The Ninja Foodi Digital Oven series is popular for one reason above all else: it flips up when you’re done using it. Unlike bulky countertop ovens that permanently take up space, both the SP151 and SP201 store vertically against your backsplash.
While these two models look similar, the differences between them matter — especially if you cook thicker foods or want more versatility heading into 2026.
The Flip-Up Advantage (Why People Buy the SP Series)
Both the Ninja SP151 and SP201 use Ninja’s patented Flip-Away Storage design.
- Flip the oven up vertically when not in use
- Reclaim over 50% of your countertop space
- No heavy lifting or disassembly required
This single feature is the primary reason buyers choose a Ninja Foodi Digital Oven instead of a traditional air fryer or toaster oven.
Important: The flip-up mechanism works the same on both models.
Interior Height: The SP201’s Biggest Advantage
The most meaningful real-world difference between these two ovens is interior height.
- Ninja SP151: Compact, low-profile interior
- Ninja SP201 (Pro): Taller interior with more vertical clearance
The SP151 performs well for toast, flat foods, and thin cuts of meat. However, thicker items can sit very close to the top heating elements.
The SP201 solves this problem by increasing the interior height.
What this means in practice:
- You can roast a 2lb piece of meat
- Taller chicken portions fit without touching the heating elements
- More even browning on bulkier foods
If you cook anything thicker than toast or pizza, the SP201 is noticeably more forgiving.
Heating Technology: Digital Crisp Control vs Pro
Both ovens use Ninja’s Digital Crisp Control system, but they are not identical.
- SP151: Digital Crisp Control
- SP201: Digital Crisp Control Pro
The Pro version uses additional infrared heating elements and improved airflow to deliver:
- Faster preheating
- More even browning
- Stronger air fry performance
Ninja claims up to 40% more even cooking with the Pro system, which aligns with real-world results when air frying frozen foods.
Cooking Functions & Versatility
This is another area where the SP201 clearly pulls ahead.
- Ninja SP151: 8-in-1 functionality
- Ninja SP201: 10-in-1 functionality
The SP201 adds:
- Dehydrate
- Reheat
If you already own a dehydrator or don’t reheat leftovers often, this may not matter. Otherwise, the SP201 offers more flexibility without increasing footprint.
Technical Specifications (Verified for 2026)
| Feature | Ninja SP151 | Ninja SP201 (Pro) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Functions | 8-in-1 | 10-in-1 |
| Heating Technology | Digital Crisp Control | Digital Crisp Control Pro |
| Interior Height | Low-Profile | Increased Height |
| Capacity | 13\” Pizza / 6–8 slices toast | 13\” Pizza / Up to 2lb roast |
| Flip-Up Storage | Yes | Yes |
Ease of Use & Cleaning
Both ovens are fully digital and use buttons with a digital display — neither model has manual dials.
- Simple control panels
- Removable crumb tray
- Non-stick interior surfaces
The SP201’s slightly larger interior makes it easier to maneuver food trays, especially when cooking thicker items.
Final Verdict
If counter space is your biggest concern, both ovens deliver the same excellent flip-up storage solution.
Choose the Ninja SP151 if you mainly toast, bake flat foods, and want the most compact digital oven possible.
Choose the Ninja SP201 (Pro) if you want more cooking flexibility, better air-fry performance, and the ability to cook taller foods without scorching.
For most kitchens heading into 2026, the Ninja SP201 is the better long-term investment — not because it’s larger on the counter, but because it does more without taking up more space.
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