Family dinners used to mean juggling oven space and timing everything just right. After putting the Ninja DZ401 Dual Basket Air Fryer through weeks of everyday cooking, I can say those stressful mealtimes are behind me. This XL 10-quart machine doesn’t just air fry—it lets you cook two completely different dishes at once, and both can be ready at the exact same time.
Ninja DZ401 Dual Basket Air Fryer Review
- The XL air fryer with 2 independent baskets that lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time, eliminating back-to-back cooking like a traditional single-basket air fryer.
- DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks cooking 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time, and the Match Cook feature, which easily copies settings...
Key Features and Specs:
- Brand & Model: Ninja Foodi DZ401 DualZone XL
- Capacity: 10 quarts total (two independent 5-quart baskets)
- Dimensions: 13.9″ D × 17.1″ W × 12.8″ H
- Material: Stainless steel and plastic
- Color: Grey
- Special Features: Two independent cooking baskets, Smart Finish and Match Cook modes, automatic shut-off, programmable temperature control
- Cooking Programs: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Temperature Range: 105 °F – 450 °F
- Included Accessories: Two nonstick crisper plates, dishwasher-safe baskets, cooking charts, and recipe inspiration
Ninja DZ401 Dual Basket Air Fryer: Hands-On Review
Design and Build Quality
Right out of the box, the DZ401 looks modern and sturdy. The stainless-steel trim around the sleek grey body gives it a professional kitchen vibe. At just under 14 inches deep and over 17 inches wide, it’s a substantial appliance, but the clean lines keep it from feeling bulky.
Each basket slides smoothly into place and has a solid handle that feels secure even when loaded with food. Inside, the nonstick crisper plates are well made and easy to remove for cleaning. Overall, the build quality inspires confidence—no rattles, no flimsy plastic.
- The XL air fryer with 2 independent baskets that lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time, eliminating back-to-back cooking like a traditional single-basket air fryer.
- DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks cooking 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time, and the Match Cook feature, which easily copies settings...
Ease of Use
The digital control panel is bright and straightforward. I never had to open the manual after the first glance. Buttons for each function and separate controls for Zone 1 and Zone 2 make it simple to set different temperatures and times.
Two standout features make the DZ401 shine:
- Smart Finish – Syncs the end time so two different foods finish together, even if they need different cook times or temps.
- Match Cook – Copies settings from one basket to the other for a full 10-quart cook when you’re making a large batch of the same food.
During testing, I cooked salmon fillets in one basket and roasted veggies in the other. Smart Finish handled the timing perfectly—both were hot and ready to plate at once.
- The XL air fryer with 2 independent baskets that lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time, eliminating back-to-back cooking like a traditional single-basket air fryer.
- DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks cooking 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time, and the Match Cook feature, which easily copies settings...
Cooking Performance
This is a 6-in-1 machine: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. Here’s how it performed in my kitchen:
- Air Fry: French fries came out crispy and golden with a fraction of the oil—Ninja claims up to 75% less fat, and the results support it.
- Roast: A 6-lb whole chicken roasted evenly with juicy meat and crackling skin.
- Bake: Small cakes and muffins baked consistently without hotspots.
- Air Broil: Added a perfect char to vegetables and steaks.
- Reheat: Leftover pizza tasted freshly baked, not rubbery.
- Dehydrate: Apple chips turned out crisp after a few hours at low temperature.
The IQ Boost feature impressed me by automatically distributing power across both baskets when Smart Finish or Match Cook weren’t in use, speeding up cook times without me lifting a finger.
Everyday Experience
The DZ401 quickly became my go-to for weeknight meals. Two independent 5-quart baskets mean I can cook up to 8 pounds of wings or a main dish and side simultaneously. Family taco night? Chicken in one basket, roasted peppers in the other. Sunday brunch? Hash browns on one side, bacon on the other.
The unit heats up fast and maintains an even temperature. Cleanup is equally simple—both baskets and crisper plates are dishwasher safe, and even hand-washing is a breeze thanks to the nonstick coating.
- The XL air fryer with 2 independent baskets that lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time, eliminating back-to-back cooking like a traditional single-basket air fryer.
- DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks cooking 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time, and the Match Cook feature, which easily copies settings...
Pros:
- True dual-basket design eliminates back-to-back cooking
- Smart Finish and Match Cook make timing foolproof
- Generous 10-quart capacity fits family-sized meals
- Wide 105 °F–450 °F temperature range for everything from dehydration to high-heat searing
- Six versatile cooking functions cover most day-to-day needs
- Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
- Consistent, even cooking with significantly less oil
Cons:
- Large footprint takes up noticeable counter space
- Heavier than single-basket models
- Premium price compared to basic air fryers
Final Verdict and Recommendation:
After weeks of use, the Ninja DZ401 Dual Basket Air Fryer has earned a permanent spot on my countertop. The ability to cook two separate dishes at different settings—without hovering over the stove—is a genuine game changer.
If you often cook for a family or entertain guests, the 10-quart capacity and dual-zone technology save time and stress. While it’s larger and pricier than a standard single-basket fryer, the convenience and versatility easily justify the investment.
For anyone who wants faster, healthier, and more flexible meal prep, the Ninja DZ401 is one of the best air fryers you can buy. It’s not just another kitchen gadget; it’s an appliance that simplifies dinner and elevates everyday cooking.
