Ninja DT201 vs. DT251 – Which One Is The Better Air Fryer Oven?

Have you been eager to update your kitchen with an air fryer oven that will allow you to cook incredible, mouth-watering recipes that the whole family enjoy? Or are you simply looking for a solution that will help you to prepare food quicker and more efficiently?

One brand that might have caught your eye is Ninja – a producer known for creating high-quality air fryer solutions that create fantastic food results for various dishes.

Two of these products are the Ninja DT201 and DT251 – both offering eye-catching designs that do not take up too much space in the kitchen. Both are also popular, which makes the choice between them a tough one.

Let’s take a quick look at these models.

Ninja DT201 Vs. DT251: How do they compare?

In his YouTube review of these two ovens, John Sanders highlights the built-in thermometer of the DT251 “smart oven” – a perk that certainly makes this unit stand out more from the DT201.

Family Need, though, makes a valuable point: that apart from this feature, the units are still quite similar.

Have a look below at the comparison table of what these ovens offer.

Quick facts comparison table*

	Ninja DT201	Ninja DT251
Dimensions	17.09 L x 20.22 W x 13.34 H inches	17.09 L x 20.22 W x 13.34 H inches
Item Weight	33.63 pounds	33.75 pounds
Capacity	12 lbs.	12 lbs.
Wattage	1500-1800 W	1500-1800 W
Coating	Enamel	Enamel
Exterior Material	Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel
Convection	True Surround	True Surround
Control	Digital Touch Handle	Digital Touch Handle
Thermometer	No	Included
Cooking Function	10 without Smart Function	10 with Smart Cooking Function
Auto-programmable	No	Yes
Cooking Pre-set	Roast, Dehydrate, Broil, Toast, Rotisserie, Reheat, Bagel, etc.	Roast, Dehydrate, Broil, Toast, Pizza, Reheat, Rotisserie, Bagel, etc.

*Source: Kitchen Deets

Key differences between Ninja DT201 vs. DT251

Looking at the above table, it is quite clear that, apart from the built-in smart thermometer that the DT251 model is and that it is auto-programmable, these two units are quite similar. They both provide a good variety of cooking pre-sets, making it easy to prepare various meals in a fraction of the time it would take if using a conventional oven.

Key features of the Ninja DT201 air fryer oven

Less fat used

One of the big benefits of the DT201 is that cooks with almost 75% less fat than other conventional ovens would use. Therefore, you are not only getting the convenience of an air fryer oven with multiple uses, but you also are able to prepare healthier meals.

Pre-heat in a speedy 90 seconds

No more waiting for a cooking appliance to heat up – in 90 seconds, you are ready to start cooking with this high-performance air fryer.

Various cooking options available

Baking, broiling, crisping – there are so many options when using this air fryer oven! It is versatile enough for most of your cooking needs and is a convenient kitchen addition for those who love spicing up their menus.

Built-in digital display and electronic controls

Almost easier to operate than a microwave, this air fryer oven features a 10″ built-in digital display and electronic controls – simply set your temperature to prepare your meals with ease.

Key features of the Ninja DT251 air fryer oven

A smart thermometer

Thanks to this built-in bonus, you can be assured that you will always cook meals impeccably according to specific guidelines – this tech is ideal for busy cooks who need an extra layer of control in the kitchen!

Easy to prepare restaurant-quality style food at home

Whether you are craving turkey or other gourmet dishes, this air fryer oven gives you a seamless tool to create perfect recipes without needing to be a gourmet chef. Simply program, time and let the oven create the magic!

Ideal rack positions

With enough space in the bottom rack for roasts and perfectly sized top basket for preparing chips and other foods, you can enjoy optimal cooking for all your favourite dishes.

How do they compare on price?

The DT251 is slightly more expensive than the DT201 – however, when you consider the added benefit of temperature control that the newest DT251 offers, it does justify the higher price somewhat.

How do they compare on cooking ability?

Both air fryer ovens are sufficient in cooking food to the highest standard – the DT251 does have that benefit of a smart built-in thermometer, which provides additional precision.

How do they compare on size?

Both ovens are similar with a slight differentiation when it comes to weight.

How do they compare on power?

Both have an average of 1500-1800 W.

How do they compare on efficiency?

Thanks to its smart thermometer, the DT251 can provide additional convenience when it comes to programming your oven to function at its best.

Ninja DT201*

Pros

10-in-1 functionality.
Multipurpose and durable stainless-steel material.
Eye-catching design, touch control, digital display.
Multiple rack levels.
True surround convection.
30% faster than traditional ovens.
Generous cooking capacity.

Cons

Heavy unit that will require a specific spot on the counter.
Cumbersome to clean by hand.
Can be loud at times.
Will stop working if it is handled too roughly.

Overall Score: 80/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Ninja DT251*

Pros

10 cooking functions.
Non-stick coated interior.
Dishwasher-safe accessories.
Integrated smart thermometer.
True surround technology.

Cons

More expensive.
Can be heavy to move around.

Check Out More Reviews Here:

* Sources: Kitchen Gismo, Kitchen Deets

Who should buy each one?

If you prefer an air fryer oven that provides strict temperature control, the DT251 is likely the best consideration for your needs, thanks to its smart cooking features. However, if you can do without these smart perks, the DT201 should be sufficient enough.

What items are they best for?

Because of their versatility, the sky is the limit with these ovens! Meats, fish, chicken, pizza, almost anything you can think of goes here. Do check the instructional manuals for tips if you are cooking some items for the first time.

3 Other similar air fryer ovens to consider

COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo

A more “traditional” air fryer unit, this air fryer has a sleek look to it with a basket that is easy to remove. Do remember, this unit has a single layer, so will need to be used several times if you are cooking multiple times. The basket can be washed in the dishwasher though, which is definitely a perk!

Overall Score: 80/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

NUWAVE BRAVO XL 30-Quart Convection Oven

With linear thermal technology, this air fryer oven has adjustable top and bottom heating panels that make even cooking a breeze. That being said, there are a lot of functions to master, which might be a bit overwhelming at first to use.

Overall Score: 80/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Geek Chef Air Fryer

With an oven rack, air fryer basket and crumb tray, creating mouth-watering dishes is easy with this multi-use oven. This unit does have simple knob control, though, which might not appeal to those users who prefer a smart tech look.

Overall Score: 75/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Conclusion

Both the Ninja DT201 and DT251 models have incredible functionality and are good choices for air fryer home updates.

If you prefer a more cost-effective option and have a gentle hand, the DT201 should be more than enough for your kitchen needs. However, if your preferences lean more towards smart home tech, the DT251 with its built-in thermometer is a flawless go-to.

Overall, air fryer ovens offer healthier meal options and whichever unit you choose, you are sure to benefit from healthy cooking every day!