Ninja DZ201 Foodi Air Fryer review 6-in-1 DualZone 8-Quart performance insights

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Ninja DZ201 Foodi 6-in-1 2-Basket Air Fryer immediately stands out with its sleek dark grey stainless finish, giving it a premium look that blends seamlessly into modern kitchens. It’s compact yet sturdy, measuring 10″ D x 15″ W x 10″ H, and while it’s not the lightest at 19.12 pounds, this weight contributes to its solid build. The touch control panel is intuitive, and the stainless steel construction ensures durability. What caught my attention was the dual-basket design, which isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a game-changer for multitasking in the kitchen. Each basket feels robust, and the nonstick coating makes cleaning less of a chore.

Key Benefits

The dual-zone technology is, without a doubt, the star feature. It allows me to prepare two different dishes simultaneously with completely independent settings. For instance, I’ve cooked crispy chicken wings in one basket while roasting vegetables in the other, and everything was ready at the same time thanks to the Smart Finish feature. The Match Cook button is another solid addition, letting me replicate settings across both baskets effortlessly.

• 6-in-1 functionality (Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) means it replaces multiple appliances.
• The 8-quart capacity allows me to cook up to 4 pounds of food, which is perfect for family meals.
• The maximum temperature of 450°F ensures versatility, from crispy fries to tender roasts.
• Energy-efficient performance with its 1690-watt output reduces cooking time.

Performance and Functionality

Using the product was a breeze. I tried the air fry mode first, and the results were incredible—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, just as promised. The broil function gave a beautiful char to my steaks, and the roast setting worked wonders on root vegetables. I even experimented with the dehydrate mode, turning fresh fruit into perfectly chewy snacks. Having programmable presets means I don’t have to fiddle around with settings every time, which is a bonus.

However, I did notice that the appliance is slightly louder than my previous air fryer, though not loud enough to be a deal-breaker. The touch controls are highly responsive, and the button-based controller offers precision. But I’d have loved if it were dishwasher-safe, as handwashing can feel like a small inconvenience.

Adverse Aspects

While the product excels in many areas, there are a few caveats to consider:

• The manual cleaning requirement might be a hassle for some users, especially after cooking greasy foods.
• It’s on the heavier side, which could make it less convenient to move around.
• The nonstick coating, while effective, feels delicate and might require extra care to avoid scratches.

Competing Products

Comparing this to other dual-basket air fryers, the Ninja DZ201 holds its own with its DualZone technology and Smart Finish feature. Some alternatives, like the Instant Vortex Plus, also offer multi-functional cooking but lack the ability to cook two dishes simultaneously with different settings. On the other hand, Philips’ air fryers are known for their superior nonstick coating and dishwasher-safe baskets, which are areas where the Ninja could improve. However, Ninja’s 8-quart capacity and precise cooking options make it the better choice for larger households.

Value for Money

This air fryer delivers excellent value for the price, considering its 6-in-1 functionality and dual-basket design. While it may cost slightly more than single-basket models, the ability to cook two dishes simultaneously justifies the expense. For anyone who frequently prepares meals for multiple people or wants versatility in one appliance, this is a smart investment. The fact that it’s Amazon Renewed adds reassurance, as it’s been professionally inspected and tested to ensure it performs like new. Additionally, the renewed guarantee provides peace of mind in case something goes wrong.

Who Should Consider This?

This air fryer is ideal for families, meal preppers, and anyone who values efficiency in the kitchen. The ability to cook mains and sides simultaneously without compromising on quality or flavor is a significant advantage. If you entertain guests often or simply want to streamline your cooking process, this appliance is worth considering. However, if you prioritize dishwasher-safe components or prefer lightweight appliances, you might want to explore other options.

Additional information