If you’re searching for the consumers report best air fryer, you’re probably looking for more than a machine that simply makes frozen fries crispy.
Today’s air fryers can roast chicken, reheat leftovers, bake desserts, dehydrate fruit, cook vegetables and prepare quick weeknight meals with considerably less oil than traditional deep frying.
But choosing one isn’t always easy.
There are compact 4-quart models, family-size baskets, dual-basket machines and full-size air fryer toaster ovens. Some prioritize speed, others capacity or versatility.
This guide uses a Consumer Reports-style evaluation approach rather than claiming any official Consumer Reports ranking or endorsement.
We compare models using practical consumer-focused criteria including cooking performance, capacity, controls, cleaning, versatility, customer feedback, brand reputation and value.
Quick Answer: Which Air Fryer Is Best?
For most people, we’d start with the COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt.
It offers the combination that matters most for everyday cooking: useful capacity, fast airflow, multiple cooking modes, a relatively compact footprint and straightforward controls.
If crisping performance is your priority, the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL AF161 deserves a close look.
If you regularly cook two different foods at the same time, choose the Ninja DZ302 DualZone.
And if you want one appliance to replace several countertop appliances, an air fryer toaster oven such as the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro makes more sense.
Top 10 Consumers Report Best Air Fryer
1. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer – Best Compact Basket Air Fryer
The Ninja AF101 remains one of the safest choices for shoppers who want a straightforward basket-style air fryer without paying for unnecessary smart features.
The Ninja AF101 features a 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket, 1,550 watts of power, and a one-year manufacturer warranty.
The 4-quart capacity is particularly suitable for singles, couples and smaller households.
Key Features
- 4-quart basket
- 1,550 watts
- Ceramic-coated nonstick basket
- Air Fry, Roast, Reheat and Dehydrate
- Temperature control up to 400°F
- Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
- Compact countertop footprint
- One-year manufacturer warranty
Pros
- Excellent everyday performance
- Compact
- Simple controls
- Strong brand reputation
- Easy to clean
- Generally affordable
Cons
- Smaller than family-size models
- No dual cooking zones
- No viewing window
Best For
Singles, couples, students and small kitchens.
Why We Recommend It
The AF101 doesn’t try to do everything. It concentrates on the fundamentals: heating, airflow, crisping and simple controls.
If you don’t need a huge capacity, this can be a better choice than paying extra for an oversized appliance.
2. Ninja Air Fryer Max XL AF161 – Best Basket Air Fryer for Crisping
If the AF101 is too small, the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL AF161 is a compelling upgrade.
It provides a 5.5-quart capacity and Max Crisp technology capable of reaching 450°F. The model offers seven cooking functions, including Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat and Dehydrate.
The higher maximum temperature is especially useful when you’re trying to achieve deeply browned fries, wings or other foods that benefit from intense heat.
Key Features
- 5.5-quart capacity
- 450°F maximum temperature
- Seven cooking functions
- Max Crisp mode
- Ceramic-coated nonstick basket
- Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
- Digital controls
- Approximately 1,750 watts
Pros
- Excellent crisping capability
- Larger than AF101
- High maximum temperature
- Useful cooking programs
- Easy cleaning
Cons
- Takes more counter space
- No dual baskets
- No viewing window
Best For
Families of two to four and people who prioritize crispy results.
Why We Recommend It
The AF161 is particularly appealing if your definition of a great air fryer begins with crispy fries and chicken wings.
Independent product testing has also identified the AF161 as a strong mid-range choice, highlighting its 5.5-quart basket, 450°F maximum temperature and seven cooking functions.
3. COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt Air Fryer – 🏆 Best Overall
For many households, the COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt offers the best balance of features, capacity and price.
It features a 9-in-1 design, five fan speeds and a temperature range extending from 90°F to 450°F on the standard TurboBlaze model.
Key Features
- 6-quart capacity
- 9 cooking functions
- 90°F–450°F temperature range
- Five fan speeds
- Air Fry
- Roast
- Bake
- Broil
- Dehydrate
- Frozen
- Proof
- Reheat
- Keep Warm
- Dishwasher-safe basket
- 1,725 watts
Pros
- Excellent capacity
- Fast cooking
- Wide temperature range
- Many cooking functions
- Good value
- Relatively compact
Cons
- Can be too large for very small kitchens
- Basket design isn’t ideal for cooking multiple foods simultaneously
Best For
Most households and everyday family cooking.
Why We Recommend It
The TurboBlaze doesn’t rely on gimmicks.
Its combination of airflow control, capacity and temperature flexibility makes it useful for everything from frozen foods to chicken, vegetables and reheating leftovers.
4. Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook 6-Qt – Best Air Fryer With Viewing Window
The Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook solves one of the most annoying problems with traditional basket air fryers: you can’t easily see your food.
Its ClearCook window lets you monitor browning without repeatedly pulling the basket open.
The Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook is a 6-quart air fryer featuring a convenient ClearCook viewing window, customizable cooking programs, and six cooking functions.
Key Features
- 6-quart capacity
- 1,700 watts
- ClearCook viewing window
- Six cooking functions
- Air Fry
- Broil
- Roast
- Bake
- Reheat
- Dehydrate
- Digital controls
- Dishwasher-safe basket
Pros
- Viewing window
- Large capacity
- Simple interface
- Multiple cooking modes
- Easy cleanup
Cons
- Window adds complexity
- Can occupy considerable counter space
- Some foods still benefit from shaking
Best For
People who like monitoring food while it cooks.
Why We Recommend It
The ClearCook window is more useful than it might initially seem.
It lets you check whether fries are browning or chicken is approaching the desired color without opening the basket and releasing heat.
5. Ninja Foodi DZ302 DualZone Air Fryer – Best Dual Basket Air Fryer
For families, dual-basket air fryers can be dramatically more convenient than traditional single-basket models. The Ninja DZ302 provides two independent 5-quart baskets for a total 10-quart capacity.
The Ninja DZ302 is a 10-quart DualZone air fryer with two independent 5-quart baskets and six versatile cooking functions.
Key Features
- 10-quart total capacity
- Two independent 5-quart baskets
- Six cooking functions
- Air Fry
- Broil
- Roast
- Bake
- Dehydrate
- Keep Warm
- DualZone technology
- Sync/Match-style cooking controls
- Dishwasher-safe baskets
Pros
- Huge capacity
- Cook two foods independently
- Great for families
- Useful synchronized cooking
- Large wing capacity
Cons
- Large countertop footprint
- More expensive
- Two baskets require more storage
Best For
Families and people who frequently prepare complete meals.
Why We Recommend It
Imagine cooking chicken wings at 400°F in one basket while roasting vegetables at a completely different temperature in the other.
That’s where dual-basket air fryers shine.
6. Chefman TurboFry Touch 6-Qt Air Fryer – Best Budget Pick
If price matters, the Chefman TurboFry Touch is worth considering. The 6-quart version uses a digital touchscreen, four preset cooking functions and 1,700 watts.
Chefman’s published specifications describe the TurboFry Touch as having a 200°F–400°F adjustable temperature range and a shake reminder designed to encourage more even cooking.
Key Features
- 6-quart basket
- 1,700 watts
- Digital touchscreen
- Four cooking functions
- Shake reminder
- Dishwasher-safe basket
- Adjustable temperature
- 1-year assurance
Pros
- Affordable
- Good capacity
- Digital controls
- Shake reminder
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Compact relative to capacity
Cons
- Fewer cooking modes than premium competitors
- Less sophisticated airflow system
- Build quality isn’t as premium as higher-priced models
Best For
Budget-conscious families and first-time buyers.
Why We Recommend It
You don’t need to spend $200 to enjoy air frying.
The TurboFry Touch provides the basic features most households actually use while keeping the price relatively accessible.
7. Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer – Best Premium Smart Cooking Experience
The Dreo ChefMaker takes a different approach.
Instead of being just another basic air fryer, it combines air frying with more advanced cooking controls designed to help automate parts of the cooking process.
It is particularly interesting for people who want more control over proteins such as chicken, steak and fish.
Key Features
- Large cooking chamber
- Multiple cooking modes
- Smart cooking programs
- Temperature monitoring
- Steam-assisted cooking capabilities
- Digital interface
- Premium construction
Pros
- Advanced cooking controls
- Excellent for proteins
- Premium experience
- More sophisticated than conventional air fryers
Cons
- Expensive
- Larger footprint
- More complicated than basic basket models
- Overkill for someone who mainly cooks frozen foods
Best For
Serious home cooks who want advanced countertop cooking technology.
Why We Recommend It
The Dreo ChefMaker makes the most sense when you’re looking for an appliance that does more than simply circulate hot air.
Its higher price means it isn’t our first recommendation for budget shoppers, but advanced home cooks may appreciate its additional cooking capabilities.
8. Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best Multifunction Air Fryer Oven
An air fryer toaster oven can be a better choice if you don’t want another single-purpose appliance.
Cuisinart’s air fryer toaster ovens combine air frying with functions such as baking, broiling, toasting and convection cooking.
This type of design also provides considerably more usable interior space than most basket air fryers.
Key Features
- Oven-style interior
- Air frying
- Toasting
- Baking
- Broiling
- Convection cooking
- Multiple rack positions
- Large cooking area
- Mechanical or digital controls depending on model
Pros
- Extremely versatile
- Large cooking area
- Can replace several appliances
- Good for pizza and baking
- Suitable for larger foods
Cons
- Larger footprint
- Usually slower to preheat
- More difficult to clean
- More expensive than basic basket models
Best For
Homeowners who want one countertop appliance to handle multiple jobs.
Why We Recommend It
If you already need a toaster oven, adding air-frying capability can be more practical than buying two separate appliances.
9. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro – Best Premium Air Fryer Oven
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is aimed at consumers who want a premium countertop oven rather than a simple basket air fryer.
Its large interior is suitable for cooking larger meals and its extensive functionality makes it closer to a compact countertop oven.
Key Features
- Large countertop oven
- Air fry
- Convection
- Bake
- Broil
- Toast
- Roast
- Multiple cooking programs
- Digital controls
- Large interior
- Premium stainless-steel construction
Pros
- Excellent versatility
- Large cooking capacity
- Premium construction
- Strong cooking control
- Can replace multiple countertop appliances
Cons
- Expensive
- Large footprint
- Heavier than basket air fryers
- Cleaning takes more effort
Best For
Premium kitchens and serious home cooks.
Why We Recommend It
The Breville is not the best choice if your only goal is making fries quickly.
But if you want an appliance that can toast, bake, roast, broil and air fry, its versatility becomes much more valuable.
10. Gourmia Air Fryer Oven – Best Large-Capacity Oven-Style Option
Gourmia offers several air fryer oven configurations, making the brand worth considering for shoppers who want a larger cooking chamber.
Gourmia also offers larger French-door air fryer ovens, including models.
Key Features
- Depending on the specific model:
- Large oven-style interior
- Air fry
- Bake
- Roast
- Broil
- Toast
- Dehydrate
- Multiple racks
- Digital controls
- Large cooking capacity
Pros
- Large capacity
- Versatile
- Good for families
- Useful for pizza and larger foods
- Multiple cooking functions
Cons
- Model specifications vary
- Takes significant counter space
- Cleaning can be more involved
Best For
Large households and shoppers who prefer oven-style cooking.
Why We Recommend It
Gourmia is particularly attractive when capacity is more important than compactness.
How We Selected These Air Fryers
We considered the characteristics that matter most to real-world consumers.
1. Cooking Performance
An air fryer should produce food that’s browned and crisp on the outside without leaving the interior undercooked.
2. Crispness
High airflow and appropriate temperature control are particularly important for fries, wings, frozen foods and reheated pizza.
3. Even Cooking
A good air fryer should minimize hot and cold spots.
Basket size also matters. Overcrowding can prevent proper airflow regardless of how powerful the heating element is.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Dishwasher-safe baskets and removable crisper plates can make a substantial difference when you’re using the appliance several times per week.
5. Ease of Use
Digital controls, useful presets and clear temperature adjustments can reduce the learning curve.
6. Build Quality
We considered construction, basket design, controls and overall product reputation.
7. Customer Feedback
Customer ratings and review volume are useful signals, but they should not be treated as perfect evidence.
A product with thousands of reviews provides more information than one with only a handful.
8. Value
The most expensive air fryer isn’t automatically the best.
The ideal product depends on how frequently you cook, how many people you feed and which features you’ll actually use.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Electric Skillets Consumer Reports: Comparison & Complete Buying Guide
Basket vs. Oven Air Fryers
The biggest decision isn’t always which brand to buy. It’s whether you want a basket-style air fryer or an oven-style air fryer.
Basket Air Fryers
Basket models use a relatively small cooking chamber with a removable basket.
Advantages
- Faster preheating
- Excellent crisping
- Smaller footprint
- Easier cleanup
- Usually less expensive
- Simple operation
Disadvantages
- Limited cooking surface
- Usually not ideal for large pizzas
- You may need to shake the basket
- Less convenient for large meals
Basket models are usually the best choice if your priority is fast air frying.
Oven-Style Air Fryers
Oven-style models look more like toaster ovens.
Advantages
- More cooking space
- Multiple racks
- Can cook larger foods
- Toasting and baking capability
- More versatile
- Can replace other countertop appliances
Disadvantages
- Larger
- More expensive
- Longer cleanup
Often slower at air frying than dedicated basket models
Serious Eats similarly notes that dedicated air fryers generally have an advantage over toaster ovens when the primary goal is speed and crisping, while air fryer toaster ovens offer greater versatility.
Best Air Fryer Buying Guide
Capacity
2–4 Quarts
Best for:
- One person
- Students
- Couples
- Small kitchens
5–6 Quarts
Best for:
- Couples
- Small families
- Everyday cooking
This is the sweet spot for many households.
7–10+ Quarts
Best for:
- Families
- Meal prep
- Large portions
- Multiple foods
Dual-basket models can be especially useful.
Cooking Functions
Basic models may offer only air fry, roast, reheat and dehydrate.
Premium models may add:
- Bake
- Broil
- Proof
- Keep Warm
- Grill
- Slow cook
- Steam
- Smart cooking programs
Don’t pay extra for functions you’ll never use.
Temperature Range
A broader temperature range provides greater flexibility.
For everyday air frying, however, you don’t necessarily need the highest possible maximum temperature.
The Ninja AF161’s 450°F maximum is particularly useful for high-heat crisping.
Digital vs. Manual Controls
Digital
Best for:
- Preset programs
- Precise time
- Precise temperature
- Modern interfaces
Manual
Best for:
- Simplicity
- Lower cost
- People who prefer physical controls
Preset Programs
Presets can make air fryers easier for beginners.
Useful presets include:
- Fries
- Chicken
- Fish
- Vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Reheat
But presets aren’t magic. You may still need to adjust cooking time based on food quantity and thickness.
Dual-Basket Models
A dual basket air fryer is worthwhile if you frequently prepare complete meals.
For example:
- Basket 1: Chicken wings at 400°F
- Basket 2: Vegetables at 375°F
The major advantage is that each side can operate independently.
Viewing Window
A window is convenient but not essential. It allows you to monitor browning without removing the basket.
The Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook is one example designed around this feature.
Noise Level
Air fryers use powerful fans, so some fan noise is normal. If noise matters to you, don’t assume a premium model is automatically silent.
Cleaning
Look for:
- Removable baskets
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Nonstick or ceramic-coated surfaces
- Removable crumb trays on oven-style models
Power Consumption
Most household air fryers use roughly 1,200–1,800 watts.
A higher wattage doesn’t automatically mean higher total electricity cost because cooking time also matters.
An air fryer can potentially use less energy than heating a full-size oven for a small meal, although actual consumption depends on appliance size, cooking time and the food being prepared.
Basket vs. Oven Air Fryer Comparison
| Category | Basket Air Fryer | Oven Air Fryer |
| Cooking Speed | Excellent | Good |
| Capacity | Small–large | Large |
| Crisping | Excellent | Very good |
| Versatility | Good | Excellent |
| Counter Space | Lower | Higher |
| Cleaning | Easier | More involved |
| Price | Usually lower | Usually higher |
| Best Users | Everyday air frying | Large meals & multifunction cooking |
Best Foods to Cook in an Air Fryer
French Fries
Frozen fries are one of the easiest foods to air fry. Avoid overcrowding the basket.
Chicken Wings
Air fryers are excellent for wings because hot circulating air helps render surface fat while crisping the skin.
Steak
Air frying can work well for steak, particularly thinner cuts, although results depend heavily on thickness and desired doneness.
Use a food thermometer rather than relying only on cooking time.
Fish
Air fryers can produce nicely browned fish with little added oil. Delicate fillets should be handled carefully when removing them.
Vegetables
Try:
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower
- Zucchini
- Bell peppers
- Asparagus
A small amount of oil can improve browning.
Frozen Foods
Air fryers are particularly convenient for:
- Chicken nuggets
- Tater tots
- Mozzarella sticks
- Frozen fries
- Fish sticks
- Frozen vegetables
Pizza
Basket air fryers work particularly well for reheating individual slices. Oven-style models are better for larger pizzas.
Bacon
Air frying bacon can be convenient, although you should monitor grease accumulation carefully.
Desserts
- Many models can bake:
- Cookies
- Brownies
- Small cakes
- Donuts
- Cinnamon rolls
Reheating Leftovers
This is one of the most underrated uses. Air frying can restore crispness to foods that become soggy in a microwave.
Air Fryer Maintenance Tips
Clean the Basket After Use
Don’t allow grease and food residue to build up. Let the basket cool before washing it.
Clean the Heating Element
Occasionally inspect the heating element for grease or food particles. Always unplug the appliance and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Remove Grease
Heavy grease buildup can create smoke and unpleasant odors. Clean the cooking chamber periodically.
Prevent Odors
Clean oily foods promptly. Leaving grease inside the machine can cause smells during future cooking cycles.
Don’t Overcrowd
Overcrowding isn’t just a cooking problem. It can also encourage grease and food residue to accumulate in areas that are harder to clean.
Store Properly
Allow the appliance to cool completely before storing accessories or covering it.
Extend Appliance Life
- Don’t use metal utensils on nonstick surfaces
- Avoid abrasive cleaners
- Don’t immerse the electrical unit in water
- Follow the manufacturer’s temperature recommendations
- Keep ventilation areas clear
- Inspect the power cord periodically
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the best air fryer overall?
Ans. For most households, the COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt is one of the strongest overall choices because it combines useful capacity, fast airflow, versatile cooking programs and competitive pricing.
The Ninja AF161 is another excellent choice if crisping performance is your top priority.
Q. Are air fryers healthier than deep fryers?
Ans. Air frying generally allows you to achieve browned and crispy food using substantially less added oil than traditional deep frying.
However, “air fried” doesn’t automatically mean healthy. The nutritional quality still depends on the food itself.
Q. What size air fryer should I buy?
Ans.
- For one or two people, 2–4 quarts can be sufficient.
- For most families, 5–6 quarts is a practical starting point.
- For large families, meal preparation or multiple foods, consider 7–10+ quarts or a dual-basket model.
Q. How long do air fryers last?
Ans. There isn’t one universal lifespan. Frequency of use, cleaning, heating-element condition, basket coating and overall construction all matter.
A well-maintained quality appliance can provide years of service, but warranty coverage varies by manufacturer and model.
Q. Is Ninja better than COSORI?
Ans. Neither brand is universally better. Ninja is particularly strong in high-heat crisping and dual-zone models.
COSORI offers excellent value, user-friendly designs and versatile everyday models. Choose based on the specific model rather than the logo.
Q. Are dual-basket air fryers worth it?
Ans. Yes, if you regularly cook two foods at different temperatures. They’re less valuable if you usually prepare one food at a time.
Q. Can I cook frozen food in an air fryer?
Ans. Absolutely. Frozen fries, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, vegetables and many other frozen foods are particularly convenient in an air fryer.
Follow the food manufacturer’s directions and adjust based on your specific appliance.
Q. Do air fryers use a lot of electricity?
Ans. Air fryers typically draw significant power while operating, but cooking times are often short.
For smaller meals, they can be an efficient alternative to heating a full-size oven, although actual energy savings depend on the appliance and cooking method.
Q. Can I put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
Ans. Aluminum foil can be used in some air fryers, but it must be used correctly.
Never allow foil to block essential airflow, touch the heating element or become loose enough to be pulled into the fan. Always follow your appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
Q. Which air fryer offers the best value?
Ans. The COSORI TurboBlaze and Chefman TurboFry Touch are two strong value-oriented choices.
The best value depends on whether you prioritize performance, capacity, cooking programs or the lowest purchase price.
Q. Is a 6-quart air fryer big enough for a family?
Ans. For many families, yes. A 6-quart model is a practical middle ground, although very large families may prefer a 10-quart dual-basket or oven-style model.
Q. Should I buy a basket air fryer or an air fryer toaster oven?
Ans. Buy a basket model if speed and crisping are your priorities. Choose an air fryer toaster oven if you also want to toast, bake, broil and cook larger foods.
Final Verdict on Consumers Report Best Air Fryer
Finding the consumers report best air fryer isn’t about identifying one appliance that is perfect for everyone.
The best choice depends on your household size, counter space, cooking habits and budget.
🏆 Best Overall: COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt
The TurboBlaze offers an excellent combination of capacity, speed, versatility and value.
💰 Best Budget Pick: Chefman TurboFry Touch
A practical option for shoppers who want a capable digital air fryer without spending heavily.
⭐ Best Premium Pick: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
A premium choice for people who want a multifunction countertop oven rather than simply an air fryer.
👨👩👧 Best Family Air Fryer: Ninja DZ302 DualZone
The 10-quart dual-basket design is particularly useful for families preparing different foods simultaneously.
🍟 Best Basket Air Fryer: Ninja AF161 Max XL
Its 450°F maximum temperature and Max Crisp function make it an excellent choice for crispy foods.
🔥 Best Air Fryer Oven: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Choose it when versatility, interior capacity and premium construction matter more than having the smallest possible countertop appliance.
Ultimately, don’t buy the largest or most expensive air fryer simply because it has more features.
A compact Ninja AF101 may be a better purchase for one person than a huge dual-zone machine. A family may get far more value from the Ninja DZ302.
And someone replacing a toaster oven may be better served by an oven-style Cuisinart or Breville.
| Rank | Air Fryer | Type | Capacity | Best For | Pricing |
| 1 | COSORI TurboBlaze | Basket | 6 qt | Overall | Check Price On Amazon |
| 2 | Ninja AF161 Max XL | Basket | 5.5 qt | Crisping | Check Price On Amazon |
| 3 | Ninja DZ302 | Dual Basket | 10 qt | Families | Check Price On Amazon |
| 4 | Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook | Basket | 6 qt | Viewing window | Check Price On Amazon |
| 5 | Ninja AF101 | Basket | 4 qt | Small kitchens | Check Price On Amazon |
| 6 | Chefman TurboFry Touch | Basket | 6 qt | Budget | Check Price On Amazon |
| 7 | Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro | Oven | Large | Premium | Check Price On Amazon |
| 8 | Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven | Oven | Large | Versatility | Check Price On Amazon |
| 9 | Dreo ChefMaker | Combi | Large | Advanced cooking | Check Price On Amazon |
| 10 | Gourmia Air Fryer Oven | Oven | Large | Large meals | Check Price On Amazon |