Capacity determines how much food you can cook at once; a 5‑qt model like the ASZ or Ninja 5‑qt is ideal for singles or couples, while 6‑qt to 9‑qt units such as the Ninja 6.5‑qt or Cosori 6‑qt handle family meals and party portions. Look at the basket dimensions and weight limits (e.g., 5 lb of fries vs 9 lb of wings) to match your typical cooking volume. Larger models take up more counter space, so balance capacity with your kitchen layout.

Knob‑controlled units like the ASZ 5‑qt and OSTBA 2.5‑qt offer simple, tactile adjustments for temperature and time, which many users find intuitive and quick to set. Digital models such as the Ninja Pro XL and Cosori TurboBlaze provide precise temperature readouts, preset programs, and often higher fan speeds for faster cooking. If you prefer straightforward operation without menus, knobs are a solid choice; if you want advanced features and exact control, a digital interface may be worth the extra cost.

The Ninja 6.5‑qt Pro XL stands out with its Max Crisp technology, six cooking functions, and a large basket that can handle up to 9 lb of wings, offering premium performance at a mid‑range price. The Uten 5.8‑qt provides high wattage (1700 W) and a wide temperature range at a lower price point, but it lacks the extra functions and build quality of Ninja. For a balance of capacity, versatility, and durability, the Ninja model generally offers the best overall value.

A larger basket lets you cook more food in one batch, reducing overall cooking time for families or gatherings, as seen with the Ninja 6.5‑qt and Emeril Lagasse 26‑qt toaster oven combo. However, bigger units consume more countertop space and may be overkill for solo or small‑household cooking, where a 2.5‑qt to 5‑qt model is more space‑efficient. Choose capacity based on your typical serving size and kitchen real‑estate.

Non‑stick coatings like the ceramic coating on the Cosori TurboBlaze and the EverGood ceramic coating on the Bella 6‑qt reduce food sticking and simplify cleanup, while also being free of PFAS, PFOA, and other harmful chemicals. Stainless‑steel baskets, such as those on the OSTBA model, are durable and rust‑resistant but may require a bit more oil to prevent sticking. If easy cleaning and health‑concerned materials matter to you, prioritize models with high‑quality non‑stick or ceramic interiors.

Multi‑function units like the Ninja Pro XL (air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate) and the Cosori TurboBlaze let you replace several kitchen appliances, saving counter space and money. These extra functions are useful if you frequently bake pastries, dehydrate fruits, or roast meats, but they may add complexity to the user interface. If you mainly air fry, a simpler model with fewer presets can be more affordable and easier to use.

Key safety elements include automatic shut‑off, cool‑touch handles, and auto‑pause when the basket is removed, all present in models like the ASZ, OSTBA, and Uten. Some units also feature a drawer‑pause function that lets you safely add ingredients mid‑cycle. Prioritizing these features reduces the risk of burns and overcooking, especially in homes with children or pets.

Higher wattage (e.g., 1700 W in the Uten and 1800 W in the Cuisinart toaster oven) delivers hotter air faster, cutting cooking times for frozen foods and thick cuts of meat. Lower‑wattage units may require longer preheat or cooking periods but often consume less electricity. If you value quick meals and often cook frozen items, a high‑wattage model will provide noticeable time savings.