You’re looking at two very capable indoor grills: the Ninja DG551 (2nd Gen) and the Ninja FG551 (1st/earlier generation). Both offer the Smart XL size, the Smart Cook System with a thermometer, and multiple cooking modes like grill, air-fry, roast and dehydrate. But the DG551 steps things up with refined design and slightly better features. Are those upgrades worth choosing it over the FG551? Let’s dive in.
Let’s make long story short: If you want the smarter, more future-proof indoor grill that gives you the best value long-term, go with the DG551 because it delivers nearly identical core performance to the FG551, but with improved durability, features, and design refinements that make it the wiser buy.
Why Do I Recommend DG551?
- It offers 6-in-1 functionality (Grill, Air Crisp/Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Reheat) as documented for the DG551.
- It supports the Smart Cook System + Smart Thermometer, letting you set doneness rather than guess.
- It boasts full size / family capacity (e.g., fits up to 6 steaks or large quantities) and high wattage (1760 W for the DG551) for serious performance.
- While the FG551 is very good (and may cost less), choosing DG551 means you’re more “future-proof” — better design/finish and extra refinements mean fewer “Would I upgrade next year?” regrets.
Detailed Comparison & Recommendation
| Feature | Ninja FG551 | Ninja DG551 | Which is Best & Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation & Design Refinement | “Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Smart Thermometer” — 500 °F Cyclonic Grilling + 4 Smart Protein Settings + 9 Doneness Levels. | “Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill (2nd Gen) with Smart Thermometer” — similar functions, refined design and parts. | DG551 wins: The newer generation means improved user experience, likely better parts/finish. |
| Capacity & Power | Large “XL” capacity, supports large meals. Wattage around 1760 W for this series. | Same capacity / size class; DG551 explicitly lists 1760 W. | Tie, though DG551 confirms specs clearly. |
| Cooking Functions | Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate (depending on model). | DG551 lists Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate — full 6-in-1. | DG551 slightly wins: more clearly documented full functionality. |
| Smart Probe / Thermometer Usage | FG551 supports Smart Thermometer + doneness settings. | DG551 also supports Smart Thermometer + Smart Cook System. | Tie — both strong here. |
| Future-Proofing / Upgrade-Potential | Good now, but older model may lack refinements later. | Better future-proofing — new design, better parts, less chance you’ll “upgrade next year”. | DG551 wins. |
| Check Best Seller | Check Ninja FG551 Lowest Price | Check Ninja DG551 Lowest Price | Depends on budget — if budget-tight, FG551 wins; for best value long-term, DG551 wins. |
What is the Major Difference Between DG551 vs FG551?
- The major difference isn’t in basic functions — both cover the core 6-in-1 cooking modes and include a smart thermometer. The real differentiator is refinements and future-proofing: The DG551 is the newer generation with slightly improved design, clearer specification documentation, and stronger assurances for long-term value. So the decision comes down to: “Do I want baseline great now (FG551) or best now + longer-term (DG551)?” If your budget allows, the DG551 gives you the smart upgrade.
Check Ninja DG551 Limited Time Deal Here
What Users Are Saying
| Model | Praises | Complaints | Sentiment |
|---|---|---|---|
| FG551 | Users love the Smart Thermometer, big size, crisping/air fry ability. | Some note that the older generation feels slightly less refined, build or finish not as premium as newer models. Also, the “broil” or “dehydrate” modes may be less convenient for some. | Very positive–great value. |
| DG551 | Users highlight improved finish, “worth the upgrade”, smoother operation, reliability. | Slightly higher cost; some may not need the newest features so wonder if cost justifies for their use. | Very positive–premium pick. |
Fair Advice to Consider
- If your budget allows and you want a long-term investment for your indoor cooking setup, choose DG551.
- If you’re value-driven, want most of the core features at lower cost, FG551 is a solid choice.
- Measure your countertop space and ensure you have enough room — these are XL units.
- Check power/wattage: DG551 uses ~1760 W — your circuit should support that.
- If you rarely use the “dehydrate” or “broil” modes or don’t mind slightly older design, FG551 gives great value.
- If you’re someone who will use every mode, grill big meals, want smoother finish, and expect to keep this 5+ years — don’t compromise, go DG551.
- Avoid focusing only on price — the incremental cost difference can pay off in ease, durability, better finish.
Quick Comparison – Spec Table
- 6-in-1 Modes ✓ (both)
- Smart Thermometer + Smart Cook System ✓ (both)
- XL Family Capacity ✓ (both)
- Wattage ~1760 W (DG551 clear)
- Newer Generation / Design Refinement DG551 ✓
- Price Lower FG551 ✓
- Future-Proofing DG551 ✓
Quick Summary
Both the FG551 and DG551 are excellent indoor grill/air-fryer hybrids with smart cooking features and XL capacity. If you’re looking for the greatest long-term value and best user experience, the DG551 is the standout — slightly higher cost but meaningfully better for heavy usage and years ahead. If your budget is tighter or you want great value now, the FG551 still delivers a lot. But when you consider “once and done” purchases, go with the DG551.
FAQs
Can I dehydrate food on both models?
Yes — both support the dehydrate function in the 6-in-1 list, though check you’re getting the correct variant (some models omit it).
Do these units require a lot of space?
Yes — they are “Smart XL” size. For DG551: around 15.7″ L x 11.1″ W x 16″ H.
Is the smart thermometer reliable?
Yes — both units include the smart probe and cook system. Users report excellent doneness control instead of guess-work. (See Q&A for FG551 where thermometer features are confirmed)
Is the older model (FG551) still worth buying?
Absolutely — if you’re comfortable with slightly older design and want strong value, it’s a very good pick. Just know you’re giving up some refinements.
How about cleaning & maintenance?
Both units have non-stick ceramic-coated removable parts, dishwasher-safe accessories (except probe cable) in many cases. The DG551 listing specifically describes dishwasher-safe removable grill grate, crisper basket, cooking pot.
Final Verdict
This is where we close the deal: If you’re ready to pick one wise purchase and want to stop worrying about whether you should upgrade next year, go with the Ninja DG551. It gives you all the power, smart features, capacity and refinement you’ll need — making it the best-value premium choice. If you’re on a tighter budget and don’t care about the absolute latest styling or refinements, the FG551 will give you nearly everything you need — but you’ll always have a slight “what-if” in the back of your mind for the upgraded model.
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