Air fryers have become a popular choice for cooking healthy and quick meals, especially for those who have busy schedules.
The Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 are two of the top-selling air fryers from Ninja. Both these models are quite similar in features and functions, but there are some differences that set them apart from each other.
In this article, we will compare the Ninja DZ401 vs DZ550 to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Comparison Table
Last update on 2024-11-07 at 15:23 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Feature | Ninja DZ401 | Ninja DZ550 |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Baskets | Yes, 2 independent XL 5-qt. baskets | Yes, 2 independent XL 5-qt. baskets |
| DualZone Technology | Yes, with Smart Finish & Match Cook | Yes, with Smart Finish & Match Cook |
| Smart Cook Thermometer | No | Yes, with integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer |
| IQ Boost | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking Programs | 6 versatile cooking programs | 6 versatile cooking programs |
| Family-Sized Capacity | 10 qt. capacity with 2 baskets | 10 qt. capacity with 2 baskets |
| Heating Zones | 2 independent XL 5-qt. zones | 2 independent XL 5-qt. zones |
| Less Fat | Up to 75% less fat than traditional methods | Up to 75% less fat than traditional methods |
| Faster Cooking | Cooks two 6-lb. chickens up to 30% faster | Cooks two 6-lb. chickens up to 30% faster |
| Temperature Range | 105°F–450°F | 105°F–450°F |
| Easy Cleaning | Yes, with easy-to-clean baskets | Yes, with nonstick cooking baskets |
| What’s Included | DualZone Air Fryer, 2 Baskets, Crisper Plates, Recipes & Cooking Charts | DualZone Air Fryer, Smart Thermometer, 2 Baskets, Crisper Plates, Recipes |
Design and Capacity
Both the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 come in a sleek grey finish and have a 10-quart capacity with two independent cooking baskets. However, the DZ401 has larger 5-quart baskets as compared to the DZ550’s 3.6-quart baskets. With its larger basket size, the DZ401 is better suited for cooking larger quantities of food, making it an excellent choice for big families or when entertaining guests.
Cooking Programs
The DZ401 and DZ550 have six versatile cooking programs, including Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. These programs make it easy to cook various types of foods with ease. Both models also feature DualZone technology, which allows you to cook two different types of food simultaneously without mixing flavors or aromas.
Smart Cook Features
The DZ401 and DZ550 come with a Smart Cook system that enables you to achieve the perfect doneness level, from rare to well-done, with the integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer. However, the DZ550 takes this a step further by incorporating a Smart Finish feature, which allows you to cook two different types of food with different cooking times, but they will finish at the same time.
IQ Boost
Both models have an IQ boost feature that optimally distributes power across each basket, enabling you to cook a 6-lb. whole chicken and side dishes as quickly as possible when Match Cook or Smart Finish is not selected.
Independent Heating Zones
The DZ401 and DZ550 both feature two independent XL 5-quart zones with their own cooking baskets, cyclonic fans, and rapid heaters. This feature ensures that each basket receives the same amount of heat, leading to evenly cooked meals.
Cleaning
Both models are easy to clean, with easy-to-clean baskets and dishwasher-safe crisper plates.
Price
The DZ401 and DZ550 are both priced reasonably, considering the features they offer. However, the DZ401 is slightly more expensive than the DZ550, owing to its larger basket size.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550?
While both air fryers have similar features like 2 independent XL air fryer baskets and 6 versatile cooking programs, the DZ550 comes with a Smart Cook System that includes a Foodi Smart Thermometer for achieving the perfect doneness, while the DZ401 comes with DualZone Technology that allows you to choose between the Smart Finish and Match Cook features.
What is the capacity of the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 air fryers?
Both air fryers have a 10-quart capacity and 2 independent 5-quart XL zones, which allow you to cook a main and a side at the same time for quick, large family meals or cook up to 8-lbs. of chicken wings with ease.
What are the cooking programs available in the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 air fryers?
Both air fryers come with 6 versatile cooking programs including Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate, allowing you to cook a wide variety of dishes.
Are the baskets and crisper plates of the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 air fryers dishwasher-safe?
Yes, the baskets and crisper plates of both air fryers are easy-to-clean and dishwasher-safe.
How does the IQ Boost feature work in the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 air fryers?
The IQ Boost feature optimally distributes power across each basket to cook a 6-lb. whole chicken and side as quickly as possible when Match Cook or Smart Finish is not selected.
How much faster can the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 air fryers cook compared to a traditional oven?
Both air fryers can cook two 6-lb. chickens up to 30% faster than a traditional oven, and can produce frozen-to-crispy meals in just 30 minutes.
Which air fryer is better for me, the Ninja DZ401 or DZ550?
The choice between the two air fryers depends on your specific needs. If you prefer a Smart Cook System with a Foodi Smart Thermometer for perfect doneness, then the DZ550 may be the better option for you. However, if you want the flexibility to choose between Smart Finish and Match Cook features, then the DZ401 may be the better choice.
Final Verdict – Which One to Choose?
Both the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 are excellent air fryers that offer similar features and functions. However, the DZ401 is better suited for larger families or those who often entertain guests, thanks to its larger basket size.
On the other hand, the DZ550 is a great option for those who want the convenience of cooking two different types of food with different cooking times but want them to finish at the same time. Ultimately, the choice between the two models comes down to personal preference and specific needs.