If you’re deciding between the Ninja SP101 and Ninja ST101, the most important difference isn’t presets, wattage, or cooking modes.
The real difference — and the reason people buy these models — is how each one flips to save space.
The Ninja SP101 flips up and away against your backsplash, clearing your counter when not in use.
The Ninja ST101 flips down to become an oven and flips back up to function as a toaster.
Once you understand this flip design, choosing the right model becomes much easier.
Main Differences Between Ninja SP101 and ST101 Digital Air Fry Oven
1. Flip Design & Counter Space
- SP101: Flips upward for vertical storage. Excellent for small kitchens.
- ST101: Flips downward into oven mode. Always uses some counter depth.
In everyday use, the SP101 feels far less intrusive because you can completely reclaim your workspace after cooking.
2. Cooking Capacity (Real-World Use)
- SP101: Fits a 13-inch pizza and sheet-pan meals, but interior height is shallow.
- ST101: Taller interior for toast and small bakes, but narrower overall.
Neither model can roast a whole chicken. If that’s a priority, you’ll need a larger countertop oven.
3. Performance & Experience
- The SP101 air fries noticeably faster than most traditional toaster ovens.
- In testing, chicken wings cooked about 20% faster than in a conventional oven.
- The convection fan is slightly loud, but results are crisp and even.
- The ST101 excels at toast, reheating, and light baking — not full meals.
Cleaning & Maintenance (Important Reality Check)
Cleaning is one of the most common complaints about Ninja Flip ovens.
- The back heating element cover is not removable.
- Grease can build up on the ceiling of the SP101 over time.
Pro Tip: Wipe the interior while it’s still warm after each use.
Once grease bakes onto the upper panel, it becomes very difficult to remove.
Countertop Footprint & Space Requirements
- Ninja SP101: Requires about 15 inches of vertical clearance to flip up.
- Ninja ST101: Needs less vertical space but more depth when flipped down.
If you have cabinets above your counter, measure carefully before choosing the SP101.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Ninja SP101 | Ninja ST101 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Oven + Air Fryer | Toaster + Compact Oven |
| Flip Design | Flips Up (Vertical Storage) | Flips Down (2-in-1) |
| Counter Space | Clears counter when stored | Always occupies depth |
| Pizza Capacity | Up to 13 inches | Personal-size pizzas |
| Whole Chicken | No | No |
| Max Temperature | 450°F (232°C) | 450°F (232°C) |
| Best For | Sheet-pan meals & air frying | Daily toasting & light baking |
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air...
- 2-IN-1 FLIP FUNCTIONALITY: Toaster and Compact Toaster Oven in one small footprint. Flip up for...
- PERFECT TOAST: More even toasting vs. a traditional toaster based on front to back evenness, in...
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Ninja SP101 if:
- You cook full meals regularly
- You want to maximize counter space
- You use air-fry mode frequently
👉 Buy Ninja SP101
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air...
Buy the Ninja ST101 if:
- You mainly want a toaster
- You live in a dorm or studio apartment
- You cook small portions
👉 Buy Ninja ST101
- 2-IN-1 FLIP FUNCTIONALITY: Toaster and Compact Toaster Oven in one small footprint. Flip up for...
- PERFECT TOAST: More even toasting vs. a traditional toaster based on front to back evenness, in...
Frequently Asked Questions
Can either oven fit a 9×13 pan?
No. The SP101 comes close in width, but interior height is the limiting factor.
Do these ovens get hot on the outside?
Yes. Both get warm during air frying, but the SP101 is safer once flipped up.
Is the ST101 just a smaller SP101?
No. The ST101 is toaster-first by design, while the SP101 is a true countertop oven.
Final Verdict
Choose the Ninja SP101 if you want real cooking power in a small kitchen.
Choose the Ninja ST101 if you want a smart toaster with occasional oven use.
Once you understand the flip design, the right choice becomes obvious.
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air...
- 2-IN-1 FLIP FUNCTIONALITY: Toaster and Compact Toaster Oven in one small footprint. Flip up for...
- PERFECT TOAST: More even toasting vs. a traditional toaster based on front to back evenness, in...
