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Start for freeWelcome to our comprehensive review and comparison of two popular Ninja Foodi models: the new Ninja Foodi Stack and the tried-and-true Ninja Foodi Jewel. As a fan of innovative kitchen gadgets, I recently purchased the Ninja Stack and spent a few days putting it through its paces. Here's everything you need to know, including whether the Stack's higher price tag is justified over the Jewel.
Functions and Capacity: A Tie
Both the Ninja Foodi Stack and Jewel offer six functions: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. They also share the same total capacity of 9.5 liters across their dual drawers. However, despite the identical volume, we'll delve into size differences shortly.
Dishwasher Safety: Convenient Cleaning
I appreciate the convenience of dishwasher-safe components. While I prefer a unique cleaning method for my Jewel trays (soaking them with a dishwasher tablet in boiling water), it's reassuring to know that both models can withstand dishwasher cleaning.
Power Equivalence
Power output is identical for both models, each boasting 2,470 watts. This means you can expect similar performance levels when it comes to the heat these machines can generate.
Distinct Differences
Cost and Size
The Stack is marketed as a space-saving device. Indeed, it's narrower but deeper than the Jewel, with a width of 28 cm compared to the Jewel's 41.5 cm. This design choice is significant for those with limited counter space. The Stack, however, comes with a heftier price tag of £270, £70 more than the Jewel's current £199 price on Amazon.
Included Accessories
The Stack includes a grill tray, facilitating the cooking of two different foods simultaneously—a feature not inherent to the Jewel. This capability enhances the versatility of the Stack, allowing for creative meal prep.
Cooking Differences
I conducted a hash browns test to compare cooking performance. The Jewel delivered a perfectly crispy hash brown in 12 minutes, while the Stack's output was slightly less crispy, suggesting heat distribution differences due to the Stack's rear heating element.
User Interface and Experience
The control panel on the Stack is less intuitive than the Jewel's, with a more complicated setup for selecting functions and adjusting time and temperature. This could pose a challenge for users with larger hands or limited space beside the appliance due to its side venting feature.
Sound Level and Venting
During operation, the Stack is marginally louder than the Jewel. Additionally, the Stack vents from the side, which may require careful placement in your kitchen to avoid obstructing airflow or damaging surrounding items.
Innovative Features
The Stack introduces a 'double stack' feature, allowing for layered cooking—protein on top and vegetables or starches below. This setup enables flavors to meld beautifully, creating cohesive and delicious meals.
Learning Curves and Quirks
After extensive testing, several aspects of the Stack stood out. The control panel's design could be more user-friendly, and the drawer system, while accommodating more food, presents challenges for seasoning and accessing food mid-cook. The cleaning process also reveals limitations compared to the Jewel, with restrictions on how high water can be filled for soaking.
Conclusion
Both the Ninja Foodi Stack and Jewel have their merits. If counter space is at a premium in your kitchen, the Stack's space-saving design and innovative cooking features may appeal to you. However, the Jewel offers simplicity, reliability, and a lower price point, making it an attractive option for those with enough kitchen real estate. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, cooking habits, and space considerations.
Thank you for following along with this detailed comparison. Whether you opt for the Stack or stick with the Jewel, both Ninja Foodi models promise to elevate your cooking game. For more insights and a future follow-up review, stay tuned.
