If you love crispy French fries, golden chicken wings, or crunchy veggies—but want to avoid drowning them in oil—an air fryer is your new best friend. In 2025, air fryers have evolved into versatile kitchen appliances capable of not just “frying,” but also baking, roasting, and even dehydrating.
In this guide to the best air fryers of 2025, we’ll help you choose the perfect model for your kitchen, budget, and cooking style. Get ready to enjoy all the crunch you crave—with a fraction of the fat!
Table of Contents
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Air fryers have skyrocketed in popularity—and for good reason. Here’s why home cooks everywhere swear by them:
- Healthier Cooking: Achieve crispy textures with up to 75% less oil than traditional frying.
- Speed: Air fryers preheat quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens.
- Versatility: Roast veggies, bake desserts, reheat leftovers, and more.
- Less Mess: No splattering oil or heavy cleanup.
- Energy Efficient: Uses less power than heating up a full-sized oven.
An air fryer isn’t just for French fries—it’s a multitasking kitchen powerhouse.
How Do Air Fryers Work?
Air fryers cook food using rapid hot air circulation. A powerful fan distributes heat around the food, creating a crispy outer layer similar to deep-frying—but without submerging your food in oil.
Most models have a basket or tray where food sits, allowing hot air to flow freely for even cooking. The result? Crunchy, golden food that’s better for your waistline and your heart.
Types of Air Fryers
There’s more than one kind of air fryer on the market. Here’s what to know:
1. Basket-Style Air Fryers
The classic air fryer design. Food sits in a basket that slides into the machine.
Best for: Crisping small batches of fries, wings, and snacks.
2. Oven-Style Air Fryers
Shaped like a toaster oven, these models often include racks, trays, and rotisserie accessories.
Best for: Larger families or cooking multiple items at once.
3. Dual-Basket Air Fryers
These models offer two separate cooking zones so you can cook two different foods at different temperatures.
Best for: Families who want to prepare complete meals simultaneously.
4. Air Fryer Toaster Ovens
Combines air frying with traditional toaster oven functions like baking, broiling, and toasting.
Best for: Maximizing kitchen space and functionality.
Key Features to Look for in an Air Fryer
When choosing the best air fryer for your kitchen, consider these essential features:
- Capacity: Ranges from 2 quarts for singles/couples to 10+ quarts for large families.
- Temperature Range: Wider ranges allow for more cooking options.
- Pre-set Programs: Makes cooking easier with one-touch settings.
- Easy-to-Clean: Dishwasher-safe baskets save time.
- Viewing Window: Lets you monitor food without opening the fryer.
- Digital vs. Manual Controls: Digital offers precise settings; manual dials are simpler.
- Noise Level: Some air fryers are quieter than others.
- Multi-functionality: Some models also dehydrate, bake, roast, and grill.
Best Air Fryers of 2025
Ready to upgrade your kitchen? Let’s dive into the top air fryers of 2025, handpicked for different needs and budgets.
1. Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer
Type: Dual-Basket
Ninja’s DualZone remains a fan favorite in 2025 for its ability to cook two different foods simultaneously.
Pros:
- Two independent baskets
- Smart Finish technology for synced cooking
- Generous 8-quart capacity
- Crisp, even results
Cons:
- Bulky footprint
- Higher price point
Perfect for families who want versatile, multi-tasking convenience.
2. Cosori Pro III Air Fryer Oven
Type: Oven-Style
Cosori’s Pro III blends air frying with oven capabilities, offering plenty of room for larger meals.
Pros:
- Large 7-quart capacity
- 12 cooking functions
- Quiet operation
- Sleek digital controls
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Door can become hot during use
Best for home chefs who love experimenting with new recipes.
3. Instant Vortex Plus with ClearCook
Type: Basket-Style
Instant’s Vortex Plus offers a perfect balance of performance and price, with a see-through window for easy monitoring.
Pros:
- ClearCook window
- 6-in-1 functionality
- One-touch smart programs
- Affordable
Cons:
- Basket capacity may be small for big families
Ideal for smaller households looking for convenience and reliability.
4. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Type: Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Breville’s Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a top-tier choice for those wanting an all-in-one kitchen solution.
Pros:
- 13 cooking functions
- Super convection for faster cooking
- Spacious interior
- High-quality build
Cons:
- Premium price tag
- Larger size requires ample counter space
Perfect for serious home cooks ready to invest in a versatile appliance.
5. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
Type: Basket-Style
Philips continues to lead with exceptional air frying performance and durability.
Pros:
- Fat removal technology for healthier cooking
- 3-pound capacity
- Simple digital controls
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- Pricey compared to competitors
Great for anyone who wants high-quality air frying with minimal fuss.
Best Air Fryers for Small Kitchens
If space is tight, consider these compact yet powerful air fryers:
- Dash Compact Air Fryer: Tiny but mighty, perfect for singles.
- Instant Vortex Mini: Ideal for one or two servings.
- Chefman TurboFry Compact: Budget-friendly and space-saving.
Best Air Fryers for Families
For feeding a crowd, larger capacity matters:
- Ninja Foodi DualZone
- Cosori Pro III Oven
- Philips Premium XXL
These models handle larger portions and multiple dishes with ease.
Tips for Air Frying Like a Pro
Get the best results from your air fryer with these pro tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air needs space to circulate for crispy results.
- Shake or turn food: Helps ensure even browning.
- Pat food dry: Moisture can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Light oil spray: A little oil can boost browning while still being healthier than deep frying.
- Preheat if needed: Some models benefit from preheating for optimal crispiness.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Air Fryer
Proper care extends your air fryer’s life and keeps flavors pure:
- Let the appliance cool before cleaning.
- Wash baskets and trays after each use.
- Wipe exterior surfaces with a damp cloth.
- Check heating elements for residue.
Most removable parts are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
Top Air Fryer Brands in 2025
Several brands stand out for quality and innovation:
- Ninja: Known for versatile, powerful appliances.
- Cosori: Popular for user-friendly designs and value.
- Instant: Makers of reliable, affordable air fryers.
- Breville: High-end performance for serious cooks.
- Philips: A pioneer in air frying technology.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer for You
Ask yourself these questions before buying:
- How many people do I cook for?
- Do I want a multi-functional oven style or a simple basket fryer?
- How much counter space can I spare?
- What’s my budget?
- Do I cook large meals or small portions?
Choosing the right air fryer ensures you’ll actually use—and love—your new appliance.
Conclusion: Crispy Goodness Awaits in 2025
In 2025, air fryers are smarter, more efficient, and more versatile than ever. Whether you’re cooking up a quick batch of fries, roasting a chicken, or baking a dessert, there’s an air fryer to fit your lifestyle.
With the best air fryers of 2025, you can enjoy all your favorite crispy treats—with far less oil and guilt. So go ahead, embrace the crunch—deliciously healthy eating has never been so easy!
