The 5 Best Digital Air Fryers for Crispy Perfection in 2025
How We Tested & Why You Should Trust Us
Testing Lead: The Digital Fryer Lab Team
Methodology: We dedicated over 200 hours to an exhaustive testing process, evaluating 14 top-rated digital air fryers. We air-fried over 100 pounds of food, including shoestring fries, chicken wings, salmon fillets, and Brussels sprouts. Each unit was scored on cooking performance (crispiness, evenness, speed), ease of use, cleaning, noise level, and overall value. This guide is a direct result of that intensive, hands-on research.
The digital air fryer has officially transcended its status as a trendy kitchen gadget to become an indispensable culinary tool in American homes. By circulating superheated air at high speeds, these modern marvels deliver the crispy, golden-brown texture of deep-fried foods with up to 85% less oil. The result? Healthier meals without sacrificing that satisfying crunch. From weeknight dinners in a flash to perfectly crisped appetizers for game day, a great digital air fryer can revolutionize the way you cook.
But the market is saturated. A quick search reveals hundreds of models, all promising “oil-free frying” and one-touch convenience. How do you separate the high-performance heroes from the countertop clutter? We did the work for you. We’ve sliced, diced, and air-fried our way through the top contenders to bring you this definitive list. Whether you’re a solo cook, a busy parent, or a culinary enthusiast, we’ll help you find the perfect digital air fryer to match your needs and budget.
Our Top 5 Digital Air Fryers at a Glance
| Model | Rating | Capacity | Key Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer | ★★★★★ | 5.5 Quarts | Max Crisp Technology | Check Price |
| Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart | ★★★★☆ | 6 Quarts | ClearCook Window | Check Price |
| COSORI Pro II 5.8-Quart | ★★★★☆ | 5.8 Quarts | Smart Controls & Presets | Check Price |
| Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8-Quart 2-Basket | ★★★★☆ | 8 Quarts (4QT x 2) | DualZone Technology | Check Price |
| Chefman TurboFry Touch 8-Quart | ★★★☆☆ | 8 Quarts | Large Capacity & Value | Check Price |
1. Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer
After rigorous testing, the Ninja AF161 Max XL emerged as our decisive winner for the “Best Overall” digital air fryer. It’s a powerhouse that combines raw cooking power with thoughtful design. Its signature feature is the “Max Crisp Technology,” which delivers 450°F superheated air to cook foods up to 30% faster than other models. In our tests, this wasn’t just marketing hype. It produced the absolute crispiest, most evenly cooked french fries and chicken wings of any single-basket model, creating a deeply browned crust that was simply unparalleled.
The 5.5-quart ceramic-coated basket is another highlight—it’s non-stick, dishwasher-safe, and noticeably easier to clean than the enamel or standard non-stick baskets of competitors. The digital interface is brilliantly simple, with one-touch functions for Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. While it’s one of the louder models we tested, the sheer performance and incredible results make it a worthwhile trade-off. For the user who prioritizes a perfect, crunchy finish above all else, the Ninja Max XL is the undisputed champion.
Pros
- Unmatched crisping performance via Max Crisp Technology.
- High-quality, easy-to-clean ceramic-coated basket.
- Simple, intuitive digital controls.
- Cooks extremely fast, even from frozen.
- Versatile with multiple cooking functions.
Cons
- Can be louder than other air fryers.
- The round basket is less space-efficient than square ones.
2. Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart with ClearCook
From the brand that made the pressure cooker a household name, the Instant Vortex Plus is a brilliantly designed air fryer that solves a common user pain point: seeing your food cook. Its standout feature is the ClearCook window and internal light, which allows you to monitor cooking progress without opening the basket and disrupting the heat cycle. This was a feature we came to love during testing, as it let us pull our salmon out at the exact moment it was perfectly cooked.
Beyond the window, the Vortex Plus is a solid performer. Its EvenCrisp™ technology circulates air from the top down, creating a consistent, golden finish. While it didn’t get quite as deeply brown as the Ninja, it produced fantastic results across the board and was significantly quieter. The square-shaped basket is space-efficient, and the digital interface is a pleasure to use, with a smart dial for time/temp adjustments and customizable presets. A very similar experience to the popular Power XL air fryer but with the added window, it’s an excellent choice for those who value convenience and control.
Pros
- ClearCook window and light are game-changers.
- Very quiet operation.
- Sleek design with an excellent digital interface.
- Space-efficient square basket.
- Minimal preheating required.
Cons
- Doesn’t achieve the same deep crisp as the Ninja.
- The basket’s non-stick coating requires careful handling.
3. COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo, 5.8QT
The COSORI Pro II is for the tech-savvy home cook. It’s a consistently high-performing air fryer that integrates smart features seamlessly into the cooking experience. Using the VeSync app, you can control your air fryer from your phone, monitor cooking progress, and access a library of over 100 recipes that automatically set the time and temperature. We found the “shake” reminder notifications on our phones surprisingly useful when we were multitasking in another room.
In terms of performance, the COSORI holds its own against the top competitors. Its customizable presets and advanced heating technology delivered even and crispy results, particularly on chicken and vegetables. The 5.8-quart square basket is generously sized, fitting enough food for a family of four. It combines great performance with a level of convenience and connectivity that other models on this list can’t match. If you love the idea of a smart kitchen, the COSORI Pro II is the clear winner. It’s one of the most popular models for a reason, holding its own against other fan favorites like the Yedi Evolution.
Pros
- Excellent smart features via the VeSync app.
- Customizable presets for perfect results.
- Large, practical square basket.
- Consistent and even cooking performance.
- Comes with a helpful recipe book.
Cons
- Smart features may be unnecessary for some users.
- The angled digital screen can be hard to read from a distance.
4. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 6-in-1 8-Quart 2-Basket Air Fryer
The Ninja Foodi DZ201 solves the biggest problem with single-basket air fryers: cooking a main and a side dish simultaneously. With its DualZone™ Technology, you get two independent 4-quart baskets. You can cook two different foods, two different ways, and have them finish at the same time. During testing, we air-fried salmon in one basket and roasted asparagus in the other, using the “Smart Finish” feature. Both were perfectly cooked and ready to serve together—it felt like a magic trick.
The “Match Cook” button is also brilliant, syncing settings across both zones to use the full 8-quart capacity for a large batch of wings or fries. Each basket has its own heating element and fan, ensuring true independent cooking. While the individual baskets are smaller, the combined versatility is unmatched. This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a new way to coordinate meals. For busy families or anyone who hates staggering their cooking times, the DZ201 is a revolutionary appliance that is well worth the extra counter space.
Pros
- Dual baskets allow for cooking two foods at once.
- Smart Finish feature syncs cook times perfectly.
- Match Cook feature for large batches.
- Powerful and fast cooking in each zone.
- Easy-to-clean baskets and crisper plates.
Cons
- Takes up a significant amount of counter space.
- The 4-quart baskets can be small for larger items.
5. Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer, 8-Quart
If you need to feed a crowd on a budget, the Chefman TurboFry Touch is an incredible value proposition. It offers a massive 8-quart capacity—enough to cook for a family of 6 or more—at a price point that’s often lower than smaller, 5-quart models. The large, square basket provides a huge surface area for spreading food in a single layer, which is key for getting even results on big batches. We were able to cook nearly 3 pounds of fries in one go with impressive consistency.
The digital interface is clean and simple, with four one-touch presets and easy manual controls. While it lacks the raw power and premium feel of the Ninja, it’s a capable and reliable performer that does its job well. The basket and crisper tray are dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup. For those who want to learn more about how it stacks up against other value-oriented brands, our Chefman vs. Best Choice comparison offers a deeper dive. For sheer size and affordability, the Chefman TurboFry is very hard to beat.
Pros
- Huge 8-quart capacity is great for large families.
- Excellent value for the price.
- Simple and straightforward digital controls.
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning.
Cons
- Cooking can be less even on very full loads.
- Build materials feel less robust than premium models.
- Fewer presets and features than competitors.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Digital Air Fryer
Navigating the world of air fryers can be tricky. Here are the key factors to consider to ensure you get the right appliance for your kitchen.
Capacity and Basket Shape
Capacity, measured in quarts, is crucial. A 3-5 quart model is fine for 1-2 people, while families should look for 6 quarts or more. Pay attention to basket shape. **Square baskets** offer more usable cooking surface than **round baskets** of the same capacity, allowing food to be spread out in a single layer for better crisping.
Wattage and Cooking Power
Higher wattage (typically 1500-1800W) generally means faster preheating and quicker, crispier cooking. While not the only factor, a powerful motor and heating element, like the one in the Nuwave Brio Plus, can make a noticeable difference in performance.
Controls and Presets
Digital controls offer far more precision than analog dials. Look for a clear, responsive touchscreen or button layout. While presets for foods like fries or chicken are convenient, ensure you can also easily adjust the time and temperature manually to suit your own recipes.
Safety & Handling
Air fryer baskets become extremely hot. To prevent burns and ensure a secure grip when shaking or removing food, investing in a quality pair of fryer gloves is a wise decision. They offer far more protection and dexterity than a standard oven mitt.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for a removable basket and crisper plate that are non-stick and dishwasher-safe. A smooth interior without too many nooks and crannies is also easier to wipe down. Using tools like fryer strainers to lift out food can also help minimize mess in the basket.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to use oil in an air fryer?
You don’t need to use oil for pre-fried frozen foods. For fresh foods like homemade fries or vegetables, a light toss in a teaspoon or two of oil will produce a much crispier, more flavorful result. It’s still significantly less oil than deep frying.
Can you put aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer?
Yes, but with caution. You can place it in the bottom of the basket, but you must put food on top to weigh it down. An empty piece of foil can fly up into the heating element and become a fire hazard. There are also specially designed perforated parchment paper liners for air fryers.
Is an air fryer just a small convection oven?
While they both use a fan to circulate hot air, they are not the same. An air fryer has a more compact chamber and a more powerful, higher-velocity fan. This design creates a more intense cooking environment that excels at crisping food, mimicking the results of deep frying much more effectively than a larger convection oven.
Conclusion: The Right Choice for Your Kitchen
A high-quality digital air fryer is more than an appliance; it’s a ticket to faster, healthier, and more delicious meals. After countless hours of testing, we are confident that the **Ninja AF161 Max XL** is the best all-around performer for most people, delivering truly exceptional crispiness and speed.
However, every model on this list is a winner in its own right. The **Instant Vortex Plus** offers unparalleled convenience with its ClearCook window, the **COSORI Pro II** brings the kitchen into the smart home era, the **Ninja Foodi 2-Basket** revolutionizes multitasking, and the **Chefman TurboFry** provides incredible capacity for the price. We are confident that this guide to the best digital air fryer models will help you find the perfect partner for your culinary adventures.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. This guide is based on our team’s independent, hands-on testing and expert analysis.
