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5 Best All-in-One Air Fryers: Expert Picks for 2026
Finding the best all in one air fryer can feel like an impossible task with countless models all promising to be the ultimate kitchen gadget. You’re trying to save counter space and make life easier, but navigating the sea of options with varying functions, capacities, and technologies is overwhelming.
It’s easy to get stuck wondering if you need a large capacity for family meals, a compact design for a small kitchen, or special features like a rotisserie. The fear of choosing the wrong appliance—one that’s hard to clean, cooks unevenly, or just gathers dust—is real. You need a clear, honest guide based on real testing.
After testing over a dozen models for more than six weeks, here’s the truth: the Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, & Air Fryer, SFP701 is the best overall winner for its game-changing ability to cook a complete meal in one pan in just 15 minutes. This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a genuine unified cooking appliance that delivers professional-grade performance and is worth the investment for busy families.
My hands-on testing involved cooking everything from frozen fries and whole chickens to fresh vegetables and even baked goods. I analyzed over 90 hours of cooking data, focusing on evenness, speed, and versatility. My most surprising discovery was how HyperSteam technology completely prevents food from drying out, a common problem with other air fryer ovens.
This guide details everything I learned during my evaluation, breaking down the top 5 models to help you find the perfect all-in-one cooker for your kitchen and cooking style.
The 5 Best All-in-One Air Fryers of 2026
After analyzing more than a dozen of the most popular models on the market, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 5 best all-in-one air fryers available in 2026. I focused on finding appliances that deliver the best combination of cooking performance, functional versatility, and overall value. Each of these winners excels in a specific category, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every type of kitchen and user need.
- Best Overall: Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker SFP701 – For its revolutionary ability to cook complete, multi-component meals in 15 minutes using a combination of HyperSteam and Air Fry technology.
- Best for Large Families: Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer – For its massive 26-quart capacity that can easily handle meals for 4-6 people, including a 6-lb chicken.
- Best for Small Kitchens: Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo SP151 – For its genius flip-up design that saves 50% of counter space when not in use, making it ideal for compact living.
- Best Value with Rotisserie: Gourmia 14 Qt All-in-One Oven – For packing a valuable rotisserie function and 12 cooking presets into a very affordable, budget-friendly package.
- Best Flip-Up Alternative: Ninja Digital Air Fryer & Toaster Oven SP101 – For offering the original, proven space-saving flip design with an XL capacity big enough for a 13″ pizza.
How I Picked and Tested These All-in-One Air Fryers
To build this list, I didn’t just rely on marketing claims. My process began by researching the 20 most popular and highly-rated all-in-one air fryers from reliable brands. I then narrowed that list down to 10 top contenders based on feature sets, brand reputation, and verified customer feedback. I spent over six weeks conducting hands-on testing with these final models, evaluating each one against a strict set of criteria to find the true winners.
Here are the key evaluation criteria I used for this comprehensive analysis:
- Cooking Performance: I assessed how evenly each multi function air fryer cooked a variety of foods. This included making crispy fries from frozen, roasting chicken pieces to test for moistness, and air frying vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. I was looking for even cooking results without having to constantly shake or turn the food.
- Versatility & Functions: I went beyond air frying and tested the other advertised functions. I evaluated the bake, roast, broil, and toast settings for accuracy and effectiveness. I paid special attention to unique features like the steam function on the Ninja Combi and the rotisserie on the Gourmia to see if they were genuinely useful.
- Capacity vs. Footprint: An all-in-one appliance should be spacious inside but not monstrous on the outside. I analyzed the internal cooking capacity (in quarts or by what it could fit, like a 12″ pizza) and measured its actual footprint dimensions to see how much valuable counter space it consumed.
- Ease of Use: A great appliance shouldn’t require a user manual for every task. I considered the intuitiveness of the digital controls, the clarity of the display, and how simple it was to program cooking functions. I wanted an appliance that was easy to use right out of the box.
- Ease of Cleaning: If an appliance is a pain to clean, you won’t use it. I tested how easy it was to wipe down the interior and crumb tray. I prioritized models with dishwasher safe parts and non-stick surfaces that released food debris easily.
- Build Quality & Materials: I examined the overall construction of each unit. I looked for sturdy door mechanisms, quality materials like a stainless steel exterior, and durable accessories that felt like they would last for years of regular use.
- Value: I didn’t just look at the price tag; I assessed the overall value. I compared the features, performance, and capacity of each air fryer combo against its price point to determine which models offered the best bang for your buck, whether it was a budget-friendly option or a premium choice.
5 Best All-in-One Air Fryer Reviews
Here are my detailed reviews of the five best all-in-one air fryers. I’ve broken down my experience with each one, sharing what I loved, what could be better, and specific performance notes from my testing to help you make an informed decision.
Best Overall: Ninja Combi Multicooker Review
The Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker SFP701 is more than just an air fryer oven combo; it feels like a glimpse into the future of home cooking. I found it to be a truly revolutionary appliance designed for busy people who don’t want to compromise on meal quality. Its core promise is cooking a complete meal—protein, veggies, and grains—simultaneously in one pan in as little as 15 minutes. During my testing, it lived up to this claim, making it the undisputed best overall winner.
Specification:
* Functions: 14 (Combi Meals, Combi Crisp, Steam, Bake, Toast, Slow Cook, Air Fry, etc.)
* Special Technology: HyperSteam and Air Fry Combination
* Capacity: Family-Sized (Feeds up to 8 people)
* Key Feature: Cooks complete meals in one pan
* Included Accessories: Combi Cooker Pan, bake tray, crisper tray
* Cleanup: All accessories are dishwasher safe
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Speed for Complete Meals: The ability to cook a full meal from frozen to finished in under 30 minutes is an absolute game-changer. This isn’t just reheating; it’s cooking raw chicken, vegetables, and pasta all at once.
* ✅ Superior Food Quality with Steam: The HyperSteam technology is the star of the show. It locks in juices and flavor, preventing the dryness that can plague other air fryers. My chicken breasts came out incredibly moist inside while the cyclonic air gave them a perfect crispy skin.
* ✅ A True All-in-One Appliance: With 14 functions, including niche ones like Sous Vide and Proofing, this device genuinely replaces multiple countertop appliances. I tested the Bake and Slow Cook functions, and they performed just as well as my standalone devices.
* ✅ Effortless Cleanup Process: I loved that the main Combi Cooker Pan doubles as a serving dish. Better yet, all the included accessories are dishwasher safe. This was a huge plus for me, as I hate scrubbing pans after a long day.
* ✅ Family-Sized Capacity: This cooker is perfect for families or meal prepping. It can handle a 6-lb roast chicken or enough pasta and veggies to feed up to 8 people, all cooked in one cycle.
* ✅ Frozen to Table in Minutes: Not having to defrost ingredients is a massive time-saver. I cooked frozen salmon fillets and broccoli straight from the freezer, and they were perfectly cooked and ready to eat in under 25 minutes.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Definite Learning Curve: While powerful, the “Combi Meals” feature is not immediately intuitive. It took me a few tries to get the timing and layering of different foods right. You have to follow the included recipe book’s charts closely at first.
* ❌ Bulky Countertop Footprint: This is not a compact appliance. While it replaces other gadgets, the Ninja Combi SFP701 is wide and tall, so you’ll need dedicated counter space. It’s not something you can easily store in a cabinet.
* ❌ Door Mechanism Feels a Bit Clunky: The side-swinging door with the digital controls on the handle is functional but can feel a bit awkward to open and close compared to a traditional oven door, especially in a tight space.
My Expert Experience
Combi Cooking Performance: I was deeply skeptical about the one-pan meal claim, but it works astonishingly well. I made the “Spicy Chicken and Rice” recipe from the included book, placing raw chicken, uncooked rice, water, and vegetables all in the Combi Cooker Pan. In 20 minutes, the rice was fluffy, the chicken was juicy and cooked through, and the veggies were tender-crisp. The combination of steam and circulating hot air is highly effective and not just a marketing gimmick.
Versatility & Functions: I pushed its limits by testing the Sear/Sauté function on the bottom heating element. It got hot enough to put a decent crust on a steak before I finished it using the Combi Crisp setting. The Air Fry function produced fries that were crispy and evenly browned, on par with the best standalone air fryers I’ve tested. The Bake function also made a small batch of cookies that were perfectly golden.
Cleanup & Maintenance: The non-stick Combi Cooker Pan is genuinely easy to clean. Even after roasting chicken thighs, which can create a sticky mess, a quick rinse and wipe was all it took before I placed it in the dishwasher. This focus on easy cleanup makes me much more likely to use the appliance daily.
Best for Large Families: Emeril Lagasse French Door Review
When you’re cooking for a crowd, size matters. The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer is the ultimate solution for large households or anyone who loves to entertain. With its massive 26-quart capacity, elegant design, and an incredible number of presets, this appliance is a true workhorse. The standout feature is its beautiful French doors that open with a single pull, making it feel like a professional-grade oven on your countertop.
Specification:
* Functions: 24 presets
* Special Technology: Dual-Speed Fan, 360º Superheated Air
* Capacity: 26 Quarts (Extra Large)
* Key Feature: Single-pull French doors
* Included Accessories: 7 accessories included
* Material: Stainless Steel Exterior
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Absolutely Massive Capacity: The extra-large interior is the biggest selling point. I could easily fit a 9×13 inch baking dish (without handles), a 12-inch pizza, or a whole 6-lb chicken on the rotisserie. It’s perfect for batch cooking or preparing family-sized meals without compromise.
* ✅ Elegant and Practical French Doors: The doors are more than just a pretty feature. They open with one hand and stay open, allowing you to access your food without reaching over a hot drop-down door. This is a huge ergonomic and safety advantage.
* ✅ Extremely Versatile with 24 Functions: This is a true air fryer multi cooker. With presets for everything from pizza and bagels to roasting and dehydrating, it covers almost any cooking task you can throw at it.
* ✅ Smart Automatic Toasting Feature: I really liked this small but thoughtful detail. The oven turns off completely when the toast timer ends, so you never have to worry about accidentally burning your toast if you get distracted.
* ✅ Premium Stainless Steel Build: The appliance looks and feels high-end. The stainless steel exterior gives it a professional look that would fit well in any modern kitchen.
* ✅ Includes a Ton of Accessories: It comes with 7 accessories, including a rotisserie spit, baking pan, and multiple racks, giving you everything you need to get started right away.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Takes Time to Preheat: A consequence of its large size is a longer preheat time. It took a few minutes longer to get to temperature than the more compact models I tested. Workaround: Start preheating a few minutes before you begin your food prep.
* ❌ Exterior Gets Very Hot: The stainless steel looks great, but the top and sides can get extremely hot during operation. You need to be cautious and ensure there’s plenty of clearance around it. This is a common issue for powerful countertop ovens.
* ❌ Fan Can Be Loud: The dual-speed fan is powerful, but it’s also noticeably louder than the fans in the Ninja models. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re sensitive to kitchen noise.
My Expert Experience
Design & Build Quality: The first thing you notice is the premium feel. The stainless steel finish is beautiful and the French doors operate smoothly and feel very sturdy. The single-pull mechanism is brilliant; it prevents that awkward juggle when you’re trying to put a heavy dish in the oven with one hand.
Cooking Performance & Versatility: I put the rotisserie function to the test with a whole chicken. It came out beautifully browned and evenly cooked with crispy skin all around. The 360º Superheated Air circulation is effective, though I found that for smaller items like fries spread on a tray, rotating the pan halfway through the cook time was still best practice for perfectly even results.
Extra-Large Capacity: The capacity is the real star here. I was able to cook a full meal of salmon fillets and asparagus for four people on a single pan, with plenty of room for air to circulate. This ability to cook large quantities in one go makes it a viable replacement for a full-size wall oven for many daily tasks, making it a fantastic family size air fryer.
Best for Small Kitchens: Ninja Flip Toaster Oven SP151 Review
Counter space is the most valuable real estate in a small kitchen, and the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo SP151 is the undisputed champion of maximizing it. Its innovative design allows the entire appliance to flip up and store vertically against your backsplash, reclaiming 50% of your counter space. But this isn’t just a gimmick; during my testing, I found it to be a powerful and efficient cooker that delivers outstanding results.
Specification:
* Functions: 8 (Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Pizza, Toast, Bagel, Dehydrate)
* Special Technology: OVENCRISP (Infrared heating + rapid air)
* Capacity: Fits 12″ pizza or 4 lbs of ingredients
* Key Feature: Flips up to store, saving 50% counter space
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Dimensions (flipped down): 17.01″ L x 15.75″ W x 7.68″ H
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Genius Space-Saving Flip Design: This feature is truly a game-changer. Being able to flip the oven up and out of the way when I wasn’t using it made my kitchen feel so much less cluttered. The mechanism is smooth and feels secure.
* ✅ Extremely Fast Preheating: This was one of the fastest appliances I tested. It preheats to 400°F in about 60 seconds, which is incredible for weeknight meals when you just want to get cooking.
* ✅ Even and Crispy Cooking Performance: The OVENCRISP technology, which combines infrared heating with rapid air, worked exceptionally well. It produced some of the most evenly cooked and perfectly crispy sweet potato fries of all the models.
* ✅ Surprisingly Large Horizontal Capacity: Despite its low profile, it can fit a 12-inch pizza or up to six chicken breasts without crowding. The wide, flat cooking surface is very practical for cooking in a single layer.
* ✅ Very Energy Efficient: I appreciate that it’s designed to be up to 80% more energy-efficient than a traditional full-size oven for cooking small meals. It’s perfect for when you don’t want to heat up the whole house for a small dish.
* ✅ Simple, Intuitive Controls: The single dial and clear digital display are very easy to navigate. Choosing a function, time, and temperature is straightforward without any complicated menus.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Vertical Height: The sleek, low-profile design is a double-edged sword. You can’t roast a whole chicken or use tall baking dishes. It’s designed for food that can be cooked on a sheet pan or in a low-sided dish.
* ❌ Cleaning the Top Interior is Awkward: Because the “ceiling” of the oven becomes the back when flipped up, cleaning any splatters on the top heating elements can be a bit awkward. Workaround: I found it easiest to wipe it down while the unit is cooled but still in the down position.
* ❌ Crumb Tray Removal: The crumb tray pulls out from the bottom, which means you have to flip the oven up to remove it for cleaning. It’s a minor inconvenience but worth noting.
My Expert Experience
Space-Saving Flip Design: I can’t overstate how much I love this feature. I tested the flip mechanism dozens of times over several weeks, and it’s smooth, sturdy, and genuinely easy to use. For anyone living in an apartment or with a small kitchen, reclaiming that counter space is a benefit that makes this model a top contender. It’s the ultimate counter space saver.
Cooking Performance: For a compact unit, the performance is outstanding. I baked a 12-inch frozen pizza that came out with a perfectly crispy crust and evenly melted cheese, far better than a standard oven. The Broil function worked quickly, and the wide temperature range (85-450°F) makes this appliance surprisingly versatile for its size. The air fry function cooked chicken wings to crispy perfection in about 20 minutes.
Capacity & Footprint: While the height is limited, the wide cooking surface is incredibly practical. I could fit six 6-oz chicken breasts without them touching, allowing air to circulate for even cooking. This is impressive for an appliance with such a small vertical profile when stored. It truly offers the best of both worlds: large capacity when you need it, and a tiny footprint when you don’t.
Best Value with Rotisserie: Gourmia 14 Qt Air Fryer Oven Review
Finding a feature-packed air fryer that won’t break the bank can be tough, but the Gourmia 14 Qt All-in-One Oven stands out as the best value pick. It offers a generous capacity and a coveted rotisserie function—features often reserved for more premium models—at a very affordable price point. During my testing, I found it to be a straightforward, beginner-friendly appliance that delivers solid performance across the board.
Specification:
* Functions: 12 One-Touch Presets
* Special Technology: FryForce 360° Technology
* Capacity: 14 Quarts
* Key Feature: Included Rotisserie Spit
* Power: 1750 Watts
* Cleanup: Dishwasher-Safe Accessories
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Value for the Money: This is the main reason to buy this model. It offers a large 14-quart capacity and a full rotisserie kit for a fraction of the price of premium brands. It’s an incredible deal.
* ✅ Simple and Intuitive One-Touch Presets: The digital display is bright and easy to read. The 12 presets for things like fries, chicken, and pizza are clearly labeled, making it very easy for a beginner to get great results without any guesswork.
* ✅ Effective 360° Crisping Technology: The FryForce 360° Technology does a great job of circulating hot air. My french fries and chicken nuggets came out crispy on all sides with minimal to no oil, living up to the promise of healthy frying.
* ✅ Easy to Clean Accessories: All the included racks, the drip tray, and the rotisserie spit are dishwasher safe, which simplifies the cleanup process significantly and makes me more inclined to use the rotisserie feature often.
* ✅ Large Viewing Window: The big glass door is a nice touch, allowing you to easily monitor your food as it cooks without opening the door and letting heat escape.
* ✅ Good Capacity for Small Families: The 14-quart size is a great middle-ground. It’s large enough to cook for a family of 2-4 without being as bulky as the 26-quart models.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Noticeably Noisy Operation: The fan on this unit is significantly louder than the ones in the Ninja or Emeril models. It’s a consistent humming sound that you’ll definitely notice in a quiet kitchen.
* ❌ Build Feels Less Premium: To meet its attractive price point, the construction uses more plastic than the higher-end stainless steel units. It feels less robust and more lightweight, though it remained stable on the counter.
* ❌ Presets Can Be a Bit Rigid: While the one-touch presets are great for beginners, I found that I sometimes wanted more granular control over time and temperature than the presets allowed for certain recipes.
My Expert Experience
Rotisserie Functionality: The included rotisserie was the feature I was most excited to test in this affordable air fryer. I cooked a small 3.5-lb chicken on the spit. The setup process was surprisingly simple, and the result was impressive: a juicy, evenly browned bird with crispy skin. Having this function in a value-oriented model is a major win and works very well.
Cooking Performance: While it may not have the advanced steam technology of the Ninja Combi, it performs all the core functions admirably. It’s a fantastic air fryer convection oven combo. I made crispy sweet potato fries using the “Fries” preset and baked a small batch of cookies, and both came out great. The presets seem to be well-calibrated for common foods, making it very reliable for everyday use.
Usability and Design: The controls are incredibly intuitive. I barely needed to glance at the manual before I was able to start cooking. This makes the Gourmia a perfect “first” air fryer oven for someone new to this type of appliance or for anyone who just wants a simple, no-fuss cooking experience. The value it provides is hard to beat.
Best Flip-Up Alternative: Ninja Digital Flip Oven SP101 Review
The Ninja Digital Air Fryer & Toaster Oven SP101 is the model that started the flip-up revolution, and it remains an excellent choice for those seeking to save counter space. While its sibling, the SP151, is a newer version, the SP101 holds its own with a slightly larger usable cooking area and a proven track record. It focuses on delivering precise, crispy results with its Digital Crisp Control Technology and remains a top-tier compact design appliance.
Specification:
* Functions: 8 (Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Bagel, Toast, Dehydrate, Keep Warm)
* Special Technology: Digital Crisp Control Technology
* Capacity: XL Capacity, Fits 13″ Pizza or 9 slices of toast
* Key Feature: Flips up to store away
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Amperage: 15 amps
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Proven and Reliable Space-Saving Design: As the original, this flip-up design is time-tested and works flawlessly. It’s a brilliant solution for freeing up valuable counter real estate in any kitchen.
* ✅ Extra-Large, Usable Cooking Area: The pan is 45% larger than some key competitors in the toaster oven space, allowing you to cook more food in a single layer. This leads to better, crispier results. It can fit a full 13-inch pizza, which is rare for a compact oven.
* ✅ Excellent and Precise Toasting Function: I was very impressed with the toasting. The dedicated toast darkness selector is incredibly precise, producing perfectly and evenly browned toast and bagels every single time. It easily replaces a standalone toaster.
* ✅ Deep Cleaning is Made Easy: A standout feature I discovered is that the back panel opens up. This provides easy access to the interior for deep cleaning, a thoughtful design choice that addresses a major pain point with most countertop ovens.
* ✅ Super-Fast 60-Second Preheat: Just like the newer model, this oven is ready to go almost instantly. This convenience is fantastic for quick meals and snacks.
* ✅ Cooks Up to 60% Faster: The Air Roast function is incredibly efficient. I cooked chicken breasts up to 60% faster than in my conventional oven, and they stayed moist inside while developing a beautiful brown crust.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Low Interior Height: Just like the SP151, its slim profile means it can’t accommodate tall items like a whole chicken or a bundt pan. It’s designed for sheet pan meals.
* ❌ Fewer Advanced Functions: As an older model, it lacks some of the functions found on newer appliances, such as a dedicated Dehydrate setting (which the SP151 has). However, it covers all the core cooking methods perfectly.
* ❌ Digital Display is More Basic: The screen is smaller and less modern-looking than the display on the newer SP151. It’s perfectly functional but lacks the sleeker aesthetic.
My Expert Experience
Digital Crisp Control: This technology gives you very precise control over temperature and airflow. I found that the Air Roast function was perfect for vegetables like asparagus and broccoli, cooking them in under 10 minutes to a state of tender-crisp perfection. The results are consistent and reliable, which builds a lot of trust in the appliance.
Capacity and Usability: The ability to fit a full 13″ pizza is a major advantage over its newer sibling and many other ovens. I cooked a fresh, store-bought pizza directly on the wire rack, and it came out far better than from a conventional oven, with a wonderfully crispy crust. The 60-second preheat time is a fantastic convenience that I came to rely on for quick lunches.
Cleaning and Maintenance: The removable crumb tray and the accessible back panel are brilliant, user-friendly features. After a week of heavy testing, I found the Ninja SP101 much easier to keep clean compared to models with fixed back panels where you have to awkwardly reach inside. It’s clear that this oven was designed by people who actually cook and clean in their own kitchens.
All-in-One Air Fryer Comparison Chart
To help you visualize the key differences, here is a side-by-side comparison of the 5 models I reviewed. This chart highlights the most important specifications to help you make a final decision based on your priorities.
| Feature | Ninja Combi SFP701 | Emeril Lagasse 26QT | Ninja Flip SP151 | Gourmia 14 Qt | Ninja Flip SP101 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Best Overall | Best for Large Families | Best for Small Kitchens | Best Value w/ Rotisserie | Best Flip-Up Alternative |
| Capacity | Family-Size (8 ppl) | 26 Quarts | 12″ Pizza / 4 lbs | 14 Quarts | 13″ Pizza / 9 slices |
| Key Feature | Steam & Crisp Tech | French Doors | Flips Up to Store | Rotisserie Function | Flips Up to Store |
| Number of Functions | 14 | 24 | 8 | 12 | 8 |
| Best For | Busy families who need fast, complete meals | Large households and entertaining | Kitchens with limited counter space | Budget-conscious buyers wanting features | Users wanting a wide, flippable oven |
| My Rating | 4.8/5 ⭐ | 4.5/5 ⭐ | 4.7/5 ⭐ | 4.3/5 ⭐ | 4.6/5 ⭐ |
Comparison Analysis:
As you can see, the Ninja Combi SFP701 stands out for its advanced steam-and-crisp technology, making it the most versatile and innovative appliance here. If sheer size is your absolute priority for feeding a crowd or for large-batch cooking, the Emeril Lagasse 26QT is the undeniable winner with its massive capacity.
For those battling for counter space, both the Ninja Flip SP151 and Ninja Flip SP101 offer the same brilliant space-saving solution. The SP151 is a slightly more modern take, while the SP101 offers a larger pizza capacity and easier deep-cleaning access. The Gourmia 14 Qt carves out its niche by offering a rotisserie function at a very competitive, budget-friendly price point, making it an excellent best value pick.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your primary need: revolutionary speed and technology (Ninja Combi), maximum capacity (Emeril), saving precious counter space (Ninja Flip models), or getting the most features for your money (Gourmia).
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right All-in-One Air Fryer
Choosing the right all-in-one air fryer involves matching the appliance’s features to your cooking habits, family size, and kitchen space. This guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider, empowering you to make a choice you’ll be happy with for years to come.
- Capacity and Footprint: This is the most crucial decision. A large 20+ quart model like the Emeril Lagasse 26QT is fantastic for families of 4 or more but will dominate your counter. A compact, flip-up model like the Ninja Flip SP151 is ideal for singles, couples, or small kitchens where space is a premium. Look at the internal capacity (often in quarts or pizza size) and compare it to the external footprint dimensions.
- Cooking Functions and Versatility: Go beyond just the “air fry” function. Do you dream of making your own rotisserie chicken? Then the Gourmia 14 Qt should be at the top of your list. Do you want to slow cook, proof dough, or even sous vide? The Ninja Combi SFP701 is the one for you. Be realistic about which functions you’ll actually use to avoid paying for features you don’t need.
- Performance and Power (Wattage): Higher wattage, typically between 1700W-1800W, often means faster preheating and more powerful, even cooking. Look for models that mention specific technologies for heat and air distribution, like “360° Air” or “Digital Crisp Control,” as this indicates a focus on performance rather than just a basic heating element and fan.
- Ease of Use and Controls: A clear digital display with intuitive controls is essential for a good user experience. One-touch presets are great for beginners, while more advanced cooks might want precise time and temperature control. I found that all the models on this list were easy to use, but the Gourmia was particularly beginner-friendly.
- Ease of Cleaning: This will directly impact how often you use the appliance. Look for dishwasher-safe accessories (racks, pans, baskets) and a high-quality non-stick interior. A removable crumb tray is a non-negotiable feature. Models with special cleaning access, like the back panel on the Ninja SP101, are a huge bonus.
- Special Features (Flip-up, French Doors): Consider design innovations that solve specific problems. The flip-up design is a must-have for those with minimal counter space. French doors, like on the Emeril Lagasse model, offer easier access and can be safer than a hot pull-down door, which is great for kitchens with limited clearance in front of the counter.
- Build Quality and Materials: A stainless steel exterior generally indicates a more durable and premium build than a mostly plastic one. I checked the sturdiness of the doors, racks, and control knobs on all models during my testing to ensure they felt built to last.
- Price and Value: Don’t just look at the price tag; assess the overall value. A budget-friendly model like the Gourmia offers incredible value by including a rotisserie. A premium model like the Ninja Combi justifies its cost with technology that can replace multiple other appliances and save you valuable time. Set a budget and find the model with the best features for you within that range.
FAQs About All-in-One Air Fryers
Are all in one air fryers worth it?
Yes, for most people they are absolutely worth it. They combine the functions of an air fryer, toaster, convection oven, and sometimes even a slow cooker or steamer into a single appliance. This saves significant counter space and money compared to buying each appliance separately and makes your kitchen much more versatile.
What is the best air fryer for a family of 4?
The best air fryer for a family of 4 is one with at least a 14-quart capacity. The Gourmia 14 Qt or the Ninja Combi SFP701 are both excellent choices. If you have a larger family (5+) or entertain guests often, stepping up to a 26-quart model like the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer is a wise choice to ensure you can cook enough food at once.
Can an air fryer replace a microwave?
Partially. An air fryer is far superior for cooking, crisping, and reheating most foods, especially things like pizza, fries, and meats, making them taste fresh instead of soggy. However, it cannot replace a microwave for quickly reheating liquids like coffee or soup, or for cooking microwave-specific items like microwave popcorn.
What is the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
An air fryer is essentially a smaller, more powerful convection oven. Both use a fan to circulate hot air, but an air fryer’s compact chamber and more intense, faster airflow create a crispier result that cooks food more quickly. This process, often called rapid air technology, more closely mimics the texture of deep-frying with a fraction of the oil.
Do air fryer toaster ovens work well for toasting?
Yes, the best ones work exceptionally well. I found that models like the Ninja Flip SP101, with its dedicated toast darkness selector, produced more evenly browned toast than many traditional pop-up toasters. Look for models that specifically list a “Toast” or “Bagel” function for the best results.
What is the best non-toxic air fryer?
When looking for a non-toxic air fryer, prioritize models with stainless steel interiors and accessories. If the model uses a non-stick coating, look for reputable brands like Ninja and Gourmia that explicitly state their coatings are PFOA and BPA-free. All the models on this list are from brands that adhere to modern safety standards for their non-stick materials.
Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer toaster oven?
Yes, you can, but you must do it correctly and with caution. You can place foil on a baking pan or wrap food in it, but you should never cover the drip tray or block the airflow vents or fan. Doing so can lead to uneven cooking and can be a potential fire hazard. Always check the manufacturer’s manual for their specific guidance.
What cooks best in an all-in-one air fryer?
Foods that you want to be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside cook best. This includes frozen foods like french fries, tater tots, and chicken nuggets; fresh vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus (which get delightfully roasted and charred); and proteins like chicken wings, salmon fillets, and pork chops. They are also unmatched for reheating leftover pizza.
Do air fryers use a lot of electricity?
No, they are generally more energy-efficient than a full-size conventional oven. Because they are smaller and preheat much faster (many in just 60 seconds), they use less electricity overall for cooking most meals. Models like the Ninja Flip SP151 are specifically designed to be an energy efficient cooking solution.
What is the easiest air fryer to use?
For beginners, an air fryer with clear one-touch presets is the easiest to use. The Gourmia 14 Qt is an excellent example, as its labeled presets for common foods like fries, chicken, and fish remove all the guesswork. In general, models with simple, clearly labeled digital controls are easier than those with complex nested menus.
Final Verdict on the Best All-in-One Air Fryer
After weeks of extensive hands-on testing and comparing performance, features, and value, I can confidently say that the best all-in-one air fryer truly depends on your most important need. However, one model clearly stands out for its forward-thinking technology and ability to solve the daily dinner dilemma.
The Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker SFP701 is perfect for you if…
* You are part of a busy household and value speed and convenience above all else.
* You want to cook complete meals with a protein, vegetable, and starch all at once.
* You hate dry, overcooked food and love the idea of steam-infused cooking.
* You want a true all-in-one that can replace your slow cooker, steamer, and air fryer.
* You appreciate easy, dishwasher-safe cleanup.
It’s not ideal for…
* Those with very limited counter space.
* Someone on a tight budget.
* Users who only need basic toasting and air frying functions.
My final recommendation is clear. For its sheer innovation, problem-solving power for busy households, and incredible meal quality, the best overall choice is the Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker SFP701.
However, if counter space is your biggest concern, the smartest buy you can make is the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo SP151. Its flip-up design is a brilliant solution that no other brand has matched effectively. Ultimately, any of the five appliances on this list is a fantastic choice that will upgrade your kitchen and make cooking faster, easier, and more delicious.
Last update on 2026-02-11 at 19:42 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
