Is the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill & Air Fryer Worth the Hype? Here’s the Truth
Let’s cut to the chase: the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill & Air Fryer has been blowing up your social media feed faster than a viral cat video. But is it worth the hype, or is it just another overpriced kitchen gadget destined to collect dust next to your avocado slicer? Spoiler alert: it’s actually pretty legit. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of countertop appliances—grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, and even dehydrating. If your kitchen had a superhero, this would be it. Plus, the Smart XL version is bigger, bolder, and basically screams, “I mean business.”
Here’s the truth: if you’re someone who loves versatility but hates clutter, this gadget is a game-changer. It’s not just a grill, it’s a multitasking marvel. But let’s be real, it’s not perfect. It’s bulky (hence the “XL” in the name), and it might take up more counter space than your toaster and coffee maker combined. Still, when you consider how many appliances it replaces, it’s hard to argue with the value. Here’s a quick breakdown of why it’s worth the hype:
- 7-in-1 functionality: Grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, and even keep your food warm.
- Smart thermometer: No more guessing if your steak is medium-rare or hockey puck.
- XL capacity: Perfect for feeding a crowd or just your very ambitious meal prep goals.
So, is it worth the hype? Absolutely—if you’re ready to embrace the future of cooking without sacrificing counter space or your sanity.
Common Complaints About the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill & Air Fryer You Need to Know
While the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill & Air Fryer has earned its stripes as a versatile kitchen gadget, it’s not without its quirks. One common gripe is its size—this beast is massive, and it’s not exactly a countertop-friendly option for smaller kitchens. If you’re tight on space, you might find yourself playing a game of Tetris every time you want to use it. Another frequent complaint is the learning curve. With so many functions—grilling, air frying, roasting, and more—it can feel like you’re trying to pilot a spaceship the first few times you use it. The manual is your best friend, but let’s be real, who actually reads those?
Users also point out that the smoke can be a bit of an issue, especially when grilling indoors. Even with the built-in smoke control, some folks have reported their kitchens turning into a makeshift smokehouse. Lastly, the noise level of the fan during air frying has been a minor annoyance for some. It’s not deafening, but it’s definitely noticeable if you’re trying to have a conversation or watch TV. Here’s a quick list of the top complaints:
- Bulky design that eats up counter space
- Steep learning curve for first-time users
- Smoke issues when grilling indoors
- Noisy fan during air frying
