Best air fryers: top picks to convert to healthier, crispy food, tested by experts

Cosori double basket air fryer viewing windows
(Image credit: Future / Helen McCue)

The best air fryers offer numerous benefits. They enable healthier cooking by using less oil, reducing cooking time, and helping reduce overall calorie consumption. These appliances are a great alternative to even the best deep fryers, producing similar crispy results with minimal oil and mess.

Air fryers are a versatile kitchen companion, offering grilling, baking, and reheating functions. Some even come with smart features, allowing remote monitoring through a smartphone. Modern designs and digital displays provide convenience and ease of use. With a wide variety, you can find an air fryer that caters to your specific needs, whether it's a single-basket air fryer for smaller meals or an air fryer oven for larger families.

To help you make an informed decision, we've put in the work and thoroughly tested and evaluated the ten featured air fryers. Our comprehensive insights will give you the confidence to choose the best air fryer for your needs. For more kitchen appliance recommendations and prep work, head to our guide to the best food processors.

The quick list: Top 3 picks

Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.

The quick list: best by use case

The best air fryers we recommend in 2024

Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Our team has thoroughly reviewed the products featured in our buyer's guides. We strive to provide comprehensive and unbiased rankings based on our hands-on testing and expert research. Our evaluations consider top-rated brands and essential features to assist you in making informed purchasing decisions at the best value.

The best air fryer overall

The best air fryer overall

Specifications

Capacity: 2 x 5.5 quarts
Functions: 6 (air fry; bake; roast; proof; reheat; keep warm; dehydrate)
Power: 1690 watts
Dimensions: H11.3 x W11.8 x D18.1 inches

Reasons to buy

+
Big seven-quart capacity for families
+
Two simultaneous cooking modes
+
Intuitive to use

Reasons to avoid

-
May be too large for singles or couples
-
Slightly noisy
Buy it if

✅ You require family-sized portions: With a seven-quart capacity, two dividable baskets, and enough room for a 4-lb pork roast and vegetables, families of four will find plenty of space to cook.
✅ You don’t always cook one-pot meals: The MegaZone can be divided into two dual-zone baskets, making it possible to cook meals that your typical single-drawer air fryer will struggle to handle.
✅ You struggle with your timings: The air fryer's Sync button lets you sync up the two drawers to ensure that one dish isn’t ready before the other.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You are noise intolerant: The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer emits an average of 59 decibels, making it noisier than most electric ovens.
❌ You lack counter space: This larger air fryer requires 5.9 inches of space on all sides, so you may run out of countertop space or have to sacrifice other kitchen appliances to make room.
❌ You’re not hungry: The air fryer has enough space for cooking a meal for up to six people or four very hungry mouths, so if you’re just not that hungry most of the time, the space will be overkill.

The bottom line

🔎 The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer with 7qt MegaZone easily handles family-sized portions and slightly more complicated meals with the help of a large seven-quart capacity, six pre-set cooking modes, and the ability to sync up and cook two different dishes simultaneously. ★★★★½

The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer with 7qt MegaZone has lots to like for a good price, including a generous seven-quart capacity and six cooking modes. Family-sized portions are also a breeze, as they can be simultaneously cooked in two different modes. 

Features: The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer with 7qt MegaZone has six pre-set cooking modes, a handy feature for anyone trying out an air fryer for the first time. A removable divider separates the main MegaZone drawer into two non-stick baskets, each with its separate cooking zone.

Always versatile, all of the air fryer’s pre-set modes can be adjusted to your liking except for the Air Broil (Max Crisp) setting. One of the handiest features this air fryer has is the Sync button, which allows you to ‘sync up’ two different foods to finish cooking simultaneously. A Keep Warm function is also handy for keeping food tepid when you're not quite ready to eat.

Looks-wise, the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer isn’t anything impressive. It comes in one color only: black. It has a handy digital display with one main rotary knob resembling an oven dial. The curved edges look sleek, which is beneficial if you have a modern kitchen.

Performance: With 1690 W of power behind it, the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer has plenty of cooking power. That being said, it sometimes overbrowns food cooked using the pre-set modes. 

The fact that the air fryer can cook four jacket potatoes in just 43 minutes should be a telltale sign that it can confidently handle family-sized portions. However, it is slightly noisier than an electric oven, emitting an average of 59 decibels.

Value: The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket is listed at $179.99, which places it among some of the more expensive air fryers. However, considering the versatility of the MegaZone and dual cooking zones, it's well worth the cost. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the NuWave Brio 37001 6-Quart Air Fryer (just $129.99).

Read more: Ninja Foodi FlexBasket review


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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesDual cooking zones and sync modes are some standout features.★★★★★
PerformanceA little overenthusiastic but overall, it crisps to perfection.★★★★★
ValueMore expensive than your typical air fryer but worth the price.★★★★★

The best budget air fryer

The best budget air fryer

Specifications

Capacity: 7 quarts
Functions: 1 (air fry)
Power: 1500 watts
Dimensions: H12.8 x W10.8 x D13.6 inches

Reasons to buy

+
Performed well during tests
+
Budget-friendly
+
Keep warm and preheat settings

Reasons to avoid

-
Gathers fingerprints easily
-
Too powerful to begin with
Buy it if

✅ Your air fryer should be easy to use: The front of the Cosori Lite Air Fryer has an intuitive control panel with preset modes, making it easy to start cooking without instructions.
✅ You have limited countertop space: Weighing just under 10 lbs and with a small four-quart capacity, this air fryer fits nicely into kitchens that have less countertop space to play with.
✅ You’re on a budget: At a listed price of $111.98, the Cosori Lite Air Fryer is one of the most budget-friendly air fryers, and it doesn’t sacrifice any power.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You’re cooking for more than four: The four-quart capacity is suitable for cooking a moderately sized meal for up to four people, but large families will find a larger air fryer a better fit.
❌ You can’t stand fingerprint marks: The Cosori Lite Air Fryer tends to attract fingerprint marks, so if you don't want to have to wipe down the surface regularly, you should probably consider other options.
❌ You require lots of functions: This air fryer is only designed to air fry food, so if you want to grill, fry, and bake, alternative air fryers offer far more functions.

The bottom line

🔎 The Cosori Lite Air Fryer is a small but powerful air fryer with minimal space but plenty of pre-set cooking modes, an intuitive digital display, and a great budget-friendly introduction to air fryers. ★★★★½

The Cosori Lite Air Fryer, an Amazon favorite, passed its performance tests. This model is a budget-friendly introduction to air fryers.

Features: The Cosori Lite Air Fryer comes in three colors: white, muted gray, or green. Its buttons let you add a preset at a pre-determined temperature. While this saves time, the preset modes are quite basic, catering only to things like veggies or chicken. Compared to other air fryers, this is quite limiting. It also lacks a keep warm function.

Surprisingly, the device is app and WiFi-compatible with such an affordable air fryer. The air fryer's four-quart capacity is small but very compact, a bonus if you’re limited on countertop space.

We liked the air fryer's minimalistic control panel, which has the only downside of attracting fingerprint marks. The parts are also dishwasher-friendly. There’s just one basket, so avoid using more complicated recipes.

Performance: For a brand with far less influence than Ninja or Instant, the Cosori Lite Air Fryer performed incredibly well in its tests. The 1500 W air fryer cooks evenly and quickly. The pre-heat setting produced crispy bacon in just five minutes; just flip it halfway, as it will otherwise curl at the edges. A handy beep alerts you when the food needs shuffling or flipping. 

The air fryer performs quietly, emitting an average of 60 decibels. Oil from the food drains into the bottom of the tray. When cooking fries, it leaks more oil than most other air fryers, leaving more mess to clean up.

Value: The Cosori Lite Air Fryer costs $111.98, but it often sells around the $100 benchmark on Amazon. It's one of the most budget-friendly air fryers in our rankings but also one of the smallest, so it doesn't have enough space to cater to larger families. 

Read more: Cosori Lite Air Fryer review


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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesLess presets but a few colour options and easy to use.★★★★
PerformanceVery powerful and over-enthusiastic at times★★★★
ValueA budget-friendly option often on sale for $100.★★★★★

The best air fryer for space

The best air fryer for space

Specifications

Wattage: 1700W
Capacity: 11.6 quarts
Dimensions: : 15.4 x 12.74 x 13.53in (h x w x d)
Noise: : 54.4dB

Reasons to buy

+
Several cooking options
+
Good value for price
+
Window/light to view food cooking

Reasons to avoid

-
Door is tricky
-
Baskets can be messy
Buy it if

You like presets: If you’re like us, you’ll appreciate that the presets can put you in the ballpark of what a particular food item requires.
You don’t like using your oven: the Hamilton Beach Digital Air Fryer is versatile enough to cook various types of food.
You like to see what's cooking: The glass window and light feature allow you to check on your food's cooking progress.

Don't buy it if

You like to cook large items: Although the air fryer can hold a rotisserie chicken, it slides into dedicated rotisserie slots in the oven. Due to a lack of space, you might be unable to cook other large items in the oven.
You don’t like icons: After seeing them a few times, you’ll get the hang of it, but you may prefer a different type of control panel.

The bottom line

🔎 The Hamilton Beach Digital Air Fryer can cook many of your favorite foods, whether you want to air fry, toast, roast, or dehydrate. However, the door is rather tricky. ★★★★½

The Hamilton Beach Air Fryer is a great choice for quick, easy meals requiring little effort. It’s easy to use, has preset buttons for most foods you're likely to cook, and is easy to adjust for less common foodstuffs.

Features: The Hamilton Beach Digital Air Fryer can air fry, toast, roast, or dehydrate. It has a simple but effective digital control panel, and you can adjust the temperature and cooking time as well as use presets. 

Performance: Throughout our time with this air fryer, we never ended up with food that was overcooked or too tough, and at 54.4dB on the noise meter, it wasn't so loud it disturbed the peace. Our reviewer described it as "a joy to use." It does exactly what you want an air fryer to do: delivering the goods with minimal messing around. However, its reliance on wire baskets means that it's not as easy to clean once it's cooled down as some rival fryers. 

Value: The Hamilton Beach Digital Air Fryer is available on Amazon for $117.27. On the Hamilton Beach website, it retails for $119.99. Considering the build, many features, and ease of use, it's a good price.

Read our full Hamilton Beach Digital Air Fryer review


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AttributeNotesScore
FeaturesUser friendly, touch controls – but door sticks★★★★1/2
PerformanceCooks quickly and evenly★★★★★
ValueExcellent price/great value ★★★★★

The best dual drawer air fryer

The best dual drawer air fryer

Specifications

Capacity: 2 x 4.5 quarts
Functions: 6 (air fry; broil; roast; bake; reheat; dehydrate)
Max temperature: 450 degrees fahrenheit
Power: 1750 watts
Dimensions: H11.9 x W15.4 x D17.3 inches

Reasons to buy

+
Feature-rich
+
Non-stick and dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
+
Great results 

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the most compact option
-
Sync finish feature may not be as reliable as desired
-
Relatively pricey
Buy it if

✅ You want a range of features: The air fryer has windows on the front of each basket, an internal light, a reminder to shake foods, and a "sync finish" button.
✅ You cook many different foods: It performs well in cooking various types of food, such as roast vegetables, chicken skewers, and halloumi, delivering crispy and juicy results.
✅ You had hand-washing: The baskets and crisper plates are non-stick and dishwasher-safe

Don't buy it if:

❌ You’re short of space: It is not a very compact option, which means it may take up a lot of counter space and may not be suitable for small kitchens.
❌ You're particularly interested in the "sync finish" option: The function may not be as reliable as desired, which could be a problem for those who want both sides of their food to be ready simultaneously.
❌ You're on a budget: It is relatively expensive, and there are other good alternatives available at a similar or lower price point.

The bottom line

🔎 The Cosori Dual Basket 9Qt Air Fryer is spacious and feature-rich. It has customizable settings, windows to see your food cooking, and multiple cooking modes. However, it's not compact, and the sync finish feature isn't reliable ★★★★½

If you're looking for an air fryer with plenty of features, the COSORI Dual Basket 9Qt Air Fryer might be worth considering. It can make cooking easier with windows on the front of each basket, an internal light, and a reminder to shake foods. However, it's not the most compact option, and the sync finish feature may not be as reliable as desired.

Features: This air fryer looks simple but has loads of great features. There are windows on the front of each basket so you can check your food without opening it up, and an internal light, too. There's even a reminder to shake foods halfway through cooking. The 'sync finish' button is genius—it takes the guesswork out of getting both sides ready at the same time.

Plus, the baskets and crisper plates are non-stick and dishwasher-safe. It's a bit big, but you can easily push it towards the back of the counter when not in use.

Performance: Our reviewer made some frozen chicken goujons, which came out cooked to perfection - crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They also baked some granola, which turned out pretty good, too. Their only issue was with the "sync cook" function, which didn't work out for them when they made fries and fish.

But overall, it did a great job with roast vegetables, chicken skewers, and halloumi. Cleaning was also a breeze.

Value: The COSORI Dual Basket air fryer is $169.99 on Amazon, but if you want more options, the pricey Ninja Foodi DualZone FlexBasket or Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro are good alternatives worth checking out.

Read more: Cosori Dual Basket 9Qt Air Fryer review


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Test results
AttributeNotesScore
FeaturesNeat, uncluttered control panel and helful design features such as windows for viewing foods.★★★★½
PerformancePerformance is good, but a few little quirks like the sync finish let it down slightly.★★★★
ValueReasonably priced given the capacity and functionality★★★★★

The best air fryer toaster oven

The best air fryer toaster oven

Specifications

Capacity: 3.5 quarts
Functions: 10 (air fry; roast; bake; sear; toast; reheat; rice; dehydrate; slow cook; keep warm)
Power: 1800 watts
Dimensions: H13 x W16.3 x D15.9 inches

Reasons to buy

+
3 cooking zones with different temperatures
+
Internal camera lets you see food inside
+
10 cooking functions

Reasons to avoid

-
Requires dedicated circuit
-
Can’t really see through glass door
-
May be too small for large families
Buy it if

✅ You want something innovative: The Brava Glass Oven offers a unique cooking experience with its 5-inch diagonal multi-touch display and a 5-megapixel camera that streams the cooking process inside the oven.
✅ You prioritize style: Its sleek anodized aluminum exterior and stainless steel interior will look great in any modern kitchen.
✅ You don't have a huge kitchen: With its compact size and countertop design, the Brava Glass can be conveniently placed in any kitchen.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: The Brava Glass Oven is priced at $1,995, significantly more expensive than other countertop ovens on the market.
❌ You want more space: It has shallow trays, making cooking certain types of food difficult.

The bottom line

🔎 The Brava Glass Oven offers multiple cooking functions while occupying minimal space. Its camera feature enables clear monitoring, and heating lamps allow simultaneous cooking. However, its high price and small size make it unsuitable for big families or those who prefer custom recipe settings ★★★★½

The Brava Glass Oven is a compact, stylish, and innovative countertop oven with many features that make cooking easy and enjoyable. With a sleek anodized aluminum exterior, a stainless steel interior, and a 5-inch diagonal multi-touch display, this oven is perfect for those who want a modern and convenient cooking experience.

Features: The Brava Glass Oven is a compact and stylish countertop oven that weighs 34.4 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to move. It has an anodized aluminum finish on the outside and a stainless steel finish on the inside. The glass door is smooth and easy to open and shut. The oven has a removable heat-resistant silicone mat for placing hot trays and pans. The 5-inch diagonal multi-touch display on the top is a color display with 854 x 480 native resolution, and the 5-megapixel camera streams the internal cooking chamber, resisting grease and heat.

Performance: The Brava Glass Oven is a sleek, lightweight countertop oven with many features. Its exterior has an anodized aluminum finish, while the interior has a stainless steel finish. The glass door is easy to operate, and the oven has a heat-resistant silicone mat that can be placed on top to hold hot trays and pans. The oven has a 5-inch diagonal multi-touch display on the top and a 5-megapixel camera that streams the cooking process inside the oven.

The Brava Glass Oven comes with helpful guided instructions for cooking. The preset recipes provide instructions on which tray to use, what food to place in which zone, and which shelf to place the tray on. The oven also has a Custom Cook option, where users can create a recipe from scratch.

However, there are a few limitations to the Brava Glass Oven. Users must follow the recommended quantity suggestions to achieve perfection when using the preset recipes. The trays are shallow, making removing meat items that produce a lot of oil difficult. Also, the glass door handle partially blocks the view of the food, making it difficult to monitor progress.

Value: The Brava Glass oven costs $1,995 and is only available on Amazon and the Brava website. As an alternative, the June Oven is another option that costs between $899 and $1,299. For a larger option to cook two items at different temperatures, consider the Ninja 12-in-1 Double Oven with FlexDoor for $249.

Read more: Brava Glass Oven review


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Test results
AttributeNotesScore
Price & availabilityExpensive but impressive★★★★
DesignIntuitive★★★★½
PerformanceVery good but learning curve to perfect★★★★½

The best compact air fryer

The best compact air fryer

Specifications

Capacity: 6 quarts
Functions: 5 (air fry; broil; bake; roast; reheat)
Power: 1500 watts
Dimensions: H11.9 x W10.2 x D17.8 inches

Reasons to buy

+
Sleek and easy-to-use interface
+
Roomy 6-quart capacity that can cook up to 4 lbs of chicken
+
EvenCrisp technology for deep-fried results

Reasons to avoid

-
Rubber side holds are difficult to clean
-
Somewhat bulky despite compact size
-
Lacks advanced features
Buy it if

✅ You have a smaller kitchen: If you have limited counter space, this air fryer is a great option. It has a small footprint but still has a large 6-quart capacity.
✅ You want even results: This air fryer's EvenCrisp technology and preheat setting make cooking with it a breeze.
✅ You're on a budget: Compared to other air fryers with similar features, the Instant Vortex Slim is affordable and won't break the bank.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You hate clean-up: The rubber side holds can be difficult to clean, especially after cooking greasy foods.
❌ You want a particular aesthetic: This air fryer only comes in black, which may not be to everyone's liking.
❌ You want accessories: Unlike other air fryers, the Instant Vortex Slim doesn't have any accessories, so you'll need to purchase them separately.

The bottom line

🔎 The Instant Slim Air Fryer is great if you want to save countertop space and have a family-sized capacity. It's also a good value for money and from a trusted brand. However, if you need a slim and small air fryer or want an easy-to-clean grill plate, this may not be the best option ★★★★½

If you're short on counter space, the Instant Slim air fryer may be just what you need. This compact air fryer is small enough to fit in amongst your other countertop gadgets yet has a surprisingly roomy 6-quart capacity that can cook up to 4 lbs of chicken. Its simple interface and affordable price make it a great choice for anyone looking for a quality air fryer that won't break the bank.

Features: The Instant Slim air fryer has a sleek interface that's easy to use. Select the time, temperature, and function you want; the progress bar will show you how far along the cooking process is.

This is especially handy when the air fryer is preheating or during the final minute of cooking. Its 6-quart capacity can cook a 4-lb chicken or a 2-lb bag of fries.

Performance:  Our reviewer cooked asparagus, French fries, chicken nuggets, and bacon, all with minimal oil. The preheat setting and Shake Reminder feature helped with even cooking, and the EvenCrisp technology produced deep-fried results without the oil.

The capacity is family-sized, and the air fryer is surprisingly quiet. However, the rubber side holds are painful to clean after greasy foods. 

Value: The Instant Vortex Slim air fryer is a great value for its price, especially during sales. It's got some cool features, like the reheat setting, but if you need something smaller, the COSORI Lite is a good option at a similar price. Check out the Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven if you want a combo appliance.

Read more: Instant Vortex Slim 6-quart Air Fryer review


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Test results
AttributeNotesRating
FeaturesMinimalistic, clean, but no colour range★★★★
PerformanceStrong, but can take a little longer than compact models★★★★
ValueGood value given the capacity and quality★★★★★

The best smart air fryer oven

The best smart air fryer oven

Specifications

Capacity: 29.9 quarts
Functions: 8 (bagel; bake; broil; keep warm; pizza; reheat; roast; toast)
Power: 1800 watts
Dimensions: H12.8 x W21.4 x D17.2 inches

Reasons to buy

+
Super convection speeds up cooking times
+
13 cooking functions 
+
LCD display is so easy to use 
+
Excellent looking

Reasons to avoid

-
Parts aren't dishwasher safe
-
The price is very steep
Buy it if

You want a countertop oven that can do it all: Every function you want from your oven is here and capable of being done. It's much more than just an air fryer.
You need family-sized capacity: From an entire chicken to thirteen slices of toast at a time, this countertop oven can stretch to the limits of family life.
You're picky about design: We can't imagine anyone who wouldn't want this oven's stainless steel look on their countertop. Its design is pretty much flawless, including the pull-down door.

Don't buy it if

You’re on a tight budget: Let's face it, this oven is expensive. If you can afford it, you'll get a lot out of it, but if not, a smaller model might be more suitable.
You just want an air fryer: The added functionality you get for the price with this oven will not be worth it if you just want to cook fries or frozen foods.

The bottom line

🔎 The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is full of functionality and simply perfect for everyday family life. ★★★★½

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a superb family option with large capacity and many cooking styles, but it's also expensive.

Design: Breville products are always great to look at, and the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is no exception. Even away from the overall look of the oven, the tiny details are great here. The dials are polished and feel satisfying, and the LCD screen is comprehensive, so you don't need to click any buttons to access different modes. 

Features: The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the best example of a countertop oven that can do it all, with a sleek interface to match. This oven has 13 functions and a range of accessories to help you with everything from turning out perfect pizzas to slow-cooking a stew. 

Breville claims that this oven can slash cooking time by 30%. Its temperature range is 80 to 480 degrees Fahrenheit.

Performance: Our fries were perfectly cooked, which Breville would say is probably due to the Element iQ System. This algorithm-based program directs power to where it's most needed in the oven, which, in practice, gives you a more even cooking experience on whatever is inside. Slow cooking, roasting, and reheating took a little longer than air frying, but the vegetables' overall result was great. 

Value:  It's a steep price, but you do get a huge amount of functionality for your money. 

Read more: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro review


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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
PriceHugely expensive, but value for money if you can afford it★★★★
DesignSleek stainless steel with so much space, and various cooking levels ★★★★★
PerformanceAll the functions are great, as well as cooking results ★★★★★

The best air fryer for presets and functions

The best air fryer for presets and functions

Specifications

Capacity: 2 x 4.5 quarts
Functions: 8 (air fry; roast; broil; bake; reheat; dehydrate)
Power: 1700 watts
Dimensions: H15.4 x W17.8 x D17.8 inches

Reasons to buy

+
Big eight-quart capacity for families
+
Two simultaneous cooking modes
+
Intuitive to use

Reasons to avoid

-
Hard to clean the grill plates
-
Temperature range could be better
Buy it if

✅ Cooking simultaneously is your goal: The Instant Vortex Plus Dual 8-quart Stainless Steel Air Fryer is a two-drawer air fryer that can cook two different dishes at once with different time and/or temperature settings, great for more complicated meals.
✅ You cook big portions: Whether cooking for the family or preparing your meals for the next few days, the eight-quart capacity can hold bigger portions than smaller air fryers.
✅ Your air fryer should be easy to use: This air fryer’s combined digital display and dial make adjusting the temperature settings or selecting a mode quick and easy.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You’re on a strict budget: At $179.95, this air fryer is quite reasonably priced. However, cheaper air fryers are available with similar features or less space.
❌ You have minimal counter space: Unless you’re willing to sacrifice other countertop appliances, you’ll need to ensure that you have enough room for the larger Instant Vortex Plus air fryer to breathe.
❌ You cook for one person only: If you live alone, you’re less likely to benefit from this air fryer’s dual drawer system and may get frustrated that there is no removable divider between the baskets.

The bottom line

🔎 The Instant Vortex Plus Dual 8-quart Stainless Steel Air Fryer makes air frying family-sized portions feel straightforward with its two cooking baskets, window, internal light, and syncing tools. Still, it lacks a removable divider and requires some scrubbing. ★★★★½

The Instant Vortex Plus Dual 8-quart Stainless Steel Air Fryer is a stand-out air fryer for anyone who wants a family-friendly way to cook.

Features: This air fryer makes cooking two things at once a breeze thanks to its two baskets. For cooks who want the ultimate amount of control, each basket can be set at a different temperature or time limit. The air fryer has many modes: boil, bake, reheat, roast, air fry, and dehydrate. Picky eaters will like the ability to separate food, but there’s no removable divider, so it’s impossible to cook big meat joints. The temperature range is also quite limited. 

Design-wise, the product has a handy digital screen and central dial. A viewing window and internal light act like an oven window. The appliance requires a fair bit of countertop space but is very family-friendly. There’s also a spare grill plate, although it’s worth noting that the grill plates are difficult to clean because the rubber grips gather grease and food. They require a good, long scrub.

We liked the pleasant jingle, which lets you know when your food has finished cooking. The Sync Cook mode and the Sync Finish modes are also handy. The former can duplicate settings across both baskets, and the latter sets both baskets to finish cooking simultaneously.

Performance: The Instant Vortex Plus Dual 8-quart Stainless Steel Air Fryer makes cooking easier. It’s quick to preheat, and although the 1700 W of power doesn’t make this the most powerful air fryer around, it still cooks food quicker than a regular oven and uses less oil. 

The air fryer produced crispy, perfectly soft broccoli in just five minutes. The grill plates are especially handy for cooking things like bacon because the fat drains into a separate chamber away from the main section.

Value: For an air fryer with syncing abilities and a good capacity, $179.95 is an attractive list price. However, consider choosing a Ninja Foodi air fryer if you’d rather have a greater temperature range to work with.

Read more: Instant Vortex Plus Dual 8-quart Stainless Steel Air Fryer review


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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesUser-friendly features with good pre-sets and sync options.★★★★★
PerformanceVery competent and comes with two dual cooking zones.★★★★★
ValueA high price tag to match its premium features.★★★★

The best air fryer for speed

The best air fryer for speed

Specifications

Capacity: 6 quarts
Functions: 9 (air fry; roast; bake; broil; dehydrate; frozen; proof; reheat; keep warm)
Power: 1725 watts
Dimensions: H11.9 x W11.8 x D14.4 inches

Reasons to buy

+
9 different pre-sets
+
Quiet to run
+
Good safety features

Reasons to avoid

-
Cooks slightly too quick
-
No extra accessories
Buy it if:

✅You need lots of space: The Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer has six quarts of space, which is enough space to cook salmon filets for a group of five, making it great for families.
✅ You hate noise: Some air fryers can be noisy, but this model runs quieter than most, meaning you can get on with work or tend to nap children without worrying.
✅ You have children: The air fryer has helpful safety features, such as shutting off when the basket is removed, making it safer if you have young children around the house.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want the most budget-friendly option: This air fryer is quite budget-friendly, but considering its size and power, it’s more expensive than other air fryers like the Magic Bullet.
❌ You can’t monitor the food: This air fryer may be incredibly powerful and quick to cook, but it often burns food even on the pre-set modes, so you may need to pay careful attention sometimes.
❌ You just want to air fry: This model can roast, bake, broil, and even rehydrate food, so if you’re only planning on using the air fry function, you can easily find a cheaper option.

The bottom line

🔎 The Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer works efficiently with minimal fuss, and it’s a dream if you need plenty of cooking space, as it has a spacious 6-quart interior suited to bigger portions. ★★★★½

The Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer is hard to fault for big families, with its spacious six-quart capacity and many different functions. Thoughtful safety features also make this model extra family-friendly.

Features: First, the Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer is family-friendly. It has a six-quart capacity, yes, but it also has safety features that will shut down the fryer when the basket is removed. It's also very quiet compared to the typical air fryer.

There are nine pre-set cooking modes: air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, defrost, proof, reheat, and keep warm. These modes will save you time warming up the oven or running to other appliances.

An LED panel provides an easy overview of the cooking process and adds a sleek look to the model, helping to compensate for the plastic matte-black casing, which doesn't look the most sophisticated. Nevertheless, the air fryer is easy to assemble and use. For one, the basket is completely removable, so it’s easy to dump food onto plates and clean up after use. 

Performance: An air fryer with so much cooking power has one main downside: overcooking or burning food. The Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer cooks food quickly, even when using the pre-sets.  You can avoid burnt results as long as you keep a close eye on your food. The air fryer should save you time if you're willing to step in.

Value: With a list price of $119.99, the Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer is surprisingly affordable for how quickly and powerfully it cooks. It’s not the most budget-friendly option, but it still has a great price tag, considering it has so many pre-sets and much space and power.

Read more: Cosori TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer review


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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesNine pre-set modes and safety features are attractive.★★★★★
PerformancePowerful and quick but sometimes overcooks food.★★★★
ValueA good price for such a spacious pick.★★★★

The best air fryer for pizza

The best air fryer for pizza

Specifications

Capacity: 5.6 quarts
Functions: 10
Power: 1750 watts
Dimensions: H9.7 x W15.5 x D17.3 inches

Reasons to buy

+
Large cooking area
+
Industrial design and impressive performance,
+
LED touch control panel is easy to use, and the app provides handy recipes

Reasons to avoid

-
Heavy and bulky
-
Basket is shallow and doesn't have a viewing window
-
Cleaning can be a bit of a hassle
Buy it if:

✅You need lots of space: The almost 12x12-inch cooking area is perfect for making large pizzas and other snacks for a big group.
✅ You like an industrial design: The metallic silver dome shape gives the air fryer a unique and stylish look that would fit perfectly in a modern kitchen.
✅ You want a smart appliance: The app is handy for finding recipes and controlling the air fryer through your phone or tablet.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're short on space: It's a big appliance that may take up a lot of counter space in your kitchen.
❌ You're on a budget: The Typhur Dome air fryer is a pricey option compared to other air fryers in the market.
❌ You want a deep basket: The basket is not deep enough, and there's no viewing window, which means you'll need to open it to check on your food.

The bottom line

🔎 The Typhur Dome air fryer has a large cooking area and cooks food quickly and evenly. It offers app control, but it's expensive and takes up a lot of space. There's no viewing window, so you can't check on your food without disrupting the cooking ★★★★

The Typhur Dome air fryer is a fantastic option for those who love making pizza at home. With its large and almost 12x12-inch cooking area, it's perfect for creating delicious and crispy pizzas. Although it may be heavy and bulky, its industrial design and impressive performance make it a top contender in the air fryer market.

Features: The Typhur Dome air fryer is massive and heavy but looks really cool with its metallic silver dome shape. The cooking area is almost 12x12 inches, which is great for making large pizzas, but the basket is shallow and doesn't have a viewing window. The LED touch control panel is easy to use, but the up and down arrows can be a bit finicky. Cleaning the big and bulky basket can be a pain, but it's dishwasher-safe. Overall, it's best for those with lots of counter space and who love industrial looks.

Performance: During testing, the Typhur Dome air fryer impressed our reviewer. The model has a bunch of cooking modes and presets, and it's super efficient at making things crispy and delicious. The app is handy for finding recipes, but honestly, it's not all that necessary. One annoying thing is that it doesn't remind you to flip your food halfway through cooking, but it's great for making all sorts of snacks and meals, from kale chips to chicken wings.

Value: The Typhur Dome air fryer costs a lot, but it's a pretty great appliance. Big cooking area, self-cleaning, and app control, but there are cheaper and smaller options available. Check out the Magic Bullet Compact Air Fryer or the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL Air Fryer, and the Cuisinart Air-200 Basket Air Fryer is cheaper ($150) but still bulky.

Read more: Typhur Dome review


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Test results
AttributeNotesRating
FeaturesLarge, heavy air fryer that offers a unique dome shape, massive cooking area, and easy-to-use control panel ★★★★
PerformancePerfectly crisps and evenly cooks most foods, easy to clean, some function settings are gimmicky ★★★★
ValueExtremely expensive but well-built air fryer ★★★★

How we test the best air fryers for this guide

The air fryers we tested generally delivered on their promises. They produced crispy foods with much less oil than deep frying, but the taste might not be exactly like traditional deep-fried favorites. Keep in mind that a good convection oven, even a small countertop one, can also achieve similar results. It's worth considering whether a convection oven might better suit your needs, especially since they usually have a larger capacity and don't take up much more counter space than an air fryer. However, air fryers can be a good choice for small households and are easy to use.

Even the larger models of air fryers typically make only a small amount of food. However, air fryers can be more versatile than just for making French fries and other deep-fried favorites. Many online sources provide insight into how air fryers can be used to make full dinners, not just appetizers or side courses. Just keep in mind that it might only be suitable for dinner for two people unless you have one of the larger models.

Some of the easiest recipes we found involve items you might not initially consider putting in an air fryer. For example, you can make a large batch of baked potatoes or even a batch of eggs in the air fryer without needing to use water. Additionally, you can fry a Thanksgiving turkey in an air fryer as long as you aren't expecting a large crowd.

As long as you keep small quantities in mind, you can have fun making a variety of baked goods in your air fryer. Some models even come with baking cups and other accessories to allow for different cooking projects.

Price and availability: We evaluate the air fryer's price, features, and durability to determine value. We also check availability in stores and online and review warranty and customer support.

First Impressions & Setup: We assess the air fryer's packaging and contents for protection and completeness, as well as evaluate the clarity and ease of the setup process and user manual.

Design: We consider air fryer size and aesthetics for different kitchens, assess control panel design and programmable settings, and evaluate construction materials, portability, and adaptability.

Performance: We evaluate the air fryer's cooking efficiency, temperature control, and durability to ensure reliable performance and consistent results over time.

Care & Maintenance: We consider the air fryer's ease of cleaning and maintenance, including grease removal and surface cleaning, as well as its durability and long-term performance.

You can find more information online about how we test air fryers and other small and major appliances.

How to choose the best air fryer for you

If you decide an air fryer is right for you, consider these factors as you hunt down the best one for you:

Size

The size of your air fryer will dictate what and how much you can cook in it, and there are hundreds of options in different variations. For example, those with a large family may want a dual-drawer model with plenty of space, while those living alone or with a partner can probably make do with a smaller appliance. You also need to consider the size of your kitchen and how much counter space you can spare.

Wattage

The wattage of your air fryer is important for several reasons, including electricity use and the time it takes for food to cook. Typically, the higher the wattage, the greater the efficiency and, thus, the higher the price tag.

Cleaning

Many air fryers have non-stick coatings, which make cleaning much easier, though you have to be prepared to take care of it when cleaning to maintain its effectiveness. If you're not keen on washing up after every meal, you may want to look for an air fryer with dishwasher-safe parts. High-end air fryers may even have a self-cleaning function.

Cooking functions

Air fryers are wonderful little devices that have the potential to replace multiple other appliances in your kitchen. Depending on the model, they can bake, grill, roast, and more, and keen chefs should look for one that can do everything they want. Air fryers with pre-programmed modes can also be useful for cooking novices, as you don't need to guess how long to cook your chicken wings.

Price

Air fryers typically cost between $100 and $300, depending upon the appliance's number of features, drawers, and capacity. For example, a small air fryer with very few pre-set modes might cost around $100, whereas a smart-enabled air fryer with two drawers might cost closer to $300. 

Air fryer FAQs

Are air fryers toxic?

Contrary to some rumors, air fryers are not toxic and are generally considered safe when used correctly. The cooking process of an air fryer involves heating food with hot air, similar to a traditional convection oven, which means there is no risk of releasing toxic chemicals. Of course, you should always use your air fryer in a well-ventilated area to avoid smoke and fumes building up.

However, we'll note that some models have a non-stick coating on baskets and trays made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and these can sometimes become harmful when brought to very high temperatures. Check your model is free from these substances.

Are air fryers healthy?

Air fryers have become as popular as they are due to their reported health benefits, which are advertised as a healthier cooking alternative to traditional deep-frying. But their health depends mainly on what you want to use them for.

Air-frying your food does use significantly less oil than deep-frying, which will, in turn, lead to fewer calories and fat consumed. Still, air fryers are just a great way of quickly and easily cooking foods with the same crispy, satisfying results. The foods are still fried, and depending on what you're cooking, they are still likely to contain salt and other additives.

Do air fryers use a lot of electricity?

With electricity costs continually rising, you may be concerned about the impact of adding yet another kitchen appliance to your home. Of course, the amount of power air fryers consume depends on the model and size of the appliance, but they generally range between 800-1500W, which is far less than a traditional oven. Also, because foods in the air fryer cook more quickly, you'll use less electricity overall.

Considering the versatility of some air fryer ovens in particular, you could be able to replace your existing appliances, like microwaves and toasters, with just one appliance, saving on space and the cost of running multiple appliances. So that's worth keeping in mind during your search. 

Terri Williams
TTR Contributor

Terri is a freelance writer living in Birmingham, AL. She has tested hundreds of products, including kitchen appliances, vacuums, bedding, furniture, luggage, and tech gear. Terri has bylines at Architectural Digest, Forbes, Popular Science, CNN Underscored, NBC News, The Daily Beast, USA Today, and US News & World Report, as well as TechRadar, Homes & Gardens, and Tom's Guide.