Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best air fryers you should buy in 2026! As kitchen technology continues to evolve, air fryers have become an indispensable appliance for healthy, convenient cooking. Gone are the days of greasy deep-frying; today’s air fryers offer a myriad of functions, from crisping up your favorite snacks with minimal oil to roasting entire meals. We’ve meticulously tested and reviewed the top models on the market, considering factors like capacity, versatility, smart features, and ease of use, to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner looking for quicker, healthier meal prep, our selection of top-rated air fryers for 2026 has something for everyone.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Air Fryers You Should Buy In 2026 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven with 24 Functions, Digital Controls and 26QT Capacity
The Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a true kitchen powerhouse, combining 24 cooking functions in one sleek appliance. With a generous 26QT capacity and intuitive digital controls, it’s designed to handle everything from quick snacks to elaborate family meals. Its 360º superheated air circulation ensures perfectly crispy results every time, making it a versatile addition to any modern kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 24-in-1 Versatility: Functions as an air fryer, toaster oven, dehydrator, rotisserie, and more.
- ✓ Large 26QT Capacity: Easily accommodates family-sized meals, including a whole chicken.
- ✓ Precision Toasting: Features an automatic shut-off and indicator light for perfect toast.
- ✓ Dual-Speed Fan: Optimizes air circulation for superior crisping and even cooking.
- ✓ Digital Controls: User-friendly interface for effortless program selection and temperature adjustment.
Why We Recommend It
This Emeril Lagasse model is highly recommended for its unmatched versatility and robust performance. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to consolidate multiple appliances into one space-saving unit without compromising on cooking quality. The ability to air fry, bake, roast, and even rotisserie with precision makes it a standout performer for diverse culinary needs.
Best For
Ideal for large families, avid home cooks, or anyone looking for a multi-functional appliance to replace several kitchen gadgets. It excels in both everyday cooking and entertaining.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with 24 cooking functions.
- Large capacity suitable for big families and entertaining.
- Precise temperature control and excellent air circulation for even results.
- Durable construction built for daily heavy use.
Cons:
- Can occupy a significant amount of counter space.
- The wide array of functions might have a slight learning curve for new users.
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”
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 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer with 2 Independent Baskets
The Ninja Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer redefines convenience with its innovative DualZone Technology. Featuring two independent baskets, it allows you to cook two different foods in two different ways simultaneously, ensuring everything finishes at the same time. Coupled with the Smart Cook System and integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer, achieving perfect doneness has never been easier, making it a top contender for the best air fryers in 2026.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DualZone Technology: Two independent 5-quart baskets to cook separate dishes simultaneously.
- ✓ Smart Cook System: Integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer monitors food temperature for precise results.
- ✓ Smart Finish & Match Cook: Syncs cooking times or replicates settings across both baskets.
- ✓ 10 Quart XL Capacity: Ample space for large family meals or batch cooking.
- ✓ 6-in-1 Functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, and Air Broil.
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja Foodi air fryer is a game-changer for busy households, eliminating the need for back-to-back cooking. The smart thermometer takes the guesswork out of achieving perfect doneness, while its versatility makes it suitable for a wide array of recipes. It’s an investment in efficiency and culinary excellence.
Best For
Families or individuals who frequently cook multiple dishes at once and value precision cooking. Excellent for meal prepping and entertaining.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooks two different foods at once, finishing at the same time.
- Smart Thermometer ensures food is cooked to perfection.
- Large combined capacity is great for families.
- Versatile with 6 cooking functions.
Cons:
- Requires considerable counter space due to its size.
- Can be pricier than single-basket models.
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 6 Quart Air Fryer: Versatile Cooking with Ceramic Coating for Healthy Meals
The Cosori 6 Quart Air Fryer stands out as an excellent budget-friendly option without compromising on performance. Equipped with innovative TurboBlaze Technology, it boasts a powerful 3600 rpm fan and temperatures up to 450℉, ensuring quick and perfectly crispy results. Its premium ceramic nonstick coating enhances durability and makes healthy cooking and cleanup a breeze, proving that quality doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ TurboBlaze Technology: Delivers rapid heating and powerful air circulation for crispy outcomes.
- ✓ 6 Quart Capacity: Ideal for couples, small families, or individual meal prep.
- ✓ Ceramic Nonstick Coating: Healthier, durable, and easy to clean basket and crisper tray.
- ✓ Precise Temperature Control: Wide range from 90°F to 450°F with 5-fan speed system for versatility.
- ✓ Compact Design: Fits easily on most kitchen countertops without taking up excessive space.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Cosori 6 Quart Air Fryer for its exceptional value. It delivers superior air frying performance, robust construction, and user-friendly features that are typically found in more expensive models. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking a reliable, efficient, and affordable air fryer for everyday use.
Best For
Budget-conscious consumers, individuals, couples, or small families looking for an efficient and easy-to-use air fryer for healthy, everyday meals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money with high-end features.
- Fast and even cooking results thanks to TurboBlaze technology.
- Healthy and easy-to-clean ceramic nonstick coating.
- Intuitive digital controls for simple operation.
Cons:
- 6-quart capacity may be too small for larger families.
- Fewer advanced pre-set functions compared to premium models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer is absolutely amazing! It cooks food quickly, evenly, and with a perfectly crispy finish every time. I love how versatile it is—air frying, roasting, baking, and even dehydrating—all in one appliance.The 6-quart capacity is perfect for families or meal prepping”
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 Air Fryer: Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate. 5QT Capacity for 4lbs Fries, Nonstick Basket
The Ninja Air Fryer with a 5QT Capacity is a straightforward and efficient kitchen appliance perfect for individuals or smaller households. Utilizing Ninja’s signature Air Crisp Technology, it circulates 400℉ superheated air to deliver perfectly hot and crispy results with significantly less oil than traditional frying. Its 4-in-1 functionality allows you to Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate, making it a versatile and easy-to-use addition to any kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Air Crisp Technology: Ensures food is cooked evenly and deliciously crispy with minimal oil.
- ✓ 5-Quart Capacity: Generously sized to fit up to 4 lbs of fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- ✓ 4-in-1 Versatility: Offers Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate functions for varied cooking.
- ✓ Nonstick Basket: Features an easy-to-clean nonstick basket and crisper plate for convenience.
- ✓ Intuitive Controls: Simple and user-friendly interface for quick meal preparation.
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja Air Fryer is a reliable choice for those seeking simplicity and effectiveness. It excels at its core function of air frying, consistently delivering crispy and delicious food. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller kitchens, and its ease of use means less time fussing and more time enjoying your meals.
Best For
Individuals, couples, small families, or anyone with limited kitchen space who prioritizes excellent air frying results and ease of use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Delivers consistently crispy food with little to no oil.
- Compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens and countertops.
- Very easy to operate with straightforward controls.
- Nonstick parts are simple to clean.
Cons:
- 5-quart capacity may be too small for larger families.
- Lacks the advanced features and dual-zone cooking of larger models.
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 Foodi 8-Quart DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer with Match Cook and Smart Finish
As one of the pioneers of dual-basket air frying, the Ninja Foodi 8-Quart DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer remains a top choice for efficiency and convenience. Its innovative DualZone Technology allows you to cook two separate foods with different settings, and the Smart Finish feature ensures both dishes are ready at the same time. With 6 versatile cooking programs, it’s a powerful tool for preparing complete meals quickly and effortlessly, making it a strong contender for the best air fryers in 2026.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Original DualZone Technology: Features two independent 4-quart baskets for versatile cooking.
- ✓ Smart Finish: Intelligently syncs cooking times for both baskets to finish simultaneously.
- ✓ Match Cook: Easily duplicate settings across both baskets for larger batches of the same food.
- ✓ 6-in-1 Functionality: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- ✓ Dishwasher-Safe Baskets: Nonstick baskets and crisper plates are easy to clean.
Why We Recommend It
The Ninja Foodi 8-Quart DualZone Air Fryer is a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process. Its ability to handle two dishes at once, along with the Smart Finish function, saves valuable time and effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and provides consistently delicious results across its range of functions.
Best For
Medium to large families, busy individuals, or anyone who frequently prepares multi-component meals and values concurrent cooking and easy cleanup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooks two different foods at the same time, with synchronized finishing.
- 8-quart total capacity is suitable for family meals.
- Highly versatile with 6 cooking programs.
- Components are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- Can be bulky and requires significant counter space.
- Individual basket capacity might be limiting for 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”
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. Ninja 10-in-1 Air Fryer with Smart Thermometer: Roast, Bake, and Fry (10 QT)
The Ninja 10-in-1 Air Fryer with Smart Thermometer takes multi-functional cooking to the next level. Boasting a large 10-quart capacity split into two independent XL baskets, it leverages DualZone Technology to handle diverse culinary tasks simultaneously. The integrated Smart Cook System with a thermometer ensures precise cooking, delivering perfect doneness for anything from a delicate roast to crispy fries. This model is a powerhouse, deserving of its place among the best air fryers for 2026.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Smart Cook System: Built-in thermometer for precise temperature control and perfect doneness.
- ✓ DualZone Technology: Two independent XL baskets for cooking different foods simultaneously.
- ✓ Smart Finish & Match Cook: Synchronizes cooking or duplicates settings for ultimate convenience.
- ✓ 10-in-1 Functionality: Offers a wide array of cooking options including air fry, roast, bake, and more.
- ✓ Large 10 Quart Capacity: Accommodates family-sized meals and batch cooking with ease.
Why We Recommend It
This Ninja air fryer is a top-tier choice for its advanced smart features and expansive cooking capabilities. The integration of a smart thermometer ensures foolproof results, while the dual-zone functionality transforms meal preparation by allowing efficient simultaneous cooking. It’s a robust appliance for serious home cooks.
Best For
Large families, culinary enthusiasts who demand precision, and those who desire a comprehensive cooking solution with the flexibility to prepare multiple dishes at once.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Integrated smart thermometer guarantees perfect doneness every time.
- Cooks two distinct meals simultaneously with synchronized finish.
- Extremely versatile with 10 different cooking functions.
- Generous 10-quart capacity ideal for larger households.
Cons:
- Large footprint requires significant counter space.
- Higher price point due to advanced features and capacity.
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”
7. Gourmia 14 Qt Air Fryer Oven: A Top All-in-One with Rotisserie for 2026
The Gourmia 14 Qt Air Fryer Oven is a formidable all-in-one kitchen solution, perfect for those seeking maximum capacity and versatility. This large air fryer oven is equipped with a rotisserie function, allowing you to roast a whole chicken to perfection. With 12 one-touch cooking functions and FryForce 360° Technology for healthy, crispy results, it’s designed to handle a wide range of culinary demands, solidifying its place among the best air fryers in 2026 for comprehensive cooking.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 14-Quart Capacity: Ideal for large families, entertaining, or cooking a whole rotisserie chicken.
- ✓ All-in-One Functionality: Combines air frying, baking, roasting, broiling, dehydrating, and rotisserie.
- ✓ 12 One-Touch Presets: Simplifies cooking with pre-programmed settings for popular dishes.
- ✓ FryForce 360° Technology: Achieves crispy texture with up to 80% less fat.
- ✓ Included Accessories: Comes with rotisserie spit, mesh trays, and a baking sheet for various cooking styles.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Gourmia 14 Qt Air Fryer Oven for its immense capacity and versatility. It effectively replaces several appliances, offering exceptional performance whether you’re air frying a family-sized batch of fries or slow-roasting a chicken. It’s a fantastic option for those who love to cook and entertain.
Best For
Large families, individuals who frequently host guests, or anyone looking for an all-encompassing kitchen appliance that can handle large volumes and diverse cooking methods, including rotisserie.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely large 14-quart capacity for big meals.
- Integrated rotisserie function is a huge bonus for whole poultry.
- Wide range of 12 preset cooking functions.
- FryForce 360° Technology promotes healthier cooking.
Cons:
- Takes up a significant amount of counter space due to its size.
- Digital controls might require some familiarization compared to traditional dials.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’m genuinely impressed with this 4-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo. It packs a lot of functionality into one sleek, space-saving unit—air frying, baking, roasting, broiling, dehydrating, and even rotisserie cooking. The 14-quart capacity is perfect for our family of five, easily fitting a whole c”
Customer Review: “This small appliance is more than just an air fryer, it’s a small batch baker, great for reheating, even rotisserie cooking. I like the setup with the mesh trays for cooking, there is also one baking sheet. These give me plenty of useable cooking space, without having to stack food. Food cooks fast “
Complete Buying Guide for Best Air Fryers 2026
Choosing the best air fryer in 2026 can feel overwhelming with the sheer number of options available. To help you navigate the market and find the perfect appliance for your kitchen, we’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide, focusing on key factors that matter most.
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating air fryers, several critical aspects come into play:
- Capacity: This is paramount. For individuals or couples, a 3-5 quart air fryer might suffice. Small families (3-4 people) often benefit from 6-8 quart models, while larger families or those who entertain frequently will appreciate 10+ quart models, especially oven-style air fryers.
- Functions and Versatility: Modern air fryers do more than just air fry. Look for models with additional functions like roasting, baking, dehydrating, reheating, broiling, or even rotisserie. The more functions, the more value you get from a single appliance.
- Power and Cooking Performance: Higher wattage generally means faster heating and more consistent cooking. Look for models that offer even heat distribution and powerful air circulation (e.g., 360° technology) for truly crispy results.
- Ease of Use and Controls: Digital displays with preset programs offer convenience, while intuitive dials might be preferred by others. Consider how easily you can set temperature and time, and if there are smart features like integrated thermometers or app connectivity.
- Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe baskets and nonstick coatings are major advantages. Removable parts and simple designs make cleanup much quicker.
- Footprint and Design: Air fryers can vary significantly in size. Measure your available countertop space before purchasing, especially for larger oven-style or dual-basket models.
- Safety Features: Automatic shut-off, cool-touch exteriors, and non-slip feet are important safety considerations.
Budget Planning
Air fryers in 2026 come in a wide range of prices, so setting a budget is crucial. Entry-level models (typically 3-5 quart, single-function) can be found for under $100. Mid-range options ($100-$200) often offer larger capacities, more functions, and better build quality. Premium models ($200+) provide advanced features like dual baskets, smart thermometers, extensive multi-functionality, and larger capacities. Consider how often you’ll use it and what features are most important to you before deciding how much to invest.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best air fryer for you in 2026 will depend on your specific cooking habits, household size, and budget. By prioritizing capacity, desired functions, and ease of cleaning, you can narrow down your choices and select an air fryer that will revolutionize your meal preparation, offering healthier and more convenient ways to enjoy your favorite foods.
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, creating a convection effect similar to a conventional oven. This process gives food a crispy, fried-like texture with little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying.
Q: Are air-fried foods truly healthier than deep-fried foods?
A: Yes, air-fried foods are generally healthier. They use significantly less oil (often just a tablespoon or two, or none at all) compared to deep frying, which can reduce fat content by 70-80%. This leads to fewer calories and less saturated fat.
Q: What types of food can I cook in an air fryer?
A: Air fryers are incredibly versatile! You can cook a wide variety of foods, including French fries, chicken wings, fish, vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts), frozen snacks, baked goods (muffins, cookies), and even dehydrate fruits. Many larger models can also roast whole chickens or bake casseroles.
Q: How do I clean my air fryer?
A: Cleaning an air fryer is typically straightforward. Most models feature removable baskets and crisper plates that are nonstick and often dishwasher-safe. For manual cleaning, use warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Always ensure the unit is unplugged and cooled down before cleaning.
Q: What capacity air fryer should I buy for my household?
A: The ideal capacity depends on your household size:
- 1-2 people: 2-4 quart capacity
- 3-4 people: 5-8 quart capacity
- 5+ people or for entertaining: 8-16+ quart capacity (often oven-style models)
As we wrap up our detailed review of the best air fryers you should buy in 2026, it’s clear that these versatile kitchen companions are more than just a trend—they’re a staple for modern, healthy cooking. From the multi-functional Emeril Lagasse French Door Oven to the efficient dual-zone Ninja Foodi models and the budget-friendly Cosori, there’s an air fryer designed to meet every need and preference. We hope this guide has provided you with all the insights required to select your next favorite kitchen appliance. Remember to consider your family size, desired functions, and available counter space to make the perfect choice. Invest in one of these top air fryers for 2026 today and transform your cooking experience!