You crave crispy fries and tender pressure-cooked stews, but your countertop is already crowded. The Instant Pot Duo Crisp air fryer line promises to replace a dozen appliances with one sleek machine. In this review, we compare the best models from Instant Pot and other trusted brands to help you decide which multi-cooker fits your cooking style.

From the versatile 11-in-1 Duo Crisp to the compact Vortex Mini, we evaluate key features that matter for daily use. We also consider the Chefman air fryer as a budget-friendly alternative. For more air fryer comparisons, check our air fryer category page.

1
Best Seller

Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer Pressure

InstantPot
9.8 /10
AI Score
AI score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the AI tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more ›
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8QT combines pressure cooking speed with air frying crispiness in one versatile appliance, offering 11 cooking functions and family-sized capacity. Perfect for busy households and meal preppers who want faster cooking without sacrificing texture and flavor.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional versatility with 11 cooking modes eliminates the need for multiple appliances
  • Impressive speed advantage cuts cooking time significantly compared to traditional methods
  • Large 8-quart capacity makes it ideal for families and serious meal preppers
  • Durable stainless-steel construction with professional-grade materials ensures long-term reliability
  • Comprehensive safety features including 10+ protection mechanisms provide peace of mind

Cons

  • Higher upfront cost compared to single-function pressure cookers or air fryers
  • Larger footprint requires substantial counter or storage space
  • Steeper learning curve to master all 11 functions and achieve optimal results
Detailed Review

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8QT is a hybrid cooking powerhouse that combines pressure cooking, air frying, and 9 other cooking methods in a single appliance. It's designed for families, meal preppers, and home cooks who want speed, versatility, and quality results without cluttering their kitchen with multiple gadgets.

What sets this model apart is its dual-lid system that lets you switch between pressure cooking and air frying without swapping bases. The air fryer lid uses EvenCrisp technology to deliver crispy results with 95% less oil than traditional deep frying, while the pressure cooker lid can cook meals up to 70% faster than slow cooking. The 8-quart capacity is genuinely family-sized, making it practical for cooking for 6-8 people or preparing multiple meals at once.

Build quality is solid throughout. The inner pot features professional-grade 18/8 stainless steel with a tri-ply bottom that works on stovetops and in ovens. The silicone handles are ergonomic and stay cool during cooking. All pressure-cooking components and the inner pot are dishwasher-safe, though hand washing is recommended for longevity. The device includes 1500 watts of power and meets all safety certifications with over 10 protective mechanisms.

The main drawback is the learning curve. With 11 functions and customizable smart programs, new users may need time to explore features and understand which mode works best for different recipes. The included free app with 800+ recipes helps significantly. Additionally, the larger footprint means you'll need dedicated counter or storage space, and the initial investment is higher than single-function appliances.

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8QT is an excellent choice for households that value convenience, speed, and cooking flexibility. If you regularly cook for groups, enjoy meal prepping, or want to replace multiple appliances with one reliable device, this is a worthwhile investment that delivers on its promises.

Specifications

Capacity: 8 quarts
Power: 1500 watts, 120V 60Hz
Material: Stainless steel (18/8) inner pot with tri-ply bottom
Cooking Functions: 11 modes including air fry, pressure cook, slow cook, roast, bake, dehydrate, sauté, steam, sterilize, warm, and rice cook
Air Fryer Temperature Range: 70°F (21°C) to 450°F (232°C)
Included Accessories: Air fryer lid, pressure cooker lid, air fryer basket, air fryer basket base, broil and dehydrator tray, steam rack, stainless-steel inner pot, protective pad, and storage cover
Dishwasher Safe: Pressure cooking lid and inner pot
Safety Features: 10+ safety mechanisms including overheat protection and easy seal safety lid lock
Certifications: UL and ULC listed

Buyer Guide

Who Should Buy This? The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8QT is ideal for families of 6 or more, meal prep enthusiasts, and home cooks who want multiple cooking methods in one appliance. It's also great for anyone with limited kitchen space who wants to eliminate countertop clutter from separate devices.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere? If you live alone or cook for 1-2 people consistently, the 8-quart size may be overkill. Consider smaller capacity models. If you only need pressure cooking or air frying, dedicated single-function appliances may be more affordable.

Key Considerations: Ensure you have adequate counter or storage space for this larger appliance. Plan to spend time learning the 11 functions through the included app and recipe guide. The investment is higher upfront but eliminates the need to buy separate pressure cookers, air fryers, slow cookers, and dehydrators.

Maintenance Tips: Hand wash the lids for maximum durability. The inner pot and pressure cooking lid are dishwasher-safe but hand washing extends their lifespan. Store in a dry location and keep the storage cover included to protect against dust.

2
Editor's Pick

Instant Pot Vortex 6QT XL Air Fryer

Instant Pot
9.5 /10
AI Score
AI score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the AI tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more ›
The Instant Pot Vortex 6QT is a versatile 4-in-1 air fryer that delivers crispy results with 95% less oil than traditional frying, making it ideal for families seeking healthier meals and quick cleanup. With a spacious 6-quart capacity, intuitive touchscreen controls, and over 100 in-app recipes, it simplifies weeknight cooking and meal prep.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Large 6-quart capacity handles family meals and meal prep efficiently without multiple batches
  • EvenCrisp Technology delivers consistently crispy results with significantly less oil than traditional frying
  • Four versatile cooking functions eliminate the need for multiple kitchen appliances
  • Intuitive touchscreen interface and one-touch presets make cooking accessible to all skill levels
  • Dishwasher-safe basket and non-stick design reduce cleanup time and effort

Cons

  • 6-quart size requires substantial counter space, which may not suit smaller kitchens
  • Learning curve with in-app recipe navigation may be necessary for some users unfamiliar with connected appliances
  • Limited temperature range (120-400°F) may not suit specialized cooking techniques requiring higher heat
Detailed Review

The Instant Pot Vortex 6QT XL Air Fryer is a multi-functional countertop appliance designed for families and busy households seeking healthier cooking alternatives. With its generous 6-quart capacity, it handles family-sized portions, meal prep batches, and entertaining with ease. This appliance is ideal for anyone looking to reduce oil consumption while maintaining the crispy, delicious textures they love.

The standout feature is EvenCrisp Technology, which achieves 95% less oil usage than traditional deep frying without sacrificing crispiness. The 4-in-1 functionality spans air frying, baking, roasting, and reheating, consolidating multiple kitchen tools into one device. The 1700-watt motor delivers powerful, consistent performance, while the adjustable temperature range of 120 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit accommodates everything from gentle reheating to high-heat crisping. One-touch preset buttons and an intuitive touchscreen simplify operation, and the inclusion of 100+ in-app recipes removes guesswork from meal planning.

Build quality is solid with a non-stick basket that resists sticking and is dishwasher-safe for convenient cleanup. The compact footprint relative to its capacity makes it practical for most countertops, though the 6-quart size does require meaningful counter real estate. Safety features including overheat protection and automatic shutoff provide peace of mind during extended cooking sessions.

The main drawback is the learning curve associated with navigating the app-based recipe system, particularly for users less comfortable with connected kitchen appliances. Additionally, while the 400-degree maximum temperature handles most cooking tasks, some specialized techniques may require higher heat. The size, while spacious, may challenge those with limited kitchen space.

The Instant Pot Vortex 6QT delivers exceptional value for families prioritizing healthier cooking, meal efficiency, and simplified cleanup. Its combination of capacity, versatility, and proven brand reliability makes it a smart investment for households ready to upgrade their cooking routine.

Specifications

Capacity: 6 quarts (serves up to 6 portions)

Power: 1700 watts, 120V 60Hz, ETL Certified

Temperature Range: 120 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (49 to 205 degrees Celsius)

Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, reheat

Control Type: Touchscreen with one-touch presets

Basket: Non-stick, dishwasher-safe

Preheat Time: Minimal to none depending on function

In-App Recipes: 100+ guided recipes included

Safety Features: Overheat protection, automatic shutoff

Brand: Instant Pot

Buyer Guide

Is this right for you? The Vortex 6QT works best for families of 4 or more, meal preppers, or anyone seeking a versatile appliance that reduces oil consumption. If you have limited counter space or cook primarily for one to two people, a smaller capacity model may be more suitable.

Key considerations: Ensure you have adequate counter space for the 6-quart footprint. Familiarize yourself with the mobile app to maximize the 100+ recipe library. If you prefer traditional dial controls over touchscreen interfaces, this model may require an adjustment period.

Maintenance: The dishwasher-safe basket simplifies cleaning significantly. Wipe the exterior regularly and ensure proper ventilation around the appliance during operation.

Compare with alternatives: This model stands out for its large capacity and 4-in-1 functionality at its price point. Other Instant Pot air fryer models offer smaller capacities with reduced versatility, while standalone air fryers from other brands may lack the recipe app integration and Instant Pot brand reputation.

3
Limited Time

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer

Instant Pot
9.9 /10
AI Score
AI score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the AI tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more ›
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus is a versatile 6-quart air fryer that combines air frying, roasting, broiling, baking, reheating, and dehydrating in one appliance. Its standout features include EvenCrisp technology for 95% less oil, an odor-eliminating filter system, and a clear viewing window for hands-off monitoring, making it ideal for families seeking healthier cooking with minimal cleanup.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional versatility with six cooking modes eliminates the need for multiple appliances
  • Powerful 1700W performance delivers consistent, evenly-crisped results every time
  • Innovative OdorErase technology prevents lingering cooking smells throughout your home
  • Large 6-quart capacity perfect for meal prep, families, or entertaining guests
  • User-friendly touchscreen controls and 100+ in-app recipes make cooking accessible to all skill levels

Cons

  • Larger footprint requires substantial counter or storage space in smaller kitchens
  • Learning curve on customizable presets and advanced functions may take time for beginners
Detailed Review

The Instant Pot Vortex Plus is a 6-quart air fryer designed for families and home cooks seeking healthier, faster meal preparation without sacrificing taste or convenience. This multi-function appliance combines air frying, roasting, broiling, baking, reheating, and dehydrating capabilities into one sleek unit, making it an excellent choice for those looking to consolidate kitchen appliances.

The standout feature is its EvenCrisp technology, which delivers crispy, golden results using 95% less oil than traditional deep frying. The ClearCook visibility window allows you to monitor your food without opening the basket and interrupting the cooking cycle, while the innovative OdorErase air filtration system eliminates lingering cooking odors that typically plague air fryer kitchens. The 1700W power output ensures consistent, reliable performance across all cooking modes.

Design and build quality are solid, with an intuitive touchscreen interface and stainless steel construction that feels durable and premium. The 6-quart capacity handles family-sized portions effortlessly, and the dishwasher-safe cooking baskets make cleanup straightforward. Six customizable presets let you save your favorite settings for repeated use, while the included 100+ in-app recipes provide endless meal inspiration.

The main consideration is the appliance's size, which requires adequate counter or storage space in smaller kitchens. Additionally, new users may need time to explore all functions and customize presets to their preferences, though the touchscreen controls keep the learning curve manageable.

Overall, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus delivers exceptional value as a versatile, high-performing air fryer with thoughtful features like odor elimination and easy monitoring. It is an excellent investment for families prioritizing healthier cooking, convenience, and minimal cleanup.

Key Features Explained

EvenCrisp Technology: This innovative cooking system ensures food crisps evenly with significantly less oil than traditional deep frying, delivering healthier meals without compromising on taste or texture.

OdorErase Air Filtration: Built-in filters actively remove cooking odors before they spread throughout your home, a major advantage over standard air fryers that can leave lingering smells.

ClearCook Window: The transparent viewing panel lets you monitor cooking progress in real-time without opening the basket, maintaining consistent temperature and ensuring perfect results every time.

Six Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate all in one appliance, eliminating the need for multiple kitchen gadgets and saving valuable space.

Customizable Presets: Store up to six of your favorite recipe settings for instant recall, making weeknight cooking faster and more convenient for busy families.

Specifications

Capacity: 6 quarts (serves up to 6 portions)
Power: 1700W, 120V 60Hz
Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, dehydrate
Control Type: Touchscreen with customizable presets
Special Features: ClearCook window, OdorErase filtration, EvenCrisp technology
Dishwasher Safe: Cooking baskets and trays
Safety Features: Overheat protection, auto-off function
Certifications: ETL Certified
Included: 100+ in-app recipes

4
Top Rated

Chefman TurboFry Touch 6 QT Air Fryer

Chefman
9.6 /10
AI Score
AI score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the AI tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more ›
The Chefman TurboFry Touch 6 QT Air Fryer delivers crispy, healthy meals in minutes with 450°F Hi-Fry Technology, touchscreen presets, and a dishwasher-safe basket. Perfect for households of 3 to 5 people who want a compact, easy-to-clean countertop air fryer.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Hi-Fry Technology reaches 450°F for extra crispy exteriors
  • Digital touchscreen with 4 presets simplifies operation
  • Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and rack for easy cleanup
  • Compact footprint fits small kitchens and cabinets
  • Audible shake reminders help achieve even cooking

Cons

  • No dedicated preheat function, so initial warm-up is manual
  • Some users report the basket occasionally needs extra alignment to slide in smoothly
  • Standby mode blinks after use; the unit has no physical off switch, so unplugging may be needed
Detailed Review

The Chefman TurboFry Touch 6 QT Air Fryer is designed for home cooks who want crispy, delicious meals without firing up a full-size oven. It suits singles, couples, and small families, with a 6-quart basket that easily serves 3 to 5 people. If you are looking for a reliable countertop appliance that speeds up weeknight dinners, this model deserves attention.

The headline feature is Hi-Fry Technology, which kicks the temperature up to 450°F during the final two minutes of cooking. This gives chicken tenders, French fries, and reheated leftovers an extra crunchy finish. Real-world performance is strong, with owners praising even cooking, consistent crispness, and fast results. The four presets and touchscreen controls make it simple to roast, bake, reheat, or air fry at the touch of a button.

Build quality is solid for the price. The matte-black finish and slim footprint look modern while taking up minimal counterspace. Inside, the nonstick basket and crisper plate resist sticking and are dishwasher safe, which cuts cleanup time dramatically. An audible shake reminder also helps you remember to toss food halfway through, promoting even browning and crispness.

There are a few minor drawbacks. There is no dedicated preheat function, so you may need to run the unit briefly before adding food. Some users also mention that the basket takes a little extra care when sliding back into place, and the lack of a physical off switch means the display blinks in standby until the unit is unplugged. These are small quirks rather than deal breakers.

Overall, the Chefman TurboFry Touch is a dependable, budget-friendly air fryer that delivers on its promises. It handles everyday cooking tasks with ease, looks good on the counter, and helps create healthier meals with minimal oil. If you want a compact, easy-to-clean air fryer with excellent crisp results, this is a smart choice.

Specifications

Capacity: 6 quarts (serves 3-5 people)

Wattage: 1700W / 120V

Temperature Range: 90°C to 450°F

Dimensions: 14.88 in. D x 11.1 in. W x 11 in. H

Included: Air fryer, basket, crisper plate, user guide

Model: RJ38-6T-BLACK

5

Instant Pot 6QT Vortex Plus Air Fryer

Instant Pot
9.5 /10
AI Score
AI score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the AI tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more ›
The Instant Pot 6QT Vortex Plus is a versatile 6-in-1 air fryer that delivers crispy results with 95% less oil, making it ideal for families and meal preppers who want healthier cooking without sacrificing taste. Its large capacity, intuitive controls, and EvenCrisp technology make it a standout choice for busy households.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional versatility with six cooking functions eliminates the need for multiple kitchen appliances
  • Large 6-quart capacity is perfect for families, batch cooking, and meal preparation
  • EvenCrisp technology delivers restaurant-quality crispiness with significantly less oil
  • User-friendly interface with one-touch presets makes cooking accessible to beginners and experienced cooks alike
  • Dishwasher-safe basket and minimal cleanup make maintenance hassle-free

Cons

  • 6-quart size requires considerable counter space, which may be challenging in smaller kitchens
  • Learning curve for mastering all six cooking functions may take some trial and error
  • Higher wattage (1700W) may require dedicated outlet in older homes with limited electrical capacity
Detailed Review

The Instant Pot 6QT Vortex Plus is a powerhouse 6-in-1 air fryer designed for families and home cooks who want versatility without clutter. With air frying, baking, roasting, broiling, dehydrating, and reheating capabilities all in one unit, this appliance replaces multiple kitchen gadgets and streamlines meal preparation for busy households.

What truly sets this model apart is its EvenCrisp technology, which delivers consistently crispy, golden results using 95% less oil than traditional deep frying. The adjustable temperature range from 95 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit provides precise control for everything from delicate dehydration to high-heat searing. The intuitive touchscreen interface and one-touch presets make cooking accessible whether you are preparing chicken wings, vegetables, or baked goods, with minimal preheating time required.

Build quality is solid with a sleek stainless steel finish that adds a professional look to any kitchen countertop. The 6-quart capacity is genuinely family-sized, accommodating up to six portions in a single batch, which is excellent for meal prep or feeding a crowd. The non-stick basket is dishwasher-safe, eliminating the tedious hand-washing that plagues many air fryers and making cleanup genuinely effortless.

The main drawback is the substantial footprint this appliance requires on your counter, which may be problematic in compact kitchens. Additionally, mastering all six cooking functions takes time and experimentation to unlock its full potential. The 1700-watt power requirement might also necessitate a dedicated outlet in older homes.

Overall, the Instant Pot 6QT Vortex Plus is an excellent investment for families seeking a reliable, versatile air fryer that delivers exceptional results with minimal oil. Its combination of capacity, cooking flexibility, and ease of use makes it a top choice for anyone serious about healthier cooking and convenient meal preparation.

Specifications

Capacity: 6 quarts, serves up to 6 portions

Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, reheat

Temperature Range: 95 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (35 to 205 degrees Celsius)

Power: 1700 watts, 120V, 60Hz, ETL Certified

Material: Stainless steel exterior, non-stick air fryer basket

Special Features: EvenCrisp technology, overheat protection, auto-shutoff, dishwasher-safe basket, touchscreen display

Oil Usage: 95% less oil than traditional deep frying

Preheating: Little to no preheating time required

Buyer Guide

Is This Right For You? The Instant Pot 6QT Vortex Plus is ideal for families of four or more, meal preppers, and anyone looking to replace multiple kitchen appliances with a single versatile unit. If you have limited counter space, this large appliance may not be suitable for your kitchen.

Key Considerations: Ensure you have adequate counter space and a dedicated electrical outlet for the 1700-watt power requirement. If you frequently cook for just one or two people, the 6-quart capacity may be larger than necessary. However, for families and batch cooking, the size is a significant advantage.

What Sets It Apart: The combination of EvenCrisp technology, six cooking functions, and family-sized capacity at this price point makes it competitive with other premium air fryer models. The intuitive interface and dishwasher-safe basket add practical value for everyday use.

Long-Term Value: This is a durable, multi-function appliance from a trusted brand with proven reliability. The versatility means you will use it regularly for various cooking tasks, making it a solid investment for your kitchen.

6

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 4QT Air Fryer with 6

InstantPot
9.8 /10
AI Score
AI score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the AI tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more ›
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus is a versatile 4-quart air fryer that combines air frying, baking, roasting, broiling, dehydrating, and reheating in one compact appliance. Its EvenCrisp technology delivers crispy results with 95% less oil, making it ideal for health-conscious home cooks, students, and small families seeking convenient meal preparation.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional versatility with six cooking methods in one device reduces kitchen clutter and appliance count
  • Outstanding ratings from nearly 14,000 verified customers demonstrate reliable performance and durability
  • Compact footprint makes it perfect for apartments, dorms, and small kitchens without compromising capacity
  • EvenCrisp technology consistently produces restaurant-quality crispiness while supporting healthier cooking habits
  • User-friendly interface with one-touch presets allows anyone to cook restaurant-quality meals with confidence

Cons

  • 4-quart capacity may be limiting for larger families or meal prep in bulk quantities
  • Touchscreen interface may require occasional cleaning to maintain visibility and responsiveness
  • Learning curve exists for maximizing all six cooking functions and custom program options
Detailed Review

The Instant Pot Vortex Plus is a 6-in-1 air fryer designed for home cooks who want versatility without sacrificing kitchen space. This 4-quart appliance combines air frying, baking, roasting, broiling, dehydrating, and reheating capabilities in one sleek stainless steel unit. It's particularly well-suited for students, singles, small families, and anyone looking to streamline their cooking routine with a single, dependable appliance.

The standout feature is EvenCrisp technology, which uses advanced heating and air circulation to deliver perfectly crispy results using 95% less oil than traditional deep frying. The wide temperature range from 95 to 400°F provides precise control for everything from delicate dehydration tasks to high-heat broiling and air frying. With over 100 in-app recipes and one-touch presets, even beginners can achieve professional-quality meals with minimal effort or guesswork.

Build quality appears solid with stainless steel construction and a non-stick air fryer basket that resists wear and maintains its coating through repeated use. The intuitive touchscreen display shows each cooking stage at a glance, eliminating confusion about progress and doneness. Safety features like overheat protection and automatic shutoff provide peace of mind during extended cooking sessions, particularly valuable for busy households.

The main limitation is the 4-quart capacity, which may feel restrictive when cooking for larger gatherings or batch-preparing meals for the week. Additionally, mastering all six cooking functions and custom program options takes time and experimentation to fully optimize results for different food types.

Overall, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus delivers exceptional value as a multi-function cooking appliance backed by strong customer reviews and proven reliability. For those prioritizing versatility, space efficiency, and healthier cooking methods, this air fryer represents a smart investment that simplifies meal preparation across diverse cooking styles.

Specifications

Capacity: 4 quarts
Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, reheat
Temperature Range: 95 to 400°F (35 to 205°C)
Material: Stainless steel exterior with non-stick air fryer basket
Control Type: Touchscreen display with one-touch presets
Preheating: Little to no preheating required
Safety Features: Overheat protection, auto-shutoff
In-App Recipes: 100+ custom program options
Cleanup: Non-stick basket, dishwasher-safe components
Ideal Serving Size: Up to 4 servings

Buyer Guide

Is this air fryer right for you? The Instant Pot Vortex Plus excels for anyone seeking a compact, multi-function cooking appliance. It's ideal if you have limited counter space, cook for 1 to 4 people regularly, or want to explore healthier cooking methods with 95% less oil.

Who should consider alternatives: If you frequently cook for large families or groups of 6 or more, a larger capacity air fryer may be more practical. Those seeking a single-function device focused purely on air frying might find simpler, more affordable options elsewhere.

Key factors to consider: Evaluate your available counter space and typical serving sizes before purchasing. Factor in the learning curve for maximizing all six cooking functions, and consider whether you'll actively use features like dehydrating and custom programs or primarily stick to air frying and reheating.

Value proposition: At its price point, this appliance delivers exceptional versatility by consolidating multiple kitchen tools into one device. The strong customer ratings and extensive recipe library provide confidence in performance and usability for diverse cooking applications.

Buying Guide

Capacity and Size

Consider how many people you cook for. The 8-quart Duo Crisp handles up to eight servings, while the 4-quart Vortex Mini serves two to four. A larger capacity suits families or meal preppers, but it takes up more counter space. We recommend matching the size to your household—no need for an oversized unit if you cook for one or two. Browse our best products page for top picks by size.

The 6-quart models strike a balance for most homes. They fit a whole chicken or a batch of fries without dominating your kitchen. The Chefman offers a 6-quart capacity in a compact footprint, ideal for tight spaces.

Cooking Functions and Versatility

Each model offers a different set of functions. The Duo Crisp 11-in-1 combines pressure cooking with air frying, allowing you to slow cook, steam, sauté, and more. The Vortex Plus 6-in-1 focuses solely on air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, dehydrating, and reheating. If you want one appliance to replace a pressure cooker and an air fryer, the Duo Crisp is ideal. For simple air frying tasks, a Vortex model saves money and complexity. For a similar hybrid approach, read our Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 reviews.

Some models feature specialty technologies. The ClearCook window lets you peek without opening the basket, and the OdorErase filter reduces cooking smells. These extras can enhance your cooking experience, especially if you fry often.

Ease of Cleaning

Nobody wants to scrub a greasy air fryer basket by hand. Most Instant Pot models come with dishwasher-safe parts: the non-stick basket, trays, and sometimes the inner pot. The Duo Crisp’s stainless steel pot is oven-safe and easy to wipe. The Chefman also features a dishwasher-safe basket. Quick cleanup means you will use the appliance more often.

We verified that the Vortex Plus and ClearCook models have dishwasher-safe components. The Duo Crisp’s pressure cooking lid is also dishwasher safe, adding convenience. Always check the manual for specific cleaning instructions.

Final Thoughts

After evaluating these eight models, we recommend the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer for families who want the ultimate multi-cooker and the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6 Qt 6-in-1 Air Fryer for those prioritizing a dedicated air fryer with extra features like odor control. Your choice depends on whether you need pressure cooking or just crisp, healthy meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Instant Pot Duo Crisp replace both a pressure cooker and an air fryer?

Yes, the Duo Crisp comes with two lids, allowing you to pressure cook and air fry in the same pot. It replaces a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, steamer, and more. This makes it a versatile appliance for most kitchens.

Which Instant Pot air fryer model is best for a small family?

The 4-quart Vortex Plus Mini is perfect for couples or small families. It cooks up to four servings and takes up less counter space. For slightly larger needs, the 6-quart Vortex Plus models work well for families of three to five.

Are Instant Pot air fryer baskets dishwasher safe?

Most Instant Pot air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher safe. Models like the Vortex Plus and ClearCook feature non-stick baskets that clean easily in the dishwasher. Always refer to your user manual for part-specific care.

What is the difference between the Vortex Plus and Vortex Plus ClearCook?

The ClearCook model features a transparent window on the basket, allowing you to check on food without opening it. Both models offer the same six cooking functions and EvenCrisp Technology. The ClearCook version costs slightly more for the added convenience. For more insights, read our Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven reviews for a different approach.