Ninja DG551 vs FG551 – Which One Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen?
Ninja’s DG551 and FG551 may look similar at first, but their key features set them apart in ways that matter for daily cooking. These two indoor grills offer much more than just grilling—they can air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate.
But which one gives you more control, better flavor, or easier cleanup? The DG551 comes with smart technology that adjusts cooking time and temperature based on doneness.
The FG551 packs solid performance too, with a reliable food thermometer and wide temperature range. While both models make indoor grilling simple and fast, each has its own pros and cons depending on what you cook most often.
Some users want a smarter cooking process. Others care more about quick results or fewer buttons to press. Understanding how these two models compare can help you decide which one suits your kitchen lifestyle best.
Ninja DG551 vs Ninja FG551
Indoor grills make cooking easy and fun. The Ninja DG551 and FG551 are two popular models from Ninja’s Foodi line. Both offer great features for grilling, air frying, and more.
But they have differences that might matter to you. This article breaks down each grill in detail to help you decide which one fits your kitchen needs.
Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill
The Ninja DG551 is a 2nd-generation Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill. It works as a grill and air fryer with a sleek, modern design.
It comes with a Smart Cook System and Thermometer for precise cooking. With 1760 watts of power and 120 volts, it handles various cooking tasks well. Its six functions and easy-to-clean parts make it a versatile kitchen tool.
Features
Smart Cook System and Thermometer
The DG551 has a Foodi Smart Thermometer. It lets you pick from four protein settings and nine doneness levels. You get perfect results without guessing. Just press a button, and it cooks your meat exactly how you like it.
Cyclonic Grilling Technology
This grill uses 500°F hot air and a 500°F grill grate. It cooks food evenly and adds char-grilled marks. You get outdoor grill flavors indoors.
Six Cooking Functions
You can grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate. The wide temperature range makes it easy to cook many dishes.
Smoke Control System
A temperature-controlled grate, splatter shield, and cool-air zone keep smoke low. Your kitchen stays clean and smoke-free.
Easy to Clean
The ceramic-coated grill grate, crisper basket, and cooking pot are dishwasher-safe. They are also PTFE/PFOA-free for safe cooking.
What is the Good?
The DG551 shines with its updated design. It looks modern and fits well in any kitchen. The Smart Cook System makes cooking meat easy and precise.
Its six functions save space by replacing other appliances. You can cook from frozen in under 25 minutes, which is great for busy days. The air fryer cuts up to 75% of fat compared to deep frying, making meals healthier.
What is the Bad?
The DG551 uses 1760 watts, which might increase your electric bill. It’s also tall at 16 inches, so it may not fit under low cabinets.
Some users say it takes up a lot of counter space. The single thermometer sensor might be less accurate for large cuts of meat.
Overall Opinion
The DG551 is a strong choice for those who want a modern, multi-function grill. It’s great for precise grilling and healthy air frying.
Its sleek design and dishwasher-safe parts add convenience. But if you have a small kitchen or want to save energy, you might need to consider its size and power use.
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill
The Ninja FG551 is a 1st-generation Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill. It sears, sizzles, and crisps with a classic black and silver design. It has 15 amps, a 91.44 cm cord, and runs at 60 Hz.
Like the DG551, it offers six cooking functions and a Smart Cook System. Its dual-sensor thermometer sets it apart for accurate cooking.
Features
Dual-Sensor Foodi Smart Thermometer
The FG551 has a dual-sensor thermometer. It checks temperature in two spots for better accuracy. You can choose four protein settings and nine doneness levels for perfect results.
Cyclonic Grilling Technology
Like the DG551, it uses 500°F cyclonic air and a 500°F grate. This gives food charred marks and rich flavors, just like an outdoor grill.
XL Capacity
The grill grate fits up to six steaks or 24 hot dogs at once. It’s ideal for cooking mains and sides together for big meals.
Six Cooking Functions
It grills, air crisps, roasts, bakes, broils, and dehydrates. The wide temperature range supports all these tasks.
Smoke Control System
The FG551 uses a splatter shield, temperature-controlled grate, and cool-air zone to reduce smoke. Your kitchen stays fresh.
What is the Good?
The FG551’s dual-sensor thermometer is a big plus. It ensures accurate cooking, especially for thick meats. The XL capacity is perfect for families or parties.
It cooks frozen food to grilled perfection in under 25 minutes. The air fryer reduces fat by up to 75%, great for healthy eating. Its reliable design has been trusted by users for years.
What is the Bad?
The FG551’s older design may not look as sleek as the DG551. It uses 1760 watts, which can raise energy costs.
At 22.44 pounds, it’s lighter than the DG551 but still bulky. Some users report the touchscreen controls can be less responsive over time.
Overall Opinion
The FG551 is a solid pick for those who want a versatile grill with proven performance. Its dual-sensor thermometer and large capacity make it great for big meals.
But its older design and potential control issues might bother some users. It’s best for those who prioritize function over style.
Detailed Comparison for Ninja DG551 vs FG551
Both the Ninja DG551 and FG551 are excellent indoor grills with similar core features. They share the same 1760-watt power, six cooking functions, and Cyclonic Grilling Technology. Both reduce fat by up to 75% when air frying and cook frozen food in under 25 minutes.
Their smoke control systems keep kitchens clean. The key differences lie in design, thermometer technology, and included components. The DG551, a 2nd-generation model, has a sleeker look and ceramic-coated parts. It includes a splatter shield and an extra cooking pot.
The FG551, a 1st-generation model, has a dual-sensor thermometer for better accuracy and a larger capacity for big meals. The DG551 measures 11.1″D x 15.7″W x 16″H and weighs 25 pounds, while the FG551 is 15.75″D x 16.54″W x 11.1″H and weighs 22.44 pounds.
If you value modern design and extra components, the DG551 is better. If you need precise cooking and more cooking space, the FG551 stands out.
FAQs
Which grill is newer, DG551 or FG551?
The DG551 is newer. It’s a 2nd-generation model, while the FG551 is 1st-generation.
Can both grills cook frozen food?
Yes, both can turn frozen food into grilled dishes in under 25 minutes.
Are the parts dishwasher-safe?
Yes, both have dishwasher-safe grill grates, crisper baskets, and cooking pots.
Which grill is better for large families?
The FG551 has a larger capacity, fitting up to six steaks or 24 hot dogs, making it better for big families.
Do both grills have a smart thermometer?
Yes, but the FG551 has a dual-sensor thermometer for more accuracy, while the DG551 has a single sensor.
Conclusion
The Ninja DG551 and Ninja FG551 are both top-notch indoor grills. They offer versatile cooking and smart features for easy meals. The DG551 suits those who want a modern look and extra accessories.
The FG551 is ideal for families needing more space and precise cooking. Consider your kitchen size, cooking needs, and style preferences to choose the best one for you.
