Air fryers have taken kitchens by storm, promising crispy, delicious food with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. But with so many options out there, it’s natural to wonder: what brand is best for air fryer? The answer isn’t always a simple one-size-fits-all, as the “best” often depends on your specific needs, budget, and cooking habits.
Whether you’re a single individual looking for quick snacks or a bustling family needing to feed a crowd, there’s an air fryer out there for you. We’ve dug into some of the most popular and highly-rated models to help you figure out what brand is best for air fryer for your home. Let’s dive into our top 10 picks, covering various capacities, features, and price points to help you make an informed decision.
Our Top 10 Air Fryer Picks
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best air fryers on the market, along with one essential accessory that can enhance your air frying experience.
1. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro is a solid contender for those seeking versatile cooking in a compact footprint. Its standout feature is Ninja’s proprietary Air Crisp Technology, which circulates superheated air up to 400℉, ensuring your food gets that perfect crispy finish with minimal oil. It’s a fantastic all-rounder for everyday meals, fitting a good amount of food without hogging all your counter space.
- Key Features:
- AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air for crispy results with little to no oil.
- LARGE CAPACITY: 5-QT nonstick basket fits up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional methods.
- FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cooks frozen foods in minutes.
- SPACE SAVER: Compact design without compromising capacity.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Nonstick basket and crisper plate are easy to clean.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, 20 recipe book.
- Pros:
- Excellent crisping performance.
- Good capacity for families of 3-4.
- Versatile cooking functions for various dishes.
- Reduces fat significantly.
- Space-efficient design.
- Cons:
- Limited to 4 functions compared to some multi-cookers.
- User Impressions: Many users praise its efficiency and ability to deliver consistently crispy food. It’s often highlighted as a reliable kitchen workhorse that’s easy to use and clean.
- See it on Amazon here
2. HEISENLIN Air Fryer Replacement Parts Crisper Plate for Ninja
While not an air fryer itself, this HEISENLIN replacement crisper plate is an absolutely crucial accessory for specific Ninja air fryer owners. Made from food-grade 304 stainless steel with a Teflon non-stick coating, it ensures your air frying continues without a hitch if your original plate wears out or gets damaged. It’s designed for durability and ease of use, making it an essential part of maintaining your appliance.
- Key Features:
- Air Fryer Replacement Plate for Ninja: Made of food-grade 304 stainless steel.
- Exquisite Design: Teflon non-stick coating, double-layer spraying, handle for easy removal.
- Wide Application: Fits Ninja AF100/AF101/AF161/AF150 air fryers and specific Ninja Foodi models (8.20×8.20 IN).
- What You Can Get: 1× Grill Plate, 1× Non-stick cleaning cloth, 4× Rubber Bumpers.
- Warm Tips: Measure inner diameter before ordering, avoid abrasive cleaning.
- Pros:
- High-quality, durable materials.
- Non-stick surface for easy food release and cleaning.
- Comes with useful accessories like a cleaning cloth.
- Essential for extending the life of compatible Ninja air fryers.
- Cons:
- Only compatible with specific Ninja air fryer models.
- User Impressions: Owners of compatible Ninja air fryers find this replacement plate a lifesaver, appreciating its perfect fit and improved non-stick properties compared to their original plates. The included cleaning cloth is a thoughtful bonus.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer
The Chefman 6 QT Air Fryer stands out with its 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY, designed to give your food that extra, irresistible crunch during the final minutes of cooking. Its sleek, narrow design maximizes capacity while minimizing countertop footprint, making it a stylish and practical choice for kitchens that value both space and performance. This appliance makes achieving perfectly crispy results incredibly easy.
- Key Features:
- FAST AND EASY: Digital touch screen display, four preset functions.
- 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Achieves perfect finishing crunch.
- STYLISH AND COMPACT: Sleek, narrow design maximizes 6-quart capacity, minimizes footprint.
- HEALTHY COOKING: Little-to-no oil for low-fat meals.
- LED SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake food.
- SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Dishwasher safe nonstick basket and rack.
- SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with 1-year assurance.
- Pros:
- High temperature for superior crisping.
- Intuitive digital controls and presets.
- Ideal capacity for 3-5 people.
- Space-saving design.
- Dishwasher-safe components simplify cleanup.
- Cons:
- Primarily an air fryer, fewer multi-cooker functions than some competitors.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise its ability to quickly cook food to a golden crisp. The shake reminder is a favorite feature, and its compact size for a 6-quart model is often highlighted.
- See it on Amazon here
4. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact but Large 6 Qt
For those asking what brand is best for air fryer when versatility is key, the COSORI 9-in-1 is a strong contender. Boasting an impressive 9 functions including Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate, it truly is a multi-purpose kitchen marvel. Its Turbo Blaze Technology and 5-speed fan system ensure lightning-fast cooking and consistently golden, juicy results, all within a surprisingly compact 6-quart design.
- Key Features:
- 𝙇𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜-𝙛𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜: Advanced Turbo Blaze Technology.
- 𝟵-𝙞𝙣-𝟭 𝙑𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm.
- 𝙐𝙣𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝘿𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨: 5 Fan speed airflow system for crispy, juicy results.
- 𝟲-𝙌𝙩 𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮 & 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙩 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣: Spacious capacity in a compact size.
- 𝟭𝟬𝟬+ 𝘼𝙥𝙥 𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙚𝙨: Includes nutrition facts and smart tracking.
- 𝟵𝟱% 𝙇𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙊𝙞𝙡: Same crispy textures with significantly less oil.
- 𝘾𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙯𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙚𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢: Flexible preheat options.
- 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧-𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙚: Non-stick cooking basket and detachable components.
- 𝙒𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙏𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙍𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚: 90°F–450°F.
- Pros:
- Exceptional multi-functionality.
- Rapid cooking times with even results.
- Generous capacity for family meals.
- Access to a vast recipe library with nutritional info.
- Extremely easy to clean.
- Cons:
- Might be overwhelming for users who only want basic air frying.
- User Impressions: Users rave about its versatility, often replacing multiple appliances with this one unit. The companion app with recipes is a big hit, and the consistent cooking performance gets high marks.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, 4-Quart
This Ninja Air Fryer, with its 4-quart capacity, is a fantastic choice for individuals or smaller families looking for a reliable and efficient air fryer. Its core strength lies in its ability to air fry with up to 75% less fat while maintaining delicious crispy textures. With a wide temperature range and four versatile cooking programs, it handles everything from crispy fries to homemade dehydrated snacks with ease.
- Key Features:
- LESS FAT: Up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods.
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F for diverse cooking.
- FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket fits 2 lbs of French fries.
- 4-IN-1 VERSATILITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- DEHYDRATE: Creates flat, chip-like dehydrated foods.
- EASY-TO-CLEAN: Dishwasher safe basket and crisper plate.
- Pros:
- Excellent for healthy, low-fat cooking.
- Good temperature control for various cooking styles.
- Convenient size for 1-3 people.
- Dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup effortless.
- Cons:
- Smaller capacity might not suit larger families.
- Fewer functions compared to some advanced models.
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend this Ninja model for its reliable performance in delivering crispy food quickly and efficiently. Its compact design and ease of cleaning are also highly appreciated.
- See it on Amazon here
6. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving
If you’re wondering what brand is best for air fryer when space is at a premium or you’re cooking for one or two, the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer is your answer. This little powerhouse maximizes its small footprint with a clever square basket design and a sleek, narrow profile. It cooks food up to three times faster than a traditional oven, making it perfect for quick, healthy meals without cluttering your counter.
- Key Features:
- FAST AND EASY: Digital touch screen, customizable time/temperature up to 400°F, cooks 3x faster than an oven.
- HEALTHY COOKING: Uses little-to-no oil.
- SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: Square basket maximizes 2-quart capacity within a narrow design.
- SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake food.
- COMPACT STORAGE: Perfectly sized for 1-2 people.
- SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Nonstick 2-quart basket and rack are dishwasher safe.
- SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology.
- Pros:
- Incredibly compact, ideal for small kitchens/dorm rooms.
- Very fast cooking.
- Healthy alternative to deep frying.
- Easy to use digital controls.
- Dishwasher-safe parts for quick cleanup.
- Cons:
- Very small capacity, unsuitable for family meals.
- User Impressions: Mini air fryer users love its small size and how quickly it heats up and cooks food. It’s highly recommended for single servings or quick snacks, and its ease of cleaning is a bonus.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Instant Pot Vortex 6QT XL Air Fryer, 4-in-1 Functions
The Instant Pot Vortex 6QT XL Air Fryer brings the trusted Instant Pot name into the air frying world with a focus on simple, effective cooking. Its EvenCrisp Technology is a game-changer, ensuring a perfect crunch with up to 95% less oil. With 4 versatile cooking functions and a family-sized capacity, it’s designed for easy, fuss-free meals that taste great and simplify cleanup.
- Key Features:
- 4 Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, or reheat.
- Adjustable Temperature: 120 to 400°F (49 to 205°C).
- User-Friendly Operation: One-touch settings, intuitive touchscreen.
- Family-Sized Capacity: 6-quart capacity handles up to 6 portions.
- EvenCrisp Technology: Perfect crunch with 95% less oil.
- Quick Cleanup: Non-stick air fryer basket is effortless to wash.
- Power Packed Performance: 1700 watts.
- Proven Peace of Mind: Overheat protection, auto-shutoff.
- Pros:
- Excellent for achieving crispy results with minimal oil.
- Large capacity suitable for families.
- Very user-friendly with one-touch programs.
- Fast operation with little to no preheating.
- Non-stick basket simplifies cleaning.
- Cons:
- Limited to 4 functions, not as versatile as some 9-in-1 models.
- User Impressions: Consumers appreciate its straightforward operation and consistent performance. The “EvenCrisp” feature truly delivers, and its capacity makes it a go-to for family dinners and meal prep.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer
Another strong offering from Chefman, this 4-quart model balances capacity with a compact design, making it ideal for 2-4 people. Like its larger sibling, it features 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY for superior crisping power. It’s a reliable choice for daily healthy cooking, delivering perfectly air-fried favorites with minimal effort and easy cleanup thanks to its dishwasher-safe components.
- Key Features:
- FAST AND EASY: Digital touch screen, four preset functions.
- 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Achieves perfect finishing crunch.
- STYLISH AND COMPACT: Sleek, narrow design maximizes 4-quart capacity.
- HEALTHY COOKING: Little-to-no oil for low-fat meals.
- SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake food.
- SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Dishwasher safe nonstick basket and rack.
- SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with 1-year assurance.
- Pros:
- High-temperature crisping for excellent results.
- Good size for small to medium households.
- Convenient digital controls and presets.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Space-efficient design.
- Cons:
- Similar to other Chefman models, focused primarily on air frying with fewer extra functions.
- User Impressions: Users find this 4QT Chefman air fryer to be a perfect size for couples or small families. Its performance is consistent, especially for fries and chicken, and the shake reminder is a well-liked feature.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Instant Pot Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer, Small Air fryer
The Instant Pot Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer proves that great things come in small packages. Perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone cooking for just 1-2 people, this mini appliance packs a punch with its 4-in-1 functionality and Instant Pot’s signature EvenCrisp Technology. It’s incredibly fast, going from frozen to golden in minutes, making quick, healthy meals a breeze.
- Key Features:
- 4-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air fry, bake, roast and reheat.
- EvenCrisp TECHNOLOGY: Drives airflow for perfect golden finish.
- ONE-TOUCH SMART PROGRAMS: Customizable programs for various dishes.
- FAST PREHEATING: Little to no preheating time.
- EASY CLEAN-UP: Non-stick, dishwasher safe air fry basket and tray.
- A KITCHEN MUST HAVE: Perfect for quick delicious meals, 1-2 servings.
- DISCOVER AMAZING RECIPES: Includes the free Instant Brands Connect App.
- SAFETY FEATURES: Overheat Protection, auto-off.
- COMPACT DESIGN: Countertop-friendly size with a pop of color.
- Pros:
- Extremely compact and space-saving.
- Fast cooking and minimal preheating.
- Delivers consistently crispy results for small batches.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Access to the Instant Brands recipe app.
- Cons:
- Limited capacity only suitable for 1-2 people.
- User Impressions: This mini air fryer is a hit with individuals and couples who appreciate its tiny footprint and mighty performance. Its speed and ease of use for small meals and snacks are frequently highlighted.
- See it on Amazon here
10. TOPZEE 11-QT Large Air Fryer – 8 in 1 XL
When considering what brand is best for air fryer if you have a large family or entertain frequently, the TOPZEE 11-QT Large Air Fryer is a standout. Its incredibly flexible basket design allows you to switch between a massive 11-QT capacity or two separate 5.5-QT baskets, letting you cook different dishes simultaneously at varied settings. With 8-in-1 versatile cooking modes and smart sync features, it’s a powerhouse for large-scale healthy cooking.
- Key Features:
- Flexible Basket Design: Seamlessly switch between 11-QT basket or two 5.5-QT baskets.
- Family-Sized Cooking Mode: Unlock 11-QT capacity using FULL BASKET function.
- Cook & Serve Together: Prepare two different meals simultaneously with varied settings, finish at the same time.
- Sync Cook Mode: Sync settings for both 5.5-quart baskets with one button.
- 8-in-1 Versatile Cooking: Preheat, Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, French Fries.
- Healthier Cooking: Up to 85% less oil than traditional frying.
- Customizable Cooking Precision: Wide temperature range from 90°F to 400°F.
- Quick and Easy Cleanup: Non-stick, dishwasher-safe baskets, crisper plates, and dividers.
- Pros:
- Massive capacity for large families or entertaining.
- Unique dual-zone cooking with sync function.
- Highly versatile with 8 cooking modes.
- Excellent for preparing multiple dishes at once.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe components.
- Cons:
- Large countertop footprint.
- User Impressions: Large family users are thrilled with the sheer capacity and the genius dual-zone feature, which truly revolutionizes meal prep. The ability to cook different foods at once and have them finish simultaneously is a major highlight.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Finding the right air fryer can feel like a quest, but we’re here to help clarify common queries.
Q1: How do I choose the right air fryer size?
A1: The right size depends on your household. For 1-2 people, a 2-4 quart air fryer is usually sufficient. For 3-5 people, a 5-7 quart model works well. If you have a larger family (5+) or frequently entertain, consider an 8-quart or larger, possibly with dual-zone capabilities.
Q2: Are air fryers truly healthier than deep frying?
A2: Yes, absolutely! Air fryers circulate hot air to cook food, often requiring little to no added oil. This significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional deep frying, where food is submerged in oil. You get similar crispy textures with far fewer calories and less fat.
Q3: What types of food can I cook in an air fryer?
A3: The possibilities are vast! Beyond classic French fries and chicken wings, you can air fry vegetables, fish, steak, shrimp, roasted potatoes, spring rolls, and even bake items like cookies or mini pizzas. Some advanced models can also dehydrate fruits and make homemade jerky.
Q4: How do I clean my air fryer effectively?
A4: Most air fryer baskets and crisper plates are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. For the main unit, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after it has cooled. Avoid abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that can damage the non-stick coating.
Q5: Is preheating necessary for an air fryer?
A5: While some air fryers boast “no preheating” features, generally, preheating for 3-5 minutes is recommended. This helps the air fryer reach the desired temperature, ensuring food cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy exterior from the start.
Q6: What’s the main difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
A6: Both use convection (circulating hot air) to cook food. However, air fryers are typically much more compact, heat up faster, and have more powerful fans that circulate air more rapidly, leading to quicker cooking times and crispier results, especially for smaller batches of food. Convection ovens are larger and more versatile for baking and roasting bigger items.
Q7: How can I prevent food from sticking in my air fryer?
A7: Most air fryers come with non-stick baskets, but a light spray of cooking oil (avoiding aerosol sprays with propellants that can damage coatings) or using parchment paper/foil liners specifically designed for air fryers can further prevent sticking and make cleanup even easier. Don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure even air circulation.
Choosing what brand is best for air fryer ultimately comes down to matching features with your lifestyle. From compact models for single servings to large, versatile units for family feasts, there’s a perfect air fryer waiting to make your cooking healthier and more convenient. Happy frying!