Best Air Fryers 2024
Skip the small fryers; the Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 Digital Air Fry XL is the only one worth buying for most people, especially if you have limited counter space.
1. Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 Digital Air Fry Oven, XL Capacity — 4.8/5
This Ninja isn't just an air fryer; it's a game-changer for small kitchens because it flips up against the wall, saving precious counter space. It really delivers on air frying, but it's also a killer toaster, dehydrator, and roaster that actually works [3]. We've been super impressed with its versatility and thoughtful design.
Pros
- Flips up for vertical storage, freeing up counter space
- Large capacity for a compact footprint, fits a 13-inch pizza
- Achieves super crispy results, often better than basket-style fryers
- Quick preheating and even cooking
Cons
- Can be a bit loud during operation
- Basket for air frying is on the smaller side, despite overall capacity
- Digital display can be prone to fingerprints
Best for: Anyone with limited counter space who wants an all-in-one appliance that genuinely performs.
2. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 6-Quart Air Fryer — 4.5/5
If you absolutely insist on a basket-style air fryer, this Instant Pot sibling is your best bet. It's got a window (yes, a window!) so you can check on your food without opening the basket, which saves heat and makes life easier. The 6-quart capacity is a sweet spot for 2-4 people, and it heats up quickly for perfectly crispy fries and chicken [4].
Pros
- Clear cooking window to monitor food without opening
- Generous 6-quart capacity, good for families
- Simple digital controls and preset programs
- Excellent air frying performance for crispy results
Cons
- Bulky footprint, doesn't store easily
- Can emit a plastic smell during initial uses
- Non-stick coating can be delicate if not cared for
Best for: Families or couples who prefer a traditional basket air fryer but want a little more capacity and the convenience of a window.
3. Gourmia Digital Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 14-in-1 — 4.3/5
This Gourmia often goes on sale at Costco and it's a surprising powerhouse for the price. While it's definitely an oven-style unit, it air fries with conviction, and the rotisserie function is a fun bonus if you're into that. It's a solid, budget-friendly alternative if the Ninja Foodi is out of your price range and you don't mind a slightly larger footprint [5].
Pros
- Excellent value, often available at a great price
- Large internal capacity, handles a small chicken or multiple trays
- Numerous functions, including rotisserie and dehydrate
- Heats up quickly, cooks evenly
Cons
- Larger footprint, commands significant counter space
- Build quality can feel a bit less premium than higher-end models
- Some users report digital display issues over time
- Interior can be tedious to clean
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a versatile, oven-style air fryer with a large capacity and don't mind sacrificing some counter space.
4. Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, TOA-60 — 4.1/5
Yeah, it's a classic, and for good reason. The Cuisinart TOA-60 has been around forever and it's a solid, reliable performer if you value durability and straightforward operation over smart features. It's not going to blow your mind with a dozen functions, but it toasts, bakes, and air fries dependably. It feels like a proper kitchen appliance, not a flimsy gadget [6].
Pros
- Reliable and durable Cuisinart build quality
- Excellent toaster and broiler functions
- Consistently good air frying performance for its class
- Simple, intuitive analog dials (no confusing digital menus)
Cons
- Smaller air frying basket compared to dedicated units
- Can be quite noisy
- No internal light, making it hard to see food
- Cleaning the interior can be a hassle due to heating elements
Best for: Traditionalists who prefer analog controls and want a reliable, multi-functional toaster oven that also does a decent job air frying.