Ninja DZ201 Foodi 2-Basket Air Fryer review 6-in-1 features and performance tested

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Ninja DZ201 Foodi 6-in-1 Air Fryer has a sleek and modern look with its dark grey stainless finish, which fits seamlessly into any kitchen. I immediately noticed its sturdy construction; the stainless steel material gives it a premium feel and ensures durability. Despite its large 8-quart capacity, the appliance isn’t overly bulky, and it fits comfortably on my countertop without overwhelming the space. The touch control panel is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to navigate between the various settings.

One thing I appreciated was the dual-basket design, which is a game-changer. Each basket feels robust and has a nonstick coating, making cleaning less of a hassle. However, I did wish the baskets were dishwasher safe, as handwashing can be a little tedious after cooking greasy foods.

Performance and Cooking Versatility

This air fryer truly delivers on its promise to cook two foods at the same time using its DualZone Technology. The ability to prepare two different dishes with separate settings simultaneously has been a lifesaver during dinner prep. For instance, I used one basket to fry crispy chicken wings while roasting vegetables in the other, and they both came out perfectly cooked at the same time thanks to the Smart Finish feature.

The six customizable programs—Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate—add a lot of versatility to this appliance. I tested the dehydrate function for making dried fruit snacks, and I was impressed with the even results. The 450°F max temperature setting ensures that even foods requiring high heat, like broiling, are done efficiently. On the downside, the 1690-watt power output means it heats up quickly but may slightly increase your energy usage.

Key Benefits

This air fryer has several positive features that make it stand out from traditional single-basket models:

• DualZone Technology allows simultaneous cooking of different meals.
• The Match Cook button simplifies settings across both baskets for even cooking.
• Its XL capacity can handle up to 4 lbs of French fries or chicken wings—perfect for families.
• The nonstick baskets make cleanup easier compared to traditional fryers.

Areas for Improvement

While there’s a lot to love about this product, I did notice a few flaws that could be improved:

• The lack of dishwasher-safe baskets is inconvenient for those who dislike handwashing.
• The 19.12-pound weight makes it less portable, which might be a concern for smaller kitchens.
• The learning curve for mastering all six programs may be a bit steep for beginners.

Competing Products

When comparing this product to other air fryers on the market, a few competitors come to mind. The Cosori Dual Blaze Air Fryer also features a dual-basket system, but its interface isn’t as user-friendly as the Ninja DZ201’s touch controls. Meanwhile, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus offers similar cooking versatility but lacks the Smart Finish feature, which ensures both dishes finish cooking at the same time.

What really sets the Ninja DZ201 apart is its innovative DualZone Technology and the Match Cook function, which I haven’t seen executed as seamlessly in other models. However, some competitors do offer dishwasher-safe baskets, which might be a deciding factor for those prioritizing convenience in cleanup.

Value for Money

When weighing the price to quality ratio, this air fryer feels like a smart investment for families or anyone who enjoys variety in their meals. The 6-in-1 functionality and ability to cook two different dishes at once justify the cost, especially when compared to single-basket models. While other air fryers might be slightly cheaper, they don’t offer the same level of customization and time-saving features.

For anyone looking for an air fryer that combines efficiency, versatility, and durability, this model ticks most of the boxes. However, if you’re someone who values a lightweight appliance or dishwasher-safe parts, you might need to consider alternative options.

Additional information