Ninja Grill DG551 and Ninja Grill BG500A are two popular indoor grills that share many similarities but also differ in key ways. Ninja Grill DG551 is the newer model and comes with upgraded features like a built-in smart thermometer and second-generation smoke control. Ninja Grill BG500A remains a strong with proven cooking functions. This comparison will help you quickly understand the differences and decide which one fit your lifestyle.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Smart-Cook Thermometer:
- Ninja Grill DG551 features a built-in smart thermometer that helps monitor internal food temperature to achieve precise doneness without guesswork.
- Ninja Grill BG500A does not include a thermometer.
Winner:
Ninja Grill DG551
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Broil Function:
- Ninja Grill DG551 includes a broil function that applies high direct heat to crisp and caramelize the top layer of food.
- Ninja Grill BG500A does not support a dedicated broil function.
Winner:
Ninja Grill DG551
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Design:
- Ninja Grill DG551 has a sleek digital control panel that improves usability and provides a modern appearance.
- Ninja Grill BG500A comes with a simpler control layout.
Winner:
Ninja Grill DG551
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2nd-Gen Smoke Control:
- Ninja Grill DG551 supports a second-generation smoke control system that reduces indoor smoke for more comfortable grilling.
- Ninja Grill BG500A uses the first-generation smoke control system.
Winner:
Ninja Grill DG551
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Cyclonic Grilling:
- Ninja Grill DG551 features cyclonic grilling technology that circulates 500°F air to sear food evenly and lock in juices.
- Ninja Grill BG500A also uses cyclonic grilling with similar results.
Winner:
Ninja Grill DG551
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6-in-1 Cooking:
- Ninja Grill DG551 supports six cooking functions that expand versatility by adding a broil option to common modes.
- Ninja Grill BG500A supports five cooking functions without broil.
Winner:
Ninja Grill DG551
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Smoke-Free Indoor Grill:
- Ninja Grill DG551 comes with enhanced smoke control that allows grilling indoors with minimal smoke.
- Ninja Grill BG500A also provides smoke control but with less effectiveness.
Winner:
Ninja Grill DG551
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Ninja Grill DG551 |
Ninja Grill BG500A |
| Smart-Cook Thermometer |
Yes, built-in thermometer for precision cooking |
Not included |
| Smoke Control |
2nd-Gen Smoke Control System |
1st-Gen Smoke Control |
| Cooking Functions |
6-in-1: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate |
5-in-1: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate |
| Capacity |
XL 6-quart cooking pot, 4-quart crisper basket, fits up to 6 steaks |
XL 6-quart cooking pot, 4-quart crisper basket, fits up to 6 steaks |
| Design |
Sleek compact body with digital display |
Compact design with simple control panel |
| Broil Function |
Supported |
Not supported |
| Coating |
Ceramic-coated grill grate and crisper basket |
Ceramic-coated grill grate and crisper basket |
| Fat Reduction |
Up to 75% less fat with air crisp technology |
Up to 75% less fat with air crisp technology |
| Virtually Smoke-Free |
Yes, upgraded system for indoor use |
Yes, with basic smoke control |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Ninja Grill DG551 if you:
- Want a built-in smart thermometer for precise meat doneness.
- Prefer a broil function for high-heat finishes.
- Value a sleek design with a modern digital control panel.
- Need stronger indoor smoke reduction with 2nd-gen smoke control.
- Do not mind paying a higher price for advanced features.
Check Ninja Grill DG551 Best Price
Buy the Ninja Grill BG500A if you:
- Want a more budget-friendly grill with reliable performance.
- Do not need a built-in thermometer or broil function.
- Prefer a straightforward design with simple controls.
- Are mainly interested in grilling, roasting, and air crisping.
- Want the same XL cooking capacity at a lower price.
Check Ninja Grill BG500A Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Smart-Cook Thermometer |
Ninja Grill DG551 |
| Broil Function |
Ninja Grill DG551 |
| Compact Sleek Design |
Ninja Grill DG551 |
| 2nd-Gen Smoke Control |
Ninja Grill DG551 |
| 6-in-1 Cooking |
Ninja Grill DG551 |
| Virtually Smoke-Free |
Ninja Grill DG551 |
What They Have in Common
- Indoor Grill Functionality: Both the Ninja BG500A and DG551 are designed as indoor countertop grills, allowing users to enjoy outdoor-style grilling indoors with reduced smoke.
- Cyclonic Grilling Technology: Each model uses cyclonic air technology to circulate heat evenly, ensuring consistent cooking results with char-grilled flavors.
- Multiple Cooking Functions: Both units offer a variety of cooking modes such as grilling, roasting, baking, dehydrating, and air frying, making them versatile kitchen appliances.
- Temperature Control: Each grill provides adjustable temperature settings, giving users the ability to cook foods precisely from low to high heat.
- Easy-to-Clean Design: Both models feature removable, dishwasher-safe parts like the grill grate and splatter shield, making cleanup fast and convenient.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Does the Ninja Grill DG551 come with a smart thermometer?
Yes, the Ninja Grill DG551 includes a built-in smart thermometer that monitors internal food temperature to help achieve precise doneness.
Does the Ninja Grill BG500A have a thermometer?
No, the Ninja Grill BG500A does not come with a built-in thermometer, so you would need to rely on manual checks for doneness.
Can both grills be used indoors without heavy smoke?
Yes, both models are designed for indoor use with smoke control systems, but the DG551 has a second-generation system that is more effective.
Do both grills have the same cooking capacity?
Yes, both the Ninja Grill DG551 and BG500A include a 6-quart cooking pot and a 4-quart crisper basket, which can cook up to six steaks at once.
Does the Ninja Grill DG551 include a broil function?
Yes, the DG551 has a broil function that applies high heat to add crisp and caramelized finishes to food.
Does the Ninja Grill BG500A include a broil function?
No, the BG500A does not support a dedicated broil setting, which limits its versatility compared to the DG551.
Are the cooking parts dishwasher safe?
Yes, both models include ceramic-coated cooking parts that are nonstick, durable, and safe to clean in the dishwasher.
How many cooking functions are available on each model?
The Ninja Grill DG551 has six cooking functions including grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate, while the BG500A includes five functions without broil.
Do both models help reduce fat in fried foods?
Yes, both the DG551 and BG500A use air crisp technology that reduces fat content by up to 75 percent compared to traditional frying.
