Ninja FlexFlame BBQ Review: A Stunning Outdoor Cooking Game-Changer
As a father who had long felt inadequate without a proper barbecue in my meticulously curated garden, the arrival of Ninja's new FlexFlame gas BBQ was a moment of redemption. Having endured flimsy, short-lived models in the past, I was eager to test this premium offering, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, promising endless outdoor entertaining opportunities.
Unboxing and Assembly: A Detailed but Manageable Process
Setting up the Ninja FlexFlame is not a quick task, taking around two and a half hours with breaks, but it is far from insurmountable. The instructions are clear, and the components are neatly packaged in labelled bags, simplifying the assembly. While the main grill unit is heavy, requiring assistance for lifting, the process is straightforward, even for those with limited DIY experience.
This BBQ operates on patio gas and requires electricity for its fan and digital display. For first-time gas BBQ users, initial setup might feel daunting, but online resources like YouTube provide helpful guidance, making it accessible.
Performance and Features: Power and Versatility Unleashed
Upon ignition, the FlexFlame immediately impresses with its robust build quality. The cast-iron grill grates and solid lid exude durability, while the pre-heating process, complete with a flickering flame and whirring fan, is both efficient and visually appealing. Ninja claims the master grill can feed a crowd in under 25 minutes, a promise validated by my test, where I cooked enough meat for six people, including pork chops, gammon steaks, burgers, and sausages, all fitting comfortably on the spacious grill.
The device offers multiple cooking modes via dials and a digital display, with temperature ranges from 230°C to 315°C. I found the grill setting particularly effective, delivering beautifully cooked food with a delightful smoky flavour from included woodchips. Additional features like an indirect roasting rack for extra space and sturdy side tables capable of supporting 30kg enhance practicality, allowing for organised cooking sessions.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Designed for Convenience
Post-cooking cleanup is facilitated by a handy drip tray that catches most fat, though some areas can be slightly fiddly to access. Overall, the design supports easy maintenance with basic soapy water and a sponge scourer, ensuring the BBQ remains in top condition for repeated use.
Drawbacks and Considerations
Despite its strengths, the FlexFlame has a few shortcomings. The power cable is notably short, complicating plug-in logistics. Its large size and heavy packaging pose delivery challenges, as experienced when delivery men struggled to manoeuvre it through a standard front door.
At a price of £999.99, it is disappointing that a cover is sold separately for £79.99, and additional accessories like a griddle and pizza stone, which unlock the full five-in-one experience, require extra investment in a £1,249.99 bundle.
Market Alternatives and Buyer Feedback
For budget-conscious shoppers, options include the Argos Home 4 Burner Gas BBQ at £145 or Amazon's best-selling charcoal grill at £92.99. Premium alternatives like the Weber Spirit Black 4 burner Gas BBQ at £850 offer competitive features.
Early reviews of the FlexFlame praise its even heat distribution, versatility, and ease of cleaning, though some note noise when the lid is closed and initial temperature control challenges for slow cooking.
Final Verdict: A Premium Investment for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Ninja FlexFlame is not your average BBQ; it is a powerful, versatile cooking station that excels in performance and design. While the high cost and additional expenses for accessories are drawbacks, its capacity and quality make it a standout choice for summer gatherings and World Cup viewing parties. Available at retailers like Ninja, Argos, and B&Q for around £999.99, it is poised to become a popular fixture in UK gardens.
