When it comes to versatile kitchen appliances, the Ninja DT201 and DT251 Air Fryer Toaster Ovens are two top options. Both deliver excellent performance for air frying, baking, roasting, and dehydrating. While the ovens look similar, the key difference lies in the integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer in the DT251. In this guide, I’ll break down the main differences, real-world performance, and which model is right for you.
Quick Verdict: The DT251 is perfect for cooks who want precise temperature control and hands-off cooking with the integrated thermometer. The DT201 is ideal for value-conscious users who want the same cooking performance without the extra tech.Pros:
- DT201: Affordable, compact, easy to use, reliable cooking performance, same physical size as DT251.
- DT251: Smart Thermometer, precise cooking, hands-off roasting, all-in-one control panel.
Cons:
- DT201: No thermometer, manual checking required for precise meat doneness.
- DT251: Slightly higher price, same footprint as DT201, more parts to clean.
Main Differences Between Ninja DT201 and DT251
Both ovens feature 2-level even cooking and Ninja’s True Surround Convection technology. Despite appearances, they share the same size (20.2″ x 13.3″) and can cook similar quantities. The DT251’s main advantage is the integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer and slightly enhanced presets for precise temperature management.
The $50 Question: Do You Really Need the Smart Thermometer?
In my testing, the DT251’s Smart Thermometer is the only reason to upgrade. It allows you to set a roast to medium-rare and automatically stops cooking at the perfect internal temperature. The DT201 requires manual checking with a handheld thermometer, which can let heat escape and affect results.
Can You Fit Two 12-Inch Pizzas?
Yes. Both models have identical dimensions, so you can cook two medium pizzas side-by-side without worrying about space.
Fact-Checked Comparison Table
| Feature | Ninja DT201 (Foodi XL) | Ninja DT251 (Foodi Smart XL) |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Size | 20.2″ x 13.3″ – identical to DT251 | 20.2″ x 13.3″ – identical to DT201 |
| Cooking Levels | 2-Level Even Cooking | 2-Level Even Cooking |
| Smart Thermometer | No | Yes (Integrated) |
| Presets | 10-in-1 | 10-in-1 with enhanced Smart Thermometer control |
| Best For | Value-conscious cooks | Precise roasts and hands-off cooking |
Why Choose the Ninja DT201?
- Affordable and compact, ideal for small households.
- Simple digital controls on the handle, easy to learn.
- Reliable performance for roasting, baking, air frying, and dehydrating.
- Energy-efficient and space-saving design.
Why Choose the Ninja DT251?
- Perfect for larger households or frequent entertainers.
- Integrated Smart Thermometer ensures precise meat doneness.
- Advanced presets allow hands-off cooking for multiple dishes.
- Same footprint as DT201 but with added precision and control.
Conclusion: DT201 vs DT251 – Which One Should You Buy?
If you want a budget-friendly, versatile air fryer toaster oven, the DT201 is a great choice. It delivers all the core features without unnecessary complexity.
If you value precise cooking, hands-off operation, and want the integrated Smart Thermometer for perfect meats, the DT251 is worth the investment. Both ovens share the same footprint, so the choice comes down to whether you need that thermometer and advanced presets.
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