Ninja SP101 Air Fryer Toaster Oven review versatile 8-in-1 cooking appliance

Description

Design and Functionality

The Ninja SP101 Foodi 8-in-1 Air Fry Large Toaster Oven Flip-Away for Storage immediately caught my eye with its sleek and compact design. Even though it offers a spacious XL capacity, it doesn’t dominate counter space, which is a big win for smaller kitchens. When not in use, the Flip-Away feature allows it to stand upright against the backsplash, freeing up even more space. I found this particularly useful after preparing a meal, as it reduced the overall clutter. The stainless steel finish gives it a modern touch, and the drop-down glass door not only looks premium but makes cleaning effortless.

One thing I appreciated was the intuitive control knob that simplifies toggling between the eight cooking functions. These include air fry, air roast, air broil, bake, bagel, toast, dehydrate, and keep warm. The clearly marked settings ensure you never feel overwhelmed, even if you’re new to multi-functional kitchen appliances. The temperatures and times are easily adjustable, so it’s versatile enough for anything from crisping up leftover fries to slow-roasting veggies.

Positives

• Flip-Away for Storage design maximizes counter space.
• Eight cooking functions that cover various culinary needs.
• Sleek stainless steel and glass finish adds style to any kitchen.
• Spacious enough to fit a 13-inch pizza or up to 9 slices of toast.
• Effortless cleaning with a removable crumb tray and accessible back panel.

Cooking Performance

The performance of this appliance is where it truly shines. I tested the air fry function first, and the results were impressive. Whether it was chicken wings or zucchini fries, the food came out crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside. Unlike traditional fryers, it uses 1750 watts of power to deliver that perfect crunch without drowning your meals in oil.

Next, I used the bake feature, and it preheated remarkably fast—just about 60 seconds. My brownies were done in no time, and the heat distribution was even, which is something I’ve struggled with in older ovens. The toast function has a handy darkness selector, and I could easily cater to multiple preferences within my family. While I didn’t try the dehydrate option extensively, it seems like a great addition for making snacks like dried fruit or jerky.

Favorable Aspects

• Delivers crispy and evenly cooked food with minimal oil.
• 60-second preheat significantly reduces waiting time.
• Offers consistent heat distribution for perfect bakes.
• Toast darkness selector is a thoughtful touch for picky eaters.
• Can cook family-sized meals in as little as 20 minutes.

Downsides

While the Ninja SP101 Foodi has been a joy to use, it’s not without its shortcomings. The air fry basket and other included accessories, like the wire rack and sheet pan, are not non-stick. This means cleaning can occasionally be a chore if you forget to line them with foil or parchment paper.

Additionally, the single shelf design limits the ability to cook multiple dishes at once. For instance, when preparing a meal for a larger group, I found myself having to cook in batches, which can be time-consuming. Lastly, the outside of the unit gets quite hot during use, so I had to be extra cautious, especially with kids around.

Less Favorable Aspects

• Accessories lack non-stick coating, making cleaning tougher.
• The single rack design isn’t ideal for multitasking.
• Exterior can become hot to the touch during operation.

Peer Products

Comparing this to similar products, I found the Breville Smart Oven Air to be a close competitor. It offers similar multi-functionality but comes at a significantly higher cost. While the Breville has a more premium build and additional rack space, the Ninja SP101’s Flip-Away storage feature makes it the better choice for smaller kitchens.

Another contender is the Instant Omni Plus Toaster Oven, which also provides air frying and baking capabilities. However, its larger footprint and lack of an upright storage option might make it less convenient for those tight on space. The Ninja model’s faster preheat time and ease of use give it the edge in terms of daily practicality.

Price to Quality Ratio

In terms of value for money, this product checks most of the boxes. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of versatility, space-saving design, and reliable performance makes it worth the investment. Considering how many appliances it replaces—like a toaster, air fryer, and even a convection oven—it’s a smart buy for anyone looking to declutter their kitchen while enhancing functionality.

For anyone seeking a compact and efficient cooking solution, the Ninja SP101 Foodi 8-in-1 Air Fry Large Toaster Oven is hard to beat. Whether you’re whipping up quick snacks, preparing family dinners, or experimenting with new recipes, it’s a solid performer with just a few quirks to keep in mind.

Additional information