A slightly larger single basket with a ceramic-coated finish. A sensible middle ground for people who found the 4-quart models a little tight.
- 5.5-quart basket fits three pounds of wings
- Ceramic coating is easy to clean
- Simple five-function layout
- Tops out at 400°F rather than 450
- One basket, so one food at a time
How it tested
We ran the same battery of tests we use on every air fryer, from frozen chips to fresh wings and roast veg. Here is how it scored on each.
Crispiness — 8.7
Wings and chips came out crisp and golden. It runs a step below the 450°F models but still delivers a good crunch.
Evenness — 8.4
Steady colour across the basket, with the usual midway shake helping crowded loads.
Ease of use & cleanup — 8.5
The ceramic basket releases food cleanly and rinses fast. Controls are plain and quick to set.
Noise — 7.9
A moderate fan hum, on the quieter side for a Ninja.
Design & build
A taller grey unit with a smart ceramic-lined basket. Feels well made and pulls out smoothly.
Who it’s for
- You want more room than a 4-quart
- You like an easy-clean ceramic basket
- You want the highest crisping temperature
- You cook two foods at once
Full specifications
Our verdict
This sits neatly between the compact 4-quart and the big 6.5-quart Ninjas. The ceramic basket is the standout, shrugging off sticky marinades and washing clean.
You give up the 450°F top setting of the pricier models. For most cooking that gap is small, and the extra half quart earns its keep.
How it compares
It holds more than the AF101 and cleans more easily thanks to the ceramic coating. The AF181 goes bigger and hotter if you need it.
Frequently asked
Is the basket nonstick?
Yes. It has a ceramic-coated nonstick surface that wipes clean.
How much can it hold?
Enough for about three pounds of wings or chips for three to four people.
