Air fryers have changed how many people cook at home. These countertop appliances use hot air to cook food with little or no oil. The result is crispy food that tastes like it’s fried but with much less fat. Air fryers can make everything from French fries to chicken wings with a crispy outside and juicy inside.
We love air fryers because they cook food faster than regular ovens. They also don’t heat up your kitchen as much as a full-size oven. Many air fryers are easy to clean too, with parts that can go in the dishwasher. This makes them great for busy weeknights when you want tasty food without a lot of cleanup.
When buying an air fryer, size matters most. Think about how many people you cook for and your counter space. Cooking capacity ranges from about 2 quarts for singles to 6+ quarts for families. Other key features to look for are temperature range, preset cooking programs, and how easy it is to clean. We tested fifteen popular air fryers to find the best brands that combine value, performance, and durability.
⭐ Top Air Fryer Brands in 2025
1. Philips
- Why it’s great: Philips is considered the pioneer of air fryers and still leads in reliability.
- Health features: Rapid Air Technology for even cooking with minimal oil.
- Best for: Families who want consistent results and long-lasting build quality.
2. Ninja (Ninja Foodi Series)
- Why it’s great: Known for multi-functionality—air fry, roast, dehydrate, and even pressure cook.
- Health features: DualZone technology lets you cook two different foods at once without added oil.
- Best for: Busy households that want versatility and healthy cooking in one appliance.
3. Instant (Instant Pot / Instant Vortex)
- Why it’s great: Affordable, easy to use, and backed by the trusted Instant Pot brand.
- Health features: EvenCrisp technology for lighter frying with reduced oil.
- Best for: Beginners who want a budget-friendly but reliable air fryer.
4. Breville (Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro)
- Why it’s great: Combines a convection oven and air fryer in one.
- Health features: Precise temperature control, making it ideal for roasting veggies and lean proteins.
- Best for: Health-conscious cooks who want oven-quality results with air fryer convenience.
5. Cosori
- Why it’s great: Popular for sleek design, user-friendly app, and great value.
- Health features: Smart app recipes with nutrition-focused options, plus shake reminders for even cooking.
- Best for: Tech-savvy users who want healthy recipes at their fingertips.
6. Chefman
- Why it’s great: Compact and affordable models that don’t compromise on performance.
- Health features: BPA-free nonstick baskets and portion-friendly sizes for calorie-conscious cooking.
- Best for: Singles or small households focused on portion control and healthy eating.
🥗 Tips for Healthy Cooking with Air Fryers
- Use minimal oil—a light spray is often enough.
- Choose lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu) over heavily breaded items.
- Load up on veggies—air fryers make them crispy and flavorful without added fats.
- Avoid processed frozen foods; instead, make homemade versions for better nutrition.
✅ Summary
In 2025, the best air fryer brands for healthy cooking are:
- Philips (reliability & quality)
- Ninja (multi-function versatility)
- Instant (budget-friendly & easy)
- Breville (precision & oven-quality)
- Cosori (tech-driven & recipe support)
- Chefman (compact & affordable)
Each offers unique strengths, but all help you prepare healthier meals with less oil while keeping flavor and crunch.
Best Air Fryer Brands
We’ve tested and reviewed the top air fryer brands to help you pick the right one for your kitchen. These popular brands offer easy cooking, less oil use, and quick cleanup for healthier meals. Our list includes options for every budget and kitchen size.
COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer
We recommend the COSORI TurboBlaze for its exceptional cooking speed, versatility, and family-sized capacity that makes healthy cooking both simple and delicious.
Pros
- Powerful TurboBlaze technology cooks food faster and crispier
- Extra-large 6-quart capacity fits family meals
- Impressively quiet operation even at high speeds
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Initial learning curve with multiple settings
- Premium price point compared to basic models
When we first unboxed the COSORI TurboBlaze, we were impressed by its sleek dark gray design. The 6-quart basket is genuinely spacious—we fit 20 chicken wings in a single batch with room for proper air circulation. The basket slides in and out smoothly, and the non-stick coating works exactly as promised.
The cooking performance truly stands out. We tested it with frozen french fries that turned out perfectly crispy in just 15 minutes. The TurboBlaze technology isn’t just marketing—the powerful 3600 rpm fan and 5-speed airflow system deliver noticeably faster cooking times than other air fryers we’ve used. Even better, it operates at under 53 decibels, making it remarkably quiet for such a powerful machine.
Temperature control ranges from 90°F to a blazing 450°F, giving us flexibility for everything from dehydrating fruit to crisping chicken skin. The touchscreen controls are intuitive, and we especially appreciate the dishwasher-safe components that make cleanup quick. For families looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste or spending hours in the kitchen, this air fryer is worth every penny.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro delivers outstanding crispy results with minimal oil, making it a smart choice for anyone wanting healthier versions of their favorite fried foods.
Pros
- Heats up quickly and cooks food evenly with excellent crispiness
- Generous 5-quart capacity fits family-sized portions
- Easy to clean with nonstick basket and crisper plate
Cons
- Takes up counter space despite compact design
- Fan can be somewhat noisy during operation
- May have a learning curve for perfect cooking times
We recently tested the Ninja Air Fryer Pro in our kitchen, and it quickly became our go-to cooking appliance. The 400°F superheated air technology works exactly as promised, creating that perfect crispy exterior on everything from french fries to chicken wings. What impressed us most was how it handled frozen foods—turning them into crispy treats in just minutes.
The 5-quart capacity is perfect for our needs. We easily fit 4 pounds of fries or enough chicken wings for a small gathering. This size strikes a nice balance between counter space and usability. The sleek black design also looks good in our kitchen without being an eyesore.
Operation couldn’t be simpler with the straightforward push-button controls. We’ve used all four functions—Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate—with great results. The roast function worked wonderfully on vegetables, giving them a nice caramelized finish. Cleanup is truly a breeze. The nonstick basket and crisper plate wipe clean with minimal effort, which is a huge plus after cooking messy foods like wings. If you’re looking to enjoy crispy foods with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying, this Ninja model delivers on its promises.
Ninja Air Fryer
The Ninja Air Fryer offers outstanding value with its versatile cooking options and user-friendly design, making it a smart choice for families seeking healthier meals with less hassle.
Pros
- Cooks with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying
- Four versatile cooking functions in one appliance
- Family-sized 4-quart capacity perfect for meals
Cons
- Takes up counter space in smaller kitchens
- Learning curve for perfect cooking times
- Basket could be wider for certain foods
We recently tried the Ninja Air Fryer in our test kitchen and were impressed by how quickly it turned out crispy french fries. The 4-quart ceramic-coated basket easily held enough food for a family of four. What stood out most was how little oil we needed—just a light spray produced golden, crunchy results.
This air fryer runs from 105°F to 400°F, giving us plenty of options. We made dehydrated apple chips on the low setting and crispy chicken wings on high. The four cooking programs (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate) worked exactly as promised. The digital control panel is simple to use, with clear buttons and easy temperature adjustments.
Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate. We found the included recipe booklet helpful for getting started, though we quickly moved on to trying our own recipes. The unit’s 1550 watts of power meant fast cooking times and less waiting around. For families looking to eat healthier without giving up crispy foods, this Ninja model hits the sweet spot of price, performance, and ease of use.
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large Air Fryer
We recommend this Emeril Lagasse air fryer for its impressive versatility, large capacity, and reliable cooking performance that makes it worth the counter space.
Pros
- Huge 26-quart capacity perfect for family meals
- 25 cooking presets for foolproof results
- Beautiful stainless steel design with elegant French doors
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Fairly heavy at 26.5 pounds
- Higher price point than basic air fryers
This Emeril Lagasse air fryer has completely changed our cooking routine. The extra-large 26-quart capacity means we can cook for the whole family without crowding food. We recently made crispy chicken wings and french fries simultaneously, and everything came out perfectly cooked with that satisfying crunch.
The French door design isn’t just for looks – it’s practical too. Opening with just one pull, it prevents hot air from blasting your face like traditional drop-down doors. We’ve noticed the dual-speed fan truly delivers that 360° hot air circulation for consistently golden results. The touchscreen controls are intuitive, with the 25 presets taking the guesswork out of cooking times.
We appreciate how versatile this machine is. Yesterday we rotisserie-cooked a 5-pound chicken that turned out juicy inside and crispy outside. The toast function works flawlessly with the auto-shutoff feature preventing burnt bread. Clean-up is straightforward, though some accessories need hand washing. For anyone with limited oven space or who wants to cook without heating up the kitchen, this air fryer delivers professional results with minimal effort.
Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer
The Chefman TurboFry Touch is a smart buy for anyone wanting quick, healthy meals with minimal counter space.
Pros
- Hi-Fry Technology creates extra crispy results
- Compact design fits easily in small kitchens
- Helpful shake reminder ensures even cooking
Cons
- 4-quart size may be too small for larger families
- Preheating needed for best results
- Learning curve for first-time air fryer users
We tested this Chefman air fryer in our kitchen for several weeks, and it quickly earned its keep. The sleek black design doesn’t take up much space, yet the 4-quart capacity handled most of our cooking needs. We found it perfect for 2-3 people, though you might need to cook in batches for larger groups.
The touch controls are responsive and intuitive. We especially liked the four preset options for common foods. The Hi-Fry Technology is no gimmick – cranking up to 450°F in the final minutes of cooking gave our french fries and chicken wings that restaurant-quality crunch without the extra oil.
Cleanup couldn’t be easier with the dishwasher-safe basket and rack. We appreciated the automatic shut-off feature for safety. The audible shake reminder halfway through cooking was surprisingly helpful – it’s easy to forget this step, but it makes a big difference in getting evenly crispy results.
For smaller households looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste, this Chefman model delivers impressive performance at a reasonable price. While it won’t replace your oven for large family meals, it’s become our go-to for quick weeknight dinners and reheating leftovers with better-than-microwave results.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven
This versatile 8-in-1 Cuisinart air fryer toaster oven is worth every penny for its combination of cooking functions and impressive capacity.
Pros
- Spacious interior fits a whole chicken or 6 slices of bread
- Dual-sided grill/griddle plate adds cooking flexibility
- Easy-to-use knob controls with clear settings
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve for cooking times
- Gets hot on the outside during use
We tested this Cuisinart air fryer toaster oven in our kitchen for several weeks, and it quickly became our go-to appliance. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern on the counter. Its 8 cooking functions (air fry, toast, bake, convection bake, broil, convection broil, grill, and warm) handled everything we threw at it.
The air frying feature impressed us the most. Chicken wings came out perfectly crispy without the mess of traditional frying. We loved how the basket catches grease and prevents it from leaking. The grill function also surprised us – we made delicious burgers and grilled vegetables with nice sear marks.
Temperature control is precise and the 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff gives peace of mind. The interior light helps check food without opening the door. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the nonstick interior. While it does take up counter space, it replaces multiple appliances and delivers on its promises. For families or anyone who enjoys cooking variety, this Cuisinart model is a smart investment.
Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer
The Instant Vortex Plus offers incredible versatility and cooking performance that makes it worth every penny for busy families wanting healthier fried foods.
Pros
- Cooks food quickly with perfect crispiness
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Versatile 6-in-1 functionality saves counter space
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve for perfect cooking times
- Fan noise can be noticeable during operation
We’ve been testing the Instant Vortex Plus in our kitchen for several weeks now, and it’s completely changed our weeknight dinner routine. The 6-quart capacity is perfect for our family of four, letting us cook enough chicken wings or fries for everyone in one batch. The square basket design makes much better use of space than round models we’ve tried before.
The EvenCrisp technology really delivers on its promise. Our food comes out with that perfect golden crunch on the outside while staying tender inside. Last night, we made chicken thighs that were remarkably juicy with crispy skin that tasted just like they’d been deep-fried, but we used barely a tablespoon of oil. The temperature range (95-400°F) gives us flexibility for everything from dehydrating apple slices to quickly cooking frozen mozzarella sticks.
Cleanup is remarkably simple with this model. The non-stick basket wipes clean with minimal effort, and when we’ve had stickier foods, we just pop it in the dishwasher. The one-touch smart programs have been surprisingly useful – the wings preset nailed the cooking time perfectly. While the control panel took a few uses to get comfortable with, it’s now second nature. For anyone on the fence about air fryers, this Instant Pot model would be our top recommendation based on our experience.
Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer
The Cuisinart 6-qt Basket Air Fryer deserves a spot in your kitchen because it combines versatility, ease of use, and excellent cooking results in one well-designed appliance.
Pros
- Large 6-quart capacity perfect for families
- Clear viewing window to monitor cooking progress
- Five preset cooking functions for easy meal preparation
Cons
- Viewing light turns off quickly
- Takes up counter space
- Learning curve for perfect cooking times
We tested this Cuisinart air fryer in our kitchen for several weeks, and it quickly became our go-to cooking appliance. The 6-quart capacity handles enough food for a family dinner, whether we’re making crispy french fries or a whole chicken. The square basket design makes better use of space compared to round models we’ve used before.
The viewing window is a standout feature that many air fryers lack. We could check on our food without opening the basket and losing heat. This helped us get perfect results since we didn’t have to guess when food was done. The touch controls are simple to use, and the five presets (air fry, roast, bake, broil, and warm) took the guesswork out of cooking.
Cleaning up after meals was easy since the basket is dishwasher safe. The stainless steel exterior stayed cool during cooking and wiped clean with minimal effort. At 1800 watts, this air fryer heated up quickly and cooked evenly. Our chicken came out with crispy skin while staying juicy inside, and vegetables roasted perfectly with just a light coating of oil. For anyone looking to cook healthier meals without sacrificing taste, this Cuisinart air fryer is worth the investment.
Chefman 6-in-1 Air Fryer Oven
This spacious 12-quart Chefman air fryer is worth buying because it combines six cooking functions with easy controls and family-sized capacity.
Pros
- Large 12-quart capacity perfect for family meals
- Versatile 6-in-1 cooking functions including rotisserie
- Easy-to-use touchscreen with 12 preset options
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- May heat up surrounding area during use
- Some plastic parts feel less durable
We recently tried the Chefman 12-quart air fryer in our test kitchen, and it quickly became a favorite. The size is impressive – we fit a whole chicken on the rotisserie spit and still had room for sides using the included racks. Its large window with interior light let us check food without opening the door and losing heat.
The temperature range (95-450°F) is wider than most air fryers we’ve tested. This matters when you want to dehydrate fruits at low temps or get a super crispy finish on chicken wings with the Hi-Fry setting. The touch controls feel responsive and the 12 presets take the guesswork out of cooking times.
Clean-up is simple with this model. The drip tray catches grease well, and most parts can go in the dishwasher. We did notice the unit gets hot during extended use, so you’ll need some space around it. For busy families who want to cook healthier meals without much oil, this Chefman offers great value with its multiple functions replacing several appliances.
Chefman Dual Basket Air Fryer
We think this Chefman dual basket air fryer is a smart buy for busy families who want to cook multiple foods at once with less oil and less time.
Pros
- Two independent baskets let you cook different foods simultaneously
- Sync Finish feature ensures both dishes are ready at the same time
- Extra-crispy Hi-Fry setting for perfect crunch when needed
Cons
- Baskets are smaller than they appear in pictures
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve to master all the settings
We’ve been using this Chefman 6-quart dual basket air fryer for several weeks now, and it’s changed our weeknight dinner routine. The ability to cook chicken in one basket and veggies in the other saves so much time. The temperature range from 200-450°F gives us flexibility for different recipes.
The Sync Finish feature is a game-changer. We no longer worry about one food getting cold while waiting for another to finish. Just press a button, and both baskets finish cooking at the same time. Clean-up is a breeze too – the nonstick baskets can go right in the dishwasher.
While we love this air fryer, the 3-quart baskets are a bit small for larger families. We found they work perfectly for side dishes or meals for 2-3 people. The touch controls are responsive and easy to use, but it took us a few tries to get comfortable with all the features. The shake reminder is helpful for even cooking, and the +2 minute button saves us from resetting the entire program when food needs a bit more time.
Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Vortex 6 Quart Air Fryer delivers crispy, delicious food with minimal oil, making it a standout choice for anyone wanting quick, healthier meals.
Pros
- Versatile 4-in-1 functions (air fry, roast, broil, reheat)
- Super fast cooking with little to no preheating time
- Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Takes up counter space
- Learning curve for perfect cooking times
- Basket size may be limiting for larger families
We’ve been using this air fryer for several weeks now, and it’s transformed our weeknight cooking routine. The Vortex heats up in minutes, which means dinner gets to the table faster than with our old oven. Last night, we tossed in some frozen chicken wings and had perfectly crispy results in about 15 minutes.
The touch controls are simple to use, and we love the preset programs for common foods like fries and chicken. We’ve found it really does use much less oil than traditional frying. Our french fries came out golden and crunchy using just a light spray of oil. The EvenCrisp technology seems to work as advertised – food cooks evenly without having to shake the basket too often.
Cleanup has been a breeze. The non-stick basket releases food easily, and we just pop it in the dishwasher when we’re done. For bigger families, you might want to consider a larger model, but for our household of four, this 6-quart size has been perfect. We’ve even been able to bake small desserts like brownies and cinnamon rolls with surprisingly good results.
Chefman Dual Basket Air Fryer
The Chefman Dual Basket Air Fryer offers excellent value with its sync cooking feature and viewing windows, making it a smart choice for busy households.
Pros
- Dual baskets let you cook two foods at once
- See-through windows for easy monitoring
- Sync finish feature ensures everything’s ready together
Cons
- Each 3-quart basket is smaller than single large fryers
- Takes up significant counter space
- Touch controls can be sensitive
We tried the Chefman 6-quart dual basket air fryer for a week and were impressed by its flexibility. The separate baskets meant we could cook chicken wings in one side and fries in the other without flavors mixing. This setup saved us time compared to cooking everything in one batch.
The viewing windows are a standout feature. We didn’t have to pull out the baskets to check if our food was browning properly. This kept heat inside and helped food cook faster. The temperature range (200-450°F) handled everything from reheating pizza to making crispy Brussels sprouts.
Clean-up was a breeze thanks to the non-stick coating on the baskets. We popped them in the dishwasher after dinner, and they came out spotless. The touch controls take a bit of getting used to, but the preset options for common foods made operation simple. For families or anyone who entertains, this air fryer offers convenience that a single-basket model can’t match.
BELLA Slim Air Fryer
The BELLA 4Qt Slim Air Fryer offers the perfect blend of space-saving design and versatile cooking options for any kitchen.
Pros
- Space-saving vertical design fits easily in tight spots
- PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating makes cleanup quick
- Six preset cooking options simplify meal preparation
Cons
- Touch controls may have a learning curve for some users
- 4-quart size works for small families but not large gatherings
- Higher price point than basic air fryer models
We recently tried the BELLA 4Qt Slim Air Fryer in our test kitchen and were impressed by its smart design. The tall, slim profile takes up much less counter space than traditional bulky models, yet still handles family-sized portions. This is perfect for smaller kitchens where every inch counts.
The EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating is a standout feature. Food slides right off without sticking, and cleanup takes seconds. We love that it’s free from harmful chemicals like PFAS and PFOA, making it a safer choice for families. The basket and crisping tray go right in the dishwasher, which saves even more time.
Using the digital controls, we tested several cooking options. The six presets work well, taking the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures. We air-fried chicken wings that turned out crispy outside and juicy inside. The 60-minute auto shut-off with alert tone means no more burnt food if you step away. The Oatmilk color looks sleek and modern in any kitchen, though it comes in other attractive shades too.
The 3.3-pound capacity easily handled a meal for four people. We made french fries, roasted vegetables, and even tried baking small desserts with good results. The powerful 1300-watt heating system distributes heat evenly for consistent cooking. For anyone looking to save space without sacrificing cooking performance, this BELLA air fryer delivers impressive results.
Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer
We believe this 8-quart Chefman air fryer is worth buying for its family-sized capacity, user-friendly presets, and excellent cooking results with minimal oil.
Pros
- Large 8-quart capacity perfect for families
- Helpful shake reminder ensures even cooking
- Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- Fan noise is noticeable during operation
We tested the Chefman TurboFry in our kitchen for several weeks, and it quickly became our go-to for weeknight meals. The 8-quart size is truly family-friendly, letting us cook enough french fries or chicken wings for 4-6 people in one batch. No more cooking in shifts like with our old smaller model!
The one-touch presets make cooking simple. We just loaded up the basket, pressed the chicken button, and walked away. The built-in shake reminder is surprisingly helpful – a little beep tells us when to open the drawer and give food a quick toss for even browning. This feature made a real difference in how evenly our food cooked.
Cleanup is a breeze with this model. After dinner, we popped the basket and tray right into the dishwasher. The stainless steel finish also wipes clean easily, unlike some plastic models that tend to show fingerprints. The automatic shut-off feature adds peace of mind for busy households where you might get distracted and forget about what’s cooking.
Temperature control ranges from 200-400°F, giving us plenty of options. We found chicken wings crisp up perfectly at 380°F, while more delicate items like reheating pizza work better at lower temps. The digital display is bright and easy to read, though the touch controls can sometimes be a bit too sensitive if your fingers are damp.
Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer
We believe the Instant Vortex Plus is worth buying for its versatility as a 7-in-1 appliance that delivers crispy, delicious food with minimal oil.
Pros
- Multifunctional with seven cooking options in one device
- Large 10-quart capacity perfect for family meals
- Includes useful accessories like rotisserie tools and cooking pans
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve for some of the functions
- Door mechanism can be tricky for some users
We tested the Instant Vortex Plus 10Qt air fryer in our kitchen for several weeks, and it quickly became our go-to cooking appliance. The EvenCrisp technology truly delivers on its promise – our chicken wings came out wonderfully crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Using just a tablespoon of oil, we achieved results that rivaled traditional deep frying.
The size is perfect for bigger families or when hosting friends. We easily fit a whole chicken on the rotisserie spit, and the rotating motion ensured even cooking all around. The included accessories are a nice bonus – we particularly loved the rotisserie basket for making french fries that didn’t need any turning.
Setting up cooking programs is simple with the touch controls. We appreciated how quickly it preheats compared to our conventional oven. For busy weeknights, this time-saving feature is invaluable. The temperature range is impressive too, from 95°F for dehydrating fruits to 400°F for crispy fries. Clean-up is straightforward as well, with most parts being dishwasher safe.
Many air fryers we’ve tried before had limited functions, but this model truly replaces multiple appliances. Yesterday, we baked cinnamon rolls in it, and they turned out perfectly golden. The 10-quart capacity means we can cook main dishes and sides simultaneously using the included trays. This Instant Pot model strikes a great balance between price and features.
Chefman Mini Air Fryer
The Chefman 2-quart Mini Air Fryer is perfect for singles or couples who want quick, healthy meals without sacrificing counter space.
Pros
- Compact design fits easily on countertops or in cabinets
- Heats up quickly and cooks food three times faster than an oven
- Easy-to-use touch controls with helpful shake reminder
Cons
- Small capacity limits cooking for more than two people
- Touch controls can be slightly sluggish at times
- Basket may be too small for certain foods
We tested the Chefman Mini Air Fryer in our kitchen for a week, and it quickly earned its place on our countertop. This little powerhouse heats up to 400°F in just minutes. We were able to cook crispy french fries in about 15 minutes, which is much faster than firing up our full-sized oven.
The 2-quart capacity is just right for one or two people. We made perfectly crisp chicken tenders for lunch and even managed to fit in enough brussels sprouts as a side dish. The square basket design makes good use of the space. What impressed us was the built-in shake reminder – a small but helpful feature that beeps halfway through cooking to remind you to shake the basket for even results.
Clean-up couldn’t be easier with this air fryer. Both the basket and rack are nonstick and dishwasher safe, which saved us time after meals. The digital controls are straightforward to use, though sometimes we needed to press a bit firmly. At just 5.9 pounds with a small footprint, we could easily tuck it away in our cabinet when not in use. For singles or couples with limited kitchen space, this Chefman model offers great value with just the right features.
Buying Guide
Picking the right air fryer can be tricky. We’ve created this simple guide to help you find the perfect one for your kitchen.
Size and Capacity
The size of your air fryer matters a lot. Think about how many people you usually cook for.
| Family Size | Recommended Capacity |
|---|---|
| 1-2 people | 2-4 quarts |
| 3-4 people | 5-6 quarts |
| 5+ people | 7+ quarts |
Counter space is important too. Measure your space before buying.
Wattage and Power
Most air fryers run between 1,200 and 1,800 watts. Higher wattage usually means faster cooking times.
Make sure your kitchen outlets can handle the power needs. This is especially important in older homes.
Features to Consider
Look for these helpful features when shopping:
- Digital controls: Easier to use than manual dials
- Preset programs: One-touch cooking for popular foods
- Dishwasher-safe parts: Makes cleanup much simpler
Price Range
Air fryers come in many price points. Budget models start around $50, while premium options can cost $200+.
We recommend mid-range models ($80-150) for most homes. They offer good quality and useful features without breaking the bank.
Noise Level
Some air fryers can be noisy. If your kitchen is open to living areas, look for models that mention quiet operation.
Smart features like app control and voice commands are nice but not necessary for most people.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask us important questions about air fryers before making a purchase. We’ve compiled answers to common questions that can help you choose the right brand and model for your kitchen needs.
Which air fryer models offer the best value for their cost?
The Instant Vortex 4-in-1 offers excellent value at under $100, with multiple cooking functions and a generous 6-quart capacity. This budget-friendly option doesn’t sacrifice quality for price.
For mid-range value, we recommend the Ninja AF101, typically priced around $120. It offers consistent cooking results and durability that outlasts many cheaper models.
The Cosori Pro LE Air Fryer also delivers exceptional value with its digital controls, dishwasher-safe parts, and 5-quart capacity at approximately $85.
What are the top-rated air fryers according to Consumer Reports?
Consumer Reports consistently ranks the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone as a top performer for its versatility and cooking precision. Their tests show it maintains accurate temperatures and cooks evenly.
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL also receives high marks for superior performance and build quality, though it comes at a higher price point.
The Dash Compact Air Fryer scores well for small households, with Consumer Reports noting its energy efficiency and space-saving design.
How do Ninja Air Fryers compare to other leading brands in terms of quality?
Ninja air fryers typically offer more robust construction than competitors at similar price points. The brand uses thicker heating elements that provide more consistent cooking results.
Their digital interfaces tend to be more intuitive than those from Cosori or GoWISE. We’ve found Ninja models generally have longer lifespans, often working well after 3+ years of regular use.
Ninja’s customer service also outperforms most competitors, with better warranty fulfillment and replacement part availability.
Are there any notable differences between Cosori and Philips air fryers?
Cosori air fryers typically cost 30-40% less than comparable Philips models. However, Philips offers more precise temperature control and more even cooking results in our testing.
Cosori focuses on modern features like WiFi connectivity and app control. Philips emphasizes build quality and cooking technology with their patented Rapid Air Technology.
Maintenance differs too – Cosori models generally have more dishwasher-safe parts, while Philips units tend to have more durable but hand-wash components.
Can you recommend a reliable air fryer for a large family?
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-quart model works exceptionally well for large families. It can fit a whole chicken or enough french fries for 6-8 people at once.
We also recommend the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone, which has two independent 4-quart baskets. This allows cooking different foods simultaneously – perfect for families with varied preferences.
For budget-conscious large families, the GoWISE USA 7-quart model offers substantial capacity at a lower price point around $90.
What features should be considered when choosing an air fryer for health-conscious cooking?
Look for air fryers with accurate temperature controls to avoid overcooking and nutrient loss. Digital displays help maintain precise cooking temperatures better than dial controls.
Oil-draining features are crucial for health-focused cooking. Models with raised cooking racks or baskets that allow fat to drip away result in significantly less fat in finished foods.
Consider air fryers with pre-programmed settings for vegetables. Brands like Philips and Cosori offer specific vegetable modes that preserve nutrients while achieving the right texture.
