Consider the number of people you usually cook for and the types of meals you prepare. A 4‑5 quart model works well for 2‑3 people and side dishes, while 6‑8 quart units handle family‑size portions or multiple dishes at once. If you often entertain larger groups, a 12‑quart appliance provides the most flexibility.

TurboBlaze, found in the Cosori 9‑in‑1, uses a 3600 rpm fan and a temperature range up to 450 °F for rapid, even cooking. Max Crisp, used by Ninja’s 6.5‑qt Pro XL, also reaches 450 °F but emphasizes extra‑crisp results with a focused airflow pattern. Both deliver fast cooking, but TurboBlaze includes a five‑fan speed system for finer temperature control.

Ceramic‑coated baskets, like those on the Cosori model, are durable, heat‑resistant, and easier to clean than traditional Teflon surfaces. They also reduce the need for added oil, helping you achieve healthier results. The premium coating adds a modest price premium but can extend the appliance’s lifespan.

Ninja models typically offer 5‑ or 6‑in‑1 functions (air fry, bake, roast, reheat, dehydrate, and sometimes max crisp), while Cosori provides 9‑in‑1 with added grill and rotisserie options. Chefman’s 12‑quart unit includes a rotisserie and 12 preset programs, giving the most versatility. Choose based on the specific cooking modes you need most frequently.

Dual‑basket units like the Ninja Foodi 8‑qt let you cook two foods simultaneously with independent temperature controls, saving time on multi‑course meals. They require a larger countertop footprint, but the ability to finish dishes together can be a game‑changer for busy families. If you rarely need to cook separate dishes at once, a single‑basket model may be more space‑efficient.

The Ninja Crispi system uses clean‑crisp glass containers that are non‑toxic and dishwasher‑safe, but glass can retain heat longer than metal, potentially extending cooking times slightly. The power pod compensates with a 1500 W heating element, delivering crisp results comparable to larger units. They’re ideal for small meals or on‑the‑go cooking where countertop space is limited.

A broader temperature range (90 °F‑450 °F) gives you more flexibility for delicate tasks like dehydrating herbs and high‑heat functions like crisping frozen foods. Models with a max of 400 °F, such as many 5‑qt Ninja units, handle most standard recipes but may fall short for professional‑grade roasting. If you plan to experiment with a variety of techniques, aim for a unit that reaches at least 450 °F.

Dishwasher‑safe baskets and non‑stick interiors simplify maintenance, as seen on the Nutrichef and Chefman models. Automatic shut‑off and overheat protection are standard safety features that prevent accidents during unattended cooking. Look for removable handles and clear viewing windows to monitor progress without opening the unit.