Best Air Fryers 2024
Skip the smart features and bloated price tags — the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 10-quart is the multi-tasking beast you actually need.
1. Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 10-quart XL 2-Basket Air Fryer — 4.8/5
This thing is a game-changer for anyone who cooks multiple items at once. The dual baskets mean you can air fry steak and roast veggies, or chicken and fries, and have them finish at the exact same time thanks to the 'Smart Finish' function. It's wildly efficient, super easy to clean, and genuinely replaces several other appliances on your counter [3].
Pros
- Dual-basket cooking truly saves time and hassle
- Smart Finish/Match Cook functions work flawlessly
- Large capacity, great for families or meal prep
- Excellent air frying performance, very crispy results
Cons
- It's a big unit, takes up significant counter space
- Basket design can be a bit awkward for very large, single items
- No 'smart' features or app control, if that's your thing (it shouldn't be)
Best for: Families, meal preppers, and anyone who's sick of things finishing at different times.
2. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 6-quart Air Fryer — 4.5/5
If you're looking for a solid all-rounder without the bulk of the larger Ninja, the Instant Vortex Plus is a fantastic option. It consistently delivers crispy results, heats up fast, and its 'ClearCook' window is surprisingly useful for checking on your food without opening the basket. For single users or couples, it's hard to beat the value here.
Pros
- ClearCook window with internal light is genuinely useful
- Even and consistent cooking results
- Intuitive digital display and presets
- Relatively compact footprint for its capacity
Cons
- Non-stick coating can be prone to wear if not careful
- Some plastic odor initially, per several user reviews
- Basket shape isn't ideal for awkwardly shaped items
Best for: Individuals and couples who want reliable performance and a good view of their food.
3. Cosori Pro II 5.8-quart Air Fryer (not smart) — 4.6/5
Forget the 'smart' version; the Cosori Pro II without the Wi-Fi is where it's at. This model performs exceptionally well, offering precise temperature control and a wide range of presets that genuinely help. It's less expensive than its smart sibling and gives you all the essential features you need for great air-fried food without the unnecessary app faff.
Pros
- Excellent and consistent cooking performance
- User-friendly digital interface
- Wide temperature range and useful presets
- Dishwasher-safe basket for easy cleanup
Cons
- No smart features (a pro for some, con for others obsessed with apps)
- Can be a bit noisy on high settings
- Square basket design is good, but some prefer round for even airflow
Best for: Anyone who wants a straightforward, powerful air fryer without any smart bells and whistles.
4. Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 Digital Air Fry Oven — 4.7/5
This isn't just an air fryer; it's a toaster oven, dehydrator, and more, all wrapped into one slim package. We love that it flips up against the wall when not in use, saving invaluable counter space, a trick no other air fryer can pull off. It air fries exceptionally well, but its versatility and space-saving design are the real stars here [4].
Pros
- Flips up for vertical storage, saving counter space
- Extremely versatile: air fry, toast, bake, dehydrate, etc.
- Large capacity for a countertop oven
- Fast preheating and cooking
Cons
- Cleaning the inside can be a bit awkward due to the flip design
- It's a larger initial footprint when in use
- More expensive than basic basket-style air fryers
Best for: Small kitchens, apartment dwellers, or anyone who wants a multi-functional appliance that actually saves space.
5. Gourmia 5-quart Digital Air Fryer — 4.3/5
If budget is your absolute top priority, the Gourmia 5-quart punches above its weight. You often find these at Costco for crazy low prices, and for the money, it delivers perfectly acceptable air frying results. It's simple, straightforward, and gets the job done without any fuss or frills – a great entry-level option [5].
Pros
- Incredibly affordable, especially when on sale
- Simple to operate, not overly complicated
- Decent cooking performance for everyday use
- Compact size for smaller households
Cons
- Build quality isn't as robust as premium brands
- Pre-set programs aren't always spot-on
- Can be a bit louder than more expensive models
Best for: First-time air fryer buyers, budget-conscious shoppers, or college students.