7 Best Air Fryers to Make Cooking Easier

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we approach cooking, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. With the ability to cook with significantly less oil, these gadgets have become a staple in modern kitchens for those seeking to prepare their favorite dishes in a more nutritious way.

While some home chefs may prioritize capacity and advanced functions, others may look for simplicity and compact design. The best air fryers address these varying requirements, ensuring there’s a perfect model for every type of cook, from beginners to seasoned pros. Performance, ease of use, and cleaning convenience are common strengths across these standout appliances.

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1. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL – Best Overall

After examining various models and user feedback, the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL emerges as the best overall air fryer. Known for its Twin TurboStar technology, this air fryer is engineered to remove fat from foods and capture it in the bottom of the unit, making meals healthier. It also boasts a generous capacity that can handle a whole chicken or two bags of fries, making it ideal for families or entertaining guests.

The Philips Airfryer XXL doesn’t skimp on performance either. It heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process, ensuring even results. The digital interface is user-friendly, with preset programs that take the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures for common dishes. Its dishwasher-safe parts also make cleanup a breeze, adding to its overall convenience and appeal.

2. Dash Deluxe Electric Air Frye – Budget-Friendly

For those mindful of their spending but still wanting to enjoy the benefits of air frying, the Dash Deluxe Electric Air Fryer offers a budget-friendly option without compromising quality. Its compact design and efficient cooking make it ideal for smaller households or limited kitchen space. Despite its affordability, it still delivers crispy, evenly cooked results, proving that great performance doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.

3. GoWISE USA 3.7-Quart Programmable Air Fryer

Another excellent choice for the budget-conscious is the GoWISE USA 3.7-Quart Programmable Air Fryer. It features a range of preset cooking modes and a digital screen for easy control, all while being one of the more affordable models on the market. Despite its lower price, it doesn’t fall short on performance, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

4. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer – Premium Air Fryers for Gourmets

Gourmet cooks looking for premium features and the utmost in cooking technology will find their match in high-end air fryers. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer stands out with its Element IQ technology, which intelligently controls heating elements to ensure precise cooking. Its large capacity and versatility allow it to function as a full-sized oven, capable of air frying, baking, roasting, and even dehydrating.

5. Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Another luxurious option is the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, which combines the functionality of an air fryer with the convenience of a toaster oven. Its sleek design and stainless steel finish not only look professional but also provide a robust cooking experience. With the ability to toast, bake, broil, and air fry, this model is perfect for those who demand a high-performance appliance that can handle a variety of culinary tasks.

6. Compact Models for Small Kitchens: COSORI Max XL

The COSORI Max XL is another compact air fryer that’s been designed with small kitchens in mind. It features a sleek and slim profile that can easily slide into tight spaces. Despite its smaller footprint, it offers an impressive 5.8-quart capacity and comes with 11 preset cooking functions, making it a versatile and space-efficient option for those with limited kitchen real estate.

7. Instant Vortex Plus

For families, the need for a larger air fryer is clear. More mouths to feed require a bigger basket or rack to cook larger portions. The Instant Vortex Plus stands out for its 6-quart capacity and its 7-in-1 functionality, offering the ability to air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, dehydrate, and rotisserie cook all in one appliance. It’s ideal for preparing meals for a large family or batch cooking.

8. Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 2-Basket Air Fryer

Innovation in the air fryer market has led to models that come with extra features and capabilities. The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 2-Basket Air Fryer is a prime example, offering dual baskets that allow you to cook two different foods at two different temperatures simultaneously. This means you can prepare a complete meal, with a main dish and a side, at the same time, saving on overall cooking time.

9. T-Fal ActiFry Genius

Another innovative model is the T-Fal ActiFry Genius, which features a unique stirring paddle that ensures food is evenly cooked without any manual intervention. With its smart cooking programs, this air fryer takes the guesswork out of meal preparation and allows you to step away from the kitchen while your food cooks to perfection.

Air Fryer Features to Consider

When selecting an air fryer, several key features should be taken into account to ensure it meets your culinary needs. The capacity is crucial; a larger air fryer can cook meals for the whole family, while a smaller one is perfect for individuals or couples. Additionally, the range of temperatures that the air fryer can reach is important for cooking versatility, as some recipes require low heat while others need high.

Another consideration is the type of controls and presets the air fryer has. Digital models often offer more precision and preset programs for specific foods, which can make the cooking process more convenient. Furthermore, some air fryers come with additional racks or rotating baskets, which can be beneficial for cooking multiple food items at once or for achieving an even cook on items like rotisserie chicken.

Making the Most of Your Air Fryer

Once you have chosen the perfect air fryer, getting the most out of it involves a bit of learning and experimentation. Start by familiarizing yourself with the appliance’s various functions and settings. Many air fryers come with recipe books or apps designed to help you explore the myriad of dishes you can prepare. From crispy vegetables to juicy meats, the possibilities are endless.

In addition to cooking, regular maintenance will ensure your air fryer lasts for years to come. Always allow the appliance to cool down before cleaning, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing removable parts. With proper care, your air fryer will become an indispensable tool in your kitchen, helping you create delicious, healthy meals with ease.

In summary, whether you’re a budget-conscious cook, a gourmet enthusiast, or someone with a small kitchen, there’s an air fryer out there to suit your needs. By considering the features that are most important to you and maintaining your appliance well, you can enjoy all the benefits of healthier, easier, and more versatile cooking with your air fryer for many meals to come.