10 Best Air Fryer With Shelves, Ranked by Experts

Source: Amazon

The following selections represent air fryers with shelves that excel in performance, usability, and overall value. These models have been carefully evaluated to help you find reliable options suited to various cooking needs.

Best Extra-Large Capacity: Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Extra Large Air Fryer, Convection Toaster

Best Smart Controls: Nuwave Brio 15.5Qt Air Fryer Rotisserie Oven, X-Large Family Size

Best Versatile Functions: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill, 1800W 8-1

Best Faster, Healthier Cooking: Midea Flexify French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo

Best Compact Versatility: Chefman Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, Countertop Oven

When selecting an air fryer with shelves, consider the cooking capacity that fits your household size and meal preferences. Models with multiple shelves allow you to prepare different foods simultaneously, saving time and energy. However, larger capacity units may take up more countertop space, so measuring your available area beforehand is important.

Temperature control and cooking presets are another key factor. Precise temperature settings ensure even cooking across all shelves, while presets can simplify common tasks like roasting or baking. Some air fryers also feature timers and alerts, which help avoid overcooking and improve convenience.

Ease of cleaning is often overlooked but crucial for regular use. Removable, dishwasher-safe shelves and trays make cleanup faster and maintain hygiene. Additionally, check the durability of materials used in racks and interiors to ensure the product holds up with frequent use.

Finally, think about extra features like rotisserie functions, smart controls, or included accessories. While not necessary for everyone, these can enhance versatility and make the appliance more useful in a variety of cooking scenarios. Balancing features with budget and needs will lead to a more satisfying purchase.

Air fryers with baskets typically offer a single cooking space and are ideal for simple, small-batch frying. In contrast, air fryers with shelves provide multiple layers for cooking different foods at once, increasing capacity and efficiency. Which is better depends on your cooking habits—baskets suit quick, straightforward meals, while shelves offer more versatility and space for larger or multi-item cooking.

Why are people getting rid of their air fryers?

Some users get rid of their air fryers due to size constraints, finding them too bulky for limited kitchen space. Others may experience dissatisfaction with cooking results or difficulty cleaning certain models. Additionally, occasional users might decide the appliance doesn’t fit their cooking routine or prefer other methods like ovens or toaster ovens for similar tasks.

Can you get shelves for an air fryer?

Yes, many air fryer models offer compatible shelves or racks either included with the appliance or available as accessories. These shelves allow for layered cooking and better organization inside the air fryer basket or oven. However, it is important to ensure that shelves are specifically designed for your model to maintain proper airflow and safety.

How do you use an air fryer with shelves?

Using an air fryer with shelves involves placing food items evenly across the multiple racks to allow hot air circulation around each piece. It’s best to avoid overcrowding and rotate shelves if your model doesn’t have a built-in mechanism for even heat distribution. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for temperature and cooking times, which may differ slightly when using multiple layers.

Are stacked air fryers worth it?

Stacked air fryers, which use multiple cooking layers or compartments, can be worth it for users who want to prepare several dishes simultaneously without needing multiple appliances. They save counter space by combining functions and improve efficiency in meal prep. However, they may be more expensive and require some learning to manage cooking times and airflow across stacked layers effectively.

Read More:

The 10 Best Air Fryer With Rotisserie of 2026 for Your Kitchen

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The Best Air Fryer, Expert Picks

Choosing the best air fryer with shelves can significantly enhance your cooking experience by providing greater capacity and versatility. These models offer practical solutions for preparing multiple foods at once, saving time without compromising results. By considering factors like size, features, and ease of use, you can select an air fryer that fits your needs and kitchen space. This review aims to help you make an informed decision based on overall value and performance.