Air Fryer Reviews and Buying Guide on Black Friday Deals

Discover the top-rated air fryers this Black Friday with our expert reviews and buying guide, designed to help you score the best deals on high-performance models from trusted brands. We break down key features, cooking performance, and value for money so you can make a smart, sizzling purchase—before the discounts disappear.

Key Takeaways

• Compare top models: Check expert reviews to identify best air fryers for your needs.
• Prioritize capacity: Choose size based on household meals—4–6 quarts suits most families.
• Snag early deals: Black Friday discounts start early—track prices now to avoid missing out.
• Check smart features: Look for presets, Wi-Fi, or app control for easier cooking.
• Verify safety certifications: Ensure UL or ETL listing for reliable, hazard-free operation.
• Read user feedback: Real-world insights reveal long-term performance and durability issues.

Why Black Friday Is the Best Time to Buy an Air Fryer

Let’s be honest: we’ve all stood in the kitchen, staring at a greasy stovetop after making chicken wings or fries, wondering if there’s a better way. That’s where the air fryer comes in. It’s not just a trendy gadget—it’s a game-changer for busy families, health-conscious eaters, and anyone who loves crispy food without the guilt. But here’s the real kicker: Black Friday is the absolute best time to buy an air fryer. Why? Because prices drop like they’re on a diet, and the selection is usually at its peak.

I remember my first air fryer purchase. I was hesitant. Was it just another kitchen appliance I’d use twice and then forget about? But after seeing a Black Friday deal on a model I’d been eyeing, I took the plunge. That $120 machine turned into a daily essential. I use it for everything—from reheating pizza (crispy, not soggy!) to making sweet potato fries in 15 minutes. And the best part? I saved over 40% compared to the original price. That’s the magic of Black Friday air fryer deals. Whether you’re buying your first air fryer or upgrading to a smarter model, this is the time to strike.

What Is an Air Fryer and How Does It Work?

The Science Behind Crispy, Healthy Cooking

An air fryer is essentially a compact convection oven. It uses a powerful fan to circulate hot air around food at high speed. This creates a crispy outer layer—similar to deep frying—but with little to no oil. Think of it like a turbocharged oven that browns food faster and more evenly. For example, a batch of frozen french fries cooked in an air fryer can turn out golden and crunchy with just a light spray of oil, using up to 80% less oil than traditional frying.

Key Components of an Air Fryer

• Basket or Drawer: Where you place the food. Most are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.
• Heating Element: Located above the basket, it heats the air.
• Fan: Circulates hot air rapidly for even cooking.
• Control Panel: Digital models have presets (fries, chicken, fish); manual ones use dials.
• Airflow Design: Some models have perforated baskets or raised trays to improve circulation.

One thing I learned the hard way? Not all baskets are created equal. A poorly designed basket can trap steam, leading to soggy results. Look for models with good airflow and a removable tray for easy cleaning.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: The Real Difference

You might be thinking, “Can’t I just use my oven?” Sure, but air fryers have three big advantages:

• Speed: They heat up faster and cook food 20–30% quicker.
• Energy Efficiency: Smaller cavity means less energy used.
• Texture: The rapid air circulation gives that deep-fried crunch without submerging food in oil.

For instance, roasting a whole chicken in a conventional oven takes about an hour. In an air fryer? 35–40 minutes, with crispier skin and juicier meat. That’s efficiency.

Top 5 Air Fryer Models to Watch This Black Friday (2023 Reviews)

1. Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer (AF161)

This is my personal favorite—and not just because it’s what I own. The DualZone design lets you cook two foods at once, at different temperatures and times. Want crispy chicken tenders and roasted broccoli at the same time? Done. The 7-quart capacity is perfect for families of 4–6.

• Pros: Dual cooking zones, intuitive digital controls, excellent evenness in cooking.
• Cons: Bulky footprint, takes up counter space. The learning curve for syncing zones can be tricky at first.

Black Friday Tip: Last year, this model dropped from $179 to $119. Watch for similar deals this year. It’s worth the splurge if you cook multiple items regularly.

2. Cosori Air Fryer Max XL (5.8 QT)

A favorite among home cooks, the Cosori is sleek, quiet, and packed with presets. It has 13 one-touch programs—including dehydrate and reheat—and a square basket that maximizes cooking space.

• Pros: Easy-to-clean non-stick basket, quiet operation, excellent app integration (Cosori app has 100+ recipes).
• Cons: Slightly slower than some competitors. The app can be buggy on older phones.

I used this one at a friend’s house and was impressed by how evenly it cooked frozen mozzarella sticks—crispy outside, gooey inside, no oil needed. Black Friday 2022 saw it drop from $129 to $79. A steal for a premium model.

3. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 (6 QT)

From the makers of the Instant Pot, this 6-in-1 air fryer can roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. It’s a solid mid-range option with a clear digital display and a large, round basket.

• Pros: Multi-functional, great value, easy to use for beginners.
• Cons: Round basket can leave food edges undercooked if overcrowded. No dual zones.

Perfect for someone who wants versatility without spending a fortune. Last Black Friday, it was $59 (down from $99)—a no-brainer for first-time buyers.

4. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL (7.3 QT)

Philips invented the air fryer, and the XXL model lives up to the hype. It uses patented Rapid Air Technology for ultra-crispy results and has a massive 7.3-quart capacity.

• Pros: Best-in-class crispiness, large capacity, durable build.
• Cons: Expensive. The basket is harder to clean due to its shape.

If you’re serious about air frying and have a big household, this is the gold standard. Watch for Black Friday deals—last year it dropped from $299 to $199. A rare chance to own a premium model at a mid-tier price.

5. Dash Compact Air Fryer (2.6 QT)

Ideal for singles, students, or small kitchens. This tiny powerhouse fits on a countertop and uses minimal electricity.

• Pros: Compact, affordable, cute design (comes in 5 colors).
• Cons: Small capacity—only fits about 2 chicken breasts at once. Manual dial only (no presets).

Perfect for dorm rooms or as a second air fryer. Black Friday 2022: $49 → $29. Great for gifting.

How to Choose the Right Air Fryer for Your Needs

Capacity: How Much Do You Cook?

Air fryer capacity is measured in quarts, but it’s not just about size—it’s about how you cook. Here’s a quick guide:

• 2–3 quarts: Best for 1–2 people. Fits a small chicken or 1–2 servings of fries.
• 4–5.8 quarts: Ideal for families of 3–4. Can cook a whole chicken or large batch of veggies.
• 6+ quarts: For big families, meal preppers, or those who love leftovers.

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave at least 1 inch of space around food for air to circulate. I once tried to cook a whole 4-pound chicken in a 5.8-quart model—it took 50 minutes and the skin wasn’t as crisp as I’d hoped. Size matters.

Digital vs. Manual Controls

Digital models (like the Cosori or Ninja) offer presets, timers, and temperature control. Great for beginners. Manual dials (like the Dash) are simpler but less precise.

• Digital: Better for complex recipes, consistent results, and tech lovers.
• Manual: Fewer parts to break, easier to use, often cheaper.

I prefer digital for the presets, but if you’re not tech-savvy, a manual model might be less overwhelming.

Extra Features That Matter (and Some That Don’t)

Not all features are worth the extra cost. Here’s what to focus on:

• Worth It: Dual zones, app integration, non-stick dishwasher-safe baskets, preheat function.
• Nice but Not Essential: Built-in recipes (most are online), voice control, Wi-Fi.
• Skip It: Fancy LED lights, “smart” modes with no real benefit.

For example, the Cosori’s app has saved me when I’m cooking something new. But the “smart” modes on some models? They’re just gimmicks. Focus on core performance.

Noise Level and Size

Air fryers aren’t silent. Most run at 50–60 decibels—like a quiet conversation. But if you have a small kitchen or open floor plan, consider a quieter model (like the Cosori). Also, measure your counter space! The Ninja DualZone is 16” long—make sure it fits.

Black Friday Air Fryer Deals: What to Expect and How to Save

Historical Price Trends (2020–2022)

Black Friday air fryer deals follow a predictable pattern. Here’s what we’ve seen:

• Premium models (e.g., Philips, Ninja): 30–40% off. Last year, the Philips XXL dropped from $299 to $199.
• Mid-range (e.g., Cosori, Instant): 35–50% off. The Cosori went from $129 to $79.
• Budget models (e.g., Dash, GoWISE): 40–60% off. The Dash Compact dropped from $49 to $29.

These discounts usually start the week before Black Friday and last through Cyber Monday. Some retailers (like Amazon) offer “early access” deals for Prime members.

Where to Find the Best Deals

Not all retailers are equal. Here’s where to shop:

• Amazon: Huge selection, fast shipping, and lightning deals. Watch for “Subscribe & Save” bundles.
• Walmart: In-store pickup options, price-matching policy. Great for budget models.
• Best Buy: High-end models, extended warranties, and open-box deals.
• Target: Stylish options, Circle rewards, and free shipping.
• Brand Websites (Ninja, Cosori): Sometimes offer exclusive bundles (e.g., extra basket + recipe book).

Pro tip: Use price-tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) or Honey to see if a “deal” is actually a good price.

Bundle Deals and Freebies

Watch for bundles! Last year, Cosori offered a free recipe book and extra basket with purchase. Ninja had a “buy one, get 50% off second” deal. These add real value—especially if you’re buying for family.

Red Flags to Avoid

Not all Black Friday deals are legit. Watch out for:

• “Limited stock” scams: Retailers may advertise low stock to create urgency.
• Refurbished models sold as new: Check the description carefully.
• Fake reviews: Look for verified purchases and detailed feedback.

I once saw a “$199 Philips” that was actually a refurbished unit—avoid unless clearly labeled.

Air Fryer Tips, Tricks, and Maintenance

Getting the Most Out of Your Air Fryer

Even the best air fryer won’t perform if you don’t use it right. Here are my top tips:

• Preheat it: Like an oven, preheating (3–5 minutes) ensures even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed. Crowding = steaming, not crisping.
• Shake or flip halfway: For even browning, shake the basket or flip food at the halfway mark.
• Use a light oil spray: A quick mist of avocado or olive oil boosts crispiness.
• Reheat pizza or fries: Air fryers revive leftovers better than microwaves.

One of my favorite tricks? Making “oven-baked” potatoes in 20 minutes—no preheating, no oil, just fluffy inside and crispy skin.

Cleaning and Care

Cleaning is the #1 reason people stop using their air fryers. Here’s how to make it easy:

• Soak the basket: After cooking, let it soak in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes. Grease lifts right off.
• Use non-abrasive sponges: Steel wool can scratch non-stick coatings.
• Wipe the heating element: Use a damp cloth (when cool) to remove splatter. Never submerge the base.
• Check the manual: Some models have dishwasher-safe baskets; others don’t.

I once ruined a basket by using a metal spatula—now I only use silicone or wood.

Recipes to Try This Black Friday

Once you get your new air fryer, start with these crowd-pleasers:

• Air Fryer Chicken Wings: 20 minutes, 400°F, shake halfway. Toss with sauce at the end.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Spray with oil, 15 minutes at 375°F.
• Salmon Fillets: 10 minutes at 390°F—perfectly flaky, no mess.
• Reheated Pizza: 3 minutes at 350°F—crispy crust, gooey cheese.

Pro tip: Use parchment paper liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Final Thoughts: Is a Black Friday Air Fryer Worth It?

Let’s circle back to where we started: Is it worth buying an air fryer on Black Friday? In a word—yes. The savings are real, the selection is broad, and the timing couldn’t be better. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading to a smarter model, you’ll get more value for your money than at any other time of year.

But here’s the real win: an air fryer isn’t just a gadget. It’s a tool that changes how you cook. It makes healthy eating easier, saves time, and cuts down on kitchen mess. I’ve used mine so much, I’ve actually saved money on takeout. And with Black Friday deals, you’re not just buying an appliance—you’re investing in better meals, less stress, and more time with family.

So, as you scroll through those Black Friday ads, keep this guide handy. Look for models that fit your lifestyle, not just your budget. Prioritize capacity, ease of use, and real performance—not flashy features. And remember: the best air fryer is the one you’ll actually use every day.

Happy cooking—and happy saving!

Model	Capacity (QT)	Best For	Avg. Black Friday Price Drop	Key Feature
Ninja DualZone AF161	7	Families, dual cooking	30–40% off	Two independent baskets
Cosori Max XL	5.8	Tech lovers, presets	35–50% off	App integration, 13 presets
Instant Vortex Plus	6	Beginners, versatility	35–50% off	6-in-1 functions
Philips XXL	7.3	Large households, crispiness	30–40% off	Rapid Air Technology
Dash Compact	2.6	Singles, small spaces	40–60% off	Compact, colorful design

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best air fryer deals on Black Friday?

Black Friday offers significant discounts on top-rated air fryers from brands like Ninja, Cosori, and Instant Pot. Check retailer websites early for limited-time doorbusters and bundle deals to maximize savings. Our air fryer reviews and buying guide on Black Friday highlights the top models with the best value.

How do I choose the right air fryer during Black Friday sales?

Consider capacity (3–6 quarts for most households), wattage (1,500+ watts for faster cooking), and features like presets or dishwasher-safe baskets. Use our buying guide to compare models and prioritize energy efficiency and warranty terms.

Are Black Friday air fryers worth the hype?

Yes, if you research ahead—Black Friday often slashes prices by 30–50% on premium models. Avoid impulse buys by reading air fryer reviews to ensure the discounted model meets your cooking needs and durability expectations.

What size air fryer should I buy for my family?

A 3–4 quart air fryer suits 1–2 people, while 5–6 quarts are ideal for families of 3–4. Larger models (8+ quarts) work best for big households or frequent entertainers. Measure your kitchen space first to ensure a good fit.

Can I find air fryer bundles with accessories on Black Friday?

Absolutely! Many retailers bundle air fryers with racks, baking pans, or recipe books at no extra cost. These deals often sell out fast, so bookmark our guide for early alerts on the best bundles.

Do air fryers on sale during Black Friday have good warranties?

Most discounted models retain the manufacturer’s standard 1–2 year warranty, but verify details before buying. Our buying guide flags brands with extended warranty options or customer-friendly return policies to protect your purchase.