Best Air Fryers for Healthy Cooking
Norah Clark
Air fryers have become increasingly popular for those looking to cook crispy food with a deep-fried taste without the excessive oil and calories that traditional frying involves.
For our comprehensive guide, we tested over 40 of the best air fryers, selecting the top 10 air fryer models for in-depth analysis. We put each air fryer to the test in our kitchen, evaluating their ease of use, consistency, versatility, and overall cooking performance.
Best Air Fryers You Can Buy in 2024
1. COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer
I'd recommend the COSORI TurboBlaze if you're looking for a quick, versatile, and space-saving air fryer for your kitchen.
Pros
- Cooks food quickly and evenly
- Multi-functional with 9 cooking presets
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Slightly louder than some other models
- May take up considerable counter space
- The exterior can get warm during use
I recently took the COSORI TurboBlaze for a spin and was blown away by its cooking speed. The 5-speed airflow system guaranteed my fries came out perfectly golden and crispy in no time. When I entertained guests last weekend, the 6-quart capacity effortlessly handled a large batch of chicken wings, which meant more socializing and less time in the kitchen.
It's a handy gadget with its 9-in-1 versatility. The ability to roast, bake, and even dehydrate offers immense value, especially when I'm experimenting with new recipes. Its substantial size makes a statement on my counter, but it's a trade-off I'm willing to make for its functionality.
Cleanup is a breeze, which is a huge bonus for me after hosting dinners. The non-stick basket and detachable parts are dishwasher-safe, saving me time and effort. However, during use, I noticed the machine tends to run with a bit more noise compared to my previous air fryer. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something to keep in mind if you prefer a quieter appliance.
The sleek design fits well with my kitchen's aesthetics, though it's important to note it does emit some heat on the outside while in operation. Despite this, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking game with an efficient and multifaceted kitchen appliance.
2. Ninja 4 QT Air Fryer
If you're looking for a time-saving kitchen companion to whip up healthier meals, this Ninja Air Fryer is a reliable choice.
Pros
- Health-conscious design with up to 75% less fat used
- Versatile temperature range for different cooking needs
- Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe components
Cons
- Takes up a fair amount of counter space
- Can be a bit noisy during operation
- Initial plastic smell that dissipates after a few uses
I just had the chance to put the Ninja Air Fryer through its paces, and I'm impressed. The guilt of enjoying fried foods has significantly lessened, thanks to the air frying feature that requires minimal oil. The crispiness it achieves, especially on French fries and chicken wings, is delightful – outside is perfectly golden while the inside stays tender.
Its versatility is a highlight; the Ninja Air Fryer isn't just for frying. I've used it to roast vegetables, which came out evenly cooked, and the dehydrate function is excellent for homemade fruit chips. Even reheating pizza, it managed to restore that fresh-baked taste and texture, something regular microwaves struggle with. The touch controls are intuitive, making the switch between different cooking modes seamless.
Cleanup is often the bane of any cooking experience, but not with this air fryer. The basket and crisper plate are nonstick and dishwasher safe, so I spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying my meals. However, it's good to note that the air fryer's size is not insignificant; it claims a permanent spot on my countertop. Also, it's not whisper-quiet, and there's an initial smell upon first use, but these are minor inconveniences compared to the benefits it brings to my kitchen.
3. Cuisinart Air Fryer Oven
I'd recommend this Cuisinart Air Fryer Oven for anyone looking to enjoy their favorite fried foods with less guilt and more convenience.
Pros
- Versatile cooking options from air frying to broiling
- Spacious 6-quart capacity suitable for family meals
- User-friendly with simple presets and easy cleaning
Cons
- Can be bulky for small kitchens
- No dishwasher-safe parts, manual cleaning required
- May take some trial and error to perfect cooking times
Just had a chance to try out my new Cuisinart Air Fryer Oven, and it's really transformed my meal prep routine. Cooking up a batch of chicken wings resulted in deliciously crispy skin without the need for oil, thanks to its air frying capability. The taste was incredibly close to traditional frying, and I didn't miss the extra grease.
What I also love about this appliance is its generous size. It's been a breeze preparing food for a family of four without having to cook in multiple batches. Even when I hosted a small gathering, this air fryer handled bulk cooking effortlessly – a real time-saver!
The presets on this machine are a no-brainer to use. It's pretty convenient to have my food ready without fussing with numerous settings. Cleaning, however, does require a bit more effort since the parts aren't dishwasher safe. Still, the non-stick surface means it's not hard to scrub down after cooking.
4. Nuwave Brio 7.25QT
If you're in the market for a versatile air fryer that makes healthy cooking convenient, the Nuwave Brio should definitely be on your list.
Pros
- Adjusts temperatures and times on-the-fly without starting over
- Easy-to-clean parts that are dishwasher safe
- Comes with 100 presets and additional memory for custom settings
Cons
- May be bulky for smaller kitchens
- The exterior is plastic which some may find less durable
- Chrome rack can be difficult to clean without damaging scrubbers
5. COSORI Pro LE Air Fryer
I found this air fryer to be a top choice for those seeking a balance between quick, health-conscious cooking and a tranquil kitchen environment.
Pros
- Roasts food up to 50% faster than a traditional oven, ideal for swift meal prep.
- Its whisper-quiet operation ensures mealtime conversations go uninterrupted.
- Cleanup is a breeze with its dishwasher-safe, nonstick basket.
Cons
- The initial setup requires a bit of time with its required test run.
- Requires a ventilated space for initial burn-in to eliminate manufacturing odors.
- Touch-sensitive controls might need multiple presses to respond.
I recently whipped up dinner using the COSORI Pro LE, and I must say, it's speedy. Its high-temp cooking capability meant my chicken came out crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, in less time than it takes my oven to preheat. The fact that it operates more quietly than my microwave was the cherry on top.
During my test run, I noted that the pre-use steps were a tad involved, but once completed, it was smooth sailing. Cooking with the fryer was a playful affair; the one-touch presets added a dash of simplicity to the process. Plus, seeing and selecting the right settings on the angled glass display was effortless, making the experience feel intuitive.
Cleanup was another area where the COSORI Pro LE shined. I appreciate a tool that can join the ranks of my dishwasher-safe kitchen brigade. And when I'm done, it tucks away neatly without dominating my countertop space. After several uses, I'm convinced that if you're looking for a reliable air fryer to join your culinary collection, this one deserves a spot.
6. Nuwave Brio Large Air Fryer
If you're considering ditching traditional frying, the Nuwave Brio makes it a breeze with its intuitive features and ample cooking capacity.
Pros
- Simplifies on-the-fly adjustments with user-friendly digital controls
- Efficient convection technology ensures even cooking
- Multipurpose racks and rotisserie function enhance cooking versatility
Cons
- Can experience uneven baking due to bottom heat distribution
- Fixed blower intensity might affect delicate dehydration tasks
- Consider the size; it might be bulky for smaller kitchens
Cooking with the Nuwave Brio is a joy, largely because of its straightforward digital controls that let me adjust temperature mid-cycle. I found the temperature precise, adding a level of control I didn't know I was missing. The presets are particularly useful for commonly cooked items, saving time on setup.
The convection fan impresses me each time with its powerful, even air circulation, resulting in uniformly cooked meals. Multi-layer cooking is where this air fryer shines. I cooked for my entire family without a hitch. Plus, the rotisserie feature gave me gloriously roasted chicken that was both juicy inside and crispy outside.
However, during my experience, I noticed the Nuwave Brio tends to cook less evenly from below, which means some extra attention is needed when baking. Dehydrating with this unit can be tricky, as the fan's single intensity might be too strong for lighter foods. Also, its large size might not be ideal for those with space constraints.
7. Instant VersaZone Air Fryer
After whipping up several meals with this air fryer, I'm convinced it's a must-have for anyone aiming to simplify cooking without sacrificing taste.
Pros
- Simultaneous cooking options with dual baskets
- A breeze to clean, thanks to dishwasher-safe parts
- Quick heating means less waiting around
Cons
- Takes up a fair amount of counter space
- Toasting function could be improved
- Learning curve for synchronizing different cooking settings
Having recently used the Instant VersaZone Air Fryer, I appreciate the versatility it brings to the kitchen. With its 8-in-1 functionality, I've been able to bake, roast, and broil with ease. Its dual-basket feature is a real space-saver, allowing me to cook two different dishes at once, without mingling flavors.
Cleanup is a breeze. The non-stick baskets pop out and go straight into the dishwasher. I had my doubts, but they came out spotless. Also, the fast preheating feature had me going from frozen snacks to golden and crisp treats in minutes, which is perfect for my often impromptu gathering with friends.
I have to admit though, the size of this device is considerable; it claims a prominent spot on my countertop. And while it usually cooks to perfection, I’ve found the toast to come out unevenly browned - something I'll work around given all the other benefits. Also, getting used to synchronizing the cooking programs for different foods was a bit of a challenge initially, but now I feel like a pro.
8. Nuwave Bravo XL
I'd recommend the Nuwave Bravo XL for its versatility and precise temperature control, which have made my kitchen adventures both enjoyable and efficient.
Pros
- User-friendly with on-the-fly temperature adjustments
- Independent dual heat zones for varied cooking
- Comprehensive settings with 112 presets
Cons
- The included probe may not accurately measure food temperature
- It could be a bit large for smaller kitchens
- Learning curve to master all features
Ever since the Nuwave Bravo XL arrived, my cooking routine has undergone a transformation. The precision brought by the adjustable temperature is a game-changer. I can tweak the settings even mid-cook, ensuring each dish is done to perfection. The ability to independently adjust the top and bottom heating elements lets me achieve that blissful balance between a crispy crust and a succulent topping.
Juggling multiple dishes isn’t the headache it used to be, thanks to the multi-layer cooking capability. The size has been great when accommodating large family meals, and the oven racks are sturdy, easily handling heavier foods without any sign of strain. Less oil, rapid cooking, and a non-stick grill/griddle? I have healthier meals without compromising on flavor or convenience.
However, the Nuwave Bravo XL isn’t without its drawbacks. When I first tried using the temperature probe for a pork roast, it read temperatures inconsistently, causing a bit of back-and-forth before I found the sweet spot. Its size also takes up significant counter space — a consideration for those with smaller kitchens. Lastly, familiarizing myself with the wealth of functions was initially overwhelming, but with some experimentation, I've grown to navigate the presets with ease.
9. Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer
I recommend the Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer for its convenient dual cooking zones and healthy frying options, streamlining meal preparation significantly.
Pros
- Independent baskets for different dishes
- Smart Finish feature aligns cooking times
- Versatile cooking modes
Cons
- Bulky on the countertop
- Pricier than single-basket models
- May require a learning curve
Just finished preparing dinner with the Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer, and I'm thoroughly impressed by the independent baskets. This feature alone lets me cook fish on one side and fries on the other without any flavor transfer. Plus, both were ready to serve at the same time, thanks to the clever Smart Finish function.
The versatility doesn't stop there. Whether I'm in the mood for some roasted veggies or dehydrated fruit snacks, this air fryer's got it covered. It's a relief to know I can rely on one device for multiple cooking methods, which also makes for an easier clean-up since the baskets and crisper plates are dishwasher safe.
While I adore the separate heating zones, it's undeniable that this air fryer takes up more space than I anticipated. And as much as the efficiency justifies the price, it's still an investment. Initially, I had to get a grip on all the functions, which might take a few tries for anyone not familiar with high-tech kitchen gadgets. But once you get the hang of it, it's smooth sailing, or should I say, smooth cooking!
10. Cuisinart Convection Oven
I find this appliance to be an exceptionally versatile addition to any kitchen, perfect for those who love cooking but have limited space.
Pros
- Versatile cooking options, from air frying to grilling
- Large capacity suitable for family meals
- User-friendly features and easy cleanup
Cons
- The door mechanism may be prone to wear
- Initial plastic smell during first uses
- Challenging to keep the exterior stain-free
Having recently experimented with the Cuisinart Convection Oven, I am thoroughly impressed by its versatility. The air fryer function delivered crispy fries that tasted just like they'd been deep-fried, but without all the oil. I've baked cookies too, which turned out golden and evenly cooked. The inclusion of a grill plate is a game-changer – I seared steak on it, and the results rivalled my outdoor BBQ grill.
I appreciate the large capacity; it easily fits a 12-inch pizza or 6 slices of toast, making it suitable for both quick meals and more extensive family dinners. Despite being quite spacious, it doesn't dominate my kitchen counter, which is great for smaller spaces.
Cleanup was a breeze. The nonstick interior really does make a difference, and I didn't have to spend ages scrubbing after cooking. The oven light and clear window allowed me to monitor my food without opening the door, which helps maintain an even cooking temperature.
One downside I noticed was the plastic smell during the first few uses, though it faded after some time. While the exterior looks sleek and modern, it does show fingerprints and smudges more than I'd like, requiring regular wiping down to keep it looking nice.
Buying Guide
Capacity
For individual users or small families, a compact air fryer with a 2 to 3-quart size is typically sufficient. Larger families or those who entertain often might prefer a 5 to 6-quart air fryer to accommodate more significant portions.
Power Consumption and Temperature Range
It's important to consider the wattage of an air fryer, which usually ranges from 800 to 1800 watts. An air fryer with adjustable temperature controls that can reach at least 400 degrees Fahrenheit allows for more versatile cooking.
Ease of Use
Look for air fryers with intuitive digital controls and preset cooking modes. These features make operation hassle-free. Additionally, non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleanup.
Features and Functions
I prioritize multifunctionality. Some air fryers come with additional cooking functions such as baking, roasting, and dehydrating. A model with pre-set cooking programs can be a significant time-saver.
Price
Budget is a key factor. Higher-priced models often boast advanced features and larger capacities, while more affordable options might offer the basics with smaller sizes.
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Individual/small family: 2-3 qt. Large family: 5-6 qt. |
| Power & Temperature | 800-1800 watts, reach at least 400°F |
| Ease of Use | Digital controls, non-stick, dishwasher-safe components |
| Features | Presets, multifunctional capabilities |
| Price | Varies, often correlates with size and features |
Select an air fryer that suits my lifestyle, kitchen space, and cooking preferences. Remember to read product reviews and check the warranty for additional peace of mind.
