Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer Review

$119.99

The Ninja Foodi DZ201, equipped with two baskets and a total capacity of 8 quart, offers innovative cooking capabilities with 1690 watts of power. Despite its appealing appearance, the chrome elements are prone to light scratching. The operation of the Ninja Foodi is intuitive and user-friendly, featuring clear functions and flexibility with the Match and Smart Finish functions. Each basket can hold 2 pounds of fries, totaling 4 pounds, making it suitable for serving multiple people. The cooking results were convincing and satisfactory. Cleaning is easy due to the non-stick coating on the baskets. In summary, the Ninja Foodi proves to be a practical, efficient and user-friendly addition to the kitchen.

Technical specifications for Dual 8 QT

Output Wattage: 1690 watts
Capacity: 8QT – 4lb
Product Dimensions: 13.86 x 15.63 x 12.4 inches
Weight: 18 lb
Special Features: Dual Basket System

Advantages

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The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer DZ201 with 8 Quart* revitalizes kitchen routines with its innovative Dual-Zone Technology, packing an impressive 1690 watts of power under its hood. Featuring a generous total capacity of 8 quarts, divided into two frying baskets, it offers ample space to cook up to 4 pounds of fries or equivalent amounts of other favorite dishes simultaneously. In this review, we take a closer look at whether the dual fryer is practical for everyday use.

Ninja Foodi Dual Air Fryer - Different Models

Ninja has launched 6 different Dual models on the market. Since it would take too long to introduce each one individually, I will list them all and briefly touch on the most important or popular ones.

All models and versions listed:

Ninja DZ071 Foodi 6-in-1 DualZone FlexBasket
This Ninja model stands out somewhat from the others. While it also features two zones, each with its own heating element and a 3.5 QT capacity, it does not have two cooking baskets. Instead, it utilizes a single basket with a divider. The advantage is that you can remove the divider to create one large 7 QT MegaZone. The only notable drawback is that when preparing two different dishes, transferring them onto a plate can be somewhat cumbersome.

Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart
This Ninja Dual Air Fryer is probably the most well-known and popular model of the Ninja Foodi series. In my opinion, it offers the best value for money with an 8 QT capacity for about $200. It is operated with buttons, unlike the larger models that use a dial. The functions on the control panel are as follows: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. All the models have the same functions, except for the Ninja DZ090 Foodi 6 Quart, which lacks the Air Broil function.

Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10 Quart
This model has a total capacity of 10 quarts, accommodating up to 1.4 kg of fries per basket. It is operated with a dial instead of buttons. The cooking basket is the largest, fitting up to 12 chicken wings per basket. The dimensions of a cooking basket are as follows: 6.5″W x 8.5″D x 4.5″H.

Ninja Dual Air Fryer 8 QT - The processing and handling

The design of this Ninja Foodi Dual-Zone Air Fryer* immediately catches the eye, signaling right away that this is a modern and aesthetically pleasing kitchen appliance. Its combination of gray and black hues with accentuating silver elements blends seamlessly into any kitchen decor, giving the fryer a contemporary and elegant appearance.

The control interface is strikingly symmetrical, making the usage intuitive and pleasant. A particularly practical detail is the cable compartment at the back of the unit, which ensures a tidy countertop in the kitchen. In terms of build quality, the Ninja Foodi sets the bar high once again. Ninja’s reputation for high-quality manufacturing is affirmed by this air fryer. The precise gap measurements and the overall excellent craftsmanship highlight the manufacturer’s high-quality standards. The sturdy construction conveys a strong sense of durability and stability.

Despite its somewhat higher weight, the Ninja Foodi is easy to transport, which is particularly useful when adjusting the appliance’s position in the kitchen or moving it for cleaning purposes. The frying baskets are ergonomically designed and comfortable to hold, which not only simplifies handling but also makes it easier to remove food.

If I had to point out a critique, it would concern the plastic element over the controls, which imitates the look of chrome but is unfortunately somewhat prone to scratches. Despite this minor flaw, the Ninja Foodi impresses with its thoughtful design and high functionality.

Ninja Foodi Dual Air Fryer - Operation

The operation is very intuitive at first glance, even if somewhat crowded. However, for those who have previously worked with a Dual Fryer, this should not pose a problem. The controls are symmetrically arranged. The build quality is top-notch, with a preference for buttons over a touchscreen or dial.

This might indicate durability, but personally, I prefer touchscreens and have never had issues with them. But, as mentioned, this is a matter of taste. Here, we have predefined functions instead of predefined programs. This aspect receives mixed feedback from customers, including myself. I think predefined programs are better for absolute first-time users, but later on, one can switch to using the functions.

The functions on the Dual Fryer are as follows:

Air Fry
Air Broil
Roast
Bake
Reheat
Dehydrate

You can also easily manually choose the time and temperature. If you select number 1, you’re choosing settings for the left basket. If you select 2, it’s for the right basket. It’s pretty straightforward. Then, of course, there’s the main feature of the Dual Fryers: the SYNC and MATCH function.

With Match, you can transfer settings from one basket to the other, useful when you have, for example, fries in both baskets. The SYNC function is for different dishes, ensuring both are ready at the same time. The dish with the shorter cooking time is put on ‘HOLD’ until the other basket matches its timing. It’s a smart and practical feature.

The flexibility these features offer is a game-changer, significantly reducing the effort traditionally required. Unlike standard air fryers or ovens that typically accommodate one type of food at a time, necessitating a second round of cooking for variety, the Ninja Foodi eradicates such hassles. However, we will see later how well it performs.

Ninja Foodi Dual Air Fryer 8-Quart: Design and Basket

The design and functionality of the Ninja Air Fryer’s baskets stand out for their convenience and thoughtful construction. The baskets are not only easy to handle but their finishing touches contribute significantly to the overall premium feel of the appliance. The silver-colored handles add a touch of elegance, enhancing the visual appeal and suggesting a level of quality that surpasses many competitors.

A standout feature for me has been the Crisper Plates. Unlike my experiences with some other air fryers, where the design flaws allowed smaller items like fries to slip through the gaps, the Ninja has effectively resolved this issue.

The capacity of these baskets is equally impressive. Being able to accommodate up to 2 lbs of fries in each basket not only speaks to their generous size but also to the efficiency of the air fryer in handling substantial quantities of food. This feature is particularly beneficial for preparing meals for larger gatherings or for families, minimizing cooking time by handling more food at once.

My testing included the all-important chicken wings test, which further demonstrated the baskets’ capacity and the air fryer’s overall performance. Each basket comfortably fit up to 10 chicken wings laid out in a single layer. That means a total of 20 chicken wings.

Ninja Dual Air Fryer Review: Frying Results

In the practical test aimed at evaluating the performance of our Ninja Air Fryer*, I decided to put it through its paces with three staple foods that are popular for their varying cooking requirements: fries, chicken wings and bread rolls. This approach allowed me to assess the appliance’s versatility and efficiency across different types of food, each with its unique cooking temperature and time needs. Impressively, the entire test concluded in just two rounds, indicating not only the air fryer’s efficacy but also its convenience for quick meal preparations.

Chicken Wings and Fries

In the first round, I assigned the fries and chicken wings to their respective baskets, keen on observing how well the air fryer could handle both. I opted for a 400 degrees Fahrenheit setting for the fries, letting them cook for 15 minutes. The chicken wings, on the other hand, required a slightly lower temperature of 380 degrees Fahrenheit and a longer cooking time of 20 minutes. The results were notably impressive. The chicken wings emerged perfectly cooked, sporting an ideal level of browning that, to my taste, was spot on. The fries, while largely successful, had a few pieces that ended up slightly overdone, exhibiting a bit more crispiness than preferred. However, these were in the minority and the overall outcome was still remarkably satisfying.

Bread Rolls

The bread rolls, introduced in the subsequent round, marked a significant revelation in the test. They stood as a testament to the air fryer’s ability to not just handle but excel at baking tasks. Within a mere 10 minutes, the rolls had transformed into golden-brown delights, rivaling the quality one might expect from a professional bakery. This result was particularly pleasing as it demonstrated the appliance’s potential to save trips to the bakery by allowing for quick, yet high-quality, bread roll preparation at home.

Noise Level

Furthermore, the air fryer impressed with its operational noise level. Registering at under 60 dB, it maintained a relatively quiet operation throughout the test. This aspect is especially noteworthy for users who value a tranquil kitchen environment. However, it’s important to mention that the Cosori Pro LE air fryer still holds the crown for being the quietest model.

Nonetheless, the performance of our air fryer in terms of cooking efficiency, versatility and noise level solidifies its status as an extremely suitable appliance for everyday use. The chicken wings and bread rolls, in particular, stood out as exceptional and despite the minor inconsistency with the fries, the overall test results were highly favorable.

Ninja Dual Air Fryer - Cleaning

Owners of the Ninja Dual Air Fryer can attest to the substantial convenience its two-basket system offers, significantly simplifying the cleaning process. This innovative design means you essentially have less surface area to clean if you choose to use only one basket at a time. This feature is particularly useful for small meals or when preparing different types of food that require separate cooking environments. Furthermore, the added benefit of having a spare basket cannot be overstated. It ensures continuous use of the appliance, even when one basket is awaiting cleaning, enhancing the overall efficiency of your kitchen routine.

Another practical tip that cannot be emphasized enough is the use of parchment paper within the baskets. This simple yet effective practice can significantly minimize the cleaning effort required post-cooking. By acting as a barrier between the food and the basket, parchment paper catches drips, crumbs, and splatters, making clean-up a breeze. Not only does this keep your air fryer in better condition over time, but it also reduces the need for frequent, intensive cleaning that can be both time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Ninja Dual Air Fryer Test Conclusion

The Ninja Dual Air Fryer* stands out as a top-notch choice for those seeking convenience and flexibility in their kitchen. It’s designed for daily use, offering more versatility than traditional fryers with its dual-basket system. This feature allows for cooking two dishes simultaneously, saving both time and energy, particularly with the innovative Sync function.

Ninja’s reputation for high-quality craftsmanship is evident in this air fryer. The cooking results are impressive, making it an ideal recommendation for families of three or more who often prepare multiple dishes. The only consideration is its price, which is on the higher side, so it’s wise to assess your budget.

In brief, the Ninja Dual Air Fryer is a valuable investment for those who prioritize efficiency, variety, and quality in their cooking. Its ability to handle multiple cooking tasks with ease, combined with durable construction, justifies the higher price point for many. It’s a game-changer for busy households, simplifying meal preparation without compromising on taste or quality.

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*Last Updated on 2024-12-07 / Affiliate Links