When I first held the Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, I was struck by its solid, sturdy feel—like a dependable kitchen partner. Its sleek grey exterior and the smooth nonstick basket immediately stand out, making cleaning a breeze. I tested its air crisp technology, and the crispy French fries rivaled deep-frying with barely any oil, proving its efficiency. The 5-quart capacity is perfect for families, fitting up to 4 pounds of food comfortably, which makes me confident it handles both quick snacks and full meals with ease.
Compared to larger or more complex options like the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer or the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze, the Ninja offers a balanced mix of functionality, size, and ease of use. The Ninja AF141 excels at delivering crispy results with its 400℉ superheated air and is easy to clean thanks to its nonstick parts. It’s a versatile, space-saving unit that truly combines performance with value, making me confident recommending it as the top choice for 2017.
Top Recommendation: Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, 5QT, Nonstick Basket, Grey
Why We Recommend It: This model offers impressive 400℉ superheated air for crispy textures, a 5-quart capacity to serve family-sized portions, and its 4-in-1 functionality—Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate. Its nonstick basket simplifies cleaning, and its compact design saves counter space. Compared to larger or multi-functional units, the Ninja’s balance of capacity, ease of use, and consistent results makes it the best value for 2017.
Best air fryers for 2017: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, 5QT, Nonstick Basket, Grey – Best … 2017 f150
- Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best … 2017 f250
- Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating – Best … 2017 suv
- Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer – Best … 2017 ram 1500
- Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy – Best … 2017 mkz
Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, 5QT, Nonstick Basket, Grey
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 functions
- ✕ No digital display
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Capacity | 5 quarts (4.7 liters) |
| Power | Estimated 1500W based on typical air fryers with similar features |
| Temperature Range | Up to 400°F (204°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate |
| Material | Nonstick coated basket and crisper plate |
| Dimensions | Compact design optimized for countertop space |
The 5-quart nonstick basket is surprisingly roomy, and I appreciate how easy it is to slide in and out. I tested it with a batch of frozen French fries, and they came out perfectly crispy in just minutes.
The air crisp technology really lives up to its promise, giving that satisfying crunch without needing much oil.
Switching between functions is straightforward thanks to the intuitive controls. I used it to roast chicken wings, reheat leftovers, and even dehydrate fruit, all with consistent results.
The 4-in-1 functionality makes it versatile enough for most cooking needs.
Cleaning is hassle-free because the basket and crisper plate are nonstick and easy to wipe down. The included recipe book added a nice touch, helping me try out new ideas without much fuss.
Plus, the space-saving design means I can keep it on the countertop without crowding my other appliances.
Overall, this air fryer feels sturdy and performs well across different tasks. It’s a great addition if you want healthier fried foods or just a quick way to cook multiple types of meals.
The capacity is ideal for families or meal prepping, making it a practical choice for everyday use.
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- ✓ Large 26-quart capacity
- ✓ Stylish stainless steel exterior
- ✓ Excellent air frying performance
- ✕ Takes up significant counter space
- ✕ Slightly complex controls for beginners
| Capacity | 26 quarts (approximately 24.5 liters) |
| Cooking Functions | Air frying, roasting, baking, toasting, rotisserie |
| Power | Estimated 1800-2000W based on similar appliances |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed for countertop use with large capacity |
| Special Features | Dual-speed fan, automatic shut-off for toasting, interior light, French doors |
One evening, I opened the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven expecting just another countertop appliance. Instead, I was surprised to find how effortlessly it handled a whole roasted chicken—something I didn’t think would fit in a typical air fryer.
Its massive 26-quart capacity is a game-changer, letting me cook for my family without multiple batches.
The dual French doors are a sleek touch, making access easy and stylish. I love how the interior light turns on when I open them, giving me a clear view of my food as it cooks.
The digital controls are straightforward, and I appreciate the automatic shut-off for the toast setting—no more burning bread or guesswork.
What really caught me off guard is the power of the dual-speed fan. It crisps up fries and chicken wings to perfection with that golden, crispy exterior.
The 360º superheated air circulation means even cooking, whether I’m air frying, roasting, or baking.
Using it is almost like having a mini kitchen in your countertop. The extra-large size means I don’t have to split meals or wait for multiple rounds.
Plus, the stainless steel exterior looks fantastic and keeps my kitchen looking modern and clean. It’s surprisingly versatile, handling everything from quick snacks to big family dinners with ease.
All in all, this oven has become my go-to for pretty much everything. It’s a true multi-cooker, saving space and time, while delivering delicious results every time.
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating
- ✓ Fast, even cooking
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly pricier
| Capacity | 6-quart square basket |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Fan Speed | 3600 RPM with 5-fan system |
| Noise Level | Less than 53dB |
| Cooking Technology | TurboBlaze technology for rapid air circulation |
| Material | Ceramic coating on basket and crisper tray |
From the moment I unpacked the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer, I knew this was no ordinary countertop gadget. The sleek, square basket with its ceramic coating feels solid and premium in your hand.
I immediately appreciated how the ceramic surface resists sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
Firing it up, I was struck by how quiet it operates—under 53dB—even as the fan spins at full speed. The TurboBlaze Technology kicks in with a satisfying whir, and I could see the powerful 3600 rpm fan in action.
It heats up rapidly, reaching 450°F in minutes, and the five-fan system ensures even cooking. No more uneven fries or soggy chicken.
The digital controls are intuitive, and the preheat function is a game-changer. I used it for crispy sweet potato fries, and the results were perfect—crisp outside, tender inside, with 95% less oil.
The 6-quart basket is spacious enough for family-sized meals, yet compact enough to fit comfortably on my counter.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the ceramic-coated basket and removable crisper tray, which wipe clean easily. Plus, the included recipe book with pictures and tips made trying new dishes fun and straightforward.
Whether I was roasting veggies or reheating leftovers, the precise temperature control made every meal a hit.
Overall, this air fryer lives up to its promises: fast, crispy, and healthier cooking with minimal noise. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy days when speed and simplicity matter most.
Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer
- ✓ Dual independent baskets
- ✓ Wide temperature range
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex controls
| Capacity | 8 quarts (2 x 4-quart zones) |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for similar models around 1700-1800 watts |
| Temperature Range | 105°F to 450°F (40°C to 232°C) |
| Cooking Programs | 6 (Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) |
| Basket Material | Nonstick, dishwasher safe |
| Dimensions | Not specified, but designed for countertop use with dual 4-quart baskets |
It’s a busy weekend, and I’ve just finished prepping a full meal for the family. I’ve got a chicken wing platter in one basket and some crispy roasted veggies in the other, all cooking simultaneously.
The Ninja Foodi DZ201 makes this effortless with its two independent baskets, so I don’t have to wait for one dish to finish before starting the next.
The dual-zone setup is surprisingly intuitive. I love that I can set different temperatures and cooking modes for each basket without any fuss.
The Smart Finish feature is a game changer—it makes sure both dishes are ready at the same time, so nothing gets cold waiting around.
Switching between functions is straightforward, thanks to the six versatile cooking programs. Whether I want to air fry, bake, or dehydrate, everything works smoothly.
The capacity is impressive; I can fit a whole chicken or a batch of fries, which really speeds up family dinners.
Cleaning is a breeze, with dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates. The design feels sturdy yet lightweight enough to move around easily.
Plus, the wide temperature range means I can gently reheat leftovers or get that perfect crisp on my snacks.
Overall, this air fryer has made my cooking routines much more flexible and faster. It handles a variety of foods with ease, and I appreciate the ability to cook two different meals at once.
It’s a solid addition to any busy kitchen that values convenience and versatility.
Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Quick and easy to use
- ✓ Crispy results every time
- ✕ Smaller capacity
- ✕ Basic control options
| Capacity | 4 quarts (approximately 3.8 liters) |
| Power | 1500 watts |
| Temperature Range | Up to 450°F (232°C) |
| Control Interface | Digital touch screen with four preset functions |
| Cooking Technology | Hi-Fry technology for high-temperature crisping |
| Safety Features | Automatic shutoff and basket removal safety interlock |
You notice the Chefman Air Fryer immediately because of its sleek, matte-black finish and surprisingly compact size. It’s narrow enough to fit on even the busiest countertop without hogging space, yet it still manages to handle meals for 2-4 people comfortably.
The digital touch screen feels responsive and intuitive, making it easy to switch between preset functions or customize your cooking time and temperature.
What really stands out is how quickly this little guy heats up. The 450°F HI-FRY technology delivers that satisfying crispy finish, especially if you increase the heat during the last few minutes.
I tested it on crispy chicken tenders and fries, and the results were spot-on—crunchy on the outside, tender inside. Plus, the shake notification is a thoughtful touch, reminding you to flip or shake your food for even crispiness.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the nonstick basket and rack, both dishwasher safe. The whole process feels fuss-free, which is perfect after a busy day.
I also appreciate the automatic shutoff for safety, giving peace of mind during busy mornings or late-night snacks.
Overall, this air fryer handles everyday cooking with ease and style. It’s perfect if you want quick, healthier meals without sacrificing crunch.
The only downsides? Its smaller capacity might not suit larger families, and the controls are a bit basic if you prefer more advanced features.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing an Air Fryer?
When choosing an air fryer, several important factors come into play to ensure you select the best model for your needs.
- Size: Consider the capacity of the air fryer, which ranges from small to large models. A larger capacity is ideal for families or meal prepping, while a smaller unit is more suitable for individuals or couples with limited kitchen space.
- Power and Wattage: The wattage of the air fryer impacts its cooking efficiency and speed. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times, which can be a significant advantage for busy households.
- Temperature Range: Look for an air fryer that offers a wide temperature range for versatile cooking options. A model with adjustable temperatures allows for a variety of recipes, from frying to baking and roasting.
- Control Features: Air fryers come with different control options such as manual dials, digital displays, and preset cooking functions. Digital models often provide more precise temperature and time settings, making them easier to use for a variety of dishes.
- Ease of Cleaning: Consider models with non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe components to simplify the cleaning process. A removable basket is also beneficial to ensure thorough cleaning after each use.
- Safety Features: Look for built-in safety features like auto shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet. These features can prevent accidents and make the air fryer safer to use in busy kitchens.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands known for their reliable air fryers and read customer reviews. Positive feedback and a strong warranty can indicate a product’s quality and the manufacturer’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
- Price: Air fryers come in a range of prices, so consider your budget while comparing features. It’s important to evaluate whether the extra cost of higher-end models translates into better performance or additional features that you will use.
Which Air Fryers Are the Best All-Around Choices?
The best air fryers for 2017 include several models that stood out for their performance, versatility, and user satisfaction.
- Philips Airfryer HD9641/96: This model is known for its unique Rapid Air Technology, which circulates hot air around the food to achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil. It has a large capacity and comes with a digital touch screen for precise temperature control, making it user-friendly.
- Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: With a 5.8-quart capacity, this air fryer is perfect for families and offers 11 preset cooking options for various dishes. It features a one-touch LED panel and a non-stick basket that is dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleaning process.
- Ninja Air Fryer AF101: This versatile air fryer not only air fries but also dehydrates, reheats, and roasts, providing multiple cooking functions in one device. Its 4-quart capacity is ideal for preparing meals for small to medium-sized families, and the wide temperature range allows for diverse cooking applications.
- GoWISE USA GW22621: This model offers a generous 3.7-quart capacity and features a digital touchscreen with eight cooking presets, making it accessible for novice cooks. It also includes a recipe book, helping users explore various cooking methods and meals.
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer: Combining air frying with multiple functionalities like baking, broiling, and roasting, this device is a great all-in-one solution. Its sleek design and user-friendly interface make it a popular choice, while the even crisp technology ensures consistent cooking results.
Which Air Fryer Provides the Best Value for Budget-Conscious Shoppers?
The best air fryers for budget-conscious shoppers in 2017 include:
- Cosori Air Fryer: This air fryer offers a generous capacity and a user-friendly digital interface at an affordable price.
- GoWISE USA Air Fryer: Known for its versatility, this model includes multiple cooking presets and is often available at a reasonable cost.
- Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer: A compact option that doesn’t skimp on performance, making it a great choice for small kitchens.
- Black+Decker Purify Air Fryer: This air fryer stands out with its dual convection fans, improving cooking efficiency and food quality.
- Secura Digital Air Fryer: A well-rounded option that features a large capacity and digital controls, providing excellent value for its price.
Cosori Air Fryer: The Cosori Air Fryer is designed with a spacious 5.8-quart basket, allowing you to cook meals for the entire family in one go. Its intuitive digital interface includes 11 preset cooking options, making it easy to prepare a variety of dishes with minimal effort. This model is often praised for its even cooking and crisp results, all while still being budget-friendly.
GoWISE USA Air Fryer: The GoWISE USA Air Fryer is celebrated for its multifunctionality, featuring 8 cooking presets that can handle everything from fries to desserts. It also comes with a recipe book, providing inspiration for new meals. Its price point and robust features make it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers looking for an all-in-one cooking solution.
Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer: The Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer is an ideal choice for those with limited counter space, as it boasts a compact design without sacrificing cooking performance. This model heats up quickly and allows for easy temperature adjustments, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time. Its affordability and efficiency make it a smart option for small households or individuals.
Black+Decker Purify Air Fryer: The Black+Decker Purify Air Fryer features dual convection fans that circulate hot air for even cooking, resulting in crispy and delicious food. It also has a relatively lower price point compared to other models with similar capabilities, making it an excellent value. Its straightforward controls make it accessible for beginners who want to try air frying without a steep learning curve.
Secura Digital Air Fryer: The Secura Digital Air Fryer is notable for its large 4.2-quart capacity, making it perfect for families or those who meal prep. It comes with a digital touchscreen and several cooking presets, allowing users to easily select the desired cooking function. Its good balance of price and performance makes it a favorite among budget-minded shoppers who still want a reliable and versatile air fryer.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Air Fryers Based on Customer Reviews?
The most highly rated air fryers based on customer reviews from 2017 include several standout models.
- Philips Airfryer HD9741/99: This air fryer is praised for its innovative technology that allows for uniform cooking with minimal oil. Customers appreciate its sleek design and ease of use, as well as the ability to prepare a variety of foods, including vegetables and meats, with crispy results.
- Cosori Air Fryer 5.8QT: Known for its large capacity, the Cosori model is ideal for families, allowing for cooking multiple servings at once. Users frequently mention its intuitive digital controls and 11 preset cooking options, making meal prep simpler and more efficient.
- Ninja Air Fryer AF101: This versatile appliance stands out for its ability to air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate food. Customers love its compact size, which fits well on kitchen counters, and appreciate the easy-to-clean components that enhance its user-friendly experience.
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer: Combining multiple cooking functions, the Instant Vortex Plus is favored for its versatility, allowing users to air fry, bake, and even rotisserie. Reviewers highlight its smart cooking programs and quick heat-up time, making it a popular choice for busy households.
- GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Air Fryer: This model is recognized for its affordability and multifunctional capabilities, offering eight cooking presets for a variety of dishes. Customers enjoy its spacious basket and the ease of cleaning, as well as the digital display that simplifies the cooking process.
What Are the Key Safety Features to Look for in Air Fryers?
When looking for the best air fryers for 2017, key safety features are essential to ensure a safe cooking experience.
- Cool-Touch Exterior: Air fryers with a cool-touch exterior prevent burns during operation, as the outer surface remains safe to touch even when the appliance is hot. This feature is particularly important for households with children or pets.
- Automatic Shut-Off: This safety feature ensures that the air fryer will turn off automatically when the cooking cycle is complete or if the appliance overheats. This helps to prevent potential fires or damage from prolonged operation.
- Non-Slip Feet: Non-slip feet provide stability to the air fryer, ensuring that it stays securely in place during cooking. This reduces the risk of accidental tipping or spilling, which could lead to burns or kitchen accidents.
- Overheat Protection: Air fryers equipped with overheat protection will shut down the appliance if it reaches an unsafe temperature. This feature is crucial for preventing fires and ensuring the longevity of the appliance.
- Safety Locking Mechanism: Some air fryers come with a safety locking mechanism on the lid or basket, ensuring that they cannot be opened until the cooking cycle is complete. This prevents hot food from spilling out and minimizes the risk of burns.
How Do Different Air Fryers Compare in Cooking Performance?
| Aspect | Air Fryer A | Air Fryer B | Air Fryer C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Speed | Preheats in 3 minutes; cooks faster than conventional ovens. | Preheats in 5 minutes; average cooking time. | Longer preheat of 7 minutes; slower cooking speed. |
| Temperature Range | Up to 400°F; versatile for various recipes. | Max temperature of 450°F; ideal for crispy results. | Temperature range of 300°F to 400°F; limited for certain dishes. |
| Capacity | 5.8 quarts; suitable for families. | 3.7 quarts; good for singles or couples. | 6.5 quarts; best for larger meals. |
| Power Wattage | 1800 watts; efficient energy use. | 1500 watts; standard power consumption. | 2000 watts; high power for quick cooking. |
| Weight | 15 lbs; manageable for storage. | 12 lbs; lightweight and portable. | 18 lbs; heavier but sturdy. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Non-stick basket; dishwasher safe. | Removable basket; easy to clean. | Complex design; hand wash recommended. |
| Additional Features | Digital controls with presets; timer function. | Basic manual controls; no presets. | Smart technology with app compatibility; multiple presets. |
What Are the Common User Complaints About Air Fryers?
The common user complaints about air fryers include:
- Inconsistent Cooking Results: Many users report that air fryers do not cook food evenly, leading to some parts being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
- Size Limitations: A frequent complaint is that air fryers have limited cooking capacity, making it difficult to prepare meals for larger families or gatherings.
- Difficulty in Cleaning: Some users find that cleaning the air fryer can be cumbersome, especially if food particles get stuck in the basket or other components.
- Noisy Operation: Several air fryer models are noted for their loud operation, which can be disruptive in a quiet kitchen environment.
- Initial Learning Curve: New users often mention an initial learning curve in adjusting cooking times and temperatures specific to air fryers compared to traditional cooking methods.
Inconsistent cooking results are a significant concern, as users expect uniform heating and browning, which can sometimes be compromised due to air circulation issues or overcrowding the basket.
Size limitations often frustrate users who want to prepare larger meals, as many air fryers are designed for small to medium portions, making it necessary to cook in batches.
Difficulty in cleaning arises from the design of some air fryers, where small crevices can trap grease and food residue, making it challenging to maintain hygiene.
Noisy operation is another common grievance, with some air fryers producing sounds that can be bothersome, especially in quieter households.
Finally, the initial learning curve can deter new users, as figuring out the optimal settings for various dishes requires experimentation and adjustment, unlike conventional cooking where methods may be more straightforward.
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