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6 Best Alternatives to the Ninja Woodfire ProConnect XL BBQ (2026)

By BuyDeck Editorial Team 4 Nov 2026 6 min read

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You might be looking for ninja woodfire proconnect xl BBQ alternatives if the original’s 180-square-inch cooking space feels too small for your needs. The Ninja model excels at delivering authentic wood flavor in a compact, app-connected package that fits small patios. However, its limited capacity and specific dimensions may not suit larger families or those who prefer a different fuel source like standard wood pellets. Some buyers also seek greater durability or a more traditional smoker design rather than a multi-function electric unit.

The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original’s key features, such as app connectivity and wood-fired cooking. This list includes options with larger cooking areas, stainless steel construction, or specialized portable designs. Whether you need more space for large briskets or a lighter unit for tailgating, each product offers distinct advantages based on its published specs. You can compare dimensions, weight, and connectivity options to find the best fit for your outdoor cooking routine.

How each alternative compares

Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20

The Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20 is larger and heavier than the Ninja, measuring 32 inches wide and weighing 63 pounds. It shares the app-controlled Wi-Fi feature and wood pellet fuel source, but prioritizes portability for camping or tailgating. You gain a wider cooking footprint, but you lose the compact footprint that fits tight patios. This grill suits buyers who move their equipment often. The Ninja remains the better choice for stationary, small-space cooking. You trade some mobility for a more robust build that handles outdoor travel better than the lighter Ninja unit.

Traeger Woodridge 860 Sq In

The Traeger Woodridge offers significantly more cooking capacity than the Ninja’s 180 square inches. It weighs 137 pounds and measures 50 inches wide, making it a permanent fixture rather than a portable unit. Like the Ninja, it uses wood pellets and connects via an app for temperature monitoring. You get extra-large capacity for large family gatherings, but you sacrifice the compact size and lower weight. This model fits buyers who need space for large briskets or multiple racks of ribs. The Ninja is superior for small groups or couples who do not need such extensive cooking real estate.

Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill

The Brisk It Zelos-450 provides a larger cooking area while maintaining a relatively compact footprint. It weighs 70.5 pounds and features app connectivity and a PID controller for precise temperature management. Unlike the Ninja’s dual thermometer system, this model includes a meat probe and offset smoker design. You gain more automated control and slightly more space, but you give up the specific woodfire pellet technology of the Ninja. This grill is ideal for users who want smart automation and a bit more room on small patios. The Ninja remains better for those who prioritize authentic woodfire flavor in a smaller package.

Recteq Patio Legend 600 WiFi Pellet Grill

The Recteq Patio Legend 600 is a heavy, stainless steel grill weighing 230 pounds. It offers extra-large capacity and app-controlled Wi-Fi connectivity, similar to the Ninja’s digital features. However, it is much larger and heavier, making it unsuitable for portable use. You gain durable stainless steel construction and significant cooking space, but you lose the compact, lightweight design of the Ninja. This model suits buyers who want a permanent, high-durability setup for outdoor cooking. The Ninja is the better option for those who need a smaller, more manageable unit that fits easily on standard patios without requiring a dedicated heavy-duty space.

Traeger Pro 780 Large Pellet Grill

The Traeger Pro 780 is a large pellet grill measuring 48.7 inches long and weighing 167 pounds. It features app connectivity and a digital controller, offering precise temperature management like the Ninja. You gain substantial cooking capacity and consistent wood-fired flavor, but you sacrifice the compact size and portability of the Ninja. This grill is designed for permanent outdoor setups where space is not a constraint. It fits buyers who prioritize large capacity and digital control over mobility. The Ninja remains the superior choice for small patios or users who need a lightweight, versatile unit for occasional grilling rather than large-scale cooking.

Traeger Timberline 850

The Traeger Timberline 850 is a massive grill weighing 221 pounds and measuring 67 inches wide. It offers 850+ square inches of cooking space and app-controlled Wi-Fi connectivity. Like the Ninja, it uses wood pellets, but it is far larger and heavier. You gain immense capacity for large gatherings, but you lose the compact, user-friendly design of the Ninja. This model is intended for permanent, spacious outdoor setups. It suits buyers who need to cook for large groups regularly. The Ninja is the better choice for small families or couples who do not require such extensive cooking real estate and prefer a more manageable, space-saving appliance.

#ProductBest forPrice
1Ninja Woodfire ProConnect 180 sq in Best overallsmall patios and couples wanting wood flavor
2Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20 Best portablecamping and tailgating with app control
3Traeger Woodridge 860 Sq In Best premiumlarge family gatherings and app-controlled smoking
4Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill Best budgetsmall patios and automated wood-fired cooking
5Recteq Patio Legend 600 WiFi Pellet Grill Best stainless steelstainless steel durability and app-guided cooking
6Traeger Pro 780 Large Pellet Grill Best digital controllerapp-connected family grilling
7Traeger Timberline 850 Best 850+ sq inLarge capacity grilling and smoking
1Best overall
Ninja Woodfire ProConnect 180 sq in

Ninja Woodfire ProConnect 180 sq in

Best for: small patios and couples wanting wood flavor

Cooking Area
180 sq in
Meat Probes
Dual thermometers
Fuel
Wood-Fired
Features
Thermometer, Wi-Fi
Use
Grilling
Color
Blue

The Ninja Woodfire ProConnect XL is a compact electric grill that uses real wood pellets for flavor. It offers 180 square inches of cooking space, fitting two racks of ribs or ten burgers. You can control it via the ProConnect app, which sends notifications for preheating and flipping. It weighs 38.9 pounds and measures 22.3 by 20 by 15.8 inches. This unit suits small patios or balconies where space is limited but you want wood-fired taste.

Pros
  • 7-in-1 functionality including grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate
  • App-enabled connectivity for remote monitoring and real-time notifications
  • Dual thermometer cooking to manage two different proteins simultaneously
  • Weather-resistant build designed for year-round outdoor storage
Cons
  • 180 square inches of cooking space is smaller than the 450 to 860 square inches found in other list items
  • 38.9 pounds weight is manageable but bulkier than lightweight portable options
  • Limited to 7 cooking functions compared to 6-in-1 or multi-mode competitors
Good fit if
  • You have a small balcony or patio with limited counter space
  • You want wood-fired flavor without managing an open flame
  • You prefer app-guided notifications for flipping and timing
Skip if
  • You need to cook large cuts like a 10-lb brisket for a crowd
  • You require a primary grill with over 450 square inches of space
  • You want a fully portable unit under 20 pounds

Verdict: Ninja Woodfire ProConnect XL 7-in-1 fits small outdoor spaces where you want app-controlled convenience and wood flavor. It works best for couples or small families who grill burgers and ribs rather than large batches.

2Best portable
Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20

Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20

Best for: camping and tailgating with app control

Temperature Range
150-550°F
Connectivity
WiFi
Fuel
Wood Pellet
Smoker Style
Portable
Features
Wi-Fi
Use
Grilling, Camping

The Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20 is a portable wood pellet grill designed for flexibility. It features a 17.25 by 12.5 inch grate and a temperature range of 150 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit. You can control it via a free app using built-in WiFi. The unit runs on 12V DC or 120V AC power, making it suitable for camping or tailgating. Weighing 63 pounds, it offers compact storage with a rotating chimney.

Pros
  • Dual power options: 12V DC or 120V AC
  • App-enabled WiFi temperature control
  • Temperature range of 150 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Rotating chimney for compact storage
Cons
  • Smaller cooking grate than the Traeger Timberline 850
  • Heavier build at 63 pounds compared to smaller portable units
  • Limited width of 32 inches restricts large batch cooking
Good fit if
  • You need a grill that runs off a vehicle 12V outlet
  • You want precise temperature control via a smartphone app
  • You require a unit that fits in a truck bed
Skip if
  • You need a large primary cooking area for big families
  • You prefer a fixed outdoor installation over portability
  • You want to cook multiple large roasts simultaneously

Verdict: Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20 fits buyers who prioritize mobility and app control for outdoor cooking. It is ideal for campers or tailgaters who need reliable heat in a compact footprint.

3Best premium
Traeger Woodridge 860 Sq In

Traeger Woodridge 860 Sq In

Best for: large family gatherings and app-controlled smoking

Cooking Area
860 sq. in.
Temperature Range
180-500°F
Fuel
Wood Pellet
Features
Offset Smoker, Wi-Fi
Use
Grilling, Smoker
Color
Black

The Traeger Woodridge is an extra-large pellet grill with 860 square inches of cooking space. It reaches a maximum temperature of 500°F and offers six cooking modes. You can monitor and adjust settings remotely using the companion app. The unit weighs 137 pounds and includes an EZ-Clean grease and ash keg for easier maintenance. It suits those who want high-capacity wood-fired cooking with digital control.

Pros
  • 860 square inches of total cooking area
  • Temperature range from 180°F to 500°F
  • Six-in-one versatility for grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, and BBQ
  • App-enabled remote monitoring and control
  • EZ-Clean Grease & Ash Keg system
Cons
  • Weighs 137 pounds, making it heavier than portable alternatives
  • Maximum temperature of 500°F is lower than the 600°F found on some competitors
  • Dimensions of 50 inches wide and 137 pounds require more space and effort to move
Good fit if
  • You need extra-large capacity for large gatherings
  • You want precise temperature control via an app
  • You prefer wood pellet fuel for authentic flavor
Skip if
  • You need a portable grill for camping or tailgating
  • You require temperatures above 500°F for searing
  • You have limited patio space for a 50-inch wide unit

Verdict: Traeger Woodridge 860 Sq In Pellet Grill is a solid choice for families who want high-capacity, app-controlled wood-fired cooking without the bulk of a full-size smoker. It fits buyers who prioritize consistent heat and easy cleanup over portability.

4Best budget
Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill

Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill

Best for: small patios and automated wood-fired cooking

Cooking Area
450 sq in
Temperature Range
180°F to 500°F
Controller Type
PID controller
Meat Probes
1 probe
Hopper Capacity
12 lb
Fuel
Wood Pellet

The Brisk It Zelos-450 is a 450-square-inch wood pellet grill with Wi-Fi connectivity and an included cover. It features a PID controller for temperature regulation between 180°F and 500°F. The unit includes A.I. cooking technology to adjust settings automatically. This compact 70.5-pound grill suits small patios or beginners seeking automated wood-fired cooking without a large footprint.

Pros
  • 450 square inches of cooking space
  • Wi-Fi connectivity with app control
  • PID controller for precise temperature management
  • Includes waterproof grill cover
  • A.I. technology for automated cooking adjustments
Cons
  • 450 square inches is smaller than competitors offering 780 to 860 square inches
  • 70.5 pounds is lighter but may feel less substantial than heavier steel builds
  • Limited to a single height option of 21 inches
Good fit if
  • You need a compact grill for a small balcony or patio
  • You want automated temperature control via an app
  • You prefer a package that includes a protective cover
Skip if
  • You require more than 450 square inches of cooking area
  • You need multiple height configurations for your space
  • You prefer a heavier, industrial-grade build over 70.5 pounds

Verdict: The Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill fits users with limited patio space who value smart automation. It offers essential wood-fired cooking features in a compact, app-controlled package.

5Best stainless steel
Recteq Patio Legend 600 WiFi Pellet Grill

Recteq Patio Legend 600 WiFi Pellet Grill

Best for: stainless steel durability and app-guided cooking

Cooking Area
600 sq in
Temperature Range
180°F to 700°F
Controller Type
PID
Fuel
Wood Pellet
Features
Offset Smoker, Wi-Fi
Use
Grilling, Smoker

The Recteq Patio Legend 600 is a stainless steel pellet grill offering 600 square inches of cooking space. It features a wide temperature range from 180°F to 700°F and includes Wi-Fi app connectivity for guided cooking. This model uses PID technology for consistent heat control. It is built with durable stainless steel components to resist rust. The unit weighs 230 pounds, making it a substantial addition to your outdoor kitchen.

Pros
  • Stainless steel construction resists rust and offers durability
  • Wide temperature range from 180°F to 700°F
  • Wi-Fi app connectivity with over 500 recipes
  • PID controller ensures consistent temperature control
  • Rated for over 100,000 ignition cycles
Cons
  • 600 square inches of cook space is smaller than the 780 to 860 square inches found in other list options
  • Weighs 230 pounds, which is heavier than the portable options on the list
  • Maximum temperature of 700°F is lower than the 500°F+ range claimed by some competitors
Good fit if
  • You want a grill with extensive stainless steel components for long-term durability
  • You prefer app-guided cooking with a large recipe library
  • You need a reliable PID controller for steady heat management
Skip if
  • You require more than 600 square inches of cooking surface area
  • You need a lightweight, portable grill for easy transport
  • You prefer a grill under 200 pounds for simpler handling

Verdict: The Recteq Patio Legend 600 Stainless Steel Grill fits buyers who prioritize durable stainless steel construction and precise digital temperature control over maximum cooking capacity. Its heavy build and moderate cook space make it ideal for a permanent outdoor setup rather than portable use.

6Best digital controller
Traeger Pro 780 Large Pellet Grill

Traeger Pro 780 Large Pellet Grill

Best for: app-connected family grilling

Cooking Area
780 sq in
Controller Type
D2 controller
Meat Probes
1 included probe
Hopper Capacity
18 lb
Fuel
Wood Pellet
Features
Offset Smoker, Wi-Fi, Digital Controller

The Traeger Pro 780 is a large wood pellet grill with 780 square inches of cooking space. It features a digital controller and Wi-Fi app connectivity for remote temperature monitoring. The unit weighs 167 pounds and includes a meat probe. This model suits you if you need reliable heat recovery and a sturdy build for family gatherings.

Pros
  • 780 square inches of cooking capacity
  • Wi-Fi app connectivity via WiFIRE
  • Digital controller with D2 Drivetrain
  • Includes meat probe for monitoring
  • Fast heat recovery with TurboTemp
Cons
  • 167 pounds weight is heavier than portable alternatives
  • 6-in-1 versatility is fewer modes than the 7-in-1 Ninja
  • 780 square inches is smaller than the 850 square inches on the Timberline
Good fit if
  • You want app-connected temperature control
  • You need space for 34 burgers or 6 chickens
  • You prefer a heavy-duty all-weather build
Skip if
  • You need more than 780 square inches of space
  • You prefer a 7-in-1 cooking versatility
  • You want a lighter portable unit under 100 pounds

Verdict: Traeger Pro 780 Pellet Grill delivers precise digital control and ample space for cooks who prioritize connectivity and consistent wood-fired flavor over portability.

7Best 850+ sq in
Traeger Timberline 850

Traeger Timberline 850

Best for: Large capacity grilling and smoking

Cooking Area
850 sq in
Temperature Range
Up to 500°F
Cooking Racks
3 tiers
Fuel
Wood Pellet
Features
Offset Smoker, Wi-Fi
Use
Grilling, Smoker

The Traeger Timberline 850 is a wood pellet grill with 850 square inches of cooking space. It features Wi-Fi connectivity for app control and Super Smoke Mode. The build includes three tiers of stainless-steel grates and an offset smoker design. Weighing 221 pounds, it suits those needing ample capacity and smart features for grilling and smoking.

Pros
  • 850+ square inches of cooking area
  • Wi-Fi app control via WiFIRE
  • Super Smoke Mode for enhanced flavor
  • Three tiers of stainless-steel grates
  • Offset smoker design included
Cons
  • Heavier build at 221 pounds
  • Smaller capacity than the 1300 sq in variant
  • Larger footprint with 67 inches width
Good fit if
  • You need a large cooking area for gatherings
  • You want app-based temperature control
  • You prefer wood pellet fuel for flavor
Skip if
  • You require a portable or lightweight grill
  • You need more than 850 square inches of space
  • You prefer a smaller footprint for limited spaces

Verdict: Traeger Timberline 850 Pellet Grill fits those who prioritize large capacity and smart connectivity. Its substantial weight and width demand a permanent, spacious outdoor setup.

Specifications side by side

SpecNinja Woodfire ProConnect 180 sq inGreen Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20Traeger Woodridge 860 Sq InBrisk It Zelos-450 Pellet GrillRecteq Patio Legend 600 WiFi Pellet GrillTraeger Pro 780 Large Pellet GrillTraeger Timberline 850
Cooking Area180 sq in–860 sq. in.450 sq in600 sq in780 sq in850 sq in
Temperature Range–150-550°F180-500°F180°F to 500°F180°F to 700°F–Up to 500°F
Connectivity–WiFi–––––
Controller Type–––PID controllerPIDD2 controller–
Cooking Racks––––––3 tiers
Meat ProbesDual thermometers––1 probe–1 included probe–
Hopper Capacity–––12 lb–18 lb–
FuelWood-FiredWood PelletWood PelletWood PelletWood PelletWood PelletWood Pellet
Smoker Style–Portable–––––
FeaturesThermometer, Wi-FiWi-FiOffset Smoker, Wi-FiOffset Smoker, Lid, Meat Probe, Wi-Fi, PID ControllerOffset Smoker, Wi-FiOffset Smoker, Wi-Fi, Digital ControllerOffset Smoker, Wi-Fi
UseGrillingGrilling, CampingGrilling, SmokerGrilling, SmokerGrilling, SmokerGrilling, SmokerGrilling, Smoker
ColorBlueStainless Steel,GreenBlackBlackStainless SteelBlackBlack
Size22.28 x 20.03 x 15.82–Extra Large46"W x 29.8'D x 38.8"HExtra LargeLarge850
Dimensions22.3 × 20 × 15.8 inches16 × 32 × 24 inches27 × 50 × 46 inches24 × 20 × 21 inches–48.7 × 26.7 × 54.4 inches27 × 67 × 47 inches
Weight38.9 pounds63 pounds137 pounds70.5 pounds230 pounds167 pounds221 pounds
ModelOG951TrekTFB86MLHBGZ450RT-600PLTFB78GLECTFC97XLH

Frequently asked questions

Is there a pellet grill with more cooking space than the Ninja Woodfire ProConnect XL?

Yes, the Traeger Timberline 850 offers 850 square inches of cooking area, which is significantly larger than the Ninja’s 180 square inches. It also weighs 221 pounds and measures 67 inches wide. This model is designed for large capacity grilling and smoking, making it suitable for permanent outdoor setups rather than compact patios.

Can I control my grill via an app like the Ninja does?

Most alternatives on this list feature Wi-Fi connectivity and app control. The Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20, Traeger Woodridge 860, Brisk It Zelos-450, Recteq Patio Legend 600, and Traeger Pro 780 all include this feature. You can monitor and adjust settings remotely using the respective brand’s application on your smartphone.

Which option is best for small patios or limited spaces?

The Ninja Woodfire ProConnect 180 sq in remains the most compact choice at 22.3 inches long and 20 inches wide. For those needing slightly more room, the Brisk It Zelos-450 offers a compact footprint with a PID controller and app connectivity. It fits users with limited patio space who still want automated wood-fired cooking capabilities.

Do these alternatives use wood pellets like the Ninja?

The Ninja uses wood-fired fuel, while most listed alternatives use wood pellets. The Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20, Traeger Woodridge 860, Brisk It Zelos-450, Recteq Patio Legend 600, Traeger Pro 780, and Traeger Timberline 850 all rely on wood pellets. This fuel type provides consistent heat and allows for precise digital temperature control in most models.

Is there a stainless steel option for better durability?

The Recteq Patio Legend 600 is built with stainless steel construction for enhanced durability. It weighs 230 pounds and features an offset smoker and Wi-Fi connectivity. This heavy build makes it ideal for a permanent outdoor setup rather than portable use, offering precise digital temperature control and app-guided cooking for long-term reliability.

Which grill is best for tailgating or camping?

The Green Mountain Grills Trek Prime 20 is designed for mobility and app control. It weighs 63 pounds and measures 16 inches long by 32 inches wide. This compact footprint makes it ideal for campers or tailgaters who need reliable heat in a portable package while maintaining the convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring.

See also

Prices and specifications on this page are read from the Amazon product listing and can change at any time. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nobody at this site handled or measured these products.