The Ninja AF181 and Ninja AF182 are two XL air fryers designed to deliver crispier, healthier fried foods with Ninja’s Max Crisp Technology. Both feature a spacious 6.5-quart capacity, dishwasher-safe nonstick baskets, and the ability to cook up to 9 pounds of chicken wings or 5 pounds of fries in one go. While they look nearly identical, the AF182 adds one more cooking function, making it slightly more versatile.
If you’re wondering whether the extra function justifies choosing the AF182 over the AF181, this comparison breaks it down clearly.
Key Difference: Ninja AF181 vs AF182AMZ Air Fryer
The main difference between the Ninja AF181 and AF182 is their functionality:
- The Ninja AF181 offers 6 cooking functions: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- The Ninja AF182 offers 7 cooking functions by adding Air Broil to the list.
Everything else including capacity, design, Max Crisp 450℉ technology, and cleaning ease is nearly the same.
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers up to 450°F of superheated air for faster, hotter, and extra-crispy...
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 450℉ superheated air surrounds food for hotter, crispy results with little...
Quick Specs Comparison Table: Ninja AF181 vs AF182AMZ Air Fryer
| Feature | Ninja AF181 | Ninja AF182AMZ |
| Capacity | 6.5 Quarts | 6.5 Quarts |
| Functions | 6-in-1 (Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) | 7-in-1 (Max Crisp, Air Broil, Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) |
| Temperature Range | Up to 450℉ (Max Crisp) | Up to 450℉ (Max Crisp) |
| Dimensions | 14.92″D x 11.3″W x 12.01″H | 14.92″D x 11.3″W x 12″H |
| Weight | Not listed | Not listed |
| Basket & Crisper Plate | Nonstick, dishwasher safe | Nonstick, dishwasher safe |
| Material | Metal | Plastic |
| Color | Black/Grey | Black/Grey |
| Included Accessories | 6.5-qt basket, crisper plate, 20-recipe guide | 6.5-qt basket, crisper plate, 20-recipe guide |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design
The Ninja AF181 and AF182 share a similar compact, modern look with sleek black finishes, making them a great fit for most kitchens. However, the AF182 tends to have a slightly more refined exterior with subtle control panel enhancements, giving it a more premium feel. The AF181 is a bit more straightforward in design, focusing on practicality and simplicity, while the AF182 looks like a polished upgrade that blends better with contemporary kitchen aesthetics. Both are sturdy and well-built, but the AF182 edges ahead with its slightly more stylish presentation.
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers up to 450°F of superheated air for faster, hotter, and extra-crispy...
Cooking Performance
When it comes to performance, both models excel in delivering crispy, evenly cooked results thanks to Ninja’s advanced air frying technology. The AF181 performs reliably, offering consistent heat circulation and quick preheat times. The AF182, on the other hand, builds on that by providing a more refined cooking experience with slightly more precision in temperature control. This means the AF182 can handle delicate foods like fish or pastries a bit better, whereas the AF181 is excellent for everyday items like fries, chicken wings, and vegetables. If your cooking often involves versatility and precision, the AF182 holds the edge, but for standard frying tasks, the AF181 does just as well.
Ease of Use
Both air fryers are designed with user-friendliness in mind. The AF181 keeps it simple with intuitive buttons and clear settings that make it beginner-friendly. The AF182 offers the same ease but with a slightly improved digital interface, making it quicker to switch between presets and adjust temperature or time. Cleaning is also straightforward in both, with dishwasher-safe baskets and non-stick surfaces, but the AF182’s basket design is often praised for being a little easier to handle and clean. In short, both are easy to use, but the AF182 provides a touch more convenience.
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 450℉ superheated air surrounds food for hotter, crispy results with little...
Cooking Functions
Here’s where the AF182 really pulls ahead. While the AF181 offers core functions like Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate, the AF182 expands on this with additional presets or more refined cooking options, depending on the region it’s sold in. This makes the AF182 more versatile, allowing you to prepare a wider range of recipes with minimal guesswork. For someone who just wants a reliable air fryer for everyday meals, the AF181 covers the basics well. But if you want an air fryer that feels like a mini multi-cooker with more cooking functions, the AF182 is the smarter choice.
Quick Rundown of Ninja AF181 Air Fryer Pro XL
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers up to 450°F of superheated air for faster, hotter, and extra-crispy...
Pros √
- Sleek, modern design that fits well in most kitchens.
- Compact footprint, ideal for small to medium households.
- Straightforward controls – easy to learn and operate.
- Delivers evenly cooked, crispy results.
Cons x
- Slightly smaller cooking capacity compared to AF182.
- Limited preset functions.
- May not suit larger families or batch cooking.
QUick Rundown of Ninja AF182AMZ Air Fryer Pro XL
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 450℉ superheated air surrounds food for hotter, crispy results with little...
Pros √
- Larger capacity makes it perfect for families.
- Additional cooking functions for more versatility.
- Advanced digital controls and more presets.
- Strong performance with consistent crisping and air frying.
Cons x
- Bulkier design takes up more counter space.
- Slightly higher price point than AF181.
- Learning curve for all added functions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which air fryer is better for small kitchens – AF181 or AF182?
- The AF181 is better suited for smaller kitchens due to its compact size.
Q2: Can both models cook family-sized meals?
- The AF182 is designed for larger families with more cooking capacity, while AF181 is better for singles or small households.
Q3: Do both models have the same crisping performance?
- Yes, both deliver Ninja’s signature crisping results, but the AF182 offers more presets and flexibility.
Q4: Is the price difference worth it?
- If you need extra capacity and functions, the AF182 justifies the higher price. If not, the AF181 provides great value.
Concluding Ninja AF181 vs AF182AMZ – Winner?
When comparing the Ninja AF181 vs AF182, the decision largely comes down to capacity, versatility, and budget.
The Ninja AF181 is an excellent choice for individuals, couples, or small households. Its compact size, easy controls, and reliable crisping performance make it a straightforward and budget-friendly option.
On the other hand, the Ninja AF182 is built for families and those who want more cooking versatility. With its larger basket size, extra presets, and advanced controls, it makes meal prep faster and more convenient. However, it comes at a slightly higher price and requires more counter space.
Final Verdict:
- Choose Ninja AF181 if you want a simple, space-saving, and affordable air fryer that gets the job done.
- Choose Ninja AF182 if you cook larger meals, want extra functions, and don’t mind paying a little more for added convenience.
