Think about the amount of oil you want to use, the space available on your countertop, and the types of foods you plan to cook. Air fryers use hot air to achieve crispness with up to 75% less fat, while deep fryers give you that classic oil‑fried texture but require more cleanup. Also compare the capacity you need for family meals versus single‑serve portions.

Both offer 450°F max temperature and 6‑inch‑plus cooking functions, but the Ninja emphasizes a larger 6.5‑qt basket that fits up to 9 lb of wings, ideal for game‑day crowds. Cosori’s TurboBlaze technology uses a 3600 rpm fan and a ceramic‑coated basket for even heating and easy cleanup. If you prioritize capacity, Ninja leads; if you value a non‑stick ceramic surface and a square basket for better space utilization, Cosori is a strong contender.

Dual‑basket models like the Ninja DualZone 8‑qt and the Chefman 6‑qt Dual Basket let you cook two different dishes simultaneously, saving time on multi‑course meals. They often include a “Sync Finish” feature that ensures both baskets finish together, which is handy for coordinated meals. The price premium is justified if you frequently prepare family‑size meals or want to avoid back‑to‑back cooking cycles.

Look for Max Crisp or Air Crisp technology that reaches 400‑450°F for rapid, even browning, and a non‑stick basket that’s dishwasher‑safe for easy cleanup. Capacity matters—models with 5‑qt or larger can handle a family portion of fries or wings. Additional functions like dehydrate, bake, and roast add versatility, turning the appliance into an all‑in‑one kitchen tool.

Higher‑priced units such as the Ninja Pro XL and Cosori TurboBlaze provide larger capacities, premium coatings, and more cooking presets, offering better long‑term value for heavy users. Mid‑range models like the Ninja AF161 Max XL or Instant Pot Vortex Plus give solid performance with fewer bells‑and‑whistles at a lower cost. Budget‑friendly options like the Instant Pot 4‑qt Mini still deliver essential air‑frying functions but with smaller capacity and fewer advanced features.

Yes, many air fryers, especially those with Max Crisp technology, can turn frozen or fresh potatoes into golden, crispy fries in minutes without submerging them in oil. Using a preheat function and shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps achieve an even crust. A light spray of oil or a dusting of seasoning can further mimic the texture and flavor of deep‑fried fries.

Clean the basket and crisper plate after each use, preferably in the dishwasher if the coating is dishwasher‑safe. Wipe the interior and heating element with a damp cloth to prevent oil buildup, and regularly check the air vents for blockage. Following the manufacturer’s recommended temperature limits and avoiding metal utensils will also protect the non‑stick surfaces.