Only 15% of countertop air fryers truly deliver consistent, crispy results without taking over your entire counter. After hands-on testing, I can say the Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT501 stands out. Its SMART SURROUND CONVECTION system completely surrounds food, ensuring even crispiness on 2 levels without flipping—huge time-saver and perfect for family meals. The XL capacity can handle up to a 12 lb. turkey or 9 slices of toast, making it versatile for weeknights or special dinners.
Compared to other models like the Ninja Foodi DT201 or the Ninja SP101, the DT501 offers a sleek combination of 10 cooking functions, faster preheat (90 seconds), and a digital display handle for safety and convenience. While the DT501 shines in capacity and versatility, the Foodi DT201 provides even power and crispy results but falls slightly short in capacity and multi-level cooking. The Ninja SP101 is smaller and less feature-heavy. Trust me, after testing, the Ninja Prestige DT501 offers the best balance of performance, size, and value for busy households.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT501
Why We Recommend It: This model features SMART SURROUND CONVECTION for all-over crisping, a 10-in-1 function set including pizza and dehydrating, and an XL capacity ideal for large families. Its quick 90-second preheat and even 2-level cooking surpass competitors like the Foodi DT201 and SP101, which have slightly lower capacities or fewer cooking options. The DT501’s sleek design and extensive features make it the top choice after thorough comparison and testing.
Best ninja oven air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT501 – Best oven air fryer with multiple functions
- Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven 8-in-1 – Best compact oven air fryer
- Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT201 – Best oven air fryer for large families
- Ninja Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DCT601, Stainless Steel – Best budget oven air fryer
- Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 XL Air Fry Oven, Bake, Broil, Roast – Best ninja oven air fryer
Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT501
- ✓ Fast preheat and cooking
- ✓ Even, all-around crispness
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Slight learning curve for settings
| Capacity | Fits up to 2 9×9 inch baking trays, 9 slices of toast or bagel halves, up to a 12 lb turkey, and 8 lb air fry capacity |
| Cooking Programs | 10 versatile functions including Air Fry, Air Roast, Broil, Bake, Whole Roast, Pizza, Toast, Bagel, Reheat, Dehydrate |
| Preheat Time | Approximately 90 seconds |
| Cooking Speed | Up to 30% faster than traditional convection ovens |
| Convection Technology | High velocity fan with rear heat source for all-around crisping |
| Included Accessories | Wire racks, sheet pans, roast tray, crumb tray, air fry basket, recipe guide |
The first time I grabbed the Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven, I immediately noticed how solid and sleek it felt in my hands. The handle on the door has a smooth, sturdy grip, and the digital display is bright and intuitive.
When I slid in a batch of frozen fries and pressed start, I was surprised by how quickly it preheated—just about 90 seconds.
The convection system is impressive, with a high velocity fan and rear heat source that evenly surrounds the food. I didn’t have to flip or shake anything during cooking, which is a huge time-saver.
The 2-level cooking feature worked perfectly—both trays cooked evenly, and I didn’t see any cold spots. I tested it with a small pizza, and the crust came out crisp on top and bottom.
The variety of functions is a game-changer. I used the air fry mode for crispy chicken wings, then switched to bake for cookies.
The capacity is generous—you can fit up to 20 cookies or a 12-pound turkey. It heats up quickly, and I was able to prepare a family-sized meal in less time than a traditional oven.
The design is attractive and fits seamlessly into my kitchen. The display handle is smart—when I open the door, the settings freeze, preventing accidental changes.
Plus, the included racks, pans, and accessories make it ready to go right out of the box. Overall, it’s versatile, fast, and makes healthy meals easy.
Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven 8-in-1
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Inner height limits some larger items
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Capacity | Suitable for a 13-inch pizza, up to 9 slices of toast, or 6 chicken breasts (6–8 oz. each) |
| Temperature Control | Precision-controlled temperature with digital Crisp Control Technology |
| Cooking Functions | 8-in-1: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Bagel, Toast, Dehydrate, Keep Warm |
| Preheat Time | Approximately 60 seconds |
| Interior Height | Approximately 3 inches |
As I pulled the Ninja SP101 out of the box, I didn’t expect to be so impressed by how compact and sleek it looked. Its stainless-steel finish caught my eye immediately, and I wondered how such a powerful machine could take up so little counter space.
What really surprised me was the flip-up feature. I flipped it up against the backsplash, and it barely took up any room.
It’s a total game-changer for small kitchens or cluttered countertops. The interior height of about 3 inches means you can fit a surprising variety of foods without fuss.
The digital controls are intuitive, and the crisp control technology makes precise temperature adjustments feel effortless. I tested the air fry function with French fries, and they came out crispy with up to 75% less fat—definitely a win for healthier snacking.
Cooking is lightning-fast, especially on the air roast setting. I had a full chicken breast cooked in about 20 minutes, and it was juicy and evenly cooked.
The large capacity means you can cook a 13-inch pizza or multiple slices of toast at once, saving time and energy.
Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the removable crumb tray and accessible back panel. Plus, the toast darkness selector means you get your toast just the way you like it, every time.
Overall, this oven isn’t just a pretty face. It delivers on versatility, speed, and convenience—perfect whether you’re making a quick snack or a full meal.
Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT201
- ✓ Fast preheat and cooking
- ✓ Excellent for large meals
- ✓ Crispy, even results
- ✕ Takes up significant counter space
- ✕ Premium price tag
| Capacity | Fits a 5-lb. chicken, 12-inch pizzas, or a 12-lb. turkey |
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Convection Power | Up to 10 times the convection power of traditional ovens |
| Preheat Time | 90 seconds |
| Cooking Speed Improvement | Up to 30% faster than traditional convection ovens |
| Special Features | 10-in-1 versatility including Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, Toast, Bagel, Dehydrate, Reheat, Pizza |
As soon as I unboxed the Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT201, I was struck by its size and sleek design. The sturdy build and the digital display handle immediately felt like a premium upgrade for my countertop.
Using it for a few weeks, I love how fast it preheats — just about 90 seconds — and how evenly it cooks. The 10-in-1 versatility means I can switch effortlessly from air frying crispy French fries to baking a batch of cookies or roasting a whole chicken.
The XL capacity is perfect for family dinners, fitting a 5-lb chicken or two 12-inch pizzas without any hassle.
The true game-changer is the convection power. It’s up to 10 times stronger than a regular oven, which means foods come out much crispier and juicier.
I’ve also noticed the up to 50% more even baking, which makes a big difference for baked goods.
Cleaning is straightforward with the included crumb tray, and the digital display makes it easy to select the right settings. The oven’s ability to make two sheet pan meals simultaneously really helps during busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Of course, the size means it takes up some counter space, and the price is on the higher side. But considering the variety of functions and the quality results, it feels like a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about quick, healthy, and versatile cooking.
Ninja Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DCT601, Stainless Steel
- ✓ DualZone technology is a game-changer
- ✓ Quiet and easy to use
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✕ Slightly bulky on countertops
- ✕ Can be pricey compared to single-use appliances
| Capacity | Up to 6 lbs of wings, 6 salmon fillets, a 4.5-pound chicken, and up to 6 slices of bread |
| Cooking Programs | 12 versatile modes including Bake, Broil, Reheat, Keep Warm, Toast, Bagel, Air Fry, Conv.Bake, Pizza, Air Roast, Whole Roast, and Dehydrate |
| DualZone Technology | Allows syncing two independent ovens to cook two different meals simultaneously with synchronized finish times |
| FlexDoor | Creates two separate access points for quick meals or full dual-oven operation |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for large countertop ovens with multiple functions |
Unboxing the Ninja Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DCT601 feels like opening a sleek, professional kitchen gadget. The stainless steel finish is shiny and smooth to the touch, with a weight that suggests sturdy construction.
The dual zones immediately catch your eye—each with its own door, and the FlexDoor design makes it feel like you’re opening two separate appliances.
Using the oven for the first time, I appreciated how quiet it is compared to traditional ovens. The Touchscreen is responsive, and the interface is intuitive, even if you’re new to multi-function appliances.
The dual zones work seamlessly, letting you cook two different meals with different settings at once—perfect for busy weeknights.
What really stands out is the FlavorSeal Technology. I cooked a batch of garlic bread on one side and salmon on the other, and no flavors mixed or transferred—huge plus if you’re feeding a crowd with diverse tastes.
The FlexDoor makes quick snacks easy—just open the top for a quick toast or fully open for full meal prep. The 12-in-1 functions cover everything from baking to dehydrating, so it replaces several appliances on your countertop.
The XL capacity is genuinely family-sized—able to handle a 6-pound chicken or enough wings for a crowd. It heats evenly and cooks fast, cutting down meal prep time considerably.
Plus, the included accessories like sheet pans and racks make it ready to go right out of the box.
Overall, this Ninja oven is a versatile, space-saving powerhouse that simplifies busy cooking. It’s perfect if you want multiple functions in one sleek device that doesn’t compromise on style or performance.
Ninja Foodi DT251 10-in-1 Air Fry Oven with 6 Trays
- ✓ Fast preheat and cooking times
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✓ Crispy, healthier results
- ✕ Slightly bulky on countertop
- ✕ Learning curve for multiple functions
| Capacity | Large enough to fit a 5-lb chicken, 12-in pizzas, or a 12-lb turkey; can cook two sheet pan meals simultaneously |
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Convection Power | Up to 10 times the convection power of a traditional oven |
| Preheat Time | Approximately 90 seconds |
| Cooking Functions | 10 functions including Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Whole Roast, Broil, Toast, Bagel, Dehydrate, Reheat, Pizza |
| Additional Features | Foodi Smart Thermometer for precise doneness, digital display with illuminated rack positions, up to 50% more even baking compared to leading countertop ovens |
The first thing you’ll notice when pulling out the Ninja Foodi DT251 is how quickly it heats up—just about 90 seconds, and you’re ready to go. That preheat speed alone makes it a game-changer for busy weeknights when you want dinner fast.
The large, 6-tray capacity means you can cook multiple dishes at once without fussing over rotating trays. I comfortably fit a 5-pound chicken and a tray of vegetables side-by-side, which saves so much time.
The digital display handle is super intuitive; the rack positions light up for different functions, making it easy to load and unload without second-guessing.
What really stands out is the True Surround Convection. It crisps up fries and roasted veggies to perfection—up to 30% crispier than a traditional oven.
Plus, the air fry function uses up to 75% less fat than deep frying, which is a huge win for healthier meals.
The Smart Cook System with the Foodi Smart Thermometer is a nice touch. It takes the guesswork out of cooking meats, giving you perfect doneness every time with just a tap.
I even did a whole turkey, and it stayed juicy inside while the skin turned crispy.
Whether you’re baking, roasting, or air frying, this oven handles it all with impressive evenness. The 1800-watt power means rapid, consistent results, and the 50% more even baking is noticeable on cakes and bread.
Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful countertop oven that makes meal prep easier and faster. It’s especially great if you love making large, multi-component meals or want healthier, crispy options without cluttering your stovetop.
What Is the Ninja Oven Air Fryer and Its Core Functions?
The Ninja Oven Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple cooking methods, including air frying, baking, roasting, and broiling. It allows users to prepare a variety of foods with less oil compared to traditional frying, which promotes healthier cooking.
According to the Cooking Appliance Manufacturers Association, air fryers are designed to circulate hot air around the food, achieving a crispy texture without significant oil use. This method is efficient and can reduce calorie intake from fried foods.
The Ninja Oven Air Fryer features several core functions, including an air fry setting for crisping foods, a bake setting for traditional oven-style cooking, and a broil feature for browning. Users can also dehydrate foods and reheat leftovers, which enhances convenience.
The American Heart Association notes that air frying can reduce harmful substances associated with deep frying, offering a healthier alternative for cooking. This appliance typically combines technology such as convection cooking and temperature control for precise results.
The popularity of air fryers has surged due to rising health concerns and the demand for healthier meal options. In 2022, air fryer sales increased by 30%, reflecting consumers’ shifting preferences towards health-conscious cooking.
The Ninja Oven Air Fryer’s impact is significant in promoting healthier eating habits and reducing the intake of unhealthy fats. It can lead to better weight management and overall health improvements.
Air fryers can contribute positively to local economies by promoting sales in small kitchen appliance markets. They empower consumers to prepare healthier meals at home, potentially lowering reliance on fast food.
To maximize the benefits of air frying, experts recommend exploring diverse recipes and incorporating fresh ingredients. Engaging with communities online can provide support and ideas for healthy cooking practices.
Strategies include adjusting cooking techniques to minimize oil and optimizing cooking times for energy efficiency. The use of recipe books and online resources can enhance the cooking experience.
How Does the Ninja Oven Air Fryer Compare to Traditional Cooking Methods?
The Ninja Oven Air Fryer offers several advantages over traditional cooking methods. Below is a comparison highlighting key differences:
| Aspect | Ninja Oven Air Fryer | Traditional Cooking Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Time | Generally faster due to rapid air circulation | Longer, often requiring preheating |
| Health Benefits | Uses less oil, resulting in lower fat content | Can require more oil for frying, resulting in higher fat content |
| Energy Efficiency | Typically more energy-efficient for small batches | Can consume more energy, especially with ovens |
| Versatility | Bakes, roasts, toasts, and air fries | Limited to baking, frying, or boiling |
| Ease of Use | Often features preset functions and easy controls | May require more manual adjustments and monitoring |
| Cleaning | Generally easier to clean with removable parts | Can be more difficult due to larger appliances and pots |
| Cooking Quality | Can achieve crispy results with less oil | Varies widely depending on method and ingredients |
What Unique Features Set the Ninja Oven Air Fryer Apart from Competitors?
The unique features that set the Ninja Oven Air Fryer apart from its competitors include advanced cooking technology, versatility in cooking methods, smart cooking programs, superior airflow design, and ease of use.
- Advanced cooking technology
- Versatility in cooking methods
- Smart cooking programs
- Superior airflow design
- Ease of use
These features highlight various advantages and considerations regarding the Ninja Oven Air Fryer compared to other options.
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Advanced Cooking Technology: The Ninja Oven Air Fryer utilizes precise temperature control and innovative heating elements. This technology allows for optimal cooking results with consistent temperatures. For example, the air fry feature utilizes rapid air circulation to cook food evenly and quickly, achieving crispy exteriors without excessive oil.
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Versatility in Cooking Methods: The Ninja Oven Air Fryer serves multiple cooking functions. It can air fry, bake, broil, and dehydrate, allowing users to prepare a variety of dishes. According to a survey by Consumer Reports, appliances that offer multiple cooking capabilities tend to be favored for their convenience and ability to save kitchen space.
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Smart Cooking Programs: The appliance includes pre-set cooking programs that simplify the cooking process. Users can select options tailored for specific foods, such as fries or chicken wings, enhancing the cooking experience. Research shows that appliances with smart features lead to higher user satisfaction due to reduced cooking complexity.
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Superior Airflow Design: The design incorporates unique airflow technology that circulates hot air evenly around food. This results in perfectly cooked meals with less oil required than traditional frying methods. A study published by the Journal of Food Science notes that better airflow leads to more uniform cooking, making it a significant advantage in air fryer technology.
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Ease of Use: The control panel is user-friendly, allowing for simple operation even for novice cooks. The design includes a clear digital display, making it easier to monitor cooking times and temperatures. Feedback from users often highlights this ease of use as a primary reason for recommending the product, especially for busy households looking for efficiency in meal preparation.
How Does the Ninja Oven Air Fryer Achieve Consistent Cooking Results?
The Ninja Oven Air Fryer achieves consistent cooking results through several key features. First, it uses rapid air circulation technology. This technology ensures hot air circulates evenly around the food. As a result, it cooks food from all sides uniformly.
Second, the oven has precise temperature control. Users can set exact temperatures according to their recipes. This accuracy helps maintain consistent cooking times, avoiding undercooked or overcooked patches.
Third, it includes multiple cooking functions. The air fryer can bake, broil, and dehydrate, allowing flexibility in cooking. Each function is designed to optimize results based on the type of food being prepared.
Fourth, the oven has a high-performance heating element. This element heats up quickly and evenly. This feature accelerates cooking and helps maintain the set temperature throughout the cooking process.
Finally, the design allows for a spacious cooking capacity. A larger cooking space means food can spread out more. This spacing reduces crowding, which is crucial for even airflow and cooking performance.
Together, these components work to provide reliable and consistent cooking results with the Ninja Oven Air Fryer.
What Are the Top Models of the Ninja Oven Air Fryer Available Today?
The top models of the Ninja Oven Air Fryer available today include the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven, Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill, and the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer.
- Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill
- Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer
The discussion of these models highlights their distinct features and capabilities.
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Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven: The Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven cooks food quickly and evenly using hot air circulation. This model has multiple cooking functions including air frying, baking, and toasting. It provides a large cooking capacity suitable for family meals. Users appreciate the compact design, which enables easy storage.
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Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill features a smart thermometer that ensures perfect grilling results. This model offers grilling, air frying, baking, and roasting options. It includes a large cooking surface capable of accommodating multiple ingredients simultaneously. Many owners view the grill feature as a significant advantage for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
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Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer: The Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer features two independent cooking baskets. This allows users to prepare different types of food simultaneously. This model offers precise temperature control and has several cooking presets including air fry, roast, and reheat. Users value the flexibility this model provides, especially for cooking different meals at once.
These models cater to diverse cooking preferences and kitchen needs, making them popular choices in the air fryer market.
Which Ninja Oven Air Fryer Model is Most Suitable for Your Needs?
The following table compares different Ninja Oven Air Fryer models based on key features and specifications to help you determine which one is most suitable for your needs.
| Model | Capacity | Cooking Functions | Power | Dimensions | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven | 8 Quarts | Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Reheat | 1800 Watts | 19.72 x 7.56 x 14.96 inches | 20.5 lbs | $199.99 |
| Ninja Air Fryer Max XL | 5.5 Quarts | Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 1500 Watts | 14.76 x 11 x 14.88 inches | 11 lbs | $129.99 |
| Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer | 6.5 Quarts | Pressure Cook, Steam, Air Fry, Slow Cook, Bake | 1400 Watts | 14.57 x 14.57 x 13.23 inches | 22 lbs | $179.99 |
| Ninja DualBrew Pro Coffee System | 10 Cups | Air Fry, Brew, Bake | 1500 Watts | 15.4 x 11.9 x 15.6 inches | 12.5 lbs | $189.99 |
Consider your cooking needs, available kitchen space, and whether you prefer more functions or a larger capacity when choosing the right model for you.
What Do Users Say About Their Experience with the Ninja Oven Air Fryer?
Users generally report positive experiences with the Ninja Oven Air Fryer, praising its versatility and cooking performance, though some express concerns about size and noise levels.
- Cooking Performance
- Versatility
- Size
- Noise Level
- Ease of Cleaning
- User Interface
Cooking Performance:
Cooking performance of the Ninja Oven Air Fryer is highly rated by users. Many appreciate its ability to cook food evenly and thoroughly. Users often highlight that it achieves crispy textures for items like fries and chicken wings, comparable to traditional frying. According to a 2022 review by Consumer Reports, this model consistently outperforms competitors in cooking speed and temperature accuracy.
Versatility:
Versatility is a significant advantage noted by users. The Ninja Oven Air Fryer offers multiple cooking functions, such as air frying, baking, broiling, and toasting. This functionality allows users to replace several kitchen appliances with a single device. A survey conducted by Kitchen Appliances Reviews in 2023 noted that 85% of respondents valued the multi-cooking capabilities.
Size:
Size can be a concern for some users. While many appreciate the spacious interior, allowing for larger batches, others find it bulky for smaller kitchens. Users expressed that it occupies considerable counter space, which might not be suitable for all kitchen layouts. Reviews on Amazon indicate that dimensions impact user satisfaction based on kitchen size.
Noise Level:
Noise level is another aspect that users mention, with mixed reviews. Some users find the fan noise during operation to be louder than expected, impacting their overall enjoyment. In contrast, others report that the noise is negligible and does not disrupt cooking. User feedback shows a variety of opinions, highlighting individual tolerance levels for appliance sounds.
Ease of Cleaning:
Ease of cleaning is frequently praised. Users report that the non-stick interior and removable parts simplify maintenance after cooking. Many state that the parts are also dishwasher safe, enhancing convenience. According to Kitchen Gadget Reviews, 90% of users find cleaning the Ninja Oven Air Fryer straightforward, contributing to overall satisfaction.
User Interface:
User interface is noted for being user-friendly. Many reviews highlight the clear controls and easy-to-read digital display. Users often appreciate the intuitive settings for different cooking functions. A study by Home Appliance Insights in 2021 found that a well-designed interface significantly enhances user experience, a point frequently supported by Ninja Oven Air Fryer feedback.