If you want crispy fries, juicy chicken, and easy weeknight dinners without heating up the whole kitchen, a 5 qt air fryer (or close to it) is a sweet spot. It’s big enough for 2–4 people, but still compact for most countertops. Below, you’ll find our expert-tested picks, all around the 4–6 quart range, that perform like a solid air fryer 5 qt for everyday use.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Air Fryer 5 Qt Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Chefman 6-Quart Compact Air Fryer with Hi-Fry Technology, 4 Presets, Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Basket, Black
This Chefman feels like a “do it all” air fryer 5 qt option with a bit of extra room. The 6-quart basket is roomy, but the body stays slim, so it still fits on small counters. The Hi-Fry button is handy when you want that last-minute crunch on fries or wings.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6-quart capacity works like a generous 5 qt air fryer for families of 3–4
✓ Hi-Fry Technology up to 450°F for extra crispy finishes in the last two minutes
✓ Simple digital touch screen with 4 presets for everyday foods
✓ Nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket for quick cleanup
✓ Narrow, stylish design that takes up less counter space
Why We Recommend It
If you want one machine that can handle snacks, full dinners, and reheats, this is a strong pick. It heats fast, cooks evenly, and the extra-high heat setting makes a real difference when you like your food very crispy.
Best For
Best for families or roommates who want a reliable, roomy air fryer that still feels compact. Great if you cook several times a day and need something easy to clean.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Roomy 6-qt basket fits more than a standard 5 qt air fryer
- Hi-Fry 450°F setting adds crunch without drying food out
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket simplifies cleanup
- Compact footprint for the capacity you get
Cons:
- Only 4 presets, so you’ll adjust time and temp more often
- Exterior can get warm during long, high-heat cooks
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Got for college, best air fryer I’ve ever used. My four roommates also use it and we’re all obsessed with it. It cooks things fast, thoroughly, and efficiently. It’s large so it holds plenty of food, and it’s extremely easy to clean. You just use your finger to pull out the basket and then wash it,
Customer Review: My very first Air Fryer. Very simple to use. Cleanup is easy and fast after using. Cooks well. I’ve tried cooking and reheating and does both very quickly. The High-Fry button is great to provide crispyness to whatever one is cooking. I would definitely buy again as I’m please with the operation and
2. West Bend 5-Quart Compact Air Fryer with Digital LCD Controls, 10 Presets, Nonstick Basket, 1500W, Black
This West Bend is a classic air fryer 5 qt pick with a very user-friendly layout. The 10 presets and shake reminder take the guesswork out of cooking, so you can toss in wings or fries and let it guide you. It’s also quite compact for a 5-quart basket.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ True 5-quart capacity, ideal for 2–3 people
✓ 10 one-touch presets for fries, chicken, frozen food, bake, and more
✓ Shake reminder for more even browning on fries and nuggets
✓ Temperature range from 90°F to 400°F for gentle reheats and crisp cooking
✓ Nonstick basket that is easy to wipe or wash
Why We Recommend It
This feels like the most “set it and forget it” air fryer in the lineup. If you’re new to air frying, the presets and reminders help you avoid undercooked or soggy food. It also heats up fast and cooks very evenly for its size.
Best For
Best for beginners or busy households that want a straightforward, compact 5 qt air fryer with lots of presets and minimal learning curve.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 10 presets cover most everyday meals and snacks
- Shake reminder improves crispness without babysitting
- Compact footprint but still a full 5-quart basket
- Simple LCD controls with clear icons and times
Cons:
- Basket size can feel tight for larger families
- No extra-high 450°F mode like some competitors
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: We’ve had our air fryer since 2024 and use it almost every day. It is not the largest one, but it cooks really well. We toast bread in it, make chicken wings, thaw chicken in it, bacon is easy to cook in it. We like to use liners in ours to keep the mess/grease to a minimum but don’t preheat the f
Customer Review: The title says it all. This is a smaller air fryer but does the job perfectly without taking up much space. Air frys right, has been a blast exploring new foods to use it for, and best of all it’s easy to clean. I support tin foil inside for that added touch to keep it clean. Been using it for month
3. Ninja 4-in-1 Pro 5-Quart Air Fryer, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, 400°F Max, Nonstick Basket, AF141 Grey
This Ninja gives you a true 5-quart air fryer with strong performance and simple functions. Air Crisp Technology pushes 400°F air around your food for fast, even browning. It is big enough for a couple of pounds of fries or wings, yet still easy to store.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Air Crisp Technology for hot, crispy results with little to no oil
✓ 5-quart nonstick basket and crisper plate fit up to 4 lbs of fries or 5 lbs of wings
✓ 4-in-1 functions: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
✓ Nonstick, easy-to-clean basket and plate
✓ Simple controls, ideal if you dislike overly complicated menus
Why We Recommend It
This is a great value pick if you want consistent results and a trusted brand. It does not have dozens of modes, but the ones it does have work very well, especially for classic air fryer meals like chicken, veggies, and frozen snacks.
Best For
Best for budget-conscious buyers who still want a strong, reliable 5 qt air fryer from a well-known brand. Great for couples and small families.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent crisping performance for fries and wings
- Large capacity for a standard 5-qt footprint
- Dehydrate mode adds extra versatility for snacks
- Nonstick parts make cleanup quick
Cons:
- Fewer presets than some other models
- No window to see food without opening the basket
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
4. Chefman TurboX 4-in-1 5-Quart Air Fryer for Extra Crispy Chicken, Fries, Wings, Bake, Reheat, Dishwasher-Safe
The Chefman TurboX is built for people who love very crispy food. As a 5-quart air fryer, it has enough space for wings, fries, and small sheet-pan style meals. The top digital controls are easy to reach, and the dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup painless.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Designed for extra crispy results with less oil than deep frying
✓ 4-in-1 functions: Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, and more
✓ Digital top-facing control panel up to 400°F
✓ 5-quart capacity fits meals for 2–3 people
✓ Dishwasher-safe basket for quick cleanup
Why We Recommend It
If your main goal with an air fryer 5 qt is crispy chicken, fries, and wings, this one hits the mark. It cooks fast, browns evenly, and the controls are simple enough to use without reading the manual twice.
Best For
Best for people who mostly cook classic “fried” foods and want a straightforward, mid-sized air fryer that lives on the counter.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great crisping performance on wings and fries
- Simple 4-in-1 functionality without cluttered menus
- Top-mounted controls are easy to see and press
- Basket and tray are dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- No advanced presets for specific foods
- Can be a bit loud at full power
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
5. Chefman TurboX 4-in-1 5-Quart Air Fryer, Extra Crispy Results, Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Frozen, Digital Controls, Gray
This gray version of the Chefman TurboX gives you the same 5-quart performance with a more modern, neutral look. It focuses on core tasks like air frying, baking, reheating, and frozen foods, without overwhelming you with options.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5-quart basket sized right for a typical air fryer 5 qt use case
✓ 4-in-1 functions: Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Frozen
✓ Digital touch controls up to 400°F
✓ Designed for extra crispy cooking with less oil
✓ Nonstick, easy-clean interior
Why We Recommend It
If you want a clean-looking appliance that you can leave out on the counter, this is a nice balance of style and function. It is also a good choice if you cook a lot of frozen foods and want them to come out crisp instead of soggy.
Best For
Best for small households that want a stylish, mid-sized air fryer 5 qt alternative with simple controls and strong crisping.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek gray design blends into modern kitchens
- Good crisping on frozen foods and snacks
- Easy-to-use digital interface
- Nonstick interior is simple to clean
Cons:
- No extra cooking rack or accessories included
- Limited number of presets compared to some rivals
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: After many months of using it, it still works! It’s good quality even though it is cheap. I would say it’s the size of your average airfryer. It is easy to use, has a sleek design, and easy to clean! It’s nonstick!
Customer Review: This is worth the counter space it takes, a new cookbook and trial without errors! The instructions are simple and straightforward. The results like French fries, croutons and “baked” apples are so easy. I bought liners that make cleanup simple.
6. Chefman TurboFry Touch 5-Quart Air Fryer, Large Family Size, One-Touch Presets, Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Parts, Stainless Steel
The TurboFry Touch takes the classic air fryer 5 qt idea and adds a sleek stainless finish and one-touch presets. It is made to cook with 98% less oil while still giving you that fried feel. The LED shake reminder helps you get even crisping without hovering over it.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5-quart capacity suited for small families
✓ Uses up to 98% less oil than deep frying
✓ Four one-touch presets for fries, chicken, fish, and meat
✓ LED shake reminder with alarm for even browning
✓ Nonstick, dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup
Why We Recommend It
This is a nice all-rounder if you care about both looks and ease of use. The presets cover most everyday meals, and the shake reminder is a small feature that actually makes a big difference in how your food turns out.
Best For
Best for families who want a modern-looking 5 qt air fryer that is simple enough for everyone in the house to use, including teens.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Attractive stainless design matches other appliances
- One-touch presets reduce guesswork
- Shake reminder improves texture and crispness
- Parts are dishwasher-safe and nonstick
Cons:
- Only four presets; advanced cooks may want more control
- Can take up a bit more counter space than very compact models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: The Chefman 8 Qt TurboFry has been a great addition to my kitchen. The 450°F Hi-Fry setting really makes a difference — fries and wings come out extra crispy without drying out.The 8-quart capacity is perfect for families or meal prep. I can cook a full batch of chicken or multiple servings at once,
Customer Review: I was looking for an air fryer, something at least mid-range, and this one really stood out, while I didn’t find many reviews outside of just Amazon, what I did see was largely positive. Its been less than a week, but I’m happy I bought this, especially the luck of it going on sale. The air fryer ha
7. Ninja XL Single Basket 5.5-Quart Air Fryer, 5-in-1 Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, Dishwasher-Safe, AF150AMZ
This Ninja XL stretches a bit beyond a standard air fryer 5 qt with its 5.5-quart basket. It is built for bigger batches, so you can cook up to 3 lbs of fries or wings in one go. With 5 cooking functions, it can replace your toaster oven for many tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5.5-quart nonstick basket and crisper plate for family-sized portions
✓ 5-in-1 functions: Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate
✓ Up to 75% less fat than deep frying, independently tested
✓ Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
✓ Strong, even heating for large batches
Why We Recommend It
If you often cook for 3–5 people, this feels like the right size. It handles family dinners better than a tight 4-quart model, and Ninja’s heating system is very consistent, even when the basket is full.
Best For
Best for families or meal preppers who want a roomy basket and multi-function cooking in one appliance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Larger than a standard 5 qt air fryer without being huge
- Versatile 5-in-1 cooking modes
- Very good at crisping large batches evenly
- Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleanup
Cons:
- Takes more counter space than compact units
- Price can be higher than basic 5 qt models
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. Gourmia 6-Quart Air Fryer with FryForce 360°, Digital Display, 12 Presets, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Black
This Gourmia stretches above a standard air fryer 5 qt with a 6-quart basket, but the feel and use case are similar. FryForce 360° Technology circulates hot air all around your food, so fries, nuggets, and veggies come out crisp without much oil.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6-quart capacity serves 3–4 people easily
✓ 12 one-touch presets for air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, and more
✓ FryForce 360° Technology for even, crispy results
✓ Digital display that is clear and simple to read
✓ Nonstick basket that is easy to clean
Why We Recommend It
If you like having lots of preset programs, this is one of the most flexible options. It feels like a step up from a basic 5 qt air fryer, especially if you cook different types of food through the week.
Best For
Best for families who want a slightly larger basket, many presets, and a versatile machine that can handle snacks, full meals, and dehydrating.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large 6-qt capacity without a huge footprint
- 12 presets make cooking very simple
- FryForce 360° gives even browning
- Good value for the feature set
Cons:
- More presets can feel overwhelming at first
- Controls and beeps may be a bit bright/loud for some
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
9. Bella 4-Quart Slim Air Fryer, Fits-Anywhere Design, EverGood Ceramic Nonstick, 6 Presets, 60-Min Auto Shutoff, Oatmilk
This Bella is a bit smaller than a standard air fryer 5 qt, but the slim design makes it perfect for tiny kitchens. The 4-quart basket still holds up to 3.3 lbs of food, and the EverGood ceramic nonstick coating is free of PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Slim, fits-anywhere design for tight counters
✓ 4-quart basket with XL capacity up to 3.3 lbs of food
✓ EverGood ceramic nonstick coating, PFAS/PFOA/PTFE-free
✓ 6 presets and 60-minute auto shutoff for safety
✓ Light and easy to move or store
Why We Recommend It
If you cook for one or two people and are short on space, this can be a smarter choice than a big 5 qt air fryer. The ceramic coating is also a plus if you try to avoid traditional nonstick chemicals.
Best For
Best for singles, couples, or dorms where counter space is limited but you still want quick, crispy meals and snacks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very slim design fits small kitchens and pantries
- Ceramic nonstick coating without common PFAS chemicals
- Good capacity for 1–2 people despite the compact size
- Auto shutoff adds peace of mind
Cons:
- Smaller than a true 5 qt air fryer, so less ideal for families
- Ceramic coating needs gentle care to stay pristine
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
10. Chefman 4-Quart Compact Air Fryer with Hi-Fry Technology, 4 Touchscreen Presets, Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Basket, Black
This Chefman 4-quart model is a smaller cousin to our top pick. It still offers Hi-Fry Technology up to 450°F, but in a more compact body. If a full air fryer 5 qt feels a bit big for your space, this is a nice middle ground.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4-quart capacity, ideal for one or two people
✓ Hi-Fry Technology boosts heat to 450°F for extra crunch
✓ 4 touchscreen presets for everyday foods
✓ Slim, narrow design that saves counter space
✓ Nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket for easy cleanup
Why We Recommend It
This one is great if you like the idea of a hot, fast air fryer but do not need to cook big family meals. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and the Hi-Fry boost is great when you want your food extra crispy.
Best For
Best for singles or couples who want a compact alternative to a 5 qt air fryer, with strong crisping power and simple controls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very compact footprint for small kitchens
- Hi-Fry 450°F setting adds crunch to many foods
- Basket is dishwasher-safe and easy to clean
- Simple interface with just four presets
Cons:
- Too small for larger families or batch cooking
- Fewer presets and modes than larger models
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
Complete Buying Guide for Air Fryer 5 Qt
Essential Factors We Consider
When we look at a 5 qt air fryer (or similar size), we focus on a few key things. First is capacity: around 5 quarts is ideal for 2–4 people. You want enough room to spread food out so it crisps, not steams. Next is heat range and power. Models that reach 400°F or even 450°F tend to give better browning and faster cook times.
We also look at controls and presets. Simple digital panels with clear buttons are easier to live with than confusing menus. Presets are handy, but they should not lock you out of manual control. Finally, we pay close attention to cleanup. Dishwasher-safe, nonstick baskets and crisper plates make daily use much easier.
Budget Planning
You can find a solid air fryer 5 qt in a wide price range. Budget models usually offer basic air fry and bake modes with fewer presets. Mid-range options add better build quality, more functions, and extras like shake reminders. Premium units may include higher max temps, smarter presets, or extra accessories.
Think about how often you will use it. If you plan to cook with it several times a week, spending a bit more on a reliable, easy-to-clean model often pays off. If you are just testing the waters, a simpler, more affordable unit can still give you that crispy air-fried texture.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right air fryer 5 qt comes down to your space, your household size, and how you like to cook. If you have a bigger family or love leftovers, lean toward 5.5–6 quarts. If you cook for one or two and have limited counter space, a 4–5 quart slim model will feel more comfortable.
No matter which you pick, look for strong, even heating, a basket that is easy to wash, and controls that feel natural to you. That way, your air fryer becomes a tool you reach for every day, not something that collects dust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a 5 qt air fryer big enough for a family?
A: A 5 qt air fryer is usually enough for 2–3 people, or 4 light eaters. If you often cook full meals for 4 or more, consider a 5.5–6 quart model so you do not have to cook in multiple batches.
Q: What can I cook in a 5 quart air fryer?
A: You can cook fries, wings, chicken breasts, salmon, veggies, frozen snacks, and even small bakes or desserts. Many people also use their air fryer to reheat leftovers, since it keeps food crisp instead of soggy.
Q: Do I need to preheat an air fryer 5 qt?
A: Many models work better with a short preheat, usually 3–5 minutes. Some units have a built-in preheat or just heat so fast that you can skip it for simple foods. For best crisping, a quick preheat is helpful.
Q: How much counter space does a 5 qt air fryer need?
A: Most 5 qt air fryers need about the same footprint as a small toaster oven. Slim models take up less depth and can sit in tighter spots. Always leave a bit of space behind and above the unit for airflow.
Q: Are air fryer baskets dishwasher-safe?
A: Many modern air fryer 5 qt models have dishwasher-safe baskets and trays, but not all. Check the manual for your specific unit. Even if they are dishwasher-safe, hand washing with a soft sponge will help nonstick coatings last longer.
Finding the right air fryer 5 qt can make weeknight cooking faster, easier, and a lot more fun. Whether you want the roomy Chefman 6-Quart, the compact West Bend 5-Quart, or a slim Bella for tiny spaces, there is an option that fits your kitchen and your budget. Take a closer look at the models above, compare what matters most to you, and click “Check Price on Amazon” to grab the one that matches your cooking style today.