Know Your Cooking Preferences Before You Buy
The best air fryer for you depends largely on what you love to cook. If you enjoy making fries, nuggets, or onion rings, a basic basket-style fryer will do the job. For those who like baking, roasting, or dehydrating, a model with multiple cooking modes or an oven-style air fryer may be better suited. Some models even come with rotisserie functions or grill plates. Think about your favorite foods and how often you cook them—your daily habits will help determine the size and features you’ll need.
Basket Vs. Oven-style Air Fryers: What’s The Difference?
Basket-style air fryers are compact and great for quick meals and snacks. They typically cook faster and are easier to clean, making them ideal for small kitchens or solo cooks. Oven-style air fryers, on the other hand, are larger and more versatile. They usually have multiple racks and accessories for baking, broiling, and roasting larger meals. If you cook for a family or like preparing multiple dishes at once, an oven-style air fryer may be worth the extra counter space.
Capacity Matters: Pick The Right Size For Your Household
Air fryers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 2-quart to 10-quart capacity. For one or two people, a 2 to 4-quart model is usually sufficient. If you're cooking for a family or love entertaining, consider a 6-quart or larger model. Keep in mind that overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking, so if you plan to air fry full meals (like chicken with vegetables), a larger size will yield better results and less frustration.
Must-have Features That Make Cooking Easier
Modern air fryers often come with features like digital touchscreens, pre-set cooking programs, shake reminders, and temperature controls. Some advanced models include smart app integration or voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant. While these extras aren’t essential, they can simplify cooking and improve consistency. Look for features that align with your cooking style—preheat and keep-warm functions are especially useful. Removable, dishwasher-safe parts are also a huge plus when it comes to cleanup.
Best-rated Air Fryers To Consider In 2025
Some air fryers stand out due to performance, reliability, and user satisfaction. Top models in 2025 include the Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer, which offers two independent baskets for cooking different foods at once, and the Instant Vortex Plus, known for its versatility and large capacity. The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL is another favorite for its even cooking and low-fat technology. These models consistently receive high marks for durability, design, and ease of use—making them great candidates for your shortlist.
Finding The Best Deals In Clearance Sales
Clearance sales are a great opportunity to score a high-quality air fryer at a fraction of the cost. Big-box retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy often offer clearance deals during holiday weekends, Black Friday, or inventory turnover events. Online platforms like Amazon Warehouse and eBay also have open-box or refurbished units at lower prices. Sign up for store alerts and newsletters to stay updated on sales. Shopping after a newer model is released can also help you get last year’s version at a deep discount.
Healthy Cooking Tips For Getting The Most From Your Air Fryer
Once you’ve chosen your air fryer, learning to use it well is key. Start with simple recipes like roasted veggies, sweet potato fries, or salmon fillets to get comfortable with cooking times and temperatures. Use minimal oil—just a light spray is often enough to get crispy results. Don’t overcrowd the basket, and shake or rotate food halfway through for even cooking. You can also experiment with healthier ingredients like whole grain breadcrumbs, air-fried tofu, or veggie chips. The more you explore, the more versatile your air fryer becomes in creating fast, flavorful meals.
