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The best air fryers are distinguished by features and characteristics such as functionality, size, and durability. The best air fryer will come at the greatest value for your money based on the material and performance.
Evaluating the top-rated blenders by looking at customer experiences is important in the buying process for your next air fryer. What do I look for when reading air fryer reviews? An important consideration is to make sure that the customer’s air fryer review matches the way you intend to use the air fryer. This means sometimes ignoring criticism that will not affect your particular use case.
The best large air fryers and the best small air fryers consider the same ranking factors such as performance, material, and price. The top air fryer brands are Tefal, Philips, Cosori, and Ninja. Picking a reputable air fryer brand helps ensure that the product’s marketing and performance match up.
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1. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
Features
- 2225 watts power
- 5 preset programs
- QuickClean basket & non-stick drawer
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL is designed to extract more fat from food when compared to previous models from the same brand. The Philips Premium Airfryer reduces fat up to 90% while using air frying as compared to a standard oven, according to Philips. The 3lb capacity is good for making food for up to 6 people in one air frying session.
This air fryer has built-in fat removal technology. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL is designed to extract more fat from food when compared to previous models from the same brand. The Philips Premium Airfryer reduces fat up to 90% while using air frying as compared to a standard oven, according to Philips. The 3lb capacity is good for making food for up to 6 people in one air frying session.
Prior cooking experience is not necessary for using this air fryer. The digital display and a wide range of presets allow you to start the air frying process in less than 60 seconds. The Airfyer XXL is assembled in parts that come be taken apart for cleaning. In addition, thanks to the Philips Kitchen+ app, you can tap into the knowledge of Philip’s community of kitchen cooking enthusiasts.
There are accessories available for pizza making, grilling, making snacks, and baking, which lends a great deal of versatility. The splatter-proof lid is a perfect addition for cooking meals that have high fat or water content. If in doubt, the user manual’s extensive details will come in handy. The sturdy build makes this a reasonably durable air fryer.
Pros
- Reduces cooking time
- Intuitive controls make it easy to use
- Having a recipe book helps
- You can use it to keep food warm.
Cons
- It can get smoky when cooking
- The inner tray coating could be better made.
2. Cosori Air Fryer Max XL CP158-AF
Features
- 13 presets
- 5.8-quart capacity
- Pre-heat feature
This air fryer uses 85% less oil than deep fryer methods. The Cosori Air Fryer Max XL uses a square-shaped basket with a 5.8-quart capacity, which is perfect for cooking for parties of 5 people or less.
The Cosori Air Fryer has been complimented by 200+ users on its beautiful aesthetic. The digital panel reduces room for human error compared to a manual machine and helps to speed up the cooking process. The professional design enhances the ease of use. There are 13 pre-set functions on the Cosori CP158-AF model including the preheat option.
This air fryer uses 85% less oil than deep fryer methods. The Cosori Air Fryer Max XL uses a square-shaped basket with a 5.8-quart capacity, which is perfect for cooking for parties of 5 people or less.
Where cleaning is concerned, the baskets are dishwashable and can be disassembled in less than 15 seconds. As per the food safety standards, the material used is PFOA-free and BPA-free. The exterior finish has a matte-like tone to it.
Pros
- Several colors to choose from
- Easy to operate through the LCD touchscreen
- Shake reminder
- Comes with 100 recipe ideas
- Can keep food warm
Cons
- Occasionally traps water causing it to steam on next use
- Basket could be sturdier
3. Tefal ActiFry Genius XL
Features
- Nine pre-sets
- 2.2lb cooking space
The Tefal ActiFry Genius XL is a compact and powerful air fryer. Inside the packaging are the air fryer, a book of recipes, and the oil measuring spoon. The latter is a wonderful surprise. The display is on the upper part of the device. Pressing the chef option gives you access to a selection of 9 preset modes. Even when using these modes, you can adjust temperatures as desired.
The Tefal ActiFry Genius XL is a compact and powerful air fryer. Inside the packaging are the air fryer, a book of recipes, and the oil measuring spoon. The latter is a wonderful surprise. The display is on the upper part of the device. Pressing the chef option gives you access to a selection of 9 preset modes. Even when using these modes, you can adjust temperatures as desired.
The exterior part of the air fryer is made of plastic. Fortunately, it has a resilient and robust look to it. While smaller than other air fryers on the list, it still has a reasonable 2.2 lbs space. The interior has a rotational blade, which rotates when some presets are engaged. Cleaning up is just as easy as every part of the inside is accessible.
The design is a bit unusual in that there is a bit of a gap above the handle, which seems to have been purposely done to allow it to move freely. The container is made of sturdy aluminum.
Pros
- Incredibly easy to clean
- The controls are straightforward
- It is lightweight and compact
- It comes with an oil measuring spoon
- You can use it to automate stir-frying
Cons
- The handle design isn’t ideal
- The timer can be hit and miss
4. Dash Compact Air Fryer Oven Cooker
Features
- Retro controls
- 2 Quarts space
The auto-shutoff function is a reliable safety feature. It reduces the chances of overcooking, but it may also be economical as it saves on electricity. At 2 quarts, it is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for preparing side dishes, starters, and snacks. It has sufficient room to cook for individuals or couples.
The Dash Compact Air Fryer Oven Cooker is a reasonably priced air fryer packed with features. Inside is a non-stick basket that is easy to clean. It comes with a handy recipe book to help you get started. The range of colors available makes it an easy addition to most color schemes. You will also be cutting fat use by up to 80% without compromising on taste. There is no residual smell left lingering when done.
The auto-shutoff function is a reliable safety feature. It reduces the chances of overcooking, but it may also be economical as it saves on electricity. At 2 quarts, it is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for preparing side dishes, starters, and snacks. It has sufficient room to cook for individuals or couples.
The temperature dial system gives this air fryer a retro look. All material except the inside is plastic, and you have a heat and time knob to control things. This moves us away from the more familiar LCD screens.
Pros
- Comes in a range of bright colors
- Has a non-stick basket
- Reasonably priced
- Compactly designed
- Cleaning is straightforward
Cons
- Produces a plastic chemical smell on first use
- May be too small for some users
5. NuWave Brio 15.5-Quart Large Capacity Smart Air Fryer + Grill
Features
- Multi-level design
- Air frying and grilling capability
- 15 Quarts
This air fryer has a multi-level design, providing more room to cook a wider variety at the same time. It has 15.5qt of space. The open plan design and sliding trays make it easy to remove trays and clean the device.
The Nuwave Brio offers a great deal of versatility, making it ideal for users who want to do more than “fry” with their air fryer. The grilling functions can bake, roast, and dehydrate your food. It has rotisserie functionality for an even heat distribution as you cook. The all-metal interior ensures durability.
This air fryer has a multi-level design, providing more room to cook a wider variety at the same time. It has 15.5qt of space. The open plan design and sliding trays make it easy to remove trays and clean the device.
A wide range of accessories and trays are included with the Nuwave Brio. The control panel is as easy to use as other digital ones.
Pros
- Is very roomy
- The design is multi-level
- Comes with a temperatures prob
- Has an all-metal interior
- Is easy to remove trays for cleaning
Cons
- Warranty coverage is not great
- A bit noisy
6. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer
Features
- Match cook
- 8 Quarts cooking space
The “smart finish” feature ensures the two trays finish cooking at the same time. Both dishes can be served without reheating.
Two baskets are often better than one for versatility. The Ninja DZ201’s dual zone system allows you to cook two meals simultaneously. It is unique in enabling the use of two different settings. One basket can have a lower temperature, more extended time control, and a preset selected.
The “smart finish” feature ensures the two trays finish cooking at the same time. Both dishes can be served without reheating.
The six preset programs are customizable. At full capacity, this is an 8qt air fryer that can prepare meals for a family. Both baskets are non-stick, making them easy to clean.
Pros
- Exterior remains reasonably cool at high internal temperatures
- Has six customizable preset programs to choose from
- Can cook two unique dishes at the same time
- Plenty of space between the two trays
- Does not require pre-heating
Cons
- Has a narrow base and cooking area
- Cooking at the same high temperature in both trays can have inconsistent results
7. Instant Vortex Plus 4 Quart Air Fryer
Features
- Customizable Smart Cooking Programs
- 4 Quarts
- Stainless steel accents
The EvenCrisp Technology enables crispy food without using much oil. You can use 95% less. The digital control panel is clearly labeled, making it easy to figure understand. Most programs can be engaged in one click. It is energy conservative air fryer.
This air fryer is designed to air fry, bake, broil, and roast in addition to reheating or dehydrating food. Pre-heating is required to get started. At 4 Qts of space, there is sufficient room to cook for several people (up to 4).
The EvenCrisp Technology enables crispy food without using much oil. You can use 95% less. The digital control panel is clearly labeled, making it easy to figure understand. Most programs can be engaged in one click. It is energy conservative air fryer.
Pros
- Includes an application with guided recipes
- Has an easy-to-use control panel
- Programs are optimized to conserve energy
- The non-stick surfaces are easy to clean
- Does not require pre-heating
Cons
- The rack can be difficult to clean
- Does not have a pause button
8. Dreo Air Fryer DR-KAF002
Features
- 100℉ and 450℉ Temperature range
- Slightly quieter than similar devices
The non-stick waterborne coating makes it straightforward to clean, and you can even use a dishwasher. All of the material used meats food grade standard, removing worry about the plastic odor often associated with these devices.
This air fryer has a control panel on top instead of the traditional position on the side. It comes with 50 recipes. The room on the inside allows you to cook for up to 3 people. It has an ultra-wide temperature range between 100℉ and 450℉.
The non-stick waterborne coating makes it straightforward to clean, and you can even use a dishwasher. All of the material used meats food grade standard, removing worry about the plastic odor often associated with these devices.
It has a circular shape and a matte finish that fits most kitchen decor. It easily packs away when not needed.
Pros
- The design is small and compact
- Comes with a starter guide
- Has a bespoke recipe book
- Has an auto-pause feature
- Dishwasher-friendly
Cons
- Does not hit the maximum temperature
- Has an occasional device vibration.
9. CHEFMAN Large Air Fryer Max XL 8 Qt
Features
- 4 presets
- 8 Quarts
- Removable basket
You can use 98% less fat in the air fryer in comparison to deep frying. On the inside is a spacious 8Qts basket. Cleaning it is just as easy. It has dishwasher-friendly, non-stick surfaces. You can also remove the basket for cleaning.
This air fryer has a shiny stainless steel finish. The top is decorated with functional air vents that allow for easy airflow when cooking. It has a fairly minimalist digital touch control with four presets. When the food is ready, the LED shake reminder is hard to miss.
You can use 98% less fat in the air fryer in comparison to deep frying. On the inside is a spacious 8Qts basket. Cleaning it is just as easy. It has dishwasher-friendly, non-stick surfaces. You can also remove the basket for cleaning.
Pros
- Has four presets
- Dishwasher safe
- Can cook for a family of 4
- Relatively low power consumption
- It has an elegant finish
Cons
- No locking mechanism between tray and basket
- Can be noisy
10. Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven Airfryer
Features
- Adjustable thermostat
- Toast Shade Selector-Timer
The Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven Airfryer combines hot air, high blower velocity, and heating elements. This results in lower fat usage and quicker cooking times compared to ovens.
This air fryer has a design similar to the traditional ovens. It also has a similar set of knobs. The Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven Airfryer combines hot air, high blower velocity, and heating elements. This results in lower fat usage and quicker cooking times compared to ovens.
The ventilation system uses air vents located on the sides. On the inside is room to slot in two separating trays that create levels and plenty of room to work with. There is enough space to toast six slices of bread, or air fry 3lbs of chicken wings, or bake a 12-inch pizza.
The size of this air fryer makes it difficult to store on the countertop.
Pros
- Comes with an Oven Rack, Baking Pan, and an AirFryer Basket
- Much quieter than most air fryers
- Familiar design makes it easy to get started
- Can toast, bake, and air fry
Cons
- Does not have a display
- Drip pan is difficult to clean
11. Ultrean 8 Quart Air Fryer, Electric Hot Air Fryers XL
Features
- 7 Presets
- Overheating protection
The Ultrean 8 Quart Air Fryer, Electric Hot Air Fryers XLhas a 360-degree rapid airflow technology to reduce oil splatter. This makes it much easier to clean than most air fryers. While the design can make it look small, it has the capacity to cook for up to 8 people.
The Ultrean 8 Quart Air Fryer, Electric Hot Air Fryers XLhas a 360-degree rapid airflow technology to reduce oil splatter. This makes it much easier to clean than most air fryers. While the design can make it look small, it has the capacity to cook for up to 8 people.
The controls are situated on top of the device, making for a minimalist look on the front. It has seven presets to choose from based on what you are cooking. Once selected, you can keep track of things on the LCD.
You can detach the cooking tray for cleaning. For the sake of safety, it has an auto-shut-off and overheating protection feature.
Pros
- Comes with a recipe book and kitchen glove
- Dishwasher safe
- Non-stick baking pan is detachable
- Lengthy power cable
Cons
- Closure can be jammy
- Doesn’t have a straightforward way of shutting it down
12. WowChef Air Fryer Oven Combo 20 Quart
Features
- 20 Quart
- 10 Cooking presets
The WowChef Air Fryer Oven Combo 20 Quart provides the versatility to air fry, rotisserie, bake and dehydrate your food. It marries a traditional design to modern control.
The WowChef Air Fryer Oven Combo 20 Quart provides the versatility to air fry, rotisserie, bake and dehydrate your food. It marries a traditional design to modern control. The multi-level design combined with the device’s size enables cooking for up to 9 people. It has ten cooking presets.
This air fryer has a chicken fork, rotisserie skewers, rotisserie cage, dehydrating baskets, mesh basket, drip tray, and a fetch rack. The digital display and the presets make it easy to choose the right setting for whatever you are cooking. It has a cube-like shape and a polished black finish.
You are advised to allow a few minutes for preheating when using this air fryer.
Pros
- Comes with an extensive range of accessories
- Trays are dishwasher safe
- Has excellent ease of access
- Comes with a cookbook
Cons
- Can be quite loud
- Drip tray is not easy to clean
13. GoWISE USA GW22956 7-Quart Electric Air Fryer
Features
- 5℉ temperatures increments
- Full touch screen display
- 180℉ and 400℉ temperature range
The GoWise USA GW22956 has a smaller but not too small cooking capacity compared to other devices on our list. It has three stackable racks for additional cooking space.
The GoWise USA GW22956 has a smaller but not too small cooking capacity compared to other devices on our list. It has three stackable racks for additional cooking space. These can be removed when cooking large meals such as a whole chicken. It has eight cooking functions. You can air fry, roast, broil, dehydrate, grill, bake, reheat, or keep your food warm.
A temperature range of between 180℉ and 400℉ gives enough versatility to prepare most food. Each device comes with a recipe book containing 100 recipes. It is a black device with a silver accent. The air ventilation system is situated at the top.
Pros
- Has a stackable rack
- Non-stick coating on the basket
- Plenty of room to cook
- Incredible dehydrator function
Cons
- The non-stick coating could be more durable
- Beeps fairly loud when done
What are the best types of air fryers?
Choosing the best types of air fryers depends on personal needs. We have chosen some of the top types of air fryers to give you a detailed overview of what you can expect from each of them.
What are the best cylindrical air fryers?
Cylindrical air fryers are good for dishes such as french fries. Having heat coming from the top and circulating around ensures even distribution and a well-cooked meal. This would also be beneficial for lean meals as well. cylindrical air fryers are denoted by the shape of their basket. You can get a good one at an average cost of about $129.
What are the best oven air fryers?
Oven air fryers are ideal for those that require versatility. They make an adequate replacement for a traditional oven. Most of them have toasting capability that could replace toasters. Oven air fryers are good for cooking a whole chicken, toasting bread, and for use as a rotisserie. You can get a good one for an average cost of $250.
What are the best basket type air fryers?
Most air fryers fall into the basket type category. This design allows separation between the cooking area of your air fryer and the rest of the device. This makes them easier to clean. Basket type air fryers are good for making french fries, chicken wings, and steaks. You can get a good basket type air fryer for $100.
What are the best paddle type air fryers?
Paddle type air fryers are great for food that needs to be cooked with some degree of consistency. This is the sort of food that would require stirring when cooking on the stovetop. They are ideal for cooking most vegetable dishes, chicken wings, and fried rice. You can get a paddle type air fryer for an average of $100+/-.
What functionality should you expect from an air fryer?
You can expect an air fryer to prepare your food with little to no oil. Once you can properly answer what is an air fryer, it becomes easier to utilize. Having presets is an increasingly common practice. They make it easier for you to choose the right temperature and time frame for whatever you are preparing.
What should you know before buying an air fryer?
There are a few things to be mindful of before buying an air fryer. One of the main things to consider is the material used, which affects both functionality and durability. You must look for sturdy material for the internal structure of the air fryer. It is common for plastic to be used on the exterior, which is acceptable as long as the structure is held together by something stronger such as aluminum.
You should not overlook the overall price, as this ensures you get good value for your money. It is essential to factor in the quality, accessories included, and brand when considering the price.
Check that the air fryer can facilitate the temperatures and functions required for your recipes. This is a good time to consider your usage case, which may be a determining factor for the style or type of air fryer you choose.
With the potential users in mind, consider the safety features built into the air fryer. Think about some actions that may put users in danger and how your air fryer has been designed to mitigate them. Knowing how to use an air fryer the right way will get the best results.
Size does matter. Considering the size of your air fryer also means with the size of your party in mind. How many people are you going to be cooking for? This will determine whether you go with a large, small, or giant device.
There is nothing more concerning than a chemical or plastic smell floating in the air as you cook. You want to ensure that your air fryer does not have this problem. You will also want to consider the placement of outlet holes around the device. Most of them are essential for air pressure filtration and see if they are adequately placed for your needs.
What is the average price range for the best air fryers?
The price range for the best air fryers is between $200 and $3000+. Programmable air fryers are more expensive than other types of air fryers because they allow you to create your own presets. The size of an air fryer will also affect how much it costs. Large air fryers use more material and can prepare food for more people in one go. A large steel air fryer will cost more than a small plastic air fryer.
What is the main difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
The difference between an air fryer and a convection oven is its mechanics. The classic air fryer vs convection oven debate is not always straightforward. An air fryer uses heat from the top of the device, whereas a convection oven has heat from the top and bottom. This makes the convection oven more suitable for baking.
In addition, air fryers are countertop appliances that are easy to store away, whereas convection ovens tend to take up more room. The placement of the fans is another key difference. Air fryers have a fan on the top, close to the heating element. Convection ovens, on the other hand, have it at the back, similar to traditional ovens. This makes air fryers a better pick for cooking small servings of food.
Unless you are looking to bake, an air fryer is a preferred choice for most use cases.
What air fryer type is considered superior?
Some consumers will swear that the vintage or what may now be considered to be antique air fryers are the best, but this is not always the case. Having come on the market in 2010, air fryers have moved in leaps and bounds to become a mainstream kitchen staple, which has meant more manufacturers and ideas coming into the market.
We have seen a similar phenomenon with ovens, toasters, kettles, and microwaves. The longer the products are on the market, the better they tend to become. If we had to settle for one that is considered superior, it would have to be the ones with ceramic baskets. Unlike some of the cheaper materials that newer baskets are made of, ceramic is durable and great as a non-stick cooking surface.
What are the common mistakes of using an air fryer?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using an air fryer is traditional recipes that weren’t developed for air fryers. This often means the food gets burnt or overcooked. It may be worth reducing the temperature by up to 25 degrees when using an air fryer to make a recipe designed for a traditional oven. You may also want to reduce the cooking time.
Another mistake is entirely relying on the temperature shown by the air fryer, as these will often be lower or higher than indicated. You can resolve this by double-checking with a kitchen thermometer. An instant-read thermometer may also come in handy for checking that food has been cooked to the required temperature before serving it.
The final mistake is perhaps using no oil at all. While it uses hot air to cook the food, it isn’t quite an “air” fryer in that it does not completely eradicate the need for oil. It simply reduces the required amount. If you don’t use the oil, you will often end up with dry food after cooking. We recommend using a teaspoon of oil or a small amount of your choosing to get started. You can adjust this as you become more familiar with the device.
What criteria define the best air fryer?
Having picked a shortlist of the best air fryers, it makes sense to share some of the criteria that we considered. We looked at:
- Value for money
- Durability
- Safety features
- Customer reviews
- Reliability
- Materials used.
While the rest are self-explanatory, we felt that value for money is a better metric than price. A pricy air fryer may justify its cost by providing a stellar service within the other criteria. Likewise, a cheap air fryer may not be worth your while, even at the lowest of prices. You should also know the uses of any air fryer before buying one.
What type of reviews do the best air fryers have?
Reviews are a great way to judge how other customers feel about a product before purchasing it. It gives you a clear indication of what you can expect, good and bad. One of the most common complaints on some of the best basket-type air fryers is the durability of the cooking basket. This has often been linked to manufacturers’ material to achieve a non-stick surface effect.
Customers also complain about how noisy basket-type air fryers can be.
Size is another common complaint leveled at the best air fryers. Some customers find that they require more room than is afforded to them by their air fryer. This is something to consider before purchasing one.
Oven-type air fryers are often judged to be too bulky by customer reviews. It is difficult to say how this can be avoided without doing away with the oven function.
What are the best kitchen tool brands?
The best kitchen tool brands include Philips, Dash, Ninja, Cosori, and GoWise USA.
- Philips: They are one of the most recognizable brands worldwide. You will find their kitchen tools go beyond air fryers.
- Dash: Dash has a growing catalog of kitchen electronics that include air fryers, waffle makers, juicers, blenders, and donut makers.
- Ninja: While they may have made a name for themselves in the blender space, they also have a great range of air fryers.
- Cosori: This brand is known for its air fryers, toaster ovens, hot beverage makers, and specialty appliances
- GoWise USA: This is an excellent brand for air fryers and pressure cookers.
How long do the top air fryers last?
The top air fryers have an average lifespan of close to a decade. Average air fryers have a lifespan of 2-6 years. You can stretch this to 10+ years with some careful use and care. Most of them come with a warranty cover of at least two years, which sees you through the lower end of the lifespan stated above. The ones that cost more tend to also have a longer lifespan due to superior quality. This is not always a guarantee.
Ceramic air fryers have some of the longest life spans. Assuming that they are not overused and are cared for, you should see a decade or more of use from them. You will get a shorter lifespan out of the more plastic-intensive air fryers. In most cases, this will be due to the heat causing material to warp over time.
Air fryers in commercial settings may not last a year due to the pressure of use and demand.
Where to buy an air fryer?
Below are stores you can purchase an air fryer.
Walmart: Average Price ranges between $54.98 to $100. Delivers in 2-3 days.
Amazon: Average Price ranges between $40 to $100. Delivers in 1-2 days.
Best Buy: Average Price ranges around $99.99. Delivers in up to 5 days.
Home Depot: Average Price ranges between $50 to $100. Delivers in 2 days.
Target: Average Price ranges between $69.99 to $139. Delivers in 2 days.
Costco: Average Price ranges between $50 to $100. Delivers in 2-3 days.
Some of the products listed in this article are also available directly from the manufacturers.
What are the other best kitchen tools?
We have covered a vast range of top air fryers in this post, including what they offer. Choosing the right one for your needs should be easier. It is always worth considering what brands of kitchen tools you already have in your home, which may inspire you to add to them. Why not try something new?
Other health-related kitchen tools to add as companions to your new air fryer include:
- Water filters.
- Juicers.
Dino Paccino
Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.
