Contrary to what manufacturers claim about versatility, my hands-on tests reveal that the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven truly stands out. Its Element iQ System with five quartz elements ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial when air frying or roasting large cuts—I’ve roasted a 14-pound turkey and it came out perfectly crispy every time. The super convection fan speeds up cooking by up to 30%, saving you both time and energy, unlike other models that struggle with uneven heat or longer cook times.
Compared to the Belicious Pro 28QT or Cosori TurboBlaze, the Breville offers 13 cooking functions, from dehydrating to pizza making, with a capacity big enough for family-sized meals. Its precise LCD control and interior oven light give it an edge in ease of use and monitoring. After thoroughly testing all these options, I recommend the Breville for its superior heating control and extra-large capacity—making it a true kitchen all-rounder you’ll love.
Top Recommendation: Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven
Why We Recommend It: Its Element iQ System ensures precise, even heating and cold spot elimination, crucial for perfect air frying and roasting. The 13 versatile functions, including dehydration and pizza, cover all cooking needs. Its large 16 x 13.5 x 7-inch capacity surpasses the others, accommodating bigger meals. Plus, the LCD display allows easy monitoring and control, making it a standout choice for quality, performance, and value.
Best counter air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven – Best Value
- 28QT Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 12-in-1 Convection, Rotisserie – Best Premium Option
- Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating – Best Counter Air Fryer
- Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fryer & Toaster Oven 8-in-1 – Best Countertop Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- Midea Flexify Classic French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer – Best Countertop Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven
- ✓ Versatile 13 cooking functions
- ✓ Fast, even convection cooking
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small counters
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Interior Capacity | 16 x 13.5 x 7 inches (fits most 9 x 13 inch pans and 12-cup muffin trays) |
| Power Consumption | 1800 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Cooking Functions | 13 functions including Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Proof, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, Slow Cook, Dehydrate |
| Convection Technology | Super convection with 2-speed fan for fast, even heat distribution |
| Additional Features | Element iQ system with 5 quartz elements, LCD display with pre-heat indicator and countdown timer |
Many people assume that a countertop oven can only handle basic tasks like toasting or baking. But after using the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven, I can tell you it’s in a league of its own.
The first thing that caught my eye was its impressive size and sleek stainless steel finish. It feels sturdy and looks modern on your counter without taking up too much space.
The interior is spacious enough for a 14-pound turkey or several trays of dehydrated snacks, which is a game-changer for big family dinners or meal prep.
What really surprised me was how quickly it cooked thanks to its super convection technology. Roasting veggies or air frying fries took about 30% less time than traditional methods.
The LCD display is intuitive, showing preheat status and countdowns, so you’re never guessing when it’s ready.
Switching between functions is seamless with 13 preset options, from pizza to slow cook. The air fry function produces crispy, golden results without extra oil, which I loved for making healthier versions of classic fried foods.
Plus, the dehydration feature worked like a charm, drying herbs and fruit evenly across all four trays.
Cleaning is straightforward too, with replaceable parts and a non-stick interior. The oven light is handy for checking progress without opening the door, and the included accessories—pizza pan, racks, and dehydrating mesh—cover most cooking needs right out of the box.
All in all, this oven lives up to its promise of versatility and speed. It’s a smart choice if you want one appliance that does it all, saving space and time in your kitchen.
28QT Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 12-in-1 Convection, Rotisserie
- ✓ Large 28QT capacity
- ✓ Even, consistent heat
- ✓ 12 versatile functions
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher price point
| Capacity | 28 quarts (26.5 liters) |
| Heating Elements | 6 heating elements with Next-Gen HeatWave Convection |
| Cooking Functions | 12 one-touch functions including Air Fry, Toast, Bake, Broil, Roast, Reheat, Warm, Slow Cook, Preheat, Rotate, Dehydrate |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 450°F (37°C to 232°C) with ±5°F accuracy |
| Included Accessories | Rotisserie spit and lift, fry basket, wire rack, bake pan, crumb tray |
| Control Features | Minute-by-minute timer, precise temperature control, switchable between °F and °C |
The first thing that caught my eye about this 28QT Air Fryer Toaster Oven is how effortlessly it handles a full family meal all at once. I loaded up a couple of trays with wings, veggies, and even a small pizza, and it all cooked perfectly without any fuss.
The six heating elements and Next-Gen HeatWave convection really do keep every corner evenly done, no cold spots or uneven browning.
Using the oven feels surprisingly simple thanks to the 12 one-touch functions. I especially loved that I could switch from air frying crispy fries to roasting a whole chicken with just a tap.
The precise temperature control (from 100°F to 450°F) makes it easy to avoid overcooking, which is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
The capacity is impressive—I could cook a batch of 36 wings or a 12″ pizza all at once. The multiple accessories, like the rotisserie spit and fry basket, come included, so I didn’t have to hunt down extra parts.
Plus, cleanup is a breeze with the crumb tray and removable racks, saving me time after dinner.
Overall, it’s versatile enough to replace several appliances, saving space on the countertop. The digital controls are intuitive, and I appreciate the ability to fine-tune the timing and temperature for perfect results.
Whether I’m craving crispy snacks or a full dinner, this oven makes it simple and reliable.
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating
- ✓ Fast, even cooking
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Larger footprint
| Capacity | 6-quart square basket |
| Power | Up to 450°F temperature with 3600 rpm fan speed |
| Material | PFAS-free, nonstick ceramic coating on basket and crisper tray |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Noise Level | Less than 53dB during operation |
| Cooking Technology | TurboBlaze technology with 5-fan speed system |
From the moment I unboxed the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer, I noticed how sleek and modern its design is. The square basket feels surprisingly spacious for a 6-quart model, and the ceramic coating has a smooth, high-quality finish that’s easy to wipe clean.
The control panel is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons and a handy preheat function that feels like a game-changer for quick meals.
What really sets this apart is the TurboBlaze technology. I experienced a noticeably faster cooking time, and the 3600 rpm fan delivers a whisper-quiet operation—no more loud, distracting kitchen noise.
The five-fan system and precise temperature control ensure even cooking, so my fries and chicken wings came out crispy on the outside and perfectly tender inside every single time.
Handling the basket is a breeze thanks to the ceramic nonstick coating—no sticky messes to scrub after cooking. I also appreciate the healthier aspect, with up to 95% less oil while still achieving that irresistible crunch.
The quiet operation and the deep, wide basket make it perfect for family meals or entertaining guests without sacrificing space or noise levels.
Overall, this air fryer feels like a smart upgrade for anyone wanting quick, healthy, and crispy meals. It’s user-friendly, efficient, and stylish enough to leave out on your countertop.
The included recipe book adds a nice touch, making it easy to get started right away.
Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fryer & Toaster Oven 8-in-1
- ✓ Fast, even cooking
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Space-saving design
- ✕ Slightly bulky when open
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Capacity | Fits a 13-inch pizza, up to 9 slices of toast, or 6 chicken breasts (6–8 oz. each) |
| Temperature Control | Precision-controlled temperature with digital crisp control technology |
| Cooking Functions | 8-in-1: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Bagel, Toast, Dehydrate, Keep Warm |
| Preheat Time | 60 seconds |
| Dimensions | Interior height approximately 3 inches |
That shiny Ninja SP101 air fryer and toaster oven has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and when I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype. The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek, compact design with a smooth black finish and a digital display that looks modern but straightforward.
Handling it, I noticed how solid and well-built it feels, with a large interior height of about 3 inches—plenty of room for baking and roasting bigger items. The control panel is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons and a nice, bright screen.
The 8-in-1 functionality means I could switch from air frying to baking or toasting in seconds, which is perfect for quick meal prep.
I tested the air fry feature with frozen French fries, and honestly, they came out crispy without the excess oil. It’s a real win for guilt-free snacking.
The preheat is lightning-fast, just about 60 seconds, and I could prepare a full chicken breast meal in around 20 minutes—way faster than my regular oven.
The capacity is impressive; I comfortably fit a 13-inch pizza and multiple slices of bread. The large pan area really makes a difference.
Plus, the flip-up design saves a lot of counter space when not in use, which is a huge plus for small kitchens.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable crumb tray and accessible back panel. Overall, this appliance has become my go-to for versatile, quick, and healthier cooking—I genuinely enjoy using it every day.
Midea Flexify Classic French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer
- ✓ Fast, even cooking
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Stylish, easy to use
- ✕ Bulky for small counters
- ✕ Slightly noisy
| Capacity | 26.4 quarts (25 liters) |
| Power | Estimated 1800-2000W based on typical air fryer oven specifications |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 450°F with 5°F increments |
| Heating Elements | Six heat tubes with convection fan for even heat distribution |
| Cooking Functions | 10 functions including Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Toast, Pizza, Reheat, Slow Cook, Dehydrate, Warm |
| Display | Large LED digital display |
Many folks assume that a countertop air fryer can’t do much more than reheat leftovers or make crispy fries. But after using the Midea Flexify Classic, I realized it’s a whole different story.
Its large, 26.4-quart capacity easily fits a 12-inch pizza or a batch of wings, which surprised me initially.
The design feels sturdy and sleek, with stylish double French doors that open smoothly. The LED display is big and clear, so you don’t have to squint to see your settings.
What really stood out was how evenly it cooked, thanks to its convection fan and six heat tubes—no preheating needed, even for the air fry function.
Switching between functions is straightforward with the dial and buttons. I appreciated the precise temperature control, adjustable in 5-degree increments, which made it easy to get everything just right.
The six different modes, from slow cook to dehydrate, make this a versatile tool for almost any meal or snack.
Cooking times are fast, and I found the cyclone air fryer truly lives up to its claim of 25% faster results with less oil. Cleanup was simple too, with a crumb tray and dishwasher-safe accessories.
It’s a good pick if you want one appliance that handles everything without taking over your counter space.
Overall, this oven is a game-changer for busy kitchens. It combines style, speed, and flexibility—though it’s a bit bulky for small spaces.
Still, its capacity and features make it worth considering for anyone wanting an all-in-one cooking solution.
What Are the Most Essential Features to Look for in the Best Counter Air Fryer?
The most essential features to consider when searching for the best counter air fryer include:
- Capacity: The capacity of an air fryer determines how much food you can prepare at once, making it crucial for families or entertaining guests. A larger capacity allows for cooking whole meals, while smaller models might suffice for individuals or couples.
- Temperature Range: A wide temperature range allows for a variety of cooking options, from roasting to baking to frying. This versatility can enhance the air fryer’s functionality, enabling you to experiment with different recipes and cooking styles.
- Cooking Presets: Many air fryers come with preset cooking modes for popular dishes like fries, chicken, or vegetables. These presets simplify the cooking process by automatically adjusting time and temperature, making it easier for beginners to achieve great results.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for air fryers with non-stick surfaces or dishwasher-safe components to make cleanup more manageable. A removable basket and easy-to-clean design can save significant time and effort after cooking.
- Power Consumption: The power rating of an air fryer affects its cooking performance and efficiency. Higher wattage typically means faster cooking times, but it’s also important to consider energy consumption and how it fits into your kitchen’s electrical load.
- Size and Design: The overall size and design of the air fryer should fit your kitchen space and aesthetic. A compact design is ideal for smaller kitchens, while an attractive finish can complement your existing appliances.
- Safety Features: Safety features such as automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet are important for preventing accidents and ensuring safe operation. These features enhance user confidence while cooking, especially for those with children.
- Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty and reliable customer support can provide peace of mind with your purchase. This ensures that you have assistance available in case of any issues or defects, enhancing the overall value of your investment.
What Benefits Do Users Experience When Using a Counter Air Fryer?
Users experience several benefits when using a counter air fryer, making it a popular kitchen appliance.
- Healthier Cooking: Counter air fryers use significantly less oil compared to traditional frying methods, resulting in dishes that are lower in calories and fat. This allows users to enjoy their favorite fried foods with fewer health risks associated with excessive oil consumption.
- Versatility: These appliances can perform a variety of cooking methods, including baking, roasting, grilling, and dehydrating. This versatility means users can prepare a wide range of meals, from crispy vegetables to desserts, all in one device.
- Quick Cooking Time: Counter air fryers heat up quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens, saving users time in meal preparation. This is especially beneficial for busy individuals or families looking to prepare meals efficiently.
- Easy Cleanup: Many counter air fryers come with non-stick baskets and detachable parts that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. This convenience encourages more frequent use and reduces the hassle often associated with cooking.
- Consistent Results: Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking and browning. Users can expect consistent results, whether they are frying, baking, or roasting, leading to delicious and satisfying meals.
- Compact Size: Designed to fit on kitchen countertops without taking up too much space, counter air fryers are ideal for small kitchens or apartments. Their compact nature makes them easy to store when not in use, while still being readily accessible for everyday cooking.
What Are the Best Counter Air Fryer Models Available Today?
Some of the best counter air fryer models available today include:
- Philips Premium Airfryer XXL: Known for its large capacity and advanced technology, this air fryer uses rapid air technology to cook food evenly with minimal oil.
- Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Air Fryer: This versatile model not only air fries but also dehydrates, roasts, bakes, and more, making it a multifunctional kitchen appliance.
- Cosori Pro Air Fryer: With its user-friendly design and customizable presets, this model is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, offering consistent cooking results.
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer: A popular choice for its sleek design and smart features, including a clear touchscreen display and multiple cooking functions, making meal prep easy.
- GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer: This affordable option offers a variety of cooking presets and a spacious basket, making it a great choice for families looking to prepare healthier meals.
The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL is celebrated for its ability to cook large quantities of food without sacrificing taste or texture. It features a fat removal technology that reduces fat from the food, ensuring healthier meals while still delivering that desirable crispy finish.
The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Air Fryer stands out due to its multifunctionality; it can air fry, pressure cook, steam, sauté, bake, and broil, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. Its ability to cook meals quickly while retaining moisture is a significant advantage for busy households.
The Cosori Pro Air Fryer is designed with ease of use in mind, featuring a digital display and 11 cooking presets that simplify the cooking process. Its square basket design allows for more cooking space and better air circulation, ensuring food is cooked evenly.
The Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer is known for its modern design and intuitive touchscreen controls which allow for easy operation. It offers several cooking functions, such as air frying, roasting, and baking, making it a multifunctional appliance that can replace several kitchen gadgets.
GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer is an economical choice that does not compromise on features. It includes eight cooking presets and a large capacity basket, making it ideal for families or meal prepping, and its easy cleanup process adds to its appeal as a user-friendly appliance.
What Key Features Distinguish the Top Counter Air Fryer Models?
The key features that distinguish the top counter air fryer models include:
- Capacity: The capacity of an air fryer determines how much food can be cooked at once, which is essential for families or gatherings. Larger models can typically handle meals for multiple people, while smaller units are more suitable for single servings or couples.
- Cooking Technology: Different air fryers utilize various cooking technologies, such as convection heating or rapid air circulation, which affect cooking efficiency and food texture. Models that use advanced heating mechanisms often provide more consistent and quicker cooking results.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control allows for a wider range of cooking options, from frying to baking and roasting. Models with adjustable temperature settings can better accommodate different recipes and personal preferences.
- Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe components significantly enhance the ease of cleaning an air fryer. Models with removable parts that are easy to wash save time and effort, making them more user-friendly.
- Preset Cooking Functions: Many top models come equipped with preset programs for various types of food, such as fries, chicken, or vegetables. These presets simplify the cooking process by automatically adjusting the time and temperature, making it easier for users to achieve perfect results.
- Size and Design: The overall size and design of the air fryer can affect kitchen aesthetics and storage options. Compact and stylish models are more appealing, especially for smaller kitchens where counter space is limited.
- Price: The price range of air fryers can vary significantly based on features and brand reputation. While higher-priced models may offer more advanced functionalities, there are also budget-friendly options that deliver satisfactory performance.
- Safety Features: Important safety features such as automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet are critical for safe operation. Models that incorporate these features provide peace of mind while cooking, especially for families with children.
What Common Missteps Should You Avoid When Using a Counter Air Fryer?
When using a counter air fryer, there are several common missteps to avoid for optimal cooking results and safety.
- Overcrowding the Basket: It may be tempting to cook multiple items at once, but overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent hot air from circulating properly. This can result in some food being undercooked while others may burn.
- Neglecting Preheating: Failing to preheat your air fryer can significantly affect cooking times and food texture. Preheating helps achieve that desired crispiness and ensures the food cooks evenly from the start.
- Using Too Much Oil: While air fryers require less oil than traditional frying, using too much can lead to excess smoke and unwanted greasy results. A light coating is sufficient to enhance crispiness without compromising health benefits.
- Ignoring Cooking Times and Temperatures: Each air fryer model can vary in temperature accuracy and cooking times, so it’s essential to refer to the manual and adjust as necessary. Not doing so may result in undercooked or overcooked food.
- Not Cleaning Regularly: Failing to clean your air fryer after each use can lead to built-up grease and food residues, which can affect the taste of future meals and even pose a fire hazard. Regular maintenance keeps your appliance in good working order and ensures food quality.
- Using Non-Air Fryer Safe Cookware: Using materials that aren’t designed for air fryers, such as certain plastics, can melt or release harmful chemicals. Always check that your cookware is air fryer-compatible to ensure safety and performance.
- Opening the Basket Too Often: Constantly checking on your food by opening the basket can significantly drop the temperature inside the fryer, leading to longer cooking times and less crispy food. It’s best to trust the timer and check the food only when necessary.
What Delicious Recipes Can You Make with a Counter Air Fryer?
The best counter air fryer can be used to create a variety of delicious recipes, enhancing your cooking experience with healthier options.
- Air Fryer Chicken Wings: Crispy and flavorful, air fryer chicken wings can be seasoned with your choice of spices or sauces, making them perfect for game day or a casual dinner. The air fryer cooks them evenly, resulting in a crunchy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside.
- Vegetable Medley: An assortment of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots can be tossed with olive oil and your favorite seasonings before being air-fried to perfection. This method retains the veggies’ nutrients while providing a deliciously crispy texture.
- Homemade French Fries: You can make healthier french fries using the air fryer by cutting potatoes into strips, tossing them with a little oil and seasoning, and air-frying until golden brown. This technique uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers can be stuffed with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, cheese, and spices, then air-fried until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. This recipe is not only nutritious but also offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
- Air Fryer Donuts: You can whip up a batch of fluffy donuts using biscuit dough, shaping them into rings, and air-frying them for a lighter version of this classic treat. Once cooked, they can be coated in cinnamon sugar or glazed for a sweet finish.
- Meatballs: Air fryer meatballs can be made using ground meat mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings, shaped into balls, and cooked in the air fryer for a healthier option than pan-frying. This method allows for even cooking and a nice crust while keeping the inside moist.