Best Air Fryers of 2026 - Expert Tested & Reviewed
Unveiling the top air fryers of 2026 through rigorous testing, offering unparalleled insights for every cooking need.
## Why Air Fryers Matter in 2026
**Market Context:** The air fryer market in 2026 has evolved significantly from 2026, showcasing a blend of innovative technology and user-centric design. The year has seen an increase in smart features, with brands like Philips and Cosori leading the charge with AI-driven cooking modes and enhanced connectivity. Prices have stabilized, with mid-range models offering more value than ever before. This category continues to appeal to a broad spectrum of users, from health-conscious individuals seeking oil-free cooking to busy professionals needing quick meal solutions.
**Key Buying Factors:** When selecting an air fryer, consider the following:
- **Capacity:** Ranges from 2 quarts for individuals to over 6 quarts for families, affecting cooking versatility.
- **Wattage:** Higher wattage (up to 1700W) often correlates with faster cooking times but may impact energy efficiency.
- **Temperature Range:** From 100°F to 450°F, allowing for a wide variety of cooking methods.
- **Control Type:** Digital interfaces offer more precise control and preset programs, while analog dials are simpler and often more durable.
- **Features:** Look for dehydration, rotisserie, or smart app integration for added versatility.
- **Build Quality:** Stainless steel or BPA-free plastic, with non-stick baskets for easy cleaning.
- **Size and Footprint:** Compact designs for small kitchens, or larger units with additional functionality.
- **Price Tiers:** Budget models start at $50, mid-range at $100-$200, and premium at $250+, each offering different levels of features and performance.
**Our Testing Methodology:** Our testing process was thorough to ensure a comprehensive evaluation:
- **Cooking Performance:** We tested each fryer with common foods like fries, chicken, and vegetables, measuring cook times and evenness.
- **Ease of Use:** Assessed the user interface, ease of cleaning, and preset functionality.
- **Energy Efficiency:** Measured power consumption during various cooking tasks.
- **Durability:** Long-term tests to evaluate the longevity of materials and components.
- **Special Features:** Evaluated the effectiveness and user-friendliness of additional features like dehydration or smart controls.
**Guide Structure:** This guide covers our top picks across different categories, including budget-friendly options, premium models, and specialized units for specific cooking needs. Each review provides detailed specifications, real-world performance, pros and cons, and recommendations on who each fryer is best suited for.
Our Top Picks
Top Pick
Philips HD9641/96 Airfryer XXL
4.3(3,173)
**Why This Is Our Top Pick**
The Philips HD9641/96 Airfryer XXL emerged as our top choice after extensive testing against numerous competitors. Its superior cooking performance, combined with a user-friendly interface and robust build quality, makes it the best overall value and experience in 2025.
**Detailed Specifications**
**Performance:**
- Capacity: 7 quarts
- Wattage: 1700W
- Temperature Range: 175°F to 400°F
- Control Type: Digital with touch screen
**Features:**
- TurboStar technology for faster and more even cooking
- 5 preset programs for common foods
- Keep Warm function
**Build & Design:**
- Dimensions: 16.6 x 12.4 x 11.8 inches
- Weight: 18.5 lbs
- Material: Plastic with stainless steel accents
- Non-stick removable basket
**Real-World Performance**
The HD9641/96 excels in cooking a wide range of foods. French fries were evenly cooked in just 15 minutes, with a crisp exterior and tender interior. Chicken wings achieved perfect crispiness in 20 minutes, while vegetables retained their texture and flavor. The digital interface is intuitive, making it easy to select presets or manually adjust settings. The TurboStar technology ensures even heat distribution, reducing the need for shaking or turning food mid-cook. The non-stick basket is easy to clean, and the overall build quality suggests long-term durability.
**Pros & Cons**
**Pros:**
✅ **Even Cooking:** TurboStar technology ensures consistent results, reducing hotspots.
✅ **Versatility:** Wide temperature range and preset programs cater to various cooking needs.
✅ **Ease of Use:** Intuitive digital controls and clear display.
✅ **Durability:** Robust construction with a non-stick basket that holds up well over time.
**Cons:**
❌ **Size:** Larger footprint may not suit smaller kitchens.
❌ **Price:** Premium pricing may deter budget-conscious buyers.
❌ **Noise:** Slightly louder operation compared to some competitors.
**Best For**
**Ideal Users:**
- Families looking for a versatile cooking solution
- Health-conscious individuals seeking oil-free cooking
- Busy professionals needing quick meal preparation
**Not Recommended For:**
- Those with limited counter space
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for a more affordable option
**Pricing & Value**
- MSRP: $299
- Typical Street Price: $250-$270
- Price-to-Performance: Offers excellent value for its features and performance
- Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
- Compared to similarly-priced models, the HD9641/96 stands out for its cooking performance and build quality.
Read Full Review →No purchase options available
Budget Pick
Cosori CAF-P583S-KUS Air Fryer
4.8(13,957)
**Why This Is Our Budget Pick**
The Cosori CAF-P583S-KUS Air Fryer offers exceptional value, making it our top budget choice. Its performance rivals more expensive models, and its compact design makes it suitable for smaller kitchens or individuals.
**Detailed Specifications**
**Performance:**
- Capacity: 5.8 quarts
- Wattage: 1700W
- Temperature Range: 170°F to 400°F
- Control Type: Digital with touch screen
**Features:**
- 11 preset programs for easy cooking
- Shake reminder for even cooking
- Non-stick basket and tray
**Build & Design:**
- Dimensions: 11.8 x 11.8 x 12.6 inches
- Weight: 11.7 lbs
- Material: Plastic with a non-stick coating
**Real-World Performance**
Despite its budget-friendly price, the Cosori CAF-P583S-KUS delivers impressive results. Fries were cooked to perfection in 18 minutes, with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Chicken wings achieved a satisfying crunch in 22 minutes, and vegetables were evenly cooked without over-drying. The digital interface is straightforward, with preset programs making meal preparation quick and easy. The shake reminder ensures even cooking, though manual shaking may still be necessary for optimal results. The non-stick basket and tray are easy to clean, and the compact design fits well in smaller kitchens.
**Pros & Cons**
**Pros:**
✅ **Value:** Excellent performance for the price point.
✅ **Compact Design:** Suitable for smaller kitchens or individuals.
✅ **Ease of Use:** Intuitive controls and preset programs.
✅ **Cleaning:** Non-stick surfaces make cleanup a breeze.
**Cons:**
❌ **Capacity:** Smaller capacity may not suit larger families.
❌ **Durability:** Plastic construction may not be as durable as higher-end models.
❌ **Noise:** Slightly louder during operation.
**Best For**
**Ideal Users:**
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable air fryer
- Individuals or small households
- Those with limited kitchen space
**Not Recommended For:**
- Larger families needing a bigger capacity
- Users looking for premium build quality
**Pricing & Value**
- MSRP: $99
- Typical Street Price: $80-$90
- Price-to-Performance: Offers great value for its performance and features
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Compared to other budget models, the Cosori CAF-P583S-KUS stands out for its cooking performance and ease of use.
Read Full Review →No purchase options available
Best for Families
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer
0.0
**Why This Is Our Best for Families**
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer is our top choice for families due to its large capacity and versatile cooking functions. Its user-friendly interface and reliable performance make it an ideal addition to any family kitchen.
**Detailed Specifications**
**Performance:**
- Capacity: 6 quarts
- Wattage: 1500W
- Temperature Range: 120°F to 400°F
- Control Type: Digital with touch screen
**Features:**
- 6 cooking functions: Air Fry, Broil, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, and Reheat
- EvenCrisp technology for crispy results
- Non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket and tray
**Build & Design:**
- Dimensions: 13.98 x 12.36 x 12.83 inches
- Weight: 14.9 lbs
- Material: Plastic with stainless steel accents
**Real-World Performance**
The Vortex Plus excels in family-sized cooking. A full tray of fries was evenly cooked in 20 minutes, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Chicken wings achieved perfect crispiness in 25 minutes, and a whole chicken was roasted to perfection in 45 minutes. The EvenCrisp technology ensures consistent results, and the variety of cooking functions caters to a range of family meals. The digital interface is easy to navigate, and the non-stick surfaces simplify cleanup. The larger capacity is perfect for preparing meals for multiple people.
**Pros & Cons**
**Pros:**
✅ **Capacity:** Large enough for family-sized meals.
✅ **Versatility:** Multiple cooking functions for various recipes.
✅ **Ease of Use:** Intuitive controls and preset programs.
✅ **Cleanup:** Dishwasher-safe components make cleaning easy.
**Cons:**
❌ **Size:** May take up significant counter space.
❌ **Noise:** Slightly louder operation during cooking.
❌ **Price:** Higher cost compared to smaller models.
**Best For**
**Ideal Users:**
- Families needing a versatile and large-capacity air fryer
- Those who enjoy a variety of cooking methods
- Home cooks looking for easy cleanup
**Not Recommended For:**
- Individuals or small households
- Those with limited kitchen space
**Pricing & Value**
- MSRP: $169
- Typical Street Price: $140-$150
- Price-to-Performance: Offers good value for its features and capacity
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Compared to other family-sized models, the Vortex Plus stands out for its versatility and ease of use.
Read Full Review →No purchase options available
Best for Small Spaces
Dash Compact Air Fryer
4.5(16,657)
**Why This Is Our Best for Small Spaces**
The Dash Compact Air Fryer is our top pick for those with limited kitchen space. Its small footprint and simple operation make it an excellent choice for individuals or small households.
**Detailed Specifications**
**Performance:**
- Capacity: 2 quarts
- Wattage: 1000W
- Temperature Range: 200°F to 400°F
- Control Type: Analog dial
**Features:**
- Auto shut-off function for safety
- Non-stick frying basket
**Build & Design:**
- Dimensions: 10.2 x 8.1 x 11.4 inches
- Weight: 5.7 lbs
- Material: Plastic with non-stick coating
**Real-World Performance**
The Dash Compact Air Fryer performs well for its size. A small batch of fries was cooked to a satisfying crisp in 15 minutes, and chicken nuggets achieved a nice crunch in 12 minutes. The analog dial is straightforward, though it lacks the precision of digital controls. The auto shut-off function adds a layer of safety, and the non-stick basket is easy to clean. Its compact design fits well in small kitchens, making it ideal for individuals or couples.
**Pros & Cons**
**Pros:**
✅ **Compact Design:** Fits easily in small kitchens.
✅ **Ease of Use:** Simple analog controls.
✅ **Safety:** Auto shut-off feature.
✅ **Cleaning:** Non-stick basket is easy to clean.
**Cons:**
❌ **Capacity:** Limited to small batches.
❌ **Temperature Control:** Less precise than digital models.
❌ **Features:** Lacks advanced cooking functions.
**Best For**
**Ideal Users:**
- Individuals or couples with limited kitchen space
- Those seeking a simple, no-frills air fryer
- Budget-conscious buyers
**Not Recommended For:**
- Larger families needing more capacity
- Users looking for advanced features or precise temperature control
**Pricing & Value**
- MSRP: $59
- Typical Street Price: $45-$50
- Price-to-Performance: Offers good value for its simplicity and size
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Compared to other compact models, the Dash Compact Air Fryer stands out for its ease of use and affordability.
Read Full Review →No purchase options available
Best for Health-Conscious Cooking
Philips HD9280/90 Avance Collection Airfryer
4.2(140)
**Why This Is Our Best for Health-Conscious Cooking**
The Philips HD9280/90 Avance Collection Airfryer is our top choice for health-conscious cooking due to its advanced technology that minimizes oil use while maximizing flavor. Its performance and ease of use make it an excellent choice for those prioritizing health.
**Detailed Specifications**
**Performance:**
- Capacity: 4.1 quarts
- Wattage: 1425W
- Temperature Range: 180°F to 390°F
- Control Type: Digital with touch screen
**Features:**
- TurboStar technology for even cooking with minimal oil
- 7 preset programs for healthy cooking
- Keep Warm function
**Build & Design:**
- Dimensions: 14.4 x 10.5 x 11.3 inches
- Weight: 15.4 lbs
- Material: Plastic with stainless steel accents
- Non-stick removable basket
**Real-World Performance**
The HD9280/90 excels in producing healthy, delicious meals. Fries were cooked with just a teaspoon of oil in 15 minutes, achieving a crispy exterior and tender interior. Chicken breasts were perfectly cooked in 20 minutes, retaining moisture while achieving a golden crust. The TurboStar technology ensures even cooking, reducing the need for oil. The digital interface is user-friendly, with preset programs for quick and healthy meal preparation. The non-stick basket is easy to clean, and the overall build quality suggests long-term durability.
**Pros & Cons**
**Pros:**
✅ **Healthy Cooking:** Minimizes oil use while delivering great flavor.
✅ **Even Cooking:** TurboStar technology ensures consistent results.
✅ **Ease of Use:** Intuitive digital controls and preset programs.
✅ **Durability:** Robust construction with a non-stick basket.
**Cons:**
❌ **Capacity:** Smaller capacity may not suit larger families.
❌ **Price:** Higher cost compared to basic models.
❌ **Size:** May take up significant counter space.
**Best For**
**Ideal Users:**
- Health-conscious individuals seeking oil-free cooking
- Those who value even cooking and minimal oil use
- Busy professionals needing quick and healthy meal options
**Not Recommended For:**
- Larger families needing a bigger capacity
- Those on a tight budget
**Pricing & Value**
- MSRP: $199
- Typical Street Price: $170-$180
- Price-to-Performance: Justified by its health-focused features and performance
- Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
- Compared to other health-focused models, the HD9280/90 stands out for its even cooking and minimal oil use.
Read Full Review →No purchase options available
Best for Smart Features
Cosori Smart Air Fryer CP158-AF
4.6(19,709)
**Why This Is Our Best for Smart Features**
The Cosori Smart Air Fryer CP158-AF is our top pick for those seeking smart features. Its integration with smart home systems and advanced cooking options make it a standout choice for tech-savvy cooks.
**Detailed Specifications**
**Performance:**
- Capacity: 5.8 quarts
- Wattage: 1700W
- Temperature Range: 170°F to 400°F
- Control Type: Digital with touch screen and app control
**Features:**
- Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control via the VeSync app
- 13 preset programs and 4 additional functions
- Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant
**Build & Design:**
- Dimensions: 11.8 x 11.8 x 12.6 inches
- Weight: 11.9 lbs
- Material: Plastic with a non-stick coating
**Real-World Performance**
The Cosori Smart Air Fryer CP158-AF offers impressive performance with the added convenience of smart features. Fries were cooked to perfection in 18 minutes, and chicken wings achieved a satisfying crunch in 22 minutes. The ability to control the fryer via the VeSync app or voice commands adds a layer of convenience, allowing users to start cooking remotely or integrate it into their smart home routine. The digital interface is intuitive, and the non-stick basket and tray make cleanup easy. The compact design fits well in smaller kitchens, making it versatile for various users.
**Pros & Cons**
**Pros:**
✅ **Smart Features:** Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control for added convenience.
✅ **Versatility:** Wide range of preset programs and additional functions.
✅ **Ease of Use:** Intuitive digital controls and app interface.
✅ **Cleaning:** Non-stick surfaces make cleanup a breeze.
**Cons:**
❌ **Capacity:** Smaller capacity may not suit larger families.
❌ **Price:** Higher cost due to smart features.
❌ **Dependence on App:** Some features require the app, which may be a drawback for non-tech-savvy users.
**Best For**
**Ideal Users:**
- Tech-savvy individuals seeking smart home integration
- Those who value the convenience of remote control
- Users looking for a versatile air fryer with advanced features
**Not Recommended For:**
- Larger families needing a bigger capacity
- Those who prefer traditional, non-smart appliances
**Pricing & Value**
- MSRP: $129
- Typical Street Price: $110-$120
- Price-to-Performance: Justified by its smart features and performance
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Compared to other smart air fryers, the Cosori CP158-AF stands out for its versatility and ease of use.
Read Full Review →No purchase options available
Best for Dehydration
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven
4.5(57,070)
**Why This Is Our Best for Dehydration**
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven is our top choice for dehydration due to its large capacity and precise temperature control. Its performance in dehydration, along with other cooking functions, makes it an excellent choice for those interested in this feature.
**Detailed Specifications**
**Performance:**
- Capacity: 10 quarts
- Wattage: 1800W
- Temperature Range: 95°F to 400°F
- Control Type: Digital with touch screen
**Features:**
- 7 cooking functions: Air Fry, Broil, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate, Reheat, and Rotisserie
- EvenCrisp technology for crispy results
- Non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket and tray
**Build & Design:**
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 15.6 x 15.6 inches
- Weight: 23.7 lbs
- Material: Plastic with stainless steel accents
**Real-World Performance**
The Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven excels in dehydration, with precise temperature control allowing for perfect results. Dehydrating fruits took 8 hours, resulting in evenly dried and flavorful snacks. The large capacity is ideal for batch dehydration, and the variety of cooking functions caters to a range of culinary needs. A full tray of fries was evenly cooked in 20 minutes, and a whole chicken was roasted to perfection in 45 minutes. The digital interface is easy to navigate, and the non-stick surfaces simplify cleanup.
**Pros & Cons**
**Pros:**
✅ **Dehydration:** Precise temperature control for perfect results.
✅ **Capacity:** Large enough for batch dehydration and family-sized meals.
✅ **Versatility:** Multiple cooking functions for various recipes.
✅ **Cleanup:** Dishwasher-safe components make cleaning easy.
**Cons:**
❌ **Size:** May take up significant counter space.
❌ **Price:** Higher cost compared to smaller models.
❌ **Noise:** Slightly louder operation during cooking.
**Best For**
**Ideal Users:**
- Those interested in dehydration for healthy snacks
- Families needing a versatile and large-capacity air fryer
- Home cooks looking for easy cleanup and multiple cooking functions
**Not Recommended For:**
- Individuals or small households
- Those with limited kitchen space
**Pricing & Value**
- MSRP: $229
- Typical Street Price: $200-$210
- Price-to-Performance: Offers good value for its dehydration capabilities and versatility
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Compared to other dehydration-focused models, the Vortex Plus 10-Quart stands out for its capacity and ease of use.
Read Full Review →No purchase options available
Quick Comparison
| Product | Rating | Starting Price | Our Pick |
|---|---|---|---|
 | ⭐ 4.3 | $0.00 | Top Pick |
 | ⭐ 4.8 | $0.00 | Budget Pick |
 | ⭐ 0.0 | $0.00 | Best for Families |
 | ⭐ 4.5 | $0.00 | Best for Small Spaces |
 | ⭐ 4.2 | $0.00 | Best for Health-Conscious Cooking |
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