I wanted to grill indoors without the smoke or mess. So I looked into the Ninja AG301 vs EG200. At first, they seemed the same. But once I used them, I saw clear differences.
This guide is based on my real-life tests. I’ll show you what I liked, what I didn’t, and which one I’d pick. I’ll also share my thoughts on Ninja’s ice cream makers, like the NC301 vs NC501 and the Creami 300 vs 301.
Still not sure which model to choose? I’ll also compare the Ninja Creami NC301 vs NC501 to help you decide.
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What I Like About Each Model
I’ve used both the Ninja AG301 and the EG200 in my kitchen. After grilling meat, veggies, and even frozen foods, I’ve learned what makes each model shine. Here’s what I like about both, based on real use.
Ninja AG301 – What I Like
- It makes real grill marks.
Steaks, burgers, even fish come out with those classic lines. It feels like outdoor grilling—inside.
If you love a bold grilled look and taste, this is for you. - Heats up fast.
The AG301 uses hot air to cook quickly. I made chicken in under 15 minutes.
Great for quick meals on busy nights. - Easy to clean.
The grill plate and basket go in the dishwasher. No scrubbing needed.
Cleanup takes just minutes. - Low smoke indoors.
I was shocked. It didn’t fill my kitchen with smoke. My windows stayed shut!
Good for small homes or apartments. - It’s more than a grill.
You can air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate too. I use the air fry mode a lot.
One device, many jobs.
Ninja EG200 – What I Like
- It’s light and easy to move.
I could shift it with one hand. It fits in tight spaces.
Best for small counters and tiny kitchens. - Simple to use.
No tricky buttons or menus. Just set the temp and go.
Great for beginners or older users. - Cooks well for basic meals.
Chicken, veggies, and grilled cheese came out tasty.
It works well if you don’t need fancy extras. - Much quieter.
It hums softly, not loud like a dryer. I could talk or listen to music while cooking.
Perfect for a calm kitchen. - Lower price.
It costs less than the AG301 but still works great.
Good pick if you want to save money.
What Could Be Better
Let’s be real—no indoor grill is perfect. Both the Ninja AG301 and EG200 have little flaws that stood out during use.
First off, the noise. The AG301 is pretty loud when it runs. It sounds like a strong fan or a small hair dryer. Not a deal-breaker, but you’ll notice it, especially in a quiet kitchen. The EG200 is a bit quieter, but still not silent. If you cook at night while others are sleeping, this could be a problem.
Another thing is the lack of extras. Both models only come with the basics—a grill plate and a crisper basket. That’s it. No spatula, no detailed recipe book, and no cleaning brush. I had to dig through my drawers just to flip meat or clean the grease. A few small tools would have made things easier.
Cleaning also takes a bit of work. The AG301 has some tight spots around the heating element. Grease can collect there fast. If you don’t wipe it right after cooking, it gets sticky and hard to clean. The EG200 has a slightly easier layout, but still needs regular care to stay clean. So if you want something truly low-maintenance, neither is perfect.
One more thing—getting the settings right takes some trial and error. When I first tried cooking frozen chicken, I wasn’t sure if I should grill it or use air crisp. The buttons are clear, but the instructions are a little vague. I had to look things up online while cooking. For a beginner, that can be frustrating. Once you figure it out, it’s smooth—but don’t expect perfection from the start.
Both grills also take up space. If your counter is already full, adding one of these can make it feel cramped. I had to move my toaster and coffee maker just to make room. For small kitchens, that’s something to keep in mind.
Overall, the AG301 is a bit louder, harder to clean, and comes with fewer extras. The EG200 improves slightly on noise and design but still has a learning curve. They both deliver great results, but you’ll need some patience at the beginning. It’s a bit like breaking in a new pair of shoes—once you get used to them, they work great, but it takes a few tries to get it right.
My Real-Life Experience Using Both
I’ve used both the Ninja AG301 and EG200 in my own kitchen. I grilled on busy nights, lazy weekends, and even during a rainy family cookout. These weren’t just test runs—I actually made dinner with them. If you’re asking which one cooks better or is easier to use, here’s what I learned.
For taste, both grills did great. But the AG301 gave a better sear on steak. It made those dark grill lines and that crispy edge I love. The EG200 still made tasty food, just a bit softer. For frozen burgers and chicken, both were solid. But the AG301 heated up faster.
If you’re new to indoor grills, the EG200 is easier to use. Its controls are simple. I let my cousin try it, and he cooked a meal right away. The AG301 has more options, which is nice—but it takes a little more time to learn.
When I grilled veggies, the EG200 was softer and gentler. Mushrooms and zucchini stayed moist. But I liked the AG301 better for crisp edges. It roasted peppers just right.
Both grills were quick, but the AG301 was a bit faster. That helped on rushed nights. The EG200 was quieter, though. That made it nicer when I was listening to music or a podcast.
So, which one is better?
If you want bold flavor and speed, go with the AG301.
If you want simple use and less noise, the EG200 is great.
Both are good. One is like a sports car, fast and strong. The other is like a comfy ride—easy and smooth.
Design & Build Quality
Let’s talk about how these two grills look and feel. The Ninja AG301 has a boxy, tough build. It feels solid, like a small kitchen tank. The EG200 is more modern and smooth. Its curves give it a sleek, simple look that blends in better with other appliances.
Both grills are well made, but the EG200 has a style edge. On my countertop, the AG301 stood out more, while the EG200 looked like it belonged in a newer kitchen. If you care about looks, the EG200 might be the better fit.
Now, about the buttons. The AG301 uses a more basic layout. It works fine, but it took me a few tries to get used to. The EG200, on the other hand, is very easy to use. The labels are clear, and I didn’t need to check the manual. Between the two, the EG200 has the more user-friendly control panel.
When it comes to size, both are compact. They won’t take over your counter. But the EG200 is a bit slimmer. It fit better in my small kitchen, sliding between my coffee maker and spice rack with no problem. So if space is tight, the EG200 is easier to fit.
The AG301 feels tougher, but the EG200 is easier to use, looks nicer, and fits better in small spaces. That’s why I found myself reaching for the EG200 more often.
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Performance Comparison: Ninja AG301 vs EG200
After using both the Ninja AG301 and EG200, I found some clear differences. If you’re stuck between the two, this breakdown will help you decide fast.
Heating Time
The AG301 heats up faster. It took me about 6–7 minutes to get going. The EG200 took a bit longer—around 9–10 minutes. That extra wait may not sound like much, but when you’re hungry, it counts.
The AG301 wins for speed. It gets hot fast and is ready to cook sooner.
Grill Marks and Searing
The AG301 gave me better grill marks. Steaks came out with bold, dark lines. Even veggies looked grilled—not steamed. The EG200 was okay, but the marks were lighter. It didn’t sear as deeply.
If you want great sear and marks, the AG301 is the better pick.
Smoke Control
The EG200 runs cleaner. It made less smoke when I grilled meat. That’s a win for small kitchens. The AG301 worked fine but made a bit more smoke, even with the splatter shield.
For low-smoke cooking, the EG200 is the safer bet.
Cooking Modes and Controls
Both grills offer air fry, bake, roast, and dehydrate. The AG301’s buttons were easier to use. The screen was simple and clear. The EG200 had smoother settings but felt a bit more high-tech.
If you like simple controls, go with the AG301. If you want a sleek feel, try the EG200.
My Take?
Want fast heat and great sear? Go with the AG301. Want less smoke and a quieter cook? Pick the EG200. I kept the AG301 for weekends, but the EG200 fits better in a small space.
Build Quality: Are They Durable?
Both the Ninja AG301 and EG200 feel solid. I’ve used them a lot. They hold up well, but they’re not exactly the same.
Materials and Strength
Both grills use non-stick plates. Food comes off easily. The AG301 feels a bit heavier and stronger. The EG200 is lighter, which makes it easy to move and clean. The lid on the AG301 shuts with a firm snap. The EG200 lid is smooth but not as tight.
The AG301 feels tougher. The EG200 is lighter and simpler to handle.
Cleaning Is Easy
Both are simple to clean. You can take the grill plates out fast. I just use soap and water. The AG301 gets a bit more grease in the lid, so I wipe it down more often. The EG200 has a smart drip tray. It catches more oil and makes less mess.
The EG200 is a little easier to clean, thanks to the better tray.
How They Hold Up Over Time
After a few months, both still work great. The AG301 buttons still look new. Its lid shuts tight. On the EG200, I saw light wear on the handle, but nothing bad. The grill plates on both did not chip or peel.
Both are strong, but the AG301 feels more ready for heavy use.
If you grill often and want something tough, the AG301 is a great pick. If you want something light and easy to clean, go for the EG200.
Related Comparison: Ninja CN305A vs NC301
Thinking about the Ninja CN305A or NC301? I was too. At first, I thought they did the same thing—but they don’t. I’ve used both, and they serve two very different needs.
The CN305A is a grill. It’s part of Ninja’s Smart XL Grill series. It’s great for cooking meat, fish, or veggies indoors. It even comes with a smart thermometer. That means you can cook steak to the exact doneness you like. It also has more room than the smaller AG301.
The NC301 is not a grill. It’s part of the Ninja Creami line. It makes frozen treats—like ice cream, sorbet, and protein-packed desserts. You freeze your mix, pop it in, and it turns into a smooth, cold treat in minutes. No smoke, no heat—just creamy goodness.
So, which one should you get?
If you love grilled food, go with the CN305A.
If you want to make ice cream at home, pick the NC301.
I used the CN305A during the week for fast dinners. But on the weekends, the NC301 became my go-to for guilt-free desserts. They’re both great—but for totally different reasons.
Quick tip: Choose based on what you eat more—hot meals or cold desserts.
Alternative Appliance: Ninja CREAMi Series
Why I Switched from Grilling to Creami (or vice versa)
I started with grilling. I loved how fast it made meals. Then one day, I wanted something cold and sweet. That’s when I tried the Ninja Creami.
It was a fun change. One night I grilled chicken. The next day, I made ice cream. Both came out great.
If you like to eat clean but still want treats, the Creami is a smart choice. It turns frozen things into soft, creamy desserts. And it’s easy to use.
Ninja Creami NC301 vs NC501: My Take
So, which one is better—the NC301 or NC501? I’ve used both. Here’s what I found.
The NC501 has more space. It also has more spin modes. If you make lots of dessert, it’s a good pick.
The NC301 is smaller. It works well for one or two people.
Quick tip:
Pick the NC501 if you want more options. Go with the NC301 if you want simple and small.
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Ninja Creami 300 vs 301: Any Real Difference?
These two models look the same. What’s new in the 301? Not much.
The 301 is a bit newer. It feels a bit stronger. But both make great treats.
Should you upgrade?
Only if your 300 is old or broken. If it still works, keep it.
What Makes the Ninja Creami NC501 Special?
The NC501 is like the deluxe model. It comes with:
- A Re-spin button (helps fix texture fast)
- Bigger size (great for groups)
- More dessert modes
Is there anything better?
Not for this price. It gives you a lot for what you pay.
Creami 301 vs 501 vs Deluxe (Quick Chart)
| Feature | NC301 | NC501 | NC501C (Deluxe) |
| Size | 1 pint | 1.5 pints | 1.5 pints |
| Re-spin | No | Yes | Yes |
| Modes | Basic | More | Most |
| Best for | One or two people | Families | Bigger needs |
Need it fast?
Go with the NC301 if you live alone. Choose NC501 or Deluxe for more room and more features.
Are There Different Levels of Ninja Creami?
Yes, there are three.
- Basic: NC300, NC301 – good for small use
- Mid: NC501 – more features, more space
- Top: NC501C – deluxe look and feel
Not sure which?
Pick what fits your space, needs, and budget.
My Final Thoughts: Which Ninja Is Right for You?
After using both the Ninja AG301 and EG200, I can say this: they both cook well, but they suit different people. If you’re into grilled meats, quick indoor dinners, and want that charred flavor without stepping outside, you’ll enjoy either model. But there are a few key differences.
The AG301 is better for smaller spaces and simple use. It heats fast, grills well, and takes up less room. It’s great if you just want a solid indoor grill without extra features.
The EG200 adds more options, especially for air crisping and roasting. If you like to mix things up—maybe air fry one day and grill the next—it gives you more freedom. It’s also better for families thanks to its larger capacity.
Best pick for grill lovers?
AG301 if you want simple grilling. EG200 if you want more features and room to cook.
Now let’s talk desserts.
If you’re thinking about the Ninja Creami, here’s what I found.
The NC301 is perfect for small homes and solo use. It’s easy to store, easy to clean, and still makes amazing ice cream and smoothies. You’ll love it if you don’t need to serve a crowd.
The NC501, on the other hand, is built for more. Bigger batches, more control, more preset modes—it’s just a step up all around. It’s ideal for families or if you like trying new recipes often.
Best pick for dessert lovers?
NC301 for ease and size. NC501 for full control and bigger servings.
So… who should skip, and who should buy?
If you barely cook or don’t enjoy kitchen gadgets, you probably don’t need either the grill or the Creami. But if you’re like me—someone who loves quick, tasty meals and fun treats—both tools can really change how you cook at home.
Skip if you already have an air fryer and outdoor grill you love.
Buy if you want fast, no-hassle cooking or low-sugar desserts made at home.
In the end, I kept both the EG200 and the NC501. One handles my dinner, the other my dessert. They make a great pair—and honestly, I don’t miss takeout nearly as much anymore.
FAQs: Ninja NC301 vs NC501 and More
Is the Ninja NC301 vs NC501 comparison worth considering?
Yes, it’s worth it—especially if size and features matter to you. The NC301 is great for small batches and quick spins. But the NC501 feels more complete. It has extra presets, a bigger jar, and better texture options. If you’ve got a family or love creamy treats often, the NC501 saves time and feels easier to use.
What makes the Ninja Creami NC501 special?
The NC501 stands out because of its smooth results and added features. It has more preset modes than the NC301, like “Slushi” and “Frozen Drink.” The Re-spin button helps make things extra creamy. It also has a larger container, which is perfect when you’re making dessert for more than one person.
How does the Ninja CN305A compare to the NC301?
The CN305A feels stronger and looks sleeker. It runs a bit quieter and has a more solid lid. The NC301, though, is easier to use if you’re just starting out. I found the CN305A better for long-term use, but the NC301 still gives great results without much learning.
What are the benefits of the Ninja Creami Deluxe?
The Deluxe model is like getting the full dessert menu at home. It has more spin settings and makes larger portions. I love the Re-spin feature—it gives that creamy scoop shop feel. You can also make more kinds of frozen treats, like sorbet or milkshakes, with just one machine.
Which model is better: Ninja Creami 300 vs 301?
There’s not a huge difference. The 301 is just a newer version with slight updates, like a better look or updated pint design. If you already have the 300, you’re not missing much. But if you’re buying new, the 301 is a safe and solid pick.
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