Choose a basket air fryer for the crispiest results and easy cleanup, an oven-style air fryer for larger batches and toasting, or a dual-basket model to cook two foods at once. Size by household: about 2 to 3 quarts for one or two people, 4 to 6 quarts for families of three to four, and larger or dual baskets for bigger households. Look for a dishwasher-safe basket and simple controls.
Air fryers are compact convection ovens that cook fast and crisp. Here is how to choose one.
Types
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Basket | Crispiest, easy to shake, compact | Limited single-layer space |
| Dual-basket | Two foods, different settings | Wider footprint |
| Oven-style | Large capacity, racks, toasting | Less crisp, more to clean |
| Air fryer lid / combo | Uses existing pressure cooker | Smaller capacity |
Capacity
| Household | Capacity |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 people | 2 to 3 quarts |
| 3 to 4 people | 4 to 6 quarts |
| 5+ people | 6+ quarts or dual-basket |
Air fryers work best with food in a single layer, so a wider basket beats a deeper one.
Features worth having
- Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
- Simple controls with clear temperature and time
- Window or light to check food
- Shake reminder
- Quiet fan
Power and counter space
Most air fryers draw a lot of power; avoid running one on the same circuit as other high-wattage appliances. Measure counter space and clearance under cabinets.
What air fryers do best
Fries and potatoes, chicken wings and thighs, roasted vegetables, reheating pizza and fried leftovers, and frozen snacks.
Tips
- Preheat for a few minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket.
- Shake halfway through.
- Use a thermometer to check meat doneness.
Common questions
What size air fryer do I need?
About 2 to 3 quarts for one or two people, 4 to 6 quarts for three or four, and 6 quarts or more, or a dual-basket model, for larger households.
Is an air fryer just a small convection oven?
Essentially, yes: it circulates hot air with a powerful fan. The compact space and basket design cook faster and crisper than most full-size ovens.
Do air fryers need oil?
Many foods need little or no oil. A light spray or toss in oil helps vegetables and breaded foods brown and crisp.