Welcome to our comprehensive guide on finding the best air fryer Wirecutter style recommendations! Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier, quicker way to enjoy your favorite crispy foods without excessive oil. With so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve scoured top reviews, including the trusted insights often highlighted by Wirecutter, to bring you a curated list of the best air fryers that deliver on performance, durability, and value. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, a high-quality air fryer is a game-changer for preparing delicious meals and snacks with ease.
Quick Product Comparison
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Our Top 5 Best Air Fryer Wirecutter Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
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1. Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer: 5QT Capacity, Roasts, Reheats, Dehydrates with Nonstick Basket.
The Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to deliver crispy, delicious results with minimal oil. Its 5-quart capacity is ideal for preparing meals for small to medium-sized families, making it a highly practical choice for everyday cooking. This model stands out for its robust build and user-friendly interface, ensuring both efficiency and enjoyment in your culinary adventures.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Utilizes 400℉ superheated air to surround food, guaranteeing hot, crispy outcomes with little to no oil.
- ✓ LARGE 5-QT CAPACITY: The nonstick basket and crisper plate can comfortably fit up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- ✓ 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Offers versatile cooking modes including Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate for a wide range of dishes.
- ✓ Nonstick Basket: Ensures easy food release and hassle-free cleanup after every use.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer because it perfectly balances capacity, versatility, and performance. It consistently produces perfectly crispy results that mimic deep-frying but with significantly less fat, aligning with a healthier lifestyle. Its multiple functions reduce the need for other kitchen gadgets, making it a valuable space-saver and a truly efficient investment for any home.
Best For
This air fryer is best for families looking for a versatile appliance to air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate, especially those who appreciate quick, healthy meals and easy cleanup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for achieving crispy textures with minimal oil.
- Generous 5-quart capacity suitable for family meals.
- Versatile 4-in-1 functions (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate).
- Nonstick basket ensures effortless cleaning.
Cons:
- Can take up considerable counter space.
- Initial “new appliance” smell may require a few burn-in cycles.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This product has not only been a time saver but also a calorie saver. Easy to clean. Easy to use. Works amazing and doesn’t give off a plastic taste like some air fryers.”
Customer Review: “I have been using this Ninja air fryer regularly and it has made cooking much easier. The controls are simple to understand and the size is great for family meals. I also like that it is easy to clean after use. One downside is that it does take up some counter space, so you need room for it. Overal”
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2. Chefman Compact 4 QT Air Fryer: Touchscreen Controls, 4 Presets, Dishwasher Safe Basket.
The Chefman Compact 4 QT Air Fryer is a fantastic option for those with limited kitchen space or who cook for fewer people. Don’t let its compact size fool you; this air fryer packs a punch with its efficient cooking technology and user-friendly features. It’s designed to make everyday frying quick, simple, and healthy, delivering perfectly cooked meals every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ FAST AND EASY: Features a digital touchscreen display for customizing cooking time and temperature, with intuitive controls.
- ✓ 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Allows you to increase the heat during the final two minutes for an extra-crispy finishing crunch.
- ✓ STYLISH AND COMPACT: Sleek, narrow design maximizes its 4-quart capacity while taking up minimal countertop footprint.
- ✓ Dishwasher Safe Basket: Makes cleanup incredibly convenient after cooking.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Chefman Compact Air Fryer for its perfect blend of efficiency and space-saving design. It delivers exceptional air frying results, especially with its unique Hi-Fry technology for that extra crisp. For individuals or small families, it’s an ideal appliance that simplifies cooking and cleanup without compromising on taste or quality.
Best For
This air fryer is best for individuals, couples, or small families, as well as those with limited counter space who desire quick, crispy results and easy maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Space-saving compact design fits easily on most countertops.
- Achieves excellent crispiness with 450°F Hi-Fry technology.
- Intuitive digital touchscreen controls with convenient presets.
- Dishwasher-safe basket ensures effortless cleaning.
Cons:
- 4-quart capacity might be too small for larger families.
- Touchscreen can sometimes be overly sensitive.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “After using this air fryer for about a month, I can confidently say it has exceeded my expectations. The build quality feels solid, the interface is simple to use, and it cooks consistently well. Most of the time I use it to make boneless wings and fries for my twin girls, and everything comes out c”
Customer Review: “This air fryer is absolutely fantastic. I use this almost daily. It can hold a decent amount and is perfect for a single person to use for daily meals. Easy to clean, and I do not have issues with anything sticking to it. Everything I have cooked in this so far has come out better than when cooked i”
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3. Ninja 6.5 QT XL Air Fryer: 6-in-1 Functions Including Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate.
For those who need more capacity without compromising on performance, the Ninja 6.5 QT XL Air Fryer is an excellent contender. This model expands on Ninja’s reputation for quality air frying, offering a larger basket and more functions to cater to bigger families or meal prepping needs. It’s designed to make cooking convenient and healthier, delivering perfectly cooked dishes every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers up to 450°F of superheated air for faster, hotter, and extra-crispy results with little to no oil.
- ✓ Guilt-Free, Healthy Fried Foods: Enjoy up to 75% less fat compared to traditional deep frying, tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries.
- ✓ XL Capacity Air Fryer: The 6.5-quart nonstick basket and crisper plate hold up to 5 lbs of French fries or 9 lbs of chicken wings, ideal for family meals.
- ✓ 6-in-1 Functions: Includes Air Fry, Max Crisp, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate for maximum cooking versatility.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Ninja 6.5 QT XL Air Fryer for its impressive capacity and multi-functionality, making it a powerful tool for any kitchen. The Max Crisp Technology ensures superior crispiness, and its ability to handle larger quantities means less cooking in batches. It’s a fantastic choice for families seeking healthy, fast, and versatile cooking options.
Best For
This air fryer is best for larger families or individuals who frequently entertain, needing an extra-large capacity and versatile cooking functions for a wider array of dishes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Generous 6.5-quart capacity perfect for larger portions.
- Max Crisp Technology ensures superior crispiness.
- Versatile 6-in-1 functionality expands cooking possibilities.
- Significantly reduces fat compared to traditional frying.
Cons:
- Requires significant counter space due to its size.
- The basket design, while large, might still necessitate some stirring for even cooking with very full loads.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This product has not only been a time saver but also a calorie saver. Easy to clean. Easy to use. Works amazing and doesn’t give off a plastic taste like some air fryers.”
Customer Review: “I have been using this Ninja air fryer regularly and it has made cooking much easier. The controls are simple to understand and the size is great for family meals. I also like that it is easy to clean after use. One downside is that it does take up some counter space, so you need room for it. Overal”
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4. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven: 26QT, 24 Functions, Digital Controls.
The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a truly multifunctional kitchen powerhouse. Boasting a massive 26-quart capacity and an impressive 24 functions, it goes far beyond simple air frying, acting as a complete countertop oven. This appliance is designed for those who seek ultimate versatility and efficiency, combining multiple cooking methods into one stylish unit.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal, from air frying snacks to roasting for large gatherings.
- ✓ PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Oven turns off automatically when the toast countdown timer ends, with indicator lights for easy monitoring.
- ✓ DUAL-SPEED FAN: Provides 360º superheated air circulation for golden, crispy fried results.
- ✓ Extra-Large 26QT Capacity: Can handle large family meals, including a whole chicken or multiple trays of food.
- ✓ Digital Controls: Precise temperature and time adjustments for optimal cooking.
Why We Recommend It
This Emeril Lagasse appliance is a top recommendation for its incredible versatility and large capacity. It’s not just an air fryer; it’s a complete cooking station, capable of replacing several other appliances. The French door design adds a touch of elegance and practicality, making it a centerpiece in any kitchen focused on diverse and efficient meal preparation.
Best For
This appliance is best for large families, avid home chefs, or those who wish to consolidate multiple kitchen appliances into one powerful, versatile unit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with 24 cooking functions.
- Extra-large 26-quart capacity suits big meals and gatherings.
- Elegant and functional French door design.
- Dual-speed fan ensures consistent and crispy results.
Cons:
- Significant countertop footprint may not suit smaller kitchens.
- Higher price point compared to standard air fryers.
- Learning curve for mastering all 24 functions.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love this countertop multitasking thing! It is versatile and customizable, it does everything well, and produces results like results are supposed to be produced. Only a small learning curve, which I appreciate. Perfect size, mat accessories available, easy to keep clean. Decent price for big perf”
Customer Review: “Nice looking oven. Perfect size. Many functions.Works really well. Easy to use. So far, very satisfied with it!”
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5. CHEFMAN XL 10L Digital Air Fryer: Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven with 17 Presets.
The CHEFMAN XL 10L Digital Air Fryer is another excellent multi-functional appliance that caters to a wide range of cooking needs. With its substantial 10-liter capacity, rotisserie function, and dehydrator capabilities, it’s more than just an air fryer; it’s a full-fledged convection oven. This model simplifies healthy cooking, making it accessible and enjoyable for various culinary tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile Countertop Cooking: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, or roast to crispy perfection in one convenient appliance.
- ✓ Cook Faster: Uses rapid air heating elements for quick, even, and crispy cooking, eliminating the need to preheat like traditional ovens.
- ✓ Healthy Cooking Made Easy: Prepare healthy meals using up to 98% less oil than traditional fryers.
- ✓ 17 Presets: Offers a wide array of one-touch presets for popular dishes, simplifying cooking.
- ✓ Large 10L Capacity: Accommodates family-sized portions and larger items like whole chickens.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the CHEFMAN XL 10L Digital Air Fryer for its impressive combination of capacity, versatility, and ease of use. The built-in rotisserie and dehydrator functions add significant value, allowing for more creative and healthy cooking options. Its efficient heating and intuitive digital controls make it a great addition for anyone looking to expand their cooking repertoire with less effort and oil.
Best For
This air fryer is best for families who desire an appliance with multi-cooking functions, including rotisserie and dehydrating, to expand their healthy meal preparation options.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large 10-liter capacity for bigger meals and whole chickens.
- Integrated rotisserie and dehydrator functions for enhanced versatility.
- Rapid air heating ensures fast and even cooking without preheating.
- Many convenient presets simplify cooking for various dishes.
Cons:
- Internal cleaning can be more challenging due to the design and accessories.
- Digital interface may take some getting used to for first-time users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “It’s my first air fryer. Why have I deprived myself so long? This thing is easy to use, comes with three grates + a grease pan (or whatever you call it), quick to cook, and holds a lot of food. I use it every day, probably twice a day.I’ve only tried the air fry option – not bake or dehydration. I w”
Customer Review: “Where has this been all my life? So the window is great. The rotisserie worked well. Cleaning is of course a thing. It does have a tray that comes out. So far no issues. The way the settings are is a bit odd because they only show up when you push one of the main buttons, but that is pretty mi”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Air Fryer Wirecutter
Choosing the best air fryer Wirecutter style means looking beyond just the hype. It’s about finding an appliance that truly fits your cooking habits, kitchen space, and budgetary needs while delivering exceptional performance. Here’s what we consider essential when making a recommendation.
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting an air fryer, several key factors come into play. First, capacity is crucial; consider if you’re cooking for one, a couple, or a large family. A 2-4 quart model is often sufficient for 1-2 people, while 5-7 quarts or more are better for larger households. Next, look at the functions. Many air fryers now offer multi-cooking capabilities like roasting, baking, dehydrating, or even rotisserie. Decide which functions are important to you. Ease of cleaning is also paramount; look for nonstick, dishwasher-safe baskets and trays. The appliance’s footprint on your countertop is another consideration, especially if kitchen space is limited. Finally, evaluate the controls – digital touchscreens offer precision, while analog dials are often simpler to use.
Budget Planning
Air fryers come in a wide range of prices, from entry-level compact models to high-end, multi-functional oven-style units. Generally, expect to spend anywhere from $60 to $200. While budget options can be perfectly adequate for basic air frying, investing a bit more can get you increased capacity, more features, and potentially better build quality and durability. Think about how often you’ll use the air fryer and what features are non-negotiable for your cooking style to determine your ideal price point. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value in the long run if it doesn’t meet your core needs or breaks down quickly.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best air fryer for you will be one that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine and enhances your cooking experience. Consider not just the initial cost, but the long-term benefits of healthier cooking, reduced cooking times, and versatility. By evaluating capacity, functions, ease of cleaning, and your budget, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a model that you’ll love and use for years to come. Our top picks reflect a balance of these critical factors, helping you make an informed decision with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size air fryer do I need?
A: The ideal size depends on your household and cooking habits. For 1-2 people, a 2-4 quart air fryer is usually sufficient. For 3-5 people, a 5-7 quart model is recommended, while larger families or those who frequently entertain might prefer 8 quarts or more, including oven-style air fryers.
Q: Are air fryers healthy?
A: Yes, air frying is generally considered a healthier alternative to deep frying. It uses significantly less oil, often just a tablespoon or two, to achieve a crispy texture, drastically reducing fat and calorie intake compared to traditional methods. However, the healthiness also depends on the type of food you’re preparing.
Q: How do I clean my air fryer?
A: Most air fryer baskets and trays are nonstick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy. For the main unit, wipe it down with a damp cloth after it has cooled. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which can damage the nonstick coating. Always refer to your specific model’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions.
Q: Can I put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can generally use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but with caution. Ensure it doesn’t cover too much of the basket or block airflow, which is essential for proper air circulation. Also, avoid placing foil directly on the heating element or letting it touch the sides of the appliance. Never use it without food on top to weigh it down.
Q: What’s the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
A: Both air fryers and convection ovens use circulating hot air to cook food. The main difference lies in their size and heating intensity. Air fryers are essentially compact, powerful convection ovens designed to cook smaller portions of food very quickly and achieve a crispier exterior due to more concentrated hot air. Convection ovens are larger and cook more evenly over a longer period, but typically don’t achieve the same level of crispiness as an air fryer.
Choosing the best air fryer Wirecutter-recommended models means investing in a kitchen appliance that promises both convenience and healthier eating. We’ve explored some of the top contenders, from compact options perfect for individuals to large, multi-functional units for big families. Each model offers unique advantages, catering to different needs and preferences, but all share the common goal of delivering crispy, delicious results with less oil. We hope this guide helps you confidently select the perfect air fryer to elevate your cooking game. Ready to revolutionize your meals? Click the links above to explore these top-rated air fryers on Amazon and make your healthy cooking journey a reality today!
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I’m Emma J. Caldwell, the founder, lead writer, and home-cooking enthusiast behind KitchenGuideCo.com. With a background in culinary arts and over a decade of cooking experience in both professional and personal kitchens, I created this platform to demystify recipes, offer smart kitchen gadget reviews, and guide readers through meal prep with confidence and clarity.
