Best Air Fryers of 2024: A Buyer’s Guide

Discover the top-rated air fryers for healthier cooking! Our guide to the best air fryers helps you make crispy, guilt-free meals. Get started now!

Author By Glozine Staff
Updated :May 17, 2024
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Air fryers have revolutionized the way we approach cooking healthier meals. They are kitchen appliances designed to circulate hot air around food to cook it. Through a process known as the Maillard effect, air fryers can mimic the result of deep-frying to deliver the taste and texture of traditionally fried foods, but with substantially less oil. This results in dishes with fewer calories, less fat, and healthier compositions overall.

When it comes to choosing the best air fryer, there are a few factors to consider, including size, functionality, ease of use, and price. However, one model that consistently stands out is the Ninja 4-Quart Air Fryer. It is renowned for its rapid air technology that circulates hot air with speed and precision, delivering evenly cooked food. Furthermore, it comes with a quick control dial for easy time and temperature adjustments, and it’s easy to clean. This combination of efficiency, convenience, and superior cooking capability makes the Ninja 4-Quart Air Fryer an excellent choice.

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Our Recommendation

ninja-4-quart-air-fryer

Best Mid-Size Air Fryer

Ninja 4- Quart Air Fryer

The Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a versatile, high-performing kitchen appliance in sleek grey, offering a 4-quart capacity for quick and easy meals, and featuring crisping, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating functionalities, making it an ideal choice for modern, health-conscious cooks.

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Best Mid-Size Air Fryer

Ninja 4-Quart Air Fryer

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Name of the Product:

Ninja AF101 Air Fryer

Price:

$74.99 (42% off from the list price: $129.99)

Rating:

4.8 out of 5

Key features

  • Air frying capability with up to 75% less fat
  • Wide temperature range (105°F-400°F)
  • 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate
  • 4-in-1 versatility: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate
  • Easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe parts
  • 1550 watts of power

Pros and Cons

  • Versatile with 4 cooking programs
  • Lower fat content in food
  • Large capacity for family-sized meals
  • Easy-to-clean
  • Does not offer free Prime shipping
  • Not dishwasher safe

Bottom Line

The Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a highly versatile and efficient kitchen appliance that allows for a wide range of cooking methods. Its 4-quart capacity caters to large meals, and it is easy to clean. Despite not offering free Prime shipping, its reduced fat cooking and high customer ratings make it a top choice in air fryers.

Best used for: Air frying, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating food with less fat.

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Best Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

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Name of the Product:

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

Price:

$399.95

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Key Features

  • 13 Cooking Functions: versatility to cook a wide range of foods.
  • Element iQ System: ensures precise and even cooking.
  • Air Fry & Dehydrate Settings: ability to fry and dehydrate food.
  • Super Convection Technology: ensures fast and even heat distribution.
  • Extra Large Capacity: accommodates large food items.
  • LCD Display: for easy function access and cooking monitoring.

Pros and Cons

  • Versatile cooking options.
  • Large capacity for big meals.
  • Precise and even cooking.
  • 2-year limited product warranty.
  • The price might be high for some (based on similar products, price not provided).
  • Heavy, weighs 2.69 pounds.

Bottom Line

The Breville BOV900BSS is a versatile and spacious countertop oven that delivers precise and even cooking. It caters to a wide range of cooking needs, making it a great addition to any kitchen.

Best used for: This oven is best used for roasting, air frying, dehydrating, and baking. Its vast cooking functions also make it ideal for toasting, broiling, warming, and slow cooking.

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Best Value Air Fryer

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6

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Name of the Product:

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer Oven

Price:

$119.99

Rating:

4.7 out of 5.

Key Features

  • 6-in-1 Functionality: Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate.
  • Advanced EvenCrisp Technology.
  • Quiet Cooking with muffled sounds.
  • One-Touch Smart Programs: Customizable programs for various meals.
  • Fast Preheating: From frozen to golden in minutes.
  • Non-stick, dishwasher-safe air fry basket and tray.

Pros and Cons

  • Versatile with 6-in-1 functionality.
  • Advanced technology for crispy results.
  • Quiet operation for less noise.
  • Made of plastic.
  • Only one item left in stock.

Bottom Line

The Instant Pot Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven is a versatile, high-tech kitchen must-have, ideal for quickly preparing various meals. It offers an array of one-touch smart programs and advanced technology for excellent results, all while maintaining quiet operation.

Best used for: Roasting, broiling, baking, reheating, dehydrating, and air frying.

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Best Small Air Fryer

Dash Compact Electric

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Name of the Product:

Dash Compact Electric.

Price:

Regular price $69.99, Sale price $49.99

Rating:

4.8/5.

Key Features

  • AirCrisp® technology ensures thorough cooking without the need for oil, reducing added fat by 75%.
  • Compact and lightweight design, ideal for kitchens with limited space.
  • PTFE nonstick for easy cooking and cleaning.
  • Temperature control and auto shutoff timer.
  • 2 quart Crisper Drawer capacity.
  • Includes recipe guide.

Pros and Cons

  • Healthier frying option due to AirCrisp® technology.
  • Compact and lightweight, perfect for small kitchens.
  • Simple to use and easy to clean.
  • Comes with a recipe guide.
  • Some users mentioned that Teflon coating for easier cleanup would be beneficial.
  • Cooking capacity may not be suitable for larger households.

Bottom Line

The Dash Compact Air Fryer 2Qt. is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that delivers healthier fried food. Despite a few minor setbacks, its features and performance justify its price, making it an excellent investment for small households or individuals who enjoy fried food but are health-conscious.

Best used for: Frying a variety of foods including sweet potato fries, spicy chicken wings, vegetables, and baked goods. Ideal for cooking meals for 1-2 people.

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Best Air Fryer With Dual Basket

Ninja DZ201 Foodie 8

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Name of the Product:

Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer

Price:

Regular price $199.00, Sale price $159.99

Rating:

4.8 out of 5

Key Features

  • 2 independent baskets for simultaneous cooking
  • 6-in-1 functionality (Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate)
  • Smart Finish & Match Cook feature
  • 8-quart capacity
  • Separate heating zones
  • Easy cleaning with dishwasher-safe components
  • Wide temperature range (105°F to 450°F)

Pros and Cons

  • Versatility with 6-in-1 cooking options
  • Large capacity for family meals
  • Easy cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts
  • Pricey compared to other models
  • Occupies significant counter space due to its size

Bottom Line

The Ninja DZ201 Foodi Air Fryer is a versatile and high-capacity appliance that is ideal for large families or those who frequently entertain guests. Its unique two-basket design allows for varied and simultaneous cooking, making it a time-saver in the kitchen.

Best used for: Roast, Broil, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate

How To Pick Air Fryer?

Selecting the right air fryer involves considering several key factors. First, think about the space you have available on your counter, as air fryers come in various sizes. Compact models are available for those with limited kitchen space.

The capacity of the air fryer is another crucial aspect; they range from 2 to 7 quarts. Remember, avoid overcrowding the basket for optimal cooking results. Consider your family size in this context – a 4-quart model should suffice for one to two people, while a 7-quart appliance can serve up to six.

Some air fryers also come with preset cooking settings for popular dishes like chicken or vegetables, which can simplify your cooking process. Finally, many air fryers offer additional features such as a toaster oven, dehydrators, or rotisserie cookers.

While these features may increase the price, they also enhance the appliance’s versatility. Consider your cooking habits and whether these extra functions would be useful to you.

Are Air Fryer Healthy?

Yes, air fryers can be a healthier cooking option, as they use significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, potentially leading to lower-calorie and lower-fat meals. However, the health benefits of using an air fryer also heavily depend on the types of foods you choose to cook in it.

An air fryer doesn’t reduce the saturated and trans fats content in unhealthy foods. Using an air fryer as a means to incorporate more vegetables and lean proteins into your diet, as recommended by Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., can lead to more healthful eating habits. She even suggests using it for air frying frozen vegetables, proving the efficiency and versatility of this device.

conclusion

Conclusion

In conclusion, air fryers have undeniably transformed our approach to healthier cooking, offering a method that replicates deep frying with significantly less oil.

The five air fryers highlighted here, including the Ninja 4-Quart Air Fryer, Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6, Dash Compact Electric, and Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart, each offer unique features, catering to a range of individual needs and budgets.

Considerations when choosing an air fryer should include size, functionality, price, and the specific needs of your household. These devices not only introduce healthier alternatives but promise convenience and versatility, making them a worthy addition to any modern kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is the average lifespan of a quality air fryer?

A. With regular maintenance and careful use, a quality air fryer can last between 5 to 10 years.

Q. Can I use parchment paper in an air fryer?

A. Yes, you can use perforated parchment paper in an air fryer, but avoid covering the entire bottom of the basket with it to allow air circulation.

Q. Can I cook raw meat in an air fryer?

A. Absolutely! An air fryer is capable of cooking raw meat, providing a healthier alternative to traditional frying.

Q. How frequently should I clean my air fryer?

A. It’s recommended to clean your air fryer after each use to maintain its functionality and longevity.

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

A. Yes, frozen foods can be cooked directly in an air fryer, but cooking times may be longer than for fresh foods.

Q. Is it necessary to preheat an air fryer?

A. While not always necessary, preheating an air fryer can lead to better, more even cooking results.

Q. What types of foods can I prepare in an air fryer?

A. An air fryer is versatile and can be used to prepare a range of foods, from fries and chicken to vegetables, baked goods, and more.

Q. Can an air fryer replace my oven?

A. While an air fryer can’t fully replace an oven, it can perform many of the same functions, such as baking, roasting, and grilling.

Q. Does an air fryer emit a lot of heat or smoke?

A. Generally, air fryers do not emit much heat or smoke, making them suitable for indoor use.

Q. Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?

A. Yes, you can use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but it should not cover the entire surface of the basket to ensure proper air circulation.