Look at capacity, because a 2‑liter model is great for singles or side dishes, while 5‑8‑quart units serve families or batch cooking. Check the heating technology—turbo or 360° airflow affects crispiness and cooking speed. Also compare ease of cleaning, such as dishwasher‑safe baskets or non‑stick coatings, and any extra functions like roasting, baking, or dehydrating.

A larger basket (5‑8 qt) lets you cook more food at once, reducing overall cooking time for big meals, but may use more oil if not managed properly. Smaller 2‑3 qt models heat up faster and are ideal for quick snacks or limited countertop space. Choose capacity based on your household size and typical meal portions.

Models with a clear glass or transparent bowl let you monitor food without opening the lid, which preserves heat and prevents uneven cooking. Those without a window rely on timer and preset alerts, which can be fine if you follow recipes closely. The visual feature adds convenience but may increase price slightly.

Look for non‑stick ceramic or EverGood coatings that are free of PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE, as they reduce the need for excess oil and simplify cleaning. Units with multiple preset modes and precise temperature control (up to 450 °F) help you achieve crispy results with up to 75 % less fat. The Nutrichef and Bella models highlight these health‑friendly features.

If you enjoy experimenting, a 6‑in‑1 or 9‑in‑1 model adds versatility, allowing you to dehydrate fruit, bake desserts, or roast meats without extra appliances. For basic frying and roasting, a simpler 2‑3‑preset unit may be more affordable and easier to use. Match the function count to how often you’ll use those extra features.

Even heating depends on airflow design; models that mention turbo heating, 360° hot‑air circulation, or multiple fan speeds generally provide more uniform results. The Cosori TurboBlaze and Ninja Max Crisp use high‑speed fans and higher temperature ranges for consistent crispiness. Reading reviews for “even cooking” can confirm performance.

A longer cord (e.g., 31.5 inches) offers flexibility in kitchen layout, while a compact footprint saves counter space, especially in small apartments. Some larger capacity models still have a sleek, space‑saving design, so compare dimensions and cord length together to ensure a good fit in your kitchen.

While exact prices aren’t listed, models built with stainless steel, borosilicate glass, or premium ceramic coatings tend to be priced higher but offer longer lifespan and easier cleaning. Budget‑friendly options may use basic plastic housings but still deliver 1200 W performance. Weigh the initial cost against long‑term durability and feature set to determine overall value.