Consider the size of your household and typical meal portions. A 6‑quart model like the Cosori TurboBlaze or Ninja Pro XL fits 4‑6 people comfortably, while an 8‑quart dual‑basket unit such as the Ninja Foodi is ideal for larger families or cooking two dishes at once. If counter space is limited, a 4‑quart portable option may be sufficient for smaller meals.

TurboBlaze (Cosori) uses a 3600 rpm fan and a 90°–450°F range to deliver rapid, even heat, while Max Crisp (Ninja) focuses on super‑heated air up to 450°F for extra crunch. Air Crisp (Ninja’s 4‑qt model) tops out at 400°F, offering slightly lower heat but still good crispness. The higher fan speed and broader temperature range of TurboBlaze can reduce cooking time for dense foods.

Dual‑basket models like the Ninja Foodi 8‑qt let you cook two different foods simultaneously, saving time and avoiding the need to re‑load a single basket. They are especially valuable for meal‑prepping or entertaining when you want sides and mains ready together. However, they take up more countertop space and are pricier, so weigh the convenience against your kitchen layout and budget.

The Ninja Pro XL 6.5‑qt provides a solid balance of capacity, 6‑in‑1 functions, and Max Crisp technology at a mid‑range price, making it a versatile workhorse. If you need extra features like rotisserie or dehydrating, the Chefman 12‑qt adds those but at a higher cost. For tight budgets, the NutriChef 5.8‑qt offers essential presets and a transparent bowl for monitoring without breaking the bank.

A non‑stick or ceramic coating, like Cosori’s premium ceramic basket, helps prevent food from sticking and makes cleanup faster, especially for oily foods. Stainless‑steel baskets without coating may require more scrubbing but are often dishwasher‑safe. Choose a coated basket if you prioritize easy cleaning and want to avoid residue buildup.

If you plan to make dried snacks, jerky, or fruit leathers, a dedicated dehydrate setting—available on most Ninja models and the Chefman 12‑qt—adds convenience. For occasional use, the air‑fry setting can achieve similar results at lower temperatures, though it may take longer. Evaluate how often you’ll dehydrate foods before deciding if it’s a must‑have feature.

Precise temperature control (up to 450°F) allows you to fine‑tune cooking for different foods, while a timer with auto‑shutoff prevents overcooking. Models like the Cosori TurboBlaze and Cuisinart toaster oven provide digital displays and adjustable ranges, whereas basic knobs may be sufficient for simple fry tasks. Choose digital controls if you want exact settings and preset programs.