Some countertop appliances earn their place by replacing multiple tools. Others earn it by disappearing when you do not need them. After using both the Ninja SP151 and Ninja SP101, I realized Ninja approached these two toaster ovens with a similar philosophy but executed it for very different types of cooks.
Both flip up to save counter space. Both promise air frying with less fat. Yet in daily use, they feel surprisingly different in how they cook, how much they hold, and how much control they give you.
This comparison reflects real usage, not just feature lists.
Key Difference: Ninja SP151 vs Ninja SP101 Toaster Oven
The core difference between Ninja SP151 and Ninja SP101 lies in heating technology and capacity orientation.
The Ninja SP151 uses OvenCrisp infrared heating, which focuses on even heat distribution and edge-to-edge browning, making it excellent for roasting and baking family-style meals quickly. The SP101, meanwhile, relies on Digital Crisp Control Technology, offering more precise control over airflow, temperature, and heat source, along with a noticeably larger interior for pizzas and toast.
Simply put, SP151 prioritizes speed and energy efficiency, while SP101 prioritizes precision and capacity.
- RECLAIM YOUR COUNTER SPACE: Takes up 50% less space when you flip it up and away to store against your...
- OVENCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Infrared heating and rapid circulating air combine for edge-to-edge even cooking.
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow for ultimate...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil,...
Comparison Table: Ninja SP151 vs Ninja SP101 Toaster Oven
| Feature | Ninja SP151 | Ninja SP101 |
| Heating Technology | OvenCrisp (Infrared + Air) | Digital Crisp Control |
| Functions | 8-in-1 | 8-in-1 |
| Power | 1800W | 1800W |
| Interior Capacity | Medium-Large | Extra-Large |
| Pizza Size | 12” | 13” |
| Toast Capacity | 6 slices | Up to 9 slices |
| Flip-Up Storage | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature Range | 85–450°F | Wide digital control |
| Best For | Fast family meals | Large meals & precision cooking |
| Check Price & Latest Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review (From Hands-On Use)
Design and Countertop Experience
The first thing I noticed about the SP151 is how compact it feels when flipped up. It truly frees counter space and blends into the backsplash area cleanly. The stainless steel finish looks premium and resists fingerprints better than expected.
The SP101 feels slightly wider and deeper. Even though it also flips up, it occupies a bit more visual space. That extra size pays off once cooking begins, but if you have limited counter depth, it is something you will notice.
Verdict: SP151 is better for tighter kitchens; SP101 suits larger countertops.
- RECLAIM YOUR COUNTER SPACE: Takes up 50% less space when you flip it up and away to store against your...
- OVENCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Infrared heating and rapid circulating air combine for edge-to-edge even cooking.
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow for ultimate...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil,...
Ease of Use and Controls
The SP151 keeps controls simple and mechanical. Selecting functions and temperatures feels quick and intuitive, especially when switching between air fry, bake, and toast. I appreciated how little thinking it required.
The SP101 feels more refined here. Digital Crisp Control offers finer adjustments, and the toast darkness selector is genuinely useful. When making toast or bagels repeatedly, consistency is better on the SP101.
Verdict: SP101 wins for precision; SP151 wins for simplicity.
Cooking Performance and Heat Distribution
Cooking performance is where these ovens separate themselves.
The SP151’s OvenCrisp technology delivers impressively even browning. Roasted vegetables, chicken breasts, and pizzas cooked evenly without rotating trays. It also preheats faster than expected and finishes meals quickly.
The SP101, however, excels with airflow control. Air frying wings or fries results in slightly crispier edges, and baking benefits from the more stable temperature regulation. It also handles thicker foods better due to its interior height.
Verdict: SP151 is faster; SP101 is more precise.
- RECLAIM YOUR COUNTER SPACE: Takes up 50% less space when you flip it up and away to store against your...
- OVENCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Infrared heating and rapid circulating air combine for edge-to-edge even cooking.
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow for ultimate...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil,...
Capacity and Meal Flexibility
Capacity is a clear win for the SP101.
It fits a 13-inch pizza, larger sheet pans, and more toast slices. I could comfortably cook for a family without juggling batches.
The SP151 still handles family meals well but feels optimized for efficiency rather than maximum volume. It is perfect for four people but starts feeling tight beyond that.
Verdict: SP101 is better for large households.
Air Frying Performance
Both air fryers deliver the promised up to 75% less fat results.
The SP151 air fries faster and is ideal for quick snacks or proteins. The SP101 produces slightly more even crisping, especially for frozen foods and thicker cuts.
Neither replaces a dedicated basket air fryer entirely, but both are excellent hybrid solutions.
Verdict: SP101 edges out for air frying quality.
Energy Efficiency and Speed
The SP151 is noticeably more energy efficient. Ninja claims up to 80% energy savings, and in practice, it heats quickly and finishes cooking sooner.
The SP101 still cooks faster than a traditional oven but consumes more energy due to its larger interior.
Verdict: SP151 wins for efficiency.
- RECLAIM YOUR COUNTER SPACE: Takes up 50% less space when you flip it up and away to store against your...
- OVENCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Infrared heating and rapid circulating air combine for edge-to-edge even cooking.
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow for ultimate...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil,...
Cleaning and Maintenance
Both models include removable crumb trays and nonstick accessories. Cleaning is straightforward.
The SP101’s accessible back panel makes deeper cleaning easier, while the SP151’s smaller interior naturally collects less mess.
Verdict: Both are easy to maintain, with a slight edge to SP101 for deep cleaning.
Noise and Heat Management
Neither oven is loud, though the SP101’s fan is more noticeable during air frying. External surfaces remain safe to touch on both units.
Verdict: Comparable performance.
Ninja SP151 Flip Toaster Oven & Air Fryer
- RECLAIM YOUR COUNTER SPACE: Takes up 50% less space when you flip it up and away to store against your...
- OVENCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Infrared heating and rapid circulating air combine for edge-to-edge even cooking.
Pros:
- Compact flip-up design saves counter space
- Faster cooking and preheat
- Energy efficient
- Even browning with OvenCrisp
- Ideal for small to mid-sized families
Cons:
- Smaller interior than SP101
- Less digital precision
Ninja SP101 Air Fryer Flip Up Toaster Oven
- DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow for ultimate...
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil,...
Pros:
- Larger cooking capacity
- Digital Crisp Control offers precise results
- Better air frying consistency
- Fits bigger pizzas and pans
- Toast customization is excellent
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint
- Uses more energy
Final Remarks & Recommendation:
After using both the Ninja SP151 and SP101, the choice becomes clear once you define your cooking habits.
If speed, energy efficiency, and counter space matter most, the SP151 feels like the smarter everyday appliance. It excels at quick meals, roasting, and baking with minimal effort.
If you cook larger meals, value precise control, and often air fry or toast in bulk, the SP101 justifies its size. It offers more flexibility and better consistency for bigger households.
My recommendation:
- Choose Ninja SP151 for efficiency-focused kitchens and fast meals
- Choose Ninja SP101 for larger families and precision cooking
Both are excellent, but they serve different cooking lifestyles.
