From Ninja’s earliest offerings (AF101) in 2018 to the now trendy Ninja Foodi SP series, the evolution of Ninja air fryers is remarkable. The models have the latest footprints in innovation, versatility, compactness, and enhanced cooking options. The Ninja Sp301 and SP351 are among the newest series and represent a significant milestone in Ninja’s air fryer evolution. They can use a pressure cooker, steam, air fry, grill, slow cook, etc.
However, there are significant differences that you must note before buying. The Sp351 has a built-in thermometer sensor, while the 301 doesn’t. Also, the SP351 is a touch control unit, whereas the 301 operates using knobs. Other features include 13 cooking programs, height, accessories, and dual heating technology, which are similar.
Learn more about these two Ninja SP series in the comparison chart below;
Ninja SP301 Vs SP351 Comparison Chart
Key Features | Ninja SP301 | Ninja SP351 |
Brand | Ninja | Ninja |
Model | SP301 | SP351 |
Smart thermometer | X | ✔ |
Cooking programs | 13 | 13 |
Flip Up and Away | ✔ | ✔ |
Dimensions | 15.33″ x 20.21″ x 8.15″ (DxWxH) | 15.33″ x 20.21″ x 8.15″ (DxWxH) |
Dual heat technology | ✔ | ✔ |
Control type | Knob | Touch |
Color | Silver and black | Silver |
Material | Plastic | Stainless steel |
Capacity | 1.9 Quarts | 4 lbs |
Wattage | 1800 watts | 1800 watts |
Accessories | Countertop oven, air fry basket, wire rack, sear plate, crumb tray, and 15+ recipe cookbook | Countertop oven, sear plate, wire rack, crumb tray (detachable), Foodi smart thermometer, and air fry basket |
Style | Extended height | Extended height |
Door style | Drop-down | Drop-down |
Finish | Stainless steel | Brushed |
Manufacture date | August 24, 2021 | December 17, 2021 |
Price | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
Ninja SP301 Review
Key Features
- 13 cooking programs
- Flip-and-away design
- Knob controls
- Plastic material
- 1800W
- Drop-down door design
- Dimensions 15.33″ x 20.21″ x 8.15″ (DxWxH)
- 1.9 quarts capacity
- Extended height style
- Dual heat technology
- Weighs 21.27 pounds
Pros
- Powerful.
- It preheats super-fast,
- Multifunctional and beautiful design
- Spacious interior.
- Easy to store.
- User friendly.
Cons
- The SP301 has a high plug-in profile
- Its low height is inconvenient for cooking a full-sized turkey or chicken.
- The plastic material makes the SP301 look cheap.
Description
Meet this state-of-the-art Ninja Foodi, released on August 24, 021. The gadget has over a dozen cooking options, including air fry, sear crisp, griddle, bake, bagel, and reheat. The 1800W power makes all your cooking possible.
Also, it is embedded with a modern cooking innovation known as Dual Heat Technology. This one heats the sear plate directly at a maximum temperature of 500°F. The super-hot heat cooks your food through the rapid cyclonic air, which produces results for your restaurant.
This Ninja Foodi has an enhanced height capacity. Its height is 8.15 inches, which fits a 2-pound roast. Tested against the conventional deep fryer, its air fry feature cooks with 75% less fat, so all your fries, potatoes, and drumsticks are nutritious and safe from back cholesterols. In addition, the oven cooks up to 65% faster than an electric oven. Its preheating takes only 60 seconds.
If you travel in an RV or have limited space, you will find the appliance convenient and efficient. It has enhanced spacing features. Once you complete your cooking or when not in use, this cooker is easy to store. Flip it against your kitchen’s backsplash and save your cabinet or countertop space.
Ninja SP351 Review
Key Features
- Dual heat technology
- Rapid cyclonic heat
- Smart thermometer
- Flip-and-away design
- Touch controls
- Stainless material
- 1800W
- Brushed finish
- Drop-down door design
- Dimensions 15.33″ x 20.21″ x 8.15″ (DxWxH)
- 4lbs capacity
- 13 cooking programs
- Extended height style
Pros
- The thermometer missing in SP301 is a great addition for testing food’s internal temperature.
- It is a multifunctional cooker with 13 cooking programs.
- Durable metallic material.
- Compact storage design.
- Large capacity for cooking more food.
- It is faster than its competitor, SP 301.
Cons
- It is too short and not easy to use a rack.
- Unpleasant first-time use fumes.
Description
The SP351 is another distinctive Ninja Foodi appliance released on December 17, 2021. According to my exposition, it is an SP301 update. The unit has several features that are similar to those of its predecessor and also dissimilar. The similar ones include the 13-in-1 cooking functionalities, dimensions (15.33″ x 20.21″ x 8.15″ (DxWxH)), power (1800W), and dual heating technology. There are more, as the comparison chart above reveals.
In this SP series, you will find unique features such as a temperature sensor or food probe (detachable). Such an item is a must-have in modern cooking. It eliminates the need to open your oven and check if your food is done and guesswork in cooking, which can cause serious illnesses. In addition, the food thermometer on this Ninja Foodi is digital/smart, meaning that it is customizable for alerts and precise.
I like the SP351’s stainless steel body and brushed finish. The metallic body spells durability and long life. In addition, the unit is heat resistant, hygienic, and safe for use. It has no plastic emissions, which are toxic whenever you heat the Ninja Foodi. The brushed finish and the stainless-0steel combination are aesthetically appealing and durable.
Lastly, the gadget comes with touch controls. There are no knobs on the SP351, which makes it effortless to operate. Touch control gadgets are advantageous in that there are no moving parts. Damages are minimal, and cleaning up the smooth surface is easy. The unit is modern, sleek, initiative, and precise. Besides, knobs and dials take up space, especially in smaller kitchens or countertops.
Similarities Between Ninja SP301 Vs SP351
- Dual heat technology and Rapid cyclonic heat
- Flip-and-away design
- 1800W
- Drop-down door design
- Dimensions 15.33″ x 20.21″ x 8.15″ (DxWxH)
- 13 cooking programs
- Extended height style 8.15″
Differences Between Ninja SP301 Vs SP351
When buying a Ninja SP series, note the following differences between the 301 and 351;
- Thermometer
One difference between the Ninja SP301 and SP351 that you won’t fail to notice is the food probe on the 351. This addition is crucial for measuring the progress of your food without opening the door. Once the food attains a certain temperature, it is certain that it is perfectly done and free from pathogens. Its texture, crustiness, and taste are perfect. So, the thermometer offers precision in cooking.
- Material
The two units come in different materials. Ninja SP301 is made of plastic, while the 351 is made of stainless steel. You can bet that the metallic unit is superior to the plastic one. It is durable, heat resistant, and doesn’t have plastic emissions or smell.
- Controls
Controls are the link between the user and the gadget. They enhance communication with the unit. For these two units, the sp351’s interface is touch while the 301 is knob controls. Each one of these has its pros and cons. The touch control on the SP351 is effortless to operate, precise, and fast to respond. Conversely, it is sensitive to dirt and moisture and more costly to replace. The knob controls are hardy but require some effort to dial and also harbors dirt on the grooves.
- Finish
If you love sleek designs, you will find both appliances worthwhile. However, the finishes are different. The 301 is stainless steel, whereas the 351 is brushed. Besides sleekness, another advantage of stainless steel is that it is easy to clean. A simple wipe leaves it shiny with no marks. The same applies to the brushed finish. It is an easy-to-clean finish that also does not stain or rust.
Similarities Between Ninja SP301 Vs SP351
There are more similarities between the Ninja SP301 and SP351 than differences. As I said earlier, they are copy designs of each other with only a few contrasts. Have a look;
- Dual Heat Technology
This heating technology is standard in both ninja appliances. It involves two heating elements on the unit to enhance different temperature settings. The elements work together for rapid heating precision and efficiency.
- Rapid Cyclonic Heat
In both gadgets, powerful fans circulate hot air around the food. The circulation creates a cyclonic effect, enhancing even heat distribution and efficient cooking. Usually, the air is hot, and the speed is high, which cooks food without oil and crispiness.
- Flip-And-Away Design
The flip-and-away design is essential for compact storage. Both units have the same design.
- 1800W
The two SP Ninja Foodi series come with an 1800W power.
- Drop-Down Door Design
The most favorable door design in ovens is the drop-down. Its features include a door that opens downwards instead of sideways. The design provides easy access to the cooking chamber area and allows convenient loading and unloading. There are minimal risks of accidental burning or dropping of items.
- Dimensions
These ovens have similar dimensions and measure 15.33″ x 20.21″ x 8.15″ (DxWxH).
- 13 Cooking Programs
Each unit has 13 cooking options or programs, hence the 13-in-1 functionality. They include Reheat, Dehydrate, Bagel, Toast, Broil, Air Roast, Griddle, Fresh Pizza, Frozen Pizza, Bake, Rapid Bake, Sear Crisp, and Air Fry.
Verdict
There you have it! An ultimate guide between two air fryers with almost similar features, the Ninja SP301 and SP351, but different models. The Ninja SP351 has a temperature gauge, comprises stainless steel material, and has a brushed finish. It also has touch controls.
On the other hand, the Ninja SP301 has no thermometer, consists of plastic material, and has a stainless steel finish. Operations or controls are through knobs on the dashboard.
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