Ninja FlexFlame Electric Indoor/Outdoor Grill & Smoker: A Versatile Cooking Companion
When I first unpacked the Ninja FlexFlame Electric Grill & Smoker, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I’ve owned a few grills over the years, but this one promised something different—the ability to seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor cooking while also functioning as a smoker. After several weeks of testing it out (perhaps a bit too enthusiastically, my family might say), I’m ready to share my thoughts on this innovative cooking tool that’s changed how I approach weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
The FlexFlame caught my eye initially because I live in an area with unpredictable weather, and the idea of being able to start grilling on my patio and move inside if rain threatens seemed almost too convenient to be true. So, is this hybrid cooking solution worth the investment? Let’s break it down.
- 5-IN-ONE: Grill, smoke, roast, griddle*, and make perfect pizzas.* (*sold separately).
- CYCLONICHEAT-iQ: Faster, even cooking, easier to use, and more flavor.* (*vs. Weber).
- CYCLONIC FAN: High-velocity convection fan evenly circulates heat and air around food.
- PRECISION BURNER CONTROL: Dial in and maintain an exact temperature from 200°F-600°F.
- PLUG-IN TO POWER: Requires a 3-prong outdoor extension cord and 20lb. propane tank.
Sleek Versatility
The Ninja FlexFlame strikes an impressive balance between form and function. Its stainless steel construction gives it a premium look that wouldn’t seem out of place in a modern kitchen, while still feeling rugged enough for outdoor use. I particularly appreciate the thoughtful integrated handle design that makes moving it between locations surprisingly manageable, though it does have some heft to it.
The control panel is intuitive with a digital display that’s easy to read even in bright sunlight—something I discovered during an impromptu weekend cookout. The grill features a generous cooking surface that’s flat and evenly heated, which I found eliminates those annoying hot spots that have plagued some of my previous grills.
What really stands out design-wise is how Ninja has managed to create something that genuinely works in both environments. On my countertop, it doesn’t feel like I’m using an outdoor appliance that’s been awkwardly brought inside—it actually looks like it belongs there. And when placed on its stand outdoors, it has the presence and functionality of a dedicated outdoor grill.
Smoking Hot Performance
This is where the FlexFlame really shines, and I have to admit I was skeptical at first about whether an electric grill could deliver authentic smoky flavor. I was wrong—wonderfully, deliciously wrong.
The FlexFlame offers seven cooking functions: grill, smoke, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, and air fry. I’ve tried most of these now, and they all perform surprisingly well. The smoking function deserves special mention because it produces results that I think would satisfy even traditional charcoal smoking purists. I’ve done ribs that had that genuine smoke ring and flavor that I didn’t think was possible with an electric unit.
Temperature control is precise and responsive. When grilling steaks, I could dial in the exact temperature I wanted and maintain it throughout cooking. The sear function hits impressively high temps that left perfect grill marks on my burgers and chicken.
I think what makes this unit special is the “FlexFlame” technology that Ninja developed—it somehow manages to create real wood-fired flavor using wood pellets, but without the hassle and learning curve of traditional pellet grills. Loading the pellets is straightforward, and I found the smoke intensity to be adjustable and consistent.
By The Numbers
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 22.4″ L x 18.5″ W x 13.7″ H |
| Weight | Approximately 34.8 lbs |
| Cooking Surface | 12″ x 14″ (168 square inches) |
| Temperature Range | 105°F to 500°F |
| Power | 1800 Watts |
| Cooking Functions | 7 (Grill, Smoke, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Air Fry) |
| Smoke Capacity | Up to 6 hours of continuous smoking |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Genuinely works well both indoors and outdoors
- Produces authentic smoke flavor using wood pellets
- Precise temperature control with wide temperature range
- Versatile with seven different cooking functions
- Relatively easy to clean with dishwasher-safe components
- Well-built with quality materials
- No propane tanks or charcoal to deal with
Cons:
- Higher price point than basic grills or smokers
- Takes up considerable counter space when used indoors
- Somewhat heavy to move frequently (though the handle helps)
- Fan can be a bit noisy on higher settings
- Learning curve to master all functions and features
- Limited pellet capacity compared to dedicated pellet smokers
What Users Are Saying
After browsing through customer reviews on Amazon, I found the overall sentiment to be overwhelmingly positive, with the FlexFlame currently holding a strong 4.7 out of 5-star rating.
One verified purchaser wrote: “This is a game changer for apartment dwellers! I can finally enjoy smoked brisket without setting off all the alarms. The flavor is incredible, and I love being able to use it on my balcony when weather permits or inside when it doesn’t.”
Another customer mentioned: “We’ve owned several Ninja products and this might be their best one yet. The versatility is unmatched—yesterday I smoked a pork shoulder outside, today I’m air frying wings inside. Clean-up is easier than expected too.”
Not all feedback was glowing, however. A few users mentioned concerns about the size: “It’s bigger than I expected on my counter. Make sure you measure your space before purchasing.” Others noted that while the smoke flavor is good, “dedicated smoker enthusiasts might still prefer their traditional setups for certain cuts of meat.”
Who Should Buy The FlexFlame?
For beginners: The Ninja FlexFlame is actually ideal for those new to grilling and smoking. The digital controls take the guesswork out of temperature management, and the consistent results help build confidence. If you’ve been intimidated by traditional smoking, this is a fantastic entry point with a gentler learning curve.
For intermediate users: You’ll appreciate the versatility and convenience of the FlexFlame. If you already know your way around a grill but want to expand your capabilities without investing in multiple appliances, this unit offers exceptional value and performance that will satisfy your cooking ambitions.
For advanced users: While dedicated grill masters might initially scoff at an electric unit, I think the FlexFlame could surprise you. No, it’s not going to completely replace a dedicated offset smoker for competition-level barbecue, but as a versatile addition to your cooking arsenal—especially for those times when convenience matters—it’s worth consideration. I found it handles complex smoking tasks better than expected.
You Might Also Like
If you’re exploring electric smoking options, these other top-rated models might interest you as well.
Elevate Your Grilling Game Today!
The Ninja FlexFlame represents a significant step forward in grilling technology, bringing together indoor convenience and outdoor performance in one impressive package. If you’re looking to simplify your cooking setup while expanding your culinary capabilities, I think this versatile grill and smoker deserves a spot in your kitchen—and your backyard.
- 5-IN-ONE: Grill, smoke, roast, griddle*, and make perfect pizzas.* (*sold separately).
- CYCLONICHEAT-iQ: Faster, even cooking, easier to use, and more flavor.* (*vs. Weber).
- CYCLONIC FAN: High-velocity convection fan evenly circulates heat and air around food.
- PRECISION BURNER CONTROL: Dial in and maintain an exact temperature from 200°F-600°F.
- PLUG-IN TO POWER: Requires a 3-prong outdoor extension cord and 20lb. propane tank.
