Indoor grilling used to be synonymous with thin, gray burgers and lukewarm results. That changed when Ninja dropped the original AG301, a machine that actually managed to put real char-marks on a steak without smoking out the entire kitchen. Recently, I decided to see if the shiny new Ninja EG201—marketed as the 2nd Generation—actually brings enough to the table to justify an upgrade, or if it’s just a fresh coat of paint on an old favorite.
Having used both to tackle everything from frozen chicken wings to thick-cut ribeyes, I’ve found that while the “soul” of these machines is the same, the user experience has evolved in some surprising ways.
The Key Difference: More Heat, More Style – Ninja EG201 vs. AG301 Foodi Grill
The most impactful key difference between the Ninja EG201 and the AG301 is the addition of the Broil function and the redesigned chassis. While the AG301 is a 5-in-1 workhorse, the EG201 upgrades to a 6-in-1 system. This extra “Broil” setting is specifically designed for high-heat, top-down finishes—perfect for melting cheese or crisping up the skin on a roast.
Furthermore, the EG201 features a “2nd Generation” look. It’s deeper and more streamlined than the original boxy AG301. While they both share the same 1760-watt power and 10″ x 10″ grill grate, the EG201 feels more like a modern appliance designed to sit permanently on a stylish countertop, whereas the AG301 feels like a rugged, utilitarian tool.
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill and...
Comparison Table: Ninja EG201 vs. AG301 Foodi Grill
| Feature | Ninja EG201 (2nd Gen) | Ninja AG301 (The Original) |
| Cooking Modes | 6-in-1 (Adds Broil) | 5-in-1 |
| Dimensions | 17.16″D x 14.19″W x 11.02″H | 14.9″D x 14.9″W x 11.02″H |
| Grill Technology | 500°F Cyclonic Air | 500°F Cyclonic Air |
| Weight | 21.54 lbs | 20 lbs |
| Pot/Basket Size | 6-qt Pot / 4-qt Basket | 6-qt Pot / 4-qt Basket |
| Interface | Digital Soft-Touch | Manual/Digital Push Button |
| Material | Ceramic/Premium Plastic | Stainless Steel/Ceramic |
| BUY NOW | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review: My Honest Take
Both grills were tested side by side in real kitchen conditions, handling the same foods, portions, and cooking routines. Rather than focusing on specs alone, this comparison reflects how each model behaves during everyday use—how they feel to operate, how consistently they cook, and how practical they are to live with long term. The differences become clearer once you move past the brochure features and start cooking.
Design: Sleek Depth vs. Square Compactness
When I placed the AG301 on my counter, it felt surprisingly compact. Its square footprint is friendly to corner storage. The stainless steel accents give it a classic “foodie” look that says it’s ready for work.
The EG201, on the other hand, is a bit of a space hog. It’s over two inches deeper than the original. However, that depth comes with a much more intuitive, modern interface. The digital display is clearer, and the “GrillControl” buttons are more responsive. It looks like a high-end air fryer oven rather than just a grill. If you have deep counters, you’ll love the EG201; if you’re in a cramped apartment, the AG301 is much easier to manage.
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill and...
Performance: The Power of the Broil
I ran a side-by-side test with marinated chicken thighs. Both units use Cyclonic Grilling Technology, meaning they circulate 500°F air around the food so you don’t technically have to flip it (though I still do for the best marks).
- The AG301: It gave me great char-marks and juicy meat. It’s consistent and fast.
- The EG201: The grilling results were identical, but here’s where the EG201 won me over: the Broil I threw some peppers in at the end and hit “Broil” for two minutes. It gave them that charred, blistered skin that usually requires a torch or a massive oven broiler. That sixth function isn’t just marketing fluff; it actually adds a new layer of texture to your cooking.
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
Air Frying: Consistent Excellence
Both models include a 4-quart crisper basket. I’ve always argued that Ninja’s grills are better air fryers than their actual air fryers because the horizontal heating element and powerful fan create a more even “crunch.” Whether I was making frozen fries or “naked” wings, both machines performed identically. If you’re buying specifically for air frying, you won’t see a performance jump with the EG201, but you will appreciate the easier-to-read timer.
Cleaning: Which One is Less of a Chore?
Both units feature PTFE/PFOA-free ceramic coatings on the pot, basket, and grate. In my experience, the EG201’s coating feels a bit “slicker.” I accidentally let some honey-barbecue sauce bake onto the grate, and after a short soak, it wiped off with a sponge. The AG301 is also dishwasher safe, but the older splatter shield design can be a bit more finicky to snap back into place after a deep clean.
Ninja EG201 Foodi Indoor Grill / Air Fryer
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
Pros:
- 6-in-1 Versatility: The Broil function is a game-changer for finishing meats.
- Redesigned Interface: Much easier to read and adjust during the cooking cycle.
- Premium Build: Feels sturdier and more “expensive” than the 1st Gen.
- Smarter Smoke Control: Seems to handle sugary marinades with slightly less steam.
Cons:
- Large Footprint: Requires significantly more counter depth.
- Heavier: Not ideal if you plan to store it in a low cabinet and lift it out daily.
Ninja AG301 Indoor Grill / Air Fryer
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill and...
Pros:
- Compact Footprint: Fits in smaller kitchens and tighter corners.
- Value for Money: Often available at a lower price point while delivering the same grill power.
- Iconic Stainless Look: Many prefer the classic steel finish over the newer plastic/silver blend.
- Simplicity: Proven reliability with a massive community of recipe-sharing users.
Cons:
- Missing Broil Function: You’re limited to 5 basic cooking modes.
- Older Controls: The buttons and display are starting to feel a bit dated.
The Verdict: My Recommendation
I recommend the Ninja EG201 if you are a “culinary perfectionist.” If you find yourself wishing your air fryer could brown the tops of casseroles or char vegetables like a traditional broiler, the 6-in-1 functionality is worth every penny. It’s the better choice for those who want a permanent, high-tech fixture on their counter that can truly replace a full-sized oven for small meals.
I recommend the Ninja AG301 if you are tight on space or just want the basics done perfectly. If your primary goal is to grill steaks and air fry wings, you don’t need the extra features of the EG201. The original AG301 is still one of the best-performing appliances Ninja has ever made, and its more compact shape is a major win for smaller households.
In my kitchen, the EG201 takes the win simply because of the Broil function and the more responsive digital controls. It feels like the “adult” version of the original.
- NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. New exterior look with all the...
- THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill and...
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I cook a whole chicken in these?
A: Yes! Both the AG301 and EG201 can fit a 3-lb chicken using the 6-qt cooking pot. It’s tight, but the results are incredibly moist.
Q: Do I need to use oil on the grill grate?
A: Because of the ceramic coating, you don’t need oil to prevent sticking. However, a light brush of high-smoke-point oil (like avocado oil) can help enhance those char-marks.
Q: Is it really smokeless?
A: It’s “virtually” smokeless. If you use oils with low smoke points (like butter or extra virgin olive oil) at 500°F, you will get some smoke. Stick to the recommended oils, and your kitchen will stay clear.
Q: How long does it take to preheat?
A: For grilling, both units take about 8 minutes to preheat the heavy grill plate to the proper searing temperature. Air frying preheats much faster, usually in under 3 minutes.
