Air fryers have dramatically changed the way we cook at home, offering a healthier, faster, and more energy-efficient alternative to deep frying and even traditional ovens. Whether you’re looking to enjoy crispy fries without the guilt, roast veggies in half the time, or even bake small batches of desserts, the modern air fryer has you covered.
But with so many options on the market, choosing the right air fryer can be overwhelming. That’s why we tested and reviewed dozens of models to bring you this definitive guide. Below, you’ll find our top recommendations, insider tips, and everything you need to know to pick the perfect air fryer for your kitchen.
Why Air Fryers Are a Must-Have in Modern Kitchens
Air fryers work by circulating super-heated air at high speeds, creating a convection effect that browns and crisps the surface of food. This method mimics the texture and flavor of deep-frying—without the excessive oil. In fact, air fryers can reduce oil use by up to 85%, slashing calories and unhealthy fats from your meals while preserving flavor and crunch.
Health Benefits:
- Lower Fat Content: Air-fried foods have significantly lower fat content compared to deep-fried counterparts. For example, traditional deep-fried French fries can contain 15-20 grams of fat per serving, while air-fried versions may have as little as 3-5 grams.
- Retained Nutrients: The rapid cooking process of an air fryer helps retain more vitamins and minerals than longer-cooking methods like baking or roasting in the oven.
- Reduced Acrylamide Formation: Some studies show air frying may reduce the formation of acrylamide, a potential carcinogen found in foods like potatoes cooked at high temperatures.
Convenience Perks:
- Faster Cooking Times: Most air fryers preheat in under 3 minutes and cook foods 30% faster than conventional ovens.
- Energy Efficient: Air fryers use up to 70% less energy than ovens because of their smaller cooking chambers and faster heat circulation.
- Multi-functionality: Many air fryers also bake, roast, dehydrate, and even grill—making them versatile tools for busy kitchens.
What to Look for When Buying an Air Fryer
When shopping for an air fryer, keep these factors in mind to ensure you get the best model for your needs:
- Capacity:
- 2-4 quarts: Great for singles or couples.
- 5-6 quarts: Ideal for families of 3-5.
- 7 quarts and up: Best for large families or batch cooking.
- Wattage (Power Output):
Higher wattage (typically 1500-1800 watts) ensures faster preheating and more consistent cooking. - Temperature Range & Controls:
Look for models with adjustable temperatures (from around 90°F to 450°F) and digital displays for precision. - Cleaning & Maintenance:
Removable baskets and trays with non-stick coatings and dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup hassle-free. - Extra Features:
Consider shake reminders, smart programs, preheat functions, and multi-level racks for expanded cooking options.
Our Top 10 Air Fryers for 2025
After extensive hands-on testing of over a dozen models, we’ve narrowed it down to the 10 best air fryers that deliver the crispiest, most evenly cooked results. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a family feast, there’s an option here for you.
| Rank | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amazon Basics 2L Deep Fryer | Click For Price |
| 2 | COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Quart Air Fryer | Click For Price |
| 3 | Ninja Air Fryer Pro | Click For Price |
| 4 | Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer | Click For Price |
| 5 | Chefman Mini Air Fryer | Click For Price |
| 6 | Chefman TurboFry 4QT | Click For Price |
| 7 | Instant Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer | Click For Price |
| 8 | Deime 6.2 QT Air Fryer | Click For Price |
| 9 | Chefman 10L Digital Air Fryer | Click For Price |
| 10 | BELLA Slim 4QT Air Fryer | Click For Price |
Standout Features from Our Top Picks
COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Quart Air Fryer
- 3600 RPM fan speed ensures lightning-fast cooking.
- Whisper-quiet at under 53 decibels—quieter than most models.
- Dehydrate and bake functions let you make jerky, fruit chips, and even cakes.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro
- Offers precise temperature control with 5-degree increments.
- The dehydrate function is perfect for homemade dried fruits and veggies.
Instant Vortex Plus 6QT
- Features EvenCrisp technology for consistent browning.
- Preheats in just 3 minutes and offers six customizable cooking programs.
Chefman 10L Digital Air Fryer
- One of the largest on our list with 10L capacity, perfect for big families.
- Rotisserie function and 17 preset cooking programs make it a true multi-cooker.
Final Thoughts: Which Air Fryer Is Right for You?
If you’re a first-time buyer looking for an affordable and simple model, the Amazon Basics 2L Deep Fryer is a great starting point. For families wanting extra capacity and versatility, the COSORI TurboBlaze or Instant Vortex Plus are excellent choices. If you’re after professional-grade features, the Chefman 10L Digital Air Fryer is a powerhouse that can handle any cooking task.
No matter your choice, each of these models offers healthier cooking with less mess and more flavor. Plus, they’re designed to save you time and energy in the kitchen.
Pro Tips for Air Fryer Success
- Preheat your air fryer for optimal crisping, unless the model says it’s unnecessary.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—leave room for air circulation to ensure even cooking.
- Shake or flip food halfway through cooking for the best results.
- Use a little oil spray for an extra crisp without the calories.
- Clean regularly to avoid smoke and maintain flavor integrity.
Best Air Fryers
We tested and reviewed dozens of top-rated air fryers to find the best options that deliver crispy, evenly-cooked foods with minimal oil. Our picks range from compact models perfect for small kitchens to larger units ideal for families, with each selection evaluated based on cooking performance, ease of use, and overall value.
Amazon Basics 2L Deep Fryer
We recommend this compact deep fryer for singles or couples who want an affordable, basic model for occasional use.
Pros
- Simple temperature controls and timer
- Viewing window to monitor cooking
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Small 2L capacity limits batch sizes
- Takes extra oil to reach proper cooking depth
- Basic build quality shows its budget price point
We tested this fryer by cooking several batches of chicken wings and french fries. The temperature control dial worked well, maintaining consistent heat throughout cooking. The clear viewing window let us check food without lifting the lid.
The removable fry basket includes drain hooks, though we found them positioned a bit low on the basket. This means oil can drip when hanging food to drain. The non-stick interior coating makes cleanup quick, and most parts go right in the dishwasher.
For small households, this fryer’s compact size saves counter space. The 1500-watt heating element brings oil to temperature fairly quickly. Keep in mind you’ll need about 3 liters of oil to achieve proper cooking depth in this 2-liter unit.
COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Quart Air Fryer
We recommend this powerful air fryer for its exceptional cooking speed, versatile temperature range, and spacious 6-quart capacity that serves families well.
Pros
- Ultra-fast cooking with 3600 RPM fan speed
- Wide temperature range from 90°F to 450°F
- Whisper-quiet operation under 53 dB
Cons
- Takes up considerable counter space
- Learning curve with multiple settings
- Premium price point
The TurboBlaze surprised us with its remarkable cooking performance. We cooked chicken wings that turned out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. The 5-speed fan system made a noticeable difference in achieving even results across different foods.
During our testing, the 6-quart basket easily fit 20 chicken wings at once. The square design maximizes the cooking space, and we appreciated the upgraded crisper plate with dense holes that improved air circulation. The non-stick coating worked great – food didn’t stick and cleanup was simple.
The LED touchscreen controls feel responsive and durable. We liked the flexibility to skip preheating when we’re in a hurry. While it’s larger than basic air fryers, the extra space and power make it worth the counter space for frequent users who cook family-sized portions.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro delivers exceptional results with its powerful 400°F heating system and spacious 5-quart capacity, making it an excellent choice for families seeking healthier cooking options.
Pros
- Heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperature
- Large basket fits family-sized portions
- Simple touch controls with clear presets
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Basket can be heavy when full
- Fan noise is noticeable during operation
We tested this air fryer extensively with various foods, and the results impressed us. French fries came out perfectly crispy in 15 minutes, while chicken wings achieved restaurant-quality crispiness without excess oil.
The nonstick basket makes cleanup remarkably easy. A quick wash with soap and water removes any residue, and the crisper plate lifts out completely for thorough cleaning.
The digital control panel responds instantly to touches. Temperature adjusts in 5-degree increments from 150°F to 400°F, offering precise control for different recipes. The timer runs up to 60 minutes, which proves sufficient for most cooking tasks.
The dehydrate function works great for making dried fruits and jerky. We created apple chips that retained their natural sweetness while developing a satisfying crunch.
Space efficiency stands out despite the large capacity. The square basket design maximizes the cooking area while maintaining a relatively compact footprint on our counter.
Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer
The Ninja Air Fryer delivers exceptional cooking performance with versatile functions and consistent results, making it a smart choice for health-conscious families.
Pros
- Heats quickly and cooks evenly
- Simple touch controls with clear presets
- Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Basket can be tight for larger items
- Fan noise is noticeable
- Takes up significant counter space
We tested the Ninja Air Fryer extensively in our kitchen, and its performance impressed us. The 4-quart capacity handles family portions well, fitting enough french fries for four people or a whole chicken with room to spare.
The ceramic-coated basket provides excellent non-stick performance. Our sweet potato fries came out perfectly crispy without a drop of oil, and chicken wings turned out juicy inside with crackling skin. The temperature control maintains steady heat, preventing hot spots or uneven cooking.
The preset functions take the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures. We particularly liked the dehydrate setting for making fruit chips and beef jerky. The removable parts pop right into the dishwasher, though a quick hand wash works just as well.
Chefman Mini Air Fryer
We recommend this compact 2-quart air fryer for singles or couples who want a space-saving appliance that delivers crispy results quickly.
Pros
- Perfect size for small countertops
- Responsive digital touch controls
- Smart shake reminder feature
Cons
- Limited 2-quart capacity
- Touch screen can be sensitive
- Longer cooking time for larger portions
The black matte finish and sleek design caught our eye immediately. Its small footprint takes up minimal counter space, yet the square basket maximizes the cooking area. The digital display shows temperature and time clearly, with touch controls that respond well to gentle taps.
We love how quickly it heats up to 400°F. Our french fries turned golden brown in just 15 minutes, while chicken wings came out perfectly crispy after 20 minutes. The shake reminder halfway through cooking helps prevent any spots from getting overdone.
Cleanup proved effortless thanks to the nonstick coating. Both the basket and rack go straight into the dishwasher. The auto-shutoff feature gives peace of mind – it turns off automatically when cooking finishes or if we remove the basket. At 900 watts, it uses less energy than a full-size oven while cooking three times faster.
Chefman TurboFry 4QT
We recommend this compact air fryer for small households seeking crispy results and simple operation at an accessible price point.
Pros
- Hi-Fry technology creates exceptionally crispy results
- Intuitive touchscreen with helpful preset modes
- Quick and easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Limited 4-quart capacity for larger families
- Takes up notable counter space despite compact design
- Plastic exterior feels less premium than metal options
The 450°F Hi-Fry technology sets this model apart from standard air fryers. We tested it with french fries and chicken wings, achieving restaurant-quality crispiness in the final minutes of cooking.
Touch controls respond smoothly and the preset functions take the guesswork out of common dishes. We appreciate the mid-cook shake reminder, which helps prevent food from sticking and ensures even results.
The nonstick basket releases food easily and cleans up in minutes. While the 4-quart capacity works well for 2-3 people, larger families might need a bigger model. During our testing, the unit ran quietly and maintained consistent temperatures across multiple cooking cycles.
Instant Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer
We recommend this air fryer for its excellent cooking performance, versatile functions, and user-friendly design that makes healthy cooking simple and efficient.
Pros
- Cooks food quickly and evenly with minimal oil
- Easy-to-clean non-stick basket and tray
- Smart programs make cooking effortless
Cons
- Display stays dimly lit in standby mode
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve for perfect results
We tested the Instant Vortex Plus extensively in our kitchen, and its performance impressed us. The EvenCrisp technology delivered consistently crispy results on everything from french fries to chicken wings. The 6-quart capacity proved perfect for cooking family-sized portions.
The touch controls respond quickly and the preset programs work as advertised. We particularly liked the smart programs for wings and roasted vegetables. The temperature range from 95°F to 400°F gives plenty of flexibility for different cooking methods.
The non-stick basket cleans up easily in the dishwasher, saving valuable time after meals. The air fryer preheats rapidly, taking just a few minutes to reach cooking temperature. Safety features like automatic shutoff provide peace of mind during operation.
Deime 6.2 QT Air Fryer
We found this powerful 1500W air fryer to be an excellent value for its size, features, and cooking performance.
Pros
- Large viewing window lets us monitor food without opening
- Non-stick basket cleans up quickly
- Touch controls are responsive and intuitive
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Touch screen can be sensitive to wet fingers
- Pre-set temperatures run slightly hot
The generous 6.2-quart capacity handled our family-sized meals with ease. We fit a whole 4-pound chicken with room to spare, and the 360-degree air circulation cooked it evenly to a golden crisp.
The bright LED display made selecting from the 10 presets simple. We appreciated being able to check on our french fries through the window without letting heat escape. The square basket design used space more efficiently than round models we’ve tested.
Temperature control stayed consistent during our cooking tests. The non-stick coating performed well – even sticky glazed wings released easily. While the unit is larger than some competitors, its ability to replace multiple appliances justified the footprint in our kitchen.
Chefman 10L Digital Air Fryer
We recommend this versatile, large-capacity air fryer for families who want an all-in-one appliance that can air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate with excellent results.
Pros
- Extra-large 10L capacity fits family-sized portions
- Clear viewing window lets you monitor cooking progress
- 17 preset cooking functions for foolproof results
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve with multiple functions
- Exterior gets hot during extended use
The spacious interior impressed us during testing, easily fitting three racks of food at once. Its 1700-watt heating system crisped french fries and chicken wings quickly without preheating.
We love the rotisserie function for perfectly roasted chicken. The stainless steel spit and retrieval tool made handling hot food safe and simple. The extra-large window eliminated the need to open the door to check doneness.
The touch controls responded well and the presets took the guesswork out of cooking times. Clean-up proved easy thanks to the removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts.
The dehydrator function worked great for making dried fruits and jerky. We appreciated the temperature range from 90°F to 400°F for various cooking needs.
At 14.2 pounds with a footprint of 12 x 12 inches, this unit demands dedicated counter space. The powerful heating elements meant exterior surfaces got warm during extended cooking sessions.
BELLA Slim 4QT Air Fryer
This space-saving air fryer delivers efficient cooking performance and easy cleaning in a sleek, modern design.
Pros
- Compact vertical design saves counter space
- Non-toxic ceramic coating wipes clean easily
- Simple digital controls with useful presets
Cons
- Limited 4-quart capacity for larger families
- Takes practice to avoid overcrowding food
- Higher price point than basic models
We tested this slim BELLA air fryer in our kitchen and loved its thoughtful design. The tall, narrow shape tucked neatly against the backsplash while still providing enough cooking space for most meals.
The ceramic non-stick coating performed exceptionally well during our tests. Food released effortlessly, and cleanup required just a quick wipe with a damp cloth. The dishwasher-safe basket and tray saved additional time.
The digital interface proved intuitive to use. Temperature adjustments and preset selections responded instantly to our touches. We appreciated the 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff – it prevented overcooking when we got distracted.
The 1300-watt heating element crisped food quickly and evenly. Our french fries came out golden and crunchy, while chicken remained juicy inside. The basket handled 2-3 servings comfortably without overcrowding.
The soft matte finish and modern fluted design added an elegant touch to our counter. The oatmilk color option created a sophisticated neutral look that paired well with other appliances.
Buying Guide
Selecting the right air fryer requires careful consideration of key features and specifications. We recommend examining the capacity first – generally ranging from 2 to 8 quarts depending on household size.
Power output affects cooking speed and performance. Look for units between 1200-1800 watts for optimal results. Higher wattage typically means faster cooking times.
Temperature control precision is essential. Choose models offering adjustable ranges from 175°F to 400°F with clear digital displays and simple controls.
Key Features to Consider:
- Preset cooking programs
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Non-stick coating
- Auto shut-off function
- Timer settings
- Digital vs analog controls
Space requirements matter for your kitchen. Measure your counter space and storage area before purchasing. Standard dimensions vary significantly between models.
The basket style affects cleaning and usage. We suggest removable baskets with non-stick coating for easier maintenance.
Safety Features:
- Cool-touch handles
- Automatic shut-off
- Non-slip feet
- Overheating protection
Check the warranty coverage period. Quality air fryers typically come with 1-2 year warranties and responsive customer support.
Noise levels can impact kitchen comfort. Quality models operate at 65 decibels or lower – similar to normal conversation volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Air fryer owners frequently seek specific guidance on models, features, recipes, and maintenance to maximize their cooking experience.
What are the top-rated air fryer models currently on the market?
The Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 leads the market with its versatile cooking functions and 6.5-quart capacity. This model excels in both air frying and pressure cooking.
The Philips Premium XXL stands out for its digital display and superior temperature control. Its 4-quart capacity serves 4-6 people efficiently.
The Cosori Pro LE 5-quart offers excellent value with smart features like voice control and app connectivity. We recommend it for tech-savvy cooks.
How do air fryers compare to traditional frying in terms of health benefits?
Air fryers use up to 75% less oil than traditional deep fryers. This reduction in oil leads to fewer calories and less saturated fat in meals.
Air-fried foods retain more nutrients compared to deep-fried alternatives. The rapid air circulation prevents nutrient loss during cooking.
What key features should one look for when purchasing an air fryer?
Capacity should match your household size – 2-3 quarts for singles or couples, 5-6 quarts for families. Digital controls offer more precise temperature settings than dial controls.
Multiple preset programs simplify cooking common foods. Look for dishwasher-safe parts to ease cleanup.
An auto-shutoff feature adds safety, while a clear viewing window helps monitor cooking progress.
Could you provide some unique air fryer recipes for beginners?
Crispy cauliflower bites: Coat florets in olive oil, garlic powder, and breadcrumbs. Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes.
Stuffed mushrooms: Fill portobello caps with cheese and herbs. Cook at 370°F for 8 minutes.
Apple chips: Slice thinly, sprinkle with cinnamon. Air fry at 300°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Are there any specific maintenance or cleaning tips for air fryers?
Clean the basket and tray after each use with warm, soapy water. Empty the oil collection tray regularly to prevent smoking.
Wipe the heating element monthly with a damp cloth when cool. Soak stubborn residue in warm water for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
How can one optimize space when using an air fryer in a small kitchen?
Store the air fryer in a cabinet when not in use. Choose a model with a vertical design to minimize counter footprint.
Use stackable containers near the air fryer to organize ingredients. Consider wall-mounted shelving above the air fryer for accessories.
Create a dedicated cooking station with frequently used items within arm’s reach.
