Quick answer
Our overall pick is the Ninja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp for its high heat, large capacity, and versatile 6-in-1 cooking. For cooks who need to prepare two dishes at once, the Ninja DualZone is a great choice, while the Chefman 4 QT model suits smaller households or kitchens.
An air fryer can be a game-changer for making healthier versions of crispy favorites right at home. To help you find the best air fryer for your needs, we compared the manufacturer listings and specifications for several widely available models. Our picks are based on their stated features, capacities, and cooking functions.
Our picks at a glance
Pros
- High 450°F Max Crisp setting for extra-crispy results
- Large 6.5-quart capacity suitable for family meals
- Six cooking functions offer versatility
- Compact design for its stated capacity
Cons
- The basket and crisper plate are not listed as dishwasher safe
- The listing does not mention a viewing window
Pros
- Built-in viewing window for easy monitoring
- Twelve listed cooking functions, including steaming
- Touch pad controls
Cons
- Maximum temperature is 400°F, lower than some other models
- The outer material is listed as polypropylene plastic
Pros
- Compact design with a 4-quart capacity
- Dishwasher-safe basket and rack
- Hi-Fry Technology boosts to 450°F for finishing crunch
- Includes shake notification reminder
Cons
- Smaller capacity is best for 2-4 people
- The listing does not mention a viewing window
Pros
- Very large 9-quart capacity
- Includes a viewing window and Keep Warm function
- Powerful DC motor for faster cooking per the listing
- Seven cooking functions, including a frozen food setting
Cons
- Larger footprint will take up more counter space
- The listing does not specify if the basket is dishwasher safe
Pros
- Two independent baskets in one 10-quart unit
- Smart thermometer and finish features for precise cooking
- High 450°F maximum temperature
- Large capacity suitable for big batches or multiple dishes
Cons
- Larger and heavier than single-basket models
- The listing does not mention a viewing window or dishwasher-safe baskets
How we chose
Our editors compared manufacturer listings and specifications on Amazon as of October 2026. We did not test, use, or review any product hands-on. Our selections are based on analyzing the listed features, capacities, and functions to identify which models might suit different types of home cooks.
We focused on key criteria: cooking capacity for different household sizes, the maximum temperature for achieving crispiness, the variety of cooking functions, and special features like viewing windows or dual baskets.
Best Air Fryers: our picks in detail
1. Best overall: Ninja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp
The Ninja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp features a 6.5-quart nonstick basket and crisper plate, which the listing says can hold up to 5 lbs. of fries or 9 lbs. of chicken wings. Its Max Crisp technology is designed to deliver superheated air up to 450°F for what the manufacturer describes as extra-crispy results with little to no oil.
This model offers six cooking functions: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. It has a touch control method, automatic shut-off, and a programmable timer. The listing highlights its compact footprint designed to save counter space.
Best for: Families and home cooks who want a high-heat, large-capacity air fryer for versatile, healthier frying.
Pros
- High 450°F Max Crisp setting for extra-crispy results
- Large 6.5-quart capacity suitable for family meals
- Six cooking functions offer versatility
- Compact design for its stated capacity
Cons
- The basket and crisper plate are not listed as dishwasher safe
- The listing does not mention a viewing window
2. Best for monitoring while cooking: OLIXIS 12-in-1 Air Fryer
The OLIXIS air fryer has a 6.34-quart capacity and a built-in see-through window, allowing you to monitor food without opening the basket. It reaches a maximum temperature of 400°F and uses rapid air circulation technology.
This model is promoted as a 12-in-1 appliance with functions including air frying, roasting, baking, reheating, dehydrating, and steaming. It features a touch pad for control and is programmable with a timer.
Best for: Cooks who prefer to visually check on their food’s progress without interrupting the cooking cycle.
Pros
- Built-in viewing window for easy monitoring
- Twelve listed cooking functions, including steaming
- Touch pad controls
Cons
- Maximum temperature is 400°F, lower than some other models
- The outer material is listed as polypropylene plastic
3. Best for small kitchens: Chefman 4 QT Compact Air Fryer
The Chefman 4-quart air fryer is designed with a compact, narrow footprint to save counter space. It uses Hi-Fry Technology, which can increase the heat to 450°F during the final cooking minutes for extra crispiness.
It features a digital touchscreen with four preset functions and an audible shake notification. The nonstick basket and rack are listed as dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Best for: Individuals, couples, or small families living in apartments or homes with limited counter space.
Pros
- Compact design with a 4-quart capacity
- Dishwasher-safe basket and rack
- Hi-Fry Technology boosts to 450°F for finishing crunch
- Includes shake notification reminder
Cons
- Smaller capacity is best for 2-4 people
- The listing does not mention a viewing window
4. Best for large families: Chefman TurboFry 9 QT Air Fryer
The Chefman TurboFry air fryer has a family-sized 9-quart capacity, which the listing says can cook for up to seven people. It uses a high-powered DC motor and reaches a maximum temperature of 450°F.
This model features seven cooking functions: Air Fry, Broil, Dehydrate, Convection Bake, Reheat, Keep Warm, and a dedicated Cook Frozen Foods setting. It includes a viewing window, a shake reminder, and automatic shut-off.
Best for: Large households or anyone who regularly cooks big batches and wants a viewing window.
Pros
- Very large 9-quart capacity
- Includes a viewing window and Keep Warm function
- Powerful DC motor for faster cooking per the listing
- Seven cooking functions, including a frozen food setting
Cons
- Larger footprint will take up more counter space
- The listing does not specify if the basket is dishwasher safe
5. Best for cooking two dishes at once: Ninja DualZone Smart Air Fryer
The Ninja DualZone Smart Air Fryer features two independent XL baskets within a total 10-quart capacity, allowing you to cook two different foods simultaneously. It includes a Smart Cook System with an integrated thermometer and features like Smart Finish and Match Cook.
It offers six cooking programs: Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Reheat, Air Broil, and Dehydrate. The DualZone technology is designed to manage power distribution between the two baskets.
Best for: Home cooks who want the flexibility to prepare a main and a side dish at the same time without compromising on doneness.
Pros
- Two independent baskets in one 10-quart unit
- Smart thermometer and finish features for precise cooking
- High 450°F maximum temperature
- Large capacity suitable for big batches or multiple dishes
Cons
- Larger and heavier than single-basket models
- The listing does not mention a viewing window or dishwasher-safe baskets
Air fryer picks at a glance
| Model | Capacity | Max Temp | Key Features | Special Functions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Air Fryer XL | 6.5 quarts | 450°F | MaxCrisp Tech, Compact | 6-in-1 (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, etc.) |
| OLIXIS 12-in-1 | 6.34 quarts | 400°F | Viewing Window | 12-in-1 (includes Steam) |
| Chefman 4 QT | 4 quarts | 450°F | Compact, Dishwasher Safe | 4 Presets, Hi-Fry Tech |
| Chefman TurboFry 9 QT | 9 quarts | 450°F | Viewing Window, Keep Warm | 7-in-1 (includes Broil) |
| Ninja DualZone | 10 quarts (dual) | 450°F | Two Baskets, Smart Thermometer | 6-in-1, DualZone Tech |
How to choose the best air fryer
Choosing the right air fryer starts with assessing your household size and cooking habits. A model’s capacity, measured in quarts, determines how much food you can cook at once. For individuals or couples, a 4-quart model may be sufficient, while families will likely want a capacity of 6 quarts or more. If you often cook multiple components for a meal, a dual-basket model offers unique convenience.
Look at the listed cooking functions beyond basic air frying. Many models include baking, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating, turning the appliance into a versatile countertop oven. Some even list steaming or a dedicated frozen food setting. The maximum temperature is also a factor, as higher heat (like 450°F) is often promoted for achieving a crispier finish. For more tips on getting started, see our guide on how to use an air fryer.
What to look for
- Capacity: Match the quart size to your typical meal portions and household.
- Cooking Functions: Consider which extra modes (bake, dehydrate, reheat) you’ll actually use.
- Special Features: A viewing window, dishwasher-safe basket, or dual-zone cooking can add significant convenience.
- Size & Storage: Check the listed dimensions to ensure it fits on your counter and in your storage space.
FAQ
What can I cook in an air fryer?
Air fryers are versatile appliances. According to the listings we reviewed, common functions include air frying, baking, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating. You can cook items like French fries, chicken wings, vegetables, and even bake small cakes or dehydrate fruits, depending on the model’s specific functions.
Are air fryers easy to clean?
Ease of cleaning depends on the model. Some listings specify that the basket and rack are dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleanup. For others, you may need to hand wash the components. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions in the manual.
Do I need to preheat an air fryer?
Preheating recommendations can vary by model and recipe. Some air fryers may heat up very quickly due to their powerful elements. For the best results and specific guidance, always refer to the manual that comes with your appliance and the recipes you are following.
How is air frying healthier?
Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food, often requiring little to no added oil compared to traditional deep frying. One listing we reviewed claimed its method used up to 75% less fat. For detailed nutritional information and cooking advice, consult resources like the FDA.
References
- Amazon product listings and manufacturer specifications (accessed October 2026)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Food Safety
- From My Home Kitchen: How to Use an Air Fryer
