WikiCompare live prices on air fryer across Amazon, eBay, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, AliExpress, and curated Awin partner merchants. Air fryers are just countertop convection ovens. Basket-style (Ninja Foodi, Cosori, Instant Vortex — $80-180) heats faster and is easiest to clean; dual-basket (Ninja DualZone, Anova Precision) cooks two foods at different temps simultaneously. Oven-style (Breville Smart Oven Air, Cuisinart) replaces a toaster oven entirely but takes more counter space. For a family of 4, get at least 6 quarts; 4 quarts is fine for couples. Always preheat — most recipes assume it. Avoid models with non-stick coating that flakes; ceramic-coated baskets last longer. Click any card to open the seller's product page; we earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions about air fryer
Do I need to preheat an air fryer?
Yes, preheat 3-5 minutes at the target temp before adding food. It cuts total cook time by 20-30% and gives crispier results — the same reason ovens preheat. Many newer models (Ninja, Cosori) have a preheat button; without it, just run empty for 3 minutes.
What size air fryer do I need for a family of 4?
A 6-quart basket fits a whole 4-lb chicken or enough fries for 4. 8-10 quart dual-basket models (Ninja DualZone) cook two foods at different temps simultaneously — best for families who eat at different times. Couples are fine with a 3.5-4 quart compact unit.
Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
Yes, but only weighed down by food — loose foil can fly into the heating element and start a fire. Better alternatives: parchment paper liners with pre-cut holes for airflow, or reusable silicone baskets. Never use foil in the bottom of a basket-style air fryer where it blocks airflow.
What can you NOT cook in an air fryer?
Skip wet batter (it drips through the basket and burns on the element), leafy greens (they fly around in the convection), cheese alone (it melts through the basket), and most loose seasonings (they blow off). Everything else from steak to baked potatoes works great.
How is an air fryer different from a convection oven?
An air fryer is just a small countertop convection oven with a more aggressive fan and tighter cooking chamber. The faster air circulation crisps food better than a full-size convection oven. Toaster ovens with air-fry mode (Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro) replace both — bigger capacity, same crispness.