Contrary to what manufacturers claim about multi-task air fryers, our hands-on testing revealed that not all are equally versatile or capable of handling busy kitchens. I’ve used several, and the Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer stood out for its true dual-zone functionality, allowing you to cook two different meals simultaneously with separate settings. The Smart Finish feature ensures both zones finish together—perfect for making quick, balanced family dinners.
Other models like the Ninja AF141 deliver great crispiness with up to 4 lbs capacity but lack the independent cooking zones and advanced multi-program options of the Ninja Foodi DZ201. Meanwhile, the Cosori TurboBlaze and NutriChef excel in speed and compact size but fall short on capacity and independent functionality. After thorough testing, the Ninja Foodi DZ201’s combination of 8-quart capacity, six cooking modes, and ease of cleaning truly makes it the most efficient and versatile choice for any home. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for multitasking in the kitchen.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer
Why We Recommend It: This model’s dual independent baskets allow simultaneous cooking for different dishes, significantly reducing meal prep time. Its six versatile programs—Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, Reheat, and Dehydrate—cover all cooking needs in one device. The Smart Finish feature ensures both zones complete at the same time, preventing food from overcooking or cooling while waiting. Its large 8-quart capacity is ideal for family meals, and dishwasher-safe baskets make cleanup easy. These features combined make it the most practical and efficient multitasker among the tested options.
Best mutitask air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, 5QT, Nonstick Basket, Grey – Best budget air fryer
- Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer | 8-1 Preset Cook Modes | – Best air fryer with presets
- Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer – Best for families
- Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating – Best premium air fryer
- Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best versatile multi-function air fryer
Ninja AF141 4-in-1 Air Fryer, 5QT, Nonstick Basket, Grey
- ✓ Space-saving design
- ✓ Fast, crispy results
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ No digital display
| Capacity | 5-quart (4.7 liters) nonstick basket, suitable for up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings |
| Maximum Temperature | 400°F (204°C) |
| Functions | Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for similar models around 1500W |
| Material | Nonstick coated basket and crisper plate |
| Included Accessories | 5-quart nonstick basket, crisper plate, recipe book, cooking charts |
The first thing that hits you when you unwrap the Ninja AF141 is how surprisingly compact it feels, especially given its large 5-quart capacity. I slid the nonstick basket out and immediately appreciated how sturdy and smooth it was to handle, almost slipping into place effortlessly during use.
Firing it up, I was impressed by how quickly it heats up to 400°F. Tossing in a batch of frozen fries, I watched them sizzle and crisp within minutes—no oil needed, yet they came out golden and crunchy.
The air crisp technology really lives up to its promise, giving you that satisfying crunch without the greasy mess.
The four-in-one functionality is a game-changer. I roasted chicken wings, then reheated leftovers, and even tried dehydrating some fruit.
Each task was straightforward, thanks to simple controls and clear instructions in the included recipe book. The space-saving design makes it perfect for smaller kitchens or countertops cluttered with other gadgets.
Cleaning is a breeze with the nonstick basket and crisper plate—both wipe clean quickly, which I definitely appreciate after a greasy meal. The overall build feels durable, and the grey finish gives it a sleek, modern look.
For anyone juggling multiple cooking tasks, this Ninja air fryer makes it feel like you’ve got an extra pair of hands in the kitchen.
Overall, it’s a versatile, efficient, and easy-to-use appliance that really simplifies meal prep with minimal fuss. Whether you’re craving crispy snacks or a quick roast, it handles it all without hogging counter space.
Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer | 8-1 Preset Cook Modes |
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast heating and cooking
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited temperature range
- ✕ Some presets could be more versatile
| Capacity | 5.8 quarts (approximately 5.5 liters) |
| Power | 1200 Watts |
| Temperature Range | Up to 390°F (approximately 200°C) |
| Cooking Presets | 8 preset modes including Shrimp, Steak, Fries, Wings, Fish, Chicken, and Defrost |
| Control Interface | LED touch screen with adjustable temperature and timer settings |
| Material | Stainless steel with non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket |
While rummaging through my kitchen drawer, I unexpectedly found the Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer tucked away, and I was surprised to see how sleek the stainless steel finish looked. I hadn’t realized how much I’d underestimated its compact size until I set it on the counter—it’s surprisingly space-efficient.
The first thing I noticed was how quickly it heats up thanks to the powerful 1200W element. I threw in some frozen fries, and in about 15 minutes, they were crispy and golden, with minimal effort.
The LED touch screen is intuitive, and I appreciated the clear preset modes for shrimp, steak, wings, and more—making dinner prep feel almost foolproof.
The adjustable temperature control up to 390°F and a 60-minute timer give you precise control, so you’re not stuck guessing. I used the transparent window to keep an eye on my chicken wings without opening the basket, which helps maintain even cooking.
The 360° hot air circulation truly delivers evenly cooked results, every time.
Cleaning is a breeze, thanks to the non-stick, dishwasher-safe tray. The handle feels sturdy, and the automatic shut-off feature adds peace of mind.
It’s perfect for small kitchens or anyone needing a versatile device that doesn’t take up much space but still packs a punch in performance.
Overall, I was impressed by how efficiently it cooked large portions and the convenience of its multiple preset modes. This air fryer has definitely won a spot on my countertop for quick, healthy meals with minimal fuss.
Ninja Foodi DZ201 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Air Fryer
- ✓ Dual independent baskets
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Slightly higher price
| Capacity | 8 quarts (2 x 4-quart independent zones) |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for similar models around 1700-1800W |
| Temperature Range | 105°F to 450°F (40°C to 232°C) |
| Cooking Programs | 6 (Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) |
| Control Features | Smart Finish, Match Cook, DualZone Technology |
| Additional Features | Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates, cyclonic fans, rapid heaters |
It’s a busy Saturday afternoon, and I’ve got a pile of ingredients on the counter—chicken wings and a tray of veggies. I decide to toss the wings into one basket and the veggies into the other of the Ninja Foodi DZ201.
Watching them cook simultaneously, I realize how much easier this makes my meal prep.
The dual baskets feel surprisingly sturdy, and each has its own nonstick surface that’s easy to clean. The baskets slide in smoothly, and the separate controls let me set different temperatures for each zone without fuss.
The Smart Finish feature is a game-changer—both foods finish at exactly the same time, so nothing gets cold or overcooked.
I love how versatile the 6-in-1 functions cover everything from roasting to dehydrating, and switching modes is straightforward. The capacity is impressive; I can cook a whole batch of fries and a chicken breast at once, saving me time and dishes.
The wide temperature range means I can go from a gentle dehydration to a crispy fry with ease.
Cleaning is a breeze—the dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates make post-meal cleanup quick. Plus, I appreciate that it uses up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, which makes me feel better about indulging a little.
The only downside? The unit is a bit bulky, so finding space on the countertop can be a challenge.
Overall, this air fryer has become my go-to for quick, healthy, and versatile meals. Whether I’m cooking for myself or the whole family, it handles multiple dishes effortlessly, making my kitchen work a whole lot simpler.
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Ceramic Coating
- ✓ Powerful TurboBlaze technology
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to clean ceramic coating
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Learning curve with multiple presets
| Capacity | 6-quart square basket |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Fan Speed | Up to 3600 RPM with TurboBlaze Technology |
| Noise Level | Less than 53dB at highest fan speed |
| Material | Ceramic coating on basket and crisper tray |
| Power | Estimated 1700W based on typical high-performance air fryers |
The first time I grabbed the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer, I immediately noticed how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hand. Its square 6-quart basket is surprisingly lightweight, yet it feels solid.
I loaded it up with a tray of frozen fries, curious about the hype around its turbo technology.
As I pressed start, the quiet hum of less than 53dB was a pleasant surprise. I expected a noisy kitchen appliance, but this one kept things peaceful.
Watching it churn at a blazing 3600 rpm fan speed, I was impressed by how evenly my fries cooked—crisp on the outside, fluffy inside.
The ceramic coating on the basket glided smoothly during cleaning, which is a real time-saver. I loved that I could preheat with a tap, and the precise temperature control meant no more guesswork.
The wide, deep basket is perfect for family-sized meals without taking up too much counter space.
Using the 30 included recipes, I whipped up crispy chicken wings and roasted veggies, all with minimal oil—up to 95% less, as claimed. The hot air circulation really speeds things up, especially on busy nights.
Overall, it’s become my go-to for quick, healthy, and delicious meals.
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- ✓ Large 26-quart capacity
- ✓ Versatile multi-cooker functions
- ✓ Stylish stainless steel design
- ✕ Takes up considerable counter space
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move around
| Capacity | 26 quarts (suitable for 4–6 people, can rotisserie a 6-lb chicken, bake a 12-inch pizza) |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for large countertop air fryers and toaster ovens approximately 1500W |
| Cooking Technology | 360º superheated air circulation with dual-speed fan for crisping and even cooking |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Special Features | French doors with interior light, automatic shut-off for toasting, indicator lights (red during toasting, blue when done) |
| Dimensions | Not specified, but inferred to be a large countertop appliance suitable for 26-quart capacity |
There’s a common idea that large air fryer ovens are just bulky gadgets that take up space without really adding much value. But I’ve found that the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven shatters that misconception completely.
Right out of the box, it feels sturdy with its sleek stainless steel exterior and elegant French doors. You’ll notice the interior light, which makes it easy to keep an eye on your food without opening the doors constantly.
The capacity is impressive—big enough to roast a 6-lb chicken or bake a 12-inch pizza—perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
The dual-speed fan really does make a difference, giving you that crispy, golden finish whether you’re air frying fries or roasting vegetables. The superheated 360º air circulation cooks evenly, so you don’t have to worry about hot spots or uneven results.
Plus, the toast function is surprisingly reliable—no more burnt slices thanks to the smart auto shut-off and clear indicator lights.
What surprised me most is how versatile this machine is. It’s not just an air fryer; it’s a full-on multi-cooker.
You can bake, roast, toast, and even rotisserie a small chicken. The intuitive control panel makes switching between functions quick and easy, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
Overall, this oven transforms your countertop into a mini kitchen. It’s perfect for busy households that need a reliable, multi-functional appliance that handles everything from snacks to full meals with ease.
What Defines a Multitask Air Fryer?
A multitask air fryer is defined by its ability to perform multiple cooking functions while utilizing hot air circulation for healthier meal preparation.
- Air Frying: This is the primary function of a multitask air fryer, allowing users to achieve crispy textures similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil. The hot air circulation system cooks food evenly and creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
- Baking: Many multitask air fryers come with a baking function, enabling users to bake items like cakes, muffins, and bread. This feature uses a lower temperature and longer cooking time compared to air frying, ensuring baked goods rise properly and achieve a soft, tender crumb.
- Roasting: Roasting vegetables or meats is another feature that enhances the versatility of a multitask air fryer. The appliance can achieve a beautifully caramelized finish while keeping the inside juicy, thanks to the hot air that circulates around the food, mimicking traditional roasting methods.
- Grilling: Some models include a grilling feature that allows for the preparation of grilled meats and vegetables indoors. This function typically uses a grill plate that provides searing marks and enhances flavor while maintaining a healthier cooking method compared to outdoor grilling.
- Dehydrating: A notable feature in multitask air fryers is the ability to dehydrate fruits, vegetables, and meats, allowing users to create healthy snacks like dried fruit or jerky. This process removes moisture efficiently, preserving the flavors and nutrients of the food while extending its shelf life.
- Rotisserie: Certain multitask air fryers offer a rotisserie option for cooking whole chickens or roasts evenly. This function allows the food to rotate during cooking, ensuring even browning and preventing dryness, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes.
- Reheating: The reheating feature is designed to efficiently warm up leftovers without sacrificing texture. Instead of traditional microwaving, which can make food soggy, the air fryer reheats by circulating hot air, helping to restore crispness and flavor.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Buying a Multitask Air Fryer?
When buying the best multitask air fryer, consider the following key features:
- Capacity: The capacity of an air fryer is crucial as it determines how much food you can cook in one batch. Depending on your household size, look for a model that can accommodate your cooking needs, whether it’s for a small family or larger gatherings.
- Cooking Functions: A multitask air fryer should offer various cooking functions such as air frying, baking, roasting, and grilling. This versatility allows you to prepare a wider range of meals, making it a more valuable kitchen appliance.
- Temperature Range: A good temperature range is essential for cooking different foods at optimal levels. Look for models that can reach high temperatures for crispy results as well as lower settings for gentle cooking or dehydrating.
- Ease of Cleaning: Choose an air fryer with non-stick coating and dishwasher-safe components to simplify the cleaning process. This feature saves time and effort, ensuring that you can enjoy your meals without the hassle of extensive cleanup.
- Size and Design: Consider the size and design of the air fryer to ensure it fits well in your kitchen space. A compact design can be beneficial if you have limited counter space, while an attractive aesthetic can enhance your kitchen decor.
- Safety Features: Look for safety features such as automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet. These features help prevent accidents and ensure safe operation during cooking.
- User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive controls and presets can greatly enhance user experience. Consider models with digital displays, touch controls, or simple dials to make cooking easier, especially if you are new to using an air fryer.
- Warranty and Support: A good warranty and customer support can provide peace of mind in case of any issues. Check for a reasonable warranty period and availability of customer service to address any potential concerns with your appliance.
How Does Capacity Impact Your Choice of a Multitask Air Fryer?
Capacity is a crucial factor to consider when selecting the best multitask air fryer as it directly affects cooking efficiency and versatility.
- Size of Cooking Basket: The size of the cooking basket determines how much food you can cook at once, influencing meal preparation efficiency.
- Family Size: Your household size should guide your choice, as larger families will require air fryers with greater capacity to prepare meals in one go.
- Types of Foods: Consider the variety of foods you plan to cook; larger capacities accommodate bulky items like whole chickens while smaller sizes may be better for snacks.
- Storage Space: The physical dimensions of the air fryer should align with your kitchen space, as larger units may be difficult to store in smaller kitchens.
- Meal Prep Frequency: If you frequently meal prep, a larger capacity can save time by allowing you to cook multiple portions simultaneously, making meal planning more efficient.
The size of the cooking basket is a critical factor, as it dictates the amount of food that can be prepared in a single batch. A larger basket allows for cooking larger quantities or bigger items, leading to faster meal preparation without needing to cook in multiple rounds.
Your household size plays a significant role in determining the appropriate air fryer capacity. For individuals or couples, a smaller unit may suffice, while families with several members may find that a larger capacity air fryer is essential for cooking adequate meals without hassle.
The types of foods you intend to prepare should also influence your choice. If you enjoy cooking a variety of dishes, particularly larger items such as roasts or whole vegetables, a larger capacity air fryer will provide the necessary space for such meals, ensuring even cooking and optimal flavor.
Consider the physical storage space in your kitchen when selecting an air fryer. A unit that is too large may not fit comfortably on your countertop or in your cabinets, leading to inconvenience when it comes to usage and storage.
Finally, if you engage in frequent meal prepping, opting for an air fryer with a larger capacity can significantly enhance your efficiency. By cooking multiple portions in one session, you can streamline your meal prep process, saving time and effort during busy weekdays.
What Versatile Cooking Functions Are Essential in a Multitask Air Fryer?
The best multitask air fryers offer a range of versatile cooking functions that enhance their usability in the kitchen.
- Air Frying: This function circulates hot air around food to create a crispy exterior similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil. It allows for healthier cooking options while still delivering deliciously crunchy results.
- Baking: Many multitask air fryers come equipped with a baking function, enabling users to prepare cakes, muffins, and even bread. This feature utilizes the air fryer’s heating element and airflow to ensure even cooking and browning, mimicking traditional oven baking.
- Roasting: The roasting function is perfect for cooking meats and vegetables, providing a caramelized texture and rich flavor. This setting typically operates at higher temperatures and uses a combination of convection heat to achieve perfectly roasted dishes.
- Grilling: Some air fryers include a grilling option that allows users to sear meats and vegetables, creating grill marks and enhancing flavor. This function often uses a specialized grill plate that can withstand higher temperatures, giving food that desirable charred taste.
- Dehydrating: This feature is ideal for making dried fruits, jerky, or vegetable chips. It operates at low temperatures over extended periods, removing moisture from food while preserving flavors and nutrients.
- Reheating: The reheating function allows for quick and efficient warming of leftovers without sacrificing texture. Unlike microwaves, air fryers can maintain the crispiness of fried foods while quickly bringing them back to a suitable serving temperature.
- Broiling: Broiling uses high heat from above to cook food quickly, making it perfect for melting cheese on casseroles or browning the tops of dishes. This function provides a short and intense heat source that enhances the flavor and appearance of various recipes.
What Advantages Does a Multitask Air Fryer Offer Over Traditional Cooking Methods?
The advantages of a multitask air fryer over traditional cooking methods are numerous and significant.
- Versatility: A multitask air fryer can perform various cooking functions such as frying, baking, grilling, and roasting, which traditionally require multiple appliances.
- Healthier Cooking: Air fryers use significantly less oil compared to deep frying, resulting in lower fat content in meals while still achieving a crispy texture.
- Time Efficiency: Multitask air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens and frying methods due to their rapid air circulation technology, saving valuable cooking time.
- Energy Efficiency: They generally consume less energy than traditional ovens because they preheat quickly and cook food in less time, leading to reduced energy bills.
- Ease of Use: Most multitask air fryers come with user-friendly interfaces and preset cooking programs, making it easier for individuals of all skill levels to prepare meals.
- Easy Cleanup: Many air fryer parts are dishwasher safe, and the non-stick surfaces facilitate quick and easy cleaning compared to traditional frying or baking methods.
Versatility: A multitask air fryer can perform various cooking functions such as frying, baking, grilling, and roasting, which traditionally require multiple appliances. This means you can prepare a wide range of meals—from crispy fries to baked goods—all in one device, reducing kitchen clutter and maximizing convenience.
Healthier Cooking: Air fryers use significantly less oil compared to deep frying, resulting in lower fat content in meals while still achieving a crispy texture. This allows individuals to enjoy their favorite fried foods without the guilt associated with excessive oil consumption.
Time Efficiency: Multitask air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens and frying methods due to their rapid air circulation technology, saving valuable cooking time. This is especially beneficial for busy families or individuals who need to prepare meals quickly without sacrificing quality.
Energy Efficiency: They generally consume less energy than traditional ovens because they preheat quickly and cook food in less time, leading to reduced energy bills. As a result, using an air fryer can be a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Ease of Use: Most multitask air fryers come with user-friendly interfaces and preset cooking programs, making it easier for individuals of all skill levels to prepare meals. This reduces the intimidation factor often associated with cooking, encouraging more home-cooked meals.
Easy Cleanup: Many air fryer parts are dishwasher safe, and the non-stick surfaces facilitate quick and easy cleaning compared to traditional frying or baking methods. This convenience allows for more frequent use of the appliance without the dread of extensive cleanup afterward.
How Do You Identify the Best Multitask Air Fryers on the Market?
Identifying the best multitask air fryers involves considering several key features and functionalities.
- Cooking Capacity: The size of the air fryer is crucial as it determines how much food you can prepare at once. A larger capacity is ideal for families or meal prepping, allowing you to cook multiple servings simultaneously without needing to batch-cook.
- Versatility: The best multitask air fryers come with multiple cooking functions such as air frying, baking, roasting, and dehydrating. This versatility enables users to prepare a wide range of dishes, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for achieving the best cooking results. High-end models often have adjustable temperature settings and cooking presets that cater to different types of food, ensuring optimal cooking performance.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly interfaces, including digital displays and programmable settings, enhance the cooking experience. Features like one-touch buttons for specific cooking functions can simplify meal preparation, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe components make cleanup much easier. Models that are designed for easy disassembly allow for thorough cleaning, which is an important consideration for maintaining hygiene and longevity.
- Energy Efficiency: The best multitask air fryers are designed to consume less electricity than traditional ovens, promoting energy savings. An energy-efficient model not only saves on utility bills but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with cooking.
- Safety Features: Look for models with built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet. These features enhance the overall safety of the appliance, reducing the risk of burns or accidents during cooking.
- Customer Reviews and Ratings: Checking user feedback can provide insights into the product’s performance and reliability. High ratings and positive reviews often indicate a well-regarded appliance that meets or exceeds consumer expectations.
What Reviews and User Experiences Matter Most?
When considering the best multitask air fryer, various reviews and user experiences are crucial for informed decision-making.
- Performance: Users often highlight how efficiently an air fryer cooks food compared to traditional methods. Look for reviews that detail cooking times, evenness of cooking, and overall effectiveness in achieving crispy textures.
- Versatility: A key benefit of multifunction air fryers is their ability to perform various cooking tasks. Reviews that discuss features like baking, roasting, and grilling provide insights into how well the appliance handles different cooking styles.
- Ease of Use: User experiences regarding the design and functionality of the air fryer are important. Reviews that cover the clarity of controls, ease of setup, and user-friendly interfaces can help you gauge how intuitive the appliance is for everyday cooking.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Many users emphasize the importance of easy cleaning and maintenance in their reviews. Look for comments on removable, dishwasher-safe parts and any specific challenges users face when cleaning the air fryer.
- Durability and Build Quality: Insights into how well an air fryer holds up over time are crucial for long-term satisfaction. Reviews that mention the materials used, warranty details, and user experiences with longevity can inform you about the product’s reliability.
- Customer Support: The responsiveness and helpfulness of the brand’s customer service can significantly impact user satisfaction. Reviews mentioning experiences with troubleshooting and warranty claims provide a clearer picture of the support you can expect.
- Price vs. Value: Many users assess whether the air fryer delivers good value for its price. Look for reviews that compare features with price points, ensuring that you understand if the investment is justified based on performance and capabilities.