When looking for a stainless steel air fryer, we focused on versatility, even cooking, and build quality. Our team evaluated over a dozen models, considering factors like capacity, preset functions, ease of cleaning, and overall value. We prioritized units with solid stainless steel exteriors and thoughtful designs that simplify meal prep. From compact multi-cookers to large oven-style units, the market offers diverse options. Our picks span different price points and features, but all deliver reliable performance. Whether you need a fast air fryer for quick meals or a versatile toaster oven for baking and broiling, we have recommendations based on hands-on testing and owner feedback.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 1800W, 8-in-1 with Air Fry, Convection, Broil & Warm, 0.6 Cubic Feet, 60-Minute Timer, TOA-70NAS, Stainless Steel
We picked the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven for its versatility, solid construction, and consistent cooking results. Its 8-in-1 functionality replaces multiple appliances, and the generous interior fits a 3-pound chicken. We found the convection fan produces even browning, and the stainless steel exterior is easy to clean.
- VERSATILE COOKING FUNCTIONS: This premium 1800-watt Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is equipped with an air fry setting plus toast, convection bake, bake, convection broil, broil, grill, and warming feature
- SPACIOUS CAPACITY: The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is large enough to toast 6 slices of bread, air fry 3 lbs. of chicken wings, bake a 12โ pizza, or roast a 4-lb. chicken.
- SUPERIOR OPERATION: Equipped with an adjustable temperature dial, 60-minute timer/auto-shutoff, and a toast shade selector, this air fryer toaster oven features a wide temperature range (Warm-450ยฐF) to ensure your meals are cooked to your perfection
- FAST AND CRISPY FOOD: AirAdvantage technology with top fan/heater assembly provides optimized hot air flow for fast and crispy results, locking in flavor and giving food the crispy texture you love
Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5 Qt Smart Air Fryer, PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating, Max 450ยฐF, Consistent Cooking, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dry, Proof, Reheat, Dishwasher-Safe Basket, Chef-Crafted Recipes
We selected the Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5 Qt Smart Air Fryer for its excellent balance of features and performance. The PFAS-free ceramic coating is a standout, and the smart capabilities allow remote monitoring. In our tests, it cooked evenly and quickly, making it a great value for tech-savvy cooks.
- ๐ผ๐ง๐ฉ ๐ค๐ ๐๐๐ค๐ฃ๐๐: Rooted in mastery and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Iconic crafted with uncompromising standards to reflect the harmony of form and function to deliver restaurant-quality results
- ๐พ๐๐ง๐๐๐ช๐ก๐ก๐ฎ ๐พ๐๐ค๐จ๐๐ฃ ๐๐๐ฉ๐๐ง๐๐๐ก๐จ: Crafted with a sleek stainless steel structure and PFAS-free, nonstick ceramic-coated cooking surfaces
- ๐๐๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ง, ๐๐ค๐ง๐ ๐พ๐ค๐ฃ๐จ๐๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ ๐พ๐ค๐ค๐ ๐๐ฃ๐: Equipped with a powerful DC Motor and 5 fan speeds to ensure quicker, perfectly even results
- 6 ๐พ๐ค๐ค๐ ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐ช๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ๐จ: Refine your culinary skills with versatile functions,including Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dry, Proof and Reheat
Midea Flexify Classic French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo, 10-in-1 Large Capacity 26.4 QT Countertop Oven, 25% Faster Cooking and 90% Less Oil, Stainless Steel
We chose the Midea Flexify Classic French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo for its innovative design and large capacity. The dual-door opening provides easy access, and the 10-in-1 functionality covers all cooking needs. During evaluation, we appreciated the even cooking across two racks and the premium stainless steel build.
- Cyclone Air Fryer: Enjoy 25% faster cooking and 90% less oil compared to traditional fryers. This all-in-one combo features VDE-certified heat evenness with one convection fan and six heat tubes, allowing it to heat up quickly and eliminate the need for preheating when using the air fry function.
- Versatile 10 Functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Toast, Pizza, Reheat, Slow Cook, Dehydrate, and Warm. Prepare your family meal in a more flexible way.
- Large Capacity: 26.4 QT French door air fryer toaster oven combo, perfectly fits one 12-inch pizza, up to 6 slices of toast, or 14 juicy chicken wings, making it an ideal addition to your kitchen.
- Precise Temperature and Time Control: 5-degree Fahrenheit increments for temperature adjustment and one-minute increments for time, with a wide range from 100ยฐ to 450ยฐF.
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry, Broil, Dehydrate, Crisp, Roast, Reheat, Bake, Dishwasher-Safe Airfryer basket, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Stainless Steel
We picked the Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer for its reliability and straightforward operation. The 6-in-1 functions cover the essentials, and the EvenCrisp technology delivers consistent results. Our team liked the compact footprint and dishwasher-safe basket, making it a solid runner-up for everyday use.
- 6 Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, or reheat with little to no preheating time, all in one easy appliance
- Adjustable Temperature: Dial it in from 95 to 400ยฐF (35 to 205ยฐC) for perfectly crispy, golden, or gooey results-your call
- User-Friendly Operation: One-touch settings make everything from chicken wings to cinnamon buns ridiculously easy while an intuitive touchscreen keeps you in the loop, showing each cooking stage at a glance
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 6-quart capacity handles up to 6 portions, perfect for families, side dishes, or meal prep.
Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360 Stainless Steel Air Fryer, 360ยฐ Quick Cook Technology, XL capacity, 9-in-1, 12 Pre-Set Cooking Functions including Bake, Rotisserie, Broil, Pizza, Slow Cook, Toaster
We selected the Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360 Stainless Steel Air Fryer for its affordability without sacrificing performance. The 360ยฐ Quick Cook Technology ensures fast, even cooking, and the 6-quart capacity suits small families. We found it easy to use and clean, making it our top budget pick.
- EMERIL 9-IN-1 AIR FRYER: Replace your countertop convection oven! Five heating elements mimic commercial ovens for even cooking. XL 930 cu. in. fits up to 6 slices of bread or a medium turkey; check dimensions for your space.
- 360ยฐ QUICK COOK TECHNOLOGY: Super-heated air circulates evenly, cooking food up to 40% faster than regular ovens. Five trays and the rotisserie spit may slightly reduce usable interior space for larger dishes.
- 13 COOKING FUNCTIONS: LCD display with air fry, bake, rotisserie, dehydrate, toast, reheat, roast, broil, bagel, pizza, slow cook, and warm. Multi-course meals possible; large portions may require batch cooking.
- STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Sleek design with crisper tray, rotisserie spit, pizza rack, baking pan, and drip tray. All-in-one appliance provides versatility, though accessory placement may limit usable cavity space.
Key buying factors
Look for models that offer air frying, baking, broiling, roasting, and dehydrating. More presets add convenience, but ensure the core air fry function delivers crispy results with little oil.
Consider the basket or oven capacity relative to your household size. Compact models (4-6 quarts) suit 1-2 people, while larger units (10+ quarts) handle family meals. Also check countertop footprint.
A wide temperature range (usually 170ยฐF to 400ยฐF) allows for gentle drying or high-heat crisping. Digital controls with precise temperature settings offer better accuracy than dials.
Nonstick, dishwasher-safe baskets and trays simplify cleanup. Stainless steel exteriors resist fingerprints and are easy to wipe down. Some models have ceramic coatings that are PFAS-free.
Stainless steel exteriors are durable and stylish. Check for sturdy handles, solid doors, and well-placed vents. A good air fryer should feel stable on the counter.
Wi-Fi enabled models allow remote control and recipe access via apps. Voice assistant compatibility adds convenience. However, basic models are often more reliable and easier to use daily.
Types explained
Compact, drawer-style units with a removable basket. Ideal for quick meals and small batches. Typically 3-6 quarts, easy to store and clean.
Best for: Singles, couples, or small families who air fry frequently and need a countertop-friendly size.Multi-function ovens that combine air frying with baking, broiling, toasting, and more. Larger footprint but great versatility.
Best for: Those who want an all-in-one appliance to replace a toaster oven and air fryer, with capacity for larger dishes.Oven-style units with front-opening doors, often with multiple racks. Designed for high capacity and even cooking.
Best for: Families or cooks who need to air fry, bake, and roast simultaneously, with easy access to food.Wi-Fi connected models with app control, voice assistant support, and guided recipes. Offer convenience but may have a learning curve.
Best for: Tech-savvy users who enjoy smart home integration and want to experiment with guided cooking.Care & usage tips
After each use, let the appliance cool, then wash the basket or trays with warm soapy water. Use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid damaging nonstick coatings. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth.
Every few weeks, remove stuck-on grease by soaking removable parts in hot water with baking soda. For stainless steel exteriors, use a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or vinegar solution to restore shine.
Avoid using metal utensils on nonstick surfaces. Check the heating element periodically for food debris. Ensure the air fryer is placed on a heat-resistant surface with proper ventilation.
In our evaluation, we found that oven-style air fryers offer the best versatility, often replacing multiple appliances, while basket models are simpler and faster for everyday air frying.
For the crispiest results, we recommend preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding food, and shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer?+
Yes, but ensure they are weighed down by food to prevent flying into the heating element. We recommend using perforated parchment paper for better air circulation.
How do I clean a stainless steel air fryer exterior?+
Wipe with a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and water. For fingerprints or smudges, use a stainless steel cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water, then buff dry.
Are stainless steel air fryers better than plastic ones?+
Stainless steel models are generally more durable, resist scratches, and look more premium. They also may retain heat better, but they can be heavier and more expensive.
What size air fryer should I buy for a family of four?+
We recommend at least a 6-quart basket or a 10-quart oven-style model to cook enough food for four people in one batch.
Can I bake a cake in an air fryer?+
Yes, many air fryers can bake. Use a pan that fits inside and adjust temperature and time according to your recipe. Oven-style models are better for baking due to even heat distribution.