When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like the taste of food cooked over wood pellets. Two popular options for wood pellet grills are the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger.
Both offer the convenience of a portable grill with the flavor and aroma of wood-fired cooking. But how do they compare? And what about the Ninja Woodfire Pro, which offers even more features and cooking space?
The Ninja Woodfire is a versatile grill that can be used for smoking, grilling, and even baking. It features a compact design that makes it easy to transport, but still has a cooking surface of 141 square inches.
The Traeger Ranger, on the other hand, has a slightly larger cooking surface of 184 square inches, but a lower maximum temperature of 450°F.
The Ninja Woodfire, in contrast, can reach temperatures up to 500°F. Both grills use wood pellets for fuel, but the Ninja Woodfire has a unique feature that allows you to switch between different types of wood pellets for different flavors.
For those looking for even more cooking space and features, the Ninja Woodfire Pro is a great option. It has a larger cooking surface of 329 square inches and can reach temperatures up to 700°F.
The Pro also has a built-in temperature probe and a digital control panel for precise temperature control. However, it is significantly heavier than the other two models, weighing in at 90 pounds.
Overview Of Brands
When it comes to outdoor grills, two of the most popular brands are Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger. Ninja Woodfire is a product of Ninja Kitchen, a company known for its innovative kitchen appliances. Traeger Grills, on the other hand, has been around since the 1990s and is a well-established brand in the grilling industry.
Ninja Woodfire Pro is the premium version of Ninja Woodfire, which comes with additional features such as a built-in thermometer, a grill cover, roasting lifters, and a veggie tray. The brand is known for its versatility, as it can be used as a grill, smoker, and oven.
Traeger Ranger, on the other hand, is a portable pellet grill that is designed for outdoor use. It is a more traditional pellet grill that uses wood pellets for the heat source and smoke. Traeger grills are known for their excellent temperature control and consistent results.
George Foreman Grill and Big Green Egg are two other popular brands in the grilling industry, but they are not direct competitors of Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger. George Foreman Grill is an indoor electric grill that is known for its convenience and ease of use. Big Green Egg is a ceramic charcoal grill that is known for its durability and versatility.
Overall, Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger are two excellent brands that offer high-quality outdoor grills. Ninja Woodfire is more versatile and can be used as a grill, smoker, and oven, while Traeger Ranger is a portable pellet grill that is designed for outdoor use. Ultimately, the choice between the two brands will depend on the user’s needs and preferences.
Design and Portability
Ninja Woodfire Grill Design
The Ninja Woodfire grill has a sleek and modern design that is sure to impress. It features a compact size that makes it easy to transport and store. The grill stand is made of durable materials that can withstand the elements, making it perfect for outdoor use. The Ninja Woodfire outdoor grill is also equipped with a pellet burner that gives a smoky flavor to your food, no matter the cooking temperature.
Traeger Ranger Design
The Traeger Ranger is a portable pellet grill that is designed for camping and tailgating. It features a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to transport. The grill stand is made of sturdy materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The Traeger Ranger also comes equipped with a pellet burner that gives your food a rich, smoky flavor.
Ninja Woodfire Pro Features
The Ninja Woodfire Pro is a versatile outdoor grill that offers a range of features to enhance your grilling experience. It features a compact size that makes it easy to transport and store. The grill stand is made of durable materials that can withstand the elements. The Ninja Woodfire Pro also comes equipped with a dehydration function and an integrated thermometer that allows you to monitor the temperature of your food with ease.
Overall, all three grills offer a compact and portable design that makes them easy to transport and store. The Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger both feature sturdy grill stands that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The Ninja Woodfire Pro offers additional features such as a dehydration function and an integrated thermometer that enhance your grilling experience.
Cooking Capabilities
When it comes to cooking capabilities, both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger pellet grills are versatile and offer a range of cooking functions. However, the Ninja Woodfire Pro takes things to the next level with even more cooking capabilities.
Grilling and Smoking
Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger are excellent for grilling and smoking. They both use wood pellets to give food that classic woodfire flavor and smoke flavor. The Ninja Woodfire has a maximum temperature of 500°F, while the Traeger Ranger has a maximum temperature of 450°F. The cooking area of the Traeger Ranger is 184 sq. in, which is about 30% larger than the Ninja Woodfire’s 141 sq. in. cooking area.
Baking and Roasting
The Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger are also great for baking and roasting. They both have a range of temperature settings that allow for precise cooking. The Ninja Woodfire Pro takes this to the next level with a built-in thermometer that displays the internal temperature of food in real-time. This makes it much easier to cook food to perfection.
Specialized Cooking Functions
The Ninja Woodfire Pro offers a range of specialized cooking functions that are not available on the Ninja Woodfire or Traeger Ranger. These include air fryer, dehydrate, broil, and air crisp. The air fryer function is perfect for cooking crispy, healthy meals without the need for oil. The dehydrate function is great for making beef jerky, dried fruits, and vegetables. The broil function is ideal for cooking steaks and other meats, while the air crisp function is perfect for making French fries and other crispy snacks.
Overall, all three grills offer a range of cooking capabilities that make them versatile and perfect for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. Whether you want to grill, smoke, bake, roast, or use specialized cooking functions, these grills have you covered.
Temperature Control and Monitoring
Thermometer Integration
Temperature control and monitoring is crucial when it comes to cooking on a wood pellet grill. Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger come with integrated thermometers that allow you to monitor the internal temperature of your food. However, the Ninja Woodfire Pro takes it to the next level with the addition of an integrated meat probe thermometer. This allows you to monitor the internal temperature of your meat without having to open the grill and risk losing heat.
Temperature Probes
The Ninja Woodfire Pro also comes with two additional temperature probes that allow you to monitor the internal temperature of two different cuts of meat at the same time. This feature is especially useful when cooking for a large group of people or when cooking different types of meat at the same time.
Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger have a temperature range of up to 500°F, which is more than enough for most types of cooking. However, the Traeger Ranger falls short in terms of cooking area, with only 184 sq. in. compared to the Ninja Woodfire’s 141 sq. in. cooking area. This means that the Traeger Ranger may not be suitable for larger cuts of meat or cooking for larger groups of people.
In terms of temperature control, all three grills offer precise temperature control, allowing you to set the temperature to the exact degree that you need. This is especially important when cooking meats to a specific doneness, as different cuts of meat require different internal temperatures to be cooked to perfection.
Overall, the Ninja Woodfire Pro offers the most advanced temperature control and monitoring features, making it the ideal choice for serious grillers who want to take their cooking to the next level. However, both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger offer excellent temperature control and monitoring features, making them suitable for most types of cooking.
Fuel and Power Sources
Pellet Usage
Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger use wood pellets as their primary fuel source. The Ninja Woodfire Pro, on the other hand, can use both wood pellets and charcoal. Pellets are compressed sawdust and wood shavings, which are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional charcoal or gas grills. They come in a variety of flavors, such as hickory, mesquite, and apple, which can add a unique flavor to the food being cooked.
The Traeger Ranger has a hopper capacity of 8 pounds, while the Ninja Woodfire has a slightly smaller hopper capacity of 6.6 pounds. The hopper is where the pellets are stored and fed into the grill, so a larger hopper capacity means less frequent refilling. The Ninja Woodfire Pro has a hopper capacity of 10 pounds, making it the largest of the three grills.
Electric Heating
The Ninja Woodfire Pro uses a 1760-watt electric heating element to heat the grill, which is a departure from the wood pellet fuel source used by the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger. The electric heating element allows for precise temperature control and eliminates the need for pellets, making it a more environmentally friendly option. However, it does require access to an electrical outlet, which may not be available in all outdoor cooking areas.
In terms of power usage, the Traeger Ranger and Ninja Woodfire both require less than 300 watts of power to operate. This is significantly less than the 1760 watts required by the Ninja Woodfire Pro. However, the electric heating element of the Ninja Woodfire Pro allows for faster heating and more precise temperature control, which may be worth the increased power usage for some users.
Overall, the choice of fuel type and heating method is an important consideration when choosing between the Ninja Woodfire, Traeger Ranger, and Ninja Woodfire Pro. Each grill has its own advantages and disadvantages, and users should choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Cleaning and Care
Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger pellet grills are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. They come with a drip tray that collects grease and other debris, which can be easily removed and washed. The grill grates are also removable and can be cleaned with a grill brush or in a dishwasher.
The Ninja Woodfire Pro, on the other hand, comes with a built-in ash collection system that makes cleaning up after each use a breeze. The system automatically collects ash and other debris, making it easy to dispose of without creating a mess.
All three grills come with a grill cover to protect them from the elements when not in use. It is recommended to use the grill cover to extend the life of the grill and keep it looking new.
User-Friendly Features
The Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger both come with a quick start guide and a recipe book to help users get started with their new grill. They also have user-friendly features such as a digital control panel that allows users to set the temperature and cooking time, as well as a meat probe that can be inserted into the meat to monitor the internal temperature.
The Ninja Woodfire Pro takes user-friendliness to the next level with its package that includes a wireless meat thermometer that can be connected to the grill’s digital control panel. This allows users to monitor the internal temperature of the meat from a distance, without having to open the grill and release heat.
Overall, all three grills are easy to use and maintain, with user-friendly features that make grilling a breeze. The Ninja Woodfire Pro stands out with its built-in ash collection system and wireless meat thermometer, making it the easiest to clean and most convenient to use.
Accessories and Add-ons
Included Accessories
Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger come with a few basic accessories to get you started. The Ninja Woodfire comes with a grill grate, crisper basket, and a smoker box. On the other hand, the Traeger Ranger comes with a grill grate, drip tray, and a pellet bucket.
The Ninja Woodfire Pro, however, comes with a few additional accessories such as a combo crisper basket and a griddle plate. The combo crisper basket is perfect for cooking small foods like vegetables and seafood, while the griddle plate is great for cooking breakfast foods like pancakes and eggs.
Additional Purchases
If you want to expand your cooking options, both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger have a few additional accessories available for purchase. For the Ninja Woodfire, you can purchase an additional crisper basket, smoker box, and griddle plate. For the Traeger Ranger, you can purchase a folding front shelf, a bottom shelf, and a cover.
If you plan on using your grill frequently, it may be worth investing in an extension cord to give you more flexibility when it comes to placement. Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger have controls that are easy to use and allow you to adjust the temperature to your desired level.
Overall, the accessories and add-ons available for the Ninja Woodfire, Traeger Ranger, and Ninja Woodfire Pro are relatively similar. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what specific accessories you may need for your cooking needs.
Cooking Performance
When it comes to cooking performance, the Ninja Woodfire, Traeger Ranger, and Ninja Woodfire Pro all offer excellent results.
Meat and Poultry
All three grills are capable of producing tender, juicy, and moist steaks, ribs, brisket, and other large cuts of meat. The Ninja Woodfire and Woodfire Pro both have a maximum temperature of 500°F, which is higher than the Traeger Ranger’s maximum temperature of 450°F. This means that the Ninja grills can sear meat more effectively, creating a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender.
When it comes to chicken breasts, all three grills are capable of producing moist and flavorful results. However, the Traeger Ranger may require a bit more attention to ensure that the chicken doesn’t dry out.
Vegetables and Sides
All three grills are capable of producing delicious and crispy french fries. The Ninja Woodfire and Woodfire Pro both come with a crisper basket, which allows you to cook fries and other small items more evenly. The Traeger Ranger, on the other hand, may require a bit more attention to ensure that the fries don’t burn.
When it comes to vegetables, all three grills are capable of producing delicious and flavorful results. The Ninja Woodfire and Woodfire Pro both come with a vegetable tray, which allows you to cook vegetables more evenly. The Traeger Ranger, on the other hand, may require a bit more attention to ensure that the vegetables don’t overcook or become too soft.
Overall, all three grills offer excellent cooking performance, with each having its own strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and which grill best suits your needs.
Portability and Outdoor Use
When it comes to outdoor cooking, portability is a key factor to consider. Both the Ninja Woodfire and Traeger Ranger are portable grills, but the Ninja Woodfire Pro takes portability to another level.
Mobile Grilling
The Traeger Ranger and Ninja Woodfire are both designed to be easily transported, making them ideal for camping trips, tailgating, or backyard barbecues. The Traeger Ranger weighs just 60 pounds and has foldable legs, making it easy to pack up and take with you wherever you go. The Ninja Woodfire is even more portable, weighing in at just 30 pounds. It also has a built-in handle, making it easy to carry.
The Ninja Woodfire Pro takes portability to the next level. It weighs just 18 pounds and has a compact design that makes it easy to pack up and take with you on the go. It also has a built-in battery that provides up to four hours of cooking time, so you don’t have to worry about finding an electrical outlet.
Outdoor Cooking Experience
Both the Traeger Ranger and Ninja Woodfire are designed for outdoor cooking, but the Ninja Woodfire Pro takes things a step further. It has a weather-resistant design that makes it perfect for outdoor use, no matter what the weather is like. It also has a built-in smoke box that allows you to infuse your food with delicious smoky flavors.
The Traeger Ranger and Ninja Woodfire both have a cooking area of around 140 square inches, making them ideal for cooking for small groups of people. The Ninja Woodfire Pro, on the other hand, has a cooking area of 256 square inches, making it ideal for larger groups.
Overall, all three grills are portable and designed for outdoor use. The Traeger Ranger and Ninja Woodfire are both great options for those who want a portable grill for camping trips or tailgating. The Ninja Woodfire Pro, on the other hand, is ideal for those who want a truly portable grill that can be taken anywhere.
Product Comparisons and Verdict
Ninja Woodfire vs. Traeger Ranger
When comparing the Ninja Woodfire and the Traeger Ranger, there are a few key differences to consider. The Ninja Woodfire has a slightly smaller cooking area of 141 sq. in. compared to the Traeger Ranger’s 184 sq. in. However, the Ninja Woodfire has a higher maximum temperature of 500°F compared to the Traeger Ranger’s 450°F.
Both grills use wood pellets for fuel, but the Ninja Woodfire uses wood for fuel, providing a more authentic wood-fired taste. The Traeger Ranger, on the other hand, has a built-in fan for circulating heat and smoke automatically, which helps with promoting even cooking and smoking.
After conducting lab tests and research, it was found that both grills perform well in terms of cooking and smoking. However, the Ninja Woodfire may be a better choice for those who prefer a higher maximum temperature and a more authentic wood-fired taste, while the Traeger Ranger may be a better choice for those who prefer a larger cooking area and automatic heat and smoke circulation.
Ninja Woodfire Pro Advantages
The Ninja Woodfire Pro has several advantages over its predecessor, the Ninja Woodfire. The Pro version has a larger cooking area of 200 sq. in. compared to the original’s 141 sq. in. The Pro version also has a higher maximum temperature of 550°F compared to the original’s 500°F.
Additionally, the Ninja Woodfire Pro has a built-in thermometer and a removable ash pan for easy cleaning. It also comes with a cover and a carrying bag for added convenience and portability.
Final Recommendations
After careful consideration and testing, the final verdict is that all three grills – the Ninja Woodfire, Traeger Ranger, and Ninja Woodfire Pro – are great options for those who enjoy wood-fired grilling and smoking.
For those who prioritize a higher maximum temperature and a more authentic wood-fired taste, the Ninja Woodfire and Ninja Woodfire Pro are great choices. For those who prioritize a larger cooking area and automatic heat and smoke circulation, the Traeger Ranger may be a better option.
Overall, it is recommended to choose the grill that best suits your specific needs and preferences.
I am a writer, editor, and publisher of Grillcuisines.com – an online blog dedicated to sharing grilling tips, accessories, and recipes to encourage more people to get outside and grill.
I’m off to find out the different types of grill foods, their seasons, and how to conduct outdoor cooking properly. I’ll also show you some of my grill-worthy cooking tools & accessories!
