Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying while maintaining the crispy textures we love. In this blog, We will be reviewing and ranking the best air fryers based on real user feedback and in-depth reviews to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
1. COSORI LE 5-Qt Air Fryer:
Why We Picked It
Reviewers consistently highlight the COSORI Air Fryer Pro and 5 QT models for their reliable cooking performance, user-friendly design, and exceptional ease of maintenance. Across multiple verified reviews, owners praise the even heating, fast preheat times, and versatility for everything from fries to steak to seafood. The combination of strong build quality, intuitive controls, and a basket size that balances capacity with countertop space makes this air fryer stand out in real-world daily use.
Pros
- Even, consistent cooking: Users report perfectly crispy fries, evenly cooked meats, and reliable preset performance with little trial and error.
- Fast preheat and cook times: Several reviewers appreciate how quickly the air fryer heats up, allowing for last-minute meals.
- Spacious but compact: The basket fits family-size portions while the overall device remains suitable for small kitchens.
- Extremely easy cleanup: Non-stick surfaces, dishwasher-safe components (depending on model), and effortless wiping are repeatedly highlighted.
- User-friendly controls: Simple digital presets, intuitive interface, and an actual on/off button.
- Durable and long-lasting: Multiple owners report years of trouble-free use and reliable performance.
- Healthier cooking: Little to no oil needed while maintaining crisp textures.
- No chemical odors: Reviewers appreciated the lack of plastic smell common in lesser models.
- Energy efficient: Heats faster and uses less power than an oven.
Cons
- Slightly bulky for very small kitchens: Some users note it takes up noticeable counter space, though most find the trade-off worth it.
- Presets sometimes need tweaking: For items like chicken, reviewers occasionally increase time or temperature for ideal results.
- Rare technical hiccups: One reviewer experienced a brief premature shutoff (resolved by unplugging/replugging).
- No included cookbook: Some users expected recipes in the box.
- WiFi indicator appears on non-WiFi models: Confusing to some, though it does not affect performance.
Who It’s For
- Small to medium households (1–3 people) needing a reliable, versatile daily-use air fryer.
- Busy individuals or families who want fast, healthy meals without constant monitoring.
- Kitchen minimalists seeking one dependable appliance rather than multifunction units that compromise on results.
- New air fryer users who want something intuitive and not overwhelming.
- Experienced home cooks who value consistent performance and control over cooking variables.
- People with limited time or energy for cleanup—this device shines in maintenance simplicity.
Helpful Review Insight
Several reviewers shared practical, real-world tips that enhance the overall ownership experience:
- Cleaning technique matters: Let the basket cool before washing it; rinsing while hot can warp metal or damage non-stick coating.
- Food customization works well: Adjusting presets especially for chicken can fine-tune results, and pausing to flip items helps achieve deep-fried crispiness without oil.
- Pre-seasoning routine helps remove manufacturing odors: A water-vinegar cycle during initial setup was recommended and praised for eliminating any residual smells.
- Space-efficiency is subjective: Those with limited counter space may find it larger than expected, but most users ultimately felt the cooking benefits outweighed the footprint.
- Teens and beginners use it confidently: Households note that even kids and non-cooks use it safely thanks to intuitive controls.
- Longevity is a major value point: Multiple reviewers mention using COSORI air fryers for years with consistent results, this brand earns repeat purchases and family referrals.
2. Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Air Fryer:
Why We Picked It
Emeril Lagasse 26 QT air fryer oven stands out because reviewers consistently highlight its exceptional versatility, large cooking capacity, and thoughtful design. Users praise its ability to replace multiple appliances, functioning as an air fryer, convection oven, dehydrator, rotisserie, broiler, and more, while still fitting comfortably on a countertop. The French door design, spacious interior, even heating performance, and daily-use reliability make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a multifunctional, high-capacity countertop oven.
Pros
- Extremely versatile: Air fries, bakes, broils, dehydrates, proofs dough, reheats, and includes rotisserie functionality.
- Large interior capacity: Fits full baking dishes, sheet pans, and even full-size frozen pizzas.
- French double doors: Easy access and ideal for small kitchens where a pull-down door might be cumbersome.
- Even heating & excellent cooking results: Reviewers rave about cookies, casseroles, sheet-pan meals, meats, and pizzas cooking uniformly and quickly.
- Faster & more efficient than a regular oven: Heats quicker, uses less energy, and doesn’t heat up the kitchen.
- High-quality build: Solid construction, smooth door operation, good insulation, and durable accessories.
- Comes with extensive accessories: Racks, baskets, drip pans, grill pieces, utensils, and instruction booklets.
- Easy to clean: Slide-out trays and interior wipe-downs keep the unit spotless with minimal effort.
- Great for small homes, RVs, and off-grid setups: Frequent praise from tiny homes, campers, and RV users.
Cons
- Large footprint: Though efficient for its size, it still requires adequate counter space and clearance for the French doors.
- Rare shipping imperfections: At least one user reported a small dent on arrival (did not affect performance).
- Rotisserie may be messy: Some users appreciate having it but expect it to be difficult to clean if used frequently.
- Doesn’t fit all oversized pans: Certain 12″ pans may not fit, depending on shape.
Who It’s For
- People who want a multifunctional countertop oven that replaces an air fryer, toaster oven, and even a full-size oven for many tasks.
- Small home, RV, camper, and tiny-space cooks who need an all-in-one appliance with a generous cooking chamber.
- Home cooks who bake frequently and want even heating and reliable temperature accuracy.
- Those who dislike small basket-style air fryers and want more room, more flexibility, and easier cleaning.
- Anyone cooking for 1–4 people who wants the convenience of fast, efficient, healthier cooking without heating the whole kitchen.
Helpful Review Insight
Reviewers shared several practical insights based on long-term, everyday use:
- This oven can fully replace a standard oven for many users, several people with small apartments or RVs rely on it as their primary cooking appliance.
- It offers the advantages of a convection oven, often cutting baking time by a third while maintaining moisture in foods like banana bread or cookies.
- French doors improve safety, one-handed operation and less leaning over a hot door, but users note you need enough space to open them fully so they don’t swing back and close on your hand.
- Appliance heat remains minimal outside the unit, making it ideal for small or enclosed cooking spaces.
- Accessories matter: Many enjoy how well the trays, racks, and drip pans are sized and how smoothly they slide in and out, something not always true with other air fryer ovens.
- For RVers and mobile setups, users recommend placing the oven on heat-safe surfaces (like clay tiles) or on a rolling cart for airflow and convenience.
- Those switching from basket air fryers report a huge upgrade, especially in capacity, ease of cleaning, and cooking versatility.
- Users consistently mention cooking more often because the appliance makes baking, roasting, and air frying fun, fast, and less intimidating.
3. Instant Pot 6 Quart Air Fryer:
Why We Picked It
Instant Pot 6 Quart air fryer stands out because reviewers consistently praise its strong cooking performance, thoughtful design features, and dependable brand reputation. Users describe reliable, even cooking across a wide variety of foods and appreciate how the appliance combines air frying, baking, broiling, reheating, and in larger models, rotisserie functions. The Instant brand’s durability, ease of use, and practical design choices, such as stainless steel baskets or wide cooking chambers, make this a highly recommended option for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
Pros
- Versatile cooking functions including air fry, bake, broil, roast, dehydrate, and rotisserie on larger models.
- Reliable, consistent cooking performance with crisp results and moist interiors.
- Instant brand trustworthiness backed by positive long term experiences with Instant Pot products.
- Stainless steel basket options on some models for higher durability and easy cleaning.
- User friendly interface with simple buttons, clear displays, and a helpful mid-cycle shake alert.
- Easy cleanup with removable trays and well designed interiors.
- Quick cooking times that significantly reduce overall meal prep compared to ovens.
- Great for small kitchens, RVs, and campers thanks to smaller footprint models that still cook efficiently.
- Excellent accessory kits including trays, rotisserie tools, baskets, grill plates, and more.
- Energy efficient and does not heat up the room.
Cons
- Preheat time is slower than advertised for some users who expected near instant readiness.
- Quiet alert beeps can be hard to hear unless you are close to the appliance.
- Some models have a mild initial odor during the first few cycles, though it quickly fades.
- Teflon coated trays on some units are disliked by users who prefer non coated materials.
- Toasting is not perfect and requires manual flipping.
- Size limitations vary by model, so larger pans may not fit in smaller capacities.
Who It’s For
- Home cooks who want dependable results without complicated controls.
- People using RVs, campers, small apartments, or tiny homes who need an appliance that replaces multiple tools.
- Fans of Instant Pot products who prefer sticking with a trusted brand.
- Individuals who cook for one to three people and want fast, healthier meals with little oil.
- Users who want optional rotisserie functionality without buying a full size countertop oven.
- Anyone upgrading from a smaller basket air fryer and seeking more space, more features, and better cooking flexibility.
Helpful Review Insight
Reviewers consistently share practical experiences that go beyond typical pros and cons:
- Cooking experimentation is highly successful, with users doing everything from coconut shrimp to flounder, paneer, vegetables, tater tots, homemade fries, roasts, pizzas, and baked potatoes cooked to perfection.
- Preseasoning or running empty cycles reduces any manufacturing smell, which disappears after a few uses.
- Cooking tips are common such as adjusting times for sweet potato fries, using oil rubs for perfect baked potato skins, or placing rotisserie chicken on a rack after cooking to keep the bottom from getting soggy.
- Shape matters with many preferring the short and wide basket because it spreads food more evenly.
- Rotisserie function earns high praise, with users saying it performs better, is easier to balance, and is simpler to clean than past rotisserie appliances.
- Cleaning is easier than expected, even for users who generally avoid oven style air fryers due to cleanup concerns.
- Electricity usage is minimal, with users noting no noticeable increase in their power bill even with frequent use.
- Stainless steel interiors or baskets are seen as a major upgrade, giving users more confidence about long term durability.
5. Chefman Turbo Fry Touch Air Fryer:
Why We Picked It
Chefman Turbo 8 quart air fryer stands out because users consistently praise its large capacity, strong cooking performance, and easy to use controls. Reviewers note that it cooks more evenly than competing models, handles big batches without crowding, and delivers fast, crispy results with very little effort. The simple interface, quick heating, and straightforward cleanup make it a great choice for families or anyone who wants a dependable, high capacity air fryer at a fair price.
Pros
- Large 8 quart basket fits generous portions for families
- Even, consistent cooking across meats, vegetables, and snacks
- Simple touchscreen presets that are easy for beginners
- Fast heat up and powerful airflow for crisp results
- Quiet operation that does not disrupt the kitchen
- Easy cleaning with dishwasher safe tray options
- Sturdy stainless steel exterior that looks great on counters
- No strong or lingering odors during cooking
- Great value for the size and performance
Cons
- Occasional reports of faulty displays or buttons
- A few users experienced long term power shutoff issues
- Light foods can shift inside during cooking if not weighed down
- Takes up more counter space than smaller models, as expected for an 8 quart size
Who It’s For
- Families who need to cook larger batches in one cycle
- Anyone upgrading from a small basket fryer to something more spacious
- Beginners who want a simple, intuitive control panel
- Busy households that want fast meals with minimal cleanup
- Budget conscious buyers who want a mid range model with high end results
Helpful Review Insight
Reviewers across the board describe a consistently positive experience with this model:
- Many upgraded from Ninja or older egg shaped fryers and found this one cooks more evenly and handles larger portions.
- Users cooked everything from burgers, chicken breasts, tacos, fries, frozen snacks, Spam, whole chickens, and English muffin pizzas with great results.
- Several owners confirmed that this unit rarely needs preheating and still produces juicy meats and crispy exteriors.
- Cleanup is frequently praised, with hand washing taking only seconds and many parts fitting in the dishwasher.
- The unit stays cool on the outside, which users appreciate for safety.
- First time air fryer owners reported exceptional results, even calling their meals restaurant quality.
While there were a few reports of display or shutoff issues, the cooking performance itself remained strong even in those cases.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Air Fryer:
1. Cooking Capacity: Consider the size of your household to choose an air fryer with an appropriate cooking capacity.
2. Functionality: Look for features that align with your cooking needs, such as multiple cooking presets, rotisserie options, or dehydrating capabilities.
3. Technology and Heating Efficiency: Assess technologies like EvenCrisp or quick cook technology for consistent and efficient cooking results.
4. Ease of Cleaning: Opt for models with dishwasher-safe components and easy-to-clean designs for hassle-free maintenance.
5. Design and Aesthetics: Consider the appliance’s design, materials, and aesthetics to ensure it complements your kitchen.
6. Additional Accessories and Resources: Evaluate the inclusion of accessories, recipe books, and app access to enhance your cooking experience.
7. Brand Reputation and Warranty: Research the reputation of the brand and check for warranty coverage to ensure long-term satisfaction and support.
8. User-Friendly Controls: Look for air fryers with intuitive controls, digital displays, and one-touch presets for convenient operation.
9. Safety Features: Check for safety features such as automatic shutoff, pause in heating when opened, and other safety measures.
10. Price and Value: Compare prices and features to find an air fryer that offers the best value for your budget.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the best air fryer depends on your specific needs and preferences. For health-conscious individuals or small families, the COSORI LE 5-Qt Air Fryer offers a perfect balance of health benefits and convenience. Culinary enthusiasts and hosts may find the Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Air Fryer’s versatility and large capacity appealing. Busy individuals looking for multitasking efficiency can benefit from the Instant Pot 6 Quart Air Fryer. For culinary exploration and large families, the Instant Pot 10 QT Air Fryer provides ample options. Each air fryer in this guide caters to a unique set of requirements, ensuring there’s an ideal choice for every type of buyer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Which air fryer is the best to purchase?
The best air fryer depends on your specific needs and preferences. The COSORI LE 5-Qt Air Fryer is a popular choice for health-conscious individuals, while the Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Air Fryer offers versatility for culinary enthusiasts. Consider factors like cooking capacity, features, and your cooking habits to make the right choice.
2. What cannot be cooked in an air fryer?
While air fryers are versatile, some foods with high water content or batter-like consistency may not be suitable. Avoid overly wet batters, extremely fatty meats, and foods that require constant basting.
3. Are air fryers worth buying?
Yes, for many users, air fryers are worth buying. They offer a healthier cooking alternative, quicker cooking times, and versatility in preparing various dishes. Consider your cooking preferences and lifestyle to determine if an air fryer aligns with your needs.
4. What is unhealthy about an air fryer?
Air fryers are generally considered a healthier cooking option compared to deep frying. However, excessive use of oil or cooking unhealthy foods can offset the health benefits. It’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and use the air fryer responsibly.
5. Do air fryers use a lot of electricity?
No, air fryers are generally energy-efficient and use less electricity compared to traditional ovens. They cook food faster, reducing overall energy consumption.
6. Should I buy an air fryer or an oven?
The decision between an air fryer and an oven depends on your cooking needs. Air fryers are great for quick, healthier cooking, while ovens offer a broader range of cooking methods. Consider your cooking habits, available space, and desired features before deciding.
7. How long do air fryers last?
The lifespan of an air fryer varies based on usage and maintenance. On average, well-maintained air fryers can last for several years. Look for models with good build quality and warranty coverage for added assurance.
8. Do chefs like air fryers?
Many chefs appreciate air fryers for their efficiency and ability to create crispy textures with less oil. However, preferences vary, and some chefs may prefer traditional cooking methods.
9. Which is better, a microwave or an air fryer?
The choice between a microwave and an air fryer depends on your cooking preferences. Microwaves are excellent for reheating and quick cooking, while air fryers offer a healthier alternative for crispy textures and versatile cooking options. Consider your specific needs to determine which appliance suits you better.
