Ninja OG850 Vs OG951 Woodfire Outdoor Grill: Which One Truly Delivers?
When it comes to outdoor grilling with unmatched versatility, Ninja has positioned itself as a leader with its innovative Woodfire series. The Ninja OG850 and OG951 models are two of the brand’s most advanced offerings, blending traditional woodfire flavor with modern convenience and smart cooking features. But with both claiming top-tier performance, how do you choose the one that’s right for your grilling needs?
Whether you’re a weekend BBQ enthusiast or a backyard chef who hosts large gatherings, understanding the key differences between these two powerhouses can help you make a smart investment. In this comparison, we break down the features, performance, and pros and cons of the OG850 and OG951 to help you decide which grill suits your lifestyle, cooking habits, and budget best.
Key Differences Between OG850 and OG951 Grill
- Functionality: The OG951 features 7 cooking functions compared to OG850’s 4. It offers Broil, Roast, and Dehydrate modes which are absent in OG850.
- Smart Features: OG951 has Bluetooth and app control via Ninja ProConnect. This allows real-time monitoring, alerts, and dual-protein management – features OG850 lacks.
- Built-In Thermometers: OG951 includes two built-in thermometers for multi-protein cooking, while OG850 has only one.
- Control and Convenience: OG951 delivers smarter control through app-based cooking assistance. OG850, while simpler, relies solely on manual control.
Ninja OG850 vs OG951 Woodfire Outdoor Grill: In-Depth Comparison
| Feature | Ninja OG850 | Ninja OG951 |
|---|---|---|
| Functionality | 4-in-1: Grill, BBQ Smoke, Air Fry, Bake | 7-in-1: Grill, BBQ Smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate |
| Cooking Area | 180 sq. in. | 180 sq. in. |
| Built-in Thermometers | 1 | 2 |
| App Connectivity | No | Yes (Bluetooth + Ninja ProConnect App) |
| Woodfire Technology | Yes (Electric-powered with real wood) | Yes (Electric-powered with real wood) |
| Weather Resistant | Yes | Yes |
| Portability | Highly portable | Portable, but slightly more tech-intensive |
| Dimensions | 22.28"D x 20.03"W x 15.82"H | 22.28"D x 20.03"W x 15.82"H |
| Item Weight | 38.9 lbs | 38.94 lbs |
| Smart Notifications | No | Yes |
| Fuel Type | Powered By Electricity + Burning Wood Pallets for flavour | Powered By Electricity + Burning Wood Pallets for flavour |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Other Comparison Factors
- Ease of Use: Both models are user-friendly, but OG951’s app and dual thermometers make multitasking more efficient.
- Design & Durability: Both share similar construction – stainless steel, weather-resistant, compact yet spacious.
- Cooking Precision: OG951 offers more control and better cooking accuracy for varied doneness. OG850 is ideal for straightforward grilling.
- Value for Money: OG850 is more affordable, offering high performance without smart tech. OG951 justifies its higher price with advanced features.
- 4-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Grill, BBQ smoke, Air Fry, & Bake, with 100% real woodfire flavors all in one place.
- CAPACITY TO ENTERTAIN: 180 sq inches of cooking space--30% more than the original Ninja outdoor grill-- that fits up to 2 full racks of ribs, 10 burgers, 4 lbs of wings, 2 7-lbs chickens, or a 10-lb brisket.
- 7-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Grill, BBQ smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate with 100% real woodfire flavors all in one place.
- CAPACITY TO ENTERTAIN: 180 square inches of cooking space—30% more than the original Ninja outdoor grill—that fits up to 2 full racks of ribs, 10 burgers, 4 lbs of wings, 2 7-lbs chickens, or a 10-lb brisket.
Performance Comparison
Both the OG850 and OG951 deliver exceptional grilling, smoking, and air frying performance. The 180 sq. in. cooking area is ample for family meals or small gatherings. However, the OG951’s smart connectivity and dual thermometer system allow for a more hands-off experience, particularly valuable when cooking large cuts or multiple proteins.
In contrast, the OG850 is a fantastic choice for grillers who want simplicity and excellent cooking without the added tech. It’s reliable, fast, and still infuses that signature woodfire flavor.
Personal Experience
In hands-on use, the OG951 stood out for its precision. The app-controlled alerts were incredibly helpful – no need to hover around the grill. I cooked two different proteins to different doneness levels with complete accuracy using the dual probes.
The OG850, while lacking the smart features, still impressed me with its fast startup, intuitive controls, and powerful woodfire infusion. If you’re grilling casually or in a compact setting like an RV or balcony, OG850 shines.
Ninja OG850 Woodfire Pro XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker Review
The Ninja OG850 Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker is a well-rounded cooking solution for anyone who enjoys grilling, smoking, and air frying in a compact yet capable package. It’s designed with versatility in mind, offering 7 cooking functions, including grill, smoke, air crisp, bake, roast, reheat, and dehydrate. This makes it ideal not only for classic outdoor BBQs but also for preparing full meals with minimal effort.
- 4-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Grill, BBQ smoke, Air Fry, & Bake, with 100% real woodfire flavors all in one place.
- CAPACITY TO ENTERTAIN: 180 sq inches of cooking space--30% more than the original Ninja outdoor grill-- that fits up to 2 full racks of ribs, 10 burgers, 4 lbs of wings, 2 7-lbs chickens, or a 10-lb brisket.
With a 141 square inch cooking surface, the OG850 comfortably accommodates food for a family of 3–4. You can fit up to 6 burgers, a couple of steaks, or even a whole chicken. It also comes with a built-in thermometer, giving you solid temperature control without relying solely on guesswork. While it doesn’t offer app connectivity or dual thermometers like its more premium sibling (OG951), the OG850 delivers consistent performance and authentic woodfire flavor using real wood pellets.
Another highlight is its ease of use – the digital control panel is intuitive, and the entire unit is relatively lightweight and portable. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or taking it on a camping trip, the OG850 offers a strong balance of performance, portability, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for casual outdoor cooks who want a reliable and flavorful cooking experience.
Pros ✅
- Compact and portable
- Excellent woodfire flavor
- Great value for money
- Easy to use and clean
Cons ⚠️
- Only 4 cooking functions
- No app or wireless control
- Single thermometer limits multitasking
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker Review
The Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker is a top-tier grilling machine tailored for serious home cooks and outdoor BBQ enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the inclusion of dual smart thermometers and Ninja Pro Connect app compatibility, which lets you monitor your food’s internal temperature in real time from your smartphone. This level of precision is perfect for cooking large cuts of meat or multitasking during outdoor gatherings.
- 7-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Grill, BBQ smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate with 100% real woodfire flavors all in one place.
- CAPACITY TO ENTERTAIN: 180 square inches of cooking space—30% more than the original Ninja outdoor grill—that fits up to 2 full racks of ribs, 10 burgers, 4 lbs of wings, 2 7-lbs chickens, or a 10-lb brisket.
It features an expanded 180 square inch cooking surface, making it capable of grilling up to 10 burgers, multiple racks of ribs, or even a small turkey; ideal for entertaining or large family meals. The OG951 supports the same 7-in-1 cooking functions as the OG850 (grill, smoke, air crisp, bake, roast, reheat, and dehydrate) but elevates the experience with better control and added capacity.
One of the biggest advantages is its intelligent cooking system, which automatically adjusts heat levels based on the thermometer readings and your desired doneness. Combined with the flavorful woodfire cooking powered by real wood pellets, you get restaurant-quality results with minimal guesswork.
Though it comes at a higher price point, the OG951 justifies the cost with its smart features, larger capacity, and precise temperature control. It’s perfect for grillmasters who demand the best in both performance and convenience.
Pros ✅
- 7-in-1 functionality
- Dual thermometers for precise control
- App connectivity for hands-free cooking
- Same powerful woodfire technology
Cons ⚠️
- Higher price point
- Requires smartphone for full feature use
Ninja OG850 vs OG951: Winner?
Choosing between the Ninja OG850 and OG951 ultimately depends on your specific outdoor cooking needs and how much control and convenience you seek. The OG850 is a fantastic option for those who want a reliable, high-performing grill and smoker with solid versatility.
Its 7-in-1 cooking functions, 141 sq. in. cooking area, and sturdy design make it a great pick for casual grillers and smaller households. It delivers the signature Ninja Woodfire flavor while remaining straightforward and user-friendly.
On the other hand, the OG951 is designed for those who want more capacity, tech-savvy features, and advanced monitoring tools. With its larger 180 sq. in. cooking surface, dual smart thermometers, and Ninja Pro Connect app integration, it’s built for serious outdoor cooks who want precision and flexibility.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or experimenting with complex recipes, the OG951 delivers both convenience and innovation. By understanding these differences, you can confidently choose the grill that best suits your lifestyle and cooking ambitions.
