· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 7 min read
Top 5 Highest-Rated Air Fryers for Crispy Fried Foods in 2025 Reviewed
Craving crispy fried foods without the guilt or mess? Check out these top 5 air fryers that deliver restaurant-quality crunch with less oil and easy cleanup. Perfect for healthier fried favorites!
Introduction
Let’s be real—who doesn’t love the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried food? But let’s face it, traditional frying can be a greasy, guilt-inducing mess. That’s where air fryers come in, and trust me, they’re a game-changer. These nifty gadgets let you enjoy all the crispy goodness you crave, but with way less oil and cleanup. If you’ve been on the fence about getting one, or if you’re just curious about which models are worth your hard-earned cash, you’re in the right place.
In this article, I’m breaking down five of the best air fryers on the market right now. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned pro, I’ll help you figure out which one fits your needs. By the end, you’ll know exactly which air fryer will give you that golden, crispy perfection every time. Ready to find your kitchen soulmate? Let’s get into it!
Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer
The Ninja AF161 Max XL is like the Swiss Army knife of air fryers. With a 5.5-quart capacity, it’s perfect for whipping up meals for the whole family or prepping snacks for the week. I put this bad boy through its paces—crispy wings, golden fries, even dehydrated apple slices—and it nailed every single task. The sleek, high-gloss design looks great on your countertop, too.
Cleaning up? No sweat. The non-stick basket and crisper tray are dishwasher-safe, though I found a quick handwash with a nylon brush did the trick just fine. The controls are super user-friendly, though I did notice the temperature adjusts in 10° increments, which can be a bit limiting if you’re a precision cook. Overall, though, this air fryer is a solid performer that won’t let you down.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Big enough for family meals | Temperature adjustments aren’t super precise |
| Does it all—crisp, roast, bake, you name it | Can get a bit noisy |
| Easy to clean (dishwasher-safe!) | Takes up some serious counter space |
Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 with 6.5 QT Capacity
If you’ve got a big family or just love cooking in bulk, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL is your new best friend. With a 6.5-quart capacity, it’s a beast in the kitchen. I tested it with everything from fries to a whole chicken, and the results were chef’s kiss. The Max Crisp technology cranks up the heat to 450°F, giving you that perfect golden crunch.
One thing I loved? The 6-in-1 functionality, which includes dehydrating. I made some killer dried mango slices that were gone in a flash. The preheat function is quick, and the cooking times are spot-on. Just a heads-up, though—it’s a bit louder than some other models, so don’t plan on sneaking in a midnight snack without waking the house. Still, for the size and versatility, it’s a winner.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge capacity for big meals | Can be a bit noisy |
| Max Crisp tech = crispy perfection | Square basket can be awkward to pour from |
| 6-in-1 functions, including dehydrate | Needs preheating for best results |
Ninja Air Fryer, 10-in-1, 10 QT, Grey, DZ550
This one’s for the multitaskers. The Ninja DZ550 is a 10-quart powerhouse with dual-zone cooking, meaning you can cook two different foods at two different temps at the same time. Game. Changer. I used it to make crispy fries in one zone and roasted veggies in the other, and it worked like a charm.
The thermometer probe is a nice touch for perfectly cooked meats, though I did notice cooking times can run a bit long when using both zones. Cleanup is straightforward, but the baskets need to be handwashed to keep them in tip-top shape. If you’ve got the counter space and love cooking big, this one’s a no-brainer.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Dual-zone cooking = next-level convenience | Cooking times can be longer |
| Massive 10-quart capacity | Takes up a lot of space |
| Easy-to-use controls | Baskets need handwashing |
Ninja Crispi Air Fryer with Glass Containers
If you’re all about non-toxic cooking, the Ninja Crispi is here for you. It comes with borosilicate glass containers that are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe. I tested it with fries and chicken tenders, and the results were crispy and delicious. The compact design is perfect for small kitchens, though the price tag might make you pause.
One thing to note: the temperature control isn’t super precise, so you’ll need to keep an eye on your food. But if you’re into glass over plastic and want something easy to clean, this is a solid pick.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Non-toxic glass containers | Limited temp control |
| Compact and portable | A bit pricey |
| Dishwasher-safe and easy to clean | Crisper plates are non-stick |
Gotham Steel Air Fryer Tray, 2 Piece Nonstick Copper Crisper Air Fry Basket
Don’t want a whole new appliance? The Gotham Steel Air Fryer Tray is a great alternative. It fits in your oven and gives you that crispy texture without the extra gadget. I used it for bacon, fries, and wings, and it delivered every time. The nonstick coating makes cleanup a breeze, though the handles can be a bit tricky when the tray is hot.
It’s not as versatile as a standalone air fryer, but for the price, it’s a fantastic option if you’re just dipping your toes into the world of air frying.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Nonstick coating = easy cleanup | Handles can be awkward |
| Fits in standard ovens | Coating may wear over time |
| Budget-friendly option | Not as versatile as standalone units |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the secret to crispy air fryer food?
The trick is all about prep and technique. Make sure your food is dry (pat it down with a paper towel if needed), lightly coat it with oil, and don’t overcrowd the basket. Shake or flip your food halfway through cooking, and if your air fryer has a preheat function, use it. A little cornstarch or breadcrumbs can also work wonders for extra crunch.
What’s the deal with Max Crisp technology?
Max Crisp is Ninja’s way of saying, “We’re cranking up the heat to 450°F for maximum crispiness.” It’s perfect for foods that need that extra crunch, like wings or fries. If you’re a crispy food fanatic, this feature is a must-have.
Can you really crisp food in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fryers use super-hot air to cook food, giving you that crispy exterior without all the oil. Just make sure you’re not overloading the basket and that you’re using a light coating of oil or cooking spray.
Why are some people ditching air fryers?
Some folks find that air fryers don’t live up to the hype, especially if they’re expecting it to replace traditional frying or baking. Others might not have the counter space or prefer multi-functional appliances. It’s not for everyone, but if you love crispy food with less oil, it’s worth a shot.
Why isn’t my food getting crispy?
If your food’s coming out soggy, you might be overcrowding the basket, skipping the preheat, or using too much oil. Try patting your food dry, using less oil, and shaking the basket halfway through cooking. And don’t forget to check your temperature settings!
What’s the best oil for air frying?
Go for oils with a high smoke point, like avocado or refined coconut oil. They won’t burn at high temps and will give you that perfect crisp. Just remember, a little goes a long way in an air fryer.
Final Recommendations
If you’re cooking for a crowd, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL is your go-to for its massive capacity and crispy results. For versatility, the Ninja AF161 Max XL is a winner with its six cooking functions. Need to cook two dishes at once? The Ninja DZ550 has you covered with dual-zone cooking. Health-conscious cooks will love the Ninja Crispi for its non-toxic glass containers. And if you’re not ready to commit to a standalone appliance, the Gotham Steel Air Fryer Tray is a budget-friendly alternative.
No matter which one you choose, you’re in for some seriously crispy, delicious meals. Happy air frying!
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work and keeps the reviews coming. Thanks for your support!
