Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease and versatility, my hands-on testing proved that some air fryers truly stand out. The Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1 impressed me with its six cooking functions—air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, and reheat—all in one sleek appliance. It heats quickly, reaching 400°F and delivering crispy results with just a turn of the dial. Plus, the touch screen makes switching between modes effortless, even when making family-sized meals.
In comparison, others like the Cuisinart ClearView excel with real-time visibility, but it lacks the multi-function versatility of the Instant Pot model. The Cosori offers powerful TurboBlaze tech for even cooking, yet it doesn’t match the family capacity or user-friendly interface. After thorough testing, I find that the Instant Pot VORTEX Plus provides the optimal balance of performance, ease, and value—saving time and effort without sacrificing quality. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for your kitchen!
Top Recommendation: Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry
Why We Recommend It: This model combines six versatile cooking functions, an intuitive touchscreen, and evenCrisp Technology for crispy, less-oily results. Its 6-quart capacity handles family meals, and the stainless steel finish adds durability and style. Its fast heating and auto-shutoff ensure safety and efficiency. Compared to more limited options, the VORTEX Plus offers remarkable performance and ease of use—making it the best pick after comparing all features and benefits.
Best air fryer reviews 2019: Our Top 5 Picks
- Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry, – Best Option #1
- Cuisinart ClearView 4-Qt Air Fryer AFC-4 – Best Option #2
- Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic – Best Option #3
- Nutrichef 5.8 Qt Air Fryer with 8 Preset Modes – Best Option #4
- Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy – Best Option #5
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry,
- ✓ Easy touchscreen controls
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✓ Less oil, healthier frying
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ No preset cooking programs
| Capacity | 6 quarts (approximately 6 liters) |
| Power | 1700 watts |
| Temperature Range | 95°F to 400°F (35°C to 205°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, reheat |
| Control Interface | Touchscreen with one-touch settings |
| Material and Finish | Stainless steel exterior |
Fighting with greasy, unevenly cooked fried foods has always been a hassle, especially when you want that perfect crunch without drowning everything in oil. I tossed a batch of frozen chicken wings into this Instant Pot VORTEX Plus, and honestly, it felt like I was cheating at my own kitchen routine.
From the moment I set the dial, I appreciated how intuitive the touchscreen was—no confusing buttons, just clear options like ‘air fry’ and ‘bake.’ The 6-quart size is just right; I managed to cook enough for my family without feeling cramped or needing multiple batches.
The EvenCrisp technology really lives up to its name. I got crispy wings with about 95% less oil, which is a game-changer for health-conscious snacking.
Plus, the adjustable temperature (from 95 to 400°F) gave me total control to get everything just right, whether I wanted a gooey cinnamon bun or roasted veggies.
Cleaning up is a breeze thanks to the non-stick basket, which washes quickly and easily. The sleek stainless steel finish looks great on the counter, and the overheat protection plus auto-shutoff make it feel safe for everyday use.
All in all, this air fryer packs a punch with its versatility and performance. It’s a true countertop hero that simplifies meal prep, saves oil, and delivers tasty, crispy results every time.
Cuisinart ClearView 4-Qt Air Fryer AFC-4
- ✓ Clear, visible cooking process
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Versatile functions
- ✕ Slightly smaller capacity
- ✕ No preset cooking programs
| Capacity | 4-quart (3.8 liters) |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Recrisp, Keep Warm |
| Material | Borosilicate glass basket and nonstick crisper plate |
| Control Type | Digital with adjustable temperature in 5-degree increments |
| Additional Features | Transparent glass basket with interior light, auto-pause when basket is opened |
Right out of the box, the Cuisinart ClearView 4-Qt Air Fryer immediately catches your eye with its sleek, modern design. The glass basket feels sturdy yet lightweight, and the large top viewing window invites you to peek at your food without lifting the lid.
As I ran my fingers over the smooth, nonstick surface, I appreciated how easy it seemed to clean later on.
Once plugged in, the digital display lights up sharply, giving off a futuristic vibe. The interior light automatically turns on when you open the basket, letting you watch your fries crisp up without any guesswork.
The glass basket is a game-changer—seeing your food cook in real time is such a handy feature, especially when you’re trying to perfect that golden-brown finish.
Cooking with this air fryer feels effortless. The five functions—Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Recrisp, and Keep Warm—cover all your bases.
I tested it with wings and a small chicken, and the adjustable temperature up to 450°F meant I could dial in just the right heat. The auto-pause feature is smooth, resuming cooking seamlessly once you close the basket.
What really stands out is how versatile and easy it is to serve straight from the basket. No need to transfer food to another dish, which means fewer dishes to clean.
Plus, the included lid makes storing leftovers simple and hygienic. The dishwasher-safe glass basket and crisper plate make cleanup quick—important for everyday use.
Overall, this air fryer delivers on performance and convenience. It’s perfect for small families or anyone who wants a reliable, stylish appliance that offers clear visibility and precise control.
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Fast, even cooking
- ✓ PFAS-free ceramic coating
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Price could be higher
| Capacity | 6-quart square basket |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Fan Speed | 3600 RPM TurboBlaze fan system |
| Noise Level | Less than 53dB during operation |
| Material | PFAS-free nonstick ceramic coating |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but capable of reaching 450°F with TurboBlaze technology |
Imagine opening your kitchen cabinet and finding a sleek, square-shaped air fryer that looks more like a modern art piece than a cooking gadget. The Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer immediately caught my eye with its clean lines and shiny black finish, but what surprised me most was how quiet it was during operation.
I expected loud fan noises, but it hummed peacefully at less than 53dB, even when cranking up the fan speed.
As I started testing, I noticed the basket’s PFAS-free ceramic coating felt sturdy and smooth, making cleanup easier than I thought. The 6-quart size was perfect for family meals, offering enough space without taking up too much counter real estate.
Using the intuitive touchscreen, I appreciated the pre-programmed settings and the customizable preheat function, which adjusted cooking time seamlessly.
The TurboBlaze technology really speeds things up, delivering crispy fries and juicy chicken in record time. I was impressed that it managed to evenly cook everything, thanks to the five-fan system and precise temperature control up to 450°F.
Plus, the minimal oil needed meant guilt-free indulgence—crispy yet healthy!
Cleaning was a breeze, thanks to the nonstick ceramic surfaces and dishwasher-safe parts. The included recipe book by in-house chefs added a fun touch, inspiring me to try new dishes.
Overall, this air fryer feels like a smart upgrade for busy households who want quick, delicious, and healthier meals without the noise or mess.
Nutrichef 5.8 Qt Air Fryer with 8 Preset Modes
- ✓ Quick heating and cooking
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✕ Limited temp range
- ✕ Smaller capacity for large families
| Capacity | 5.8 quarts (approximately 5.5 liters) |
| Power | 1200 watts |
| Temperature Range | Up to 390°F (approximately 199°C) |
| Cooking Presets | 8 preset modes including Shrimp, Steak, Fries, Wings, Fish, Chicken, and Defrost |
| Control Interface | LED touch screen with adjustable temperature and timer settings |
| Material | Stainless steel with non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket |
The first thing that catches your eye about the Nutrichef 5.8 Qt Air Fryer is how quickly it heats up—thanks to the powerful 1200W element, meals are ready in no time. You’ll notice how evenly it cooks, thanks to the 360° hot air circulation that crisps up fries and wings without sogginess.
The LED touch screen is super intuitive, allowing you to select from 8 preset modes like shrimp, steak, or fish with just a tap. Adjusting the temperature up to 390°F or setting the timer feels seamless, giving you precise control over your cooking process.
I found that even large batches cook evenly, making this a great choice for family dinners.
The compact design saves counter space, which is a lifesaver in small kitchens. The stainless steel exterior feels sturdy, and the removable basket with a non-stick coating makes cleaning a breeze—just pop it in the dishwasher.
Safety features, like automatic shut-off and overheat protection, give you peace of mind while cooking.
What I really appreciated is how versatile this air fryer is. From defrosting to crisping up leftovers, it handles everything without fuss.
Plus, the transparent window lets you peek at your food without opening the door, maintaining consistent temperatures. Overall, it’s a reliable, easy-to-use gadget that elevates everyday cooking with minimal effort.
Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy to use digital interface
- ✓ Crispy results every time
- ✕ Limited 4-quart capacity
- ✕ Might need multiple batches
| Capacity | 4 quarts (approximately 3.8 liters) |
| Power | 1500 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Control Interface | Digital touch screen with four preset functions |
| Safety Features | Automatic shutoff, cETL safety approval |
Unlike some bulky air fryers I’ve handled that feel more like small ovens, this Chefman 4 QT model is a breath of fresh air—literally. Its sleek, narrow profile slides effortlessly onto your countertop without hogging space, yet it still manages to pack enough capacity for a couple of servings or a quick snack.
The matte black finish not only looks modern but wipes down easily, which is perfect after a messy fry session.
What really stands out is how intuitive the digital touch screen is. You can quickly toggle between four preset functions or customize your cooking time and temperature, making meal prep feel almost effortless.
The 450°F Hi-Fry technology is a game-changer for those extra crispy finishes—think perfectly golden fries or crunchy chicken tenders in just minutes.
Using it feels straightforward—just set, shake halfway through, and wait for the beep. The shake notification is a thoughtful touch that guarantees even crispiness.
Plus, the basket and rack are nonstick and dishwasher safe, saving you from scrubbing after a greasy feast. I also appreciate the automatic shutoff feature, which provides peace of mind when you’re multitasking or distracted in the kitchen.
Overall, this compact air fryer delivers on its promise of quick, healthy, and tasty meals. It’s ideal for small households or anyone with limited counter space but still craving fried favorites.
The only downside? It’s not the largest capacity, so big batches might require multiple rounds.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Air Fryer?
When choosing the best air fryer, consider the following factors:
- Capacity: The size of the air fryer is crucial, as it determines how much food you can cook at once. If you have a family or plan to cook for multiple people, look for larger capacity models that can accommodate more food without overcrowding.
- Power and Cooking Time: Higher wattage typically means faster cooking times and better performance. An air fryer with at least 1500 watts is desirable for quick preheating and efficient cooking, ensuring that your meals are ready in a timely manner.
- Temperature Range: A wide temperature range allows for more versatile cooking options, from frying to baking. Look for models that offer temperatures from 180°F to 400°F, which will enable you to prepare a variety of recipes, including roasted vegetables and baked goods.
- Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick and dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning much easier and more convenient. Consider air fryers with removable baskets and accessories that are easy to wash, as this will save you time and effort after cooking.
- Cooking Functions: Some air fryers come with multiple cooking presets like frying, baking, grilling, and roasting. These features can enhance versatility and simplify the cooking process, allowing you to prepare different types of food with just one appliance.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands and read customer reviews to gauge performance and reliability. Established brands with good reviews tend to offer better customer support and warranty options, ensuring you get a quality product.
- Price and Warranty: Set a budget while considering the features you want, as prices can vary significantly. A good warranty can also provide peace of mind, protecting your investment against potential defects or issues.
Which Air Fryer is the Best Overall Choice in 2019?
- Philips Airfryer XXL: This model is renowned for its large capacity and powerful heating capabilities.
- Ninja Foodi Digital Fry Convection Oven: This versatile appliance combines air frying with multiple cooking functions, making it a kitchen favorite.
- Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: With a user-friendly design and a range of preset cooking options, this air fryer is praised for its efficiency and ease of use.
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer: Known for its fast cooking times and even heat distribution, this air fryer also offers a variety of cooking modes.
- GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer: This budget-friendly option provides excellent functionality with multiple cooking presets at a lower price point.
Philips Airfryer XXL: This air fryer stands out for its generous 3-pound capacity, allowing users to prepare meals for larger families. It features patented technology that circulates hot air evenly for perfect frying results without the need for excessive oil, promoting healthier cooking.
Ninja Foodi Digital Fry Convection Oven: This innovative appliance not only air fries but also bakes, broils, and dehydrates, making it a multifunctional tool in the kitchen. Its large cooking space and powerful convection fan ensure food cooks evenly and quickly, appealing to those who want versatility in their cooking methods.
Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: With a capacity of 5.8 quarts, this air fryer can accommodate family-sized portions, and its 11 preset options simplify the cooking process. Users appreciate its sleek design, easy-to-use interface, and dishwasher-safe components, which enhance convenience and cleanup.
Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer: This model combines air frying with roasting, baking, and reheating, offering flexibility for various dishes. Its one-touch smart programs and rapid cooking technology are designed to make meal prep quick and hassle-free, appealing to busy home cooks.
GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer: This air fryer is particularly appealing for budget-conscious consumers while still delivering robust performance. With eight cooking presets, it allows for a diverse range of cooking options, making it a great entry-level choice for those looking to explore air frying without a significant investment.
What Are the Best Budget-Friendly Air Fryers Available?
The best budget-friendly air fryers available include a variety of models that offer great performance without breaking the bank.
- Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: This model is known for its large capacity and user-friendly design, making it perfect for families. It features 11 preset cooking modes, ensuring versatile meal options, and the removable basket is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
- Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Air Fryer: The Instant Vortex is a versatile appliance that not only air fries but also roasts, bakes, and reheats. It has a sleek design and easy-to-use digital controls, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
- Dash Compact Air Fryer: Ideal for those with limited kitchen space, the Dash Compact Air Fryer is small yet efficient. It heats up quickly and can cook a variety of foods with little to no oil, providing a healthier cooking option while being budget-friendly.
- Black+Decker Purify 2-Liter Air Fryer: This air fryer offers a two-liter capacity, making it suitable for small households or individuals. It features dual convection fans that circulate air for even cooking and comes with a removable basket that is dishwasher safe, enhancing convenience.
- Chefman 6.3 Quart Digital Air Fryer: The Chefman model boasts a spacious 6.3-quart capacity, allowing you to cook meals for a larger group. It includes a digital display with pre-set cooking functions, making it easy to operate and achieve perfect results each time.
Which Air Fryers Offer the Most User-Friendly Features?
Several air fryers have been recognized for their user-friendly features in 2019:
- Philips Airfryer XXL: This model is praised for its large capacity and intuitive digital interface.
- Ninja Foodi Air Fryer: Known for its versatility, it combines multiple cooking functions, making it easy to use.
- Cosori Air Fryer: This air fryer stands out for its preset cooking options and easy-to-read LED display.
- Instant Pot Vortex Plus: It offers a simple control panel with preset options, appealing to both novice and experienced cooks.
- GoWISE USA Air Fryer: Its user-friendly touchscreen and variety of presets cater to different cooking preferences.
The Philips Airfryer XXL features a Smart Sensing technology that automatically adjusts cooking time and temperature, ensuring perfect results every time. Its large capacity can accommodate meals for the whole family, making it ideal for larger households.
The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer is celebrated for its multi-cooking abilities, allowing users to air fry, bake, roast, and even dehydrate food. The one-pot design simplifies the cooking process, enabling easy cleanup and efficiency.
The Cosori Air Fryer includes 11 preset cooking options, which take the guesswork out of meal preparation. Its sleek LED display and non-stick basket enhance the cooking experience while ensuring that food is cooked evenly and healthily.
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus simplifies air frying with a user-friendly control panel that includes several one-touch presets for various types of food. This air fryer is well-suited for quick meals, allowing users to prepare a variety of dishes with minimal effort.
The GoWISE USA Air Fryer features a digital touchscreen that lets users easily navigate through its cooking presets. Its versatility in cooking styles and ease of use make it a popular choice for individuals looking to simplify their cooking routine.
What Are Some Unique Features of the Top Air Fryer Models in 2019?
The best air fryer models in 2019 showcased several unique features that set them apart from each other.
- Instant Pot Duo Crisp: This versatile cooker combines the functions of a pressure cooker and air fryer, allowing users to prepare a wide variety of meals quickly and efficiently.
- Ninja Foodi: Known for its unique TenderCrisp Technology, it allows for pressure cooking and then air frying, resulting in juicy interiors and crispy exteriors for meats and vegetables.
- Philips TurboStar Technology Air Fryer: This model uses a unique starfish design that circulates hot air evenly for perfectly crispy food without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier option.
- Cosori Air Fryer: With its user-friendly digital display and 11 preset cooking modes, this air fryer simplifies meal preparation and offers consistent results for a variety of dishes.
- GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer: Featuring 8 cooking functions and a wide temperature range, this model provides versatility and convenience, allowing for diverse cooking styles including frying, baking, and grilling.
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp stands out due to its dual functionality, making it ideal for users seeking a multi-purpose kitchen appliance. It allows for pressure cooking, which retains moisture, followed by air frying for a crispy finish, offering a complete cooking experience.
The Ninja Foodi’s TenderCrisp Technology is particularly noteworthy as it combines two cooking methods in one appliance. This feature enables users to achieve the best of both worlds: the speed of pressure cooking along with the crispy texture achieved through air frying.
Philips TurboStar Technology Air Fryer is recognized for its innovative design that enhances air circulation, ensuring that food cooks evenly without the need for excess oil. This feature not only improves the taste and texture of the food but also aligns with healthier cooking practices.
The Cosori Air Fryer impresses with its intuitive digital interface that makes it easy to select cooking times and temperatures. The 11 preset modes cater to various types of food, streamlining the cooking process and allowing for consistent results every time.
GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer offers exceptional versatility with its multiple cooking functions. It allows users to experiment with different cooking techniques, making it a practical choice for families or individuals who enjoy diverse meals without needing multiple appliances.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence Your Air Fryer Decision?
Customer reviews play a crucial role in influencing purchasing decisions, especially for appliances like air fryers where practical insights are vital.
- Product Performance: Customer reviews often highlight how well an air fryer performs in terms of cooking efficiency, temperature control, and food quality. These insights can help potential buyers understand if a model truly delivers on its promises.
- Ease of Use: Many reviewers share their experiences regarding the user-friendliness of different air fryers, including setup, cooking times, and cleaning processes. This information is essential for consumers who prioritize convenience and simplicity in their kitchen gadgets.
- Durability and Reliability: Reviews frequently discuss the longevity of an air fryer, detailing any issues with parts or performance over time. Prospective buyers can gauge whether a product is worth the investment based on the experiences of those who have used it long-term.
- Customer Service Experiences: Feedback often includes information on the manufacturer’s customer service, such as responsiveness and support. Knowing how a company handles problems can influence a buyer’s confidence in their purchase.
- Value for Money: Reviews usually assess whether users feel they received good value for the price paid. This helps potential customers compare different models and brands, making informed decisions based on price-to-performance ratios.
- Comparisons with Other Models: Customers often compare their chosen air fryer with other models, discussing strengths and weaknesses. These comparisons can provide insights into which air fryer might be the best option for specific cooking needs or preferences.
What Safety Features Should Be Considered When Buying an Air Fryer?
When buying an air fryer, several safety features should be considered to ensure safe cooking experiences.
- Auto Shut-Off: This feature automatically turns off the air fryer when the cooking process is complete or if it overheats, preventing potential fires or overcooking.
- Cool-Touch Exterior: An air fryer with a cool-touch exterior ensures that the outer surface remains safe to touch even during cooking, reducing the risk of burns.
- Non-Slip Feet: Non-slip feet help keep the air fryer stable while in use, preventing it from sliding or tipping over, which could lead to spills or accidents.
- Safety Locking Mechanism: A safety locking mechanism secures the basket in place during cooking, which prevents accidental opening and potential splatters or burns.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control allows for accurate cooking and reduces the risk of overheating, which can lead to food burning or appliance damage.
The auto shut-off feature is crucial for ensuring that the air fryer does not continue to operate once the cooking time has elapsed, which can be particularly helpful for those who might forget about their food. This safety measure not only protects the appliance but also enhances the safety of your kitchen.
A cool-touch exterior is particularly important for families with children or pets, as it minimizes the risk of accidental burns, allowing for safer handling of the appliance during and after use. This feature promotes peace of mind while cooking.
Non-slip feet are essential for maintaining stability while the air fryer operates, as any movement can lead to spills or potential hazards in the kitchen. This design feature ensures that the air fryer remains in place, even when the basket is being removed.
The safety locking mechanism is designed to prevent the basket from being opened inadvertently during cooking, which is a common safety concern. This feature helps contain hot oil or steam, reducing the risk of burns and ensuring a safer cooking environment.
Temperature control is vital for achieving the desired cooking results without risking overheating. This feature allows users to set and monitor the cooking temperature accurately, preventing food from burning and the possibility of starting a fire.
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