Air Fryer Showdown 5 Leading Models Tested and Reviewed

Looking to ditch the deep fryer but still crave that crispy goodness? You're not alone. Air fryers have taken kitchens by storm, promising healthier meals with 70–80% less fat than traditional frying. But with so many models on the market, which one actually delivers?

We put five top-rated air fryers through real-world testing—cooking everything from golden fries to juicy chicken wings—to bring you an honest, no-fluff breakdown.

The Contenders

• Ninja Foodi DualZone AF400
• Philips Premium Airfryer XXL (HD9650)
• Cosori Smart Air Fryer Pro II
• Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart
• GoWise USA 5.8-Quart

We evaluated each based on performance, ease of use, cleanup, noise level, and value for money.

Performance Breakdown (Cooking Test Results)

Each model cooked the same batch of frozen fries, fresh salmon fillets, and homemade chicken tenders at recommended settings. Here's how they stacked up:

The Verdict

Best Overall: Philips HD9650 – While it’s the priciest ($249), its Twin TurboStar technology ensures even heat distribution and consistently crisp results. It’s quieter and easier to clean thanks to its nonstick coating.

Best Value: Cosori Smart Pro II ($89.99) – Packed with 11 presets, app connectivity, and a sleek design, it outperforms rivals twice its price. Ideal for tech-savvy home cooks.

Best for Families: Ninja DualZone – Two independent baskets mean you can cook different foods at once—say, fries and chicken—with zero flavor transfer. Perfect for picky eaters.

Pro Tips for Better Air Frying

• Don’t overcrowd the basket—it leads to soggy results.
• Shake halfway through for even browning.
• Use a light oil spray for extra crispiness (yes, even in an air fryer).

Air fryers aren’t magic—but with the right model, they come close. Whether you want gourmet results or just a quick weeknight fix, there’s one here that fits your kitchen vibe.