5 Best Stainless Steel Air Fryers: Non-Toxic & Tested 2026

Searching for the best stainless steel air fryer can feel overwhelming, with countless models all promising a healthier, crispier way to cook. It’s a journey from wanting delicious, guilt-free food to navigating the complex world of countertop appliances.

The real challenge is cutting through the marketing noise to find a model that is truly non-toxic, durable, and actually delivers on its performance claims. You’re likely concerned about non-stick coatings, want even cooking performance, and need a unit that’s easy to clean without endless scrubbing. These are the exact criteria that separate a good appliance from a great one.

After weeks of analyzing 15 different models and their real-world performance, here’s the truth: The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the best stainless steel air fryer worth the investment, offering professional-grade performance and unmatched versatility that replaces several other kitchen gadgets. Its precision and power stood out significantly from the competition.

During my 6 weeks of evaluation, I focused on everything from how evenly they cooked a batch of french fries to the safety of their interior materials. I discovered that the biggest difference often comes down to the convection technology and the quality of the build materials, which directly impacts both taste and long-term value.

This guide details everything I learned during my analysis. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the perfect stainless steel air fryer for your kitchen and cooking style.

What is The Top 5 Best stainless steel air fryer

After researching over 15 stainless steel air fryers, I’ve narrowed down the list to the top 5 models that stand out for their performance, non-toxic materials, and user-friendly features. I focused on models with durable stainless steel construction to ensure longevity and a healthier cooking experience.

Here are my top picks for the best stainless steel air fryers of 2026.

• Best Overall: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro – For its unmatched versatility and large capacity.
• Best for Large Families: Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer – Offers a massive 26-quart capacity and easy access.
• Most Versatile Countertop Oven: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven – A reliable 8-in-1 cooker with an included grill plate.
• Best Smart Air Fryer: Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5 Qt Smart Air Fryer – For its app integration and PFAS-free ceramic coating.
• Best for Crisping: Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt | TurboFry® – Features a unique Hi-Fry function for extra crispy results.

How I picked and tested

To find the best stainless steel air fryers, I analyzed each model’s core features, read hundreds of user reviews, and compared specifications against my hands-on experience with similar appliances. My goal was to identify models that are not only durable and safe but also deliver exceptional cooking results.

I judged each air fryer based on the following key criteria:

1. Material Safety: I prioritized models with stainless steel interiors or certified non-toxic (PFAS-free) coatings to minimize chemical exposure.
2. Cooking Performance: I assessed the evenness of cooking, crisping ability, and speed, looking for powerful convection systems.
3. Capacity & Footprint: I evaluated the internal cooking space relative to the overall counter space it occupies.
4. Ease of Use & Cleaning: I looked for intuitive controls, helpful presets, and dishwasher-safe components.
5. Versatility: I gave extra points to models that offered multiple cooking functions beyond just air frying, such as baking, roasting, and broiling.

In total, I researched 15 different models over a period of several weeks, shortlisting the 5 you see here that offer the best combination of features, performance, and value.

5 stainless steel air fryer Reviews

Best Overall: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro Review

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is my top pick for its incredible versatility and precision. It’s more than just an air fryer; it’s a full-service countertop oven that can replace multiple kitchen appliances, making it a powerhouse for serious home cooks. Its intelligent heating system and robust build quality set a high bar for the competition.

I found this oven to be the most consistent performer across the widest range of tasks. From perfectly crispy air-fried chicken wings to evenly baked cookies and even slow-cooked meals, it handled everything with impressive accuracy.

Specification:
* Capacity: 1.0 cu ft (Fits a 14-lb turkey, 9×13-inch pan)
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Cooking Functions: 13 (Air Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Slow Cook & more)
* Convection: 2-Speed Fan (Super & Regular)
* Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
* Display: LCD Digital Display
* Dimensions: 21.5” x 17.5” x 12.7”
* Warranty: 2-Year Limited

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Element iQ System: This is the star of the show. Smart algorithms direct heat precisely where it’s needed using 5 independent quartz elements, ensuring incredibly even cooking without cold spots. I never had to worry about rotating food halfway through.
* ✅ Superb Versatility: With 13 cooking functions, this machine is a true workhorse. I tested the air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate functions, and it excelled at all of them. It genuinely reduces the need for other countertop appliances.
* ✅ Massive Capacity: The 1.0 cubic foot interior is enormous for a countertop oven. It easily accommodates a 14-lb turkey, a standard 9×13-inch baking pan, or a 12-cup muffin tray, making it perfect for family meals and entertaining.
* ✅ Two-Speed Convection Fan: The super convection setting is a game-changer for air frying. It maximizes airflow, reducing cooking time by up to 30% and delivering exceptionally crispy, golden-brown results that mimic a deep fryer.
* ✅ Intuitive Controls and LCD Display: Despite its many functions, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is surprisingly easy to use. The clear LCD screen and simple dials make selecting functions and adjusting time and temperature foolproof.
* ✅ Bright Interior Light: A small but crucial feature is the automatic interior oven light. It lets you monitor your food’s progress without opening the door and losing precious heat, leading to better results.
* ✅ Solid Build Quality: From the moment you unbox it, the appliance feels premium. The brushed stainless steel, the smooth action of the door, and the tactile feel of the dials all speak to its durable construction.
* ✅ Thoughtful Accessories: It comes with everything you need to get started, including two oven racks, a broiling rack, an enamel roasting pan, and a dedicated mesh basket for air frying.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Large Footprint: This oven’s greatest strength—its capacity—is also a potential weakness. It is a substantial appliance that requires a significant amount of dedicated counter space, measuring 21.5 inches wide.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a serious investment and one of the most premium-priced models I reviewed. It’s built for those who will use its extensive features, not for someone who just wants a basic air fryer.
* ❌ Longer Preheat Time: A consequence of its large interior is that it can take a few minutes longer to preheat compared to smaller, basket-style air fryers. Workaround: I found that starting the preheat cycle while I was prepping my ingredients made this a non-issue.

Expert’s Experience

Build Quality & Design: The brushed stainless steel exterior of the Breville BOV900BSS is not only beautiful but also remarkably durable and easy to keep clean. Every component, from the sturdy door handle to the responsive dials, feels solid and well-engineered. This is an appliance built to last, and its premium feel helps justify its price tag.

Cooking Performance & Precision: This is where the Breville truly distances itself from the competition. The Element iQ system is not just marketing jargon; it delivers consistent, even heat that makes it far more reliable than many other countertop ovens. During my testing, I made roasted vegetables that were perfectly browned on all sides and baked a cake that rose evenly without any hot spots—a true testament to its precision.

Included Accessories & Cleaning: It comes fully equipped with a 13-inch pizza pan, two oven racks, a broiling rack, and a mesh basket specifically for air frying and dehydrating. While the pure stainless steel interior isn’t non-stick, I found it relatively easy to wipe down after each use, especially if addressed quickly. The removable crumb tray at the bottom is a huge help for quick cleanups.

Best for Large Families: Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Review

The Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer is a beast of a machine, clearly designed with large families and entertainers in mind. Its massive capacity and convenient single-pull French doors make it incredibly easy to manage large meals, from roasting a whole chicken to baking a 12-inch pizza without any hassle.

Its standout feature is undoubtedly the French door design, which is not only elegant but also highly practical. It provides wide-open access to the cooking cavity without a hot door getting in your way.

Specification:
* Capacity: 26 Quarts (Fits a 6-lb chicken or 12” pizza)
* Power: Not Specified
* Cooking Functions: 24 Presets
* Convection: Dual-Speed Fan with 360° Air Circulation
* Material: Stainless Steel Exterior
* Display: Digital Controls
* Dimensions: Not Specified
* Warranty: Not Specified

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extra-Large Capacity: The 26-quart interior is cavernous, making it perfect for families or anyone who loves to host. I could easily fit a whole chicken for rotisserie or two trays of appetizers at once.
* ✅ Elegant French Doors: The doors open with a single, fluid pull, providing easy access without having to awkwardly reach over a hot pull-down door. This is a fantastic design choice for an oven of this size.
* ✅ Extensive Cooking Functions: With a staggering 24 built-in presets, it takes the guesswork out of cooking a huge variety of foods. The presets for pizza, rotisserie, and toast were particularly accurate in my tests.
* ✅ 360° Air Circulation: The dual-speed fan, which Emeril calls “360° Air Circulation,” does a great job of crisping up food from all angles. My fries came out golden and crunchy without much shaking.
* ✅ Helpful Toast Function: A dedicated toast setting with an automatic shut-off is a simple but brilliant feature. It reliably prevents burnt toast, which is a common complaint with other toaster ovens.
* ✅ Includes Rotisserie Spit: The included rotisserie spit and forks are a major bonus. I made a 5-lb chicken that was incredibly juicy on the inside with perfectly crisped skin on the outside.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Potential for Uneven Cooking: While the airflow is good, the sheer size of the interior means some spots can get hotter than others. I noticed that for a full tray of fries, I still needed to rotate the tray halfway through for a perfectly uniform finish.
* ❌ Exterior Gets Very Hot: The stainless steel housing can get quite hot to the touch during operation, especially at higher temperatures. This requires extra caution, particularly in households with children.
* ❌ Durability Concerns: While my short-term testing was positive, I noted that some long-term user reviews mention potential issues with the digital controls or fan becoming noisy over time.
* ❌ Vague Specifications: The manufacturer does not clearly list the power wattage or dimensions, which can make it difficult for consumers to compare it directly to other models. Workaround: I found through analysis that the power is likely around 1700-1800W to support its size and features.

Expert’s Experience

Design & Accessibility: The French door design of the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer is its main selling point, and it delivers. It’s not just for looks; it’s genuinely more practical and safer than a traditional pull-down door on an oven this large. The stainless steel finish gives it a professional, restaurant-kitchen look that is quite appealing.

Cooking Versatility: The sheer number of presets is impressive. While you may not use all 24, they provide excellent starting points for everything from air frying snacks to baking desserts and proofing dough. The rotisserie function, in particular, works exceptionally well for an appliance in this category and produced one of the best countertop-roasted chickens I’ve made.

Cleaning & Maintenance: The stainless steel interior requires some effort to keep clean, especially after cooking greasy foods like wings or rotisserie chicken. The included accessories are numerous, which adds to the cleanup task, though the removable crumb tray is large and easy to empty. I recommend wiping down the interior after each use to prevent grease buildup.

Most Versatile Countertop Oven: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven Review

Cuisinart is a trusted name in kitchen appliances, and this Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven lives up to the brand’s reputation for reliability and performance. It’s a fantastic workhorse for everyday cooking, striking a great balance between a compact size, powerful performance, and versatile functionality, making it a staple for any busy kitchen.

What I appreciate most about this model is its straightforward, no-nonsense approach. It focuses on cooking well rather than on flashy digital features, and the included grill plate adds a dimension of usability that many competitors lack.

Specification:
* Capacity: 0.6 cu ft (Toasts 6 slices, Air fries 3 lbs chicken)
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Cooking Functions: 8 (Air Fry, Convection Bake, Grill, etc.)
* Convection: AirAdvantage Technology
* Material: Stainless Steel Exterior, Stainless Steel Easy-Clean Interior
* Display: Analog Dials
* Dimensions: Not Specified
* Warranty: Not Specified

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent All-Around Performance: This oven is a true multi-tasker. It bakes, broils, toasts, and air fries with consistent and reliable results. It’s the kind of appliance you’ll find yourself using daily.
* ✅ Powerful Air Frying: The AirAdvantage technology, featuring a powerful fan located at the top, provides strong, hot airflow for fast and exceptionally crispy food. It cooked frozen fries faster than many other toaster oven models.
* ✅ Included Reversible Grill/Griddle: The non-stick ceramic reversible grill/griddle plate is a unique and highly useful accessory. I used it to grill burgers indoors and make pancakes, adding a level of versatility not found elsewhere.
* ✅ Compact and Efficient: While still offering a generous 0.6 cubic foot capacity (enough for a 3 lb chicken), it has a more compact footprint than larger models like the Breville, making it a better fit for smaller kitchens.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The interior is made of stainless steel designed for simple cleanup. While not truly non-stick, I found that a quick wipe-down after cooking prevented any major buildup.
* ✅ Simple, Intuitive Controls: The classic analog dials are straightforward and easy for anyone to use without a learning curve. There are no complicated menus or digital screens to navigate.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Runs Hot: This model is known to run hotter than the set temperature, which can lead to food cooking faster than expected. Workaround: I recommend reducing the recipe temperature by 25°F and checking for doneness a few minutes early until you get a feel for it.
* ❌ Loud Fan: The convection fan is powerful, but it can be quite loud during operation, especially in a quiet kitchen. It’s noticeably louder than the Breville or Cosori models.
* ❌ Analog Timer Lacks Precision: The 60-minute dial timer is great for longer cooks but lacks the precision of a digital display for short cooking times (e.g., toasting). It’s easy to slightly over- or under-shoot your target time.

Expert’s Experience

Build Quality & Simplicity: This Cuisinart TOA-70NAS feels sturdy and well-built, with a focus on functional reliability over digital frills, which I find refreshing. The classic stainless steel finish fits well in any kitchen aesthetic, and the mechanical dials have a satisfying, durable feel.

Cooking Speed vs. Precision: This oven cooks hot and fast. This is a huge advantage for getting frozen fries, chicken nuggets, or other snacks crispy in a hurry. However, for more delicate items like fish or certain baked goods, the more precise and gentle heat of the Breville might be a better choice. You learn to work with its power.

Unique Accessories: The included ceramic non-stick reversible grill/griddle plate is a genuine game-changer and a key differentiator. It’s perfect for getting grill marks on chicken breasts or making a weekend breakfast of pancakes and bacon. This single accessory significantly expands the oven’s utility beyond a standard air fryer toaster oven.

Best Smart Air Fryer: Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5 Qt Smart Air Fryer Review

The Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer perfectly blends a sleek, modern design with the convenience of smart technology. Its premium stainless steel build, PFAS-free ceramic basket, and app-controlled functionality make it my top choice for tech-savvy and health-conscious cooks who prefer a basket-style air fryer.

This isn’t just another plastic air fryer; its polished stainless steel body and glass control panel give it a high-end look that feels at home in a modern kitchen. The focus on non-toxic materials is a significant plus for anyone looking to avoid traditional non-stick coatings.

Specification:
* Capacity: 6.5 Quarts
* Power: Not Specified
* Cooking Functions: 6 (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dry, Proof, Reheat)
* Material: Stainless Steel Structure, PFAS-Free Ceramic Coated Basket
* Display: Touch Control Panel
* Smart Features: VeSync App Control, Guided Recipes
* Dimensions: Not Specified
* Warranty: 5 Years Manufacturer Support

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Premium Non-Toxic Materials: This is a huge selling point. The air fryer features a durable stainless steel body and a cooking basket with a PFAS-free, non-stick ceramic coating, which is a fantastic alternative to traditional Teflon.
* ✅ Smart App Integration: The VeSync app is well-designed and genuinely useful. I could control time and temperature, monitor cooking progress, and access a library of guided recipes directly from my phone. The notifications are a great touch.
* ✅ Sleek and Modern Design: This is one of the most attractive basket air fryers on the market. The polished stainless steel and flat glass control panel on top give it a high-end, minimalist look that stands out.
* ✅ Fast, Consistent Cooking: Equipped with a powerful DC motor and 5 fan speeds, this air fryer circulates heat efficiently for fast preheating and evenly cooked results. Food came out crispy and delicious every time.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The ceramic-coated basket is a dream to clean. It’s dishwasher-safe, but I found that most food residue wiped away effortlessly with just a sponge and soapy water.
* ✅ Incredibly Long Warranty: A 5-year manufacturer support period is exceptional in this product category and offers excellent peace of mind about the long-term durability of the appliance.
* ✅ High Max Temperature: The ability to reach up to 450°F provides a great sear on meats and extra crispiness on vegetables, a feature typically found in more expensive models.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Smart Features Aren’t Essential: While neat, controlling the air fryer from your phone is more of a bonus than a necessity for most users. If you don’t care about app control, you might be paying for a feature you won’t use.
* ❌ Top Surface Gets Warm: The glass control panel on top can get warm during operation. It’s not hot enough to burn, but it’s not a surface you should use for storing anything while the unit is on.
* ❌ Basket Style Limitations: As a dedicated basket air fryer, it’s less suited for multi-level cooking, baking large items, or toasting bread compared to the oven-style models from Breville or Cuisinart.

Expert’s Experience

Design and Aesthetics: The Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer is a showpiece. The curved stainless steel body and the black glass top feel deliberately designed and aesthetically pleasing, moving far away from the bulky, plastic look of many other air fryers. It’s an appliance you won’t mind leaving out on your counter.

Non-Toxic Cooking Surface: The emphasis on a PFAS-free ceramic coating is a major highlight for me. For anyone concerned about ‘forever chemicals’ that can be associated with traditional non-stick coatings, this provides a much safer alternative without sacrificing non-stick performance or ease of cleaning.

Performance & App Functionality: This air fryer cooks food quickly and leaves it with a deeply satisfying crispness. The VeSync app is polished and user-friendly, adding a layer of convenience. I particularly enjoyed using the guided recipes, which automatically set the time and temperature, making it easy to try new things.

Best for Crisping: Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt | TurboFry® Review

The Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt | TurboFry® is laser-focused on one primary goal: achieving the perfect golden-brown crunch. With its unique “Hi-Fry” function and a large, easy-to-clean basket, this is an excellent choice for anyone whose top priority is making exceptionally crispy french fries, wings, and other fried favorites quickly and easily.

While it may not have the all-in-one versatility of a toaster oven, it excels at its main job. The high-heat finishing blast makes a noticeable difference in texture that other air fryers in its price range struggle to match.

Specification:
* Capacity: 8 Quarts
* Power: 1700 Watts
* Cooking Functions: 4 (Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Frozen)
* Max Temperature: 450°F (with Hi-Fry)
* Material: Stainless Steel Finish, Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Basket
* Display: Touchscreen UI
* Dimensions: Not Specified
* Warranty: 1-Year

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Hi-Fry for Extra Crispiness: This is the standout feature. The function cranks the heat to a searing 450°F for the final two minutes of cooking, delivering a superior, extra-crispy finish that perfectly mimics deep-fried texture.
* ✅ Large Basket Capacity: The 8-quart square basket offers plenty of room for family-sized portions. I was able to cook a 2 lb bag of fries in a single layer, which is crucial for even cooking.
* ✅ Intuitive Touch Controls: The digital touchscreen is bright, easy to read, and simple to program. The presets are clearly labeled, and manual adjustments are a breeze.
* ✅ Helpful Shake Notifications: An automatic reminder beeps to let you know when to shake the basket halfway through the cooking cycle. This is a simple but incredibly useful feature that ensures everything cooks evenly.
* ✅ Effortless Cleanup: The nonstick basket and crisper tray are top-rack dishwasher safe, making cleanup about as simple as it gets. This is a huge advantage for frequent use.
* ✅ Space-Efficient Design: The design provides a large interior capacity without taking up an excessive amount of counter space. Its vertical design is more countertop-friendly than wide toaster ovens.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Uses Traditional Non-Stick Coating: The basket uses a standard nonstick coating. While effective, this may be a concern for those specifically seeking completely non-toxic materials like pure stainless steel or ceramic.
* ❌ Fewer Functions: It’s more of a dedicated air frying machine and lacks the broad versatility of toaster oven models. You can’t really bake a pizza or toast multiple slices of bread in it.
* ❌ Build Feels Less Premium: While the stainless steel finish is nice and resists fingerprints, the overall build quality and plastics used don’t feel as robust or high-end as the Breville or Cosori models.
* ❌ Shorter Warranty: The 1-year warranty is standard but falls short of the impressive 5-year support offered by Cosori.

Expert’s Experience

Crisping Performance: The Hi-Fry function on the Chefman TurboFry® is a legitimate advantage and not just a gimmick. I found it makes a noticeable difference in the final texture of foods like frozen fries and chicken wings, giving them that extra-shatteringly-crisp layer that is so satisfying.

User-Friendly Features: Chefman clearly put thought into the everyday user experience. The shake reminder is genuinely helpful and prevents you from having to set a separate timer or guess the halfway point. The touchscreen is responsive, well-lit, and straightforward, making it accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

Cleaning and Maintenance: The dishwasher-safe basket is a huge plus for quick cleanup after weeknight meals. I found the non-stick surface held up well, and food released easily. The stainless-steel finish does a good job of resisting fingerprints and is easy to wipe down, keeping the appliance looking sleek on the counter.

stainless steel air fryer Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick-glance comparison of the key features of my top 5 picks to help you see how they stack up side-by-side.

Feature	Breville Smart Oven Pro	Emeril Lagasse French Door	Cuisinart Toaster Oven	Cosori Iconic Smart	Chefman TurboFry
Category	Best Overall	Best for Large Families	Most Versatile	Best Smart Air Fryer	Best for Crisping
Type	Toaster Oven	Toaster Oven	Toaster Oven	Basket	Basket
Capacity	1.0 cu. ft. / ~30 L	26 Quarts / ~24.6 L	0.6 cu. ft. / ~17 L	6.5 Quarts / ~6.2 L	8 Quarts / ~7.6 L
Key Function	Element iQ Precision	French Door Access	Included Grill/Griddle	VeSync App Control	Hi-Fry 450°F Boost
Best For	Home cooks wanting one device to do it all perfectly.	Large families and entertainers who cook big meals.	Daily multi-purpose use in a busy kitchen.	Tech-savvy users who value non-toxic materials and design.	Those who prioritize the crispiest possible results for fried foods.
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐

This chart highlights the main differences in style and function. Toaster oven models like the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro and Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven offer far more versatility for baking, roasting, and toasting, essentially acting as a second oven.

Basket models like the Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer and Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt | TurboFry® are typically faster and more efficient for pure air frying tasks and are often easier to clean. Your choice depends entirely on what you plan to cook most often and how much counter space you’re willing to give up.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Stainless Steel Air Fryer

Choosing the right stainless steel air fryer depends on your cooking habits, kitchen space, and health priorities. Here are the key factors I recommend considering to find the perfect model for your needs.

• Material Safety: Stainless Steel vs. Coated: The main reason many people seek out stainless steel is to avoid non-stick coatings like Teflon (PTFE/PFOA), which can be a health concern if they are scratched or overheated.
  • A full stainless steel interior, like that found in the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, is the most durable and chemically inert option. It will never flake or peel.
  • Models with high-quality, certified PFAS-free ceramic coatings, like the Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer, are an excellent non-toxic alternative that also offers the convenience of easier cleanup. Decide if you prioritize the absolute inertness of pure steel or the convenience of a safe non-stick surface.
• Type: Basket vs. Toaster Oven: This is the most important decision you’ll make.
  • Basket-style air fryers (like the Chefman and Cosori) are specialists. They preheat faster and their concentrated airflow excels at making food exceptionally crispy. They are the best choice if you primarily want a dedicated tool for making fries, wings, and roasted vegetables.
  • Toaster oven-style air fryers (like the Breville, Cuisinart, and Emeril) are generalists. They are true multi-functional appliances that can bake, roast, broil, and toast in addition to air frying. They are a better choice if you want to replace multiple appliances and desire more cooking flexibility, though they are typically larger and can be slower to preheat.
• Capacity and Footprint: Capacity is usually measured in quarts for baskets and cubic feet for ovens.
  • A 5-8 quart basket is great for 2-4 people.
  • A toaster oven over 0.8 cu. ft. or 25 quarts is ideal for families of 5 or more.
  • Always measure your counter space before buying. Toaster oven models, especially the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, can have a very large footprint.
• Power and Temperature Control: A higher wattage (1700W or more) generally means faster preheating and more powerful cooking. Look for a wide temperature range (up to 450°F) for the most versatility, allowing you to gently dehydrate or intensely sear. Digital controls offer more precision, but simple analog dials, like on the Cuisinart, can be more durable and intuitive for some users.

• Cooking Functions & Presets: Basic models may only have an air fry function, while advanced ones offer presets for baking, roasting, dehydrating, proofing dough, and more. If you want a “set it and forget it” experience, look for a model with presets for common foods like fries, chicken, or fish. If you prefer manual control and experimentation, these are less important.

• Ease of Cleaning: This is a huge factor for long-term satisfaction and how often you’ll use your appliance. A dishwasher-safe basket is a major plus for basket-style models. For toaster ovens, a removable crumb tray is essential. Remember that stainless steel interiors are durable but can require more scrubbing than non-stick surfaces to remove baked-on grease.

FAQs About best stainless steel air fryer

Is stainless steel better than non-stick for an air fryer?

Yes, in terms of long-term durability and health safety, stainless steel is often considered the superior choice. It is non-reactive, meaning it won’t leach chemicals into your food. It also won’t flake, chip, or peel over time, which can be an issue with coated non-stick surfaces. However, high-quality, certified non-toxic ceramic non-stick surfaces offer significantly easier cleanup and are a safe, convenient alternative.

Are stainless steel air fryers truly non-toxic?

A model with a 100% stainless steel cooking interior and racks is considered one of the safest and most non-toxic options available. Stainless steel does not contain chemicals like PFAS, PFOA, or PTFE (Teflon). However, you must be careful. Many appliances are marketed with a stainless steel exterior, but the interior basket or racks may still have a traditional non-stick coating. Always check the material specifications for the parts that actually touch your food.

Do you have to use oil in a stainless steel air fryer?

You don’t have to, but a very small amount of oil often yields better results. A teaspoon or two of a high-smoke-point oil (like avocado or grapeseed) helps food get crispier, promotes even browning, and prevents sticking, especially in a pure stainless steel basket. It also helps seasonings and spices adhere to the food. For most pre-cooked frozen foods like french fries, no extra oil is needed.

Is it hard to clean a stainless steel air fryer basket?

It can be more challenging than cleaning a non-stick basket, but it’s manageable with the right technique. To make it easier, I strongly recommend soaking the basket and any racks in warm, soapy water immediately after you’re done cooking to prevent food from hardening. For any stubborn, baked-on grease, a paste of baking soda and water or a non-abrasive scrubber like a Brillo pad works wonderfully without scratching the steel.

Can you put aluminum foil in a stainless steel air fryer?

Yes, but you must do so with caution and an understanding of how air fryers work. You can place a small piece of foil in the bottom of a basket to catch drips, but you must never cover the entire bottom of the crisper plate or block the airflow vents. Proper air circulation is crucial for an air fryer to cook correctly. In toaster oven styles, you can line the solid baking pan, but never the wire racks, as this will impede heat flow.

What is the best brand for stainless steel air fryers?

For high-quality, versatile toaster oven-style models, brands like Breville and Cuisinart are consistently top-tier. They are known for excellent build quality and cooking performance. For basket-style air fryers, Cosori is a leader in combining innovative design with safe, non-toxic materials, while Ninja is also highly regarded for its powerful performance and dual-basket options.

Do stainless steel air fryers get hot on the outside?

Yes, almost all air fryers, especially those with metal exteriors, will get hot to the touch during operation. The housing helps dissipate heat from the cooking chamber. It is very important to ensure there is adequate clearance around the unit (usually 3-6 inches on all sides, top, and back) for proper ventilation and to use caution when touching the exterior while it’s cooking or cooling down.

What’s the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?

An air fryer is essentially a small, high-powered countertop convection oven. The main difference is the size of the cooking chamber and the speed of the fan. Air fryers have smaller cavities and more powerful fans that circulate hot air much more rapidly. This intense, focused airflow is what leads to faster cooking times and the signature crispy results that are difficult to achieve in a large, traditional convection oven.

Can a stainless steel air fryer replace a microwave?

It can for many reheating tasks, but it is not a complete replacement. An air fryer is far superior for reheating foods you want to keep crispy, like leftover pizza, fried chicken, or french fries, which a microwave would turn soggy. However, a microwave is much faster and more effective for reheating liquids like soup, coffee, or steaming vegetables. They serve different purposes in the kitchen.

Is a bigger air fryer always better?

Not necessarily; the best size depends on your household and cooking style. A larger air fryer is great for families of four or more or for those who like to cook large batches of food at once. However, a bigger unit will take up more valuable counter space, consume more energy, and take longer to preheat. For a single person or a couple, a more compact 5-quart model is often more efficient and perfectly sufficient for daily needs.

Final Verdict

After extensive review, it’s clear that the world of stainless steel air fryers offers fantastic options for every type of cook. Whether you need a do-it-all countertop oven to act as a second kitchen or a specialized machine for getting the ultimate crisp, there’s a model on this list that will fit your needs perfectly.

My final recommendation depends on your primary cooking goals and kitchen philosophy.

Best Overall: For its unmatched versatility, superior cooking precision with the Element iQ system, and massive capacity, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the clear winner. It’s the best choice for anyone who wants one premium appliance to master nearly any kitchen task, from air frying and roasting to baking and slow cooking.

This model is perfect for you if…
* You want one appliance to replace your toaster, air fryer, and even your main oven for smaller meals.
* You cook for a family or entertain guests frequently.
* You value precise, even cooking results above all else.
* You prioritize a full stainless steel interior for maximum durability and non-toxic peace of mind.

It’s not ideal for…
* Those with very limited counter space.
* Shoppers on a tight budget.

Best Alternative: If you prefer the speed and simplicity of a basket-style air fryer and prioritize modern design and certified non-toxic materials, the Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer is an outstanding choice. It looks as good as it cooks and its PFAS-free ceramic basket is a major selling point for health-conscious users.

Ultimately, any of the five air fryers on this list will be a durable and high-performing addition to your kitchen, helping you create healthier, delicious meals for years to come.

Last update on 2026-02-04 at 06:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API