The Best Ninja Air Fryers at Costco: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier, quicker way to achieve deliciously crispy results without excessive oil. Among the myriad brands, Ninja stands out for its innovative designs and multi-functional capabilities. When you’re looking to bring a Ninja air fryer into your kitchen, Costco often presents an unbeatable combination of competitive pricing, exclusive models, and a robust return policy, making it a prime destination for your purchase.

This comprehensive guide will navigate the world of Ninja air fryers available at Costco, helping you understand the different types, their unique features, and how to select the perfect model to suit your culinary needs and kitchen space.

Why a Ninja Air Fryer from Costco?

Ninja has carved out a strong reputation for producing high-quality, versatile kitchen appliances that consistently deliver impressive results. From multi-cookers that pressure cook and air fry to dedicated air fryer ovens, Ninja products are designed to simplify meal preparation and expand your cooking repertoire.

Buying a Ninja air fryer from Costco adds several layers of benefit. Costco is renowned for its member-exclusive pricing, often providing significant savings and unique product bundles that you won’t find elsewhere. Furthermore, manufacturers frequently create special model numbers or SKUs specifically for Costco (e.g., DT255CO for certain Smart Ovens, CO351B for blenders). While these models might have minor cosmetic variations or slightly different accessory packages compared to their general retail counterparts, their core functionality remains robust. Costco’s legendary return policy also offers an additional layer of assurance, making your purchase virtually risk-free.

Understanding Ninja Air Fryer Types at Costco

Ninja offers a diverse range of air fryers, each designed to cater to different cooking styles and kitchen setups. At Costco, you’ll typically find two main categories: versatile oven-style air fryers and dedicated basket-style models, some with innovative features like glass bowls or dual zones.

Oven-Style Air Fryers (e.g., Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven)

These multi-functional appliances go beyond simple air frying, often combining the capabilities of a toaster oven, dehydrator, and more. A popular feature of some Ninja oven-style models is their unique flip-up design, which allows them to be stored vertically to reclaim valuable counter space when not in use.

• Description: These units typically feature a larger internal capacity, often resembling a compact convection oven. They excel at functions like air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating. The flip-up models are particularly appealing for smaller kitchens.
• Pros:
  • Versatility: Replaces multiple appliances, freeing up counter space.
  • Space-Saving: Flip-up designs are ideal for compact kitchens.
  • Fast & Efficient: Heats up much quicker than a conventional oven, making meal prep faster.
  • Large Capacity: Can often accommodate a full-sized frozen pizza or multiple batches of food on different racks.
• Cons:
  • Cleaning Challenges: This is the most common complaint. The interior, particularly around the heating elements and hard-to-reach corners, can be very difficult to clean thoroughly if grease accumulates. Some users report issues with crumb management when flipping the unit.
  • Uneven Performance: While generally good, some users find the toasting function to be inconsistent, drying out bread before browning it evenly.
  • Noise: Can sometimes be noisy during operation.
  • Power Draw: High wattage can occasionally trip circuits in older homes.
• Popular Models: The Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 Digital Air Fry XL Oven (often a flip-style model) is frequently seen at Costco. Look for models with specific Costco SKUs like DT255CO.

Our Picks for the Best Air Fryer in 2026 We may earn a commission when you use one of our links to make a purchase.
Num	Product	Action
1	Ninja - Indoor Grill and Air Fryer- Foodi Smart XL - 6-in-1 Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate & Crisp -Smart Thermometer & Splatter Shield - Dishwasher Safe Parts - Black/Silver - FG551
2	Ninja - Air Fryer - 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate - 5QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of French Fries - 400F Max Temp - Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate - 120V - Grey - AF141
3	Gourmia Air Fryer Oven Digital Display 4 Quart Large AirFryer Cooker 12 1-Touch Cooking Presets, Black and Stainless Steel Accents Fry Force GAF486
4	Ninja - Air Fryer Pro XL - 6.5QT Capacity fits up to 9lbs of Wings- 7-in-1 Max Crisp, Broil, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate - Dishwasher Safe Parts - Space Saving - Grey - AF182AMZ
5	Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry, Broil, Dehydrate, Crisp, Roast, Reheat, Bake, Dishwasher-Safe Airfryer basket, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Stainless Steel
6	Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer, Custom Program Options, Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, Reheat, Black, 4 Quarts
7	Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray
8	Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black
9	Ninja - XL Single Basket Air Fryer - 5.5 QT Capacity fits 3lbs of Wings - 5-in-1Air Fry, Roast, Bake,Reheat & Dehydrate -Dishwasher Safe Parts & Recipe Guide - Grey -AF150AMZ
10	Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 24 Cooking Functions and Digital Controls, 7 Accessories Included, Stainless Steel Finish, 26QT Capacity

Basket-Style Air Fryers (e.g., Ninja Crispi, Ninja Foodi FlexBasket)

For those prioritizing crisping performance and simpler operation, basket-style air fryers are a fantastic choice. Ninja’s offerings in this category include innovative designs that enhance user experience and cleaning.

• Description: These air fryers typically feature one or two pull-out baskets where food is placed. They are primarily designed for air frying, though some offer additional functions like roasting or reheating. Recent innovations include glass bowls for visibility and dual zones for cooking different foods simultaneously.
• Pros:
  • Superior Crisping: Often deliver exceptional crisping results due to optimized airflow.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Many models, especially those with glass bowls (like the Ninja Crispi) or removable, non-stick, dishwasher-safe baskets, are significantly easier to clean than oven-style units. The Ninja Crispi, for example, is praised for its power and the cooking chamber’s ability to double as a portable food container.
  • Visibility: Glass-bowl designs allow you to monitor your food without opening the basket, preventing heat loss.
  • Dual-Zone Cooking: Models like the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket allow you to cook two different items at varying temperatures and times, or combine baskets for an extra-large cooking zone.
• Cons:
  • Less Versatile: Generally offer fewer cooking functions compared to oven-style models.
  • Counter Space: While some are compact, larger dual-basket models can occupy a significant footprint.
  • Noise: Some basket air fryers can be loud.
• Popular Models: The Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer (FN103CO) has been a recent highlight at Costco, often priced around $159.99, sometimes on sale for as low as $124.99. The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer (often available around $139.99 online and potentially cheaper in-store) is another excellent option for larger families or batch cooking.

Comparison: Ninja Air Fryers at Costco

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison of some popular Ninja air fryer types you might find at Costco:

How to Choose the Right Ninja Air Fryer at Costco

Selecting the perfect Ninja air fryer involves weighing your priorities against the features of available models at Costco:

1. Assess Your Kitchen Space: If counter space is a premium, the Ninja Foodi flip-up oven style is a strong contender due to its vertical storage capability. For larger kitchens, a dual-basket or a dedicated glass-bowl unit might be more practical.
2. Define Your Cooking Needs:
   • Maximum Versatility: If you want an appliance that can air fry, toast, bake, and roast, an oven-style Ninja Foodi is ideal.
   • Dedicated Air Frying & Easy Monitoring: For perfect crispy results and the ability to watch your food cook without opening the unit, the Ninja Crispi with its glass bowl is a top choice.
   • Batch Cooking or Simultaneous Meals: The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket with its dual zones is excellent for preparing different components of a meal at the same time or cooking large quantities.
3. Prioritize Ease of Cleaning: If cleaning is a major concern, opt for models like the Ninja Crispi with its accessible glass bowl and removable parts, or basket-style air fryers with non-stick, dishwasher-safe components. For oven-style models, commit to immediate and thorough cleaning or consistently use foil liners to manage grease.
4. Consider Your Budget and Deals: Keep an eye on Costco’s weekly ads and in-warehouse sales. Ninja air fryers frequently go on discount, offering substantial savings. Remember that Costco-specific models might offer better value bundles.
5. Read User Reviews: Leverage the experiences of other Costco members. Online forums (like Reddit) often provide candid reviews on specific models sold at Costco, particularly regarding long-term durability and the practicality of features like the flip-up design or cleaning difficulty.

Tips for Maximizing Your Ninja Air Fryer Experience

Once you’ve chosen your Ninja air fryer from Costco, these tips will help you get the most out of your new kitchen essential:

• Preheat Properly: Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Overfilling the basket or oven racks can impede airflow, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy results. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use Liners for Easy Cleanup: For oven-style models, lining drip trays with foil or using air fryer parchment paper (available at Costco) can significantly reduce cleaning effort, especially when cooking greasy foods. Ensure liners are weighed down by food to prevent them from flying into heating elements during preheating.
• Shake or Flip Food: For best results, shake baskets or flip items halfway through cooking to ensure all sides are exposed to the hot air.
• Clean Regularly: To prevent stubborn grease buildup, clean your air fryer after every use. For removable parts, check if they are dishwasher-safe. For interiors, a soft cloth and mild detergent work wonders if done promptly.

Conclusion

Bringing a Ninja air fryer into your home from Costco is a smart move for anyone looking to enhance their cooking with efficiency, versatility, and healthier options. Whether you opt for the space-saving multi-functionality of a Ninja Foodi oven-style air fryer, the transparent convenience of the Ninja Crispi glass-bowl model, or the dual-zone power of the FlexBasket, Costco offers excellent value and selection. By considering your kitchen space, cooking habits, and prioritizing ease of cleaning, you can confidently choose a Ninja air fryer that will become an indispensable tool in your culinary adventures.

Which Ninja air fryer feature are you most excited to try first?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Ninja air fryers at Costco different from other stores?

Yes, Ninja often produces models with unique SKU numbers specifically for Costco. While the core features are generally the same as their retail counterparts, Costco versions might include different accessories, slight cosmetic variations, or be part of exclusive bundles, often at a competitive price.

What is the easiest Ninja air fryer to clean?

Based on user feedback and design, basket-style air fryers with removable, non-stick, dishwasher-safe components are generally easier to clean. The Ninja Crispi glass-bowl air fryer is particularly praised for its visibility and ease of cleaning, as its cooking chamber can be easily washed.

Can I bake a cake in a Ninja air fryer from Costco?

Many oven-style Ninja Foodi air fryers include baking functions and sufficient space to bake smaller cakes, brownies, or muffins. Basket-style air fryers can also bake, but you’ll need to use appropriate bakeware that fits inside the basket. Always check your specific model’s manual for recommended temperatures and cooking times.

Do Ninja air fryers at Costco come with a warranty?

Ninja products typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty. However, one of the significant advantages of purchasing from Costco is their very generous return policy. If you encounter issues with your Ninja air fryer, Costco’s return policy can often provide a more straightforward resolution than dealing directly with the manufacturer’s warranty process.