After rigorously testing over 65 models, Business Insider Reviews crowned the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro as a top performer. This impressive device is capablele of roasting a hefty 14-lb turkey and dehydrating four trays of food. It truly makes you rethink what a countertop appliance can achieve.
For many of us, the initial draw to an air fryer is often the promise of simple, healthier cooking – crispy fries with less oil, or perfectly cooked chicken wings. Yet, as I’ve explored the market, I’ve found that the most highly-rated models are far from simple; they are sophisticated, multi-purpose ovens that redefine kitchen versatility.
What I’ve discovered is a clear trend: consumers are increasingly valuing comprehensive kitchen appliances that combine multiple functions. This suggests a market shift away from single-purpose gadgets towards integrated, high-performance solutions for our homes.
Beyond Frying: The Versatility of Top Air Fryers
- 9 — The Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro includes 9 smart cooking functions, with a handy keep warm setting, according to Breville.
- 6 — This oven features 6 independent quartz heating elements, which intelligently direct power where it's needed most for consistent results, according to Breville.
- 13 — Breville offers up to 13 smart presets, covering everything from Toast and Bagel to Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Proof, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, Slow Cook, and Dehydrate, according to Breville.
These statistics paint a picture of appliances designed to be the central workhorse in your kitchen. Modern air fryers, particularly the high-end models I’ve been looking at, are engineered to replace multiple kitchen appliances. They offer unparalleled versatility for diverse cooking needs and make everyday meal prep a joy.
Featured Top-Rated Air Fryers
1. Ninja Crispi glass air fryer
Best for: Health-conscious cooks who value clean materials and ease of cleaning.
This air fryer has been recommended as the best overall air fryer for two consecutive years by CNET. Its standout feature is its nontoxic, dishwasher-safe glass cooking bowls, which is incredibly reassuring for healthy eating, much like how the Cuisinart ICE-21 is a top performer in its category. It offers cook, bake, air fry, and max crisp functions, with a digital timer that defaults to 10 minutes, making it straightforward to use.
Strengths: Nontoxic glass bowls, dishwasher-safe, consistent performance | Limitations: Digital timer defaults to 10 minutes | Price: $180, currently on sale for $160
2. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Best for: Avid home chefs seeking a powerful, multi-functional appliance to consolidate kitchen tools.
Named one of the best air fryers by Business Insider Reviews after testing over 65 models, this unit truly impresses. Its interior size of 1 cubic foot is generous enough to toast 9 slices of bread or even roast a 14-lb turkey, according to Breville. It excels at air-frying french fries and can dehydrate up to 4 trays of food, according to Breville. The 6 independent quartz heating elements ensure precise temperature control. It's a versatile replacement for several kitchen appliances.
Strengths: Large capacity (roasts 14-lb turkey), 9 smart functions, precise heating, replaces multiple appliances | Limitations: Premium price point | Price: $399.95, currently on sale for $319.95 (according to Business Insider); however, Breville's website also lists a 'Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro' at $249.95.
3. Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer
Best for: Everyday cooks prioritizing consistent results and user-friendly design.
The Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer earned its 'Best overall' designation from Business Insider for its consistent cooking performance, thoughtful design, and overall ease of use. It’s a reliable choice for those who want dependable results without unnecessary complexity.
Strengths: Consistent cooking, good design, easy to use | Limitations: Less multifunctional than oven-style models | Price: Not specified in facts.
4. Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL AF181
Best for: Busy households needing a compact, fast-performing air fryer.
Identified as the best 6-quart air fryer tested by RTINGS, this model stands out for its exceptionally fast performance. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller kitchens or for those who prioritize quick meal preparation.
Strengths: Exceptionally fast, compact 6-quart size | Limitations: Smaller capacity for larger families | Price: Not specified in facts.
5. Philips 3000 Series Dual-Basket Airfryer
Best for: Families or individuals who cook multiple dishes simultaneously.
This air fryer boasts a substantial 9.5 Qt (9L) capacity. It's well-suited for larger meals or cooking different components at once. Its dual-basket design offers practical benefits for managing various cooking tasks efficiently.
Strengths: Large 9.5 Qt capacity, dual-basket design | Limitations: Less explicit multi-functionality compared to oven models | Price: $249.99
6. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact
Best for: Smaller kitchens or individuals seeking Breville quality in a more modest footprint.
For those who love the idea of a Breville Smart Oven but need a smaller option, this compact version is a great choice. It features 5 air fry presets and 5 smart oven favorites, according to Breville. Though not as expansive as its Pro counterpart, it still offers a good range of functions, including 13 smart presets like Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Proof, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, Slow Cook, and Dehydrate, according to Breville. It's a capable kitchen assistant.
Strengths: Compact size, Breville quality, good range of presets | Limitations: Smaller capacity than Pro model | Price: Not specified in facts.
Comparing Top Air Fryer Models
| Model | Price | Capacity | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Crispi glass air fryer | $180 ($160 sale) | Not specified (dimensions 13.5x12x13.5 in) | Nontoxic, dishwasher-safe glass bowls |
| Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro | $399.95 ($319.95 sale) / $249.95 (according to Breville) | 1 cubic foot (roasts 14-lb turkey) | 9 smart functions, 6 quartz heating elements |
| Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer | Not specified | Not specified | Consistent cooking performance |
| Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL AF181 | Not specified | 6-quart | Exceptionally fast performance |
| Philips 3000 Series Dual-Basket Airfryer | $249.99 | 9.5 Qt (9L) | Dual-basket design |
| Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact | Not specified | Not specified | 5 air fry presets, 5 smart oven favorites |
Looking at these direct comparisons, it becomes clear that premium features often come with a higher price tag. However, this investment often translates into greater value through expanded functionality, allowing one appliance to do the job of many. The price disparity for the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro between Business Insider's reporting ($399.95, on sale for $319.95) and Breville's listed price ($249.95) highlights potential consumer confusion when trying to determine the true cost of these advanced kitchen tools.
How We Chose the Best Air Fryers for Healthy Cooking
When I set out to identify the top-rated air fryers, my focus extended beyond just their ability to crisp food. Considered models that excelled in versatility, capacity, and overall user experience, taking cues from rigorous testing conducted by reputable sources. For instance, Business Insider Reviews evaluated over 65 different air fryers, providing a solid foundation for understanding performance across a wide range of products.
My methodology prioritized appliances that not only deliver on healthier cooking promises but also offer features that genuinely enhance daily kitchen routines. This meant looking at how well they integrate into diverse cooking needs, from simple air frying to more complex tasks like baking and dehydrating, ensuring they truly earn their place on your countertop.
The Bottom Line: Investing in Kitchen Versatility
As kitchen technology advances, it appears consumers will increasingly embrace these sophisticated, multi-functional smart ovens, recognizing their value in streamlining cooking and opening up new culinary possibilities, even if it means a higher initial investment.
FAQ
What are the best air fryers for healthy eating?
For healthy eating, I recommend models that use non-toxic materials, like the Ninja Crispi glass air fryer with its dishwasher-safe glass bowls. Beyond materials, look for appliances that offer precise temperature control and even cooking to minimize oil usage and ensure food is cooked thoroughly without burning.
Which air fryer is best for home cooking?
The best air fryer for home cooking depends on your needs. For ultimate versatility and capacity, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro stands out, capable of handling everything from a 14-lb turkey to dehydrating multiple trays. If speed and a smaller footprint are priorities, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL AF181 is an excellent 6-quart option.
Are air fryers worth buying?
Absolutely, air fryers are worth buying in 2026, especially the multi-functional smart oven models. They offer a healthier alternative to deep frying and consolidate numerous kitchen appliances into one unit, saving counter space and simplifying meal preparation. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, for example, offers 13 smart presets, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
