I used to think air fryers were just a trendy kitchen gadget, but after getting one, I completely changed my mind. The main draw is how it uses hot air circulation to cook food, giving you that crispy, fried texture with a fraction of the oil. For anyone looking to make a positive change in their diet without sacrificing flavor, an air fryer is a game-changer. It’s perfect for cooking everything from crispy french fries and chicken wings to roasted vegetables and even reheating leftovers. I’ve found it significantly cuts down on my cooking time and makes cleanup a breeze, which is a huge win on busy weeknights.
Choosing the right model can be tricky with so many options available. You need to consider capacity for your family size, ease of use, and specific features like preset cooking functions. To help you navigate the choices, I’ve put together a list of the top performers. This guide will walk you through the 10 best air fryers for healthier meals, breaking down their strengths and weaknesses so you can find the perfect fit for your kitchen and your lifestyle.
The 10 Best Air Fryers for Healthier Meals
- Ninja Foodi 8-Quart 2-Basket Air Fryer
- Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer
- COSORI Smart Air Fryer 5.8 Quart
- Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
- GoWISE USA 7-Quart Air Fryer
- Gourmia Digital Air Fryer 6 Quart
- Breville the Smart Oven Air Fryer
Ninja Foodi 8-Quart 2-Basket Air Fryer
If you often cook multiple items at once, the Ninja Foodi with its dual baskets is a fantastic choice. I really like the flexibility it offers; you can cook two different foods at the same time or use both baskets to make a large batch of one thing. The “Smart Finish” feature is brilliant—it synchronizes the cooking time so both baskets finish at the same moment, even if they require different temperatures or times. This means your main and side dish are ready together, hot and crispy. The “Match Cook” function lets you copy settings from one basket to the other, which is super handy for consistency. It’s a powerful machine that cuts down cooking time significantly compared to a traditional oven.
Cleaning is also straightforward since the baskets, crisper plates, and even the divider for the single-basket mode are all dishwasher safe. The 8-quart total capacity is spacious enough for family meals, and the unit has a relatively small footprint on the counter. I’ve found it excellent for everything from weeknight dinners to preparing snacks for a gathering. The main thing to consider is its size; it’s quite a large appliance, so you’ll need to make sure you have adequate counter space. Overall, for its versatility and capacity, it’s one of the most practical air fryers I’ve used.
Pros
- Dual baskets allow for cooking two foods simultaneously
- Smart Finish technology ensures everything is ready at once
- Large 8-quart capacity is great for families
Cons
- Requires a significant amount of counter space
- Can be a bit noisy when the fan is running at high speed
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer
Instant Pot is a trusted name in kitchen appliances, and their Vortex Plus air fryer lives up to the reputation. What stands out to me are the clear, simple buttons and the “EvenCrisp” technology, which promises a crispy exterior and tender interior. I can confirm it works well, producing evenly cooked food without the need to shake the basket mid-cook. It comes with several useful presets for popular foods like fries, wings, and baked goods, which takes the guesswork out of temperature and time settings. The square basket design is a smart touch, as it actually provides more usable space than some round models of a similar quart capacity.
The oven-style window in the door is a small but appreciated feature, allowing you to check on your food without interrupting the cooking process by pulling out the basket. The interior is non-stick and the basket and tray are dishwasher safe, making cleanup very simple. The 6-quart size is a good middle ground, suitable for small to medium families. It’s a very user-friendly model, especially for those who might be new to air frying. The one drawback is that the preset times can sometimes be a little off depending on the quantity of food, but it’s easy to adjust manually after the first use.
Pros
- Simple controls with helpful cooking presets
- EvenCrisp technology delivers consistent results
- Clear window for easy monitoring
Cons
- Preset cooking times may require minor adjustments
- The exterior can get quite hot during operation
COSORI Smart Air Fryer 5.8 Quart
For those who love tech integration in the kitchen, the COSORI Smart Air Fryer is a top pick. I was impressed by how easily it connects to Wi-Fi and pairs with the VeSync app on my phone. The app offers over 100 recipes, and you can simply tap one to send the precise time and temperature settings directly to the fryer. This is incredibly convenient and helps you try new dishes with confidence. Even without the app, the machine itself is straightforward, with a clear digital display and 11 built-in presets. The 5.8-quart capacity is spacious enough for most meals, and the square basket is more practical than round ones.
The build quality feels solid, and the non-stick basket is removable and dishwasher safe. I’ve found the cooking performance to be very reliable, with even browning and crispiness. The shake reminder is a helpful feature that ensures you get the best results for certain foods. The main consideration is that you need to be comfortable using a smartphone app to get the full benefit of this model. If you prefer a completely standalone appliance, you might not use all its features. But for the tech-savvy cook, it adds a lot of value and convenience.
Pros
- Smart app control with a wide library of recipes
- Square basket design maximizes cooking space
- Consistent and even cooking performance
Cons
- Full functionality relies on using a smartphone
- Slightly smaller than some family-sized models
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
Philips is the original brand that popularized air frying, and their Premium XXL model is a high-end workhorse. The standout feature is their patented “Turbostar” technology, which I think does a remarkable job of circulating hot air very evenly. This results in food that is consistently crispy without any oily feeling. The capacity is truly large, making it ideal for bigger families or for cooking for guests. The design includes a fat removal system that helps drain excess fat away from the food during cooking, contributing to healthier results.
While it is one of the more expensive models on the market, the build quality and cooking performance justify the cost for serious air fryer users. The interface is intuitive, and it comes with a helpful recipe book to get you started. It’s also surprisingly quiet during operation compared to some other models. The main downside is its size and price. It’s a substantial appliance that requires dedicated counter space, and the investment is significant. However, if you plan to use an air fryer regularly and want top-tier results, the Philips is worth considering.
Pros
- Superior air circulation with Turbostar technology
- Very large capacity suitable for large families
- Excellent build quality and durable design
Cons
- One of the most expensive options available
- Large footprint requires ample counter space
GoWISE USA 7-Quart Air Fryer
GoWISE USA offers a fantastic balance of size, features, and affordability. The 7-quart capacity is generous, making it a great choice for families. What I like about this model is the number of cooking presets—it has eight, which cover a wide range of foods from steak to cake. The digital interface is straightforward, and the included recipe book provides plenty of inspiration. The fryer basket is square, which I prefer as it holds more food than a round basket of the same volume, and it’s paired with a cool-touch handle for safety.
Performance is reliable, with good heat distribution that cooks food evenly. It’s a powerful unit that preheats quickly, getting dinner on the table faster. Like many basket-style fryers, the basket and tray are non-stick and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The one thing to note is that because of its power and size, it does draw a fair amount of electricity, which is common for appliances in this category. For the price, you get a lot of air fryer that performs well above its cost, making it an excellent value purchase.
Pros
- Large 7-quart capacity at an affordable price
- Multiple cooking presets for versatility
- Square basket design offers more usable space
Cons
- Can be a bit loud during operation
- The digital display can be bright in a dark kitchen
Gourmia Digital Air Fryer 6 Quart
The Gourmia Digital Air Fryer is an excellent budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel cheap. It offers a lot of the core features you want in an air fryer without a high price tag. The digital touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, with preset functions for common foods. I found the 6-quart capacity to be just right for preparing a meal for two to four people. It heats up quickly and circulates air efficiently, giving you a crispy finish on foods like frozen fries, chicken tenders, and vegetables. For its price, the performance is impressive.
It’s a relatively compact unit, so it won’t take over your countertop. The basket has a comfortable handle and is non-stick and dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup very simple. While it may lack some of the advanced features of more expensive models, like dual baskets or smart connectivity, it excels at the basics. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss air fryer to get started with, this is a strong contender. The only minor issue is that the presets are a general guide and might need a minute or two of adjustment based on your preferences.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Simple digital controls with useful presets
- Compact design with a practical 6-quart capacity
Cons
- Preset cooking times are not always perfect
- Construction is good but not as heavy-duty as premium models
Breville the Smart Oven Air Fryer
If you’re short on counter space and want an appliance that can do more than just air fry, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer is a perfect solution. This is a premium countertop convection oven that includes a dedicated air fry function. I appreciate its versatility; it can air fry
Buying Guide for the 10 Best Air Fryers for Healthier Meals
I remember when I first got my air fryer; it was a game-changer for making quick, healthier versions of my favorite foods. If you’re looking to cut down on oil without giving up on taste, you’re in the right place. But with so many models out there, how do you pick the right one? Here’s what I consider when choosing an air fryer.
First, think about capacity. If you’re cooking for one or two people, a compact 2- to 3-quart model is perfect. For a family of four or more, you’ll want something in the 5- to 6-quart range or larger. I made the mistake of starting with a small one and quickly had to upgrade when cooking for friends.
Next, consider the style. The classic basket-style air fryers are great for shaking and tossing food, which is ideal for fries or wings. Oven-style air fryers, which look like small toaster ovens, often come with multiple racks. This means you can cook different things at once, like salmon on one rack and asparagus on another. I prefer the oven style for its versatility—it can often bake and toast as well.
Look at the controls. You’ll find models with simple dials and buttons or fancy digital touchscreens with presets. While presets for “fries” or “chicken” are convenient, I find that manual control gives me more flexibility to get things exactly how I like them. A clear, easy-to-read display is a big plus.
Ease of cleaning is non-negotiable. I always check that the basket and any racks are dishwasher safe. Non-stick coatings are standard, but a good one makes a huge difference. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrubbing stuck-on grease for half an hour.
Finally, think about your counter space. Air fryers can be bulky, so measure your available area. Some newer models have a more square or vertical footprint that might fit better in your kitchen. By focusing on these factors—capacity, style, controls, cleaning, and size—you can find one of the 10 best air fryers for healthier meals that fits your life perfectly.
FAQ
Are air fryers actually healthier?
Yes, but it depends on what you compare it to. An air fryer is significantly healthier than deep-frying because it can create a similar crispy texture using up to 80% less oil. However, if you’re replacing steamed vegetables with air-fried french fries, the health benefit comes from the reduction in oil, not the food itself. It’s a tool for preparing healthier versions of typically fried foods.
What can I cook in an air fryer?
You can cook a surprising variety of foods. I use mine for much more than fries. It’s excellent for reheating leftovers like pizza (it gets crispy, not soggy), cooking frozen foods like chicken nuggets, roasting vegetables, baking small batches of cookies, and even cooking proteins like salmon, chicken breasts, or burgers. It’s my go-to for a fast, simple dinner.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
This is a common question. Many recipes will tell you to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes, and I generally recommend it for things that need a quick sear, like meat. For other items, like reheating food or roasting vegetables, I often just add an extra minute or two to the cook time and skip the preheat. Check your specific model’s manual for its recommendation.
How do I prevent my food from drying out?
The intense, circulating hot air can dry out some foods if you’re not careful. My best tip is to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer for proteins to ensure they are cooked perfectly without being overdone. For vegetables, a light coating of oil helps them roast nicely without drying out. You can also spritz foods with a little water or broth during cooking.
Are air fryers easy to clean?
Most are very easy to clean, which is a big reason I use mine so often. The key is to clean it after every use once it has cooled down. The basket and pan are typically non-stick and dishwasher safe. I always wipe down the inside of the unit with a damp cloth to remove any grease or food particles. If something gets stuck, let the basket soak in warm, soapy water for a few minutes.
Is an air fryer the same as a convection oven?
They work on the same principle—circulating hot air to cook food. The main difference is size and power. An air fryer is smaller and the fan is more powerful, which cooks food faster and creates a crispier exterior. A convection oven can do similar things, but an air fryer is often more efficient for small to medium batches. If you already have a good convection oven, you might not need a separate air fryer.