Best Air Fryers 2024
Skip the smart features and giant capacities for most homes — the Ninja AF101 is the only air fryer worth buying for most people.
1. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer — 4.8/5
This is our top pick, hands down. It's not flashy, doesn't connect to Wi-Fi, and frankly, it doesn't need to. It's renowned for its robust build quality, consistency, and incredibly easy cleanup [1]. We find it preheats fast and cooks evenly, which is what 99% of people actually want in an air fryer.
Pros
- Unbeatable cooking consistency and even browning
- Remarkably easy to clean, non-stick holds up
- Compact footprint, fits well on most countertops
- Very durable, known to last for years
Cons
- Only 4-quart capacity, might be small for larger families
- No smart features (which we argue is a pro, but some might want it)
- Can be a bit loud during operation
Best for: Anyone who wants a reliable, no-nonsense air fryer for 1-3 people that just *works*.
2. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer (6 Quart) — 4.6/5
Instant Pot diversified beyond pressure cookers, and they did a pretty great job with the Vortex line. This 6-quart model hits a sweet spot for size and features, offering excellent performance, especially with its 'EvenCrisp' technology that really does deliver crispy results [2]. We've seen fewer complaints about long-term durability compared to other brands in this price range.
Pros
- Good capacity for small families (3-5 people)
- EvenCrisp tech provides genuinely crispy food
- Intuitive digital display, easy to use pre-sets
- Less expensive than similar capacity Ninja models
Cons
- Door design can sometimes feel a bit flimsy
- Basket can be a little tricky to clean due to design
- Can emit plastic smell initially (dissipates with use)
Best for: Families needing more capacity than the Ninja AF101, but still want straightforward operation.
3. COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo (5.8 Quart) — 4.4/5
Okay, so you *really* want a Cosori, but maybe less 'smart.' The Pro II is what we'd suggest. It's a significant upgrade over their entry-level models, boasting better temperature accuracy and a sturdier build. While its 'smart' sibling gets all the marketing, this one's often reported as more reliable by users over time [0]. Don't expect oven-level performance, but for an air fryer, it's pretty good.
Pros
- Decent capacity for larger meals
- Improved temperature control and even cooking over older Cosori models
- Many useful presets work quite well
- Sleek design, looks good on the counter
Cons
- Durability issues still pop up more than with Ninja or Instant
- Basket coating can start to degrade faster than competitors
- Some report an initial strong chemical smell that takes time to dissipate
Best for: Those who want a larger capacity air fryer and prioritize aesthetics, but are willing to overlook potential long-term durability quirks.
4. Philips HD9270/91 Essential Airfryer XL — 4.3/5
Philips pretty much invented the air fryer, and while they've faced fierce competition, their Essential XL still holds its own. It's got that classic Philips quality – solid, reliable, and while it's not the cheapest, it's a workhorse. We appreciate its simple dial controls, which are a godsend if you're tired of finicky touchscreens [3].
Pros
- Renowned Philips build quality, built to last
- Simple, intuitive analog dial controls (no confusing apps)
- Good 6.2-liter capacity (about 6.6 quarts)
- Less prone to electronic failures than some digital models
Cons
- More expensive than comparable models
- Basket design can make quick cleanups a bit awkward
- Preheating can be slower than some competitors
Best for: People who value traditional European appliance quality, prefer analog controls, and don't mind paying a bit more for longevity.
5. Dash Compact Air Fryer — 4.0/5
Look, sometimes you just need something small and cheap for one person, or to supplement a main oven. The Dash Compact fits that bill perfectly. It's tiny, dead simple with analog dials, and it gets the job done for snacks and single servings [4]. Don't expect it to air fry a whole chicken, but for a quick batch of fries or reheating pizza, it's surprisingly effective.
Pros
- Extremely compact, ideal for small kitchens/dorm rooms
- Very affordable, great entry-level price
- Simple analog controls, no learning curve
- Cute design and multiple color options
Cons
- Very limited capacity (2 quarts)
- Less powerful, may take slightly longer to cook
- Build quality feels less robust than premium models
Best for: Singles, college students, or anyone with limited counter space looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly option.