Ninja announced the release of their first outdoor appliance with the new Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill. Appliance is the operative word, because it has the convenience of a kitchen appliance without the soul of grilling.
Update: We reviewed the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill.
Features
The product page is light on details. This looks like a small grill, but no specs are given as to how small. One video on Ninja’s website hints at being able to hit 500 degrees F, but again, no specs are given. The Pro model, which means it has a temperature probe, retails for $399.60.
With an electric heating element underneath a non-stick surface (think George Foreman Grill) on the bottom and an electric heating element on top with a fan for convection, the Ninja can heat food in a variety of ways. To satisfy people that want smoky flavor outdoors, they added a smoker box on the side that heats wood pellets.
Outrageously Expensive Pellets
To get some smoke you add a 1/2 cup of pellets to the smoker box and let the convection fan do it’s work. If you thought that Traeger pellets were a tad on the expensive side, Ninja Woodfire Pellets are the ultimate status symbol. A 2-lb bag sells for $15.99. That’s not a typo. You want it shipped? That’s another $6.95. Add in sales tax and you’re paying over $12 per pound of pellets.
If you’re thinking of using a different brand of pellets, Ninja’s FAQ section has other thoughts.
Other Options
If you’re looking for an outdoor kitchen appliance that you can conveniently cook some food on, this is an option. It can accomplish that in a variety of ways from air frying to roasting. If you’re looking for outdoor grill options, there are probably better options out there.
Better Electric Grill
If you’re looking to use electricity as a fuel source, check out the Char-Broil EDGE electric grill. It’s electric, but works like a grill and has more soul to it. It will also get to 700 degrees F, for some impressive searing.
Better Pellet Grill
Keeping with using pellets for smoke and convenience, the Pit Boss Lexington is only $300 and will give you great results. If you want more features and are less concerned with price, check out these other smokers.