Hey there, fellow foodies! Welcome to Airfryer House, your go-to spot for everything crispy, delicious, and air-fried. If you’ve been on the internet lately, you’ve probably noticed that the air fryer craze isn’t slowing down. In fact, it’s getting more exciting! I’ve been getting tons of questions about the latest Trending Air Fryer Models, and let me tell you, the new kids on the block are serious game-changers. I remember my first air fryer—a simple, round basket model that felt like pure magic. Now, the technology has evolved so much, it’s almost dizzying.
So, are you looking to upgrade your current machine or finally join the air frying revolution? You’re in the right place. We’re about to dive deep into what’s hot, what’s not, and which of these popular models truly deserves a spot on your countertop.
What’s Fueling the Air Fryer Frenzy?
Before we jump into specific models, let’s talk about why certain air fryers are suddenly everywhere. It’s not just about getting crispy fries with less oil anymore. The latest trending air fryer models are all about versatility, convenience, and intelligence.
- Dual-Zone Technology: The ability to cook two different foods, at two different temperatures, at the same time is no longer a luxury—it’s becoming the standard. Think crispy chicken wings in one basket and roasted veggies in the other, both finishing at the exact same moment. Mind-blowing, right?
- Smart Features & Connectivity: Many new models come with Wi-Fi and app integration. You can literally start preheating your air fryer from the couch, get notifications on your phone when it’s time to shake the basket, and access hundreds of guided recipes.
- Increased Capacity: The “family-size” air fryer is now the norm. We’re seeing models with 8, 9, or even 10-quart capacities, making it easier than ever to cook for a crowd without having to do multiple batches.
- Multi-Functionality: It’s not just an air fryer anymore. The hottest appliances on the market can also bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, and even reheat leftovers better than a microwave. They are true kitchen workhorses.
Our Top Picks for Trending Air Fryer Models
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. I’ve spent weeks testing, cooking, and (of course) eating my way through the most talked-about air fryers. These are the models that consistently come out on top for performance, features, and overall value.
The Double-Duty Champion: Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer
If you’ve seen one air fryer go viral on social media, it’s probably this one. The Ninja Foodi DualZone is famous for its two independent baskets. For me, the real magic is the ‘Smart Finish’ feature. You can program two completely different items, say salmon in one basket for 15 minutes at 400°F and asparagus in the other for 8 minutes at 375°F, and the machine times it so they both finish simultaneously. It’s brilliant.
- Best for: Families, multitaskers, and anyone who hates having their side dish get cold while the main course finishes cooking.
- Capacity: Typically 8 to 10 quarts, split between two baskets.
- Why it’s trending: The sheer convenience of the DualZone technology is a game-changer for weeknight meals. It streamlines the entire cooking process.
The Smart & Sleek Contender: Cosori Pro II Smart Air Fryer
Cosori has made a huge name for itself by combining sleek design with powerful, smart technology. The Pro II connects to their VeSync app, which is surprisingly intuitive. I love being able to browse a recipe on my phone, send the cooking instructions directly to the air fryer, and just press start. It takes the guesswork out of cooking, which is perfect for beginners.
- Best for: Tech-savvy cooks, beginners who want guided cooking, and anyone who appreciates a modern-looking kitchen appliance.
- Capacity: Around 5.8 quarts, a great size for couples or small families.
- Why it’s trending: Its smart functionality and library of app-based recipes make air frying more accessible and fun than ever before. Plus, it consistently delivers incredibly crispy results. For more tips, check out our guide to achieving the perfectly crispy air-fried chicken.
The All-in-One Kitchen Hero: Instant Vortex Plus with ClearCook
From the makers of the legendary Instant Pot comes an air fryer that aims to do it all. The Instant Vortex Plus isn’t just an air fryer; it’s an air fryer oven. The standout feature is the ClearCook window and internal light. You can actually watch your food getting golden and crispy without ever opening the basket and letting the heat out. I’ve found this is fantastic for things like cheese melts or making sure my pastries don’t burn.
- Best for: People who want to replace multiple appliances, bakers, and anyone who loves to keep an eye on their food as it cooks.
- Capacity: Often 6 quarts in a wide, flat basket, which is great for single-layer cooking.
- Why it’s trending: It combines the trust of the Instant Pot brand with innovative features that solve a common user pain point—the need to constantly open the drawer to check on progress.
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Our Picks for the Best Air Fryer in 2026
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt Family Size, One-Touch Digital Control Presets, French Fries, Chicken, Meat, Fish, Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Parts, Automatic Shutoff, Stainless Steel |
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| 2 | Chefman 12-Quart 6-in-1 Air Fryer Oven with Digital Timer, Touchscreen, and 12 Presets - Family Size Countertop Convection Oven, Dishwasher-Safe Parts |
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| 3 | Ninja | Indoor Grill and Air Fryer| Foodi Smart XL | 6-in-1 Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate & Crisp |Smart Thermometer & Splatter Shield | Dishwasher Safe Parts | Black/Silver | FG551 |
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| 4 | Chefman Air Fryer TurboFry 7-Qt, 6-in-1 High-Powered 450°F Cooking for Crispier Results, Compact Space-Saving Design, Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Reheat, Dehydrate, Defrost, Fast & Even Cooking – Black |
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| 5 | bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, EverGood™ Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Adjustable Temperature, 6 Preset Cooking Options, 60 Min Auto Shutoff w Audible Tone, 3.3lb Capacity, Oatmilk |
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| 6 | CHEFMAN 6 Quart Dual Basket Air Fryer Oven with Easy View Windows, Sync Finish, Hi-Fry, Auto Shutoff, 2 Independent 3Qt Nonstick Dishwasher Safe Frying Baskets, Digital Double Air Fryer - Black |
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| 7 | Ninja | Air Fryer | 4 QT Capacity | 4-in1 Roast, Crisp, Roast, Reheats, & Dehydrates | Dishwasher Safe Parts | Includes 20 Easy & Healthy Recipes | Compact | Grey | AF101 |
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| 8 | CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket, Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Digital Timer and Shake Reminder – Black |
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| 9 | Chefman TurboFry Touch Dual Air Fryer, Maximize The Healthiest Meals With Double Basket Capacity, One-Touch Digital Controls And Shake Reminder For The Perfect Crispy And Low-Calorie Finish |
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| 10 | Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 5QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of French Fries | 400F Max Temp | Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate | 120V | Grey | AF141 |
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How Do I Choose the Right Trending Model For Me?
Seeing all these amazing features can be overwhelming. A trendy gadget is only useful if it actually fits your lifestyle. Let’s break down the decision-making process with some common questions.
What size air fryer do I really need?
The best size depends on how many people you typically cook for. For 1-2 people, a 4 to 6-quart model is perfect. For a family of 3-5, look for something in the 6 to 10-quart range. If you host often or have a larger family, a dual-basket or oven-style model is your best bet.
Are dual-basket air fryers really worth the extra cost?
In my experience, yes, if you often cook a main protein and a side dish simultaneously. The ability to have your entire meal ready at the same time is a huge time-saver. However, if you primarily use your air fryer for snacks or reheating, a single-basket model is more than sufficient.
Do I need a “smart” air fryer with Wi-Fi?
A smart air fryer is a “nice-to-have,” not a “need-to-have.” It adds a layer of convenience, especially with pre-programmed recipes and notifications. If you love technology and want a more guided cooking experience, go for it. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can save some money by opting for a non-smart model with the same cooking power.
As culinary consultant Chef Michael Chen often says, “The best kitchen appliance is an extension of the cook. Don’t just follow a trend; find the tool that works for your habits, your family, and your kitchen. The goal is to make cooking less of a chore and more of a joy.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your New Air Fryer
Once you’ve picked from the trending air fryer models, you want to make sure you’re using it correctly. Here are a few common pitfalls I see people fall into:
- Overcrowding the Basket: This is the number one sin of air frying! Air fryers work by circulating hot air. If you pack food in too tightly, the air can’t circulate, and you’ll end up with soggy, unevenly cooked food. Cook in batches if you have to.
- Not Using Any Oil: While it’s called “oil-less cooking,” a tiny bit of oil (like a teaspoon or a light spritz) goes a long way. It helps with browning and crisping and prevents food from sticking.
- Forgetting to Shake the Basket: For small items like fries or chicken nuggets, you need to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time. This ensures everything gets exposed to the hot air and cooks evenly.
- Putting It in the Dishwasher Without Checking: While many baskets are dishwasher-safe, not all are. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Handwashing is often gentler and can prolong the life of the non-stick coating. Learn more from our definitive guide on how to clean your air fryer.
Quick Comparison of Trending Models
| Feature | Ninja Foodi DualZone | Cosori Pro II Smart | Instant Vortex Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 8-10 Quarts (split) | 5.8 Quarts | 6 Quarts |
| Key Feature | Two independent baskets | Wi-Fi & App Control | ClearCook Window |
| Best For | Full Meals | Guided Recipes | Versatility & Monitoring |
| Footprint | Large | Medium | Medium |
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you not cook in an air fryer?
Avoid cooking foods with a wet batter (like tempura), as it will just drip off and make a mess. Also, be careful with large quantities of leafy greens like spinach, as they can fly around and burn. Super-light items like fresh herbs can also be tricky.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Yes, most of the time. Just like an oven, preheating for 3-5 minutes ensures the cooking environment is at the right temperature from the start, which leads to crispier, more evenly cooked food. Some newer models have automatic preheating functions.
Can you put aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer?
You can, but with caution. Always place the food on top of the foil or parchment paper to weigh it down. An empty sheet can fly up into the heating element and become a fire hazard. There are also perforated parchment liners made specifically for air fryers.
Is air-fried food actually healthy?
Compared to deep-frying, absolutely. You can achieve a similar crispy texture using up to 75% less oil. However, it’s all about what you’re cooking. Air-frying vegetables is a very healthy choice. Air-frying frozen mozzarella sticks is still an indulgence, just a slightly less greasy one.
How often should I clean my air fryer?
Ideally, you should clean the basket, tray, and drawer after every use to prevent food buildup and lingering smells. A deep clean of the interior and heating element can be done every few weeks, depending on usage.
The Final Word on Trending Models
Navigating the world of trending air fryer models can be exciting, and for good reason—these machines are more powerful and intuitive than ever before. Whether you’re drawn to the multitasking power of a dual-basket Ninja, the smarts of a Cosori, or the all-in-one convenience of an Instant Vortex, the perfect appliance is out there waiting to revolutionize your kitchen. The key is to match the trend to your true needs.
Happy air frying, and don’t forget to share your amazing creations with our community at Airfryer House! We can’t wait to see what you cook up.