When it comes to indoor grilling, the Ninja brand has carved a solid niche with its innovative and efficient products. However, the real question is, which model stands out? In this review, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison of two of Ninja’s highly-rated grills – the Ninja AG301 and the FG551. Both models offer exceptional features and technology that can transform your cooking experience, but they have some unique attributes that set them apart. Throughout this comparison of the Ninja AG301 vs FG551, we’ll highlight their special features, capabilities, and overall performance, ensuring that by the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which grill suits your needs better. Whether you’re a seasoned cook looking to upgrade your kitchen appliance or a beginner venturing into the world of indoor grilling, this guide will prove instrumental in your decision-making process. Get ready as we pit the Ninja AG301 vs FG551 in this epic indoor grill showdown.
Delving Deeper into the Battle of Ninja AG301 Vs FG551 Indoor Grills
The main difference between the Ninja AG301 vs FG551 lies in their Smart Cook features and the integrated thermometer. The Ninja FG551 is equipped with a Smart Cook System and a dual-sensor Foodi Smart Thermometer, while the Ninja AG301 does not feature these additions.
Smart Cook System and Foodi Smart Thermometer
The Ninja FG551 features the unique Smart Cook System that takes indoor grilling to the next level. This system, combined with the dual-sensor Foodi Smart Thermometer, ensures you achieve the perfect doneness from rare to well, all at the touch of a button. This feature eliminates guesswork and prevents over or undercooking. It also continuously monitors the temperature in two places for even more accurate results. In contrast, the Ninja AG301 lacks this smart cooking technology, thus requiring more manual oversight during cooking.
XL Grill Grate
When it comes to capacity, the Ninja FG551 has an advantage with its larger XL Grill Grate. The grate can fit up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs, allowing for the simultaneous preparation of main courses and sides. On the other hand, the Ninja AG301 comes with a smaller 10″ x 10″ grill grate.
Number of Cooking Functions
The Ninja FG551 outshines the AG301 with an extra cooking function. The FG551 is equipped with six cooking functions: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate. Meanwhile, the Ninja AG301 offers five functions: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Dehydrate.
Product Dimensions
Lastly, the two grills differ slightly in size. The Ninja AG301 is slightly more compact with dimensions of 14.9″D x 14.9″W x 11.02″H, while the Ninja FG551 is a bit larger, measuring 15.75″D x 16.54″W x 11.1″H.
| Feature | Ninja AG301 | Ninja FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Cook System | No | Yes |
| Foodi Smart Thermometer | No | Yes |
| XL Grill Grate | No | Yes |
| Number of cooking functions | 5 | 6 |
| Cyclonic Grilling Technology | Yes | Yes |
| Virtually smoke-free | Yes | Yes |
| Wattage | 1760 | 1760 |
| Product dimensions | 14.9"D x 14.9"W x 11.02"H | 15.75"D x 16.54"W x 11.1"H |
| Weight | 14.5 Pounds | 22.44 Pounds |
| Check Best Price | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Ninja AG301 Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry Review
Exceptional Grilling Capabilities
The Ninja AG301 sets the bar high with its impressive grilling abilities. It prides itself on being the original Ninja Foodi Grill, capable of searing, sizzling, and air frying, thus providing versatile cooking options. The key element that distinguishes the AG301 from other grills, including the FG551, is the 500°F Cyclonic Grilling Technology. This feature ensures your food is perfectly cooked with delightful char-grilled marks and flavors, which are a characteristic of traditional outdoor grills.
User-Friendly Design and Operation
Next, let’s talk about the Ninja AG301’s design and operation. The grill comes with a PTFE/PFOA-free, non-stick ceramic-coated grill grate, crisper basket, and cooking pot that are dishwasher safe, making clean-up a breeze. It also boasts of being able to transform foods from frozen to perfectly char-grilled in less than 25 minutes – a time-saving feature that many busy households will appreciate.
Health-Conscious Cooking Option
The health benefits of the Ninja AG301 cannot be overstated. With its air frying capability, you can prepare your favorite foods with up to 75% less fat compared to traditional deep frying. This feature makes it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals looking for healthier cooking alternatives.
Pros of Ninja AG301
- High-powered grilling
- Easy to clean
- Health-conscious cooking
Cons of Ninja AG301
- Lacks Smart Cook System
- Smaller grill grate
- Fewer cooking functions
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill and air fryer.
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry Review
Smart Grilling with the Ninja FG551
The Ninja FG551 brings advanced technology to the table, especially in terms of the Ninja AG301 vs FG551 comparison. It integrates the Smart Cook System and dual-sensor Foodi Smart Thermometer. These features are specifically designed to make grilling a breeze by eliminating guesswork and ensuring your food is perfectly cooked every time. This advanced functionality is a step up from the Ninja AG301, which lacks these smart features.
Versatility and Extra Capacity
When it comes to versatility, the FG551 outperforms the AG301 with its six cooking functions: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate. This wider range provides more culinary possibilities to explore. Moreover, its XL Grill Grate has a larger capacity to fit up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs, providing an edge for those planning to cook for a larger crowd or those who simply enjoy meal prepping in larger batches.
The Health and Convenience Factors
Similar to the AG301, the Ninja FG551 places a high emphasis on health with its air frying capabilities allowing for up to 75% less fat than traditional deep frying. Plus, the grill also provides a quick, from-frozen-to-grill solution in under 25 minutes, making it a convenient tool for those busy days.
Pros of Ninja FG551
- Smart grilling features
- Increased versatility
- Large grilling capacity
Cons of Ninja FG551
- Higher price
- Larger footprint
- More complex operation
- NINJA FOODI SMART XL GRILL: The Smart XL grill that sears, sizzles, and crisps. Indoor countertop Grill and Air Fryer with the Smart Cook System and Thermometer..Amperage : 15 amps, Cord Length : 91.44 cm.Frequency : 60 Hz
Wrapping Up the Ninja AG301 Vs FG551 Showdown
In concluding the Ninja AG301 vs FG551 face-off, both indoor grills from Ninja offer excellent features and benefits to suit different users’ needs. However, the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and cooking habits.
The Ninja AG301 is a powerful, straightforward choice, known for its exceptional grilling capabilities, user-friendly design, and health-conscious cooking. On the other hand, the Ninja FG551, with its advanced Smart Cook System and larger capacity, provides a more sophisticated, tech-enabled indoor grilling experience. Both are reliable options for bringing the joy of outdoor grilling inside, with less fat and smoke.
In the end, considering the balance between price, features, and usability, the Ninja FG551 edges out as the winner in this Ninja AG301 vs FG551 comparison, especially for those seeking a higher degree of automation and larger capacity in their cooking adventures. Still, the Ninja AG301 remains a strong contender, delivering excellent results for those who appreciate simplicity and power in their cooking appliances. The final choice lies in what best meets your specific needs and preferences.
