
Now we’re stepping outside.
The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill adds something most indoor models can’t replicate: real smoke flavor.
It uses small wood pellets to create smoke while cooking, giving food a flavor that’s much closer to traditional barbecue.
You can grill burgers, smoke ribs, or roast chicken.
Pros
- Authentic smoky flavor
- Outdoor grilling experience
- Air fry capability outdoors
Cons
- Requires outdoor space
- Pellet refills needed
Best for: Backyard cooks who want convenience and smoke flavor.
6. Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro Grill (IG651)
This upgraded version of the Smart XL takes everything good about earlier Ninja grills and pushes it further.
It heats quickly and holds high temperatures, which is critical for searing meat.
Steaks develop a beautiful caramelized crust while staying juicy inside.
Pros
- Excellent searing power
- Smart thermometer included
- Large capacity
Cons
- Higher cost
- Bigger footprint
Best for: Steak lovers.
7. Ninja Foodi 4-in-1 Indoor Grill (AG300)
Sometimes you don’t need six cooking modes. Sometimes you just want a simple, reliable grill.
The AG300 strips things down to the essentials.
It grills, air fries, roasts, and bakes — and does each job well.
Pros
- Simple controls
- Reliable cooking results
- Smaller footprint
Cons
- Fewer cooking modes
- Limited capacity
Best for: Minimalist kitchens.
8. Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill (OG751)
If the OG701 is impressive, the Woodfire Pro takes things even further.
It adds improved smoke settings and a slightly larger cooking area.
For backyard cooks, this is one of the most exciting Ninja grills on the market.
Pros
- Excellent smoke flavor
- Outdoor versatility
- Larger cooking area
Cons
- Higher price
- Requires outdoor use
Best for: BBQ enthusiasts.
9. Ninja Foodi Grill XL (EG201)
The Grill XL offers a solid middle ground between compact models and the giant pro units.
It delivers strong heating power and can cook several portions at once.
In practical terms, that means you can grill four steaks or a batch of burgers without overcrowding.
Pros
- Large cooking surface
- Reliable heat distribution
- Good mid-range option
Cons
- Limited smart features
- Takes counter space
Best for: Medium-sized households.
10. Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill
Apartment dwellers often struggle with grilling. Smoke alarms and landlords don’t mix well with charcoal.
That’s where the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Grill shines.
It produces minimal smoke while still delivering grilled flavor.
Features include:
- Smokeless design
- Grill and griddle plates
- Compact size
Pros
- Great for apartments
- Easy to store
- Fast heating
Cons
- Smaller cooking area
- Less powerful than larger models
Best for: Small kitchens and apartments.
How Ninja Grills Create Real Grill Marks
One of the biggest doubts people have about Ninja grills is whether they can actually produce those classic dark, caramelized grill marks you’d normally get from a blazing hot outdoor grill.
The answer is yes – and the secret is Cyclonic Grilling Technology.
Instead of relying only on direct heat, Ninja grills blast superheated air around the food while the grill plate gets extremely hot underneath. This combination creates strong Maillard browning, the same reaction responsible for the crust on a perfectly seared steak.
From a pitmaster’s perspective, the trick is simple: preheat properly and avoid overcrowding the grill plate. Give each piece of meat some breathing room so the heat can circulate.
Do that, and you’ll get golden sear marks, juicy interiors, and that satisfying grilled flavor people crave.
It’s not quite charcoal – but it’s impressively close.
Best Foods to Cook on Ninja Grills
One thing I tell new grill owners all the time: not every food cooks the same on every grill.
Luckily, Ninja grills are extremely versatile, and certain foods really shine on them.
Here are a few standout winners:
- Steaks and burgers develop a nice crust thanks to the high heat.
- Chicken thighs and wings cook beautifully with crispy skin.
- Salmon and shrimp benefit from the even heat circulation.
- Vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, and peppers char nicely without burning.
But the real surprise is how well Ninja grills handle frozen foods. Toss in frozen fries, wings, or chicken tenders and the air fry mode crisps them quickly.
From weeknight dinners to quick lunches, the flexibility of Ninja grills makes them feel like a small indoor BBQ station.
And once you start experimenting, you’ll find yourself grilling things you never expected.
Common Mistakes People Make With Ninja Grills
Even the best Ninja grills can disappoint if they’re used the wrong way. After testing several models and talking to other grill enthusiasts, I’ve noticed a few common beginner mistakes.
The first mistake is skipping the preheat. These grills need a few minutes to reach full temperature, and starting too early can lead to weak searing.
Another big one is overcrowding the grill plate. When food sits too close together, it traps moisture instead of browning.
Some people also forget to pat meat dry before grilling. Moisture is the enemy of a good crust.
And finally, there’s overusing marinades with lots of sugar, which can burn quickly on hot grill plates.
Follow a few simple rules – preheat properly, leave space between foods, and cook in batches – and your Ninja grill will reward you with far better results.
Are Ninja Grills Energy Efficient?
One overlooked benefit of Ninja grills is their surprisingly strong energy efficiency compared to traditional cooking methods.
Outdoor grills often require large amounts of charcoal, propane, or wood pellets, especially during long cooks. Ninja grills, on the other hand, rely on electric heating elements and sealed cooking chambers that hold heat very efficiently.
This means they:
- heat up quickly
- cook food faster
- waste less energy overall
In practical terms, cooking a batch of chicken or burgers on a Ninja grill usually takes less time and less power than running a full-sized oven.
For apartment dwellers or anyone who cooks frequently, this can make a noticeable difference in both convenience and electricity usage.
So while most people buy Ninja grills for their versatility, the energy savings are a quiet bonus that many owners appreciate over time.
Why Ninja Grills Are Perfect for Small Kitchens
Space is a luxury in many kitchens, and this is where Ninja grills really shine.
Instead of owning separate appliances like:
- an air fryer
- a toaster oven
- a countertop grill
- a dehydrator
many Ninja models combine multiple cooking functions into one compact appliance.
That means fewer gadgets cluttering your counter and cabinets.
For people living in apartments, condos, or smaller homes, this kind of multi-function cooking power is incredibly useful.
You can grill steaks, air fry fries, roast vegetables, or bake small dishes without ever turning on the oven.
From a pitmaster’s perspective, it’s also nice to have a backup option when weather ruins outdoor grilling plans.
Rain pouring down? No problem.
The Ninja grill lets you keep cooking indoors – without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ninja Grill
With so many Ninja grills available, choosing the right one largely depends on your cooking style and needs.
Some models are designed for simple indoor grilling, while others offer multiple cooking functions such as air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating. If you mainly want a grill for quick meals like burgers, steaks, and vegetables, a basic model may be enough.
However, if you enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and want a versatile appliance, a multi-function Ninja grill can replace several cooking tools in one.
Another important factor to consider is size and capacity.
Smaller Ninja grills are great for individuals or couples and fit well in compact kitchens, while larger models are better suited for families or those who frequently cook for groups.
Think about how much counter space you have and how many people you usually cook for.
Capacity can make a big difference in convenience, especially if you want to cook multiple servings at once without doing several batches.
Finally, look at features, ease of cleaning, and overall value.
Many Ninja grills come with removable, nonstick plates and dishwasher-safe parts that make cleanup easier. Some models also include smart cooking systems with temperature probes to help you cook meats perfectly.
By considering the features you will actually use, along with your budget, you can choose a Ninja grill that fits your cooking routine and delivers the best value for your kitchen.
Best Alternatives
If you’re considering options beyond Ninja, several indoor grills deliver similar convenience and solid cooking performance.
These alternatives focus on smokeless grilling, strong heat for searing, and easy indoor use, making them great choices for cooks who want grilled flavor without firing up a traditional outdoor grill.
1. Chefman Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to Ninja grills, the Chefman smokeless grill is one of the best choices.
This grill focuses on simple, reliable indoor grilling with a large cooking surface and adjustable temperature control.
What makes it appealing is its smokeless water tray system, which reduces smoke and keeps grease from burning during cooking.
Key Highlights
- Large grilling surface for family meals
- Adjustable temperature control
- Removable grill plate for easy cleaning
- Affordable compared to premium grills
Why it’s a good Ninja alternative
Many people buy Ninja grills for indoor grilling convenience. Chefman offers that same convenience at a lower price, though it lacks advanced features like smart thermometers.
Best for: Budget buyers and beginners.
2. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill 6‑Serving
If your main goal is searing meat indoors, this grill is surprisingly capable.
The Hamilton Beach searing grill can reach about 450°F, which helps lock in juices and create proper browning on steaks and burgers.
Unlike many contact grills, it has an open-grill design with a lid, which traps heat and keeps food moist.
Key Highlights
- High heat for steak searing
- 6-serving cooking capacity
- Adjustable temperature dial
- Removable drip tray
Why it’s a good Ninja alternative
While it doesn’t have air frying or extra cooking modes, it focuses on pure grilling performance, which is what many people really want.
Best for: Steak lovers and simple grilling.
3. Elite Gourmet EMG-980B Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill Nonstick
For people who want an affordable and simple indoor grilling option, the Elite Gourmet smokeless electric grill is a solid choice.
Instead of charcoal or propane, this unit uses an electric heating element that warms the grill plate quickly and evenly, making it convenient for everyday cooking indoors.
It’s great for grilling:
- Burgers
- Chicken
- Vegetables
- Seafood
Key Highlights
- Adjustable temperature control up to around 450°F
- Large nonstick grilling surface
- Removable, dishwasher-safe parts
- Tempered glass lid and drip tray for cleaner cooking
Why it’s a good Ninja alternative
It provides a simple way to enjoy grilled food at home without dealing with charcoal, smoke, or outdoor equipment. The detachable parts and nonstick surface also make cleanup much easier than traditional grills.
Best for: budget-friendly indoor grilling and quick family meals.
Indoor vs Outdoor
Indoor models are convenient and versatile. You can grill in the middle of winter without stepping outside.
Outdoor models like the Woodfire grills add real smoke flavor and feel closer to traditional BBQ.
Cooking Functions
Some grills offer four functions, while others include up to seven cooking modes.
If you want a multi-purpose kitchen appliance, choose a model with:
- grilling
- air frying
- roasting
- baking
Capacity
If you’re feeding a family, capacity matters. Larger Ninja grills can cook multiple steaks or chicken breasts at once, saving time and effort.
Ninja Grills vs Traditional Grills
Now let’s address the big question.
Can Ninja grills replace a traditional grill?
In some cases, yes.
Advantages of Ninja Grills
- Indoor cooking convenience
- Multi-function cooking
- Faster heat-up times
- Easier cleanup
Advantages of Traditional Grills
- Stronger smoke flavor
- Larger cooking surfaces
- Authentic BBQ experience
For many home cooks, the sweet spot is having both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ninja grills worth buying?
For many households, absolutely. Ninja grills combine grilling, air frying, and roasting in one appliance, making them extremely versatile.
Do Ninja grills produce smoke?
Indoor models are designed to minimize smoke, especially when used at proper temperatures.
Can Ninja grills replace an air fryer?
Yes. Most Ninja grills include powerful air frying functions, which can replace a standalone air fryer.
Are Ninja grills easy to clean?
Most models include nonstick plates and dishwasher-safe components, making cleanup quick.
Final Verdict: Which Ninja Grill Should You Buy?
If you want the best overall Ninja grill, the Smart XL Grill is hard to beat. It offers strong heat, precise temperature control, and plenty of cooking space.
If you’re just starting out, the AG301 Indoor Grill provides excellent value and simplicity.
And if you’re chasing real barbecue flavor, the Woodfire Outdoor Grill delivers smoke-kissed food without the hassle of a full smoker.
At the end of the day, Ninja grills succeed because they make grilling easy. You get high heat, versatility, and convenience in one appliance.
And as someone who’s spent years tending charcoal pits, I’ll admit something surprising.
Sometimes it’s nice to grill a perfect steak without lighting a single briquette.
Featured image credit: @luxeinteriorbydemi
