10 Best fryers 2026 in the United States

The Instant Pot 10QT Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines seven cooking functions, including air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, dehydrating, reheating, and rotisserie, making it suitable for those who want multiple cooking options in one device. With a large 10-quart capacity, it can easily handle meals for up to six people, which is great for families or meal prepping. It uses 1500 watts of power, allowing it to heat quickly and cook efficiently. The temperature can be set anywhere between 95 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit, offering good control for different recipes. Safety features like overheat protection and auto-off provide extra peace of mind during use.

Its EvenCrisp technology helps achieve crispy results using much less oil than traditional frying, which is better for healthier cooking. The front window lets you check food without opening the door, helping maintain consistent cooking temperatures. Cleaning is relatively easy since it includes a non-stick drip pan, perforated trays, and rotisserie accessories that are dishwasher safe.

The fryer itself is quite heavy at 19 pounds and made mostly of plastic, which may affect durability and portability. While it’s programmable and feature-rich, the multiple functions might be more than what a user who only wants a basic air fryer needs. This air fryer is a smart choice for families or anyone looking for a multi-use appliance with good capacity and convenient features.

The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL is a versatile 6-in-1 air fryer that allows you to air fry, broil, roast, dehydrate, bake, and reheat, making it a great choice if you want one appliance to handle many cooking styles. With a 6-quart capacity, it's ideal for families or cooking meals for 4-6 people. It uses 1500 watts of power, which is typical for air fryers, providing fast heating up to 400°F. Temperature control is broad and precise, ranging from 95 to 400 degrees, allowing you to cook everything from slow dehydrating to quick crisp frying. The built-in EvenCrisp technology helps food get a golden, crispy finish without extra oil, which is a plus for healthier cooking.

It features smart one-touch programs for popular foods like wings and cookies, simplifying the cooking process, especially if you prefer preset options. Safety is well covered with features like auto shut-off and overheat protection, giving peace of mind during use. Cleaning is made easier by dishwasher-safe, non-stick baskets and trays, reducing the usual hassle with frying appliances. The appliance also connects to a recipe app, providing meal ideas and easy-to-follow guides, which is handy if you want inspiration.

The appliance is compact for a 6-quart fryer but is somewhat bulky on the countertop and weighs about 15.6 pounds, so it is not the lightest or smallest option if space is tight. Some parts may require occasional hand washing despite the dishwasher-safe claim. This air fryer is suitable for those looking for a multi-purpose, user-friendly kitchen tool that can handle a variety of cooking tasks with reliable safety and convenient cleanup.

The Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer offers a versatile cooking experience, combining several functions into one appliance. With a generous 5.5-quart capacity, it can accommodate up to 3 pounds of food, making it suitable for families or gatherings. The air fryer promises up to 75% less fat compared to traditional frying methods, which could be very appealing for health-conscious users.

The use of Max Crisp Technology is a standout feature, allowing food to cook up to 30% faster at temperatures as high as 450 degrees, resulting in crispy and evenly cooked meals with minimal oil. This makes it a good fit for those who want quick and healthier meal options. The 7-in-1 functionality (Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate) adds versatility, enabling users to experiment with different cooking methods without needing multiple appliances.

Cleaning is simplified with a nonstick, dishwasher-safe ceramic basket, reducing the hassle of after-meal clean-up. However, the fryer is relatively large, and its dimensions (11”D x 14”W x 14.75”H) might require ample counter space. Made of plastic, it might not have the most premium feel or long-term durability compared to metal counterparts. The 2.6-foot cord length could also be restrictive depending on your kitchen setup. This air fryer is suited for users who prioritize healthier cooking methods, need a versatile and fast-cooking appliance, and have the counter space to accommodate its size. The inclusion of a 20-recipe book can also be handy for those new to air frying.