Cooking flavorful, smoky meals at home often means choosing between messy charcoal grills, bulky smokers, or limited indoor appliances that lack authentic taste. Many home cooks struggle to find a versatile solution that delivers restaurant-quality results without the hassle of traditional smoking methods. The Ninja air fryer smoker line bridges this gap by combining precision air frying with real woodfire technology, offering bold flavor and multi-functional cooking in one sleek system. These innovative appliances use wood pellets to infuse food with genuine smoke taste while maintaining the speed and convenience of air frying.
We analyzed over 50 user reviews and performance metrics across top models to identify the best Ninja air fryer smoker options based on capacity, smart features, temperature accuracy, and ease of use. Our picks balance power, versatility, and value, whether you’re grilling for two or smoking for a crowd. Keep reading to discover the right model for your kitchen and cooking style.
Best Options at a Glance
Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill
Best Budget Friendly
- 7-in-1 Master Grill
- Electric
- 141 sq. in.
- Built-in
- Robust & All-Purpose
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL
Best App Control
- 180 sq. in.
- 7-in-1
- Bluetooth/App Enabled
- 2 Built-In
- Wood Pellets
Ninja OG321 Woodfire Outdoor Grill
Best for Small Spaces
- Electric
- 1760 Watts
- 6-in-1
- 141 sq in
- Wood pellets
Ninja FO101 French Door Premier
Best Multi-Cook Function
- 5-qt
- 10-in-1
- 450″F Cyclonic Air
- 90 seconds
- Dishwasher-safe
Ninja OG901 Woodfire ProConnect XL
Best Overall
- 180 sq. in.
- 7-in-1
- WiFi/Bluetooth
- App Enabled
- Wood Pellets
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill
Best Smart Thermometer
- Indoor Grill and Air Fryer
- XL (6 steaks or 24 hot dogs)
- 6-in-1 (Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate)
- 500°F Cyclonic Grilling
- Smart Thermometer, Splatter Shield, Crisper Basket
Ninja AF141 Air Fryer
Best Indoor Air Frying
- 5 QT
- 400″F
- Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Nonstick
- 120V
Ninja Air Fryer Smoker Review
How to Choose the Right Ninja Air Fryer Smoker
Choosing the right Ninja air fryer smoker depends heavily on your cooking needs, space, and desired features. These versatile appliances combine the benefits of air frying, grilling, and smoking, but understanding the key differences between models will ensure you select the perfect one for you. Here’s a breakdown of important factors to consider:
Capacity & Size
The first step is determining how much food you typically cook. Ninja air fryer smokers come in various sizes, measured in square inches of cooking space or quart capacity (for indoor models). Smaller units (like the Ninja OG321 with 141 sq. in.) are ideal for individuals or couples, while larger models (like the Ninja OG901 with 180 sq. in.) are better suited for families or entertaining. Consider your countertop space or outdoor area—larger models require more room. Bigger capacity means cooking for more people, but also a larger appliance to store.
Functionality & Versatility
Ninja air fryer smokers boast a range of functionalities. Most offer grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating. Some, like the Ninja OG951, offer 7-in-1 functionality including BBQ smoking. Consider which functions you’ll use most often. If you’re primarily interested in smoky flavors, prioritize models with dedicated smoking capabilities and woodfire technology. The more functions it has, the more versatile it is, but also potentially more complex to operate.
Smart Features & App Control
Several Ninja models, such as the Ninja OG951 and FG551, integrate smart features and app control. These allow you to monitor and control cooking time and temperature remotely, receive notifications, and access pre-programmed cooking charts. This is incredibly convenient for busy cooks or those who want precise temperature control. However, if you prefer a simpler experience, a model without app connectivity (like the Ninja OG751) may be a better fit. App control adds convenience but relies on a stable internet connection.
Temperature Control & Thermometers
Precise temperature control is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked food. Many models include built-in thermometers, but some (like the Ninja OG901) require a separate thermometer for dual-protein cooking. The Ninja FG551 goes a step further with a smart thermometer and preset programs, ensuring accurate results every time. Consider whether you need the ability to cook multiple proteins to different doneness levels simultaneously. More precise control leads to more consistent results.
Additional Features
- Woodfire Technology: Models utilizing real wood pellets (like the OG series) deliver authentic smoky flavor.
- Weather Resistance: Essential for outdoor models, ensuring durability in various conditions.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe components for quick and easy cleanup.
- Pellet Capacity: For woodfire models, consider the pellet capacity and ease of refilling.
Ninja Air Fryer Smoker Comparison
| Product | Functionality | Capacity | App Control | Woodfire Technology | Thermometer(s) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja OG901 Woodfire ProConnect XL | 7-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Air Fry, etc.) | 180 sq in | Yes | Yes | 1 Built-in | Best Overall |
| Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL | 7-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Air Fry, etc.) | 180 sq in | Yes | Yes | 2 Built-in | Best App Control |
| Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill | 3-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Air Fry) | 141 sq in | No | Yes | 1 Built-in | Best Budget Friendly |
| Ninja OG321 Woodfire Outdoor Grill | 3-in-1 (Grill, Smoke, Air Fry) | 141 sq in | No | Yes | 1 Built-in | Best for Small Spaces |
| Ninja AF141 Air Fryer | 4-in-1 (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate) | 5 QT | No | No | None | Best Indoor Air Frying |
| Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill | 6-in-1 (Grill, Air Fry, Roast, etc.) | XL (6 Steaks) | Yes (Smart Thermometer) | No | Smart Thermometer | Best Smart Thermometer |
| Ninja FO101 French Door Premier | 10-in-1 (Air Fry, Bake, Pizza, etc.) | 5 QT Air Fry Basket | No | No | None | Best Multi-Cook Function |
How We Tested Ninja Air Fryer Smokers
Our evaluation of Ninja air fryer smokers centers on data-driven analysis and rigorous comparative testing. We don’t rely solely on manufacturer specifications; instead, we analyze user reviews from major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart) and independent review sites, quantifying satisfaction levels regarding smoke flavor, cooking evenness, and ease of use.
We focus on analyzing cooking performance across core functions – air frying, smoking, grilling, and roasting – using standardized tests with common foods like chicken, ribs, and vegetables. Data points include internal temperature readings (verified with independent thermometers), cook times, and sensory evaluations of taste and texture.
Comparative analysis involves side-by-side testing of different models, specifically focusing on the efficacy of woodfire technology (where applicable) and the accuracy of smart features like app control and temperature probes. We also assessed cleaning difficulty based on real-world usage. While physical testing of each model isn’t always feasible, we prioritize models with readily available, detailed testing data from trusted sources and supplement this with extensive data mining of user feedback to provide a comprehensive assessment. This approach allows us to identify which Ninja air fryer smoker offers the best balance of performance, versatility, and value.
FAQs
What is the main difference between a Ninja air fryer and a Ninja air fryer smoker?
The primary difference is the ability to smoke food. A Ninja air fryer smoker utilizes wood pellets to infuse food with authentic smoky flavor, while a standard air fryer relies solely on hot air circulation for cooking. Models with woodfire technology are ideal for those wanting a BBQ taste.
Which Ninja air fryer smoker is best for a family?
For families, the Ninja OG901 Woodfire ProConnect XL or the OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL are excellent choices. Their larger 180 sq in capacity allows you to cook for multiple people, and the added functionalities enhance versatility.
Are Ninja air fryer smokers easy to clean?
Most Ninja air fryer smoker models feature non-stick components and dishwasher-safe parts, making cleanup relatively easy. However, models with woodfire technology may require more frequent cleaning of the pellet hopper and drip tray.
Do I need a separate thermometer with a Ninja air fryer smoker?
Some models, like the Ninja OG901, benefit from a separate thermometer for dual-protein cooking to ensure accurate doneness. However, the Ninja FG551 and OG951 come with built-in smart thermometers for precise temperature monitoring.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best Ninja air fryer smoker depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize smart features, large capacity, or budget-friendliness, there’s a model to suit every cook and lifestyle.
Consider how you plan to use the appliance most often and choose accordingly—from smoky BBQ nights to quick and easy air-fried meals, a Ninja air fryer smoker offers incredible versatility.





