Best Air Fryers 2026: Top 5 Picks for Crispy Results

Kitchen Buying Guide: What Actually Matters

When shopping for an air fryer, capacity is the single most important spec to get right. A 4-quart model comfortably serves 1-2 people, a 5-6 quart unit is the sweet spot for families of 3-4, and anything above 6 quarts (or toaster oven combos in the 25-32 quart range) is ideal for larger families or anyone who wants to cook entire meals at once. The most common mistake buyers make is choosing too small — food crowded in the basket won't crisp properly, which defeats the entire purpose of air frying. Wattage directly impacts how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Most standard air fryers fall in the 1500-1700W range, which is perfectly adequate for everyday cooking. Higher-wattage models like the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL at 2225W heat up faster and can handle denser foods more effectively, but they'll also draw more electricity and may require a dedicated outlet. For most home cooks, anything above 1500W will deliver great results without any noticeable performance gaps. Preset cooking programs are a convenience feature that matters more to beginners than experienced cooks. Models like the Cosori Pro LE offer 13 presets covering everything from frozen fries to steak to desserts, which takes the guesswork out of time and temperature settings. However, seasoned cooks often prefer manual control and may find that 4-6 presets are more than enough. Don't pay a premium for presets alone — they're nice to have but not a dealbreaker. For budget buyers spending under $90, the Instant Vortex Plus and Ninja AF101 deliver exceptional performance per dollar and will satisfy the vast majority of air frying needs. Mid-range buyers in the $90-$160 range should consider the Cosori Pro LE for its generous preset library or the Cosori Toaster Oven Combo if countertop versatility is a priority. Premium buyers willing to invest $200+ should look at the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL for its superior build quality, fat-removal technology, and the most powerful heating element in this roundup. Whatever your budget, prioritize the right capacity for your household size above all else.