For a household of four to six, a 20‑quart to 26‑quart air fryer provides enough room to cook whole chickens, multiple trays of fries, or a 12‑inch pizza in one go. Models like the Gluck 20‑qt and Emeril Lagasse 26‑qt give you that extra space without crowding the basket. Choosing a larger capacity also reduces the need to run multiple batches, saving time and energy.

Most of the featured models offer 6‑to‑10 preset programs, covering air‑fry, bake, roast, dehydrate, and rotisserie, but the Gluck and Emeril combos add specialized modes like toast, broil, and even a dehydrator rack set. The Ninja Pro XL focuses on Max Crisp technology for ultra‑crisp results, while the Breville Smart Oven adds Element iQ precision and 13 total functions. Consider which specific functions you’ll use most often when comparing models.

Dual‑zone ovens, such as the Emeril Lagasse Dual Zone 360, let you cook two dishes at different temperatures simultaneously, which is handy for meals with separate components like a roast and vegetables. The convenience can cut overall cooking time, but the price premium is noticeable. If you frequently prepare multi‑course meals or entertain, the added flexibility may justify the investment.

Higher wattage (typically 1,800 W to 2,200 W) translates to faster heat-up and crisper results, especially for dense foods like chicken wings. A wide temperature range, up to 450 °F, is useful for both low‑and‑slow dehydration and high‑heat searing. Models such as the Ninja Pro XL and Chefman 12‑qt provide both strong power and broad temperature settings.

Included accessories—rotating baskets, drip trays, rotisserie spits, and dehydrating racks—expand the appliance’s versatility and reduce the need for extra purchases. Look for dishwasher‑safe, BPA‑free components, as seen in the Gluck and Chefman models, to simplify cleanup and ensure food safety. High‑quality accessories also tend to be more durable, extending the life of the air fryer.

Yes, non‑toxic coatings (PFAS, PFOA, BPA‑free) eliminate the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into food, which is especially important for frequent use. Dishwasher‑safe parts save time and effort, allowing you to clean the basket, tray, and accessories without hand‑washing. The Gluck 20‑qt and Chefman models explicitly highlight these safety and convenience features.

The Gluck 20‑qt typically sits at a lower price point while still offering 10 preset programs, a robust 1,800 W motor, and a full suite of accessories, making it strong value for everyday cooking. The Emeril 26‑qt commands a premium for its larger capacity, stainless‑steel French‑door design, and dual‑zone capability, which can be worthwhile for larger gatherings. Evaluate how often you need the extra space and dual‑zone features to decide which offers better ROI for your kitchen.

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro stands out with its Element iQ system, 13 preset functions, and a clear LCD display that guides temperature and time automatically. The Gluck and Chefman models also provide intuitive touchscreens and multiple presets, but Breville’s smart algorithms reduce guesswork even further. If ease of use and precise cooking guidance are top priorities, Breville delivers the most polished experience.