Instant Pot 4QT Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer, Custom Program Options, Crisps, Broils, Roasts, Dehydrates, Bakes, Reheats, 100+ In-App Recipes, Stainless Steel,4 Quarts

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.

Best Overall – Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 is one of the most interesting compact air fryer systems available right now. Instead of a traditional basket, it uses glass cooking containers, which makes it easier to monitor food as it cooks and much easier to clean afterward. Performance is strong for its size, especially with fries, chicken wings, and frozen foods. For small kitchens, dorms, or anyone cooking for one to two people, it’s one of the most practical compact options in 2026. Best Premium Small Air Fryer – Philips 2000 Series 4.4QT The Philips 2000 Series stands out for its consistency and build quality. It feels more solid and refined than most budget-friendly models and delivers very even cooking without much effort. It sits slightly above the ultra-compact category, but it’s still ideal for small households that want reliability and premium performance. The main downside is the higher price compared to competitors. Best Slim Space Saver – Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer The Bella 4QT Slim Air Fryer is ideal if counter space is your main concern. Its slim horizontal design makes it noticeably easier to fit into tight kitchens compared to standard bulky 4QT models. It’s simple, easy to use, and focused on everyday cooking rather than advanced features, which makes it a strong practical option. Best Budget 4QT – Gourmia Air Fryer 4QT The Gourmia 4QT is one of the most popular budget compact air fryers for a reason. It doesn’t try to compete with premium models but handles basic air frying tasks like fries, frozen snacks, and simple meals reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-frills appliance that focuses on affordability and ease of use. Best Ultra-Compact Option – Cuisinart 2.6QT Air Fryer The Cuisinart 2.6QT is a true mini air fryer designed for one-person use or very light cooking. It works well for snacks, reheating leftovers, and single portions. It’s not designed for full meals, but within its size range it performs reliably and fits extremely small spaces like dorm rooms or studios. Best Traditional Basket Air Fryer – Ninja Pro AF141 The Ninja Pro AF141 is a simple, proven air fryer that focuses on reliability. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and avoids unnecessary features. It’s a strong choice for anyone who just wants consistent crispy food without smart apps or extra complexity. Best Smart Air Fryer – Cosori Lite 4.0 Qt Cosori continues to dominate the compact smart air fryer category. The Lite 4.0 includes app control, notifications, and a well-designed basket that promotes even airflow. Cooking performance is strong, and the smart features add convenience without overcomplicating things. A smaller alternative is the Cosori Air Fryer 2.1 QT for ultra-compact use. Best for Couples – Instant Vortex Plus 4 Qt The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is one of the most balanced compact air fryers available. It’s small enough for apartments but large enough to cook dinner for two without multiple batches. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces consistently crispy results. A similar option with a viewing window is the Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 model. Best for One Person – Instant Vortex Mini (2QT) The Instant Vortex Mini is designed for single-person use. It heats quickly, takes up almost no space, and performs better than many larger budget air fryers for small portions. It’s one of the easiest recommendations for solo cooking. Most Reliable – Ninja AF101 The Ninja AF101 has become one of the most trusted compact air fryers over time. It doesn’t rely on smart features or new designs, but it consistently works well. It’s the type of appliance you buy once and keep for years without issues. Best Ultra-Compact Air Fryer – Chefman TurboFry 2 Qt The Chefman TurboFry 2QT is designed for very small spaces like dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. While capacity is limited, it performs well for its size and takes up minimal counter space. Best Budget Pick – Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt The Dash Tasti-Crisp is one of the most affordable entry-level air fryers. It doesn’t include premium materials or advanced cooking modes, but it delivers solid crispy results for basic use. Best Viewing Window Air Fryer – Cuisinart ClearView Air Fryer The ClearView stands out because of its viewing window and interior light, which lets you monitor food without constantly opening the basket. It’s a small feature, but surprisingly useful in everyday cooking.

Best Overall: Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart (ClearCook + OdorErase) If you only read one recommendation on this list, make it this one. The Vortex Plus 6-Quart consistently receives the highest number of positive owner reviews because it avoids the biggest mistake many air fryers make: trying to do too much. The basket is large enough for most households, the ClearCook window lets you monitor food without interrupting cooking, and the controls are simple enough that you won't need to watch YouTube tutorials every time you want to make wings. What owners love: Excellent crisping performance Easy-to-clean basket Useful viewing window Good balance of size and capacity What owners don't love: Takes up a decent amount of counter space OdorErase helps, but it's not magic Who should buy it: Anyone looking for the safest, easiest recommendation. Best Versatility: Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone 9-Quart The VersaZone solves one of the biggest air fryer buying dilemmas. Do you buy a giant basket or a dual basket? With the removable divider, you don't have to choose. Use it as one large cooking chamber for a whole chicken or large roast. Insert the divider and it becomes a dual-zone air fryer capable of cooking two foods simultaneously. What owners love: Extremely flexible design Great for meal prep SyncFinish works well Large cooking capacity What owners don't love: Larger footprint than standard baskets More expensive than the 6-quart Vortex Plus Who should buy it: Families, meal preppers, and indecisive shoppers. Best for Small Kitchens: Instant Vortex Slim Most manufacturers increase capacity by making air fryers wider. The Vortex Slim takes the opposite approach. Its narrower design fits surprisingly well in apartment kitchens and smaller spaces while still offering enough capacity for everyday cooking. What owners love: Compact footprint Doesn't dominate the countertop Easy to store What owners don't love: Deeper basket can be slightly less convenient when shaking food Not ideal for larger families Who should buy it: Apartment dwellers and small households. Best for Large Families: Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven If you're regularly cooking for four or more people, traditional basket air fryers can start feeling restrictive. The 10-Quart Air Fryer Oven provides multiple rack levels, larger capacity, and the ability to cook larger quantities in one session. The rotisserie function is especially popular among long-term owners. What owners love: Massive capacity Multiple cooking racks Excellent rotisserie performance What owners don't love: Larger learning curve Cleaning takes longer than basket models Who should buy it: Big families and frequent entertainers. Best True Dual-Basket Model: Instant Vortex Plus Dual Drawer 8-Quart The VersaZone is flexible. The Dual Drawer is specialized. Two completely separate baskets make it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures without worrying about crowding. What owners love: Separate cooking zones Reliable SyncCook functions Great for weeknight meals What owners don't love: Less flexible than VersaZone Slightly larger footprint Who should buy it: People who frequently cook proteins and sides simultaneously. Best Budget Option: Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Not everyone needs windows, odor filters, smart features, or fancy displays. The Vortex 4-in-1 strips away the extras while keeping the core cooking performance that made the Vortex series popular. What owners love: Great value Strong crisping performance Simple operation What owners don't love: Fewer convenience features No viewing window Who should buy it: Budget-conscious buyers. Best Air Fryer Oven Upgrade: Instant Omni Plus The Omni Plus is the closest thing Instant offers to a countertop oven replacement. It can toast, bake, broil, roast, and air fry while providing much more usable cooking space than standard basket models. What owners love: Extremely versatile Great for baking Can replace several appliances What owners don't love: Takes up significant counter space Higher price Who should buy it: People who want an air fryer and toaster oven in one appliance. Best for One Person: Instant Vortex Mini Small air fryers rarely get much attention, but the Vortex Mini has developed a loyal following. It's quick, compact, and perfect for leftovers, frozen foods, and simple meals. What owners love: Tiny footprint Fast preheating Easy cleanup What owners don't love: Very limited capacity Not practical for families Who should buy it: Students, singles, and dorm residents. Best All-in-One Appliance: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid This is arguably Instant's most ambitious product. Instead of forcing users to store multiple lids, the Ultimate Lid combines pressure cooking and air frying into one integrated system. What owners love: Saves storage space Excellent pressure cooking performance One-lid convenience What owners don't love: Larger learning curve More expensive than standard Instant Pots Who should buy it: Anyone deciding between an Instant Pot and an air fryer. Best Performance-to-Size Ratio: Instant Vortex Plus 4-Quart For couples and smaller households, the 4-quart version often hits the sweet spot. You get many of the same premium features found on the flagship model without dedicating as much counter space. What owners love: Efficient size Excellent crisping Premium feature set What owners don't love: Can feel small for families Less versatile than the 6-quart model Who should buy it: Couples and small households.