You love crispy fries and juicy chicken, but you want a healthier way to cook them without sacrificing taste. The NuWave Brio air fryer line promises consistent heat, versatile presets, and even cooking, but with so many models available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we review six NuWave Brio air fryers ranging from compact 3-quart units to the large 15.5-quart rotisserie oven, so you can pick the one that fits your kitchen and your lifestyle. Whether you are cooking for one or feeding a family, we break down the key differences to help you decide. If you are also exploring other brands, check out our comparison of West Bend air fryer reviews for more options.
Pros
- Exceptional temperature accuracy prevents burning or undercooking, with readings taken 120 times per second.
- Evenly cooks from all sides thanks to the unique basket design and circular airflow.
- Versatile enough for air frying, grilling, dehydrating, and reheating with a wide temperature range.
- Handy removable divider lets you cook two dishes simultaneously in the 6-quart basket.
- Included non-stick grill pan is dishwasher-safe, simplifying clean-up after indoor grilling.
Cons
- At 18.4 pounds, the unit is heavy and may take up considerable counter space.
- Only the grill pan is explicitly dishwasher-safe; the basket may need hand washing.
- The digital controls and probe may have a learning curve for first-time air fryer users.
The Nuwave Brio 6-Quart Digital Smart Air Fryer with Probe is designed for anyone who craves crispy, fried textures but wants a healthier cooking method. It works especially well for couples, small families, or individuals who like to cook complete meals in one appliance. With a spacious 6-quart basket, you can cook two pounds of fries or a whole 3.5-pound chicken, making it a practical addition to everyday kitchens.
What sets this air fryer apart is its temperature control. While many air fryers can drift by as much as 40 degrees from the set temperature, the Brio monitors the internal heat 120 times per second. This means you can trust the display to reflect true cooking conditions, which leads to consistently crispy exteriors and tender interiors. The patented basket and mesh design also promote even heating from every angle, so you do not have to stop mid-cook to shake or flip your food as often.
In real-world use, the Brio feels like a multitasker. Its temperature range goes from a low of 50 degrees up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can dehydrate fruit, reheat leftovers, roast vegetables, or grill steaks on the included non-stick grill pan. The built-in probe is a blessing for meat lovers because it monitors the internal doneness and helps avoid overcooked roasts or chicken. The presets and dedicated buttons simplify the process, though you still have the manual control to fine-tune results.
Build quality is solid, though you will notice the heft. The unit weighs over 18 pounds, so it is not something you will move around frequently. The grill pan is dishwasher-safe and non-stick, but the mesh basket is not specified as dishwasher-safe, so hand washing it may take a little extra time. The size may be large for very small countertops, so measure your space beforehand.
Overall, the Nuwave Brio 6-Quart is a reliable and versatile air fryer that delivers on its promise of consistent, even cooking. Its precise temperature control and numerous cooking modes make it a strong option for health-conscious home cooks who want one appliance for frying, grilling, and more. If you can accommodate its size and weight, this air fryer offers excellent value and performance for everyday meals.
Pros
- PFAS-free and non-toxic ceramic basket, no peeling or harmful gases
- Turbo convection delivers fast, crispy, even cooking with less flipping
- Sleek touchscreen interface with intuitive presets and real-time control
- Quiet operation and auto shut-off for worry-free cooking
- Multiple power levels for versatile placement in any kitchen or RV
Cons
- No integrated temperature probe for meat doneness
- Larger footprint may require extra counter space
- Touchscreen can be sensitive to greasy fingers
The Nuwave Brio Plus 7QT Air Fryer is a standout in the crowded air fryer market, especially for those who prioritize health and safety. Designed for families, health enthusiasts, and anyone who wants crispy food without guilt, this model uses a 100% PFAS-free ceramic coating and a 360° all-metal interior. This means no plastic contact, no chemical odors, and no harmful fumes even at high temperatures up to 400°F.
Performance is where the Brio Plus shines. Its Turbo Convection Technology, powered by a 9-blade 4.5-inch fan, circulates heat rapidly for faster, more even cooking. The result is extra crispy exteriors and tender interiors with less oil and less flipping. With 100 smart presets and 6 functions, you can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, toast, or reheat at the touch of a button. The real-time precision control lets you adjust time and temperature in 5°F increments without pausing, giving you total command over your cooking.
Build quality is excellent. The dual-layer ceramic basket is durable and easy to clean, and the sleek digital touch display replaces clunky buttons for a modern look. The unit is also whisper-quiet, so it won't disturb your kitchen conversations or TV time. Safety features include auto shut-off when the basket is removed or the timer ends, making it ideal for busy households.
There are a few minor trade-offs. The air fryer lacks a built-in meat probe, which some users might miss for precise doneness. Also, its 7-quart capacity and larger footprint require dedicated counter space. The touchscreen, while responsive, can smudge easily and may need frequent wiping.
Overall, the Nuwave Brio Plus 7QT Air Fryer delivers on its promise of healthy, crispy, and convenient cooking. Its PFAS-free construction, turbo convection, and smart presets make it a top choice for anyone seeking a versatile, toxin-free air fryer. If you value safety, performance, and ease of use, this model is well worth the investment.
Capacity: 7 quarts
Dimensions: 13.63 x 11.5 x 11.25 inches
Weight: 9.8 pounds
Wattage Options: 700W, 1500W, 1800W
Temperature Range: 50°F to 400°F (5°F increments)
Functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Toast, Reheat
Presets: 100 built-in, 50 customizable
Material: All-metal interior, PFAS-free ceramic coating (Duralon Blue G10)
Color: Black
Pros
- Precise temperature control from 100 to 400 degrees F for versatile cooking.
- Six one touch presets simplify operation for beginners.
- Nonstick basket is easy to clean.
- Compact footprint stores easily.
- Includes recipe book and preheat/reheat functions.
Cons
- 3 quart capacity may be too small for larger families.
- Digital controls may take time to learn for first time air fryer users.
- Some users may prefer a larger model if cooking for a family.
The NUWAVE Brio 3 Quart Digital Air Fryer is a compact countertop appliance designed for individuals, couples, and small households. It offers a simple way to enjoy crispy fried foods with less oil, making it a great entry point for anyone new to air frying.
With one touch digital controls and six easy presets, this air fryer takes the guesswork out of cooking. The precise temperature range from 100 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit allows you to air fry, bake, roast, reheat, and even dehydrate a variety of foods. The included recipe book helps you get started right away.
The unit features a durable nonstick coating that makes food release simple and cleanup fast. Its compact footprint fits neatly on most countertops, and the intuitive digital touchscreen adds a modern look to any kitchen. The basket is spacious enough for a 3 quart capacity, which is ideal for smaller meals.
The main limitation is the 3 quart capacity, which may be too small for larger families or batch cooking. Also, the digital controls require a brief learning curve, especially for those who are used to manual dials. If you regularly cook for more than two people, consider a larger model.
Overall, the NUWAVE Brio 3 Quart Digital Air Fryer delivers solid performance, convenience, and versatility at a reasonable price point. It is a reliable choice for anyone looking to make healthier meals without sacrificing taste. For small households, this air fryer is a worthwhile investment.
Color: Black
Size: 3 Quart
Capacity: 2.84 liters
Temperature Range: 100 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
Presets: 6 one touch presets
Controls: Digital touchscreen
Nonstick Coating: Yes
Weight: 6.6 pounds
Dimensions: 8.07 x 5.31 x 2.76 inches
Pros
- Exceptional temperature consistency minimizes cooking errors.
- Even heat distribution produces crispy, evenly cooked food.
- Versatile divider adds meal prep flexibility.
- User-friendly presets and controls for quick operation.
- Renewed unit offers great value without compromising quality.
Cons
- 6-quart capacity may be too small for larger families or entertaining.
- Renewed product might show minor cosmetic blemishes from prior use.
- No smart features or Wi-Fi connectivity for app control.
The NuWave 6-quart Brio Healthy Digital Air Fryer (Renewed) is a top-tier choice for health-conscious home cooks. Designed for couples and small families, it delivers crispy, delicious results with far less oil than traditional frying. This renewed unit has been inspected and refurbished by NuWave using genuine parts, ensuring like-new performance at a budget-friendly price.
Its standout feature is precision temperature control: the Brio reads the internal temperature 120 times per second, maintaining your set heat within 5°F. Many competitors fluctuate by 40°F when cycling on and off, leading to uneven cooking. Here, every batch of fries or chicken wings comes out consistently golden. The innovative cooking chamber also circulates super-heated air from all sides, thanks to a mesh basket design with side holes.
Ease of use is a major plus. The digital one-touch controls include six presets (fries, chicken, steak, etc.), plus dedicated Preheat and Reheat buttons. The temperature range from 100°F to 400°F lets you dehydrate, roast, or reheat with precision. A unique removable divider insert allows cooking two different foods at once, like fish and vegetables, without flavor transfer.
Build quality is solid for a renewed product. The compact 11x11x13.5-inch footprint fits most countertops, and the 18.5-pound weight feels sturdy. Some users may notice slight cosmetic wear from the renewal process, but functionality is fully restored. The basket is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. Downsides include no app connectivity and a 6-quart capacity that limits large meals.
Overall, the NuWave 6-quart Brio air fryer is an excellent investment for anyone wanting healthy, hassle-free frying. Its precise temperature control and even heating outshine many competitors, and the divider adds versatility. At its renewed price point, it offers exceptional value for small households seeking consistent, crispy results.
Brand: NuWave
Model: Brio
Capacity: 6 quarts
Temperature Range: 100°F to 400°F (adjustable in 5°F increments)
Preset Programs: 6 (including fries, chicken, steak, etc.)
Special Features: Preheat, Reheat, removable divider insert
Basket Design: Patented Fry Pan Basket with stainless steel mesh and side holes
Dimensions: 11 x 11 x 13.5 inches
Weight: 18.45 pounds
Color: Black
Condition: Renewed (inspected and refurbished by NuWave with genuine parts)
Dishwasher Safe Basket: Yes
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a NuWave Brio Air Fryer
Size and Capacity
NuWave Brio air fryers come in 3-quart, 6-quart, 7-quart, 8-quart, and 15.5-quart sizes. The 3-quart model is ideal for singles or couples who want a compact countertop appliance. The 6-quart and 7-quart versions fit a small family, while the 15.5-quart rotisserie oven can handle a whole chicken or large batch of fries. Consider how many people you usually cook for and how much counter space you have.
Temperature Control and Consistency
One of the standout features of the Brio line is its precise temperature control. The 6-quart model checks the internal temperature 120 times per second to maintain accuracy within 5 degrees. The 15.5-quart model offers a range from 50°F to 425°F in 5°F increments, allowing you to adjust on the fly. If you value consistent results, look for models with Linear T Technology or advanced convection fans.
Presets and Smart Features
All NuWave Brio air fryers include preset menu functions, but the number varies. The 3-quart model has six presets, while the 15.5-quart model offers 100 presets plus 50 memory slots. The Brio Plus models add a digital touchscreen and 150 presets. If you want one-touch convenience for items like fries, chicken, or baked goods, consider a model with more presets and a user-friendly interface.
Coating and Safety
Many newer NuWave Brio air fryers use a PFAS-free ceramic coating, such as the Duralon Blue G10, which is free of harmful chemicals. The 8-quart Brio Plus and the 7-quart Brio Plus both feature this coating. If you are concerned about non-stick safety, choose a model with a ceramic interior. For more advice on healthy cooking, read our guide on the best air fryer for weight loss.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the NuWave Brio lineup, we recommend the Nuwave Brio 15.5Qt Air Fryer Rotisserie Oven for those who want maximum versatility and large capacity, and the Nuwave Brio Plus Air Fryer 8 Qt, New & Improved for households that value modern features, a digital touchscreen, and PFAS-free cooking. Both models deliver exceptional performance, but your choice ultimately depends on your kitchen space and cooking needs. Whichever you pick, you will enjoy healthier, crispy meals with less oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the NuWave Brio and Brio Plus?
The Brio Plus models feature a full digital touchscreen, more presets (up to 150), and a PFAS-free ceramic coating. They also include turbo convection technology for faster, more even cooking. The standard Brio line has physical buttons and fewer presets.
Can I use the NuWave Brio air fryer to grill?
Yes, many NuWave Brio models include a grill pan or reversible grill/griddle accessory. The 6-quart model has a dishwasher-safe non-stick grill pan, and the 15.5-quart model can grill with its rotisserie basket and skewer. You can cook steaks, chicken, and vegetables indoors year-round.
How do I clean the ceramic coating on the NuWave Brio Plus?
The ceramic coating is non-stick, so most food residue wipes away easily. Use a soft sponge and mild soap; avoid abrasive pads. The basket and accessories are dishwasher safe for convenience. The coating is designed to resist peeling and scratching.
Is the NuWave Brio air fryer worth the price in 2026?
Given the consistent temperature control, versatile presets, and durable construction, the NuWave Brio air fryer offers excellent value. The higher-end models with ceramic coating and digital touchscreens are especially competitive compared to other premium brands. Check out our best air fryer for keto guide for more recommendations.
