Key Features to Consider When Buying the Best Air Fryers
Capacity
Choose based on family size.
2–4 Quart: 1–2 people
4–6 Quart: 2–4 people
6–8 Quart: Families
8+ Quart: Large households
Cooking Functions
Many of the Best Air Fryers include:
Air Fry
Roast
Bake
Broil
Reheat
Dehydrate
Toast
More functions provide greater versatility.
For expert testing and buying advice, browse Good Housekeeping's kitchen appliance reviews.
Digital Controls
Look for:
Touchscreen display - A touchscreen makes the air fryer easy to operate, provides a modern interface, and lets you select settings quickly. Premium models often have responsive touch controls that are easier to clean than physical buttons.
Cooking presets - Presets automatically choose the ideal time and temperature for foods like fries, chicken, fish, vegetables, and desserts. They're especially helpful for beginners and save time by reducing guesswork.
Temperature adjustment - Adjustable temperature is essential for cooking different foods correctly. Most air fryers offer a range of 80°C–200°C (175°F–400°F), allowing you to air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate with precision.
Timer - A built-in timer helps prevent overcooking and ensures consistent results. Many models also include audible alerts when cooking is complete.
Auto shutoff - One of the most important safety features. The air fryer automatically turns off when the timer ends or when the basket is removed, preventing overheating and reducing the risk of burning food.
If you're choosing an air fryer for everyday home use, prioritize temperature adjustment, timer, and auto shutoff first, as these directly affect cooking performance and safety. Cooking presets add convenience, while a touchscreen display enhances usability but is less essential than the core cooking and safety features.
These features simplify cooking.
Ease of Cleaning
The Best Air Fryers should include:
Non-stick basket - A non-stick basket prevents food from sticking to the cooking surface, making both cooking and cleaning much easier. It also helps preserve the appearance and texture of delicate foods.
Dishwasher-safe accessories - Dishwasher-safe baskets, trays, and racks save time and effort by allowing you to clean them in a dishwasher instead of washing them by hand.
Removable tray - A removable tray (also called a crisper plate or drip tray) sits inside the basket and allows hot air to circulate evenly while collecting excess oil and crumbs.
Easy cleaning saves time after every meal.
Energy Efficiency
Air fryers generally use less electricity than conventional ovens because they heat quickly and cook food faster.
Learn more about energy-saving appliances and home efficiency from ENERGY STAR.
Air Fryer Buying Tips.
Choose the Right Capacity.
Buying too small may require cooking in batches.
Consider Counter Space.
Measure your available kitchen space before purchasing.
Check Temperature Range.
A wider range offers more cooking flexibility.
Look for Dishwasher-Safe Parts.
Cleaning becomes much easier.
Read Customer Reviews.
Reviews provide valuable insight into durability and everyday performance.
Compare Warranty Coverage.
Longer warranties often indicate better product quality.
Review the latest FDA food safety guidance to ensure safe food preparation and cooking practices.
Pros and Cons of Air Fryers
Pros
Healthier meals
Faster cooking
Crispy texture
Easy operation
Lower energy use
Minimal oil required
Cons
Limited basket space
Larger models occupy more counter space
Premium models cost more
Who Should Buy the Best Air Fryers?
The Best Air Fryers are ideal for:
Busy families
Students
Health-conscious cooks
Small apartments
Home chefs
Meal prep enthusiasts
Maintenance Tips
Clean after every use - Cleaning your air fryer after each cooking session prevents grease buildup, removes food residue, and eliminates unpleasant odors. It also helps maintain cooking performance and extends the appliance's lifespan.
Avoid metal utensils - Use silicone, wooden, or plastic utensils instead of metal ones. Metal utensils can scratch the non-stick coating of the basket and tray, reducing their effectiveness and durability.
Wash removable parts regularly - Wash the basket, crisper plate, drip tray, and other removable accessories with warm, soapy water or place them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Regular cleaning prevents grease buildup and keeps the air fryer hygienic.
Empty grease tray frequently - Discard accumulated oil and grease after each use. An overfilled grease tray can cause smoke, unpleasant odors, and may affect the flavor of your food.
Store in a dry place - After cleaning, allow all parts to dry completely before reassembling the air fryer. Store it in a cool, dry location to prevent moisture damage, rust, and mold growth.
Follow the manufacturer's care instructions - Always refer to the user manual for cleaning and maintenance recommendations. Following the manufacturer's guidelines helps protect the appliance, maintain its performance, and preserve the warranty.
Discover healthier cooking habits with the American Heart Association healthy eating tips.
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