Ninja has become a market leader in indoor grilling and air frying, and two of its most searched models are the
Ninja AG301 and the Ninja FG551. While they share a similar design, these two appliances are built for
very different types of users.
This expert comparison explains the real difference between the original Ninja Foodi Grill and the Smart XL version,
including grilling performance, Smart Thermometer technology, cooking capacity, and cleaning convenience.
Main Difference Between Ninja AG301 and Ninja FG551
Both the Ninja AG301 and Ninja FG551 are true indoor grills that reach up to
500°F. Grilling is the primary function of both models.
The key difference is that the FG551 is the “Smart XL” model. It features Ninja’s
Smart Cook System with an integrated Smart Thermometer (probe), while the AG301 requires manual doneness checks.
1. Cooking Capacity and Grill Size
The Ninja AG301 is designed for smaller households and can comfortably grill up to
4 steaks at once. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for apartments and limited counter space.
The Ninja FG551, labeled “XL,” offers approximately 50% more grilling surface and can cook up to
6 steaks simultaneously, making it a better choice for families or entertaining.
2. Smart Thermometer (Biggest Upgrade)
The FG551’s Smart Thermometer is the main reason people upgrade. The leave-in probe continuously monitors the internal
temperature of your food and automatically stops cooking once your selected doneness is reached.
The AG301 does not include a thermometer, meaning you must open the lid and check meat manually—which releases heat
and can affect searing.
3. Cooking Functions
Both models are versatile multi-cookers built around grilling:
- Ninja AG301: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate (5-in-1)
- Ninja FG551: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Broil (6-in-1)
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill...
- CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your...
The additional Broil function on the FG551 allows intense top-down heat for finishing steaks and melting cheese.
4. Temperature Performance
Both grills reach a maximum temperature of 500°F, which is significantly hotter than standard air fryers. This high
heat is what allows Ninja Foodi grills to produce real grill marks and char.
5. Cleaning and Dishwasher Safety
Both models feature ceramic-coated, non-stick parts that are fully dishwasher safe, including:
- Grill grate
- Crisper basket
- Cooking pot
One difference to note: the FG551’s splatter shield is larger, which can make it slightly harder to fit into smaller
dishwashers.
Ninja AG301 vs FG551 Comparison Table
| Feature | Ninja AG301 (Original) | Ninja FG551 (Smart XL) |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Thermometer | No | Yes (Smart Probe) |
| Grilling Capacity | Up to 4 steaks | Up to 6 steaks (XL) |
| Cooking Functions | 5-in-1 | 6-in-1 (Adds Broil) |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F | 500°F |
| Dishwasher-Safe Parts | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Couples & small kitchens | Families & perfect steaks |
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill...
- CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your...
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the Ninja AG301 if you want a compact, affordable indoor grill for everyday cooking.
- Choose the Ninja FG551 if you want precision cooking, larger capacity, and stress-free steaks.
Final Verdict
The Ninja AG301 remains one of the best compact indoor grills on the market. However, the
Ninja FG551 Smart XL justifies its higher price with Smart Thermometer technology, larger grilling capacity, and
better consistency—especially for thick or frozen meats.
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill...
- CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your...
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