Ninja SP101 vs SP201: Honest Hands-On Test with a Surprising Winner

Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Confused between the Ninja SP101 and SP201? Wondering which one fits best in your kitchen? You’re not alone. Both ovens pack a punch, but they shine in different ways. One gives you more features and better control. The other keeps it simple and gets the job done with ease.

I’ve used both in my own kitchen, testing them side by side. In this review, I’ll share what I learned—what works, what doesn’t, and who each one is really for. By the end, you’ll know which model suits your space, budget, and cooking style.

ninja sp101 review

Is the Ninja SP101 Worth It? Hands-On Review

Here’s what I learned after using the Ninja SP101 every day in my small kitchen. It helped me cook meals fast, cut down on oil, and keep things simple. I liked how it flipped up to save space when not in use. I used it for toast, veggies, and even quick dinners after work.

The Ninja SP101 has 8-in-1 functions and runs on 1800 watts. It can bake, roast, air fry, and more—all in one compact oven. I found it useful when I didn’t want to use my big oven for small meals. If you want to save time, eat better, and keep your counter clear, this one makes sense. I’ve tested it, and it’s been a helpful tool in my daily routine.

What I Like About the Ninja SP101 After Daily Use

I’ve been using the Ninja SP101 for a while now. It’s part of my daily routine. Here are the things I like and why they matter to me.

  • It saves space: I can flip it up when I’m done. That gives me more room on the counter. This is great for small kitchens like mine.
  • Heats up fast: It only takes about one minute to preheat. I don’t have to wait like I do with my big oven.
  • It runs quietly: You can hear a soft fan sound, but that’s all. It’s not loud or annoying.
  • It’s not just an air fryer; it handles many tasks. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, dehydrate, and more. I use it for many meals.
  • Uses less oil: I still get crispy food, but with less fat. That makes me feel better about what I eat.
  • Cooks for the whole family: I was shocked it could fit a 13-inch pizza. It can also toast nine slices of bread at once. That’s more than I need.
  • Easy to use: The buttons are clear. The screen is simple. I figured it out without the manual.

Ninja SP101 Downsides: What to Know Before You Buy

I like this oven a lot. But there are a few small things I think could be better. These are not big problems, just things to know.

  • Inside space is short: It’s only about 3 inches high inside. That’s fine for pizza and toast. But not for tall dishes or big pans.
  • Takes time to get toast right: The toast came out too light at first. I had to try a few times to get it how I like it.
  • Top cooks faster than bottom: The heat comes from the top. That means food close to the top can cook faster. I move or turn the tray when needed.

Should You Buy the Ninja SP101? My Verdict

If you want a small oven that does many things, the Ninja SP101 is a good pick. With 8 functions, you can air fry, toast, bake, and roast in one device. I make quick meals in it often. It’s fast and fits a whole pizza or several slices of toast.

I like how the digital crisp Control technology helps food cook the right way. It sits on the counter and flips up when you’re done, which saves space. The inside is not tall, so it’s best for flat foods. Still, it’s a handy tool for daily use and has made cooking easier for me.

ninja air fryer sp101 review

👉 👉🏾 Grab the current offer on Amazon 👈🏾 👈

Is the Ninja SP201 Right for You?

I’ve been using the Ninja Foodi SP201 for a few weeks. I use it to toast, bake, and air fry. It cooks fast and needs less oil. I love how it saves time and is simple to clean. It fits well on my counter and folds up when I’m done.

The oven uses 1800 watts and has 8 cooking modes. I’ve made full meals in it, like pizza and roast. It works well in small kitchens and helps with quick, healthy meals. For me, the Ninja Foodi SP201 has been a simple and helpful tool I use each day.

ninja sp201 review

 

What I Like About the Ninja SP201 in Real-World Cooking

I’ve used the Ninja SP201 oven for a few weeks now, and I’ve found it really helpful. Here are a few things I enjoy about using it:

  • Saves space:  The flip-up feature is great. When I’m not using it, I just lift it out of the way. It’s perfect for small kitchens.
  • Preheats fast: It warms up in under a minute. That really helps me when I’m in a hurry.
  • Works in many ways: It’s not just an air fryer. It can bake, broil, toast, and more. It’s a real multi-function Foodi oven.
  • Cooks healthier: The air fryer setting needs less oil. My food comes out crispy without all the extra fat. I love that it helps me eat healthy cooking with less oil.
  • Easy to clean: The crumb tray comes out easily, and the wire rack is easy to wipe. Cleanup is quick.
  • Fits real meals: It can hold a 13-inch pizza or a roast weighing about 4 pounds. It’s big enough to feed my family.

Ninja SP201 Cons: A Few Things to Consider

Even though I like the Ninja SP201, there are a few small things I think could be better. These aren’t big problems, but it’s good to know:

  • Takes time to learn: With so many settings, I had to try a few times to get it right. The guide could be clearer, but I got the hang of it.
  • Gets a little warm outside: The oven can get hot on the outside. I always make sure to leave space around it. It’s a minor point but worth remembering.
  • No light inside: I wish there was a light to see the food as it cooks. I had to open the door a few times to check.
  • Knob control may feel old-fashioned: Some might prefer a touchscreen, but I like the simple knobs. You can easily control all the 8-in-1 functions once you learn the settings.

Should You Buy the Ninja SP201? My Thoughts

If you want one oven that handles many jobs, the Ninja SP201 is a solid pick. It fits on the counter and saves space. I use it for baking, roasting, toasting, and air frying. It heats quickly and lets me cook with less oil.

The family-sized XL capacity oven is big enough for a pizza or roast. That makes it great for families or meal prep. The outside gets warm, so I keep it a bit away from the wall. For me, it’s a clever, space-saving oven that’s easy to use and works well every day.

ninja sp201 digital air fry pro review

👉 👉🏾 Grab the current offer on Amazon 👈🏾 👈

Ninja SP101 vs SP201: Details Comparison

I’ve been testing both the Ninja SP101 and SP201 models side by side. I used them every day for a week. I found small but clear differences in how they feel and work.

Design & Control Panel: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both use easy knob controls and a clear display. The SP201 has a stylish glass front and even a built-in light.

FeatureSP101SP201
Display & ControlsKnob with digital screenKnob with digital screen & LED light
Door & WindowStainless steelStainless + glass window

Rating:

  • SP101 – 8/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

Size, Weight & Counter Space: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

The SP201 is taller and uses a bit more space but stores upright well.

FeatureSP101 (18.6 lb / 7.6″ height)SP201 (21.1 lb / 8.1″ height)
Flip-up StorageYes (saves ~50%)Yes (saves ~45%)
Dimensions19.72″D x 14.96″W x 7.56″H15.33″D x 20.21″W x 8.15″H
Weight18.6 lbs21.1 lbs

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 9/10 (More compact)
  • SP201 – 8/10 (Slightly bulkier)

Cooking Capacity: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both fit a 13″ pizza and toast up to 9 slices. The SP201 seats more volume and fits a 2 lb roast better.

CapacitySP101SP201
13″ PizzaYesYes
Roast/Food VolumeStandardXL (up to 4 lb)

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 8/10 (Great for flat foods)
  • SP201 – 9/10(Better for taller dishes)

Material, Build Quality & Durability: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both feel solid in stainless steel and work well over time.

FeatureSP101SP201
MaterialPowder‑coated stainless steelStainless + glass finish
Perceived DurabilityStrong & lightSolid & robust

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 8/10 (Solid but shows fingerprints)
  • SP201 – 9/10 (More premium feel)

Kitchen Wink

Included Accessories: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Each comes with the same core tools in the box.

AccessorySP101SP201
Basket, Pan, TrayYesYes
Wire RackYesYes
Crumb TrayYesYes

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 9/10  
  • SP201 – 9/10 

Smart Features: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

They both use the same crisp control tech. SP201’s interface feels a bit more refined.

FeatureSP101SP201
Digital Crisp ControlYesYes
Auto ShutoffYesYes
Presets8 functions8 functions

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 8/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

Temperature Range & Cooking Functions: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both cover 250–450 °F and eight cooking modes. SP201 has updated control clarity.

FeatureSP101SP201
Temp Range250°F–450°F250°F–450°F
Functions8 (Air Fry, Bake, etc.)8 (Same)

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 9/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

Performance: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both heat fast and cook evenly. SP201 may feel a bit quicker in real use.

Speed / ConsistencySP101SP201
Preheat Time~60 sec~60 sec
Air Fry & Roast PerformanceFast and evenSlight edge in speed

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 8.5/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

Smoke Control & Noise Level: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Neither has a special smoke control filter. Both vent heat but handle grease well.

FeatureSP101SP201
Smoke OutputModerateLow
Noise LevelModerate fanQuieter

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 7/10
  • SP201 – 8/10

Energy Efficiency: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both use ~1750–1800 W and cook fast. They cost less to run than a full oven.

WattageSP101 (1750 W)SP201 (1800 W)
Wattage1800W1800W
Energy UseLowLow

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 9/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

Ease of Use: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Controls are simple. Reviewed users found setup intuitive. SP201’s bright window is a plus.

FeatureSP101SP201
UsabilityEasy knob, clear screenEasy knob + lighted window

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 9/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

Safety Features: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both handle heat safely. They include stable bases and cool-down designs. Watch top surface—they get warm.

FeatureSP101SP201
Stable Base & Flip SafetyYesYes
Hot Surface WarningManual cautionManual caution

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 9/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

Cleaning & Maintenance: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both are easy to clean. SP101 has a hidden crumb area; SP201 has a glass front that needs more care.

FeatureSP101SP201
Removable Tray & RackYesYes
Hidden Crumb AccessYesYes
Glass Front WipesN/ANeeds regular wipe

Rating:

  • SP101 – 9/10
  • SP201 – 8/10

Ideal Use Cases: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

  • SP101: Best for small kitchens, basic air frying, toasting.
  • SP201: Better for roasting, baking, and frequent cooking.

Rating:

  • SP101: 8/10 (Budget pick)
  • SP201: 9/10 (Premium choice)

Value for Money: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

The SP101 keeps things simple and gets the job done without costing too much. The SP201 gives you more room and a cleaner look, but it does cost more.

Value InsightSP101SP201
Features for the costGreat balancePremium feel, higher price
Best forBudget-conscious usersUsers wanting more features

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 9/10
  • SP201 – 8/10

Overall Verdict: Ninja SP101 vs SP201

Both are smart kitchen tools. The SP101 is a solid all‑rounder. The SP201 offers size and shine at a premium.

ModelStrengthsTrade‑offs
SP101Affordable, compact, fast heatLess tall interior, basic front
SP201Bigger, sleek, polished UIHigher cost, slightly heavier

Rating: 

  • SP101 – 8.5/10
  • SP201 – 9/10

My Final Opinion

If you’re looking for a fast, compact, and easy-to-use oven, the Ninja SP101 is an excellent option. It fits tight spaces and is easy to use. It’s great for making toast, pizza, and air-fried meals for one or two people.

The SP201 gives you more room, better control, and extra features. It’s a smart choice if you cook for more people or want more cooking power.

Go with the SP101 for budget and space-saving. Choose the SP201 if you need more cooking space and extra features. Both are solid—just choose what fits your kitchen and your routine best.

ninja air fryer sp101 review

👉 👉🏾 Grab the current offer on Amazon 👈🏾 👈

FAQ’s About Ninja SP101 vs SP201

What makes the Ninja SP101 and SP201 different?

The SP201 is taller than the SP101. It gives more space inside. You can cook bigger meals with it. The SP101 is better for small portions.

Does the Ninja SP101 have Teflon in it?

From my tests and user reports, the SP101’s interior is stainless steel. The tray may have a non-stick coating, but main parts are not PTFE‑lined.

How many watts is the Ninja SP201?

The SP201 runs at 1800 watts. That gives fast heat-up and even cooking across all eight functions. Learn more about its crisp tech.

How many cooking functions does the Ninja SP201 have?

The SP201 has 8 cooking modes.It offers functions like Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Roast, Bagel, Dehydrate, and Keep Warm. It handles most tasks with ease.

Are the SP101 and SP201 good at roasting full meals?

Yes. The SP201 handles up to a 2‑lb roast easily thanks to its taller interior. The SP101 performs well but is best suited for smaller meals.

Are their parts dishwasher safe?

Most parts are removable. The basket and tray clean easily. But Ninja recommends gentle hand wash to keep coating intact over time.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top