The Best Air Fryer, Expert Picks

Source: Amazon

After reviewing a wide range of options, the following selections represent the best air fryer choices based on balanced performance, overall value, and real-world usability. Each pick was evaluated for cooking consistency, ease of operation, and long-term practicality. These factors help narrow the field to models that perform reliably in everyday kitchens.

Best Dual-Basket Control: Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer

Best High-Heat Precision: Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt

Best Compact Power: Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast

Best Oven-Style Capacity: CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie

Best Family Simplicity: Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt Family Size

1.  Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer

Pros

• Independent dual baskets

• Smart Finish syncing

• Large 8-quart capacity

• Easy cleaning design

Cons

• Bulky countertop footprint

This dual-basket air fryer is built for flexibility, allowing two different foods to cook simultaneously without timing compromises. The independent heating zones and Smart Finish feature reduce wait time and improve consistency when preparing full meals. Performance is strong across core functions like air frying, roasting, and reheating, while the dishwasher-safe components simplify cleanup. For households cooking mains and sides together, the capacity and automation deliver practical, everyday value.

User feedback commonly highlights the convenience of cooking two foods at once and the reliability of synchronized finish times. Many users also appreciate the even results and reduced oil use compared to traditional frying. On the downside, some note that the overall size takes up noticeable counter space, and storage can be inconvenient in smaller kitchens. Overall, sentiment trends positive, with functionality outweighing space-related concerns for most owners.

2.  Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt

Pros

• TurboBlaze airflow system

• Wide temperature range

• Ceramic nonstick coating

• Quiet operation

Cons

• Single-basket design

This 6-quart air fryer focuses on speed and control, combining a high-powered fan with precise temperature adjustments up to 450°F. The multi-level fan system supports more even browning and better texture across different cooking modes, from air frying to roasting and reheating. Its ceramic-coated basket improves food release and durability while keeping cleanup straightforward. With a compact footprint and fast cook times, it offers solid real-world value for families wanting performance without excessive counter space.

User feedback frequently praises the strong airflow, crisp results, and noticeably quieter operation compared to many standard air fryers. The ceramic coating and wide temperature range are also seen as meaningful upgrades for everyday cooking. Some users note that the single basket limits multitasking compared to dual-zone models, especially when preparing full meals. Overall impressions are favorable, with performance and ease of use outweighing capacity-related trade-offs for most users.

3.  Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast

Pros

• Fast Air Crisp airflow

• Space-saving design

• Generous 5-quart basket

• Simple cleaning surfaces

Cons

• Limited cooking functions

This 5-quart air fryer emphasizes speed and simplicity, using high-heat air circulation to deliver crisp results with minimal oil. Performance is consistent for everyday tasks like fries, wings, and reheating frozen foods, with quick preheating and intuitive controls. The basket size balances family-ready portions with a compact footprint that fits smaller countertops. Overall value is solid for users who prioritize straightforward operation over advanced presets.

User feedback often highlights the strong crisping performance and how quickly frozen foods cook compared to conventional ovens. Many users also appreciate the compact design that does not sacrifice usable capacity. Common limitations mentioned include the lack of advanced modes and fewer customization options than higher-end models. Even so, most users find it reliable and efficient for routine home cooking.

4.  CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator

Pros

• Large 10-quart interior

• Rotisserie cooking option

• Multiple rack airflow

• Clear viewing window

Cons

• Taller countertop profile

This 10-quart air fryer oven is designed for versatility, combining air frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and rotisserie cooking in a single appliance. Rapid air heating eliminates preheating and supports faster, more even results than traditional ovens, especially when cooking on multiple racks. The capacitive touch controls and preset programs simplify operation, while the interior light and window improve day-to-day usability. Its size and included accessories make it particularly practical for family meals and batch cooking.

User feedback commonly praises the spacious interior, flexibility of cooking modes, and the convenience of checking food without opening the door. Many users value the rotisserie function and rack system for preparing larger or varied meals at once. Frequently mentioned drawbacks include the appliance’s vertical footprint, which may not suit low cabinets or limited counter space. Overall, users tend to view it as a capable all-in-one solution when capacity and versatility matter most.

5.  Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt Family Size

Pros

• Large 8-quart capacity

• Helpful shake reminder

• One-touch preset controls

• Easy-clean basket

Cons

• Moderate temperature range

This 8-quart digital air fryer is designed for straightforward family cooking, focusing on ease of use and consistent results. Preset programs and a visible shake reminder help reduce guesswork, especially when cooking fries, meats, or frozen foods. Performance is reliable for everyday meals, with even crisping supported by timely agitation and automatic shut-off for added safety. Its size and simplified controls make it a practical option for households preparing meals for several people at once.

User feedback often highlights the generous capacity, intuitive presets, and the usefulness of the shake reminder for achieving even browning. Many users also appreciate the quick cleanup thanks to dishwasher-safe components. Some note that the temperature range is narrower than higher-end models, which can limit flexibility for specialty recipes. Overall, sentiment is positive, with convenience and family-friendly design outweighing minor limitations.

Many buyers underestimate how much size and basket capacity affect everyday usability. A compact model may save counter space but struggle with family-sized portions or full meals. It is also important to understand that air fryers work best when food is arranged in a single layer, which limits how much can be cooked at once. Noise level and cleaning effort are other factors that often get overlooked until after purchase.

What is the 20 20 rule for air fryers?

The 20 20 rule is a general guideline that suggests checking and shaking the food every 20 minutes, or at the halfway point for shorter cook times. This helps promote even browning and prevents overcooking on one side. It is especially useful for foods like fries, vegetables, and breaded items that rely on consistent air circulation. While not a strict rule, it encourages more attentive cooking and better results.

What are the negatives of air fryers?

Air fryers have limited capacity compared to traditional ovens, which can be inconvenient for larger households. They can also produce uneven results if the basket is overcrowded or the food is not flipped or shaken. Some models are relatively loud during operation, especially at higher temperatures. Additionally, cooking multiple batches can offset the time savings that air fryers are known for.

What cannot be cooked in an airfryer?

Foods with very wet batters, such as tempura-style coatings, do not perform well because the batter can drip and burn. Large cuts of meat that require slow, even heat may also cook unevenly in an air fryer. Lightweight foods like leafy greens can blow around and scorch due to strong air circulation. Dishes with heavy sauces or cheese added too early may create smoke or mess rather than cooking properly.

Choosing the best air fryer ultimately depends on how well it aligns with your cooking habits, kitchen space, and budget. A well-designed model delivers consistent results, reduces cooking time, and offers a practical way to prepare a wide range of meals with less oil. When evaluated on performance, ease of use, and long-term reliability, the right air fryer can be a worthwhile investment for everyday cooking. By focusing on features that matter most to your needs, you can confidently select an option that provides lasting value and convenience.