Look for air fryers with at least 6‑8 quarts of usable space; models like the Ninja Pro XL (6.5 qt) and Chefman TurboFry XL (8 qt) comfortably hold a full tray of fries or a 9‑lb batch of wings. If you regularly cook whole chickens or multiple side dishes, consider 10‑12‑quart units such as the Ninja DualZone (10 qt) or Chefman 12‑qt oven. Larger capacities reduce the need for batch‑cooking and keep meal prep faster.

All models provide basic air‑fry, bake, and roast, but some add specialty modes: the Chefman Multifunctional unit includes dehydration and a rotisserie, while the Ninja Pro XL offers a dedicated Max Crisp setting for extra‑crisp results. The DualZone Ninja lets you run two independent baskets with separate programs, ideal for cooking a main and a side simultaneously. If you want the most versatility in one appliance, the 6‑in‑1 Chefman 12‑qt oven or the Emeril Lagasse combo gives the widest range of functions.

The Cosori TurboBlaze 6‑qt model balances price, performance, and features with its 3600 rpm fan, ceramic‑coated basket, and 9 preset programs, making it a strong budget‑friendly choice. For families needing extra capacity, the Chefman 12‑qt 6‑in‑1 oven offers a larger cooking chamber and rotisserie at a modest price increase. Compare warranty length and included accessories—models that bundle extra racks or a rotisserie spit often deliver more bang for your buck.

Dual‑basket units like the Ninja DualZone XL let you finish a main dish and a side at the same time, which can shave 10‑15 minutes off a typical family dinner. This convenience is most valuable for busy households that juggle multiple foods, but if you rarely need to cook two items simultaneously, a single‑basket model with a larger capacity may be more economical. Consider how often you entertain or prepare multi‑course meals when deciding if the premium price is justified.

Higher maximum temperatures (up to 450 °F) and faster fan speeds (up to 3600 rpm) produce the golden, crunchy texture many expect from fried foods; the Ninja Pro XL and Cosori TurboBlaze excel in this area. Models with lower temperature ceilings, such as the Chefman TurboFry XL (max 400 °F), still perform well for most recipes but may require longer cook times for heavily breaded items. Choose a unit with a broad temperature range if you plan to air‑fry a variety of foods, from delicate pastries to thick chicken wings.

Dishwasher‑safe baskets and trays, like those on the Chefman TurboFry XL and Ninja models, simplify cleanup after each use. Non‑stick ceramic coatings (Cosori) and stainless‑steel interiors (Emeril Lagasse combo) resist staining but still benefit from a quick wipe‑down of the exterior after cooking. Avoid abrasive cleaners on glass bowls (Big Boss) to preserve visibility and prevent scratches.

A rotisserie provides even, crispy skin on whole chickens and roasts with minimal oil, which can replace a separate countertop rotisserie for many families. Models like the Chefman Multifunctional and 12‑qt ovens include rotisserie spits, offering added versatility without extra appliances. If you frequently prepare poultry or large roasts, the rotisserie feature can be a valuable time‑saver and flavor enhancer.

Preset cooking modes reduce guesswork; you simply select “Fries,” “Chicken,” or “Pizza” and the appliance sets temperature and time automatically. Units with extensive preset libraries—Chefman 12‑qt (12 presets) and Ninja DualZone (6 programs)—help streamline meal prep, especially for less‑experienced cooks. Look for models with clear touchscreens or tactile buttons that display progress, making it easy to monitor multiple dishes at once.