When it comes to indoor grilling and air frying, Ninja dominates the category with its Foodi Grill lineup. Two of the most searched models are the Ninja AG301 and the Ninja AG400. While they look similar, they are built for very different types of cooks.
This expert comparison explains the real reason the AG400 costs more, focusing on Smart Probe technology, grilling performance, kitchen footprint, and real-world usability—exactly what buyers want to know in 2026.
Main Difference Between Ninja AG400 and AG301 Grill
Both the Ninja AG301 and Ninja AG400 are true indoor grills first, not just air fryers. The key difference is that the AG400 is the “Pro” model, featuring Ninja’s Smart Cook System with an integrated Smart Thermometer.
The AG301 requires manual temperature checks. The AG400 automatically monitors internal doneness and shuts off at the perfect temperature—eliminating guesswork.
Ninja AG400 (Foodi Grill Pro) Features
- Cooking Capacity: 5.2-quart basket (family-size)
- Integrated Smart Thermometer: Yes (leave-in probe)
- Cooking Functions: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Reheat
- Maximum Temperature: 500°F (true high-heat grilling)
- Smoke Control: Cyclonic air + removable splatter shield
- Best For: Steak lovers, frozen meat, precision cooking
Ninja AG301 (Foodi Grill Original) Features
- Cooking Capacity: 4-quart basket (1–3 people)
- Integrated Smart Thermometer: No (manual checks)
- Cooking Functions: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Reheat
- Maximum Temperature: 500°F
- Smoke Control: Same splatter shield system
- Best For: Budget buyers, apartments, small kitchens
Ninja AG400 vs AG301 Comparison Table
| Feature | Ninja AG301 | Ninja AG400 |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Thermometer | No | Yes (Smart Probe) |
| Max Temperature | 500°F | 500°F |
| Capacity | 4 Quarts | 5.2 Quarts |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 12.1 × 16 × 11 in | 14.5 × 17 × 11 in |
| Best Use Case | Space-saving everyday grilling | Perfect-doneness grilling |
- The Ninja foodi Pro grill with integrated smart probe. The grill that sears, sizzles, and air...
- Confidently cook food on the inside using the integrated smart probe and char-grill every side...
- 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...
Real-World Cooking Experience
Both grills use Ninja’s Cyclonic Grilling Technology, circulating super-hot air while the grill grate sears from below. However, the experience is very different.
With the AG301, you must open the lid to check doneness—losing heat. The AG400’s Smart Probe prevents this, making it especially useful for thick steaks, chicken breast, and frozen meats.
Frozen Meat Tip (Information Gain)
Both models can cook directly from frozen, but the AG400 performs better. The Smart Probe ensures frozen proteins reach a safe internal temperature without overcooking the outside.
Smoke Control Pro Tip
Soak the splatter shield in hot soapy water immediately after cooking. If grease bakes on, both grills may smoke during high-temperature grilling.
Which One Should You Buy?
- The Precision Cook: Choose the AG400 Pro for steaks, chicken, and fish.
- The Budget Griller: Choose the AG301 for excellent results at a lower cost.
- The Space Saver: The AG301 is slightly narrower and better for apartments.
- The Ninja foodi Pro grill with integrated smart probe. The grill that sears, sizzles, and air...
- Confidently cook food on the inside using the integrated smart probe and char-grill every side...
- 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...
Top 3 FAQs (People Also Ask)
Can Ninja AG301 and AG400 cook frozen meat?
Yes. Both can cook from frozen, but the AG400’s Smart Probe provides better doneness accuracy.
Do both Ninja models grill, or is AG400 the only grill?
Both are full indoor grills. The AG400 is considered “Pro” because of its Smart Thermometer.
Will these fit under kitchen cabinets?
Yes. Both are about 11 inches tall, but the AG301 is slightly narrower and easier to fit in tight spaces.
Final Verdict
The Ninja AG301 remains one of the best compact indoor grills available. However, the Ninja AG400 Pro earns its higher price with Smart Probe precision, making it the better long-term investment for serious home cooks.
- The Ninja foodi Pro grill with integrated smart probe. The grill that sears, sizzles, and air...
- Confidently cook food on the inside using the integrated smart probe and char-grill every side...
- 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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