The Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer is my best overall pick for cooks who want guided temperature control and several cooking modes in one appliance. The CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker stands out for connected recipes and its built-in scale, while the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro suits buyers who want a capable countertop oven. These options differ in how much they automate, how much counter space they take, and whether smart features mean app guidance, built-in sensors, or touch controls. This roundup compares those tradeoffs across multicookers, ovens, scales, sous vide, toasters, and air fryers. Read on for picks by cooking style and advice on choosing the features you will actually use.
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Key Takeaways
- Guided cooking separates the strongest smart picks: the Ninja Foodi Smart XL uses a thermometer to help manage doneness, while the CHEF iQ adds WiFi guidance and a built-in scale.
- Connected does not always mean app-controlled: several options rely on touchscreens, presets, or cooking sensors, so buyers should match the kind of assistance they want.
- Countertop ovens offer the widest range of uses: the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro and Ninja double and dual-heat ovens can replace several smaller appliances, but need more room.
- Capacity changes daily convenience: the Ninja DualZone can cook two foods separately, while compact toaster options take less space and cover a narrower job.
- The Instant Pot Duo and Ninja PossibleCooker emphasize straightforward versatility: they cover multiple cooking methods, while the CHEF iQ adds more connected guidance for buyers who want it.
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer, 4 qt, FG551 |  | Best for Smart Indoor Grilling | Capacity: 4 quarts | Functions: Grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate | Maximum temperature: 500°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker with WiFi and Built-In Scale, 6 Quart |  | Best for Guided Pressure Cooking | Capacity: 6 quarts | Power: 1000 watts | Voltage: 120 volts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Premium Countertop Oven | Cooking functions: 13 | Power: 1800 watts | Voltage: 120 volts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja PossibleCooker PRO Plus 9-in-1 Multi-Cooker, 8.5 qt, Blue Macaron (MC2001) |  | Best for Large One-Pot Meals | Capacity: 8.5 quarts | Functions: 9 | Power: 1400 watts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Etekcity Smart Nutrition Kitchen Scale, 11 lb |  | Best Compact Smart Scale | Weight capacity: 11 pounds (5000 grams) | Weighing range: 3–5000 grams | Increment: 1 gram | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven with FlexDoor, Stainless Steel |  | Best for Cooking Two Dishes at Once | Model: DCT451 | Cooking functions: 12 | Oven configuration: Top rapid oven and bottom convection and air fry oven | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Inkbird ISV-100W WiFi Sous Vide Precision Cooker, 1000W |  | Best for Remote Sous Vide Control | Model: ISV-100W | Power: 1000 watts | Connectivity: 2.4GHz WiFi | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ganiza 2-Slice Touchscreen Toaster with Wide Slots, 925 W |  | Best Compact Smart Toaster | Model: GD10 | Capacity: 2 slices | Power: 925 watts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Clixane 4-Slice Touchscreen Toaster, 1650W, Black |  | Best for Shared Breakfasts | Model: WT-8206E | Capacity: 4 slices | Power: 1650 W | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Instant Pot Duo 6-Quart 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker |  | Best Value Multi-Cooker | Model: DUO 60 | Capacity: 5.68 liters (6 quarts) | Cooking functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice, yogurt, keep warm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja Foodi Smart Dual Heat Air Fry Oven, 13-in-1, Silver (SP351) |  | Best for Smart Doneness Control | Model: SP351 | Cooking functions: 13 | Wattage: 1800 watts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart DualZone 6-in-1 Air Fryer |  | Best for Two Foods at Once | Model: DZ201 | Capacity: 8 quarts total | Cooking zones: Two independent 4-quart baskets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| smart kitchen appliance | Capacity | Power | Dimensions | Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 In | 4 quarts | 1760 watts | 18.74 × 17.95 × 14.45 inches (D × W × H) | — |
| CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker | 6 quarts | 1000 watts | 13 × 13 × 13 inches | — |
| Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer | Up to 9 slices of bread or a 14-pound turkey | 1800 watts | — | — |
| Ninja PossibleCooker PRO Plus | 8.5 quarts | 1400 watts | 16.34 × 14.45 × 11.06 inches (D × W × H) | — |
| Etekcity Smart Nutrition Kitch | — | — | — | — |
| Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Dou | Up to 6 lbs of wings and a 12-inch pizza at the same time | — | — | DCT451 |
| Inkbird ISV-100W WiFi Sous Vid | 15 liters | 1000 watts | — | ISV-100W |
| Ganiza 2-Slice Touchscreen Toa | 2 slices | 925 watts | 9.6 x 5.5 x 6.8 inches (D x W x H) | GD10 |
| Clixane 4-Slice Touchscreen To | 4 slices | 1650 W | 10.2 × 11.4 × 7.1 in | WT-8206E |
| Instant Pot Duo 6-Quart 7-in-1 | 5.68 liters (6 quarts) | 1000 watts | 12.2 x 13.38 x 12.48 inches | DUO 60 |
| Ninja Foodi Smart Dual Heat Ai | Up to 4 lb of ingredients; fits up to 6 chicken breasts or a 2 lb roast | — | — | SP351 |
| Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart Dual | 8 quarts total | — | 13.86 × 15.63 × 12.4 inches | DZ201 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer, 4 qt, FG551
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL earns its place for cooks who want indoor grilling with more guidance than a standard countertop grill. Its thermometer pairs four protein presets with nine doneness levels, helping take guesswork out of cooking meat, while 500°F cyclonic air supports indoor searing. It also air fries, roasts, bakes, broils, and dehydrates, so it handles more than grill duty. Compared with the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, this Ninja offers more direct doneness guidance for grilled proteins, while Breville has a larger oven-style interior and 13 cooking functions. The tradeoff is a substantial footprint and a 22.4-pound body that is awkward to move. Choose it for guided grilling; skip it if counter space is tight or you mainly need an oven.
Pros:- Combines grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating
- Thermometer offers four protein presets and nine doneness levels
- Grill grate accommodates up to six steaks or 24 hot dogs
- 500°F cyclonic air is designed for indoor grilling
Cons:- Large footprint takes up substantial counter space
- At 22.4 pounds, it is cumbersome to move or store
Best for: Cooks who want indoor grilled meats with thermometer-guided doneness and occasional air frying
Not ideal for: Small-kitchen owners who need a light, easy-to-store appliance or a large oven interior
- Capacity:4 quarts
- Functions:Grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate
- Maximum temperature:500°F
- Power:1760 watts
- Thermometer settings:4 protein presets and 9 doneness levels
- Dimensions:18.74 × 17.95 × 14.45 inches (D × W × H)
- Weight:22.4 pounds
- Care:Dishwasher safe
Our verdict“Pick the Ninja Foodi Smart XL if thermometer-guided indoor grilling matters more than a compact footprint or extra oven capacity.”
CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker with WiFi and Built-In Scale, 6 Quart
The CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker brings its smarts into meal prep: the built-in scale weighs ingredients, while the app offers guided recipes, presets, and remote monitoring. That combination is more useful for cooks who want help moving from ingredients to a pressure-cooked meal than the Instant Pot Duo 6-Quart 7-in-1, whose supplied details focus on its multicooker functions rather than app-guided weighing. Automatic pressure release also gives you quick, pulse, and natural options, reducing the need to manage that step manually. The tradeoff is dependence on WiFi or Bluetooth for connected features, plus an app and cooker setup intended for use in the US and Canada. Choose it if guided recipes and weighing are part of your routine; skip it if you prefer an appliance that works independently of an app.
Pros:- Built-in scale measures ingredients by weight
- App provides guided recipes, ingredient presets, and remote monitoring
- Automatic pressure release supports quick, pulse, and natural methods
- Wireless firmware updates can add software improvements
Cons:- App-connected features require WiFi or Bluetooth
- Cooker and app use is not recommended outside the US and Canada
Best for: Home cooks who want guided pressure-cooker recipes, ingredient weighing, and app-based monitoring
Not ideal for: Buyers outside the US and Canada or anyone who wants app-connected features without WiFi or Bluetooth
- Capacity:6 quarts
- Power:1000 watts
- Voltage:120 volts
- Dimensions:13 × 13 × 13 inches
- Weight:10.4 pounds
- Connectivity:WiFi and Bluetooth
- Pressure release methods:Quick, pulse, and natural
- Included accessories:Steamer rack and basket
Our verdict“Choose the CHEF iQ if recipe guidance and built-in weighing will simplify your pressure-cooking routine.”
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro suits cooks who want an oven-like appliance that can handle larger dishes and a wide range of tasks. Its 13 functions and interior large enough for most 9 × 13-inch pans or a 14-pound turkey make it more versatile for batch cooking than the Ninja Foodi Smart XL, which is centered on indoor grilling and has a 4-quart capacity. Element iQ and a two-speed convection fan distribute heat, while super convection is listed as reducing cooking time by up to 30%. That can help when you want to roast or air fry without reserving the main oven. The cost in space is substantial: this is a large countertop oven, not a compact helper. Its listed warranty is two years, so it may also be less appealing to buyers who prioritize longer stated coverage.
Pros:- Thirteen cooking functions cover a broad range of countertop tasks
- Interior fits most 9 × 13-inch pans or a 14-pound turkey
- Element iQ and two-speed convection fan help distribute heat
- Includes racks, roasting pan, pizza pan, and mesh basket rack
Cons:- Large countertop footprint can be difficult to accommodate
- Listed product warranty is limited to two years
Best for: Households that regularly cook full-pan meals or want air frying and baking in one countertop oven
Not ideal for: People with limited counter space or buyers who need a compact appliance for small portions
- Cooking functions:13
- Power:1800 watts
- Voltage:120 volts
- Interior dimensions:16 × 13.5 × 7 inches
- Capacity:Up to 9 slices of bread or a 14-pound turkey
- Convection:Two-speed fan; super convection
- Included accessories:13-inch pizza pan, two oven racks, broil rack, roasting pan, mesh basket rack
- Warranty:2-year limited product warranty
Our verdict“Choose the Breville if you need countertop oven capacity and versatility more than a compact footprint.”
Ninja PossibleCooker PRO Plus 9-in-1 Multi-Cooker, 8.5 qt, Blue Macaron (MC2001)
The Ninja PossibleCooker PRO Plus is the capacity pick for households that want one pot to move from searing or slow cooking to serving. Its 8.5-quart pot supports family-sized meals, and nine functions include steaming, sous vide, and rice or pasta cooking. The removable pot is oven-safe up to 500°F and dishwasher-safe with the lid and utensil, which makes serving and cleanup more straightforward. Compared with the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker, this Ninja emphasizes a large, versatile cooking pot rather than app guidance, ingredient weighing, and pressure release control. The tradeoff is its sizable footprint, and the supplied details do not list app connectivity or guided recipes. It makes the most sense for batch cooks who value capacity and flexible one-pot cooking over connected coaching.
Pros:- Nine functions include slow cooking, searing, baking, steaming, and sous vide
- 8.5-quart capacity supports family meals and entertaining
- Removable pot can move from cooker to oven and table
- Pot, lid, and utensil are dishwasher-safe
Cons:- Large footprint demands substantial counter or storage space
- Supplied product details do not specify app connectivity or guided recipes
Best for: Families and batch cooks who need a large pot for slow cooking, searing, steaming, and serving
Not ideal for: Small households with limited counter or storage space, or buyers seeking app-guided cooking
- Capacity:8.5 quarts
- Functions:9
- Power:1400 watts
- Voltage:120 volts
- Oven-safe temperature:Up to 500°F
- Dimensions:16.34 × 14.45 × 11.06 inches (D × W × H)
- Weight:12.3 pounds
- Color:Blue Macaron
Our verdict“Pick the PossibleCooker PRO Plus for large one-pot meals and flexible cooking functions if you have room to store it.”
Etekcity Smart Nutrition Kitchen Scale, 11 lb
The Etekcity Smart Nutrition Kitchen Scale adds food tracking without taking the space of a cooker or oven. It pairs with the VeSync app to track up to 19 nutrients using the Nutritionix database, while a 1-gram increment and tare function make everyday ingredient measuring practical. Compared with the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker, this scale focuses on nutrition information and portion weighing rather than guided cooking or automatic pressure control; it can complement kitchen appliances instead of replacing one. Its 11-pound capacity suits most recipe ingredients, though it is not intended for weighing unusually heavy items. The barcode scanner is available only in the United States, and the scale needs three AAA batteries. This is a good fit for cooks tracking nutrients, but less useful if app-based food logging is not part of your routine.
Pros:- VeSync app tracks up to 19 nutrients
- Weighs from 3 grams to 5000 grams in 1-gram increments
- Tare function and multiple units support recipe measuring
- 304 stainless steel platform is easy to clean
Cons:- Barcode scanning is available only in the United States
- Requires three AAA batteries
Best for: Meal planners who weigh portions and want app-based nutrient tracking for everyday foods
Not ideal for: Buyers who do not want app-based food logging, or users outside the US who expect barcode scanning
- Weight capacity:11 pounds (5000 grams)
- Weighing range:3–5000 grams
- Increment:1 gram
- Units:oz, lb:oz, g, mL for water and milk
- Nutrition tracking:Up to 19 nutrients
- Platform material:304 stainless steel
- Display:Backlit LCD
- Battery:3 AAA batteries
Our verdict“Choose the Etekcity scale if nutrient tracking and precise portion weighing matter more than cooking functions.”
Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven with FlexDoor, Stainless Steel
The Ninja DCT451 earns its place for households that need two dishes ready together without sharing one oven temperature. Its top rapid oven and lower convection and air fry oven work independently, while Smart Finish coordinates their timing. That makes it a more flexible choice for a mixed meal than the single-chamber Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, though the Breville may suit cooks who prefer one larger cavity. The DCT451 also adds a leave-in thermometer and 12 cooking functions, so it can handle more than reheating or crisping. The tradeoff is counter space: its dual-oven design takes up room, and its stated capacity pairs a 12-inch pizza with up to 6 pounds of wings rather than accommodating a single very large roast.
Pros:- Independent cooking chambers handle different temperatures at the same time
- Smart Finish coordinates the end time for both chambers
- 12 functions include air fry and dehydrate
- Leave-in thermometer helps monitor cooking without repeatedly opening the oven
Cons:- Dual-oven capacity requires substantial counter space
- The listed capacity may not suit cooks who need to prepare one especially large item
Best for: Households that regularly prepare two dishes at different temperatures and want them to finish together
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or cooks who mainly need one roomy oven for oversized dishes
- Model:DCT451
- Cooking functions:12
- Oven configuration:Top rapid oven and bottom convection and air fry oven
- Capacity:Up to 6 lbs of wings and a 12-inch pizza at the same time
- Key features:FlexDoor, FlavorSeal, Smart Finish, Smart Cook thermometer
- Included components:Air fry basket, 2 sheet pans, 2 wire racks, removable crumb tray, recipe book
- Warranty:1 year limited
Our verdict“Choose the Ninja DCT451 if synchronized cooking across two chambers matters more than saving counter space.”
Inkbird ISV-100W WiFi Sous Vide Precision Cooker, 1000W
The Inkbird ISV-100W brings app control to a cooking method that otherwise asks for close temperature management. It heats and circulates water while holding the set temperature, and the app lets cooks monitor or adjust a session remotely. Its 99-hour timer and calibration option suit long cooks and users who want more control over temperature precision. Compared with the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker, it serves a narrower purpose: sous vide rather than pressure cooking and other one-pot meals. That specialization can help with controlled, hands-off cooking, but it also means you need a suitable water container and a reliable 2.4GHz WiFi network for app access. The touchscreen still provides local control if you prefer to set it at the cooker.
Pros:- App supports remote monitoring and control over 2.4GHz WiFi
- Temperature calibration provides an adjustment option
- Temperature accuracy is listed at 0.1°C (0.2°F)
- Quiet operation is rated below 40 dB
Cons:- App connectivity requires a 2.4GHz WiFi network
- Sous vide cooking requires a separate water container
- Its specialized function offers less everyday range than a multi-cooker such as the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker
Best for: Sous vide cooks who want to monitor long cooking sessions from their phone
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking one appliance for pressure cooking, sautéing, or other general meal preparation
- Model:ISV-100W
- Power:1000 watts
- Connectivity:2.4GHz WiFi
- Control:App and touchscreen
- Temperature range:77–210°F (25–99°C)
- Temperature accuracy:0.1°C (0.2°F)
- Maximum timer:99 hours
- Capacity:15 liters
- Warranty:365 days
Our verdict“Pick the Inkbird if you already cook sous vide and want app-based oversight for extended sessions.”
Ganiza 2-Slice Touchscreen Toaster with Wide Slots, 925 W
The Ganiza GD10 makes a straightforward breakfast appliance more adjustable with a touchscreen countdown and browning control in 10-second increments. That fine adjustment is useful when a usual setting runs slightly too light or dark, while the wide slots accept thicker bread, bagels, muffins, and waffles. Compared with the four-slice Clixane WT-8206E, Ganiza takes a simpler, smaller-footprint approach: it handles two slices per cycle and gives each cycle a visible countdown. Its six browning levels and defrost and reheat programs cover routine needs without turning the toaster into a more complex countertop system. The capacity is the clear limit for larger households, and the lever must be pushed past the start line to begin toasting, which may take some getting used to.
Pros:- Countdown touchscreen gives a visible estimate of toasting time
- ±10-second adjustment allows fine tuning between cycles
- Wide slots fit thick bread, bagels, muffins, and waffles
- Removable crumb tray and cord wrap help with cleanup and storage
Cons:- Limited to two slices per cycle, unlike the four-slice Clixane WT-8206E
- Lever must be pushed past the start line to begin toasting
Best for: One- or two-person households that want adjustable toast timing and slots for thicker bread
Not ideal for: Families that need to toast four slices at once or prepare breakfast in larger batches
- Model:GD10
- Capacity:2 slices
- Power:925 watts
- Browning levels:6
- Programs:Defrost, reheat, frozen waffle, cancel
- Material:Stainless steel
- Dimensions:9.6 x 5.5 x 6.8 inches (D x W x H)
- Special features:Touchscreen, countdown timer, ±10-second adjustment, anti-jam protection, removable crumb tray
Our verdict“Choose the Ganiza for a compact two-slice toaster with more timing control than a basic model.”
Clixane 4-Slice Touchscreen Toaster, 1650W, Black
The Clixane WT-8206E is the better fit when several people need toast at once or want different settings in the same round. Its dual touchscreens and independent controls let each side use its own shade and bread settings, a practical advantage over the two-slice Ganiza GD10 when breakfast is a group effort. Eight shade settings and six bread-type programs add options, while memory and single-slot modes offer extra control over how much bread is toasted. This makes it the more capable toaster in the lineup, but the product data does not specify slot width, so buyers should not assume every unusually thick item will fit. The description also gives no warranty details, leaving less information about support than the product features provide.
Pros:- Four slots handle more slices per cycle than the Ganiza GD10
- Independent controls let the two sides use different settings
- Eight shade settings and six bread-type programs offer adjustment options
- Two removable crumb trays simplify cleanup
Cons:- Slot width is not specified in the product data
- The product description does not provide warranty details
Best for: Households that toast for several people and want separate settings across two pairs of slots
Not ideal for: Buyers who need confirmed slot dimensions or clear warranty information before choosing
- Model:WT-8206E
- Capacity:4 slices
- Power:1650 W
- Shade settings:8
- Bread types:6
- Material and color:Stainless steel, black
- Dimensions:10.2 × 11.4 × 7.1 in
- Weight:2.72 kg
- Special features:Dual touchscreens, independent controls, countdown display, memory function, single-slot toasting, removable crumb trays
Our verdict“Choose the Clixane if four-slice capacity and separate settings matter more than confirmed slot dimensions.”
Instant Pot Duo 6-Quart 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Duo 6-Quart earns a place for combining seven everyday cooking methods in one programmable appliance. Pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, rice and yogurt making, and warming can replace several separate tools, while 13 one-touch programs reduce the setup needed for common dishes. Unlike the WiFi-connected CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker, the Duo does not list app control or a built-in scale; its appeal is a broad set of core functions with touch controls and automatic operation. The stainless steel pot has a tri-ply bottom for searing and sautéing, and the easy-release steam switch offers a simpler way to vent. Its 6-quart size suits shared meals, but at 14.6 pounds and over 12 inches in each listed dimension, it takes commitment to store or leave on the counter.
Pros:- Seven cooking functions cover a range of regular meal tasks
- 13 one-touch programs simplify common settings
- Tri-ply-bottom stainless steel pot supports searing and sautéing
- Easy-release steam switch makes venting more direct
Cons:- At 14.6 pounds, it is cumbersome to move frequently
- Its listed dimensions require substantial storage or counter space
- No WiFi connectivity or built-in scale is listed, unlike the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker
Best for: Home cooks who want one appliance for pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice, steaming, and sautéing
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited storage or buyers who want WiFi guidance and a built-in scale
- Model:DUO 60
- Capacity:5.68 liters (6 quarts)
- Cooking functions:Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice, yogurt, keep warm
- Smart programs:13 one-touch options
- Power:1000 watts
- Cooking pot:18/8 stainless steel with tri-ply bottom
- Dimensions:12.2 x 13.38 x 12.48 inches
- Weight:14.6 pounds
- Warranty:1 year manufacturer warranty
Our verdict“Choose the Duo if you want broad multi-cooker functionality and can accommodate its size.”
Ninja Foodi Smart Dual Heat Air Fry Oven, 13-in-1, Silver (SP351)
The Ninja Foodi SP351 earns its place for cooks who want countertop-oven range with a little more guidance at the finish. Its smart thermometer lets you select a doneness target, while Dual Heat Technology pairs cyclonic air with a heated SearPlate for crisping and searing in one appliance. That makes it a different proposition from the Ninja Foodi DZ201 DualZone: the DZ201 separates foods into two baskets and coordinates their finish times, while this oven adds a thermometer and handles jobs such as baking, broiling, and toasting. The tradeoff is a single cooking space, so it cannot run two independent zones. Its family-sized capacity suits a 2-pound roast or up to six chicken breasts, and the flip-up design frees storage space after cooking. It still needs counter space while in use, and included-component descriptions are inconsistent about the pan and SearPlate.
Pros:- Smart thermometer supports cooking to a selected doneness
- Thirteen functions cover air frying, searing, baking, broiling, toasting, and dehydrating
- Dual Heat Technology combines cyclonic air with a heated SearPlate
- Flips up for more compact storage between uses
Cons:- Only one cooking space, unlike the DZ201’s two independent baskets
- Requires countertop space while cooking
- Included-component descriptions vary about whether the non-stick pan or SearPlate is supplied
Best for: Cooks who want an all-purpose countertop oven and thermometer-guided doneness for roasts or chicken
Not ideal for: Households that regularly cook two different foods at once or need a compact appliance during use
- Model:SP351
- Cooking functions:13
- Wattage:1800 watts
- Maximum temperature:500°F
- Control type:Touch control
- Capacity:Up to 4 lb of ingredients; fits up to 6 chicken breasts or a 2 lb roast
- Included components:Air fry basket, non-stick pan, wire rack, removable crumb tray, smart thermometer
- Warranty:1-year limited warranty
Our verdict“Choose the SP351 if thermometer-guided cooking and oven versatility matter more to you than separate cooking zones.”
Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart DualZone 6-in-1 Air Fryer
The Ninja Foodi DZ201 is the lineup’s practical choice for meals with two components that need different settings. Its independent 4-quart baskets can cook separate foods, and Smart Finish coordinates their timing so both are ready together; Match Cook copies settings when you want to make the same food in both zones. Compared with the Ninja Foodi SP351, it gives up the oven’s smart thermometer and broader 13-function range in favor of two cooking zones. Six modes still cover air frying, broiling, roasting, baking, reheating, and dehydrating, so it can handle more than snacks. The split capacity is useful for varied meals but limits the size of any single item or batch in one basket. At 17.9 pounds and nearly 16 inches wide, it also calls for a dedicated spot rather than effortless cupboard-to-counter use. Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates make cleanup simpler.
Pros:- Two independent baskets let you cook different foods at once
- Smart Finish coordinates cooking times across the two zones
- Match Cook copies settings across both baskets
- Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates simplify cleanup
Cons:- Each basket is limited to 4 quarts, restricting single-basket batch size
- At 17.9 pounds, it is cumbersome to move frequently
- Its six functions offer less range than the SP351’s 13 oven functions
Best for: Households that want to cook a main and side with different settings and have them finish together
Not ideal for: Cooks who need a single large cavity for roasts or want an appliance that is light and easy to store
- Model:DZ201
- Capacity:8 quarts total
- Cooking zones:Two independent 4-quart baskets
- Cooking functions:Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Temperature range:105°F to 450°F
- Wattage:1690 watts
- Dimensions:13.86 × 15.63 × 12.4 inches
- Weight:17.9 pounds
- Care:Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
Our verdict“Choose the DZ201 if cooking two different foods to finish together matters more than a large single cooking space or thermometer-guided doneness.”
How We Picked
I compared the 12 appliances on the features that change everyday cooking: how they guide or control a cooking task, the range of jobs they cover, usable capacity, setup and controls, and the effort involved in cleaning and storage. Smart features earned weight when they gave the cook a clear benefit, such as temperature feedback, connected instructions, or easier coordination of cooking stages. A long mode list alone did not make a product rank higher.
The ranking favors appliances that combine practical assistance with broad usefulness and clear roles. The Ninja Foodi Smart XL leads for its mix of cooking modes and doneness guidance; the CHEF iQ follows for its connected recipe support and scale. Oven-style appliances rank well for versatility but carry a space tradeoff, while focused tools such as the Etekcity scale and Inkbird sous vide are better for specific routines. The toasters and conventional Instant Pot Duo offer simpler or more specialized value, but less connected cooking support than the leading picks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Smart Kitchen Appliances
Smart features matter most when they solve a recurring kitchen problem. Before choosing, I would match the appliance to the meals you make, the room you have, and the amount of guidance you want during cooking.
Decide What “Smart” Should Do for You
Smart kitchen appliances use different kinds of assistance, and those differences affect daily use more than the label. A thermometer can help track doneness without requiring recipe browsing, while WiFi and app guidance can help with settings or cooking steps. A touchscreen may simplify local control without connecting to a phone at all. Think about whether you want remote monitoring, guided recipes, automatic temperature control, or simply clearer presets. A common mistake is paying for connectivity that adds setup but does not improve your regular cooking routine. Check whether the features you want depend on an app, a network connection, or a separate accessory.
Measure the Counter Space and Storage Path
Capacity is useful only if the appliance fits where you can use and store it. Countertop ovens and multi-function cookers can handle bigger meals, but their footprint, lid clearance, and weight may make them inconvenient in a small kitchen. Measure the available counter depth as well as width, and check whether cabinets leave enough room above the appliance during use. Consider where removable pans, racks, and lids will go between meals. Buyers often compare capacity numbers while overlooking the space needed to open doors or lift a lid. If the appliance will stay out permanently, choose a size that leaves room for your other daily tasks.
Choose Between One Large Appliance and Several Focused Tools
A multi-cooker or countertop oven can replace several appliances, reducing clutter if you use its different modes. That convenience comes with a tradeoff: a single unit may not match the speed, capacity, or specialized results of a dedicated tool for every task. A kitchen scale or sous vide cooker makes more sense when a specific routine—such as portion tracking or precise water-bath cooking—is already part of your week. List the cooking jobs you do most often, then identify which device can cover those jobs well. Avoid counting every advertised mode as a separate benefit if you are unlikely to use it. Paying more for versatility is worthwhile when it replaces appliances you would otherwise keep and use.
Think Through Cleanup Before You Buy
Cleanup can decide whether a feature-rich appliance gets used after the novelty wears off. Grease-catching trays, baskets, racks, inner pots, and probes all add surfaces to wash or maintain. Check which parts are removable and whether the manufacturer describes them as dishwasher-safe; do not assume every accessory can go in the dishwasher. Also consider the appliance exterior and the space needed to let parts dry. A machine with more cooking modes may ask for more cleanup between batches, especially when switching from greasy foods to baking. If weekday convenience is the main goal, favor a design whose routine cleanup feels manageable.
Match Capacity to the Way You Serve Meals
Choose capacity based on the number of portions and whether you cook different foods at once. A divided or dual-zone appliance can coordinate separate dishes, while one large cooking chamber may better suit a single item or a family-sized tray. A larger stated capacity does not guarantee that food will brown evenly if it is packed tightly. Think about your usual batch size, the shape of the cookware you already own, and whether you prepare meals ahead. Buyers who mostly cook for one or two may find a large device cumbersome to heat and store. For households with varied schedules, separate cooking zones can matter more than one oversized cavity.
Pay for Guidance You Will Use Repeatedly
Built-in scales, probes, connected recipes, and automatic programs can reduce guesswork, but each feature serves a different kind of cook. A scale is useful when ingredient measurements or nutrition tracking are central to meal prep; a probe helps when cooking to a target doneness matters. Recipe guidance is most helpful when you want support through unfamiliar dishes, rather than when you already cook from a fixed routine. Consider whether the feature saves time, improves consistency, or removes a task you dislike. Do not treat an app connection as proof that an appliance will cook better. Spend more when a specific feature will see regular use, and keep the simpler controls when it will not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need WiFi for an appliance to count as smart?
No. Some appliances provide useful assistance through temperature sensors, presets, or touchscreen controls without relying on a home network. WiFi matters when you want features such as app-based recipe guidance or remote monitoring, but it can also add setup and account requirements. Before buying, check which functions remain available if the internet connection drops. Choose a connected model when its app features fit your routine, rather than for connectivity alone.
Should I choose a smart oven or a separate air fryer?
Choose an oven-style appliance if you want one countertop unit to handle a wider mix of cooking tasks and have the space for it. A dedicated air fryer may suit you better if crisping smaller batches is your main need and you value a more focused footprint. Consider how often you bake, toast, roast, or cook multiple foods alongside air frying. Check the usable cooking area, since a large advertised volume does not always translate into room for a full meal. Your choice should follow your regular menu, not the number of modes printed on the box.
Is a connected pressure cooker worth choosing over a simpler multicooker?
A connected model makes more sense if guided recipes, app support, or built-in measuring tools would help you cook unfamiliar dishes or repeat recipes consistently. A simpler multicooker can be a better fit when you already know your settings and mostly want dependable pressure cooking and other core functions. Compare the specific guidance features, not just the number of programs. Also consider how comfortable you are using an app while cooking and whether the key controls are easy to reach on the appliance itself. The extra smart layer is most useful when it removes a step you currently find inconvenient.
What should I check before buying a large countertop appliance?
Measure the counter location, cabinet clearance, and the path from storage to where you plan to cook. Check how the lid or door opens and whether you can lift out hot accessories safely. Then account for the room needed to store racks, trays, and removable parts. A large appliance can cover several cooking jobs, but it may become a nuisance if it blocks prep space or is too awkward to put away. Compare its real cooking surface and serving capacity with the meals you actually make.
Which smart feature is most useful for avoiding overcooked food?
A cooking probe or temperature feedback feature can help when doneness depends on reaching a target internal temperature. Preset programs may also reduce guesswork, though they cannot account for every ingredient size or starting temperature. A scale helps with measurements but does not directly monitor cooking progress. Think about which foods you most often overcook and whether the appliance can track that specific task. For reliable results, follow safe food handling guidance and use an appropriate food thermometer when needed.
Conclusion
For the broadest mix of practical cooking assistance and useful modes, I recommend the Ninja Foodi Smart XL as best overall. The Ninja PossibleCooker PRO Plus is my best value choice for buyers who want multi-cooker flexibility without making app guidance the priority, while the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the best premium fit for cooks who will use its oven-style range and have counter space. Beginners who want connected instructions and built-in measuring support should look at the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker. For specific needs, choose the Etekcity scale for weighing and nutrition tracking, the Inkbird sous vide for precise water-bath cooking, or the Ninja DualZone when cooking two foods separately is the priority. Match the appliance to the job you repeat most often, and its smart features are more likely to earn their place in your kitchen.
