The Ultimate Guide to Buying an Air Fryer
Updated: Feb. 05, 2021Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links.
Shopping for air fryers? Or maybe air fryer toaster ovens? Our air fryer buying guide will help you find the perfect appliance for your needs.
Air fryers have become a household staple for many people, thanks to their ability to replicate the crunchy taste of fried foods without all the unhealthy oil. (Here’s an in-depth explainer of how an air fryer works.)
But so many models are available today that it can be hard to choose one—do you want a no-frills model? An air fryer-toaster oven combo? One with presets for your favorite foods? Before you commit to buying an air fryer, use our buying guide to find the perfect model for your needs. We’ve rounded up our Test Kitchen’s favorites, plus the best-rated air fryers on the market.
Check out our complete guide to air fryers, including the best recipes, cooking tips and more.
What to Consider When Finding the Best Air Fryer for You
Air fryers are still relative newcomers to the market—and there’s a lot to consider. We recommend starting with a budget. You’ll want to think about how much you have to spend on an air fryer. These appliances can cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars, so it’s important to balance your budget with the features you want. Before you hit up the kitchen store, ask yourself:
- How big of an air fryer do I need?
- Do I want preset options?
- What about additional features?
The answers to these questions—plus our Test Kitchen’s guidance and expertise—can help you pick the perfect model for your family.
The Ultimate Guide to Air Fryers
Consider the Capacity
Typically, these appliances have a capacity between two and seven quarts, and because it’s key not to overcrowd the basket when cooking, you’ll want to think about how much food you plan to make in it.
If you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, you’ll probably want a larger air fryer, while one- or two-person households can get by with a smaller model. However, keep in mind that the larger the capacity, the larger the appliance and the more counter space it will take up.
Air Fryers of All Sizes
Add on Presets for Popular Foods
Looking forward to making lots of french fries with your air fryer? Or maybe huge batches of wings for game day?
If you plan on cooking specific dishes (like these air fryable-foods) with your new appliance, you may want to look for a model with pre-programmed settings that will make the process easier. For instance, the Cosori air fryer has presets for 11 items from chicken and steak to vegetables and dessert. Take a look at these air fryer vegetable recipes.
Air Fryers with Built-In Presets
Check into Additional Features
Some air fryers have additional functionality that will make them a more versatile tool in the kitchen.
- Air fryer toaster ovens: One of the most popular combinations, these air fryers resemble a traditional toaster oven and can be used to bake, broil and toast.
- Air fryer dehydrators: If you like dehydrated fruits or homemade beef jerky, an air fryer with dehydrating abilities might be a good option for you.
- Air fryer rotisserie cookers: Many people love the flavor of a moist rotisserie chicken, and an air fryer rotisserie cooker combo allows you to make this delicious dish at home.
- Instant Pot air fryer lid: Don’t have space for another appliance? This handy lid turns your trusty Instant Pot into an air fryer!
Air Fryers with Added Features
The Bottom Line
Still need help deciding? Our Test Kitchen pros have put several air fryers through the paces, considering each one’s features, ease of use and performance. Most recently, a PowerXL air fryer caught our attention. This model had everything we wanted—a big basket, quick preheat time, intuitive controls—and more. If you’re still on the fence or trying to choose between models, try our top pick.
Recipes That Put Your Air Fryer to Work
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Air-Fryer Southern-Style Chicken
I call this America’s best-loved air fryer chicken. The secret is in the breading, which makes the chicken super moist and flavorful, herby and golden brown. —Elaina Morgan, Rickman, Tennessee
Air-Fryer Garlic-Rosemary Brussels Sprouts
This air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is my go-to Thanksgiving side dish—healthy, easy and very quick to make. I usually season my turkey with fresh rosemary, then use leftover herbs for this standout. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah Take a look at these other air fryer vegetable recipes.
Air-Fryer Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
I am crazy about chocolate chips, and this chewy cookie has enough to satisfy me. My husband and kids love these cookies. This big batch is perfect for our family. —Diane Neth, Menno, South Dakota
Air-Fryer Pickles
Like deep-fried pickles? You’ll love this version even more. Dill pickle slices are coated with panko bread crumbs and spices, then air-fried until crispy. Dip them in ranch dressing for an appetizer you won’t soon forget. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Air-Fryer Fish and Fries
Looking for easy air fryer recipes? Try these simple fish and chips. The fish fillets have a fuss-free coating that's healthier but just as crunchy and golden as the deep-fried kind. Simply seasoned, the crispy fries are perfect on the side. —Janice Mitchell, Aurora, Colorado (Try these other air-fryer fish recipes, too!)
Air-Fryer Mini Nutella Doughnut Holes
You can make these air-fryer doughnuts in advance and refrigerate them before frying. Just be sure to bring the dough to room temperature before frying. —Renee Greene, Smithtown, New York
Air-Fryer Ground Beef Wellington
Trying new recipes—like this air-fryer Wellington—is one of my favorite hobbies. I replaced the filet mignon with ground beef, while still keeping the beefy goodness. —Julie Frankamp, Nicollet, Minnesota
Air-Fryer Ravioli
While visiting a friend in St. Louis, Missouri, I tried fried ravioli at almost every restaurant we visited. When I got home, I had to try to replicate them, and I think this air-fryer ravioli recipe comes pretty close. —Cristina Carrera, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Bread Pudding
This air-fryer bread pudding is a fun dish because the chocolate makes it different from traditional recipes. It's a rich, comforting dessert. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas
Air-Fryer Crispy Curry Drumsticks
These air-fryer chicken drumsticks are flavorful, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Sometimes I'll add some red pepper flakes in addition to the curry powder if I want to spice it up a bit. I like to serve it with chicken-seasoned rice and boiled broccoli. —Zena Furgason, Norman, Oklahoma
Popcorn Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
These healthy popcorn shrimp tacos combine classic flavors in a new way! It’s one of my family’s favorites. To make them low-carb, use lettuce instead of tortillas. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Bacon-Wrapped Avocado Wedges
We all know almost everything is improved with bacon—and avocado is no exception. Since it's made in an air fryer, this appetizer is one to remember. It will definitely impress your friends! —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
Air-Fryer Steak Fajitas
Zesty salsa and tender strips of meat make these air-fryer steak fajitas extra special. —Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah
Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Panko crumbs give this spicy air-fryer coconut shrimp its crunch. It’s perfect as an appetizer or for your main meal. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas Here's our Test Kitchen's complete guide to air fryers.
Air-Fryer Sweet and Sour Pork
Whether you’re serving a party of two or making a bigger batch for company, you’ll find this air-fryer sweet and sour pork a succulent choice. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
Air-Fryer Wasabi Crab Cakes
With wasabi in both the crab cakes and the dipping sauce, this festive appetizer brings its own heat to the holiday party. —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan
Air-Fryer Caribbean Wontons
I first served these fresh and fruity air-fryer wontons as an appetizer at a summer luau. My family and friends now enjoy this fried wonton recipe for dessert at special occasions throughout the year. —Melissa Birdsong, Gilbert, South Carolina
Air-Fryer Apple Fritters
An air fryer makes these easy apple fritters healthier than old-fashioned fritters, yet they are still just as delicious. They're a quick and easy dessert that includes a scrumptious brown butter glaze! —Alyssa Castriotta, North Scituate, Rhode Island
Air-Fryer Keto Meatballs
I have been following a keto diet for a year and a half and have lost 130 pounds. With this recipe for air-fryer keto meatballs, you won't miss the breadcrumbs at all! I like to eat these saucy meatballs on their own, but they're also great over zucchini noodles. —Holly Balzer-Harz, Malone, New York
Air-Fryer Taco Twists
Why serve tacos only in ordinary flour or corn tortillas? For a mouthwatering change of pace, try these air-fried tacos baked in flaky, golden crescent rolls. My family enjoys them for a warm lunch or light dinner. —Carla Kreider, Quarryville, Pennsylvania
Air-Fryer Potato Chips
After I received an air fryer for Christmas, I discovered how simple it is to make potato chips in it. Good chips are an essential, crispy side for lunch. —Melissa Obernesser, Utica, New York
Air-Fryer Carrot Coffee Cake
One of the greatest things about the air fryer is it's conducive to making small, quick treats—like this air-fryer carrot cake. The little cake bakes in about 30 minutes and is perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
Air-Fryer Greek Breadsticks
Get ready for rave reviews. These crisp breadsticks are twisted with Greek-inspired goodness and are best served fresh from the oven. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida
Air-Fryer Crumb-Topped Sole
Looking for a low-carb supper that's ready in a flash? These buttery sole fillets are covered with a rich sauce and topped with toasty bread crumbs. They're super speedy thanks to your air fryer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Air-Fried Radishes
Radishes aren't just for salads anymore. These fried radishes make a colorful side for any meal. Plus, they're quick to make in your air fryer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Ham and Egg Pockets
Refrigerated crescent roll dough makes this ham, egg and cheese pocket recipe a snap to prepare. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Air-Fryer Eggplant Fries
My kids love these air fryer fries—and I like that they're healthy. Coated with Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese and garlic salt, these eggplant fries are delicious and guilt-free. —Mary Murphy, Atwater, California
Air-Fryer Turkey Croquettes
I grew up with family members who looked forward to leftovers, especially the day after Thanksgiving. But we didn't just reheat turkey and spuds in the microwave—we took our culinary creativity to a new level with recipes likes this. —Meredith Coe, Charlottesville, Virginia
Air-Fryer French Toast Sticks
Learn how to make air-fryer French toast sticks with this quick and easy recipe. I like to have them handy in the freezer for a hearty breakfast in an instant. They're great for buffets and eating on the go. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Garlic-Herb Fried Patty Pan Squash
The first time I grew a garden, I harvested summer squash and cooked it with garlic and herbs. This fried patty pan squash recipe is a creative twist. —Kaycee Mason, Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Air-Fryer Quinoa Arancini
We love arancini, but they're not the healthiest option! I wanted to make a version that we could enjoy guilt-free. I substituted quinoa for rice and tried baking instead of frying. Now we can have these air-fryer arancini any time. —Sabrina Ovadia, New York, New York
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
I added all of the components of a loaded baked potato—cheddar, potato, bacon, sour cream and chives—to my latest quick and easy dish. Every kid will love these chicken tenders! —Cyndy Gerken, Naples, Florida
Cheesy Breakfast Egg Rolls
Whether you have to run out the door in the morning or take a few minutes to relax at the table, these breakfast egg rolls will hit the spot. The egg and sausage mixture can be made the night before so in the morning you roll, fry and go! —Anne Ormond, Dover, New Hampshire
Air-Fryer General Tso's Cauliflower
Cauliflower florets are deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, then coated in a sauce with just the right amount of kick. This General Tso's cauliflower is a fun alternative to the classic chicken dish. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Air-Fryer Beef Wellington Wontons
These tasty appetizers scale down classic beef Wellington to an ideal party size. They feel fancy and fun! —Dianne Phillips, Tallapoosa, Georgia
Air-Fryer Pork Chops
These air-fryer pork chops get their rich flavor from Creole seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Bonus: They're low in carbs, too! —Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia
Air-Fryer Nacho Hot Dogs
Adults and kids alike will love these Southwest-inspired air-fryer hot dogs. This meal is not only budget-friendly, but it's hot, cheesy and delicious, too. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Air-Fryer Raspberry Balsamic Smoked Pork Chops
Air-fryer pork chops are so delicious and so easy to make. My husband loves them. —Lynn Moretti, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Chickpea Fritters with Sweet-Spicy Sauce
Chickpeas are a common ingredient in many dishes in Pakistan where I grew up. I incorporate the tastes of my home country when cooking for my American-born daughters. I have combined the light spice of Pakistani foods with the love of deep-fried finger foods that many Americans, including my daughters, enjoy. To eat, dip the warm, air-fryer fritters in the chilled yogurt. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer or as part of a meal. —Shahrin Hasan, York, Pennsylvania
Air-Fryer Crispy Sriracha Spring Rolls
These air-fryer spring rolls are a great appetizer to have waiting in the freezer! While in the Bahamas, friends suggested a restaurant that serves amazing chicken spring rolls. When I got home, I created my own version. —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Air-Fryer Pork Schnitzel
This recipe is one of my husband's favorites because it reminds him of his German roots. Cooking pork schnitzel in an air fryer is genius because we can eat in a jiffy. —Joyce Folker, Paraowan, Utah
Air-Fryer Green Tomato Stacks
This is for lovers of red and green tomatoes. When I ran across this recipe, I just had to try it and it proved to be so tasty! —Barbara Mohr, Millington, Michigan
Air-Fryer Pretzel-Crusted Catfish
I love the flavor of this air-fryer catfish recipe. I'm not a big fish lover, so any concoction that has me loving fish is a keeper in my book. It's wonderful served with a nice buttery herb rice pilaf and corn muffins with butter and honey! —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
Air-Fryer French Toast Cups with Raspberries
These air-fryer French toast cups make any morning special. I made this recipe for my mom last Mother's Day, and we both enjoyed it. —Sandi Tuttle, Hayward, Wisconsin
Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Turnovers
I adore the combo of pears, blue cheese and walnuts in a salad, so I turned them into this ham and cheese turnover recipe—and they were a hit. I added black forest ham to make it a meal in one. Just add a salad of field greens with a balsamic vinaigrette and you have a decadent (and healthy!) dinner. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Air-Fryer Shrimp Po'Boys
My husband loves crispy coconut shrimp and po'boys, so I combined them with a spicy remoulade and voila! This air-fryer shrimp is a big hit with family and friends and is frequently requested. For catfish po'boys, substitute cornmeal for the coconut and add a few minutes to the cooking time. —Marla Clark, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Air-Fryer S'mores Crescent Rolls
Want to score indoor s'mores? Try these air-fryer crescent rolls made with Nutella. The kids will love to help with this rolled-up version of the campfire classic. —Cathy Trochelman, Brookfield, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Papas Rellenas
A Cuban classic, these satisfying, crispy-coated potato balls are filled with a savory ground beef mixture known as picadillo. We love this papas rellenas recipe! —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
Air-Fryer Taquitos
I love these any-occasion appetizers. Spice them up by adding sliced jalapenos, if desired. &mash; Mark Webber, Valdez, Alaska
Air-Fryer Herb and Cheese-Stuffed Burgers
Tired of the same old ground beef burgers? These quick air-fryer hamburgers, with their creamy cheese filling, will wake up your taste buds.—Sherri Cox, Lucasville, Ohio
Air-Fryer Nashville Hot Chicken
I live in Tennessee and absolutely love our state's famous Nashville hot chicken. To make cooking it easier, I thought I’d try air-frying. I’m so glad I did—this Nashville hot chicken recipe is almost better than the original. —April Lane, Greeneville, Tennessee
Air-Fryer Salmon with Maple-Dijon Glaze
Being landlocked in the Midwest, my kids always thought they disliked fish. This air-fryer salmon dish definitely changed their minds! I cook it on the grill a lot in the summer months, but found that it is just as tasty and more convenient in the air fryer, especially on those busy days! —Jill Fisher, Portland, Indiana
Air Fryer Tortellini with Prosciutto
This is my take on fried tortellini. Air-fryer Italian street food recipes, like this one, are crunchy, gooey good. For the sauce, use the best quality tomatoes you can find. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Air-Fryer Cumin Carrots
Air-fryer carrots make a super side—big on flavor and a breeze to cook. Plus, I can actually get my husband to eat these fragrant, deeply spiced veggies. —Taylor Kiser, Brandon, Florida
Air-Fryer Mini Chimichangas
My family raves about these air-fryer chimichangas. Infused with green chiles, the beefy snacks are guaranteed to liven up the party! —Kathy Rogers, Hudson, Ohio
Air-Fryer Loaded Pork Burritos
Burritos are the perfect dinner for the whole family, especially this quick and easy recipe. Don't be afraid to load up your air-fryer burrito with pork, beans, cheese and rice. —Fiona Seels, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Air-Fryer Acorn Squash Slices
This air-fryer acorn squash recipe was passed down to me from my grandma, who always served it at Thanksgiving. Now I make it in my air fryer whenever I'm feeling nostalgic. —Rita Addicks, Weimar, Texas
Sweet and Spicy Air-Fryer Meatballs
I am always on a quest for meatballs that pack a sweet and savory punch. These are a snap to pull together and can be served over rice or buttered noodles.—Tami Kuehl, Loup City, Nebraska
Air-Fryer Beefy Swiss Bundles
Kids and adults alike will devour these comforting yet special pockets. With creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese and flavorful seasonings, what's not to love? —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp and Apricot Sauce
Coconut and panko crumbs give this spicy air-fryer shrimp its crunch. It’s perfect for an appetizer or for your main meal. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
Air-Fryer Bourbon Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
This recipe is the perfect combination of savory and sweet. The bourbon-soaked bacon adds a smoky, savory, bold taste to cinnamon rolls. The ginger and pecan topping makes for a crunchy, spicy finish. —Shannen Casey, Berkeley, California
Air-Fryer Pepper Poppers
These creamy stuffed jalapenos have some bite. They may be the most popular treats I make! My husband is always hinting that I should make a batch. —Lisa Byington, Johnson City, New York
Air-Fryer Fiesta Chicken Fingers
Chicken fingers have long been a favorite of mine. Actually, almost any finger-shaped deep-fried goodie seldom escapes my reach. These air-fryer chicken fingers have taken a lot of the guilt out of my guilty pleasure. —Dianne DeGarmo-Carr, Alexander, Arkansas
Air-Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Strips
I love the flavor profile of everything bagels, so I re-created it with traditional breaded chicken fingers. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Air-Fryer Green Tomato BLT
I have used this "frying" method with eggplant slices for years and decided to try it for my green tomatoes. It worked! Now my family loves them in BLTs. —Jolene Martinelli, Derry, New Hampshire
Air-Fryer Roasted Green Beans
Our family loves roasted green beans, but they can take a long time in the oven. I tried these air-fryer green beans and we loved them! —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Spicy Air-Fryer Chicken Breasts
My family adores this chicken recipe. The coating keeps the chicken nice and moist, and with the taste enhanced by marinating, the result is delicious. —Stephanie Otten, Byron Center, Michigan
Air-Fryer Reuben Calzones
I love a Reuben sandwich, so I tried the same classic filling in a pizza pocket instead of on rye bread. This hand-held dinner is a big-time winner at our house. —Nickie Frye, Evansville, INAir-Fryer Herb and Cheese-Stuffed Burgers
Tired of the same old ground beef burgers? These quick air-fryer hamburgers, with their creamy cheese filling, will wake up your taste buds.—Sherri Cox, Lucasville, Ohio
Air-Fryer Lemon Slice Sugar Cookies
Here's a refreshing variation of my grandmother's sugar cookie recipe. Lemon pudding mix and icing add a subtle tartness that tingles your taste buds. —Melissa Turkington, Camano Island, Washington
Air-Fryer Peppermint Lava Cakes
It never ceases to amaze to see warm chocolate pudding ooze out of the center of this tender chocolate cake. These cakes are a showstopper on a plate! Serve lava cakes with whipped cream or ice cream. —Carolyn Crotser, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Quentin’s Air-Fryer Peach-Bourbon Wings
My father and husband love bourbon flavor, so I add it to tangy wings air-fried in peach preserves. Stand back and watch these wings fly. —Christine Winston, Richmond, Virginia
Air-Fryer Rosemary Sausage Meatballs
These air-fryer meatballs were created as hors d'oeuvres for a friend's wedding and became an instant hit. Now we enjoy them often at our house. —Steve Hansen, Redmond, WashingtonPopular Videos
Originally Published: August 06, 2020
