Look at the cooking capacity, temperature range, and the specific functions each model offers, such as dehydrate or reheat. Also evaluate the control interface—digital touch panels are easier to program than dial‑only units. Finally, check for extra features like dishwasher‑safe baskets or non‑toxic containers that affect long‑term convenience.

A larger basket (e.g., 6.5 qt or 8 qt) lets you prepare full‑family meals or multiple dishes at once, reducing overall cooking time. Smaller units (4 qt or 5 qt) are ideal for singles or couples and take up less counter space. Keep in mind that over‑filling any basket can hinder air circulation and result in uneven crisping.

Ninja’s Pro XL (6.5 qt) and Cosori TurboBlaze both reach up to 450 °F, delivering rapid, restaurant‑style crispness on frozen items. Chefman TurboX tops out at 400 °F, which is sufficient for most frozen snacks but may need a few extra minutes. Higher max temperatures generally mean faster cooking and a drier exterior, which is key for frozen fries and wings.

Both have a 5‑qt capacity and 4‑in‑1 functionality, but Ninja uses Air Crisp technology with a non‑stick basket, while Chefman features an X‑shaped airflow system for more even heat distribution. Ninja’s controls are classic knobs, whereas Chefman offers a digital touch panel with preset programs. The Ninja model also highlights a dehydration function, giving it a slight edge for snack‑making.

The glass containers are non‑toxic and allow you to see food progress without opening the lid, which can reduce cooking time. They also come in two sizes (4 qt and 6 cup), offering flexibility for single servings or small family meals. However, glass is heavier and more fragile than typical metal baskets, so consider whether the visual benefit outweighs the handling convenience.

DualZone lets you cook two different foods at separate temperatures simultaneously, cutting down on back‑to‑back cooking cycles and saving overall meal prep time. Because each basket has its own heating element, energy consumption can be slightly higher than a single‑basket unit, but the time saved often offsets the extra wattage. They are especially handy for families that want a main dish and a side cooked together.

Dehydration expands the appliance’s utility for making snacks like jerky or fruit leather, while a dedicated reheat function preserves texture better than a microwave. Smart Finish or Match Cook features, found on Ninja DualZone, automatically synchronize cooking times for multiple dishes, simplifying multi‑item meals. Prioritize these extras if you plan to use the air fryer for more than just frying, as they increase overall bang‑for‑buck.