After putting over 70 air fryer models through their paces, the team at Good Housekeeping reveals the best picks that deliver crispy results, smart features, and versatile design to match your cooking needs.
- Square baskets provide more cooking capacity and better air circulation
- Models offer pre-programmed settings for easy, foolproof cooking
- Some include innovative features like cooking windows and built-in lights
What happened
Good Housekeeping tested over 70 air fryer models to find those that excel in performance, usability, and design across a range of needs. Standout picks include the new Ninja Air Fryer XL with a wide square basket that boosts capacity and cooking evenness. It maintained the crispy excellence its brand is known for while adding more space to cook larger batches efficiently.
Other notable winners include the Instant Brands Vortex Plus ClearCook, recognized for its affordability and clever features like a cooking window and interior light that shows the food without interrupting the cooking process. For compact convenience, the Ninja AF101 impressed users who cook primarily for one or two people, offering speedy crispness in a small footprint that fits easily in kitchen cabinets.
Why it feels good
Air frying has become a popular way to enjoy healthier versions of fried favorites without the mess and calorie load of deep frying. Top models well-tested by Good Housekeeping remove much of the guesswork with preprogrammed settings tailored for crisping, baking, reheating, and even dehydrating.
The new designs also improve cooking results through better air flow and smart timing—like the Ninja Air Fryer XL’s ability to cook wings golden brown without needing to flip them. The clear window on the Instant Vortex gives peace of mind without pausing cooking, while size options like the AF101 cater to those with limited space or smaller households, making the air fryer an easy everyday kitchen companion.
What to enjoy or watch next
If you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen tools, consider what size and style matches your lifestyle. Families may prefer multifunction devices like the Ninja Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven, which combines air frying with baking and toasting for versatile meal prep in one appliance.
For those seeking simplicity with strong performance, the new square-basket Ninja Air Fryer XL offers roomy capacity and precise cooking. Budget-conscious shoppers can watch for deals on the Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook to grab clever features affordably. Wherever you start, these tested favorites ensure you maximize crispiness and convenience every time you cook.