Indoor grilling technology has advanced so rapidly that the choice is no longer about whether these machines work, but how much automation you actually need. I spent the last few weeks swapping between the Ninja EG201 and the Ninja FG551 Smart XL Grill to determine if the “Smart” features of the XL model are a game-changer or just fancy window dressing. While both units utilize Ninja’s signature 500°F cyclonic air to mimic an outdoor sear, they target different types of cooks.
The EG201 is the streamlined, 2nd-generation evolution of the classic grill, while the FG551 is a data-driven powerhouse designed to eliminate the guesswork of meat doneness. After searing dozens of steaks and air-frying bags of wings, I’ve found that the “XL” tag on the FG551 changes the kitchen dynamic more than you might expect.
The Key Difference: Smart Sensing and XL Volume
The primary key difference between the Ninja EG201 and the FG551 is the integration of the Smart Cook System and the total cooking surface area. The Ninja FG551 includes a built-in, leave-in Smart Thermometer that monitors the internal temperature of your protein in real-time, automatically shutting off the grill when your desired doneness is reached. It also features a significantly larger 9″ x 12″ grill grate that can accommodate up to 6 steaks.
In contrast, the Ninja EG201 is a more manual experience. It lacks the integrated thermometer, meaning you’ll need to keep an eye on the clock or use your own handheld probe. It also features a smaller 10″ x 10″ grill grate, making it more compact and better suited for smaller kitchens or couples, whereas the FG551 is a dedicated family-sized machine.
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Comparison Table: Ninja EG201 vs. FG551 Smart XL Indoor Grill
| Feature | Ninja EG201 (2nd Gen) | Ninja FG551 (Smart XL) |
| Grill Grate Size | 10″ x 10″ (Standard) | 9″ x 12″ (XL) |
| Integrated Thermometer | No | Yes (Smart Cook System) |
| Cooking Functions | 6-in-1 | 6-in-1 |
| Steak Capacity | 4 Steaks | 6 Steaks |
| Dimensions | 17.16″D x 14.19″W x 11.02″H | 15.75″D x 16.54″W x 11.1″H |
| Weight | 21.54 lbs | 22.4 lbs |
| Power | 1760 Watts | 1760 Watts |
| Auto Shut-Off | Manual Timer | Temperature-Based |
| BUY NOW | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review: My Experience
I cooked identical meals on both grills to understand how their differences show up in everyday use, not just on a spec sheet. From weeknight dinners to weekend grilling, the contrast between hands-on control and smart automation became clear very quickly.
Design: The Footprint Factor
When I placed both units on my counter, the FG551 Smart XL immediately made its presence known. It is noticeably wider than the EG201. While the EG201 is deeper, the width of the FG551 is what usually forces people to rearrange their other appliances. The EG201 has a more vertical, streamlined look that feels a bit more modern, but the FG551 has a professional, high-end “command center” feel thanks to the thermometer storage on the side of the unit.
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
- SMART INDOOR GRILL & AIR FRYER COMBO: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is an all-in-one indoor...
Ease of Use: Manual vs. Automatic
Using the EG201 is a very traditional experience. You set the temperature, set the time, and check your food periodically. I found the interface very snappy, and for things like grilled vegetables or burgers where I don’t mind a bit of “eyeballing,” it was perfectly sufficient.
The FG551, however, felt like cooking in the future. I plugged the thermometer into the side, inserted the probe into a thick ribeye, and selected “Medium Rare” on the digital display. The grill told me exactly when to flip and exactly when to take the meat off to account for “carry-over” cooking. I didn’t have to set a timer or worry about the steak turning into leather while I was distracted with the side dishes. For anyone who struggles with overcooking meat, the FG551 is basically a safety net.
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
Functions: The 6-in-1 Showdown
Both machines offer Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, and Grill. Because they share the same 1760-watt heating element, the Air Crisp performance was nearly identical. I made a batch of wings in each, and both came out with that signature “shatter-crisp” skin.
However, the FG551 has a slight edge in the “Bake” and “Roast” categories simply because of the rectangular shape of the internal pot. I found it easier to fit small rectangular baking pans into the FG551 than the more square-shaped EG201. If you plan on using your Foodi Grill as a secondary oven, that extra width in the FG551 is a major benefit.
- SMART INDOOR GRILL & AIR FRYER COMBO: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is an all-in-one indoor...
Cleaning: Same Tech, Different Scale
Both units use the same high-quality, ceramic-coated nonstick surfaces. I’ve always been a fan of Ninja’s “splatter shield”—that mesh screen that protects the heating element—and both units have them.
- The EG201: The smaller 10″ x 10″ grate fits easily into the bottom rack of the dishwasher without blocking the spray arms.
- The FG551: The 9″ x 12″ grate is a bit of a beast. I had to angle it carefully to get it into the dishwasher. That said, the ceramic coating is so effective that a 30-second scrub with the included brush usually gets them clean enough to avoid the dishwasher altogether.
Ninja EG201 (2nd Gen) Indoor Grill / Air Fryer
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
Pros:
- Better for Deep Counters: The elongated design fits well on narrow but deep countertops.
- Value: Typically more affordable for those who don’t need a thermometer.
- Simplicity: No extra wires or probes to manage or lose.
- Lightweight: Slightly easier to move if you store it in a pantry.
Cons:
- Guesswork: Requires manual checking of meat temperatures.
- Smaller Surface: Can only fit about 4 burgers or steaks comfortably.
Ninja FG551 (Smart XL) Foodi Smart Grill / Air Fryer
- SMART INDOOR GRILL & AIR FRYER COMBO: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is an all-in-one indoor...
Pros:
- Perfect Precision: The Smart Thermometer ensures meat is never overcooked.
- Family Sized: The 9″ x 12″ grate is much better for families of 4 or more.
- Rectangular Pot: More versatile for standard baking pans and longer roasts.
- Doneness Presets: 9 levels of doneness take the anxiety out of grilling expensive cuts.
Cons:
- Wide Footprint: Takes up a lot of horizontal counter space.
- Complexity: The thermometer wire can be a bit fiddly to clean around.
The Verdict: My Final Recommendation
I recommend the Ninja EG201 if you are a confident cook who already owns a handheld thermometer and primarily cooks for one or two people. It is a fantastic, high-powered grill that delivers the exact same flavor and sear as the more expensive model but in a slightly smaller, more affordable package. It’s the “no-frills” powerhouse.
I recommend the Ninja FG551 Smart XL if you are cooking for a family or if you’ve ever ruined a steak by overcooking it. The Smart Cook System is genuinely helpful—not just a gimmick—and the extra 2 inches of grate width makes a world of difference when you’re trying to feed a crowd in one go.
Personally, I find the FG551 to be the better investment. The peace of mind that comes with the thermometer, combined with the extra cooking space, makes it a much more versatile “all-in-one” kitchen tool.
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
- SMART INDOOR GRILL & AIR FRYER COMBO: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is an all-in-one indoor...
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use the thermometer in the FG551 for air frying?
A: Yes! You can use the Smart Thermometer with any of the functions, including roasting and air frying. It’s particularly great for ensuring a whole roasted chicken is safe to eat without drying it out.
Q: Does the EG201 have a smoke filter?
A: It uses a smoke control system consisting of a splatter shield and a cool-air zone. While it doesn’t have a replaceable carbon filter, it is highly effective at keeping your kitchen clear if you use high-smoke-point oils.
Q: How many hot dogs can fit on the XL grill?
A: You can fit up to 24 hot dogs on the 9″ x 12″ grate of the FG551, which makes it an absolute hero for kid’s birthday parties or game days.
Q: Is the thermometer wire heat-resistant?
A: Yes, the wire is designed to be pinched in the lid of the grill while it cooks. However, you should avoid letting the wire touch the actual grill grate directly for extended periods.
