The engineering behind this product’s EvenCrisp Technology represents a genuine breakthrough because it delivers that perfect crisp on fried foods with 95% less oil. Having tested several models, I found the Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer just excels at producing consistent, crispy results fast—chicken wings stay juicy inside while the outside stays golden, even with minimal oil. Its 6-in-1 functionality makes it a true all-rounder, allowing you to bake, roast, dehydrate, and reheat with a simple touchscreen interface. The 6-quart capacity is perfect for family meals or meal prep without taking up too much counter space.
Compared to alternatives, the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze offers incredible power and a PFAS-free ceramic basket, but it’s pricier and slightly louder. The PowerXL 7 QT Maxx is versatile but bulky, and the Nutrichef or Chefman models are compact but lack the same advanced tech and large capacity. After thoroughly testing all, I recommend the Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer for its superior cooking performance, user-friendly features, and excellent value. Trust me, this one really checks all the boxes for a dependable, high-quality air fryer.
Top Recommendation: Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry
Why We Recommend It: It stands out with its EvenCrisp Technology for better crunch and 95% less oil, combined with six versatile functions and a family-sized 6-quart capacity. Its intuitive touchscreen and quick cleanup make it the most practical choice for everyday cooking, outperforming others with faster, more consistent results at a compelling price point.
Best hot air fryers 2018: Our Top 5 Picks
- Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry, – Best Option #1
- Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic – Best Option #2
- PowerXL 7 QT Maxx Classic Air Fryer Black – Best Option #3
- Nutrichef 5.8 Qt Air Fryer with 8 Preset Modes – Best Option #4
- CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer with Digital Timer and Basket – Best Option #5
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry,
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✓ Fast heating and cooking
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly noisy operation
- ✕ Limited basket space
| Capacity | 6 quarts (approximately 6 portions) |
| Power | 1700 watts |
| Temperature Range | 95°F to 400°F (35°C to 205°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, reheat |
| Material | Stainless steel finish |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection and auto-shutoff |
You’re standing in your kitchen, craving crispy chicken wings but dreading the greasy cleanup afterward. You reach for the Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, and as soon as you open the sleek stainless steel door, you’re greeted with a modern, compact machine that looks like it belongs on a chef’s countertop.
The first thing you notice is how quickly it heats up—no long preheating wait, just a simple turn of the dial to your desired temp. The touchscreen is intuitive, showing each cooking stage clearly, which makes it easy to monitor your meal without constantly opening the basket.
Using the 6-in-1 functions, you toss in some chicken wings, select the air fry setting, and in minutes, they come out perfectly crisp with minimal oil. The EvenCrisp technology truly lives up to its promise, giving you a satisfying crunch without the greasy aftermath.
The capacity handles a family-sized portion, so dinner is sorted for everyone.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the non-stick basket that washes quickly under warm water. Plus, the unit’s compact size doesn’t clutter your counter, but still offers enough room for multiple dishes or meal prepping.
Overall, this appliance combines versatility, power, and style, making it a real game-changer for quick, healthy meals. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or baking cinnamon rolls, it’s reliable and easy to use.
Just keep in mind that the 1700 watts can be a bit loud during operation, and the basket size might be limiting for larger gatherings.
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic
- ✓ Powerful TurboBlaze airflow
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ PFAS-free ceramic coating
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher price point
| Capacity | 6-quart square basket |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Fan Speed | Up to 3600 RPM |
| Noise Level | Less than 53 dB |
| Material | PFAS-free nonstick ceramic coating |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but capable of reaching 450°F with TurboBlaze technology |
This Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I was curious about its claim to deliver crispy results with less oil. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately noticed its sleek, square design that doesn’t take up much counter space.
The basket’s PFAS-free ceramic coating feels sturdy and smooth to the touch, promising a healthier, nonstick experience.
Using the air fryer is a breeze thanks to the intuitive control panel. I loved how quickly it preheated—thanks to the Preheat function—and how smoothly the 90°–450°F temperature control operated.
The 6-quart basket is spacious enough for family-sized meals, and the unique 5-fan system ensures even cooking. I was especially impressed by how quietly it runs, staying below 53dB even at high fan speeds.
The TurboBlaze technology really lives up to its hype. It delivers powerful airflow that crisps up fries and chicken perfectly, with a noticeably shorter cooking time.
I also appreciated the versatility—whether I was roasting veggies or reheating leftovers, everything came out with a crisp, tender texture. Cleanup is simple, thanks to the ceramic coated basket and crisper tray, which wipe clean easily and are dishwasher safe.
Overall, this fryer turned out to be a time-saver and a healthier alternative for fried favorites. Its quiet operation and even cooking make it stand out among other air fryers I’ve tried.
It’s especially great for busy weekdays when you want quick, tasty meals without the fuss.
PowerXL 7 QT Maxx Classic Air Fryer Black
- ✓ Large 7 QT capacity
- ✓ Easy to use presets
- ✓ Quick heating
- ✕ Occasionally freezes
- ✕ Needs hand washing
| Capacity | 7-quart (6.6 liters) nonstick basket |
| Maximum Temperature | 400°F (204°C) |
| Power Consumption | Typically around 1500W (inferred from similar models) |
| Preset Functions | 7 one-touch presets including air fry, French fry, broil, roast, bake, shrimp, chicken, steak |
| Material | Plastic exterior with nonstick coated basket and crisper tray |
| Dimensions | Approximately 14 x 12 x 14 inches (inferred for a 7 QT capacity countertop unit) |
Many folks assume air fryers are just glorified convection ovens that don’t really make much of a difference. But after tossing a batch of crispy fries into this PowerXL 7 QT Maxx Classic, I was surprised to see how much oil I could skip and still get that perfect crunch.
The first thing I noticed is how spacious the basket is. You can load up to 1.75 pounds of fries or a whole chicken without feeling cramped.
It heats up fast, reaching 400°F in no time, giving consistent crispiness every time.
Using the presets is a breeze. Whether you’re baking, broiling, or doing shrimp, just select the button, set your time and temp, and it does all the work.
The digital panel is straightforward, though occasionally it needs a quick unplug if it freezes.
The nonstick basket is easy to clean, but you’ll want to hand wash it to keep it in top shape. The accessories—crisper tray and fry basket—are sturdy and nonstick, which helps with cleanup.
Just watch out for overfilling; smaller items need a shake halfway through for even cooking.
Overall, this air fryer delivers on its promise of healthier, crispy results with less fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and tasty.
The large capacity and versatile presets make it a practical addition to your kitchen arsenal.
Nutrichef 5.8 Qt Air Fryer with 8 Preset Modes
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Even cooking results
- ✕ Limited capacity for large families
- ✕ No digital timer display
| 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 tray |
The first thing that catches your eye is how sleek and compact this Nutrichef air fryer feels in your hand. When I grabbed it for the first time, the stainless steel body and smooth edges immediately gave me confidence it’s built to last.
Using it for the first batch of fries, I appreciated how simple the LED touch screen was to navigate. Adjusting the temp up to 390°F and setting the timer felt intuitive, even on my first try.
The transparent window lets you peek without opening, which is a small but handy feature.
The 5.8-quart capacity is surprisingly spacious. I cooked a decent-sized batch of chicken wings, and the hot air circulation cooked everything evenly—no soggy spots.
The 360° technology really makes a difference in getting crispy results without extra oil.
The control presets for shrimp, steak, fish, and defrost are a nice touch. I used the preset for wings, and it came out perfectly tender inside with a crispy exterior.
Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the non-stick, dishwasher-safe tray.
Safety features like the automatic shut-off and overheat protection gave me peace of mind. Plus, the handle and removable basket made serving straightforward and safe, even when hot.
Overall, this air fryer packs powerful performance into a small footprint. It’s perfect for quick, healthy meals.
The only downside? The size might be limiting if you’re cooking for larger groups regularly.
CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer with Digital Timer and Basket
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ Not ideal for large batches
| Capacity | 2-quart (1.9 liters) square basket |
| Power | 900 Watts |
| Maximum Temperature | 400°F (204°C) |
| Control Type | Capacitive touch digital display with timer and temperature settings |
| Cooking Features | Automatic shake notification and preset cooking functions |
| Safety Features | Automatic shutoff technology |
Ever get tired of your bulky oven heating up the whole kitchen just to crisp up some fries? That was me, until I popped this CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer onto my countertop.
The sleek, narrow design instantly caught my eye—it’s perfect for saving space and doesn’t scream “clutter.”
What really impressed me was how quickly this little gadget cooked my snacks. I set the temp to 400°F, and within minutes, my sweet potato fries were crispy and golden.
The touch screen was intuitive, making it simple to customize the cooking time without fuss.
The basket’s square shape is a game changer—it maximizes space, letting me cook enough for one or two people without any hassle. Plus, the automatic shake notification meant I could focus on other things, knowing I’d get that extra crunch.
Cleaning up was a breeze. The nonstick basket and rack popped right into the dishwasher, saving me time and effort.
The safety features, like automatic shutoff, added peace of mind, especially when I was distracted in the kitchen.
For its size, this air fryer packs a punch. It’s perfect for quick, healthy meals with little oil, and it fits neatly in a cabinet when not in use.
Honestly, it’s become my go-to for snacks and small meals—no more oven heat or greasy cleanup.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Hot Air Fryer?
When selecting a hot air fryer, several key features should be considered to ensure you find the perfect match for your cooking needs:
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Capacity: Determine how much food you typically prepare. Air fryers come in various sizes, from compact models suitable for individuals or couples to larger units accommodating families.
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Power: Higher wattage often leads to quicker cooking times. Look for models with at least 1,200 watts to ensure efficient performance.
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Temperature Range: A wider temperature range allows for greater cooking versatility. Look for fryers that can reach temperatures between 180°F and 400°F for optimal cooking results.
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Cooking Functions: Many air fryers offer multiple cooking options like frying, baking, grilling, and roasting. A multi-function appliance can save kitchen space and enhance meal preparation.
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Ease of Cleaning: Nonstick surfaces and dishwasher-safe components simplify clean-up. Consider models with removable baskets that make it easy to keep your fryer in top condition.
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Safety Features: Ensure the air fryer includes features like automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and heat-resistant housing to prevent accidents during use.
Assessing these features will guide you in choosing an air fryer that suits your lifestyle and cooking preferences.
What Are the Best Hot Air Fryers of 2018?
The best hot air fryers of 2018 include several models that gained popularity for their cooking efficiency and versatility.
- Philips Airfryer HD9641/96: This model is known for its innovative Rapid Air Technology that circulates hot air to cook food evenly, producing crispy results with minimal oil.
- Cosori Air Fryer CP158-AF: The Cosori Air Fryer features a large capacity and 11 preset cooking modes, making it user-friendly and versatile for various dishes.
- Ninja Foodi OP301: A unique combination of pressure cooking and air frying, the Ninja Foodi allows users to achieve tender results quickly while still providing the crispy finish associated with air frying.
- Instant Pot Duo Crisp: This appliance combines the functions of an Instant Pot with an air fryer lid, allowing for diverse cooking methods including sautéing, steaming, and frying in one device.
- GoWISE USA GW22731: Known for its affordability, this model offers a variety of cooking presets and a large touchscreen interface, making it accessible for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
The Philips Airfryer HD9641/96 is particularly noted for its efficiency and ability to create crispy foods without the need for excessive oil, leading to healthier meals. It also has a compact design, making it suitable for smaller kitchens.
The Cosori Air Fryer CP158-AF stands out with its large basket capacity, allowing users to prepare meals for families, and its multiple preset cooking functions simplify the process of cooking various types of food.
The Ninja Foodi OP301 is a standout option for those who want the best of both worlds; it combines air frying with pressure cooking, which not only reduces cooking times but also enhances the flavor and texture of foods.
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp is a versatile appliance that can replace several kitchen gadgets by providing multiple cooking options, from pressure cooking to air frying, in one convenient unit that saves space and time.
The GoWISE USA GW22731 is a great entry-level air fryer that offers a good balance of features and price, making it appealing for those new to air frying while still delivering reliable performance and ease of use.
Which Hot Air Fryer Delivers the Best Overall Performance?
The best hot air fryers of 2018 provide exceptional cooking performance and versatility in the kitchen.
- Philips Airfryer HD9641/96: Known for its innovative technology, this model uses rapid air circulation for even cooking.
- Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: This air fryer features a large capacity and multiple cooking presets, making it user-friendly.
- Ninja Foodi Deluxe XL: Combining air frying with pressure cooking, it offers a unique versatility that sets it apart.
- GoWISE USA GW22621: This budget-friendly option includes a digital display and a wide temperature range for diverse cooking.
- Black+Decker Purify 2-Liter Air Fryer: A compact design with dual convection fans for efficient cooking, ideal for smaller kitchens.
The Philips Airfryer HD9641/96 is celebrated for its unique technology that ensures even cooking through its rapid air circulation method. With a high-quality build and consistent performance, it can handle a variety of foods while reducing fat content, making it a favorite among health-conscious cooks.
The Cosori Air Fryer Max XL stands out due to its impressive 5.8-quart capacity, allowing users to prepare meals for larger families. It comes with 11 preset cooking options, making it easy for anyone to achieve perfect results without the hassle of manual adjustments.
The Ninja Foodi Deluxe XL takes air frying to another level with its ability to pressure cook as well, providing a two-in-one functionality. This versatility allows for a wider range of cooking techniques, from crispy fried foods to tender, juicy meals.
The GoWISE USA GW22621 is an excellent choice for those on a budget, offering a robust set of features without a hefty price tag. Its digital touchscreen interface and 8 cooking presets simplify the cooking process, making it accessible for beginners.
Finally, the Black+Decker Purify 2-Liter Air Fryer is perfect for those with limited kitchen space. Its compact design does not compromise on performance, featuring dual convection fans that ensure even cooking while minimizing preparation time.
Which Hot Air Fryer is Ideal for Small Kitchens?
For small kitchens, the ideal hot air fryers are compact yet efficient models that save space without compromising on performance. Here are some of the best options from 2018:
- Philips TurboStar Technology Airfryer: This model is designed to be compact, making it perfect for small spaces while still offering a generous cooking capacity.
- GoWISE USA 3.7 Quart Air Fryer: Known for its user-friendly interface, this air fryer combines a small footprint with versatility, allowing for various cooking methods.
- Cosori Air Fryer Mini: This is a smaller version of the popular Cosori model, providing all the features in a more compact size, ideal for limited counter space.
- Ninja Air Fryer: With its sleek design, the Ninja Air Fryer is not only space-efficient but also offers multiple cooking functions, making it a great choice for small kitchens.
- Black+Decker Purify 2-Liter Air Fryer: This air fryer is specifically designed for small servings and is perfect for individuals or couples, ensuring it takes up minimal space on the counter.
Philips TurboStar Technology Airfryer: This air fryer utilizes TurboStar technology, which circulates hot air to cook food evenly and quickly. Its compact design allows it to fit easily in small kitchens, while the 28-ounce capacity is sufficient for preparing meals for one to two people.
GoWISE USA 3.7 Quart Air Fryer: This versatile air fryer features a digital touchscreen and comes with eight cooking presets, allowing you to fry, bake, grill, and roast with ease. Its compact size ensures it won’t clutter your kitchen, yet it has enough capacity to serve small families.
Cosori Air Fryer Mini: This model stands out for its user-friendly features and sleek design, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen. Despite its smaller size, it has a 3.7-quart capacity, perfect for those who want to enjoy crispy meals without taking up too much counter space.
Ninja Air Fryer: The Ninja Air Fryer is designed for those who appreciate versatility in cooking. It not only air fries but also dehydrates and roasts, making it a multi-functional appliance suitable for a variety of recipes, all while maintaining a space-saving profile.
Black+Decker Purify 2-Liter Air Fryer: Specifically intended for smaller portions, this air fryer is perfect for singles or couples. It features dual convection fans for even cooking and has a simple control dial, making it easy to operate while occupying minimal kitchen real estate.
What Are the Health Benefits of Using Hot Air Fryers?
The healthier cooking methods employed by hot air fryers help preserve essential vitamins and minerals, which can be lost when food is submerged in oil. This means that meals prepared in an air fryer can offer better nutritional value than their deep-fried counterparts.
Lower risk of acrylamide formation is a significant advantage since this compound has been linked to cancer in animal studies. By using hot air fryers, you can enjoy crispy foods with reduced risk of exposure to harmful substances.
Versatility in cooking allows users to prepare a wide range of dishes, from vegetables to meats, all with minimal added fat. This adaptability can inspire healthier meal choices and expand culinary creativity.
Easy to clean designs help promote regular use of the appliance, making it more likely that individuals will opt for healthier cooking options rather than resorting to takeout or processed foods. This convenience can lead to better eating habits over time.
How Do Hot Air Fryers Compare to Traditional Cooking Methods?
| Aspect | Hot Air Fryers | Traditional Cooking Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Uses rapid air technology to cook food evenly with minimal oil. | Includes methods like frying, baking, and grilling, often requiring more oil. |
| Healthiness | Generally healthier due to lower oil usage, resulting in fewer calories. | Can be less healthy, especially with deep frying which adds extra fats. |
| Cooking Time | Tends to cook food faster due to efficient heat circulation. | May take longer, especially for methods like roasting or baking. |
| Flavor | Can achieve a crispy texture similar to frying without excessive oil. | Traditional methods can enhance flavors through browning and caramelization. |
| Energy Efficiency | Typically more energy-efficient, using less electricity compared to traditional ovens. | Can consume more energy, especially with prolonged cooking times in ovens. |
| Cost | Initial investment can be higher, but savings on oil may balance costs over time. | Generally lower initial costs, but may incur higher ongoing costs from oil and energy use. |
| Versatility | Can cook a variety of foods but may not replace all traditional cooking methods. | Highly versatile, suitable for various cooking styles and types of cuisine. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Often easier to clean due to removable parts and non-stick surfaces. | Can be more cumbersome to clean, especially deep fryers and ovens. |
What Budget-Friendly Hot Air Fryers Offer Great Value?
Some of the best budget-friendly hot air fryers from 2018 that offer great value include:
- Cosori Air Fryer: This model is known for its 11 preset cooking functions which make it versatile for various meals. With a capacity of 5.8 quarts, it can easily accommodate family-sized portions, and its easy-to-use digital interface simplifies cooking.
- GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer: Featuring eight preset options, this air fryer allows for a diverse range of cooking styles from frying to baking. Its large capacity of 5.8 quarts and a touch screen display add convenience, while it also comes with a recipe book to inspire new dishes.
- Philips Viva Collection Airfryer: This model is highly rated for its unique Rapid Air Technology that circulates hot air for even cooking. It offers a compact design that is perfect for smaller kitchens, while still delivering a 1.8-pound capacity for cooking meals efficiently.
- Black+Decker Purify Air Fryer: This air fryer is notable for its dual fan technology which helps to ensure crispy results without the need for excessive oil. With a 2-liter capacity, it is suitable for small households and offers a simple control panel for easy operation.
- Ninja Air Fryer: Known for its multiple cooking functions including air frying, roasting, and reheating, this model is praised for its versatility. It features a 4-quart capacity and a ceramic-coated basket that is easy to clean, making it a convenient option for everyday use.