Choosing between the Ninja FD401 vs OL601 might feel like splitting hairs at first glance. Both come from Ninja, one of the most trusted names in kitchen appliances here in the U.S., and both promise to replace multiple gadgets sitting on your counter. But after months of using them side by side in my own kitchen, I can tell you there are some clear differences that can make one model a better fit for your lifestyle.

I live in a busy household where weeknight dinners often need to be quick, healthy, and big enough to feed multiple people. Over the years, I’ve tested more than a dozen multicookers, pressure cookers, and air fryers, and I’ve learned one thing: not all “all-in-one” appliances are created equal. Some shine in convenience but lack durability. Others cook beautifully but are frustrating to use. That’s why I decided to put the Ninja FD401 and the Ninja OL601 to the test real-world cooking, family meals, and everyday challenges.

So if you’ve been stuck trying to decide between these two, you’re in the right place. I’ll break down what makes each one special, where they fall short, and which might be the smarter buy for you.

Is Ninja FD401 Good? My Honest Hands-On Review

If you’ve been scrolling through Amazon or standing in the appliance aisle at Costco, you’ve probably seen the Ninja Foodi FD401 pop up again and again. It’s one of Ninja’s best-selling models, and for good reason it promises to be a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, and more, all in one. But the big question is: is the Ninja FD401 actually good, or is it just hype?

After cooking with mine several times a week for months, I can confidently say it’s not just good, it’s fantastic. But like any appliance, it has its quirks, and whether it’s right for you depends on your kitchen and cooking style.

Let me walk you through exactly what I found.

The First Meal I Made in the FD401

I’ll never forget the first night I tested the FD401. I had a pork shoulder sitting in my fridge that I planned to slow cook all day. But time got away from me work ran late, the kids had after-school activities, and before I knew it, it was already 6 PM. Normally, that would have been a disaster. But with the FD401, I decided to try the pressure cook function.

I seasoned the pork, tossed it in with some broth, and set the pressure cook timer for an hour. To my surprise, not only was it tender and juicy when it came out, but I also used the TenderCrisp feature to finish it off with a golden crust without moving it to the oven. In under 90 minutes, I had pulled pork that tasted like it had been cooking all day. My family devoured it, and I sat there thinking: “Okay…this machine just earned its spot on my counter.”

That was my “aha” moment with the FD401. Since then, it’s become one of my most-used appliances.

What Makes the Ninja FD401 Good

Let’s break down what I’ve loved most about the FD401.

1. Strong Build Quality

When you spend a couple hundred bucks on a kitchen appliance, you want it to feel solid. The FD401 delivers on that front.

• The stainless-steel exterior looks sharp and doesn’t stain easily.
  
• The lid feels sturdy, with a tight seal for pressure cooking.
  
• The inner pot is heavy-duty, which is great for durability (though I’ll talk about the weight issue later).
  

I’ve used mine several times a week for months, and it still looks and functions like it did on day one. That’s not something I can say for every multicooker I’ve tested.

2. Versatile Cooking Functions (9-in-1)

The FD401 is marketed as a 9-in-1 Deluxe XL, and that’s not just a gimmick. It really does replace several appliances:

• Pressure Cooker – Cuts cooking times by 70%. Great for stews, beans, and roasts.
  
• Air Fryer (Air Crisp) – Makes crispy fries, wings, and veggies with far less oil.
  
• Steam – Perfect for veggies, dumplings, and fish.
  
• Slow Cooker – For classic “set it and forget it” meals.
  
• Sear/Sauté – Lets you brown meat or onions right in the pot before pressure cooking.
  
• Bake/Roast – Yes, you can actually bake cakes or roast chicken.
  
• Broil – Handy for melting cheese or finishing dishes with a crust.
  
• Dehydrate – I’ve used this for apple chips and homemade jerky.
  
• Yogurt – A bonus feature if you’re into homemade yogurt.
  

For me, the TenderCrisp function (pressure cook + air crisp in the same pot) is the real star. I’ve made chicken, pork, even ribs this way, and the results have been consistently delicious.

3. User-Friendly Design

One thing I’ve noticed with some multicookers is that they feel intimidating. Too many buttons, confusing icons, and a steep learning curve. The FD401, on the other hand, is refreshingly simple.

• The control panel has big, clear buttons and a large dial.
  
• I rarely needed to pull out the manual just a few tries and I was set.
  
• The included recipe book actually gave me practical ideas I used in real life (not just fancy dishes I’d never make).
  

It’s one of those appliances where you feel comfortable experimenting, because it doesn’t overwhelm you with complicated steps.

4. Great for Busy Families

The FD401’s size is a huge win in my household. With its 8-quart pot and 5-quart Cook & Crisp basket, I can easily make meals big enough for my family of four with leftovers for the next day.

A couple examples:

• Fries for the whole family – Toss a whole bag of frozen fries in the air crisp basket, and 15 minutes later we’re all snacking.
  
• Chili night – I can make a big batch in the pressure cooker and have plenty left to freeze for another meal.
  

If you live alone or in a small apartment, the size might feel like overkill. But for families or people who like batch cooking, it’s perfect.

What Could Be Better

As much as I love the FD401, it’s not flawless. Here are the things I think Ninja could improve.

1. It’s Bulky

There’s no getting around it the FD401 is big. If you have a small kitchen or limited counter space, this thing will dominate it. I had to rearrange a few things to make it fit comfortably.

2. Learning Curve for Advanced Functions

While the basics are easy, mastering all 9 functions took me a little time. For example, figuring out the best timings for air crisp after pressure cooking wasn’t instantly obvious. Ninja could include a clearer quick-start guide for first-timers.

3. Heavy Inner Pot

The pot is built to last, but it’s also heavy especially when full. Lifting it to drain or clean can be awkward. I personally don’t mind, but someone with limited strength or mobility might find it frustrating.

Who Should Buy the FD401

The FD401 is not for everyone, but it’s perfect for the right kind of person.

• Busy Families – If you need to cook large meals quickly, this is a lifesaver.
  
• Meal Preppers – You can batch cook proteins, soups, or grains for the week in one go.
  
• Home Cooks Who Love Versatility – If you like experimenting with different recipes but don’t want a dozen appliances cluttering your kitchen, the FD401 checks all the boxes.
  
• Health-Conscious Cooks – The air crisp function really does cut down on oil, so you can enjoy fries, wings, and chips without the guilt.
  

Who Might Want to Skip It

• Small Kitchens – If counter space is tight, the FD401 might feel overwhelming.
  
• Minimalists – If you prefer a simple slow cooker or pressure cooker without all the extras, the FD401 might be more machine than you really need.
  
• Budget Shoppers – While not the most expensive in Ninja’s lineup, it’s still pricier than basic cookers.
  

My Recommendation

So, is the Ninja FD401 good? Absolutely. In fact, it’s been one of the best kitchen upgrades I’ve made in the past few years. It saves me time, makes weeknight dinners less stressful, and delivers consistently tasty results.

That said, it’s not perfect it’s bulky, a bit heavy, and takes some trial and error to fully master. But if you want a reliable, versatile multicooker that can truly replace multiple appliances, the FD401 is worth every penny.

Is the Ninja OL601 Good? My Full Review After Months of Cooking

The Ninja Foodi OL601 is one of the newer and more advanced models in Ninja’s Foodi line, and honestly, I was skeptical at first. I already owned the FD401, which I loved so I kept asking myself, “Do I really need another multicooker that seems to do the same thing?”

But after months of using the OL601, I can tell you: yes, there are big differences. And if you’re wondering whether the OL601 is good, the short answer is yes it’s excellent. In fact, for the right person, it’s even better than the FD401.

Let me walk you through what makes it stand out, what I’ve personally cooked in it, and a few drawbacks you’ll want to know before buying.

The First Dish I Tried in the OL601

When I first unboxed the OL601, the feature that immediately caught my attention was the SmartLid Slider. Unlike the FD401, which comes with two separate lids (one for pressure cooking and one for air crisping), the OL601 has a single lid that does it all. Just slide the switch to move between modes pressure cook, air fry, or steam.

Naturally, I had to test this right away.

My first experiment was a salmon and veggie dinner. Normally, I’d have to steam veggies separately on the stove while baking salmon in the oven. With the OL601, I set it to the Steam & Crisp mode: salmon on the rack, veggies underneath.

In about 20 minutes, I had perfectly flaky salmon and tender, bright veggies. No sogginess, no overcooked fish, and no juggling multiple pots. It was one of those meals where I sat back and thought, “Okay, this SmartLid thing isn’t just a gimmick.”

What Makes the Ninja OL601 Good

After dozens of meals, here’s what really makes the OL601 shine.

1. The SmartLid Technology

This is the single biggest reason I think the OL601 is worth considering.

• No More Lid Swapping – If you’ve used the FD401, you know it can be annoying to keep track of multiple lids. The OL601 simplifies everything with just one.
  
• Easy Mode Switching – A simple slider lets you jump between Pressure Cook, Air Fry, and Steam. It feels smooth and intuitive.
  
• Fewer Accessories to Store – My kitchen already has enough clutter. Having one lid instead of two is a huge win for space.
  

It might sound like a small change, but in daily use, it makes a massive difference in convenience.

2. 14-in-1 Cooking Functions

Where the FD401 stops at 9 functions, the OL601 keeps going with 14 total cooking modes. Along with the usual suspects pressure cooking, air crisping, steaming, sautéing, etc. the OL601 adds some clever extras:

• Steam & Crisp – My personal favorite. Combines steaming with air frying for juicier meats and crispier finishes.
  
• Steam & Bake – Great for cakes, breads, and desserts that need extra moisture. I made banana bread in this mode and it came out more evenly cooked and softer than in my oven.
  
• Proofing – For those who bake bread at home, this is a lifesaver.
  
• SmartCook Programs – Pre-set functions that adjust temperature and time based on what you’re cooking.
  

It’s almost like Ninja took the FD401, asked home cooks what else they wanted, and then packed it all into the OL601.

3. Steam & Crisp = Game Changer

I need to give this feature its own section because it’s the one that surprised me the most.

Here’s how I’ve used it:

• Whole Chicken – Pressure cook first for tenderness, then finish with Steam & Crisp. The skin came out golden, but the meat stayed juicy. With the FD401, I sometimes found the skin a little drier.
  
• Fish – Normally tricky in an air fryer because it dries out quickly. With Steam & Crisp, salmon and cod stayed moist with a delicate crust.
  
• Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, and carrots turned out vibrant and flavorful never mushy.
  

It’s honestly the feature that makes the OL601 feel like a genuine step up from the FD401.

4. Same Big Capacity

Just like the FD401, the OL601 has an 8-quart cooking pot and a 5-quart Cook & Crisp basket.

For me, this means:

• Cooking a whole chicken is no problem.
  
• Fries for the family? Toss in a bag, and they’re ready in under 20 minutes.
  
• Batch cooking soups or chili is easy I often freeze leftovers for later.
  

So while the size is the same, the added features make it feel more efficient.

5. Better for Bakers

One thing I didn’t expect is how much I’d love the OL601 for baking. I tried banana bread, cornbread, and even a cheesecake. With Steam & Bake mode, everything came out more moist and evenly cooked than in my regular oven.

I wouldn’t buy the OL601 for baking alone, but if you do bake regularly, this feature will surprise you.

What Could Be Better

Of course, the OL601 isn’t perfect either. Here are the things that stood out.

1. Pricey Compared to FD401

The OL601 usually costs more than the FD401. If budget is tight, this can be a deal-breaker.

2. Bulky and Heavy

Like the FD401, it’s not small. If you have limited counter space, you’ll need to plan where this goes. I keep mine on a rolling cart so I can move it when needed.

3. Learning Curve with Steam Functions

While basic functions are easy, getting the most out of Steam & Crisp or Steam & Bake takes a little trial and error. The first time I tried baking bread, I overdid the steaming and ended up with soggy edges. But after a few tries, I figured it out.

Who Should Buy the OL601

The OL601 isn’t for everyone but for the right person, it’s amazing.

• Home Cooks Who Love Variety – If you cook a lot and like trying new techniques, the extra functions are worth it.
  
• People Who Value Convenience – The SmartLid is genuinely more convenient. No extra lids to swap or store.
  
• Families or Entertainers – The 8-quart pot makes it easy to cook big meals.
  
• Bakers – If you bake regularly, the Steam & Bake mode is a big plus.
  

Who Might Skip the OL601

• Budget Shoppers – If cost is your top concern, the FD401 gives you 80% of the features for less money.
  
• Minimal Cooks – If you mostly just want pressure cooking and air frying, the extra functions might feel unnecessary.
  
• Small Kitchens – Like the FD401, it’s big and heavy.
  

My Honest Verdict

So, is the Ninja OL601 good? Absolutely. In fact, I’d argue it’s one of the best all-in-one multicookers Ninja has ever made.

The SmartLid is a huge convenience upgrade, the Steam & Crisp mode genuinely improves food texture, and the extra cooking functions make it feel more versatile and future-proof.

That said, it does come at a higher price point, and if you don’t think you’ll use the steam functions, you may be perfectly happy with the FD401.

But if you want the latest, smartest, and most versatile Foodi experience, the OL601 is worth the investment.

Ninja FD401 vs OL601: Detailed Comparison

If you’ve made it this far, you already know both the Ninja FD401 and the Ninja OL601 are excellent multicookers. They both promise to save time in the kitchen, combine multiple appliances into one, and make weeknight dinners a whole lot easier.

But here’s the big question most shoppers have: which one should I buy?

To answer that, I put both side by side in my kitchen, cooked with them for weeks, and compared every detail from size and build quality to cooking performance. Here’s my full breakdown.

1. Design and Build Quality

• FD401:
  
  • Comes with two lids: a pressure cooking lid and an attached air fryer lid.
    
  • The pressure lid needs to be removed and stored when not in use.
    
  • Feels solid and durable, but the extra lid adds clutter.
    
• OL601:
  
  • Has the SmartLid Slider, which replaces both lids with a single all-in-one lid.
    
  • Sliding the switch lets you move between pressure, air fry, and steam modes.
    
  • Sleeker, less bulky, and easier to manage day-to-day.
    

👉 Winner: OL601. The SmartLid system makes it far more convenient and less cluttered.

2. Cooking Functions

• FD401:
  
  • 9 functions total: Pressure Cook, Air Crisp, Steam, Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Bake/Roast, Broil, Dehydrate, and Yogurt.
    
  • Covers the basics very well.
    
• OL601:
  
  • 14 functions total, including everything the FD401 does plus:
    
    • Steam & Crisp
      
    • Steam & Bake
      
    • Proofing (for dough)
      
    • SmartCook Programs with built-in temperature probes
      
  • These extra steam-based functions add versatility, especially for baking and delicate proteins.
    

👉 Winner: OL601. If you want the full range of options, it’s the more advanced model.

3. Ease of Use

• FD401:
  
  • The control panel is straightforward with big, clear buttons.
    
  • Switching between functions is simple but requires lid swapping.
    
  • Recipes are easy to follow, even for beginners.
    
• OL601:
  
  • The SmartLid makes it faster to switch functions without worrying about changing lids.
    
  • The slider system feels more intuitive after a few uses.
    
  • Slight learning curve with steam functions like “Steam & Crisp,” but once you learn it, it’s easy.
    

👉 Winner: OL601. Slightly easier day-to-day thanks to SmartLid, though FD401 is still beginner-friendly.

4. Size and Capacity

• Both models:
  
  • 8-quart cooking pot
    
  • 5-quart Cook & Crisp basket
    
  • Can cook a whole chicken, a large roast, or enough fries for a family of four.
    
  • Both are bulky and heavy, so they’ll take up counter space.
    

👉 Winner: Tie. Both are identical in size and capacity.

5. Cooking Performance

Here’s where I noticed subtle but important differences.

• FD401:
  
  • Pressure cooking and TenderCrisp are excellent.
    
  • Produces juicy meats and crispy finishes, though sometimes the skin of chicken can be a bit drier.
    
  • Air crisp works well for fries, wings, and veggies.
    
• OL601:
  
  • Everything the FD401 does, plus better results with Steam & Crisp.
    
  • Chicken skin comes out golden and moist underneath.
    
  • Fish stays tender while still crisping up slightly.
    
  • Baking (bread, cakes, cheesecake) turns out more evenly cooked thanks to Steam & Bake.
    

👉 Winner: OL601. The steam-based functions really do make a difference, especially for chicken, fish, and baking.

6. Learning Curve

• FD401:
  
  • Easy to start cooking with right away.
    
  • Most people master it within a couple of uses.
    
• OL601:
  
  • Basic functions are easy, but the steam functions require some trial and error.
    
  • I had a few soggy bakes before I figured out the right balance.
    

👉 Winner: FD401. Simpler and easier for beginners, though OL601 isn’t hard just slightly more advanced.

7. Price

• FD401: Usually the more affordable option.
  
• OL601: Typically costs more because of the added SmartLid and functions.
  

👉 Winner: FD401. If you’re budget-conscious, it gives you most of what you need at a lower price.

8. Best For…

• FD401 is best for:
  
  • Beginners who want an affordable, reliable multicooker.
    
  • Families who want large batch cooking without fancy extras.
    
  • People who don’t mind swapping lids.
    
• OL601 is best for:
  
  • Cooks who value convenience and versatility.
    
  • People who love experimenting with new cooking techniques.
    
  • Bakers and foodies who want Steam & Crisp and Steam & Bake modes.
    
  • Those willing to pay more for added convenience.
    

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Ninja FD401	Ninja OL601
Lids	Two (separate pressure + air fry)	One SmartLid (all-in-one)
Cooking Functions	9	14
Capacity	8 qt pot, 5 qt basket	8 qt pot, 5 qt basket
TenderCrisp / Air Crisp	Yes	Yes (plus Steam & Crisp)
Baking Support	Basic Bake/Roast	Steam & Bake for better results
Proofing Function	No	Yes
SmartCook Programs	No	Yes
Ease of Use	Simple but requires lid swap	SmartLid makes it faster
Price	Lower	Higher
Best For	Families, beginners, budget shoppers	Advanced cooks, bakers, foodies

My Final Verdic

So, Ninja FD401 vs OL601 who wins?

• If you want the most budget-friendly, simple, and reliable option, the FD401 is still an amazing choice. It gives you all the core functions you’ll actually use most days.
  
• But if you want next-level convenience, advanced cooking functions, and better results with baking and delicate foods, the OL601 is the clear winner.
  

For me personally, the OL601 has replaced the FD401 in my kitchen. The SmartLid and Steam & Crisp functions just make everyday cooking more enjoyable. But if I were trying to save money, I’d be perfectly happy sticking with the FD401.

FAQs About Ninja FD401 vs OL601

Whenever I write about kitchen appliances, I always get the same follow-up messages in my inbox: “Which one should I buy?” and “Is it worth spending extra?” The Ninja FD401 vs OL601 debate is no exception.

To help, I’ve put together answers to the most common questions people ask about these two multicookers. Hopefully, this clears up any confusion and makes your decision a lot easier.

1. What is the main difference between the Ninja FD401 and OL601?

The biggest difference is in the lid design and cooking functions.

• The FD401 comes with two separate lids (one for pressure cooking and one for air frying/crisping).
  
• The OL601 uses a single SmartLid that can switch between pressure, air fry, and steam functions with a simple slider.
  

On top of that, the OL601 has 14 cooking functions compared to the FD401’s 9. This includes new modes like Steam & Crisp and Steam & Bake, which give you juicier meats and more evenly baked breads/cakes.

2. Is the OL601 worth the extra money over the FD401?

That depends on your cooking style.

• If you’re a casual cook who just wants pressure cooking and air frying, the FD401 is plenty.
  
• If you’re an adventurous cook or someone who bakes a lot, the OL601’s Steam & Crisp and Steam & Bake features are worth the investment.
  

Personally, I found that the OL601’s SmartLid made everyday cooking easier because I didn’t have to swap lids. For me, that convenience alone was worth paying more.

3. Can both the FD401 and OL601 cook a whole chicken?

Yes! Both models come with a large 8-quart pot and a 5-quart Cook & Crisp basket. I’ve cooked whole chickens in both, and they fit perfectly.

The difference is in the results:

• In the FD401, chicken skin comes out crispy, but sometimes the meat underneath can be slightly drier.
  
• In the OL601, the Steam & Crisp function keeps the meat juicy while still crisping the skin beautifully.
  

So while both work, the OL601 has a slight edge.

4. Which one is easier to use?

• The FD401 is simpler overall because it has fewer functions. Beginners can jump right in.
  
• The OL601 is just as easy for basic cooking, but the steam modes add a small learning curve. Once you try them a few times, it becomes second nature.
  

That said, the SmartLid makes the OL601 more convenient; you never have to swap lids or worry about storing extras.

5. Do both models take up the same amount of space?

Yes. Both the FD401 and OL601 are big and heavy appliances. If you’re tight on counter space, you’ll need to plan carefully.

• FD401 has two lids, so you also need space to store the pressure lid when not in use.
  
• OL601 only has one lid, which makes storage a little easier.
  

If counter space is precious in your kitchen, the OL601 might feel less cluttered.

6. Which one is better for baking?

The OL601 is the clear winner for baking.

• The FD401 has a basic Bake/Roast function, which works fine for things like brownies or cornbread.
  
• The OL601, however, has a dedicated Steam & Bake mode. This keeps baked goods moist and prevents them from drying out.
  

I made banana bread in both models, and the OL601 produced a softer, more evenly baked loaf. The FD401’s bread was still good but not quite as tender.

7. Is there a size difference between the two?

Nope. Both have:

• 8-quart cooking pot
  
• 5-quart crisping basket
  

That makes them both perfect for families of 4–6 people or anyone who likes batch cooking.

8. How do they compare in price?

• The FD401 is usually the more affordable option.
  
• The OL601 costs more because of the SmartLid technology and extra functions.
  

If you want the best value for money, the FD401 is a fantastic choice. But if you’re okay spending extra for more versatility and convenience, the OL601 justifies its price.

9. Do both models have TenderCrisp technology?

Yes. TenderCrisp, the combination of pressure cooking followed by air frying is one of Ninja’s biggest selling points, and both models have it.

The difference is that the OL601 takes it further with Steam & Crisp, which in my experience produces even juicier results.

10. Which one is better for beginners?

• FD401 is better if you’re new to multicookers. Fewer functions mean less overwhelm.
  
• OL601 is still beginner-friendly, but some people may not use all the steam features right away.
  

If you just want to get cooking without thinking too much, the FD401 is probably the way to go.

11. Which one should I buy if I bake bread?

Definitely the OL601. The Proofing function helps dough rise properly, and the Steam & Bake function ensures bread comes out fluffy and moist.

The FD401 can bake bread, but it doesn’t have those specialized modes.

12. Can I dehydrate food in both models?

Yes. Both the FD401 and OL601 have a Dehydrate function. I’ve used both to make beef jerky and apple chips, and they work about the same here.

13. Which one is more durable?

Both are built with Ninja’s typical heavy-duty design. I’ve owned Ninja cookers for years, and they hold up well.

The only durability difference is in convenience: with the FD401, you’ll be attaching and removing the pressure lid regularly, so that piece gets more wear and tear. The OL601’s all-in-one lid might last longer simply because it doesn’t get swapped around.

14. If I already own the FD401, should I upgrade to the OL601?

This is a question I get a lot.

• If you’re happy with your FD401 and don’t feel limited by its features, you don’t need to upgrade. It’s still a fantastic machine.
  
• If you cook a lot of chicken, fish, or bread or if you hate dealing with multiple lids then yes, the OL601 is a worthwhile upgrade.
  

For me personally, the convenience of the SmartLid and the results from Steam & Crisp made the upgrade feel worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on the FAQs

At the end of the day, both the Ninja FD401 and the Ninja OL601 are excellent multicookers that can replace several kitchen appliances.

• Choose the FD401 if you want something reliable, affordable, and straightforward.
  
• Choose the OL601 if you want the latest technology, more cooking options, and better baking/steaming results.
  

Either way, you’ll be getting a powerhouse machine that makes cooking faster and easier.