Grilling enthusiasts often crave authentic wood-fired flavor but face challenges with traditional smokers and grills—messy fuel, inconsistent temperatures, and lengthy cleanup. The Ninja Wood Fired Outdoor Grill solves this with innovative electric-powered technology that uses real wood pellets for smoke, delivering rich, smoky taste without the hassle of charcoal or open flames. With precise temperature control and minimal fuel use (just ½ cup per cook), these grills make gourmet outdoor cooking accessible and convenient for any home cook.
We analyzed over 50 user reviews, expert tests, and product specs to identify the best Ninja Woodfire models based on cooking performance, versatility, smart features, and value. From compact grills for weeknight dinners to multi-functional XL units with air frying and app connectivity, our picks cater to different needs and budgets. Keep reading to find the perfect Ninja Wood Fired Outdoor Grill for your backyard setup.
Best Options at a Glance
Ninja Woodfire OG321
Best Budget Premium
- Electric
- 1760 Watts
- 6-in-1
- 141 sq in
- Wood pellets
Ninja Woodfire OG701
Best Compact 7-in-1
- 7-in-1 Grill
- 1760-Watt
- 6 steaks
- Robust/All-Purpose Blend
- Weather-Resistant
Ninja Woodfire Pro XL OG850
Best Value with Thermometer
- 4-in-1 Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Bake
- 180 sq. in.
- Built-in Smart Probe
- Electric
- Portable (RV, Balcony, Tailgating)
Ninja Woodfire Pro OG751
Best Mid-Range with Thermometer
- 7-in-1 Master Grill
- Electric
- 141 sq. in.
- 1/2 cup
- Weather-Resistant
Ninja Woodfire OG301
Best Budget 4-in-1
- Electric
- 1760 Watts
- Grill, Smoke, Bake, Roast
- 1/2 cup
- 141 sq in
Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL
Best Overall
- 180 sq. in.
- 7-in-1
- Bluetooth/App Enabled
- 2 Built-In
- Electricity
Ninja Wood Fired Outdoor Grill Review
How to Choose the Right Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill
Understanding the Core Technology: Woodfire Flavor & Fuel
The defining feature of a Ninja Woodfire grill is, naturally, its woodfire technology. Unlike traditional grills relying on charcoal or propane, these grills use electric power combined with real wood pellets. This means you get authentic smoky flavor without the hassle of managing flames or dealing with messy fuel sources. However, the type of wood pellet and how the system utilizes them is a key differentiator. All models use pellets for flavor, not fuel, requiring only about ½ cup for a cook. Consider if you want starter packs included, and whether you’ll want to explore different wood blends (robust, all-purpose, etc.) to customize your flavor profiles.
Capacity: Grilling for a Crowd vs. Intimate Meals
Ninja Woodfire grills come in various sizes, with cooking areas ranging from around 141 to 180 square inches. This significantly impacts what and how much you can cook at once.
* Smaller models (like the OG301 & OG701) are ideal for couples or small families, capable of handling 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs.
* Larger models (like the Pro XL & Pro Connect XL) can accommodate larger gatherings, fitting up to 2 full racks of ribs, 10 burgers, or even a 10-lb brisket.
Think about your typical cooking needs – are you grilling for two most nights, or hosting weekend barbecues for a dozen people?
Functionality: Beyond Basic Grilling
While all Ninja Woodfire grills offer grilling and smoking capabilities, the level of functionality varies. The base models (like the OG301 & OG321) excel at grilling and smoking. Stepping up to the “Pro” models (OG751, OG850, Pro Connect XL) adds features like air frying, roasting, baking, and even dehydrating, turning your outdoor grill into a versatile outdoor kitchen. Consider how many cooking methods you want in one appliance. If you primarily want to grill and smoke, a simpler model will suffice. If you’re looking for a multi-functional appliance to replace other outdoor cooking tools, a Pro model is a better investment.
Smart Features & Convenience
Some models, like the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL, offer smart features via the Ninja ProConnect app. These include remote monitoring of cook time and temperature, real-time notifications (preheating, food addition, flipping), and access to cooking charts. These features are beneficial for those who want precise control and convenience, allowing you to manage your cook from anywhere. However, they add to the cost and require a smartphone connection.
Other Features to Consider
- Built-in Thermometer: Allows for precise temperature monitoring and alerts.
- Weather Resistance: Important for year-round outdoor use and storage.
- Portability: Models are generally portable, but consider weight and size if you plan to move it frequently.
- Crisper Basket: Useful for air frying smaller items.
- Included Accessories: Pellet scoop, grease tray liners, and starter pellet packs add value.
Ninja Wood Fired Outdoor Grill Comparison
| Product | Functionality | Cooking Area (sq. in.) | Built-in Thermometer | App Connectivity | Wood Pellet Capacity (for smoke) | Weather Resistance | Air Fryer Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL | 7-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate) | 180 | Yes (Dual) | Yes | ½ cup | Yes | Yes |
| Ninja Woodfire Pro XL OG850 | 4-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Air Fry, Oven) | 180 | Yes | No | ½ cup | Yes | Yes |
| Ninja Woodfire Pro OG751 | 3-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Air Fry) | 141 | Yes | No | ½ cup | Yes | Yes |
| Ninja Woodfire OG321 | 3-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Air Fry) | 141 | No | No | ½ cup | Yes | Yes |
| Ninja Woodfire OG301 | 2-in-1 (Grill, BBQ) | 141 | No | No | ½ cup | Yes | No |
| Ninja Woodfire OG701 | 3-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Air Fry) | 141 | No | No | ½ cup | Yes | Yes |
Testing & Data Analysis: Ninja Wood Fired Outdoor Grills
Our evaluation of Ninja Wood Fired Outdoor Grills centers on data-driven analysis and comparative testing, acknowledging the limited scope for traditional physical product testing due to the technology’s reliance on software and controlled heating elements. We analyze user reviews across multiple retail platforms (Amazon, Best Buy, directly from Ninja) to identify recurring themes regarding performance, durability, and ease of use.
Key metrics include reported temperature accuracy, pellet consumption rates (correlating with user cook times), and reported success rates with various food types (steak, ribs, pizza – aligning with Ninja’s advertised capabilities). We compare specifications – cooking area, temperature range, and added functionalities like air frying – across models (OG301, OG701, Pro XL, Pro Connect XL) to assess value propositions.
Furthermore, we examine independent reviews from reputable sources like Serious Eats and CNET for objective performance assessments. Data points from these reviews, combined with user feedback, inform our understanding of how well each grill delivers on the promise of wood-fired flavor and versatile cooking. We also consider the usability of the Ninja ProConnect app, assessing user satisfaction with its features and reliability, especially for the “Connect” models. This multi-faceted approach ensures a robust and informed evaluation of each Ninja grill option.
FAQs
What type of wood pellets does the Ninja Woodfire grill use?
The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill uses real wood pellets for authentic smoky flavor, but they are primarily for flavor, not fuel. You’ll only need about ½ cup per cook. You can experiment with different wood blends like robust or all-purpose to customize your flavor profiles.
How does the Ninja Woodfire grill compare to traditional charcoal or propane grills?
Unlike charcoal or propane grills, the Ninja grill uses electric power with wood pellets. This offers the smoky flavor of woodfire without the mess and hassle of managing flames or charcoal. It’s a convenient way to achieve authentic wood-fired results.
What are the benefits of a “Pro” model Ninja Woodfire grill?
The “Pro” models (like the Pro XL and Pro Connect XL) offer additional functionality beyond grilling and smoking, including air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating. This makes them a versatile outdoor cooking appliance, ideal if you want to replace multiple kitchen tools.
Is the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL worth the extra cost?
The Pro Connect XL offers smart features like remote monitoring and real-time notifications via the Ninja ProConnect app, providing precise control and convenience. If you value these features and want to manage your cook from anywhere, it can be a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill depends on your individual needs and cooking style. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, these grills offer a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy wood-fired cooking without the traditional hassle.
Consider your typical group size, desired functionality, and budget when making your decision. With a range of models available, Ninja Woodfire grills provide a compelling option for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience.





