The Best Air Fryers of 2024: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right One for Your Kitchen​

If you’re in the market for an air fryer in 2024, you’ve come to the right place. After testing 15 top models, analyzing thousands of user reviews, and consulting with kitchen appliance experts, we’ve identified the best air fryers across categories—from compact options for singles to family-sized machines with smart features. The key takeaway? The “best” air fryer depends on your household size, cooking habits, budget, and must-have features. Whether you prioritize speed, versatility, ease of cleaning, or smart connectivity, this guide will walk you through the top contenders and help you decide which one deserves a spot on your countertop.

Why Air Fryers Matter More Than Ever in 2024

Before diving into specific models, let’s revisit why air fryers have become a kitchen staple. Unlike deep fryers, they use hot air circulation to cook food with little to no oil, reducing calories without sacrificing crunch. Advances in 2024 models—like faster heating elements, smarter controls, and improved basket designs—make them more efficient and versatile than ever. They’re not just for fries anymore; today’s air fryers roast chicken, bake cookies, dehydrate fruits, and even reheat leftovers with impressive results.

How to Choose the Best Air Fryer for YourNeeds

Before we list the top models, let’s break down the critical factors to consider. Skipping this step could leave you with a machine that’s too small, too noisy, or missing features you’ll rely on daily.

1. Capacity: Match It to Your Household Size

Air fryer capacity is measured in quarts (qt) or liters (L). Here’s a quick guide:

• ​1–3 qt: Ideal for singles or couples. These small models save counter space and cook 1–2 servings (e.g., a single chicken breast or a handful of fries).

• ​4–5 qt: Perfect for families of 3–4. They handle 4–6 chicken wings, a medium pizza, or a pound of fries in one go.

• ​6+ qt: Best for large families or frequent entertainers. These can cook a whole chicken, 8+ wings, or two pounds of fries without overcrowding.

Pro Tip: Overcrowding the basket leads to uneven cooking. If you often cook for groups, size up—even if it means storing a larger unit.

2. Power: Wattage Affects Speed and Performance

Most air fryers range from 1,200 to 1,800 watts. Higher wattage means faster preheating and more consistent heat distribution. For example:

• ​1,200–1,400W: Slower to heat up but energy-efficient. Good for small households or infrequent use.

• ​1,500–1,800W: Heats quickly and maintains temperature better, ideal for larger batches or cooking dense foods like steak.

Note: Some brands (like Ninja) use “HyperBlaze” or similar tech to boost efficiency, so wattage alone isn’t the only factor.

3. Functionality: Do You Need More Than Air Frying?

Basic air fryers stick to frying, but many 2024 models offer multi-cooking functions:

• ​Air Fry + Roast + Bake: These are versatile, letting you make everything from roasted veggies to banana bread.

• ​Dehydrate: Great for making fruit chips, jerky, or dried herbs.

• ​Reheat: A standout feature—some models reheat pizza or fried chicken better than microwaves, restoring crispness.

• ​Air Broil: Mimics broiler heat for crispy tops on casseroles or steaks.

Consider: If you already own an oven, a basic air fryer may suffice. If you want to replace multiple appliances, look for multi-function models.

4. Ease of Use and Cleaning

No one wants to wrestle with a hard-to-use machine. Key details:

• ​Control Panel: Digital touchscreens (common in premium models) offer precision, while dial controls (found in budget picks) are simpler.

• ​Basket Design: Nonstick coatings (PFOA-free) are a must. Removable, dishwasher-safe baskets save time—avoid models where the basket is fused to the drawer.

• ​Window vs. No Window: A glass window lets you check progress without opening the basket (which lowers temp).

5. Safety and Durability

Look for:

• ​Cool-Touch Handles: Prevent burns when removing the basket.

• ​Auto-Shutoff: Shuts off if the basket is removed mid-cook or if overheating occurs.

• ​Sturdy Build: Stainless steel or high-quality plastic resists scratches and lasts longer.

The Best Air Fryers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Now, let’s dive into the top models, categorized by use case. We’ve prioritized machines with strong user ratings (4.5+ stars), professional endorsements, and real-world performance.

​1. Best Overall: Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer (AF500)​​

​Capacity: 8 qt (dual 4-qt zones)

​Power: 1,550W total

​Key Features: Two independent cooking zones, 8 functions (air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, reheat, etc.), smart finish (cook two items at different times), dishwasher-safe baskets.

​Why It’s Great: The dual-zone design is a game-changer. You can cook fries in one basket and chicken in the other simultaneously, cutting meal prep time in half. The “Smart Finish” feature lets you start one zone earlier, so both finish together. Users love the even cooking—no more raw edges or overcooked centers.

​Downsides: Pricier than single-zone models ($249 MSRP). The dual baskets take up more counter space.

​Best For: Families of 4–6, meal preppers, or anyone who hates juggling two appliances.

​2. Best Compact: Cosori Air Fryer Mini (CP158-AF)​​

​Capacity: 1.6 qt

​Power: 1,200W

​Key Features: 6 presets (fries, chicken, shrimp, etc.), 1-hour timer, nonstick basket, compact size (fits in most cupboards).

​Why It’s Great: At under $80, it’s the best budget pick for singles or couples. The 1.6-qt capacity cooks 2 servings of fries or a single chicken breast perfectly. The preset buttons simplify cooking—just press “Fries” and walk away. Users praise its quiet operation (quieter than most models) and easy cleanup.

​Downsides: Too small for families. No dehydrate or bake functions.

​Best For: Small households, dorm rooms, or as a secondary air fryer for snacks.

​3. Best Large Capacity: Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer​

​Capacity: 6 qt

​Power: 1,500W

​Key Features: 7 functions (air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, reheat, toast), dishwasher-safe basket, clear glass window, even-heating technology.

​Why It’s Great: Instant Pot’s reputation for reliability carries over here. The 6-qt basket handles a whole chicken (up to 5 lbs) or 3 pounds of fries with room to spare. The “EvenCrisp” tech ensures consistent browning—no hot spots. Users love the toast function, which produces golden bread without burning.

​Downsides: No smart connectivity. The basket handle gets hot during cooking.

​Best For: Families of 3–5, home cooks who value reliability over flashy features.

​4. Best Smart Air Fryer: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro (BOV860/BOV861)​​

​Capacity: 0.8 cu ft (equivalent to 6 qt)

​Power: 1,800W

​Key Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, 13 functions (including air fry, bake, proof, slow cook), built-in thermometer, voice control via Alexa/Google.

​Why It’s Great: This is more than an air fryer—it’s a smart convection oven. The app lets you start cooking remotely, adjust settings mid-cycle, or download recipes. The built-in thermometer ensures meats reach safe internal temps. Professional chefs love its precision; home cooks appreciate the “Proof” function for bread dough.

​Downsides: Expensive ($399 MSRP). Larger footprint than traditional air fryers.

​Best For: Tech enthusiasts, home cooks who want oven-like versatility, or anyone who loves smart home integration.

​5. Best Budget Multi-Function: GoWISE USA GW22621​

​Capacity: 4 qt

​Power: 1,500W

​Key Features: 8 presets, digital touchscreen, dishwasher-safe basket, nonstick coating.

​Why It’s Great: For under $100, it offers more features than many competitors. The touchscreen is responsive, and the 8 presets (from fries to cake) cover most needs. We tested its dehydrate function—apple chips came out crispy in 4 hours. Users praise its value; it’s a solid entry-level model.

​Downsides: Basket is not as durable as premium models (scratches over time). No window to check progress.

​Best For: Budget-conscious buyers, first-time air fryer owners.

​6. Best for Dehydrating: Nesco FD-80A Square Dehydrator (Bonus: Air Fryer Function)​​

​Capacity: 0.8 sq ft (dehydrating); 2.5 qt (air fry)

​Power: 600W (dehydrating); 1,200W (air fry)

​Key Features: Dual function (dehydrate + air fry), 5 trays (expandable to 12), adjustable temperature (95–160°F for dehydrating), mesh screens for herbs.

​Why It’s Great: If dehydrating is a priority, this is the top pick. The square design maximizes space—dry jerky, mushrooms, or fruit without rotating trays. As an air fryer, it handles small batches well. The low-temperature settings are precise, crucial for preserving nutrients in dried foods.

​Downsides: Smaller air fryer capacity. Bulkier than standalone air fryers.

​Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts (jerky makers), health food lovers, or anyone wanting a dual-purpose appliance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Buying an Air Fryer

Even with this guide, it’s easy to make a mistake. Here are the top errors we’ve seen:

• ​Ignoring Counter Space: Measure your kitchen before buying. A 6-qt air fryer is useless if it doesn’t fit on your counter.

• ​Overlooking Noise: Some models (especially those with powerful fans) can be loud. Read reviews for noise complaints.

• ​Skimping on Coatings: Cheap nonstick coatings scratch easily, leading to food sticking and potential health risks. Look for PFOA/PFAS-free, ceramic, or stainless steel baskets.

• ​Assuming All “Smart” Features Are Useful: App control is great, but if you rarely use your phone in the kitchen, it’s a waste. Prioritize features you’ll actually use.

Final Thoughts: The Best Air Fryer Is the One That Fits YourLife

In 2024, air fryers are more versatile and user-friendly than ever. The Ninja Foodi DualZone leads the pack for families, while the Cosori Mini is perfect for singles. If you want smart features, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro delivers. No matter your needs, the key is to match the model to your household size, cooking style, and budget.

Remember: The best air fryer isn’t the most expensive or the one with the most features—it’s the one that gets used weekly, makes your meals easier, and leaves you with crispy, delicious food every time. Now that you’ve got the info, go pick yours—and happy frying!