Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance for those looking to enjoy fried foods with less oil. These countertop devices use hot air circulation to cook food, giving it a crispy exterior similar to deep-fried items but with significantly less fat. Many models can also roast, bake, and reheat food, making them versatile additions to any kitchen.
When shopping for an air fryer, size should be your first consideration. Smaller units work well for individuals or couples, while larger models can cook enough food for families. Other important factors include temperature range, preset cooking functions, and ease of cleaning. Some air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts, which can save time during cleanup.
The control panel is another key feature to examine. Digital displays with clear buttons make operation simple, while models with smartphone connectivity offer added convenience. We also recommend looking at the wattage of each unit, as higher wattage typically means faster cooking times and better results.
We spent weeks testing fifteen popular air fryers to find the ones that deliver consistently crispy results, are easy to use, and offer good value for money. Our tests included cooking everything from frozen french fries to chicken wings to determine which models deserve a spot on your countertop.
Best Air Fryers
We’ve tested dozens of models to bring you our top picks for the best air fryers in 2025. These kitchen gadgets use hot air to cook food with less oil, giving you crispy results without the extra fat. Our list includes options for every budget and kitchen size, with models that excel at cooking everything from french fries to chicken wings.
COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer
We recommend the COSORI TurboBlaze for its impressive cooking performance, versatile functions, and family-sized capacity that delivers crispy results with minimal oil.
Pros
- Powerful TurboBlaze technology cooks food faster and crispier
- Quiet operation at under 53 dB even at high speeds
- Large 6-quart capacity fits family-sized meals
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Premium price point compared to basic models
- Learning curve with multiple settings and features
The COSORI TurboBlaze transformed our cooking routine with its remarkable 5-speed fan system. During testing, we noticed how the powerful 3600 rpm fan speed created perfectly crispy french fries with almost no oil. The temperature range from 90°F to 450°F gives tremendous cooking flexibility that regular air fryers can’t match.
We love the thoughtful design elements. The square basket maximizes cooking space while the updated crisper plate with smaller holes prevents food from falling through. Cleaning up after cooking chicken wings was surprisingly easy – the nonstick coating worked well, and both the basket and plate went straight into the dishwasher without fuss.
The quiet operation impressed us most. At less than 53 dB, we could have conversations in the kitchen while cooking without raising our voices. For families with young children, this feature alone makes it worth considering. The 9 cooking functions and 4 turbo modes simplified meal preparation, and the touchscreen controls were responsive and intuitive to use.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro delivers exceptional crispy results with minimal oil, making it our top pick for home cooks wanting healthier fried foods without sacrificing taste.
Pros
- Cooks food quickly with perfect crispiness using little to no oil
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality for multiple cooking needs
- Easy cleanup with nonstick basket and crisper plate
Cons
- Takes up counter space despite space-saving design
- Noisy during operation at higher temperatures
- Learning curve for optimal cooking times
We recently tested the Ninja Air Fryer Pro in our kitchen and were impressed by its performance. The 5-quart capacity held enough food for a family meal – we fit about 4 pounds of french fries with room to spare. The air crisp technology worked as advertised, creating that satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping foods moist inside.
The controls are straightforward and user-friendly. We liked that we didn’t need to flip through complicated menus to start cooking. Just select one of the four functions (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, or Dehydrate), set the time and temperature, and press start. The dehydrate function worked great for making dried fruit chips, though it does take several hours as expected.
Cleanup couldn’t be easier. Both the basket and crisper plate have a good nonstick coating that prevented food from sticking. We just washed them with soapy water, and everything came off without scrubbing. The unit itself has a modern black and gray design that looks sleek on our countertop. For anyone wanting to enjoy fried foods with less guilt, this Ninja Air Fryer Pro delivers excellent results at a reasonable price point.
Ninja Air Fryer
The Ninja Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance worth buying because it cooks food quickly with less fat while offering multiple cooking functions in one compact device.
Pros
- Uses up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods
- 4-in-1 functionality (air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate)
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- 4-quart capacity may be small for larger families
- Takes up counter space
- Learning curve for perfect cooking times
We recently tested the Ninja Air Fryer in our kitchen and were impressed by how quickly it cooked our favorite foods. French fries came out crispy and golden in just minutes, using hardly any oil. The 4-quart ceramic-coated basket easily fit enough food for a family of four, and cleanup was a breeze since both the basket and crisper plate are dishwasher safe.
The temperature range from 105°F to 400°F makes this air fryer incredibly versatile. We made crispy chicken wings at high heat and also tried the dehydrate function to make apple chips at a lower temperature. Both turned out great! The digital control panel is straightforward to use, with preset functions that take the guesswork out of cooking times.
For busy weeknight meals, this air fryer has become our go-to kitchen tool. We love that it preheats much faster than a standard oven and cooks food more evenly thanks to its air circulation technology. The included recipe booklet gave us plenty of ideas to start with, though we quickly began experimenting with our own recipes. While it might not replace your oven for large gatherings, for everyday cooking the Ninja Air Fryer offers a perfect balance of convenience, healthier cooking, and excellent results.
Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer
We recommend the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer for anyone needing a versatile kitchen workhorse that combines multiple cooking functions in one attractive stainless steel appliance.
Pros
- Spacious 26-quart capacity perfect for family meals
- Elegant French door design with single-pull opening
- 25 cooking presets make meal preparation simple
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Relatively heavy at 26.5 pounds
- Higher price point than basic air fryers
The first thing we noticed about this Emeril Lagasse air fryer is its impressive size. With a 26-quart capacity, we easily fit a whole 6-pound chicken for rotisserie cooking. The French doors open smoothly with one hand, which proved helpful when our hands were full with food trays.
During our testing, the dual-speed fan created perfect crispy results. We air fried chicken wings that turned out wonderfully crisp on the outside while staying juicy inside. The 360° superheated air circulation really makes a difference compared to standard ovens. We also loved that the toast function automatically shuts off when done – no more burnt breakfast!
The control panel is intuitive with its touchscreen interface. We found the 25 cooking presets particularly useful for quick meals. Yesterday, we defrosted frozen chicken breasts and then used the chicken preset for perfectly cooked results. The temperature range from 75°F to 500°F gives amazing flexibility. While it does take up counter space, its stainless steel finish looks premium in our kitchen and justifies its permanent spot.
Chefman TurboFry 4QT Air Fryer
The Chefman TurboFry is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a compact air fryer that delivers exceptionally crispy results with its unique 450°F Hi-Fry technology.
Pros
- Space-saving 4-quart design fits easily on countertops
- Helpful shake reminder ensures evenly crispy results
- Simple cleanup with dishwasher-safe components
Cons
- May be too small for larger families
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- Initial plastic smell requires a break-in period
We recently tested the Chefman TurboFry 4QT air fryer and were impressed by its performance. The compact size is perfect for small kitchens while still providing enough space to cook meals for 2-4 people. When we made chicken tenders, the Hi-Fry technology kicked in during the final two minutes, raising the temperature to 450°F and creating an extra crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
The digital touchscreen is intuitive to use with four preset functions that take the guesswork out of cooking. We found the shake notification especially helpful – it beeps halfway through cooking to remind you to shake the basket, which prevents food from sticking and ensures even cooking. This feature made a noticeable difference when we prepared french fries that turned out uniformly crispy.
Cleanup couldn’t be easier with this model. Both the nonstick basket and rack go right into the dishwasher, and the matte black finish wipes clean with minimal effort. The automatic shutoff feature adds peace of mind – it turns off when cooking finishes or if you remove the basket. For health-conscious cooks, we appreciated how it produces crispy results with minimal oil, making indulgent foods like fried chicken healthier without sacrificing taste.
Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven
The Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven is worth buying for families who need a versatile, large-capacity cooking appliance that can replace multiple kitchen gadgets with its 6-in-1 functionality.
Pros
- Huge 12-quart capacity fits family-sized meals
- Versatile 6-in-1 cooking functions with 12 presets
- Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve with multiple functions
- May run hot on some settings
We recently tested the Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven in our kitchen, and it quickly became our go-to appliance. The large capacity is a game changer for feeding a family. During our tests, we fit a whole chicken on the rotisserie spit while also cooking vegetables on one of the three included racks.
The touch controls feel modern and responsive. We found the 12 preset options super handy when cooking common foods. No more guessing about time and temperature! The extra-large window with interior light lets us check on food without opening the door and losing heat. This feature saved our dinner rolls from burning.
Temperature control ranges from 95°F to 450°F, which gave us flexibility for everything from dehydrating apple slices to roasting a crispy chicken. The new Hi-Fry setting adds extra crunch when needed. Clean-up is simple thanks to the removable drip tray that catches grease and crumbs. After cooking a whole chicken, we just popped the trays in the dishwasher.
Air frying foods used much less oil than deep frying. We made crispy french fries using just a light spray of oil. The rotisserie function produced juicy meat with crispy skin. For busy weeknights, the Chefman saves time since it heats up quickly and cooks faster than a conventional oven.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven
This versatile 8-in-1 Cuisinart appliance combines air frying capabilities with traditional toaster oven functions, making it an excellent investment for anyone looking to save counter space while gaining multiple cooking options.
Pros
- Large capacity holds a whole chicken or 6 slices of bread
- Includes both air frying and grilling functions
- Easy-to-use knob controls with 60-minute timer
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve for temperature settings
- Exterior gets hot during operation
We recently tested the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven and found it truly delivers on its promise of versatility. The stainless steel design looks sleek on our countertop, though it does require a fair amount of space. What impressed us most was how it replaced several appliances – we no longer need separate toaster ovens or air fryers.
The dual-sided grill/griddle plate is a standout feature. One morning we made perfectly crispy bacon on the grill side, then flipped it over to make pancakes on the griddle surface. The temperature control is precise, though we discovered it cooks faster than our previous toaster oven. We recommend setting the timer for less time than you think you need until you get used to it.
Air frying chicken wings produced crispy results without excess oil. The large capacity basket held about three pounds of wings, enough to feed a small gathering. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the nonstick interior, and we appreciated that it catches grease effectively, unlike some standalone air fryers we’ve used. The dropdown door style makes it easy to check on food without letting out too much heat. For anyone wanting to simplify their kitchen setup without sacrificing cooking options, this Cuisinart model delivers excellent value.
Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer
The Cuisinart 6-Qt Basket Air Fryer is worth buying for its versatile cooking functions, family-sized capacity, and user-friendly features that make healthy cooking both simple and delicious.
Pros
- Large 6-quart capacity perfect for family meals
- Five cooking functions with easy-to-use presets
- Viewing window lets you monitor food without opening
Cons
- Viewing light doesn’t stay on very long
- Takes up significant counter space
- May be challenging for first-time air fryer users
We tested the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer and were impressed by its performance. The stainless steel design looks sleek on our countertop, though it does require a fair amount of space. The 6-quart capacity handled a whole chicken with room to spare, making it perfect for family dinners or when we had friends over.
The digital controls are straightforward to use. We especially appreciated the five preset cooking options that took the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures. The viewing window is a standout feature – we could check on our food without letting heat escape. This helped achieve that perfect crispy finish on french fries and chicken wings.
Cleaning up after cooking was surprisingly easy. The basket and other components are dishwasher-safe, saving us valuable time. During our testing, we found the air fryer excelled at creating crispy exteriors while keeping food moist inside. The automatic warmer function came in handy when our family members arrived home at different times for dinner. With 1800 watts of power, it preheated quickly and maintained consistent temperatures throughout cooking.
Chefman Dual Basket Air Fryer
The Chefman Dual Basket Air Fryer offers an excellent cooking solution for busy households with its versatile cooking capability and convenient features.
Pros
- Two independent cooking baskets let you prepare different foods at once
- Sync feature ensures both foods finish cooking at the same time
- Viewing windows make it easy to check food without opening baskets
Cons
- 3-quart baskets may be small for larger families
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning all features requires some initial practice
We tested the Chefman 6-quart dual basket air fryer and found it to be a game-changer for quick weeknight meals. The ability to cook two different foods at once saved us so much time. We particularly enjoyed making crispy chicken wings in one basket while roasting vegetables in the other.
The clear viewing windows are a standout feature. We could watch our food cook without opening the baskets and losing heat. This helped us get perfect results every time. The digital controls are simple to use, with helpful presets for common foods like fries, chicken, and pizza.
Cleanup is a breeze with this air fryer. The non-stick baskets pop right out and can go in the dishwasher. We also liked the temperature range of 200-450°F, which handled everything from gentle reheating to high-heat cooking. The unit does take up some counter space, but its sleek black design looks good in most kitchens.
Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer
The Instant Vortex Plus is a must-have kitchen tool that combines versatility, performance, and ease of use for anyone wanting healthier versions of their favorite fried foods.
Pros
- Cooks food quickly with little to no preheating time
- Six cooking functions in one compact appliance
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe components
Cons
- Takes up counter space in smaller kitchens
- Learning curve for perfect cooking times
- Fan can be somewhat noisy during operation
We recently tested the Instant Vortex Plus in our kitchen, and it quickly became our go-to appliance for weeknight meals. The 6-quart capacity is perfect for families, easily fitting enough food for 4-6 people. During our chicken wing test, we got beautifully crispy results without the mess and calories of deep frying.
The touch control panel is intuitive to use with pre-programmed settings for popular foods. We appreciate how the EvenCrisp technology circulates hot air from the top down, creating that perfect golden exterior while keeping food tender inside. From frozen french fries to roasted vegetables, everything cooks evenly with minimal effort on our part.
Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the non-stick basket and tray. Both pieces pop right into the dishwasher after use. The stainless steel exterior adds a modern touch to our countertop and wipes clean easily. For busy households, this air fryer delivers on its promise to simplify cooking while making healthier versions of family favorites.
The temperature range of 95-400°F makes this air fryer surprisingly versatile. We’ve used it for everything from dehydrating apple slices to broiling fish. The reheat function brings leftover pizza back to life with a crispy crust that’s far superior to microwave results. With significantly less oil needed than traditional frying, we feel good about serving these foods to our family.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right air fryer can be confusing with so many options available. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect match for your kitchen needs.
Size and Capacity
The size of your air fryer matters based on how many people you cook for regularly.
| Capacity | Best For | Counter Space Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 quarts | 1-2 people | Small |
| 3-5 quarts | 2-4 people | Medium |
| 5-7 quarts | 4-6 people | Large |
| 8+ quarts | Large families | Significant |
Consider your kitchen counter space before buying a large model. Measure the area where you’ll keep it to ensure proper fit.
Power and Performance
Look for air fryers between 1400-1700 watts for faster, more efficient cooking. More power typically means quicker preheating and cooking times.
The temperature range is also important. We recommend models that can reach at least 400°F for proper crisping.
Features Worth Having
Digital controls make precise temperature and time settings easier. Some basic features to look for include:
- Timer function with auto shut-off
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Non-stick coating
- Preset cooking programs
Ease of Cleaning
Air fryers with removable, dishwasher-safe baskets save you time and effort. Non-stick surfaces also make cleanup much simpler.
Noise Level
Some air fryers can be noisy. If you have an open kitchen or small living space, check reviews about noise levels before buying.
Price Range
Good quality air fryers typically range from $60-$200. More expensive models usually offer additional features, larger capacity, or premium construction materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Air fryers come in many shapes and sizes with different features. We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions people ask when shopping for these popular kitchen appliances.
What are the top-rated air fryer models according to Consumer Reports?
Consumer Reports consistently ranks the Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart air fryer among their top picks. The Ninja AF101 and Cosori Pro LE 5.5-Quart also receive excellent ratings for performance and value.
These top models score well in cooking evenness, noise levels, and ease of cleaning. The Power XL Vortex is another strong performer that often appears in their recommendations.
How does the Ninja Air Fryer compare to the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL?
The Ninja Air Fryer Max XL offers a larger 5.5-quart capacity versus the standard model’s 4-quart size. This means you can cook about 3 pounds of food instead of 2 pounds.
The Max XL also reaches higher temperatures (up to 450°F compared to 400°F) and includes a broil rack for additional cooking options. Both models share the same basic technology and cleaning features, but the Max XL typically costs $20-30 more.
What features should I look for when choosing an air fryer?
Capacity is crucial – a 2-4 quart model works for 1-2 people, while families need 5-7 quarts. Digital controls offer more precise temperatures and cooking times than dial controls.
Preset programs make cooking popular items like chicken wings or french fries simple. Look for dishwasher-safe parts and a square basket design that provides more cooking space than round models.
Noise level varies significantly between brands, so check reviews if you have an open kitchen layout. Some newer models include smart features that let you control cooking from your phone.
Are there any health concerns associated with using an air fryer?
Air fryers are generally safe when used properly. They produce fewer acrylamides (potentially harmful compounds) than deep-frying methods.
Some concern exists about plastics in certain models, so look for air fryers with ceramic or stainless steel cooking surfaces if this worries you. Always ensure proper ventilation when using any cooking appliance.
The main health consideration is that while air fryers use less oil, processed frozen foods still contain sodium and other additives. Making fresh foods in your air fryer remains the healthiest option.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of different air fryer brands like Cosori, Philips, and Ninja?
Cosori offers excellent value with user-friendly interfaces and large capacity options. Their models tend to run slightly louder but heat very evenly. The app-connected features on premium models work seamlessly.
Philips pioneered air fryer technology and has the most refined designs. Their appliances typically cost more but last longer and offer more consistent cooking. The main drawback is their smaller capacity for the price.
Ninja strikes a good balance between affordability and features. Their multi-function models provide good value, though some users report that baskets can wear out after a year of heavy use.
How do Costco’s air fryer options measure up against other brands?
Costco offers exclusive models from brands like Gourmia and Ninja at competitive prices. Their Gourmia 7-quart model delivers particularly good value, often $30-40 less than comparable options elsewhere.
The Costco warranty and return policy add significant value to any air fryer purchase. We’ve found their rotating inventory includes both entry-level and premium options, but selection varies by season and location.
Costco’s Ninja Foodi bundle deals often include accessories that would cost extra elsewhere. The main drawback is more limited model selection compared to dedicated appliance retailers.
