If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or browsing Amazon lately, chances are you’ve stumbled upon the Ninja Crispi air fryer. This innovative little gadget has been making waves in kitchens everywhere, and for good reason. But is it just another trendy appliance, or does it actually live up to the hype?
Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about the Ninja Crispi air fryer before you hit that “add to cart” button.
What Makes the Ninja Crispi Air Fryer Different?
The Ninja Crispi air fryer isn’t your typical basket-style air fryer. Instead of the standard plastic drawer design, this portable cooking system uses clear glass containers that let you watch your food transform from raw to perfectly crispy right before your eyes. Think of it as the lovechild of an air fryer and your favorite glass storage containers, except this one comes with serious cooking power.
The system includes a PowerPod (that’s the heating unit that does all the magic), two CleanCrisp glass containers in different sizes, removable crisper plates, and snap-on storage lids. The 6-cup container is perfect for quick solo meals, while the 4-quart container can handle a whole 4-pound chicken with vegetables. The PowerPod delivers 1500 watts of heating power, which matches what you’d get from a full-sized air fryer, but in a much more compact and portable package.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Numbers | FN100 (3-in-1), FN101 (4-in-1) |
| Power Output | 1500W |
| Container Sizes | 6-cup (1.4L) and 4-quart (3.8L) |
| Dimensions | 13.38″D x 11.96″W x 13.58″H |
| Weight | Approximately 14.52-15.7 pounds |
| Cooking Functions | Max Crisp, Bake, Air Fry, ReCrisp (varies by model) |
| Maximum Temperature | 350°F (450°F for Max Crisp on Pro version) |
| Noise Level | 68 dB |
| Container Material | Borosilicate glass with BPA-free handles |
| Temperature Range | Glass withstands 22°F to 400°F |
| Coating | PFAS-free and PTFE-free |
| Cleaning | All parts dishwasher safe (except PowerPod) |
| Safety Features | Fixed heat-safe feet, auto-shutoff |
| Included Accessories | PowerPod, glass containers, 2 crisper plates, 2 storage lids, adapter for larger container |
How the Ninja Crispi Air Fryer Works
Unlike traditional air fryers where you toss food into a basket, the Ninja Crispi takes a different approach. You place your ingredients directly into one of the glass containers, pop on the crisper plate if you want extra crispiness, then secure the PowerPod on top. The PowerPod clicks into place (and won’t start cooking unless it’s properly secured, which is a nice safety feature).
Once you’ve selected your cooking function and time, superheated air circulates around your food at temperatures up to 450°F. The glass container acts as both a cooking vessel and lets you monitor your meal’s progress without lifting the lid and losing heat. When your food is done, you can serve directly from the glass container or snap on a storage lid and pop it in the fridge for later.
The system comes with a clever adapter that lets you use the PowerPod with either size container, so you’re not limited to just one capacity. This flexibility means you can cook a single portion in seven minutes or prepare dinner for the whole family without juggling multiple appliances.
Real-World Performance: What Can You Actually Cook?
Let’s talk about what really matters – how well does this thing actually cook your food? Based on extensive testing and user feedback, the Ninja Crispi air fryer delivers solid performance across the board.
French Fries & Frozen Foods: The Max Crisp function shines here, producing golden, crispy fries with fluffy interiors. Frozen foods like nuggets, mozzarella sticks, and tater tots come out evenly browned and satisfyingly crunchy. The transparent glass lets you monitor browning without interrupting the cooking process, which is honestly a game-changer if you’re picky about your fries.
Chicken & Proteins: The 4-quart container can genuinely fit a whole chicken, and the results are impressive. Chicken wings emerge crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Salmon fillets cook beautifully without drying out, and you can even cook frozen proteins straight from the freezer. The Air Fry function at around 400°F works perfectly for most proteins.
Reheating Leftovers: This is where the ReCrisp function becomes your best friend. Yesterday’s pizza gets its crispy crust back without getting soggy. Leftover fried chicken tastes freshly made. Pasta bakes develop that appealing golden top layer. Because you can store food in the same container you cook it in, reheating becomes ridiculously convenient.
Baking & Versatility: The Bake function (375-400°F) handles cookies, brownies, and even small cakes surprisingly well. You can proof bread dough, bake dips, and create casseroles. The glass container works beautifully for dishes where you’d normally use a baking dish, and the visible cooking process helps prevent overbaking.
The Good: What We Love About the Ninja Crispi Air Fryer
Glass Containers Are Actually Brilliant: Let’s address the elephant in the room – those glass containers aren’t just a gimmick. Being able to watch your food cook means no more guessing games. You’ll know exactly when your cheese has melted or when your chicken has reached that perfect golden brown color. Plus, the containers are made from borosilicate glass that can handle extreme temperature swings from -22°F to 400°F without shattering.
Truly Non-Toxic Cooking: If you’ve been worried about PFAS (those “forever chemicals” found in many non-stick coatings), the Ninja Crispi addresses this concern head-on. The CleanCrisp glass containers and crisper plates are completely free of PFAS and PTFE. The crisper plates do have a nano-ceramic coating, but all food-contact surfaces are designed without harmful chemicals.
Storage and Meal Prep Dream: The snap-on lids transform your cooking containers into storage containers instantly. Cook your meal prep on Sunday, snap on the lids, and stack everything in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just pop the PowerPod back on and reheat. It’s meal prep without the extra dishes, which your future self will thank you for.
Compact and Portable: Despite packing full-sized air fryer power, the Ninja Crispi takes up minimal counter space. Everything nests together for storage, and you can genuinely take it with you to the office, RV, or vacation rental. At under 16 pounds, it’s portable enough to transport, though you might not want to carry it on your daily commute.
Simple Operation: There are no complicated temperature dials or confusing preset buttons. Just choose your function (Max Crisp, Bake, Air Fry, or ReCrisp), set the timer, and press start. Each mode automatically adjusts to the appropriate temperature range. While some people initially panic about not having precise temperature control, most find they don’t miss it at all.
Easy Cleanup: Everything except the PowerPod goes right in the dishwasher. The glass containers don’t trap odors or stains like plastic baskets can, and there’s no stuck-on gunk to scrape off non-stick coating. The PowerPod itself rarely gets dirty and usually just needs a quick wipe-down.
Quiet Operation: At 68 decibels, the Ninja Crispi runs noticeably quieter than many traditional air fryers. You can have a conversation while it’s running without shouting, which is surprisingly pleasant.
The Not-So-Good: What Could Be Better
No Temperature Control: This is the biggest complaint. You can’t dial in a specific temperature like 375°F or 425°F. Instead, you’re locked into the preset temperature ranges for each function. While these ranges work well for most cooking, recipe perfectionists might find this limiting. If you’re following a recipe that calls for more than 385°F, you’ll need to estimate whether Air Fry or Bake mode gets you closest.
Learning Curve for Timing: Because you can’t adjust temperature, you’ll need to experiment with cooking times to get things just right. What takes 12 minutes at 400°F in a regular air fryer might need different timing with the Crispi’s preset modes. The good news is that the glass containers make monitoring easy, so you’ll dial in your timing quickly.
Limited Capacity: Even the larger 4-quart container is relatively small. If you’re cooking for more than two or three people regularly, you might feel cramped. You won’t be air frying multiple racks of ribs or cooking for a dinner party with this thing. It’s best suited for singles, couples, or small families.
Glass Gets HOT: The borosilicate glass retains heat incredibly well, which is great for cooking but not so great when you need to handle it. The containers stay scorching hot for quite a while after cooking. Always use oven mitts when handling, and be extra careful around kids and pets.
Assembly Can Be Fiddly: Getting the PowerPod properly seated on the containers, especially when using the adapter for the larger container, takes some practice. Some users report initial frustration with getting everything to click into place correctly. The system won’t start cooking unless everything is properly aligned, which is good for safety but can feel finicky at first.
Takes Up More Space Than It Looks: While the Ninja Crispi is compact for an air fryer, you’re dealing with multiple pieces: the PowerPod, two containers, two crisper plates, two lids, and an adapter. Finding storage for all these components requires more cabinet space than a traditional single-basket air fryer.
Not Ideal for Batch Cooking: If you need to cook large quantities of food, the Ninja Crispi will slow you down. The smaller capacity means more rounds of cooking, and unlike dual-basket air fryers, you can’t cook two different foods simultaneously at different temperatures.
Who Should Buy the Ninja Crispi Air Fryer?
Perfect For:
- Singles and couples who value convenient meal prep
- College students and dorm dwellers (truly portable and space-efficient)
- Anyone concerned about non-stick coating chemicals
- People who love watching their food cook
- Households that prioritize easy cleanup
- RV owners and frequent travelers who want to cook on the go
- Health-conscious cooks looking to reduce oil usage
- Those who hate washing extra dishes
Maybe Not For:
- Large families who regularly cook for four or more people
- Recipe purists who need precise temperature control
- People who batch cook in large quantities
- Anyone looking for a replacement for a full-size oven
- Households that need to cook multiple different foods at once
- Those who prefer traditional basket-style air fryers
Comparing Models: Which Ninja Crispi Should You Choose?
The Ninja Crispi comes in a few different configurations depending on where you shop:
3-in-1 Model (FN100 series – Walmart): Includes ReCrisp, Air Fry, and Bake functions with 4-quart and 5-cup containers. This is the most basic version but still delivers excellent performance for most cooking needs.
4-in-1 Model (FN101 series – Most retailers): Adds the Max Crisp function to the mix and comes with 4-quart and 6-cup containers. The Max Crisp function hits higher temperatures (up to 450°F) for frozen foods that need extra crisping power.
5-in-1 Model: Some retailers offer versions with a Keep Warm function added, which maintains food temperature after cooking is complete.
Ninja Crispi Pro: This is a different beast – a larger, stationary countertop model with 6-quart and 2.5-quart containers. It includes 6 functions and adjustable temperature control but isn’t portable. If you want glass cooking with more traditional air fryer features, this might be your pick instead.
For most people, the 4-in-1 model offers the best balance of functionality and value. The Max Crisp function is genuinely useful for frozen foods, and the container sizes work well for typical meal sizes.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Don’t Overcrowd: Give your food room to breathe. Packing the container too full prevents proper air circulation and leads to uneven cooking. When in doubt, cook in batches.
Use the Crisper Plate: While you can cook directly on the glass bottom, the crisper plate elevates food and allows air to circulate underneath for better crisping. Use it for proteins, fries, and anything you want extra crispy.
Experiment with Times: Since you can’t adjust temperature, you’ll fine-tune results by adjusting cooking time. Start with shorter times and add more as needed – you can always cook longer, but you can’t uncook overcooked food.
Shake or Flip Midway: For even browning, pause cooking halfway through to shake or flip your food. This is especially important for fries and nuggets.
Preheat for Some Foods: While not always necessary, preheating the PowerPod for 3-5 minutes can improve results for certain items like frozen foods.
Let It Cool Before Storage: Wait until the glass container cools before snapping on the storage lid. Trapping steam can make food soggy.
Try the ReCrisp Function: This is seriously underrated. It’s perfect for breathing new life into leftovers without drying them out like a microwave does.
Maintenance and Care
Caring for your Ninja Crispi is refreshingly simple. The glass containers, crisper plates, and lids can all go in the dishwasher. If you prefer hand washing, the glass cleans up easily with standard dish soap and won’t hold onto odors or stains.
The PowerPod should never be submerged in water. Simply wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth when needed. The heating element area inside the PowerPod rarely gets dirty, but if food splatters up there, let it cool completely then wipe gently.
The borosilicate glass is durable and resistant to thermal shock, but it’s still glass – drop it and it will break. The handles and feet are sturdy plastic that holds up well to regular use.
Value and Alternatives
The Ninja Crispi typically ranges from $160-200 depending on the model and retailer. That’s more expensive than basic air fryers but competitive with premium models. Given the unique glass cooking system, portability, and included accessories, many users find the value proposition solid.
If you’re not sold on the glass container concept, consider these alternatives:
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 (AF141): A traditional basket-style Ninja with similar capacity but adjustable temperature control. Usually costs less but doesn’t offer the glass containers or portability.
Ninja Max XL: If you need more capacity, this traditional model offers better cooking performance for large batches but takes up more space and uses standard non-stick coatings.
Cosori TurboBlaze: Offers smart features and precise temperature control at a similar price point, but with traditional basket design.
Instant Vortex Plus: Another strong competitor with more cooking presets and larger capacity, though again, it’s a traditional design.
The Ninja Crispi stands alone in its category – there really aren’t other portable glass air fryers with this level of functionality. The closest competitor is the larger Ninja Crispi Pro, which sacrifices portability for more features and capacity.
The Verdict: Is the Ninja Crispi Air Fryer Worth It?
The Ninja Crispi air fryer is genuinely innovative, not just gimmicky. If you value convenience, health-conscious cooking, and easy cleanup, and if you’re not cooking for a crowd regularly, this could be your new favorite kitchen gadget. The glass containers transform the air frying experience from guesswork to visual cooking, and the meal prep integration is brilliantly executed.
However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The lack of temperature control will frustrate some cooks, and the capacity limitations mean larger families might outgrow it quickly. If you already own a traditional air fryer you love, the Crispi probably won’t replace it – but it might become your go-to for meal prep and portable cooking.
Buying Guide: What to Consider Before Purchasing
Your Household Size
Count how many people you typically cook for. The Ninja Crispi sweet spot is 1-3 people. Larger households should consider the Crispi Pro or a traditional larger-capacity model.
Your Cooking Style
Do you follow recipes exactly, or do you cook more intuitively? If precise temperature control is crucial to your cooking, you might find the preset modes limiting. If you prefer simple, set-it-and-forget-it cooking, you’ll love the Crispi.
Kitchen Space
Measure your counter space and cabinet storage before buying. While compact, the multiple components need a home. If space is at a premium, make sure you have room for everything.
Health Priorities
If avoiding PFAS and PTFE is important to you, the Crispi’s glass containers are a major selling point. Traditional air fryers rely on non-stick coatings that some people prefer to avoid.
Portability Needs
Will you actually take this with you places? If portability is just a nice-to-have but not essential, you might get better value from a traditional model with more features.
Meal Prep Habits
If you meal prep regularly, the container-to-storage workflow is incredibly convenient. If you typically cook fresh meals daily, this benefit matters less.
Budget Considerations
At $160-200, the Ninja Crispi sits in the mid-to-high price range for air fryers. Make sure the unique features justify the cost for your specific needs. You can find capable traditional air fryers for $50-100 less.
Color Options
The Ninja Crispi comes in multiple colors including Cyberspace Gray, Stone, Sage Green, Periwinkle, White, Denim Blue, Cherry Tarte Red, and others. Choose one that matches your kitchen aesthetic since it’s nice enough to leave on the counter.
Where to Buy
The Ninja Crispi air fryer is available at most major retailers:
- Amazon (often with customer reviews to browse)
- Walmart (sometimes exclusive color options)
- Target (good for in-store pickup)
- Best Buy (helpful if you need tech support)
- Official Ninja Kitchen website (for newest colors and promotions)
- Macy’s, Bed Bath & Beyond, and other department stores
Watch for sales around major shopping holidays – the Ninja Crispi frequently goes on sale during Black Friday, Prime Day, and other promotional periods.
Final Thoughts
The Ninja Crispi air fryer successfully reimagines what an air fryer can be. It’s not trying to be the biggest or most powerful – instead, it focuses on convenience, health-conscious design, and user-friendly operation. The transparent cooking experience eliminates guesswork, the meal prep integration cuts down on dishes, and the portable design offers flexibility traditional air fryers can’t match.
Is it perfect? No. The capacity limitations and lack of temperature control won’t work for everyone. But for its intended audience – smaller households who value convenience and health-conscious cooking – the Ninja Crispi air fryer delivers an experience that’s genuinely different and better in meaningful ways.
If you’re buying your first air fryer, consider whether portability and glass containers matter enough to you to offset the capacity limitations. If you already own an air fryer, the Crispi makes an excellent secondary unit for meal prep and leftovers. And if you’re in the market specifically for a healthier cooking method that doesn’t use traditional non-stick coatings, the Ninja Crispi might just be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
The bottom line? The Ninja Crispi air fryer earns its viral status. It’s a thoughtfully designed appliance that solves real problems in clever ways. Just make sure those solutions align with your cooking needs before you buy, and you’ll likely join the ranks of happy Crispi converts who wonder how they ever lived without it.
