The Drexel Food Lab tested 10 air fryers against a standard convection oven. All 20 participants preferred food from the top air fryers for crispiness. The Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5Q emerged as the best overall, delivering consistent results across chicken nuggets, vegetables, salmon, and fries.
How We Tested
Over two months, the lab measured preheat speed, noise level, and crispness. A texture analyzer crushed frozen fries to calculate hardness and toughness—higher numbers meant crispier fries. The Cosori and Philips were also compared to an Electrolux convection oven in a triangle test, where tasters distinguished samples and favored air fryer food.
Best Overall: Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5Q
At $249, the Cosori ranked highest in crispiness, preheat time, and ease of cleaning. It is PFAS-free with a non-stick coating. Six settings (air fry, dehydrate, roast, bake, proof, reheat) offer versatility. Texture analyzer data confirmed superior crispness. Dimensions: 14.8in x 11.8in x 11.6in; capacity: 6.5qt.
Best Budget: Philips Airfryer 3000 Series 7.6Q
Priced at $190, the Philips produced some of the crispiest fries, broccoli, and chicken wings. Its detachable basket simplifies cleaning, and it operates quietly. Sixteen settings and a viewing window help prevent burning. Dimensions: 13in x 17.75in x 12.25in; capacity: 7.2 liters.
Best for Meat: Typhur Sync
At $159 (originally $219), the Typhur Sync includes a wireless temperature probe controlled via app, allowing precise internal temperature for steak or chicken. It preheated to 350°F faster than any other model tested. Dimensions: 12.6in x 18.2in x 13.7in; capacity: 8qt.
Best Combo: Our Place Wonder Oven Pro
Now $242.99 (originally $325), this stylish, PFAS-free appliance functions as both air fryer and toaster oven. It produced evenly baked cookies and crispy fries. Cleaning the heating elements proved difficult; regular maintenance is recommended. Dimensions: 16.75in x 13.25in x 13in; capacity: 30 liters.
Best Splurge: Typhur Dome 2
At $390, the Typhur Dome 2 cooks a 12-inch pizza and delivers even crispness on wings and vegetables. Its large size (19.7in x 15.6in x 10.3in) may limit counter space, but performance justifies the cost. Capacity: 5.6qt.
Best for Casual Cooks: Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Glass Air Fryer
Priced at $159.99 (originally $179.99), this beginner-friendly model has four functions (Max Crisp, Recrisp, Bake, Air Fry) and swappable glass bowls. Users cannot control time, which led to burning during testing. Dimensions: 13.38in x 11.96in x 13.58in; capacities: 6 cups (small) and 4qt (large).
Quietest: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill
At $172.31 (originally $219.95), this combo operates at only 45 decibels—comparable to a refrigerator hum. The air fryer basket is easy to clean, but oil buildup inside the oven may cause smoking. Dimensions: 12.25in x 15.75in x 13.75in; capacity: 3lb.
Other Air Fryers Tested
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, Magnifique Combo Air Fryer, and Cuisinart 6-qt Basket Air Fryer AIR-200NAS were also evaluated but did not make the top picks.
What to Know Before Buying
Consider counter space, family size, and cooking habits. Multi-functional units save space; dual-basket models cook two dishes simultaneously. Air fryers are not inherently healthier—excess oil can make them equivalent to deep frying. To clean, soak baskets in hot soapy water for 10 minutes; use baking soda paste for stuck-on food. Always follow manufacturer instructions to maintain warranty.
The Drexel Food Lab, based at Drexel University in Philadelphia, is a faculty-mentored, student-staffed innovation lab focusing on food product design, culinary science, and consumer research.
