As more home cooks seek healthy and convenient cooking options that fit busy lifestyles, one appliance has delivered on all fronts and taken over kitchens worldwide – the air fryer.
Utilizing convection power and with the ability to “fry” foods to crispy perfection using little to no oil, air fryers have emerged as a go-to gadget, revolutionizing the way we cook.
Once dismissed by many as a passing trend, air fryers have proven their staying power thanks to the undeniable health and culinary benefits they provide. Through rigorous cooking experiments and evaluation of performance, usability, and value, we’ve identified the models that rise above the rest.
The Rise of the Air Fryer
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about choosing the right air fryer for your needs. From types and sizes to features and functions, we outline the key considerations to make an informed purchase.
We also reveal my picks for the top air fryers currently available based on exhaustive testing by our expert reviewer’s staff. You’ll learn about innovations in the market and tips and tricks for getting the most from whichever model you select.
Whether you are searching for your first air fryer or are ready to upgrade to an older model, this guide provides an in-depth look at what to look for in an air fryer and tried-and-true recommendations. By the end, you’ll be fully equipped to take advantage of convection cooking and all its culinary benefits. Happy air-frying!
Things to Consider Before Buying an Air Fryer
Before diving into the air fryer market, consider the following factors to ensure you find the perfect fit for your household and culinary needs.
Capacity
- Small (1-2 servings): Air fryers with a small capacity of 1-2 quarts are perfect for individuals or couples who usually cook small portions. They’re also a great option for those with limited kitchen space.
- Medium (3-4 servings): If you have a family or enjoy cooking larger meals, consider an air fryer with a medium capacity of 3-4 quarts. These appliances are suitable for preparing side dishes and main courses for 3-4 people.
- Large (5+ servings): For big families or those who frequently entertain, air fryers with 5 quarts or more capacity are ideal. These spacious appliances can accommodate larger quantities of food for multiple servings.
Type
There are two main types of air fryers, each with unique features and advantages.
- Basket-style: The most common type of air fryer, basket-style air fryers, feature a removable basket that can be easily cleaned and stored. They’re typically compact and offer a straightforward cooking experience.
- Oven-style: Oven-style air fryers offer more versatility, often with multiple cooking functions, such as roasting, grilling, and dehydrating. They usually have a larger capacity, making them ideal for families or those who enjoy cooking various dishes.
Features
Look for the following features to make your air fryer experience more enjoyable.
- Temperature control: A wide temperature range allows you to cook various foods, from frozen fries to homemade doughnuts.
- Presets: Pre-programmed settings for common foods like fries, chicken, and vegetables can save time and effort.
- Timer: An automatic shut-off feature ensures your food doesn’t overcook while providing added safety and convenience.
- Easy-to-clean: Removable parts and dishwasher-safe components make cleaning a breeze.
Budget
- Determine a realistic budget for your air fryer and research options within your price range. Remember that higher-priced models may offer more advanced features and superior performance.
Reviews
- Read reviews from trusted sources and users to gain insights into various air fryers’ performance and user experience. Pay attention to factors such as ease of use, cleaning, and overall cooking results.
Top Air Fryer Brands and Models
After rigorously testing over 50 air fryers, our top picks shone for their performance, value, and special features. Here are our top picks for the best air fryers on the market.
- Amazon: $129.95
- 4.6/5 star rating from over 18,302 ratings
This compact but powerful model from the trusted Instant gave me consistently excellent, speedy cooking results across all tests. Its digital touchscreen and temperature dial allowed for precise programming.
At under $130, it’s also very affordably priced for the quality you get. The nonstick crisper plate was easily accessible and cleaned in the dishwasher for consistency, speed, and all-round family-friendly cooking.
- Walmart: $69
- 4.6/5 star rating from over 5,967 reviews
At under $80 yet performing far costlier models, the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore is a superb value air fryer pick. Though large, it took up no more counter space than smaller options, and its handsome stainless exterior complimented any kitchen. Even with a touchscreen, programming was intuitive, and it produced evenly, perfectly crisped food batch after batch. An air fryer bargain to take to the bank.
- Amazon: $49
- 4.5/5 star rating from over 16,651 reviews
If kitchen space is tight but you still want convection cooking power, the petite 2-quart Dash is a compact champion. It handled single portions with aplomb, and while not winning awards for looks, its subtle design blended nicely anywhere. At under $50, it’s a bargain that performs much like larger models. Those cooking solo will find this miniature marvel perfectly formed.
- Amazon: $245.62
- 4.8/5 star rating from over 27,753 reviews
Serving 1-6 wouldn’t faze this 8-quart monster from Ninja. Two independent 4-quart baskets meant dividing a whole meal across both at once for synchronized meals. While its footprint demands appropriate space, there was no better value for larger groups. Its pre-sets included everything from pizza to roasts, taking all guesswork out of air frying. Hard to top for family quantity and quality cooking.
- Amazon: $399.95
- 4.6/5 star rating from over 10,320 reviews
Described as the ‘Ferrari of air fryers,” the luxe Breville oozed multi-faceted cooking capabilities. 13 Functions from Bake, Roast, and Toast to sous-vide and dehydrate made it a true all-rounder. Its chic stainless casing was sturdy and built to last. Though a bigger investment than most, advanced home chefs will appreciate its precision and performance for many years. Space and budget allow it to be a dream machine.
How to Choose the Right Air Fryer for You
•Cooking Capacity and Family Size
Consider your average number of diners and portion sizes when selecting an air fryer’s capacity. Small 1-2 quart models are ideal for solo cooking but can’t handle large-scale meals.
•Style - Basket vs. Oven vs Combo
Basket air fryers are compact and Energy Star-rated but have limited capacity. Oven air fryers offer more versatility with extra cooking functions and shelves in a slightly larger footprint. Combination appliances provide two small appliances in one.
• Special Features
Look for convection oven power, adjustable temperature controls, digital timers, pre-programmed settings or air fry, broil, and baking settings. Multiple accessories, steaming abilities, or guided cooking modes add perks.
• Cleaning Convenience
Check if parts are dishwasher safe or require hand-washing. Nonstick baskets and removable drip trays with safe handling simplify clean-up.
• Design Durability
Stainless steel interiors vs. plastic stand-ups are best for long-term use. Consider removable, not fixed, parts that could break down first.
• Intuitive Controls
Digital vs analog styles matter less than logical button placement, number of settings, temperature range, and accuracy in achieving desired temps vs manual knobs.
• Affordability
Entry-level air fryers start at $50-100, but most well-rated options fall in the $100-200 range. Factor in long-term energy and part longevity costs over speedy obsolescence.
Our reviews narrowed down favorites excelling across these key attributes to best match common air fryer needs, kitchen sizes, and budgets. Understanding what sets air fryers apart lets you pick the perfect one for your household.
Air Fryer Cooking & Cleaning Tips
To get the most out of any air fryer, follow these basic rules of thumb:
- Preheat most foods for added crispness unless directed otherwise, or cooking is quick, like toast.
- Brush foods lightly with egg wash or water before cooking for ultimate crunch without oil.
- Fry in single layers for even results; don’t overload baskets.
- Toss smaller ingredients halfway through to ensure even browning
- Use parchment paper on the bottom of the basket to prevent messes and speed cleaning.
- Throw raw veggies or meat on a mesh rack or skewers before frying for large or awkward cuts.
- Air fry frozen foods directly from frozen; no need to thaw.
- Consider the USDA Food Safety temperature guidelines and temperature probe use.
Thoroughly clean air fryer baskets and outer surfaces after each use to prevent smoking issues and unhealthy build-up. Dishwasher-safe components can go in the top rack, while metal mesh and nonstick should be gently hand-washed. For heavy grease spills, consider soaking problem areas before scrubbing.
Conclusion
With the air frying trend going stronger than ever, finding the right model for your needs has never been more important. As this comprehensive guide has shown, while all air fryers promise the same core function, there is huge variation among models regarding performance, features, and price point. Understanding your cooking habits and priorities will lead you toward the air fryer that delivers the perfect cooking experience for your household.
Through rigorous testing and review of many leading brands, I hope I’ve simplified your search by identifying the cream of the crop air fryers that earn our top ratings. Whether for quick weeknight suppers, family feasts, or trying your hand at air fryer recipes, you will find an appliance to suit every air frying need.
Are you ready to take convection cooking to the next level? Then, it’s time to choose your new air fryer. Please browse our recommended models and customer reviews to find the perfect match. Whichever air fryer you select, I wish you many delicious, healthy meals made easily in your new countertop companion. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest oil to use in an air fryer?
Avocado, olive, grapeseed, and rapeseed oils are heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. But air fryers let you crisp foods without any added oil at all!
Can air fryers replace deep fryers?
While some claim air fryers can perfectly replicate deep-fried results, air fryers hit the crunchy mark well but miss that ultra-crisp coating achieved via submersion. Still, they’re exponentially healthier!
Is preheating necessary in an air fryer?
Only if machines have built-in cycles; otherwise, food preheats quickly. Ignoring these cycles may result in slightly longer cook times but won’t affect results since air fryers work fast.
