Best Air Fryer for Versatile Cooking in 2026

For those wondering what you can cook in an air fryer, the Ninja Foodi Max XL 2-Basket Air Fryer (DZ401) stands out as the best choice, offering unparalleled versatility for a wide range of dishes. Its dual-zone technology allows for simultaneous cooking of different foods at varying temperatures and times, making meal preparation incredibly efficient and flexible. We compared five leading air fryer models to identify the top performers in terms of cooking capabilities, features, and overall value.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

Detailed Reviews

Ninja Foodi Max XL 2-Basket Air Fryer (DZ401) — Best Overall

The Ninja Foodi Max XL 2-Basket Air Fryer revolutionizes home cooking by allowing users to prepare two different dishes simultaneously, eliminating the need for staggered cooking times. This 10-quart appliance features revolutionary DualZone Technology with Smart Finish and Match Cook functions, enabling independent temperature and time settings for each basket or synchronized cooking across both. It offers six versatile cooking functions: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate, making it suitable for everything from crispy fries and roasted vegetables to baked goods and dehydrated snacks. This model is perfect for families or anyone who frequently prepares multi-component meals.

Price: $249 | Rating: 4.8/5

Pros:

• DualZone Technology allows cooking two different foods at once.
• Large 10-quart capacity accommodates family-sized meals.
• Smart Finish function ensures both dishes complete cooking at the same time.
• Six versatile cooking functions expand culinary possibilities.
• Nonstick, dishwasher-safe baskets simplify cleanup.

Cons:

• Larger footprint requires significant counter space.
• Higher initial cost compared to single-basket models.

Verdict: The Ninja Foodi Max XL offers unmatched flexibility and capacity, making it an excellent investment for diverse cooking needs and efficient meal preparation. Its ability to handle complex meals with ease truly answers the question of what you can cook in an air fryer by expanding the possibilities.

Check Price on Amazon →

COSORI Pro II Air Fryer 5.8QT — Best Value

The COSORI Pro II Air Fryer 5.8QT delivers exceptional performance and features at a competitive price, making it an outstanding value for most households. This model boasts a 5.8-quart square basket, accommodating a whole 5-pound chicken or meals for 3-5 people. It comes equipped with 12 customizable cooking functions and a convenient shake reminder, ensuring evenly cooked, crispy results every time. The preheat function improves food texture, while the nonstick basket and crisper plate are dishwasher-safe for effortless cleaning. This air fryer is ideal for individuals or small families seeking a reliable appliance for daily cooking.

Price: $119 | Rating: 4.7/5

Pros:

• Excellent performance and features for its price point.
• 12 customizable presets for a variety of popular dishes.
• Generous 5.8-quart capacity suits small to medium families.
• Preheat function and shake reminder optimize cooking results.
• Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate simplify cleanup.

Cons:

• Single basket limits simultaneous cooking of different items.
• Digital display can be less intuitive for some users.

Verdict: The COSORI Pro II Air Fryer offers a fantastic balance of capacity, features, and affordability, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of air frying. It capably handles a wide array of recipes.

Check Price on Amazon →

Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 6-Quart Air Fryer with ClearCook & OdorErase — Smartest Features

The Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 6-Quart Air Fryer distinguishes itself with innovative features designed to enhance the user experience and cooking results. Its standout ClearCook window and internal light allow users to monitor food progress without opening the basket, preserving heat and ensuring consistent cooking. The built-in OdorErase filter effectively reduces cooking odors, maintaining a fresh kitchen environment. This 6-quart appliance offers six cooking functions—air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, reheat, and broil—providing versatility for everyday meals. It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate convenience, smart design, and a cleaner kitchen.

Price: $149 | Rating: 4.7/5

Pros:

• ClearCook window and internal light enable easy monitoring without heat loss.
• OdorErase filter significantly reduces cooking smells.
• 6-quart capacity is suitable for family meals.
• Six versatile cooking programs cover many meal types.
• Sleek design with easy-to-use digital controls.

Cons:

• OdorErase filter requires periodic replacement.
• The ClearCook window may accumulate grease over time.

Verdict: The Instant Vortex Plus excels with its thoughtful innovations, making the air frying process more convenient and enjoyable. Its smart features address common air fryer pain points, expanding what you can cook in an air fryer comfortably.

Check Price on Amazon →

Philips Premium Airfryer XXL with Fat Removal Technology — Premium Choice

The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL represents the pinnacle of air frying technology, delivering superior results with its unique Fat Removal Technology. This feature extracts and captures excess fat from food, making meals even healthier without sacrificing taste or texture. With a generous 3-pound (4-quart) capacity, it can easily accommodate a whole chicken or large quantities of fries, serving up to six people. The digital display offers five preset cooking programs, and the Keep Warm function ensures food stays ready until serving. This appliance is ideal for health-conscious users and larger families willing to invest in premium performance and innovative features.

Price: $299 | Rating: 4.6/5

Pros:

• Patented Fat Removal Technology makes meals healthier.
• Large 3lb/4qt capacity suitable for big families.
• Rapid Air Technology ensures even cooking and crispiness.
• Digital display with five preset cooking programs and Keep Warm function.
• High-quality construction and durable materials.

Cons:

• Significantly higher price point than competitors.
• Basket size, while large, is slightly smaller than some “XXL” labeled models in terms of volume.

Verdict: The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL justifies its higher price with advanced technology and exceptional cooking performance, particularly for those prioritizing healthier meals. Its ability to create perfectly cooked, less greasy food truly enhances what you can cook in an air fryer.

Check Price on Amazon →

Ultrean Air Fryer, 4.2 Quart — Best Budget Pick

The Ultrean Air Fryer, 4.2 Quart, offers an accessible entry point into the world of air frying, providing reliable performance at an affordable price. Its compact 4.2-quart capacity is perfect for individuals, couples, or small apartments, easily handling single servings or small batches of food. This model features straightforward analog controls for temperature and time, making it incredibly easy to use for beginners. The nonstick basket and pan are simple to clean, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience. It is an excellent choice for those new to air frying or seeking a compact, no-frills appliance.

Price: $79 | Rating: 4.5/5

Pros:

• Very affordable price point.
• Simple, intuitive analog controls are easy to use.
• Compact size fits well in smaller kitchens.
• Efficiently cooks a variety of foods for 1-2 people.
• Nonstick basket and pan are easy to clean.

Cons:

• Limited capacity for larger families or meal prepping.
• Fewer advanced features or presets compared to premium models.

Verdict: The Ultrean Air Fryer provides a cost-effective and user-friendly solution for basic air frying tasks, proving that you don’t need a large budget to enjoy crispy, healthier meals. It’s a great option for exploring what you can cook in an air fryer without a significant investment.

Check Price on Amazon →

How to Choose the Best Air Fryer

Selecting the right air fryer depends on your specific cooking habits, household size, and desired features. Consider these key factors to ensure your new appliance meets your needs and expands what you can cook in an air fryer.

Capacity

Air fryer capacity is measured in quarts or pounds and directly impacts how much food you can cook at once. Smaller units (2-4 quarts) are ideal for individuals or couples, handling single servings of fries or a couple of chicken breasts. Medium-sized air fryers (5-7 quarts) are versatile for small families (3-4 people), capable of cooking a small whole chicken or a batch of wings. Larger models (8+ quarts or dual-basket designs) are best for large families or entertaining, allowing for bigger meals or cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.

Features and Functions

Modern air fryers offer a range of features beyond basic air frying. Look for models with preset cooking programs for common foods like fries, chicken, or fish, which simplify operation. Smart features like app connectivity, shake reminders, or preheat functions can enhance convenience and results. Dual-zone technology, found in models like the Ninja Foodi Max XL, provides exceptional flexibility by allowing different foods to cook at different settings. Additional functions such as roasting, baking, dehydrating, or broiling further expand the appliance’s utility, making it a true multi-cooker.

Power and Performance

The wattage of an air fryer indicates its heating power and influences cooking speed and consistency. Higher wattage (1500W-1800W) generally translates to faster preheating and more efficient cooking, resulting in crispier food. Consistent heat distribution is crucial for even cooking, often achieved through advanced fan systems and internal design. Look for reviews that mention consistent results and minimal hot spots. A powerful air fryer reduces cooking time and delivers superior texture for a wider variety of foods.

Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning an air fryer can be a chore if not designed thoughtfully. Prioritize models with nonstick baskets and crisper plates, as these materials prevent food from sticking and make wiping down easier. Dishwasher-safe components are a significant convenience, allowing for quick and effortless cleanup after meals. Removable parts that are easy to access and reassemble also contribute to a better cleaning experience. Some models, like the Instant Vortex Plus, even include odor-reducing filters to minimize lingering cooking smells.

Frequently Asked Questions

What foods can I cook in an air fryer?

You can cook a vast array of foods in an air fryer, including crispy French fries, chicken wings, fish fillets, roasted vegetables, grilled cheese, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and even baked goods like cookies or muffins. Its versatility extends to reheating leftovers, achieving a crispier texture than a microwave.

Can you cook frozen food in an air fryer?

Yes, air fryers are excellent for cooking frozen foods directly from the freezer without thawing. Items like frozen fries, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, spring rolls, and even frozen vegetables cook quickly and achieve a superior crispy texture compared to oven baking. Adjust cooking times and temperatures as needed, typically slightly longer than fresh food.

Are air fryers healthy?

Air fryers promote healthier cooking by circulating hot air to achieve a crispy texture with significantly less oil than traditional deep frying. This method reduces fat intake and calorie count in many dishes. While not all air-fried foods are inherently healthy, the appliance itself facilitates a healthier cooking approach.

What should you not put in an air fryer?

Avoid cooking foods with very wet batters (like traditional tempura), excessive cheese that can melt and drip, or extremely lightweight ingredients that can fly around and get stuck in the heating element. Popcorn kernels and large amounts of leafy greens are also generally not recommended.

How do I clean an air fryer?

Most air fryers feature nonstick, removable baskets and trays that are often dishwasher-safe. For manual cleaning, let the unit cool completely, then wash the basket and tray with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth, ensuring no water enters the electrical components.

Final Verdict

The Ninja Foodi Max XL 2-Basket Air Fryer (DZ401) emerges as the top recommendation for anyone seeking to maximize what they can cook in an air fryer, thanks to its innovative dual-zone technology and generous capacity. Its ability to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously at different settings offers unparalleled convenience for diverse meal preparation. For those prioritizing value without sacrificing performance, the COSORI Pro II Air Fryer 5.8QT provides an excellent balance of features and affordability. Meanwhile, the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 6-Quart Air Fryer stands out with its smart monitoring and odor-reducing features, enhancing the user experience significantly.