Look for a fully metal construction, including the basket and interior, to avoid plastic odors and improve durability. Capacity matters too—choose a size that fits your household, from compact 2‑qt models to extra‑large 26‑qt units. Also consider fan speed, temperature range, and additional cooking functions like dehydrate or rotisserie for better value.

Larger capacities, such as the 26‑quart models from Emeril Lagasse or Midea, let you cook whole chickens or multiple dishes at once, saving time and energy. Smaller units, like the 6‑qt all‑metal fryer, are more space‑efficient and often cheaper, but may require batch cooking for families. Balance the footprint against your typical serving size to get the best cost‑per‑serving ratio.

Stainless steel interiors eliminate the risk of PTFE or PFAS leaching, which can occur with some non‑stick coatings. They also resist warping and retain heat better, leading to more even cooking and less need for excess oil. Models that pair stainless steel exteriors with ceramic‑coated baskets, like the Next‑Gen 12‑in‑1, combine safety with easy cleaning.

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro stands out with 13 preset functions, including air fry, dehydrate, roast, and slow‑cook. The Midea Flexify and Instant Pot 10‑qt models also provide 10‑plus functions, covering everything from rotisserie to baking. If you want a single appliance to replace several kitchen tools, prioritize the number and variety of presets.

Higher fan speeds, such as the 3600 rpm fan in the 6‑qt all‑metal fryer, push hot air through food more aggressively, creating a golden, crunchy exterior. Dual‑speed or super‑convection fans, like those in the Emeril Lagasse and Breville units, let you switch between rapid cooking and gentle roasting. Choose a model with adjustable fan settings if you plan to cook a wide range of foods.

French‑door combos, like the Emeril Lagasse and Midea models, combine air frying with traditional oven functions such as baking, broiling, and toasting, and often feature larger interior space for multi‑layer cooking. Basket‑style fryers, such as the Cuisinart 9‑qt or the all‑metal 6‑qt unit, focus on rapid air circulation and are typically more compact with simpler controls. Your choice should depend on whether you need oven versatility or prefer a dedicated, space‑saving fryer.

Not necessarily; premium pricing often reflects added features like multiple cooking presets, larger capacity, or advanced heating elements. However, a mid‑range model with solid stainless steel construction and a powerful fan can deliver comparable crispness and durability. Compare specifications—temperature range, wattage, and build quality—rather than relying solely on price tags.