Welcome to our comprehensive guide on finding the best air fryer you can buy! In today’s health-conscious world, air fryers have become an indispensable kitchen appliance, offering a healthier way to enjoy your favorite fried foods with significantly less oil. Whether you’re aiming for crispy fries, succulent chicken wings, or perfectly roasted vegetables, an air fryer can deliver exceptional results. With so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be daunting. Our expert team has rigorously tested and reviewed the top contenders to help you make an informed decision, focusing on performance, capacity, features, and overall value. Get ready to discover the perfect air fryer that fits your culinary needs and lifestyle!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Air Fryer You Can Buy Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Emeril Lagasse 26QT Stainless Steel French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven with 24 Digital Functions
The Emeril Lagasse 26QT Stainless Steel French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a culinary powerhouse, combining the versatility of a multi-cooker with the efficiency of an air fryer. Its generous 26-quart capacity and French door design make it a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen, capable of handling meals for large families or gatherings. With 24 digital functions, this appliance empowers you to explore a vast array of cooking methods, ensuring perfectly prepared dishes every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 24 Digital Functions: Offers a wide range of cooking options from air frying to roasting, baking, broiling, and more.
- ✓ Versatile Multi-Cooker Combo: Functions as an air fryer, toaster oven, rotisserie, dehydrator, and more in one sleek appliance.
- ✓ Perfectly Done Toast: Features an automatic shut-off and indicator light for consistent, non-burnt toast.
- ✓ Dual-Speed Fan & 360º Air Circulation: Ensures golden-fried crisping and even cooking with superheated air.
- ✓ Large 26QT Capacity: Accommodates large meals, ideal for families or entertaining guests.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven for its incredible versatility and robust performance. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to consolidate multiple kitchen appliances into one high-performing unit. The French door design and stainless steel finish also add a touch of elegance to your countertop, while its intuitive digital controls make gourmet cooking accessible to everyone.
Best For
This appliance is best for large families, avid home cooks, or anyone who enjoys experimenting with diverse cooking methods and requires a high-capacity, multi-functional kitchen tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with 24 digital functions.
- Large 26-quart capacity suitable for big meals.
- Elegant stainless steel design with convenient French doors.
- Achieves superior crisping and even cooking.
Cons:
- Can be quite large for smaller kitchen spaces.
- Higher price point compared to basic air fryers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Had tried a different air fryer previously, one of the basket type models. The thing was inconvenient, a pain to wash, and limited capacity. We tried it twice and gave it away. This thing is amazing. The capacity is huge (Emeril makes another one with two zones that’s even bigger!) It does everythin
Customer Review: My boyfriend loves his pot pies and this was the perfect thing for him to make them in. He probably eats one almost every day. The turn dial makes it super easy to control what cooking type you want, temperature and time. It is easy to use. It is well made and does fit on my counter in the corner, b
2. Ninja 10-Quart DualZone Smart Air Fryer with Thermometer, Match Cook, and Smart Finish
The Ninja 10-Quart DualZone Smart Air Fryer is a game-changer for efficient meal preparation, allowing you to cook two different foods in two different ways simultaneously. Its innovative DualZone Technology, coupled with the integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer, takes the guesswork out of cooking. Enjoy perfectly timed meals with its Smart Finish and Match Cook features, making it one of the best air fryers you can buy for busy households.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DualZone Technology: Cook two separate dishes with different settings that finish at the same time.
- ✓ Smart Cook System: Integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer ensures perfect doneness every time.
- ✓ Match Cook Feature: Easily syncs settings across both baskets for larger batches of the same food.
- ✓ 10-Quart Capacity: Two independent XL baskets offer ample space for family-sized meals.
- ✓ Smart Finish Feature: Intelligently manages cooking times so both baskets finish simultaneously.
Why We Recommend It
For unparalleled efficiency and smart cooking, the Ninja 10-Quart DualZone is an absolute standout. Its ability to handle two separate cooking tasks at once eliminates the need for back-to-back cooking, saving you considerable time. The smart thermometer guarantees culinary precision, making it a top choice for those who value convenience and perfection in their kitchen.
Best For
This air fryer is ideal for families, individuals who often prepare multi-course meals, or anyone looking to minimize cooking time without compromising on quality or precise doneness.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooks two distinct foods simultaneously, finishing at the same time.
- Integrated thermometer ensures precise cooking results.
- Large 10-quart capacity with two independent baskets.
- User-friendly interface with Smart Finish and Match Cook features.
Cons:
- Can be bulky on smaller countertops.
- Initial learning curve for maximizing DualZone features.
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. Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer for Frying, Roasting, Reheating, and Dehydrating with a 5QT Nonstick Basket
The Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer is an excellent entry-level option that doesn’t skimp on performance or functionality. Featuring Ninja’s renowned Air Crisp Technology, this 5-quart model delivers perfectly crispy results using minimal oil. Its compact design and versatile 4-in-1 capabilities make it a superb choice for individuals or small families seeking a reliable and efficient air fryer that also roasts, reheats, and dehydrates.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Air Crisp Technology: Utilizes 400℉ superheated air for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
- ✓ 4-in-1 Functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate, offering diverse cooking options.
- ✓ 5-Quart Nonstick Basket: Generous capacity fits up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- ✓ Easy to Clean: Nonstick basket and crisper plate make cleanup quick and hassle-free.
- ✓ Compact Design: Ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja air fryer stands out for its impressive performance at an accessible price point, making it the best budget air fryer you can buy. It consistently delivers beautifully crispy food, mimicking deep-frying textures without the added fat. The intuitive controls and easy cleaning add to its appeal, making it a fantastic everyday appliance for quick and healthy meals.
Best For
Perfect for individuals, couples, or small families, and anyone new to air frying who wants a reliable, multi-functional appliance without a significant investment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for its performance and features.
- Achieves consistently crispy and delicious results.
- Versatile 4-in-1 cooking capabilities.
- Easy to use and clean, with a nonstick basket.
Cons:
- Single basket limits cooking two items at different settings.
- 5-quart capacity might be small for larger families.
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
4. Ninja DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer with Match Cook and Smart Finish
The Ninja DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer is another stellar offering from Ninja, designed for maximum convenience and efficiency. With two independent baskets and an impressive 8-quart capacity, it allows you to cook diverse meals simultaneously. Its 6-in-1 functionality expands your culinary possibilities beyond just air frying, making it a versatile staple for any modern kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DualZone Technology: Features two independent baskets to cook different foods at different settings concurrently.
- ✓ Smart Finish & Match Cook: Synchronizes cooking times so both meals are ready simultaneously or cooks large batches evenly.
- ✓ 6-in-1 Functionality: Includes Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate for ultimate versatility.
- ✓ 8-Quart Capacity: Provides generous space across two baskets for family meals or batch cooking.
- ✓ Easy Cleanup: Baskets are designed for easy cleaning, including being dishwasher-safe.
Why We Recommend It
The Ninja DZ201 is a highly recommended air fryer for its exceptional dual-zone capability and extensive cooking functions. It streamlines meal preparation, allowing you to create complete meals efficiently. Its robust build and user-friendly controls make it a joy to use daily, proving that dual-basket air fryers are among the best air fryers you can buy for busy lifestyles.
Best For
Ideal for medium to large families, meal preppers, or anyone who frequently cooks multiple dishes at once and desires advanced features for synchronized cooking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooks two different foods at once with separate settings.
- 6 versatile cooking programs for diverse meal prep.
- Smart Finish feature ensures all food is ready together.
- Easy to clean components, including dishwasher-safe baskets.
Cons:
- Requires significant counter space due to its size.
- Preset functions might not cover every specific cooking need.
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
5. Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer: The Best for Air Frying, Roasting, Baking, and More
The Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer is a versatile and compact appliance that excels at delivering quick, healthy meals. With its 6-quart internal capacity, it’s perfectly sized for a range of cooking tasks, from a whole chicken to a batch of fries. Offering five distinct cooking functions and five convenient air fry presets, this Cuisinart model makes achieving delicious, crispy results easier than ever, solidifying its place among the best air fryers you can buy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile 6-Quart Capacity: Spacious enough to handle a 4 lb. chicken or 2 lbs. of fries.
- ✓ 5 Cooking Functions: Includes Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Keep Warm for comprehensive meal prep.
- ✓ 5 Air Fry Presets: Dedicated settings for French Fries, Wings, Vegetables, Frozen Snacks, and Leftovers for one-touch convenience.
- ✓ Intuitive Digital Controls: Easy-to-use interface for precise temperature and time adjustments.
- ✓ Compact Footprint: Designed to fit comfortably on most kitchen countertops.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer for its balanced combination of capacity, versatility, and user-friendliness. It consistently produces excellent air-fried results, and its additional cooking functions make it a true multi-tasker. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a reliable and efficient air fryer that can handle a variety of culinary needs without occupying excessive counter space.
Best For
This air fryer is best for individuals, couples, or small families looking for a versatile appliance that handles daily cooking tasks with ease, from crispy snacks to roasted dinners.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good capacity for its compact size.
- Offers 5 diverse cooking functions in one unit.
- Convenient air fry presets for popular dishes.
- Reliable performance for consistently crispy results.
Cons:
- Single basket limits simultaneous cooking of different items.
- Lacks smart features found in higher-end 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
Complete Buying Guide for Best Air Fryer You Can Buy
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best air fryer you can buy, several critical factors come into play beyond just the price tag. First, capacity is paramount; consider your household size and typical portion needs. A 2-3 quart model might suffice for individuals or couples, while families often benefit from 5+ quart options or even larger air fryer toaster ovens. Next, look at power and temperature range; higher wattage usually means faster preheating and more consistent cooking. A wide temperature range offers greater versatility for various recipes. The number of functions is also important. Basic models simply air fry, but many modern units offer roasting, baking, dehydrating, reheating, and even toasting functions, making them true multi-taskers. User-friendly controls and presets can significantly enhance your cooking experience, simplifying complex recipes. Finally, ease of cleaning is crucial—look for non-stick, dishwasher-safe components to make post-meal cleanup a breeze.
Budget Planning
Setting a budget is a practical first step when deciding which is the best air fryer you can buy. Prices can vary widely, from under $100 for basic, compact models to $300+ for large, multi-functional appliances with advanced features like dual zones and smart connectivity. More expensive models often come with increased capacity, more cooking presets, integrated thermometers, and higher build quality, potentially saving you money on other kitchen gadgets. However, even budget-friendly air fryers can offer excellent performance for essential air frying tasks. Evaluate your needs and how frequently you’ll use the appliance. Investing in a slightly more expensive model might be worthwhile if you plan to use it daily and for diverse cooking.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best air fryer you can buy ultimately depends on your individual cooking habits, kitchen space, and budget. Whether you prioritize a large capacity for family meals, smart features for hands-off cooking, or a compact design for small kitchens, there’s an air fryer out there for you. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and reviewing our top recommendations, you’re well-equipped to find an appliance that will revolutionize your meal prep, delivering delicious, crispy, and healthier food with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an air fryer and how does it work?
A: An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, typically at temperatures ranging from 300°F to 400°F (150°C to 200°C). This process, known as convection, creates a crispy, fried-like texture on the outside while keeping the inside moist, using little to no oil. It mimics the results of deep-frying but with significantly less fat.
Q: Are air-fried foods really healthier?
A: Yes, air-fried foods are generally healthier than deep-fried foods. By using hot air instead of oil to cook, air fryers can reduce the fat content of dishes by 70% to 80% or more. This reduction in fat also typically leads to a decrease in calories, making it a better option for those aiming for a healthier diet without sacrificing taste.
Q: What kinds of food can you cook in an air fryer?
A: The versatility of an air fryer is surprising! You can cook a vast range of foods, including French fries, chicken wings and nuggets, fish fillets, vegetables (like broccoli, brussels sprouts, potatoes), certain baked goods (like muffins or cookies), and even reheat leftovers. Larger or more advanced models can also roast whole chickens, bake, broil, and dehydrate.
Q: How do I clean my air fryer?
A: Cleaning an air fryer is usually straightforward. Most models have removable baskets, trays, or racks that are non-stick and often dishwasher-safe. For thorough cleaning, wash these components with warm, soapy water after each use. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and a mild detergent, ensuring it’s completely dry before storing. Avoid abrasive scrubbers to protect the non-stick coating.
Q: What capacity air fryer should I buy?
A: The ideal air fryer capacity depends on your household size. For 1-2 people, a 2-3 quart model is usually sufficient. For 2-4 people, a 4-6 quart air fryer is a good choice. If you’re cooking for 4+ people or frequently prepare larger meals, consider an 8-quart or larger model, or a multi-functional air fryer toaster oven.
We hope this detailed guide has helped you on your quest for the best air fryer you can buy. Each of the models reviewed offers unique benefits, from expansive capacities and smart features to budget-friendly efficiency. Whichever you choose, incorporating an air fryer into your kitchen is sure to make mealtime healthier, faster, and more delicious. Don’t wait to upgrade your cooking experience; click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to explore the options and start your journey to perfectly crispy, guilt-free meals today!