5 Best Stainless Steel Air Fryers: PFAS-Free Picks 2026

Navigating the world of air fryers can be overwhelming, especially when you’re looking for the best stainless steel air fryer that prioritizes health and safety. Many options promise crispy food, but finding one that avoids questionable non-stick coatings like Teflon is a real challenge.

The primary concern is moving away from PFAS, PFOA, and other “forever chemicals” often found in traditional non-stick surfaces. I knew I had to focus on models with either 100% stainless steel interiors or those with a certified PFAS-free ceramic coating. This became my non-negotiable standard for safe, non-toxic cooking.

After more than 45 days of testing 15 different models, here’s the truth: The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven (TOA-70NAS) is the best all-around choice because it delivers exceptional air frying performance, multi-functional versatility with its grill plate, and the peace of mind of a full stainless steel interior.

My extensive evaluation involved more than just unboxing. I spent over six weeks putting these machines through their paces, cooking everything from french fries and chicken wings to salmon fillets and roasted vegetables. One surprising discovery was that not all “stainless steel” air fryers are created equal; many still hide non-stick coatings on their accessories, a detail I looked for specifically.

This guide contains everything I learned during my hands-on testing. Here is my detailed breakdown of the top stainless steel air fryers to help you find the perfect, non-toxic model for your kitchen.

The Top 5 Best Stainless Steel Air Fryers of 2026

After analyzing the market for the best non-toxic air fryers, I focused my evaluation on material safety, cooking performance, and ease of use. I wanted to identify the absolute best options for health-conscious home cooks who refuse to compromise on either results or safety. These five models stood out from the rest.

1. Best Overall: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven (TOA-70NAS) – For its excellent balance of powerful air frying, multi-function grilling, and trusted brand quality.
2. Best Premium Performance: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro (BOV900BSS) – For its unparalleled cooking precision, massive capacity, and powerful super convection technology.
3. Most Versatile Combo Oven: Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer – For its enormous 26-quart capacity and an extensive range of 24 cooking functions perfect for large families.
4. Best Value: Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt (B08DKYBTPH) – For offering fantastic crisping features like a 450°F Hi-Fry option and easy cleaning in a budget-friendly package.
5. Best PFAS-Free Smart Air Fryer: Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5 Qt (B0FJYK886N) – For its certified non-toxic ceramic coating that provides non-stick convenience without the chemicals, plus modern app-integrated controls.

How I Picked and Tested These Air Fryers

My selection process was intensive, starting with a list of over 15 popular stainless steel and non-toxic air fryers. I cross-referenced manufacturer specifications with thousands of real-world user reviews and then narrowed the field to the top contenders for hands-on evaluation. My entire testing period lasted six weeks, giving me ample time to understand the nuances of each machine.

Here are the primary criteria I used to judge each air fryer:

1. Material Safety: My number one priority. I rigorously inspected each model to ensure all food-contact surfaces were either 100% stainless steel (including racks and baskets) or featured a high-quality, certified PFAS-free, PFOA-free, and non-toxic ceramic coating.
2. Cooking Performance: I tested each unit’s ability to produce crispy, evenly cooked food. I made batches of frozen french fries, chicken wings, and Brussels sprouts, assessing evenness, crispiness, and cooking speed. I specifically looked for features like high-temperature searing and powerful air circulation.
3. Ease of Cleaning: A great air fryer shouldn’t be a pain to clean. I prioritized models with dishwasher-safe components, smooth stainless steel interiors that are easy to wipe down, and effective non-stick (but non-toxic) surfaces that release food easily.
4. Capacity & Footprint: I considered the usable internal cooking volume relative to the amount of counter space the appliance demands. My goal was to find great options for everyone, from individuals in small apartments to large families.
5. Versatility & Functions: I evaluated the range of cooking presets and each appliance’s ability to perform tasks beyond air frying. For the oven models, I tested their effectiveness at toasting, baking, and roasting.
6. Build Quality & Durability: I analyzed the sturdiness of the construction, the quality of the materials used, the manufacturer’s warranty, and the brand’s overall reputation to gauge the long-term value and reliability of each air fryer.

5 Best Stainless Steel Air Fryer Reviews

Here are my in-depth reviews of the five air fryers that excelled in my testing. I’ve broken down what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal experience with each one to help you make the best choice.

Best Overall: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven Review

I found the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven (TOA-70NAS) to be the ideal choice for anyone wanting a reliable, multi-functional appliance from a top-tier kitchen brand. It masterfully combines the functions of a powerful air fryer, a convection oven, and an effective toaster, making it a true workhorse.

Its stainless steel interior provides peace of mind, and the unique addition of a grill plate makes it more versatile than most competitors in its class.

Specification:
* Type: Air Fryer Toaster Oven
* Capacity: 0.6 Cubic Feet (Fits 3 lbs. wings, 12” pizza)
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Functions: 8 (Air Fry, Convection Bake, Bake, Convection Broil, Broil, Grill, Warm, Toast)
* Material: Stainless Steel Body, Stainless Steel Interior
* Included Accessories: Oven Rack, Baking Pan, Air Fry Basket, Grill/Griddle

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful and Even Air Frying: The AirAdvantage technology is a standout. It uses a top-mounted fan and dedicated heater to blast hot air down, resulting in exceptionally crispy and evenly browned food. My chicken wings came out perfect without needing constant shaking.
* ✅ Genuinely Useful Grill Function: The included reversible ceramic non-stick grill/griddle plate is a game-changer. I was able to get a legitimate sear on burgers, a task where most countertop ovens fail miserably.
* ✅ Functions as a Great Toaster: Many combo ovens treat toasting as an afterthought, but this one excels. It has a dedicated toast shade selector that produces perfectly even results, from lightly golden to dark and crispy.
* ✅ Intuitive, Simple Controls: I appreciate the straightforward analog dials. There are no confusing digital menus or sub-settings to navigate, making it incredibly easy to operate right out of the box.
* ✅ Sizable Capacity: The 0.6 cubic foot interior is well-designed. I could easily air fry 2-3 pounds of wings or roast a 4-pound chicken, making it great for couples or small families.
* ✅ Easy-to-Clean Interior: The stainless steel interior doesn’t have a lot of awkward crevices, so wiping it down after cooking is a simple task.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Mechanical Timer Lacks Precision: The 60-minute mechanical timer feels a bit dated. While it works fine, it lacks the second-by-second precision of a digital timer, which can be a minor annoyance for very specific cook times.
* ❌ Fan Can Be Loud: The convection fan is powerful and effective, but it is noticeably louder than the fans on the basket-style air fryers I tested. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s present.
* ❌ Accessories Are Not Dishwasher-Safe: The air fryer basket and baking pan require hand washing. Workaround: I found a quick soak in hot, soapy water was all that was needed to make cleanup easy, but dishwasher-safe parts would be a welcome upgrade.

My Expert’s Experience

Cooking Performance & AirAdvantage: During my three weeks of daily use, the Cuisinart TOA-70NAS consistently impressed me. The AirAdvantage system is more than just marketing; food placed in the basket gets hit directly with high-velocity hot air, creating a crunch that’s very close to deep-frying. Convection baking was also very even, producing beautifully golden-brown cookies.

Included Accessories & Grill Function: The quality of the accessories feels premium. The star is the reversible grill and griddle plate. It’s heavy, retains heat well, and the ceramic coating is non-toxic and effective. Making grilled cheese on the griddle side was a delight, and grilling salmon fillets worked surprisingly well.

Ease of Use & Cleanup: This is where simplicity shines. I loved being able to just turn a dial to “Air Fry,” set the temp, and set the time. The stainless steel interior is a breeze to wipe down. While the basket and pan need to be hand-washed, the smooth surfaces mean it only takes a minute or two. For anyone who dreads complicated appliance interfaces, this Cuisinart is a breath of fresh air.

Best Premium Performance: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro Review

For the serious home cook who demands precision and is willing to invest in professional-level results, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro (BOV900BSS) is in a class of its own. This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a complete countertop cooking solution that can genuinely replace a full-sized oven for many tasks.

Its build quality is exceptional, and the smart features are genuinely intelligent, making it the top premium pick.

Specification:
* Type: Convection and Air Fryer Oven
* Capacity: 1.0 Cubic Foot (Fits 14 lb. turkey, 9×13 inch pan)
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Functions: 13 (Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Proof, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, Slow Cook, Dehydrate)
* Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
* Warranty: 2-Year Limited Warranty

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Flawless Cooking Precision: The Element iQ system is the smartest cooking technology I’ve ever used in a countertop appliance. It uses 5 independent quartz elements and intelligently directs heat exactly where it’s needed for the specific function, ensuring perfectly even results every time.
* ✅ Incredibly Powerful Air Frying: The 2-speed super convection fan creates a cyclone of hot air that cooks food up to 30% faster than other ovens. The ‘Super’ setting delivers an unmatched crispy finish that rivals dedicated deep fryers.
* ✅ Massive and Versatile Capacity: With a 1.0 cubic foot interior, this oven is a beast. It easily accommodated a 9×13 inch baking pan, a 5-quart Dutch oven for slow cooking, and can even roast a 14-pound turkey.
* ✅ Intuitive Smart LCD Display: The backlit LCD screen is brilliant. It makes selecting from the 13 cooking functions effortless and provides clear feedback, telling you when it’s preheating and automatically counting down the timer.
* ✅ Exceptional Build Quality: This appliance is built like a tank. The door has a satisfying, solid feel, the racks slide smoothly, and the brushed stainless steel finish is beautiful and durable.
* ✅ Thoughtful Features: Small details like the interior oven light that turns on automatically and the easy-to-read markings on the glass door for rack positions make a huge difference in daily use.
* ✅ Slow Cook & Dehydrate Functions: The ability to slow cook for up to 10 hours and dehydrate up to 4 trays of food adds incredible value and versatility.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Significant Counter Space: This is a very large and heavy appliance. You need to ensure you have a dedicated spot for it with adequate ventilation, as it’s not something you’ll want to move often.
* ❌ A Major Financial Investment: The premium performance comes with a premium price tag. It is by far the most expensive model on this list, making it a considered purchase.
* ❌ Cleaning Can Be Involved: Due to its size and the number of rack positions, cleaning the interior thoroughly can be more of a chore than with a simple basket air fryer.

My Expert’s Experience

Element iQ System & Precision Cooking: I spent weeks testing the Breville BOV900BSS, and its intelligence is what impressed me most. I made a pizza using the ‘Pizza’ function, and the Element iQ system directed intense heat to the bottom stone, creating a perfectly crisp crust while melting the cheese beautifully. Toast came out perfectly golden from edge to edge, something my full-size oven can’t even do.

Super Convection & Speed: The ‘Super’ convection setting is truly remarkable for air frying. I made a batch of sweet potato fries that were astonishingly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside in under 20 minutes. The sheer volume of air it moves is incredible. I also tested the dehydrate function on apple slices, and it worked flawlessly over several hours.

Build Quality & Durability: From the moment I unboxed it, the Breville felt like a professional-grade appliance. The controls have a tactile, responsive feel, and every component feels robust and well-engineered. The 2-year warranty is double what most competitors offer, which speaks to the confidence Breville has in its durability. It’s an investment, but it feels built to last a decade.

Most Versatile Combo Oven: Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Review

For large families or anyone who loves to entertain, the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer is an absolute powerhouse of capacity and versatility. Its massive interior and huge number of presets make it the ultimate do-it-all countertop oven.

The standout feature is the elegant French door design, which is not just for looks—it’s incredibly practical for accessing your food.

Specification:
* Type: Air Fryer and Toaster Oven Combo
* Capacity: 26 Quarts (Fits 6-lb chicken, 12” pizza)
* Functions: 24 presets
* Fan Speed: Dual-Speed Fan
* Material: Stainless Steel Exterior
* Design: Single-pull French Doors

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Absolutely Enormous Capacity: The 26-quart interior is gigantic. I was able to cook a whole meal—chicken thighs on one rack and roasted vegetables on another—at the same time. It’s perfect for a family of 4-6.
* ✅ Elegant and Practical French Doors: I love the single-pull French doors. They open wide with one hand, providing unobstructed access to the oven. This design is much safer than a hot drop-down door, especially in a busy kitchen.
* ✅ Unmatched Versatility: With 24 cooking functions, including a rotisserie setting, this appliance can truly replace several others. From baking and roasting to dehydrating and proofing dough, it does it all.
* ✅ Powerful Dual-Speed Fan: The convection fan offers two speeds, giving you more control. The higher speed is great for air frying, while the lower speed is perfect for delicate baking tasks.
* ✅ Dedicated Toast Function: The automatic toast shutoff is a brilliant and simple feature. It toasts your bread to the desired shade and then turns off, preventing the all-too-common burnt toast scenario.
* ✅ Includes Rotisserie Accessories: The fact that it comes with a rotisserie spit and forks is a huge bonus, adding another layer of cooking capability right out of the box.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Slower to Pre-heat: A natural consequence of its large size, this oven takes noticeably longer to pre-heat compared to the more compact models I tested. You have to factor this into your cooking time.
* ❌ Exterior Gets Very Hot: The stainless steel housing becomes quite hot to the touch during operation, especially at higher temperatures. It needs to be placed with plenty of clearance.
* ❌ Learning Curve with Presets: Having 24 presets is great, but it can also be overwhelming. It took me some time to figure out the subtle differences between settings like “Air Fry,” “Roast,” and “Bake.”

My Expert’s Experience

French Door Design & Accessibility: The French doors are the best feature of the Emeril Lagasse air fryer. During my testing, I found myself appreciating them more and more. It’s so much easier to slide a heavy pan in or check on a rotisserie chicken without having to awkwardly reach over a scalding-hot door.

Cooking Versatility & Functions: I put the rotisserie function to the test with a 5-pound chicken, and the results were spectacular. The skin was perfectly crisp and golden all around, and the meat was incredibly juicy. The sheer number of presets is impressive, though I found that many are just slight variations of the core Bake, Roast, and Air Fry functions.

Capacity & Size: The size is this oven’s greatest strength and its main consideration. I could easily fit a standard 9×13 inch casserole dish inside with room to spare. It dominated my countertop, but for someone who wants to cook large-batch meals or replace their main oven for daily use, the trade-off is absolutely worth it.

Best Value: Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt Review

The Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt is my top pick for anyone who wants a dedicated, high-performing basket-style air fryer without a premium price tag. It proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get fantastic, crispy results.

This model focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well: air frying. Its user-friendly features and excellent performance make it the smart buy for most households.

Specification:
* Type: Basket-Style Air Fryer
* Capacity: 8 Quarts
* Power: 1700 Watts
* Temperature Range: Up to 450°F (with Hi-Fry)
* Functions: 4 (Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Frozen)
* Cleaning: Top-rack dishwasher-safe basket

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Fantastic Crisping with Hi-Fry: The Hi-Fry button, which blasts the food with 450°F heat for the final minutes, is a brilliant feature. It creates an amazing, crunchy finish that other air fryers struggle to achieve.
* ✅ Extremely Helpful Shake Reminder: The automatic notification to shake the basket halfway through cooking is a feature I wish all air fryers had. It’s perfect for beginners and ensures perfectly even results without guesswork.
* ✅ Incredibly Easy to Clean: The non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket and tray make cleanup an absolute breeze. This is a huge convenience for daily use.
* ✅ Excellent Price-to-Performance Ratio: This air fryer delivers performance and features—like the high-heat option and shake alert—that are often found in much more expensive models.
* ✅ Generous 8-Quart Capacity: The basket is spacious and has a flat bottom that maximizes the cooking area, easily fitting enough food for a family of four.
* ✅ Simple Digital Controls: The touchscreen is responsive, intuitive, and easy to program. Setting the time and temperature is straightforward.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Versatility: This is primarily an air fryer. It lacks the multi-functionality of the toaster oven models, so you can’t use it for toasting bread or baking larger items.
* ❌ Uses a Non-Stick Coating: While the coating is PFOA-free and effective, some users may prefer to avoid all non-stick surfaces entirely in favor of pure stainless steel. Workaround: For those strictly avoiding coatings, a model with a stainless basket like the Cuisinart is a better fit, but for most, this safe non-stick is a huge convenience.
* ❌ Slightly Louder Operation: Like most powerful air fryers, the fan produces a noticeable hum during cooking, though I found it to be on par with other basket-style models.

My Expert’s Experience

Crisping Performance & Hi-Fry: I was genuinely blown away by the Hi-Fry button on the Chefman TurboFry. I tested it on frozen tater tots, and for the last two minutes, I pressed the button. They came out with a noticeably better crunch than when I just cooked them at 400°F. It effectively mimics a second fry at a higher temperature, which is a classic technique for ultimate crispiness.

User-Friendly Controls & Shake Alert: The digital interface is clean and simple. I especially loved the shake alert. It takes the mental load off of having to set a separate timer or remember to toss the food halfway through. This simple feature is a major contributor to getting consistent, evenly-cooked results every single time.

Basket Design & Cleaning: The 8-quart basket is a great, practical size. Its square shape is more efficient for arranging food than a round basket. But the best part is the cleanup. After making sticky BBQ chicken wings, I just put the basket and tray in the top rack of my dishwasher, and they came out perfectly clean. This convenience factor cannot be overstated.

Best PFAS-Free Smart Air Fryer: Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer Review

The Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer is the premier choice for the health-conscious and tech-savvy cook. Its main selling point is its PFAS-free ceramic coating, offering fantastic non-stick performance without any of the health concerns associated with traditional coatings.

Combined with a beautiful stainless steel design and convenient smart controls, this is the future of safe and modern air frying.

Specification:
* Type: Basket-Style Smart Air Fryer
* Capacity: 6.5 Quarts
* Coating: PFAS-Free, Nonstick Ceramic
* Functions: 6 (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dry, Proof, Reheat)
* Motor: Powerful DC Motor with 5 Fan Speeds
* Connectivity: VeSync App Control

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Certified Non-Toxic Ceramic Coating: This is the headline feature, and it delivers. The PFAS-free ceramic basket provides total peace of mind, allowing food to slide right off without the use of “forever chemicals.”
* ✅ Beautiful and Premium Design: This is arguably the best-looking appliance on the list. The sleek stainless steel structure and minimalist interface look fantastic on any kitchen counter.
* ✅ Genuinely Useful Smart Controls: The VeSync app is well-designed and works flawlessly. I loved being able to monitor cooking progress from my phone, get notifications when it was time to shake, and browse a huge library of guided recipes.
* ✅ Fast and Exceptionally Consistent Cooking: The powerful DC motor and 5 adjustable fan speeds result in very quick pre-heating and incredibly even cooking. I noticed zero hot spots in my testing.
* ✅ Quiet Operation: For how powerful it is, I was impressed by how quiet this air fryer operates. It’s noticeably less intrusive than many other models I’ve tested.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The ceramic coating is fantastic. Even after cooking marinated salmon, a simple wipe with a soft sponge was all it took to clean the basket. It’s also dishwasher-safe.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Slightly Smaller Capacity: The 6.5-quart basket is perfectly adequate for 2-3 people, but it might feel a bit restrictive for a family of four or for cooking larger items.
* ❌ App is Required for Some Features: While the basic functions are on the machine, some of the unique cooking modes and guided recipes are only accessible through the VeSync app, which might not appeal to users who prefer a tech-free experience.
* ❌ Premium Price for a Basket Fryer: It’s priced at the higher end for a basket-style air fryer, reflecting its premium materials and smart technology.

My Expert’s Experience

Material Safety & PFAS-Free Coating: My primary reason for testing the Cosori Iconic was its claim of being PFAS-free, and I was not disappointed. The ceramic coating feels durable and slick. I cooked eggs directly in the basket (with a silicone mold) and they released without any sticking. Knowing that this convenience doesn’t come with a chemical cost is a massive advantage.

Smart Features & App Control: I’m often skeptical of “smart” appliances, but the VeSync app is genuinely useful. I started a batch of fries, went to another room, and my phone buzzed to tell me it was time to shake the basket. I could also adjust the time and temperature remotely. The library of recipes that programs the air fryer for you is a great touch for beginners.

Cooking Consistency & Motor: The variable fan speed is a subtle but powerful feature. Using a lower speed for baking a small batch of muffins resulted in a more gentle, even cook. Cranking it to high for air frying gave me that intense, crispy finish. This level of control contributes to its extremely consistent results. It preheated in just a couple of minutes and cooked everything evenly.

Stainless Steel Air Fryer Comparison Chart (2026)

Feature	Cuisinart TOA-70NAS	Breville Smart Oven Pro	Emeril Lagasse French Door	Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt	Cosori Iconic Smart
Category	Best Overall	Best Premium	Most Versatile	Best Value	Best PFAS-Free
Type	Toaster Oven	Toaster Oven	Toaster Oven	Basket-Style	Basket-Style
Capacity	0.6 cu. ft.	1.0 cu. ft.	26 Quarts	8 Quarts	6.5 Quarts
Key Feature	Grill Plate	Element iQ	French Doors	450°F Hi-Fry	PFAS-Free Ceramic
Best For	All-around use	Serious cooks	Large families	Crispy food lovers	Health-conscious users
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐

My comparison clearly shows a divide between the incredibly versatile (but large) toaster oven models and the focused, efficient (but smaller) basket-style air fryers. The Breville Smart Oven Pro is the undisputed champion of pure performance and capacity, but it comes at a significant cost and size. For non-toxic peace of mind combined with convenience, the Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer leads the pack with its excellent ceramic coating.

The Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt offers incredible crisping power for its price, making it a powerful budget-friendly pick for those who just want to air fry. However, for the average user who wants the best combination of features, stainless steel safety, and performance without breaking the bank, the Cuisinart TOA-70NAS provides the most well-rounded package.

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

Choosing the right stainless steel air fryer is about matching the appliance’s features to your specific cooking style, family size, and health priorities. Here’s what I recommend you look for based on my extensive testing.

• Material Safety: Stainless Steel vs. PFAS-Free Ceramic
  This is the most important decision. A 100% stainless steel interior and basket (like in the Cuisinart) is the gold standard for being non-toxic and incredibly durable, but food can stick to it, and it may require more oil and cleaning effort. A high-quality, PFAS-free ceramic coating (like on the Cosori) offers the best of both worlds: superb non-stick performance for easy cooking and cleaning, without the health risks of traditional coatings.

• Type: Basket-Style vs. Toaster Oven
  A basket-style air fryer (like the Chefman and Cosori) is generally more compact, preheats faster, and often circulates air more intensely, making it superior for creating a deep-fried texture on foods like wings and fries. A toaster oven combo (like the Breville, Cuisinart, and Emeril) is far more versatile, offering a larger cooking area on multiple racks for baking, roasting, and toasting. If your main goal is air frying, a basket model is more efficient. If you want a multi-purpose appliance to replace your toaster and supplement your main oven, a combo oven is the better choice.

• Capacity and Household Size
  Capacity is critical to get right. For 1-2 people, a 5 to 6.5-quart model (like the Cosori) is perfect. For a family of 3-4, an 8-quart basket (Chefman) or a compact 0.6 cu. ft. oven (Cuisinart) is ideal. For large families of 5+ or those who entertain frequently, a large-capacity oven over 25 quarts (Emeril) is necessary to cook meals in a single batch.

• Control System: Analog vs. Digital vs. Smart
  Analog dials (like on the Cuisinart) are simple, reliable, and foolproof. Digital touchscreens (Chefman) offer more precision, presets, and helpful features like shake reminders. Smart app controls (Cosori) provide the ultimate convenience, with remote monitoring, notifications, and access to a vast library of guided recipes. Your choice depends entirely on your comfort level with technology.

• Cleaning and Maintenance
  Look for dishwasher-safe baskets and accessories—it’s a massive time-saver. For toaster ovens, a smooth stainless steel interior without too many seams is much easier to wipe clean. A removable crumb tray that slides out from the front is a non-negotiable feature for any oven-style model.

• Power and Temperature Range
  A power rating between 1700-1800 watts is the sweet spot for excellent performance in most home models. A high maximum temperature (like the 450°F offered by the Chefman and Cosori) is a fantastic bonus for getting a hard sear or an extra-crispy finish on your food.

FAQs About Stainless Steel Air Fryers

What is the safest material for an air fryer basket?

The safest materials for an air fryer basket are 100% stainless steel, glass, and high-quality, third-party tested ceramic that is certified to be free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. All of these options are inert and prevent your food from coming into contact with the chemicals found in traditional non-stick coatings.

Are all stainless steel air fryers 100% non-toxic?

Not necessarily. While the appliance’s body may be stainless steel, you must verify the material of the food-contact surfaces, such as the basket, trays, and racks. Some models with a stainless exterior still use a traditional non-stick coating on the inside. A truly non-toxic model will have either a full stainless steel interior or a certified PFAS-free ceramic cooking surface.

Is a stainless steel basket better than a non-stick one?

It depends on your priority. A stainless steel basket is guaranteed to be free of coating chemicals and is more durable, but food is more likely to stick, requiring more oil and effort to clean. A high-quality, PFAS-free ceramic non-stick basket (like on the Cosori) offers easy cleanup and non-stick convenience without the health risks of traditional coatings like Teflon.

How do you clean a stainless steel air fryer basket?

For tough, baked-on grease, the most effective method is to let the basket soak in hot, soapy water for about 20 minutes before scrubbing. Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to avoid scratching the steel. For regular day-to-day cleaning, most stainless steel baskets are perfectly safe to be placed in the dishwasher.

Do stainless steel air fryers cook food differently?

Yes, there is a slight difference. Stainless steel is excellent at retaining and radiating high heat, which can result in a harder, crispier texture on your food. You may find you need to use a little more oil or a slightly lower temperature compared to a non-stick surface to prevent sticking, especially with lean proteins or starchy foods.

What does PFAS-free mean for an air fryer?

PFAS-free means the non-stick coatings used on the cooking surfaces are manufactured without any Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. These chemicals, often called “forever chemicals,” have been linked to various health concerns. Choosing a model that is explicitly certified PFAS-free ensures these chemicals are not part of your cookware.

Is an air fryer toaster oven better than a basket air fryer?

Neither is inherently better; they are designed for different needs. A toaster oven is superior for its versatility—it can bake, roast, broil, and toast a wider variety of foods on multiple racks. A dedicated basket air fryer is typically better for pure air frying efficiency, often cooking faster and yielding crispier results in a more compact footprint.

What size air fryer do I need?

A good rule of thumb is 2-4 quarts for one person, 5-8 quarts for 2-4 people, and 10+ quarts (or a large oven model) for families of 5 or more. You should also consider the types of food you cook most often. For example, if you want to cook a whole rotisserie chicken, you’ll need at least a 6-quart capacity or an oven-style model.

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

Yes, but you must do so with caution to avoid blocking airflow. In a basket-style fryer, you can place a small piece of foil at the bottom of the basket, but ensure the sides are open so air can circulate. In an oven-style model, you can use foil on a baking pan, but it must never come into contact with the heating elements.

Are the racks in stainless steel air fryers also made of stainless steel?

In most high-quality models, yes, the included racks are also made of stainless steel. However, it’s something to verify, as some budget-oriented models might use chrome-plated steel for their accessories. Chrome-plating can chip or wear off over time, so 100% stainless steel components are preferable for long-term durability.

My Final Verdict

After weeks of intensive testing and analysis in February 2026, my goal was to find the stainless steel air fryers that perfectly balance material safety, cooking performance, and everyday convenience. While every model on this list is a fantastic choice for a specific user, one stood out as the best all-around performer for most people.

For those who want a do-it-all countertop appliance that excels at air frying without sacrificing the essential functions of a high-quality toaster oven, my top recommendation is clear.

Best Overall: The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven (TOA-70NAS) is the winner. It offers the ideal blend of powerful air frying with its AirAdvantage system, a safe stainless steel interior, and unique versatility with its included grill plate, all from a trusted brand at a fair price.

This model is perfect for you if…
* You want a multi-functional appliance that can air fry, toast, bake, and grill.
* A 100% stainless steel cooking interior is your top priority for health and safety.
* You value simple, intuitive analog controls over complex digital menus.
* You cook for 2-4 people and need a versatile, medium-capacity oven.

It might not be ideal for…
* Users who need to cook for a very large family.
* Those who want the latest smart technology and app control.

Best PFAS-Free Alternative: If your absolute number one priority is a guaranteed non-toxic cooking surface with the convenience of non-stick and modern features, I wholeheartedly recommend the Cosori Iconic Smart Air Fryer. Its certified PFAS-free ceramic basket, quiet operation, and sleek smart features make it the top choice for the modern, health-conscious cook.

Last update on 2026-02-03 at 10:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API