We all love indulging in tasty, crispy fried treats, but what if we could enjoy them without feeling bad about it? Then there are air fryers, which are cooking miracles that promise to change the way we fry without sacrificing taste or health.

These clever gadgets use hot air to make perfectly crispy food with little or no oil. This makes them the best kitchen tools for people who want to eat healthy food and for people who love to cook.

If you have been looking for the best air fryer for your kitchen counter, you are in for a treat! In this complete guide, we’ve chosen the best air fryers on the market, each with its own set of features and abilities. From large storage spaces to cutting-edge technology, these top contenders have earned their place as the best of the best.

Let’s dive in and find out how the best air fryers work their magic!

What is an air fryer?

The term “air fryer” refers to cooking equipment that uses hot air convection technology to cook food. It produces golden, crispy results reminiscent of deep-frying but with significantly less oil, making it a more nutritious option. The device has multiple cooking settings and can be used to prepare a wide variety of meals. It’s a favorite among both health-conscious and indulgent eaters because it allows them to enjoy their favorite crispy treats without feeling guilty about the fat they’re consuming.

Types of air fryers

Generally, most air fryers on the market fall into one of three main categories:

Basket-style Air Fryers:

The most popular kind of air fryer is this one. They have a basket that pulls out where you can put the food you want to cook. The hot air moves around the food, making sure it cooks evenly and gets crispy. Air fryers with baskets can be used for a lot of different foods, like fries, chicken wings, and veggies.

Oven-style Air Fryers:

These appliances are made to look like standard ovens. They are also called convection ovens or toaster oven air fryers. They have racks or plates where you can put the food, and hot air flows around the food to cook it. Most air fryers that look like ovens have more cooking space, so they can cook bigger amounts of food or more than one dish at once.

Toaster Oven and Air Fryer Combos:

These air fryers are a combination of a toaster oven and an air fryer. In addition to air cooking, they make it easy to toast, bake, and broil food. This kind of air fryer is great for people who want to save room and cook more with a kitchen tool that can do more than one thing.

Each kind of air fryer has its own pros and cons and can be used for different kinds of cooking. The type of air fryer you choose depends on your personal tastes, how much space you have in your kitchen, and how many different kinds of food you want to make.

How to Choose an Air Fryer

Choosing an air fryer from the many available options may seem like a daunting task. When making your purchase, keep the following in mind to help narrow your options:

Size Matters

When looking to buy an air fryer, size should be a primary consideration. Make sure the basket is big enough to hold all of your serving utensils, whether you’re cooking for one person or four. Think about how much room you’ll need on the kitchen counter to accommodate an air fryer. Investing in a multipurpose model might increase your storage capacity and flexibility.

Features and Pricing

While air fryers are generally consistent in their cooking performance, there is some difference in the features that are offered, which might affect the cost. Cheaper models typically only have basic dials for setting the temperature and timer. On the other hand, high-end models typically feature digital displays and preset choices that allow for more granular control over cooking temperatures and times.

Space Considerations:

If you don’t have much counter space, an air-fry setting on a toaster oven is a great alternative to deep-frying. Choose a model that weighs less and folds up smaller if portability is essential.

With these considerations in mind, you’ll be able to select the air fryer that is the best fit for your cooking demands and kitchen space from among the many available alternatives.

Top Best Air Fryers for Healthier and Crispier Cooking

The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL 2-Basket Air Fryer

The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL 2-Basket Air Fryer impresses as the quickest air fryer in my testing. With a maximum temperature setting of 450°F, it excels at swiftly cooking items such as meat and frozen chicken. It features six versatile modes: air broil, air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate, and bake. You can conveniently air-fry chicken in one drawer while simultaneously baking or roasting vegetables in another drawer, facilitating the speedy preparation of dishes like fajitas.

What sets this air fryer apart is its ability to synchronize the two drawers, ensuring that every component of your meal reaches completion simultaneously. You can choose between the’smart finish,’ allowing you to simultaneously cook using two different modes that finish at the same time, or the’match cook,’ which automatically applies the settings from drawer 1 to drawer 2.

Furthermore, unlike many other air fryers, both drawers and the crisper insert are dishwasher-safe, simplifying both usage and cleanup. However, it’s worth noting that the absence of a preheat function affects its precision, and the’match’ and’smart finish’ functions may require a bit of practice to differentiate effectively.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 15.63 inches in Length, 13.86 inches in Width, and 12.4 inches in Height
• Capacity: 8 Quarts
• Settings: Air broil, air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate, and bake
• Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe removable parts
• Temperature Range: 105°F–450°F

Pros

• Quick Cooking for Busy Lifestyles: This air fryer is exceptionally fast, making it ideal for those with hectic schedules.
• Dishwasher-Safe Convenience: If you prefer to avoid manual dishwashing, this air fryer is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Capacity: With an 8-quart size, it easily accommodates the needs of larger households.

Cons

• Space Hog: Due to its substantial size, this air fryer may take up a significant amount of kitchen counter space.
• No Preheat Function: It lacks a preheat function, which can be a drawback for those who strictly follow recipes.

Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid, 13-in-1 Air Fryer

Instant Brands is known for its line of electric pressure cookers. With the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid, the company continues to be at the forefront of flexibility and new ideas. It is the perfect example of a multicooker because it can do so many different things.

This new model has an amazing 13 features, such as air frying, pressure cooking, sautéing, slow cooking, steaming, warming, roasting, baking, broiling, dehydrating, yogurt making, sous vide cooking, and bread proofing.

Even though it takes up a lot of space and is the most expensive Instant Pot, it could save you a lot of money because it can replace multiple kitchen appliances, such as air fryers, pressure cookers, slow cookers, dehydrators, sous vide circulators, and rice cookers.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: The Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid boasts a durable but weighty construction, which may require ample counter space.
• Capacity: With a 6.5-quart size, it accommodates 6-7 servings, perfect for family meals and gatherings.
• Settings: The appliance offers diverse functions, including air frying, pressure cooking, and more, catering to various cooking needs.
• Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe components simplify post-cooking cleanup.
• Temperature Range: Precise temperature control ensures consistently well-cooked dishes.

Pros

• 13 different functions for versatile cooking
• Minimal accessories reduce clutter.
• Built-in safety features for peace of mind.
• Dishwasher-safe, removable components for easy cleaning
• User-friendly digital control panel for convenient operation.
• Simplified steam release settings.

Cons

• Heavier and larger footprint, potentially challenging for those with limited mobility or kitchen space.
• The absence of a cooking chart may leave users seeking more precise guidance.

COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt, for Quick and Easy Meals:

The 5-quart Cosori air fryer is the best choice for people on a budget who want to add something stylish and space-saving to their counter. Even though it’s cheap, it works better than many other 4- to 6-quart types and gets great results. Its 5-quart size surprises people with how much room it has, which is a nice surprise for people who use it.

It’s important to note that it has a pre-heat cycle, which makes it more effective at quickly crisping foods like fries, wings, and shrimp. The device has a bright display that is easy to use, and cleaning it doesn’t take any extra work. Also, the time and temperature choices are accurate to the minute, which makes it stand out from other air fryers. In general, the Cosori Pro is stronger than its weight class, which makes it a good size for most homes.

Specifications:

• Type: Basket-style
• Capacity: 5 quarts
• Overall Dimensions: 10.71 x 10.83 x 11.9 inches
• Presets: Chicken, seafood, French fries, frozen foods, steak, veggies, bacon, preheat, keep warm

Pros:

• Affordable: Budget-friendly pricing
• Compact: Space-efficient design
• Efficient: Quick and crispy results with the pre-heat cycle.
• User-Friendly: Bright display and precise temperature and time adjustments.
• Easy Cleaning: Nonstick, BPA-free, and PFOA-free components
• Recipes: Includes a cookbook and access to 100+ recipes on the VeSync app.

Cons:

• Smaller in size compared to other mid-size air fryers.
• Lacks smart features typically found in similar appliances.

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-Quart 7-in-1 Digital Air Fryer

The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-Quart 7-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is a culinary dynamo designed for those who frequently cook for large gatherings or families. Its substantial 10-quart capacity provides ample space for entertaining, preparing family meals, and cooking in bulk.

In addition to air frying, this appliance excels at broiling, baking, roasting, dehydrating, reheating, and rotisserie cooking, allowing for the creation of a variety of dishes. EvenCrisp Technology guarantees a perfect golden crust, and the rotisserie function allows for optimal cooking and self-basting.

Intelligent programming simplifies the culinary process, while rapid preheating saves time. The included accoutrements and simple maintenance make this a practical option, while the safety features provide peace of mind.

Specifications:

• Name: Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-Quart 7-in-1 Digital Air Fryer
• Type: Oven-style with rotisserie
• Capacity: 10 quarts
• Overall Dimensions: 13.23 x 13.23 x 14.3 inches
• Presets: Air fry, broil, bake, roast, dehydrate, reheat, rotisserie

Pros:

• Exceptional value for its size and performance.
• Ideal for cooking for large groups.
• User-friendly with a clear display and comprehensive instructions.
• Removable trays and rotisserie inserts for easy use and cleaning.
• Versatile with multiple presets and available accessories.

Cons:

• Not suitable for smaller batches.
• Some interior attachments, including rotisserie accessories, require separate purchases.
• Lacks smart features commonly found in other air fryers.

Instant Pot Omni Plus 18L Air Fryer Toaster Oven

The Instant Pot Omni Plus 18L Air Fryer Toaster Oven is the ultimate kitchen assistant, seamlessly blending adaptability, convenience, and exceptional performance. Its 10-in-1 functionality allows for effortless air frying, broiling, baking, roasting, dehydrating, reheating, rotisserie cooking, toasting, warming, and convection cooking. This culinary powerhouse boasts an impressive capacity, accommodating whole chickens, six slices of bread, or even a 12″ pizza while delivering dishes with a flawlessly crispy texture and a golden finish, thanks to its EvenCrisp Technology.

Featuring a user-friendly digital display and touchscreen control panel, this kitchen marvel ensures intuitive operation with clearly distinguished preset functions and color-coded start and cancel buttons.

Safety is paramount with built-in features like overheat protection and auto-off, while the double-layer glass door optimizes cooking efficiency by retaining heat. The package includes a lift tool, enamel baking pan, stainless steel oven rack, air fry basket, BBQ-style rotisserie spit, and other essential accessories, all dishwasher-safe for hassle-free cleanup.

Specifications

Type: Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Capacity: 18 Liters
Dimensions: 16.5 x 13 x 14 inches
Temperature Max: Up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit
Functions: Air fry, broil, bake, roast, dehydrate, reheat, rotisserie, toast, warm, and convection

Pros

• User-Friendly: intuitive controls and touchscreen panel for easy operation.
• Exceptional Cooking: Consistent and outstanding results for various dishes
• 10-in-1 Functionality: Versatile cooking options in a single appliance
• Large Capacity: Easily accommodates big meals.
• Rotisserie Feature: Perfect for self-basting and tumble-frying.
• Fast Preheating: Quickly goes from frozen to golden.
• Double-Layer Glass Door: Ensures optimal cooking while keeping heat inside.
• Safety Features: built-in protections for worry-free cooking.

Cons

• Storage: Larger size may require creative storage solutions in smaller kitchens.

Ultrean Air Fryer, 4.2 Quart (4 Liter) Electric Hot Airfryer

With its cutting-edge quick-air technology and versatility, the Ultrean Air Fryer is the best choice for easier and healthier cooking. It has a contemporary design, an LCD display, and is available in a variety of colors, making it a necessary addition to every kitchen. This air fryer can grill, roast, and bake your favorite foods without using heated oil or a thermometer. It also allows you to enjoy the same crispy delicacies with a lot less fat and grease.

The Ultrean Air Fryer’s easily accessible buttons, auto-off timer, and programmable temperature settings make operation simple. With its nonstick pan, heat-resistant handle, and removable dishwasher-safe basket, cleaning is a breeze.

Additionally, the recipe book that comes with the product offers ideas for grilled, baked, fried, and snack items. This air fryer is a useful addition to any kitchen, saving time and enhancing the convenience and health of cooking, despite the occasional noise it makes while in use.

Specifications

• Fryer Material: Plastic
• Dimensions: 11.26″D x 13.21″W x 12.42″H
• Capacity: 4.2 Quarts
• Power Requirements: 1500W
• Touch Screen: No

Pros

• Innovative Heating System: Utilizes rapid air technology for even cooking.
• Easy to Clean: A detachable and dishwasher-safe basket simplifies maintenance.
• Includes Recipe Book: Comes with a recipe book for preparing a variety of foods.
• Multi-Functionality: Can grill, roast, and bake in addition to air-frying.
• Hassle-Free Operation: Features accessible buttons, an auto switch-off timer (0–30 minutes), and adjustable temperature settings (180°F–400°F).
• Healthier Cooking: Enjoy fried and crispy foods with less fat and grease.

Drawbacks

• Size: May be bulkier than expected, taking up considerable counter space.
• Potential Noise: May produce loud noise during operation.

The Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer

The Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer is a great choice for people who want a multipurpose air fryer that looks good, works well, and is easy to use. This cooking marvel does a great job of moving air quickly, so you can make food that is always crispy and crunchy without using too much oil. Because it can hit temperatures as high as 450 degrees and has a wide range of temperatures, it is better than its competitors at making precise, crispy food.

This air fryer has a capacity of 5.5 quarts, which means it can hold about 3 pounds of food. This makes it great for a variety of recipes and fried meals. It’s great for everyday cooking jobs like roasting vegetables, reheating leftovers, and giving soggy takeout a fresh taste. Also, it’s great for making snacks for game day or appetizers for special events. It always makes meals that are flavorful and crispy.

The Ninja AF161 is easy to clean and keep in good shape. The parts of the basket that can go in the machine and the nonstick coating make it easy to clean. To keep the slippery surface in good shape, it’s important not to use metal tools.

With a height of nearly 15 inches, this air fryer is a bit taller than some of its competitors, but it can still fit on your kitchen table. Because of how versatile it is, you might even use it to do things you’d usually do in a regular oven, like cook chicken thighs or roast veggies.

Specifications

• Style: Basket
• Capacity: 5.5 quarts
• Maximum Temperature: 450 degrees
• Warranty: 1-year
• Cooking Functions: 7

Pros

• Efficient Air Circulation for Crispy Results
• Wide Temperature Range for Precise Cooking
• Generous