Some appliances quietly become part of your daily routine without you even noticing, and for me, air fryers fall into that category. Over time, I’ve tested several models from Ninja, but the AF101 and AF161 stand out as two of the most commonly compared. Both promise healthier frying, faster cooking, and consistent crispiness––yet they feel very different to use in real-world cooking.
In this comparison, I’ll break down my firsthand experience with the Ninja AF101 and Ninja AF161, highlighting how they handle daily meals, big batches, frozen snacks, reheating, and everything in between. By the end, you’ll know exactly which one fits your kitchen and cooking style.
Key Difference Between Ninja AF101 vs AF161 Air Fryer
The Ninja AF101 is a compact, budget-friendly air fryer ideal for small families and everyday use, offering reliable 1550-watt performance and basic cooking modes.
The Ninja AF161, on the other hand, is the more powerful and advanced option with Max Crisp Technology, a larger 5.5-quart capacity, hotter temperatures (up to 450°F), and noticeably faster results. It’s better suited for larger households, frequent frying, and maximum crunch.
- LESS FAT: Now enjoy guilt-free food. Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. Tested...
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and...
- LESS FAT: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French...
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook foods up to 30 % faster (Versus Ninja...
Comparison Table: Ninja AF101 vs AF161 Air Fryer
| Feature | Ninja AF101 | Ninja AF161 Max XL |
| Capacity | 4 Qt (3.8L) | 5.5 Qt |
| Wattage | 1550 Watts | 1750 Watts |
| Max Temperature | 400°F | 450°F |
| Functions | Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate | Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate |
| Basket Type | Non-stick ceramic | Non-stick ceramic |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Small families, reheating, basic frying | Large families, crisp lovers, fast cooking |
| Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
Before diving into the feature-by-feature breakdown, let me say this: both of these models deliver that signature Ninja crisp. But their performance, design feel, and handling in the kitchen tell two very different stories. Here’s how they compare when you actually cook with them.
1. Design & Build Quality
Design might not change the flavor of your food, but it absolutely affects how often you reach for the appliance.
Ninja AF101:
The AF101 is compact and lightweight, which I really appreciated when rearranging my counter. It doesn’t feel bulky, and its 4-quart basket is ideal for one or two portions. The build is sturdy despite being mostly plastic, and the digital controls are clean and responsive.
Ninja AF161:
The AF161 instantly looks more modern with its high-gloss finish and a slightly more premium feel. It’s noticeably larger––not massive, but definitely something you need to make space for. What impressed me most is the better airflow design inside the chamber, which I could literally hear and see in the cooking results.
If you’re tight on counter space, the AF101 wins. For a more professional look and heavier-duty build, the AF161 takes the point.
- LESS FAT: Now enjoy guilt-free food. Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. Tested...
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and...
- LESS FAT: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French...
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook foods up to 30 % faster (Versus Ninja...
2. Ease of Use
I’m a fan of appliances that don’t require constant learning curves.
Using the AF101:
This one is simple: four main functions, clear temperature buttons, and a straightforward interface. If you’re new to air frying or don’t want fancy extras, it’s smooth sailing.
Using the AF161:
Even with extra functions, the AF161 didn’t feel complicated. The controls are intuitive, and the Max Crisp setting is just a single button press. The larger handle and wider basket opening also made it easier when loading larger food items like chicken breasts or full batches of fries.
Both are user-friendly, but the AF101 is simpler while the AF161 is more feature-rich without making things difficult.
3. Cooking Functions & Performance
Here’s where the difference becomes obvious.
Ninja AF101 Performance:
This model is consistent. It cooks evenly and reaches its full temperature quickly. For frozen snacks, roasted veggies, and reheating, it’s reliable. However, the crispiness level is good—not mind-blowing—unless you add a minute or two extra.
Ninja AF161 Performance:
The AF161 is on a different level. The Max Crisp 450°F setting produces hot, blistering air that gives frozen fries and wings the kind of crunch that feels like restaurant quality. It’s also faster—sometimes by 25–30%. When I tested both side by side, the AF161 cooked chicken wings noticeably crispier and more evenly browned.
If you love maximum crunch, the AF161 is clearly superior.
- LESS FAT: Now enjoy guilt-free food. Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. Tested...
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and...
4. Capacity & Family Suitability
Capacity often determines whether you cook one batch or two.
AF101:
Perfect for 1–2 people. I could fit about a pound of wings comfortably, but anything more meant a second batch.
AF161:
The 5.5-quart basket easily handled 3 pounds of fries or a generous portion of wings for 3–4 people. For family dinners or meal prep, this capacity makes a massive difference.
5. Noise, Cleaning & Maintenance
Both perform well here.
Cleaning:
Both models use ceramic-coated, nonstick baskets that clean up extremely easily—even sticky marinades wiped right off for me. And they’re dishwasher safe.
Noise:
The AF101 is slightly quieter, while the AF161 has a stronger fan sound due to more powerful airflow.
Overall, no major drawbacks with either appliance in this category.
Ninja AF101 4Qt Air Fryer
- LESS FAT: Now enjoy guilt-free food. Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. Tested...
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and...
Pros:
- Affordable and beginner-friendly
- Compact and lightweight
- Simple, easy-to-use controls
- Great for everyday meals
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- Smaller capacity
- Max temp only 400°F
- Slightly less crispy results
- Slower cooking compared to AF161
Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer
- LESS FAT: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French...
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook foods up to 30 % faster (Versus Ninja...
Pros:
- Larger 5.5-quart basket ideal for families
- Max Crisp 450°F delivers exceptional crunch
- Faster cooking with 1750 watts
- Seven versatile cooking functions
- Ceramic, nonstick, dishwasher-safe parts
- Professional-looking build
Cons:
- Bulkier design
- Higher price
- Slightly louder fan
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
After using both air fryers extensively, the choice comes down to what you cook and how many people you cook for.
Choose the Ninja AF101 if:
- You want an affordable, compact air fryer
- You cook smaller portions
- You prefer simple controls and basic features
- Counter space is limited
It’s a fantastic everyday air fryer for singles, couples, or small households who want reliability without spending extra.
Choose the Ninja AF161 if:
- You want the crispiest results possible
- You cook for 3–5 people
- You want faster cooking and hotter temperatures
- You enjoy versatility and more cooking options
If performance matters more than anything else, the AF161 is absolutely the better machine. The Max Crisp feature alone puts it miles ahead when it comes to texture, speed, and overall results.