If you are new to air frying, the options can be overwhelming. We tested dozens of models to find the ones that are simple to use, produce consistently crispy food, and offer enough versatility to keep you excited to cook. Our top picks balance performance, capacity, and user-friendly interfaces. We considered build quality, temperature range, presets, and cleaning ease. Whether you need a compact model for one or a larger family-size unit, we have a recommendation for you.
CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black
We picked the CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer with Rotisserie because it combines a large capacity, rotisserie function, and dehydrator in one easy-to-use unit. In our evaluation, the digital controls were intuitive, and the rotisserie produced evenly browned chicken every time.
- Versatile countertop cooking: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, or roast to crispy perfection in one convenient appliance
- Cook faster: No need to preheat like traditional ovens. This all-in-one convection oven uses rapid air heating elements to cook fast, even, and crispy food
- Healthy cooking made easy: Make healthy meals using 98% less oil than traditional fryers
- Simplified set-up: Anyone can cook perfect meals in minutes with 17 preset options and an easy-to-use capacitive touch control screen
Zstar Indoor Grill Air Fryer Combo with See-Through Window, 7-in-1 Smokeless Electric Air Grill up to 450ยฐF, 1750W Contact Grill with Non-Stick Removable Plates, Even Heat, Silicon Tongs as Gift, 4Qt
We chose the Zstar Indoor Grill Air Fryer Combo for its dual functionality and see-through window, which lets you monitor cooking without opening the basket. It performed well for both air frying and grilling, at a price that offers excellent value for beginners.
- ใNoiseless, Smokeless & FatlessใWith the latest ventilation design, the electric grill works at a noise level ๏ผ60dB, much lower than other competitors. Also, the air grill allows you to barbecue indoors without worrying about smoke and produces 85% less fat than ordinary grilling and frying
- ใFast and Even HeatingใSteak will be ready in 6-8 minutes at 450ยฐF with the Zstar contact grill-that's 7 minutes faster than other brands which need at least 15 minutes. In addition to its traditional stainless steel heating tube, its Halogen heating tube expedites heating up to 450ยฐF. In addition, the aerodynamic air duct which allows small temperature discrepancies along parts of the grill plate leads to thorough and even searing
- ใ7-in-1 Indoor GrillใThis indoor grill and air fryer combo allows you to cook using a variety of modes: Bacon, Roast, Grill, Vegetables, Dehydrate, Air Crisp, Preheat, and more. One versatile grill helps you to better economize your kitchen space and your budget
- ใTransparent Viewing WindowใThe transparent, see-through viewing window allows you to observe cooking progress without lifting the lid. NOTE: The internal light will last 30-50 seconds, periodically. It will not remain on
CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer - Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket, Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Digital Timer and Shake Reminder - Black
The CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer is our pick for small spaces and single servings. Its compact footprint and digital controls are beginner-friendly, and it preheated quickly in our tests. Perfect for dorm rooms or countertops with limited space.
- FAST AND EASY: This small air fryer comes prepared for any culinary challenge. The capacitive touch screen display can customize your cooking time and temperature up to a maximum of 400ยฐF! Cook food fast up to three times quicker than an oven.
- HEALTHY COOKING: Say goodbye to excess oil and fat, and hello to healthy cooking. This mini air fryer uses little-to-no oil to make delicious meals that are good for you, too.
- SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: The square basket maximizes its 2-quart capacity. Housed in a sleek, narrow design to keep its countertop footprint small, this airfryer eliminates clutter and extraneous appliances.
- SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Halfway through cooking, the TurboFry Air Fryer automatically notifies you with an audible alarm that itโs time to shake your food for the crispiest results possible.
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating, 90ยฐ-450ยฐF, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray
The Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze impressed us with its wide temperature range (90ยฐF to 450ยฐF) and PFAS-free ceramic coating. It was consistent across multiple cooking modes, and the square basket maximized capacity. A strong alternative for those wanting more preset options.
- ๐ผ๐๐ง ๐๐ง๐ฎ๐๐ง ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450โ, achieving crispy, juicy results every time
- ๐๐๐๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐: Cosori's unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90ยฐ- 450ยฐF temperature control deliver evenly cooked dishes with perfect texture in every bite
- ๐๐๐ผ๐-๐๐ง๐๐ ๐พ๐๐ง๐๐ข๐๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐: The basket and crisper tray feature a PFAS-free, nonstick ceramic coating for enhanced durability, heat resistance, and a healthier cooking experience.
- ๐๐๐ข๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology helps speed up cooking and save time to deliver perfectly crispy family meals, even on busy days
Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt | TurboFryยฎ 4-in-1 with 450ยฐF Hi-Fry Option for Crispier Results | Bake, Dehydrate, Frozen | XL Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Basket | Stainless Steel
We recommend the Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt TurboFry 4-in-1 with Hi-Fry 450ยฐF option for its large capacity and ability to achieve extra-crispy results. The TurboFry technology delivered noticeably crunchier fries in our tests, and the 8-quart size handles family meals with ease.
- FRY UP YOUR FAVORITES: Enjoy faster, healthier cooking for popular deep fryer foods like French fries, corn dogs, chicken wings, Brussels sprouts, and more! This stainless steel air fryer produces extra-crispy meals with a fraction of the calories compared to oily, messy deep fryers.
- FOUR-IN-ONE COOKING: This touchscreen air fryer features four functions, including Air Fry, Bake, and Reheat. Our new Frozen function defrosts and then crisps for an added crunch on fries or mozzarella sticks.
- INTUITIVE CONTROLS: Set up your cooking with the easy-to-use touch control UI. TurboFry air fryers let you program your perfect cooking time and temperature up to an impressive 400ยฐF.
- BRING THE HEAT: The Chefman air fryer cranks up the temperature to 450ยฐF for the final two minutes of cooking. Our HI-FRY button puts a beautiful golden-brown crisp on air fried potatoes and chicken.
Key buying factors
Consider how many people you cook for. Compact 2-3 quart models work for singles or couples, while 5-8 quart models fit families or batch cooking.
A wider range (at least 180ยฐF to 400ยฐF) offers more flexibility. Higher max temperatures (up to 450ยฐF) can yield crispier results faster.
Look for intuitive digital controls with preset cooking modes for common foods. Physical buttons are often easier to use than touch screens for beginners.
Nonstick baskets and dishwasher-safe parts save time. PFAS-free ceramic coatings are a safer alternative to traditional nonstick.
Features like rotisserie, dehydrate, or convection oven capability can replace other appliances. However, more functions may increase complexity.
Air fryers can be noisy. If you are sensitive to sound, look for models with lower decibel ratings based on user reviews.
Types explained
Small footprint, typically 2-3 quarts. Ideal for countertop space saving and single servings.
Best for: Singles, couples, small kitchensLarger capacity (5-8 quarts) to cook for multiple people. Often include multiple functions.
Best for: Families, meal prep, entertainingOven-style with multiple racks, rotisserie, and dehydrate functions. Versatile but bulky.
Best for: Baking, roasting, dehydrating, rotisserie cookingCare & usage tips
Always unplug and allow the air fryer to cool. Wash the basket and pan with warm soapy water or place in the dishwasher if dishwasher-safe.
Use non-scratch sponges or soft cloths. Avoid metal utensils that can damage nonstick or ceramic coatings.
Periodically clean the heating element and interior with a damp cloth. For tough residue, use a baking soda paste.
Our testing revealed that the single most important factor for beginners is consistent temperature control. Models that held steady temp without overshooting produced the most even results.
For the crispiest results, preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding food, and don't overcrowd the basket-leave space for hot air circulation.
Frequently asked questions
What size air fryer should I buy as a beginner?+
We recommend a 5-6 quart model for most households. It's spacious enough for a whole chicken or large batches of fries, yet compact enough for daily use.
Do I need to preheat an air fryer?+
Yes, preheating for 3-5 minutes helps achieve even cooking and maximum crispiness. Many modern models have a preheat function or indicate when ready.
Can I put aluminum foil in an air fryer?+
Yes, but avoid covering the entire basket, as it restricts airflow. Use foil only to line the basket bottom or wrap food, and never cover the heating element.
How do I clean an air fryer without damaging the coating?+
Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild dish soap. For stuck-on food, soak the basket in warm water. Avoid metal scrubbers or harsh chemicals.
Is an air fryer healthier than deep frying?+
Air fryers use significantly less oil, reducing fat and calorie content by up to 75% compared to deep frying. However, food still browns and crisps through the Maillard reaction.