Ninja FD401 vs. OL601: Which One is the Real Superhero?

Meet the Ninja FD401 and Ninja OL601 — these aren’t just pressure cookers or air fryers… they’re both! After spending plenty of time cooking with each, here’s what I found:

• Ninja OL601 packs more power and versatility thanks to its SmartLid and advanced cooking modes.
• Ninja FD401 is still a top favorite for its reliable performance and easy touchscreen controls.

Let’s dive into the full comparison so you can decide which Ninja deserves a spot on your countertop!

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👉 Ninja FD401 = https://amzn.to/4iLTqbI

👉 Ninja OL601 = https://amzn.to/44kvSaz

Quick Look: Ninja FD401 vs OL601

• Lids: OL601 has one smart lid, no swapping! FD401 has two separate lids.

• Cooking Ways: OL601 does 14 things (even steams and crisps!). FD401 does 12.

• Size: Both fit 8 quarts of food, with a 5-quart basket for crispy stuff. Good for families of 4–6.

• Cook More at Once: OL601 can cook food in 3 layers at the same time!

• Power & Weight: Both use the same power, but the OL601 is a little lighter and smaller.

• Buttons: OL601 has a dial to choose settings. FD401 has a touch screen.

• What People Think: Both get great reviews online! But way more people have reviewed the FD401.

Overview of the Ninja FD401

The Ninja FD401 Foodi Deluxe XL is a trusted multitasker. It’s like having a dependable kitchen sidekick — always ready for pressure cooking, air frying, steaming, searing, baking, and even making yogurt!

Key Highlights:

• 12-in-1 Functions: From tender roasts to crispy wings

• Two-Lid Design: Dedicated lids for pressure cooking and air frying

• TenderCrisp Tech: Pressure cooks first, then crisps to perfection

• Large Capacity: Great for families (feeds 4–6)

Thousands of positive reviews back this one up — it’s a proven performer!

Overview of the Ninja OL601

The Ninja OL601 Foodi XL Pressure Cooker Steam Fryer steps things up with 14 total functions and the convenience of a SmartLid — no more switching lids!

Standout Features:

• One Lid to Rule Them All: Seamlessly switch between cooking modes

• Steam & Crisp / Steam & Bake: Juicy and crispy all in one go

• 3-Layer Cooking: Cook your main and sides all at once!

• Compact Yet Mighty: Lighter and takes up less counter space

• Dial Control with Slider: Simple, intuitive operation

It’s the new kitchen MVP for busy cooks who love versatility.

Design & Build Quality

Ninja FD401

• Material: Mostly plastic, durable feel

• Weight: Heavier than OL601

• Storage Needs: Requires space for the second lid

• Finish: Sleek, functional look
• Dishwasher-safe ceramic-coated pot and basket

Ninja OL601

• Material: Plastic + stainless steel accents

• Weight: Lighter and slightly smaller

• SmartLid: Makes it more compact and convenient

• Finish: Modern, premium vibe

• Cleaning: Same dishwasher-safe, non-stick parts

Features You’ll Love (And Why They Matter)

What OL601 Can Do That FD401 Can’t:

• Steam & Crisp Combo
• Bake with Steam (great for cakes and breads!)
• Proof Dough
• 3-Layer Cooking
• No Lid Swapping

What Makes FD401 a Solid Pick:

• Touchscreen Simplicity
• Huge Fan Base with Tons of Recipes
• proven reliability
• TenderCrisp Power Still Rocks

Which One’s Easier to Use?

• FD401: The touchscreen is great for users familiar with smartphones. The only hassle? Swapping the lid between modes.

• OL601: One SmartLid and a simple dial make it easy to switch cooking methods without lifting a finger (well, almost!).

Both come with starter cookbooks, but OL601’s smart modes make it more adaptable for creative cooking.

Verdict: Which One Should You Get?

Choose FD401 if you:

• Prefer a lower price
• Love a touchscreen interface
• Don’t mind swapping lids
• Want a trusted model with tons of reviews

Choose OL601 if you:

• Want cutting-edge features (SmartLid, Steam & Crisp)
• Love cooking entire meals at once
• Prefer something compact and modern
• Want extra cooking modes like SteamBake and Proof

Both are excellent — it just depends on whether you want trusted simplicity or next-gen versatility.

FAQs: Ninja OL601 vs FD401

Q: Does the Ninja OL601 really save space?

A: Yes! It’s slightly smaller and replaces the need for two lids.

Q: Can both models air fry and pressure cook?

A: Absolutely. Both do it — OL601 just does it faster with more cooking options.

Q: Is the OL601 worth the extra cost?

A: If you cook frequently and want one-lid convenience with extra features, it’s worth it.

Q: Which is better for large families?

A: Both have 8-quart capacity — perfect for families of 4 to 6.

Q: Can I use the same recipes on both?

A: Yes, though OL601 has added options like SteamCrisp you may want to try!