Indoor grilling has changed dramatically over the past few years, and the Ninja Sizzle series is proof that you can achieve restaurant-quality searing without stepping outside. I’ve had the chance to test both the Ninja GR101 and GR100 extensively, and while they look quite similar at first glance, there are distinct differences that can make one a better fit for your kitchen.
In this in-depth review, I’ll walk you through my hands-on experience with both grills, breaking down their design, performance, ease of use, and which one I’d ultimately recommend.
Key Difference Between Ninja GR101 vs GR100 Indoor Grill
The most significant difference between the Ninja GR101 and GR100 is versatility. The GR101 includes two interchangeable plates (a grill plate and a griddle plate), making it ideal for cooking everything from pancakes to burgers. The GR100 is strictly a grill model, which simplifies its use but limits functionality.
- INTERCHANGEABLE GRILL & GRIDDLE PLATES: From char-grilled strip steaks to sizzling fajita veggies,...
- 500°F Max Heat for Professional Grilling Results: Experience perfect char-grilled marks with...
Comparison Table: Ninja GR101 vs GR100 Indoor Grill
| Feature | Ninja GR101 | Ninja GR100 |
| Plate Options | Grill plate & griddle plate | Grill plate only |
| Max Temperature | 500°F | 500°F |
| Cooking Surface Size | 14 inches | 14 inches |
| Edge-to-Edge Heating | Yes | Yes |
| Smoke Control | Perforated mesh lid & grease catches | Perforated mesh lid & grease catches |
| Dishwasher-Safe Parts | Yes | Yes |
| Wattage | 1450 watts | 1450 watts |
| Dimensions | 14.72″D x 15.16″W x 6.1″H | 14.72″D x 15.16″W x 6.1″H |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs | Similar weight (~7.5 lbs) |
| Included Accessories | Grill plate, griddle plate, recipe guide | Grill plate, recipe guide |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design & Build Quality
Both grills share a sleek, compact design that fits nicely on most countertops. The GR101 stands out because of its added griddle plate, which gives it a slight edge in versatility. Both models feel sturdy and well-built, with a high-quality nonstick coating that’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean. I love that Ninja kept both units lightweight and easy to move, but also stable enough to stay in place during heavy cooking sessions.
- INTERCHANGEABLE GRILL & GRIDDLE PLATES: From char-grilled strip steaks to sizzling fajita veggies,...
- 500°F Max Heat for Professional Grilling Results: Experience perfect char-grilled marks with...
Ease of Use
Both grills are straightforward to operate. The temperature dial is intuitive, and the hood mechanism feels sturdy. Swapping plates on the GR101 is a breeze; they lock securely in place and don’t feel flimsy. The GR100 is slightly simpler because it only has the grill plate, making it more beginner-friendly if you just want a straightforward indoor grilling experience.
The perforated mesh lid does a fantastic job of controlling smoke. I grilled salmon and steak indoors without setting off my smoke alarm, which was a huge plus.
Cooking Performance
This is where both units shine equally. The 500°F max heat ensures a proper sear on meats, and the edge-to-edge heating provides even cooking across the plate. With the GR101, I made pancakes and fajitas on the griddle plate, which cooked evenly and without sticking. The GR100 performed just as well on meats but lacked the flexibility to do breakfast dishes or sauté veggies with the same ease.
- INTERCHANGEABLE GRILL & GRIDDLE PLATES: From char-grilled strip steaks to sizzling fajita veggies,...
- 500°F Max Heat for Professional Grilling Results: Experience perfect char-grilled marks with...
Both units are perfect for cooking for families of 4-6 people, with enough space to cook six burgers or chicken breasts at once. Whether you leave the hood open for direct heat or closed to melt cheese, both grills deliver consistent, delicious results.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Both models have dishwasher-safe plates and a removable mesh lid, making cleanup fast and hassle-free. Grease drains into a catch tray efficiently, and I didn’t notice any stubborn residue. The nonstick coating is durable, but I still prefer handwashing to prolong its lifespan.
Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill Electric Grill
- INTERCHANGEABLE GRILL & GRIDDLE PLATES: From char-grilled strip steaks to sizzling fajita veggies,...
Pros √
- Interchangeable grill and griddle plates
- Great versatility for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Easy to switch plates
- Even heating and excellent smoke control
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons x
- Slightly more expensive than GR100
- Extra plate means more storage space needed
Ninja Sizzle GR100 Smokeless Indoor Grill
- 500°F Max Heat for Professional Grilling Results: Experience perfect char-grilled marks with...
Pros √
- Simple and straightforward design
- High heat for perfect grilling
- Lightweight and compact
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons x
- Limited to grilling only
- Less versatile for cooking a variety of dishes
Conclusion & Recommendation
After spending time with both models, here’s my take: If you want a dedicated indoor grill that’s easy to use and budget-friendly, the GR100 is perfect. It’s straightforward, powerful, and delivers excellent searing results. However, if you’re looking for maximum versatility, the GR101 is worth the upgrade. The griddle plate makes it feel like two appliances in one, expanding your cooking possibilities significantly.
For apartment dwellers or anyone with limited kitchen space, the GR101 is a clear winner. Its ability to handle everything from pancakes to steaks justifies the slightly higher cost. The GR100, on the other hand, is great if you know you’ll only be grilling meats and veggies.
Either way, both models deliver Ninja’s signature performance in a compact, user-friendly package. If I had to choose one for my own kitchen, I’d go with the GR101 for its versatility.
