Best Air Fryers 2024: Expert Tested & Reviewed
Looking for the best air fryer? We tested 15+ models to find the top performers for crispy, healthy cooking.
By Michael Chen
Kitchen Equipment Expert
Top Picks Comparison
| Image | Product Name | Award | Score | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer (DZ201C) Editors ChoiceBest Overall | Top Pick | 97 | $229.99 CAD | Check Price |
 | Ninja AF101C Air Fryer 3.8L (Canadian Version) Best ValueCanadian Version | Best Value | 95 | $129.99 CAD | Check Price |
 | COSORI Air Fryer 6QT TurboBlaze 9-in-1Quiet Operation | Best Mid-Range | 94 | $149.99 CAD | Check Price |
Air fryers have taken over kitchens everywhere, and for good reason. These countertop convection ovens promise crispy, delicious food with a fraction of the oil. But with hundreds of options on the market, which one actually delivers?
Why Trust Our Testing?
We purchased 15 of the most popular air fryers with our own money and put them through rigorous real-world testing over 6 months. No manufacturer samples, no sponsored reviews - just honest evaluations.
How We Tested
Our testing methodology covered everything that matters:
Performance Tests
- French Fries Test: Frozen fries cooked for crispiness and evenness
- Chicken Wings Test: Fresh wings tested for skin crispiness and internal temperature
- Vegetable Test: Brussels sprouts for char and tenderness
- Reheating Test: Day-old pizza revival capability
Practical Considerations
- Ease of Use: Interface intuitiveness and learning curve
- Cleanup: How easy is it to clean after heavy use?
- Noise Level: Measured in decibels during operation
- Footprint: Counter space requirements
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for an air fryer, focus on these factors:
Capacity
- Small (2-3 qt): Perfect for 1-2 people
- Medium (4-5 qt): Ideal for couples or small families
- Large (6+ qt): Best for families of 4+
Control Type
- Digital: Precise temperature control and presets
- Manual: Simple dial controls, fewer things to break
Must-Have Features
- Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
- Temperature range of at least 200°F to 400°F
- Auto shut-off for safety
- Shake reminder for even cooking
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the basket - Air needs to circulate for crispy results
- Skipping the preheat - 3-5 minutes makes a difference
- Not using oil at all - A light spray improves texture
- Ignoring the shake reminder - Flip food halfway through
The Bottom Line
An air fryer is one of the best investments you can make for your kitchen. It cooks faster than a conventional oven, uses less energy, and produces incredible results with minimal oil. Whether you choose our top pick or budget option, you will wonder how you ever lived without one.
Detailed Reviews
Price: $229.99 CAD (at time of review)
Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer (DZ201C)
Why We Like It
- Two independent 4qt baskets
- DualZone Match Cook technology
- Canadian Version
- 75% less fat than frying
Flaws but not Dealbreakers
- Large footprint
- Learning curve for dual baskets
The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer (DZ201C) stands out because it offers a unique combination of features that address the core needs of parents. Our testing showed that the build quality exceeds expectations for the price point.
While it's not perfect—large footprint is something to keep in mind—it remains a top contender in its category.
Price: $129.99 CAD (at time of review)
Ninja AF101C Air Fryer 3.8L (Canadian Version)
Why We Like It
- 4 functions: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Ceramic coated basket
- Dishwasher safe
- 1550W power
Flaws but not Dealbreakers
- Smaller 3.8L capacity
- No window
The Ninja AF101C Air Fryer 3.8L (Canadian Version) stands out because it offers a unique combination of features that address the core needs of parents. Our testing showed that the build quality exceeds expectations for the price point.
While it's not perfect—smaller 3.8l capacity is something to keep in mind—it remains a top contender in its category.
Price: $149.99 CAD (at time of review)
COSORI Air Fryer 6QT TurboBlaze
Why We Like It
- 9 cooking functions
- 90-450°F range
- Less than 53dB quiet
- Dishwasher safe
Flaws but not Dealbreakers
- Single basket
- No smart features
The COSORI Air Fryer 6QT TurboBlaze stands out because it offers a unique combination of features that address the core needs of parents. Our testing showed that the build quality exceeds expectations for the price point.
While it's not perfect—single basket is something to keep in mind—it remains a top contender in its category.
Conclusion
After testing 15+ air fryers over 6 months, the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL stands out as our top pick for most households. Its large capacity, excellent crisping ability, and easy cleanup make it a kitchen essential. For those on a budget, the COSORI Pro LE delivers impressive performance at nearly half the price. Whatever you choose, an air fryer will revolutionize how you cook - from crispy fries to juicy chicken with up to 75% less oil.
About Michael Chen
Kitchen Equipment Expert
Michael Chen is a dedicated expert contributor to Useful Nest. With a passion for helping families find the best products, they spend hours researching and testing to bring you unbiased, trustworthy recommendations.
Affiliate Disclosure
Useful Nest is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
