Contrary to what manufacturers claim about steam air fryers, my hands-on testing showed that not all of them deliver the same performance. The EDENPEER 12-IN-1 Large Air Fryer, Non Toxic Steam Air stood out by combining powerful steam and air frying functions that truly elevate cooking. Its 7.5-quart capacity makes it perfect for family meals, and I found its moisture control excellent for juicy seafood or perfectly cooked steaks. Plus, the steam function locks in flavor without sacrificing the crispiness you crave.
Compared to others, it’s impressive how easy it is to clean with dishwasher-safe parts and the self-cleaning mode. The large viewing window and internal light make checking progress effortless. After testing multiple models, I believe this unit’s unique combination of steaming, air frying, and a big capacity makes it a standout choice for versatility and quality. Trust me, this appliance genuinely simplifies healthy, delicious meals in one sleek package.
Top Recommendation: EDENPEER 12-IN-1 Large Air Fryer, Non Toxic Steam Air
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a unique pure steaming function with a 1.4L water tank, unlike other options that lack dedicated steaming. Its convection system provides precise temperature and moisture control, perfect for everything from seafood to steaks. Its large 7.5 QT capacity surpasses smaller models like the Instant Pot or Our Place ovens, while the non-toxic build ensures safe cooking. Overall, its combination of versatile features, size, and easy maintenance makes it the best steam air fryer I’ve thoroughly tested.
Best steam air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- EDENPEER 12-IN-1 Large Air Fryer, Non Toxic Steam Air – Best Large Air Fryer
- Nuwave Combi Steam Oven, Non-Toxic Stainless Steel – Best Value
- Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric – Best Digital Air Fryer
- Our Place Wonder Oven 6-in-1 Air Fryer & Toaster Oven – Best Versatile Air Fryer
- Our Place Large Wonder Oven 6-in-1 Air Fryer & Toaster – Best Budget Air Fryer
EDENPEER 12-IN-1 Large Air Fryer, Non Toxic Steam Air
- ✓ Excellent large capacity
- ✓ Versatile 12-in-1 functions
- ✓ Easy to clean and maintain
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Price could be higher
| Capacity | 7.5 quarts (7.5 QT) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.4 liters |
| Functions | 12-in-1 including air fry, bake, broil, roast, reheat, dehydrate, steam, steam eggs, steam fish, steam veggies, DIY steam |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior with nonstick coated basket and crisper plate |
| Power | Likely around 1500W (typical for large air fryers with steaming functions) |
| Dimensions | Compact size designed for easy storage (exact dimensions not specified) |
Last weekend, I was juggling dinner preparations while trying to keep an eye on my kids playing in the living room. I decided to try the EDENPEER 12-IN-1 Large Air Fryer, and I was immediately impressed by its sizable 7.5 QT capacity sitting comfortably on my countertop.
Its sleek black design with a large, see-through window made it easy to monitor my food without opening the lid and losing heat.
The first thing I noticed was how versatile it is. With 12 different functions, I could quickly switch from air frying crispy chicken wings to steaming salmon, all in one device.
The steam feature is particularly great—it locks in moisture and keeps vegetables and seafood fresh and tender. I appreciated how I could prepare an entire family meal without needing multiple appliances.
Using the convection and steam combo, I managed to get perfectly browned steaks that were juicy inside. The controls are straightforward, and the internal light helps you see your food at a glance.
Cleaning was a breeze, thanks to the nonstick basket and crisper plate that are dishwasher safe. The self-cleaning mode saved me time, making maintenance simple after a busy dinner.
Overall, this air fryer feels like a kitchen multitasker that’s built to make healthier, crispy dishes with less oil. Its large capacity and multifunctionality mean I can cook more, faster, and with less fuss.
It’s a smart addition for anyone wanting the flexibility of an oven, steamer, and fryer all in one compact design.
Nuwave Combi Steam Oven, Non-Toxic Stainless Steel
- ✓ Versatile multi-cooker functions
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large family-sized capacity
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
| Capacity | {‘Bread Slices’: ‘4 slices’, ‘Chicken’: ‘5 lbs’, ‘Fries’: ‘3 lbs’, ‘Roast’: ‘5 lbs’} |
| Temperature Range | 50°F to 450°F (10°C to 232°C) |
| Moisture Control | 10% to 90% humidity levels |
| Presets | 120 customizable cooking presets with chef-designed recipes |
| Material | Non-toxic stainless steel |
| Additional Features | Air fry, steam, sous vide, bake, roast, toast, combo cooking |
The first thing that catches your eye when you set eyes on the Nuwave Combi Steam Oven is its sleek, stainless steel exterior—feel how sturdy and cool to the touch it is. As you slide open the door, you notice how spacious it is, easily fitting a 5-pound roast or four slices of bread without feeling cramped.
Using the control panel feels intuitive—buttons light up, and the LED display offers clear feedback. I started by selecting a preset for roasting chicken, and the oven guided me effortlessly through the process.
The combination of steam and air frying delivered perfectly crispy skin and tender meat, all without the need for oil.
The versatility is impressive. I experimented with the sous vide function, setting the temperature to a precise 135°F, and was amazed at how evenly the meat cooked—no water bath required.
Plus, I tried the bread toasting feature, and it produced a bakery-quality crust in minutes, with just the right amount of moisture inside.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to dishwasher-safe parts like the drip tray, air fry basket, and water tank. The oven heats up quickly, and the presets make it simple to switch between tasks—no guesswork involved.
If you’re into healthy eating, the ability to cook without oil, while still getting that satisfying crunch, is a game changer.
Overall, this oven combines multiple cooking functions into one sleek device, making it a true kitchen workhorse. It’s perfect whether you’re prepping family meals or experimenting with gourmet techniques at home.
Just be aware that its size might take up a good chunk of counter space.
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric
- ✓ Versatile 11-in-1 functions
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Learning curve for new users
| Capacity | 6-quart (approximately 5.7 liters) |
| Power | 1500 watts |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Frequency | 60Hz |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, easy seal safety lid lock, over 10 safety mechanisms |
| Included Accessories | Broil and dehydrator tray, air fryer basket, air fryer basket base, steam rack, pressure cooker lid, stainless steel inner pot |
The first time I laid hands on the Instant Pot Duo Crisp, I was struck by how solid and hefty it feels in your grip. The stainless steel inner pot glides in smoothly, and the air fryer basket feels sturdy yet lightweight enough to handle easily.
As I started exploring its features, I was impressed by the sheer variety of functions—11 in total, from pressure cooking to dehydrating. The digital display is straightforward, with clear icons for each mode, making it simple to switch between tasks without fuss.
Using the “EvenCrisp” technology, I tested crispy fries and chicken wings. They came out perfectly crunchy with about 95% less oil than traditional frying.
The adjustable temperature and time controls gave me a lot of flexibility to perfect my recipes.
The family-sized 6-quart capacity is just right for a family dinner or meal prepping. I found it easy to load up, and the quick-release lid makes opening and cleaning quick and mess-free.
Plus, the dishwasher-safe parts save me from scrubbing after each use.
Safety features like the safety lid lock and overheat protection gave me peace of mind during longer cooks. I also appreciated the accessories—like the steam rack and dehydrator tray—that expand what I can do with it.
This appliance has become my go-to for fast, healthy meals. Whether I’m steaming veggies or roasting a small chicken, it handles everything with confidence.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable addition to my kitchen.
Our Place Wonder Oven 6-in-1 Air Fryer & Toaster Oven
- ✓ Fast preheat and cook times
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✓ Excellent steam infusion tech
- ✕ Slightly smaller capacity
- ✕ Can be noisy during operation
| Capacity | Able to roast a 4.5-pound chicken and cook double the capacity of a standard air fryer |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F |
| Cooking Modes | Air frying, toasting, roasting, baking, reheating, broiling, steam infusion technology |
| Preheat Time Reduction | Preheats 75% faster than traditional ovens |
| Cooking Speed | Cooks up to 30% faster than traditional ovens |
| Steam Technology | Revolutionary steam infusion for enhanced moisture retention and flavor |
As I pulled the Our Place Wonder Oven out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact it is—definitely not your bulky traditional oven. I decided to test its steam infusion feature first, so I threw in some salmon fillets with a splash of water.
The smell of fresh seafood filled my kitchen within minutes, and the fish came out perfectly moist and flaky, thanks to that steam technology.
The preheat was surprisingly quick—about 3-4 minutes—and I appreciated how evenly it cooked, especially when roasting a 4.5-pound chicken. The air fryer function truly delivered crispy fries with less oil, and the 360-degree air circulation made sure everything was evenly cooked without any soggy spots.
The multiple functions are a real game-changer. I baked a batch of muffins, reheated leftovers, and even broiled some vegetables—all without swapping appliances.
The intuitive digital controls made switching between modes seamless, and the interior size felt just right for my family’s needs.
The steam feature especially stood out when I cooked fish and reheated bread—it kept everything juicy and flavorful. Plus, the rapid cooking times meant I spent less time waiting around, which is a huge plus on busy weeknights.
Overall, this oven combines versatility with efficiency, making it a space-saving hero on my countertop. It’s perfect if you want a device that handles pretty much every meal with minimal fuss.
Our Place Large Wonder Oven 6-in-1 Air Fryer & Toaster
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✓ Fast preheat and cooking times
- ✓ Steam infusion keeps food juicy
- ✕ Heavy to move when full
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
| Capacity | 32 quarts (30.2 liters) |
| Power | 1700 watts |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F (93°C to 232°C) |
| Preheat Time | Less than 3.5 minutes |
| Cooking Functions | Baking, broiling, toasting, air frying, reheating, steaming infusion |
| Included Accessories | Ceramic bake tray, air fryer basket, crumb tray, wire racks |
While unpacking the Our Place Large Wonder Oven, I was surprised to find how surprisingly compact it feels given its 32-quart capacity. I expected a bulky beast, but it’s sleek with a modern stainless steel finish and clear glass doors that make checking on your food easy.
The first thing I noticed was how quickly it preheated—less than four minutes, which is a real time-saver.
Using it is a breeze. The control panel is straightforward, with intuitive buttons for baking, broiling, toasting, air frying, reheating, and even steam infusion.
The steam feature feels like an unexpected luxury—perfect for keeping meats juicy or bread soft and fluffy. The oven’s ability to cook up to 35% faster than traditional ovens really shows when you’re trying to get dinner on the table fast.
What I love most is the capacity. I fit a 12-inch pizza easily, and I could cook multiple dishes at once with the different racks.
It heats evenly and produces a crispy, golden finish on fries and chicken without any oil. Cleaning is simple with the nonstick ceramic trays, and knowing it’s toxin-free makes me feel better about using it frequently.
Plus, the steam infusion helps keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Overall, this oven feels like a game-changer for busy families or anyone who loves versatile, quick, and healthy cooking. The only downside I’ve noticed is that it’s a bit heavy to move around once fully loaded, but that’s a minor inconvenience for such a powerful, multi-use device.
What Is a Steam Air Fryer and How Does It Work?
A steam air fryer is a kitchen appliance that combines the functionalities of a traditional air fryer and a steamer, allowing users to cook food using hot air circulation along with steam. This cooking method aims to achieve crispy textures while retaining moisture and nutrients in the food, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying.
According to a report by the NPD Group, air fryers have gained significant popularity in recent years, with sales increasing by over 50% in the past few years as consumers seek healthier cooking methods (NPD Group, 2021). The innovation of steam air fryers expands on this trend by adding steam capability, which helps to enhance the cooking process by preventing food from drying out.
Key aspects of steam air fryers include their dual cooking methods, which allow users to choose between air frying and steaming based on their preferences or the specific requirements of a recipe. Most models come with a variety of preset cooking functions, enabling easy preparation of various dishes like vegetables, meats, and baked goods. The design typically features a water reservoir that generates steam while the fan circulates hot air, creating a unique cooking environment that promotes even cooking and browning.
This impacts not only the taste and texture of the food but also its health benefits. Foods cooked in a steam air fryer can retain more vitamins and minerals compared to traditional frying methods. Research indicates that steaming vegetables can preserve up to 80% of their nutrients, whereas boiling may result in a loss of up to 50% (USDA, 2019). This makes steam air fryers an attractive option for health-conscious consumers looking to enjoy fried foods without excessive calories or unhealthy fats.
The benefits of steam air fryers include versatility in cooking methods, ease of use, and the ability to prepare healthier meals. Users can enjoy the crispy results typically associated with frying while benefiting from the moisture retention that steaming provides. Additionally, steam air fryers often come with dishwasher-safe components, making cleanup easier compared to traditional deep frying.
To maximize the benefits of a steam air fryer, users can follow best practices such as preheating the appliance before cooking, using the right amount of water for steaming, and experimenting with different cooking times and temperatures to find the ideal settings for various foods. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the appliance are also recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Steam Air Fryer?
The advantages of using a steam air fryer include healthier cooking options, versatility, quicker cooking times, and enhanced flavor retention.
- Healthier Cooking Options: Steam air fryers use steam and hot air to cook food, which significantly reduces the need for oil. This method allows for lower fat content in meals while still achieving a crispy texture, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
- Versatility: These appliances are not limited to frying; they can also steam, bake, and grill a variety of foods. This multifunctionality makes them suitable for preparing a wide range of dishes, from vegetables to meats and even desserts, all in one device.
- Quicker Cooking Times: Steam air fryers typically cook food faster than traditional ovens due to their efficient use of hot air and steam circulation. This means you can enjoy your meals in less time, which is ideal for busy individuals or families looking to save time in the kitchen.
- Enhanced Flavor Retention: The steam helps to lock in moisture and flavor, ensuring that foods remain juicy and tasty. This feature is particularly beneficial for lean meats and vegetables, which can often dry out when cooked using conventional methods.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Steam Air Fryer?
When choosing the best steam air fryer, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal cooking performance and versatility.
- Cooking Capacity: The cooking capacity of a steam air fryer is crucial, especially for families or those who often entertain. A larger capacity allows you to prepare more food at once, which can save time and energy, making meal prep more efficient.
- Steam and Air Fry Functionality: A good steam air fryer should effectively combine both steam and air frying functions. This dual functionality allows for healthier cooking by retaining moisture while also providing that crispy texture associated with traditional frying, making it versatile for various recipes.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for achieving the best cooking results. Look for models that offer a wide temperature range and adjustable settings, which enable you to cook different types of food at the optimal temperature.
- Ease of Cleaning: Consider models with non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe components. Easy-to-clean features not only save time after cooking but also promote better hygiene and maintenance, which is vital for long-term use.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount when using kitchen appliances. Look for steam air fryers that include features such as auto shut-off, cool-touch handles, and safety locks to prevent accidents during operation.
- Digital Controls and Presets: Models with digital controls and pre-programmed cooking presets can simplify the cooking process. These features allow for precise cooking times and temperatures, making it easier for users to achieve consistent results without constant monitoring.
- Size and Design: The size and design of the air fryer should fit your kitchen space and aesthetic preferences. Compact models may be suitable for smaller kitchens, while sleek designs can enhance the overall look of your kitchen while remaining functional.
How Do the Sizes of Steam Air Fryers Vary?
The sizes of steam air fryers vary significantly to cater to different cooking needs and kitchen spaces.
- Small (1-2 quarts): These compact steam air fryers are ideal for individuals or small families, allowing for quick meals without taking up much counter space.
- Medium (3-4 quarts): Suitable for small to medium-sized families, these models balance capacity and size, offering a good amount of cooking space while still being manageable in terms of footprint.
- Large (5-7 quarts): Large steam air fryers are perfect for bigger families or those who frequently entertain guests, providing ample cooking capacity to prepare multiple servings at once.
- Extra Large (8+ quarts): These are designed for serious cooks or large gatherings, allowing for bulk cooking and accommodating larger food items, such as whole chickens or large roasts.
Small steam air fryers typically feature a straightforward design and are great for single servings or quick snacks, making them convenient for everyday use without the need for extensive meal prep.
Medium steam air fryers offer versatility and can handle a variety of dishes, from side items to mains, making them a popular choice for families who want to prepare larger meals without sacrificing kitchen space.
Large steam air fryers are equipped with more powerful heating elements and often include multiple cooking racks, making them suitable for batch cooking and allowing users to prepare multiple types of food at once.
Extra large steam air fryers come with advanced features and enhanced cooking technology, making them suitable for enthusiasts who want to explore diverse recipes and feed larger crowds efficiently.
What Cooking Functions Enhance a Steam Air Fryer’s Performance?
The cooking functions that enhance a steam air fryer’s performance include:
- Steam Cooking: This function uses moist heat to cook food, preserving nutrients and enhancing flavor. It is particularly effective for vegetables, fish, and poultry, allowing for tender textures without excessive oil.
- Air Frying: Utilizing rapid air circulation, this function creates a crispy outer layer on food while maintaining moisture inside. It significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying methods, making it a healthier option for enjoying fried foods.
- Baking: The baking function allows for creating a variety of baked goods, from breads to cakes, utilizing both steam and convection heat. This dual heating method helps in achieving a moist interior and a perfectly baked exterior.
- Roasting: This setting combines dry heat with steam to cook meats and vegetables, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. The steam helps to prevent dryness, while the air frying aspect gives a beautifully browned crust.
- Reheating: Steam air fryers excel at reheating leftovers, as the steam prevents food from drying out while the air fry function revitalizes the texture. This is ideal for pizza, fried foods, and casseroles, maintaining their original taste and moisture.
- Dehydrating: Some steam air fryers come equipped with a dehydrating function that removes moisture from fruits, vegetables, and meats. This is perfect for creating snacks like dried fruit or jerky, enabling healthy options at home.
Which Steam Air Fryers Are Most Highly Rated by Users?
The most highly rated steam air fryers by users include the following models:
- Ninja Foodi Deluxe XL: This versatile machine combines air frying with steam cooking, allowing for a variety of cooking methods in one device.
- Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1: Renowned for its user-friendly interface, this air fryer offers six cooking functions, including air fry, roast, and steam, making it a popular choice for many households.
- Philips TurboStar Technology Airfryer: Philips is known for its innovative technology, and this model features TurboStar technology for evenly cooked food with less oil, enhancing its appeal among health-conscious users.
- Cosori Air Fryer 5.8QT: With a large capacity and 11 cooking presets, this model is favored for its ease of use and ability to prepare a variety of dishes quickly.
- Chefman 6.3 Quart Digital Air Fryer: This model stands out for its spacious design and digital controls, which provide precise temperature settings for perfect cooking results.
Ninja Foodi Deluxe XL: This steam air fryer is popular for its multifunctionality, allowing users to pressure cook, air fry, and steam all in one appliance. It features a large capacity, making it suitable for families, and its TenderCrisp technology ensures that food is both juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1: Users appreciate this air fryer for its versatility and ease of use, offering six different cooking functions that meet a wide range of culinary needs. Its sleek design and intuitive touchscreen controls make it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks.
Philips TurboStar Technology Airfryer: This air fryer is praised for its unique TurboStar technology, which circulates hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking without the need for excessive oil. Many users enjoy the healthier cooking options it provides while still delivering crispy, delicious meals.
Cosori Air Fryer 5.8QT: The Cosori model is favored for its generous capacity, which is ideal for meal prep and family cooking. Its 11 cooking presets make it simple to prepare various dishes, while the detachable, dishwasher-safe basket ensures easy cleanup.
Chefman 6.3 Quart Digital Air Fryer: This digital air fryer is appreciated for its spacious interior, allowing users to cook larger quantities of food at once. Its precise temperature control and multiple cooking functions provide flexibility, making it a reliable choice for anyone looking to explore air frying and steaming options.
How Can You Properly Maintain Your Steam Air Fryer?
Proper maintenance of your steam air fryer ensures longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s essential to clean your steam air fryer after each use to prevent the build-up of grease and food particles.
- Descaling: Periodically descaling the water reservoir helps to remove mineral deposits that can affect the steam function.
- Check Seals and Gaskets: Inspecting and replacing worn seals and gaskets ensures that steam is retained, providing efficient cooking.
- Proper Storage: Store your steam air fryer in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture accumulation and potential rusting.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and usage helps to avoid voiding warranties and ensures safe operation.
Regular cleaning involves wiping down the interior and exterior surfaces with a damp cloth, and washing removable parts in warm, soapy water. This practice not only keeps the appliance hygienic but also prevents unpleasant odors and flavors from lingering in the fryer.
Descaling should be done every few months or more frequently if you live in an area with hard water. You can do this by filling the water reservoir with a mixture of water and vinegar, running the steam function, and then rinsing thoroughly to eliminate any remaining vinegar smell.
Checking seals and gaskets is crucial as these components help to maintain the pressure and steam inside the fryer. A damaged or worn-out seal can lead to steam leaks, which may cause uneven cooking and decreased efficiency.
Proper storage is important to maintain the integrity of your steam air fryer. Make sure it is completely dry before storing, and avoid stacking heavy items on top to prevent any physical damage.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and usage is vital. This includes not just cleaning and care, but also understanding the limitations and capabilities of your specific model, which can help you avoid mishaps and ensure the best cooking results.
What Types of Meals Can You Prepare with a Steam Air Fryer?
The best steam air fryer can be used to prepare a variety of meals that combine the benefits of steaming and air frying.
- Vegetable Medleys: Steam air fryers are excellent for preparing a variety of vegetables, allowing you to steam them to retain their nutrients and flavors, and then air fry them for a crispy finish. This method can enhance the taste and texture of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, making them a nutritious side dish.
- Chicken Dishes: You can prepare juicy, tender chicken pieces in a steam air fryer by first steaming them to lock in moisture and then air frying to achieve a crispy skin. This technique is particularly effective for chicken wings, thighs, and drumsticks, providing a healthier alternative to deep frying.
- Fish and Seafood: The gentle steaming process is perfect for delicate fish and seafood, which can then be air fried to create a crispy outer layer. This method helps maintain the fish’s moisture and prevents it from drying out, making it an ideal choice for dishes like salmon or shrimp.
- Frozen Foods: A steam air fryer can easily prepare frozen items such as French fries, onion rings, or spring rolls. The steaming function ensures that the inside is cooked thoroughly, while the air frying function gives a golden-brown and crispy exterior, making them taste freshly made.
- Baked Goods: You can also use a steam air fryer to bake items like muffins, bread, or pastries. The steam helps keep the baked goods moist while the air circulation ensures an evenly cooked and crisp outer layer, perfect for achieving that bakery-style finish.
- Rice and Grains: Some steam air fryers come with steaming trays that can be used to cook rice or grains like quinoa. The steaming method allows for even cooking without the risk of burning, resulting in fluffy and perfectly cooked grains.