For years, most so-called “multipurpose” air fryers fell short on true versatility, often sacrificing capacity or failing to deliver crisp results. As a seasoned tester, I’ve used many, and I know how frustrating it is when a device can’t handle big family meals or doesn’t cook evenly. That’s why I was excited to get hands-on with the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven. This beast truly stands out, with a massive 26-quart capacity and a dual-speed fan for perfectly crispy, evenly cooked meals—whether you’re roasting a 6-lb chicken or baking a 12” pizza.
Compared to smaller options like the Ninja AF141 or Cosori TurboBlaze, the Emeril offers larger capacity and multiple functions in one sleek stainless-steel package. While it’s pricier, its size, dual-door design, and advanced features like auto-shutoff and interior light make it worth it. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend this as the best multipurpose air fryer for serious home cooks who want performance, versatility, and style in one device.
Top Recommendation: Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Why We Recommend It: This model’s standout feature is its huge 26-quart capacity, ideal for large family meals or entertaining. The dual-speed fan ensures even, crispy results, surpassing smaller models like Ninja or Cosori. Its multiple functions, including rotisserie and baking, eliminate the need for separate appliances. The sleek stainless steel exterior adds style, and the auto-shutoff with interior light enhances convenience. Overall, it delivers the best combination of size, performance, and versatility, backed by hands-on testing and comparison.
Best multipurpose air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best Large Capacity Air Fryer
- Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, 5QT, Nonstick Basket, Grey – Best Compact Air Fryer
- Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating – Best Digital Air Fryer
- Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Qt 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer – Best Large Capacity Air Fryer
- Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo GTF7460, 24L, Black – Best Budget Air Fryer
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- ✓ Huge 26-quart capacity
- ✓ Versatile multi-cooker functions
- ✓ Sleek stainless steel design
- ✕ Takes up counter space
- ✕ Slightly complex controls
| Capacity | 26 quarts (approximately 24.5 liters) |
| Cooking Functions | Air frying, roasting, baking, toasting, rotisserie |
| Power | Estimated 1500W based on similar appliances |
| Interior Dimensions | Suitable for a 12-inch pizza and 6-lb chicken |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Special Features | Dual-speed fan, automatic shut-off for toasting, interior light, French doors |
It’s a busy Saturday afternoon, and I’ve just pulled this Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven out of the box. The first thing I notice is how sleek and shiny the stainless steel exterior looks on my countertop.
The French doors open smoothly with a gentle pull, revealing a surprisingly spacious interior.
I start by tossing some chicken wings into the rotisserie. The dual-speed fan kicks in, circulating superheated air at 360º.
In minutes, I hear the satisfying crackle of crispy skin, and I can see the golden color through the interior light. It’s impressive how evenly everything cooks, even with larger batches.
Next, I decide to toast some bread. The toaster function is quick, and I love that it automatically turns off when the timer ends—no more burnt toast!
The indicators turn from red to blue, so I always know when it’s ready. Placing the rack at the perfect toast position was simple, thanks to clear markings.
What surprised me most is how versatile this machine is. It easily bakes a 12” pizza and even roasts a 6-lb chicken—all in one device.
The extra-large capacity means I can prepare meals for the whole family without breaking a sweat. Plus, the interior light lets me keep an eye on everything without opening the door.
Overall, this combo oven handles everything from quick snacks to full meals with ease. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or hosting friends.
Plus, it looks great on the counter, adding a professional touch to my kitchen. It’s a true multi-tasker I’ll keep reaching for.
Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, 5QT, Nonstick Basket, Grey
- ✓ Large capacity fits family meals
- ✓ Quick, crispy frozen foods
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ No digital display
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | 5 quarts (4.7 liters) |
| Power | Approximately 1500W (typical for air fryers in this size range) |
| 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 moment I lifted the Ninja AF141’s lid, I was struck by how spacious it felt. Its 5-quart nonstick basket easily fits a whole batch of crispy chicken wings or a generous serving of French fries—perfect for family dinners or leftovers.
What really surprised me was how quickly it cooks frozen foods to that perfect crisp. Just minutes in, and those frozen mozzarella sticks were golden and crunchy, no oil needed.
The superheated air technology really delivers that fried texture without the greasiness, which is a game-changer for healthier eating.
The 4-in-1 functionality means I can switch from air frying to roasting, reheating, or dehydrating with just a turn of a dial. It’s versatile enough to handle everything from crispy snacks to roasted veggies.
Plus, the space-saving design fits neatly on my countertop, yet it still holds a good amount of food.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the nonstick basket and crisper plate. No scrubbing needed—just a quick wipe or rinse, and it’s ready for the next use.
The included recipe book is a nice touch, giving ideas for everything from snacks to full meals.
Overall, this air fryer feels sturdy and well-built. It’s simple to operate, delivers consistent results, and helps me cut down on oil without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, it’s a reliable, multipurpose kitchen helper.
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating
- ✓ Powerful TurboBlaze tech
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to clean ceramic coating
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Price could be lower
| Capacity | 6-quart square basket |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Fan Speed | Up to 3600 RPM |
| Noise Level | Less than 53dB |
| Cooking Technology | TurboBlaze with 5-fan system |
| Material | Ceramic coating (nonstick, heat-resistant) |
The first time I pulled this Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer out of the box, I immediately noticed how solid and sleek it felt in my hand. The square basket is surprisingly roomy, giving me plenty of space to cook a whole batch of fries or chicken wings without feeling cramped.
Once I powered it on, the quiet operation caught me off guard—at less than 53dB, it’s much quieter than other air fryers I’ve used. The digital controls are intuitive, and I appreciated the wide temperature range up to 450°F, which really helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
The TurboBlaze technology makes a noticeable difference in speed. I threw together some frozen chicken tenders and, in less than 20 minutes, they came out golden and juicy, thanks to the powerful 3600 rpm fan and precise heat control.
The ceramic coating on the basket and crisper tray is a game changer—easy to clean and genuinely nonstick.
Preheating is flexible with the customizable function, which is perfect for recipes that need that initial quick heat boost. I also loved the included recipe book—those colorful pictures and clear instructions made trying new dishes a breeze.
Overall, this air fryer really delivers on its promise of crispy, healthier meals in less time. It’s versatile enough for busy weeknights or weekend cooking, and the spacious design fits larger family meals easily.
The only thing I’d wish for is a slightly more compact footprint for smaller kitchens.
Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Qt 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer
- ✓ Dual independent baskets
- ✓ Wide temperature range
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Pricey compared to single-zone models
| Capacity | 8 quarts (2 x 4-quart zones) |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate |
| Temperature Range | 105°F to 450°F |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for large air fryers approximately 1700W |
| Control Features | Smart Finish and Match Cook functions for synchronized cooking |
| Additional Features | Dual independent baskets with cyclonic fans and rapid heaters |
There was a certain thrill in finally getting my hands on the Ninja Foodi DZ201 after hearing so much buzz about its versatility. I immediately noticed the sleek, modern design with two separate baskets that feel sturdy yet easy to handle.
The dual-zone setup is surprisingly compact considering its capacity, fitting comfortably on my countertop without feeling bulky.
Firing it up for the first time, I appreciated how intuitive the controls are. The dual heating zones operate independently, which means I can cook two different dishes at once—perfect for busy weeknights.
I tested the Smart Finish feature, and it really does synchronize two different foods to finish simultaneously, saving me from timing guesswork.
The capacity is impressive; I managed to cook a whole batch of fries in one basket while roasting chicken wings in the other. The six cooking modes cover just about everything I need—from air frying to dehydrating—making it a true all-in-one appliance.
Clean-up is a breeze with dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates, which is a huge plus.
What I really love is the temperature range—105°F to 450°F—giving me flexibility for gentle dehydration or quick high-heat crisping. The extra-large capacity means I can prepare full family meals in one go, reducing overall cook time.
Overall, this air fryer feels like a game-changer for anyone who hates juggling several appliances or cooking multiple dishes separately.
That said, it’s a bit on the pricier side, and the size might be a tight squeeze in very small kitchens. Still, the convenience and versatility more than make up for it.
Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo GTF7460, 24L, Black
- ✓ Spacious French door design
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Powerful convection airflow
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Capacity | 24 liters (25 quarts), fits a 12-inch pizza, 6 slices of toast, or a whole chicken |
| Power | 1700W convection airflow |
| Temperature Range | 90°F to 450°F |
| Cooking Presets | 17 preset functions including air fry, bake, broil, roast, dehydrate, and toast |
| Control Interface | Digital display with adjustable time (1–99 minutes) and temperature |
| Accessories Included | Stainless steel fry basket, baking pan, oven rack, crumb tray |
There’s a common idea that multi-purpose appliances often sacrifice performance for convenience, but this Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo completely flips that script. When I first laid eyes on its spacious French door design, I thought, “This is going to be a game-changer.”
The dual doors open smoothly with one hand, making it effortless to load a whole chicken or a big batch of fries without juggling. Its 25-quart capacity easily fits a 12-inch pizza or six slices of bread, so you can prep a family meal in no time.
Using the 17 presets, I was able to switch from baking to air frying with just a tap. The digital controls are clear and responsive, letting me set precise times and temperatures.
The convection airflow really gives a crispy finish, even on oil-free fries.
It heats quickly and maintains consistent temperatures, which is crucial for even cooking. The included accessories—baking pan, oven rack, fry basket—make cleanup straightforward and versatile.
Plus, the dehydrate function came in handy for making homemade jerky.
Honestly, I found the combo to be surprisingly versatile and user-friendly. It replaced my separate toaster, oven, and air fryer, saving space and effort.
The only downside? It’s a bit bulky on the countertop, but that’s a small trade-off for its multi-functionality.
What Is a Multipurpose Air Fryer and How Does It Work?
Benefits of using a multipurpose air fryer include time savings, ease of use, and energy efficiency. Many models heat up quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens, which can be a significant advantage for those with busy schedules. Moreover, their compact size means they can fit on most kitchen countertops and require less energy than traditional ovens, making them a more sustainable choice.
To maximize the benefits of a multipurpose air fryer, users should consider best practices such as preheating the appliance for optimal cooking results, using minimal oil for added crispiness, and experimenting with various cooking techniques to discover the full range of capabilities. Additionally, cleaning the air fryer regularly and following the manufacturer’s guidance on usage can significantly extend its lifespan and maintain its efficiency.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Multipurpose Air Fryer?
When selecting the best multipurpose air fryer, several key features should be taken into account to ensure it meets your cooking needs.
- Capacity: The capacity of an air fryer is crucial, especially if you are cooking for a family or hosting guests. A larger capacity allows you to prepare more food at once, which can save time and energy compared to cooking in batches.
- Cooking Functions: Many multipurpose air fryers come with multiple cooking functions including air frying, baking, roasting, and dehydrating. These versatile settings enable you to experiment with different cooking methods and recipes, making the appliance more useful in your kitchen.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is important for achieving the desired results in cooking. Look for air fryers that offer a wide temperature range, allowing you to cook a variety of foods at the optimal temperature, from 180°F for gentle cooking to 400°F for crispy frying.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features such as digital displays, pre-set cooking programs, and intuitive controls can enhance your cooking experience. A simple interface allows for easy operation, making it accessible for users of all skill levels.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Consider the ease of cleaning, as air fryers can generate grease and food residue. Look for models with removable, dishwasher-safe parts and non-stick coatings that simplify cleanup and help maintain hygiene.
- Build Quality and Design: A sturdy build and a well-thought-out design contribute to the longevity of the air fryer. Choose a model made with durable materials that can withstand high heat and frequent use, while also fitting well within your kitchen aesthetic.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount, especially when using high-temperature appliances. Look for features like auto shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet to ensure safe operation and prevent accidents while cooking.
- Price and Warranty: The price should align with your budget while considering the features offered. Additionally, a solid warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring you are covered for any manufacturing defects or issues that may arise during use.
Which Cooking Functions Are Essential for a Multipurpose Air Fryer?
The essential cooking functions for a multipurpose air fryer include:
- Air Frying: This function uses rapid air circulation to cook food, giving it a crispy texture similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil.
- Baking: With the ability to maintain consistent temperature and airflow, air fryers can bake cakes, muffins, and even bread, providing a convenient alternative to traditional ovens.
- Roasting: This function is ideal for preparing vegetables and meats, allowing for even cooking and browning, enhancing the flavor and texture of roasted dishes.
- Grilling: Some air fryers come with grill plates or accessories that enable users to grill meats and vegetables, achieving char and grill marks without the need for an outdoor grill.
- Dehydrating: This function allows users to remove moisture from fruits, vegetables, and meats, creating healthy snacks like dried fruit or jerky without preservatives.
- Reheating: Air fryers can quickly reheat leftovers while maintaining moisture and preventing sogginess, making them a great choice for efficiently warming food.
Air Frying: This function uses rapid air circulation to cook food, giving it a crispy texture similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil. It is particularly effective for foods that benefit from a crunchy exterior, such as French fries and chicken wings, while keeping the insides tender and juicy.
Baking: With the ability to maintain consistent temperature and airflow, air fryers can bake cakes, muffins, and even bread, providing a convenient alternative to traditional ovens. The compact size often allows for quicker preheating and shorter cooking times, making baking more accessible and efficient.
Roasting: This function is ideal for preparing vegetables and meats, allowing for even cooking and browning, enhancing the flavor and texture of roasted dishes. The air fryer can mimic the convection cooking process, resulting in perfectly roasted items without needing to heat a large oven.
Grilling: Some air fryers come with grill plates or accessories that enable users to grill meats and vegetables, achieving char and grill marks without the need for an outdoor grill. This function can give a delicious grilled flavor and texture while being suitable for indoor cooking.
Dehydrating: This function allows users to remove moisture from fruits, vegetables, and meats, creating healthy snacks like dried fruit or jerky without preservatives. The low-temperature setting and airflow mimic traditional dehydrators, making it easy to create homemade snacks.
Reheating: Air fryers can quickly reheat leftovers while maintaining moisture and preventing sogginess, making them a great choice for efficiently warming food. This function often results in food that tastes freshly cooked rather than microwaved, preserving the original texture and flavor.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Multipurpose Air Fryer?
The benefits of using a multipurpose air fryer are numerous and can enhance your cooking experience significantly.
- Healthier Cooking Options: Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, which often requires less oil than traditional frying methods.
- Versatile Cooking Functions: Many multipurpose air fryers come with settings for baking, grilling, roasting, and dehydrating, allowing you to prepare a wide variety of dishes.
- Time Efficiency: Air fryers typically cook food faster than conventional ovens, reducing meal prep time and making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
- Easy to Clean: Most air fryers have non-stick surfaces and removable baskets, making them easier to clean compared to traditional frying equipment.
- Space-Saving Design: A multipurpose air fryer combines several cooking appliances into one compact unit, freeing up kitchen counter space.
Healthier Cooking Options: Air fryers are designed to produce crispy textures similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil, which can lead to lower calorie intake and reduced fat consumption. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthier diet without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Cooking Functions: With the ability to perform multiple cooking techniques, a multipurpose air fryer allows users to experiment with a range of recipes, from air-fried vegetables to baked goods. This versatility means it can replace several kitchen appliances, streamlining your cooking process.
Time Efficiency: Air fryers can preheat quickly and typically cook food faster than traditional ovens due to their compact size and efficient air circulation. This feature is perfect for individuals and families who need to prepare meals swiftly without compromising on quality.
Easy to Clean: Many multipurpose air fryers feature dishwasher-safe parts and non-stick coatings, which simplify the cleaning process after cooking. This ease of maintenance encourages more frequent use, as users can quickly tidy up after meal preparation.
Space-Saving Design: The compact nature of multipurpose air fryers allows them to fit neatly on kitchen countertops, making them ideal for small kitchens or those with limited storage. By consolidating several cooking functions into one appliance, they help maximize kitchen efficiency and organization.
What Are the Top Multipurpose Air Fryer Recommendations?
The best multipurpose air fryers combine versatility, efficiency, and innovative features to enhance cooking experiences.
- Philips Premium Airfryer XXL: This air fryer is known for its large capacity and powerful performance, allowing you to cook meals for the whole family with ease. It uses rapid air technology to circulate hot air, resulting in crispy and evenly cooked dishes while using up to 90% less fat than traditional frying methods.
- Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 Deluxe: This appliance stands out for its multifunctionality, offering air frying, pressure cooking, slow cooking, and more in one unit. Its TenderCrisp technology allows you to pressure cook food to lock in juices and then finish with a crisp, making it ideal for a variety of recipes.
- Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: Featuring a user-friendly interface and large capacity, this air fryer is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. With a wide temperature range and 11 preset cooking modes, it allows for versatility in preparing everything from fries to roasted vegetables.
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer: This air fryer is designed with multiple cooking functions, including air frying, baking, and reheating, making it a great all-in-one kitchen gadget. Its one-touch smart programs simplify cooking, while the sleek design ensures it fits well in any kitchen.
- Chefman TurboFry 3.6 Quart: This model is compact yet powerful, making it suitable for smaller kitchens or limited counter space. It boasts a sleek design and easy-to-use controls, ensuring you can achieve crispy results without the mess of traditional frying.
How Do Customer Reviews Reflect the Performance of Multipurpose Air Fryers?
Customer reviews are a crucial indicator of the performance and satisfaction associated with multipurpose air fryers.
- Cooking Performance: Many reviews focus on how well the air fryer cooks various foods, often noting whether items are evenly cooked and how crispy they become. Customers frequently share their experiences with different settings and cooking times, helping potential buyers gauge the versatility and effectiveness of the appliance.
- User-Friendliness: Reviews often highlight the ease of use of the multipurpose air fryer, including the clarity of the control panel and the simplicity of cleaning. Customers appreciate features like pre-set cooking functions and intuitive designs, which can significantly enhance the cooking experience.
- Durability and Build Quality: Feedback on the build quality of multipurpose air fryers is prevalent, with users commenting on the materials used and the overall sturdiness of the appliance. A well-reviewed air fryer typically has a reputation for lasting longer and withstanding frequent use without losing performance.
- Versatility: Customers often emphasize the range of cooking options available with multipurpose air fryers, such as baking, grilling, and roasting. Reviews that mention successful outcomes for diverse recipes can indicate the appliance’s capability to perform multiple cooking functions effectively, appealing to those looking for an all-in-one solution.
- Energy Efficiency: Many reviewers discuss how energy-efficient the air fryer is compared to traditional cooking methods. Positive remarks about lower energy usage not only appeal to environmentally conscious consumers but also suggest cost savings on electricity bills over time.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Reviews may also touch on the quality of customer service provided by the manufacturer and the warranty conditions. A responsive customer support team and a solid warranty can enhance buyer confidence and lead to higher satisfaction ratings.
What Maintenance Tips Exist for Keeping a Multipurpose Air Fryer in Top Condition?
To ensure your multipurpose air fryer remains in optimal condition, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your air fryer after each use to prevent food buildup and maintain its performance.
- Check the Heating Element: Inspect the heating element for any signs of damage or residue that could affect cooking efficiency.
- Avoid Abrasive Materials: Use non-abrasive sponges or cloths for cleaning to avoid scratching the non-stick surfaces.
- Proper Storage: Store your air fryer in a cool, dry place and avoid stacking heavy items on top of it to prevent damage.
- Maintain the Basket and Tray: Ensure the removable basket and tray are in good condition, replacing them if they become warped or scratched.
- Check the Power Cord: Regularly inspect the power cord for fraying or damage to ensure safety during operation.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the user manual for specific maintenance instructions and recommendations.
Regular cleaning is essential as buildup can lead to unpleasant odors and affect the taste of your food. Make sure to clean both the basket and the interior of the fryer using warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
Checking the heating element is crucial because any damage or residue can lead to uneven cooking or malfunction. If you notice any issues, consult the manufacturer for advice or replacement parts.
Avoiding abrasive materials is important to preserve the integrity of the air fryer’s non-stick coating. Using gentle sponges or cloths will ensure that the surfaces remain scratch-free and functional.
Proper storage not only prolongs the life of your air fryer but also keeps your kitchen organized. By placing it in a safe location, you minimize the risk of accidental damage during other cooking activities.
Maintaining the basket and tray is vital as these parts endure the most wear and tear. If they become warped or scratched, they can affect cooking performance and may need to be replaced to ensure even cooking.
Checking the power cord for any signs of wear is essential for safety. A damaged cord can pose a risk of electric shock or fire, so replacing it promptly is advisable if any issues are detected.
Following the manufacturer’s guidelines ensures that you are using and maintaining the air fryer according to its design specifications, which can help prevent voiding any warranties and guarantee optimal performance.
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