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Single or dual basket? Instant Vortex Plus vs Ninja Foodi DualZone
A dual-basket fryer cooks two foods at once, but it costs more and takes up more space. We compare the most popular model of each type to help you decide.
| Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart | Ninja Foodi DualZone 8-Quart (DZ201) | |
|---|---|---|
| List price | $139.99 on Instant's site | $199.99 list |
| Capacity | 6 qt | 8 qt total (two 4 qt baskets) |
| Baskets | 1 | 2 |
| Power | 1,700 W | 1,690 W |
| Temperature | 95 to 400°F | 105 to 450°F |
| Weight | About 16 lb | 17.86 lb |
| Footprint | 12.4 in D x 14.9 in W x 12.8 in H | 15.6 in D x 13.9 in W x 12.4 in H |
| Dishwasher safe | Basket and tray | Yes |
When a single basket is better
One 6 qt basket is easier to load with large items such as a whole batch of wings or four burger patties. It is lighter (about 16 lb versus 17.86 lb), cheaper and simpler to clean. If you usually cook one dish at a time, you do not need two baskets.
When a dual basket is worth it
The DualZone's two 4 qt baskets let you cook a main and a side at different settings, and Smart Finish makes them finish together. That saves real time on weeknights. The catch is that each basket is smaller than a single 6 qt basket, so large single items can be harder to fit.
Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart
Simple, well reviewed and cheaper. Food Network's best air fryer for most home cooks.
| Price | $139.99 on Instant's site |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 qt |
| Baskets | 1 |
| Power | 1700 W |
| Temperature | 95 to 400°F |
| Modes | 6 |
Best for: A simple single-basket fryer for a family of three or four at a mid-range price.
Sources: BestReviews · Tech Advisor review · Best Buy listing (wattage Q&A)
Ninja Foodi DualZone 8-Quart (DZ201)
Two zones, Smart Finish and Match Cook. Often sold below list at $159.99 to $179.99.
| Price | $199.99 list |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 8 qt total (two 4 qt baskets) |
| Baskets | 2 |
| Power | 1690 W |
| Temperature | 105 to 450°F |
| Modes | 6 |
Best for: Households that want to cook a main and a side at the same time.
Sources: SharkNinja product page · Best Buy listing · Best Buy Q&A (coating)
Our verdict
Buy the Instant Vortex Plus if you cook one dish at a time for up to four people. Buy the Ninja Foodi DualZone if you often cook a main and a side together. See the full comparison table →