Best Rated Air Fryer Consumer Reports – Top 5 Picks & Review

Tired of greasy fries and soggy veggies? Do you dream of crispy, golden food without all the oil? You’re not alone! Air fryers promise healthier, faster cooking, but with so many brands and models out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the features and confusing reviews. You want to get the best air fryer for your money, one that actually makes cooking fun and delicious.

That’s exactly why we’re diving deep into the world of Rated Air Fryer Consumer Reports! We know you want to find an appliance that cooks perfectly, is easy to use, and fits your kitchen. This guide is here to cut through the noise and give you the real scoop. We’ve sifted through the data and tested the top models so you don’t have to.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll know which air fryers Consumer Reports recommends and why. We’ll highlight the top performers, what makes them stand out, and what to watch out for. Get ready to discover the air fryer that will transform your meals and make healthy eating a breeze. Let’s find your next kitchen favorite!

Our Top 5 Rated Air Fryer Consumer Reports Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Rated Air Fryer Consumer Reports Detailed Reviews

1. Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt

Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray

Rating: 8.8/10

Get ready to revolutionize your kitchen with the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer. This fantastic appliance in dark gray is designed to make cooking easier, faster, and healthier. Its advanced TurboBlaze Technology and precise temperature control ensure your food comes out perfectly every time. Plus, with its spacious 6-quart basket, it’s ideal for feeding the whole family.

What We Like:

  • The TurboBlaze Technology with a 3600 rpm fan speed and 450°F heat makes food super crispy and juicy.
  • Cosori’s special 5-fan speed system and exact temperature control (90°–450°F) cook food evenly.
  • The premium ceramic coating on the basket and crisper tray is nonstick and easy to clean.
  • Cooking times are faster, saving you precious minutes on busy days.
  • The 6-quart square basket is large enough for family meals but still saves counter space.
  • It operates quietly, under 53dB, so it won’t disturb your home.
  • You can enjoy your favorite fried foods with 95% less oil, making them healthier.
  • Cleaning is a breeze because the basket and plate are dishwasher-safe.
  • The customizable Preheat function lets you choose to preheat or skip it for convenience.
  • It comes with a helpful 30-recipe cookbook from chefs and dietitians.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it offers many functions, some users might find the sheer number of options a bit overwhelming at first.
  • The 120V power requirement means it’s designed for standard US outlets, which is typical but worth noting for international users.

The Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer is an excellent addition to any kitchen, offering a healthier, faster, and more convenient way to cook. You’ll love the delicious results and the ease of use.

2. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo

Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 24 Cooking Functions and Digital Controls, 7 Accessories Included, Stainless Steel Finish, 26QT Capacity

Rating: 9.2/10

Get ready to transform your kitchen with the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo. This isn’t just another appliance; it’s a culinary powerhouse designed to make cooking easier and more delicious. From quick snacks to family feasts, this oven does it all. Its sleek stainless steel finish and elegant French doors add a touch of style to any countertop.

What We Like:

  • It’s a super versatile air fryer and multi-cooker. You can air fry snacks or roast a big meal.
  • Toast comes out perfectly every time. The oven turns off by itself when the timer is done, so no more burnt toast!
  • The dual-speed fan cooks food evenly with 360º hot air. This makes everything golden and crisp.
  • It has a big 26-quart capacity. It’s great for feeding 4–6 people and can even rotisserie a 6-lb chicken or bake a 12” pizza.
  • The stainless steel exterior looks amazing in any kitchen. The French doors open easily, and an interior light helps you see your food.
  • It comes with 7 useful accessories to help you cook even more.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it’s large, it does take up significant counter space.
  • Some users might find the 24 cooking functions a bit overwhelming at first.

This Emeril Lagasse oven is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to cook. It simplifies meal preparation and delivers impressive results, making it a worthwhile investment for your kitchen.

3. Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes

Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black

Rating: 9.4/10

Meet the Chefman Air Fryer – your new kitchen best friend for whipping up delicious meals in a flash. This 4-quart powerhouse is designed for speed and ease, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick weekend snacks. Its compact size doesn’t skimp on capacity, fitting easily on your counter without taking up too much space. Plus, it’s built with smart features to give you the crispiest results every time.

What We Like:

  • It cooks food fast and is super easy to use. You can set the time and temperature yourself or pick from four handy presets.
  • The special Hi-Fry Technology boosts the heat to 450°F for the last two minutes, making your food extra crispy.
  • Its sleek, narrow design looks good on your counter and saves space.
  • You can enjoy healthier meals with less oil, making your favorite foods lower in fat.
  • You get a reminder to shake your food halfway through cooking for the best crispiness.
  • Cleaning up is a breeze because the basket and rack are nonstick and can go right into the dishwasher.
  • Safety is a top priority with its automatic shutoff feature.
  • It’s built to last and comes with a 1-year warranty from Chefman.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 4-quart size is great for 2-4 people, but might be too small for larger families or when cooking for guests.
  • While it has presets, some users might want more customization options beyond the four available.

This Chefman Air Fryer is a fantastic tool for anyone who wants to make tasty, crispy food quickly and healthily. It’s a reliable addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and great results.

4. CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie

CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black

Rating: 9.4/10

The CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie is a kitchen powerhouse! It’s a 10-liter, family-sized appliance that can do it all. You can air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, and roast your favorite foods. This sleek black oven makes cooking healthy meals simple and fast.

What We Like:

  • It’s super versatile and can replace many other kitchen appliances.
  • You can cook food much faster than in a regular oven because it doesn’t need preheating.
  • It makes healthy eating easy by using 98% less oil for frying.
  • The 17 presets and touch screen make it really easy for anyone to use.
  • It comes with everything you need: racks, a rotisserie spit, and a drip tray.
  • The large 10-liter capacity is perfect for feeding a family or prepping meals for the week.
  • You can easily watch your food cook through the large window and interior light.
  • Cleanup is a breeze with the removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts.
  • It’s built with safety in mind and comes with a 1-year warranty.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it’s packed with features, the price might be a consideration for some.
  • The unit is a bit large, so make sure you have enough counter space.

This Chefman air fryer is an excellent addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and healthy cooking for the whole family. It simplifies meal preparation with its many functions and easy-to-use design.

5. Ninja

Ninja | Air Fryer | 6.5 QT Pro XL Capacity fits 9lbs of Wings | 6-in-1 Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate | Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate & Recipe Guide | Grey | AF181

Rating: 8.8/10

Get ready to transform your cooking with the Ninja AF181 Air Fryer! This fantastic kitchen gadget makes it easy to whip up delicious, crispy meals with way less oil. Its large size is perfect for feeding the whole family, and it can even handle frozen foods in a flash. Plus, with its versatile cooking options, you can do more than just air fry – think roasting, baking, and even dehydrating!

What We Like:

  • Max Crisp Technology makes food super crispy and golden brown.
  • You can enjoy fried foods with up to 75% less fat.
  • The XL 6.5-quart basket fits lots of food, like 9 lbs of chicken wings.
  • It cooks frozen foods quickly without needing to thaw them first.
  • Six cooking functions mean you can air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate.
  • Its small size fits nicely on your counter.
  • Cleaning is a breeze because the basket and plate are nonstick and dishwasher safe.
  • It comes with a recipe book and cooking charts to help you get started.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the capacity is large, some users might find the footprint still takes up a bit of counter space.
  • The 6-in-1 functions are great, but mastering all of them might take a little practice.

This Ninja Air Fryer is a game-changer for healthy and convenient cooking. It’s a must-have for anyone looking for crispy, delicious food without the guilt.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your Perfect Rated Air Fryer

Are you tired of greasy food but love crispy snacks? An air fryer might be your new best friend! Consumer Reports tests many air fryers to help you find the best one. This guide will walk you through what to look for.

Why Choose a Rated Air Fryer?

Air fryers cook food using hot air. They make food crispy without using a lot of oil. This means healthier meals and less mess. Consumer Reports tests air fryers on how well they cook different foods, how easy they are to use, and how long they last. Getting a top-rated air fryer means you’re getting a product that has been proven to work well.

Key Features to Look For

When you’re shopping for an air fryer, keep these important features in mind:

  • Capacity: How much food can it cook at once? A small basket is good for one or two people. A larger one is better for families.
  • Temperature Range: Most air fryers can go up to 400°F (200°C). A wider range lets you cook more types of food.
  • Timer: A good timer lets you set the cooking time precisely. Some have auto-shutoff, which is a helpful safety feature.
  • Presets: Many air fryers come with buttons for common foods like fries, chicken, or fish. These make cooking simple.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Look for parts that are dishwasher safe. Non-stick coatings also make cleaning easier.
  • Accessories: Some air fryers come with extra racks or pans. These can help you cook more at once or try new recipes.

Important Materials

The materials used in an air fryer affect its durability and safety.

  • Basket and Interior: Most baskets are made of metal with a non-stick coating. Look for PFOA-free or PTFE-free coatings for your health. Stainless steel is also a good, durable option.
  • Exterior: The outside is usually made of plastic. High-quality plastic feels sturdy and doesn’t get too hot.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Certain things make an air fryer great, while others can make it less so.

What Makes a Quality Air Fryer:
  • Even Cooking: The best air fryers cook food evenly on all sides. This means no burnt spots and no undercooked parts. Consumer Reports checks this carefully.
  • Crispiness: A good air fryer makes food super crispy, just like deep-fried food.
  • Simple Controls: Easy-to-understand buttons and clear displays make using the air fryer a breeze.
  • Quiet Operation: Some air fryers can be loud. A quieter model is more pleasant to use.
What Can Reduce Quality:
  • Uneven Cooking: If food is cooked unevenly, you’ll have to keep shaking or flipping it. This can be frustrating.
  • Difficult Cleaning: If the basket is hard to clean or not dishwasher safe, it’s less convenient.
  • Flimsy Parts: A cheaply made air fryer might have parts that break easily.
  • Hot Exterior: If the outside gets too hot, it can be a safety concern.

User Experience and Use Cases

Using an air fryer is generally very easy. You place your food in the basket, set the time and temperature, and let it do its magic.

Great for:
  • Healthy Snacks: Make crispy fries, chicken wings, or onion rings with less oil.
  • Quick Meals: Cook frozen foods like chicken nuggets or fish sticks in minutes.
  • Reheating Leftovers: Air fryers reheat food better than microwaves, keeping it crispy.
  • Roasting Vegetables: Get perfectly roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.

Think about how you’ll use it most. If you cook for a big family, a larger capacity is essential. If you’re just making snacks for yourself, a smaller one will work fine.


Frequently Asked Questions: Your Air Fryer Questions Answered

Q: What does “Rated Air Fryer Consumer Reports” mean?

A: It means Consumer Reports has tested and reviewed these air fryers. They give them ratings based on performance, durability, and ease of use. This helps you choose a good one.

Q: Are air fryers healthy?

A: Yes, air fryers are healthier because they use much less oil than traditional frying. You can still get crispy food without all the extra fat.

Q: How big should my air fryer be?

A: For one or two people, a 2-quart to 4-quart air fryer is usually enough. For families of four or more, look for a 5-quart or larger model.

Q: Can I cook raw meat in an air fryer?

A: Yes, you can cook raw meat. Make sure to cook it all the way through to a safe temperature. Chicken and pork are popular choices.

Q: What is the best way to clean an air fryer?

A: Most air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher safe. You can also wash them by hand with warm, soapy water. Wipe down the inside and outside with a damp cloth.

Q: Can I put aluminum foil in my air fryer?

A: Yes, you can use aluminum foil, but be careful. Don’t cover the entire bottom of the basket, as this can block air circulation and affect cooking. Also, avoid using foil with acidic foods.

Q: What foods cook best in an air fryer?

A: Foods that benefit from crisping do best. This includes fries, chicken wings, nuggets, fish sticks, and vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

Q: Do I need to preheat my air fryer?

A: It’s usually a good idea to preheat your air fryer for about 3-5 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking and crispier results.

Q: How long do air fryers last?

A: With good care, a well-made air fryer can last for several years, often 3-5 years or more. Consumer Reports tests for durability to help you find a long-lasting one.

Q: Are air fryers noisy?

A: Air fryers do make some noise because of the fan circulating the hot air. However, the noise level varies by model. Quieter models are available, and Consumer Reports often notes this in their reviews.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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