When it comes to outdoor grilling, finding the perfect balance between convenience, performance, and authentic woodfire flavor is key. As someone who loves outdoor cooking, I had the chance to personally use both the Ninja OG850 and the Ninja OG951. These two models offer impressive grilling, smoking, and air frying capabilities, but each comes with unique features that set them apart. In this detailed comparison, I’ll share my firsthand experience, highlighting the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one suits your needs best. If you’re torn between the Ninja OG850 vs OG951, read on—I’ve got all the insights you need!
Key Differences Between Ninja OG850 and OG951
The main difference between Ninja OG850 vs OG951 is that the Ninja OG951 is a 7-in-1 outdoor grill and smoker with Bluetooth connectivity, while the Ninja OG850 is a 4-in-1 model without smart app integration. The OG951 provides additional cooking functionalities such as roasting, broiling, and dehydrating, making it more versatile. It also features two built-in thermometers, whereas the OG850 has only one. Another key distinction is that the OG951 uses an electric fuel source, whereas the OG850 runs on wood pellets.
Additional Differences
Smart Connectivity
- The Ninja OG951 is equipped with Bluetooth and can be controlled via the Ninja ProConnect app, allowing users to monitor and adjust cooking settings remotely. The OG850 lacks smart connectivity.
Cooking Functions
- The OG850 has four cooking functions: grill, BBQ smoke, air fry, and bake.
- The OG951 expands its capabilities with seven functions: grill, BBQ smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate.
Built-in Thermometers
- The OG951 features two built-in thermometers, enabling more precise temperature monitoring for multiple proteins.
- The OG850 includes a single built-in thermometer.
Fuel Type
- The OG850 runs on wood pellets for authentic smoky flavors.
- The OG951 operates electrically while still utilizing woodfire technology for flavor.
Handle Material
- The OG951 features a wooden handle, adding to its premium design and durability.
- The OG850 has a standard handle without a wood finish.
Comparison Table: Ninja OG850 vs OG951
| Feature | Ninja OG850 | Ninja OG951 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | OG850 | OG951 |
| Functions | Grill, BBQ Smoke, Air Fry, Bake | Grill, BBQ Smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate |
| Cooking Space | 180 sq. inches | 180 sq. inches |
| Built-in Thermometer | 1 | 2 |
| Smart Connectivity | No | Yes (Bluetooth + ProConnect App) |
| Fuel Type | Wood Pellets | Electric with Woodfire Technology |
| Handle Material | Standard | Wood |
| Power Source | Wood Pellets | Electric |
| Special Features | Manual, Programmable | Manual, Programmable, App-Controlled |
| Weight | 38.94 lbs | 38.94 lbs |
| Weather Resistant | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking Surface Area | 180 sq. inches | 180 sq. inches |
| Voltage | 120V | 120V |
| Wattage | 1760W | 1760W |
| Included Components | Grill Grate, Thermometer, Crisper Basket, Grease Tray, Pellet Scoop, Pellet Starter Packs | Grill Grate, 2 Thermometers, Crisper Basket, Grease Tray, Pellet Scoop, Pellet Starter Packs |
| Size | 22.28"D x 20.03"W x 15.82"H | 22.28"D x 20.03"W x 15.82"H |
| Manufacturer | Ninja | Ninja |
| Price | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Overview Ninja OG850
The Ninja OG850 is a powerful and versatile outdoor grill and smoker designed to deliver authentic woodfire flavors. With its 4-in-1 functionality, it allows you to grill, BBQ smoke, air fry, and bake in a single appliance, making it a convenient choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. The 180 square inches of cooking space ensures ample room for grilling multiple items at once, such as 10 burgers, 2 full racks of ribs, or a 10-lb brisket. This model is built to be weather-resistant, meaning you can use and store it outdoors throughout the year without concerns about durability. The built-in thermometer ensures that your food is cooked to perfection, alerting you when it reaches the desired temperature.
Unlike traditional grills, the Ninja OG850 operates using wood pellets, which enhance the food’s flavor with a genuine smoky taste. It also functions as an outdoor air fryer, allowing you to cook crispy dishes with the added bonus of woodfire infusion. The high 1760W power ensures that it heats up quickly, providing excellent searing and charring results. Additionally, it features a non-stick grill grate for easy cleaning, and a pellet scoop and grease tray liner for added convenience. Whether you’re on an apartment balcony, RV trip, or backyard party, this portable grill offers flexibility and convenience.
One of the standout aspects of the Ninja OG850 vs OG951 comparison is that while the OG951 offers smart connectivity and extra cooking functions, the OG850 remains a solid choice for those who prefer a simpler, wood-pellet-powered grill with essential features. It delivers full-size propane grill performance in a compact, electric-powered package, making it ideal for those who love the smoky BBQ experience without the complexity of additional technology.
Pros and Cons of Ninja OG850
Pros:
- 4-in-1 Functionality
- Large Cooking Space
- Built-in Thermometer
- Woodfire Flavor
- Portable & Weather-Resistant
- Powerful Heating (1760W)
Cons:
- No Smart Connectivity
- Single Thermometer
- No Roasting/Broiling/Dehydrating
- 4-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Grill, BBQ smoke, Air Fry, & Bake, with 100% real woodfire...
- CAPACITY TO ENTERTAIN: 180 sq inches of cooking space--30% more than the original Ninja...
Overview Ninja OG951
The Ninja OG951 is an advanced 7-in-1 outdoor grill and smoker that takes outdoor cooking to the next level. This model includes grill, BBQ smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate functions, making it one of the most versatile cooking appliances available. It offers smart connectivity via Bluetooth and the Ninja ProConnect App, allowing users to control and monitor their cooking remotely. The 180 square inches of cooking space ensures that you can cook for large gatherings, accommodating up to 10 burgers, 2 whole chickens, or a 10-lb brisket with ease.
Unlike its counterpart in the Ninja OG850 vs OG951 debate, the OG951 comes with two built-in thermometers, providing more precise temperature control for different proteins at the same time. The grill operates on electric power with woodfire technology, ensuring the authentic smoky taste while maintaining efficient heat distribution. The wooden handle adds to its durability and premium look, making it a standout choice for serious grillers who want both convenience and style.
With its weather-resistant build, the Ninja OG951 is suitable for year-round outdoor use. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ in your backyard or enjoying a tailgate party, this appliance is designed for performance and ease of use. The additional roasting, broiling, and dehydrating functions make it more versatile than the OG850, providing a complete outdoor cooking solution for those who love experimenting with different recipes.
Pros and Cons of Ninja OG951
Pros:
- 7-in-1 Functionality
- Smart App Control
- Two Built-in Thermometers
- Woodfire Flavor
- Large Cooking Area
- Weather-Resistant
- Durable Wooden Handle
Cons:
- Higher Price
- Requires Bluetooth Setup
- 7-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Grill, BBQ smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate with...
- CAPACITY TO ENTERTAIN: 180 square inches of cooking space—30% more than the original...
Conclusion
When comparing Ninja OG850 vs OG951, the OG951 is the clear winner due to its additional cooking functions, smart connectivity, and dual thermometers. While the OG850 is an excellent grill for those who prefer traditional wood pellet cooking, the OG951 offers superior versatility and remote control features. If you seek a more advanced grilling experience with extra functionalities, the OG951 is the best choice.
