Look at the total cooking capacity and whether the unit includes expandable racks or shelves for multiple dishes. Check the range of cooking functions (air fry, bake, roast, dehydrate, rotisserie) and the precision of temperature and timer controls. Health‑focused features such as non‑toxic coatings and oil‑reduction technology can be important, as can easy‑clean designs like dishwasher‑safe parts or auto‑clean functions. Finally, compare price, warranty length, and any included accessories that add value.

The Big Boss uses a transparent glass bowl that lets you watch food without opening the door, while Kitchen Elite features a sleek stainless‑steel French‑door design for easy access. Big Boss offers simple dial controls and a 2‑shelf system, whereas Kitchen Elite provides a digital LED display, a wider 100‑450 °F temperature range, and a larger set of built‑in presets. Both have 16‑quart capacity, but Kitchen Elite includes more accessories like a crumb tray and proofing function, which may justify a higher price for some users.

Coatings without PTFE (Teflon) or PFOA reduce the risk of releasing harmful fumes when cooking at high temperatures. Several models, such as the Big Boss and Kalorik MAXX, explicitly state they are free of forever chemicals, which appeals to health‑conscious shoppers. Choosing a non‑toxic air fryer can also extend the lifespan of the cooking surface, as it is less prone to scratching and flaking.

The ChefMan Multifunctional Air Fryer+ Rotisserie stands out with air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, and roast functions plus three preset options and a touch screen. The Kalorik MAXX provides a 9‑in‑1 menu (including braise, sear, and broil) and Turbo MAXX technology for faster cooking. If you value a combination of multiple cooking levels and a large interior, the Big Boss 2‑shelf design also delivers versatility, though its preset options are more limited.

Big Boss models include an auto‑clean function and dishwasher‑safe removable parts, making post‑cook cleanup quick. Kitchen Elite’s accessories—basket, wire rack, crumb tray—are also dishwasher safe, and its stainless‑steel interior wipes clean easily. The Geek Chef and ChefMan units rely on simple hand‑washing of removable trays and racks, without an auto‑clean cycle, so they may require a bit more manual effort.

A dual‑shelf system, like the one on the Big Boss, lets you prepare two different foods simultaneously, which can cut cooking time for family meals. Kitchen Elite’s French‑door design provides ample vertical space but typically uses a single basket; however, it includes a wire rack and crumb tray for added flexibility. If you frequently cook multiple dishes at once, the extra shelf can provide real value, especially when preparing large gatherings.

Digital presets eliminate guesswork by automatically setting temperature and time for common foods, helping beginners achieve consistent results. LED displays, found on models like Kitchen Elite and Kalorik MAXX, offer precise temperature readouts and countdown timers, which improve accuracy over analog dials. Some units also feature smart‑recipe integration via apps, expanding cooking possibilities without needing a cookbook.

Higher‑priced models often include more cooking functions, premium finishes, and longer warranty periods, which can lower long‑term ownership costs. Look for at least a one‑year warranty; some brands offer two‑year coverage, providing extra peace of mind. Evaluate whether the included accessories, presets, and health‑focused features justify the price difference, especially if you plan to use the appliance frequently.