Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook. Whether you want to whip up crispy fries, juicy chicken wings, or healthy roasted veggies, the best air fryers make cooking faster, easier, and healthier—using up to 95% less oil than traditional frying methods.
If you're in the market for a high-quality air fryer, you're in the right place. We've rounded up 7 of the best air fryers in 2025, catering to different cooking styles, kitchen sizes, and budgets. We’ve also included a helpful guide on what to look for when shopping for an air fryer, so you can choose the right one for your lifestyle.
🔎 What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Air Fryer
Before buying an air fryer, consider the following features and questions to help you narrow down your options:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Capacity/Size | Do you cook for 1, 2, or a family of 4+? Choose between compact (3–4 QT) and large (6–10 QT). |
| Functions & Modes | Many air fryers now offer 6–9 cooking functions like bake, broil, reheat, roast, and dehydrate. |
| Temperature Range | Wider temperature ranges (90°F–450°F) allow for more precise cooking. |
| Cleaning Ease | Look for dishwasher-safe parts and nonstick, PFAS-free baskets. |
| Smart Features | Digital displays, timers, presets, and self-cleaning features make cooking hands-off. |
| Countertop Space | Make sure it fits your counter or cabinet space, especially if it’s a larger model. |
| Budget | Prices range from $60 to $250+. Decide based on the features you need most. |
Air Fryer vs. Convection Oven: What’s the Real Difference?
⭐ The 7 Best Air Fryers of 2025: Reviewed and Rated
1. COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer, 6-Qt – 9-in-1 Smart Cooking with Fast Turbo Modes
Best Overall Air Fryer for Everyday Cooking
The COSORI TurboBlaze offers a compact design with powerful TurboBlaze technology that cooks food faster and more evenly. With a temperature range of 90°F to 450°F, this air fryer handles everything from crispy wings to slow proofing dough.
✅ Pros:
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9 versatile functions (roast, bake, broil, proof, reheat, frozen, dry, etc.)
Uses up to 95% less oil
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Precise heat control and fast cooking
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Compact yet spacious 6-qt capacity
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Sleek grey design matches modern kitchens
❌ Cons:
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No rotisserie function
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Limited to single-zone cooking
💡 Perfect for small to medium families who want a fast, no-fuss air fryer for daily use.
2. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT ClearCook Air Fryer – 6-in-1 with Window & Custom Programming
Best Air Fryer with Viewing Window
Love watching your food crisp to perfection? The Instant Vortex Plus 6QT includes a ClearCook window and internal light so you can see what's cooking without opening the drawer.
✅ Pros:
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6 functions: air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, dehydrate
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Easy-to-use digital panel with custom programming
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Sleek design with see-through basket window
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Cooks evenly with EvenCrisp™ Technology
❌ Cons:
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Slightly bulky footprint
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No shake reminder
💡 Ideal for busy cooks who love visibility and precision without sacrificing speed.
3. Ninja Air Fryer Max XL, 5.5 Quart – 6-in-1, High Gloss Finish
Best Air Fryer for Crispiness and Texture
The Ninja Max XL delivers on its promise of crispy perfection with its Max Crisp Technology. Its 6 functions cover everything from reheating leftovers to dehydrating fruits.
✅ Pros:
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Extra-hot cooking (up to 450°F)
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5.5 QT capacity fits 3+ servings
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Compact but powerful
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Sleek high-gloss finish
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Dishwasher-safe parts
❌ Cons:
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No rotisserie or advanced smart features
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Doesn’t include cooking accessories
💡 Great for people who prioritize texture, especially crisp skins and crunchy finishes.
4. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Toaster Oven Air Fryer – 8-in-1 Convection Oven Hybrid
Best Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
Why buy multiple appliances when one does it all? This Cuisinart air fryer toaster oven combines an oven, toaster, and air fryer into one compact countertop device. It’s made of durable brushed stainless steel with classic knobs and clear labeling.
✅ Pros:
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8-in-1: air fry, toast, bake, broil, warm, convection bake, and more
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Easy to clean crumb tray
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Can cook a 12" pizza or 4-lb chicken
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Convection setting for faster cooking
❌ Cons:
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Manual knobs (no digital screen)
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Takes more counter space than basket-style air fryers
💡 Perfect for home cooks who want an all-in-one appliance with traditional oven capacity.
5. Ninja Air Fryer, 4 Quart – 4-in-1 Cooking with Dehydration Function
Best Compact Air Fryer for Singles or Small Kitchens
This 4-quart Ninja Air Fryer may be small, but it packs a punch. It's the perfect choice for singles, couples, or those with limited counter space.
✅ Pros:
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4 functions: air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate
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Super compact design fits in tiny kitchens
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Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
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Great for smaller portions and quick snacks
❌ Cons:
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Not ideal for families
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No presets or smart controls
💡 Best for dorm rooms, small apartments, or quick personal meals.
6. Instant Pot 10QT Air Fryer – 7-in-1 with EvenCrisp, Rotisserie & Dehydrator
Best Large Capacity Air Fryer with Rotisserie
If you're cooking for a crowd or love whole chickens, this 10-quart air fryer oven is your go-to. It features EvenCrisp™ technology, rotisserie capabilities, and 7 built-in cooking functions.
✅ Pros:
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Large 10QT capacity—fits a 4-lb chicken!
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Rotisserie spit included
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Digital touch controls
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Great for families and batch cooking
❌ Cons:
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Requires more countertop space
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Louder than smaller air fryers
💡 Ideal for large families or those who want to air fry, roast, and rotisserie all in one appliance.
7. Dome Air Fryer, 32-Wing Capacity – Smart Digital, PFAS-Free, Self-Cleaning
Best Air Fryer for Smart Features and Easy Cleaning
This futuristic air fryer is all about smart cooking and hassle-free cleaning. It offers a self-cleaning mode, PFAS-free basket, and high-speed airflow system that can handle up to 32 wings at once.
✅ Pros:
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Large capacity, great for game days and parties
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Smart touchscreen with presets
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Self-cleaning function
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Health-safe, PFAS-free coating
❌ Cons:
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Premium price point
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Bulkier design
💡 Perfect for tech lovers and health-conscious cooks who want convenience and performance.
📊 Quick Comparison Chart
| Model | Capacity | Functions | Best For | Rotisserie | Smart Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COSORI TurboBlaze | 6 QT | 9-in-1 | All-in-one daily use | ❌ | ✅ |
| Instant Vortex Plus | 6 QT | 6-in-1 | Visual monitoring | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ninja Max XL | 5.5 QT | 6-in-1 | Crispy meals | ❌ | ❌ |
| Cuisinart Toaster Oven | Medium Oven | 8-in-1 | Multi-use countertop | ❌ | ❌ |
| Ninja 4QT | 4 QT | 4-in-1 | Small kitchens | ❌ | ❌ |
| Instant 10QT | 10 QT | 7-in-1 | Large families | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dome 32-Wing | ~7–8 QT | Smart Digital | Party-sized meals | ❌ | ✅ |
🛒 Final Thoughts: Which Air Fryer Is Best for You?
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Best Overall Everyday Use: COSORI TurboBlaze 6QT
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Best Visibility + Precision: Instant Vortex Plus with ClearCook
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Best Crispiness & Texture: Ninja Max XL
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Best All-in-One Oven Style: Cuisinart Toaster Oven Air Fryer
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Best Small Space Air Fryer: Ninja 4QT
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Best for Large Families: Instant Pot 10QT Rotisserie Air Fryer
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Best Smart & Self-Cleaning: Dome 32-Wing Air Fryer
FAQ:
1. Is air-fried food healthy?
Air-fried food can be a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried dishes. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around food, creating a crispy exterior similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil. This reduction in oil can lead to a lower calorie and fat content in your meals.
However, the healthiness of air-fried food ultimately depends on what you're cooking. If you're air-frying processed foods like frozen fries or chicken nuggets, the overall nutritional value may still be low. Opting for lean proteins, vegetables, and whole foods when air frying will maximize the health benefits. It's a great tool for low-fat cooking and can help you achieve a more balanced diet.
2. Is an air fryer worth buying?
An air fryer can be a worthwhile investment for many households, especially those seeking convenience and healthier cooking options. They are incredibly versatile kitchen appliances that can roast, bake, grill, and, of course, "fry" with less oil.
Benefits of owning an air fryer include:
- Faster cooking times compared to a conventional oven for smaller portions.
- Crispier results for foods like wings, fries, and roasted vegetables.
- Reduced oil consumption for a healthier diet.
- Easy cleanup due to non-stick components.
If you're looking for a compact appliance that can deliver crispy, delicious results with less fuss and fat, an air fryer is definitely worth considering.
3. What foods cannot be cooked in an air fryer?
While air fryers are versatile, some foods aren't well-suited for them:
- Wet batters: The high-speed fan can blow off wet batters (like for tempura or pancakes) before they crisp.
- Large, whole roasts: Air fryers are generally too small for a whole chicken or large roast, leading to uneven cooking.
- Fresh cheese: Cheese can melt and create a messy situation, or burn quickly.
- Certain leafy greens: They can become too dry or blow around in the strong airflow.
- Popcorn: While some attempt it, the kernels can fly around and get stuck, potentially causing a fire hazard.
- Foods with excessive liquid: Soups, stews, or anything with a lot of sauce will simply dry out or splatter.
It's best to stick to foods that benefit from dry heat and crisping when using your air fryer.
4. What is the disadvantage of an air fryer?
Despite their popularity, air fryers do have a few drawbacks:
- Limited Capacity: Most air fryers are relatively small, making them impractical for cooking large meals for families or entertaining guests. You often need to cook in batches.
- Noise: The fan can be quite noisy during operation, which might be a minor annoyance for some.
- Drying Out Food: If not used correctly, the intense circulating hot air can sometimes dry out certain foods, especially if they are lean or overcooked.
- Learning Curve: While generally easy to use, it takes some experimentation to find the optimal cooking times and temperatures for different foods.
- Counter Space: They can take up a fair amount of counter space, which might be an issue in smaller kitchens.
Understanding these air fryer disadvantages can help you decide if it's the right appliance for your needs.
5. What are the risks of air fryers?
When used properly, air fryers are generally safe. However, there are a few potential risks to be aware of:
- Fire Hazard: Like any heating appliance, an air fryer can pose a fire risk if not used correctly. Overfilling, blocking vents, or placing it too close to flammable materials can be dangerous. Always ensure good ventilation.
- Overheating: Some models can overheat, especially if they are older or faulty. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
- Fumes from non-stick coatings: While most air fryers use safe non-stick coatings, excessive overheating could potentially release fumes. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid scratching the non-stick surface.
- Burns: The exterior of an air fryer can get hot, so exercise caution to avoid accidental burns.
By following air fryer safety guidelines and reading your appliance's manual, you can minimize these risks.
6. Is an air fryer better than a microwave?
An air fryer and a microwave serve entirely different purposes in the kitchen.
- Microwave: Excels at reheating food quickly, defrosting, and cooking dishes that primarily rely on heating liquids (e.g., soup, oatmeal). It uses microwave radiation to heat water molecules within food, which doesn't produce a crispy texture.
- Air Fryer: Specializes in creating crispy, browned, and "fried" textures using circulating hot air. It's ideal for things like fries, chicken, roasted vegetables, and even baking small items.
Therefore, "better" depends on your needs. For quick reheating or defrosting, the microwave wins. For crispy results and healthier "frying," the air fryer is superior. Many kitchens benefit from having both appliances.
7. Why are people getting rid of air fryers?
While popular, some people choose to get rid of their air fryers for various reasons:
- Lack of Use: After the initial novelty wears off, some users find they don't use their air fryer as often as they anticipated, leading to it becoming clutter.
- Space Constraints: Air fryers can take up significant counter space, which can be an issue in smaller kitchens.
- Cleaning Hassle: While generally easy to clean, some find the basket and components tiresome to wash, especially if not done immediately after use.
- Limited Capacity for Families: For larger families, the small capacity often means cooking in multiple batches, making a conventional oven more efficient for bigger meals.
- Preference for Traditional Methods: Some simply prefer the results or habits of using a conventional oven or stovetop.
These reasons often contribute to people decluttering their kitchen and parting with appliances they don't frequently use.
8. Which is better: air fryer or oven?
Both air fryers and conventional ovens are valuable kitchen tools, and "better" depends on the task:
- Air Fryer Strengths:
- Faster preheating and cooking for smaller portions.
- Achieves superior crispiness for "fried" foods with less oil.
- More energy-efficient for small batches as it heats a smaller space.
- Oven Strengths:
- Larger capacity for cooking big meals, roasts, or multiple dishes at once.
- More suitable for baking (cakes, casseroles, bread) where even, gentle heat is crucial.
- Versatile for a wider range of cooking techniques, including broiling and roasting large items.
For everyday single servings or small batches of crispy food, an air fryer might be more convenient. For larger meals or traditional baking, the oven is indispensable. Many find that owning both offers the most flexibility.
9. Can pizza be made in an air fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely make and reheat pizza in an air fryer, and it often yields fantastic results!
- Reheating Pizza: The air fryer is excellent for reheating leftover pizza. It revives the crust, making it crispy, and melts the cheese perfectly without making it soggy like a microwave can.
- Making Small Pizzas: You can make small individual pizzas using pre-made crusts, tortillas, or even English muffins as a base. The circulating hot air cooks the crust to a lovely crispness and melts the toppings beautifully.
Just be mindful of the size of your air fryer basket and ensure proper airflow around the pizza for even cooking.
10. Can you put foil in an air fryer?
Yes, you can generally use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but with some important considerations for air fryer safety:
- Do not block airflow: Ensure the foil doesn't cover all the holes in the air fryer basket or block the fan, as this can impede air circulation and affect cooking performance.
- Secure the foil: Make sure the foil is weighed down by food so it doesn't fly up and come into contact with the heating element, which can be a fire hazard.
- Avoid acidic foods: Highly acidic foods (like tomatoes or citrus) can react with aluminum foil, potentially leaching aluminum into your food. Use parchment paper instead for these.
- Check your air fryer model: Always refer to your air fryer's manual, as some manufacturers may have specific warnings or recommendations regarding foil use.
Foil can be useful for easy cleanup or for cooking delicate items.
11. Can cake be made in an air fryer?
Yes, you can definitely bake cakes in an air fryer, especially smaller ones! Air fryers function very much like a small convection oven, making them suitable for baking.
- Small Portions: Air fryers are perfect for single-serving cakes, cupcakes, or small loaves.
- Adjusting Recipes: You'll likely need to adjust baking times and temperatures. Start with a lower temperature and shorter time than a conventional oven, as air fryers cook faster and more intensely.
- Pans: Use an appropriately sized oven-safe pan that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket, allowing for air circulation. Silicone, ceramic, or small metal baking pans work well.
It's a great option for when you want a quick dessert without heating up a large oven.
12. How to make bread in an air fryer?
Making bread in an air fryer is possible, especially for smaller loaves or quick breads:
- Prepare your dough: Whether it's a yeast bread or a quick bread (like banana bread or cornbread), prepare your dough as usual.
- Choose the right pan: Select a small, oven-safe pan that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket, allowing for airflow around it. A small loaf pan or a round cake pan often works well.
- Preheat (optional but recommended): Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature (often lower than a conventional oven, around 300-350°F / 150-175°C for bread).
- Bake: Carefully place the pan with the dough into the air fryer.
- Monitor and Adjust: Air fryers cook faster, so start checking for doneness sooner than a traditional oven. You might need to cover the top with foil if it's browning too quickly.
- Cool: Once baked through, remove and let cool on a wire rack.
It's a convenient method for smaller batches of homemade bread without firing up the big oven.
13. What is the common problem of an air fryer?
Some common problems air fryer users encounter include:
- Uneven Cooking: This is often due to overcrowding the basket. Food needs space for hot air to circulate. Overlapping items will lead to some parts being cooked or crisped, while others remain soft.
- Food Drying Out: The intense hot air can dry out certain foods, especially lean meats or vegetables, if cooked for too long or at too high a temperature.
- Smoking: This usually happens when fat drips onto the heating element or when cooking very greasy foods. Adding a bit of water to the drawer below the basket can help, or choosing leaner cuts.
- Non-Stick Coating Damage: Using abrasive sponges or metal utensils can scratch the non-stick coating, making cleanup harder and potentially reducing the lifespan of the basket.
- Excessive Noise: The fan can be quite loud, which is just a characteristic of the appliance but can be bothersome to some.
Understanding these air fryer issues can help you troubleshoot and get the best results from your appliance.
14. Is it bad to use air fryer everyday?
No, it's generally not bad to use an air fryer every day, provided you're using it correctly and responsibly.
- Safety: As long as you follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines (proper ventilation, not overfilling, cleaning regularly), there are no inherent dangers to daily use.
- Health: If you're using it to cook healthy, whole foods with less oil than deep frying, then daily use can actually contribute to a healthier diet. The "bad" aspect would come from consistently air-frying unhealthy, processed foods, regardless of the cooking method.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and proper care will ensure your air fryer remains in good working condition for daily use.
