Top 10 Air Fryers
Air Fryer Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT
The Air Fryer Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT stands out with its impressive 6-in-1 functionality, allowing you to air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. The inclusion of the ClearCook window and internal light lets you easily monitor your food without having to open the basket, which is a thoughtful addition for those who like to keep an eye on their cooking progress.
Another notable feature is the Odor Erase Technology, which uses built-in, replaceable air filters to remove odors during cooking, making it a great choice for those who are sensitive to lingering cooking smells. The EvenCrisp Technology ensures that your food achieves a perfect golden finish and crispy, tender results every time.
For convenience, the Vortex Plus offers one-touch smart programs that can be customized for various dishes like wings, roasted veggies, garlicky potatoes, cookies, and cinnamon buns. The fast preheating feature means you can go from frozen to golden in minutes, making it ideal for quick, delicious meals.
Cleaning up is a breeze with the non-stick, dishwasher-safe air fry basket and tray. This air fryer is a perfect addition to any kitchen, especially for families of 4-6 servings, and the free Instant Pot app provides a plethora of recipes to keep your meals exciting.
Compared to other air fryers, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT excels in terms of versatility and ease of use. However, it might be a bit bulky for those with limited counter space.
Pros
Versatile 6-in-1 functionality ClearCook window and internal light Odor Erase Technology
Cons
Bulky for limited counter space
Tip #1
Consider the capacity based on your household size.
Air Fryer Ninja AF101
The Air Fryer Ninja AF101 ranks impressively at number 2 in our top 10 air fryers list. This versatile appliance offers a 4-in-1 functionality that includes Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen. The wide temperature range of 105°F-400°F allows for a variety of cooking techniques, from gently removing moisture from foods to quickly cooking and crisping them with convection heat.
One of the standout features of this model is its family-sized capacity. The 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate can fit up to 2 lbs of French fries, making it ideal for families. Additionally, the unit is easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe parts including the basket and crisper plate, and a machine exterior that can be wiped clean effortlessly.
The Air Fryer Ninja AF101 also excels in creating healthier meals. It allows you to air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, which is a significant advantage for those looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing taste. The dehydrate function is another unique feature, enabling you to create flat, chip-like dehydrated foods for fun, homemade snacks.
However, when compared to other models, it lacks some advanced features like a clear window to monitor cooking progress or odor erase technology, which are available in other air fryers on our list.
In comparison to the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT, which also offers 6-in-1 functionality and a clear cooking window, the Ninja AF101 may seem slightly less advanced but remains a solid, reliable option for those who prioritize straightforward, efficient cooking.
Pros
4-in-1 functionality Family-sized capacity Healthier meals with up to 75% less fat
Cons
Lacks clear window for monitoring No odor erase technology
Tip #2
Check for multiple cooking functions for versatility.
Air Fryer Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL
The Air Fryer Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL stands out with its 6-IN-1 functionality, allowing you to air fry, broil, roast, dehydrate, bake, and reheat. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen, accommodating a wide range of cooking needs. The advanced EvenCrisp technology ensures a perfect golden finish and crispy, tender results every time, making it ideal for preparing side dishes, appetizers, and main courses.
One of the most notable features is the customizable one-touch smart programs. With these programs, you can effortlessly cook wings, roasted veggies, garlicky potatoes, cookies, cinnamon buns, and more. The fast preheating capability means you can go from frozen to golden in minutes, which is a significant time-saver for busy households.
Clean-up is a breeze with the non-stick, dishwasher-safe air fry basket and tray, ensuring you spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meals. The compact design with stainless-steel accents not only adds a touch of style to your countertop but also saves space.
Safety features such as Overheat Protection and auto-off provide peace of mind, especially for those who might be new to air frying. Additionally, the free Instant Brands Connect App offers a plethora of recipes, making it easier to explore new dishes and cooking techniques.
Compared to other air fryers, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL offers a combination of functionality, ease of use, and stylish design. However, it faces stiff competition from models like the Ninja AF101, which also offers versatile cooking programs and easy clean-up features.
Pros
Versatile 6-in-1 functionality Customizable one-touch smart programs Compact design with stainless-steel accents
Cons
Faces stiff competition from other models like the Ninja AF101
Tip #3
Look for easy-to-clean models with dishwasher-safe parts.
Air Fryer Cuisinart TOA-70
Ranked at number 4, the Air Fryer Cuisinart TOA-70 is a premium 1800-watt toaster oven and air fryer combo that offers a variety of cooking functions. This versatile appliance is equipped with multiple settings, including AirFry, toast, convection bake, bake, convection broil, broil, grill, and warming feature, with a wide temperature range of Warm to 450°F.
One of the standout features of the Cuisinart TOA-70 is its impressive capacity. It can toast up to 6 slices of bread, air fry 3 pounds of chicken wings, bake a 12-inch pizza, or roast a 4-pound chicken, making it a great addition for families or those who love to entertain. The adjustable temperature dial, 60-minute timer/auto-shutoff, and toast shade selector ensure that your meals are cooked to perfection every time.
Cleaning up is a breeze with the Cuisinart TOA-70, thanks to its nonstick easy-clean interior and included accessories such as an oven light, oven rack, baking pan, and AirFry basket. Additionally, the appliance comes with a limited 3-year warranty, offering peace of mind for your investment.
While the Cuisinart TOA-70 excels in functionality and capacity, it is priced at $199.95, which is higher compared to other air fryers on the market. However, its multi-functionality and robust build quality justify the price for many users.
Compared to other air fryers like the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT, which offers similar features at a lower price, the Cuisinart TOA-70 stands out for its larger capacity and additional cooking functions. On the downside, it lacks some of the smart features and app connectivity found in other models.
Pros
Large capacity Multiple cooking functions Easy to clean
Cons
Higher price Lacks smart features
Tip #4
Consider the temperature range for different cooking needs.
Air Fryer Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart
Ranked at number 5, the Air Fryer Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart impresses with its unique dual-basket design, allowing you to cook two different foods simultaneously. This versatility is further enhanced by the Smart Finish feature, which ensures both foods finish cooking at the same time. The 6-in-1 functionality includes Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate, making it a multifunctional addition to any kitchen.
With a generous 8-quart capacity, the Ninja Foodi can handle large meals, fitting up to 4 lbs. of French fries or chicken wings. Each 4-quart zone has its own cooking basket, cyclonic fan, and rapid heater, ensuring even and quick cooking. The wide temperature range from 105°F to 450°F allows for a variety of cooking methods, from gently removing moisture to quickly crisping food with convection heat.
Cleaning is a breeze, thanks to the easy-to-clean baskets and dishwasher-safe crisper plates. The appliance also boasts up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, making it a healthier option for your favorite fried foods.
Compared to other air fryers, the Ninja Foodi stands out for its dual-zone technology and large capacity, but it comes at a higher price point. If budget is a concern, you might find similar features in more affordable models.
Pros
Dual-basket design allows simultaneous cooking of two different foods Large 8-quart capacity suitable for family meals Wide temperature range for versatile cooking methods
Cons
Higher price point compared to similar models
Tip #5
Read customer reviews to gauge reliability and performance.
Air Fryer Chefman Multifunctional Digital 10L
Ranked at number 6, the Air Fryer Chefman Multifunctional Digital 10L stands out for its impressive versatility and family-sized capacity. This air fryer is not just an air fryer; it can also bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, and roast, making it a versatile countertop cooking appliance. With a 10-liter capacity, it’s perfect for large meals, whether you’re meal-prepping or cooking for a family gathering.
One of its standout features is the rapid air heating elements that allow for faster cooking without the need for preheating. This means you can prepare meals in a fraction of the time compared to traditional ovens. Additionally, the appliance uses 98% less oil than conventional fryers, making it a healthier option for those looking to cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor.
The Chefman Multifunctional Digital 10L also comes with 17 preset options and an easy-to-use capacitive touch control screen, simplifying the cooking process. The interior lights and extra-large air fryer oven window allow you to monitor your food's cooking progress without opening the door, ensuring that your meals are cooked to perfection.
Cleaning up is a breeze with its removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts. Moreover, it includes three air flow racks, a stainless steel rotisserie oven spit with a retrieval tool, and a drip tray, offering all the accessories you need for a variety of cooking methods.
Compared to other air fryers like the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT, which also offers multi-functionality but with a smaller capacity, the Chefman Multifunctional Digital 10L is ideal for those who need to cook larger quantities of food. However, it does come at a slightly higher price point, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros
Versatile with multiple cooking functions Large 10-liter capacity Easy-to-clean with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
Higher price point Bulky size
Air Fryer Chefman TurboFry Touch XL 8-Qt
The Air Fryer Chefman TurboFry Touch XL 8-Qt stands out with its family-sized capacity, making it perfect for households of 4-6 people. This model is designed to deliver crispy delights with 98% less oil, making it a healthier choice for your favorite meals. The one-touch presets are a convenient feature, allowing you to easily cook fries, chicken, fish, and meat with just a tap.
One of the standout features is the LED shake reminder, which ensures even crispiness by reminding you to shake the basket during cooking. This model also offers a wide temperature range from 200°F to 400°F, catering to various cooking needs. The intelligent shutoff feature enhances safety by pausing heating when the fryer is opened and resuming when it's closed.
Cleaning is a breeze with the dishwasher-safe basket and tray, and the sleek design adds a modern touch to any kitchen. However, compared to other models, the Chefman TurboFry Touch XL may lack some advanced functionalities like dual-zone cooking or a rotisserie option.
In comparison, the Air Fryer Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart offers dual-zone technology, allowing you to cook two different foods simultaneously, which is a significant advantage for those who need to prepare multiple dishes at once. On the other hand, the Air Fryer Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL provides customizable smart programs for one-touch cooking, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Pros
Large family-sized capacity LED shake reminder Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
Lacks advanced functionalities like dual-zone cooking or rotisserie option
Air Fryer COSORI Pro LE 5-Qt
Ranked at number 8, the COSORI Pro LE 5-Qt Air Fryer brings a blend of functionality and compact design. This model is perfect for those with limited counter space but still looking to enjoy the benefits of air frying. With its 5-quart capacity, it comfortably fits enough food for 1-4 people, making it suitable for small families or individuals.
One of the standout features is the 9 easy functions that allow for a variety of cooking methods, including air frying, roasting, baking, and reheating. The tempered glass display adds a touch of elegance and makes it easy to navigate through the settings. Additionally, the air fryer boasts a temperature range of 170°F to 450°F, providing versatility in cooking different types of food.
Another highlight is the rapid heat circulation technology, which promises up to 85% less fat compared to traditional frying methods. This makes it a healthier option without compromising on the crispy texture that air fryers are known for. The included cookbook and access to over 100 recipes on the VeSync app ensure that users are never short of cooking inspiration.
However, when compared to other models, the COSORI Pro LE 5-Qt has a relatively smaller capacity, which might not be ideal for larger families. Additionally, while it is compact, it may still take up more space than mini models like the COSORI Mini 2.1 Qt.
In summary, the COSORI Pro LE 5-Qt is a solid choice for those seeking a balance between functionality and space-saving design. It offers a range of cooking options and a user-friendly interface, though its smaller capacity may limit its use for larger households.
Pros
Compact design Versatile cooking functions
Cons
Smaller capacity Takes up more space than mini models
Air Fryer COSORI Mini 2.1 Qt
Ranked 9th in our list, the Air Fryer COSORI Mini 2.1 Qt is a compact and portable option, perfect for single servings like sides, snacks, and wings. Weighing less than 5 pounds, its sleek design makes it easy to store and carry. The unit offers 4 cooking functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Reheat, allowing for versatile cooking options.
One of the standout features is its quiet operation, cooking at noise levels less than 48dB, which is quieter than any other COSORI model. This means you can prepare your favorite foods without the distraction of annoying or disruptive noise. Additionally, the air fryer cooks frozen food to crispy perfection in minutes, thanks to its fast and convenient operation, with temperatures ranging from 170–400°F.
Health-conscious users will appreciate that this model allows you to enjoy crispy textures with up to 97% less oil than traditional frying methods. The included 30 original recipes on the free VeSync app also provide plenty of inspiration for your culinary adventures.
However, the small 2.1-qt capacity might be a limitation for those looking to prepare meals for more than one person. Compared to other models on our list, such as the Air Fryer Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart, which offers dual baskets and larger capacity, the COSORI Mini is best suited for smaller portions and quick snacks.
Pros
Quiet operation Compact and portable
Cons
Small capacity Limited cooking functions
Air Fryer Emeril Lagasse 26 QT
The Air Fryer Emeril Lagasse 26 QT is a versatile air fryer and multi-cooker that elevates practically any meal, from air frying quick after-school snacks to roasting for large gatherings. It boasts an impressive 24 cooking pre-sets that include options such as Ribs, Defrost, Bake, Toast, Chicken, Pizza, Pastry, Slow Cook, Roast, Reheat, and Keep Warm. This extensive range of settings makes it a standout in terms of functionality.
One of the key highlights is its extra-large 26-quart capacity, which can serve 4–6 people, rotisserie a 6-lb chicken, or bake a 12” pizza. This makes it an excellent choice for families or those who entertain frequently. The dual-speed fan ensures even cooking with 360º superheated air circulation, delivering golden fried crisping at its finest.
The stainless steel exterior not only provides a sleek and modern look, but the elegant French doors open with a single pull, adding a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. The interior light allows you to monitor your food without opening the doors, which helps to maintain the cooking temperature.
However, when compared to other models, the Emeril Lagasse 26 QT falls short in a few areas. The price point is on the higher side, especially when compared to other air fryers that offer similar functionalities at a lower cost. Additionally, its large size may not be suitable for kitchens with limited counter space.
In comparison to other air fryers like the Chefman TurboFry Touch XL 8-Qt or the Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart, the Emeril Lagasse 26 QT offers more cooking presets and a larger capacity, but at the expense of a higher price and larger footprint.
Pros
24 cooking pre-sets Extra-large 26-quart capacity
Cons
Higher price point Large size not suitable for small kitchens
What is the best type of Air Fryer to buy?
When selecting the best type of air fryer, consider the following key features:
- Capacity: Choose an air fryer with a capacity that suits your needs. For small families, a 2-3 quart model may suffice, while larger families might need a 5-6 quart model.
- Wattage: Higher wattage air fryers cook food faster and more evenly. Look for models with at least 1500 watts.
- Temperature Range: A wider temperature range offers more cooking versatility. Opt for air fryers that can reach at least 400°F.
- Preset Programs: Models with preset cooking programs for common foods like fries, chicken, and vegetables can save time and ensure consistent results.
- Size and Storage: Ensure the air fryer fits in your kitchen space and can be easily stored when not in use.
- Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick, dishwasher-safe baskets and trays make cleaning up much easier.
- Additional Features: Consider air fryers with extra functions like dehydrating, baking, or grilling for added versatility.
How to find the right Air Fryer?
When selecting the right air fryer, consider the following specific factors:
- Capacity: Choose an air fryer with a capacity that suits your cooking needs, whether it's for a single person or a family.
- Power: Look for an air fryer with sufficient wattage to ensure quick and efficient cooking.
- Temperature Range: Ensure the air fryer can reach the temperatures required for your recipes.
- Features: Check for additional features like pre-set cooking programs, digital controls, and timers.
- Size: Consider the counter space available in your kitchen to accommodate the air fryer.
- Ease of Cleaning: Opt for air fryers with dishwasher-safe parts or non-stick surfaces.
- Price: Balance the cost with the features and performance you need.
- Brand and Reviews: Research reputable brands and read customer reviews to ensure reliability and satisfaction.