The main reason why air fryers are hotter is that they are healthier, which is why no family can cook without them. However, there are more categories of air fryers on the market, and many people are at a loss as to what kind of air fryer to choose, so in this review, we find you the air fryer that best meets your cooking needs.
Key Features to Look for in an Air Fryer
Choosing the right air fryer can feel overwhelming with so many options out there, but focusing on a few key features can make the decision easier. First, consider capacity. If you’re cooking for a family of four or more, a larger model (6 quarts or more) is ideal for preparing full meals. For singles or couples, a 2- to 4-quart fryer might suffice for smaller portions. Next, wattage matters—higher wattage (typically 1500W or more) means faster cooking and crispier results, but it can also increase energy use. Look for models with versatile cooking functions, like baking, roasting, or dehydrating, to maximize value. Temperature range is another factor; a wider range (up to 400°F or higher) gives you more flexibility for recipes like steaks or desserts. Finally, ease of cleaning is crucial—opt for fryers with nonstick baskets or dishwasher-safe parts to save time. Some models even offer smart features, like app connectivity or preset cooking modes, which can be a game-changer for busy households.
Top 6 Air Fryers for 2025
After researching the latest models, reading user reviews, and comparing performance, here are the six best air fryers for one stands out for its unique features, reliability, and value, ensuring there’s something for every kitchen.
Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
The Ninja AF101 is a compact yet powerful 4-quart air fryer that’s perfect for small households or those short on counter space. With a temperature range of 105°F to 400°F, it handles everything from crispy fries to dehydrated fruit snacks. Its simple control panel offers four functions: air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate. Users love its consistent results and easy-to-clean basket. One reviewer on Amazon raves, “I’ve made wings, fries, and even a small cake in this thing—it’s a total workhorse!” The downside? Its smaller size might not suit larger families.
Cosori Pro II Air Fryer
The Cosori Pro II is a favorite for its sleek design and capacity, ideal for families of four. It boasts 11 preset cooking modes, including options for pizza, steak, and even yogurt. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and the square basket maximizes cooking space. A user on Best Buy’s website shares, “The Cosori makes the crispiest chicken wings I’ve ever had, and cleanup is a breeze!” Its 1700W power ensures fast cooking, though it’s a bit noisier than some competitors. For authoritative reviews, check out Wirecutter’s air fryer guide.
Buy the Cosori Pro II on Amazon
Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer
The Instant Vortex Plus combines versatility with a 6-quart capacity, making it a great all-rounder. It offers six functions: air fry, bake, roast, broil, reheat, and dehydrate. Its unique clear window lets you monitor food without opening the basket, preserving heat. A verified Amazon buyer notes, “I love the window—it’s so handy to check on my food without losing heat!” The odor-eliminating filter is a nice touch for keeping your kitchen fresh, but the basket’s shape can make it tricky to fit larger items like a whole chicken.
Buy the Instant Vortex Plus on Amazon
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
For larger households, the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL shines with its 7-quart capacity and 1725W power. It can cook a whole chicken or a large batch of fries with ease. Its fat-removal technology claims to reduce excess oil, delivering healthier results. One user on Philips’ site says, “This air fryer is a game-changer for family dinners—everything comes out perfectly crispy!” It’s pricier, but its durability and performance justify the cost. For more on large-capacity fryers, see Good Housekeeping’s reviews.
Buy the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL on Amazon
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a countertop powerhouse, blending air frying with convection oven capabilities. Its 1-cubic-foot interior can fit a 14-pound turkey or a 12-inch pizza. With 11 cooking functions, including toast, bake, and slow cook, it’s ideal for those wanting an all-in-one appliance. A user on Amazon comments, “This replaced my toaster oven and air fryer—it’s worth every penny!” Its premium price and larger footprint may not suit everyone, but it’s perfect for serious home cooks.
Buy the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro on Amazon
Gourmia 6-Quart Digital Air Fryer
The Gourmia 6-Quart Digital Air Fryer is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance. With 10 preset modes and a 400°F max temperature, it’s versatile and powerful. Its sleek design and guided cooking prompts make it beginner-friendly. One Walmart reviewer writes, “I was skeptical because of the price, but this air fryer cooks evenly and is so easy to use!” The basket isn’t dishwasher-safe, which is a minor drawback, but its affordability makes it a great value pick.
Buy the Gourmia 6-Quart Digital Air Fryer on Amazon
How did we test air fryers?
In order to find the best air fryer, our team of 8 people conducted real tests on different price points, sizes, brands, performance, intelligence and practicality. We bought air fryers from all major platforms, including the official ones, and tested them in our lab for 3 weeks, while our team also tested and evaluated them in our own homes.
We cooked different ingredients to evaluate the crispiness, cooking uniformity and overall texture. We also evaluated how much food each air fryer can handle to see if it is suitable for a large family. In addition to our own evaluation of these air fryers, we also referred to third-party authoritative platforms, the data of their tests, and made comparisons against the data of our tests, and finally selected the above high-quality air fryers.
You can also use the selection tool we built to help you recommend the air fryer that’s right for you:
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Air Fryer for You
With so many air fryers on the market, narrowing down your choice requires a bit of planning. Here’s a detailed guide to help you pick the perfect model for your needs.
Assess Your Cooking Needs
Start by thinking about how you will use the air fryer. If you’re cooking for one or two, a compact model like the Ninja AF101 will do the trick. For larger families or frequent entertainers, go for a bigger capacity, like the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL. If you want to experiment with baking or roasting, look for multi-function models like the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro.
Consider Your Kitchen Space
Air fryers come in various sizes, so measure your counter space before buying. Compact models like the Ninja AF101 are great for small kitchens, while larger units like the Breville may require more room. If storage is an issue, check the fryer’s dimensions and weight to ensure it’s manageable.
Budget and Features
Air fryers range from budget-friendly options like the Gourmia to premium models like the Breville. Decide which features matter most—do you need smart connectivity, or are basic presets enough? Higher-end models often include extras like recipe apps or advanced temperature controls, but simpler models can still deliver excellent results. For a deeper dive into budget options, explore CNET’s air fryer recommendations.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Look for intuitive controls, like touchscreens or clear dials, especially if you’re new to air frying. Dishwasher-safe parts or nonstick coatings, as seen in the Cosori Pro II, make cleanup a breeze. Some models, like the Instant Vortex Plus, have unique features like viewing windows to simplify monitoring.
Energy Efficiency
Higher-wattage fryers cook faster but use more electricity. If energy efficiency is a priority, check the wattage and consider models with quick preheat times or lower power consumption. Most air fryers are still more efficient than traditional ovens for small meals.
Safety Features
Look for auto-shutoff, cool-touch handles, and stable designs to prevent accidents. Models like the Cosori and Ninja include these features, making them safer for households with kids or pets.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Air Fryer
To maximize your air fryer’s potential, follow these tips. First, don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate for even cooking. Lightly coat food with oil for crispier results, but don’t overdo it. Shake or flip food halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Experiment with recipes beyond fries; air fryers can make everything from roasted veggies to cakes. Finally, clean the basket after each use to prevent buildup and maintain performance.
🔌 Air Fryer Electricity Cost Calculator
Summarize:
Choosing the right air fryer for your family is important, you need to know your kitchen space, budget, family size, and whether the smart features work well. The air fryers we have reviewed above have been evaluated by our team after 3 weeks of real-life use for different family sizes, features, and types, and you can be assured of their performance and quality. If you have any questions, you can contact us in the comment section.
