Air fryers have become popular kitchen appliances because they cook food quickly using hot air circulation. This method makes food crispy with much less oil than traditional frying. People use air fryers for a range of dishes, from fries and chicken wings to vegetables and baked goods.
Air fryers come in different sizes and with various features like multiple cooking presets, temperature controls, and easy-to-clean baskets. Choosing the right air fryer depends on what you plan to cook and how much space you have. Some are compact for small kitchens, while others have larger capacities for family meals.
When buying an air fryer, key things to consider include size, ease of cleaning, cooking settings, and build quality. Safety features like automatic shutoff and cool-touch handles are also important. We tested many air fryers to find the top rated models that balance performance, usability, and value.
Top Rated Air Fryers
We have gathered the best air fryers based on performance, ease of use, and customer reviews. Our list will help you find a reliable air fryer that fits your needs and budget.
Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt
This air fryer is a solid choice for anyone who wants fast, even cooking with easy cleanup and a quiet motor.
Pros
- Cooks food evenly with TurboBlaze technology
- Ceramic-coated basket that cleans up easily
- Quiet operation even on high settings
Cons
- Basket is a bit heavy when full
- Not ideal for very light or thin foods in Turbo Mode
- Requires space around it for ventilation
We found the 6-quart size works great for family meals without taking up too much counter space. The TurboBlaze system really speeds up cooking, and food comes out crispy without needing much oil. It’s nice to have strong temperature control with a wide range, especially for more precise recipes.
The ceramic coating on the basket and crisper plate does make cleanup quick. After cooking, we just popped them in the dishwasher and had no sticking problems. The design is sturdy, although the basket is on the heavy side, especially when filled with food.
One feature we appreciated was the quiet motor with a soft start. Even at its highest fan speed, it wasn’t loud or distracting. Just be sure to leave enough space behind and above for the air fryer to work safely. Overall, this model balances performance and convenience well for everyday use.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 5QT
This air fryer is a solid choice for anyone wanting quick, crispy results without using much oil.
Pros
- Cooks food evenly and crisps well at high heat.
- Large 5-quart basket fits family-sized portions.
- Easy cleanup thanks to nonstick parts.
Cons
- Takes up a fair bit of counter space.
- Controls are simple but not touchscreen.
- Basket handle can get hot during cooking.
We found the Ninja Air Fryer Pro heats up quickly and cooks food evenly. The heat circulation system really makes fries and wings crispy, almost like deep-frying but with much less oil. It has multiple cooking options like roasting and dehydrating, which adds extra use beyond air frying.
The 5-quart size lets us cook meals for 3-4 people at once. It’s great for larger batches but still compact enough for most kitchens. Cleanup is easy since the basket and crisper plate have a nonstick coating that prevents food from sticking.
One minor downside is the basket handle can get a bit warm, so you should use a mitt. The control buttons are straightforward but lack advanced features some other brands offer. The overall design uses counter space, so plan accordingly.
This air fryer works well for everyday cooking without fuss. It’s reliable and sturdy, making it a good pick if you want fast, healthy meals with less oil.
Ninja DualZone 8-Quart Air Fryer
This air fryer is great for families who want to cook two different dishes at once with easy controls and consistent results.
Pros
- Two baskets let us cook separate foods at the same time
- Food finishes cooking together with Smart Finish feature
- Large capacity fits family-size meals
Cons
- Takes up quite a bit of counter space
- Baskets are good size but not wide enough for some larger cuts
- Fans can slow down over years of use
Using the Ninja DualZone has changed the way we cook dinner. The ability to air fry wings and veggies at once without mixing flavors saves so much time. We don’t have to wait for one batch to finish before starting the next.
The Smart Finish feature was a big help too, so both trays get done at the same time. This keeps meals from going cold while waiting. Plus, having different temperature zones means we can roast and bake together easily.
Cleaning up is simple since the baskets and plates are dishwasher safe. While it’s a bit bulky, the counter room tradeoff is worth it for the extra cooking space. We found it especially handy for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
If you want an air fryer that works hard and handles two foods at once, the Ninja DualZone 8-Quart Air Fryer is a smart choice.
ieesspd Silicone Heat Resistant Mat
This mat is a strong choice if you want to protect your countertop from heat and mess when using an air fryer.
Pros
- Protects counters from heat and scratches
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Fits many air fryer brands and kitchen appliances
Cons
- Comes folded, leaving creases at first
- May not be large enough for very big air fryers
- Edges don’t lay completely flat initially
We tested this silicone mat with different air fryers and kitchen tools. It handled heat well without any signs of damage or warping. Cleaning was simple—we just wiped off crumbs or grease with a damp cloth and it looked good as new.
The size fits most air fryers, including popular brands like Ninja and Cosori. We liked that it helped catch crumbs and grease, keeping our counters neat. The slightly raised edges made clean-up easier by stopping messes from spreading.
One thing to know is that the mat arrives folded, so it has some creases when first used. After a week or two of use, the creases softened but did not disappear completely. Overall, it is a handy kitchen accessory for keeping your surfaces safe during cooking.
Instant Vortex Air Fryer 6QT
This air fryer makes it easy for us to get crispy, tasty food fast with less oil.
Pros
- Cooks food evenly and quickly
- Large enough for family meals
- Easy to use with clear touchscreen settings
Cons
- Takes up more counter space than smaller models
- Learning curve for some cooking functions
- Basket handle can get warm during use
We liked how the Instant Vortex handled all kinds of meals. It delivers a nice crisp without soaking food in oil. The even cooking helped us get golden brown results every time.
The dial lets us pick the perfect temperature for different recipes, from slow dehydrating to fast broiling. We especially appreciated the simple touchscreen that shows each step clearly, making it easy to check progress.
Cleaning is less of a hassle since the basket wipes clean or goes in the dishwasher. The sleek stainless steel finish looks good on the counter, though the size means you’ll want to find a good spot for it. Overall, this air fryer has become a reliable part of our kitchen.
Kitchen Elite Compact Air Fryer
This air fryer is a smart choice for small kitchens or couples who want reliable, easy cooking without much fuss.
Pros
- Seven cooking presets cover many popular foods
- Compact size fits well on small counters
- Nonstick basket cleans quickly and safely
Cons
- Capacity is limited for larger families
- Some users report durability issues over time
- Cooking times can be longer on certain items
We found the Kitchen Elite air fryer very easy to use with its touch controls and clear LED display. The preset options made cooking basics like fries and wings straightforward, which helped us get dinner on the table faster.
Its compact design fits nicely on a small kitchen counter without crowding. The nonstick basket is a real plus since it makes cleanup faster and feels safer without harmful chemicals.
While its size is great for singles or couples, it may not handle big batches well. After some weeks, we noticed it worked perfectly but we heard not everyone had the same long-term luck. Still, the overall experience was positive for everyday cooking needs.
Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Oven
This air fryer oven is great for families who want one appliance to do it all with easy-to-use features and a big cooking space.
Pros
- Large capacity fits whole meals
- Easy-to-access French doors
- Many cooking presets for variety
Cons
- Takes up a fair amount of counter space
- Can be tricky to clean thoroughly
- Slight learning curve with digital controls
We found the size really handy. It fits a full chicken or pizza without feeling cramped. Cooking feels faster thanks to the 360º hot air circulation. The French doors open smoothly, which helps when reaching in for food.
The 24 cooking settings let us try different styles without guessing times or temperatures. It made air frying and slow cooking simple without the usual hassle. Digital controls are sharp, though it takes a little time to get used to all the options.
Cleanup isn’t bad but the inside can be a bit tough to wipe down because of all the racks and trays. It’s a bit bigger, so you’ll need enough counter space. Overall, this combo unit saves time and replaces several kitchen appliances.
Chefman Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie
This air fryer is a strong choice for those who want a versatile, family-sized appliance that cooks quickly without much oil.
Pros
- Cooks fast and evenly without preheating
- Large capacity fits meals for the whole family
- Multiple functions: air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie
Cons
- Rotisserie spit may be too small for a whole chicken
- Takes up a fair amount of counter space
- Customer service can be slow when issues arise
We found this Chefman air fryer easy to use with the 17 preset options on its touch screen. The fast cooking was noticeable since there was no need to wait for preheating. Foods came out crisp without using much oil, which was great for healthier meals.
The large window helped us keep an eye on the food without opening the door. Cleanup was simple thanks to removable racks and dishwasher-safe parts. It handled family-sized batches well, which made meal prep quicker and less stressful.
While the rotisserie function works, the size is limited. We had trouble roasting a full chicken because the spit was not long enough. Also, it’s a bit bulky for smaller kitchens, so counter space should be considered before buying. Overall, it offers a good balance of features for the price.
Chefman 4 Qt Air Fryer
This air fryer is a solid choice for anyone who wants easy, quick cooking with a compact design and reliable crisping power.
Pros
- Heats up fast and cooks food evenly
- Small size fits well on most counters without crowding
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- The beep alert to shake food can be a bit noisy
- Basket capacity is better for 2-4 people, less ideal for large families
- Some may find touchscreen controls slightly sensitive
We liked how straightforward it was to use right away. The presets helped us cook common dishes without guessing time or temperature. When we wanted extra crisp, the 450°F “Hi-Fry” boost worked well and made fries and chicken really crunchy.
Cleaning didn’t take much effort since the basket and rack are nonstick and dishwasher safe. Its sleek, narrow shape saved plenty of space, which is great for smaller kitchens or tight countertops. The matte black finish also made wiping down easy.
One thing to know is the beep halfway through cooking to remind you to shake food is louder than expected. It’s helpful but could startle if you are near it. Overall, this air fryer balances compact size with good performance and simple cleaning, making it a practical addition for most home cooks.
Chefman TurboFry 8-Qt Air Fryer
This air fryer is a solid choice for families who want quick, crispy meals without much oil or fuss.
Pros
- Large capacity fits meals for 4-6 people
- Easy-to-use one-touch digital controls
- Dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup simple
Cons
- Takes up a decent amount of counter space
- Timer alarm can be a bit quiet at times
- Exterior surface can get warm during use
We appreciated how quickly the Chefman TurboFry cooked our food evenly. The preset buttons for fries, chicken, fish, and meat made the process simple, even when we were in a hurry. It handled bigger family meals without crowding, saving time in the kitchen.
The LED shake reminder was a useful feature that helped us get consistent crispiness by reminding us to shake the basket at the right time. Cleanup was straightforward because the basket and tray went in the dishwasher.
The stainless steel look fits nicely in modern kitchens, but it is slightly large, so counter space should be considered. Overall, this air fryer delivered good performance with minimal effort.
Buying Guide
When choosing an air fryer, we need to think about a few key features. Size and capacity matter depending on how many people we usually cook for. A small air fryer is good for 1-2 people, while larger models suit families.
Temperature range and presets affect how easy it is to cook different foods. More presets mean quicker, simpler cooking. Adjustable temperature helps us cook a variety of recipes.
Cleaning is important too. We should look for models with dishwasher-safe parts or non-stick baskets. This saves time and effort.
Controls can be digital or manual. Touchscreens offer precise settings, but manual dials can be easier to use for some.
Noise level and power consumption may also affect our choice, especially if we use the air fryer often. Energy-efficient models can lower electricity costs.
Features to Compare
| Feature | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Cooking size | 2 to 6 quarts or more |
| Temperature Range | Cooking flexibility | At least 180°F to 400°F (82°C-204°C) |
| Presets | Convenience | 5 or more preset cooking options |
| Cleaning | Ease of maintenance | Dishwasher-safe or non-stick parts |
| Controls | Ease of use | Digital or manual, based on preference |
| Noise | Quiet operation | Lower decibel ratings |
Top 3 Best Air Fryers: Comparison
We looked at three popular air fryers to help you find the best choice. Each one offers different features and sizes to fit your needs.
| Model | Capacity | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja AF101 | 4 quarts | Simple controls, dishwasher safe parts | $90-$120 |
| Philips Premium HD9741 | 3.5 quarts | Digital screen, even cooking | $150-$180 |
| COSORI Pro | 5.8 quarts | Large capacity, presets, touch screen | $110-$140 |
The Ninja AF101 is easy to use and fits small families. It cooks food evenly and cleans up quickly.
The Philips Premium HD9741 has a digital display for easy programming. It is a bit smaller but cooks food very evenly.
The COSORI Pro is the largest. It offers many presets and a clear touch screen. This model is good for larger families or batch cooking.
We recommend thinking about your kitchen space and how much food you cook when choosing an air fryer. Each of these will cook healthier meals with less oil.
Editor’s Choice
We chose the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL as our top pick. It has a large capacity, easy-to-use controls, and cooks food evenly. This model is good for families or anyone who wants to cook larger meals.
Its temperature range is wide, from 105°F to 450°F. This lets us cook a variety of foods, from crispy fries to baked goods. The frying basket is non-stick and dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning simple.
Here are key features we liked:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5.5 quarts |
| Temperature Range | 105°F – 450°F |
| Cooking Presets | 6 presets including Air Fry, Roast, Reheat |
| Ease of Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate |
The Ninja Air Fryer Max XL heats up fast and maintains temperature well. It doesn’t need a lot of oil, which helps us eat healthier.
We also tested the Cosori Air Fryer Max XL. It offers similar features with a sleek design and a slightly larger size. Both models are reliable, but Ninja’s user interface felt more straightforward.
We recommend these models for anyone looking for a solid air fryer with good performance and easy cleanup.
FAQS
What is an air fryer?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it. This method helps make food crispy without using much oil.
Are air fryers healthy?
Yes, air fryers use less oil than traditional frying. This can reduce calories and fat, making meals healthier.
How do we clean an air fryer?
Most air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher safe. We recommend wiping the main unit with a damp cloth and washing parts after each use.
Can we cook all types of food in an air fryer?
We can cook many foods like vegetables, meat, and frozen snacks. However, some items like very wet batters or large roasts may not cook well.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does cooking take? | Usually faster than an oven, about 10-30 minutes depending on food. |
| Do air fryers use a lot of electricity? | They use less power than an oven because they cook faster. |
| Can we cook frozen food directly? | Yes, air fryers can cook frozen food without thawing it first. |
Is it safe to leave an air fryer unattended?
We should always follow safety instructions and not leave it running without supervision. This helps avoid accidents.
Conclusion
We have seen that air fryers come in many shapes and sizes. Each model offers different features to fit various needs. Choosing the right one depends on what we want to cook and how much space we have.
Some air fryers focus on speed, while others offer more cooking presets. We should look at factors like capacity, ease of cleaning, and price. These help us find the best fit for our kitchen.
Key points to consider:
- Size and capacity
- Cooking functions and presets
- Price and warranty
- Ease of use and cleaning
Using an air fryer can make cooking faster and sometimes healthier. It uses less oil and still gives food a crispy texture. We should pick one that feels reliable and easy to use.
By keeping these features in mind, we can find an air fryer that meets our daily cooking needs. This way, we get the most value and convenience from our purchase.
