Ninja AF161 Air Fryer Review 5.5-Quart Model with Max Crisp Technology

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Ninja AF161, 5.5-Quart, Gray (Renewed) definitely left an impression on me when I first unboxed it. Its sleek gray finish and modern design are incredibly appealing, making it a stylish addition to my kitchen counter. Although I’ve seen some air fryers that look bulky or out of place, this one strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The ceramic-coated nonstick basket feels durable and sturdy, and let me tell you, the 5.5-quart capacity is no joke—it easily holds enough food for a small family meal. The handle has a solid grip, which feels reassuring when you’re pulling out a basket full of piping hot food. The design doesn’t just look good—it’s practical too.

One thing I noticed, though, is that the buttons and display could be slightly more intuitive. While the control panel is easy enough to figure out after a bit of use, I did find myself double-checking the manual at first. On the plus side, the build quality feels reliable, and even though this is a renewed model, there were no noticeable signs of wear or damage.

Performance and Cooking Efficiency

Cooking with this air fryer has been a game-changer for me. Using the Max Crisp Technology at 450 degrees, it delivers superheated air that cooks food significantly faster than traditional methods. I tossed in some frozen French fries one evening to test it out, and they came out perfectly crisp in under 10 minutes. I even tried the Air Roast and Air Broil functions for a batch of chicken wings, and they were cooked evenly with a beautiful golden-brown finish.

One of the standout features is the wide temperature range, from 105°F to 450°F. This flexibility means you can do everything from dehydrating fruit snacks to baking desserts. I experimented with the Dehydrate function to make apple chips, and they turned out surprisingly good—crispy and flavorful without being overly dry. Plus, the nonstick ceramic basket makes cleanup a breeze.

That said, while this air fryer is excellent for crispy results, it does have a bit of a learning curve when it comes to getting the timing and temperature just right for certain recipes. I overcooked a batch of pastries the first time I used the Bake function, but after a little trial and error, I got the hang of it.

Key Benefits

• Up to 75% less fat than traditional frying, making it a healthier cooking option.
• Max Crisp Technology ensures faster cooking times and crispier results.
• 5.5-quart capacity is large enough for family-sized meals.
• Versatile with multiple cooking functions: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
• Ceramic-coated basket is nonstick and dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup.

Areas of Concern

• The control panel could be more user-friendly for first-time users.
• Some trial and error is required to perfect cooking times for specific dishes.
• It’s slightly larger than some other models, so it might not fit well in smaller kitchens.

Competing Products

Compared to other air fryers like the COSORI Pro LE 5-Quart and the Instant Vortex Plus, the Ninja AF161 holds its own with its Max Crisp Technology and versatility. The COSORI model, for instance, is slightly more compact, making it better for smaller spaces, but it lacks the high-temperature range of the Ninja. The Instant Vortex Plus, on the other hand, offers similar functionality but doesn’t quite match the Ninja’s durable ceramic basket and large capacity.

What makes this air fryer stand out is its ability to cook faster and more evenly, thanks to the 450-degree temperature setting. However, if you’re looking for a more compact or budget-friendly option, the COSORI might be a better fit. For those who value speed and capacity, though, this Ninja model is hard to beat.

Value for Money

This air fryer offers excellent cost-effectiveness for what it brings to the table. Its renewed status doesn’t detract from its performance, and it feels like a premium appliance despite the reduced price. The combination of multiple cooking functions, a generous capacity, and a wide temperature range makes it a versatile addition to any kitchen. While it may not be the cheapest air fryer out there, the quality and features justify the investment.

For anyone who loves frying food without the guilt or hassle, this product delivers. Just be prepared to experiment a bit to get the most out of it!