Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for those seeking healthier cooking methods without sacrificing flavor. By circulating hot air to crisp up food with minimal oil, they offer a guilt-free way to enjoy fried favorites. Amazon hosts a vast selection, from compact models for small households to large-capacity units for families. This guide compiles the best air fryers available, highlighting their features, pros, cons, and why they stand out, based on real user experiences and expert insights. A buying guide and FAQ section ensure you make an informed choice.
Top Air Fryer Picks on Amazon
1. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer, 4 Qt
The Ninja Air Fryer is a customer favorite, delivering crispy results with a compact footprint. Its 4-quart capacity suits small to medium households, and its multi-functionality—air frying, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating—adds versatility. The temperature range of 105°F to 400°F allows precise cooking, while the dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze.
Pros: Wide temperature range for varied cooking. Easy-to-clean basket and crisper plate. Compact design fits small kitchens.
Cons: 4-quart capacity may be small for larger families. Noisier than some competitors.
Price: Around $99
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2. COSORI Air Fryer Max XL, 5.8 Qt
COSORI’s 5.8-quart air fryer is a top performer, boasting 11 preset cooking functions for everything from steak to desserts. Its sleek design includes a digital touchscreen, and the square basket maximizes cooking space. The shake-and-flip reminder ensures even cooking, and the included recipe book inspires culinary creativity.
Pros: Large capacity for families. Intuitive digital interface. Nonstick basket simplifies cleaning.
Cons: Takes up more counter space. Presets may require tweaking for perfect results.
Price: Approximately $119
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3. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer, 6 Qt
From the makers of Instant Pot, the Vortex Plus offers six functions: air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. Its 6-quart capacity is ideal for mid-sized families, and the stainless steel finish adds a premium look. The OdorErase filter reduces cooking smells, a boon for small apartments.
Pros: Odor reduction technology. Even cooking with consistent results. Sleek, durable design.
Cons: Learning curve for mastering all functions. Exterior gets hot during use.
Price: About $129
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4. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL, 7 Qt
Philips is a pioneer in air frying, and the Premium Airfryer XXL lives up to the brand’s reputation. With a 7-quart basket, it can cook a whole chicken or feed up to six people. The Fat Removal technology claims to reduce excess fat, and the rapid air circulation ensures even crisping.
Pros: Large capacity for big meals. High-quality build and performance. App with recipes enhances usability.
Cons: Expensive compared to others. Bulky, requiring ample counter space.
Price: Around $249
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5. GoWISE USA 7-Quart Air Fryer & Dehydrator
The GoWISE USA air fryer offers excellent value with its 7-quart capacity and eight preset functions, including a dehydrator for homemade snacks. The touchscreen is user-friendly, and the wide temperature range (180°F to 400°F) supports diverse recipes. Its vibrant color options add a fun aesthetic.
Pros: Budget-friendly for its size. Versatile with dehydration feature. Easy to navigate controls.
Cons: Basket coating may wear over time. Slightly slower preheat than premium models.
Price: Approximately $89
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Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Air Fryer
Capacity: Consider your household size. A 2-4-quart model suits singles or couples, while 5-7 quarts or more is better for families. Larger units can handle whole chickens or multiple servings.
Functions: Basic air fryers focus on frying, but many now include roasting, baking, grilling, or dehydrating. Multifunction models reduce the need for other appliances.
Ease of Use: Look for intuitive controls, whether digital or manual. Presets simplify cooking, but ensure they align with your recipes. Nonstick baskets and dishwasher-safe parts ease cleanup.
Size and Storage: Measure your counter space. Compact models fit small kitchens, but larger units may need dedicated storage. Check dimensions before buying.
Power: Wattage (typically 1,200-1,800 watts) affects cooking speed. Higher wattage often means faster preheating but may strain older electrical systems.
Additional Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, recipe apps, or odor filters enhance user experience. Decide if these justify the cost for your needs.
Budget: Prices range from $50 for basic models to $300 for premium ones. Balance features with affordability, as mid-range options often deliver excellent value.
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Air fryers use up to 70% less oil than traditional frying, making them a healthier choice. They’re faster than ovens for small batches, often cooking fries or wings in under 20 minutes. Their versatility extends beyond frying—think roasted veggies, baked desserts, or dehydrated fruits. Compact designs suit apartments, and easy cleanup appeals to busy households.
For more on air fryer benefits, check Healthline’s guide to air frying.
Common FAQs About Air Fryers
1. Are air fryers really healthier than deep frying?
Yes, air fryers require significantly less oil, reducing fat and calorie content. However, the healthiness depends on the food you cook—whole foods like vegetables are better than processed items.
2. Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fryers excel at cooking frozen items like fries, nuggets, or fish sticks. Most don’t require preheating, and presets often include frozen food settings.
3. How do I clean an air fryer?
Most models have nonstick baskets that are dishwasher-safe. For hand washing, use a soft sponge and mild detergent. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners.
4. Do air fryers make food as crispy as deep fryers?
Air fryers produce a similar crisp texture with less oil. Results vary by model and technique—shaking the basket or lightly coating food with oil improves crispiness.
5. Can I bake in an air fryer?
Yes, many air fryers support baking. You may need accessories like a baking pan, and recipes might require slight adjustments due to the smaller cooking space.
6. Are air fryers noisy?
Some models produce fan noise, similar to a microwave or convection oven. Premium brands like Philips tend to be quieter, but noise levels are rarely disruptive.
For additional tips, explore Good Housekeeping’s air fryer reviews.
Final Thoughts
Amazon’s air fryer selection caters to every need, from budget-friendly picks like the GoWISE USA to high-end models like the Philips Premium XXL. The Ninja AF101 strikes a balance for small households, while the COSORI Max XL and Instant Vortex Plus offer family-friendly capacity and features. Consider your kitchen space, cooking habits, and budget when choosing. An air fryer can transform your cooking, delivering crispy, delicious meals with less guilt.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen? Browse these top picks and find the perfect air fryer for your home.