Air fryers have become super popular because they offer a healthier way to cook than deep frying. Using hot air, they make crispy, tasty food without tons of oil. These cool gadgets not only bring health benefits but are also very handy. From chicken wings to french fries, they do everything easily, making them a top pick in the kitchen.
When it comes to choosing the best air fryer, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the size of the appliance, as air fryers come in various sizes to fit different cooking needs. Another important consideration is the wattage, as higher wattage machines can cook food faster and more evenly. Additionally, the ease of cleaning and maintenance is an essential factor to consider, especially if you plan on using the air fryer frequently.
After researching and testing various air fryers on the market, we have identified the top models that offer the best cooking performance, ease of use, and value. Whether you are a health-conscious individual looking to cook healthier meals or a foodie looking to experiment with new recipes, our list of the best air fryers has got you covered.
Best Air Fryers
If you’re looking for a healthier way to cook your favorite fried foods, an air fryer might be just what you need. These appliances use hot air to cook food, giving it a crispy texture without the need for oil. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which air fryer is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best air fryers available, based on factors like cooking capacity, ease of use, and overall value. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, we’ve got you covered.
Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
If you’re looking for an air fryer that crisps, roasts, reheats, and dehydrates, the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a great option. We highly recommend this product because of its versatility and ease of use.
Pros
- The wide temperature range allows for gentle moisture removal or quick cooking with convection heat.
- The 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate can fit up to 2 lbs of French fries, making it perfect for families.
- The 4-in-1 versatility includes Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate, so you can cook a variety of meals with just one appliance.
Cons
- The air fryer is a bit heavier than expected, but this is due to its high-quality construction.
- The product’s special feature is programmable, which may be a bit intimidating for some users.
- The product’s color is grey, which may not match all kitchen decors.
We love the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer because it allows us to cook delicious, crispy, and healthy meals with minimal effort. The combination of low fan speed and low temperature enables thorough dehydration, so we can create flat, chip-like dehydrated foods for fun, homemade snacks.
The air fryer is also easy to clean, with dishwasher safe parts including the basket and crisper plate. We just wipe the machine exterior to clean it. The product also comes with a 20 recipe booklet, which is great for those who are new to air frying or need some inspiration for new meals to cook.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer. It’s a versatile and easy-to-use appliance that can help you cook a variety of meals with just one machine.
COSORI Air Fryer TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Compact Airfryer
If you’re looking for an air fryer that can cook up meals quickly and evenly, the COSORI Air Fryer TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart is a great option. With its 9-in-1 functionality, you can enjoy a variety of cooking options, from air frying to baking and roasting. Plus, its compact design makes it easy to store in your kitchen.
Pros
- Lightning-fast cooking: With the TurboBlaze technology, this air fryer cooks up to 46% faster than the old COSORI series, so you can enjoy your meals in no time.
- Perfectly even cooking: The 5-speed airflow system ensures that your food is cooked evenly throughout, providing superior results for every meal.
- 95% Less Oil: Enjoy the same crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 95% less oil. Enjoy all your favorite fried foods without guilty.
Cons
- Limited capacity: The 6-quart nonstick basket may not be large enough for bigger families or those who like to cook in bulk.
- Noisy operation: While the snail shell reflector helps minimize noise levels during cooking, it can still be quite loud.
- Limited temperature range: The temperature range of 170F°–450°F may not be sufficient for some cooking needs.
We recently tried out the COSORI Air Fryer TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart and were impressed with its performance. We loved how quickly it cooked our meals and how evenly it cooked them. The 9-in-1 functionality provided plenty of cooking options, and we appreciated the step-by-step visual instructions that made it easy to cook like a pro.
The 6-quart nonstick basket was perfect for our family of three, but may not be large enough for bigger families or those who like to cook in bulk. We also found the air fryer to be quite noisy during operation, despite the snail shell reflector. Additionally, the temperature range of 170F°–450°F may not be sufficient for some cooking needs.
Overall, we would recommend the COSORI Air Fryer TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart to anyone looking for an air fryer that can cook up meals quickly and evenly. Its compact design, lightning-fast cooking, and 95% less oil feature make it a great addition to any kitchen.
Instant Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer with Odor Erase Technology
If you’re in the market for a versatile air fryer that can do more than just fry, the Instant Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer with Odor Erase Technology is worth considering.
Pros
- 6-in-1 functionality: With the ability to air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate, this air fryer can handle a variety of cooking tasks.
- ClearCook window and internal light: You can easily monitor your food’s cooking progress without opening the basket, thanks to the clear window and internal light.
- Odor Erase Technology: The built-in, replaceable air filters remove odors during cooking, reducing lingering cooking smells.
Cons
- Large footprint: This air fryer takes up quite a bit of counter space, so it may not be ideal for those with limited kitchen space.
- Noisy: The fan can be quite loud, which may be an issue for some users.
- Non-stick coating may wear off: The non-stick coating on the basket and tray may wear off over time, which could affect the air fryer’s performance.
We’ve been using the Instant Vortex Plus for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The 6-in-1 functionality makes it a versatile appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, from air frying to dehydrating. The clear window and internal light make it easy to monitor your food’s cooking progress without opening the basket, which helps to ensure that your food cooks evenly. The Odor Erase Technology is a nice touch, as it helps to reduce lingering cooking smells.
However, there are a few drawbacks to this air fryer. It’s quite large, so it may not be ideal for those with limited kitchen space. The fan can be quite loud, which may be an issue for some users. Additionally, the non-stick coating on the basket and tray may wear off over time, which could affect the air fryer’s performance.
Overall, we think the Instant Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer with Odor Erase Technology is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile air fryer that can handle a variety of cooking tasks. However, if you have limited counter space or are sensitive to noise, you may want to consider other options.
COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer
If you’re looking for an efficient and easy-to-use air fryer, the COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer is a great option.
Pros
- With 360-degree rapid heat circulation technology, you can enjoy crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 85% less fat.
- The air fryer cooks with industry-leading temperatures up to 450°F, making heating efficiency 20% faster than before.
- With nine one-touch cooking functions on a tempered glass display, you can preheat and add personalized shake reminders for added convenience.
Cons
- The air fryer may not be suitable for larger families as it can only hold up to 5-quarts of cooking space.
- The air fryer may be noisy during operation, albeit less than 55dB.
- The air fryer may require a test run before first use, which can take up to 30 minutes.
We found the COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer to be a great kitchen appliance for preparing quick and healthy meals. The air fryer’s compact design takes up little room on your countertop, making it perfect for apartments or smaller kitchens.
The tempered glass display is easy to use and ergonomically angled towards you, making it simple to make one-touch selections. Additionally, the air fryer comes with an included cookbook of 30 original recipes by Cosori chefs and over 100 recipes on the free VeSync app.
The air fryer’s nonstick BPA-free basket is dishwasher safe, making cleaning up a breeze. You can also purchase COSORI air fryer disposable liners for 5-6Qt air fryer and the original COSORI accessories set, making it easy to customize your air fryer to your needs.
Overall, we highly recommend the COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient air fryer that can help them prepare delicious and healthy meals with ease.
Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer
If you’re in the market for an air fryer, the Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- With up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods, this air fryer is a healthier way to enjoy your favorite fried foods.
- The Max Crisp Technology delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook foods up to 30% faster for hotter, crispier results with little to no oil, making it a guilt-free way to indulge in your favorite fried favorites.
- The 5.5 QT ceramic coated nonstick basket and crisper plate fit 3 pounds of french fries or chicken wings, making it perfect for feeding a family or entertaining guests.
Cons
- The air fryer can be loud during operation, which may be a concern for some users.
- Some users have reported issues with the nonstick coating peeling off after several uses, which may require replacement or repair.
- The air fryer is relatively large and may take up a significant amount of counter space in smaller kitchens.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer for its impressive functionality, ease of use, and delicious results. Whether you’re looking to make healthier versions of your favorite fried foods or simply want a versatile kitchen appliance that can do it all, this air fryer is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best air fryer, there are a few key features that you should consider. In this section, we will outline these features to help you make an informed decision.
Capacity
The capacity of an air fryer is an important factor to consider. If you have a large family or frequently entertain guests, you may want to opt for a larger capacity air fryer. However, if you have limited counter space or only cook for one or two people, a smaller capacity air fryer may be more suitable.
Power
The power of an air fryer is another important consideration. A higher wattage air fryer will generally cook food faster and more evenly. However, a higher wattage air fryer may also consume more energy.
Temperature Range
The temperature range of an air fryer is also important to consider. Most air fryers have a temperature range of 180°F to 400°F. However, some air fryers may have a wider temperature range, which can be useful if you want to cook a variety of different foods.
Cooking Presets
Many air fryers come with pre-programmed cooking presets, which can make cooking certain foods easier. For example, some air fryers may have presets for chicken, fish, or vegetables. However, these presets may not always be accurate, so it’s important to keep an eye on your food while it cooks.
Additional Features
Finally, you may want to consider any additional features that an air fryer may offer. Some air fryers come with accessories such as baking pans or grill racks, while others may have a built-in rotisserie function. However, these features may not be necessary for everyone, so it’s important to consider your own cooking needs and preferences.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best air fryer for your needs and enjoy delicious, healthy meals with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of air fryers is considered the top choice by consumers?
When it comes to air fryers, there are several brands that are popular among consumers. However, based on our research and customer reviews, the top choice for air fryers is the Philips brand. Philips has been in the market for a long time and has a reputation for producing high-quality kitchen appliances. Their air fryers are known for their durability, ease of use, and excellent cooking performance.
What features distinguish the best air fryer ovens from others?
The best air fryer ovens come with several features that make them stand out from others. Some of these features include multiple cooking functions, such as baking, roasting, and grilling, which allow you to cook a variety of meals in one appliance. They also have larger cooking capacities, making them ideal for larger families or those who like to cook in bulk. Additionally, the best air fryer ovens come with digital controls, preset cooking programs, and easy-to-clean interiors.
For compact kitchens, which small air fryer model is recommended?
If you have a small kitchen, a compact air fryer is the best option for you. The Dash Compact Air Fryer is a great choice for those with limited counter space. It has a 1.2-liter capacity, making it perfect for cooking small portions. It also comes with a non-stick fry basket, making it easy to clean.
What are the advantages of an air fryer toaster oven combination?
An air fryer toaster oven combination is a versatile appliance that allows you to cook a variety of meals in one appliance. It combines the functions of an air fryer and a toaster oven, giving you the ability to bake, roast, and grill, as well as air fry. This appliance is perfect for those who have limited counter space and want to save time and energy by using one appliance for multiple cooking functions.
Which large capacity air fryer is ideal for family-sized meals?
For family-sized meals, the Ninja Foodi Max XL Air Fryer is the best option. It has a 5.5-quart cooking capacity, making it perfect for cooking large portions of food. It also comes with multiple cooking functions, including air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating. Additionally, it has a digital display and easy-to-use controls.
Are there any notable concerns that have led to people discontinuing the use of air fryers?
While air fryers are generally safe to use, there have been some concerns regarding the release of harmful chemicals when cooking certain foods. This is due to the high temperatures that air fryers use to cook food. However, these concerns are minimal and can be easily avoided by following the manufacturer’s instructions and using the appliance properly.