An air fryer is a compact convection oven: a fan circulates hot air around food so it crisps with little or no oil. It is great for fries, chicken wings, roasted vegetables and reheating leftovers. Choosing the right one mostly comes down to size, shape and ease of cleaning.
Pick the right capacity
- 2 to 3 quarts: one person or snacks
- 4 to 6 quarts: two to four people, the most popular range
- 7 quarts or more, or dual baskets: large families, or cooking two foods at once
Food crisps best in a single layer, so a wider, flatter basket is often more useful than a deep one.
Basket or oven style?
Basket models are compact, fast and easy to shake mid-cook. Oven-style models have shelves and a door, hold more and can bake or dehydrate, but they take more counter space and are harder to clean.
Features worth paying for
- Dishwasher-safe basket and tray
- Simple controls with a clear display
- A shake reminder halfway through cooking
- A viewing window, so you can check food without opening it
- Dual baskets with a sync-finish function if you cook full meals
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying a size too small. It is the most common regret.
- Forgetting to measure your counter, including space behind for airflow.
- Overcrowding the basket, which leaves food soggy instead of crispy.
- Using metal utensils, which scratch the non-stick coating.
Explore air fryers and other kitchen helpers in our Home & Kitchen picks.