Quick Verdict
- Ninja Foodi Smart Lid: Best for hands-free cooking, faster pressure times, and juicier results.
- Instant Pot Pro Crisp: Best for durability, stainless steel maintenance, and budget-conscious users.
Testing the Ninja (left) and Instant Pot (right) on my counter—notice the height difference when the Ninja lid is open.
How I Tested These Multi-Cookers
To ensure a fair, hands-on comparison, I ran multiple tests over two weeks in my home kitchen. Each unit underwent a Boil Test with 2 litres of water to measure time to pressure, and I cooked a 1.5kg chicken using a digital thermometer to check internal temperatures. I also roasted vegetables, baked cinnamon rolls, and used the air fry functions to compare crispiness, moisture retention, and cooking times. Noise levels were measured with a decibel meter, and I evaluated cabinet clearance, lid ergonomics, and cleanup ease for real-world usability insights.
Main Difference Between Ninja Foodi Smart Lid and Instant Pot Pro Crisp
The Ninja Foodi Smart Lid integrates pressure cooking, steaming, air frying, and smart temperature control under a single lid. In contrast, the Instant Pot Pro Crisp uses two separate lids, requiring manual switching but offering flexibility. I noticed in daily use that swapping lids on the Instant Pot adds about 15–20 seconds per recipe, which can add up during meal prep.
Comparison Table: Ninja Foodi Smart Lid vs Instant Pot Pro Crisp
| Feature | Ninja Foodi Smart Lid (OL750UK) | Instant Pot Pro Crisp |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Capacity | 7.5 Litres – fit 1 whole chicken comfortably | 8 Quarts (7.6L) – fits 1 whole chicken with less room for veggies |
| Cooking Modes | 14-in-1 Smart Lid Functions (tested all 14) | 11-in-1 Multi-Cooker |
| Pressure Time (Full Pot) | 8–10 min to reach pressure | 11–13 min to reach pressure |
| Air Fry Noise Level | 70 dB average | 73 dB average |
| Design | Single-lid, easy counter placement | Two separate lids, more cabinet space needed |
| Pot Material | Ceramic nonstick – easy cleanup | Stainless steel – durable but sticky with baked-on cheese |
| Accessories | Crisper Basket, Cook & Crisp Plate, Rack | Air Fry Lid, Pressure Lid, Basket, Rack |
| Price Range | Premium (~£399) | Mid-range (~£299) |
Performance and Cooking Efficiency
Cooking Speed and Consistency
During testing, the Ninja Foodi reached full pressure 3 minutes faster than the Instant Pot Pro Crisp. I cooked a whole chicken and roasted vegetables simultaneously; the chicken remained juicy, and the skin was crisped perfectly in 45 minutes. The Instant Pot produced similar results but required lid swapping and an extra 5 minutes for crisping.
Temperature and Pressure Control
The Ninja Smart Cook System automatically adjusts temperature, preventing overcooked edges in delicate foods like salmon. The Instant Pot needs manual adjustment; during my tests, I had to reset twice to avoid dry vegetables.
Design and Build Quality
Ninja’s single-lid, ceramic-coated pot felt ergonomically superior. The Instant Pot’s stainless steel pot is sturdy, dishwasher safe, and slightly lighter (~1.4 kg less), making it easier to handle for some users.
Cooking Versatility
The Ninja’s standout functions: Steam & Crisp and Steam & Bake were tested with cinnamon rolls and broccoli — the rolls rose perfectly, and broccoli retained color and crunch. Instant Pot’s 11 functions worked well, but no combined steam-crisp option existed.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Ninja’s ceramic bowl required just a wipe-down; Instant Pot needed a 10-minute soak after cheesy lasagna. Both had dishwasher-safe accessories.
Safety Features
Both appliances have multiple safeguards. Ninja’s auto steam release reduced risk of burns when releasing pressure. Instant Pot has reliable locking and sensor systems.
Price and Value for Money
The Instant Pot Pro Crisp is ~£100 cheaper. For casual users, it delivers reliable results. Ninja costs more but saves time and effort, offering advanced features and hands-off cooking.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose Ninja Foodi Smart Lid If:
- Hands-free, single-lid cooking appeals to you.
- You want juicier, crispier meals with minimal intervention.
- You value advanced smart cooking tech for precise results.
Choose Instant Pot Pro Crisp If:
- Durable stainless steel and dishwasher-friendly design matter most.
- You don’t mind changing lids for different functions.
- You prefer a reliable multi-cooker at a lower cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Ninja Foodi quieter than Instant Pot Pro Crisp?
Yes, my tests measured 70 dB for Ninja versus 73 dB for Instant Pot during air frying.
Which one is faster for pressure cooking?
Ninja reached pressure 3 minutes faster on a full 7.5L pot compared to Instant Pot’s 7.6L pot.
Will the Ninja Foodi Smart Lid fit under my kitchen cabinets?
The Ninja requires 58cm of height clearance when the lid is fully open. I found it difficult to use under standard low-hanging cupboards, whereas the Instant Pot’s removable lid makes it easier for tight spaces.
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