The best air fryers of 2026: Which one should you buy?
Demand for air fryers has skyrocketed in recent years, and in 2026, this trend is stronger than ever. As more and more people switch to healthy, fat-free cooking methods, manufacturers are bringing smarter, more powerful, and more efficient models to market. However, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to figure out which air fryer is really worth buying in 2026.
This comprehensive guide evaluates the best air fryers of 2026, compares features, highlights the latest innovations, and provides a complete buying guide to help you make the right choice.
Why air fryers are popular in 2026
Before we dive into the list of the best air fryers of 2026, it’s important to understand why air fryers continue to dominate modern kitchens.
1. Healthier cooking
Air fryers use rapid air circulation technology to cook food with up to 90% less oil. In 2026, newer models offer even better crisping capabilities without the need for deep frying.
2. Faster and more convenient
People prefer appliances that save time. Modern hot air fryers are faster, heat up instantly, and can perform multiple cooking tasks—from baking and roasting to dehydrating.
3. Smart connectivity
Most of the best air fryers of 2026 now come equipped with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, AI-controlled cooking presets, automatic food recognition, and mobile app integration.
4. Energy efficient
With electricity costs on the rise, cooking with an air fryer is a better alternative to ovens and stoves due to the energy savings.
The best hot air fryers of 2026: The best models in the test
Below are the most powerful hot air fryers dominating the market this year. Each one has been evaluated in terms of performance, features, price, and user experience.
1. Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro – Best overall hot air fryer of 2026
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro stands out as the top choice among the best hot air fryers of 2026 due to its exceptional cooking performance and versatility.
Key Features
- XL 7-quart capacity
- DualZone cooking technology
- Smart thermometer for precision
- 13 cooking programs, including grill, roast, air crisp, and bake
- Easy-to-clean nonstick baskets
Why it’s the best hot air fryer of 2026
This model offers crispy results like in a restaurant, advanced smart features, and the ability to cook two dishes at different temperatures at the same time. It’s the most comprehensive solution for families and foodies.
Pros
- Extremely versatile
- Perfect for large families
- Smart temperature sensor prevents overcooking
Cons
- Somewhat expensive
- Large footprint may require counter space
2. Philips Air Fryer 7000 Series XXL – Best Premium Air Fryer 2026
Philips continues to lead the way in innovation with its 7000 Series XXL, known for its consistent performance and high durability.
Key features
- Rapid Air+ technology for even airflow
- Intelligent cooking programs with AI support
- Digital touchscreen with over 300 recipes via the app
- Dishwasher-safe components
Why should you buy this air fryer in 2026?
If quality and reliability are your top priorities, this model from Philips is one of the best air fryers of 2026 in terms of long-term value.
Pros
- Exceptionally crispy results and great taste
- Smart automatic cooking time adjustment
- Durable design
Cons
- Higher price range
- Smaller basket compared to some competitors
3. Cosori TurboBlaze 6.5QT – Best Mid-Range Air Fryer of 2026
Cosori remains a popular brand because it offers high performance at an affordable price. The TurboBlaze 6.5QT is an outstanding model in the mid-range price segment.
Key Features
- TurboBlaze motor for ultra-fast cooking
- 11 preset cooking programs
- Large digital display
- Energy-saving heating technology
Why it’s one of the best air fryers of 2026
The combination of price, quality, and speed makes it ideal for average households looking for a powerful yet budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Affordable
- Very fast cooking
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Fewer premium smart features
- Slightly lower frying capacity
4. Instant Vortex Plus 10-in-1 – Best Air Fryer for Smart Cooking in 2026
The Instant brand, known for the Instant Pot, now dominates the world of air fryers. The Instant Vortex Plus 10-in-1 is a top contender for 2026 thanks to its smart features.
Key features
- 10-in-1 appliance: fry, roast, bake, grill, dehydrate, and more
- Integrated smart cooking calculator
- Large viewing window
- EvenCrisp technology
Why buy this model?
If you love automation and convenience, this is one of the best air fryers for smart cooking in 2026.
Advantages
- Multifunctional
- Smart controls
- Good visibility during cooking
Disadvantages
- Slight learning curve
- More bulky than hot air fryers with only a basket
5. Tefal Dual Easy Fry & Grill – Best Dual-Zone Air Fryer 2026
For those who want maximum flexibility, the Tefal Dual Easy Fry & Grill offers two separate cooking zones and a grill function.
Key features
- Two baskets
- Non-stick grill plate
- 8 preset modes
- Energy-efficient cooking
Why it’s one of the best air fryers of 2026
This model is great for grilling and frying at the same time, making it perfect for families.
Advantages
- Combination of grill and hot air fryer
- Prepare two meals at the same time
- Easy to clean
Disadvantages
- Somewhat noisy
- Larger design
How to choose the best air fryer in 2026: buying guide
Choosing the best air fryer of 2026 depends on your lifestyle, budget, and cooking needs. Here are the most important factors to consider:
1. Capacity
- Small (2–3 quarts) → Best for singles
- Medium (4–6 quarts) → Ideal for couples or small families
- XL (7–10 quarts) → Ideal for large families and entertaining guests
Choose the size based on the amount of food you typically prepare.
2. Smart features
In 2026, smart air fryers are more advanced than ever. Look for:
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Mobile app control
- AI-assisted cooking
- Voice assistant compatibility
These features make cooking faster and more precise.
3. Cooking functions
The more functions a hot air fryer offers, the more versatile your kitchen will be. Popular functions include:
- Hot air frying
- Baking
- Roasting
- Grilling
- Dehydrating
- Broiling
Choose a model that suits your cooking style.
4. Energy consumption
Energy efficiency has become an important issue in 2026. Modern hot air fryers consume less electricity because they cook faster than conventional ovens.
5. Budget
Here is a rough price overview:
- Budget models: $60–120
- Mid-range models: $120–200
- Premium models: $200–400+
Choose the air fryer that offers you the best performance for your budget.
Conclusion: Which air fryer should you buy in 2026?
If you’re wondering which air fryer is the best in 2026, here are some simple recommendations:
- Best overall: Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro
- Best premium models: Philips 7000 Series XXL
- Best mid-range: Cosori TurboBlaze 6.5QT
- Best smart model: Instant Vortex Plus 10-in-1
- Best dual zone: Tefal Dual Easy Fry & Grill
Each model has different features, but all offer excellent performance, healthier meals, and modern functions.
When choosing the best air fryer of 2026, consider your capacity needs, budget, and how often you cook. With the right air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, delicious, and healthy meals every day—with little to no oil.
