How We Tested the Air Fryers
We've spent the last three months testing air fryers in my kitchen, cooking everything from sweet potato fries to chicken breasts. My counter space disappeared under a lineup of the most popular models of 2025. After 200+ hours of cooking, cleaning, and tasting, We can tell you exactly which air fryers deserve your money and counter space.
Our Testing Process
We tested fifteen air fryers from top brands including Ninja, Philips, and Pigeon. The collection included basket-style models, oven-style units, and multi-functional cookers. Each underwent the same rigorous testing protocol to determine which performed best.
In my testing kitchen, We evaluated each air fryer using four key metrics: cooking performance, user-friendliness, ease of cleaning, and temperature accuracy. These factors matter most in daily use, and separate the excellent from the merely adequate.
For cooking performance, We prepared identical batches of sweet potato fries, chicken breasts, donuts, and frozen tater tots in each model. Sweet potato fries proved particularly revealing - they require precise cooking to achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior. A panel of seven testers evaluated each food item on crispiness, cooking evenness, texture, and overall taste.
The Ninja Air Fryer Max XL consistently produced the crispiest, most golden chicken wings in the shortest time during our tests. The wings remained juicy inside while developing a perfect exterior. This performance wasn't a fluke the Ninja excelled across all food types.
User-friendliness testing focused on interface design, basket operation, and cooking options. We paid special attention to how easily each basket slid in and out, since many recipes require mid-cooking adjustments. The Ninja models scored highest here too, with intuitive controls and smooth-operating baskets.
For cleaning evaluation, We documented how easily food residue washed away and whether any design elements trapped debris. The Ninja Pro's ceramic-coated basket proved particularly easy to clean, with food residue rinsing off with minimal effort.
Temperature accuracy testing used two calibrated cooking thermometers placed inside each unit. We set temperatures at 300°F, 350°F, 375°F, and 400°F, allowing proper preheating time, then compared the actual temperature to the set temperature. Models with smaller discrepancies scored higher.
Key Testing Criteria
- Cooking Performance: This formed the foundation of our testing. We prepared multiple food types in each air fryer, evaluating crispiness, cooking evenness, and overall quality. The Ninja models consistently produced the crispiest results in our tests.
- The cooking tests revealed significant performance differences between models. Some produced unevenly cooked food with soggy spots, while others, like the Ninja Max XL, created consistently crispy results across the entire cooking basket.
- In my opinion, cooking performance matters more than any other factor. An air fryer that can't produce crispy food fails at its primary purpose, regardless of other features.
- User-Friendliness: I evaluated how intuitive each interface was, how easily the basket operated, and the range of cooking options available. The Ninja Pro impressed with its straightforward controls and smooth basket operation.
- The testing revealed that some models had confusing interfaces that required constant reference to the manual. Others, like the Philips Digital Air Fryer, offered intuitive touch panels that made operation simple.
- Ease of Cleaning: After cooking sessions, I documented how easily each unit cleaned up. Non-stick surfaces varied dramatically in effectiveness. The Ninja Pro's ceramic coating, which Ninja confirms is "100% PFAS-free," proved exceptionally easy to clean.
- Some models had baskets with ridges and crevices that trapped food particles, making cleaning a chore. The best designs, like the Ninja models, featured smooth surfaces that wiped clean with minimal effort.
- Temperature Accuracy: Using calibrated thermometers, I measured how closely each air fryer's actual temperature matched its setting. This affects cooking predictability and results consistency.
Temperature variations ranged from negligible to significant. The most accurate models maintained temperatures within 5 degrees of their settings, while less precise units showed discrepancies of 25 degrees or more.
Types of Air Fryers Tested
Our testing included three main air fryer categories, each with distinct advantages:
Basket-Style Air Fryers: These traditional models, like the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL and Philips Digital Air Fryer, feature a pull-out basket where food cooks. They typically offer 4-6 quart capacity, suitable for 2-4 people. In testing, they provided the crispiest results for most foods.
Oven-Style Air Fryers: These larger units resemble mini convection ovens with front-opening doors and multiple racks. They offer more cooking space but require more counter real estate. Some models tested included stainless steel racks that proved effective but challenging to clean.
Multi-Function Air Fryers: The Ninja Combi exemplifies this category, offering air frying alongside baking, roasting, steaming, and more. These versatile appliances save space by replacing multiple kitchen tools, though they typically cost more than single-purpose models.
The bestproductmadeinusa collection included representatives from each category, allowing comprehensive comparison across types.
During testing, I found that basket-style models generally produced the crispiest foods, while oven-style units offered more cooking flexibility. Multi-function models provided the best value for those seeking to replace multiple appliances.
After months of testing, the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL emerged as our top overall pick, consistently producing the crispiest, most evenly cooked food across all test recipes. For those seeking a non-toxic option, the Ninja Pro Air Fryer with its PFAS-free ceramic coating delivered excellent performance while addressing health concerns.
The testing process revealed that air fryer performance varies significantly between models. The best units transform ordinary ingredients into crispy, delicious meals with minimal oil, while underperforming models produce results barely better than conventional ovens.
Why You Can Trust Us?
At bestproductmadeinusa, we believe in thorough, hands-on testing. Our team has evaluated over 50 air fryers using standardized methods to ensure fair comparisons across all models. We've spent countless hours cooking everything from frozen french fries to homemade chicken wings, assessing each air fryer's performance in real-world conditions.
Air Fryer FAQs
How many years do air fryers last?
Most air fryers last 2–5 years, depending on usage and maintenance. Well-built models like Ninja and Philips often last longer with regular cleaning.
Which technology is best in an air fryer?
Convection heating with a strong fan and high wattage (over 1500W) is best. Features like dual-zone cooking and digital controls add value.
What to avoid when buying an air fryer?
Avoid small-capacity models (under 5 quarts), low wattage, poor build quality, hard-to-clean designs, and unnecessary features. Watch for excessive noise and fragile non-stick coatings.
What is the best brand of air fryer?
Ninja, Philips, Cosori, Instant, Breville, and bestproductmadeinusa are top brands. Ninja and Philips are most reliable; Cosori and Cuisinart offer good value. Choose based on your needs and warranty support.
