Wondering how air fryers work? 

An air fryer is a compact convection oven that can quickly and evenly cook food. A heating element and powerful fan are set at the top of the unit, circulating hot air around the food in a basket. This allows the air to flow all over the food, making it extra crispy. Most foods are air-fried at a higher temperature than a conventional oven — around 400 degrees F or more. So, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook your favorite foods, an air fryer is a great option!

So, are air fryers actually healthy? 

The short answer is: it depends. While an air fryer can be a healthier alternative to deep-frying foods, simply using an air fryer to make a recipe does not automatically make it healthier. “A major misconception is that pre-fried items (such as bagged frozen chicken nuggets or fish sticks) are somehow made healthier when prepared in an air fryer. Air frying is certainly a great way to prepare these frozen foods to crispy perfection, but these types of foods are no healthier than when prepared in a conventional oven,” says Food Network’s health and nutrition consultant Dana White, MS, RD, ATC. So, if you’re looking to make healthier choices, be sure to read the labels on your food and choose recipes that are made with fresh, whole ingredients.

With so many air fryers on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.

If you’re in the market for an air fryer, you’ll want to check out this list from the Food Network.

The top air fryers include: 

Best for Big Batch Cooking: COSORI Air Fryer Max XL

Best Budget: GoWISE USA 5.8 Qt. 8-in-1 Electric Air Fryer XL

Best Value: Ninja 4-quart Air Fryer

A Top Pick: Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer

Philips TurboStar Airfryer has a 1725 watt heating element that ensures evenly cooked food every time.

The T-fal Actifry Original has a paddle that stirring food as it cooks, ensuring that everything is cooked evenly.

Each of these air fryers has its own unique features that make it worth considering. 

So, if you’re in the market for an air fryer, be sure to check out this list from the Food Network. You’re sure to find an air fryer that meets your needs and  budget!

Image from Food Network