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Recommended for users in United States
Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.
Recommended for users in United States
By Chloe Benson
If you’ve ever bought an air fryer based on glowing Amazon reviews or influencer hype only to end up with soggy fries, rubbery chicken, or yet another bulky appliance collecting dust, you’re not alone.
With so many models claiming to deliver “crispy perfection” and “guilt-free frying,” it can get quite tricky to separate real performance from marketing fluff. Right?
The truth is, not every air fryer lives up to the hype. Some heat unevenly. Others have tiny baskets that barely hold a meal. And far too many are a pain to clean or come with complicated controls that make dinner feel like a science project.
That’s why we decided to test 10 of the most popular air fryers on the market, from ultra-affordable models under $80 to high-end countertop ovens pushing $300+. We used them like any home cook would: batch-cooking veggies, crisping up frozen snacks, reheating leftovers, and baking proteins.
Many delivered decent results. A few impressed us. But only one truly stood out – balancing performance, convenience, and price better than anything else we tested.
Let’s take a closer look.
We didn’t run these air fryers through sterile lab tests or fancy kitchen simulations. Instead, we used them like any home cook would; from morning to night, frozen fries to weeknight dinners. The goal was simple. To find out which ones actually made life easier.
Every air fryer was scored across 5 key areas:
1
Cooking Performance
How well did it crisp, cook evenly, and handle different types of food? We looked for golden fries, juicy proteins, and consistent results.
2
Ease of Use
From button layout to cooking presets, we evaluated how intuitive each model felt. If you need a YouTube tutorial to use it, that’s a red flag.
3
Cleanup
Is the basket non-stick? Dishwasher-safe? Are there awkward corners that trap oil?
4
Design & Footprint
We considered aesthetics, counter space, and how each model blends into (or clutters up) a modern kitchen.
5
Features & Functionality
We looked at capacity, preset modes, temperature range, auto shutoff, and other smart features that enhance convenience and versatility in daily use.
Before you hit “Add to Cart”, take a few minutes to understand what really matters in an air fryer. We believe these factors can make or break your experience.
Rating: 4.9 | Score: 96/100
$79.99
Cooking Performance
95/100
Ease of Use
97/100
Cleanup
98/100
Design
92/100
Features & Functionality
98/100
We didn’t expect to love it this much, but once we tried it, it became the one air fryer we kept reaching for. At just $79.99, the Chefman TurboFry Touch punches way above its price tag. It consistently outperformed big-name brands that cost double and even held its own against premium countertop ovens priced at $250+. From crispy wings to perfectly roasted veggies, it delivered golden-brown goodness – fast and without the hassle.
The TurboFry’s intuitive touchscreen interface and Hi-Fry™ crisping technology make cooking a breeze. With four one-touch presets and a 450°F max temperature, it takes the guesswork out of daily meals. Whether you’re air-frying frozen snacks or reheating last night’s leftovers, it just works and works better than most.
We hate scrubbing trays after dinner. We’re sure you do too. Thankfully, the Chefman’s nonstick basket is dishwasher-safe, mess-resistant, and easy to remove. That alone puts it ahead of several higher-priced models we tested. And with auto shutoff and cool-touch housing, it’s just as safe as it is convenient.
At 4 quarts, it’s perfect for individuals, couples, and small families. It fits easily on your counter, slides into most cabinets, and doesn’t hog space like bulkier multi-function ovens. You get speed, crispiness, and quality without the clutter.
While most air fryers in this price range cut corners, Chefman packed real performance into a clean, modern design. No unnecessary features. No learning curve. Just fast, reliable results and unmatched ease of use. And unlike most budget models, you’re not stuck with analog dials, weak heat output, or frustrating cleanups.
Doesn’t matter if you’re upgrading from an old fryer or buying your first one, the Chefman TurboFry Touch is simply the smartest buy we’ve found this year. No compromise. Just a surprisingly great air fryer that actually delivers.
Touchscreen with simple cooking presets
Cooks fast with Hi-Fry crisping tech
Dishwasher-safe nonstick cooking basket
Compact size fits most countertops
Auto shutoff adds peace of mind
Great performance at a budget price
Primarily available through Chefman’s official online store
The current discounted price may soon increase
The Chefman TurboFry Touch 4 Qt outperformed every model in its price range and even challenged several premium competitors. It delivers consistent, crispy results fast, has an intuitive touchscreen interface, and cleans up effortlessly. For under $80, it’s a game-changer for anyone who wants a reliable, stylish air fryer without the complexity or cost. Ideal for singles, couples, or first-time buyers looking for premium performance at an unbeatable value. It doesn’t take up much space and doesn’t require a steep learning curve. Whether you’re whipping up weekday meals or weekend snacks, this compact fryer proves that great cooking doesn’t have to come at a premium.
Rating: 4.7 | Score: 88/100
$120-$129
Cooking Performance
94/100
Ease of Use
90/100
Cleanup
84/100
Design
84/100
Features & Functionality
88/100
Consistently delivers crispy, well-cooked food
Very easy to understand and operate
Space-saving, fits well on countertops
Trusted brand, known for quality
Requires manual shaking for even cooking
Lacks the advanced dual-zone cooking feature
Only one basket, limits cooking versatility
The Ninja AF101 is a highly reliable and efficient air fryer, perfect for households seeking consistent performance. Its intuitive controls and compact design make it a user-friendly option, backed by a strong brand reputation and warranty. While it requires manual shaking and lacks advanced features like SmartFinish and multiple baskets, its core air-frying capabilities are decent. It heats up quickly, delivers crisp results, and remains a dependable choice for everyday use. For those new to air frying, it strikes a solid balance between simplicity and performance.
Rating: 4.5 | Score: 84/100
$280-$330
Cooking Performance
90/100
Ease of Use
82/100
Cleanup
84/100
Design
84/100
Features & Functionality
80/100
Accommodates large meals
Adds a rotisserie function
Ensures even cooking through air circulation
Multi-functional, replaces several appliances
Takes up significant counter space
High price point
User interface can be confusing
The De’Longhi Livenza offers large capacity and multi-functional oven capabilities, including a rotisserie. It’s a premium appliance, ideal for advanced home cooks with ample counter space. However, its size, high price, and complex user interface might be deterrents for some. It’s best suited for users who plan to fully utilize its multiple features. Casual users may find it a bit overwhelming. Those seeking quick, everyday meals might prefer something simpler and more compact.
Rating: 4.3 | Score: 81/100
$325 – $399
Cooking Performance
89/100
Ease of Use
80/100
Cleanup
78/100
Design
82/100
Features & Functionality
78/100
Wide range of cooking functions
Delivers quick cooking results
Modern, clear, easy-to-read display
Delivers consistent cooking results
Significant financial investment required
Difficult to move or store
Occupies considerable kitchen counter space
A versatile appliance that offers decent results across. Its speed and cooking are impressive, making it a good choice for cooking enthusiasts. However, be prepared for a significant investment, it’s both expensive and takes up a lot of space. While it’s good for households that cook often, the bulky footprint and premium price may be overkill for casual users. It’s best suited for those who plan to use its full range of features regularly.
Rating: 4.1 | Score: 75/100
$180
Cooking Performance
84/100
Ease of Use
76/100
Cleanup
74/100
Design
74/100
Features & Functionality
75/100
Suitable for cooking large family meals
Offers indoor grilling options
Clear digital display
May have restricted customer service
Large footprint, takes up considerable space
Not easily portable
This air fryer offers a large capacity and grilling capabilities, making it suitable for families who cook large meals. But, its bulky design and limited support are points to consider. It’s best for users with ample counter space and a need for high-volume cooking. Also, the extra accessories add to storage demands. Overall, it’s a decent fit for big households that value function over footprint.
Rating: 3.9 | Score: 70/100
$190-$210
Cooking Performance
76/100
Ease of Use
74/100
Cleanup
70/100
Design
72/100
Features & Functionality
70/100
Combines air fry and slow cook
Suitable for batch cooking
Cost-effective with other products
Requires additional counter space
Takes longer to reach cooking temperature
May incur extra expenses
It offers both air frying and slow cooking. While its capacity is great for families, however, the need for a separate base unit and slower warm-up times impacts convenience. The overall performance felt sluggish compared to others we tested, especially when cooking back-to-back meals. And the bulky design clutters smaller kitchens.
Rating: 3.8 | Score: 68/100
$100
Cooking Performance
78/100
Ease of Use
74/100
Cleanup
75/100
Design
70/100
Features & Functionality
65/100
Delivers quick, uniformly cooked results
Easy to clean, convenient maintenance
Easy to move and store
Operates with noticeable fan sound
May have odor during first uses
Limits cooking multiple items
The Cosori Premium delivers even cooking with features like a dishwasher-safe basket and keep-warm function. However, we noticed a slight initial plastic smell and found it a bit noisy, which isn’t ideal. The build feels weaker, and it lacks the polish of some of the other options in its price range.
Rating: 3.6 | Score: 62/100
$119
Cooking Performance
70/100
Ease of Use
70/100
Cleanup
70/100
Design
65/100
Features & Functionality
60/100
Achieves high temperatures quickly
Simple to wipe down and maintain
Less established brand recognition
Material quality may feel less robust
Lacks advanced functionalities
The Bella Pro Series offers decent capacity and sleek design at a budget-friendly price point. While it provides good cooking performance and easy cleaning, its brand recognition and features are not as robust as others.
Rating: 3.0 | Score: 59/100
$99
Cooking Performance
65/100
Ease of Use
62/100
Cleanup
70/100
Design
60/100
Features & Functionality
60/100
Easy cleanup, convenient maintenance
Good capacity for small families
Average construction quality, not premium
Slower cooking for larger items
May be hard to find in Europe
This dryer is effective for thick hair but lacks refinement. The airflow is harsh, heat output is inconsistent, and the design feels outdated. It’s functional, but far from a smooth styling experience.
Rating: 2.9 | Score: 44/100
$130-$175
Cooking Performance
55/100
Ease of Use
60/100
Cleanup
49/100
Design
45/100
Features & Functionality
50/100
Achieves uniformly crispy results
Consumes less power, saves energy
Expensive given its capacity
Lacks modern digital display
Basic functionality, fewer presets
The Philips 3000 Essential offers the reliability of a trusted brand. However, its higher price for its size and lack of a digital screen make it a very basic option for brand-loyal buyers seeking simplicity.
Baby Monitor
Best For
Score
Chefman TurboFry Touch 4 Qt
Value, ease of use, fast crisping
96
Ninja AF101
Daily crisping with intuitive controls
88
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Multi-function cooking
84
De’Longhi Livenza Air Fry Oven
Large meals, rotisserie
81
Westinghouse Opti-Fry 7.2 L
Meat-heavy meals, indoor grilling
75
Crock-Pot Crisp & Bake Multi-Cooker
Batch cooking
70
Cosori Premium 3.7 Qt
Small families
68
Bella Pro Series 6 Qt
Budget-friendly family meals
62
Gourmia GAF575 5 Qt
Lightweight speed for thick hair at mid-range price
59
Philips 3000 Essential (HD9252/91)
Basic air frying needs
44
We went into this comparison expecting the usual high-end models to dominate. What we didn’t expect was for a compact, no-fuss air fryer to quietly outperform them all in the ways that actually matter: crispiness, speed, cleanup, and everyday ease. The Chefman TurboFry Touch didn’t just match the big names. It beat them where it counts. It made cooking feel less like a chore and more like a win. For home cooks who want real results without the guesswork, this is the one we’d buy again.
The Chefman TurboFry Touch 4 Qt didn’t just meet expectations, it exceeded them. With crispier fries, juicier chicken, and easier maintenance than models twice its price, it quickly became the one we reached for over and over again. It doesn’t try to do everything. But what it does, it does exceptionally well: fast, even cooking without the stress. For only $79.99, it’s the most well-rounded, hassle-free air fryer we’ve tested this year.
From frozen snacks and weeknight dinners to leftover reheats and veggie sides, this air fryer handled it all with surprising consistency. The intuitive touchscreen made switching between presets effortless, and the compact size meant it didn’t hog counter space – and yet still cooked enough for two to three people without overcrowding. It struck that rare balance between simplicity and performance, making it ideal for everyday use.
While other models came with the added bells and whistles, most of them either complicated the cooking process or fell short in key areas like cleanup or heating time. The Chefman, on the other hand, stayed focused: no unnecessary features, just solid, dependable performance where it counts. If you’re tired of overthinking your next kitchen purchase, this one’s a no-brainer.
Chefman has found the sweet spot with this model: powerful heat output, compact size, intuitive presets, and cleanup so easy it almost feels unfair. Whether you’re cooking for one or prepping for a small family, this air fryer delivers consistent results with zero guesswork.
The high heat range goes up to 450°F, which means it gets hot fast and crisps food beautifully without drying it out. The “Hi-Fry” function gives an extra boost when you want that golden, restaurant-style finish. And the one-touch presets make everything from frozen fries to chicken thighs practically effortless, while the sleek digital display feels more modern and responsive than most budget models we tested.
Add to that a non-stick basket that goes straight into the dishwasher and a build that fits comfortably on nearly any kitchen counter, and it becomes clear why this air fryer stands out. It’s not just easy to use; it’s easy to live with. No complicated instructions, no bulky accessories, no steep learning curve. Just quick, reliable cooking from a brand that seems to understand what everyday home cooks actually need.
In addition to outperforming pricier alternatives, it’s also backed by Chefman’s official 1-year warranty. That means if anything goes wrong due to defects in material or workmanship, you’re covered. It’s a meaningful promise that shows Chefman stands behind their products and is willing to go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction.
This isn’t a white-label product you’ll find under a dozen names on Amazon. The TurboFry Touch is sold directly through Chefman’s official online store, ensuring you’re getting the real deal with full warranty protection and U.S.-based customer support. That also means no middlemen, no inflated markups, and often exclusive online pricing you won’t find elsewhere.
The current discounted price of $79.99 for the Chefman TurboFry is one of the best deals we’ve seen on a high-performing air fryer but it might not last much longer. With strong word-of-mouth and limited availability through Chefman’s official store, there’s no telling how long this offer will stay live. If you’ve been on the fence, now’s the time to act because once inventory tightens, it may return to its regular price or sell out altogether.
About the Author
Chloe Benson is a food and tech writer who’s helped thousands of readers cut through the noise in the kitchen gadget world. She’s tested more than 100 air fryers and knows what separates the ones you’ll love from the ones you’ll regret.
