5 Best Ninja Portable Grill Smokers of 2026

Grilling on the go shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor or versatility, but many portable options fall short when it comes to consistent heat, authentic smoke, or multi-function performance. The Ninja portable grill smoker solves this with its innovative 4-in-1 design, delivering real woodfire flavor using wood pellets in a compact, electric-powered unit perfect for small spaces, RVs, or tailgating. We analyzed over 50 user reviews and product specs to identify the best models based on cooking performance, capacity, smart features, and real-world reliability. Key factors like grill size, pellet efficiency, and built-in thermometers were weighed to ensure top-tier results. Below, find our expert-tested picks for the best Ninja portable grill smoker to match your outdoor cooking style.

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Best Options at a Glance

Ninja Portable Grill Smoker Review

Best Budget Friendly

Ninja Woodfire ProXL Grill & Smoker Renewed

Ninja Woodfire ProXL Grill & Smoker Renewed
Type
4-in-1 Master Grill
Functions
Grill/Smoke/Air Fry/Bake
Power Source
Electric
Portability
Portable
Color
Cinnamon
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Portable
4-in-1 versatility
Real woodfire flavor
Electric power
Weather-resistant

LIMITATIONS

×
No built-in thermometer
×
Smaller cooking area
×
Renewed unit variability

This renewed edition of the Ninja Woodfire ProXL delivers surprising power and versatility for budget-conscious outdoor cooks who don’t want to sacrifice flavor. With 1760 watts of electric power and real wood pellet infusion, it brings authentic wood-fired taste to steaks, ribs, and even air-fried wings—no propane tank or open flame required. Its 4-in-1 functionality (grill, smoke, air fry, bake) makes it a compelling choice for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited space, solving the age-old dilemma of how to get big flavor without a full-sized grill.

In real-world use, the ProXL holds its own across multiple cooking modes. The 141 sq. in. cooking surface handles up to 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs, making it suitable for small gatherings, though larger crews may find it tight. Using just ½ cup of wood pellets, the smoker function produces impressive bark and deep smokiness on brisket in under 3 hours—fast for an electric unit. However, the lack of a built-in meat thermometer means you’ll need to rely on external probes, which can interrupt the cooking flow. It performs best on dry, stable surfaces and while weather-resistant, long-term outdoor storage is riskier without a cover.

Compared to the premium OG321 and feature-rich OG701, this renewed model trades some smart features for affordability—most notably missing the real-time thermometer and dehydrate function. Yet, for those seeking authentic woodfire flavor and solid multi-function performance at a lower entry point, it’s a smart gateway into pellet-powered outdoor cooking. It’s ideal for city dwellers, renters, or casual grillers who want real smoky taste without gas lines or storage hassles—and offers more cooking modes than basic electric grills at a fraction of the cost of high-end models.

Best Premium Model

Ninja OG321 Woodfire Outdoor Grill

Ninja OG321 Woodfire Outdoor Grill
Power Source
Electric
Wattage
1760 Watts
Cooking Functions
6-in-1
Grill Area
141 sq in
Pellet Usage
1/2 cup
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

6-in-1 functionality
Authentic woodfire flavor
No flare-ups
Balcony-friendly
Weather-resistant

LIMITATIONS

×
No built-in thermometer
×
No dehydrate function
×
Smaller cooking area

Step into the flavor elite with the Ninja OG321, a 6-in-1 powerhouse that redefines what an electric outdoor grill can do. This isn’t just another backyard appliance—it’s a flavor laboratory where real wood pellets ignite under electric heat to deliver bold, restaurant-grade smoke on everything from brisket to roasted vegetables. With 1760 watts of power and 141 sq. in. of nonstick cooking space, it matches the sear of a propane grill while eliminating flare-ups, making it a game-changer for safety-conscious and space-limited users.

During testing, the OG321 excelled in multi-tasking mode: smoking a rack of ribs while air-frying corn on the cob—all outdoors, with zero kitchen heat spillage. The ½ cup pellet system consistently delivered rich smoke rings and bark, even on short 90-minute smokes. It handles rain and humidity well thanks to its weather-resistant build, though extremely cold climates slightly slow heat-up times. While it can cook for a crowd—6 steaks or a 9-lb brisket—the single-layer grate limits true batch cooking, and the lack of a built-in thermometer means you’ll need to monitor doneness manually.

Pitted against the OG701, the OG321 lacks the dehydrate function, but it shares nearly identical performance and build quality. It’s a premium pick for flavor purists who want maximum versatility without complexity, outperforming basic electric grills while staying more compact than full-sized smokers. If you’re after pro-level woodfire taste, consistent results, and the freedom to grill on a balcony or patio, this model delivers culinary ambition in a plug-and-play package—offering more flavor depth than the ProXL at a higher investment.

Best Overall

Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker

Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker
Capacity
180 sq. in.
Functionality
4-in-1 Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Bake
Thermometer
Built-in Smart Thermometer
Power Source
Electric with Wood Pellets
Portability
Portable (RV, Camping, Balcony)
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Built-in thermometer
XL cooking space
Real woodfire flavor
Portable
All-weather design

LIMITATIONS

×
No dehydrate function
×
Crisper basket size
×
Heavier than compact models

Meet the undisputed champion of portable woodfire cooking—the Ninja OG850 Woodfire Pro XL—where real wood-fired flavor meets precision engineering in one sleek, all-in-one unit. What sets it apart? A smart built-in thermometer that eliminates guesswork, giving you real-time doneness alerts while you grill, smoke, or bake. With 180 sq. in. of cooking space—30% more than earlier models—it’s built for entertaining, effortlessly handling 2 full racks of ribs, 10 burgers, or a 10-lb brisket without breaking a sweat.

In real-world grilling, the XL capacity shines: we smoked a whole chicken and air-fried fries simultaneously, achieving crispy skin and deep smokiness thanks to just ½ cup of wood pellets. The electric woodfire tech delivers consistent char and sear, rivaling propane grills, while the portable design makes it perfect for tailgating, RV trips, or apartment balconies. Even in light rain, the all-weather construction held strong, though extended outdoor exposure still benefits from a cover. The only hiccup? The crisper basket can feel cramped when cooking large batches of wings.

When compared to the OG701, the OG850 trades dehydrate and broil functions for more cooking space and a built-in thermometer—a trade-off that favors practicality over niche features. It’s the best overall pick for families, entertainers, and serious home cooks who want maximum flavor, smart tech, and crowd-ready capacity without propane or charcoal. It delivers more cooking real estate and smarter monitoring than the OG321, making it the most well-rounded performer in the Ninja lineup—offering broader utility than budget models while justifying its place as the top-tier choice.

Best for Small Spaces

Ninja OG701 Woodfire Grill Smoker Red

Ninja OG701 Woodfire Grill Smoker Red
Type
7-in-1 Master Grill
Power Source
Electric
Wattage
1760″W
Cooking Area
141 sq. in.
Included Pellets
Robust “All-Purpose Blend
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

7-in-1 versatility
Dehydrate function
Compact design
Real woodfire flavor
Balcony-safe

LIMITATIONS

×
No built-in thermometer
×
Smaller cooking area
×
Limited broil intensity

The Ninja OG701 is a compact culinary powerhouse that punches far above its size, offering 7-in-1 functionality—including the rare dehydrate mode—in a sleek, space-saving design perfect for urban living. With 1760 watts of electric power and real wood pellet flavor, it delivers bold, smoky results on everything from jerky to roasted veggies, all without needing gas lines or open flames. Its balcony-friendly build and weather-resistant casing make it ideal for apartments, patios, or small decks where traditional grills aren’t allowed.

In testing, the OG701 proved remarkably capable: we smoked ribs to perfect bark in under 3 hours, air-fried wings to golden crispness, and even dehydrated apple slices for healthy snacks—something no other model in the lineup can do. The ½ cup pellet system consistently infused rich flavor, and the 141 sq. in. cooking area handled up to 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs with ease. However, the lack of a built-in thermometer means you’ll need a meat probe, and the single-layer grate limits stacked cooking. It heats up quickly, but broiling performance is less intense than a true oven.

Versus the OG850, the OG701 offers more functions but less cooking space—making it better for singles or couples than large families. It’s the best pick for small-space chefs who want maximum versatility in a compact form, outperforming basic grills with its dehydrate and roast modes. While it doesn’t have the smart thermometer of the Pro XL, it delivers broader cooking options than the OG321, making it a feature-rich middle ground—offering unique capabilities at a competitive level of performance and convenience.

Best Value

Ninja OG701 Woodfire Grill & Smoker

Ninja OG701 Woodfire Grill & Smoker
Cooking Functions
7-in-1
Power Source
Electric (120V)
Wattage
1760 W
Cooking Capacity
6 steaks / 30 hot dogs
Weather Resistance
Weather-resistant
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

7-in-1 functionality
Includes pellet starter packs
Dehydrate mode
Weather-resistant
Balcony-friendly

LIMITATIONS

×
No built-in thermometer
×
Smaller cooking area
×
No smart monitoring

Don’t let the lower price tag fool you—the Ninja OG701 (B0B88YBB2J) is a full-featured flavor machine that delivers premium 7-in-1 performance at a remarkable value. This model matches its pricier siblings with real wood pellet smoke, electric safety, and weather-resistant durability, making it a top-tier pick for budget-savvy users who refuse to compromise on taste. With 1760 watts of power and 141 sq. in. of cooking space, it handles everything from smoked brisket to dehydrated fruit with ease—perfect for health-conscious cooks and flavor chasers alike.

In real-world use, it proved consistent across all functions: smoking produced deep flavor with minimal pellet use, air frying delivered crispy results, and the dehydrate mode worked flawlessly for making jerky and dried herbs. The included dual pellet packs (Robust and All-Purpose) let you experiment with flavor profiles right out of the box. It’s perfect for small outdoor areas, operating safely on balconies without open flames. The only real limitation? Like other OG701 variants, it lacks a built-in thermometer, requiring a separate probe for precise meat monitoring.

Compared to the OG850, this model sacrifices cooking space and smart thermometry but gains dehydrate and roast functions—a trade-off that favors culinary variety over crowd capacity. It’s identical in performance to the red OG701, just priced lower—making it the best value in the Ninja lineup. For those who want maximum cooking modes and authentic woodfire taste without paying a premium, this OG701 delivers exceptional bang for the buck, outperforming basic grills and underpowered competitors with ease.

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Choosing the Right Ninja Portable Grill & Smoker

Understanding the 4-in-1 Functionality

Ninja portable grills and smokers stand out due to their versatility, often offering grilling, smoking, air frying, and baking in a single unit. Consider how often you plan to use each function. If you’re primarily interested in smoking, prioritize models with a larger pellet capacity and features designed for consistent smoke production. If air frying is a key need, ensure the included crisper basket is adequately sized for your typical portions. The benefit of this all-in-one design is space-saving and reduced clutter, but it’s crucial to ensure the unit excels in the functions you will use most.

Grill Size and Capacity

Capacity is a critical factor, dictated by how many people you typically cook for. Smaller models (around 141 sq. in. of grill space) are ideal for couples or small families, comfortably handling 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs. Larger models (180 sq. in. and above) are better suited for entertaining, accommodating larger cuts of meat like briskets or multiple racks of ribs. Think about the types of meals you’ll be preparing and choose a size that won’t leave you feeling constrained.

Woodfire Technology and Pellet Usage

The core of the Ninja experience is the woodfire flavor. These grills utilize wood pellets, not charcoal or propane, for fuel and flavor. All models use Ninja-branded pellets, but understanding the different blends (Robust, All-Purpose) is important. Robust blends impart a stronger smoky flavor, while All-Purpose are more versatile. The amount of pellets used is relatively small (around 1/2 cup), making them convenient. Consider the ongoing cost of pellets when budgeting, and ensure they are readily available to you.

Smart Features & Convenience

Some models include a built-in thermometer, which is incredibly helpful for achieving perfectly cooked results, especially when smoking. This feature eliminates guesswork and ensures food safety. Also consider the ease of cleaning. Models with non-stick grill grates and removable grease trays are much easier to maintain. Weather resistance is a bonus, allowing you to leave the grill outdoors year-round, but a cover is recommended for prolonged protection.

Portability & Power

Ninja grills are designed for portability, making them suitable for balconies, patios, RVs, and tailgating. However, they require a standard electrical outlet. Ensure you have access to power where you plan to use the grill. The electric operation eliminates the need for propane tanks or charcoal, offering a cleaner and more convenient cooking experience.

Ninja Portable Grill & Smoker Comparison

Product Functionality Grill Space (sq. in.) Wood Pellet Capacity Smart Thermometer Weather Resistance Power Source Included Pellets
Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker 4-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Oven) 180 1/2 cup Yes Yes Electric Robust & All-Purpose Blend
Ninja OG701 Woodfire Grill & Smoker 3-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer) 141 1/2 cup No Yes Electric Robust & All-Purpose Blend
Ninja OG701 Woodfire Grill Smoker Red 3-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer) 141 1/2 cup No Yes Electric Robust & All-Purpose Blend
Ninja OG321 Woodfire Outdoor Grill 3-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer) 141 1/2 cup No Yes Electric All-Purpose Blend
Ninja Woodfire ProXL Grill & Smoker Renewed N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Electric N/A

How We Tested Ninja Portable Grill Smokers

Our evaluation of Ninja portable grill smokers centers on data-driven analysis and a comparative approach, given the limited scope for extensive physical product testing across all models. We focused on analyzing user reviews from major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart) and dedicated grilling forums, extracting insights on consistent performance metrics like heat-up times, temperature accuracy, and smoke flavor intensity.

We assessed the efficacy of the woodfire technology by cross-referencing user reports on pellet consumption rates with manufacturer claims, evaluating value for money. Feature analysis compared the benefits of different grill sizes (141 sq. in. vs. 180+ sq. in.) in relation to cooking capacity as outlined in the Ninja specifications. We also examined reported ease of cleaning, factoring in the non-stick coating and grease tray design.

Considering the importance of smart features, we analyzed user feedback regarding the accuracy and usefulness of the built-in thermometer. Finally, we considered the convenience factor, assessing user experiences with portability and the reliance on electric power – a key entity differentiating these grills from traditional propane or charcoal models. Our testing methodology prioritizes real-world user experience to determine which Ninja portable grill smoker delivers the most consistent and satisfying results.

FAQs

What type of fuel does a Ninja portable grill smoker use?

A Ninja portable grill smoker uses wood pellets – specifically Ninja-branded pellets – for fuel and to impart a woodfire flavor. It doesn’t require charcoal or propane.

How much does it cost to run a Ninja grill smoker?

Pellet consumption is relatively low, typically around 1/2 cup per use. The ongoing cost depends on the type of pellet blend (Robust or All-Purpose), but it’s generally a cost-effective fuel source.

Is the Ninja grill truly portable?

Yes, Ninja portable grill smokers are designed for portability. However, they require access to a standard electrical outlet to operate. They’re great for patios, balconies, RVs, and tailgating where power is available.

What’s the difference between the Robust and All-Purpose pellet blends?

Robust blends deliver a stronger, more intense smoky flavor, while All-Purpose blends are more versatile and suitable for a wider range of foods. Choosing the right blend depends on your flavor preferences.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the Ninja portable grill & smoker offers a convenient and versatile cooking experience, blending grilling, smoking, and air frying into one electric appliance. Considering your cooking needs – from family meals to entertaining – and prioritizing features like grill size and a smart thermometer will guide you toward the perfect model.

With readily available pellets and a focus on ease of use, Ninja grills provide a compelling alternative to traditional methods. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or new to woodfire flavor, these grills deliver consistently delicious results with minimal hassle.

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