Best Air Fryers According to Consumer Reports: Top Picks, In-Depth Reviews, and Expert Buying Advice​

If you’re in the market for an air fryer, you’ve likely come across conflicting reviews, flashy marketing claims, and endless options. But when it comes to trusted, data-driven recommendations, Consumer Reports(CR) stands out as a go-to resource for unbiased testing and real-world performance insights. After analyzing thousands of user feedback, lab tests, and expert evaluations, CR has identified the best air fryers across categories—from compact models for singles to family-sized units with smart features. This guide breaks down CR’s top picks, explains their testing methodology, and offers actionable advice to help you choose the right air fryer for your needs. Whether you prioritize crispiness, ease of use, or value, here’s what CR’s research reveals.

Why Trust Consumer Reports for Air Fryer Recommendations?

Consumer Reports isn’t just another review site. As a nonprofit organization, CR tests products rigorously to answer the questions real consumers care about: Does this air fryer cook food evenly? Is it easy to clean? Will it last?Their team evaluates over 100 air fryers annually, using standardized tests to measure:

• ​Cooking Performance: How well does it crisp foods (fries, chicken, veggies) with minimal oil? CR measures moisture retention, browning, and whether food burns or undercooks.

• ​Temperature Accuracy: Does the fryer maintain consistent heat? Fluctuations can lead to uneven results.

• ​Ease of Use: From preheating to cleaning, CR assesses controls (digital vs. analog), basket design, and user-friendly features like nonstick coatings or dishwasher-safe parts.

• ​Safety: Overheat protection, stability on countertops, and cord length are all part of CR’s safety checks.

• ​Durability: Long-term testing simulates years of use to identify models prone to mechanical failures.

CR also incorporates thousands of user surveys to factor in real-world reliability—like how often owners report issues with the basket hinge or control panel. This combination of lab data and user feedback makes their recommendations uniquely trustworthy.

CR’s Top Air Fryers: By Category

CR categorizes air fryers based on capacity, features, and price to help shoppers match models to their lifestyle. Here are their standout picks for 2024:

​1. Best Overall: Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer (FL770)​​

CR calls this the “Swiss Army knife” of air fryers, and for good reason. With a 6-quart capacity, it’s ideal for families or meal-prep enthusiasts. What sets it apart:

• ​DualZone Technology: Two independent baskets let you cook two different foods at once (e.g., fries and chicken wings) without flavor transfer. Each basket has its own temperature and time controls.

• ​Versatility: Beyond air frying, it dehydrates, roasts, reheats, and even “air broils.” CR tested its dehydrating function with apple slices and jerky, noting even drying without sticking.

• ​Ease of Cleaning: Both baskets and crumb trays are dishwasher-safe, and the nonstick coating resists scratches.

• ​User Feedback: 89% of CR members reported being “very satisfied” with its performance, citing consistent crispiness and minimal oil use.

Price: Around $180.

Best For: Families needing flexibility and multi-tasking.

​2. Best Budget Pick: Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid (for 6-Quart Duo)​​

If you already own an Instant Pot, CR says adding the Air Fryer Lid is a cost-effective upgrade. This 5-quart accessory turns your pressure cooker into an air fryer:

• ​Space-Saving Design: No need for a separate appliance. The lid fits securely on your existing pot, making it ideal for small kitchens.

• ​Even Cooking: CR tested it with frozen fries and found they came out crispy with 30% less oil than deep-frying. Temperature control is precise, with minimal hot spots.

• ​Affordability: At $70, it’s CR’s cheapest recommended air fryer—and users love the added functionality to their Instant Pot.

Limitations: Smaller capacity (fits 2-3 servings) and lacks some standalone models’ features (e.g., dehydrating).

Best For: Small households or those wanting to maximize existing kitchen tools.

​3. Best Smart Air Fryer: Cosori Smart Air Fryer Max XL (CO158-AF)​​

For tech-savvy cooks, CR praises this 5.8-quart model’s connectivity and app control:

• ​Wi-Fi Enabled: Use the Cosori app to access 100+ pre-set recipes, adjust settings remotely, or receive cooking notifications. CR found the app responsive and easy to navigate.

• ​Consistent Results: Even at high temperatures (up to 450°F), the fryer maintained ±10°F accuracy—critical for dishes like roasted veggies or baked potatoes.

• ​User-Friendly: A large LED display and one-touch controls complement the app. The basket has a cool-touch handle, reducing burn risks.

• ​User Feedback: 85% of CR members rated it “excellent” for ease of use, though some noted the app occasionally lagged during peak usage.

Price: $150.

Best For: Home cooks who enjoy guided recipes and remote control.

​4. Best Large Capacity: Philips Premium Airfryer XXL (HD9741/91)​​

CR recommends this 7-quart model for families of 5+ or frequent entertainers:

• ​Rapid Air Technology: Philips’ signature design circulates hot air faster, reducing cook time by 20% compared to competitors. CR tested it with a 10-piece chicken nugget meal—fully cooked in 12 minutes.

• ​Easy Cleanup: The nonstick basket and drawer have a “scraper” tool to remove stuck bits, and both are dishwasher-safe.

• ​Quiet Operation: At 55 decibels, it’s CR’s quietest air fryer—important for open-concept kitchens.

Drawback: Priced at $250, it’s a splurge.

Best For: Large families or those prioritizing speed and low noise.

​5. Best for Health-Conscious Cooks: GoWISE USA GW22621​

CR highlights this 4-quart model for its oil-saving capabilities:

• ​Minimal Oil Required: CR fried frozen French fries with just ½ teaspoon of oil (vs. 2 tablespoons for deep frying) and found them just as crispy.

• ​Transparent Basket: A clear window lets you monitor cooking without opening the basket, preventing temperature drops.

• ​Affordability: At $60, it’s one of the cheapest models CR tested—and it delivered consistent results for basic tasks like fries and chicken tenders.

Limitation: Lacks advanced features like smart controls or dual baskets.

Best For: Budget-minded buyers focused on reducing oil intake.

Key Takeaways from CR’s Testing: What Matters Most?

Beyond specific models, CR’s research underscores several factors to prioritize when shopping:

• ​Capacity: Match the size to your household. CR recommends 3-4 quarts for 1-2 people, 5-6 quarts for 3-4, and 7+ quarts for families of 5+.

• ​Temperature Range: Look for models that go up to 450°F—lower temps limit versatility (e.g., roasting).

• ​Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe baskets and nonstick coatings are worth the extra cost for busy households.

• ​Brand Reliability: CR found Philips, Ninja, and Cosori have the lowest repair rates (under 5% after 2 years), while lesser-known brands had higher failure rates.

Common Air Fryer Myths Debunked by CR

CR’s testing also addresses misinformation circulating online:

• ​Myth 1: Air fryers are just mini convection ovens.​​

  Reality: While both use hot air, air fryers have a focused airflow and smaller chamber, leading to faster cooking and crispier results (especially for small items like fries).

• ​Myth 2: Air-fried food is always healthier.​​

  Reality: It depends on what you cook. Air frying reduces oil absorption (by up to 80% vs. deep frying), but breading or using sugary sauces can negate benefits.

• ​Myth 3: You can’t cook frozen foods.​​

  Reality: CR found most air fryers excel at frozen items—just adjust time (usually 10-15% less than the package instructions).

Final Advice: How to Choose Your Air Fryer

CR’s experts suggest asking these questions before buying:

1. ​How many people do you cook for?​​ Prioritize capacity—too small, and you’ll overcrowd; too large, and food dries out.

2. ​What’s your budget?​​ Entry-level models ($50-$80) work for basics; mid-range ($100-$180) add versatility; premium ($200+) offer smart features or dual baskets.

3. ​Do you need smart features?​​ If you love apps and recipes, opt for Cosori or Ninja. If not, a basic model saves money.

4. ​How important is ease of cleaning?​​ Dishwasher-safe parts are a game-changer—look for removable baskets and nonstick coatings.

​Bottom Line: Consumer Reports’ testing proves that the best air fryers deliver on crispiness, convenience, and reliability. Whether you need a budget pick, a family-sized workhorse, or a smart model, CR’s top picks ensure you’re investing in a product that will perform—and last. By focusing on capacity, temperature accuracy, and user feedback, you’ll find an air fryer that transforms your cooking without the guesswork.