Air fryers have taken kitchens by storm—and for good reason. These compact, countertop convection ovens promise crispy, golden results with little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep frying. Whether you’re cooking for one or a whole family, air fryers offer speed, convenience, and versatility. But with so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be a challenge. Explore what you need to know about the top-rated air fryers, including their key features, how they work, and why so many home cooks swear by them.
What Is an Air Fryer and How Does It Work?
Despite the name, air fryers don’t actually “fry” food. Instead, they use hot air circulated at high speeds to cook and crisp food—similar to a convection oven but in a more compact, efficient design. The result is a crispy exterior and tender interior, often achieved in less time and with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods.
Popular for everything from French fries and chicken wings to roasted vegetables and even baked goods, air fryers have become a must-have for busy households, health-conscious eaters, and anyone looking to simplify mealtime.
Top-Rated Air Fryers to Consider
Here are some of the most highly-rated air fryers available today, praised for their performance, ease of use, and value.
1. Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer
Best for: Multi-tasking cooks and families
The Ninja Foodi DualZone is beloved for its dual-basket design, allowing you to cook two different foods at once with separate settings. It features six cooking functions, including air fry, bake, roast, reheat, and dehydrate.
Why it’s top-rated:
Two independent baskets for cooking different foods simultaneously
Smart Finish feature syncs cooking times
Large capacity (8 quarts total) for families or batch cooking
2. COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo
Best for: Everyday versatility and user-friendly features
COSORI’s Pro II model is a fan favorite for its balance of performance and price. With 12 cooking presets and a user-friendly digital interface, it’s great for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Why it’s top-rated:
5.8-quart basket fits a whole chicken
Shake reminder for evenly cooked food
Quiet operation and sleek design
3. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer
Best for: Instant Pot lovers and multi-function use
From the makers of the Instant Pot, the Vortex Plus is a multifunctional air fryer that can roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. Its EvenCrisp technology ensures consistent results every time.
Why it’s top-rated:
Compact footprint with a roomy interior
Fast preheating and cooking times
Clear cooking window to monitor food
4. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
Best for: Serious home chefs and premium quality seekers
The Philips Premium Airfryer comes with a higher price tag but is known for its quality build and performance. Its patented “fat removal” technology helps extract and capture excess fat for healthier meals.
Why it’s top-rated:
No preheating needed
Dishwasher-safe parts
Cooks up to 3 pounds of food at once
5. Dash Compact Air Fryer
Best for: Small kitchens and single servings
Perfect for students, singles, or anyone with limited counter space, the Dash Compact is simple, affordable, and gets the job done for small meals and snacks.
Why it’s top-rated:
Lightweight and portable
Easy dial controls—no complicated buttons
Available in fun colors for a pop of personality
What to Consider Before Buying
When choosing an air fryer, think about:
Capacity: Smaller models (2-3 quarts) are great for one or two people; larger models (5+ quarts) are ideal for families.
Controls: Touchscreens and presets are user-friendly, but manual dials are often easier for quick adjustments.
Accessories: Some air fryers come with extra racks or skewers for more cooking options.
Cleaning: Look for dishwasher-safe baskets and nonstick surfaces for easy cleanup.
Is an Air Fryer Worth It?
If you’re looking for a convenient way to make healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods—or just want to speed up mealtime—an air fryer is a worthwhile addition to your kitchen. With options to fit every budget, space, and cooking style, it’s no wonder these appliances have become so popular. Use this guide to choose the best model for your needs, and get ready to enjoy crispy, delicious meals in no time.