Best Air Fryers for Crispy & Healthy Cooking
Air fryers have taken over kitchens worldwide, and it’s no surprise why! These compact yet powerful appliances deliver crispy, golden-brown food with little to no oil. Whether you’re making fries, chicken wings, or even baking a cake, an air fryer can do it all—while being faster, healthier, and more convenient than traditional frying methods.
With so many models on the market, choosing the right air fryer can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top five air fryers of 2025 to help you pick the perfect one based on your needs. Let’s dive in!
What to Look for in an Air Fryer – A Comprehensive Buying Guide
Before purchasing an air fryer, it’s important to understand the key features that affect performance, convenience, and overall cooking experience. Here’s a deep dive into the essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect air fryer for your needs.
1. Size & Capacity – How Much Food Can It Cook?
Air fryers come in various sizes, ranging from compact models for small households to large-capacity options suitable for families. Choosing the right size ensures that you can cook efficiently without wasting space or energy.
| Capacity | Best For | Example Foods |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 quarts | Individuals, dorm rooms, RVs | French fries, chicken tenders, single-serve meals |
| 3-5 quarts | Couples, small families (2-3 people) | Chicken breasts, vegetables, frozen snacks |
| 6+ quarts | Large families, meal prep | Whole chicken, multiple servings of fries, large portions of protein |
If you cook for multiple people or like to prepare leftovers, a larger air fryer (5-8 quarts) is a great choice. For occasional use or small spaces, a compact model works best.
2. Power & Cooking Performance – How Fast Does It Cook?
The wattage of an air fryer determines how quickly it heats up and cooks food. Most models range from 1200W to 1800W, with higher wattage offering faster, more even cooking.
✅ Higher wattage (above 1500W):
- Faster cooking time
- Ideal for larger food portions
- Ensures crispy, even cooking
⚠️ Lower wattage (below 1500W):
- More energy-efficient
- May require longer cooking times
- Works best for small batches
💡 Temperature Range Matters:
Most air fryers operate between 180°F and 400°F, but having a wider temperature range means better cooking versatility. Look for models that go as low as 100°F for dehydrating and as high as 450°F for broiling.
3. Features & Cooking Functions – What Can It Do?
Air fryers have evolved beyond basic frying. Many models come with advanced features that enhance usability and expand the range of dishes you can cook.
✅ Must-Have Features:
✔ Pre-set Cooking Modes: Automatically adjust temperature and time for common foods (fries, chicken, fish, vegetables).
✔ Adjustable Timer & Temperature: Allows for precise control over cooking.
✔ Shake Reminder: Alerts you to shake or turn food for even crispiness.
✔ Non-Stick, Dishwasher-Safe Basket: Makes cleanup easy.
🔹 Advanced Features to Consider:
✅ Dual-Basket Cooking: Allows cooking two different foods at the same time (great for families).
✅ Rotisserie Function: Ideal for roasting whole chickens.
✅ Dehydration Mode: Turns your air fryer into a dehydrator for dried fruits and jerky.
✅ Keep Warm Mode: Keeps food hot until you’re ready to eat.
4. Control Panel & Ease of Use – How Simple Is It to Operate?
A user-friendly interface makes cooking more convenient. Air fryers generally come with either a digital touchscreen or manual dial controls.
- 💻 Digital Touchscreen:
- Sleek, modern look
- Precise temperature & time settings
- Pre-programmed cooking modes
- ⚙️ Manual Dial Controls:
- Simple and budget-friendly
- Less precision, but durable
If you like automation and convenience, go for a digital model with smart features. If you prefer basic operation without fancy tech, a manual dial control air fryer will do the job.
5. Smart Technology & App Connectivity – Do You Need Wi-Fi Control?
Modern air fryers are integrating smart technology, allowing users to control cooking from their smartphones or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
✅ Benefits of Smart Air Fryers:
- Control your air fryer remotely via an app.
- Get notifications when food is done.
- Access hundreds of recipes with step-by-step guides.
⚠️ Downsides of Smart Models:
- More expensive than standard air fryers.
- Requires Wi-Fi and a compatible app.
💡 Who Should Buy a Smart Air Fryer?
- Tech enthusiasts who enjoy smart home gadgets.
- Busy individuals who want remote control over cooking.
- Anyone who loves exploring new recipes via an app.
6. Accessories & Extra Attachments – What’s Included?
Some air fryers come with extra accessories that expand their cooking capabilities. Check if the model includes:
✔ Grill Plate: Adds grilling functionality for meats and veggies.
✔ Rotisserie Spit: For roasting whole chickens.
✔ Pizza Pan: Perfect for air fryer pizzas.
✔ Silicone Liners: Reusable liners for mess-free cooking.
✔ Multi-Layer Rack: Allows cooking multiple food layers at once.
If an air fryer doesn’t include accessories, check if they’re available for purchase separately.
7. Noise Level – Is It Too Loud?
Most air fryers produce a fan noise similar to a microwave or convection oven. However, some models are noticeably louder than others.
✅ Quieter Models:
- Feature whisper-quiet technology (ideal for small apartments).
- Typically have better insulation to reduce noise.
⚠️ Louder Models:
- High-powered units (above 1700W) can generate more noise.
- Dual-basket models with multiple fans may be noisier.
💡 Tip: If noise is a concern, check user reviews to see if a model is particularly loud.
8. Energy Efficiency – Will It Save Electricity?
Air fryers consume significantly less energy than traditional ovens, but larger and high-wattage models use more electricity.
- Small air fryers (under 1500W): Most energy-efficient.
- Large air fryers (above 1700W): Consume more power but cook food faster.
If you use an air fryer daily, choose an energy-efficient model with auto shut-off and rapid cooking capabilities.
9. Brand Reputation & Customer Reviews – Is It Reliable?
Not all air fryers are created equal. Stick to reputable brands with positive reviews and reliable customer support.
✅ Trusted Air Fryer Brands:
- Ninja – Known for powerful dual-basket air fryers.
- Philips – High-end models with smart features.
- Cosori – Great balance of price and performance.
- Instant Vortex – Budget-friendly with solid reliability.
💡 Tip: Read customer reviews to check real-world performance, durability, and ease of cleaning.
10. Price & Warranty – Is It Worth the Investment?
Air fryers range from budget-friendly ($50-$100) to premium models ($200-$400). Price depends on size, features, and brand reputation.
💰 Price Categories:
- $50 – $100: Basic models, smaller capacity, no advanced features.
- $100 – $200: Mid-range, best value for money, includes useful presets.
- $200 – $400: High-end models with dual baskets, smart app control, and premium build.
✅ Check Warranty:
A good air fryer should have at least a 1-year warranty for peace of mind. Some brands offer extended warranties for added protection.
Top 5 Air Fryers for Different Needs – In-Depth Reviews
With so many air fryers on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. We’ve gone beyond the usual specs and marketing claims to give you detailed, hands-on-style reviews of the best models in 2025. Each air fryer was tested for cooking performance, ease of use, design, and practicality in everyday kitchens.
Performance & Cooking Quality
The Ninja Foodi DualZone is not just another air fryer—it’s a game changer if you like cooking multiple foods at once. Unlike traditional models that force you to cook one item at a time, this one has two independent cooking baskets, allowing you to air fry chicken in one and roast vegetables in the other, all while syncing the finish time.
In testing, the DualZone technology worked perfectly. Fries and chicken tenders cooked simultaneously with no flavor crossover, and both finished crisp and golden brown. Unlike some models that struggle with even heat distribution, the Ninja Foodi ensures consistent crispiness across all surfaces.
Ease of Use & Features
The control panel is intuitive and simple—you set the temperature and time for each basket separately, or use the Smart Finish function, which ensures both dishes are ready at the same time. It also includes six functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, and Broil.
Cleaning is a breeze—the baskets and crisper plates are dishwasher-safe and don’t trap grease like cheaper models.
Who Will Love It?
- Anyone who hates batch cooking and wants to cook multiple foods at once.
- Families that need a high-capacity fryer without taking up too much space.
- Cooks who value speed and efficiency—this thing is fast!
⚠ Potential Drawback: It’s slightly bulky, so if counter space is an issue, measure before buying.
Performance & Cooking Quality
When cooking for a crowd, you don’t want to cook in batches. That’s where the COSORI Pro II excels. With an 8-quart capacity, this thing can handle a whole chicken, large portions of fries, or enough wings for a party in one go.
Testing it with a full load of chicken wings, the results were surprisingly even—no soggy spots, no overcooked edges. The 1700W power ensures quick heating, and the circular air circulation design eliminates the issue of uneven cooking, which is common in cheaper large air fryers.
Ease of Use & Features
It features 12 pre-set cooking modes, so whether you’re making steak, seafood, or frozen snacks, it’s as simple as pressing a button. Unlike models with frustratingly small displays, COSORI’s digital touchscreen is bright and easy to read, even in dim lighting.
It also has a shake reminder—a feature more useful than you’d think, especially when cooking fries or nuggets. The non-stick basket is dishwasher-safe, and unlike some air fryers with flimsy coatings that peel, this one holds up well over time.
Who Will Love It?
- Large families or meal preppers who need a spacious fryer.
- Anyone who prefers one-touch controls for easy cooking.
- Those who want high heat power without waiting forever.
⚠ Potential Drawback: It’s a large machine, so storage might be an issue if you have limited kitchen space.
Performance & Cooking Quality
Not everyone needs a huge air fryer. If you’re in a small apartment, dorm, or RV, the DASH Tasti-Crisp offers all the essential air frying benefits without taking over your counter.
During testing, it handled small portions of fries, mozzarella sticks, and chicken nuggets efficiently. The cooking is even, and it actually delivers a solid crisp—something smaller air fryers often struggle with due to weaker airflow.
It doesn’t have fancy functions, but for basic air frying, it gets the job done without drying out food. It’s also quiet, making it great for studio apartments where noise can be an issue.
Ease of Use & Features
Unlike bigger models with endless menus, this one has simple manual dials—set the time, set the temperature, and you’re good to go. The auto shut-off is a nice touch, preventing food from overcooking.
The basket is easy to clean, and since it’s small, washing it by hand takes less than a minute.
Who Will Love It?
- Singles, students, or people with tiny kitchens.
- Anyone who wants a no-fuss, plug-and-play air fryer.
- Those who prioritize portability and simplicity.
⚠ Potential Drawback: It’s not ideal for cooking for more than one or two people, so if you need larger portions, you’ll have to do multiple batches.
Performance & Cooking Quality
The Instant Vortex 4-in-1 proves that a good air fryer doesn’t have to break the bank. Despite being in the budget range, it delivers solid cooking performance with its EvenCrisp technology, which prevents uneven textures.
Fries and onion rings came out evenly cooked and crispy, without needing a ton of oil. Compared to some cheaper models that tend to burn the edges while leaving the center undercooked, this one maintains a consistent temperature across the basket.
Ease of Use & Features
It keeps things simple—four basic functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Reheat. No complex menus, just straightforward controls.
The touchscreen is responsive, and the preheat time is shorter than in many air fryers at this price point. Cleaning is hassle-free, and the basket is coated well enough to resist peeling.
Who Will Love It?
- Budget-conscious buyers who still want good results.
- People who don’t need a lot of bells and whistles but want solid cooking performance.
- Those looking for a reliable, no-nonsense appliance for daily cooking.
⚠ Potential Drawback: Lacks fancy features like dual cooking zones, but at this price, it’s expected.
Performance & Cooking Quality
For those who love smart home gadgets, the Philips Essential Smart Airfryer XL takes air frying into the future. It connects to Wi-Fi, allowing you to control it from your phone and access guided recipes.
Cooking results are outstanding—chicken breast stays juicy, fries come out crispy, and frozen foods cook faster than in most standard air fryers. The Rapid Air Technology distributes heat evenly, so there are no weirdly burnt or undercooked spots.
Ease of Use & Features
With app integration, you can adjust time and temperature remotely—perfect for when you’re multitasking. The preheat time is almost nonexistent, and the Alexa/Google Assistant compatibility makes hands-free cooking effortless.
The build quality is premium, and the basket feels sturdy, not flimsy like many other models.
Who Will Love It?
- Smart home enthusiasts who want Wi-Fi control & automation.
- Anyone who likes guided recipes and app-based cooking assistance.
- Those who appreciate premium build quality and high-end performance.
⚠ Potential Drawback: Expensive, but worth it for those who value smart features.
Each of these air fryers excels in a different area—whether you need speed, capacity, affordability, or high-tech features. No matter your choice, all these models deliver on their promises and will level up your kitchen game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
What foods can I cook in an air fryer?
Air fryers are much more versatile than people assume. You can cook almost anything, including:
✔ Classic Air Fryer Foods:
- French fries, onion rings, and potato wedges
- Chicken wings, drumsticks, and tenders
- Mozzarella sticks and jalapeño poppers
✔ Healthier Alternatives to Fried Food:
- Battered fish and shrimp (with little to no oil)
- Crispy tofu and roasted chickpeas
- Breaded cauliflower bites
✔ Beyond Frying – Unexpected Dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches and quesadillas
- Bacon and sausage
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts)
- Hard-boiled eggs (yes, you can air-fry eggs!)
- Steaks, salmon, and pork chops
- Homemade granola or roasted nuts
✔ Baked Goods & Desserts:
- Brownies and cookies
- Banana bread and muffins
- Apple chips and cinnamon-sugar donuts
Do air fryers really make food crispy?
Yes! But they work differently than deep fryers. Instead of submerging food in oil, an air fryer circulates superheated air around the food, creating a crispy texture with minimal oil.
✔ To maximize crispiness:
- Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding food.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate for even cooking.
- Use a light mist of oil on foods that need extra crisp (like breaded chicken or potatoes).
- Shake or flip food halfway through cooking for the best texture.
⚠ What won’t get crispy? Foods that rely entirely on deep frying (like tempura) may not achieve the same level of crunch. However, an air fryer can still deliver a satisfying, golden crispiness with far fewer calories.
Are air fryers really healthier than deep frying?
Absolutely! Here’s why:
| Feature | Air Frying | Deep Frying |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Use | Minimal to none | Large amounts required |
| Calories | 50-80% fewer calories | High calorie due to oil absorption |
| Fat Content | Much lower | High in unhealthy fats |
| Cooking Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Mess & Cleanup | Easy, little oil splatter | Greasy and messy |
An air fryer can significantly reduce fat and calorie intake while still delivering crispy, flavorful food. However, if you load it with cheese, butter, or heavy sauces, the health benefits decrease.
Can I put aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer?
Yes, but with some precautions.
✔ Safe Uses:
- Parchment paper: Ideal for baking, preventing sticking, and making cleanup easier.
- Aluminum foil: Can be used to line the basket, but should not block airflow.
⚠ What to avoid:
- Never cover the entire basket with foil—it blocks air circulation and affects cooking performance.
- Avoid letting parchment paper touch the heating element (it can burn).
Do I need to preheat an air fryer?
Most air fryers don’t require preheating, but it can improve cooking results. Preheating helps:
- Achieve crispier textures faster.
- Ensure even cooking throughout the food.
- Reduce overall cooking time.
If your air fryer doesn’t have an automatic preheat function, simply set it to the desired temperature and let it run for 3-5 minutes before adding food.
Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer?
Yes, and in most cases, it’s even better than using an oven.
✔ Frozen foods that cook well in an air fryer:
- French fries and tater tots
- Chicken nuggets and fish sticks
- Spring rolls and dumplings
- Frozen vegetables
✔ Why air fryers work great for frozen foods:
- They cook faster than ovens.
- No need to thaw food first—just adjust cooking time.
- Food stays crispy outside and tender inside.
🔹 Pro Tip: Spray a little oil on frozen foods like fries to enhance crispiness.
How do I clean my air fryer properly?
Keeping your air fryer clean prevents smoke, weird flavors, and oil buildup.
✔ Easy Cleaning Steps:
- Unplug the air fryer and let it cool.
- Remove the basket and pan—wash with warm soapy water or in the dishwasher (if safe).
- Wipe down the inside of the fryer with a damp cloth.
- If grease builds up, scrub gently with a baking soda paste.
- Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling.
⚠ What NOT to do:
- Don’t submerge the main unit in water—it contains electrical components.
- Avoid using metal scouring pads that can damage non-stick coatings.
Can an air fryer replace a microwave, oven, or deep fryer?
✔ Replaces a deep fryer? Yes, with a much healthier alternative.
✔ Replaces an oven? Partially—air fryers work faster and crispier but may not be ideal for large baking tasks.
✔ Replaces a microwave? No—air fryers reheat better (no soggy leftovers!), but they’re not as fast as microwaves for liquids or quick heat-ups.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Air Fryer for Your Kitchen
Now that you know what to look for, how air fryers work, and which models stand out, let’s wrap it up with key takeaways.
1️⃣ If You Want the Best All-Around Performer:
Go for the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 DualZone. It’s versatile, powerful, and allows for multi-task cooking, making it a great investment for busy households.
2️⃣ If You Need a Large-Capacity Air Fryer:
The COSORI Pro II 8-Quart is perfect for families who cook in large batches. The powerful heating system and large basket ensure quick, even cooking.
3️⃣ If You Have a Small Kitchen & Need a Compact Option:
The DASH Tasti-Crisp 2.6-Quart is small but mighty, perfect for solo cooks, students, or people in small spaces.
4️⃣ If You’re on a Budget but Want Great Performance:
The Instant Vortex 4-in-1 proves that you don’t need to spend a lot to get solid air frying results. It’s simple, efficient, and reliable.
5️⃣ If You Love Smart Tech & Convenience:
The Philips Essential Smart Airfryer XL is the best choice if you want Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and hands-free cooking with Alexa integration.
Final Recommendation: Should You Buy an Air Fryer?
Yes! Whether you want to eat healthier, cook faster, or just enjoy crispy food without deep frying, an air fryer is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. With the right model, you’ll save time, reduce oil consumption, and enjoy delicious meals with minimal effort.