The DZ201 has more functions and a higher max heat; the DZ100 is simpler and cheaper.
I live in the US, in Austin, where weeknights get busy fast.
I wanted crispy fries for the kids and salmon for me without juggling pans.
That’s where the Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 really helped me cook two foods at once.
If you’re stuck between the Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201, I’ll break down what matters.
I tested speed, capacity, functions, cleanup, and value.
By the end, you’ll know which one fits your kitchen.
Is Ninja DZ100 Good?
Yes, for simple, two-basket cooking on a budget.
It suits families who want basic air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate without extra modes.
If you like set-it-and-forget-it meals, the Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 choice leans DZ100 for affordability.
I used it to cook chicken tenders on one side and veggie fries on the other.
Smart Finish synced both to end together, so dinner hit the table hot and at once.
On a game day, I matched cook for two baskets of wings.
They came out evenly crisp without babysitting.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- DualZone Technology with Smart Finish to sync different foods
- Match Cook to copy settings across both baskets
- 4-in-1 programs: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
- 8-quart total capacity for family meals
- Two independent 4-qt baskets with separate controls
- Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
- Space-saving design for most countertops
What I Like
- Great value for a true two-basket setup
- Easy controls and quick learning curve
- Smart Finish really works for same-time serving
- Even browning on fries, nuggets, and wings
- Cleanup is fast; baskets release stuck bits easily
What Could Be Better
- Fewer cooking functions than DZ201 (no Broil or Bake)
- Lower max temp than DZ201, so slightly less sear
- Renewed units may show minor cosmetic wear
- No built-in thermometer or probes
- Accessories are limited out of the box
My Recommendation
If you’re comparing Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 for basic family cooking, the DZ100 is a strong pick.
It’s ideal for fries, chicken, veggies, and reheats at a friendly price.
Availability varies, especially for renewed models, so check stock and pricing often.
Is Ninja DZ201 Good?
Yes, especially if you want more power and more programs.
It’s the better choice for people who want air broil and bake finishes.
In the Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 matchup, DZ201 wins on speed and versatility.
I use DZ201 to air broil salmon at high heat for a crisp top.
It locks in moisture and gives a restaurant-style finish.
On busy nights, I roast potatoes in one basket and bake chicken thighs in the other.
Smart Finish brings both to the plate at the same time.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- DualZone with Smart Finish and Match Cook
- 6-in-1 programs: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Higher max temperature for better sear and faster crisping
- 8-quart capacity with two independent 4-qt baskets
- Nonstick, dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
- Even heat distribution for consistent results
- Sturdy build with responsive controls
What I Like
- Broil and Bake modes expand what I can cook
- Faster preheat and crisper finish than basic models
- Great for proteins, veggies, and sheet-pan style meals split into two
- Reliable timing with Smart Finish
- Excellent for weekly meal prep
What Could Be Better
- Costs more than the DZ100
- Takes a bit more counter space and is heavier
- No interior light
- No probe for internal temperature
- Loudness is similar to a microwave fan
My Recommendation
If you want the most capable option in the Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 comparison, pick the DZ201.
The extra modes and higher heat justify the price for most home cooks who like flexibility.
Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201: Side-by-Side Test
I cooked common meals and tracked speed, evenness, and ease of use.
Here’s how Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 stack up in key areas that matter day to day.
Cooking Functions: Which One Does More?
Feature | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Programs | 4-in-1 | 6-in-1 |
Air Broil | No | Yes |
Bake | No | Yes |
Air Fry / Roast / Reheat / Dehydrate | Yes | Yes |
Rating: DZ100 – 7/10 | DZ201 – 9/10
Edge: DZ201 for broader cooking options.
Max Temperature and Searing Power
Spec | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Max Temp (approx.) | Up to 400°F | Up to 450°F |
High-heat Broil | No | Yes |
Rating: DZ100 – 7/10 | DZ201 – 9/10
Edge: DZ201 for crisper finishes and faster browning.
Capacity and Batch Cooking
Spec | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Total Capacity | 8 qt | 8 qt |
Basket Size | Two 4-qt | Two 4-qt |
Family Meals | Good | Good |
Rating: DZ100 – 8/10 | DZ201 – 8/10
Edge: Tie for capacity in Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201.
DualZone, Smart Finish, and Sync
Feature | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
DualZone Technology | Yes | Yes |
Smart Finish | Yes | Yes |
Match Cook | Yes | Yes |
Rating: DZ100 – 9/10 | DZ201 – 9/10
Edge: Tie; both sync two different foods well.
Speed and Preheat Time
Metric | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Warmup Speed | Good | Faster |
Cooking Time (frozen fries) | Fast | Faster |
Rating: DZ100 – 8/10 | DZ201 – 9/10
Edge: DZ201 with higher heat output.
Crispness and Evenness
Result | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Fries/Wings | Crispy | Extra crispy |
Veggies/Proteins | Even | More even at high heat |
Rating: DZ100 – 8/10 | DZ201 – 9/10
Edge: DZ201 for broil-level crisp.
Controls and Ease of Use
Aspect | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Interface | Simple | Simple with more modes |
Learning Curve | Very easy | Easy |
Rating: DZ100 – 9/10 | DZ201 – 8.5/10
Edge: DZ100 for simplicity in Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Aspect | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Dishwasher-Safe Parts | Yes | Yes |
Nonstick Release | Good | Good |
Rating: DZ100 – 9/10 | DZ201 – 9/10
Edge: Tie; both are easy to clean.
Build, Size, and Noise
Factor | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Build Quality | Solid | More robust |
Footprint | Compact | Slightly larger |
Noise | Fan-level | Fan-level |
Rating: DZ100 – 8/10 | DZ201 – 8.5/10
Edge: DZ201 for sturdier feel.
Value for Money
Factor | DZ100 | DZ201 |
---|---|---|
Price | Lower (often renewed) | Higher |
Features per Dollar | Great for basics | Great for power users |
Rating: DZ100 – 9/10 | DZ201 – 8.5/10
Edge: DZ100 if your needs are simple; DZ201 if you’ll use the extra modes.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If your meals are mostly fries, wings, nuggets, and veggies, the Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 decision is easy.
Pick DZ100 for the best price and simple two-basket cooking.
If you want faster searing, Air Broil, Bake, and a stronger finish on proteins, choose DZ201.
It’s the more capable cooker and worth it if you’ll use the extra heat and modes.
Both handle family meals well; choose based on features you’ll use daily.
FAQs Of Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201
Which cooks faster in real use?
DZ201.
Its higher max temperature and Air Broil mode shaved minutes off fries and protein cooks in my tests of Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201.
Do both have Smart Finish and Match Cook?
Yes.
Both DZ100 and DZ201 can sync end times and copy settings across baskets in the Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 comparison.
Is the food capacity the same?
Yes.
Each offers 8 quarts total across two 4-qt baskets, so capacity is a tie in Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201.
Which one is better for steak or salmon?
DZ201.
The higher heat and broil mode give a better crust, making Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201 lean toward DZ201 for proteins.
Is the DZ100 good enough for family dinners?
Yes.
If you’re okay with fewer modes, DZ100 handles family dinners well and keeps costs low in Ninja Air Fryer DZ100 vs DZ201.