Ninja DT501 vs DT551: Which Smart XL Countertop Oven Should You Choose?

When it comes to countertop ovens, Ninja has completely changed the game with its Smart XL series. I’ve had the chance to try both the Ninja DT501 and the Ninja DT551, and let me tell you; both are incredibly powerful, versatile, and space-saving appliances. These aren’t just “toaster ovens.” They’re full-blown multi-function cookers that can air fry, roast, broil, bake, and even cook a 12-lb turkey without breaking a sweat.

At first glance, the DT501 and DT551 seem almost identical. They share the same design, size, and wattage, and both deliver that crispy, even cooking that Ninja ovens are known for. But after using them side by side, I realized that the key difference lies in the cooking intelligence system. The DT551 includes Ninja’s Pro Cook System with Auto Temp Detect Intelligence, which makes cooking even more foolproof by adjusting temperatures automatically and using the built-in thermometer to nail doneness levels every time.

If you’re stuck between these two models, this comparison will walk you through the key differences, similarities, and my personal experience with both, so you can decide which one fits your kitchen best.

Key Difference Between Ninja DT501 and DT551

While both ovens are nearly identical in design and performance, the Ninja DT551 has one major advantage over the DT501:

• The DT501 is a Smart XL Countertop Oven with 10-in-1 cooking functions, but it doesn’t include Ninja’s advanced doneness technology.
• The DT551, on the other hand, comes with the Pro Cook System and Auto Temp Detect Intelligence, plus a Pro Cook Thermometer that takes the guesswork out of cooking. You can literally set your doneness (rare, medium, well-done), insert the thermometer, and let the oven do the rest.

So, if you’re someone who loves precision (especially with meats), the DT551 has a clear edge. But if you’re fine relying on standard cooking modes and manual temperature control, the DT501 already does an excellent job.

Quick Specification Comparison Table: Ninja DT501 vs DT551

Feature	Ninja DT501	Ninja DT551
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
Capacity	XL – fits a 12 lb turkey, 20 cookies, or 2 pizzas	XL – fits a 12 lb turkey, 20 cookies, or 2 pizzas
Cooking Functions	10-in-1 (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Whole Roast, Toast, Bagel, Pizza, Reheat, Dehydrate)	10-in-1 (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Whole Roast, Toast, Bagel, Pizza, Reheat, Dehydrate)
Cook System	Standard Smart Surround Convection	Pro Cook System with Auto Temp Detect Intelligence
Thermometer	Not included	Included (Pro Cook Thermometer)
Controls	Button Control with Digital Display Handle	Button Control with Digital Display Handle
Preheat Time	90 seconds	90 seconds
Included Accessories	2 sheet pans, 2 wire racks, roast tray, crumb tray, air fry basket, recipe book	2 sheet pans, 2 wire racks, roast tray, crumb tray, air fry basket, Pro Cook Thermometer, recipe book
Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

Detailed Comparative Review – Ninja DT501 Vs DT551

1. Design & Build Quality

When I first unboxed these ovens, I couldn’t really tell them apart. Both have the sleek stainless-steel finish, a digital display handle, and a modern “prestige” design that looks great on any countertop. The build quality feels premium, and although these ovens are heavy (33 lbs), they’re sturdy and well-constructed.

The digital handle display is one of my favorite touches. It lights up to show you the optimal rack position depending on what cooking function you choose, super helpful when you’re juggling recipes.

From a design perspective, there’s virtually no difference between DT501 and DT551.

2. Ease of Use

Using either model is very straightforward. The control panel is intuitive, and the 90-second preheat time is a lifesaver when I need dinner ready fast.

Here’s where the DT551 pulls ahead: the Pro Cook Thermometer makes things incredibly easy, especially for meats. With the DT501, I had to rely on timers and occasionally cutting into my chicken or roast to check doneness. With the DT551, I simply set the thermometer, chose “medium rare,” and the oven handled everything else.

If you’re someone who loves precision cooking without stress, you’ll appreciate the DT551. But if you’re comfortable managing temps manually, the DT501 is still very user-friendly.

3. Cooking Functions & Performance

Both ovens come with 10 cooking functions. I tested everything from baking cookies to roasting a whole chicken, and the results were consistently excellent. The Smart Surround Convection technology really shines, heat is evenly distributed, and I didn’t have to rotate pans like in traditional ovens.

• Air Frying: Both did a fantastic job. Crispy fries with way less oil.
• Baking: I baked a batch of cookies in both, and they came out evenly browned.
• Roasting: The DT551 made this easier with the thermometer, but the DT501 still roasted perfectly once I figured out the right timing.
• Pizza: Both delivered a crisp crust and gooey cheese without burning.

Performance-wise, they’re equal. The only real advantage the DT551 has is precision doneness control with its Pro Cook System.

4. Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning was surprisingly easy for both. The nonstick trays and baskets are dishwasher-safe, and the crumb tray pulls out easily. I noticed no difference here.

Quick Rundown of Ninja DT501 Foodi Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Pros √

• Slightly cheaper than DT551
• Same 10-in-1 functionality
• Excellent even cooking with Smart Surround Convection
• Sleek, premium design
• Large capacity fits family meals

Cons x

• No thermometer included
• Requires manual monitoring for doneness

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Quick Rundown of Ninja DT551 Foodi Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Pros √

• Includes Pro Cook Thermometer
• Auto Temp Detect Intelligence ensures perfect doneness
• Same 10-in-1 functionality with smart cooking advantage
• Stress-free cooking for meats and roasts

Cons x

• Slightly more expensive
• A bit heavier (though barely noticeable compared to DT501)

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Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?

After using both ovens extensively, here’s my take:

• If you’re a casual cook who mainly wants a versatile oven for pizzas, fries, cookies, and the occasional roast, the Ninja DT501 is more than enough. It saves you money while still delivering powerful performance.
• If you’re someone who loves cooking meats, roasts, or anything that requires precision doneness, the Ninja DT551 is worth the upgrade. The Pro Cook System and Thermometer remove all the guesswork, and honestly, it made me more confident cooking steaks and poultry without hovering around the oven.

Personally, I’d go with the DT551 simply for the convenience of the thermometer and auto-temp detection. It feels like having a smart assistant in the kitchen, and that’s something I didn’t know I needed until I used it.

Final Recommendation: If budget isn’t a big concern, go for the Ninja DT551. If you want the same great cooking power at a slightly lower price, stick with the Ninja DT501. Either way, you’re getting one of the best countertop ovens on the market today.