4 Best Air Fryers to Consider in 2025 [Guide]

When it comes to modern cooking, few appliances have gained as much popularity as the air fryer. Whether you’re looking to reduce the amount of oil in your diet, cut down on cooking time, or enjoy crispy and delicious food, an air fryer is an investment you won’t regret. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is truly the best? In this guide, we’ve researched, tested, and compiled all the information you need to choose the perfect air fryer for your kitchen.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

Air fryers offer a new and exciting way to cook your favorite foods with less oil. Using hot air circulation and a small amount of oil, these appliances cook food quickly and evenly, producing crispy results that mimic deep frying. However, unlike traditional frying methods, air fryers don’t require large amounts of oil, making them a healthier alternative.

The best part? Air fryers are versatile. You can fry, bake, roast, grill, and even reheat food in many models. Whether you’re making crispy chicken wings, roasted vegetables, or air-fried French fries, an air fryer is a powerhouse in the kitchen.

Key Features to Look for in the Best Air Fryer

When shopping for an air fryer, several features should guide your decision-making. From size to functionality, here’s what you need to consider:

1. Size and Capacity Air fryers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 2 to 6 quarts. Consider your household’s needs: A 2-3 quart model is perfect for singles or couples, while a 5-6 quart model is better suited for larger families or those who entertain often.
2. Ease of Use You want an air fryer that’s simple to use and doesn’t require a lot of effort. Look for user-friendly controls, intuitive buttons, and clear settings. Some models come with pre-programmed settings for common foods, which can save you time and ensure perfect results every time.
3. Temperature Range The ideal temperature range for an air fryer should be between 180°F and 400°F. This allows you to cook a variety of dishes, from low and slow roasting to high-heat frying.
4. Cooking Functions Some air fryers are multi-functional, allowing you to bake, grill, and even dehydrate food. Consider what types of dishes you most often cook, and choose a model with the functions that will best suit your needs.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance One of the most appealing features of air fryers is how easy they are to clean. Look for a model with a non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket. A removable tray and easy-to-wipe surfaces will save you time and energy.
6. Price Air fryers range in price, depending on the brand, features, and size. While budget models can be as affordable as $50, high-end models with advanced features can run up to $250 or more. Remember that the best air fryer doesn’t have to be the most expensive, but it should offer good value for your money.

4 Best Air Fryers to Consider

Now that we’ve covered the key features to look for, let’s dive into some of the best air fryers on the market today. Each model offers unique advantages, so you can find one that fits your specific needs.

1. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL

Best for Large Families

The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL is one of the most highly rated air fryers on the market. It boasts a large 4-quart capacity, making it perfect for cooking family-sized meals. The patented “Twin TurboStar” technology circulates hot air around your food for an even, crispy result every time.

Key Features:

• 4-quart capacity (ideal for large families)
• Easy-to-use digital display
• Fat removal technology for healthier meals
• Dishwasher-safe components

Why We Love It: The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL offers incredible versatility and delivers crispy results without excess oil. Plus, its large capacity means you can cook bigger batches of food, perfect for busy families.

2. Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill

Best for Versatility

The Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill isn’t just an air fryer—it’s a 5-in-1 kitchen appliance that can grill, air fry, bake, roast, and dehydrate. It’s ideal for anyone looking for an air fryer that does more than just fry.

Key Features:

• 5 cooking functions (grill, air fry, bake, roast, dehydrate)
• 4-quart capacity
• Grill function with a searing heat of up to 500°F
• Removable, dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate

Why We Love It: If you’re craving grilled food but don’t have the outdoor space or weather for it, this model gives you the perfect solution. Its unique grilling feature creates those delicious, crispy grill marks, and the ability to dehydrate fruit or make jerky is a bonus.

3. Cosori Air Fryer Max XL

Best for Ease of Use

For those looking for simplicity and efficiency, the Cosori Air Fryer Max XL is a fantastic choice. It offers a 5.8-quart basket—enough to cook meals for 3-5 people—and a user-friendly touchscreen interface.

Key Features:

• 5.8-quart capacity
• 11 one-touch presets for easy cooking
• Preheat function for perfect results
• Removable, non-stick basket (dishwasher safe)

Why We Love It: The Cosori Air Fryer Max XL is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Its one-touch presets make it easy to cook your favorite dishes with minimal effort, and it consistently delivers crisp and golden results.

4. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer

Best for Multi-Functionality

The Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer is part of the trusted Instant Pot family, offering six cooking functions: air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate, and broil. This model allows you to achieve a wide range of textures and flavors, making it perfect for experimenting in the kitchen.

Key Features:

• 6 cooking functions
• 6-quart capacity
• EvenCrisp technology for perfect crispiness
• User-friendly touchscreen with customizable presets

Why We Love It: Instant’s reputation for creating reliable, easy-to-use appliances continues with the Instant Vortex Plus. This model is great for anyone who wants an air fryer that does more than just air fry—it’s a true multi-functional powerhouse.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Results

To get the most out of your air fryer, here are some tips to ensure your meals turn out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, avoid overloading the basket. Give the hot air plenty of room to circulate around your food.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer can help ensure even cooking.
• Shake or Flip Your Food: Halfway through cooking, shake or flip your food to ensure it cooks evenly on all sides.
• Use Light Oil: While air fryers require less oil than traditional frying, a small spray or brush of oil can enhance the crispiness and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryers

1. Are air fryers really healthy? Yes! Air fryers use significantly less oil than traditional deep fryers, making your meals lower in fat and calories. It’s a great option for healthier cooking without sacrificing flavor or texture.

2. Can I cook frozen food in an air fryer? Absolutely! Air fryers are great for cooking frozen food, especially items like fries, nuggets, and breaded snacks. They cook quickly and evenly, giving you crispy results.

3. How do I clean my air fryer? Most air fryers have removable baskets that are dishwasher safe. For manual cleaning, simply wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and clean the basket with warm, soapy water.

4. Can I use aluminum foil in my air fryer? Yes, you can use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but ensure that it doesn’t block the airflow or touch the heating element. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best practices.

Conclusion: Which Air Fryer Is Right for You?

Choosing the best air fryer ultimately depends on your needs, preferences, and cooking habits. Whether you want a simple, no-fuss model or one that offers versatility and multiple cooking functions, there’s an air fryer that can fit your lifestyle.

By focusing on key features like size, ease of use, and cooking capabilities, you’ll be able to find an air fryer that makes cooking healthier and more enjoyable. The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL, Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill, Cosori Air Fryer Max XL, and Instant Vortex Plus are all fantastic choices to get you started on your journey to healthier, crispy cooking.

So go ahead, make the change today and discover the joy of air frying—your taste buds and your waistline will thank you!