You’re browsing the labyrinth of air fryers online, each product promising golden-brown nirvana in a jiffy. Mouthwatering pictures of crispy fries, seasoned wings, and tender veggies have you hooked — but there are so many brands, so many models, and so many options that making the right choice feels like a task Hercules wouldn’t envy.
But, don’t sweat it, because I’m here to put my 20 years of professional chef experience at your disposal to sift through the overcrowded market. I’ll give you the real scoop, straight from a professional kitchen, so you can make the best decision for your home cooking needs.
Which is the best air fryer out there? Here
It depends on you! Your budget and Your Needs are unique. Here are my picks for the best air fryers based on price and versatility:
Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL 2 Basket Air Fryer – Best Overall
Say hello to multitasking. The Ninja Foodie isn’t just any air fryer. It’s a 6-in-1 marvel with the ability to air broil, air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate, and bake.
I was left quite impressed with this beast. It’s the fastest air fryer I’ve tested, cutting down on pesky cook times. And when it comes to cleaning, the dishwasher safe parts were a blessing.
But the true game-changer? The option to cook different foods simultaneously. It’s perfect for those days when you want chicken and veggies, but can’t decide which to cook first. No more juggling, folks! This fryer’s got all your cravings covered.
Pros:
- Multi-functional with 6 distinct modes for versatile cooking
- Fastest cooking time among tested air fryers
- Able to cook two different dishes simultaneously
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Lack of preheat function
- May take some getting used to the different functionalities
- 2 INDEPENDENT BASKETS: The XL version of the original Air Fryer with 2 independent baskets, the XL air fryer lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time, eliminating back-to-back cooking like a...
- SMART FINISH & MATCH COOK: DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks cooking 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time, and the Match Cook feature,...
- IQ BOOST: optimally distributes power across each basket to cook a 6-lb. whole chicken and side as quickly as possible when Match Cook or Smart Finish is not selected.
- 6-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Includes 6 versatile cooking programs: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- XL FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: with the 10 qt. capacity and 2 baskets, you can whip up a main and a side at the same time for quick large family meals or cook up to 8-lbs. of chicken wings with ease.
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer – Best Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Meet Breville’s Smart Oven Air Fryer, a versatile beast in the kitchen. This machine doesn’t limit itself to air frying—it toasts, broils, dehydrates, and even steps in as a pizza oven.
Looking at size, this fryer stole the show. It can handle a 13-inch pizza, a bag of frozen fries, or nine slices of bread, making it a lifesaver for those bigger meals.
Now, let’s chat about those controls. The dial and light-up display make operating this machine a breeze. And despite the versatility, the clean-up was far from a headache thanks to the removable crumb tray.
Pros:
- Multi-purpose appliance replacing a toaster, broiler, dehydrator, and pizza oven
- Large capacity, perfect for bigger meals
- Easy-to-use controls with light-up display
- Removable crumb tray aiding in easy cleaning
Cons:
- Hand washing required, not all components are dishwasher-safe
- A substantial appliance, could occupy significant counter space
- The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro with Element iQ System is a versatile countertop oven allowing you to roast, air fry and dehydrate; Use super convection to reduce cooking time by up to 30% and...
- ELEMENT iQ SYSTEM: Using 6 independent quartz elements, smart algorithms steer power to where and when it's needed to create the ideal cooking environment; Sensing and digital PID temperature control...
- AIR FRY & DEHYDRATE SETTINGS: Air fry French fries and other family favorites; Higher temperatures combined with super convection (maximized air flow) deliver crispy golden air fried foods; Dehydrate...
- SUPER CONVECTION TECHNOLOGY: 2 speed convection fan (super & regular) offers greater cooking control; Super convection provides a greater volume of hot air to ensure fast and even heat distribution...
- 13 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Super versatile countertop oven and air fryer with 13 functions to guide you to perfection: Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Proof, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, Slow...
Instant Vortex + 6-in-1 Air Fryer – Quietest Air Fryer – Best Air Fryer for Odor Control
Next up, the Instant Vortex, a 6-in-1 appliance that turns your kitchen into a gourmet restaurant. Fries? Fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Bacon? Cooked to perfection.
Now, here’s something neat. This air fryer came equipped with an innovative odor erase technology. It’s practically a stealth operator in the kitchen—no more lingering smell of dinner at breakfast. Just remember to shine that sleek control panel, it loves to collect fingerprints.
Pros:
- Exceptional at making homemade fries
- Quiet operation, no loud noises while it prepares your dish
- Odor Erase technology helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh
Cons:
- Control panel tends to attract fingerprints
- Larger footprint may require more counter space.
- 6-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat and dehydrate
- WATCH YOUR FOOD COOK: ClearCook window and internal light to easily monitor cooking progress without opening the basket
- EvenCrisp TECHNOLOGY: Advanced technology that allows air flow for a perfect golden finish and crispy, tender results every time!
- PROGRESS BAR: Know where you are in the cooking process with an easy-view bar and messages when to add and turn food
- QUIET COOKING: Muffled sounds for less noise in your kitchen.
COSORI PRO LE 5-Quart Air Fryer – Best Budget Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly air fryer, meet the COSORI Pro. Don’t let the modest price tag fool you—this machine performs.
My personal experience lines up with its glowing reputation. It’s a countertop staple that delivers crispy, delicious results. The preheat cycle is an exceptional bonus, particularly noticeable indeed when crisping foods.
The bright display isn’t just for show either—it simplifies precise temperature and time control. Lastly, cleaning was a cherry on top with this little beast.
Pros:
- High performance at a budget-friendly price
- Bright, easy-to-use display
- Preheat cycle for improved crisping
- Ease of cleaning, reducing your kitchen work
Cons:
- Smaller capacity may not be suitable for larger meals
- Might require longer cooking times for certain dishes
- CUT DOWN 85 percent OIL :With 360 degree rapid heat circulation technology, feel free to enjoy the same crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 85 percent less fat.
- ENJOY MEALS IN MINUTES: This air fryer cooks with industry-leading temperatures up to 450 degreeF, making heating efficiency 20 percent faster than before. Help you prepare a quick meal.
- 9 EASY FUNCTIONS: 9 one-touch cooking functions on a tempered glass display let you preheat and add personalized Shake Reminders. Let's add some fun to the cooking process
- COMPACT BUT SUITABLE CAPACITY : It can hold 5-quarts of cooking space, which fits enough food for 1-4 people, with compact design takes up little room on your counter top
- TEMPERED GLASS DISPLAY: Enjoy making one-touch selections on a beautiful tempered glass display ergonomically angled toward you.
Ninja Air Fryer Max XL
The Ninja Air Fryer Max XL took top marks for performance. Design, intuitive controls, and a clear owner’s manual make this machine an ease to use. Plus, we can’t ignore its larger capacity.
Uniquely, its timer counts down to the very second, ensuring precision in your cooking. And to top it all, there’s even a larger capacity option if you desire more room.
Pros:
- Top performer in terms of cooking quality
- Easy to handle with removable tray and secure basket
- Precise timer that counts down to the second
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup
Cons:
- No unique features or modes like dehydrator or broiler
- Occupies more counter space due to its size
- LESS FAT: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries.
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook foods up to 30 % faster (Versus Ninja AF100) for hotter, crispier results with little to no oil for guilt free fried favorites.
- XL CAPACITY: The 5.5 QT ceramic coated nonstick basket and crisper plate fit 3 pounds of french fries or chicken wings.
- 7-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Includes 7 versatile cooking programs: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate.
- EASY CLEANING: The ceramic basket is both nonstick & dishwasher safe.
Cosori Pro II – Best Air Fryer Under $150
Next, is the oracle of convenience, the Cosori Pro 2. Its basket dimensions and power make it a sturdy choice for any kitchen.
The unique safety feature is noteworthy—it stops operations when the drawer opens, resuming right where you left off once closed. Not to mention, it aced my bacon test.
Do note its noise level though. It’s on the higher end, so prepare to tune out some sizzle and hum.
Pros:
- Has a safety feature that stops operation when opened
- Features presetting capabilities, offering personalized quick settings
- Provides good performance at an affordable price
Cons:
- Noise level is a little higher compared to some other models
- The handle durability has been questioned after long use
- SAVE YOUR FAVORITE FLAVORS: With customizable cooking functions, you can customize and save the time and temperature of any preset. You can also add or remove a personal Shake Reminder to suit your...
- AdaptIQ TECHNOLOGY: Rapid 360° air circulation heats food quickly, providing a crispy textures and even results, helping you make meals everyone will love
- 12-IN-1 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Toast, Bake, Steak, Chicken, Seafood, Shrimp, Bacon, Frozen Foods, French Fries, Vegetables, Preheat, Keep Warm
- PERSONALIZED SHAKE REMINDER: Add or cancel the built-in Shake Reminder to suit your preference
- COSORI COOKBOOK INCLUDED: Be inspired by delicious, chef-created recipes and browse 100 options in the recipe book
Instant Vortex VersaZone
Lastly, the Instant Vortex VersaZone, a master of flexibility. It doesn’t restrict you to one type of cooking—you can create dual zones, or cook using the whole zone.
Cleaning wasn’t too taxing. However, it started showing superficial scratches on usage. The grate cleaning can be moderate work as well.
Pros:
- Provides dual zone cooking, offering flexibility
- Cooks evenly regardless of whether you’re using one or two zones
- Stops cooking when opened and resumes when closed, providing a similar safety feature like the Cosori Pro 2
Cons:
- Some cleaning could be challenging, especially the grate
- Starting to show superficial scratches after some use
- 8-IN-1 FUNTIONALITY: More than an air fryer! Bake, roast, broil, reheat or dehydrate, SyncCook, SyncFinish
- DUAL BASKET OPTION: Using our proprietary VersaZone technology, allowing you to cook in single 9QT or dual 4.5QT zones, with separate controls for each
- SYNCHRONIZED COOKING: SyncCook lets you cook both baskets with the same cooking settings; SyncFinish lets you program baskets with 2 different settings to automatically finish at the same time!
- EvenCrisp TECHNOLOGY: Advanced technology that drives air flow top down for a perfect golden finish and crispy, tender results every time!
- ONE-TOUCH SMART PROGRAMS: Customizable programs for one-touch wings, roasted veggies, garlicky potatoes, cookies, cinnamon buns and more!
Key Takeaways
There you have it. Seven of the best air fryers, each boasting their unique strengths while still excelling at what they’re made for—preparing delicious, healthier meals with ease.
- The Ninja Foodie and Ninja Air Fryer Max XL blend versatility with high-speed cooking while the Breville Smart Oven and Instant Vortex VersaZone prove that an air fryer can be so much more than just that.
- Cosori Pro and its successor, Cosori Pro 2, are budget-friendly alternatives that don’t skimp on features or functionality. The Instant Vortex + stands out too, with its thoughtful details like odor erase technology and quiet operation.
As you mull over your options, remember to factor in your specific requirements. Whether it’s cooking capacity, multi-functionality, quiet operation, or precise temperature control, your perfect air fryer is out there waiting for you. Happy frying!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Air Fryer
Which air fryer stood out as the ultimate best value for money?
The COSORI PRO LE 5-Quart Air Fryer stands out as a high-performance, budget-friendly option with its exceptional crisping capabilities and easy-to-use display.
Can these air fryers handle cooking different dishes simultaneously?
Yes, particularly, the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL Air Fryer is praised for its capacity to cook two varied dishes at the same time, making it a versatile choice.
Is there an air fryer model that excels at odor control to prevent the scent of cooking from lingering in the kitchen?
Yes, the Instant Vortex + 6-in-1 Air Fryer not only cooks efficiently but also features innovative odor-erase technology that keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
Are all the parts of these air fryers dishwasher safe?
No, while certain models like the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL and Ninja Air Fryer Max XL have dishwasher-safe parts, others, such as the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer, may require hand washing.
For those who prefer quiet kitchen appliances, which air fryer would be the best choice?
The Instant Vortex + 6-in-1 Air Fryer is highlighted for its quiet operation, cooking your food without disrupting peace by producing loud noises.
