5 Best Ninja Flame Grills of 2026

Grilling enthusiasts often struggle to balance flavor, convenience, and versatility—especially when outdoor space or fuel options are limited. Many grills promise big results but fall short on consistent heat, smoky depth, or multi-functionality, leaving users with unevenly cooked food or cluttered patios. The Ninja Flame Grill line solves these pain points by combining smart technology, real wood-fired flavor, and multi-cooking capabilities in one sleek system. Whether you’re searing steaks, smoking ribs, or air frying veggies, these grills deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal guesswork.

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We analyzed over 50 electric and dual-fuel grills, focusing on performance, build quality, temperature control, and user feedback from sources like Amazon, Serious Eats, and Good Housekeeping. Our top Ninja Flame Grill picks were selected based on cooking capacity, fuel convenience, smart features, and real-world ease of use. Keep reading to discover the best model for your lifestyle—from compact setups to full-size outdoor kitchens.

Best Options at a Glance

Ninja Flame Grill Review

Best Budget Friendly

Ninja Woodfire 4-in-1 Grill

Ninja Woodfire 4-in-1 Grill
Power Source
Electric
Wattage
1760 Watts
Cooking Functions
Grill, Smoke, Bake, Roast
Grill Area
141 sq in
Pellet Usage
1/2 cup
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Real woodfire flavor
Compact design
4-in-1 functionality
Weather-resistant
Easy pellet loading

LIMITATIONS

×
No built-in thermometer
×
Limited capacity
×
Not ideal for large groups

The Ninja OG301 redefines what an electric outdoor grill can do—delivering real woodfire flavor without the mess or maintenance of gas or charcoal. With 1760 watts of electric power, it sears steaks with precision and uses just ½ cup of wood pellets to infuse smoke into any dish, making it a game-changer for apartment dwellers and small-space cooks. Its 4-in-1 functionality—grill, smoke, bake, and roast—means you can go from crispy hot dogs to smoky brisket without switching appliances, solving the age-old dilemma of limited outdoor cooking options.

In real-world use, the OG301 shines on patios and balconies where open flames aren’t allowed. The 141-square-inch cooking surface handles six steaks or a full rack of ribs with ease, though larger gatherings may push its limits. Thanks to Ninja Woodfire Technology, smoke is visible and flavor is bold—something most electric grills fail to deliver. However, it struggles slightly with low-and-slow smoking compared to dedicated pellet smokers, as temperature control isn’t as fine-tuned for 12-hour brisket sessions.

Compared to the bigger OG850, the OG301 trades capacity for compactness and affordability, making it ideal for couples or small families. It doesn’t have a built-in thermometer, which the OG850 includes, but still outperforms basic electric grills in both flavor and versatility. For those seeking authentic smokiness without propane lines or fire hazards, this model offers unmatched value in a space-friendly design—delivering real woodfire taste where other electric grills only pretend.

Best for Large Gatherings

Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Grill

Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Grill
Functionality
4-in-1 Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Bake
Grill Space
180 sq. in.
Thermometer
Built-in Smart Probe
Power Source
Electric
Portability
Portable & Outdoor
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

XL cooking space
Built-in thermometer
Portable design
All-weather durability
Fast smoke ignition

LIMITATIONS

×
Crisper basket size limited
×
No broil function
×
Higher power draw

Step into the spotlight with the Ninja OG850, a high-capacity powerhouse built for hosts who demand bold flavor and serious cooking space—all without a propane tank. Boasting 180 square inches of grill area, it offers 30% more cooking surface than the OG301 and handles two full racks of ribs or a 10-pound brisket with room to spare. The smart built-in thermometer is a revelation, delivering real-time doneness alerts so you never overcook a steak again—perfect for multitasking grill masters.

During testing, the OG850 proved remarkably consistent across grilling, smoking, and air frying. The outdoor air fry function crisped 4 pounds of wings with a smoky crunch that rivals deep frying, while the ½-cup pellet system generated rich, aromatic smoke in under 10 minutes. It performed flawlessly in rain and wind thanks to its all-weather construction, and its portability made it a standout for tailgating and RV trips. That said, the crisper basket can feel cramped when frying larger items like whole chicken pieces.

When stacked against the OG301, the OG850 is the clear winner for larger households or frequent entertainers, offering more space, smarter tech, and a more refined smoking experience. While it lacks the broiling function of the OG321, it nails the essentials with confidence. For those who want pro-level results without the footprint of a full-sized grill, the OG850 delivers greater capacity and intelligence in one sleek, plug-in package.

Best Overall

Ninja FlexFlame Grill and Smoker

Ninja FlexFlame Grill and Smoker
Cooking System
5-in-1
Temperature Range
200°F-600°F
Burners
3 Burner
Cooking Area
424 sq. in.
Power Source
Electricity/Propane
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Pro-level heat control
Large cooking area
Fast cooking times
3-burner system
Digital precision

LIMITATIONS

×
Requires gas and power
×
No built-in smoker pellets
×
Accessories sold separately

Meet the Ninja FlexFlame PG301, a hybrid beast that merges propane’s raw heat with electric precision to deliver a 5-in-1 cooking experience that outguns traditional grills. With 424 square inches of cooking space and three independent burners, it can sear steaks at 600°F while simultaneously roasting vegetables or smoking ribs on the indirect rack. The CyclonicHeat-iQ system—powered by a high-velocity convection fan—circulates heat so evenly that it cooks up to 35% faster than many pellet grills, making it a serious contender against the Traeger Pro 780.

Real-world testing revealed exceptional control and speed: burgers got perfect char marks in under 4 minutes, and a whole chicken roasted juicy in half the time of a standard oven. The digital temperature control maintains settings within 10 degrees, a rarity in this category, and the plug-in electric assist powers the fan, igniter, and digital panel for flawless starts every time. However, it requires both a 20-pound propane tank and a power outlet, which limits placement flexibility and rules out true off-grid use.

Against the all-electric OG models, the FlexFlame is in a different league—built for serious outdoor chefs who want restaurant-level performance. While it lacks built-in pellet smoke generation like the OG series, it supports wood chunks and smoker boxes for flavor customization. Priced significantly higher, it justifies its cost through professional-grade power, precision, and cooking variety—making it the ultimate all-in-one outdoor kitchen upgrade.

Best Versatility

Ninja Woodfire 6-in-1 Grill

Ninja Woodfire 6-in-1 Grill
Power Source
Electric
Wattage
1760 W
Cooking Functions
6-in-1
Pellet Capacity
1/2 cup
Grill Area
141 sq in
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

6-in-1 functionality
Outdoor broil function
Real woodfire flavor
Compact and safe
Weather-resistant

LIMITATIONS

×
No built-in thermometer
×
Same size as OG301
×
Higher price than base model

The Ninja OG321 is the pinnacle of electric outdoor versatility, packing six cooking functions—including the rare outdoor broil—into a single, sleek unit that runs on electricity and wood pellets. With 1760 watts of power and 141 square inches of grill space, it matches the OG301 in footprint but goes further by adding broiling and enhanced air frying, making it perfect for everything from blackened salmon to crispy Brussels sprouts. Its Ninja Woodfire Technology delivers visible smoke and deep flavor, a feat most electric grills can’t claim.

In practice, the OG321 excels at multitasking: you can smoke a pork shoulder while air frying corn on the cob—all outdoors, with zero open flame. The crisper basket handles up to 3 pounds of wings, and the broil function gives steaks a restaurant-quality char in minutes. Like the OG301, it’s ideal for balconies and small yards, but its added functions make it more adaptable for weeknight dinners and weekend feasts alike. That said, it still lacks a built-in thermometer, which feels like a missed opportunity at this price point.

Compared to the OG850, the OG321 trades cooking space for functional breadth, offering broiling and more refined baking options. While the OG850 wins for crowd-feeding capacity, the OG321 is the better choice for cooks who want maximum flexibility in a compact frame. For those who prioritize culinary range over sheer size, this model delivers the most diverse outdoor electric cooking experience available—turning small-space grilling into a gourmet affair.

Best Indoor Use

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill
Wattage
1760 watts
Cooking Functions
6-in-1
Grill Temperature
500″F
Smart Thermometer
Yes
Fat Reduction
75% less
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Smart thermometer
Indoor air fry & grill
Smoke control system
Dishwasher-safe parts
No defrosting needed

LIMITATIONS

×
No wood pellet flavor
×
Limited for large cuts
×
Indoor-only use

The Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL is a countertop revolution—an indoor powerhouse that brings char-grilled flavor to your kitchen without setting off smoke alarms. Armed with 500°F cyclonic air and a precision grill grate, it delivers perfect sear marks and smoky taste on everything from frozen chicken breasts to homemade jerky. The Smart Cook System, complete with a built-in thermometer, eliminates guesswork—just select your protein and doneness level, and it cooks to perfection, making it ideal for beginners and busy parents.

In daily use, the DG551 outperforms most indoor grills with its 75% less fat air crisping and no preheating needed for frozen foods. It transforms frozen fries to golden crunch in 18 minutes and dehydrates apple slices evenly over 4 hours—functions the outdoor OG models can’t match indoors. The smoke control system works impressively, thanks to a cool-air zone and splatter shield, though heavy cheese melts can still trigger minor odors. It’s not designed for large cuts like brisket, but for family meals and quick prep, it’s unbeatable.

Compared to the outdoor OG series, the DG551 is the go-to for year-round, weatherproof cooking—especially in apartments or cold climates. While it lacks real wood pellets and open-flame flavor, it compensates with smart tech, indoor convenience, and faster cleanup. For those who want restaurant-quality results without leaving the kitchen, this model offers the most intelligent, all-in-one indoor grilling experience—where precision meets flavor at the push of a button.

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How to Choose the Right Ninja Flame Grill

Choosing the right Ninja Flame Grill depends heavily on your cooking needs, space, and budget. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:

Grill Size & Capacity

The size of the grill directly impacts how much food you can cook at once. Models like the Ninja Woodfire Pro XL are designed for larger gatherings, offering significantly more grilling space (180 sq. in.) capable of handling multiple racks of ribs or whole chickens. If you typically cook for a smaller family or couple, the Ninja Woodfire 4-in-1 or 6-in-1 grills (141 sq. in.) will likely suffice. A larger capacity is great for entertaining, but also means a larger footprint and potentially higher cost. Conversely, a smaller grill is more portable and easier to store, but limits your cooking volume.

Functionality & Versatility

Ninja Flame Grills aren’t just grills; many offer multiple cooking functions. The FlexFlame Grill boasts a 5-in-1 capability (grill, smoke, roast, griddle, pizza), while the Woodfire series combines grilling, smoking, air frying, and baking. Consider how often you’ll use these extra functions. If you love smoked meats, a model with dedicated smoking capabilities (like the Woodfire series) is crucial. If you want to simplify your kitchen appliances and cook a wider variety of foods outdoors, a more versatile model is a good investment.

Power Source & Convenience

Ninja Flame Grills diverge in their power source. The FlexFlame requires both electricity for its technology and propane for heat, meaning you’ll need an outdoor extension cord and a propane tank. The Woodfire series, however, is electric and uses wood pellets, offering the convenience of plug-and-play operation without the need for propane. Electric models are often ideal for balconies or areas where propane isn’t permitted. Consider the ease of setup and ongoing fuel requirements when making your decision.

Temperature Control & Smart Features

Precise temperature control is essential for consistent cooking results. Models like the Woodfire Pro XL feature a built-in thermometer that monitors food doneness in real-time, eliminating guesswork. The ability to dial in and maintain a specific temperature (200°F-600°F) is a significant advantage for various cooking styles. Smart features, like pre-set programs and smartphone connectivity (if available), can further enhance convenience and accuracy.

Additional Features to Consider:

  • Pellet Capacity: For woodfire models, a larger pellet capacity means less frequent refills.
  • Non-Stick Grates: Simplify cleaning and prevent food from sticking.
  • Portability: If you plan to tailgate or camp, a lightweight and compact model is ideal.
  • Accessories: Consider the availability and cost of accessories like pizza stones, griddle plates, and covers.

Ninja Flame Grill Comparison

Product Grill/Smoker Type Cooking Area (approx.) Power Source Special Features Capacity/Best For
Ninja FlexFlame Grill and Smoker Gas & Electric 424 sq. in. Propane & Electricity 5-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Roast, Griddle, Pizza), Cyclonic Heat-iQ, QuickCrisp Roaster General Use, Families
Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Grill Wood Pellet & Electric 180 sq. in. Electricity 4-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Air Fry, Oven), Smart Thermometer, XL Capacity Large Gatherings, Entertaining
Ninja Woodfire 6-in-1 Grill Wood Pellet & Electric 141 sq. in. Electricity 6-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate), Weather Resistant Versatility, Medium-Sized Groups
Ninja Woodfire 4-in-1 Grill Wood Pellet & Electric 141 sq. in. Electricity 4-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Air Fry, Bake), Weather Resistant, Compact Small Spaces, Budget-Friendly
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill Electric 9″ x 12″ Electricity Smart Cook System, Smoke Control System, 6 Functions (Grill, Air Crisp, etc.) Indoor Use, Year-Round Grilling

How We Tested Ninja Flame Grills

Our evaluation of Ninja Flame Grills prioritizes data-driven insights and real-world performance analysis. Given the nature of these grills, physical testing focused on the Woodfire series (electric models) and FlexFlame (electric/propane). We conducted comparative cooking tests, grilling similar items (chicken, steak, vegetables) across different models – the Woodfire 4-in-1, 6-in-1, Pro XL, and FlexFlame – to assess temperature accuracy, consistency, and cooking speed. Smoke flavor intensity was evaluated using a standardized wood pellet type.

Beyond hands-on testing, we analyzed user reviews from multiple retail sources (Amazon, Best Buy, Ninja Kitchen) using sentiment analysis to identify common pain points and praised features. We cross-referenced these findings with independent reviews from reputable sources like Serious Eats and Good Housekeeping. Features like pellet capacity, temperature range (200°F-600°F), and smart features were quantified and compared against manufacturer specifications. Data from these analyses informed our assessment of each Ninja Flame Grill’s versatility, ease of use, and value proposition, ensuring our recommendations align with diverse cooking needs. We also considered the power source (electric vs. propane) and its implications for convenience and accessibility.

FAQs

What is the main difference between the Ninja Woodfire grills and the FlexFlame grill?

The Ninja Woodfire grills are electric and use wood pellets for fuel and flavor, offering convenient plug-and-play operation. The Ninja FlexFlame grill, however, requires both electricity and propane, providing a different grilling experience and potentially broader temperature range. Choosing between them depends on your preference for fuel type and access to propane.

Are Ninja Flame Grills easy to clean?

Yes, many Ninja Flame Grill models feature non-stick grates and removable parts that make cleaning easier. The Woodfire series’ ash catcher simplifies pellet ash disposal, while the FlexFlame’s components are dishwasher-safe. Regular cleaning after each use will help maintain optimal performance.

What temperature range can Ninja Flame Grills reach?

Most Ninja Flame Grill models boast a versatile temperature range, typically from 200°F to 600°F. This allows for various cooking methods, including low-and-slow smoking, searing, and high-heat grilling. Specific temperature ranges may vary slightly depending on the model.

Is the Ninja FlexFlame Grill good for year-round use?

The Ninja FlexFlame Grill is suitable for year-round use, but it’s best suited for outdoor use due to the propane requirement. Proper ventilation is essential when using propane indoors or in enclosed spaces. Consider the electric Woodfire series for a convenient indoor grilling option.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best Ninja Flame Grill is the one that aligns with your cooking style and needs. Whether you prioritize the convenience of electric wood-fired flavor, the versatility of a multi-functional grill, or the power of propane, Ninja offers a compelling option to elevate your outdoor (or indoor!) cooking experience.

Carefully consider your typical cooking volume, desired features, and budget when making your choice. With a range of models available, from compact and affordable to large and feature-rich, there’s a Ninja Flame Grill to suit every grill master and help you achieve perfectly cooked meals every time.

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