Is the Ninja Woodfire Grill suitable for small patios or balconies?

Yes, the Ninja Woodfire is compact and electric, making it ideal for small outdoor spaces where gas or charcoal grills aren’t allowed.

Do I need to use wood pellets every time?

No. You can use the grill without wood pellets for regular grilling or air frying. Add pellets only when you want that smoky flavour.

How long does it take to cook a whole chicken?

Using the roast function, a medium whole chicken takes about 60–70 minutes. Using a meat thermometer like the ThermoPro TP25H2 ensures perfect results.

Can it replace a traditional BBQ smoker?

For casual users, yes. It delivers real wood-smoked flavour, though heavy-duty smokers may still be preferred for briskets and large cuts.

Does it work in UK weather conditions?

Absolutely. It’s electric, has a weather-resistant build, and with the official Ninja cover and stand, it performs well year-round.

Ninja Woodfire BBQ Review: OG701UK and Stand & Cover (2026)

January 31, 2026

Our Review: Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker, Stand & Cover

Ninja Woodfire BBQ Review: OG701UK and Stand & Cover (2026)

Barbecuing is a beloved ritual—smoky evenings, sizzling meats, and that unmistakable scent of summer in the air.

However, we can all agree that traditional charcoal or gas grills come with their own set of hassles: unpredictable heat, constant monitoring, messy clean-up, and the all-too-frequent weather letdowns.

That’s where the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker steps in as a game-changer for everyday cooks, weekend grillers, and even urban balcony dwellers.

We’ve tested this grill alongside its official Ninja stand and water-resistant cover, and what we found was a product trio that makes grilling more convenient, versatile, and enjoyable—without sacrificing that smoky, flame-grilled flavour we all crave. This is a really cool piece of kit.

Is the Ninja Woodfire OG701UK really a “set it and forget it” BBQ? After testing this unit through a typical unpredictable British summer, I’ve found that while the marketing is flashy, the reality of electric outdoor cooking has some specific quirks you need to know before buying. From the 90-second assembly of the side handles to the reality of the “smoke box” ignition time, this isn’t just a grill; it’s a shift in how we handle outdoor dining on small patios and balconies.

What Comes in the Box

Unboxing the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker is an experience in itself. Right out of the packaging, you’re greeted with:

The Ninja Woodfire Grill (OG701UK)
Integrated smoker box
Woodfire pellets sample
Non-stick grill plate
Removable grease tray
Power cord
User manual and quick-start guide

Pair it with:

The Ninja Stand, which provides a sturdy, lock-in-place platform with collapsible legs and wheels for portability.
The Official Ninja Cover, a snug, water-resistant, lightweight fabric cover that fits over both the grill and stand for protection against the elements.

Everything feels premium and purposeful—exactly what you’d expect from Ninja’s reputation for high-quality kitchen tech.

Unboxing & First Impressions: Ninja Woodfire Quality Check

I was very excited to unboxing the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker. The packaging is sturdy and well-designed, with clear branding and informative graphics that hint at the powerful features inside.

Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker outside packaging

Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker outside packaging from the side

Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker outside packaging from the alternate side

Inside flaps on the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker box

As you lift the lid, you’re greeted by neatly arranged components, each carefully wrapped for protection. Everything feels thoughtfully presented and immediately gives the impression of a premium product.

The well packaged Ninja Grill inside the box

More items are hidden inside the grill itself including the Non-stick grill plate and drip tray

Key Features at a Glance

Feature	Ninja Woodfire Grill	Benefit Over Traditional BBQ
Electric-Powered	Plug it in and go—no gas, no charcoal required	Zero emissions, safe for balconies
Woodfire Technology	Uses real wood pellets for smoke flavor	Authentic BBQ taste with easy control
7-in-1 Functionality	Grill, Smoker, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate	Ultimate versatility in one device
Weather-Resistant Design	Made for outdoor use all year round	BBQ in any season
Compact but Capable	Fits 8 burgers or a full chicken	Perfect for couples or small families

Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker Dimensions

The key takeaway? This isn’t just a grill—it’s an all-weather, multi-function outdoor cooking station that fits neatly into your patio lifestyle.

Ninja Woodfire Setup: How Easy is the Assembly?

Setting up the Ninja Woodfire takes minutes. You simply:

Attach the legs of the stand (if using).
Plug in the grill to a standard outlet.
Add wood pellets to the smoker box.
Select your cooking mode.

The control dial and digital display make operation intuitive—even if you’re not a BBQ pro. Compared to the faff of lighting coals or cleaning gas lines, this feels refreshingly modern.

Cooking Performance: Testing the 7-in-1 Ninja Grill Functions

The Chicken Thigh Test: Achieving Crispy Skin with Woodfire Smoke

Grilling chicken thighs on the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker is a game-changer for anyone who wants juicy, flavour-packed results without the hassle of traditional charcoal or gas grills.

Thanks to the even heat distribution and precise temperature control, the Ninja Woodfire takes the guesswork out of grilling. Chicken thighs—known for their rich flavour and forgiving texture—turn out beautifully crispy on the outside while staying succulent on the inside.

One of the standout features when grilling chicken on this unit is the Woodfire Technology. Just a small scoop of wood pellets adds real wood smoke flavour, infusing the chicken with a subtle but authentic BBQ aroma that rivals charcoal grilling. Whether you’re using a basic salt-and-pepper rub or a more complex marinade, the Ninja enhances those flavours with a smoky depth that’s hard to achieve on a regular indoor grill or oven.

The grill’s non-stick grates make flipping easy. Plus, the electric setup means no flare-ups, no need for gas canisters or messy charcoal, and far easier clean-up. For weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts, grilling chicken thighs on the Ninja Woodfire is both convenient and consistently delicious. Cooking with it is almost foolproof!

Everyday Cooking: A Joy to Use

We used it to grill steaks, smoke chicken wings, air-fry vegetables, and even roast a tray of corn. Everything turned out perfectly cooked with that unmistakable smoky undertone thanks to the real wood pellets.

The heat distribution is even and consistent—no hot spots or flare-ups—and the smoke level is enough for flavor without overwhelming your garden.

Woodfire Smoker Review: Real Smoke Flavor Without the Hassle

The smoke mode is excellent for slow-cooked recipes. We tested a brisket rub and smoked it for several hours—moist, flavourful, and with a lovely bark. You can smoke low and slow, or grill fast and hot, depending on your needs.

Air Fryer & More: Not Just for Meat Lovers

Want crispy tofu, roasted peppers, or even baked desserts? It does that too. The air fryer mode is fantastic and efficient, making it a solid choice for vegetarians and snack-lovers alike.

Is the Ninja Woodfire Stand Worth It? Stability & Portability Review

The Ninja Woodfire Stand deserves praise for being more than just a base. It locks securely into place with rubberised feet and can be folded away when not in use. The built-in wheels mean it can be moved from patio to garden with ease, and it adds just the right height for comfortable grilling.

Unlike placing your BBQ on a table or crouching over it on the ground, the stand turns it into a semi-permanent setup—without taking up unnecessary space.

Ninja Woodfire Folding Grill Stand, Compatible with Ninja Woodfire Electric Outdoor BBQ Grill

The official Ninja stand for the Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker is more than just a functional accessory—it’s a well-thought-out addition that transforms your grilling setup into a proper outdoor cooking station.

While the OG701UK is marketed as a ‘portable’ grill, its 13kg weight means you don’t really want to be moving it from a tabletop to a cupboard every day. The official Ninja Woodfire Stand transforms it from a portable appliance into a permanent outdoor fixture. I found the height perfectly ergonomic for flipping meats, and the locking mechanism is robust enough to handle the unit being used on uneven patio slabs or grass.

Designed specifically for the Ninja Woodfire grill, the stand offers a stable, elevated platform that brings the cooking surface to a comfortable waist height, making the grilling experience feel more natural and ergonomic—especially if you’re used to cooking on a full-size BBQ.

The Ninja Woodfire Foldable BBQ Grill Stand box

One of the most appreciated features of the stand is its foldable design. It’s easy to store and transport, making it ideal for small patios, balconies, and even camping setups.

The locking mechanism on the legs ensures a secure setup, and once the grill is mounted, it feels solid and safe—even when handling heavier cuts of meat or flipping food vigorously. There are also built-in hooks that let you hang your BBQ tools, tongs, or cleaning brush, which is a small touch that adds big convenience.

The reverse of the Ninja Woodfire Foldable BBQ Grill Stand box

Another benefit is that using the official stand gives you the confidence that everything fits exactly as it should. Unlike makeshift tables or third-party solutions, the Ninja stand is designed with ventilation, weight distribution, and grill dimensions in mind.

The Ninja Woodfire Foldable BBQ Grill Stand when removed from the box

Whether you’re using the smoker in the backyard or taking it to a campsite, the official stand enhances the overall experience—making your grill feel more like a fully integrated cooking station and less like a portable appliance. If you want to get the most out of your Ninja Woodfire grill, the official stand is absolutely worth it.

Ninja Weatherproof Cover: Protecting Your BBQ from the Rain

The Ninja Grill Cover fits snugly over the grill, even when it’s mounted on the stand. It’s waterproof, wind-resistant, and doesn’t flap around or fade in sunlight. We left the grill out during a week of classic UK drizzle, and it stayed bone dry and ready to use.

It’s a small purchase that makes a big difference if you plan on leaving the grill outdoors year-round.

Ninja Woodfire Grill Cover , Compatible with Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill

The Ninja Woodfire Grill Cover is an essential accessory for anyone who wants to protect their investment in the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker. The cover offers a tailored fit, ensuring full protection from the elements—whether your grill lives outdoors year-round or gets stashed in a shed between uses.

The Ninja Woodfire Premium Grill Cover box

What makes the Ninja cover stand out is its durable, water-resistant fabric. It’s made from a lightweight yet rugged material that guards against rain, UV rays, dust, and even bird droppings. This is especially important if you’re using the grill frequently and don’t want to worry about dirt and grime accumulating when it’s not in use. The seams are well stitched, and the overall quality reflects the same high standards as the grill itself.

Reverse of the Ninja Woodfire Premium Grill Cover box

I consider the the Ninja Grill Cover to be essential— it’s a smart purchase that extends the life of your grill, maintains its appearance, and ensures it’s always ready to go when you are.

The Ninja Woodfire Premium Grill Cover unboxed

The Ninja Woodfire Premium Grill Cover on the grill - perfect fit! — The Ninja Woodfire Premium Grill Cover on the grill – perfect fit!

The custom-fit Ninja Weatherproof Cover is essential for UK owners. It is thick enough to prevent frost damage in winter and beads water effectively. However, after a heavy downpour, I recommend a quick check to ensure no moisture is trapped in the pellet hopper. For more tips on keeping your outdoor gear and indoor spaces dry, see our guide on how to tackle mould in your home.

Benefits Over a Traditional BBQ

Here’s where the Ninja Woodfire stands out:

No Charcoal or Gas: No more storing gas bottles or dealing with ash. Just plug it in and go.
Cleaner and Safer: Electric grilling produces fewer emissions and is safer on balconies or in smaller gardens.
Compact Yet Powerful: Traditional BBQs take up lots of space. This fits in tighter outdoor areas.
Multi-Use: It’s not just for BBQ—use it year-round for roasts, air frying, and smoking.
Faster Prep and Cleanup: Get grilling in under 5 minutes and clean-up in 10.

It’s perfect for people who want great food with less mess and stress.

Ninja Woodfire OG701 vs Ninja Pro Connect XL vs Traditional Charcoal Grill

Feature / Model	Ninja Woodfire OG701	Ninja Pro Connect XL	Traditional Charcoal Grill
Power Source	Electric	Electric + Bluetooth	Charcoal
Smoky Flavour	Yes (wood pellets)	Yes (wood pellets)	Yes
Cooking Modes	Grill, Smoke, Air Fry	Grill, Smoke, Roast, Bake	Grill only
Weather-Resistant Design	✅	✅	❌
Smart Thermometer Support	❌	✅	❌
Ideal For	Patios, camping	Families, advanced users	Traditional BBQ lovers
Price	~£250	~£450	Varies
Link	Check Price	Check Price	See Options

Pros and Cons

Pros

✅ Versatile 7-in-1 functionality
✅ Easy electric operation
✅ Authentic wood smoke flavor
✅ Excellent build quality
✅ Compact and stylish design
✅ Optional stand adds mobility and comfort
✅ Cover keeps it protected all year

Cons

❌ Needs access to an outlet (extension lead may be needed)
❌ Pellet refills required for smoke mode (but optional for grilling)
❌ Price point is higher than a basic BBQ—but justified by features

Ninja Woodfire OG701 Maintenance Reality

Is the Ninja Woodfire Really “Easy Clean”?

While the ceramic-coated grill plate is impressively non-stick, there is a “hidden” cleaning hurdle that most reviews skip: the interior lid. Because the Woodfire uses a powerful convection fan to circulate heat and smoke, grease particles are thrown upward.

After just three uses, I noticed carbon buildup around the heating element. To keep your unit in top shape, I recommend a quick wipe with a damp microfiber cloth while the lid is still slightly warm. If you’ve let it bake on, you might need a deeper solution—much like the techniques we use in our Guide to Cleaning Household Appliances, staying on top of grease is the only way to ensure the fan remains efficient and quiet.

Solving the “Small Space” Dilemma

For those living in apartments or homes with small courtyards, the Woodfire is a game-changer. Since it is fully electric, it bypasses many of the strict “no charcoal/gas” rules found in UK tenancy agreements.

The Weather Factor: It carries an IPX4 rating, meaning it can handle splashes (or a sudden British drizzle). However, during my testing, I found that storing it outside—even with the official Ninja cover—can lead to moisture buildup in the pellet hopper. For the best longevity, I recommend storing the unit in a dry shed or utility room when not in use. If you are struggling with a damp storage area, be sure to read our advice on how to tackle mould in your home to protect your electronics from winter humidity.

The “Smoke Secret”: Pellet Performance

One of the most common questions I get is: “Do you have to use Ninja-branded pellets?” Technically, the OG701UK is designed for Ninja’s proprietary pellets, which are smaller and denser than standard smoker pellets.

In my experience, using third-party pellets can lead to “flame out” errors because the ignition cup is precisely calibrated for the Ninja density. To avoid ruining a Sunday roast, I suggest sticking to the official pellets for the smoke box, but using any high-quality wood for additional flavor during long roasts.

Final Verdict – A Smart Investment for Modern Grilling

The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker isn’t just a grill—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ fan looking for convenience or a complete beginner wanting something intuitive and reliable, this delivers. It’s ideal for UK weather, ideal for smaller spaces, and ideal for anyone who wants more than just burgers on a grill.

With the stand and cover, it transforms into a sleek, weather-ready outdoor station that rivals larger gas grills without the fuss.

If you’re tired of fiddling with coals or worrying about flare-ups, and want a smarter, cleaner, tastier grilling solution, the Ninja Woodfire deserves a place in your garden.