Focus on materials that are BPA‑free, PTFE‑free, and free of PFAS, such as borosilicate glass or ceramic coatings. These eliminate harmful chemicals that can leach at high temperatures. Also check for certifications like ETL or FCC that confirm safety testing.

Glass baskets, like the PwZzk and BOSWELL models, provide a completely non‑reactive cooking surface and allow you to see food through the transparent container. Ceramic‑coated metal baskets, such as those on the Bella and Nutrichef units, are lighter and often have higher wattage for faster heating, but still avoid toxic coatings. Choose glass if visual monitoring and absolute chemical safety are top priorities, or ceramic metal if you prefer a lighter unit with strong heat performance.

The Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8‑Quart DualZone delivers a large combined capacity, two independent baskets, and six cooking functions, making it ideal for feeding a family without multiple batches. Its price point is competitive given the dual‑zone technology and 1700 W power. If countertop space is limited, the Bella 6 Qt Slim provides similar capacity with a compact footprint and a non‑toxic ceramic coating at a lower cost.

Presets simplify cooking by automatically adjusting time and temperature for common foods, which can improve consistency for beginners. Models like Nutrichef, Tastee, and Ninja include 8‑1 or 8‑in‑1 preset menus that cover shrimp, steak, fries, and more. If you enjoy experimenting or have specific timing needs, manual controls work fine, but presets add convenience and reduce guesswork.

Capacity determines how many servings you can prepare at once, while footprint affects how much kitchen real estate the unit occupies. Larger models such as the Ninja Foodi 8‑Qt or the Bella 6‑Qt Slim provide ample cooking volume but require more surface area. For small kitchens, compact 5‑qt glass units like the PwZzk or BOSWELL give a good balance of capacity and a slimmer profile.

A transparent bowl lets you monitor browning and doneness without opening the lid, which preserves heat and reduces cooking time. Both the Nutrichef and BOSWELL air fryers feature glass windows that let you see food progress, helping prevent over‑cooking. This visual cue is especially useful for delicate items like fish or baked goods.

Key safety elements include automatic shut‑off, overheat protection, and a cool‑touch exterior. Models such as the Nutrichef and Next‑Gen Non‑Toxic Air Fryer also add a safety shield or microswitch that cuts power when the basket is opened. Look for certifications and user‑friendly handles that stay cool during operation.

Higher wattage, typically 1500 W‑1800 W, heats the cooking chamber faster, reducing pre‑heat time and overall cooking duration. However, it can also draw more electricity, so consider your usage patterns; a 1200 W unit like the Nutrichef still delivers good results for everyday meals. Balance speed with energy efficiency based on how often you plan to use the fryer.