The 6 best air fryers for 2025, tested and reviewed

11 hours ago7 min read5 comments

The humble air fryer has firmly planted its flag on the modern kitchen countertop, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. Imagine whipping up a batch of crispy, golden-brown fries or perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts without the lingering scent of hot oil or the daunting cleanup of a traditional deep fryer.These clever little machines, which work by circulating super-heated air around your food, have become the go-to gadget for busy families, health-conscious singles, and anyone who wants to simplify their weeknight dinner routine. They deliver that satisfying crunch and flavor we all crave, but with a fraction of the fat and a whole lot less mess.The market has exploded with options, from compact, single-basket models perfect for a quick snack to larger, multi-functional powerhouses that can roast a whole chicken, reheat yesterday’s pizza to a state of near-perfection, and even dehydrate fruits for homemade snacks. After putting a wide array of these appliances through their paces—testing them on everything from frozen mozzarella sticks to raw salmon fillets—our current standout favorite is the Instant Vortex Plus.It strikes a beautiful balance between raw power, intuitive ease of use, and remarkably consistent results, making it a reliable workhorse for the average household. But the journey to finding your perfect air fryer is more than just picking the top-rated model; it’s about understanding how this technology fits into your life and your kitchen’s ecosystem.It’s worth noting that despite the name, air fryers aren’t actually frying in the traditional sense. They are, in essence, incredibly efficient and powerful mini convection ovens.The magic happens through a heating element and a high-speed fan that blasts hot air around the food, creating a Maillard reaction—that chemical process responsible for the browning and crisping—that often outperforms a standard oven. A light spritz of oil can help achieve that deep-fried aesthetic, but the taste will be its own unique, and often healthier, delight.The real appeal lies in their energy efficiency; heating a small, enclosed pod is far quicker and uses less electricity than firing up a full-sized oven, a boon for both your wallet and the environment. When shopping, you’ll primarily encounter two breeds of air fryer.The first is the convection oven-style, which often looks like a sleek toaster oven but comes with a dedicated air fry setting. These are fantastic for their versatility, offering multiple cooking functions and the ability to use your existing bakeware, but they do demand significant counter real estate.The second, and perhaps more iconic, is the pod-shaped air fryer with a pull-out basket. These are typically more compact and energy-efficient, but they often lack a viewing window, turning the cooking process into a bit of a guessing game that requires periodic shaking or flipping of the food.For larger families, dual-basket models from brands like Ninja are a game-changer, allowing you to cook your chicken wings and sweet potato fries simultaneously at different temperatures. Of course, no kitchen hero is without its flaws.The learning curve can be steep; a recipe’s suggested cooking time is often just a suggestion, as the specific heating dynamics of your model will dictate the real timeline. Capacity is another key consideration.While great for individuals or couples, a standard basket might feel cramped when cooking for a crowd, making a larger capacity or multi-cooker a wiser investment. And for those dreaming of a whole roasted chicken, a good meat thermometer is non-negotiable, as the intense surface heat can sometimes leave the interior undercooked.The aftercare, however, is a dream compared to the greasy ordeal of a deep fryer. Most baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe, and for handwashing, a soft brush, warm soapy water, and a little baking soda for stubborn spots are all you need.The world of air fryer accessories has also blossomed, with silicone mats to prevent sticking, non-scratch tongs for flipping, and reusable oil misters becoming essential companions. Beyond the classic frozen foods, the culinary possibilities are endless.From air-fried avocado tacos and crispy chickpeas to even small batches of cookies, the internet is awash with creative recipes from sites like Delish and BBC Good Food, proving this appliance is far more than a one-trick pony. It has truly earned its spot as a modern kitchen essential, a symbol of our collective desire for convenience without compromise.

#air fryers

#kitchen appliances

#cooking

#home tech

#tested reviews

#featured

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