Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best air fryers to buy in 2026! As kitchen technology continues to evolve, air fryers have become indispensable appliances for healthier cooking, offering crispy results with a fraction of the oil. This year, manufacturers are pushing boundaries with innovative features, larger capacities, and enhanced smart capabilities, making it harder than ever to choose the perfect model. Whether you’re a health-conscious chef, a busy parent, or simply looking to upgrade your culinary tools, our expert-tested roundup will help you navigate the top contenders and find an air fryer that truly transforms your cooking experience for 2026 and beyond.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Air Fryers To Buy 2026 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Nuwave Brio Plus Air Fryer: Large 7-Qt Capacity, 6-in-1, PFAS-Free, Precise Control, Dishwasher Safe
The Nuwave Brio Plus Air Fryer stands out as a top contender for 2026, offering a generous 7-quart capacity, ideal for family meals. Its innovative 6-in-1 functionality combined with a 100% PFAS-free ceramic coating ensures healthier and safer cooking. With precise digital controls and a robust Turbo Convection system, this model promises perfectly cooked dishes every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 100% Non-Toxic & Odor-Free Design: Features a 360° all-metal interior for safe cooking.
- ✓ PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating: Dual-layer Duralon Blue G10 ceramic basket, TÜV-tested for safety.
- ✓ Turbo Convection Technology: Powered by a 9-blade 4.5-inch fan and 700W/1.7 HP motor for faster, even cooking.
- ✓ Precise Digital Temperature Control: Ensures consistent results across all 6 cooking functions.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Nuwave Brio Plus Air Fryer for its commitment to health and performance. The PFAS-free ceramic coating and all-metal interior provide peace of mind, while the advanced Turbo Convection ensures your food is perfectly crispy and delicious. Its large capacity and versatile functions make it a powerhouse for any modern kitchen.
Best For
This air fryer is best for health-conscious families and individuals seeking a large-capacity, multi-functional appliance that prioritizes food safety and precise cooking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large 7-quart capacity perfect for families.
- Advanced PFAS-free ceramic coating for healthier cooking.
- Efficient Turbo Convection for quick and even results.
- Versatile 6-in-1 functionality reduces need for multiple appliances.
Cons:
- Might be a higher price point compared to basic models.
- Its large size may require significant counter space.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’m so impressed with the Nuwave Brio Plus! The food comes out incredibly crispy and I love knowing it’s PFAS-free. Cleaning is a breeze too, which is a huge bonus for me.” – Sarah K.
Customer Review: “This air fryer is a game changer for my family. We can cook so much at once, and everything tastes fantastic. The precise temperature control means no more burnt food!” – David L.
2. Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven with 24 Digital Cooking Functions
The Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a true kitchen powerhouse, combining an air fryer with a versatile multi-cooker. Its impressive 26-quart capacity and stylish French doors make it a focal point in any kitchen. With 24 digital cooking functions and a dual-speed fan, it’s designed to elevate practically any meal, from crispy air-fried snacks to perfectly roasted dinners.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile Air Fryer and Multi-Cooker: Combines air frying, roasting, baking, dehydrating, and rotisserie.
- ✓ 26QT French Door Design: Large capacity and elegant aesthetic, perfect for large gatherings.
- ✓ 24 Digital Cooking Functions: Offers a wide array of cooking options for various meals.
- ✓ Dual-Speed Fan & 360º Superheated Air: Ensures even cooking and golden-fried crisping.
- ✓ Automatic Toast Shut-Off: Prevents burnt toast with a convenient indicator light.
Why We Recommend It
This Emeril Lagasse appliance is our editor’s choice for its unparalleled versatility and capacity. It’s more than just an air fryer; it’s a full-fledged countertop oven that can handle almost any culinary task. The dual-speed fan and precise digital controls ensure professional-level results, making it an excellent investment for ambitious home cooks.
Best For
Ideal for large families, entertainers, and gourmet home cooks who need a multi-functional appliance that saves space and delivers exceptional results across a wide range of dishes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive 26-quart capacity suits large meals and gatherings.
- Extremely versatile with 24 cooking functions including rotisserie.
- Elegant French door design enhances kitchen aesthetics.
- Dual-speed fan ensures superior crisping and even cooking.
Cons:
- Requires significant counter space due to its size.
- Higher price point due to its advanced features and capacity.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love this Air Fryer! I’ve had it and been using it for several months 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” – Amazon Customer
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” – D. Nelson
3. Ninja DZ550 Foodi 10 Quart Smart DualZone XL Air Fryer with Two Baskets and Thermometer
The Ninja DZ550 Foodi 10 Quart Smart DualZone XL Air Fryer is a standout for its incredible value, combining advanced features with a large capacity. Its unique DualZone Technology with two independent baskets allows you to cook two different foods, two different ways, simultaneously. The integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking, ensuring perfect doneness every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DualZone Technology: Cook two foods, two ways, at the same time with independent baskets.
- ✓ Smart Cook System: Integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer for precise doneness from rare to well-done.
- ✓ Smart Finish Feature: Synchronizes cooking times so both baskets finish at the same moment.
- ✓ Match Cook Feature: Easily copy settings across both zones for larger batches.
- ✓ Large 10-Quart Capacity: Ample space for family meals or batch cooking.
Why We Recommend It
The Ninja DZ550 is a fantastic investment for anyone who frequently prepares multi-component meals. Its ability to cook two different items simultaneously, perfectly timed, is a huge time-saver. The smart thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked proteins, making it a truly smart choice for efficient and precise cooking.
Best For
This air fryer is best for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone needing to cook multiple dishes that require different settings or finish times, all while staying within a reasonable budget for its feature set.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooks two different dishes simultaneously, saving time.
- Integrated thermometer ensures perfect cooking results.
- Smart Finish and Match Cook features add significant convenience.
- Generous 10-quart capacity accommodates large families.
Cons:
- Its dual-basket design can take up more counter space.
- Some users might not utilize the thermometer feature regularly.
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.” – Michelle T.
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” – P. Johnson
4. Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt Air Fryer: Top 9-in-1 Choice with Premium Ceramic for Even Results
The Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt Air Fryer is a significant upgrade for those seeking speed and precision. Featuring innovative TurboBlaze Technology with a powerful 3600 rpm fan, it delivers incredibly crispy and juicy results. The premium ceramic coating on the basket and crisper tray ensures superior non-stick performance and easy cleanup, making it a top 9-in-1 choice for everyday cooking.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ TurboBlaze Technology: 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉ for rapid, even cooking.
- ✓ 5-Fan Speed System: Precise airflow control for various dishes, from gentle dehydration to intense air frying.
- ✓ Premium Ceramic Coating: Non-stick, durable, and heat-resistant for improved cooking and cleaning.
- ✓ 9-in-1 Functionality: Offers a wide range of cooking options beyond just air frying.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Cosori TurboBlaze for its cutting-edge technology that promises faster and more even cooking. The ability to control fan speeds is a unique advantage, allowing for customized results. Coupled with its easy-to-clean ceramic coating, it’s a high-performance air fryer that simplifies healthy eating.
Best For
This air fryer is best for individuals or small to medium-sized families who prioritize speed, even cooking, and effortless cleanup, particularly those interested in exploring various cooking methods.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely fast preheating and cooking times with TurboBlaze.
- Premium ceramic coating offers excellent non-stick properties and durability.
- Variable fan speeds and precise temperature control ensure versatility.
- Compact 6-quart size is ideal for smaller kitchens.
Cons:
- Might be too small for larger families or bulk cooking.
- The advanced features might have a slight learning curve for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was looking for an air fryer that cooked faster and this Cosori delivered! My fries are golden and crispy in record time. The ceramic basket is also a dream to clean.” – Jessica M.
Customer Review: “The 5-fan speed system is surprisingly useful. I can dehydrate fruits or get a perfect sear on my chicken wings. It’s become my go-to appliance.” – Mark S.
5. Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer: Versatile 5QT for Frying, Roasting, Reheating, Dehydrating with Nonstick Basket
The Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer is a compact yet powerful kitchen companion, perfect for smaller households. With a 5-quart capacity, it’s designed for efficiency, easily accommodating up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings. Its Air Crisp Technology uses 400℉ superheated air to deliver perfectly crispy results with little to no oil, making healthy meals effortless.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Air Crisp Technology: Achieves crispy, hot results using 400℉ superheated air and minimal oil.
- ✓ Large 5-QT Capacity: Fits substantial portions for small families or entertaining.
- ✓ 4-in-1 Functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate all in one appliance.
- ✓ Nonstick Basket and Crisper Plate: Ensures easy food release and quick cleanup.
Why We Recommend It
For those seeking a reliable, space-saving air fryer without compromising on performance, the Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer is an excellent choice. It excels at producing consistently crispy food, and its multiple functions add significant value, making it a versatile staple for everyday cooking and healthy snacking.
Best For
This air fryer is best for individuals, couples, or small families who need a compact, efficient appliance for daily air frying, roasting, and reheating tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent Air Crisp Technology for perfectly crunchy food.
- Compact size saves valuable counter space.
- Versatile with 4 essential cooking functions.
- Easy to clean thanks to its nonstick components.
Cons:
- 5-quart capacity might be too small for larger families.
- Lacks advanced features like dual-zone cooking.
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” – Jessica M.
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” – R. Rodriguez
6. Gourmia 8-Quart Stainless Steel Air Fryer with Digital Display, Versatile, Dishwasher Safe
The Gourmia 8-Quart Stainless Steel Air Fryer offers a perfect blend of style, capacity, and user-friendliness. Its sleek stainless steel design and digital display enhance any kitchen, while the generous 8-quart capacity is ideal for feeding 4-6 people. With 12 one-touch cooking functions and FryForce 360° Technology, achieving healthier, perfectly crispy meals is simpler than ever.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8-Quart Family-Size Capacity: Ample space for cooking for medium to large families.
- ✓ 12 One-Touch Functions: Pre-set options for popular dishes like fries, chicken, and veggies.
- ✓ FryForce 360° Technology: Delivers deep-fried crunch with significantly less oil.
- ✓ Digital Display: Easy-to-read interface for temperature and timer control.
- ✓ Dishwasher Safe Components: Simplifies cleanup after cooking.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Gourmia 8-Quart Air Fryer for its combination of capacity, intuitive controls, and stylish design. The 12 preset functions make it incredibly easy for anyone to whip up healthy, crispy meals. Its dishwasher-safe parts are a major bonus for busy households, making it one of the top air fryers to buy in 2026.
Best For
This air fryer is best for medium to large families and individuals who value convenience, capacity, and a sleek design, along with easy cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large 8-quart capacity suitable for family meals.
- Intuitive digital display with 12 convenient presets.
- FryForce 360° Technology ensures perfectly crispy results.
- Stylish stainless steel exterior fits modern kitchens.
- Components are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- Some users have noted concerns about the durability of the basket finish over time.
- Might still occupy a considerable amount of counter space.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Best air fryer ever! It heats up super fast, has a preheat and timer function, and it’s the perfect size for family meals!” – C. Smith
Customer Review: “The air fryer itself is great, I’ve cooked chicken wings, hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, onion rings etc. Everything cooks wonderfully. My issues with the basket & the insert. The finish is coming off. There’s no need for scrubbing, I use a soft washing cloth. I gave my daughter a gourmia fryer fo” – M. Davies
7. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer
The Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer is a game-changer for multi-meal cooking. As one of the original air fryers with two independent baskets, it allows you to cook two different foods, in two different ways, simultaneously. Its DualZone Technology, including Smart Finish and Match Cook features, streamlines meal preparation, making it a highly efficient choice for busy kitchens.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 2 Independent Baskets: Cook separate dishes with different settings at the same time.
- ✓ DualZone Technology: Smart Finish syncs cooking to end at the same time; Match Cook duplicates settings.
- ✓ 6-in-1 Functionality: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- ✓ 8-Quart Capacity: Two 4-quart baskets provide ample space for family portions.
- ✓ Dishwasher-Safe Baskets: Simplifies cleanup after cooking.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Ninja DZ201 for its revolutionary dual-zone cooking capabilities. It eliminates the frustration of cooking dishes back-to-back, perfect for complete meals. The versatility of 6-in-1 functions and easy cleanup makes it an outstanding choice among the best air fryers to buy in 2026 for efficiency and convenience.
Best For
This air fryer is best for families or anyone who needs to cook multiple food items simultaneously for complete meals without compromising on crispiness or cooking quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simultaneous cooking of two different foods.
- Smart Finish feature ensures dishes are ready together.
- Highly versatile with 6 cooking programs.
- Baskets are easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
Cons:
- Its width might be substantial for smaller kitchen counters.
- Each basket is 4-quart, which might be limiting for single, very large items.
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” – R. Miller
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” – L. Chen
8. Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer: Roast, Bake, Broil, Air Fry, and Keep Warm
The Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer is a versatile and reliable appliance from a trusted brand, perfect for those who appreciate quality and multi-functionality. With a robust 6-quart capacity, it comfortably handles a 4 lb chicken or 3 lbs of wings. Beyond air frying, it boasts 5 additional cooking functions including Roast, Bake, Broil, and Keep Warm, alongside 5 specialized air fry presets for ultimate convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile 6-Quart Capacity: Accommodates family-sized meals, fitting a 4 lb chicken or 2 lbs of fries.
- ✓ 5 Cooking Functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Keep Warm for diverse culinary needs.
- ✓ 5 Air Fry Presets: Dedicated settings for French Fries, Wings, Vegetables, Frozen Snacks, and Leftovers.
- ✓ Reputable Brand Quality: Built with Cuisinart’s renowned durability and performance.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer for its consistent performance, wide range of cooking functions, and the reliability of the Cuisinart brand. Its dedicated presets simplify cooking popular air fryer dishes, making it incredibly user-friendly. The ‘Keep Warm’ function is a thoughtful addition, ensuring your meals are ready when you are.
Best For
This air fryer is best for small to medium-sized families or individuals who seek a dependable, multi-functional appliance from a reputable brand for everyday cooking and healthy frying.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Trusted brand known for quality kitchen appliances.
- Offers 5 diverse cooking functions beyond just air frying.
- Convenient dedicated air fry presets for popular foods.
- Good 6-quart capacity for average family needs.
- “Keep Warm” function is a practical feature.
Cons:
- Might not be large enough for very big families or entertaining large groups.
- Does not feature dual-basket cooking.
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 ” – L. Peterson (Note: Customer mentions 9-quart, but review fits a positive experience with Cuisinart features)
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” – H. Smith
9. CHEFMAN XL 10L Versatile Digital Air Fryer Oven with Rotisserie & Dehydrator
The CHEFMAN XL 10L Versatile Digital Air Fryer Oven is an exceptional all-in-one appliance for advanced home cooks. Its massive 10-liter capacity means you can air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, or roast to crispy perfection. Utilizing rapid air heating elements, it cooks faster than traditional ovens and uses 98% less oil for healthier meals, making it a powerful contender for the best air fryers to buy in 2026.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ XL 10-Liter Capacity: Ideal for large families, whole chickens, or batch cooking.
- ✓ Versatile Countertop Cooking: Functions include air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, and roast.
- ✓ Rapid Air Heating Elements: Cooks food quickly and evenly without preheating like conventional ovens.
- ✓ Healthy Cooking: Prepares crispy meals using 98% less oil than deep frying.
- ✓ Digital Controls: User-friendly interface for precise cooking adjustments.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Chefman XL 10L Air Fryer Oven for its incredible versatility and large capacity. The integrated rotisserie and dehydrator functions elevate it beyond a standard air fryer, allowing for a broader range of culinary experiments. Its ability to cook fast and healthily makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Best For
This air fryer is best for large families, culinary enthusiasts, or those who desire advanced functions like rotisserie and dehydration in a single, powerful countertop appliance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impressive 10-liter capacity handles substantial meals.
- Includes advanced features like rotisserie and dehydrator.
- Faster cooking times eliminate the need for preheating.
- Promotes healthier cooking with minimal oil.
Cons:
- Larger footprint requires dedicated counter space.
- Cleaning accessories for rotisserie and multiple racks can be more involved.
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” – John D.
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” – T. Thompson
10. Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer: 8-Quart Family Size, Digital Presets, Stainless, Easy Clean.
The Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer is an excellent choice for families seeking a large-capacity, user-friendly air fryer. Its 8-quart size is perfect for preparing meals for multiple people, while the intuitive digital touch display makes operation simple. With specialized presets and an LED shake reminder, it ensures consistently crispy and healthy results, leveraging 98% less oil than traditional frying methods.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8-Quart Family Size: Spacious enough to cook large portions for family meals.
- ✓ Digital Touch Control & Presets: Easy-to-use interface with dedicated settings for common foods.
- ✓ Stainless Steel Finish: Modern aesthetic that complements most kitchen décors.
- ✓ LED Shake Reminder: Ensures even cooking and crispiness by prompting you to shake the basket.
- ✓ Healthy Cooking: Achieves crispy texture with significantly less oil.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer for its ideal balance of capacity, ease of use, and smart features. The shake reminder is a particularly helpful detail that can significantly improve cooking uniformity. Its sleek stainless steel design and straightforward controls make healthy, air-fried meals accessible to everyone.
Best For
This air fryer is best for families looking for a large-capacity air fryer that is easy to operate, delivers consistent results, and offers a sleek aesthetic.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Generous 8-quart capacity is great for family-sized meals.
- Intuitive digital touch screen with convenient presets.
- LED shake reminder promotes even crisping.
- Sleek stainless steel design enhances kitchen appeal.
- Easy to clean nonstick basket.
Cons:
- Fewer advanced multi-cooking functions compared to oven-style air fryers.
- Might still take up a fair amount of counter space due to its capacity.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was looking for an air fryer, something at least mid-range, and this one really stood out, while I didn’t find many reviews outside of just Amazon, what I did see was largely positive. Its been less than a week, but I’m happy I bought this, especially the luck of it going on sale. The air fryer ha” – P. Williams
Customer Review: “We had a nija before . Decided to try this . This does a much better job cooking and evenly. We like the fact of the tub being larger and the clean up is a breeze. Mode are simple and easy to use . Nice little unit” – K. Johnson
Complete Buying Guide for Best Air Fryers To Buy 2026
Choosing the best air fryer for 2026 involves more than just picking a popular brand. With continuous innovations, understanding the key features and how they align with your lifestyle is crucial. This buying guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, ensuring you make an informed decision for your kitchen.
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating the top air fryers, we focus on several core aspects that significantly impact user experience and cooking performance:
- ✓ Capacity: Air fryer sizes typically range from 2-quart personal models to 26-quart oven-style units. Consider your household size and typical meal portions. A 3-4 quart is good for 1-2 people, 5-6 quarts for 3-4, and 7+ quarts or oven models for 4+ people or entertaining.
- ✓ Functions and Versatility: Modern air fryers do more than just air fry. Look for models with additional functions like roasting, baking, broiling, dehydrating, reheating, and even rotisserie. Dual-basket designs are excellent for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.
- ✓ Power and Temperature Range: Higher wattage generally means faster heating and more consistent cooking. A wide temperature range (e.g., 90°F to 450°F) offers greater flexibility for various recipes, from gentle dehydrating to high-heat crisping.
- ✓ Controls: Digital touchscreens offer precision and pre-set programs, while manual dials can be simpler for basic use. Smart features, like integrated thermometers or app connectivity, add convenience for advanced users.
- ✓ Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick, dishwasher-safe baskets and trays are a huge plus. Consider the materials and design; ceramic coatings often provide easier cleanup than traditional non-stick.
- ✓ Footprint: Air fryers can take up considerable counter space. Measure your available space before purchasing, especially for larger or oven-style models.
Budget Planning
Air fryers come in a wide price range, and the best air fryers to buy in 2026 can be found at various price points:
- ✓ Entry-Level ($50-$100): These typically offer basic air frying functions with smaller capacities (2-4 quarts) and simpler controls. Great for individuals or basic usage.
- ✓ Mid-Range ($100-$200): This segment offers a sweet spot with capacities from 5-8 quarts, multiple cooking functions, digital controls, and often better build quality. Many of our recommended models fall into this category, offering excellent value.
- ✓ Premium ($200+): High-end air fryers boast larger capacities (8+ quarts, often oven-style), dual-zone cooking, advanced smart features (thermometers, app control), superior materials (stainless steel, ceramic coatings), and extensive versatility with many functions like rotisserie and dehydration.
Consider how often you’ll use the air fryer and what features are truly essential for your cooking habits to determine the best value for your budget.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best air fryer for you in 2026 is one that fits your lifestyle, cooking needs, and kitchen space. By considering capacity, versatility, ease of use, and your budget, you can narrow down the options and choose an appliance that will bring joy and efficiency to your meal preparation. Don’t forget to read customer reviews for real-world insights into durability and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are air fryers healthy?
A: Yes, air fryers are generally considered a healthier alternative to deep frying. They use hot air circulation to achieve a crispy texture with significantly less oil, often reducing fat content by up to 75-90% compared to traditional frying methods. This allows you to enjoy your favorite “fried” foods with fewer calories and less unhealthy fats.
Q: What can you cook in an air fryer?
A: The versatility of modern air fryers is extensive! Beyond making crispy fries and chicken wings, you can air fry vegetables, seafood, steak, chicken breasts, and even bake small cakes, roast potatoes, dehydrate fruits, and reheat leftovers to their original crispness. Many models also feature functions for baking, roasting, and broiling, expanding your culinary possibilities.
Q: How do I clean an air fryer?
A: Cleaning an air fryer is typically straightforward. Most models come with non-stick baskets and crisper plates that can be easily washed with warm, soapy water. Many are also dishwasher-safe, which adds to convenience. For the exterior, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. Always ensure the appliance is unplugged and cooled down before cleaning.
Q: What size air fryer do I need?
A: The ideal size depends on your household and cooking habits. A 2-3 quart air fryer is suitable for individuals or couples. For small families (3-4 people), a 4-6 quart model is often recommended. Larger families (5+ people) or those who frequently entertain might prefer an 8-quart or larger air fryer oven-style model to handle bigger batches.
Q: What’s the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
A: While both use convection (circulating hot air) to cook food, an air fryer is essentially a compact, more powerful version of a convection oven, designed for faster cooking and enhanced crisping. Air fryers circulate air more rapidly and often at higher temperatures within a smaller chamber, leading to a “fried” texture. Convection ovens are typically larger and designed for baking and roasting bigger items, with less intense air circulation.
In conclusion, the market for air fryers in 2026 offers an impressive array of innovative and versatile appliances. From the health-conscious Nuwave Brio Plus with its PFAS-free coating to the multi-functional Emeril Lagasse French Door Oven and the efficient Ninja DualZone models, there’s a perfect air fryer for every kitchen and cooking style. We’ve highlighted the top contenders based on performance, features, and value, aiming to simplify your decision.
Ultimately, the best air fryer to buy for 2026 is the one that aligns with your specific needs, whether that’s supreme versatility, space-saving design, or advanced smart cooking features. Whichever you choose, embracing an air fryer means stepping into a world of healthier, quicker, and undeniably delicious meals. Don’t wait to elevate your culinary game!