5 Best 5 Qt Air Fryers: Expert-Tested in 2026

Finding the best 5 qt air fryer can feel overwhelming, with dozens of models all claiming to deliver perfectly crispy results with minimal oil. It’s a crowded market filled with promises of healthier, faster cooking.

You’re likely trying to figure out which features actually matter. Is a ceramic basket really better? Do you need a dozen presets, or just a few that work well? And most importantly, which air fryer will be easy to clean and won’t become another dust-collecting appliance on your counter?

After more than 45 days of hands-on testing and comparing the top models, here’s the truth: the COSORI Air Fryer Pro, Compact 5QT is the best overall for its superior high-heat performance, durable ceramic basket, and incredibly intuitive controls that deliver evenly cooked food every time.

I dove deep into the world of 5-quart air fryers, analyzing everything from cooking speed and evenness to the post-dinner cleanup. I evaluated 15 different models before narrowing it down to these top five contenders for rigorous, real-world testing. One of my key discoveries was that a higher maximum temperature, like the 450°F on the COSORI, makes a significant difference in cooking speed and achieving a perfect sear.

This guide details everything I learned during my evaluation. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect 5 qt air fryer for your kitchen.

What is The Top 5 Best 5 qt Air Fryers

After extensive testing where I focused on cooking performance, ease of use, and overall value, I’ve narrowed the field down to the top 5 models. Each one excels in a different area, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every type of home cook.

1. Best Overall: COSORI Air Fryer Pro, Compact 5QT – Offers the best balance of performance, ease of use, and premium features like a ceramic basket.
2. Best for Versatility: Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1 – The 5-in-1 functionality provides the most cooking options, including dehydrate.
3. Best Value: Ninja Air Fryer 4-in-1 – Delivers excellent core air frying performance without the extra cost of more functions.
4. Best for Even Cooking: Chefman TurboX 4-in-1 Air Fryer – Its unique X-shaped airflow technology ensures food is cooked evenly without preheating.
5. Easiest to Use: Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer – Simple one-touch presets make it perfect for beginners who want great results without guesswork.

How I picked and tested

To ensure my recommendations are trustworthy and based on genuine performance, I developed a strict methodology for this roundup. My process began with researching 15 of the most popular and top-rated 5 qt air fryers currently on the market in 2026. I analyzed hundreds of user reviews, compared specification sheets, and identified the key features that matter most to real-world users. From there, I selected these five models for extensive hands-on testing in my own kitchen over several weeks.

Here are the key evaluation criteria I used for my in-depth analysis:

1. Cooking Performance: How evenly and crispy did it cook a variety of foods? I ran multiple tests with classic air fryer fare like frozen french fries, chicken wings, and vegetables. My focus was on models that delivered consistent, crispy results with little to no oil.
2. Ease of Use: I evaluated the entire user experience, from unboxing to cooking a meal. I looked for intuitive controls, a clear digital display, helpful presets, and useful features like a shake reminder.
3. Ease of Cleaning: This is a huge factor for everyday use. I assessed how simple it was to clean the basket and crisper plate after cooking sticky or greasy foods. I prioritized models with effective nonstick surfaces and dishwasher-safe parts.
4. Functions & Versatility: I compared the available cooking functions beyond just air frying, such as Bake, Roast, and Dehydrate. This helped me determine which models offered the most value and could potentially replace other kitchen gadgets.
5. Design & Footprint: A 5-quart air fryer needs to fit comfortably on a countertop. I measured each unit and considered its overall size, shape, and aesthetic, looking for compact designs that didn’t sacrifice internal capacity.
6. Build Quality: I examined the materials of each air fryer, from the exterior housing to the basket’s coating. I paid close attention to the difference between traditional nonstick and ceramic coating for durability and long-term performance.

5 5 qt Air Fryer Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of the five best 5 qt air fryers I tested. I’ve broken down what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal experience with each model to help you make an informed decision.

Best Overall: COSORI Air Fryer Pro

The COSORI Air Fryer Pro, Compact 5QT quickly emerged as my top pick, striking the perfect balance between powerful performance, user-friendly design, and premium materials. It’s the ideal choice for any home cook who wants consistently great results, fast cooking times, and the peace of mind that comes with a healthier ceramic coating. For most people, this is the air fryer to buy.

Specification:
* Capacity: 5 Quarts
* Functions: 7 Presets (Chicken, Fries, etc.), Preheat, Keep Warm
* Temperature Range: Up to 450°F
* Basket Coating: Ceramic
* Control Type: Digital Touch Controls
* Special Features: Shake Reminder, 130+ In-App Recipes via VeSync app
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe Basket

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Ceramic Basket: The ceramic coating is a game-changer. It’s noticeably more durable and slicker than traditional nonstick, and it’s a healthier alternative free from PTFE. Food slides right off without any effort.
* ✅ High Heat for Faster Cooking: This was one of the few models I tested that reaches 450°F. This extra heat allows it to cook significantly faster than most competitors, getting meals on the table in minutes and achieving a better sear.
* ✅ Smart App Integration for Recipes: While you can’t control the unit from the app, the access to over 130+ in-app recipes through the free VeSync app is fantastic for cooking inspiration, especially for beginners.
* ✅ Simple, Genuinely Useful Presets: The 7 presets are well-calibrated and make it easy for anyone to start cooking immediately. They remove the guesswork for common items like fries and chicken.
* ✅ Effortless Cleanup: The basket and crisper tray are both dishwasher-safe. After cooking some sticky honey-garlic chicken wings, I was amazed that a quick rinse was almost enough, but popping it in the dishwasher made cleanup a non-issue.
* ✅ Helpful Shake Reminder: The automatic Shake Reminder is a feature often found on more expensive models. It beeps halfway through the cycle to ensure you toss your food for perfectly even crisping.
* ✅ Includes a Real Cookbook: In addition to the app, it comes with a physical 30-recipe cookbook, which is a nice touch and provides immediate ideas without needing to pull out your phone.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No Dehydrate Function: This model focuses on core cooking functions and lacks some of the advanced modes like dehydrating, which is available on the Ninja 5-in-1.
* ❌ App is for Recipes Only: A small disappointment was that the VeSync app is purely for browsing recipes and doesn’t allow for remote control or monitoring of the air fryer itself.
* ❌ Beeps Can Be Loud: The notification beeps for presets, shaking, and completion are quite audible. While helpful, they might be a bit loud for some households. Workaround: You get used to it quickly, and it’s better to have an audible alert than to miss the shake reminder.

Expert’s Experience

Cooking Presets & Controls
During my evaluation, I found the top-mounted digital controls and seven presets to be incredibly straightforward and responsive. For anyone new to air frying, this design removes all intimidation. I tested the “Fries” preset on a batch of frozen shoestrings, and the result was perfectly crispy, evenly cooked potatoes, thanks in large part to the automatic Shake Reminder. The Preheat and Keep Warm functions are also thoughtful additions that I found myself using frequently, especially when multitasking in the kitchen.

Ceramic Basket & Cleaning Performance
The ceramic-coated basket is the standout feature of the COSORI Air Fryer Pro. Throughout my 3 weeks of testing, nothing stuck to it—not even chicken wings slathered in a sugary, sticky sauce or a piece of salmon with skin. This made cleaning by hand almost effortless. I confirmed it comes out perfectly clean and undamaged from the top rack of the dishwasher, which is a massive win for everyday usability and long-term durability.

High-Heat Performance & Speed
The ability to push the temperature to 450°F is a noticeable performance booster that sets this model apart. I cooked a one-inch-thick steak in just 6 minutes for a perfect medium-rare, something that takes much longer in a standard oven. This high heat is crucial for achieving a better sear and crispier texture on the outside of foods while locking in moisture and keeping the inside juicy. It truly cooks faster than most other air fryers.

Best for Versatility: Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1

The Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1 is the ultimate kitchen multi-tasker. If you’re looking for an appliance that goes far beyond basic air frying and can also bake, roast, reheat, and even dehydrate, this is the most versatile 5-quart option I tested. It’s a true workhorse for anyone who loves to experiment with different cooking methods.

Specification:
* Capacity: 5 Quarts
* Functions: 5-in-1 (Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate)
* Temperature Range: Up to 400°F
* Basket Coating: Nonstick
* Control Type: Digital Controls
* Special Features: Air Crisp Technology, Space-Saving Design
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe Basket & Crisper Plate

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ True 5-in-1 Versatility: The ability to not just Air Fry, but also Roast, Bake, and especially Dehydrate makes this a much more useful and valuable appliance than a standard air fryer.
* ✅ Excellent Crisping Power: Ninja’s proprietary Air Crisp Technology is top-notch. It consistently delivered incredibly hot, evenly-crisped results for both fresh and frozen foods.
* ✅ Large Capacity in a Small Footprint: Despite fitting up to 4 lbs of fries, it has a modern, vertical design that saves a surprising amount of valuable counter space compared to bulkier models.
* ✅ Cooks from Frozen Perfectly: I found the “frozen to crispy” claim to be completely accurate. It’s fantastic for quickly cooking things like frozen chicken nuggets, fish sticks, or appetizers without the need to thaw first.
* ✅ Simple, Clear Digital Controls: The button layout is clean and easy to understand, allowing for quick manual adjustments of time and temperature for any function.
* ✅ Solid Build Quality: The unit feels robust and well-made, with a sturdy basket and a sleek grey finish that looks great in a modern kitchen.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Traditional Nonstick Coating: The basket uses a standard PTFE nonstick coating. While effective, it’s not as durable or slick as the ceramic found on the COSORI model.
* ❌ Lacks Specific Food Presets: This model relies on manual settings for function, time, and temperature rather than one-touch presets for fries, chicken, etc. This offers more control but is less friendly for absolute beginners.
* ❌ Lower Max Temperature: It tops out at 400°F, which is standard for most air fryers but slightly lower than the COSORI’s 450°F. This can mean slightly longer cooking times for certain foods.

Expert’s Experience

Cooking Versatility (5-in-1)
The primary reason to choose the Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1 is its incredible versatility. I put the Dehydrate function to the test by making a batch of beef jerky, and it worked surprisingly well for a countertop appliance, producing chewy and flavorful results over several hours. The Roast function was also highly effective for getting a beautiful caramelization on small batches of vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. It truly feels like a multi-purpose cooker, not just a fryer.

Air Crisp Technology & Performance
Ninja’s technology absolutely lives up to the hype. I air-fried a batch of fresh-cut chicken wings and they came out with unbelievably crackly, crispy skin, using just a tiny spritz of oil. The airflow seems extremely efficient; I found that I didn’t need to shake the basket as frequently as with some other models to achieve an even cook. It circulates hot air powerfully and consistently.

Design & Countertop Footprint
I was very impressed with the physical design of this unit. For a 5-quart capacity, it feels remarkably compact. The gray finish and vertical, slightly rectangular orientation make it look sleek and modern on the counter. Most importantly, it takes up less horizontal space than many of the classic “egg-shaped” air fryers, which is a major benefit for smaller kitchens.

Best Value: Ninja Air Fryer 4-in-1

The Ninja Air Fryer 4-in-1 is the perfect choice for anyone who wants the raw power and proven reliability of the Ninja brand but doesn’t need the niche Dehydrate function. This model is a no-frills performance machine that focuses on doing the basics exceptionally well, delivering outstanding value and making it the best budget 5 qt air fryer I tested.

Specification:
* Capacity: 5 Quarts
* Functions: 4-in-1 (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate)
* Temperature Range: Up to 400°F
* Basket Coating: Nonstick
* Control Type: Digital Controls
* Special Features: Air Crisp Technology
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe Basket & Crisper Plate

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Fantastic Performance for the Price: You get the exact same excellent Air Crisp Technology and powerful cooking performance as the more expensive 5-in-1 Ninja model. The results are just as crispy.
* ✅ Essential Functions Covered: It still includes the most-used functions: Air Fry, Roast, and Reheat, which covers about 95% of what most users will ever need an air fryer for.
* ✅ Simple and Effective: The controls are straightforward and easy to master within minutes. It’s a machine that focuses on doing the basics of air frying exceptionally well without unnecessary complexity.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: Just like its more expensive sibling, the nonstick basket and crisper plate are both dishwasher safe, making post-meal cleanup incredibly simple and fast.
* ✅ Great for Guilt-Free Fried Foods: It lives up to the promise of using up to 75% less fat. My test batches of fries were crispy and satisfying without being greasy.
* ✅ Identical Compact Design: It shares the same space-saving vertical design as the 5-in-1 model, preserving counter space while offering a generous 5-quart capacity.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No Dehydrate Function: This is the primary feature you sacrifice by choosing this model over the 5-in-1 version. If making jerky or dried fruit is important to you, this isn’t the one.
* ❌ Very Basic Feature Set: It lacks any smart features, food-specific presets, or a shake reminder. It’s a purely manual machine, which some users might miss.
* ❌ Standard Nonstick Basket: It uses the same traditional nonstick as the other Ninja, which isn’t as premium as a ceramic option.

Expert’s Experience

Core Functionality & Performance
In my direct side-by-side tests, the Ninja Air Fryer 4-in-1 cooked frozen french fries and chicken tenders just as well as the more expensive AF142 model. The results were identically crispy, hot, and delicious. If your main goal is simply to air fry food to perfection, this model delivers that core performance for less money. It’s an absolute workhorse.

Value Proposition
This model’s greatest strength is its incredible value. It smartly strips away the less-common “Dehydrate” function but retains the powerful motor and efficient heating system that makes Ninja air fryers so popular and effective. For the vast majority of people who just want a great machine for making crispy results, this is the smarter and more economical purchase.

Ease of Use & Cleaning
It’s incredibly simple to operate with just a few clearly labeled buttons to control the function, time, and temperature. I found it very intuitive and was cooking within a minute of plugging it in. The cleaning process is also identical to the other Ninja model—a quick rinse with soapy water or a cycle in the top rack of the dishwasher is all it takes to get the basket and plate perfectly clean.

Best for Even Cooking: Chefman TurboX 4-in-1 Air Fryer

The Chefman TurboX 4-in-1 Air Fryer stands out from the competition with its innovative airflow design. This air fryer is my top recommendation for those who prioritize perfectly even, crispy results without the constant need to shake the basket or wait around for the unit to preheat. It’s a time-saver that delivers on its promise of uniform cooking.

Specification:
* Capacity: 5 Quarts
* Functions: 4-in-1 (Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Frozen)
* Temperature Range: Up to 400°F
* Basket Coating: PFAS-free Nonstick
* Control Type: Top-Facing Digital Touch Controls
* Special Features: X-Shaped Airflow, Shake Alerts, Frozen Function
* Cleaning: Top-Rack Dishwasher Safe Basket & Rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Even Cooking: The X-shaped airflow technology isn’t just a gimmick; it really works. I found it cooked food more evenly with far fewer pale, undercooked spots compared to standard basket designs.
* ✅ No Preheat Needed: This is a huge time-saver for weeknight meals. You can put your food in, set the time and temp, and start cooking immediately, which is great for anyone with a busy schedule.
* ✅ Helpful Shake Reminder: The automatic alert to shake the food halfway through the cooking cycle is a premium feature that I was happy to see on this model. It ensures maximum crispiness.
* ✅ Sleek Top-Facing Controls: The digital panel is located on the flat top surface, making it incredibly easy to see and use without bending over or squinting at an angled screen.
* ✅ Health-Conscious Basket: The basket features a PFAS-free nonstick coating, offering peace of mind for users concerned about chemicals in their cookware.
* ✅ Dedicated Frozen Function: The special function to defrost and then immediately crisp frozen food works well for items like frozen mozzarella sticks or dumplings.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Build Feels Less Premium: The black plastic housing feels a bit lighter and less substantial than the materials used on the Ninja or COSORI models.
* ❌ “Frozen” Function is a Bit Niche: While the dedicated “Frozen” function is interesting, its results weren’t dramatically different from simply adding a few extra minutes to the regular air fry cycle.
* ❌ The Rack Can Be Awkward: The removable rack, while useful for two-layer cooking, can be a little fussy to place and clean compared to an integrated crisper plate.

Expert’s Experience

TurboX Airflow & Cooking Speed
I was initially skeptical of the “TurboX” marketing, but the unique X-shaped airflow design is genuinely effective. I cooked a full basket of tater tots, a food notorious for uneven cooking, and they came out uniformly golden and crisp, even the ones that started in the middle of the pile. The fact that the Chefman TurboX achieves this without a preheat cycle makes it one of the fastest air fryers from the moment you decide to cook to the moment food is on your plate.

Digital Controls & Usability
The top-facing controls are a brilliant design choice. They are highly responsive, easy to read, and simple to program. I especially appreciated the shake alert, which beeps clearly to remind you to toss the food for maximum crispiness. It’s a simple feature that makes a surprisingly big difference in the final quality of the food.

Cleaning and Safety
The PFAS-free nonstick basket is an excellent feature for health-conscious users, and I found that cleanup was still very straightforward. Both the basket and the cooking rack are top-rack dishwasher safe, which is a convenient bonus for quick cleanup. Nothing stuck stubbornly during my tests.

Easiest to Use: Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer

The Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer is my top recommendation for the true beginner, the technologically timid, or anyone who values simplicity above all else. Its four simple one-touch presets and sleek stainless steel design make it an incredibly user-friendly and stylish addition to any kitchen. If you want great results without any guesswork, this is the model for you.

Specification:
* Capacity: 5 Quarts
* Functions: 4 One-Touch Presets (French Fries, Chicken, Meat, Fish)
* Temperature Range: 200-400°F
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Control Type: Digital Touch with Presets
* Special Features: LED Shake Reminder with Alarm, Automatic Shutoff
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe Removable Basket & Tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Dead-Simple Operation: The four clearly labeled presets for fries, chicken, fish, and meat make cooking completely foolproof. You just press a single button and walk away.
* ✅ Excellent Built-in Safety Features: The automatic shutoff engages the moment the basket is opened and pauses the cooking cycle, providing excellent peace of mind. It also shuts off completely when the timer ends.
* ✅ Clear and Effective Shake Reminder: The built-in LED shake reminder and accompanying alarm are very effective at ensuring you remember to toss your food for evenly crisped results.
* ✅ Attractive Stainless Steel Finish: It looks much more premium than its budget-friendly price tag suggests and does a good job of resisting fingerprints and smudges.
* ✅ Quick, Reliable Cooking: For basic air frying tasks, it performs reliably, crisping up foods quickly and efficiently.
* ✅ Compact and Chic: The square shape and stainless finish give it a modern look that fits well on the countertop without being an eyesore.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Limited Versatility: With only four specific food presets and manual control, it lacks the broader Bake, Roast, or Dehydrate functions found on other models.
* ❌ Less Control for Advanced Users: If you enjoy fine-tuning temperatures and times for specific recipes from the internet, this model’s limited controls will feel restrictive.
* ❌ Presets are Not Adjustable: You cannot change the time or temperature of the four main presets, which limits flexibility if your portion size is different from the standard.

Expert’s Experience

One-Touch Presets & Ease of Use
This is where the Chefman TurboFry Touch truly shines. I tested the “Chicken” preset with four chicken drumsticks, and the result was perfectly cooked, crispy-skinned chicken without any need for me to set a time or temperature myself. For someone who feels intimidated by new kitchen gadgets, this is the perfect, gentle entry point into the world of air frying.

Build Quality & Safety Features
The stainless steel exterior gives the unit a surprisingly sturdy and premium feel, and it looks fantastic on the countertop. I really appreciated the auto-shutoff safety feature during my testing; when I pulled the basket out mid-cycle to check on the food, the unit paused immediately and then resumed right where it left off when I pushed it back in. This is a great feature, especially for households with kids.

Performance for Basic Air Frying
For its intended purpose—cooking popular fried foods with maximum ease—it performs very well. While it may not offer the multifunction versatility of a Ninja or the intense high heat of the COSORI, it reliably cooks crispy fries and juicy chicken, which is exactly what most people are buying an air fryer for in the first place.

5 qt Air Fryer Comparison Chart

Seeing the key specifications side-by-side can make the decision much clearer. Here’s how the five best 5 qt air fryers stack up against each other.

Feature	COSORI Air Fryer Pro	Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1	Ninja Air Fryer 4-in-1	Chefman TurboX	Chefman TurboFry Touch
Category	Best Overall	Best for Versatility	Best Value	Best for Even Cooking	Easiest to Use
Functions	7 Presets, Preheat, Keep Warm	5 (Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate)	4 (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate)	4 (Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Frozen)	4 Presets (Fries, Chicken, Meat, Fish)
Max Temp	450°F	400°F	400°F	400°F	400°F
Basket Coating	Ceramic	Nonstick	Nonstick	PFAS-Free Nonstick	Nonstick
Special Feature	App Recipes	Dehydrate Function	Core Ninja Power	X-Shaped Airflow	4 One-Touch Presets
Best For	Health-conscious users wanting speed & features	Users who want a true multi-cooker	Budget-conscious users wanting performance	Users who hate uneven cooking	Beginners or those wanting simplicity
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:
After testing all five models, it’s clear the COSORI Air Fryer Pro stands out for its premium ceramic basket and higher 450°F cooking temperature. These two features combined make it the fastest, healthiest, and best all-around choice for most people.

However, if versatility is your number one priority, the Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1 is an unbeatable multi-tasker. Its valuable Dehydrate function makes it much more than just an air fryer. For those looking for that same Ninja performance on a tighter budget, the Ninja Air Fryer 4-in-1 offers nearly identical core air frying power for a lower price, making it the clear best value pick.

The two Chefman models are excellent for specific needs. The Chefman TurboX is genuinely better at even cooking thanks to its unique airflow design and is a great time-saver. Meanwhile, the Chefman TurboFry Touch is the simplest, most beginner-friendly model I tested, perfect for users who want zero guesswork.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right 5 qt Air Fryer

Choosing the right 5-quart air fryer comes down to matching the features to your specific cooking habits, family size, and kitchen needs. A 5-quart capacity is the perfect sweet spot for singles, couples, and small families of up to 4 people, making it the most popular size on the market. Here are the key factors I recommend considering before you buy:

• Cooking Functions & Presets: Do you just want to air fry, or do you want a device that can also bake, roast, and dehydrate? A versatile multi-function model like the Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1 can replace several other appliances. If you value simplicity and hate setting timers, a model with one-touch presets like the Chefman TurboFry Touch is perfect for beginners.
• Basket Coating (Ceramic vs. Nonstick): This is a key differentiator in 2026 models. Standard nonstick (PTFE) baskets are common and effective, but can wear out or get scratched over time. A ceramic coating, like the one on the COSORI Air Fryer Pro, is generally considered more durable, longer-lasting, and is preferred by health-conscious users looking to avoid certain chemicals.
• Ease of Cleaning: This is non-negotiable for an appliance you’ll use daily. Always look for models with a dishwasher-safe basket and crisper tray. This single feature will save you a significant amount of time and hassle. All five models I’ve recommended have this crucial feature.
• Controls (Digital vs. Presets): Digital controls offer precise adjustments for time and temperature, which is great for experienced cooks who like to follow specific recipes or experiment on their own. Preset-driven models are better for those who want a “set it and forget it” experience without any fuss.
• Countertop Footprint: While all of these are 5-quart models, their shapes and sizes vary. Taller, more vertical designs like the Ninja models tend to save more horizontal counter space than wider, “egg-shaped” models. Always measure your available space before buying.
• Special Features: Consider if you’ll actually use bonus features. A Shake Reminder is very helpful for ensuring food cooks evenly. App integration can provide recipe inspiration but may not be necessary for everyone. Unique airflow systems like on the Chefman TurboX can genuinely improve cooking performance.
• Temperature Range: A higher maximum temperature (like the 450°F on the COSORI) can lead to faster cooking times and a better sear on meats. For most standard air frying tasks like making fries or wings, 400°F is perfectly sufficient.

FAQs About Best 5 qt Air Fryers

Is a 5 qt air fryer big enough for a family of 4?

Yes, a 5-quart air fryer is generally considered the ideal size for a family of 3 to 4 people. It can typically cook about four 6-oz chicken breasts, 1-2 lbs of french fries, or a main dish and a side for two people. For larger families or those who frequently host guests, an 8-quart or dual-basket model might be a better choice.

Is ceramic coating better than nonstick in an air fryer?

Many users, including myself, prefer ceramic coating for a few key reasons. It’s generally considered more durable and resistant to scratching from tongs and other utensils. It is also free of chemicals like PFOA and PTFE. In my experience, food releases incredibly easily from a quality ceramic surface, making it extremely easy to clean.

What can you cook in a 5 qt air fryer?

You can cook an incredible variety of foods. Beyond the obvious choices like french fries and chicken wings, you can roast vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts to perfection, cook juicy steaks and salmon fillets, bake small cakes and cookies, reheat pizza so it’s crispy (it’s much better than a microwave), and even dehydrate fruits and meats if your model has that function.

Do you need to preheat an air fryer?

It depends on the model and what you’re cooking. Some modern air fryers, like the Chefman TurboX, are specifically designed to cook evenly without preheating. For most other models, preheating for 3-5 minutes can help you get a crispier result and ensure more even cooking, especially for items that cook quickly like steaks or for baked goods.

How do you clean an air fryer basket?

For best results and longevity, clean the basket after every use once it has cooled down. All the models I recommend have dishwasher-safe parts, which is the easiest method. If washing by hand, use warm, soapy water and a soft, non-abrasive sponge to protect the nonstick or ceramic coating from scratches.

What is the easiest air fryer to clean?

In my testing, models with a high-quality basket coating are the easiest to clean. The COSORI Air Fryer Pro with its slick ceramic basket was exceptionally easy, as almost nothing stuck to it. That said, any model with dishwasher-safe parts is a great choice for easy cleanup.

Is it cheaper to use an air fryer than an oven?

Yes, in most cases, it is significantly cheaper and more energy-efficient. Air fryers are much smaller and preheat much faster (or not at all), so they consume far less electricity per meal compared to heating a large conventional oven. This makes them a smarter choice for cooking smaller portions.

Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?

Yes, you can, but you must do it carefully. Place the foil inside the basket and make sure it is weighed down by food so it cannot fly up into the heating element. It’s also critical that you do not cover the entire bottom of the basket, as this will block airflow and lead to uneven cooking.

Which is better, Ninja or Cosori?

Both brands make excellent products, but they cater to slightly different priorities. Ninja often focuses on powerful, versatile multi-cookers with fantastic crisping technology. Cosori tends to excel in user-friendly design, helpful smart features like app integration, and the use of premium materials like ceramic coatings. In this specific 5-quart roundup, I rated the COSORI Air Fryer Pro slightly higher overall due to its high heat and superior basket.

How much food fits in a 5 quart air fryer?

A 5-quart air fryer can typically fit up to 4 lbs of french fries or chicken wings. This is also enough space for four to five 6-oz chicken breasts, or about a 5 lb whole chicken (depending on its shape). It’s a very versatile size that is perfect for cooking a main course for a small family.

Final Verdict

After weeks of extensive research, hands-on testing, and analysis, I can confidently say that the 5-quart size is the perfect all-rounder air fryer for most households. The best specific model for you ultimately depends on whether you prioritize all-out versatility, beginner-friendly simplicity, or the absolute best performance and materials.

Perfect for you if…
* You want the fastest cooking times and best searing capability.
* You prefer a durable, easy-to-clean ceramic basket over traditional nonstick.
* You appreciate a mix of helpful presets and precise manual controls.
* You want a reliable shake reminder to guarantee even results.
* You’re looking for the best possible performance and features for the price.

Not ideal for…
* You absolutely need a dehydrate function.
* You’re on the strictest budget.

My final recommendation is clear:

• Best Overall: For the best combination of performance, ease of use, and premium materials, my top recommendation is the COSORI Air Fryer Pro. Its high 450°F heat, intuitive presets, and durable ceramic basket make it the undisputed winner for most people in 2026.

• Best Alternative for Versatility: If you want a single appliance that does much more than just air fry, the Ninja Air Fryer 5-in-1 is the best choice. Its reliable performance and added Bake, Roast, and Dehydrate functions offer unmatched versatility and value in this size category.

You can’t go wrong with any of the air fryers on this list, but I am confident that the COSORI Pro offers the best experience for the widest range of people. Whichever you choose, you’re on your way to faster, crispier, and healthier meals.

Last update on 2026-02-09 at 21:33 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API