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Cuisinart Griddler FIVE vs Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer

Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.

Cuisinart Griddler FIVE
Best Versatile Indoor Grill
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer
Best Multitasker
Price
$108-$120
$269-$300
Summary
Five cooking configurations in one machine — full grill, half grill/half griddle, full griddle, panini press, and waffle maker. Dishwasher-safe plates and precise digital temperature control make it Good Housekeeping's top overall pick.
Does the work of six appliances — grill, air fryer, roaster, broiler, baker, and dehydrator — in one unit. The 500°F grill plate and built-in probe thermometer make it the most capable indoor grill for families.
Pros
  • Five cooking configurations including grill, griddle, and panini press modes
  • Digital temperature control from 175°F to 450°F in 25-degree increments
  • Dishwasher-safe grill plates for easy cleanup
  • Sear function heats to 450°F for two-minute increments
  • Waffle plates available as an add-on for even more versatility
  • 500°F max grill temperature — among the highest of any indoor grill tested
  • Built-in probe thermometer ensures meat is never overcooked or unsafe
  • Lid creates oven-like environment for fast, even cooking without squishing food
  • Large enough to cook for a family of four
  • Air fryer, roast, broil, bake, and dehydrate functions eliminate need for multiple appliances
Cons
  • Top plate can drip when cooking greasy foods — recommend foil under back legs
  • Heavier than simpler single-function grills at 11.6 pounds
  • More complex to operate than basic dial-controlled models
  • Large and heavy at 22.4 pounds — not easy to store
  • Can get smoky when cooking high-fat foods like burgers and hot dogs
  • Expensive compared to single-function indoor grills
Our take
The Cuisinart Griddler FIVE is the indoor grill for people who actually cook a variety of things. If you want grill marks on Monday and pancakes on Sunday, this is the only machine you need.
If counter space is precious and you want one machine that replaces your air fryer AND your indoor grill, the Ninja Foodi is the obvious answer. Reddit users love it, and Good Housekeeping's lab confirmed it delivers.
Buy
The verdict

Get the Cuisinart Griddler FIVE if you want versatile indoor grill performance. Get the Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer if you value multitasker more. Both are excellent choices in indoor grills.