Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer with 2 Independent Frying Baskets, Match Cook & Smart Finish to Roast, Broil, Dehydrate & More for Quick, Easy Meals, Grey

Description

Unpacking the NINJA DZ201 FOODI 8 QUART AIR FRYER****

I tested the Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart DualZone Air Fryer, and let’s just say that my kitchen game has completely changed. This dual-basket air fryer is a powerhouse of convenience and versatility. I mean, how often do you stumble upon something that lets you cook two completely different meals at the same time without juggling multiple appliances? It’s like the Swiss Army knife of air fryers, and it definitely lives up to the hype. But, as with anything, there are both highs and lows to discuss.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the design stands out with its sleek grey finish and sturdy stainless steel material. It feels robust, and the two independent baskets are a game-changer. Each basket has a 4-quart capacity, making this an 8-quart air fryer overall. The size is large enough to handle meals for the entire family, yet compact enough to fit on my countertop without feeling overwhelming. The control panel is simple to navigate, thanks to its touch-based interface, and the layout is intuitive.

The build quality shouts durability. The nonstick coating inside the baskets is a blessing for anyone who dreads scrubbing off stuck food. Plus, the fact that the baskets and crisper plates are dishwasher-safe made cleanup a breeze. However, at 17.86 pounds, moving it around isn’t exactly effortless. Once it’s on the counter, though, it’s not going anywhere.

Performance and Cooking Features

This thing is a beast in the kitchen. The DualZone Technology is easily my favorite feature. It has two options: Smart Finish and Match Cook. The Smart Finish is brilliant for syncing different cooking times so that both foods are ready simultaneously. For instance, I cooked salmon in one basket and roasted veggies in the other, and it perfectly timed everything. The Match Cook option, on the other hand, simplifies things if you’re cooking the same meal across both baskets.

The 6-in-1 functionality offers Air Fry, Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate modes. I tested nearly all the settings. Baking cookies? Check. Roasting chicken wings? Double check. Even dehydrating apple slices for snacks turned out better than expected. With a temperature range from 105°F to 450°F, it handles delicate and high-heat tasks equally well.

Positives

There are so many boons to this product, but here are a few standout ones:

• Dual-basket design: No more cooking in shifts!
• Up to 75% less fat: Healthier meals without sacrificing flavor.
• Wide temperature range: Perfect for everything from low-temp dehydrating to high-temp crisping.
• Dishwasher-safe parts: Cleanup is almost too easy.
• Rapid heating: No need to preheat for ages.

Disadvantages

While it’s mostly a win, there are some areas for improvement:

• Bulky size: It takes up a decent amount of counter space.
• Weight: At nearly 18 pounds, it’s not the most portable appliance.
• Noise level: The fans can be a bit noisy, though not obnoxiously so.
• Price: While worth it for its features, it’s on the higher end compared to single-basket air fryers.

Competing Products

When compared to other rival brands like the Instant Vortex or Cosori air fryers, this one holds its own with the DualZone Technology. Many other models stick to a single basket, which means you’re stuck cooking meals one at a time. The 8-quart capacity is also a huge advantage over competitors that offer 5 or 6 quarts. However, the Cosori models are often lighter and slightly quieter, which might appeal to some users.

The Instant Vortex, while excellent for its smart app integration, doesn’t match the versatility of six cooking functions that the Ninja offers. Still, if you’re someone who prefers smart features over dual baskets, the Instant Vortex might be worth looking into.

True Value

For what it offers, this air fryer delivers true value. It’s not just about the innovative dual-basket design; the overall quality, wide temperature range, and functionality make it a kitchen essential. Sure, you could save money with a smaller or simpler model, but if you’re someone who juggles multiple dishes or values time-saving appliances, this one feels like a worthwhile investment. Plus, the health benefits of air frying—like reducing fat by up to 75%—sweeten the deal.

Let’s be real: not every appliance can pull off making crispy fries and perfectly juicy chicken in one go. This air fryer doesn’t just meet expectations; it exceeds them. Whether you’re feeding a family or just love experimenting with new recipes, it’s hard to go wrong with this dual-basket wonder.

Additional information