Look for high maximum temperature (around 450 °F) and strong wattage, which ensure fast, even cooking and crisp results. A nonstick or ceramic coating makes cleanup easier and reduces the need for oil. Multi‑function presets like air fry, bake, roast, dehydrate, and reheat add versatility, while a spacious basket (5‑6 lb capacity) lets you prepare family‑size meals in one go.

Both models reach 450 °F, but the Ninja uses Max Crisp technology with a 6‑in‑1 function set, while Cosori’s TurboBlaze offers a 5‑fan speed system and a 3600 rpm fan for extra airflow. Ninja’s 6.5‑qt basket holds up to 9 lb of wings, slightly larger than Cosori’s 6‑qt square basket. Overall, Ninja emphasizes rapid crisping, whereas Cosori focuses on precise temperature control and even heating.

Ceramic coatings, like those on the Bella and Cosori models, are free of PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE, offering a safer cooking surface and easy food release. Traditional nonstick coatings can be very slick but may degrade over time. For health‑concerned shoppers, ceramic is generally the better choice, and it also tends to be dishwasher‑safe for quick cleanup.

Dual‑basket units such as the Ninja DZ201 let you cook two different foods simultaneously, saving time and avoiding the need to reheat or swap baskets. They also feature independent temperature controls, which is useful for dishes that require different heat levels. However, they are larger and cost more, so if you mostly cook one item at a time, a single‑basket 6‑qt model may be more space‑efficient.

The Cuisinart 6‑qt model provides five cooking functions, five preset programs, and a large viewing window at a competitive price, making it a solid all‑rounder for families. The Chefman and Instant Pot Vortex Plus also deliver strong performance with four presets and sleek designs, but they lack the extensive preset library of Cuisinart. Considering capacity, versatility, and price, Cuisinart often delivers the best overall value.

A clear digital touchscreen or touch‑activated display simplifies temperature and time adjustments, reducing guesswork. Preset programs for fries, wings, vegetables, and dehydrating help beginners achieve consistent results without manual calculations. Models like the Bella, Ninja, and Instant Pot include multiple presets, which can speed up cooking and improve confidence for new users.

Look for dishwasher‑safe baskets and accessories, as seen on the Sweetcrispy and Bella models, to minimize hand‑washing effort. Ceramic‑coated baskets resist sticking and are easier to wipe clean, while some units feature removable crisper trays for thorough cleaning. Regularly check the heating element for food residue and wipe it with a damp cloth to maintain optimal performance.