I didn't know they made one that doesn't have the connect feature.This Ninja doesn't show up in my local Sam's Club so I did a Google search and saw this:
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I don't think this is the Pro Connect version which has the wireless + app feature and I think this is in the normal price range for the 4-in-1.
Actually there is a workaround for that. I forgot what it is exactly. Since I don't griddle but it will workI know, it's confusing how many different models they have. And although I use the Pro Connect feature, it's not something that I couldn't live without. My only complaint is that the heating element shuts off when you open the lid, which is inconvenient when grilling something like smashburgers where the lid needs to be open for a longer period of time. Also, the non-stick surface works exceptionally well, so much so that I end up chasing the burgers around with the silicone spatula if I don't use tools in both hands...but on the flip side (pun!) of that, clean-up is a breeze.
If you are talking about the element turning off, I think it's controlled by the spring-loaded button under the griddle, and I've considered tying it down with some ss aircraft safety wire, or possibly wiring in a bypass switch...but I am not aggravated enough to bypass it just yet. It's not that big of a problem, but it is the only thing I have to complain about. We did buy the optional griddle plate and it is easier to clean than the ribbed plate.Actually there is a workaround for that. I forgot what it is exactly. Since I don't griddle but it will work
No, nothing like tying anything down or jumping anything. It's in the settings. My understanding is once it's up to full temp on "grill" setting, after the first time the lid is opened the plate will stay on but the upper element will turn offIf you are talking about the element turning off, I think it's controlled by the spring-loaded button under the griddle, and I've considered tying it down with some ss aircraft safety wire, or possibly wiring in a bypass switch...but I am not aggravated enough to bypass it just yet. It's not that big of a problem, but it is the only thing I have to complain about. We did buy the optional griddle plate and it is easier to clean than the ribbed plate.
Yes if you turn smoke on it will not work as it's trying to use the upper element, the wood ignitor and convectionI can't remember what setting I used when I did the smashburgers but I'm almost certain I used the Woodfire Technology ( smoke ) so it's likely operator error. That is more easily fixed than anything else I could possibly do, so thank you for that bit of info, Larry!