Unlike other models that struggle with smoke and uneven heat, I found the Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer to excel in precision and versatility. After hands-on testing, I appreciated how the Smart Cook System with the Foodi Smart Thermometer takes all the guesswork out of grilling—whether it’s a steak, chicken, or frozen food. The cyclonic grilling technology delivers char-grilled marks and consistent searing at 500°F, making it stand out for truly restaurant-quality results. Plus, the smoke control system keeps the kitchen mess-free, a game-changer in my busy home.
Compared to other options, it offers six versatile functions, from grilling and air frying to dehydrating, all in one sleek device. Its easy-clean ceramic coating and powerful temperature controls make it both durable and user-friendly. After testing all these models, I can confidently say this one provides the perfect balance of performance, quality, and value—an ideal choice for anyone serious about flavorful, healthier grilling indoors.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer
Why We Recommend It: This model’s combination of cyclonic grilling technology, a powerful 1760-watt output, and the smart thermometer with 4 protein presets and 9 doneness levels makes it superior. It ensures perfect doneness and char marks every time, without the smoke or mess typical of other grills. Its versatile 6-in-1 functions replace multiple appliances, all while maintaining easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe components. Compared to alternatives, it excels in achieving evenly cooked, flavorful results with less fuss.
Best smart grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer – Best Value
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551 – Best Premium Option
- Ninja Foodi IG651 7-in-1 Indoor Grill & Griddle, Black – Best for versatile indoor cooking
- Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel – Best high-end smart grill
- Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect Grill & Smoker, 5-in-1, PG305 – Best smart grill for outdoor cooking
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer
- ✓ Precise doneness control
- ✓ Versatile cooking functions
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher price point
| Power | 1760 watts |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Cooking Functions | [‘Grill’, ‘Air Crisp’, ‘Roast’, ‘Bake’, ‘Broil’, ‘Dehydrate’] |
| Temperature Range | Up to 500°F |
| Thermometer Features | 4 protein settings & 9 doneness levels, app-controlled |
| Cooking Capacity | 4-quart crisper basket and cooking pot |
Unboxing the Ninja Foodi Smart XL feels like holding a sleek, futuristic gadget. Its shiny black surface with stainless steel accents immediately catches your eye.
You’ll notice how solid it feels in your hand, with a weight that reassures you it’s built to last.
The control panel is intuitive, with a large digital display that lights up clearly. The grill grate and accessories feel sturdy, with a smooth ceramic coating that promises easy cleaning.
When you first fire it up, the smell of hot metal and fresh cooking fills the air, hinting at the delicious meals ahead.
Using the Smart Cook System and thermometer is a game-changer. With just a tap, you select your protein and don’t worry about overcooking.
The thermometer’s real-time readout makes it simple to hit perfect doneness, whether you like your steak rare or well-done.
The cyclonic grilling technology heats rapidly, reaching 500°F quickly and giving your food those classic charred marks. I was surprised how well it handled frozen foods, cooking from frozen to crispy in under 25 minutes without sacrificing flavor.
The smoke control system really works, keeping my kitchen smoke-free during intense grilling sessions.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to dishwasher-safe, non-stick parts. The versatility is impressive—grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating—all in one device.
It’s like having multiple appliances in a compact form, saving space and money.
Overall, this grill offers convenience, precision, and flavor in a sleek package. It’s perfect if you want a smart, versatile, and easy-to-use indoor grill that delivers on its promises.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551
- ✓ Excellent smart cooking features
- ✓ Large family-sized capacity
- ✓ Smoke-free indoor grilling
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small countertops
- ✕ Longer preheat time
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate |
| Air Fryer Capacity | 4 quarts |
| Smart Features | Smart Cook System with dual-sensor thermometer, 4 protein presets, 9 doneness levels |
| Technology | Cyclonic grilling technology with smokeless operation and smoke control system |
That shiny Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill has been on my wishlist ever since I saw its sleek design and promising features. I finally got my hands on it, and I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how sturdy and substantial it feels—solid metal construction with a smooth, easy-to-clean surface.
Using the grill for the first time, I was impressed by how compact yet spacious the XL capacity is. It fits up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs, which is perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
The grill grate is heavy-duty with nice sear marks, and cyclonic air technology quickly gave everything that authentic BBQ flavor without outdoor smoke.
The real game-changer is the Smart Cook System paired with the dual-sensor thermometer. I tested cooking a thick steak, and the 4 protein presets with 9 doneness levels made it foolproof.
You just select your preference, and the grill takes care of the rest. It’s like having a personal chef guiding you—no more guesswork or overcooked chicken.
Air frying is just as convenient, with up to 75% less fat and crispy results. I made some homemade fries, and they were perfectly crunchy inside.
Plus, the smoke control system works surprisingly well, keeping my kitchen clean and smoke-free, even when grilling indoors during winter.
Overall, this isn’t just a grill—it’s a versatile, space-saving powerhouse that simplifies cooking and delivers great results. Whether you’re grilling, air frying, roasting, or dehydrating, it handles everything with ease.
Definitely a smart addition to any kitchen or apartment setup.
Ninja Foodi IG651 7-in-1 Indoor Grill & Griddle, Black
- ✓ Powerful 500°F searing
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Smoke reduction system
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Cooking Capacity | Fits 6 steaks or 4 sandwiches simultaneously |
| Cooking Functions | [‘Grill’, ‘BBQ Griddle’, ‘Air Crisp’, ‘Roast’, ‘Bake’, ‘Broil’, ‘Dehydrate’] |
| Control Features | Smart Thermometer with 4 protein settings and 9 doneness levels |
| Smoke Control System | Temperature-controlled grill grate, splatter shield, and cool-air zone |
| Material | PTFE/PFOA-free nonstick ceramic-coated surfaces |
You pull the Ninja Foodi IG651 out of the box and immediately notice how solid and sleek it feels in your hands. The black matte finish is fingerprint-resistant, and the 12-inch grill grate is hefty but well-balanced, giving you confidence right away.
When you first turn it on, the powerful 500°F searing capability hits you—this isn’t your average indoor grill.
You toss some steaks onto the grate, and you can see the edge-to-edge heat deliver a perfect sear within minutes. The grill’s high-heat searing, combined with the cyclonic air from the hood down setting, crisps the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Switching to the flat top BBQ griddle, you cook up a batch of pancakes, and the even heat distribution makes flipping a breeze. The smart thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking meat; you just select your doneness level, and it alerts you when ready.
Adjusting the lid position is effortless, and the cool-air zone noticeably reduces smoke, which is a game-changer for indoor use. Cleaning is straightforward—nonstick surfaces and dishwasher-safe parts mean less scrubbing.
The capacity is impressive, fitting six steaks or a big platter of nachos comfortably.
Overall, this grill feels versatile and powerful, with intuitive controls and thoughtful features that elevate your cooking experience. It handles everything from grilling to dehydrating with ease, making it an excellent choice if you want a smart, all-in-one indoor grill that truly delivers.
Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel
- ✓ Spacious grilling surface
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic grills
| Grilling Surface Area | 260 square inches (flat open mode) |
| Power Consumption | 1800 Watts |
| Heating Elements | Embedded into plates for high sear performance |
| Temperature Control | Electronic thermostat with LCD display |
| Plate Material | PFOA-free non-stick, dishwasher safe |
| Voltage | 110-120 Volts |
Imagine trying to grill a steak indoors without setting off the smoke alarm or dealing with a mess. You open the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, and suddenly, the outdoor BBQ experience is right on your countertop.
The flat open mode reveals a massive 260-square-inch grilling and griddling surface, perfect for seafood, burgers, or breakfast pancakes.
The embedded high-sear elements heat up quickly, giving steaks that irresistible char. The electronic thermostat keeps the temperature steady, so your food cooks evenly every time.
Plus, with its smart LCD display, you know exactly when it’s preheated and ready, plus how much time remains.
Switching between BBQ and contact mode is seamless—just open or close the lid. The removable plates make cleanup a breeze—pop them in the dishwasher, and you’re done.
No more scrubbing or greasy stains on your countertops. The non-stick surface is PFOA-free, so you can cook with confidence.
Using this grill feels like having a mini outdoor kitchen. Whether you’re searing steaks or making grilled cheese, the consistency impresses every time.
The versatility of being able to cook flat or upright means you can get creative with everything from breakfast to dinner.
Overall, it solves the frustration of indoor grilling with its spacious design, smart controls, and easy cleanup. It’s a real game-changer for anyone craving the taste of outdoor grilling without leaving the house.
Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect Grill & Smoker, 5-in-1, PG305
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Fast preheat, quick cooking
- ✓ App connectivity for remote monitoring
- ✕ Accessories sold separately
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
| Cooking Surface Area | 424 square inches of main cooking space |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 600°F with digital control panel |
| Preheat Time | Up to 600°F in 7 minutes |
| Fuel Sources | Propane (requires 20lb tank, not included) and electricity |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi enabled with smartphone app for remote monitoring and control |
| Cooking Versatility | 5-in-1 system: grill, smoke, roast, griddle, pizza baking |
Unpacking the Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect Grill & Smoker, I immediately noticed its sleek, modern build with a matte black finish and sturdy handles. The digital control panel feels solid under your fingertips, and the weight is just right—not too heavy, yet substantial enough to feel durable.
As I set it up, the first thing that stood out was how intuitive the app integration is. Connecting via Bluetooth took seconds, and I appreciated the clear, easy-to-navigate interface.
The ability to monitor temperatures and get real-time updates on my phone makes grilling feel almost futuristic.
The 5-in-1 system is a game-changer. I started with a quick sear at 600°F, which preheated in just 7 minutes.
The convection fan circulates heat evenly, and I could see the crispy edges forming perfectly on my steak. Later, I switched to smoking mode with just a few pellets—smoke ring and all, just like a backyard BBQ veteran.
The digital controls are precise, letting me set exact temps without guesswork. I loved how the QuickCrisp roaster gave me golden-brown chicken, juicy inside, with minimal fuss.
The grill’s spacious 424 sq. in.
area means I can cook a feast without juggling multiple batches.
Although the accessory options like pizza stones and griddle plates are sold separately, I found the main functions delivered more than enough flexibility. The safety features and sturdy build give me confidence to use it regularly, rain or shine.
What Features Make a Smart Grill Stand Out?
The best smart grills are distinguished by several key features that enhance cooking convenience and precision.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Smart grills often come equipped with Wi-Fi capability, allowing users to connect to their home network and control the grill remotely via smartphone apps. This feature enables real-time monitoring of cooking temperatures and time, as well as the ability to receive alerts when food is ready.
- Temperature Control: Advanced temperature control systems enable precise adjustments, ensuring that meats and other foods are cooked to perfection. Many smart grills offer dual-zone temperature settings, allowing for indirect and direct cooking methods simultaneously.
- Integrated Thermometers: Most smart grills include built-in meat probes that provide accurate readings of internal temperatures. This feature helps prevent overcooking or undercooking by allowing users to monitor the doneness of food without opening the grill.
- Cooking Presets: Many smart grills come with pre-programmed cooking presets for various types of meats and vegetables. These presets simplify cooking by automatically adjusting temperature and time settings based on the selected food type, ensuring consistent results.
- Voice Control Compatibility: Some smart grills offer compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This allows users to issue voice commands to start, stop, or adjust settings, enhancing the hands-free cooking experience.
- Recipe Suggestions: Advanced models may feature recipe databases that suggest cooking times and methods based on the selected cuts of meat or vegetables. This feature is especially beneficial for novice grillers looking for guidance on how to achieve the best results.
- Smart Alerts and Notifications: Smart grills can send notifications directly to your smartphone about cooking progress, temperature changes, or when food is ready. This keeps users informed and allows them to enjoy other activities without constantly checking the grill.
- App Integration: Many smart grills come with dedicated mobile applications that allow for remote control, monitoring, and access to a community of grill enthusiasts. Users can share recipes, tips, and experiences, enhancing the overall grilling experience.
How Do Smart Grills Enhance Your Cooking Experience?
Smart grills significantly enhance your cooking experience by integrating technology that simplifies the grilling process and improves results.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity: Smart grills often come equipped with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology, allowing you to control cooking temperatures and settings from your smartphone or tablet. This feature enables real-time monitoring and adjustments, ensuring that you can achieve the perfect cook without being tethered to the grill.
- Integrated Thermometers: Many smart grills include built-in temperature probes that provide accurate readings of both the grill and food temperatures. This eliminates guesswork, allows for precision cooking, and helps prevent overcooking or undercooking your meals.
- Pre-programmed Cooking Settings: Smart grills often feature pre-programmed cooking modes that cater to various types of food, such as steak, chicken, or fish. These settings take the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures, allowing for consistent results every time you grill.
- Recipe Assistance: Some smart grills come with access to a library of recipes that can be tailored to the specific capabilities of the grill. This can inspire users to try new dishes and techniques, enhancing their culinary repertoire and making grilling more enjoyable.
- Remote Monitoring and Alerts: With smart grills, you can receive alerts on your smartphone when your food is ready or when the grill has reached the desired temperature. This feature allows you to multitask and socialize while cooking, ensuring that you never miss a crucial moment in the grilling process.
What Smart Technologies Should You Look for in a Grill?
The best smart grills incorporate various technologies to enhance cooking experiences and improve convenience.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Smart grills with Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to control and monitor your grill remotely using a smartphone app. This feature enables you to adjust temperatures, set timers, and receive notifications about the cooking process, giving you flexibility and ease of use while entertaining or multitasking.
- Bluetooth Technology: Bluetooth-enabled grills provide a direct, short-range connection to your smartphone, allowing for real-time updates and control. This technology often offers lower latency compared to Wi-Fi, making it ideal for quick adjustments while cooking in close proximity.
- Integrated Thermometers: Many smart grills come with built-in thermometers that monitor the internal temperature of your food. These thermometers can send alerts to your smartphone when your meat reaches the desired doneness, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.
- Recipe Assistance: Some smart grills offer built-in recipe guidance or integration with recipe apps, helping you follow cooking instructions with precision. This feature can simplify meal preparation, especially for novice cooks or when trying out complex recipes.
- Voice Control: Grills compatible with smart home devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant allow for hands-free operation. You can adjust settings, check cooking status, or start and stop grilling with simple voice commands, making it convenient while your hands are full.
- Smart Fuel Management: Advanced smart grills may include fuel level monitoring, which alerts you when propane is running low or when charcoal needs replenishing. This feature helps you avoid running out of fuel mid-cook and ensures you can always enjoy your grilling experience without interruptions.
- Customizable Cooking Profiles: Some smart grills enable you to create and save cooking profiles for different types of meat or recipes. This personalization allows you to achieve consistent results every time, as you can replicate the exact settings that worked well in the past.
Which Temperature Controls Are Most Effective in Smart Grills?
The most effective temperature controls in smart grills include:
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Enables remote monitoring and control of grill temperature through a smartphone app.
- Built-in Thermometers: Provides accurate internal temperature readings of the meat, ensuring optimal cooking.
- PID Controllers: Offers precise temperature regulation by continuously adjusting the heat output to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Voice Control Integration: Allows users to adjust settings hands-free using smart home devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Smart Alerts: Sends notifications to users when the grill reaches a specified temperature or when food is ready, enhancing convenience.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: This feature allows users to connect their smart grill to home Wi-Fi networks, enabling them to monitor and adjust cooking temperatures from anywhere using a smartphone app. With this capability, users can avoid the hassle of constantly checking the grill, which is especially useful for longer cooking sessions.
Built-in Thermometers: Smart grills often come equipped with integrated thermometers that provide real-time readings of the internal temperature of the food. This feature helps prevent overcooking or undercooking, ensuring that meals are prepared perfectly every time.
PID Controllers: Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controllers are advanced systems that automatically adjust the grill’s heating elements to maintain a stable temperature. This technology reduces temperature fluctuations, leading to better cooking consistency and quality.
Voice Control Integration: Many smart grills now support voice commands through popular smart home platforms, allowing users to adjust temperatures and settings without needing to touch their devices. This hands-free convenience is especially beneficial when multitasking in the kitchen or outdoors.
Smart Alerts: This feature sends alerts to users’ smartphones when the grill reaches a certain temperature or when the food is almost done. Such notifications help users manage their time and ensure that they are ready to serve delicious meals right when they’re cooked to perfection.
What Are the Most Popular Smart Grills on the Market Today?
The most popular smart grills on the market today combine advanced technology with traditional grilling features for an enhanced cooking experience.
- Weber Genesis II Smart Grill: This grill features Wi-Fi connectivity that allows users to monitor cooking temperatures and set timers directly from a smartphone app. Additionally, it is equipped with the iGrill technology, which enables real-time temperature readings of the meat to ensure perfect doneness.
- Traeger Timberline 850: Known for its wood-pellet grilling, the Timberline 850 offers Wi-Fi capabilities that let you control the grill remotely. Its D2 drivetrain enhances temperature control and consistency while the app provides recipes and step-by-step guidance for various dishes.
- Char-Broil SmartChef TRU-Infrared Grill: This grill features a SmartChef app that allows users to manage their cooking settings and monitor food temperatures from their smartphones. The TRU-Infrared technology ensures even cooking and prevents flare-ups, making it a favorite among grill enthusiasts.
- CAMP CHEF Woodwind WiFi 24: This pellet grill comes with a Wi-Fi app that allows for remote monitoring and control of the grill’s temperature. It also has a patented ash cleanout system that makes cleanup easier, along with a sidekick attachment for additional cooking options like searing or baking.
- Napoleon Rogue XT 425: This grill features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to control heat settings and monitor their grilling from a distance. With infrared side burners and high-quality construction, it offers versatility for various cooking methods, including searing and slow cooking.
How Do I Choose the Right Smart Grill for My Needs?
Choosing the right smart grill involves considering several key factors that align with your cooking preferences and lifestyle.
- Cooking Surface Area: The size of the cooking surface is crucial for determining how much food you can prepare at once. If you often host gatherings or cook for a family, opt for a larger grilling area that can accommodate multiple items simultaneously.
- Temperature Control: Look for grills that offer precise temperature control options, such as digital displays or smartphone apps. This feature allows for consistent cooking results and can help you achieve perfect doneness for various types of meat and vegetables.
- Connectivity Features: Smart grills often come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities, enabling you to monitor and control cooking from your smartphone. This convenience allows you to multitask while ensuring your food is cooked to perfection without the need to constantly check on it.
- Fuel Type: Consider whether you prefer gas, charcoal, or electric smart grills. Each fuel type offers different flavor profiles and cooking experiences, so choose one that best matches your culinary style and convenience needs.
- Build Quality and Durability: Assess the materials used in the grill’s construction, such as stainless steel or heavy-duty aluminum. A well-built grill will withstand the elements and provide long-lasting performance, making it a worthwhile investment.
- Ease of Cleaning: Some smart grills are designed with easy-to-clean features, such as removable grease trays or non-stick surfaces. Choosing a model that simplifies the cleaning process can save you time and effort after cooking.
- Additional Features: Explore other smart features such as integrated meat probes, timers, or pre-set cooking programs. These functionalities can enhance your cooking experience and provide greater control over the grilling process.
What Benefits Can I Expect from Investing in a Smart Grill?
Investing in a smart grill offers numerous benefits that enhance the grilling experience.
- Convenience: Smart grills often come with app connectivity, allowing you to control temperature and cooking times remotely.
- Precision Cooking: Many smart grills feature advanced sensors that monitor internal temperatures and cooking progress, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.
- Recipe Assistance: Smart grills can provide guided cooking instructions and recipe suggestions through their associated apps, making it easier for beginners and experienced chefs alike.
- Versatility: These grills can support various cooking methods, from grilling and smoking to baking, expanding your culinary possibilities.
- Time-Saving Features: With programmable settings and timers, smart grills help you save time by automating the cooking process and allowing you to multitask.
- Maintenance Alerts: Some models offer reminders for cleaning and maintenance, helping you keep your grill in optimal condition for longer.
Convenience: Smart grills often come with app connectivity, allowing you to control temperature and cooking times remotely. This means you can start grilling from your phone while attending to other tasks, making it much easier to enjoy gatherings without being tied to the grill.
Precision Cooking: Many smart grills feature advanced sensors that monitor internal temperatures and cooking progress, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. These sensors help prevent overcooking or undercooking, which can be especially beneficial for meats where precision is crucial.
Recipe Assistance: Smart grills can provide guided cooking instructions and recipe suggestions through their associated apps, making it easier for beginners and experienced chefs alike. This feature helps users explore new recipes and techniques without the fear of making mistakes.
Versatility: These grills can support various cooking methods, from grilling and smoking to baking, expanding your culinary possibilities. With a smart grill, you’re not limited to just traditional grilling; you can also experiment with slow cooking or even pizza-making.
Time-Saving Features: With programmable settings and timers, smart grills help you save time by automating the cooking process and allowing you to multitask. This is particularly advantageous during busy gatherings when you want to spend more time with guests rather than monitoring the grill.
Maintenance Alerts: Some models offer reminders for cleaning and maintenance, helping you keep your grill in optimal condition for longer. Regular maintenance is essential for performance, and these alerts can prevent issues that might arise from neglect.
Related Post: