You’re looking to upgrade your outdoor cooking setup, but you’re not sure where to start. With so many pellet grill and air fryer combinations flooding the market, how do you know which one truly delivers on versatility and performance? The answer lies in understanding what separates the top performers from the rest—and we’ve got the details you need.
Quick Overview
- Ninja OG850 combines smoking, grilling, air frying, and oven functions with 180 square inches of cooking space and woodfire technology.
- Ninja OG751 offers 7-in-1 functionality including air frying, smoking, and baking with electric-powered woodfire technology and weather-resistant design.
- Ninja OG951 provides seven cooking functions, 180 square inches capacity, Bluetooth app monitoring, and dual thermometers for simultaneous protein cooking.
- Blackstone 1962 features 524 square inches of carbon steel cooking surface with integrated air fryer reaching 475°F and dual burners.
- Multiple models deliver weather-resistant construction, built-in thermometers for precision cooking, and versatile functions suitable for various outdoor conditions and budgets.
| Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL 4-in-1 Grill (OG850) |
| Best for Beginners | Cooking Functions: 4-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Oven) | Cooking Capacity: 180 square inches | Power Source: Electric | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill 7-in-1 |
| Most Versatile | Cooking Functions: 7-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate, Broil) | Cooking Capacity: 141 square inches | Power Source: Electric | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill Air Fryer |
| Best Indoor Option | Cooking Functions: 6-in-1 (Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate) | Cooking Capacity: Fits 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs | Power Source: Electric | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Grill |
| Best Smart Technology | Cooking Functions: 7-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate) | Cooking Capacity: 180 square inches | Power Source: Electric | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Blackstone 28″ Griddle with Air Fryer Combo (1962) |
| Largest Cooking Surface | Cooking Functions: 8-in-1 (Griddle, Bake, Sauté, Air Fry, Cook, Sear, Stir Fry, Roast) | Cooking Capacity: 524 square inches | Power Source: Propane gas | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL 4-in-1 Grill (OG850)
If you’re looking for versatility without sacrificing authentic flavor, the Ninja Woodfire Pro XL is your best bet. This 4-in-1 grill combines smoking, grilling, air frying, and oven functionality in one portable unit. You’ll appreciate the real woodfire technology that uses authentic pellets for genuine bark and smoky taste. The smart built-in thermometer alerts you when your food reaches perfect doneness. With 180 square inches of cooking space, you can handle steaks, ribs, and whole chickens simultaneously. Its weather-resistant design works year-round, and it’s light enough at 39 pounds for camping or tailgating. Rated 4.6 stars with over 1,400 reviews, it’s ranked #2 in outdoor electric grills.
- Cooking Functions:4-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Oven)
- Cooking Capacity:180 square inches
- Power Source:Electric
- Smart Monitoring:Built-in thermometer with real-time alerts
- Portability:Portable; suitable for backyards, balconies, decks, RVs, tailgating
- Weather Resistance:Weather-resistant design for outdoor use
- Additional Feature:Real woodfire pellet technology
- Additional Feature:180 sq. in. cooking capacity
- Additional Feature:Includes 2 starter pellet packs
Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill 7-in-1
The Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro is your best bet for versatility without the typical grill hassles. This 7-in-1 powerhouse combines grilling, smoking, air frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and broiling in one compact unit. You’ll appreciate the electric-powered Woodfire Technology that uses real hardwood pellets for authentic smoky flavor—just half a cup delivers impressive taste without excess fuel consumption. The 141-square-inch nonstick grill grate handles full-size propane performance, while the built-in thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked meals every time. Since it’s electrically powered, you’ll skip charcoal and propane hassles. Weather-resistant design keeps your investment protected year-round, making this an apartment-friendly outdoor cooking solution.
- Cooking Functions:7-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fryer, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate, Broil)
- Cooking Capacity:141 square inches
- Power Source:Electric
- Smart Monitoring:Built-in thermometer with doneness notifications
- Portability:Apartment-friendly; suitable for various outdoor locations
- Weather Resistance:Weather-resistant design for year-round outdoor use
- Additional Feature:Uses only 1/2 cup pellets
- Additional Feature:141 sq. in. nonstick grate
- Additional Feature:Includes 15 recipe quick guide
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill Air Fryer
Looking for a grill that doesn’t require outdoor space? The Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill Air Fryer brings authentic BBQ flavor indoors with its cyclonic grilling technology that reaches 500°F. You’ll get char-grill results without the smoke, making it perfect for apartments. The Smart Cook System features four protein presets and nine doneness levels, eliminating guesswork. Its XL capacity fits six steaks or twenty-four hot dogs simultaneously. You’ll achieve crispy textures with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying. This versatile appliance combines grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating—replacing multiple kitchen appliances while delivering healthier meals.
- Cooking Functions:6-in-1 (Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate)
- Cooking Capacity:Fits 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs
- Power Source:Electric
- Smart Monitoring:Smart Cook System with dual-sensor thermometer and 9 doneness levels
- Portability:Indoor use only; designed for kitchens
- Weather Resistance:Indoor use only; not weather-resistant
- Additional Feature:Cyclonic grilling technology (500°F)
- Additional Feature:Fits 6 steaks/24 hot dogs
- Additional Feature:Up to 75% less fat
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Grill
You’ll appreciate the Ninja OG951’s seven cooking functions in one premium grill if you’re seeking versatility without sacrificing space. This woodfire smoker combines grilling, smoking, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating capabilities. With 180 square inches of cooking capacity, you’ll fit two full racks of ribs, ten burgers, or a ten-pound brisket simultaneously. The Bluetooth-enabled Ninja ProConnect app lets you monitor temperatures in real-time and receive notifications for ideal cooking timing. Dual built-in thermometers enable you to cook two proteins at different doneness levels. Weather-resistant construction suits any outdoor setting, from apartments to RVs, making this grill your ultimate all-in-one cooking solution.
- Cooking Functions:7-in-1 (Grill, Smoker, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate)
- Cooking Capacity:180 square inches
- Power Source:Electric
- Smart Monitoring:Dual built-in thermometers with Bluetooth app connectivity
- Portability:Portable; suitable for apartments, RVs, decks, backyards, parking lots
- Weather Resistance:Weather-resistant design for year-round outdoor use
- Additional Feature:Bluetooth app connectivity included
- Additional Feature:30% more capacity than original
- Additional Feature:Dual built-in thermometers
Blackstone 28″ Griddle with Air Fryer Combo (1962)
If you’re seeking versatility without sacrificing cooking space, Blackstone’s 28″ griddle won’t disappoint. You’ll get 524 square inches of carbon steel cooking surface paired with a built-in air fryer drawer, giving you griddle, sauté, sear, and air fry capabilities in one unit. The air fryer reaches temperatures from 300°F to 475°F, perfect for healthier cooking options. Two burners provide additional flexibility for your meals. You’ll appreciate the patented rear grease management system that collects excess mess, especially when cooking bacon or other greasy foods. With wheels and side shelves, this stainless steel station transforms your backyard into a full cooking hub.
- Cooking Functions:8-in-1 (Griddle, Bake, Sauté, Air Fry, Cook, Sear, Stir Fry, Roast)
- Cooking Capacity:524 square inches
- Power Source:Propane gas
- Smart Monitoring:Temperature control knob with three settings
- Portability:Wheeled station; designed for backyard and patio use
- Weather Resistance:Stainless steel construction for outdoor durability
- Additional Feature:524 sq. in. cooking surface
- Additional Feature:Patented rear grease management
- Additional Feature:Two side shelves included
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pellet Grill With Air Fryer
When you’re shopping for a pellet grill with air fryer capabilities, you’ll want to evaluate the cooking capacity to guarantee it fits your needs, compare fuel efficiency across models, and assess the temperature control technology that’ll give you precise cooking results. You should also consider how portable the grill is and whether it can withstand your climate’s weather conditions. Finally, think about the versatility of functions—the more cooking methods a grill offers, the more you’ll get out of your investment.
Cooking Capacity and Size
The cooking surface area of your pellet grill determines how much food you can prepare at once. Premium models offer up to 180 square inches of cooking space, allowing you to grill multiple items simultaneously. This capacity proves invaluable when hosting gatherings or feeding larger families, enabling you to cook two full racks of ribs or numerous burgers in a single session.
Beyond cooking space, consider the grill’s dimensions and portability. You’ll need to verify it fits your available outdoor space, whether that’s a spacious backyard, compact balcony, or RV setup. Weight matters too—lighter models transport more easily, while heavier constructions typically signal durability and sturdier build quality for long-term outdoor use.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
Beyond maximizing your cooking space, you’ll want to evaluate how efficiently your pellet grill converts fuel into heat and flavor. Pellet grills burn 100% hardwood pellets, offering longer burn times and consistent temperatures with minimal fuel consumption. You’ll appreciate the flexibility in pellet usage—some models require as little as 1/2 cup for flavoring, while others demand more for extended smoking sessions.
Your fuel consumption depends directly on your cooking method. Smoking requires sustained heat over hours, consuming more pellets than quick grilling or air frying. Understanding your grill’s pellet capacity helps you anticipate refueling frequency during larger gatherings. By selecting a model with efficient fuel conversion, you’ll reduce costs and maintenance interruptions, ensuring uninterrupted cooking throughout your event.
Temperature Control Technology
Since you’ll be cooking everything from delicate fish to thick steaks, precise temperature management becomes essential to your pellet grill’s performance. Look for models with built-in thermometers that monitor internal food temperatures and alert you when your meal reaches desired doneness levels.
Advanced units offer adjustable settings ranging from rare to well done, ensuring excellent results across different meat types. Many incorporate real woodfire technology, which maintains consistent heat distribution while infusing authentic smoky flavors.
Consider investing in models featuring Bluetooth connectivity and companion apps. These enable remote temperature control and provide real-time notifications, so you’ll never miss the perfect moment to serve.
The air fryer component circulates hot air precisely, creating crispy exteriors while reducing oil dependency for healthier meals.
Portability and Weather Resistance
When you’re investing in a pellet grill with air fryer capabilities, durability and mobility shouldn’t take a backseat to cooking performance. You’ll want a model that withstands harsh weather without rusting or deteriorating, so prioritize robust construction materials that confirm longevity.
Consider a lightweight, compact design that you can easily transport for camping, tailgating, or backyard gatherings. Verify the grill’s dimensions fit your intended space—whether that’s a balcony, patio, or deck.
Look for grills equipped with wheels or handles that enhance maneuverability, simplifying setup and storage. Weather-resistant features guarantee consistent performance across various outdoor conditions, protecting your investment year-round. These practical elements combine to give you a reliable, portable cooking solution that adapts to your lifestyle.
Versatility of Functions
While durability and portability guarantee your grill lasts and adapts to different locations, the cooking functions you’ll actually use determine whether it truly serves your needs. You’ll want a model offering multiple cooking methods—grilling, smoking, air frying, baking, and roasting—to maximize your culinary flexibility. Look for 7-in-1 functionality that accommodates diverse cooking styles and food types without requiring separate appliances.
Real woodfire technology combined with air frying capabilities gives you authentic flavor while providing healthier cooking options. Consider cooking capacity too; aim for at least 180 square inches to handle larger meals and gatherings comfortably.
Built-in smart technology like thermometers and app connectivity enhances precision and ease of use, making your investment more valuable and your cooking experience more convenient.
Price and Value Proposition
Pellet grills with air fryer capabilities come with varying price tags that’ll greatly impact your budget, so you’ll want to balance upfront costs against long-term value. Consider the initial investment alongside ongoing pellet expenses, which fluctuate based on market conditions and usage frequency.
You’ll gain better value from versatile models offering multiple cooking functions—grilling, smoking, air frying, and baking—rather than single-purpose alternatives. Evaluate warranty coverage and customer service quality, as extensive support protects your investment and reduces unexpected expenses.
Don’t overlook energy consumption either. Electric-powered units typically cost less to operate than gas or charcoal models, improving your overall value proposition. Calculate your total ownership cost by factoring in purchase price, operational expenses, and maintenance requirements before deciding.
