10 Best Air Fryers of 2025: Hands-On Testing and Reviews

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering healthier alternatives to traditional frying without compromising on taste or texture. With so many options on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming.

We tested almost 26 air fryers and shortlisted the best 10, finding them ideal for all kinds of users, from small to large families. This guide shares our top picks, tested for performance, along with hands-on insights, including recipes, cleaning tips, practical uses, and what Redditors are saying about each model.

Must-Have Air Fryers for Healthy and Quick Meals

1. Best Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Model: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer

Why It Stands Out

This versatile countertop appliance combines the functions of an air fryer, toaster, and convection oven. Perfect for baking, roasting, and air frying all in one.

• Capacity: Fits a whole chicken or a 13-inch pizza.
• Best For: Families or those who enjoy meal prepping.

Pros

• Superior even cooking with convection technology.
• Multiple cooking modes, including bake, toast, and slow cook.
• Sleek design and durable build.

Cons

• Takes up significant counter space.
• Higher price point compared to standalone air fryers.

What Redditors Say

• "This Breville is a lifesaver during holidays! I use it for everything from casseroles to cookies."
• "Expensive, but worth every penny for its versatility."

Recipes to Try

• Crispy Garlic Bread: A perfect side dish in under 10 minutes.
• Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus: A healthy and quick dinner.

Cleaning

The interior is non-stick and easy to wipe clean. Removable trays are dishwasher-safe.

2. Best French Door Air Fryer

Model: Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer

Why It Stands Out

The unique French door design makes it easy to access and adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Perfect for large family meals.

• Capacity: Can handle a 5-pound roast or a 12-inch pizza.
• Best For: Holiday cooking or batch meal preparation.

Pros

• Large cooking space.
• Quiet operation.
• Stylish design.

Cons

• Heavy and less portable.
• Requires frequent cleaning for the glass doors.

What Redditors Say

• "The French doors are a game-changer, especially when juggling multiple dishes."
• "It's heavy, but the cooking quality makes up for it."

Recipes to Try

• Baked Ziti: Cheesy goodness for the whole family.
• Crispy Chicken Thighs: Juicy and golden-brown perfection.

Cleaning

Removable racks and trays are dishwasher-safe. Glass doors need regular wiping to stay streak-free.

3. Best Non-Toxic Air Fryer

Model: Ninja Crispi Microwave Air Fryer

Why It Stands Out

Made with non-toxic, BPA-free materials, this air fryer ensures health-conscious cooking without compromising on performance.

• Capacity: Compact but suitable for 2-3 servings.
• Best For: Small households prioritizing safe materials.

Pros

• Non-toxic build.
• Lightweight and compact design.
• Multi-functional.

Cons

• Limited capacity.
• Not ideal for larger families.

What Redditors Say

• "I appreciate the peace of mind knowing it's non-toxic! Perfect for small kitchens."
• "It's compact but does the job well for small meals."

Recipes to Try

• Steamed Vegetables: Retain all the nutrients without oil.
• Air-Fried Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and flavorful.

Cleaning

Dishwasher-safe components and an easy-to-wipe exterior.

4. Best Air Fryer with Recipes

Model: Instant Vortex Plus

Why It Stands Out

With over 100 in-app recipes, this air fryer is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for guided culinary inspiration.

• Capacity: 6QT, ideal for families.
• Best For: Recipe enthusiasts and beginners.

Why It's Great for Reheating:
Its 6-in-1 functionality includes a reheat mode designed to warm food evenly without overcooking. The powerful fan and precise temperature control ensure quick reheating.

• Perfect For: Pizza, shrimps, fried chicken, or leftover fries.

Pros

• Guided recipes via app.
• Sleek and intuitive design.

Cons

• Requires app for full functionality.

What Redditors Say

• "The app recipes are a lifesaver when you don’t know what to cook!"
• "It’s great for trying out new meals without guessing temperatures or times."

Recipes to Try

• Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: A crowd-pleasing appetizer.

• Mini Cheesecakes: Decadent and easy to make.

Cleaning

Basket and tray are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup effortless.

5. Best Small Air Fryer

Model: Ninja AF101

Why It Stands Out

This compact air fryer is ideal for singles or couples, offering quick and efficient cooking in a small footprint.

• Capacity: 4QT.
• Best For: Compact kitchens or solo cooks.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable.
• Quick preheating.

Cons

• Limited capacity.

What Redditors Say

• "Perfect size for a single person. Doesn’t clutter my countertop."
• "It’s my go-to for quick snacks and smaller portions."

Recipes to Try

• Air-Fried Fish Tacos: Crispy and flavorful.
• Seasoned Fries: A quick snack.

Cleaning

Non-stick basket is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.

6. Best Multi-functional Air Fryer

Model: Instant Pot Duo Crisp Air Fryer

Why It Stands Out

Combining the features of a pressure cooker and air fryer, this multi-functional device offers unmatched versatility for various cooking needs.

• Capacity: 6QT, ideal for medium to large families.
• Best For: Those who want an all-in-one kitchen appliance.

Pros

• Dual functionality saves counter space.
• Multiple cooking modes: air fry, pressure cook, sauté, steam, and bake.
• Durable stainless-steel design.

Cons

• Slightly bulky.
• Learning curve for using all features effectively.

What Redditors Say

• "The Instant Pot Duo Crisp is my kitchen MVP! From crispy wings to tender pot roast, it does everything."
• "Great for small apartments where counter space is at a premium."

Recipes to Try

• Crispy Chicken Wings: Perfectly golden and juicy every time.
• Pulled Pork: Pressure-cooked to tenderness, then air-fried for a crispy finish.

Cleaning

Non-stick components are easy to clean, and most parts are dishwasher-safe.

7. Best Rated Air Fryer

Model: COSORI Premium 5.8QT

Why It Stands Out

Highly rated for its user-friendly interface and consistent results, this is a go-to option for many.

• Capacity: 5.8QT.
• Best For: Families and first-time buyers.

Pros

• Affordable yet feature-rich.
• Excellent customer reviews.

Cons

• Slightly noisy fan.

What Redditors Say

• "The best bang for your buck. Cooks evenly every time."
• "The preset options are so convenient!"

Recipes to Try

• Crispy Chicken Wings: Restaurant-quality at home.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies: Perfectly baked.

Cleaning

Non-stick basket is easy to clean and dishwasher-safe.

8. Best Budget Air Fryer

Model: COSORI TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart

Why It Stands Out

An affordable yet powerful air fryer that doesn’t skimp on features, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers.

• Capacity: 6.0QT.
• Best For: Value seekers who want quality on a budget.

Pros

• Rapid cooking with TurboBlaze technology.
• Compact design with a generous capacity.

Cons

• Fewer advanced features compared to premium models.

What Redditors Say

• "It’s hard to believe how good this is for the price!"
• "Great for students or anyone on a budget."

Recipes to Try

• Air-Fried Zucchini Chips: Crispy and healthy.
• Chicken Tenders: Quick and kid-friendly.

Cleaning

Dishwasher-safe basket and tray for hassle-free cleanup.

9. Best Compact Air Fryer

Model: Ninja SL401 DoubleStack

Why It Stands Out

A compact yet spacious design that offers dual baskets for simultaneous cooking, perfect for those with limited counter space.

• Capacity: Dual 4QT baskets.
• Best For: Small kitchens needing versatility.

Pros

• Dual baskets for cooking two dishes at once.
• Compact design saves space.

Cons

• Smaller overall capacity compared to larger models.

What Redditors Say

• "The dual baskets make dinner so much easier!"
• "Perfect for cooking sides and mains simultaneously."

Recipes to Try

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Cooked to perfection in one basket.
• Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy and golden.

Cleaning

Removable parts are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup simple.

10. Best Dual Air Fryer

Model: Philips Dual Basket Air Fryer 3000 Series (NA350/00)

Why It Stands Out

This upgraded Philips model offers two separate drawers—one large, one smaller—for cooking different dishes simultaneously. It features auto-sync timers to ensure both drawers finish together, making it perfect for busy family meals.

• Capacity: Total 9 L across two drawers (approximately 9.5 quarts).
  
• Best For: Families or anyone seeking flexible meal prep options in one appliance.
  

Pros

• Rapid Air Plus Technology delivers evenly cooked, crispy results without needing to flip food.
  
• Quiet Operation with surprisingly low fan noise.
  
• Sync-Cooking Function ensures both baskets finish at the same time.
  
• Minimalist Touchscreen Interface pauses automatically when baskets are removed for safety.
  

Cons

• Bulky Footprint, requiring adequate counter space.
  
• Cleaning Effort: Some users feel cleaning can be a bit tedious due to basket size and extra parts.
  

What Redditors Say

• “It’s the grandfather of air fryers… materials used are food-safe,” sharing concerns about coating wear.
  
• “The dual drawer of the Ninja is a bonus… Philips required preheating to get the best results, seems more powerful and lasted me ages.”
  

Recipes to Try

• Roast Chicken & Veggie Duo: Grill chicken in the big drawer while carrots roast in the small one.
  
• Frozen Fries & Homemade Fish Fillets: Perfectly crisp fries in one drawer, tender fish in the other.
  

Cleaning

Both baskets are dishwasher-safe, and the touchscreen surface wipes clean easily. Some users note it may take a little extra effort due to its size.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Air Fryer

Finding the perfect air fryer requires understanding your needs and the features that matter most. Here’s a reader-friendly breakdown to help you make an informed decision:

Capacity Matters

• For individuals or couples, a 2-4QT air fryer is sufficient.
• For families, look for a model with 5-8QT capacity or larger.
• Dual-basket models are great for cooking multiple dishes at once.

Type of Air Fryer

• Basket-Style: Compact and great for frying snacks or small meals.
• Toaster Oven Style: More versatile, suitable for baking, roasting, and toasting.
• Dual Basket: Ideal for families or those who like cooking different dishes simultaneously.

Ease of Cleaning

• Opt for models with non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe components.
• Look for designs with minimal crevices to prevent food buildup.

Cooking Functions

• Check for additional modes like roasting, dehydrating, baking, or steaming.
• Multi-functional air fryers can replace other appliances, saving space.

Temperature Range

• A broader temperature range (e.g., 100°F to 450°F) provides more cooking flexibility.
• Lower temperatures are great for dehydrating; higher temperatures for crisping.

Pre-set Programs

• Pre-set cooking modes simplify meal prep for specific dishes like fries, chicken, or desserts.
• Look for customizable settings for personalized cooking.

Size and Counter Space

• Measure your kitchen counter before choosing a model.
• Compact models are best for small kitchens, while larger models may require more space.

Safety Features

• Cool-touch handles, automatic shut-off, and non-slip feet ensure safe operation.
• BPA-free materials are a must for health-conscious buyers.

Technology and Connectivity

• Smart air fryers with app connectivity offer guided recipes and remote control options.
• Models with digital touchscreens are more intuitive to use.

Energy Efficiency

• Energy-efficient models save on electricity bills.
• Look for shorter cooking times to conserve power.

Accessories Included

• Check if additional racks, skewers, or baking pans are included.
• Accessories can expand the cooking capabilities of your air fryer.

Budget

• Set a budget and compare features within your price range.
• Mid-range air fryers often offer the best balance of price and features.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

• Read user reviews for real-world insights on performance and durability.
• High-rated models often have proven reliability.

Warranty and Customer Support

• Choose brands with a solid warranty and responsive customer service.
• A 1-2 year warranty is standard for most models.
• Use this guide to match the air fryer’s features with your cooking habits and kitchen space. A little research goes a long way in ensuring you find a model that fits your lifestyle!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a basket-style air fryer and a toaster oven air fryer?

Basket-style air fryers are compact and ideal for quick snacks or small meals, while toaster oven air fryers are more versatile and can handle baking, roasting, and toasting, making them suitable for larger meals or batch cooking.

2. Are air fryers energy-efficient?

Yes, air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ovens because they cook food faster and require less preheating.

3. Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer as long as it doesn’t block airflow. Ensure it is properly secured to avoid it flying into the heating element.

4. How do I clean an air fryer?

Most air fryers have dishwasher-safe components, like baskets and trays. For manual cleaning, use warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge to avoid damaging the non-stick coating.

5. What size air fryer is best for a family of four?

For a family of four, a 5-7QT air fryer is ideal as it provides enough capacity to cook multiple servings in one go.

6. Are air-fried foods healthier than deep-fried foods?

Yes, air-fried foods use significantly less oil than deep-fried foods, reducing calorie and fat content while maintaining crispness.

7. Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fryers are excellent for cooking frozen foods like fries, chicken nuggets, or vegetables. They often come out crispier than when cooked in a conventional oven.

8. Do air fryers produce smoke?

While air fryers generally don’t produce smoke, fatty foods or food debris can cause minor smoking. Cleaning the basket regularly and avoiding excess oil can help.

9. Are there any foods I shouldn’t cook in an air fryer?

Foods with wet batters, like tempura, may not cook well in an air fryer as the batter may not crisp up. It’s best to use pre-cooked or dry coatings.

10. What features should I prioritize when buying an air fryer?

Focus on capacity, ease of cleaning, temperature range, pre-set programs, and additional functions like dehydrating or baking, depending on your needs.

11. Do air fryers require preheating?

Some models require preheating for optimal results, while others, like newer high-performance models, can cook without preheating. Check the manufacturer’s instructions.

12. Are smart air fryers worth it?

Smart air fryers with app connectivity are worth it if you enjoy guided recipes, remote control features, or the convenience of monitoring cooking progress via your smartphone.

Conclusion

No matter your cooking needs, there’s an air fryer on this list that’s perfect for you. From the versatile Breville Toaster Oven to the compact Ninja AF101, these appliances make cooking faster, healthier, and more enjoyable. Whether you're a solo cook or preparing meals for a large family, there's a model tailored to your lifestyle. Happy air frying!