DG551 adds a griddle and extra versatility; FG551 is the simpler grill.
I live in the US, right outside Austin. I cook indoors a lot because summers get hot. If you’re stuck choosing between two smart indoor grills, this Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 guide will save you time. I’ll explain the real differences in daily use, what you gain with the griddle on the DG551, and who should pick the FG551 to save money and space. By the end, you’ll know which one fits your kitchen, your recipes, and your budget in this Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 matchup.
Table of Contents
Is Ninja Good?
My quick verdict: Yes, but it depends. In this Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 comparison, the DG551 is best if you want a built-in flat-top griddle and more cooking flexibility. The FG551 is great if you only want a smart indoor grill with air fry features at a better price.
I made smash burgers on the DG551’s flat-top in minutes. The high heat browned the crust fast. Cleanup felt easy thanks to the nonstick plates.
I also tried salmon with the smart thermometer. I used the preset, closed the lid, and it beeped when done. The center was perfect.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Includes the **Foodi Smart Thermometer** with doneness presets and carryover-cook logic
- 500°F high-heat searing with **Cyclonic Grilling Technology** for fast browning
- Built-in 12″ **BBQ griddle plate** for pancakes, eggs, veggies, and smash burgers
- Multiple functions: grill, griddle, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate
- XL capacity fits up to six steaks or 24 hot dogs at once
- **Smoke Control System** with cool-air zone and splatter shield for indoor cooking
- Nonstick, dishwasher-safe grate and crisper basket for easier cleanup
What I Like
- The griddle adds real flexibility for breakfast and stir-fry
- Smart thermometer takes the guesswork out of doneness
- Fast preheat and strong sear on steaks and burgers
- Reliable indoor smoke management for apartment use
- Easy-to-clean parts make weeknight cooking simple
What Could Be Better
- Larger footprint than a basic air fryer
- Heavier lid; needs solid counter space
- Learning curve when switching between grill and griddle
- Price is higher than simpler models
- Accessories can add cost if you expand your setup
My Recommendation
Pick this if you want the most versatile option in the Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 debate. It suits families and cooks who want the griddle plus grill in one. It’s widely available and offers strong value if you’ll use both surfaces often.
Is Foodi Good?
My verdict: Yes. In the Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 decision, the FG551 is the better buy if you just need a smart indoor grill with air fry and don’t need a griddle. It’s simpler and usually costs less.
I grilled chicken thighs using the Foodi Smart Thermometer presets. The FG551 finished juicy and safe, and the skin crisped well.
I also air-crisped fries. They came out golden and crunchy without shaking the basket too much.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Smart indoor grill with **Foodi Smart Thermometer** presets
- 500°F grill grate with **Cyclonic Grilling Technology**
- 6-in-1 functions: grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate
- XL capacity suitable for family meals
- **Smoke Control System** for indoor grilling
- Nonstick, dishwasher-safe parts for simpler cleanup
- Streamlined controls and familiar grill layout
What I Like
- Straightforward grilling without extra parts
- Thermometer presets help avoid overcooking
- Compact compared to griddle-equipped models
- Good value for a smart grill and air fryer combo
- Even heat and consistent results
What Could Be Better
- No flat-top griddle option
- Less flexible for breakfast foods and stir-fries
- Still needs counter space and ventilation
- Accessories may be needed for probe replacement
- Fewer cooking modes than the DG551
My Recommendation
Choose this if you want a smart grill with air fry at a friendlier price. In the Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 comparison, the FG551 is ideal for grill-first buyers who don’t need the added griddle.
Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551: Side-by-Side Test
I tested real meals to see where each model shines. This direct Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 comparison focuses on functions, speed, doneness control, and cleanup, based on everyday cooking.
Cooking Functions: Which One Does More?
| Feature | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Grill | Yes (500°F) | Yes (500°F) |
| Griddle | Yes (12″ flat-top) | No |
| Air Crisp | Yes | Yes |
| Roast/Bake/Broil | Yes | Yes |
| Dehydrate | Yes | Yes |
Rating: DG551 – 9.5/10 | FG551 – 8/10
Edge: DG551 for the added griddle.
Doneness Control: Smart Thermometer Performance
| Aspect | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Thermometer | Included | Included |
| Presets | Beef, Poultry, Fish, Pork | Beef, Poultry, Fish, Pork |
| Doneness Levels | Multiple (rare to well) | Multiple (rare to well) |
Rating: DG551 – 9/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: Tie; both use the Foodi Smart Thermometer logic well.
Searing Power and Browning
| Metric | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Grill Temp | 500°F | 500°F |
| Heat Distribution | Excellent on grate and griddle | Excellent on grate |
| Crust/Char | Outstanding | Outstanding |
Rating: DG551 – 9.5/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: DG551, thanks to the flat-top for Maillard-heavy foods.
Capacity for Family Meals
| Item | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Steaks | Up to 6 | Up to 6 |
| Burgers | 6–8 | 6–8 |
| Pancakes/Griddle Space | Yes (multiple at once) | No |
Rating: DG551 – 9.5/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: DG551 for griddle surface area.
Smoke Control and Indoor Use
| Aspect | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Smoke Control System | Yes | Yes |
| Splatter Shield | Yes | Yes |
| Apartment-Friendly | Yes | Yes |
Rating: DG551 – 9/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: Tie; both keep smoke low when used properly.
Ease of Use and Controls
| Aspect | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Simple but more parts | Very simple |
| Mode Switching | Grill/Griddle toggle | Grill-focused modes |
| Learning Curve | Moderate | Low |
Rating: DG551 – 8.5/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: FG551 for straightforward controls.
Cleanup and Maintenance
| Part | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Nonstick Grate | Dishwasher-safe | Dishwasher-safe |
| Griddle Plate | Dishwasher-safe | Not applicable |
| Crisper Basket | Dishwasher-safe | Dishwasher-safe |
Rating: DG551 – 9/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: Tie; both are easy to clean.
Footprint and Storage
| Aspect | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger with griddle | More compact |
| Weight | Heavier lid | Lighter overall |
| Counter Fit | Needs more space | Easier fit |
Rating: DG551 – 8/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: FG551 for smaller kitchens.
Value for Money in 2025
| Factor | DG551 | FG551 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Higher | Lower |
| Features per Dollar | Great if you use griddle | Great for grill-focused use |
| Longevity | Strong build | Strong build |
Rating: DG551 – 9/10 | FG551 – 9/10
Edge: Tie; depends on your needs.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want max versatility in the Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551 battle, get the DG551. The flat-top griddle plus grill, smart thermometer, and 500°F heat cover more meals.
If you just need a smart indoor grill with air fry at a lower price, pick the FG551. It’s simpler, smaller, and still nails steaks, chicken, and fries.
Both are excellent. Your space, budget, and recipes decide the winner.
FAQs Of Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551
Which cooks more types of food in Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551?
DG551. It adds a 12″ flat-top griddle for breakfast foods, stir-fries, and smash burgers.
Is the smart thermometer different in Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551?
Both include the Foodi Smart Thermometer with presets and doneness levels. Performance is similar.
Which is better for small kitchens in Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551?
FG551. It has a smaller footprint and fewer parts to store.
Does the DG551 heat faster than the FG551 in Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551?
Both reach 500°F quickly. DG551 feels more flexible because it can heat the griddle or grill.
What’s the best value pick in Ninja Foodi DG551 vs FG551?
If you’ll use the griddle often, DG551 is worth it. If not, FG551 saves money and still cooks great.
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