Look for temperature range, cooking presets, and airflow technology, as these affect crispness and speed. Also consider the type of control panel (touchscreen vs buttons) and any built‑in alerts like shake reminders. Finally, check the basket design for easy cleaning and whether the unit includes accessories such as liners.

Both offer a 2‑quart capacity, but the CHEFMAN uses a capacitive touch screen and a square basket that maximizes space, while the Vortex adds 4‑in‑1 functionality (air fry, bake, roast, reheat) and EvenCrisp top‑down airflow. The Vortex also provides one‑touch smart programs for specific foods, whereas CHEFMAN focuses on a simple shake‑notification alert. Pricing and brand ecosystem may sway buyers depending on preferred cooking styles.

The Purifry stands out with nine one‑touch presets, dual convection fans, and a dehydrate function, offering more versatility than many competitors. Its 2X faster cooking claim can save time, but the unit is slightly larger, which may affect countertop space. If you value multiple cooking modes and a robust preset library, the added cost can be justified.

Liners are optional but helpful for preventing food from sticking and simplifying cleanup, especially when baking or cooking greasy items. Brands like CHEFMAN and COSORI offer BPA‑free, heat‑resistant liners that fit the square basket perfectly. If you frequently cook messy recipes, the convenience often outweighs the modest expense.

Models with dishwasher‑safe baskets and non‑stick coatings, such as the Instant Pot Vortex and Gourmia, make post‑cook cleanup quick and hassle‑free. The CHEFMAN’s compact basket is also easy to wipe down, but it lacks a dishwasher‑safe rating. Consider how often you’ll clean the unit and whether you prefer hand‑washing or dishwasher compatibility.

A wider temperature range (120 °F to 400 °F) allows you to bake delicate pastries as well as achieve a crispy finish on fries and chicken wings. Units like the Vortex and Gourmia provide this full span, giving more cooking flexibility. If you plan to use the fryer for both low‑heat dehydrating and high‑heat frying, prioritize a model with the broadest range.

Measure the width and depth of the unit; square‑basket models like CHEFMAN are designed to be narrow and fit into tighter spaces. Some models, despite the same capacity, have a taller profile that may interfere with other appliances. Check the product dimensions and compare them to your kitchen layout before purchasing.

Presets simplify cooking by automatically setting time and temperature for popular foods, reducing guesswork for beginners. Brands such as BLACK+DECKER and Gourmia include multiple presets, which can save time and improve consistency. If you prefer hands‑on control, presets are a convenience rather than a necessity.