Thinking of upgrading your air fryer to something more versatile and family-friendly? The Ninja Dual Zone DZ401 and Ninja FlexDrawer AF500UK both offer dual-zone cooking and impressive capacities, but which one stands out? Let’s compare the two and help you decide.
Table of Comparison
| Feature | Ninja DZ401 | Ninja AF500UK |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 10 quarts (approx. 9.5L) | 10.4L |
| Zones | 2 independent baskets | Dual Zone with removable divider (MegaZone) |
| Functions | 6 (Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) | 7 (Air Fry, Max Crisp, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, Prove) |
| Wattage | 1690W | 2470W |
| Voltage | 120V | 240V |
| Max Temperature | 450°F (approx. 232°C) | Not specified |
| Size (L x W x H) | 13.9″ x 17.1″ x 12.8″ | 49.4cm x 31.6cm x 32.7cm |
| Weight | 19.8 lbs (approx. 9 kg) | 9.38 kg |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Finish & Match Cook | Yes | Yes |
| Flex Zone Option | No | Yes |
| Country Plug | US Plug | UK Plug |
Key features of both models
Both of these air fryers come with powerful dual-zone cooking, family-sized capacity, and dishwasher-safe components. Here’s what stands out in each:
Key features of Ninja DZ401
2 completely independent 5-qt baskets for true two-dish cooking
Smart Finish syncs finish time for both zones
Match Cook mirrors settings across both baskets for convenience
6 versatile functions including broil and dehydrate
Stainless steel design with touchpad controls
Key features of Ninja AF500UK
FlexDrawer design turns 2 zones into one MegaZone by removing divider
7 functions including “Prove” and “Max Crisp” for more variety
Higher wattage for faster cooking
Energy-efficient and oil-free cooking
Comes with non-stick drawer, crisper plates, and recipe guide
Key differences between Ninja DZ401 and AF500UK
Design and Zone Flexibility
DZ401 offers two fixed baskets, while AF500UK lets you combine both zones into a large single drawer, ideal for traybakes or large roasts.
Cooking Functions
AF500UK includes one extra function—Prove—useful for baking, and Max Crisp, while DZ401 offers a max temperature of 450°F for crispy results.
Power and Speed
AF500UK is more powerful (2470W vs 1690W), likely resulting in quicker cooking, especially in large batches.
Voltage and Region Compatibility
DZ401 is designed for 120V systems (USA), while AF500UK is for 240V (UK/EU), so consider your location when buying.
Which model should I choose?
Choose Ninja DZ401 if you want completely independent cooking in two baskets with features like Match Cook and Smart Finish—great for American households and family dinners.
Choose Ninja AF500UK if you value the ability to switch between dual zones and a MegaZone, want higher power for faster cooking, and live in a region with a 240V power supply like the UK.
FAQ
Can I use the Ninja DZ401 in the UK?
You would need a voltage converter, as it’s designed for 120V systems.
Does the AF500UK come with a recipe guide?
Yes, it includes a chef-created recipe guide for easy meal ideas.
Which model is easier to clean?
Both come with non-stick, dishwasher-safe parts, so they’re equally easy to maintain.
Is the AF500UK good for baking?
Yes, especially with the added “Prove” feature and flexible MegaZone space.