The 5 Best Air Fryers of 2024: Crispy Results Without the Guilt

Looking for guilt-free crispy delights? The top air fryers of 2024 have got you covered! COSORI's 6-Qt 9-in-1 model leads the pack with versatility and efficiency. Ninja's Pro 4-in-1 (5 QT) offers quick cooking times, while Chefman's 12-Quart 6-in-1 oven boasts a wide temperature range. For compact kitchens, Ninja's 4 QT AF101 is a perfect fit. If you're feeding a crowd, Emeril Lagasse's 26 QT Extra Large fryer is your go-to. These air fryers promise healthier meals with up to 95% less oil, multiple cooking functions, and easy cleaning. Ready to revolutionize your cooking? There's more sizzling info to explore!

Article At A Glance

• Air fryers offer healthier cooking by reducing oil usage up to 95% while maintaining crispy results.
• Top models include COSORI, Ninja Air Fryer Pro, Chefman, and Emeril Lagasse Extra Large Air Fryer.
• Capacity ranges from 4 to 26 quarts, with 5-6 quart models suitable for most households.
• Multiple cooking functions like air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate increase versatility and convenience.
• Key features include adjustable temperature settings, non-stick baskets, and user-friendly digital controls.

COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact & Large 6-Qt

The COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact & Large 6-Qt is a top pick for families who want versatility without sacrificing counter space. This powerhouse packs a 6-quart capacity into a compact design, perfect for whipping up meals without cluttering your kitchen. With nine cooking modes, including air fry, roast, and dehydrate, you'll find yourself reaching for it daily.

Say goodbye to greasy fingers! This air fryer uses up to 95% less oil than traditional frying, making your favorite crispy treats a bit less guilt-inducing. The 5-speed airflow system guarantees even cooking, while the customizable preheat settings get you started on the right foot. Cleanup's a breeze too, thanks to the nonstick basket and crisper plate. And if you're forgetful (who isn't?), don't worry – it'll pause when you remove the basket and resume cooking when you pop it back in. Talk about a smart cookie!

Best For: Families seeking a versatile, space-efficient air fryer that can handle a variety of cooking tasks while promoting healthier eating habits.

Pros:

• Compact design with large 6-quart capacity
• 9 cooking modes for versatile meal preparation
• Uses up to 95% less oil than traditional frying

Cons:

• May be too large for single-person households
• Higher price point compared to basic air fryer models
• Learning curve for optimal use of all features and settings

Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 (5 QT Capacity, AF141)

Compact yet mighty, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 (AF141) is an ideal choice for small families or individuals seeking versatile, healthier cooking options. With its 5-quart capacity, you can whip up crispy fries, juicy meats, and even dehydrated snacks in no time. This nifty appliance boasts four functions: air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate, making it a true kitchen multitasker.

Health-conscious cooks, rejoice! The Ninja Air Fryer Pro uses Air Crisp Technology to achieve that coveted crunch with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. You'll love how quickly it preheats and cooks, turning out entire meals in about 5 minutes flat. Plus, cleanup's a breeze thanks to its nonstick basket and crisper plate. Just be prepared for a bit of noise – it's not exactly whisper-quiet. But hey, that's just the sound of your food getting deliciously crispy!

Best For: Health-conscious individuals or small families looking for a versatile, compact air fryer that can quickly prepare crispy, low-fat dishes with minimal oil.

Pros:

• Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate)
• Quick cooking times and easy cleanup with nonstick basket
• Healthier cooking with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying

Cons:

• Loud operation may be disruptive
• Limited temperature adjustment increments (5°F)
• Some users report issues with product functionality upon arrival

Chefman 12-Quart 6-in-1 Air Fryer Oven with Digital Timer

Boasting a generous 12-quart capacity, the Chefman 6-in-1 Air Fryer Oven is ideal for families or entertainers who need to prepare large meals efficiently. This versatile appliance offers six cooking functions: air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, roast, and reheat. With a wide temperature range of 95-450°F and 12 cooking presets, you'll be whipping up crispy wings, whole roasted chickens, and even homemade dried fruits in no time.

You'll love the user-friendly touchscreen controls and digital timer, which make operating this air fryer a breeze. The extra-large window and interior lights let you keep an eye on your culinary creations, while the included accessories—like three cooking racks and a rotisserie spit—expand your cooking possibilities. Plus, cleanup is a snap with dishwasher-safe parts. Whether you're a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, this Chefman air fryer oven will quickly become your go-to appliance for healthier, oil-free cooking.

Best For: Families or entertainers who need to prepare large meals efficiently and healthily, with multiple cooking options in one compact appliance.

Pros:

• Versatile 6-in-1 functionality with 12 cooking presets for diverse meal preparation
• Large 12-quart capacity suitable for cooking family-sized meals
• User-friendly touchscreen controls and included accessories for convenient operation

Cons:

• Some concerns about the long-term durability of the unit
• Mesh trays may be challenging to clean thoroughly due to lack of coating
• May require a learning curve to master all functions and achieve optimal results

Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer (4 QT, Grey, AF101)

Versatility meets efficiency in the Ninja 4-in-1 Air Fryer (AF101), making it an ideal choice for health-conscious cooks and small families. This compact powerhouse offers air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating functions, all in a 4-quart ceramic-coated basket. You'll love how it cooks with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, delivering crispy results without the guilt.

Key Features:

• Temperature range of 105°F to 400°F
• Programmable settings for easy use
• Dishwasher-safe parts for quick cleanup

Whether you're whipping up chicken wings in 10 minutes or baking cinnamon rolls in 8, this air fryer's got you covered. It's perfect for reheating leftovers, cooking frozen foods, and even tackling small baking projects. Plus, its quiet operation and space-saving design make it a kitchen MVP. You'll find yourself using it multiple times a day, wondering how you ever lived without it!

Best For: Health-conscious individuals, small families, and busy cooks looking for a versatile, compact appliance that offers quick, efficient, and healthier cooking options.

Pros:

• Cooks with up to 75% less fat compared to traditional frying methods
• Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate) in a space-saving design
• Easy to use and clean with dishwasher-safe parts and quick cooking times

Cons:

• Lacks an auto-pause feature when the basket is pulled out during cooking
• 4-quart capacity may be too small for larger families or bulk cooking
• Some users may need to adjust cooking times due to faster cooking rates than traditional methods

Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Extra Large Air Fryer Convection Toaster Oven

The Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Extra Large Air Fryer Convection Toaster Oven is a powerhouse for families or entertainers who need to cook large quantities of food quickly. With its 26-quart capacity and 25 cooking presets, you'll be whipping up everything from crispy pizzas to succulent roasts in no time. The dual-speed fan and 360° superheated air circulation guarantee your meals are cooked to perfection.

You'll love the versatility of this kitchen marvel. It's not just an air fryer; it's also a convection oven and multi-cooker rolled into one sleek package. The stainless steel exterior and French doors add a touch of elegance to your kitchen, while the interior light lets you keep an eye on your culinary creations. And cleanup? A breeze! The dishwasher-safe trays make post-dinner tidying a snap. Just remember, the oven light might play hide-and-seek, but don't let that dim your enthusiasm for this kitchen superhero.

Best For: Families or entertainers who need to cook large quantities of food quickly and efficiently, with versatile cooking options in one appliance.

Pros:

• Large 26-quart capacity suitable for cooking meals for 4-6 people
• 25 cooking presets and multiple functions (air fryer, convection oven, multi-cooker)
• Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe accessories

Cons:

• Oven light turns off too quickly, making it difficult to monitor food
• Size limitations may not accommodate all pizza sizes
• Some users may find the unit large for smaller kitchens

Factors to Consider When Choosing Air Fryers

When you're in the market for an air fryer, there's more to take into account than just the price tag. You'll want to weigh factors like capacity, cooking functions, and temperature range to guarantee you're getting a model that fits your needs. Don't forget to think about power efficiency and ease of cleaning, as these can make a big difference in your day-to-day use of the appliance.

Capacity and Size

Choosing the right air fryer size and capacity is essential for meeting your cooking needs and kitchen space requirements. When shopping for an air fryer, you'll find models ranging from 4 to 12 quarts, offering options for every household size.

If you're cooking for one or two people, a compact 4-5 quart air fryer might be perfect for you. These smaller models are great for saving counter space in tight kitchens. On the other hand, if you've got a big family or love to entertain, you'll want to look at larger models up to 12 quarts. These can handle multiple dishes at once and are ideal for cooking larger portions.

Consider what you'll be cooking, too. A 5-quart basket can fit about 4 lbs of fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings – plenty for a family movie night! Don't forget to check the dimensions and weight of the air fryer. You'll want to make sure it fits under your cabinets and isn't too heavy to move around if needed. With the right size and capacity, you'll be air frying up a storm in no time!

Cooking Functions

Beyond size considerations, cooking functions play a key role in selecting the perfect air fryer. You'll want to look for a model that offers a variety of options to enhance your culinary adventures. From air frying and roasting to baking and broiling, these versatile appliances can do it all!

But wait, there's more! Some air fryers even come with specialized modes like proofing dough or keeping food warm. Talk about a kitchen multitasker! When shopping for your new air frying buddy, pay attention to the temperature range. Most operate between 90°F and 450°F, giving you precise control over your cooking.

Looking to simplify your meal prep? Keep an eye out for programmable presets that automatically adjust time and temperature for specific dishes. It's like having a tiny chef in your kitchen!

For the cooking enthusiasts out there, advanced models offer customizable preheat settings and multiple fan speeds. These features guarantee even cooking and that perfect crispy finish you're craving. So, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's an air fryer out there with the functions to match your culinary ambitions!

Temperature Range

The temperature range of an air fryer is an essential factor in its versatility and performance. When you're choosing your next air fryer, you'll want to take into account how wide a temperature range it offers. Most air fryers typically span from 90°F to 450°F, giving you plenty of options for different cooking methods.

Why does this matter? Well, it's all about flexibility! With a lower temperature setting around 90°F, you can try your hand at dehydrating fruits or making beef jerky. Crank it up to 450°F, and you're in crispy-town, perfect for achieving that golden-brown finish on your favorite fried foods.

But wait, there's more! Many air fryers come with programmable settings, letting you customize temperatures for specific recipes. This means you can air fry, bake, and roast with precision. Plus, the ability to reach high temperatures quickly can greatly cut down your cooking time compared to traditional methods.

Power and Efficiency

When selecting an air fryer, power and efficiency should be at the top of your list. You'll want to pay attention to the wattage, which typically ranges from 1,400W to 1,800W. Higher wattage means faster preheating and cooking times, so you'll be munching on those crispy fries in no time!

But it's not just about raw power. Many air fryers now come with advanced features like turbo heating systems, which distribute heat evenly and efficiently. This means you're not just cooking faster, but smarter too. And let's talk temperature range – most models offer a span from 90°F to 450°F, giving you the flexibility to cook everything from delicate veggies to perfectly seared steaks.

Don't forget about capacity, either. While larger models might use more power, they can actually be more efficient in the long run. Why? Because you can cook bigger batches at once, saving energy over time. So, whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, consider how an air fryer's power and efficiency can make your life easier and your meals tastier!

Ease of Cleaning

Now that we've covered power and efficiency, let's consider another key aspect of air fryer selection: ease of cleaning. When you're whipping up delicious, crispy treats, the last thing you want is a nightmare cleanup afterward. Luckily, many of 2024's top air fryers have got your back!

Most models feature nonstick baskets and crisper plates, which means no more scrubbing off stubborn food residue. You'll be amazed at how easily everything slides right off! But wait, there's more:

1. Dishwasher-safe parts: Some air fryers let you toss components straight into the dishwasher. Talk about a time-saver!
2. Removable components: These make it a breeze to access every nook and cranny for thorough cleaning.
3. Air fryer paper liners: Optional accessories that catch food bits and make cleanup even simpler.
4. Automatic resume functions: Pause cooking when you remove the basket, preventing spills and messes.

With these features, you'll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your crispy creations. Who knew cleaning could be this easy? Your future self will thank you for choosing an air fryer that's a breeze to clean!

Design and Aesthetics

After considering functionality, it's time to turn our attention to the visual appeal of air fryers. You'll want a model that not only performs well but also looks great in your kitchen. Many of today's air fryers are designed with space efficiency in mind, featuring compact dimensions that won't clutter your countertop. Look for sleek, modern designs that complement your kitchen decor.

Materials matter too! Stainless steel is a popular choice, offering both durability and a stylish appearance that fits various kitchen styles. But it's not just about looks—user-friendly features can make your cooking experience much more enjoyable. Digital touchscreens and intuitive controls are becoming increasingly common, making air fryers accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

Want to keep an eye on your food? Some models come with interior lights and clear viewing windows, allowing you to monitor your crispy creations without opening the unit. And let's not forget about cleanup! Air fryers with detachable, dishwasher-safe parts make post-cooking cleanup a breeze. So, when choosing your air fryer, remember that great design isn't just about aesthetics—it's about making your life easier too!

Price and Warranty

How much should you expect to spend on a quality air fryer? You'll find a wide range of options, from budget-friendly models around $50 to high-end units that can set you back over $300. But don't let price be your only guide – a heftier price tag doesn't always guarantee better performance!

When shopping for your new kitchen buddy, consider these factors:

1. Warranty coverage: Most air fryers come with a warranty lasting from one to several years. Look for brands offering extensive support, including replacement parts and responsive customer service.
2. Extended protection: For pricier models, you might want to invest in an extended warranty or service plan for extra peace of mind.
3. Value for money: Compare features, capacity, and brand reputation alongside price to make sure you're getting the best bang for your buck.
4. Customer reviews: Real-world experiences can provide invaluable insights into an air fryer's performance and durability.

Wrap Up

Ready to revolutionize your cooking? With these top air fryers, you'll be whipping up crispy, guilt-free meals in no time. Remember to take into account factors like capacity, features, and ease of use when making your choice. Imagine biting into perfectly crisp fries without the excess oil – doesn't that sound amazing? Whether you're a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, there's an air fryer on this list that'll fit your needs. So go ahead, embrace healthier cooking without sacrificing flavor!