Ninja DT501 vs DT251: Which Ninja Smart XL Oven is Better for You?

When it comes to countertop ovens, Ninja has built a reputation for delivering appliances that blend versatility, performance, and modern design. Among its most popular models, the Ninja DT501 Prestige Smart XL Oven and the Ninja DT251 Foodi Smart XL Oven stand out as powerful, multi-functional cooking machines. Both are designed to replace multiple kitchen appliances with their 10-in-1 cooking functionality, capable of air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, dehydrating, and more.

At first glance, the two ovens may look almost identical, they share the same dimensions, wattage, and even a similar sleek stainless-steel finish. However, upon closer inspection, there are subtle but important differences that may influence your choice. For instance, while the DT501 focuses on premium build and design aesthetics, the DT251 comes with the Smart Cook System and integrated thermometer, making it especially attractive to home chefs who value precision cooking.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down the key differences, features, pros and cons, and performance aspects of the Ninja DT501 vs DT251, helping you decide which one is the better fit for your kitchen.

Key Difference Between Ninja DT501 and DT251 Air Fryer Toaster Oven

The main difference between the Ninja DT501 and DT251 lies in their design emphasis versus smart cooking technology:

• Ninja DT501: Known as the Prestige Smart XL Oven, this model emphasizes design and aesthetics with a stylish stainless finish, ideal for those who want performance wrapped in a more premium look.
• Ninja DT251: Includes the Smart Cook System with Foodi Smart Thermometer, giving it an edge in precision cooking. It automatically monitors internal food temperature for perfect doneness.

If you’re someone who prioritizes style, the DT501 is the clear winner. But if precision cooking and hands-off monitoring matter most, the DT251 should be your choice.

Quick Comparison Table: Ninja DT501 vs DT251

Feature	Ninja DT501	Ninja DT251
Product Name	Ninja Prestige Smart XL Countertop Oven	Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Fry Oven
Dimensions	17.09″D x 20.22″W x 13.34″H	17.09″D x 20.22″W x 13.34″H
Weight	33.63 lbs	33.75 lbs
Wattage	1800 watts	1800 watts
Cooking Functions	10-in-1: Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Whole Roast, Broil, Toast, Bagel, Reheat, Dehydrate, Pizza	10-in-1: Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Whole Roast, Broil, Toast, Bagel, Reheat, Dehydrate, Pizza
Convection System	Smart Surround Convection	True Surround Convection
Smart Cook Thermometer	❌ Not included	✅ Included
Design Focus	Premium “Prestige” stainless-steel design	Functional design with integrated thermometer
Capacity	Fits 2 sheet pans, 12 lb turkey, 20 cookies	Fits 2 sheet pans, 12 lb turkey, 2 pizzas
Included Accessories	2 wire racks, 2 sheet pans, roast tray, crumb tray, air fry basket	2 sheet pans, 2 wire racks, roast tray, air fry basket, crumb tray, Smart Thermometer
Best For	Users prioritizing aesthetics and versatile performance	Users wanting precise doneness with thermometer support
Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

Detailed Comparative Review – Ninja DT501 Vs DT251

1. Design & Build Quality

Both ovens sport a stainless-steel finish, giving them a premium, modern look. However, the DT501 Prestige version has a slightly more polished appearance designed to complement luxury kitchen setups. It feels more “showpiece-worthy,” making it a good fit for homeowners who value style as much as performance.

The DT251, while equally sleek, puts more focus on practicality with its inclusion of the Smart Thermometer.

Verdict: If aesthetics are your priority, choose the DT501. If functionality and tech appeal to you, go for the DT251.

2. Ease of Use

Both models include a digital display handle that lights up to suggest the correct rack placement based on the selected function, a thoughtful touch that minimizes guesswork.

The DT251, however, has an edge in ease of use because of the Smart Cook System. Instead of manually checking food with a meat thermometer, you can set the doneness level and let the oven do the work.

Verdict: DT251 is slightly easier to use for beginners and precision cooks.

3. Cooking Functions & Performance

Both ovens come with 10 versatile cooking modes, including Air Fry, Whole Roast, and Pizza. The difference lies in their convection technology:

• DT501 uses Smart Surround Convection, ensuring even cooking without flipping or rotating food.
• DT251 uses True Surround Convection, which is marketed as 10x more powerful than traditional convection ovens. This results in faster cooking times and crispier textures.

Verdict: DT251 offers superior performance with its more advanced convection system.

4. Capacity & Versatility

Both models boast extra-large family-sized capacity, fitting a 12-lb turkey or two 12-inch pizzas. The two-level cooking system is particularly useful for preparing multiple dishes at once.

While capacity is essentially identical, the DT251 promotes more even baking results, making it slightly better for bread, pastries, and desserts.

Verdict: Tie in raw capacity, but DT251 edges out for more consistent baking.

5. Accessories Included

• DT501 comes with standard accessories: 2 sheet pans, 2 wire racks, roast tray, air fry basket, and crumb tray.
• DT251 includes all of the above plus the Foodi Smart Thermometer.

Verdict: DT251 wins with more value-added accessories.

Quick Rundown of Ninja DT501 Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Pros √

• Sleek and premium Prestige design.
• 10 versatile cooking functions.
• Large capacity for family meals.
• Smart Surround Convection for even cooking.
• Quick 90-second preheat.

Cons x

• No Smart Thermometer.
• Convection slightly less advanced than DT251.
• More style-oriented than feature-packed.

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Quick Rundown of Ninja DT251 Foodi 10-in-1 Smart XL Air Fry Oven

Pros √

• Includes Smart Cook System with thermometer.
• True Surround Convection ensures crispier, faster results.
• Perfect for precision cooking and consistent baking.
• Large family-sized capacity.
• Same 10-in-1 versatility as DT501.

Cons x

• Slightly bulkier in appearance.
• Design less “prestige” compared to DT501.
• Slightly more expensive due to added features.

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Conclusion: Ninja DT501 vs DT251 – Which Should You Buy?

Both the Ninja DT501 and DT251 are excellent countertop ovens that can truly replace a traditional oven for many households.

• Choose the Ninja DT501 if you value a premium, stylish design and want a high-performing appliance that enhances your kitchen’s aesthetics while delivering reliable multi-function cooking.
• Choose the Ninja DT251 if you prioritize precision, performance, and convenience. Its Smart Cook Thermometer and more advanced convection system make it ideal for those who frequently roast meats or bake and want consistent, foolproof results.

Our Recommendation: For most users, the Ninja DT251 is the better overall choice because of its superior convection technology and included Smart Thermometer, which takes the guesswork out of cooking. However, if you want a sleeker, more polished design and can live without the thermometer, the DT501 won’t disappoint.