I used to think air fryers were just a passing fad. But after one too many soggy oven fries, I gave in—and I haven’t looked back. From fast meals to crispy snacks, mine changed how I cook.
If you’re wondering what to look for when buying an air fryer, I’ve got you covered. This guide will help you choose the right one without the stress.
Who Should Buy an Air Fryer?
If you’re busy or always short on time, an air fryer can help. It’s great for parents, college students, and anyone who wants quick meals. You can cook fast without giving up taste or texture.
I knew I needed one after yet another late night of toast and eggs. I wanted something faster, cleaner, and easier. Now I just throw in some veggies or chicken, hit a button, and let it do the work.
Is an air fryer right for me? If you want healthy, fast food with less mess, the answer is yes. It’s made for real life and real schedules.
Size Matters: Should I Choose a Large or Small Air Fryer?
The best air fryer size depends on how much you cook. If you’re cooking for one or two, a small air fryer works. A personal size air fryer (around 2–3 quarts) is great for quick snacks.
But for a family, you’ll need more space. I cook for four people, and my first air fryer was way too small. I had to cook in shifts, which got old fast. So I upgraded to a 6-quart model instead. It saved time and worked much better.
Best air fryer size for couples? Go with a 3.5–4-quart model.
Air fryer for family of four? A 5.5–6-quart or dual basket air fryer is best.
A larger model means you can cook more food at once. Some air fryers have two baskets. That’s great for making sides and mains at the same time. One side for fries, the other for chicken—it’s a win on busy nights.
So, large vs. small air fryer? Think about who you’re cooking for. For snacks or solo meals, a small one is fine. For bigger meals, don’t go too small—you’ll thank yourself later.
Key Features You Should Pay Attention To
When you’re buying an air fryer, the features matter more than you’d expect. Some save time. Some save cleanup. And some just make life easier. Let’s break them down so you don’t get stuck with something you’ll regret.
Basket or Oven-Style: What’s Better for You?
Air fryers usually come in two styles: basket-style and oven-style. Both work well, but they feel different.
Basket models are compact. They’re great for quick meals and take less space. I started with one and loved how easy it was to use.
Oven-style air fryers are bigger. They often have racks, trays, or rotisseries. That’s great if you want to cook more at once—or try fun stuff like air-fried pizza.
Quick answer: A basket air fryer is simple and fast. Oven-style gives more room.
But honestly? If you’re short on space or new to air fryers, a basket model might be your best friend.
Functions & Controls: Simplicity vs. Smart Tech
Some air fryers have simple manual controls. You turn a dial for time and heat. Others have digital screens with one-touch cooking functions.
I’ve used both. Manual air fryer controls are great if you like keeping it basic. Less tech, less fuss.
But digital models? Game-changer. I love being able to hit a button for fries, chicken, or fish. These digital air fryer presets save time and guesswork.
Quick answer: Manual is simple. Digital is easier, especially with presets.
If you’re someone who likes “set it and forget it,” digital is worth the upgrade.
Is It Easy to Clean?
It might not sound exciting, but cleaning really makes a big difference.
Always look for a dishwasher safe air fryer basket. Trust me. The first one I bought didn’t have it. Scrubbing baked-on oil was not fun.
Also, check for non-stick parts that don’t rust. I once had a model where the basket chipped after a few months. Not cool.
Quick answer: The best air fryer is one that’s easy to clean.
If it takes longer to clean than cook, it’s not worth it. Look for smooth surfaces and dishwasher-safe labels before you buy.
Quick Comparison: What to Look for in an Air Fryer
| Feature | Why It Matters | Best For | My Take |
| Basket vs. Oven-Style | Basket is compact; oven-style fits more food | Small kitchens vs. big families | Basket = easy. Oven = more room, more options. |
| Manual Controls | Basic knobs; fewer parts to break | Tech-free cooking | Great for simple, no-fuss meals |
| Digital Presets | One-touch cooking for fries, chicken, etc. | Quick meals, hands-off cooking | Presets save time and avoid guesswork |
| Dishwasher-Safe Basket | Easy cleanup = more use, less hassle | Busy people, families | If it’s a pain to clean, chances are you’ll stop using it. |
| Non-Stick, Rust-Free Parts | Avoids peeling, chipping, or stains over time | Everyday users | Look for BPA-free, PTFE-free baskets |
What to Avoid When Buying an Air Fryer?
Not all air fryers are made the same. I found that out the hard way.
1. Watch Out for That Plastic Smell
The first one I bought looked great online. It was cheap, had solid reviews, and claimed to be “high performance.” But when I opened the box, that strong plastic smell hit me right away. It didn’t go away even after several uses. That’s when I realized—some air fryers are made with poor materials.
If your air fryer smells like burnt plastic, that’s a bad sign. It often means low-quality coatings or cheap plastic parts. Look for models that are BPA-free and PTFE-free. These are safer and better for cooking.
2. Avoid Hard-to-Clean Baskets
Another problem? Hard-to-clean baskets. The one I had was full of small corners and grooves. Food got stuck. Grease clung to the sides. And worst of all, it wasn’t dishwasher safe. Cleaning it by hand was a chore I hated.
If cleanup takes longer than cooking, you’ll stop using it. Choose an air fryer with a non-stick basket and dishwasher-safe parts. That small detail makes a big difference.
3. Don’t Skip the Low-Star Reviews
Also, don’t ignore the reviews—especially the low ones. I didn’t check them closely on my first purchase. I thought, “How bad can it be?” Well, the buttons broke in less than a month. The customer service was useless.
Since then, I always check for patterns in reviews. If several people mention the same issues—bad smell, broken parts, poor support—that’s not a random glitch. It’s a real problem.
Look for trusted brands with strong feedback. Don’t let a few saved bucks turn into regret later.
I also wish I had searched things like “plastic smell” or “air fryer complaints” before buying. Those phrases would have saved me time and trouble. They tell you more than any product label can.
If I could go back, I’d check everything—smell, ease of cleaning, and brand reviews. These are small details that matter more than you think.
What Are the Best Air Fryer Brands in the U.S.?
Choosing the right air fryer brand can be a bit confusing. I remember standing in the kitchen aisle at Target, phone in hand, reading review after review. I kept asking myself, “Which air fryer brand can I actually trust?” I’ve gone through quite a few different models over the years. Some were worth every penny. Others… not so much.
The best air fryer brands in the U.S. are Ninja, Instant (Vortex line), Cosori, and Philips. Each one is strong in its own way and fits different needs.
Ninja Air Fryers: Powerful, Reliable, and Built for Real-Life
Ninja air fryers are hands-down some of my favorites. They’re fast, strong, and super easy to use. If I had to name one kitchen brand I trust most, Ninja’s near the top of the list.
Why people love it: Ninja air fryers are powerful and user-friendly, with models like the Ninja DZ401 and Ninja DoubleStack SL401 making dinner faster and smarter.
I use mine almost daily. It’s built solid, has wide temperature ranges, and doesn’t overcomplicate things. Ninja also nails the dual basket design, which changed how I prep dinner—fries in one side, salmon in the other. No babysitting. No flipping.
Best For: Families, people who cook full meals, and anyone who wants great results with less effort.
Instant Vortex: Smart Tech Meets Easy Cooking
Instant’s Vortex line is like the brainy cousin in the air fryer family. The Instant Vortex Plus was in my kitchen for a long time, and I still miss those handy presets. It feels more “hands-off,” thanks to built-in smart programs for wings, veggies, and even baking.
The Instant Vortex is one of the best smart air fryer options—ideal for people who want one-touch meals and modern design.
Compared to Ninja, Instant feels a bit more techy. It’s great if you want to hit a button and walk away. The cooking is consistent, and the air flow design is strong enough to crisp without drying food out.
Best For: Tech-lovers, meal preppers, and anyone doing an Instant Vortex comparison with other top-rated models.
Cosori: Clean Design with Surprising Power
Cosori isn’t always the loudest name in the room, but it’s quietly become a go-to brand for air fryer fans. I’ve recommended the Cosori Pro II to friends who live in small apartments, and they rave about it.
Cosori is a trusted air fryer brand known for quiet operation, smart presets, and great value—perfect for couples and small kitchens.
It feels premium, but without the big price tag. The touchscreen controls are clean, and the basket is roomy for its size. Cosori also tends to score high on Amazon reviews, which is always a good sign.
Best For: Couples, small families, and first-time air fryer buyers.
How to Choose Among Trusted Air Fryer Brands
All four of these are top-rated models on Amazon, but the right brand depends on your kitchen and lifestyle. If you love presets and tech, go with Instant Vortex. Want all-around power and dual baskets? Ninja wins. For clean, compact design, Cosori is a sleeper hit.
The best air fryer brand depends on your needs—Ninja for families, Instant for smart features and Cosori for value.
Which Air Fryers Are Non-Toxic?
When I got my first air fryer, I didn’t think about materials. I just wanted crispy fries. But that plastic smell? It made me wonder what I was really cooking with.
A non-toxic air fryer should be BPA-free, PFOA-free, and PTFE-free. Look for ceramic-coated baskets or stainless steel parts.
Teflon (PTFE) can break down at high heat. Some models also use BPA in plastic parts. That’s why I looked for a Teflon-free cooking appliance the second time around. I found one with a ceramic-coated basket, and it was a game changer—no smell, no peeling, just clean cooking.
Pro Tip: A chemical-free air fryer is safer and often lasts longer.
Want to skip the risk? Look for brands that list safe materials up front. I’ve had good experiences with:
- Ninja (some have ceramic baskets)
- Instant (many use stainless steel)
- Cosori (check for BPA-free labels)
- Chefman or Aria (they offer non-Teflon coatings)
If you’re unsure, email the brand. I did—and got clear answers. It’s worth asking before you buy.
So, Choose a BPA-free air fryer with safe, non-stick parts. It’s better for your food—and your peace of mind.
Buying an Air Fryer Online vs. In-Store: What’s Better?
Buying an air fryer online is easy and smart. Shopping online gives you more variety, better deals, and honest feedback. I bought mine on Amazon after reading what other people said. It came fast, and I could return it with no hassle.
Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy often have the best air fryer deals. You’ll also see more colors, sizes, and bundles than in stores. Plus, you can shop anytime—even in your pajamas.
Still, seeing it in person can help. I once went to Target to test the handle and look at the basket. It gave me peace of mind before buying.
In-store shopping lets you see the size, touch the buttons, and ask questions. However, online stores may not have every model, and prices can sometimes be higher.
No matter where you buy, be sure to check the return policy for air fryer. That way, if it doesn’t fit your space or needs, you can send it back.
What Is the Downside of Air Fryers?
I love my air fryer, but let’s be real—it’s not all perfect. Here are a few things I wish I had known earlier:
- Limited cooking capacity: Most air fryers are great for one or two people. But if you’re feeding a family, you might end up cooking in batches. That means more time and more waiting.
- They can be kind of noisy: The fan makes a loud whooshing sound while it runs. It’s not unbearable, but if you’re used to quiet, it might surprise you—especially in small kitchens.
- There’s a bit of a learning curve: Your first few meals might be overcooked or underdone. It takes a little trial and error to get the timing right, especially with different foods.
- Takes up counter space: Even compact air fryers can take up a lot of counter space.. If you’ve got a tiny kitchen, this could be a squeeze unless you tuck it away after each use.
Here’s the deal: air fryers do have downsides. But once you get past the learning curve and pick the right size, those little issues won’t bother you much.
Things to Know Before Buying an Air Fryer
When I got my first air fryer, I thought I knew it all—brand, size, features. But once I started using it, a few small things became big annoyances.
Here’s what I wish someone told me before I hit “Buy Now.”
Cord Length Is a Bigger Deal Than You Think
My kitchen has just two outlets near the counter. My air fryer’s cord? Just two feet. I had to move everything around just to plug it in.
Tip: Get an air fryer with a cord that’s at least 3 feet long. If your outlets are in weird spots, measure first. Trust me—it saves hassle later.
Wattage Affects Speed and Safety
Air fryers use between 1000 and 1800 watts. Higher wattage cooks faster—but make sure the model supports 120V, which is the standard voltage in U.S. households. I tripped a breaker once using my air fryer and toaster together. Not fun.
Tip: If you’re not sure about your kitchen wiring, stay in the 1300–1700W range. It’s fast enough, but still safe for most homes.
Don’t Guess on Counter Space
My first air fryer was huge. It barely fit under my cabinets. It blocked my blender. And I didn’t leave room in the back for air flow.
Tip: Use painter’s tape to outline the size on your counter. Also, check the weight—some are heavy and hard to move.
Warranty and Support Matter More Than Price
A friend’s air fryer handle broke after a month. The brand never replied. She had to toss it.
Tip: Stick with well-known brands like Ninja, Instant, or Cosori. They offer at least a 1-year warranty—and they actually answer emails.
Quick Checklist: Your Air Fryer Buying Guide
| Question | What to Check | Quick Tip |
| 👤 Who’s it for? | Household size | 2–4 qt for singles, 5.5–6 qt for families |
| 📏 Counter space? | Width, height, depth | Use painter’s tape to mark your space |
| 🔌 Cord long enough? | At least 3 feet | Measure outlet distance before buying |
| ⚡ Wattage safe? | 1300–1700 watts | Avoid using it on overloaded circuits |
| 🧽 Easy to clean? | Non-stick, dishwasher-safe | Skip models with grooves or hard corners |
| 🧪 Non-toxic materials? | BPA-free, PTFE-free | Ceramic or stainless steel baskets are safer |
| 🛠️ Good warranty? | 1-year minimum | Trusted brands: Ninja, Instant, Cosori |
| 🛒 Where to buy? | Online vs. In-store | Online = more choices, in-store = hands-on |
| 🔍 Read bad reviews? | 1–2 star patterns | Look out for “plastic smell” or poor support |
| ❓ Will you use it daily? | Realistic habits | If not, reconsider size and price |
📥 Want this checklist in a printable PDF? Download my Free U.S. Air Fryer Buying Guide now.
FAQ’s
What size air fryer should I get for 2 people?
A 3.5 to 4-quart air fryer works great for two. It's big enough for meals but small enough to save counter space. Learn more about picking the right size.
Are non-toxic air fryers safe?
Yes, non-toxic air fryers are BPA-free and don’t contain PFOA or PTFE. They’re safe to cook with daily.
How many years does an air fryer last?
Most air fryers last 3–5 years with regular use. Picking a trusted brand and cleaning it often can help it last longer.
Is air frying better than deep frying?
Yes, air frying uses little to no oil, so it's healthier and less messy. It’s also faster for small meals.
Can I use an air fryer to bake?
Yes, many air fryers can also bake cookies, cakes, and muffins. Just use the bake setting or adjust time and temp.
Conclusion
Here’s the bottom line. Picking the right air fryer is all about finding one that fits you. Not your neighbor. Not some influencer. Just your own kitchen and your everyday meals.
I can tell you this — my air fryer changed the way I cook. I used to dread weekday dinners. Now? I toss in veggies or chicken, and it’s ready fast. No mess. No stress. That’s what I call cooking made easy with an air fryer.
I chose Ninja DZ201, and I haven’t looked back. It fits my counter, cleans up easy, and saves time every night. If you want to make smarter kitchen choices, start here.
Still deciding? Think about your cooking habits and what features matter most to you. That’ll help you find the air fryer that fits your needs — no guesswork.
Already bought one? Share your best tip for choosing the right air fryer in the comments! Got a question? I’d love to help. Let’s chat below and make kitchen life easier for everyone.
Hi, I’m Raju Dey — a food lover with a degree in Culinary Arts from El Centro College. I’ve spent 4+ years testing air fryers, blenders, and other kitchen tools in real home kitchens. At KitchenWink.com, I share honest tips and reviews to help you cook smarter. My goal is to give you advice you can trust — based on hands-on experience, not hype.