If you’re shopping for the best air fryer, you’re not alone—these countertop cooking machines have become a go-to for quick, crispy meals with less oil. But with dozens of options on the market, it’s important to choose one that fits your kitchen, lifestyle, and budget. Below is a complete buying guide to help you make the right choice.
Things to Consider When Buying an Air Fryer
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to look for:
1. Safety Features
Safety should always come first, especially if you have kids, elderly users, or pets at home. Look for:
- Auto shut-off
- Cool-touch handles
- Overheat protection
- Non-slip feet
These features help prevent burns, overheating, and accidental mishaps.
2. Capacity
Air fryers come in various sizes, usually measured in quarts (US/CA) or litres (UK):
2–3 quarts (2–3L): Ideal for individuals or couples
4–5 quarts (3.8–4.7L): Great for small families
6+ quarts (5.5+L): Best for large households or batch cooking
Tip: Go for a slightly larger model than you think you need—you’ll use it more than expected!
3. Cleaning Ease
Nobody wants to scrub burnt crumbs after every meal. Choose models with:
- Non-stick coating
- Removable baskets
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Basket-style air fryers are generally easier to clean than oven-style models.
4. Temperature Control
A wide temperature range gives you flexibility. Most models operate between:
80°C–200°C (175°F–400°F)
Look for digital controls for more precise heat settings—especially if you like to cook a variety of foods.
5. Cooking Functions
Many modern air fryers are more than just air fryers. Common functions include:
- Bake
- Roast
- Reheat
- Dehydrate
- Grill (in premium models)
If you like variety, look for multi-function units with preset cooking modes.
6. Wattage
Most air fryers range between 1200 to 1800 watts:
- Higher wattage = faster cooking
- Lower wattage = better energy efficiency
Check your home’s power outlet capacity if you’re in an older home.
7. Accessories
Useful add-ons include:
- Cooking racks
- Baking pans
- Pizza trays
- Skewers
- Divider inserts
Some brands include these accessories, while others sell them separately—factor that into your budget.
8. Air Fryer Type
There are three main types of air fryers:
- Basket-style: Compact, easy to clean, great for everyday use
- Oven-style: Larger, ideal for families, includes multiple racks
- Dual-basket: Lets you cook two foods at once with separate settings
9. Controls
There are two main types:
- Manual dials: Simple and durable
- Digital touchscreens: Precise, programmable, often include presets
Some models also come with Wi-Fi or app controls, like the Cosori Smart Air Fryer.
10. Size
Measure your countertop and cabinet clearance before buying. Air fryers need good airflow, so don’t cram them under low cabinets.
Pro tip: If space is tight, look for a vertical or slim-profile model.
11. Air Fryers vs Multi-Cookers
If you’re considering a multi-functional appliance:
- Air Fryers: Best for quick, crispy cooking
- Multi-Cookers (e.g. Ninja Foodi, Instant Pot Duo Crisp): Combine pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and air frying
Choose based on your cooking style and available kitchen space.
12. Budget
Here’s a general price range for 2025:
- USA: $60–$300
- Canada: C$80–C$400
- UK: £50–£250
Basic models offer solid performance, while premium units give more capacity and advanced features.
13. Cooking Capacity
Always check actual usable space, not just listed quarts or litres.
- A 5-quart basket fits ~1.5 lbs of fries or a small chicken.
- Oven models are better for cooking multiple foods at once.
Look at product photos or customer reviews to gauge interior space.
14. Timer
Most air fryers include timers between 30–60 minutes. Some have auto-pause and shake reminders—helpful for busy households or distracted cooks.
15. Warranty
A longer warranty often indicates better build quality:
- Budget models: 1-year warranty
- Mid-to-high-end: 2–3 years
Brands like Ninja, Philips, and Breville are known for strong warranties in the US, UK, and Canada.
Additional Features to Consider:
- Smart Controls
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity lets you control and monitor cooking from your phone. Some models integrate with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. - Preset Programs
Built-in settings for specific foods (like chicken, fish, fries, or even cake) help take the guesswork out of cooking. - Shake Reminder
Alerts you when it’s time to shake or turn food mid-cycle for even cooking—helpful for fries, nuggets, and more. - Rotisserie Function
Great for roasting whole chickens or kebabs—available on larger or oven-style air fryers. - See-Through Window & Interior Light
Lets you check progress without opening the basket or door. - Keep Warm Mode
Keeps your food warm after cooking without drying it out—handy if serving later.
An air fryer can quickly become one of your most-used kitchen appliances—saving time, oil, and cleanup hassle. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family of five, consider your space, needs, and preferences to choose the right model. Here is a list of best air fryers based on customer reviews.
