The Best Cooking Air Fryer
We evaluated top air fryers based on performance, capacity, and value to help you find the perfect model for crispy, healthier meals.
By Ken Mendoza
Updated September 12, 2026
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking by delivering crispy, golden results with significantly less oil than traditional deep frying.
Whether you’re looking to whip up weeknight dinners, reheat leftovers, or experiment with roasted vegetables and baked goods, a quality air fryer can save time and calories.
With dozens of models on the market, choosing the right one depends on your kitchen space, cooking habits, and budget.
At BestProducts, we evaluated the leading air fryers based on specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback to bring you a curated list of top performers.
After analyzing cooking performance, capacity, ease of cleaning, and feature sets, we scored each model on our 0 to 10 BP Score. Below you’ll find our top picks, from compact single-serve units to family-sized ovens with rotisserie and dehydrator functions.
Whether you need a budget-friendly starter or a multifunctional powerhouse, our research helps you make an informed decision.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer, 4-in-1
|
9.8/10 | $179.95 | Buy |
Chefman RJ38-9TW-V2 9-Quart Air Fryer
|
9.7/10 | $79.89 | Buy | |
| Best Budget |
Chefman 6-Quart Air Fryer with Window
|
9.7/10 | $74.99 | Buy |
| Best Value |
Cosori TurboBlaze 6-Quart Air Fryer
|
9.7/10 | $99.99 | Buy |
Chefman 12-Quart 5-in-1 Air Fryer Oven
|
9.7/10 | $109.93 | Buy | |
| Best Premium |
Cuisinart 4-Qt Glass Basket Air Fryer
|
9.7/10 | $139.95 | Buy |
Ninja AF141 5-Quart Air Fryer
|
9.5/10 | $128.49 | Buy | |
Emeril 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
|
9.5/10 | $199.99 | Buy | |
Chefman 10L Multifunctional Air Fryer
|
9.5/10 | $84.96 | Buy | |
NutriChef 5.8-Quart Air Fryer with 8 Presets
|
9.5/10 | $84.99 | Buy | |
Chefman 6-in-1 XL 14-Quart Air Fryer Oven
|
9.6/10 | $99.96 | Buy | |
Cuisinart AIR-200NAS 6-Quart Air Fryer
|
9.5/10 | $99.99 | Buy |
Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer, 4-in-1
Ninja's pod-style air fryer reimagines countertop cooking with a compact, portable design that works across two glass container sizes. The 6-cup vessel handles single meals in 7 minutes, while the 4-quart fits a whole chicken for family prep, all without sacrificing cabinet space. Four cooking modes, PFAS-free borosilicate glass, and fully dishwasher-safe components make it practical for anyone seeking versatile air frying without the footprint of traditional units.
Pros
- Pod design nests inside glass containers for genuine space savings and cable-free storage
- PFAS and PTFE-free borosilicate glass eliminates concerns about nonstick chemical coatings
- Dual container compatibility and snap-lock lids double as meal prep and transport vessels
- Heat-safe feet protect all countertop surfaces without needing trivets or hot pads
- Four cooking functions (Max Crisp, Bake, Air Fry, Recrisp) reduce need for separate appliances
Cons
- Smaller 6-cup capacity limits batch cooking compared to full-size air fryers
- Pod-dependent design means you cannot use glass containers as standalone cookware without the PowerPod
Chefman RJ38-9TW-V2 9-Quart Air Fryer
This XL air fryer delivers family-sized portions with a 9-quart capacity and high-powered convection that cooks up to 40% faster than other Chefman models. The 7-in-1 functionality covers air frying, baking, broiling, dehydrating, and more, while the viewing window and shake reminder help ensure even, crispy results without constant checking.
Pros
- Large 9-quart capacity ideal for cooking for groups or meal prep
- High-powered DC motor reaches 450°F and cooks significantly faster than comparable models
- Seven cooking functions in one appliance, reducing kitchen clutter
- Viewing window prevents heat loss while monitoring food
- Dishwasher-safe basket and rack for easy cleanup
Cons
- Larger footprint at 15.75 x 11.81 x 11.42 inches may require significant counter space
- Touchscreen interface complexity may require learning curve compared to simpler models
Chefman 6-Quart Air Fryer with Window
This Chefman air fryer uses Hi-Fry technology to boost heat to 450°F for extra crispiness in the final minutes. Its compact design saves counter space while the easy-view window and shake notifications help achieve perfect results. The nonstick basket is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Pros
- Hi-Fry technology for extra crisp
- Easy-view window to monitor cooking
- Shake notification for even crispiness
- Dishwasher safe nonstick basket
- Compact design fits small spaces
Cosori TurboBlaze 6-Quart Air Fryer
This 6-quart air fryer combines high-speed cooking with a PFAS-free ceramic coating, making it a practical choice for families seeking healthier fried foods without the mess. The TurboBlaze technology and 5-fan speed system promise even cooking and faster meal prep, while the dishwasher-safe basket simplifies cleanup.
Pros
- Large 6-quart capacity with square basket design fits family portions and saves counter space
- PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating on basket and crisper tray for durability and safer cooking
- Operates at under 53dB on highest fan speed for a quieter kitchen experience
- Wide temperature range from 90°F to 450°F with precise control and customizable preheat function
- Dishwasher-safe components reduce manual scrubbing and cleanup time
Cons
- Heavy at 13.2 pounds, which may be cumbersome for frequent repositioning
- Learning curve required to utilize the 9-in-1 functions and recipe cookbook effectively
Chefman 12-Quart 5-in-1 Air Fryer Oven
This Chefman air fryer oven combines five cooking functions, a spacious 12-quart interior, and 12 presets for easy meal preparation. The rotisserie spit and Hi-Fry technology deliver extra crispiness, while dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleanup.
Pros
- Large 12-quart family capacity
- Rotisserie spit included for chicken
- 12 cooking presets for ease of use
- Hi-Fry 450°F boost for crispiness
- Dishwasher-safe parts for quick cleanup
Cons
- Heavy at 16 pounds
- Large footprint requires counter space
Cuisinart 4-Qt Glass Basket Air Fryer
This glass air fryer trades traditional opacity for real-time visibility, letting you monitor cooking progress through its transparent basket and top window without heat loss. With five functions spanning air fry to keep warm and a spacious 4-quart capacity, it handles everything from french fries to whole chickens, plus the glass basket doubles as a serving and storage vessel to cut down on dishwashing.
Pros
- Glass basket and viewing window eliminate guesswork during cooking and allow direct serving and storage without transferring food
- Five versatile cooking functions with precise temperature control up to 450F in 5-degree increments
- Dishwasher-safe borosilicate glass basket and PFAS-free nonstick plate for easy cleanup and food safety
- Auto-pause heating and airflow when basket opens, resuming when closed for consistent results
- 4-quart capacity handles substantial portions without dominating counter space
Cons
- Glass construction may be more fragile than traditional basket materials if dropped or mishandled
Ninja AF141 5-Quart Air Fryer
Ninja's latest compact air fryer packs a 5-quart capacity into a space-conscious design, making it ideal for families who want versatility without the countertop footprint. The 4-in-1 functionality spans air frying, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating, while the 1750-watt motor delivers crispy results on frozen foods in minutes with up to 75% less fat than traditional deep frying.
Pros
- Large 5-quart capacity handles up to 4 lbs of fries or 5 lbs of wings
- Four cooking functions in one unit reduces need for multiple appliances
- Nonstick basket and crisper plate simplify cleanup
- Compact footprint saves counter space relative to capacity
- Includes 20-recipe book and cooking charts for guidance
Emeril 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
This extra-large combo unit merges air frying and toasting in one stainless steel appliance, making it practical for families or frequent entertainers. The dual-speed fan circulates heat evenly for crispy results, while the automatic shutoff prevents burnt toast. French doors with an interior light let you monitor cooking without opening.
Pros
- 26-quart capacity handles large batches and family-sized portions
- Dual-speed fan delivers 360-degree air circulation for even crisping
- Automatic toast shutoff with color-coded indicator lights eliminates guesswork
- Stainless steel build with elegant French doors and interior lighting
- Combines air frying, toasting, and roasting in one appliance
Cons
- Large footprint (16.9 x 15.8 x 14.8 inches) requires significant counter space
- Requires precise rack positioning for optimal toast results
Chefman 10L Multifunctional Air Fryer
This countertop powerhouse combines air frying, rotisserie, dehydrating, and convection baking in one XL 10-liter capacity unit, making it ideal for families or serious meal preppers. With 17 preset programs and a large viewing window, you can monitor cooking progress without opening the door. The rapid air heating eliminates preheating time and uses 98% less oil than traditional frying methods.
Pros
- Five cooking methods in one appliance eliminates the need for multiple kitchen gadgets
- Extra-large 10-liter capacity handles family-sized portions and meal prep batches
- No preheating required with rapid convection heating for faster cooking times
- 17 touch screen presets simplify setup for users of all skill levels
- Removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe components reduce cleanup effort
Cons
- Large footprint at 12x12x15 inches requires substantial counter space
- Heavier unit at 14.2 pounds makes it less portable between storage locations
NutriChef 5.8-Quart Air Fryer with 8 Presets
This compact air fryer delivers solid everyday cooking with a spacious 5.8-quart capacity and 1200W heating element, making it suitable for families or batch cooking. Eight preset modes simplify meal prep for common proteins and sides, while 360-degree air circulation and transparent window let you monitor progress without opening the basket.
Pros
- Large 5.8-quart capacity handles substantial portions and family-sized meals
- Eight preset cooking modes reduce guesswork for popular dishes like wings, shrimp, and fries
- Precise temperature control up to 390°F and 60-minute timer for customization
- Dishwasher-safe, non-stick tray streamlines cleanup
- Automatic shutoff and overheat protection provide safety assurance
Cons
- Compact design benefits may be overstated given the unit's 11.9-pound weight and 14-inch footprint
- Temperature maxes out at 390°F, which is lower than some competing models and may limit certain cooking techniques
Chefman 6-in-1 XL 14-Quart Air Fryer Oven
This oversized countertop oven combines air frying, rotisserie, baking, broiling, reheating, and dehydration in one unit. The 14-quart capacity and three rack positions let you prepare entire meals simultaneously, while the touchscreen interface keeps operation straightforward. Best for households cooking for groups or meal-prepping in bulk.
Pros
- Large 14-quart interior with three rack positions accommodates family-sized portions and multiple dishes at once
- Six cooking functions eliminate the need for separate appliances, saving countertop space
- Removable rotisserie spit with included fetch tool for even cooking and safe food removal
- Wide temperature range of 90°F to 400°F supports diverse cooking methods from dehydrating to broiling
- Windowed door provides visibility without opening the unit
Cons
- Heavier footprint at 13.23 pounds requires dedicated counter space and may be difficult to store or relocate
- Touchscreen controls may require learning curve compared to traditional knob-based interfaces
Cuisinart AIR-200NAS 6-Quart Air Fryer
This large-capacity air fryer combines versatility with straightforward operation, making it well-suited for families or meal-prep enthusiasts. The 6-quart basket accommodates substantial portions (from a whole 4-pound chicken to 2 pounds of fries) while five cooking modes and preset programs handle everything from air frying to roasting and baking. A bright viewing window and toss reminder help you monitor progress without guesswork.
Pros
- Spacious 6-quart capacity handles full meals and large batches in one go
- Five cooking functions (air fry, roast, bake, broil, keep warm) expand meal options beyond just frying
- Five preset programs simplify cooking for common foods like fries, wings, and vegetables
- Digital display with toss reminder and 450°F max temperature deliver consistent results
- Dishwasher-safe parts reduce cleanup time
Cons
- Large footprint (12 x 16.5 x 12.25 inches) requires significant counter or storage space
- Touch screen controls may accumulate fingerprints and require regular cleaning
Best Cooking Air Fryer Buying Guide
Capacity and Footprint
Air fryers range from compact 2-quart baskets ideal for singles or couples to large 12- to 26-quart ovens that can roast a whole chicken or batch-cook sides. Consider your typical meal size and counter space.
A compact air fryer saves counter space but may require multiple batches for families. For households of four or more, a 6- to 8-quart model often hits the sweet spot.
If you frequently entertain, a larger unit like the large air fryer with multiple racks offers flexibility.
Measure your available counter space before buying. Many air fryers are bulky, so a dedicated spot is helpful. Some models have a vertical design to minimize footprint, while oven-style units take up more width but provide a viewing window.
Cooking Performance and Evenness
The core of any air fryer is its ability to circulate hot air evenly for consistent browning and crispiness. Look for models with powerful fans and wide temperature ranges (typically 170°F to 400°F or higher).
High-wattage units (1500W and above) tend to preheat faster and cook more uniformly. Countertop air fryer designs often include features like rapid air circulation or dual heating elements to eliminate hot spots.
Expert reviews and user feedback consistently highlight that models with ceramic or stainless steel interiors distribute heat better than those with nonstick coatings alone. Also, consider whether the basket is square or round, square baskets often provide more usable cooking area.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning an air fryer should be hassle-free. Most baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe, but some nonstick coatings degrade over time.
Look for PFAS-free ceramic coatings that are durable and easy to wipe. Basket air fryer models typically have fewer crevices than oven-style units, making them simpler to clean. For oven-style air fryers, removable crumb trays and racks are essential.
Verified buyer reviews often praise models with smooth, nonstick surfaces and minimal nooks where food can get trapped. A model with a large, clear window may be convenient, but ensure the glass is easy to wipe clean.
Presets and Controls
Modern air fryers come with a range of presets for popular foods like french fries, chicken, fish, and baked goods. Touchscreen controls offer a sleek interface, while knobs provide tactile feedback.
Some models allow you to adjust time and temperature manually, which is great for custom recipes. Digital air fryer models often include keep-warm functions and delayed start.
If you prefer simplicity, a model with a few well-chosen presets may be better than one with dozens of options you rarely use.
Check if the presets are based on weight or just time/temperature. Some advanced models even have a built-in food thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. For those who love to experiment, a model with a dehydrate function adds versatility.
Additional Features: Rotisserie, Dehydrate, and More
Many air fryers double as mini ovens, offering baking, broiling, and reheating functions. Rotisserie kits are a bonus for cooking whole chickens or kebabs. Dehydrate settings let you make dried fruit, jerky, or vegetable chips.
Multifunction air fryer options can replace several countertop appliances, saving both space and money. However, each added feature may increase the price and complexity.
Consider which extra functions you will actually use. If you rarely dehydrate, a simpler model might be a better value. On the other hand, if you’re short on kitchen space, an air fryer that also bakes and roasts can be a worthwhile investment.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts is an independent review site that helps you find the best products for your needs. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Each product is scored on our 0 to 10 BP Score based on consistent criteria, including cooking performance, build quality, features, and value. We analyze hundreds of expert and user reviews to ensure our recommendations are reliable.
Our affiliate relationships do not influence our rankings or editorial content.
Our team of researchers stays up to date with the latest product releases and market trends, so you can trust that our picks reflect current best buys. For more details on our methodology, visit our About Us page.
Final Thoughts
- Best Overall: Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer, Combines a 9-in-1 functionality with a PFAS-free ceramic coating and consistent cooking results, earning the highest BP Score in our lineup.
- Best for Families: Chefman 12-Quart 5-in-1 Air Fryer Oven, Spacious enough for large meals, with a versatile convection oven design and easy-to-use touchscreen.
- Best Budget Pick: Chefman 6 QT Compact Air Fryer, Delivers extra crisp results at an affordable price, with a compact footprint perfect for small kitchens.
- Best Multifunction: Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Offers oven-style versatility with dual doors, rotisserie, and a large capacity for roasts and batch cooking.
- Best Value: Ninja Air Fryer Pro, A reliable 4-in-1 model with proven performance and a trusted brand, offering excellent value for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does an air fryer work?
An air fryer uses rapid air circulation to cook food. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan moves it around the food at high speed, creating a crispy outer layer through the Maillard reaction.
This method uses up to 80% less oil than traditional frying. For more on the technology, check out hot air fryer options.
What size air fryer should I buy?
Size depends on your household. For one or two people, a 2- to 4-quart air fryer is sufficient. For families of three or four, a 5- to 6-quart model works well.
Larger families or those who entertain often should consider an 8- to 12-quart oven-style unit. Our guide on cheapest air fryer includes budget-friendly options in various sizes.
Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
Yes, but with caution. Aluminum foil can be used to line the basket or wrap food, but avoid covering the entire basket or blocking air circulation.
Never use foil in the bottom of the air fryer where it could obstruct the fan. For safety tips, see our food air fryer guide.
How do I clean an air fryer?
Most air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe. For hand cleaning, use a soft sponge with warm soapy water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage nonstick coatings. Some models have a nonstick ceramic coating that is easier to wipe clean.
For detailed maintenance, refer to the manual or our BPA air fryer recommendations.
Are air fryers healthy?
Air fryers can be a healthier alternative to deep frying because they require significantly less oil, reducing calories and fat. However, the healthiness also depends on the ingredients you cook.
Whole foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and homemade fries benefit from air frying. For more on healthy cooking, explore our home air fryer picks.
What is the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
Both use a fan to circulate hot air, but air fryers are typically smaller, cook faster, and produce crispier results due to higher air speeds and smaller cooking chambers.
Convection ovens are larger and can handle multiple dishes at once but may not achieve the same level of crispiness. If you need a versatile appliance, consider a oven air fryer combo.
For more insights, read our toaster air fryer comparison or browse Kitchen & Dining category for related appliances.
About the author
Ken covers air fryers and blenders for BestProducts, comparing cooking evenness, motor power, capacity, and how easily each one cleans. He helps home cooks pick countertop machines they will still reach for next year.