For a family of four, a 5‑6 qt air fryer such as the Ninja Pro XL (6.5 qt) or Ninja 4‑in‑1 (5 qt) provides enough room for 4‑5 lb of fries or wings in a single batch. If you often cook larger meals like whole chickens or pizzas, consider the Midea Flexify 26.4 qt combo or the Elite Gourmet 11 qt dual‑zone oven. Larger capacities reduce the need for multiple cooking cycles, saving time and energy.

Ninja’s Max Crisp technology pushes air up to 450 °F for rapid, extra‑crispy results, while Cosori’s TurboBlaze uses a 3600 rpm fan and five fan speeds for even heat distribution. Midea’s Flexify combines a convection fan with six heat tubes for faster heating, and Chefman’s Dual Zone ovens have independent convection fans for simultaneous cooking. Choose a model whose technology matches the foods you prepare most often, such as high‑heat crisping for fries or precise low‑heat for dehydrating.

Multi‑function units like the Cosori 9‑in‑1 or the Elite Gourmet Dual Zone oven add baking, roasting, dehydrating, and even rotisserie capabilities, reducing the need for separate appliances. While they carry a higher price tag, the added versatility can save countertop space and long‑term costs if you regularly use those extra functions. If you only need basic air‑frying, a simpler 4‑in‑1 model may be more budget‑friendly.

Ninja’s Pro XL and Ninja 4‑in‑1 both claim up to 75 % less fat than deep‑frying, and they feature non‑stick baskets that are easy to clean. Chefman’s TurboFry Touch Dual Air Fryer also emphasizes low‑oil cooking and includes a shake‑reminder to ensure even crisping. Look for models with high maximum temperatures (450 °F) and rapid air circulation, as these deliver the crunchier texture without added oil.

A non‑stick coating, like Ninja’s non‑stick basket or Cosori’s premium ceramic coating, simplifies cleanup and reduces the need for excess oil. Ceramic coatings are generally more durable and heat‑resistant, which can extend the appliance’s lifespan. If you plan to cook sticky foods like battered fish or use the fryer frequently, a high‑quality coating adds convenience and value.

Dual‑basket models such as Chefman’s TurboFry Touch and the Elite Gourmet Dual Zone oven let you cook separate dishes simultaneously, often with a “Sync Finish” feature that aligns cooking times. The Ninja 4‑in‑1 and Cosori 9‑in‑1 use a single basket, so you would need to cook sequentially to avoid flavor mixing. Choose a dual‑basket or dual‑zone unit if you frequently need to prepare side dishes together.

Touchscreen panels with clear digital displays, like those on the NutriChef and Chefman models, make temperature and time adjustments intuitive. Preset programs (e.g., fries, chicken, dehydrate) simplify cooking for beginners and reduce guesswork. Ensure the interface includes audible or visual shake reminders, as they help achieve even crisping without constant monitoring.