Tired of soggy fries and slow ovens? Want crispy food fast without the oil guilt?
I tested the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 for three months. Here’s everything you need to know before buying.
What Is the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1?
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 is a compact countertop appliance made by Ninja Kitchen (part of SharkNinja). It’s designed to air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate your food using hot air instead of oil.
The Ninja AF141 model has a 5-quart nonstick basket. It heats up to 400°F. And it uses Air Crisp technology basically, a powerful 1750-watt airflow that cooks food fast and evenly.
You’ll find it sold at Amazon, BestBuy, Walmart, Target, and the Ninja official store. The Ninja Air Fryer Pro price usually sits around $119–$139, depending on sale and discount events.
If you’re comparing options, check out our complete air fryer guide to see how different models stack up.
Unboxing and First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Ninja Air Fryer, I was surprised by how lightweight it felt. Not flimsy, just easy to move around.
Inside the box, you get:
- The main unit with digital control panel
- A 5-quart removable basket
- A crisper plate (fits inside the basket)
- A recipe guide with cooking chart
- Owner’s manual and quick start guide
Setup took less than five minutes. You wash the basket and crisper plate, plug it in, and you’re ready to cook.
The compact footprint fits easily on most countertops. It’s about 14 inches wide, so it won’t hog all your counter space.
One thing I noticed right away: the digital display is super bright and easy to read, even from across the kitchen, something I haven’t seen highlighted in other reviews.
How Does the Ninja Air Fryer Pro Work?
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro uses four preset functions:
- Air Fry mode — for crispy fries, wings, and snacks
- Roast mode — for chicken, veggies, and family meals
- Reheat mode — brings leftovers back to life
- Dehydrate mode — perfect for fruit chips and jerky
You adjust the temperature using the digital controls. The adjustable temperature goes from 105°F (for dehydrating) up to 400°F (for max crisp results).
The programmable timer lets you set cook time from 1 to 60 minutes. Once it’s done, the automatic shut-off kicks in for safety.
Inside, the Air Crisp technology circulates hot air at high speed. This creates that crispy, golden brown texture without needing a deep fryer.
The nonstick basket and crisper plate make cleanup easy. Both are dishwasher safe parts, which is a huge time-saver.
Performance Test: Does It Really Work?
I ran five key tests to see how the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 performs in real-world use.
Crispiness Test: Air Fryer Fries
I made frozen fries three times. Each batch came out golden, crunchy, and evenly cooked. No hot spots. No soggy centers.
Preheat time was about 3 minutes. Cook time was 18 minutes at 400°F. I shook the basket halfway through for even browning.
The crunch? Better than my oven. The texture? Almost identical to deep-fried, but with way less oil.
The crispiness and browning were consistent across all batches. The airflow and heat circulation delivered perfect fries every time.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe
I tested bone-in wings at 390°F for 24 minutes. I flipped them once at the halfway mark.
Results: crispy skin, juicy chicken, and perfect sear quality. The tenderness inside was spot-on. The outside had that satisfying crunch.
I did notice a little smoke during cooking. That’s normal with fatty foods like wings. Just make sure your kitchen is ventilated.
The cooking performance on wings was excellent. No uneven cooking at all.
Reheating Pizza in Air Fryer
Leftover pizza is a tough test. Most methods make it soggy or dried out.
I reheated pizza in air fryer at 350°F for 4 minutes using the Reheat mode. The crust came out crispy. The cheese melted perfectly. It tasted fresh.
Way better than a microwave. Faster than an oven. This might be the Air Fryer Pro’s best hidden talent.
The reheat leftovers function exceeded my expectations. It’s a real time-saving appliance.
Dehydrating Fruit
I tried dehydrating fruit, apple slices at 135°F for 6 hours. The Dehydrate mode worked, but it took patience.
The dehydration results were good; the slices turned into chewy, sweet dehydrated snacks. But the 5-quart capacity limits how much you can do at once.
The dehydration duration was long (6+ hours). If you dehydrate often, you might want a bigger model. For occasional batches, it’s fine.
Roast Test: Vegetables and Chicken Breast
I roasted a mix of broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers at 375°F for 15 minutes. Everything came out tender with a nice char.
I also roasted a chicken breast at 360°F for 22 minutes. It was moist inside and perfectly browned outside. The heat retention kept it juicy.
The roast setting is great for meal prep and quick weeknight meals. The doneness was perfect, no temperature drift at all.
Build Quality and Design
The Ninja AF141 feels solid for its price. The build quality is good, not premium, but definitely reliable.
The nonstick coating on the basket is durable so far. After three months of regular use, I haven’t seen any coating wear or sticking issues.
The cool touch handle makes it safe to pull out the basket mid-cook. The safety features include automatic shut off and overheat protection.
The digital control panel is intuitive. No complicated buttons. Just temperature, time, and function. Even beginners will find it user friendly.
The visibility window is small but functional. You can peek inside without opening the basket and losing heat.
One thing to note: the basket warping concern I read about online hasn’t happened to me. But I always hand-wash mine to be safe. The handle comfort is excellent too.
Specifications Summary
Here are the complete ninja air fryer pro 4 in 1 specs:
- Model: Ninja AF141 (US), AF140 (some regions)
- Capacity: 5-quart (1.4kg fries)
- Functions: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Wattage: 1750 watts
- Temperature Range: 105°F – 400°F
- Maximum Temperature: 400°F (degrees fahrenheit)
- Timer: 1–60 minutes
- Weight: Approximately 11 pounds
- Dimensions: 14.8 x 11 x 14 inches (h x w x d)
- Basket: Nonstick, removable, dishwasher-safe
- Crisper Plate: Included, dishwasher-safe
- Controls: Digital display, touch panel
- Safety: Automatic shut-off, cool touch handle
Capacity: Is 5 Quarts Enough?
The 5-quart basket is great for 2–3 people. It’s perfect for single serving meals, small batches, or party appetizers.
For family size portions (4+ people), you might need to cook in two batches. That’s fine for batch cooking or meal prep, but it adds time.
The load capacity works well for small kitchen appliance needs. If you have a larger family, consider the Ninja Max XL (5.5-quart or bigger). The Ninja AF140, AF160, and AF161 models offer more capacity.
For most households, though, 5 quarts hits the sweet spot between portion size and compact design.
Ease of Use: Learning Curve and Controls
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro is beginner friendly. I cooked my first batch of fries without even reading the manual.
The simple controls make it easy:
- Pick your function (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate)
- Set the temperature
- Set the timer
- Press start
The indicator lights show when it’s preheating and when it’s done. The cooking chart in the recipe book gives you solid starting points for air fryer cooking times.
The learning curve is minimal. After two or three uses, you’ll feel confident adjusting settings for your favorite foods. The intuitive controls make this a truly user friendly appliance.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning the Ninja Air Fryer is simple. Both the basket and crisper plate are dishwasher safe, so cleanup takes minutes.
If you hand-wash (like I do), here’s my routine:
- Let it cool for 5 minutes
- Remove the basket and crisper plate
- Wash with warm, soapy water
- Wipe down the inside with a damp cloth
For grease buildup, soak the basket for 10 minutes before scrubbing. A soft sponge works best to protect the nonstick coating.
The maintenance is low. I wipe the exterior once a week and deep-clean the basket every two weeks. The dishwasher cleanup option makes this one of the easiest appliances to maintain.
Here’s a cleaning tip I discovered through trial and error: if you spray a tiny bit of cooking oil on the crisper plate before each use, food releases even easier and cleanup is 50% faster.
Noise Level: How Loud Is It?
The operation noise is moderate. It’s about as loud as a kitchen vent fan on medium speed.
You can hold a conversation while it’s running. It’s not whisper-quiet, but it’s not annoying either.
Some reviews mention it being too loud, but I think that’s subjective. In my experience, the noise level is typical for a 1750 watt appliance with a powerful fan. It’s certainly not a low noise level machine, but it’s acceptable.
Energy Efficiency and Power Draw
The Ninja AF141 uses 1750 watts. That’s more than a toaster but less than a full oven.
For energy use, it’s efficient. Preheating takes 3 minutes instead of 10–15 minutes for an oven. Cook times are shorter, too.
If you’re replacing oven use with the air fryer, you’ll likely save on your electric bill. The energy efficient design means less power draw for the same (or better) cooking results.
The wattage is perfectly balanced for performance without excessive energy use. This makes it a truly energy efficient choice for healthier cooking.
Pros and Cons: The Full Picture
Pros
- Crispy, even results on fries, wings, and more
- Fast preheat speed and cook time
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Compact footprint fits small kitchens
- Intuitive controls and user-friendly design
- Great value for money at $119–$139
- Versatile appliance with 4 cooking functions
- Low oil cooking for healthier cooking
- Cool touch handle and automatic shut-off for safety
- Consistent cooking performance
- Quick meals and hands off cooking
- Better than oven for small batches
- Saves time on weeknight meals
- Fast cooking with excellent crisp results
Cons
- Small for large families may need batch cooking
- Moderate noise level during operation
- Dehydration duration is long (6+ hours)
- Visibility window is small
- Some users report nonstick coating concerns over time (though I haven’t experienced this)
- No dual zone feature like higher-end models
- Can produce smoke with fatty foods
- Occasional burning smell on first use
- Not the quietest option
- Limited capacity for family dinner portions
Ninja Air Fryer Pro vs. Competitors
Let me compare the AF141 to three popular alternatives for a proper comparison.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 vs. Philips Airfryer
| Feature | Ninja AF141 | Philips Airfryer |
| Capacity | 5 quarts | 4.1 quarts |
| Capacity | 1750 watts | 1400 watts |
| Capacity | 400°F | 390°F |
| Price | ~$120 | ~$200 |
| Functions | 4 | 7 |
| Star Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
Winner: Ninja for value. Philips has more preset functions, but the Ninja delivers similar cooking performance at a lower price.
Ninja AF141 vs. Cosori Air Fryer
| Feature | Ninja AF141 | Cosori 5.8 Qt |
| Capacity | 5 quarts | 5.8 quarts |
| Wattage | 1750 watts | 1700 watts |
| Maximum Temperature | 400°F | 450°F |
| Price | ~$120 | ~$120 |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes | Yes |
Winner: Tie. Cosori has slightly more capacity and higher max temperature. Ninja has a more durable build quality in my experience. Both are great for the budget.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro vs. Instant Vortex
| Feature | Ninja AF141 | Instant Vortex |
| Capacity | 5 quarts | 6 quarts |
| Functions | 4 | 6 |
| Price | ~$120 | ~$110 |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Low |
Winner: Instant Vortex for families (bigger capacity). Ninja for consistency and better crisp results. This competitor offers good value comparison.
For a detailed comparison between these models, see our Instant Vortex Plus air fryer review.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 vs. Ninja Max XL
The Ninja Max XL (model AF161 and AF160) is the bigger sibling. It has a 5.5-quart basket, goes up to 450°F, and includes Max Crisp and Air Broil modes.
The Ninja AF160 (also called Air Fryer Max) offers 6-in-1 functions versus the AF141’s 4-in-1 setup. If you need more capacity and extra functions, the Max XL is worth the upgrade.
But for most users, the AF141 offers the best value. The air fryer pro 4 in 1 vs Max XL comparison really comes down to your family size needs.
Want to explore more Ninja models? Check our Ninja air fryer collection for detailed reviews.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro vs. Dreo Air Fryer
The Dreo Air Fryer is a newer competitor with similar specs. Both offer good performance, but the Ninja has better brand reputation and customer service.
Who Should Buy the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1?
This air fryer is perfect for:
- Small families (2–3 people)
- Couples or singles who love quick meals
- Anyone with a small kitchen appliance budget
- People who want healthier cooking without sacrificing taste
- Beginners looking for a user-friendly air fryer
- Those seeking a versatile kitchen tool
- Anyone wanting a healthy alternative to deep frying
It’s not recommended for:
- Large families (4+ people) who don’t want to batch cook
- Those who need ultra-quiet appliances
- Users who dehydrate food regularly (the 5-quart size is limiting)
Based on reviewer feedback and user rating data, this model gets favorable reviews from most buyers. The average rating consistently stays above 4.3 stars.
Where to Buy the Ninja Air Fryer Pro and Pricing
You can find the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 (AF141) at these retailers:
- Amazon — often has the best Ninja Air Fryer Pro price and fast shipping
- BestBuy — great for in-store pickup and easy returns (Best Buy Ninja AF141)
- Walmart — competitive pricing, especially during sale and discount events
- Target — frequent promotions and Target Circle deals
- Ninja official store — direct from the brand with full warranty support
Current price range: $119–$139 (check for seasonal sales).
Where to buy Ninja Air Fryer Pro: Any of these retailers offer good options. I personally buy air fryer models from Amazon Ninja AF141 listings for convenience.
My recommendation: If you’re ready to upgrade your cooking game, grab the Ninja Air Fryer Pro on Amazon — it usually ships fast and returns are hassle-free if it’s not your fit.
Warranty and returns: Ninja offers a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year limited warranty. If you have issues, Ninja customer support is responsive. You can file a warranty claim easily through their website.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Here are a few problems I’ve seen (and how to fix them):
Issue: Food is sticking to the basket
Fix: Spray a light coat of oil on the basket before cooking. Use a non-stick spray or brush on a tiny amount. This prevents sticking completely.
Issue: Uneven cooking or hot spots
Fix: Shake the basket halfway through cook time. Don’t overcrowd; leave space for airflow. This solves most uneven cooking issues.
Issue: Smoke coming from the air fryer
Fix: This happens with fatty foods. It’s normal smoke. Make sure there’s no excess grease in the bottom. Clean the basket after each use to avoid excess smoke.
Issue: Temperature drift or food not crisping
Fix: Preheat for 3 minutes before adding food. Check that the crisper plate is in place for max airflow. Temperature precision matters.
Issue: Error codes or malfunction
Fix: Unplug the unit, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. If the problem continues, contact Ninja customer support for a warranty claim. Most error codes are easy fixes.
Issue: Odor on first use
Fix: Some odor is normal on first use. Run the unit empty at 400°F for 10 minutes to burn off manufacturing residue.
Issue: Loud fan noise
Fix: Check that the basket is properly seated. A loud fan can indicate improper placement or a malfunction.
Issue: Overheating concerns
Fix: Never cover the air vents. Ensure proper ventilation. Overheating is rare but can happen if vents are blocked.
Accessories and Replacement Parts
The Ninja AF141 works with several accessories to expand its versatility:
- Air fryer liners — disposable parchment sheets for easy cleanup
- Silicone basket liner — reusable and heat-safe
- Oven-safe rack — adds a second cooking level
- Skewers — great for kebabs
- Divider — separates different foods
- Replacement basket — available if your original wears out
You can buy replacement parts Ninja AF141 directly from Ninja or Amazon. The crisper tray and basket are the most commonly replaced items.
If you need parts, check the Ninja official website or call Ninja customer support for help. Replacement parts are recommended for extending the life of your appliance.
Health and Safety Considerations
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro uses low oil cooking, which is healthier than deep frying. You cut fat and calories while still getting crispy, delicious results.
PFAS-Free Options and Nonstick Coating Concerns
Some users worry about nonstick coatings and chemicals. Ninja states that their nonstick coating is PFOA-free. However, they don’t specifically advertise the AF141 as PFAS-free.
If this is a concern, consider ceramic or stainless steel alternatives. Or hand-wash your basket gently to extend the life of the coating. Nonstick durability is solid if you care for it properly.
Acrylamide Concerns
Acrylamide is a chemical that forms when starchy foods are cooked at high heat. It’s present in fries, chips, and roasted foods, whether you use an oven, air fryer, or deep fryer.
To reduce acrylamide:
- Don’t overcook or burn food
- Soak potatoes before air frying
- Cook at slightly lower temperatures when possible
Air frying doesn’t create more acrylamide than other high-heat methods. In fact, because you use less oil, some studies suggest it may produce less.
Energy Savings and Environmental Impact
The Ninja Air Fryer is energy efficient compared to a full-size oven. Here’s why:
- Shorter preheat time (3 minutes vs. 10–15 minutes)
- Faster cook times due to concentrated heat circulation
- Lower wattage (1750 watts vs. 3000+ watts for ovens)
If you replace oven use with your air fryer for small meals, you’ll save energy. This also means a smaller carbon footprint and lower utility bills.
My Final Rating and Verdict
After three months of hands-on testing, here’s my score:
| Category | Rating (out of 5) |
| Cooking Performance | 4.5 |
| Ease of Use | 5.0 |
| Build Quality | 4.0 |
| Value for Money | 5.0 |
| Cleaning | 4.5 |
| Noise Level | 3.5 |
| Overall Score | 4.4 / 5 |
My verdict: The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 (AF141) is a reliable, versatile kitchen tool that delivers on its promises. It makes crispy fries, juicy wings, and perfectly reheated leftovers without the hassle of a full oven or deep fryer.
It’s not perfect. The noise level is moderate, the capacity is small for big families, and the dehydrate function takes patience. But for the price, it’s hard to beat.
If you want quick crisp results, hands-off cooking, and a healthy alternative to frying, this air fryer is a solid choice. It’s an expert opinion backed by real testing.
This is definitely a recommended appliance for most households. The reviewer rating reflects its strong performance across multiple categories.
Top Tips for Buying and Using the Ninja Air Fryer Pro
Here are my top recommendations:
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; leave space for air to circulate
- Preheat for 3 minutes before adding food for best results
- Shake or flip halfway through for even browning
- Use a light spray of oil to prevent sticking
- Clean after every use to avoid grease buildup
- Check for sales on Amazon, BestBuy, or Walmart before buying
These top tips for buying will help you get the most out of your purchase.
Real User Feedback and Reviews
Based on aggregated user rating data and review analysis:
Positive feedback:
- “Does what it promises”
- “Super easy to clean”
- “Great for couples or small families”
- “Perfect fries every time”
- “Fast and efficient”
- “Best value air fryer 2025”
Critical feedback:
- “Fan can be loud”
- “Plastic smell on first use” (odor issue)
- “Wish it had more capacity”
- “Noisy during operation”
Most reviews are favorable. The aggregate rating across major retailers is 4.3–4.5 stars. This reflects strong user rating consensus.
Recipe Ideas and Cooking Tips
Here are some popular air fryer recipes that work great in the Ninja Air Fryer Pro:
Quick Snacks and Appetizers
- Air fryer fries (frozen or fresh-cut)
- Air fryer chicken wings recipe (bone-in or boneless)
- Mozzarella sticks
- Jalapeño poppers
- Egg rolls
- Party appetizers variety
Family Meals
- Roast chicken breast or thighs
- Salmon fillets
- Pork chops
- Roasted vegetables
- Family dinner portions (in batches if needed)
Reheating and Leftovers
- Reheating pizza in air fryer
- Fried chicken
- French fries
- Reheat leftovers to restore crispiness
Healthy Cooking Ideas
- Brussels sprouts
- Sweet potato fries
- Cauliflower bites
- Chickpeas
- Low fat recipes for health-conscious cooking
Dehydrated Snacks
- Apple chips
- Banana chips
- Beef jerky
- Dehydrated snacks for meal prep
Use the cooking chart as your starting point. Adjust temperature and time based on your preferences. The air fryer temperature range gives you lots of flexibility.
Comparison with Other Ninja Models
Let’s do a deeper air fryer comparison 2025 across the Ninja lineup:
Ninja Air Fryer Pro (AF141) vs. Ninja Foodi Pro 4-in-1
The Ninja Foodi Pro 4-in-1 is essentially the same appliance as the AF141. Some regions use different model numbers, but the specs are nearly identical.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro vs. 6-in-1 Models
The 4-in-1 vs 6-in-1 debate comes down to functions. The 6-in-1 models add Bake and Max Crisp or Air Broil modes. If you want more cooking versatility, go with a 6-in-1.
Ninja UK vs US Models
Ninja UK vs US models sometimes differ in voltage and temperature display (degrees celsius vs. degrees fahrenheit). Check product specs to ensure compatibility with your region.
Long-Term Review Insights
After three months, here are my long-term review observations:
What lasted:
- Nonstick coating still in perfect condition
- Digital display still bright and responsive
- Build quality holding up well
- Consistent cooking performance
What didn’t:
- Very minor grease buildup in hard-to-reach corners (solved with deep cleaning)
- No major issues or malfunction
This is a durable appliance. With proper maintenance, I expect it to last years.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 has earned a permanent spot on my countertop. It’s not just a gadget, it’s become my go-to for fast weeknight meals, crispy snacks, and reheating leftovers.
Is it perfect? No. But it’s practical, affordable, and delivers consistent results. For around $120, it’s one of the best value air fryers you can buy in 2025.
If you’re on the fence, I’d say go for it. Just make sure it fits your family size and cooking needs. This is an honest review based on real, hands-on testing.
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 delivers quick crisp results, versatile multi function cooking, and a small footprint that won’t dominate your kitchen. It’s a time-saving appliance that truly delivers on its promise of healthier low-oil meals.
For anyone seeking the best air fryer for everyday use, this model offers excellent value for money and reliable performance.
Ready to try it yourself? Check current prices and deals on Amazon here — you might catch it on sale.
Reviewer Rating: 4.4 / 5 (star rating)
Recommended For: Small families, couples, beginners, and anyone looking for a reliable countertop appliance
Score and Verdict: Highly recommended for its value, efficiency, and ease of use
Have you tried the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1? Drop a comment below and share your experience. I’d love to hear what recipes you’ve tried and what you think of the cooking performance!