Finding the best air fryer to buy can be a daunting task with countless models flooding the market. To simplify your decision, we’ve meticulously researched and compiled a list of top-rated air fryers, taking cues from expert evaluations and real-world performance, akin to what you’d expect from comprehensive Consumer Reports air fryer reviews. Our guide focuses on units that deliver exceptional cooking results, user-friendliness, and durability, ensuring you make an informed choice for your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for advanced features, budget-friendly options, or superior cooking versatility, our roundup covers the cream of the crop, helping you discover the ideal air fryer for your culinary needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Air Fryer To Buy Consumer Reports Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Emeril Lagasse Large 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Digital, Stainless Steel
The Emeril Lagasse Large 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven stands out as a versatile multi-cooker, combining the functions of an air fryer, toaster oven, and more. This digital stainless steel appliance is designed to elevate your cooking experience, offering a spacious interior perfect for everything from quick snacks to family-sized meals. Its robust construction ensures durability, making it a reliable addition to any kitchen seeking premium performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO, capable of air frying, roasting, and more.
- ✓ Features PERFECTLY DONE TOAST with an automatic shut-off timer for consistent results.
- ✓ Utilizes a DUAL-SPEED FAN with 360º superheated air circulation for golden, crispy frying.
- ✓ Large 26QT capacity accommodates big meals and various cooking tasks efficiently.
- ✓ Digital controls provide precise temperature and time settings for optimal cooking.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this Emeril Lagasse model for its exceptional versatility and capacity. It’s an ideal choice for households that need a single appliance to handle multiple cooking methods, from air frying to toasting and roasting. Its ability to produce crispy results with minimal oil while also serving as a full-fledged toaster oven makes it a standout performer.
Best For
This air fryer is best for families or individuals who frequently cook for groups and desire a multifunctional appliance to replace several countertop units.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely versatile with multiple cooking functions (air fry, toast, roast, dehydrate, rotisserie).
- Large 26QT capacity suitable for substantial meals.
- French door design for easy access and viewing.
- Digital controls ensure precise temperature and time management.
Cons:
- Requires significant counter space due to its size.
- Can be pricier than traditional basket-style air fryers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love this Air Fryer! I’ve had it and been using it for several months this now. Really it’s a mini oven and does so much. Air fry, bake, dehydrator, a lot of baking options and rotisserie. Several racks and basket comes with. Sits well on counter top. I purchased because of the French double d”
Customer Review: “After searching high and low and reading through many reviews, I decided to order this countertop oven. I am not disappointed. I use this appliance every day. I have used regular egg shaped air fryers for years. So, I love the convenience of using air fryers to crisp up frozen stuff like personal p”
2. Ninja Foodi DZ550 10-Quart Smart XL Air Fryer with 6-in-1 DualZone, Two Baskets, and Thermometer.
The Ninja Foodi DZ550 10-Quart Smart XL Air Fryer redefines convenience with its innovative DualZone Technology and integrated Smart Thermometer. This model eliminates the need for back-to-back cooking, allowing you to prepare two different foods, in two different ways, that finish simultaneously. It’s a powerhouse for smart and efficient meal preparation, embodying the kind of smart design highlighted in leading air fryer reviews.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 2 FOODS, 2 WAYS, AT THE SAME TIME thanks to two independent XL air fryer baskets.
- ✓ SMART COOK SYSTEM with an integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer for perfect doneness.
- ✓ DUALZONE TECHNOLOGY with Smart Finish and Match Cook features for synchronized cooking.
- ✓ Generous 10-quart capacity ideal for larger families or entertaining.
- ✓ Offers 6-in-1 functionality including air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate, and air broil.
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja Foodi model earns our recommendation for its revolutionary DualZone technology, which solves the common problem of staggered cooking times. The Smart Cook System adds a layer of precision, making it incredibly easy to achieve perfectly cooked meats and sides. It’s a game-changer for busy kitchens.
Best For
The Ninja Foodi DZ550 is best for large families or individuals who frequently prepare multi-dish meals and appreciate smart, synchronized cooking technology.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooks two different foods simultaneously with independent temperature and time settings.
- Integrated thermometer ensures precise cooking results, eliminating guesswork.
- Large 10-quart capacity fits substantial quantities of food.
- Versatile with 6 cooking functions to cover a wide range of recipes.
Cons:
- Can be bulky, requiring ample counter space.
- The initial learning curve for mastering DualZone features might be steep for some.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “What a great value for a great air fryer. This one has the added bonus of 2 compartments that are both large enough and gives you the added bonus of cooking 2 items at once. It’s easy to use and very intuitive. The non stick works great. Another great Ninja product.”
Customer Review: “I have yet to find a complaint. I resisted an air fryer for years as too gimmicky to fool with as I have two convection ovens. I have utilized all or nearly all of the functions of this oven – as I seem to use it practically every day. There are so many advantages. The removable parts of this ov”
3. Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt Air Fryer: Ceramic Coating, Precise Heating for Versatile Cooking.
The Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt Air Fryer is an excellent choice for those seeking high performance without breaking the bank. It features innovative TurboBlaze Technology, delivering rapid and precise heating for perfectly crispy and juicy results. With its premium ceramic coating, this air fryer ensures durable, nonstick cooking, making it a strong contender for the best air fryer to buy in its price category.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Air Fryer Upgrade with innovative TurboBlaze Technology for a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed.
- ✓ Heating Upgrade with Cosori’s unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°– 450°F temperature control.
- ✓ Ceramic Coating Upgrade on the basket and crisper tray for a nonstick, durable, and heat-resistant surface.
- ✓ 6-quart capacity, suitable for small to medium-sized households.
- ✓ Sleek design with digital controls for ease of use.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Cosori TurboBlaze for its combination of advanced features and affordability. The TurboBlaze technology genuinely delivers superior crisping and faster cooking times, while the ceramic coating makes cleanup a breeze. It’s a great value proposition for anyone prioritizing performance and ease of maintenance.
Best For
This air fryer is best for budget-conscious buyers who still want advanced features like rapid cooking and a durable nonstick coating for everyday use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- TurboBlaze Technology ensures quick and even cooking with excellent crisping.
- Ceramic nonstick coating is durable and easy to clean.
- Precise temperature control (90°– 450°F) and 5-fan speed system for versatile cooking.
- Compact 6-quart size is ideal for smaller kitchens or families.
Cons:
- No dual-zone functionality for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.
- Only a 6-quart capacity, which might be limiting for larger meals or gatherings.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am not able to do a lot of cooking anymore, but my husband hasn’t retired and is a HungryMan.Any thing that can help is appreciated, and this machine has been a lifesaver. It is so fast, and so easy, and to put it simply, this air fryer makes delicious, beautiful meals at the push of a button.My h”
Customer Review: “This is a very good air fryer. Well worth the money. It comes in a dark gray or a light gray. (the light gray looks like stainless steel or shiney like aluminum in the pictures, but it is not, it is heavy plastic and very durable) We love it.Love that the digital setting are on top. It is so easy to”
4. Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer with 5QT Capacity: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate. Features Nonstick Basket.
The Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer with 5QT Capacity is a compact yet powerful kitchen appliance, perfect for individuals or smaller families. It harnesses Air Crisp Technology to deliver deliciously crispy results with little to no oil. Beyond air frying, it boasts roasting, reheating, and dehydrating functionalities, making it a versatile tool for everyday cooking and deserving a spot in discussions about the best air fryer to buy consumer reports.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY, using 400℉ superheated air for hot, crispy food.
- ✓ LARGE CAPACITY for its size, with a 5-QT nonstick basket accommodating up to 4 lbs of French fries.
- ✓ Offers 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- ✓ Includes a nonstick basket and crisper plate for easy cleaning.
- ✓ Intuitive controls for straightforward operation.
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja air fryer is recommended for its consistent performance in crisping and its compact, multi-functional design. It’s incredibly efficient for daily meals, quickly transforming ingredients into healthier, delicious dishes. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible for anyone new to air frying.
Best For
This air fryer is best for individuals, couples, or small families looking for a reliable, compact, and versatile air fryer that fits easily on the countertop.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent air crisping results with minimal oil.
- Compact design saves counter space.
- Offers four essential cooking functions in one appliance.
- Nonstick basket and crisper plate are easy to clean.
Cons:
- Limited capacity for cooking very large meals.
- No smart features or dual-zone cooking capabilities.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great Airfryer. Heats and cooks quickly & evenly. Cooks much faster than a regular oven. Easy to set cooking heat and timer. Perfect size for cooking several chicken cutlets or salmon fillets or burgers at the same time. I bought a second one so I can cook meat or fish in one and vegetables or Frenc”
Customer Review: “Always makes my food right, crispy, and perfectly. Better than a microwave and faster than an oven. I knew air fryers were good based on all the praise they get in media and at the work place. BUT DAMN ITS ACTUALLY GOOD. had it a few months now, hasn’t broke or anything, pretty decent to clean too.P”
5. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer
The Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer is another exceptional offering from Ninja, known for its groundbreaking DualZone Technology. With two independent baskets, this air fryer allows for simultaneous cooking of different foods at varying temperatures and times, all finishing together. Its 8-quart capacity and diverse cooking programs make it a top contender when considering the best air fryer to buy, consistently praised in Consumer Reports air fryer discussions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features 2 INDEPENDENT BASKETS, enabling cooking of two foods, two ways, at the same time.
- ✓ Utilizes SMART FINISH & MATCH COOK with DualZone Technology for synchronized cooking.
- ✓ Offers 6-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- ✓ Each basket has a nonstick coating and is easy to clean, even dishwasher safe.
- ✓ Intuitive digital display and controls for easy program selection and adjustments.
Why We Recommend It
The Ninja DZ201 is highly recommended for its powerful DualZone capabilities, which dramatically cut down on meal prep time. Its ability to handle diverse cooking needs simultaneously, combined with consistent performance, makes it an invaluable asset for busy kitchens aiming for efficiency and delicious results.
Best For
This air fryer is best for busy households, meal preppers, and larger families who benefit from cooking multiple dishes concurrently with perfect timing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simultaneous cooking of two different items, saving significant time.
- Versatile with 6 distinct cooking functions.
- Large 8-quart capacity split between two baskets.
- Easy to clean nonstick baskets, often dishwasher safe.
Cons:
- Takes up substantial counter space due to its dual-basket design.
- Can be relatively loud during operation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This Ninja Air Fryer is amazing! I tried frying hamburgers on the stove top and grease ended up all over the stove and me. However with this fryer, hamburger patties go in one basket and french fries go in the other basket. There is absolutely no mess in the kitchen after cooking and cleaning the ba”
Customer Review: “The Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart DualZone Air Fryer is hands-down the best kitchen appliance I’ve purchased in years. It’s not just an air fryer; it’s a full-on weeknight meal solution that saves time and guarantees perfect results. This is absolutely worth every penny!The DualZone Advantage (A True Ga”
6. Cuisinart Air Fryer, 6-Quart Basket Large Fryer with 5 Cooking Functions to Roast, Bake, Broil, A…
The Cuisinart Air Fryer, 6-Quart Basket Large Fryer, offers robust functionality with its 5 cooking functions and generous capacity. Known for its culinary appliances, Cuisinart delivers an air fryer that excels in more than just crisping; it can also roast, bake, broil, and keep warm. This makes it a versatile kitchen companion, consistently earning positive feedback in air fryer reviews for its performance and build quality.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ A VERSATILE AIR FRYER with a 6-quart internal capacity, fitting a 4 lb. chicken or 2 lb. of fries.
- ✓ Features 5 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Keep Warm.
- ✓ Includes 5 AIR FRY PRESETS for common foods like French Fries, Wings, and Vegetables.
- ✓ Large basket design ensures even cooking and allows for bigger batches.
- ✓ Intuitive digital controls for easy selection of functions and settings.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Cuisinart Air Fryer for its impressive versatility and user-friendly design. The array of cooking functions, combined with specific air fry presets, makes it incredibly easy to achieve delicious results across a wide range of dishes. Its large basket is also a huge plus for families.
Best For
This air fryer is best for home cooks who appreciate traditional cooking functions alongside air frying, and for families needing a larger capacity for everyday meals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Multifunctional with 5 cooking modes, expanding its utility beyond just air frying.
- Generous 6-quart capacity handles family-sized portions.
- Convenient presets simplify cooking for popular dishes.
- Reputable brand known for quality kitchen appliances.
Cons:
- Might not be as compact as some single-function air fryers.
- The basket-style design can limit visibility during cooking compared to oven-style models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Best air fryer I’ve ever had!I had a 6-quart and it was OK, but I often found that the food was crowded or that I had to cook in 2 batches. I chose the nine-quart for extra space between the food, resulting in crispier food, the window in front, and especially that it has an interior light that you “
Customer Review: “I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love my new air fryer. I’ve never had one before, and people have been telling me for years that I absolutely have to get one but I was always just like yeah right. Well I finally decided it was time and after a bit of research, I settled on this one. Rea”
7. CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Scre…
The CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer is a powerhouse appliance, offering a remarkable blend of functionalities including air frying, rotisserie, dehydrating, and convection oven cooking. With its spacious design and 17 preset touch screen options, it provides an all-in-one solution for diverse culinary needs. This unit stands out for its ability to deliver healthy, crispy meals with minimal oil, making it a strong contender for those looking for the best air fryer to buy with expanded capabilities.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile countertop cooking: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, and roast functions.
- ✓ Cook faster: No preheat necessary, uses rapid air heating elements for quick, even results.
- ✓ Healthy cooking made easy: Prepares meals using 98% less oil than traditional fryers.
- ✓ Features a 17-preset touch screen for simple operation and diverse meal options.
- ✓ Large capacity oven design to accommodate whole chickens or multiple dishes.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Chefman Multifunctional Air Fryer for its incredible versatility and efficiency. It consolidates multiple appliances into one, saving counter space while offering advanced cooking capabilities like rotisserie. The intuitive touch screen makes it easy to experiment with various recipes, delivering delicious and healthier food quickly.
Best For
This air fryer is best for adventurous home cooks and larger families who want a single appliance capable of a wide range of cooking methods, including specialized functions like rotisserie and dehydrating.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Combines multiple cooking functions (air fry, rotisserie, dehydrate, bake, roast) in one unit.
- Large capacity ideal for family-sized meals or entertaining.
- Rapid air heating ensures quick cooking without preheating.
- 17 touch screen presets simplify meal preparation.
Cons:
- Large footprint may be an issue for smaller kitchens.
- The interior can be challenging to clean thoroughly after heavy use, especially with rotisserie.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Cooks nice and even, very convenient. This was an investment that has paid off well. Not only does an air fryer cook evenly, food tastes better, but it’s so much more healthy to cook with. Plenty of settings to guide you through its various pre-settings and temp. control settings. You can cook so ma”
Customer Review: “Great buy for the price. It comes with everything you need to get cooking right out of the Box. I had a Toaster Oven I’ve had for 40 years and still worked great a Black and Decker, only issue is the grease built up over time and it caught on fire because I didn’t maintain it after about 30 years. I”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Air Fryer To Buy Consumer Reports
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best air fryer to buy, several critical factors come into play, influencing both performance and user satisfaction. Capacity is paramount; consider your household size and typical meal portions. For individuals or couples, 3-5 quarts might suffice, while families often benefit from 6 quarts or more, or even dual-basket models. Cooking functions also vary greatly; some air fryers offer just air frying, while others combine roasting, baking, dehydrating, and even rotisserie, providing greater versatility. The type of air fryer, whether a basket-style or an oven-style model, impacts cooking space and visibility. Temperature range and precision are vital for optimal cooking results, with broader ranges offering more flexibility. Lastly, ease of cleaning, including nonstick coatings and dishwasher-safe components, significantly contributes to the overall user experience.
Budget Planning
Air fryers are available across a wide price spectrum, making it important to establish your budget upfront when looking for the best air fryer to buy consumer reports would endorse. Entry-level models typically range from $50-$100, offering basic air frying capabilities. Mid-range options ($100-$200) often introduce larger capacities, additional cooking functions, and improved digital controls. Premium models, exceeding $200, usually feature advanced technologies like dual-zone cooking, smart connectivity, integrated thermometers, and higher-quality materials. Consider how frequently you’ll use the appliance and which features are truly essential to avoid overspending or regretting a purchase that lacks necessary functionalities. Remember that investing a little more often translates to better durability and more consistent performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right air fryer is about balancing your specific cooking needs with available features and your budget. The models we’ve reviewed represent some of the top air fryers on the market, each excelling in different aspects from multi-functionality to smart technology or affordability. By carefully considering capacity, cooking modes, ease of use, and cleaning, you can select an air fryer that will not only enhance your kitchen but also consistently deliver delicious, healthier meals. Referencing these consumer reports recommended air fryer insights will ensure you find a product that meets and exceeds your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ideal capacity for an air fryer?
A: The ideal capacity depends on your household size. For 1-2 people, a 2-4 quart air fryer is usually sufficient. For 3-4 people, a 5-7 quart model is recommended. Larger families or those who frequently entertain might need 8 quarts or more, or a dual-basket air fryer.
Q: Are air fryers truly healthier than deep frying?
A: Yes, air fryers are generally much healthier than traditional deep frying. They use hot air circulation to crisp food, requiring significantly less (often 75-90% less) oil than deep frying, leading to lower fat and calorie intake.
Q: Can I cook anything in an air fryer?
A: While air fryers are incredibly versatile, they are best suited for foods that benefit from a crispy exterior, like fries, chicken wings, vegetables, and frozen snacks. Foods with a thin, watery batter may not crisp up as well, and delicate items like cheese might melt excessively before browning.
Q: How do I clean my air fryer effectively?
A: Most air fryer baskets and trays have a nonstick coating and can be hand-washed with warm, soapy water. Many are also dishwasher-safe. For the interior, wipe down with a damp cloth after each use once the unit has cooled. Avoid abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that could damage the coating.
Q: What are the main differences between basket-style and oven-style air fryers?
A: Basket-style air fryers are typically more compact and excel at air frying, with food requiring shaking during cooking. Oven-style air fryers (like air fryer toaster ovens) offer more cooking functions like roasting, baking, and rotisserie, often have a larger capacity, and allow for better visibility of food during cooking, but take up more counter space.
Choosing the best air fryer to buy consumer reports would highly recommend is about finding the perfect blend of features, capacity, and performance for your lifestyle. Our detailed reviews and comprehensive buying guide aim to empower you with all the information needed to make an excellent decision. We hope this roundup has helped you narrow down your choices and feel confident in selecting an air fryer that will bring crispy, delicious, and healthier meals to your table. Explore our top picks and click through to find the ideal air fryer for your home today!