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CNET
3 days ago
- Business
- CNET
I Tested Ninja's New $1,000 Grill with Built-in Smoker and Convection Fan
CNET's expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise. 8.3 / 10 SCORE Ninja FlexFlame $1,000 at Ninja Kitchen Pros Built-in smoker can add smoky flavor to food with the push of a button Convection fan provides fast preheating and heat recovery, and even cooking Feels well built and includes a 10-year warranty Griddle attachment offers mess-free cooking of flaky fish and vegetables Large 424 square-inch grill top Cons A big grill means a lot of grill to clean Must be plugged in to operate, and the power cord is short Accessories are sold separately Expensive Ninja FlexFlame 8.3/10 CNET Score $1,000 at Ninja Kitchen Grills aren't just simple machines with iron grates over hot coals or burners like they used to be. There are smart grills with top-down broilers, pellet grills that burn at ultra-precise temps and those mobile apps to manage your ribs and brisket without leaving the pool lounger. Ninja, ever the innovators in kitchen gear, has launched its first-ever full-sized gas grill and it's one of the most feature-heavy we've tried. The $1,000 FlexFlame Grill is a beast of a BBQ with large cooking surface, built-in smoker box and convection fan to mimic the evenness and precision of an indoor oven. There are also attachments to turn the grill into a griddle or pizza oven, making it one of the most versatile on the market. The Ninja's clean appearance hides a dynamic grill top that can turn into a griddle, smoker, roaster or pizza oven. David Watsky/CNET So is the Ninja FlexFlame really worth $1,000? I tested it for weeks and was wholly impressed with the form and function but a grill this expensive only makes sense for someone who takes advantage of all it has to offer. Here's everything you need to know about the flashy new Ninja FlexFlame. What's different about the Ninja FlexFlame? The FlexFlame looks like your average outdoor three-burner gas grill but unique features include: A convection fan for even cooking and precise temperature control. A built-in pellet smoker allows you to impart smoky flavor into any food. The dynamic grill top transforms into a flat-top griddle, roaster and pizza oven with attachments (sold separately). The built-in smoker box sets the FlexFlame apart from most of the grills we've tested. David Watsky/CNET Design and build quality The FlexFlame is sturdy and designed for easy cooking. All the add-on attachments, including the roasting rack, cast-iron griddle top and pizza stone, fit squarely in their places and are well-made. The grates and griddle are enameled cast iron and the under-cabinet space is roomy. Similar to industry leader Weber, it has a 10-year limited warranty. The grill is solid, once assembled. Adding pellets to the hopper is slightly awkward but there are no other obvious design flaws. David Watsky/CNET The stainless steel and porcelain-coated finish looks nice, but the aesthetics are nothing special. If smudgy stainless steel isn't your thing, there's a matte black edition available from Ninja or The Home Depot. Assembly and setup Assembling the grill should take one hour or more. The instructions are user-friendly and include video tutorials. In most regions, a white-glove service is available to have the grill delivered already set up for an extra cost. Cooking performance A built-in convection fan helps with evenness and efficiency The CyclonicHeat fan helps distribute air evenly over food and keeps the temperature consistent. David Watsky/CNET Once the grill is set up and plugged in (yes, it requires electricity to operate) and ignited using the ignition system, all the burners are ignited, and a built-in convection fan begins to pump away, I was able to choose a cooking method ranging from a precise low and slow cook or roaring high heat as hot as 600 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for pizza. Preheating the oven to its hottest 600 degrees Fahrenheit takes about 10 minutes, which is fast for a grill. A temperature readout on the dial lets you know when it is ready. The CylonicHeatIQ -- aka a convection fan and heat sensors -- circulates heat evenly throughout the chamber and keeps the temperature consistent. I saw this feature on display when I roasted a whole chicken with a can of light lager up its rear. It was done in less than 45 minutes and the skin was crispy and the bird was evenly cooked. Lightning-fast temperature recovery Even if the lid was opened, the FlexFlame recovered the set temperature much faster than other grills. David Watsky/CNET The convection fan also gives this grill quick temperature recovery via powerful burners and a convection fan. If I opened the lid to check cooking progress, I typically returned to temperature within a few seconds of closing it again. Grilling: This grill gets screaming hot and the temperature readout helps determine when it's ready for action. I found it easy to get a great sear on the burgers, salmon and chicken I cooked on it. Grilling on the FlexFlame wasn't much different from grilling on other quality grills I've used. The Ninja FlexFlame's smoker and a low, slow heat from the burners combined to make some mighty tasty ribs. David Watsky/CNET Smoking: The FlexFlame's marquis feature is the built-in smoker box. All it takes is to drop a cupful of wood pellets into the hopper. Once the grill is fired up, either on low/slow mode or a higher heat, you close the hood and tap the woodfire flavor button and the system starts pumping smoke inside. These were some of the better ribs I've made and it couldn't have been easier. David Watsky/CNET I used the smoker to cook a rack of pork ribs at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours. They were tender and juicy with a pleasant, light smoky flavor. I then cooked beef ribs at a lower temperature but for a longer time and the smokiness was more pronounced. I let the beef ribs smoke for even longer and it totally paid off. David Watsky/CNET Griddle: As much as I enjoyed the smoker, the feature I found myself using most was the half or full griddle insert and I recommend buying those add-on accessories. While beef and chicken are often the stars of a barbecue menu, I love cooking the whole meal out there. That often includes veggies, potatoes or flaky fish that can break apart and fall through the grates onto the burners and into a wretched mess. If you get the Ninja FlexFlame, the half griddle attachment is a must. David Watsky/CNET The FlexFlame griddle sits firmly next to the grill grates, so you can use both surfaces at the same time. Chicken and beef get kissed by the flames and attractive grill marks, while salmon enjoys a fierce sear yet stays intact on the griddle side. Toss broccoli or diced mushrooms drizzled with olive oil with them, and you've got a meal in less than 15 minutes. You can grill flaky fish or make a diner-style breakfast on the FlexFlame's griddle. David Watsky/CNET Pizza: Because the oven can reach 600 degrees Fahrenheit and hold its temperature consistently, it's an ideal grill for making pizza, especially if you order the pizza stone attachment ($50). Precision heat for expanded outdoor cooking The grill cooked my beer can chicken evenly in less than 45 minutes. David Watsky/CNET Along with the griddle insert and option to smoke, a feature of the FlexFlame I fell for was the digital control panel with precision temperature settings ranging from 200 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. With most grills, the temperature inside the grill is a guessing game and it often doesn't correspond directly to the setting on the dials. FlexFlame's precision allows you to use it like a traditional convection oven, even in summer, a great foil for keeping the kitchen cool on lasagna night. Perfect grill for steaks and thick cuts of meat The FlexFlame allows you to cook using different methods and surfaces at the same time. David Watsky/CNET Fussy carnivores know that the best way to cook a thick cut of meat like ribeye, filet or pork chop is to sear the outside on both sides and finish it with indirect heat in the oven. Because this grill can imitate an oven with more precise convection cooking, you can do both right in the FlexFlame's cooking chamber. Simply move the seared steak up to a roasting rack to finish and stick it with a meat thermometer to nail the doneness. It's a beast to clean A grill big enough to accommodate all those features and functions means there is a lot of real estate to clean afterward and maintain. That's especially true after a long, slow, low cook such as ribs, brisket or pork shoulder. None of the grill's components are advertised as dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning. Slow cooking combined with convection heat can result in a good deal of mess to clean up after. David Watsky/CNET Fatty foods ooze grease and the convection fan blows air around so things can move more than in a typical grill. There's a grease trap and management system, which is particularly useful when griddling, but it can only do so much. All grilling requires cleanup but expect a relatively robust cleaning session after each use of the FlexFlame. Read more: How to Clean Your Grill like a Pro It must be plugged in to work, which is kind of annoying This is my first grill to require electricity, and there were times I wished it didn't. The power cord attached to the grill is short -- I assume for safety -- so you'll need an extension cord. My home doesn't have outdoor outlets, so running a cord out the back meant I could not close the storm door. Within a few minutes of using the smoker feature, much of that smoke had snuck its way into the house. Not exactly where you want it. Conclusion: The pricey FlexFlame is worth it for the right person The new Ninja FlexFlame has all the makings for a delicious summer. David Watsky/CNET The Ninja FlexFlame offers more than most gas grills, including impressive temperature control, a dynamic grill top and the option to smoke your food with the push of a button. At $1,000 for the grill only, it costs more than most, especially if you nab the add-ons. (I like the half griddle pan best.) Because of this, you'd be wise to consider all that the Ninja offers and whether you'll use these features regularly to justify the cost. If you're smoker- or barbecue-curious or have been considering an outdoor pizza oven or flattop grill, the FlexFlame can stand in valiantly for all three outdoor cooking appliances. Plus, it delivers all the trappings of a sturdy and high-functioning gas grill. If you're not in the market for those other tools, just a great grill; the exceptional Weber 3-Burner Spirit E-33 or E-321 can be yours for roughly half the price.
Tom's Guide
4 days ago
- Tom's Guide
I cooked everything on the Ninja FlexFlame — and the results surprised me
I can safely say the Ninja FlexFlame is unlike anything the brand has released before. And at $999, not only is it Ninja's most expensive product yet, but it's also its most ambitious. Propane-powered but digitally controlled, this outdoor cooker isn't just a grill: it's also a smoker, a griddle, a pizza oven, and a roaster all built into one setup. It's Get Grillin' Week here at Tom's Guide, so I've spent a couple of weeks grilling, smoking and baking with the FlexFlame, trying to gauge whether it falls into the 'jack of all trades but master of none' category by trying to do too much. I went into testing thinking it was a gamble for Ninja to introduce its convention technology into the equation, touting a grill that can reach 600 degrees in as little as 7 minutes. Without spoiling too much of my full Ninja FlexFlame review below, I'll tell you it earned a permanent place in my outdoor cooking setup for the summer — but not without some important caveats that will determine whether it's the best grill for you. Ninja FlexFlame Price $999 Dimensions 59.57 x 48.31 x 25.08 inches Weight 130 pounds Electrical 400W watts, 120v-60hz volts Fuel Propane Total cooking area 544 square inches I've built a lot of grills in my time, and this was easily one of the most pain-free setups I've done. You attach the grill to the base, screw in the control panel, pop on the doors, slide in the grease trap, and that's basically it. I love how Ninja splits all the screws and smaller parts into individual bags that correspond with the assembly steps. Even though this is one of Ninja's most advanced outdoor products, it doesn't make you work for the first cook. You can be up and grilling in under an hour. I would recommend giving the grates and cooking surfaces a good wash before your first use, and pay attention to whether your surface needs to be seasoned. For example, the full and half griddle accessories both require you to know how to season a flat top griddle first. One of the most impressive things about the Ninja FlexFlame is how quickly it heats up. Thanks to a powerful built-in convection fan that circulates hot air from the flames around the cookbox, the grill can reach 600 degrees Fahrenheit in as little as 7 minutes. The temperature is tracked in real-time on the digital control panel, and during my tests, it hit target temps faster than most grills I've used, including some much higher-end models. Now, let me set expectations: it's loud. Not leaf blower loud, but not far off. The convection fan has an industrial whirr that's very noticeable when the lid is closed and the heat is circulating. That said, the fan smartly pauses whenever you open the lid, and as soon as you close it again, the fan kicks back on to quickly bring the grill back up to temp. I wouldn't call it dealbreaker by any means, unless of course you're worried about a noise complaint from close-proximity neighbors. The FlexFlame isn't just about grilling. You can: I tried every mode, and all of them worked as advertised. I grilled kebabs and steak, smoked beef ribs with a real bark and smoke ring, roasted a whole chicken to golden perfection, and cooked breakfast bacon on the griddle. Every feature felt purposeful. I'm certain some people will purchase this and never use at least a few of the settings, but with the help of the comprehensive user guide that comes with the FlexFlame, there's guidance on how to get started. I know I've already outlined the cooking modes, but there is one that surprised me the most. When I've tested Ninja's Woodfire products that have small smoke boxes, I've enjoyed the subtle touches of smoky flavor but I wouldn't say something like the Woodfire Outdoor Oven can genuinely smoke big cuts of meat. But with a 2-pound pellet box, the FlexFlame doesn't just flavor your food with smoke, it actually smokes it. I got bark, smoke rings, and fall-apart ribs in three hours. Yes, you'll need to refill the smoke box during longer cooks, but the fact that this kind of performance is coming from a gas-powered grill is seriously impressive. Just be ready to stock up on pellets because their sampler bags will run out quickly (and no, you don't have to use Ninja's brand). The FlexFlame may be a propane grill, but it still needs to be plugged in. The electric power runs the digital controls and the internal fan (which is a key part of its performance). If you're grilling off-grid, tailgating without a generator, or just don't want cords on your patio, this could be a dealbreaker. A lot of people don't think about needing electrical power when buying a gas grill, so I wouldn't be surprised if Ninja sees a majority of returns related to those expectations. Out of the box, you get the basics: the main grill, a solid set of grates, and an average-sided elevated top rack. But to unlock all the modes I outlined above, you'll need accessories. Some are more essential than others (like the cover), but if you want the full FlexFlame experience with smoking, griddling and pizza-making, expect to tack on another couple hundred bucks. As with any 'system,' your experience will be elevated based on how much you're willing to spend. Considering the grill already costs $999, I wouldn't recommend it to someone looking for 'just a grill.' If I had no interest or need in combining smoker or griddle functionality, I'd personally opt for the $799 Weber Spirit EP-425 for an appliance with basically the same amount of cooking area. The Ninja FlexFlame is a serious cooking system for people who want serious outdoor cooking versatility. If you're just making burgers every weekend, this might be more of a system than you need, and the Weber Spirit I mentioned is still a better pick among the best grills for simpler needs and tighter budgets. But if you're ready to cook a variety of meals outside, and like the idea of combining all outdoor cooking appliances into one system, the FlexFlame is worth the investment. It's not just a 5-in-1 appliance, it's five really good appliances in one.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
The best grills for 2025, according to grillmasters and editors
Warmer weather is finally upon us, which means it's officially backyard barbecue season. And what better way to celebrate than with a shiny new grill? If you're due for an upgrade, we've got you covered: We researched dozens of grills, interviewed barbecue chefs and surveyed our editors for the models they've relied on for years to find the best grills for 2025 — a mix of propane, electric, charcoal and you want to smoke a rack of ribs (we're lookin' at you, Traeger pellet grill) or simply cook up some burgers for dinner (the perfect propane grill makes it easy), you'll find the right setup on this list. We also included plenty of tips for finding the best grill for your space, plus a breakdown of the different fuel types if you're not sure where to start. Grillmaster status: unlocked! The best grills for 2025 Factors to consider when choosing a grill How we evaluated these grills More great grills to consider Grill FAQs Best grills specs comparison chart Meet the experts A quick note before you dive in: Different fuel types require different setups and yield different flavors, so we've included expert tips on choosing the right grill for your skill level, outdoor space and personal preferences at the end of this list. And while you're considering upgrading your deck or patio, can we interest you in a shiny new pizza oven or fire pit? Update, May 15, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our number one pick for best grill remains unchanged, but we did add the Ninja FlexFlame as the best upgraded propane grill. It was tested by our resident kitchen and cooking writer, Lisa Schweitzer. (back to top) Dimensions: Larger grills tend to have larger surface areas and cooking capacities, ideal for bigger families and parties. Larger grills also tend to weigh more, making them less travel-friendly. When it comes to gas grills, having multiple burners can help with heat distribution. Additionally, wheeled grills offer more portability. Fuel type: If you're planning to use your grill for regular, weeknight cooking, Jonathan Fox of Atlanta's Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q advises going for a gas grill that connects to a propane tank and can be ready to go in five to 10 minutes. If you dream of a grill that doubles as a smoker, consider a pellet grill that runs on wood pellets — or try a ceramic grill (like a Kamado Joe). Just know that it'll take 45 minutes to an hour to heat up, says Fox, which might not be ideal when cooking up a weeknight dinner. Charcoal grills fall somewhere in the middle for heat-up time and add that classic char flavor to veggies and meats. Intended use: With so many options, you'll want to zero in on a grill that's practical for your space and cooking taste. "There are so many choices in grills today, it's easy to get drawn in by some fancy feature that you'll never need," says world barbecue champion Melissa Cookston, owner of Memphis BBQ Co. "Are you cooking mainly burgers, steaks and hot dogs, or do you want more versatility? Would you prefer gas or charcoal? Are you cooking just for the immediate family?" Experience: Before you go out and buy the most expensive grill in the hardware store, get real about your skillset in the kitchen, er, backyard. "Are you a novice, hold-your-own or the next great meat influencer? These are some great questions to ask," says Fox. Price: You don't have to break the bank to make a great meal on the grill. But price will likely be a major factor as you shop. With that in mind, Fox says a higher price tag isn't always better or necessary, but more expensive grills do tend to last longer. (back to top) We spent hours researching grills, scouring thousands of customer reviews for some of the hottest (read: high-powered and top-rated) grills on the market. We also consulted grillmasters for what to look for, depending on your space and experience, along with Yahoo staffers who test and write about cooking gear for a living to determine which models deserved a spot on our list. (back to top) Char-Broil Performance Series 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill ($399): When it comes to a solid gas grill on a budget, Char-Broil's Performance Series 4-Burner is one to beat, with a 435-square-inch surface area — plus an additional 130 square inches of secondary cooking space — for serving up a sizable feast. It includes a five-year burner warranty. Blackstone Original 36-Inch Propane Gas Griddle With Cover ($397): If you're looking to invest in a flat-top grill, Blackstone's are some of the biggest in the game. This popular model offers a 756-square-inch grilling area, complete with two variable cooking zones, for whipping up breakfast, lunch and dinner with ease. Recteq Flagship 1100 Wood Pellet Grill ($1,300): Recteq's Flagship 1100 Wood Pellet Grill is another heavy-duty, stainless steel option with a hearty following, described by the brand and many of its enthusiasts as "the definition of gold standard in pellet grilling." It features a 1,100-square-inch grilling surface — the largest in this category — which can be used to bake, sear, smoke, grill and dehydrate. Did we mention it packs up to 700°F of heat? Weber Q1400 Electric Grill ($329): Weber's top-rated, portable electric grill is a great option for those looking for the ease of electricity in a compact, table-friendly frame. This grill has racked up over 1,000 five-star ratings from reviewers who've come to rely on it for its easy setup, quick and even heat distribution and sufficient grilling space (up to six burgers). Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates and a removable catch pan make it easy to clean. Weber Performer Premium Charcoal Grill with Stand ($649): Prepare up to 13 burgers at a time on this streamlined charcoal grill from Weber, then let the one-touch cleaning system handle all the dirty work. This grill functions similar to Weber's Original Kettle, but the cooking grate is hinged plus there's a built-in lid thermometer and a removable backlit LCD cook timer. Hamilton Beach 3-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill and Griddle ($76): Looking to plug in at a low price tag? Check out this versatile pick from Hamilton Beach, which goes on triple duty as a full grill, full griddle or grill-griddle hybrid in one. Just switch up the aluminum plates according to the menu and occasion. Last time we checked, more than 4,000 Amazon reviewers had given this gizmo a standing ovation. (back to top) Propane and charcoal differ primarily in their method of combustion. Propane provides consistent heat and is easy to ignite, whereas charcoal creates a smokier flavor and reaches higher cooking temperatures. Keep in mind that charcoal grills require much more prep and cleanup time. Pellet grills burn wood pellets (essentially pieces of compressed hardwood). Wood pellets are typically moved from a hopper to a fire pot via an auger where they're then ignited. Pellet grills are known for consistent heat and giving food a natural woodsmoke flavor. It all depends! Griddles and grills serve different purposes, so you'll want to figure out which types of foods you plan to cook primarily. Griddles are ideal for pancakes and eggs given their flat surface, while grills lend a smoky flavor — and those signature grill marks — that a griddle can't achieve. (back to top) Dimensions Fuel type Burners Wheels Weber Spirit II Liquid Propane Grill 48"D x 26"W x 57"H Propane gas 2 2 Traeger Grills Pro 780 Electric Wood Pellet Grill 27"D x 53"W x 49"H Wood pellets N/A 4 Char-Broil Patio Bistro Tru-Infrared Electric Grill 24.4"D x 25.2"W x 38.2"H Electric N/A 2 Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22.5"D x 22.5"W x 27"H Charcoal N/A 2 World barbecue champion Melissa Cookston, owner of Memphis BBQ Co. Jonathan Fox of Atlanta's Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q (back to top)
CNET
15-05-2025
- CNET
Ninja's First Full-Size Gas Grill Is 4 Appliances in 1. Here's My Review
CNET's expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise. 8.3 / 10 SCORE Ninja FlexFlame $1,000 at Ninja Kitchen Pros Built-in smoker can add smoky flavor to food with the push of a button Convection fan provides fast preheating and heat recovery, and even cooking Feels well built and includes a 10-year warranty Griddle attachment offers mess-free cooking of flaky fish and vegetables Large 424 square-inch grill top Cons A big grill means lots of grill to clean Must be plugged in to operate, and the power cord is short Accessories are sold separately Expensive Ninja FlexFlame 8.3/10 CNET Score $1,000 at Ninja Kitchen Ninja is unabashedly one of our favorite producers of kitchen gear and gadgets. The innovators recently blessed us with our new favorite air fryer, complete with a show-offy glass cooking chamber. Then they dropped an upgraded version of their viral ice cream maker that had our New York office melting faster than a scoop in July. Now, Ninja's crashing the full-size grill party with the FlexFlame Grill, a beast of a BBQ that's as multitasking as your group chat on a Friday night. And just in time for May, a.k.a. the unofficial kickoff to grilling season. Coincidence? Not a chance. The Ninja's clean appearance hides a dynamic grill top that can turn into a griddle, smoker, roaster or pizza oven. David Watsky/CNET The five-in-one outdoor cooker is a powerhouse when it comes to grilling and roasting, easily converting into a sleek griddle and featuring a handy built-in pellet smoker to infuse meat, fish, and vegetables with rich barbecue flavor. To find out how well Ninja's bold entry into the large grill market holds up, I donned my best barbecue gloves and put the FlexFlame to the test for a month. So is it worth your $1,000 to take this feature-heavy grill home? Here's everything you need to know about the flashy new Ninja FlexFlame. What's different about the Ninja FlexFlame? The FlexFlame looks like your average outdoor three-burner gas grill, but unique features include: A convection fan for even cooking and precise temperature control. A built-in pellet smoker allows you to impart smoky flavor into any food. The dynamic grill top transforms into a flat-top griddle, roaster and pizza oven with attachments (sold separately). The built-in smoker box sets the FlexFlame apart from most of the grills we've tested. David Watsky/CNET Design and build quality The FlexFlame is sturdy and designed for easy cooking. All the add-on attachments, including the roasting rack, cast-iron griddle top, and pizza stone, fit squarely in their places and are well-made. The grates and griddle are enameled cast iron, and the under-cabinet space is roomy. Similar to industry leader Weber, it has a 10-year limited warranty. The grill is solid, once assembled. Adding pellets to the hopper is slightly awkward but there are no other obvious design flaws. David Watsky/CNET The stainless steel and porcelain-coated finish looks nice, but the aesthetics are nothing special. If smudgy stainless steel isn't your thing, there's a matte black edition available from Ninja or The Home Depot. Assembly and setup Assembling the grill should take one hour or more. The instructions are user-friendly and include video tutorials. In most regions, a white glove service is available to have the grill delivered already set up for an extra cost. Cooking performance A built-in convection fan helps with evenness and efficiency The CyclonicHeat fan helps distribute air evenly over food and keeps the temperature consistent. David Watsky/CNET Once the grill is set up and plugged in (yes, it requires electricity to operate) and ignited using the ignition system, all the burners are ignited, and a built-in convection fan begins to pump away. I was able to choose a cooking method ranging from a precise low and slow cook or roaring high heat as hot as 600 degrees F, perfect for pizza. Preheating the oven to its hottest 600 degrees Fahrenheit takes about 10 minutes, which is fast for a grill. A temperature readout on the dial lets you know when it is ready. The CylonicHeatIQ -- aka a convection fan and heat sensors -- circulates heat evenly throughout the chamber and keeps the temperature consistent. I saw this feature on display when I roasted a whole chicken with a can of light lager up its rear. It was done in less than 45 minutes, and the skin was crispy, and the bird was evenly cooked. Lightning-fast temperature recovery Even if the lid was opened, the FlexFlame recovered the set temperature much faster than other grills. David Watsky/CNET The convection fan also gives this grill quick temperature recovery via powerful burners and a convection fan. If I opened the lid to check cooking progress, I typically returned to temperature within a few seconds of closing it again. Grilling: This grill gets screaming hot, and the temperature readout helps determine when it's ready for action. I found it easy to get a great sear on the burgers, salmon and chicken I cooked on it. Grilling on the FlexFlame wasn't much different from grilling on other quality grills I've used. The Ninja FlexFlame's smoker and a low, slow heat from the burners combined to make some mighty tasty ribs. David Watsky/CNET Smoking: The FlexFlame's marquis feature is the built-in smoker box. All it takes is to drop a cupful of wood pellets into the hopper. Once the grill is fired up, either on low/slow mode or a higher heat, you close the hood and tap the woodfire flavor button, and the system starts pumping smoke inside. These were some of the better ribs I've made and it couldn't have been easier. David Watsky/CNET I used the smoker to cook a rack of pork ribs at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours. They were tender and juicy with a pleasant, light smoky flavor. I then cooked beef ribs at a lower temperature but for a longer time, and the smokiness was more pronounced. I let the beef ribs smoke for even longer and it totally paid off. David Watsky/CNET Griddle: As much as I enjoyed the smoker, the feature I found myself using most was the half or full griddle insert, and I recommend buying those add-on accessories. While beef and chicken are often the stars of a barbecue menu, I love cooking the whole meal out there. That often includes veggies, potatoes or flaky fish that can break apart and fall through the grates onto the burners and into a wretched mess. If you get the Ninja FlexFlame, the half griddle attachment is a must. David Watsky/CNET The FlexFlame griddle sits firmly next to the grill grates, so you can use both surfaces at the same time. Chicken and beef get kissed by the flames and attractive grill marks, while salmon enjoys a fierce sear yet stays intact on the griddle side. Toss broccoli or diced mushrooms drizzled with olive oil with them, and you've got a meal in under 15 minutes. You can grill flaky fish or make a diner-style breakfast on the FlexFlame's griddle. David Watsky/CNET Pizza: Because the oven can reach 600 degrees Fahrenheit and hold its temperature consistently, it's an ideal grill for making pizza, especially if you order the pizza stone attachment ($50). Precision heat for expanded outdoor cooking The grill cooked my beer can chicken evenly in under 45 minutes. David Watsky/CNET Along with the griddle insert and option to smoke, a feature of the FlexFlame I fell for was the digital control panel with precision temperature settings ranging from 200 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. With most grills, the temperature inside the grill is a guessing game, and it often doesn't correspond directly to the setting on the dials. FlexFlame's precision allows you to use it like a traditional convection oven, even in summer, a great foil for keeping the kitchen cool on lasagna night. Perfect grill for steaks and thick cuts of meat The FlexFlame allows you to cook using different methods and surfaces at the same time. David Watsky/CNET Fussy carnivores know that the best way to cook a thick cut of meat like ribeye, filet or pork chop is to sear the outside on both sides and finish it with indirect heat in the oven. Since this grill can imitate an oven with more precise convection cooking, you can do both right in the FlexFlame's cooking chamber. Simply move the seared steak up to a roasting rack to finish, and stick it with a meat thermometer to nail the doneness. It's a beast to clean A grill big enough to accommodate all those features and functions means there is a lot of real estate to clean afterward and maintain. That's especially true after a long, slow, low cook such as ribs, brisket or pork shoulder. None of the grill's components are advertised as dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning. Slow cooking combined with convection heat can result in a good deal of mess to clean up after. David Watsky/CNET Fatty foods ooze grease, and the convection fan blows air around so things can move more than in a typical grill. There's a grease trap and management system, which is particularly useful when griddling, but it can only do so much. All grilling requires cleanup, but expect a relatively robust cleaning session after each use of the FlexFlame. Read more: How to Clean Your Grill like a Pro It must be plugged in to work, which is kind of annoying This is my first grill to require electricity, and there were times I wished it didn't. The power cord attached to the grill is short -- I assume for safety -- so you'll need an extension cord. My home doesn't have outdoor outlets, so running a cord out the back meant I could not close the storm door. Within a few minutes of using the smoker feature, much of that smoke had snuck its way into the house. Not exactly where you want it. Conclusion: The pricey FlexFlame is worth it for the right person The new Ninja FlexFlame has all the makings for a delicious summer. David Watsky/CNET The Ninja FlexFlame offers more than most gas grills, including impressive temperature control, a dynamic grill top and the option to smoke your food with the push of a button. At $1,000 for the grill only, it costs more than most, especially if you nab the add-ons. (I like the half griddle pan best.) Because of this, you'd be wise to consider all that the Ninja offers and whether or not you'll use these features regularly to justify the cost. If you're smoker- or barbecue-curious or have been considering an outdoor pizza oven or flattop grill, the FlexFlame can stand in valiantly for all three outdoor cooking appliances. Plus, it delivers all the trappings of a sturdy and high-functioning gas grill. If you're not in the market for those other tools, just a great grill; the exceptional Weber 3-Burner Spirit E-33 or E-321 can be yours for roughly half the price.
CNET
12-05-2025
- CNET
Ninja Is Trying to Reinvent the Grill With Its $1,000 FlexFlame, and I Tried It
CNET's expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise. 8.3 / 10 SCORE Ninja FlexFlame $1,000 at Ninja Kitchen Pros Built-in smoker can add smoky flavor to food with the push of a button Convection fan provides fast preheating and heat recovery, and even cooking Feels well built and includes a 10-year warranty Griddle attachment offers mess-free cooking of flaky fish and vegetables Large 424 square-inch grill top Cons A big grill means lots of grill to clean Must be plugged in to operate, and the power cord is short Accessories are sold separately Expensive Ninja FlexFlame 8.3/10 CNET Score $1,000 at Ninja Kitchen Ninja is on a roll. Not only has the brand given us our new favorite air fryer with a genius glass cooking chamber, but the next-gen version of its viral ice cream maker also had our New York office swooning. Ninja, famous for smart spins on classic kitchen tools and appliances, has entered the full-size grill chat with its monster, multipurpose FlexFlame grill. As we roll into May and outdoor cooking season, Ninja's timing is no accident. The Ninja's clean appearance hides a dynamic grill top that can turn into a griddle, roaster or pizza oven. David Watsky/CNET The five-in-one outdoor cooker grills and roasts like a beast, transforms into a slick griddle, and sports a nifty built-in smoker powered by pellets to add barbecue smoke flavor to meat, fish, and veggies. To see how Ninja's ambitious large grill debut performs in real life, I put on my best BBQ gloves and tried the FlexFlame for about a month So is it worth your $1,000 to take this Franken-grill home? Here's everything you need to know about the new Ninja FlexFlame. What's different about the Ninja FlexFlame? The FlexFlame looks like your average outdoor three-burner gas grill, but unique features include: A convection fan for even cooking and precise temperature control. A built-in pellet smoker allows you to impart smoky flavor into any food. The dynamic grill top transforms into a griddle, roaster and pizza oven with attachments (sold separately). The built-in smoker box sets the FlexFlame apart from most of the grills we've tested. David Watsky/CNET Design and build quality The FlexFlame is sturdy and designed for easy cooking. All the add-on attachments, including the roasting rack, griddle top, and pizza stone, fit squarely in their places. The attachments are also well-made. The grates and griddle are enameled cast iron, and the under-cabinet space is roomy. Similar to industry leader Weber, it has a 10-year limited warranty. The grill is solid, once assembled. Adding pellets to the hopper is slightly awkward but there are no other obvious design flaws. David Watsky/CNET The stainless steel and porcelain-coated finish looks nice, but the aesthetics are nothing special. If smudgy stainless steel isn't your thing, there's a matte black edition available from Ninja or The Home Depot. Assembly and setup Assembling the grill should take one hour or more. The instructions are user-friendly and include video tutorials. In most regions, a white glove service is available to have the grill delivered already set up for an extra cost. Cooking performance A built-in convection fan helps with evenness and efficiency The CyclonicHeat fan helps distribute air evenly over food and keeps the temperature consistent. David Watsky/CNET Once the grill is set up and plugged in (yes, it requires electricity to operate) and ignited using the ignition system, all the burners are ignited, and a built-in convection fan begins to pump away. I was able to choose a cooking method ranging from a precise low and slow cook or roaring high heat as hot as 600 degrees F, perfect for pizza. Preheating the oven to its hottest 600 degrees Fahrenheit takes about 10 minutes, which is fast for a grill. A temperature readout on the dial lets you know when it is ready. The CylonicHeatIQ -- aka a convection fan and heat sensors -- circulates heat evenly throughout the chamber and keeps the temperature consistent. I saw this feature on display when I roasted a whole chicken with a can of light lager up its rear. It was done in less than 45 minutes, and the skin was crispy, and the bird was evenly cooked. Lightning-fast temperature recovery Even if the lid was opened, the FlexFlame recovered the set temperature much faster than other grills. David Watsky/CNET The convection fan also gives this grill quick temperature recovery via powerful burners and a convection fan. If I opened the lid to check cooking progress, I typically returned to temperature within a few seconds of closing it again. Grilling: This grill gets screaming hot, and the temperature readout helps determine when it's ready for action. I found it easy to get a great sear on the burgers, salmon and chicken I cooked on it. Grilling on the FlexFlame wasn't much different from grilling on other quality grills I've used. The Ninja FlexFlame's smoker and a low, slow heat from the burners combined to make some mighty tasty ribs. David Watsky/CNET Smoking: The FlexFlame's marquis feature is the built-in smoker box. All it takes is to drop a cupful of wood pellets into the hopper. Once the grill is fired up, either on low/slow mode or a higher heat, you close the hood and tap the woodfire flavor button, and the system starts pumping smoke inside. These were some of the better ribs I've made and it couldn't have been easier. David Watsky/CNET I used the smoker to cook a rack of pork ribs at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours. They were tender and juicy with a pleasant, light smoky flavor. I then cooked beef ribs at a lower temperature but for a longer time, and the smokiness was more pronounced. I let the beef ribs smoke for even longer and it totally paid off. David Watsky/CNET Griddle: As much as I enjoyed the smoker, the feature I found myself using most was the half or full griddle insert, and I recommend buying those add-on accessories. While beef and chicken are often the stars of a barbecue menu, I love cooking the whole meal out there. That often includes veggies, potatoes or flaky fish that can break apart and fall through the grates onto the burners and into a wretched mess. If you get the Ninja FlexFlame, the half griddle attachment is a must. David Watsky/CNET The FlexFlame griddle sits firmly next to the grill grates, so you can use both surfaces at the same time. Chicken and beef get kissed by the flames and attractive grill marks, while salmon enjoys a fierce sear yet stays intact on the griddle side. Toss broccoli or diced mushrooms drizzled with olive oil with them, and you've got a meal in under 15 minutes. You can grill flaky fish or make a diner-style breakfast on the FlexFlame's griddle. David Watsky/CNET Pizza: Because the oven can reach 600 degrees Fahrenheit and hold its temperature consistently, it's an ideal grill for making pizza, especially if you order the pizza stone attachment ($50). Precision heat for expanded outdoor cooking The grill cooked my beer can chicken evenly in under 45 minutes. David Watsky/CNET Along with the griddle insert and option to smoke, a feature of the FlexFlame I fell for was the digital control panel with precision temperature settings ranging from 200 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. With most grills, the temperature inside the grill is a guessing game, and it often doesn't correspond directly to the setting on the dials. FlexFlame's precision allows you to use it like a traditional convection oven, even in summer, a great foil for keeping the kitchen cool on lasagna night. Perfect grill for steaks and thick cuts of meat The FlexFlame allows you to cook using a few different methods at the same time. David Watsky/CNET Fussy carnivores know that the best way to cook a thick cut of meat like ribeye, filet or pork chop is to sear the outside on both sides and finish it with indirect heat in the oven. Since this grill can imitate an oven with more precise convection cooking, you can do both right in the FlexFlame's cooking chamber. Simply move the seared steak up to a roasting rack to finish, and stick it with a meat thermometer to nail the doneness. It's a beast to clean A grill big enough to accommodate all those features and functions means there is a lot of real estate to clean afterward and maintain. That's especially true after a long, slow, low cook such as ribs, brisket or pork shoulder. None of the grill's components are advertised as dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning. Slow cooking combined with convection heat can result in a good deal of mess to clean up after. David Watsky/CNET Fatty foods ooze grease, and the convection fan blows air around so things can move more than in a typical grill. There's a grease trap and management system, which is particularly useful when griddling, but it can only do so much. All grilling requires cleanup, but expect a relatively robust cleaning session after each use of the FlexFlame. Read more: How to Clean Your Grill like a Pro It must be plugged in to work, which is kind of annoying This is my first grill to require electricity, and there were times I wished it didn't. The power cord attached to the grill is short -- I assume for safety -- so you'll need an extension cord. My home doesn't have outdoor outlets, so running a cord out the back meant I could not close the storm door. Within a few minutes of using the smoker feature, much of that smoke had snuck its way into the house. Not exactly where you want it. Conclusion: The pricey FlexFlame is worth it for the right person The new Ninja FlexFlame has all the makings for a delicious summer. David Watsky/CNET The Ninja FlexFlame offers more than most gas grills, including impressive temperature control, a dynamic grill top and the option to smoke your food with the push of a button. At $1,000 for the grill only, it costs more than most, especially if you nab the add-ons. (I like the half griddle pan best.) Because of this, you'd be wise to consider all that the Ninja offers and whether or not you'll use these features regularly to justify the cost. If you're smoker- or barbecue-curious or have been considering an outdoor pizza oven or flattop grill, the FlexFlame can stand in valiantly for all three outdoor cooking appliances. Plus, it delivers all the trappings of a sturdy and high-functioning gas grill. If you're not in the market for those other tools, just a great grill; the exceptional Weber 3-Burner Spirit E-33 or E-321 can be yours for roughly half the price.
