Air fryers remain one of the most transformative kitchen appliances of the past decade. Originally marketed as a healthier alternative to deep frying, they’ve now become an essential in many households for their ability to quickly and consistently prepare everything from frozen snacks to gourmet meals—with a crispy finish and less oil. And according to recent market forecasts, the global air fryer market is expected to hit $17.71 billion by 2032, driven by tech upgrades, health trends, and growing culinary curiosity.
Best Air Fryers of 2025: Top Models and Features
As of mid-2025, several standout models have risen to the top for performance, innovation, and user satisfaction:
- Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart ClearCook: Continues to dominate as the best overall pick, thanks to its viewing window, easy-to-use controls, and multi-function presets for roasting, baking, broiling, and reheating.
- Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer: Offers dual baskets that allow users to cook two foods with different settings—perfect for busy weeknights or households with different dietary needs.
- Cosori TurboBlaze: Known for its quiet, rapid air circulation and sleek design, it’s a favorite for those who value aesthetics and speed.
- Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro: A high-end hybrid that combines convection baking and air frying. Its precision controls appeal to serious home chefs.
- Ninja Max XL: Highly praised for producing the crispiest results in the least amount of time.
Prices range from around $70 for solid entry-level models to over $250 for multifunctional premium options. Consumers are increasingly drawn to models with larger capacities (6–10 quarts), glass windows, and digital touchscreens.
Air Fryer Market Trends: Smarter, Safer, and More Capable
Several innovations are fueling this ongoing surge in popularity:
- Smart Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice assistant integration (Alexa/Google Assistant) are now standard in newer models. Brands like Instant and Cosori offer live cooking progress updates and mobile control.
- Energy Efficiency: As energy costs rise, consumers are appreciating the low energy consumption of air fryers versus traditional ovens.
- Compact & Modular Designs: Manufacturers are adapting to urban lifestyles with space-saving designs, stackable baskets, and foldable handles.
- Safety Features: Auto shut-off, cool-touch exteriors, and child-lock controls are increasingly common, giving peace of mind to families.
- Sustainability: Newer models are using BPA-free, recyclable components and non-toxic non-stick coatings, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
Big Sales Driving Demand
Retailers are capitalizing on the popularity with steep discounts and seasonal promotions:
- Ninja Foodi MAX DualZone: Recently discounted by up to £70 in UK bank holiday sales.
- Asda’s Gino D’Acampo 6-Litre Model: Gained attention after a price drop from £43 to just £23.53—selling out quickly in many stores.
These deals make it easier for new users to enter the air fryer ecosystem without a hefty upfront investment.
Culinary Trends: What People Are Cooking in 2025
Modern air fryers aren’t just for frozen fries anymore. Today’s users are exploring more ambitious and creative meals:
Trending Recipes:
- Protein-Packed Meals: Chicken cutlets, salmon, lobster tails, and pork tenderloin.
- Viral Snacks: Churros, bacon-wrapped pickles, macaroni and cheese balls, and air-fried sushi rice.
- Plant-Based Goodness: Crispy tofu bites, roasted chickpeas, buffalo cauliflower wings, and zucchini chips.
- Desserts: Fried ice cream, air-fried cheesecake, and banana-stuffed spring rolls.
Social media and cookbooks (like those by Nathan Anthony) have popularized dozens of inventive air fryer recipes, often featuring high-protein, low-oil ingredients tailored to modern dietary preferences.
The “Air Fryer Flutters” – Cooking as a Mood Booster
Interestingly, researchers are beginning to link the joy of air frying with psychological benefits. A recent study led by Dr. Eleanor Bryant at Bradford University coined the term “air fryer flutters”—a dopamine-triggered feeling of satisfaction tied to the anticipation of a crispy, delicious meal. Home cooks report feeling more confident and accomplished, which may explain why air fryers are becoming a beloved ritual for many.
In summary, the air fryer market is not just alive—it’s thriving. With smarter features, broader functionality, and a flood of innovative recipes, these devices are reshaping home cooking around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned kitchen pro or a curious beginner, 2025 is an excellent time to explore what today’s air fryers can really do.
Key Takeaways
- The Instant Vortex Plus 6-quart and Ninja models currently lead the market for performance and versatility.
- Quality air fryers range from $69 to $180, with higher prices typically offering larger capacity and more features.
- Look for models with easy-to-clean components and multiple cooking functions for the best value and convenience.
Evaluating The Top Air Fryers
The air fryer market continues to evolve with innovative features and improved performance standards. Recent tests from multiple sources have identified several standout models that offer exceptional cooking results and user-friendly designs.
Assessing Capacity and Size Options
Capacity needs vary greatly among households, making size an essential consideration when selecting an air fryer. The Ninja Max XL offers a generous 5.5-quart capacity, ideal for families of 3-4 people. For smaller kitchens, compact models like the Dash Compact Air Fryer provide adequate cooking space (2-3 quarts) while taking up minimal counter space.
Dual-basket air fryers have gained popularity for their versatility. The Ninja Foodi DualZone and the newer Ninja Double Stack XL allow cooking two different foods simultaneously at different temperatures. This feature saves time and energy.
For larger households, air fryer ovens like the Cuisinart TOA-60 combine the benefits of a toaster oven with air frying technology, offering 0.6 cubic feet of cooking space. They accommodate whole chickens and can replace multiple kitchen appliances.
Comparing Technical Features
Modern air fryers come equipped with advanced technical features that enhance the cooking experience. Digital screens with intuitive control panels have become standard on premium models like the Instant Vortex Plus. These interfaces allow precise temperature control, typically ranging from 105°F to 400°F.
Cooking functions have expanded beyond basic air frying. The Cosori Pro II offers 12 preset cooking programs including roast, bake, and dehydrate. The Sage Smart Oven Air Fryer includes specialized settings for different food types, optimizing cooking results.
Key Features by Brand:
- Ninja Foodi: Rapid air circulation technology, ceramic-coated baskets
- Instant Vortex: ClearCook window for monitoring food without opening
- Cosori: Shake reminder function, dishwasher-safe components
- ProCook: Health grill function, temperature probe
Many newer models incorporate smartphone connectivity, allowing users to monitor cooking progress remotely and access recipe libraries.
Innovations in Air Fryer Technology
The latest air fryer technology focuses on improved efficiency and cooking results. Dual heating elements are now common in premium models, providing more even cooking and reducing the need to shake or flip food.
Viewing windows, like those in the Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook, represent a significant improvement over earlier designs. These allow users to monitor cooking progress without releasing heat by opening the basket.
Energy efficiency has improved substantially. Current models use up to 50% less energy than conventional ovens while cooking up to 30% faster. The most efficient units can prepare crispy french fries in about 10 minutes.
Multicooker hybrids continue to evolve. The latest Instant Pot Duo Crisp combines pressure cooking with air frying capabilities. Ninja’s Foodi series has expanded to include models with integrated food thermometers that automatically adjust cooking time based on internal temperature readings.
Noise reduction technology has also advanced, with newer models operating at around 55 decibels compared to earlier versions that exceeded 65 decibels.
Guide to Air Frying and Maintenance
Air fryers require proper techniques and regular maintenance to deliver the best results. Understanding how to use these versatile kitchen appliances effectively will help you create delicious meals while keeping your device in top condition.
Exploring Air Frying Techniques
Air fryers work like mini convection ovens, circulating hot air around food to create a crispy exterior. For best results, avoid overcrowding the basket—this allows proper air circulation and ensures even cooking. Most models operate between 350-400°F, with cooking times typically shorter than conventional ovens.
Preheating your air fryer for 2-3 minutes can improve crispiness. When cooking foods like chicken nuggets or vegetables, a light spray of oil enhances browning and texture. Most basket-style air fryers require you to shake or flip food halfway through cooking.
Many modern air fryers offer multiple functions beyond basic air frying—including options to reheat, bake, roast, dehydrate, and broil. These features make them versatile additions to any kitchen.
Culinary Adventures with Air Fryers
Air fryers excel at creating healthier versions of traditionally fried foods. French fries, chicken wings, and mozzarella sticks turn out wonderfully crispy with significantly less oil than deep frying.
Beyond the basics, air fryers can transform vegetables like Brussels sprouts and cauliflower into delicious side dishes. Simply toss with a light coating of oil, season, and air fry until caramelized and tender.
Don’t overlook air fryers for reheating leftovers—they restore crispiness to pizza, fried chicken, and other foods that would become soggy in a microwave. They’re also surprisingly good for baking small batches of cookies, brownies, and other sweet treats.
Experimenting with different seasonings and marinades can elevate simple ingredients into impressive meals. Many online resources offer specialized air fryer recipes designed to maximize this appliance’s potential.
Cleaning and Care for Longevity
Regular cleaning extends your air fryer’s lifespan and ensures food safety. Always unplug the appliance and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
Most air fryers feature dishwasher-safe parts, including the basket and drawer. However, hand washing with warm, soapy water helps preserve non-stick coatings. For stubborn residue, soak components in hot water with mild dish soap before scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive sponge.
Wipe the interior with a damp cloth after each use to prevent grease buildup. The heating element can be cleaned with a soft brush to remove food particles. Never submerge the main unit in water.
Check your air fryer’s wattage requirements to ensure your kitchen circuit can handle the power draw. Position your air fryer with several inches of clearance on all sides to prevent overheating and maintain energy efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Air fryers come in many models with different features and performance levels. These common questions address what experts and users say about the top air fryers available today.
What models have been rated as the top air fryers by Consumer Reports?
Several models have earned high marks from Consumer Reports this year. The Ninja Foodi and Philips Premium Airfryer XXL consistently appear in their top-rated lists.
The Cosori Pro LE Air Fryer has also received recognition for its excellent performance and value. Consumer Reports highlights these models for their cooking performance, ease of use, and cleaning convenience.
Which air fryers have received the best reviews on Amazon?
The Cosori Air Fryer Max XL has maintained exceptional ratings on Amazon, with over 100,000 positive reviews. Users praise its large capacity and user-friendly digital controls.
Ninja’s DualZone air fryer models have also garnered thousands of five-star reviews. Customers particularly appreciate the dual-basket design that allows cooking two different foods simultaneously.
The Instant Vortex Plus continues to be a bestseller with high ratings for its reasonable price and versatile cooking functions.
What features distinguish the highest-rated air fryers?
The best air fryers feature larger cooking capacities, typically 5-7 quarts, accommodating family-sized meals. Many top models now include multi-cooking functions beyond air frying.
Digital touchscreens have become standard on premium models, offering preset programs for popular foods. The highest-rated units also feature improved circulation technology that cooks food more evenly and quickly.
Dishwasher-safe components remain a crucial feature for busy households. Some newer models also include smart capabilities, allowing control via smartphone apps.
How do the newest air fryers on the market compare to previous years’ models?
The latest models show significant improvements in energy efficiency compared to earlier versions. Many newer units use up to 15% less electricity while maintaining or improving cooking performance.
Design improvements have resulted in quieter operation. The newest models have reduced noise levels by incorporating better insulation and improved fan technology.
Manufacturers have also addressed durability issues from previous generations. The new models generally feature more heat-resistant materials and improved build quality for longer lifespans.
What are the expert opinions from America’s Test Kitchen on the finest air fryers?
America’s Test Kitchen gives top marks to the Instant Vortex Plus for its excellent performance and reasonable price point. Their experts praise its consistent cooking results and intuitive controls.
The Ninja Foodi Dual Zone air fryer receives recognition for its versatility. America’s Test Kitchen highlights its ability to cook two different foods at different temperatures simultaneously.
Their testing also found the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL produces the most “fried-like” results. However, they note its higher price point may not justify the marginal improvement for casual users.
Are there any health concerns associated with using the most popular air fryers?
Current research indicates air fryers remain a healthier cooking alternative to deep frying. They typically reduce fat content by 70-80% compared to traditional frying methods.
Some experts recommend using air fryers with stainless steel or ceramic baskets rather than those with non-stick coatings. This minimizes potential exposure to chemicals that might be released at high temperatures.
Proper cleaning remains important for food safety. Most manufacturers now design their baskets and trays to be dishwasher safe, making maintenance easier and helping prevent bacterial growth.
