If you cook for one to four people, a 4 qt air fryer hits a sweet spot. It’s big enough for weeknight dinners, but small enough to fit on most countertops. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best air fryer 4 qt models, what they’re like to live with day to day, and which one fits your cooking style and budget.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 9 Air Fryer 4 Qt Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Chefman TurboX 4-in-1 5-Quart Air Fryer, Extra Crispy Results, Digital Controls, Dishwasher Safe Basket
The Chefman TurboX 5-quart air fryer gives you a bit more room than a standard 4 qt air fryer without taking over your counter. It heats fast, cooks very evenly, and really does deliver that “extra crispy” finish on wings, fries, and veggies. The digital top panel is simple enough that you can use it on autopilot after a day or two.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4-in-1 functions for air fry, bake, roast, and reheat so you can replace a few other small appliances
✓ Digital touch controls on the top with clear time and temperature settings up to 400°F
✓ Generous 5-quart basket that still feels compact, ideal if a true 4 qt air fryer sometimes feels too tight
✓ Dishwasher-safe basket and tray, which makes cleanup feel almost effortless
✓ Strong, even airflow that helps food brown all over instead of just on the edges
Why We Recommend It
This model hits a sweet spot between size, power, and ease of use. You get the speed and crunch people expect from an air fryer 4 qt category, with just a little extra capacity for bigger batches. If you like set-and-forget cooking and hate scrubbing, the nonstick basket and dishwasher-safe parts are a big win.
Best For
Best for small families or couples who cook several times a week and want one main air fryer for everyday meals. It is also a smart pick if you love crispy chicken wings and fries but want to cut back on deep-frying.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Roomy 5-quart capacity handles family-size portions better than many 4 qt air fryers
- Digital controls are intuitive and easy to read at a glance
- Produces very crispy results with little or no added oil
- Basket and tray are dishwasher safe, so cleanup is quick
Cons:
- Taller design may be a tight fit under very low cabinets
- No glass window, so you need to pull the basket out to check doneness
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Last Friday night I had a craving for extra-crispy chicken wings but didn’t want to fire up the oven or deep-fry and clean up a greasy mess. That’s when I reached for the Chefman TurboX 4-in-1 Air Fryer — and within minutes it turned a casual dinner idea into crispy, juicy reality without the guilt.”
Customer Review: “I love this air fryer. It’s very nice and modern looking. Easy to use and works great.”
2. Chefman 4 QT Compact Air Fryer with Hi-Fry Technology, Touchscreen Presets, Nonstick, Dishwasher Safe, Black
If you want a true air fryer 4 qt that still feels slim on the counter, this Chefman model is a strong pick. The Hi-Fry boost up to 450°F in the last couple of minutes helps you get that deep-fried crunch without drying food out. The touchscreen presets make it easy to cook the basics even if you are new to air frying.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4-quart capacity sized for 1–3 people without hogging counter space
✓ Hi-Fry technology that boosts heat to 450°F for extra crisp at the end of cooking
✓ Digital touchscreen with presets for common foods like fries, chicken, and fish
✓ Nonstick basket and tray that are both dishwasher safe
✓ Sleek, narrow design that looks modern and is easy to leave out on the counter
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the most balanced options if you want a compact 4 qt air fryer that still cooks fast and hot. The narrow footprint is ideal for small kitchens or shared spaces, and the Hi-Fry mode is a simple way to get better browning without guessing at settings. It feels like a good “everyday driver” for busy households.
Best For
Best for apartment kitchens, dorms, and anyone with limited counter space who still wants a powerful air fryer for daily use. It is also ideal if you like presets more than manual dials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact footprint while still offering a full 4 qt capacity
- Hi-Fry 450°F boost gives a great crisp finish on fries and wings
- Touchscreen presets are beginner-friendly and quick to use
- Basket and tray clean up easily in the dishwasher
Cons:
- Touchscreen can show fingerprints and smudges
- No viewing window, so you need to pull the basket out to check
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This air fryer is amazing. My round little red 2 quart air fryer finally bit the dust. I have a very small counter space and was concerned whether I could go higher than a 2 quart fryer. I use it the fryer sometimes multiple times a day so need to leave it out on the counter. After doing compariso”
Customer Review: “I absolutely love this! Got it half off on Black Friday. Very easy to use and clean. Microwaving pizza doesn’t do well, but you can warm it up in the air fryer in less time than it takes to warm up the oven! You can cook a chicken breast and it’ll be nice and juicy, not dried out. I like to cook bac”
3. BELLA 4QT Slim Air Fryer with EverGood Ceramic Nonstick, Adjustable Temperature, Presets, Auto Shutoff, Oatmilk
The BELLA 4QT Slim Air Fryer is a standout if you want a budget-friendly air fryer 4 qt that still looks good on the counter. Its slim body takes up less space than most, and the EverGood ceramic nonstick coating is a nice touch if you want to avoid traditional coatings. Despite the compact look, the basket holds enough food for a small family.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Slim, space-saving design that fits easily in tight kitchens or on shared counters
✓ EverGood ceramic nonstick coating free from PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium
✓ 4-quart XL basket that can hold up to 3.3 lbs of food for family-style meals
✓ Adjustable temperature and presets plus auto shutoff for safety
✓ Light weight, so it is easy to move in and out of a cabinet if you do not keep it out
Why We Recommend It
For the price, this is a very capable 4 qt air fryer. The ceramic coating and slim design make it feel more premium than most budget models. It is simple to use, heats fast enough for weeknight cooking, and the nonstick surface makes cleanup quick even without a dishwasher.
Best For
Best for budget-conscious buyers who still care about non-toxic coatings and a modern look. It is also great for singles and couples who want to cook full meals without a bulky appliance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price while still offering a full 4 qt capacity
- Slim profile saves space and looks stylish on the counter
- Ceramic nonstick coating is easy to clean and free of several common chemicals
- Auto shutoff adds a layer of safety if you get distracted
Cons:
- Manual-style controls and presets feel more basic than full digital panels
- Ceramic coating can wear faster if you use metal utensils or scrub pads
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is the perfect size for my needs. I cook for one and this efficient, slim air fryer more than meets my needs. It’s more compact than others, which was important to me, it simply works like a charm and it’s easy to clean! I’ve cooked 2 large chicken breasts that were perfectly roasted. I sliced “
Customer Review: “I can’t believe it took me so long to get this air fryer. For years I had this huge ugly one that didn’t fit in my pantry. This air fryer is perfect! It’s so sleek and fits in my pantry perfect and of course I love the fun color! It’s really easy to use and does a really good job. It’s also a lot qu”
4. Chefman 4 QT Compact Air Fryer with Hi-Fry Technology, Easy-View Window, Touch Presets, Dishwasher Safe, Black
This version of the Chefman 4 qt compact air fryer adds an easy-view window, so you can watch your food without opening the basket. It keeps the same Hi-Fry 450°F technology and slim body, but makes it easier to see when your fries or wings have hit that perfect golden color.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4-quart capacity ideal for 2–3 servings at a time
✓ Hi-Fry mode that pushes heat to 450°F for a crisp finish
✓ Easy-view window in the basket so you can check food without losing heat
✓ Touch presets for quick cooking of common dishes
✓ Dishwasher-safe basket and tray for easy cleaning
Why We Recommend It
If you like to keep an eye on your food, the viewing window is a simple but very helpful upgrade over many other air fryer 4 qt models. You get the same compact footprint and strong performance as the other Chefman, but with less guesswork. It is especially nice for baked goods or anything you do not want to over-brown.
Best For
Best for visual cooks who like to see food as it cooks, and for households that want a compact but flexible 4 qt air fryer with modern controls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Viewing window lets you monitor food without opening the basket
- Hi-Fry 450°F boost helps you get extra crispy textures
- Compact design works well in small kitchens
- Touchscreen interface with presets is easy to learn
Cons:
- Window can require extra wiping to keep clear and streak-free
- Touch controls may be less satisfying if you prefer simple knobs
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This air fryer is amazing. My round little red 2 quart air fryer finally bit the dust. I have a very small counter space and was concerned whether I could go higher than a 2 quart fryer. I use it the fryer sometimes multiple times a day so need to leave it out on the counter. After doing compariso”
Customer Review: “I absolutely love this! Got it half off on Black Friday. Very easy to use and clean. Microwaving pizza doesn’t do well, but you can warm it up in the air fryer in less time than it takes to warm up the oven! You can cook a chicken breast and it’ll be nice and juicy, not dried out. I like to cook bac”
5. Instant Pot Vortex 4QT 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Reheat, Custom Programs
The Instant Pot Vortex 4QT brings the brand’s pressure cooker smarts into the air fryer 4 qt space. It is a mini model, but still handles up to four servings, and the 6-in-1 functions cover most of what you would usually do with an oven. It heats quickly and does not need much preheating, which is great when you are hungry now.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6 cooking functions: air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, and reheat
✓ 4-quart capacity that suits 2–4 servings while saving counter space
✓ EvenCrisp technology for a deep-fried style crunch with very little oil
✓ Custom programs so you can save your favorite time and temp combos
✓ Fast preheat, often ready in just a couple of minutes
Why We Recommend It
If you already like Instant Pot products, this air fryer 4 qt will feel familiar and reliable. It is versatile enough to replace your toaster oven for many tasks, and the EvenCrisp technology does a good job of keeping food tender inside while crisp outside. It is a strong all-rounder for small homes.
Best For
Best for solo cooks and couples who want one compact appliance that can handle snacks, proteins, and reheating leftovers. It is also a good pick if you are short on time and want quick preheat and simple controls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 6-in-1 versatility replaces several small appliances
- EvenCrisp technology gives good crunch without over-drying food
- Compact but still fits 2 lbs of fries or similar portions
- Custom programs save time on recipes you cook often
Cons:
- Fan noise is noticeable in very quiet kitchens
- Control panel has a slight learning curve if you only used basic air fryers before
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Okay I’ll say right off, maybe I should get more friends! But as a man who is a self-styled amateur chef, I have been pining for one of these types of cookers for a couple of years now. I always find a way to squeeze in one more item on the countertop.I choose this model based on reviews, features a”
Customer Review: “This fryer is totally awesome. With the recent loss of my husband, I’m now cooking for one. It’s so much easier than the top of the stove, faster and cleaner. Now I’m not too worn out to eat what I fix; my chicken is crispier and takes so much less time. Wish it would have had a little cookbook with”
6. Gourmia 4 QT Air Fryer with FryForce 360°, 8 Digital Presets, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Dishwasher Safe
The Gourmia 4 qt air fryer is a compact workhorse with FryForce 360° technology, which is their way of saying it pushes hot air around food from all angles. It is sized for one or two people and has a simple digital panel with multiple presets, so it is easy to use even if you do not like fiddling with settings.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4-quart capacity that is ideal for quick snacks or meals for two
✓ FryForce 360° technology for even cooking and crisping with little oil
✓ 12 one-touch functions including air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, and reheat
✓ Compact design that does not take much counter space
✓ Dishwasher-safe basket for easy cleanup
Why We Recommend It
This is a good value air fryer 4 qt if you want lots of presets and solid performance without paying a premium. It is especially handy for frozen foods, reheating leftovers, and small-batch cooking. The even airflow helps avoid the half-soggy, half-burnt issue that some cheaper fryers have.
Best For
Best for small households that lean on frozen snacks, quick sides, and easy dinners. It is also a nice choice for first-time air fryer users who want many presets to guide them.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, easy to move or store
- FryForce 360° circulation gives even browning
- Plenty of one-touch functions for different foods
- Basket goes in the dishwasher for simple cleaning
Cons:
- Control labels can be small and hard to read from a distance
- Best for 1–2 people; larger families may outgrow the capacity
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Gourmia produce the best Air fryer. We use this product since 4 years. The 1st one was used for over 3 years and still was functional so we decided to bring in a brand new one of same product. It has lots of settings with clear display. It has large capacity, easy to use, easy to clean, its noise le”
Customer Review: “The whole family LOVES this air fryer! It just works, and the off-gassing air fryers always do, is VERY minimal. So far, everything we have tried cooking has come out well, if not perfectly. The unit comes up to temp quickly and cooks food very well. We are going to try spraying or brushing frie”
7. Ninja AF101 4 QT 4-in-1 Air Fryer, Crisp, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, Dishwasher Safe Parts, 1550W, Grey
The Ninja AF101 is one of the most popular air fryer 4 qt models for a reason. It is simple, tough, and does a great job at both crisping and dehydrating. The ceramic-coated basket is sturdy, and the 105°F–400°F range lets you do low-and-slow drying as well as high-heat frying.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4-in-1 functions: air crisp, roast, reheat, and dehydrate
✓ Wide temperature range from 105°F to 400°F for gentle drying or fast crisping
✓ 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate that fit about 2 lbs of fries
✓ Dishwasher-safe parts for easier cleanup
✓ Strong 1550W heating element for quick cooking
Why We Recommend It
This is a very dependable 4 qt air fryer that feels built to last. It may not have as many flashy presets as some competitors, but it excels at the basics: crisp fries, juicy chicken, and reliable reheating. The lower temperature range for dehydrating is a bonus if you want to make snacks like dried fruit or jerky.
Best For
Best for people who want a proven, no-nonsense air fryer that they will use for years. It is a solid choice for couples and small families who cook a wide range of foods.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Trusted Ninja build quality and performance
- Wide temperature range supports both frying and dehydrating
- Ceramic-coated basket is durable and easy to clean
- Simple controls with a short learning curve
Cons:
- Preheat is recommended and adds a few minutes before cooking
- Design is a bit bulkier than some newer slim 4 qt air fryers
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “It’s enough for my wife and me. Still learning what to cook or heat up with it, but it works exceptionally well. Had it 4 years now and it still cleans up very easy. No problems, no repairs, no regrets. We use it in our live-in 5th wheel and it’s our go-to favorite cooker or stove, micro and oven. W”
Customer Review: “I cannot say enough good things about this fryer! It’s large, has lots of settings, and is easy to use. I particularly like the extra crispy function and I often use that at the last couple minutes on things like fries, chicken, wings, and even sausage and peppers. It’s relatively easy to clean also”
8. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 4QT 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer, Crisps, Roasts, Dehydrates, Bakes, Reheats, In-App Recipes
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 4QT takes the core Vortex design and adds a more polished interface plus app-connected recipes. It is still a compact air fryer 4 qt, but with more guidance if you like step-by-step cooking help. Temperature control is precise, and the unit handles everything from low-temp dehydrating to high-heat roasting.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6 functions: air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, and reheat
✓ Adjustable temperature from 95°F to 400°F for a wide range of recipes
✓ One-touch settings and an intuitive touchscreen interface
✓ In-app recipes to help you try new dishes without guessing
✓ Compact size ideal for small kitchens or secondary homes
Why We Recommend It
This model is great if you like guided cooking and want your air fryer 4 qt to feel “smart” without being complicated. The in-app recipes and clear presets lower the barrier to trying new meals. It also cooks evenly and quickly, which is what matters most day to day.
Best For
Best for tech-friendly cooks, students, and busy parents who want simple one-touch cooking and recipe ideas. It is also a good match for smaller households that still want full 6-in-1 flexibility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide temperature range supports crisping and dehydrating
- In-app recipes make it easy to explore new meals
- Compact footprint with good internal capacity
- Touchscreen controls are clear and modern
Cons:
- App features are optional but can feel like extra clutter if you never use them
- Exterior can get warm around the vents during long, high-heat cooks
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Okay I’ll say right off, maybe I should get more friends! But as a man who is a self-styled amateur chef, I have been pining for one of these types of cookers for a couple of years now. I always find a way to squeeze in one more item on the countertop.I choose this model based on reviews, features a”
Customer Review: “This fryer is totally awesome. With the recent loss of my husband, I’m now cooking for one. It’s so much easier than the top of the stove, faster and cleaner. Now I’m not too worn out to eat what I fix; my chicken is crispier and takes so much less time. Wish it would have had a little cookbook with”
9. Ninja Crispi FN101GY 4QT Glass Air Fryer, 450°F Max Crisp, Non-Toxic Glass Containers, Bake, Recrisp, Gray
The Ninja Crispi FN101GY is a fresh take on the air fryer 4 qt idea. Instead of a metal basket, it uses glass containers, which many people prefer for a non-toxic, easy-to-see cooking surface. The PowerPod base drives up to 450°F for max crisp, and you get both a 6-cup container for quick personal meals and a 4-quart container for larger batches.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ All-in-one system with a Crispi PowerPod plus 4-qt and 6-cup CleanCrisp glass containers
✓ Non-toxic glass containers that do not use traditional nonstick coatings
✓ 450°F max crisp capability for very crunchy textures
✓ Small container for fast personal meals and larger one for family portions
✓ Containers double as storage with included lids
Why We Recommend It
If you are wary of coatings and prefer glass, this is one of the most interesting options in the 4 qt air fryer space. Being able to see your food through the glass is surprisingly helpful, and the 450°F max crisp setting gives you restaurant-level crunch. The fact that the containers can go from cooking to storage is a nice bonus.
Best For
Best for health-conscious buyers who want non-toxic materials and for anyone who likes to batch cook and store leftovers in the same container. It is also great if you want a very crisp finish on foods like potatoes and wings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Glass containers are non-toxic and easy to see through
- 450°F max crisp delivers excellent browning and crunch
- Two container sizes add flexibility for solo or family cooking
- Containers can be used for both cooking and fridge storage
Cons:
- Glass containers are heavier and can break if dropped
- System is a bit different from standard basket air fryers, so there is a learning curve
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this machine. I didn’t think I would – but I do. I don’t like owning a lot of kitchen devices as I have a small kitchen. Additionally, I think people often buy the newest fad and then the machine doesn’t get used. I limit myself to the bare necessities in kitchen appliances. “
Customer Review: “I love this air fryer. It checks every box: nontoxic glass, easy to use, fast, even cooking, compact, and practical. It’s an excellent device. Tip: cook 1–2 minutes under the suggested time, shake or flip the food, then add more time if needed.”
Complete Buying Guide for Air Fryer 4 Qt
Essential Factors We Consider
When we compare each air fryer 4 qt, we look at a few key things. First is capacity versus footprint: you want enough space for your food without losing all your counter. A 4 qt air fryer should fit 2 lbs of fries or a few chicken breasts without crowding.
Next is ease of use. Clear buttons, readable labels, and simple presets matter more than you think on a busy weeknight. We also look at temperature range and power. Models that reach 400–450°F with strong airflow tend to give better crisp results. Finally, we check cleanup. Removable baskets, dishwasher-safe parts, and good nonstick or glass surfaces make it more likely you will use the fryer every day.
Budget Planning
You can find a solid 4 qt air fryer in almost every price range. Budget models like the BELLA keep costs low by using simpler controls, but still cook well. Mid-range options from Chefman and Gourmia add digital screens, Hi-Fry or 360° airflow, and slimmer designs. Premium models from Ninja and Instant Pot layer on more features, like dehydrating, app recipes, and special materials such as ceramic or glass.
Think about how often you will use the fryer. If you plan to cook with it most days, paying a bit more for stronger build quality, better coatings, and extra features can be worth it over time. If you just want to test the idea of air frying, a budget 4 qt air fryer is an easy way to start.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right air fryer 4 qt comes down to your kitchen, your habits, and what you like to cook. If you want maximum crunch and a little extra room, the Chefman TurboX is hard to beat. If space is tight, the slim Chefman and BELLA models shine. For tech lovers, the Instant Pot Vortex line offers lots of guidance and presets, while Ninja’s options focus on power and durability.
Once you know how much space you have and how many people you cook for, use the pros and cons above to match a model to your needs. Any of these air fryers can help you cook faster, with less oil, and with far less cleanup than a full oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a 4 qt air fryer big enough for a family?
A: A 4 qt air fryer is ideal for one to three people. You can cook about 2 lbs of fries or a few chicken breasts at once. For four or more people, you may need to cook in batches or look at a larger 5–6 qt model.
Q: Do I need to preheat an air fryer 4 qt?
A: Many models work best with a short preheat, usually 2–5 minutes. Some brands, like Instant Pot Vortex, heat so quickly that preheating is minimal. Check your manual, but as a rule, preheating helps food crisp more evenly.
Q: Can I put foil or parchment paper in a 4 qt air fryer?
A: Yes, you can use foil or parchment paper in most 4 qt air fryers, as long as you leave room for air to flow and keep paper weighed down with food. Never cover the entire basket so tightly that air cannot circulate.
Q: How do I clean an air fryer 4 qt?
A: Let the unit cool, then remove the basket and tray. Most of the models above have dishwasher-safe parts. If you hand-wash, use warm soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid metal tools or harsh scrubbers, especially on nonstick or ceramic coatings.
Q: What can I cook in a 4 qt air fryer?
A: Almost anything you would bake or shallow-fry. Fries, wings, nuggets, salmon, chicken thighs, vegetables, frozen snacks, reheated pizza, and even small batches of cookies or baked goods all work well in a 4 qt air fryer.
Finding the right air fryer 4 qt can make weeknight cooking faster, lighter, and a lot more fun. Take another look at the comparison table, pick the model that best fits your space and habits, and start with a simple recipe like fries or chicken wings. Once you see how easy it is, you may find yourself using your oven a lot less. When you are ready, click through to check the latest price on the air fryer that caught your eye and bring crisp, quick meals into your kitchen.