Best air fryers (2026): picks backed by independent tests
At a glance
| Model | Best for | Key specs |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja Air Fryer Pro | most people | 5-quart basket, physical button controls |
| Cosori TurboBlaze 6-Quart | a little more capacity | 6-quart basket |
| Gourmia GAF486 4-Quart | a smaller budget | 4-quart basket |
| Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro | replacing your toaster too | Countertop convection oven with an air-fry mode |
What to look for
- Size for your household. Around 4 to 5 quarts (about 4 to 5 litres) suits one to three people. Bigger families should look at 6 quarts or more, or a dual-basket model.
- Simple controls. Wirecutter specifically praised physical buttons over cluttered touchscreens.
- Spare parts. Baskets and crisper plates wear out. Brands that sell replacements keep the machine useful for longer.
- Counter space. Measure the gap under your wall cupboards; steam vents out of the back or top.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro
Best for: most people
Key specs: 5-quart basket, physical button controls
Wirecutter's top pick. In its tests it heated quickly and gave the crispiest results. Ninja also sells replacement parts.
Cosori TurboBlaze 6-Quart
Best for: a little more capacity
Key specs: 6-quart basket
Wirecutter's runner-up, a good option if you regularly cook for more people.
Gourmia GAF486 4-Quart
Best for: a smaller budget
Key specs: 4-quart basket
Wirecutter's budget pick for people who want an air fryer for less.
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Best for: replacing your toaster too
Key specs: Countertop convection oven with an air-fry mode
Wirecutter says it's one of very few models that work well as both an air fryer and a toaster oven. It's expensive and takes much more space than a pod-style fryer.
Who can skip it
If you already have a convection oven and rarely cook small batches, an air fryer adds little.
Sources
- Wirecutter (The New York Times): The best air fryers
- Wirecutter (The New York Times): The best air fryer toaster ovens
- Consumer Reports: Air fryers
- Which?: Air fryer reviews
Sources checked 15 October 2026.
Model names and specifications vary by country. Check the listing for the exact model number, voltage and plug type for where you live.