Top 5 Air Fryers in 2025: Feature Comparison
Before diving into detailed reviews, let’s compare the key features of our top picks side by side. This quick reference will help you identify which air fryers match your specific needs.
| Model | Capacity | Wattage | Preset Programs | Smart Features | Price | Warranty |
| Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer | 4-cup & 6-quart | 1,500W | 4 (Air Fry, Bake, Recrisp, Max Crisp) | None | $179 | 1 year |
| Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart | 6 quarts | 1,500W | 6 (Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, Reheat) | None | $119 | 1 year |
| Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer | 8 quarts (dual 4-quart baskets) | 1,690W | 6 (Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) | Sync cooking feature | $159 | 1 year |
| Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer | 1 cubic foot | 1,800W | 11 (Air Fry, Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Cookies, Slow Cook, Reheat) | Element IQ heating technology | $399 | 2 years |
| Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer | 6 quarts | 1,725W | 9 (Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, Reheat, Frozen, Keep Warm, Proof) | None | $89 | 1 year |
1. Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer – Best Overall
The Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer is changing the air fryer game in 2025! First of all, that sleek glass chamber isn’t just for showing off — it actually lets you keep an eye on your food without having to pop it open every 5 minutes like a nosey neighbor. And for those of y’all side-eyeing nonstick coatings, good news: this one’s glass, so you don’t have to stress over mystery chemicals. It’s smart, stylish, and straight-up practical — no wonder it’s sitting pretty at the top of my list.
Pros
- Glass cooking chamber is easy to clean and chemical-free
- Visible cooking progress without interrupting the cycle
- Cooking chamber doubles as a food storage container
- Simple, intuitive controls with four cooking modes
Cons
- Glass chamber gets hot during and after cooking
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Limited preset cooking programs compared to other models
Specifications
| 8.5 x 12.3 x 11 inches | 14.8 pounds |
| 105°F – 450°F | 4-cup and 6-quart containers included |
| 1,500 watts | Glass cooking chamber, storage lids included |
| Air Fry, Bake, Recrisp, Max Crisp | Blue, Gray, Green |
I put the Ninja Crispi through the wringer, and let me tell you — this thing delivers. Chicken wings came out with that perfect crunch on the outside and still juicy on the inside (just how we like it). Veggies got that nice caramelized char, and even salmon — which usually plays hard to get — came out tender and cooked just right. It heats up fast and cooks evenly, thanks to that powerful heating element and the glass chamber’s solid heat distribution. No more pausing to shake things like you’re in a cooking montage.
Now here’s where it really shines: those glass containers? Straight from the air fryer to the dinner table or fridge — lids included. Less mess, less cleanup, more chill. And while it only has four cooking modes, it keeps it simple and efficient. No scrolling through 87 settings you’ll never use — just the ones that matter.
“The Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer represents the future of air fryer design. The transparent cooking chamber isn’t just a gimmick – it fundamentally improves the cooking experience while addressing concerns about nonstick coatings.”
Ready to transform your cooking experience?
The Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer combines innovative design with exceptional performance. Get yours today!
2. Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer – Best Value
The Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer offers exceptional performance at a mid-range price point, making it our top value pick for 2025. From the makers of the popular Instant Pot, this air fryer combines reliability with versatility in a well-designed package that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Excellent cooking results with consistent browning
- Wide, square basket accommodates more food without overcrowding
- User-friendly interface with clear digital display
- Quiet operation compared to competitors
Cons
- Slower to preheat than some models
- No smart connectivity features
- Medium capacity may not be enough for larger families
Specifications
| 12.4 x 14.9 x 12.8 inches | 12.1 pounds |
| 95°F – 400°F | 6 quarts |
| 1,500 watts | Non-stick basket, dishwasher-safe parts |
| Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, Reheat | Black/Silver |
In my testing, the Instant Vortex Plus consistently delivered excellent results across various foods. The air circulation technology ensures even cooking, producing crispy exteriors and moist interiors. The square-shaped basket design is particularly effective for foods like french fries and chicken wings, allowing better air flow around each piece.
What impressed me most was the Vortex’s ability to handle delicate foods like salmon fillets with precision. The temperature accuracy is spot-on, and the non-stick interior makes cleanup remarkably easy. While it may take slightly longer to preheat than some competitors, the consistent cooking results are worth the short wait.
For the price point, you’d be hard-pressed to find an air fryer that performs this well across so many different cooking tasks. The six cooking functions cover all the essentials, from air frying to dehydrating, making this a versatile addition to any kitchen.
Great performance doesn’t have to break the bank
The Instant Vortex Plus delivers exceptional results at a value price. Upgrade your kitchen today!
3. Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer – Best for Families
The Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer is a game-changer for families and entertainers who need to cook multiple items simultaneously. With two independent 4-quart cooking zones, this innovative air fryer allows you to prepare different foods at different temperatures and have them finish at the same time – perfect for complete meals or accommodating various dietary preferences.
Pros
- Dual independent cooking zones with sync feature
- Large 8-quart total capacity ideal for families
- No flavor transfer between baskets
- Six versatile cooking functions
Cons
- Large footprint requires significant counter space
- Heavier than single-basket models
- Higher price point than basic air fryers
Specifications
| 15.63 x 13.86 x 12.4 inches | 18 pounds |
| 105°F – 450°F | 8 quarts (two 4-quart baskets) |
| 1,690 watts | DualZone Technology, Match Cook, Smart Finish |
| Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate | Gray |
During testing, the Ninja Foodi DualZone impressed me with its ability to cook two completely different foods perfectly. I air-fried chicken wings in one basket while roasting vegetables in the other, and both finished at exactly the same time thanks to the Smart Finish feature. The Match Cook function is equally useful when you need to prepare a larger batch of a single item.
The build quality is exceptional, with sturdy baskets that slide in and out smoothly. Each zone maintains its temperature independently with remarkable accuracy, and I detected no flavor transfer between baskets – a crucial feature when cooking different foods simultaneously.
While the DualZone does take up more counter space than single-basket models, its versatility more than compensates. For families or anyone who entertains regularly, the ability to prepare multiple components of a meal simultaneously is a significant time-saver and convenience that justifies both the footprint and the price.
Cook complete meals with perfect timing
The Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer revolutionizes meal preparation with its innovative dual-basket design.
4. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer – Best Premium Option
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer represents the pinnacle of countertop cooking technology, combining air fryer functionality with the versatility of a premium toaster oven. This multi-functional appliance can replace several kitchen gadgets while delivering exceptional results across all cooking modes.
Pros
- Element IQ technology adjusts heating for perfect results
- Huge capacity can fit a 13-inch pizza or whole chicken
- 11 cooking functions in one premium appliance
- Clear viewing window to monitor cooking progress
Cons
- Significant counter space required
- Premium price point
- Longer preheat time than dedicated air fryers
Specifications
| 18.9 x 15.9 x 10.9 inches | 38.9 pounds |
| 80°F – 480°F | 1 cubic foot |
| 1,800 watts | Element IQ Technology, LCD display, interior light |
| Air Fry, Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Cookies, Slow Cook, Reheat | Brushed Stainless Steel |
In my extensive testing, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer consistently delivered restaurant-quality results across all cooking functions. The Element IQ technology is more than marketing – it genuinely improves cooking by sensing and adjusting the heating elements to eliminate hot spots and ensure even cooking throughout.
As an air fryer, it produced crispy, evenly browned chicken wings and french fries, though it took slightly longer than dedicated basket-style air fryers. Where this appliance truly shines is in its versatility – from perfectly toasted bread to beautifully roasted chicken to precisely baked cookies, it handles everything with exceptional results.
The large capacity and clear viewing window make it ideal for cooking complete meals or entertaining. While the price point is significantly higher than basic air fryers, the Breville effectively replaces multiple appliances, potentially saving both money and counter space in the long run.
Elevate your countertop cooking
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer combines premium performance with unmatched versatility.
5. Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer – Best Budget Option
The Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get excellent air frying results. This budget-friendly model offers impressive performance, a generous 6-quart capacity, and more cooking functions than you’d expect at this price point, making it our top recommendation for cost-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Excellent value with nine cooking functions
- Compact design with large 6-quart capacity
- Powerful 1,725-watt heating element
- Dishwasher-safe components for easy cleaning
Cons
- Less crispy results on some foods compared to premium models
- Exterior shows fingerprints easily
- Slightly louder operation than higher-end models
Specifications
| 11.8 x 11.8 x 11.9 inches | 11.7 pounds |
| 95°F – 450°F | 6 quarts |
| 1,725 watts | Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate |
| Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, Reheat, Frozen, Keep Warm, Proof | Black |
In my testing, the Cosori TurboBlaze performed admirably across various cooking tasks. French fries came out crispy and evenly browned, while chicken wings were juicy inside with a satisfying crunch. The air circulation technology ensures consistent cooking, though it may take slightly longer to achieve the same level of crispiness as more expensive models.
What impressed me most was the intuitive interface and the range of cooking functions. The digital touchscreen is clear and responsive, making it easy to select from the nine preset cooking modes. The proof function is particularly noteworthy – a feature typically found only on premium models that’s perfect for bread bakers.
For everyday cooking needs, the Cosori TurboBlaze delivers results that rival much more expensive air fryers. The dishwasher-safe components make cleanup a breeze, and the compact footprint won’t dominate your counter space despite the generous 6-quart capacity.
Quality air frying doesn’t have to be expensive
The Cosori TurboBlaze delivers excellent performance at a budget-friendly price.
Air Fryer Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Model
Selecting the perfect air fryer depends on your specific needs and cooking habits. Here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase:
Capacity: How Much Food Will You Cook?
- Small (2-4 quarts): Ideal for 1-2 people or limited counter space
- Medium (5-6 quarts): Perfect for most households of 3-4 people
- Large (7+ quarts): Best for families of 5+ or frequent entertainers
- Dual-basket models: Great for cooking multiple foods simultaneously
Remember that air fryers work best when food isn’t overcrowded, so it’s better to size up if you’re between capacities.
Power and Performance
Wattage directly impacts cooking speed and crispiness. Look for:
- At least 1,500 watts for medium-sized air fryers
- 1,700+ watts for larger models
- Higher wattage generally means faster, more even cooking
Cooking Functions and Versatility
Modern air fryers offer multiple cooking modes beyond basic air frying:
- Basic models: Air fry, reheat
- Mid-range models: Air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate
- Premium models: All of the above plus broil, toast, proof, slow cook
Consider which functions you’ll actually use to avoid paying for features you don’t need.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for these features to simplify cleanup:
- Dishwasher-safe baskets and accessories
- Non-stick surfaces that resist food buildup
- Removable parts for thorough cleaning
Smart Features and Controls
Depending on your tech preferences, consider:
- Digital vs. analog controls: Digital offers more precise temperature and timing
- Preset programs: One-touch settings for popular foods
- Smart connectivity: Control via smartphone app (available on some premium models)
- Visual indicators: Clear displays showing cooking progress
Price Range Expectations
| Price Range | What to Expect |
| $50-$100 | Basic functionality, smaller capacity, fewer presets, manual controls |
| $100-$200 | Medium to large capacity, digital controls, multiple cooking functions, better build quality |
| $200-$350+ | Premium construction, largest capacity, advanced features, multi-functionality, longer warranties |
Air Fryer Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
General Tips for Air Fryer Success
- Preheat your air fryer: 2-3 minutes of preheating improves crispiness
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Allow space for air circulation
- Use a light coating of oil: A spray bottle works perfectly
- Shake or flip food halfway: Ensures even cooking
- Check food earlier than the recipe states: Air fryers vary in power
Foods That Excel in an Air Fryer
- Frozen foods: French fries, chicken nuggets, mozzarella sticks
- Fresh proteins: Chicken wings, salmon fillets, pork chops
- Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, zucchini
- Surprising successes: Bacon, cookies, reheated pizza
Foods to Approach with Caution
- Wet batters: They can drip before setting
- Leafy greens: May blow around in the air fryer
- Very small items: Can fall through the basket grates
- Large whole items: May not cook evenly (check size limitations)
Pro Tip: Convert standard oven recipes to air fryer by reducing the temperature by 25°F and the cooking time by about 20%. Always check food early until you’re familiar with your specific model’s performance.
Air Fryer Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance extends the life of your air fryer and ensures consistent cooking performance. Follow these guidelines to keep your appliance in top condition:
Regular Cleaning
- Clean the basket and accessories after each use
- Allow components to cool before cleaning
- Use non-abrasive cleaning tools to protect non-stick surfaces
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth regularly
- Check manufacturer’s instructions for dishwasher-safe parts
Deep Cleaning (Monthly)
- Clean heating element with a soft brush (when unplugged and cool)
- Remove and clean behind removable components
- Check for food debris in hard-to-reach areas
- Use a mixture of baking soda and water for stubborn residue
Preventing Common Issues
- Avoid metal utensils that can scratch non-stick surfaces
- Don’t submerge the main unit in water
- Ensure proper ventilation around the air fryer during use
- Address unusual odors or smoke immediately
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryers
Are air fryers actually healthier than traditional frying?
Yes, air fryers use significantly less oil than deep frying—typically 70-80% less. Foods cooked in an air fryer generally contain fewer calories and less fat than their deep-fried counterparts while maintaining a similar crispy texture. However, the healthiness ultimately depends on what you’re cooking. Air-fried vegetables are healthier than deep-fried ones, but air-fried donuts are still a treat rather than a health food.
Do air fryers use a lot of electricity?
Air fryers are actually quite energy-efficient compared to conventional ovens. A typical air fryer uses between 1,400-1,800 watts of electricity, but because they cook faster and don’t require preheating, they often use less energy overall than a full-sized oven. For small to medium-sized meals, an air fryer can use up to 50% less energy than a conventional oven.
Can I put aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer?
Yes, you can use aluminum foil or parchment paper in most air fryers, but with important precautions. Never place either material in an empty air fryer or during preheating, as they can blow into the heating element. Always place food on top of the foil or paper to weigh it down, and never cover the entire basket—air needs to circulate. Some manufacturers sell pre-cut parchment paper with holes specifically designed for air fryers.
How long do air fryers typically last?
With proper care and maintenance, a quality air fryer should last 2-3 years on average. Premium models with better build quality may last 5+ years. Factors affecting longevity include frequency of use, cleaning habits, and build quality. Signs that your air fryer may need replacement include inconsistent heating, damaged non-stick coating, or electrical issues.
Can I cook raw meat in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fryers are excellent for cooking raw meat, including chicken, beef, pork, and fish. Always ensure meat reaches the proper internal temperature for food safety (use a meat thermometer to check). For best results with larger cuts, flip the meat halfway through cooking. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation helps seal in juices while creating a nice exterior crust.
Final Verdict: Which Air Fryer Is Right For You?
After extensive testing of the top air fryers in 2025, it’s clear that the perfect model depends on your specific needs and budget. Here’s my final assessment to help you make the right choice:
- Best Overall: The Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer earns our top recommendation for its innovative design, exceptional performance, and easy cleaning. The glass cooking chamber eliminates concerns about nonstick coatings while allowing you to monitor cooking progress.
- Best Value: The Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart delivers excellent performance at a mid-range price point, making it perfect for most households seeking quality without breaking the bank.
- Best for Families: The Ninja Foodi DualZone revolutionizes meal preparation with its dual independent cooking zones, ideal for preparing complete meals or accommodating different preferences simultaneously.
- Best Premium Option: The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer justifies its higher price with exceptional versatility and premium construction, effectively replacing multiple kitchen appliances.
- Best Budget Option: The Cosori TurboBlaze proves that excellent air frying doesn’t require a large investment, offering impressive performance and features at an affordable price point.
“The best air fryer isn’t necessarily the most expensive one – it’s the one that fits your cooking style, kitchen space, and budget while delivering consistently delicious results.”
Whichever model you choose from our top picks, you’ll be enjoying healthier, crispy, and delicious meals with the convenience and efficiency that make air fryers one of the most popular kitchen appliances of 2025.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen with the perfect air fryer?
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