The Ninja Foodi air fryer line has taken over a lot of kitchen counters for a reason. These machines cook fast, use less oil, and make weeknight dinners feel easier instead of stressful. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best Ninja Foodi air fryer models (plus one popular alternative), what they actually do well, and who they’re best for, so you can pick the one that fits your home and cooking style.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Ninja Foodi Air Fryer Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Ninja SF301 Speedi Rapid Cooker & Air Fryer, 6-Quart, 12-in-1, One-Pot 15-Minute Meals, Sea Salt Gray
The Ninja SF301 Speedi Rapid Cooker & Air Fryer is built for people who want full meals fast, not just snacks. It can steam, air fry, and cook pasta or rice in the same pot, which means less cleanup and fewer pans on the stove. If you often stare at the fridge at 6 p.m. wondering what to cook, this model helps a lot.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6-quart capacity fits up to 4 chicken breasts plus 1 lb of pasta for true one-pot dinners
✓ 12-in-1 functions including Speedi Meals, Steam & Crisp, Steam & Bake, Air Fry, Bake/Roast, and more
✓ One-touch 15-minute meal programs that handle the timing for you
✓ Rapid cooking technology that steams and crisps at the same time for juicy inside, crispy outside
✓ Nonstick pot and crisping tray that are easy to clean after busy nights
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja Foodi air fryer stands out because it is more like a compact multi-cooker than a simple air fryer. You can cook your starch, veg, and protein together without babysitting the stove. It is ideal if you want to cut takeout and still keep dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Best For
Best for small to medium families who want fast one-pot meals and do not want to deal with a pressure cooker. Also great if you have limited stove or oven space.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- True one-pot cooking saves time and dishes
- Very versatile 12-in-1 functionality for many cooking styles
- 15-minute meal presets help beginners feel confident
- Compact footprint for a 6-quart capacity
Cons:
- Learning curve to use all the modes well
- Lid design is tall, so it needs some clearance under cabinets
- No glass lid, so you cannot see food while cooking
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: The Ninja SF301 Speedi Rapid Cooker & Air Fryer is a fantastic all-in-one appliance that truly delivers on its promise of speed and convenience. Whether you’re air frying, steaming, sautéing, or preparing an entire meal in minutes, it consistently produces excellent results.If you’re looking to stre
Customer Review: I LOVE my Ninja Speedi.I live in the South It’s HOT. Cooking on a stovetop or in an oven makes it unbearable. This is my first countertop cooking appliance. I am THRILLED to have it. I am older and gun shy to pressure cookers. I LOVE being able to lift the lid to check on things. It cooks deliciou
2. Ninja DZ550 Foodi 10-Quart DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer, 6-in-1 with 2 Baskets & Thermometer, Black
The Ninja DZ550 Foodi DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer is made for cooking two foods at once without juggling pans. Each basket has its own settings, and the built-in smart thermometer helps nail doneness on meats. It feels like having two air fryers in one, which is a big deal for busy families.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 10-quart total capacity with two independent XL baskets for mains and sides
✓ Smart Cook System with integrated thermometer for rare-to-well-done control
✓ DualZone Technology with Smart Finish and Match Cook modes
✓ 6-in-1 functions including Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, and more
✓ Clear digital controls that make multi-zone cooking less confusing
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the best dual basket Ninja Foodi air fryer options if you want everything ready at the same time. You can roast chicken in one basket and crisp fries in the other, and Smart Finish syncs them to end together. The thermometer is a real help if you worry about overcooking steak or chicken.
Best For
Best for larger families, meal preppers, or anyone who wants to cook two different foods at once. It is also a strong pick if you are comparing different two-basket air fryer options and want something simple to use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Two full-size baskets reduce back-to-back cooking
- Smart thermometer improves meat results
- Smart Finish and Match Cook save time and guesswork
- Great capacity for big batches and families
Cons:
- Larger footprint takes more counter space
- Higher price than single-basket models
- Baskets are heavier when full, which may bother some users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This item is really great! It does exactly what I expected to do but even better than expected. In my opinion, a little pricey but the functionality of it makes up for that. Easy to use! two trays for expanded cook or different cooks. Has a match cook function that will equal out temps for same fi
Customer Review: Amazing product. Easy to use, makes less greasy food and easy to clean. Not as noisy as the other product. Works well making 2 different food in one go using 2 baskets. Also fits in small places.
3. Ninja Foodi DZ071 7-Quart 6-in-1 Air Fryer with MegaZone & Basket Divider for Full Meals, Black
The Ninja Foodi DZ071 MegaZone air fryer gives you a single big basket that can split into two zones when you need it. This flexible design is handy if you sometimes cook for one and other times for a crowd. It keeps things simple but still supports two different foods at once.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 7-quart MegaZone basket that can cook large proteins or full meals
✓ FlexBasket divider to switch between one big zone and two 3.5-quart zones
✓ DualZone Technology with Smart Finish and Match Cook modes
✓ 6-in-1 functions for air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate, and more
✓ Good balance of capacity and footprint for most kitchens
Why We Recommend It
This is a smart pick if you like the idea of a two-zone Ninja Foodi air fryer but do not always need two full baskets. You can cook a whole chicken or big batch of wings in MegaZone mode, then drop in the divider for nights when you want two sides. It feels very flexible for the price.
Best For
Best for couples and small families who want both large-batch cooking and the option to cook two foods at once without buying a huge dual-basket model.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible MegaZone design for one big meal or two smaller ones
- Good value compared to larger dual-basket units
- Simple controls that are easy to learn
- Smaller footprint than many high-capacity air fryers
Cons:
- Divider does not fully isolate smells or juices between zones
- Not as much total capacity as the 10-quart dual-basket models
- Only one heating system, so both zones share the same cook cycle
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This item is really great! It does exactly what I expected to do but even better than expected. In my opinion, a little pricey but the functionality of it makes up for that. Easy to use! two trays for expanded cook or different cooks. Has a match cook function that will equal out temps for same fi
Customer Review: Amazing product. Easy to use, makes less greasy food and easy to clean. Not as noisy as the other product. Works well making 2 different food in one go using 2 baskets. Also fits in small places.
4. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer with 2 Baskets, Match Cook & Smart Finish, Grey
The Ninja DZ201 DualZone air fryer was one of the first popular two-basket models and is still a solid pick. It gives you two 4-quart baskets so you can cook two foods, two ways, at the same time. If you are tired of making fries after the chicken is already done, this solves that.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 8-quart capacity split into two independent 4-quart baskets
✓ Smart Finish mode so different foods finish at the same time
✓ Match Cook to copy time and temp between baskets with one button
✓ 6-in-1 functions: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate
✓ Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates for easier cleanup
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja Foodi air fryer hits a sweet spot between size, price, and flexibility. It does not have the smart thermometer of the DZ550, but for many homes that is not a deal-breaker. You still get the real benefit of dual baskets and faster weeknight meals.
Best For
Best for families of 3–5 who want to cook a protein and side at once without going all the way up to a 10-quart machine.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Two independent baskets for flexible cooking
- Smart Finish makes timing easier for mixed meals
- Good capacity without feeling huge on the counter
- Simple interface that most people learn in one or two uses
Cons:
- No built-in thermometer for precise meat cooking
- 8-quart total capacity may be small for very large families
- Some users may wish for more cooking presets
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This item is really great! It does exactly what I expected to do but even better than expected. In my opinion, a little pricey but the functionality of it makes up for that. Easy to use! two trays for expanded cook or different cooks. Has a match cook function that will equal out temps for same fi
Customer Review: Amazing product. Easy to use, makes less greasy food and easy to clean. Not as noisy as the other product. Works well making 2 different food in one go using 2 baskets. Also fits in small places.
5. Ninja Foodi Smart XL FG551 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer with Smart Thermometer, Black/Silver
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL FG551 is more than an air fryer; it is also an indoor grill with a smart thermometer. If you miss grilling when the weather is bad, this brings those char marks inside without filling the house with smoke. It also air fries, bakes, and roasts, so it can replace a few other appliances.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6-in-1 functions: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate
✓ 500°F cyclonic grilling technology for real char-grilled flavor
✓ Smart Cook System with thermometer and doneness presets
✓ XL grilling surface that fits multiple steaks or burgers at once
✓ Smoke-control system to keep indoor grilling more comfortable
Why We Recommend It
This is a strong choice if you want a Ninja Foodi air fryer and grill combo. The included thermometer makes it easier to hit medium-rare or well-done without cutting into meat. It is also handy for quick weeknight grilled chicken or vegetables when you do not want to fire up an outdoor grill.
Best For
Best for grill lovers in apartments, condos, or hot climates where outdoor grilling is not always an option. Also great for small families who want a single appliance that grills and air fries.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Real grill marks and flavor indoors
- Smart thermometer reduces guesswork
- Versatile functions cover many cooking styles
- Good size for family meals without being huge
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier than a basic air fryer
- Grill grate and lid require more detailed cleaning
- Can be overkill if you only want to reheat snacks
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This device is life changing. I actually bought this one for my son. My daughter and I each already have one. This makes cooking so many things so easy. Everything from corn dogs, vegetables, grilling steaks, baking potatoes. It does everything. It has multiple setting including grilling, air frying
Customer Review: I cannot say enough good things about the Ninja IG651 Foodi Smart XL Pro 7-in-1 Indoor Grill/Griddle Combo.This little gadget has given me a renewed love of cooking. About 3 years ago I purchased a Blackstone Flat Top Griddle, Electric Smoker, and an Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo (offset smoker, ch
6. Ninja Foodi AG301 5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer with Smoke Control, Roast, Bake & Dehydrate, Black/Grey
The Ninja Foodi AG301 is the original Ninja indoor grill that also works as an air fryer. It uses very hot air and a grill grate to sear food, so you get nice browning even on thick cuts. It is slightly smaller than the Smart XL models but still very capable.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5-in-1 functions: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate
✓ 500°F cyclonic grilling technology for searing and char marks
✓ Smoke control system to reduce indoor smoke
✓ Compact size that still fits several burgers or chicken breasts
✓ Removable parts and screen near the heating element for easier cleaning
Why We Recommend It
If you want an indoor grill and do not need the smart thermometer, this Ninja Foodi air fryer grill is a solid, often more affordable pick. It still air fries very well, so you can do crispy wings, fries, and roasted vegetables without using much oil.
Best For
Best for couples or small families who want a smaller grill-air-fryer combo that still packs plenty of heat and flavor.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong searing power for an indoor appliance
- Versatile 5-in-1 cooking modes
- More compact than XL grill models
- Removable screen makes long-term cleaning easier
Cons:
- Smaller cooking surface than XL versions
- No built-in smart thermometer
- Grill grate and lid still need regular deep cleaning
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This Ninja Foodi Smart XL is absolutely amazing. We cook with it almost every week, especially steaks, and the results are perfect every time. The steak comes out juicy, tender, and cooked exactly how we like it – just like a real steakhouse.Since buying this, we honestly don’t feel the need to go t
Customer Review: This 6-in-1 works great. The heating element is easily accessible for cleaning. The removable screen covering the heating element is removable and you can easily clean it. This, by far, is the best feature this appliance has. I have had other air fryer and that is what destroys them over time is
7. Ninja Crispi Pro AS101CY 6-in-1 Glass Air Fryer, 450°F, 6qt & 2.5qt Containers, Nontoxic, Dishwasher Safe
The Ninja Crispi Pro AS101CY is a bit different from most Ninja Foodi air fryers because it uses glass containers instead of traditional nonstick-coated baskets. That is a big plus if you are trying to avoid certain coatings or just like seeing your food as it cooks.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6-quart and 2.5-quart CleanCrisp glass containers with storage lids
✓ Nontoxic, dishwasher-safe glass instead of coated metal baskets
✓ 6-in-1 functions with temperatures up to 450°F for extra crisp results
✓ Modular base that works with 2.5, 4, and 6-quart glassware
✓ Can cook up to a 7.5 lb chicken, enough for up to 10 people
Why We Recommend It
If you care about non toxic air fryer options, this glass-based design is very appealing. You can see exactly what is happening without opening the basket, and cleanup is simple because the glass can soak and scrub like a regular dish.
Best For
Best for health-conscious cooks who want to avoid traditional nonstick coatings and prefer glass. Also great for families who like to prep, cook, and store food in the same container.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Glass containers feel safer for some users than coated baskets
- Easy to see food while it cooks
- Dishwasher-safe glassware simplifies cleanup
- Includes multiple container sizes for different meal types
Cons:
- Glass containers are heavier than standard baskets
- More risk of breakage if dropped
- Footprint can feel larger due to extra pieces and lids
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I absolutely love this Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Air Fryer! The glass design is a game changer — being able to see my food cook without opening it is super convenient, and I really like that it doesn’t have any non-stick coating. It feels much healthier and easier to clean.The cooking perfo
Customer Review: This is one of those appliances that immediately earns its counter space. The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Air Fryer has genuinely changed how I approach everyday cooking, and I do not say that lightly.What stood out to me right away is how intuitive and efficient it is. It heats quickly, cooks eve
8. Ninja AF181 6.5-Quart Pro XL Air Fryer, 6-in-1 Max Crisp, Fits 9lbs Wings, Nonstick Basket, Grey
The Ninja AF181 Pro XL is a straightforward, single-basket Ninja Foodi air fryer with serious power. It is built for people who want big batches of crispy food without a lot of extra modes or complexity. Think family-size wings, fries, and sheet-pan style meals.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6.5-quart basket holds up to 9 lbs of wings or 5 lbs of fries
✓ Max Crisp technology up to 450°F for extra crunchy results
✓ 6-in-1 functions including Air Fry, Max Crisp, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate
✓ Nonstick basket and crisper plate for easy cleanup
✓ Simple controls that make it easy for anyone in the house to use
Why We Recommend It
If you want a classic basket-style Ninja Foodi air fryer with enough room for family meals, this is a great fit. It does not try to be a grill or multi-cooker; it just air fries very well and handles big batches without crowding.
Best For
Best for families and wing lovers who want high heat, extra crisp results, and a large basket without dealing with dual zones or grill plates.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large capacity in a single simple basket
- Very hot Max Crisp mode for crunchy food
- Easy-to-learn controls with clear presets
- Good all-around choice for everyday air frying
Cons:
- No dual-zone or divider for cooking two foods at once
- Basket can feel heavy when full
- Nonstick coating requires gentle utensils and cleaning
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: It’s enough for my wife and me. Still learning what to cook or heat up with it, but it works exceptionally well. Had it 4 years now and it still cleans up very easy. No problems, no repairs, no regrets. We use it in our live-in 5th wheel and it’s our go-to favorite cooker or stove, micro and oven. W
Customer Review: I cannot say enough good things about this fryer! It’s large, has lots of settings, and is easy to use. I particularly like the extra crispy function and I often use that at the last couple minutes on things like fries, chicken, wings, and even sausage and peppers. It’s relatively easy to clean also
9. Emeril Lagasse 26QT Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 24 Functions, Stainless Steel
The Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Oven is not a Ninja Foodi air fryer, but it is a popular alternative if you want an oven-style design. It looks and feels more like a mini convection oven, with enough room for pizzas, sheet pans, and even whole chickens.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Huge 26-quart capacity for families and entertaining
✓ French door design for easier access to trays and pans
✓ 24 cooking functions including air fry, toast, bake, roast, slow cook, and more
✓ Dual-speed fan for even, crispy results with 360° hot air
✓ Auto shut-off for toast to prevent burning
Why We Recommend It
If you are looking at air fryer toaster oven combos and want something that can replace your toaster oven, this is worth a look. It is very versatile and can handle bigger meals than most basket-style models.
Best For
Best for large families, frequent entertainers, or anyone who wants an all-in-one oven that can air fry, toast, bake, and roast without heating up the full-size oven.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very large capacity for big meals and multiple racks
- French doors are convenient and look premium
- Wide range of cooking functions in one appliance
- Great for replacing a toaster oven plus an air fryer
Cons:
- Takes up a lot of counter space
- More complex interface due to many functions
- May take longer to preheat than smaller basket models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This is one of the best purchases we’ve ever made. This air fryer is not only stylish, but it works like a dream! Everything we cook in it comes out perfect and has much better flavor, and just the right outer crisp on steaks, chicken, baked potatoes & more! When we have guests, they rave about th
Customer Review: I ordered this at the request of my wife and didn’t really feel that we needed it, boy was I wrong! We have had it for several weeks now and I use it several times each day. This is our first air fryer and I’m amazed at how versatile this oven is! I am air frying foods now that I roasted before and
10. Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Smart Thermometer, 2nd Generation, Black/Silver
The Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL is a newer, refined version of Ninja’s indoor grill and air fryer. It keeps the smart thermometer and high-heat grilling but updates the design and controls. It is meant to be a more polished, second-generation experience.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6-in-1 functions: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate
✓ Smart Cook System with thermometer and protein presets
✓ 500°F cyclonic grilling tech and 500°F grill grate for searing
✓ Updated, sleek design that looks more modern on the counter
✓ Air fry function for crispy sides and snacks
Why We Recommend It
If you like the idea of a Ninja Foodi air fryer grill with a smart thermometer, this second-generation model is worth considering. It keeps the core grilling power but improves usability and design, which you will appreciate if it lives on your counter full time.
Best For
Best for home cooks who grill a lot and want a smarter, more refined indoor grill-air-fryer combo that can live on the counter and replace several tools.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent grill performance with real sear marks
- Smart thermometer for consistent doneness
- Modern design and clear interface
- Air fry mode handles sides and snacks well
Cons:
- Bulky and heavy compared with simple air fryers
- Higher price due to smart features and grill tech
- Cleaning the grill grate and interior takes some effort
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This Ninja Foodi Smart XL is absolutely amazing. We cook with it almost every week, especially steaks, and the results are perfect every time. The steak comes out juicy, tender, and cooked exactly how we like it – just like a real steakhouse.Since buying this, we honestly don’t feel the need to go t
Customer Review: This 6-in-1 works great. The heating element is easily accessible for cleaning. The removable screen covering the heating element is removable and you can easily clean it. This, by far, is the best feature this appliance has. I have had other air fryer and that is what destroys them over time is
Complete Buying Guide for Ninja Foodi Air Fryer
Essential Factors We Consider
When we choose the best Ninja Foodi air fryer models, we look at a few simple but important things. First is capacity: you want enough space for your family, but not so big that the unit dominates your counter. A 4–5 quart model is fine for one or two people, while 6–8 quarts or more suits families and batch cooking.
We also look at how easy the controls are to understand. Clear buttons and presets matter when you are tired and just want dinner done. Cleaning is another big point. Removable baskets, nonstick coatings, and dishwasher-safe parts make a real difference in daily use. If you plan to use accessories like racks or liners, it can help to read up on useful air fryer accessories before you buy.
Budget Planning
You do not need to spend a fortune to get a good Ninja Foodi air fryer. Basic single-basket models cost less and still cook very well. Dual-zone, grill, and smart-thermometer models cost more but can replace extra appliances and save time.
Think about how often you will use it and what you will cook. If you only reheat snacks, a simple basket model is enough. If you want to cook full meals, a Speedi-style multi-cooker or dual-basket unit may be worth the extra money. You can also watch for air fryer deals and sales to get a better price on higher-end models.
Final Thoughts
Picking the right Ninja Foodi air fryer comes down to your space, your family size, and how you like to cook. Basket models are lighter and simple. Dual-zone and MegaZone units are great for full meals. Grill combos are perfect if you miss outdoor grilling. Whatever you choose, plan for where it will sit, how you will clean it, and what you will cook most often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a Ninja Foodi air fryer worth it if I already have an oven?
A: For many people, yes. A Ninja Foodi air fryer heats faster than a full oven, uses less energy, and crisps food better thanks to focused hot air. It is especially handy for small batches, frozen foods, and quick weeknight meals.
Q: What size Ninja Foodi air fryer should I buy?
A: For one or two people, a 4–5 quart basket is usually enough. For families of 3–4, a 6–7 quart model works well. Larger families or heavy meal preppers may want 8 quarts or more, or a dual-basket design. If you are unsure, our guides to popular sizes like a 5-quart air fryer can help you picture capacity.
Q: Can I cook two different foods at once in a Ninja Foodi air fryer?
A: Yes, but it depends on the model. DualZone and MegaZone models with dividers are best for cooking two foods at once with different settings. In a single basket, you can cook two foods together if they need similar time and temperature, but you may need to stir or flip more often.
Q: Are Ninja Foodi air fryer baskets nonstick and safe?
A: Most Ninja Foodi baskets use a nonstick coating that is safe when used as directed and not overheated. If you prefer to avoid coatings, the Ninja Crispi Pro glass air fryer uses glass containers instead, which some people find more reassuring.
Q: Do I need special accessories for my Ninja Foodi air fryer?
A: You can start with just the included basket and crisper plate. Over time, many people add racks, skewers, or liners to make cooking and cleanup easier. If you are curious, you can explore ideas in our guide to helpful air fryer liners and inserts for cleaner baskets.
Choosing the right Ninja Foodi air fryer can make daily cooking faster, easier, and a lot more fun. Whether you go for the all-in-one Speedi, a dual-basket workhorse, a glass non-toxic option, or a grill combo, the key is to match the appliance to how you actually live and cook. Take a look back at the models that fit your space and budget, click through to check today’s price on Amazon, and start planning the first meal you will make in your new air fryer.