A 6‑quart or larger basket, like the Cosori 9‑in‑1 or Ninja DZ201, comfortably fits meals for four people with room for sides. Smaller 4‑quart models are fine for couples or single servings but may require multiple batches. Consider how often you cook larger items such as whole chickens or pizza when picking size.

TurboBlaze, used in the Cosori model, spins a 3600 rpm fan and reaches up to 450 °F for faster, evenly crisped results. Max Crisp on Ninja’s 6.5‑qt unit also hits 450 °F but focuses on rapid air circulation for extra crunch. Air Crisp, found in Ninja’s 5‑qt version, tops out at 400 °F, offering solid performance but slightly slower cooking times.

Dual‑basket units like the Ninja DZ201 and Chefman 6‑qt Dual Basket let you cook two dishes simultaneously, saving time and avoiding flavor crossover. They are ideal for meal‑prepping or cooking a main and side at once. The price premium is justified if you frequently need that multitasking capability.

The Ninja DZ201 and Cosori 9‑in‑1 both provide six functions, including air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate, and a dedicated air broil mode. Chefman’s multifunctional model adds rotisserie, while the Emeril Lagasse combo combines air frying with a full toaster‑oven feature set. Choose based on the specific functions you’ll use most.

A premium ceramic coating, like Cosori’s basket, resists sticking and is easier to wipe clean than standard metal baskets. Ninja’s non‑stick baskets also simplify cleanup, but some users report occasional food residue. Dishwasher‑safe baskets, such as those on the Ninja DZ201, add convenience for regular maintenance.

Models that reach 450 °F, such as Cosori and Ninja’s Max Crisp, can achieve a deeper crust and faster cooking, especially for frozen foods. Lower max temperatures (e.g., 400 °F on the Ninja 4‑qt) are sufficient for most roasting and reheating tasks but may require longer cook times for crispiness. Match the temperature range to the types of dishes you prepare most.

Preset programs simplify cooking by automatically setting time and temperature for common foods, as seen in Chefman’s 17 presets and Ninja’s 6‑in‑1 functions. Manual controls give you flexibility to fine‑tune settings for custom recipes, which is useful for experienced cooks. A balance of both features provides convenience and adaptability.

Entry‑level models like the Chefman 4‑qt are budget‑friendly and suitable for small households, offering basic air‑fry capabilities. Mid‑range options such as the Ninja 6.5‑qt provide larger capacity and multiple functions at a moderate price. Premium units like the Cosori 9‑in‑1 and Ninja DZ201 command higher prices but deliver advanced technology, dual‑basket cooking, and broader function sets, offering greater long‑term value for frequent users.