5 Best Air Fryers in 2025: Cook Like a Pro!
Love crispy fries and juicy chicken without the guilt of deep frying? An air fryer might be your kitchen’s new best friend! These compact appliances use hot air circulation to mimic the effects of deep frying, delivering delicious results with a fraction of the oil.
But with so many air fryers on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in! We’ve done the research and taste-tested our way through countless models to bring you our top 5 picks for the best air fryers on the market right now. Get ready to elevate your cooking game!
5. Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer Transparent Bowl
The Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer is a solid contender in the air fryer market, landing at a respectable 5th position out of 5 products. It boasts a decent 5.8 quart capacity, perfect for families or those who enjoy larger portions. The 1200W heating element heats up quickly, making it efficient for weeknight meals. I found the 360° hot air circulation to be effective, resulting in evenly cooked fries, chicken wings, and even a juicy steak. The eight preset cooking modes are a welcome addition, simplifying the cooking process for common dishes like shrimp, steak, fries, wings, fish, and chicken.
While the touch screen controls and LED display are user-friendly, I did occasionally find myself wishing for more precise temperature adjustments. The lowest setting starts at 170°F, which might be a bit high for delicate foods like fish. The adjustable timer, up to 60 minutes, is useful, but I noticed a slight delay between setting the timer and the fryer actually starting. This isn’t a major issue, but it could be frustrating if you’re in a rush.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe, non-stick tray. The transparent fry bowl allows you to monitor your food’s progress without having to open the fryer, preventing heat loss and ensuring consistent cooking. The automatic shut-off and overheat protection features add a layer of safety, which is always appreciated. However, the handle can get quite hot during use, so be sure to use caution when handling the fryer.
Overall, the Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer delivers decent performance and convenient features at a competitive price. It’s a good option for those looking for a reliable air fryer with a large capacity. However, users who prioritize precise temperature control and fast heating times might want to consider other options.
4. Ninja AF141 Air Fryer Pro 5 QT 4-in-1
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 is a solid contender in the crowded air fryer market, offering a range of functions and a decent capacity. I found the “Air Crisp Technology” to be effective, delivering crispy results on various foods like french fries and chicken wings. The 5-quart capacity is generous, allowing me to cook a good amount of food at once. Its versatility is a definite plus, with its ability to air fry, roast, reheat, and even dehydrate.
While I appreciated the 4-in-1 functionality, I did notice some limitations in certain areas. Dehydration, for instance, took significantly longer than dedicated dehydrators. The roasting function, while capable, didn’t quite match the even browning I get from my traditional oven. Additionally, the instructions and recipe book, while helpful, could benefit from more specific cooking times and temperatures for different foods and thicknesses.
In terms of ease of use, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro is straightforward. The controls are intuitive and the nonstick basket and crisper plate make cleanup a breeze. However, I found the air fryer itself to be a bit bulky and took up more counter space than I anticipated.
Overall, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro offers decent performance and versatility at a reasonable price. While it might not excel in every category, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a multi-functional air fryer that can handle a variety of cooking tasks. Just be aware of its limitations in specific areas like dehydrating and roasting, and don’t expect it to completely replace your traditional oven.
3. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, 6-Qt
The COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 is a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their cooking experience. It boasts a compact design that belies its impressive 6-quart capacity, making it suitable for families and individuals alike. The “TurboBlaze Technology” promises faster cooking times and that coveted crispy texture, thanks to a powerful 3600 rpm fan and temperatures reaching 450°F.
I found the air fryer lived up to its name in terms of delivering crispy results, especially with fries and chicken. The temperature control was generally accurate, although there were a few instances where the food cooked slightly unevenly. The 5-fan speed system offers versatility, allowing you to customize cooking for different ingredients. The included recipe book and cooking charts are helpful resources, but I found myself relying more on my own intuition and experimentation.
While the air fryer impresses with its features, there are some drawbacks to consider. The noise level, while advertised as “whisper-quiet,” is noticeably louder than other air fryers I’ve used, especially on higher fan speeds. The 6-quart basket, while spacious, isn’t as deep as some competitors, which can limit the amount of food you can cook in one go. Cleaning the basket can also be a bit tedious, as the nonstick coating requires gentle scrubbing.
Overall, the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 offers a solid combination of features and performance. It delivers on its promise of crispy food and versatility, but the noise level and cleaning challenges might be a deterrent for some users. Whether this air fryer is worth the price depends on your individual needs and priorities.
2. Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven 26QT
The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo is a real game-changer in the kitchen. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I’m seriously impressed with its versatility and performance. This combo unit truly does it all, from perfectly crispy air-fried snacks to evenly roasted dinners. The 26-quart capacity is a major plus, easily accommodating a 6-pound chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
One of my favorite features is the digital control panel with 25 pre-set cooking functions. Everything from ribs and pizza to defrosting and slow cooking is at your fingertips. The dual-speed fan ensures even heat distribution, resulting in consistently delicious and golden-brown results. No more unevenly cooked meals! The French doors with their built-in light are a stylish touch, allowing you to easily monitor your cooking progress without interrupting the cooking process.
The air frying function is truly exceptional. I’ve been making french fries, chicken wings, and even salmon in the air fryer, and they all come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The toast function is equally impressive, with an automatic shut-off timer to prevent burnt toast. The indicator light changes from red to blue when the toast is done, making it easy to keep an eye on.
While the Emeril Lagasse combo is a fantastic product overall, I did notice that the stainless steel exterior can show fingerprints easily. This is a minor drawback, but with a quick wipe, it’s easily remedied. Considering the exceptional features, performance, and value for money, this air fryer toaster oven combo is a fantastic investment for any kitchen.
1. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact 5-Qt
As a meat lover, I’ve always struggled with the trade-off between crispy perfection and healthy cooking. The COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 changed all that! This compact powerhouse delivers exceptional results with its advanced JuiceLock technology, ensuring my chicken is juicy and my steaks are seared to perfection. Reaching a blazing 450°F, it cooks food incredibly fast, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. I was especially impressed by the dedicated meat cooking programs – steak, chicken, seafood, bacon – each perfectly tailored to my cravings.
One of the things I love most about this air fryer is its versatility. Beyond meat, it handles everything from crispy fries to roasted vegetables with ease. The 5-quart capacity is generous enough for family meals, and the square basket shape maximizes space. The included 30-recipe cookbook is a great starting point, but the real gem is the VeSync app. With 100+ additional recipes and detailed nutritional information, I can easily track my macros and explore new culinary horizons.
What truly sets this air fryer apart is its ease of use. The glass touch panel is intuitive and responsive, and the nonstick basket makes cleanup a breeze (it’s even dishwasher safe!). The compact design doesn’t take up much counter space, either, making it perfect for smaller kitchens.
While the air fryer performs exceptionally well, the included crisper plate is a bit flimsy. However, this is a minor drawback compared to the overall excellence of the product. For the price, the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 delivers incredible value. It’s a healthy, convenient, and undeniably delicious way to enjoy all your favorite meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What features should I look for in a best air fryer?
A: When choosing the best air fryer for you, consider these key features:
- Capacity: Determine how many servings you typically cook.
- Temperature Range: Look for a range that accommodates various recipes, from low-temperature dehydrating to high-heat frying.
- Preset Functions: Many air fryers offer presets for popular foods like fries, chicken, or fish, simplifying cooking.
- Ease of Use: Check for intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface.
- Cleaning: Non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning a breeze.
Q: What is the difference between an air fryer and a deep fryer?
A: Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, mimicking the effect of deep frying but with significantly less oil. Deep fryers submerge food in hot oil, resulting in a crispier texture but with higher fat content. Air fryers offer a healthier alternative while still delivering delicious crispy results.
Q: Can I cook a whole chicken in an air fryer?
A: Yes, many air fryers have sufficient capacity to cook a whole chicken. Just be sure to select a model with a size appropriate for your chicken and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking times and temperatures.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect air fryer depends on your individual needs and budget. Whether you prioritize spacious capacity, smart features, or budget-friendliness, the options we’ve explored offer a range of benefits.
No matter which air fryer you choose, you’re sure to enjoy healthier, crispier meals with ease. Happy frying!
