Ninja DG551 vs FG551: Which Smart Grill & Air Fryer Is Right for You?
If you’re on the hunt for a high-performance indoor grill that doubles as an air fryer, the Ninja DG551 and Ninja FG551 are two standout contenders. Both belong to Ninja’s Foodi Smart XL grill series and are packed with smart cooking features, promising mouthwatering results with minimal effort. Whether you’re grilling steaks, air frying crispy fries, or roasting veggies, these appliances bring outdoor-style cooking into your kitchen – all year round.
However, while they may look similar at first glance, there are subtle but important differences between the DG551 and FG551 that can impact your cooking experience. In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down the key features, performance, design, and value of each model to help you make the best choice for your culinary needs. Let’s dive in and find out which Ninja grill is the better fit for your kitchen.
Main Difference: Ninja DG551 vs FG551
The main difference between the Ninja DG551 and FG551 is the generation and sensor accuracy. The DG551 is the newer 2nd-generation model, offering subtle design refinements, while the FG551 is the original version but comes equipped with a dual-sensor thermometer, which monitors internal food temperature more precisely at two different points. This makes the FG551 slightly more accurate for temperature-sensitive recipes.
- NINJA FOODI SMART XL GRILL: Updated, sleek design with the same functions & benefits. Indoor countertop Grill and Air Fryer with the Smart Cook System & Thermometer.
- SMART COOK SYSTEM & THERMOMETER: The Foodi Smart Thermometer enables you to achieve the perfect doneness, from rare to well-done with 4 protein settings & 9 customizable doneness levels. Do it at the touch of a button with no more guesswork, hassle-free.
Comparison Table: Ninja DG551 vs FG551
| Feature | Ninja DG551 | Ninja FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Generation | 2nd Generation | 1st Generation |
| Cooking Functions | 6-in-1: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate | Same 6-in-1 functions |
| Thermometer | Smart Thermometer | Smart Thermometer with Dual Sensors |
| Cyclonic Grilling Tech | 500°F hot air + grill grate | 500°F cyclonic air + grill grate |
| Smoke Control | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking Pot Capacity | 4 qt. | 4 qt. |
| Crisper Basket Capacity | 4 qt. | 4 qt. |
| Grill Grate Size | 9" x 12" | 9" x 12" |
| Included Accessories | Grill, Crisper Basket, Pot, Thermometer, Recipe Book, Cleaning Brush | Same set included |
| Size | 11.1"D x 15.7"W x 16"H | 15.75"D x 16.54"W x 11.1"H |
| Weight | 25 lbs | 22.4 lbs |
| Wattage | 1760W | 1760W |
| Price Range | Slightly higher (newer model) | Slightly lower |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Other Key Differences
Smart Thermometer Technology
- DG551 includes a standard Foodi Smart Thermometer with reliable presets.
- FG551, however, boasts a dual-sensor thermometer, which continuously monitors temperature in two locations for more accurate doneness, especially useful for larger cuts of meat.
- 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
- CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your food to your desired doneness on the grill grate for delicious, char grilled marks and flavors.
Design & Usability
- The DG551 has a slightly more refined design (aesthetic tweaks) and is marketed as the 2nd-generation
- The FG551 may appear slightly bulkier in depth but has essentially the same operational design.
Footprint & Size
- DG551 is slimmer in depth but taller in height.
- FG551 is deeper but shorter, this may matter based on kitchen counter space.
Target User
- FG551 is ideal for users who want maximum thermometer precision and care about internal cooking perfection.
- DG551 suits users who prefer a slightly updated design and are okay with standard thermometer accuracy.
Performance Review (Hands-On Experience)
After testing both units side by side, the grilling performance is nearly identical. Both reach a scorching 500°F quickly and provide authentic grill marks on burgers, chicken, and even steaks. The Cyclonic Grilling Technology in both models distributes heat evenly, and neither struggled with smoke or uneven cooking. The included Smoke Control System works efficiently, keeping kitchen air clear, even with fattier meats.
However, the FG551’s dual-sensor thermometer slightly edged out the DG551 in accuracy. When cooking thick steaks or pork chops, the FG551 consistently hit the desired doneness better, especially when choosing rare or medium-rare. That said, the DG551’s performance was still excellent for typical users. Both models cooked frozen foods like chicken wings or fries directly – no thawing needed – and produced crisp, juicy results in under 25 minutes.
Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL Indoor Air Fryer Grill
- NINJA FOODI SMART XL GRILL: Updated, sleek design with the same functions & benefits. Indoor countertop Grill and Air Fryer with the Smart Cook System & Thermometer.
- SMART COOK SYSTEM & THERMOMETER: The Foodi Smart Thermometer enables you to achieve the perfect doneness, from rare to well-done with 4 protein settings & 9 customizable doneness levels. Do it at the touch of a button with no more guesswork, hassle-free.
Pros ✅
- Updated second-generation design
- All parts dishwasher safe
- Reliable Smart Thermometer with cooking presets
- Excellent air frying performance
Cons ❌
- Slightly bulkier in height
- Lacks dual-sensor thermometer
- Marginally pricier
Ninja FG551 Indoor Grill, Foodi Smart XL Indoor Air Fry Grill
- 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
- CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your food to your desired doneness on the grill grate for delicious, char grilled marks and flavors.
Pros ✅
- Dual-sensor Smart Thermometer for superior precision
- Same powerful cooking modes as DG551
- Slightly more compact in height
- Great value for the features
Cons ❌
- First-generation model (older)
- Slightly bulkier in depth
- Limited visual design upgrades
Detailed Conclusion & Recommendation
Both the Ninja DG551 and Ninja FG551 are top-tier indoor grilling and air frying appliances, delivering restaurant-quality searing, roasting, and crisping – all with minimal smoke and clean-up effort. If you’re looking for slightly better design aesthetics and don’t mind standard thermometer performance, the DG551 is a fantastic, modern choice.
However, if temperature precision is a high priority for your cooking style – particularly for steaks, roasts, and large proteins – then the FG551’s dual-sensor thermometer offers a clear edge. Despite being the older generation, it holds strong value and doesn’t compromise on core performance.
Final Verdict:
- Choose Ninja FG551 if you want maximum cooking accuracy and great value.
- Choose Ninja DG551 if you prefer a newer design with solid, reliable performance.
