If you’re spending more time at home these days, as many of us are, you might be missing the delicacy of hot, crispy, and crunchy fried food. The idea of making this crispy items by your own definitely crossed your mind sometimes. And, a deep fry with a plenty of oil is what you are envisioning of, aren’t you? Not unreasonable, but what about an air fryer?
Things doesn’t always necessarily need to occur in a conventional method. Acting smartly in certain situations can make life much easier. Air fryers, for example. The same crisp and taste of deep-oil fry, together with a nice fried finish, though with little or no oil. Hope you won’t mind to share out some of your precious countertop space.
Made the breakthrough into the mainstream just in 2017 and by now the web is packed with praises and critical acclaims. Reason, it simply effective. Which, pushed a growing number of manufacturers to come up with their own. But, for you, too many choices to get one from. Calm yourself down and just read on to discover the best.
#List of the Best Air Fryer– Editor’s Pick:
Top 10 Best Air Fryer Reviews
1. COSORI Max XL (5-QT, Wi-Fi Air Fryer)
May not the priciest of air fryer, but those who love to turn ingredients into delicious food, it may well be a worthwhile investment. Unlike most other fryer which have black or white steel structure, the Cosori Max comes in an outstanding stainless steel made basket model.
Simple, yet eye-catchy angular display accommodates all the settings and presets you need. In terms of presets, 11 cooking recipes are accessible by one touch – quite a number when you draw a comparison with similar devices. Which, covers the majority of the most sought after food recipes for instance, Steak, Seafood, Bacon, Frozen Foods, Bread, and Desserts.
The elements used to materialize the Cosori aren’t just functional; sleek and elegant design of it, is a complimentary fit for your counter top. Apart from the preset recipes, feel free to try your favorite dishes. This device offers you the freedom to set the time and temperature needed for customized recipes.
This 5.8-Quart size can easily make a meal for a family of 5-6 persons. The nonstick 9*9*3.75 coated basket inside is removable and dishwasher safe. In addition to that, a catalog of 100 different recipes comes along to add variety in your menu. Besides, delivers crispy and tastier food, though taking less time than a convection oven.
Well, let’s get ready to be gotten into the coolest part – digital and remote operation of it. Thanks to the Wi-Fi, you have the complete access to it by the means of smart phone, Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Just make sure that you are taking home the Wi-Fi model.
- Stainless steel structure
- A guarantee of two years
- Dishwasher safe inner basket
- Wi-Fi enabled, and shake reminder
- Less time consuming than conventional oven
- Has customer complaints of irregular response in Wi-Fi mode
2. NUWAVE BRIO 6-Quart Digital Air Fryer
Compact enough to fit in your kitchen setup and designed to prepare food for large family. It’s an excellent, inexpensive option that comes with a special airflow design suitable to deliver crispy delicious fried foods. Relatively large, in terms of capacity and known for its ability to cook food that is less browning and crisping than others.
Flavor-Infusion Technology, the main attraction of Nuwave’s Brio Air Fryer allows you to air-fry all your favorites, too without any oil mess. Moreover, this technological advancement gives you the freedom of using it virtually for every meal of the day as well as for dessert. Adjustable temperature range of 100°F to 400°F with a narrow 5 degree increment is a blessing in this regard.
In relation to build quality, it features a black plastic body, which accommodates a nonstick as well as a dishwasher safe fryer basket. Can cook two small meals at a time, thanks to the basket divider. Its digitalized LED controls help to get the precise time setting and temperature control. Built-in safety feature prevents unnecessary heating while the basket is not perfectly placed inside.
With 6 preset recipes, it’s a godsend particularly for busy households. On top of that, capability to cook from frozen, without defrosting even saves some precious time of yours.
- Precise control over temperature
- Built-in safety to avoid unnecessary heating
- 6-quarts cooking capacity
- 6 preset recipes
- Can process frozen food without defrosting
- Homemade fries might come out greasy and less crispy
3. Ninja Foodi, 8-Quart 9 functions Stainless Finish Air Fryer
Looking to cook a lot of dishes with a single cooker? Not a problem with Ninja Foodi – 9 functions, Stainless Finish Air Fryer. Its multi-dimensional usability stunned the cooking pros and took the world of foodie by storm. From slow cooking to pressure cooking, performs its appliance duties quite impressively.
If there is to singling out one thing of this fryer, different compartment setups for frying and pressure cooking, in order to attain utmost precision is worth admitting. Delivers the most crunchiest and browning result compare to its competitors. Besides, the XL pressure cooking capacity brings the much needed ease when you are cooking delicious roasts and meals for a group.
However, this to admit that we also had a fair share of doubt over Ninja Foodi’s ability of executing multiple task. But, it took no time to blow that skepticism out. Aside from pressure cooking and frying, its list of versatility also includes broil, dehydrate, steam, slow cook, and sauté.
Furthermore, the TenderCrisp technology of Ninja, start to showcase the magic at the very moment you close the lid. Abundance of cooking options might give you a little hard time to get full control over programming, but once you are done, cooking becomes a breeze.
- Bunch of safety features (14)
- 1760 watt power cooking
- Different lids for pressure cooking and crisping
- Stainless steel reversible rack
- 8-Quarts nonstick basket
- Plenitude of options and multiple appliance duties make it fairly big and heavy
4. ETL Certified 6-in-1 7 Quart Air Fryer by Iconites
If you are in search of a snazzy-looking device for a well decorated kitchen setup, this Iconites air fryer may well be the way to go. Designed to fulfill your growing family as well as party needs. Besides, extra-large 7QT nonstick basket on it, has proven enough for a family of 7-9 persons or a forthcoming small party at your backyard.
A delight for those who are in desperate need to evade oily food, but can’t think of sacrificing the delicacy of fries. 360ׄ° hot air circulating capability gives you the privilege of making food crunchy with little or no oil – time to say goodbye to traditional frying.
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of deep frying is it often extract much of nutrients during the process. But, with air inlet and outlet openings and 360° heat circulation technology, this air fryer retains higher nutritional value. Dishwasher safe non-stick basket ensures minimum possible food residue, which make the cleaning effortless.
With LCD touch control panel, cooking delicious masterpieces are even simpler these days. In addition, you can also set the cooking time and temperature manually. Fast air circulation technology is a blessing for even cooking. Unlike other fryer, its basket designed in a square shape, which in return makes it 40% more spacious without being unsightly bulky.
- Space saving design
- Instant powerful heat circulation
- Excess fat reduction
- LCD smart touch screen for easy and swift operation
- Ensures higher nutritional value
- Quit space demanding
5. Dash Compact Tasti Crisp Electric Air Fryer
When you are buying something, getting the best value for your money will be the primary objective, one thing for sure. And, forking over $100 isn’t always the best case scenario for many. Indeed, buying within your budget and getting the best out of it is the smartest thing.
Good thing, there are still a few air fryer available in the market that are cheap, yet effective, Dash Compact Electric Air Fryer, for example. But, you need to be practical, at $59.99 you can’t just expect all those fancy features other expensive variants offers. Made with some basic features to facilitate small family parties.
Place the 2 quart fryer basket into your device. Set temperature and time by using dedicated rotating knob, load what you want to fry and start. Over cooking isn’t an option with it, since an auto-shut off function is in place. The cool touch housing and handle brings all ease of use even newbies can give it a shot without being hesitated.
Ultra-compact, weights almost half of what other fancy fryers come in. Manufacturing quality of it, is one thing that has drawn huge acclamation. The user might not get the premium longevity, but it will definitely get the job done.
- Ultra-compact and portable
- Less expensive
- Simple to use
- Dishwasher safe basket
- Eye-catchy color options
- Show poor durability characteristic
- Manual operation
6. Cuisinart Silver Color AFR-25 Air fryer
Going ahead with our list, we have something special which is all set to save you some precious counter space. This 2-in-1 from Cuisinart is primarily a toaster oven that has a built-in air fryer. Baking, toasting, broiling, and air frying all in a single unit. Result, a tidy counter top with adequate space to house other appliances.
For even heating, the 16 inches baking tray act as a blessing. Helps circulate the hot air evenly and in most part you don’t even need to shake or flip the food. Custom designed fan motor and heater further assists in this regard by supplying powerful airflow and high heat, so that you get a perfect fried result.
Moreover, apart from being compact, its large capacity of 4 pounds means you can host a big group more often now. Quiet operation creates less possible noise, while viewing window helps to keep a close tab on the food are that being cooked. This kitchen horse also offers adjustable time and temperature setting. In terms of longevity, stainless steel structure of it guarantees extended usability.
- Space saving 2-in-1 device
- Uniform hot air circulation
- 4 pound capacity
- Quiet operation
- Stainless steel structure
- Knobs show poor character
7. Ninja Air Fryer with 4 Quart Capacity, and a High Gloss Finish
When it comes to traditional basket type air fryer, Ninja air has established itself as one of the top performers. Award yourself with the grace of fried food that are up to 75% less fattier than food that cooked with the traditional frying method. Just preheat it for 2-3 minutes and go ahead with your recipe.
What amazed us most is its ease of use. Sliding in and out is so effortless that make almost a breeze to handle. Basket’s interior formed out of ceramic, as a result avoids stickiness. Perfectly fitted removable tray eliminates any chance of slipping from hand. Most importantly, both the basket and tray are dishwasher safe.
Besides, comes with an adjustable temperature range of 105°F to 400°F – a much needed flexibility to switch between slow to fast cooking methods. One touch control panel presents four programmable cooking functions and you can set the time and temperature manually as well. Moreover, extra-large capacity can easily house 2 lbs. of fries.
- Up to 75% of reduced fat
- Effortless handling
- Dishwasher safe basket and tray
- Adjustable temperature range
- 4 programmable cooking functions on the control panel
- Portability compromised a bit owing to its size and weight
8. GoWISE 1700W 5.8-QT Digital Air Fryer
A kitchen workhorse, born to deliver oil free crispy food. Being controlled by touch screen means your kitchen is about to get a smart look. In addition to that, sleek and modern appearance of it looks more gorgeous.
8 cooking presets in the built-in touch screen menu, simplifies things and takes the guesswork out of cooking. Temperature range of 180°F to 400°F with 10 degree increments ensures that Fries, Pork, Chicken, Steak, Shrimp, Cake, Fish, Pizza or whatever you cook, you have the required setting. Moreover, temperature and time can be adjusted in the middle of a program – thanks to the new start/stop button.
On top of that it virtually left no chance to forget the shaking, an alarm system will remind you that in every 5 to 10 minutes. Both the basket and pan are non-sticky and certified by FDA. Inclusion of a cool touch handle makes the handling even easier and the button guard ensures that no accidental detachment takes place.
- Sleek and modern design
- Touch screen menu
- Built-in alarm system for shaking
- Safety measures to prevent accidental detachment
- FDA certified
- After using for a while, black surface starts to chipping
9. COSORI 3.7QT Air Fryer, 1500W Electric Hot Oven Oilless Cooker
Another example of premium quality air fryer, manufactured by the Cosori. Likewise, its 5.8QT variant, COSORI 3.7QT also all set to add smartness at your kitchen counter. With all its mind-blowing features, cooking becomes more a fun game to play.
Digitalized LED display of Cosori designed in an angular shape to improve visibility. Besides, simple icons placed on the touch panel give you much better control and improved view of cooking progress. Being light in weight turned it extremely portable – just carry along where you need to cook.
Cosori’s amazing 11 preset programs loaded in the control panel, which gives you an upper hand when you are in a rush. Just tap one and bingo, food is ready in no time. For cooking pros, a manual guide with 100 delicious recipes also comes along. In addition, basket designed in a square shape so that users get an edge over space, compared to other round shape competitors.
On the other, users can customize their own formula, since one can easily set the time and temperature according to the requirement. Built-in pre-heating option is a godsend. Non-sticky removable basket is dishwasher safe; cleaning isn’t a matter of concern anymore.
- Cook food faster than traditional convection oven
- 11 preset programs
- Angular LED display
- Touch control panel
- Non-sticky coking basket
- During cooking, issues reported regarding steam leakage from the basket
10. Instant Vortex 4 in 1 6Qt Air Fryer
At $89, it’s one of those mid-range air fryers that offers almost all the opulence high-end air fryers have. Simple touch control, for example, easy to understand as well as use. Whether you are air frying, roasting, baking or reheating, process going to be hassle free. Reduces use of oil up to 95%, which results significant reduction of fat.
Takes half the time conventional ovens take to deliver food – if you are in a big hurry, 4 built in smart programs are there to make things even faster. Furthermore, pre-heating is almost instant, which means no delay when your ingredients are ready. The sleek and compact structure of it gives an upper hand when it comes to portability.
The buttons are fairly large and easy to read – you just don’t need to hit those buttons over and over to get your required time and temperature setting. Its square shape basket with 6QT capacity can easily cook meal for a family of 8-10 people. A handle, hinged with the removable tray for easy handling too, without disrupting the cooking area, since it lays flat.
- A kitchen workhorse with 6QT capacity
- Powerful 1700w air fryer
- Easy to understand touch control panel
- Large buttons
- Has a thin, hinged handle with the tray for improved removability
- There are customer reports of food smelling bad
Top 10 Best Air Fryer Comparison Table
Product Title | Brand | Color | Capacity | Item Weight | Item Dimension | Review |
COSORI Max XL | COSORI | Black | 5.8 Quarts | 11.9 Pounds | 11.8 x 14.3 x 12.7 inches | 4.5/5 |
NUWAVE BRIO 6-Quart Digital Air Fryer | NuWave | Black | 7.25-Quart | 15 Pounds | 11 x 14.5 x 13.5 inches | 4.5/5 |
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer | Ninja | Silver | 8 Quarts | 26.04 Pounds | 16.1 x 14.57 x 14.2 inches | 5/5 |
Dash Compact Tasti Crisp Electric Air Fryer | DASH | Aqua | 2.6 Quarts | 1 Pounds | 12.36 x 12.17 x 10.08 inches | 4.5/5 |
Cuisinart Silver Color AFR-25 Air fryer | Cuisinart | Silver | - | 16 pounds | 12 x 11.75 x 11.5 inches | 4.5/5 |
Ninja Air Fryer with 4 Quart Capacity | Ninja | Black/gray | 4 Quarts | 10.58 Pounds | 8.5 x 12.1 x 11 inches | 5/5 |
GoWISE 1700W 5.8-QT Digital Air Fryer | GoWISE USA | Black | 5.8 Quarts | 4 Ounces | 13.5 x 12.5 x 11.5 inches | 4.5/5 |
COSORI 3.7QT Air Fryer | COSORI | Black | 3.5 Liters | 12.3 Pounds | 13.3 x 10.7 x 12.2 inches | 4.5/5 |
Instant Vortex 4 in 1 6Qt Air Fryer | Vortex | Black | 6 Quarts | 12.08 Pounds | 14.92 x 12.36 x 12.83 inches | 4/5 |
A Buyer’s Guide To The Best Air Fryer For Money
Before we dive deep into the details of different devices, make yourself knowledgeable with some key aspects regarding air fryer. Besides, as air fryer still a relatively fresh term, you ought to have a close look at these following matters.
- Ease of use
Whatever devices or appliances we bring home, the objective remains the same, simplifying our work. Much of which depends on how the device functions. In the case of air fryer, we have two options to choose from. Manual and digital.
If you are ok with twisting the knobs manually to change the settings, kudos, you are entitled to save some extra bucks. However, if precise control over time and temperature can’t be compromised, sorry to say, but you have to fork out a few extra. A digital air fryer is a must.
- Physical appearance
As a countertop cookware, physical properties of the device carry a huge significance. Moving it from here to there is inescapable. Generally, manually operated machines tend to be a bit less space demanding and less burdensome, thus easy to move. On the other, digital devices rationally bulky and heavy. We aren’t saying that it can’t be moved, but will not be easy going.
- Cleaning
Undoubtedly the hardest part of using an appliance. When it comes to air fryer, for the most part the main body of the device can’t be dish washed or submersed in water. Nonetheless, removable parts either can be dish washed or hand wash. Before you place an order, do enough study to make sure that cleaning will not give you head scratch in the future.
- Capacity and power consumption
Available in various sizes and capacity. From 1 liter small unit to 5 liter large units, choose one in accordance with your use. Buying a large unit without assessing the usability would be a misspending. Same goes for smaller units, if they can’t meet your capacity demand.
Besides, cooking time and temperature level of an air fryer is directly proportionate to the wattage it uses. Typically, 800w to 1500w, which suggests consumption of at best 1 unit power per day. Moreover, for heavy use, air fryers with a wattage rating of up to 1800w also available.
How Do Air Fryers Work?
An Air Fryer, basically, is an oven with a highly concentrated heat source together with a powerful fan that circulates the hot air. Quickly and in a swirling style. Being a small electric appliance helps this hot air to reach all of the surfaces of the food and thus creates the magic of crisp and crunch. So the bottom line is; air fryer doesn’t fry, it just cook the food by circulating hot air around.
Who Should Get an Air Fryer?
Should I buy an air fryer? Will it be effective for me? A lot of people have these questions in mind, while I believe these questions are irrelevant. The overwhelming number of adverse effect oily foods has on us, make sense for everyone to have an air fryer. And, an air fryer offers an exit route from all of those health complications.
Nonetheless, we understand and respect every individual’s preferences. You might not get that exact feel of crunch and crisp a deep oil, fry yields, but at the end of the day, your health is what matters the most. Besides, if you lead a busy life, yet just don’t want to deprive yourself from homemade crispy fries, an air fryer is the only answer.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ)
1. What can you not cook in an air fryer?
Though Air fryers are the must-have kitchen appliance at present, you can’t cook everything you want with this appliance. There is a shortlist of dishes that you can’t cook by Air fryer.
• Broccoli
• Can’t roast an entire chicken
• Hamburgers
• Rice
• Any kind of fishes
• Cake and Rice
2. What should I look for when buying an air fryer?
There is a variety of models of Air fryers. Before buying you have considered the following benchmark as Capacity, Wattages, Power consumption, Temperature Control, and Safety.
3. Why are air fryers so popular?
It is a time-saving machine that also consumes low power and takes low space in the kitchen than the oven. You can cook faster and oil-free with it. Air fryers will make your cooking easier and hassle-free.
The popularity of Air fryers is increasing gradually
4. Can you put raw meat in an Air fryer?
Yes, you can fry raw meat in Air fryer. Infect many brands come with a grill pan so that you can easily grill raw meat. It may take 30 minutes for a chicken at 360-degree F.
You can also fry/grill Raw pork, beef, or mutton in the Air fryer.
5. Is air fryer cancerous?
A study shows that Air fryer produces a toxic chemical called Acrylamide that can cause cancer. It is in Group 2A and recommend to take minimal.
Final Verdict
Likewise, every technological breakthroughs, an air fryer can’t be an automatic choice for every user. But, despite being introduced in 2017, sales volume and positive critique it has garnered, indicates on it is becoming a common name in every household in the foreseeable future. Just, keep your reservations (if you have any) aside and try one.