The Ninja AF101 is our top pick for beginners. It’s easy to use, heats up fast, and fits perfectly on most kitchen counters. The 4-quart basket fits enough food for 2-3 people. It has a simple dial interface — no complicated digital menus to figure out.
Why we love it: Consistent results, easy cleanup, great value for money. Capacity: 4 Quart. Best for: Families of 2-3.
Check the Ninja AF101 price on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FDJMC9Q?tag=kitchengad0cd-20
Cosori Pro Air Fryer — Best Budget Pick
If you want a great air fryer without spending a lot, the Cosori Pro is the one. It has a 5.8-quart basket (bigger than the Ninja), a digital touch screen, and 13 cooking presets built in. Perfect for beginners who want guided cooking.
Why we love it: Large capacity, digital presets, affordable price. Capacity: 5.8 Quart. Best for: Families of 3-5.
Check the Cosori Pro price on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GJBBGHG?tag=kitchengad0cd-20
Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer — Best for Large Families
The Instant Vortex Plus has a 6-quart capacity and can roast, bake, broil, and air fry. It’s made by the same company as the Instant Pot, so the quality and reliability are excellent. The rotating basket option means even cooking every time.
Why we love it: Versatile cooking modes, large capacity, trusted brand. Capacity: 6 Quart. Best for: Families of 4-6.
Check the Instant Vortex Plus price on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086N3QQ9C?tag=kitchengad0cd-20
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL — Best Premium Pick
Philips invented the air fryer, so it makes sense they make one of the best ones. The XXL model is big enough to cook a whole chicken. Fat removal technology means your food is genuinely healthier. It’s pricier, but worth it if you use it every day.
Why we love it: Best cooking results, fat removal technology, premium build quality. Capacity: 3 lbs / 7 Quart. Best for: Health-conscious cooks.
Check the Philips XXL price on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07W6SWH6M?tag=kitchengad0cd-20
GoWISE USA Air Fryer — Best for Small Kitchens
The GoWISE USA is the most compact option on our list. It fits perfectly in a small apartment kitchen and still delivers crispy, delicious results. It comes with a recipe book with over 50 ideas so you’ll never run out of things to cook.
Why we love it: Ultra compact, comes with recipe book, budget friendly. Capacity: 3.7 Quart. Best for: Singles or small apartments.
Check the GoWISE Air Fryer price on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AXM2IG6?tag=kitchengad0cd-20
Which Air Fryer Should You Buy?
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:
Cooking for 1-2 people? → GoWISE USA or Ninja AF101. Cooking for 3-4 people? → Cosori Pro or Instant Vortex Plus. Cooking for a large family? → Philips XXL. On a tight budget? → GoWISE USA. Want the best quality? → Philips XXL.
All of these are excellent choices. Any one of them will make your cooking faster, healthier, and more fun. Click any of the Amazon links above to check the current price — prices change often, so make sure to check before buying!
Looking for the best air fryer but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place. We tested the top models so you don’t have to waste money on the wrong one.
Air fryers have taken over kitchens everywhere, and for good reason — they cook food faster, use less oil, and are incredibly easy to clean. But with hundreds of models out there, choosing one can be overwhelming. We narrowed it down to the 5 best options for beginners.
1 Ninja AF101 Air Fryer — Best Overall