You want crispy fries, juicy chicken, and golden-brown veggies without the guilt of deep frying. But with so many air fryers on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That is where a NuWave air fryer comes in. Known for their precision temperature control and versatile cooking presets, NuWave models from the compact Brio to the expansive Bravo Pro offer something for every kitchen. In this NuWave air fryer review, we evaluate nine top models to help you decide which one fits your cooking style and space. Whether you are upgrading from a basic fryer or buying your first air fryer, this guide covers the key features, performance, and value of each unit. For a broader look at air fryer options, check out our ninja foodi XL pro air oven review for a comparison with another popular brand.
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
- Versatile 10-in-1 functionality replaces multiple countertop appliances
- Customizable heating zones allow precise control for different dishes
- High speed fan and even cooking deliver fast, consistent results
- Intuitive digital display simplifies operation
- Sturdy build with non-toxic materials, easy to clean
Cons
- Preset times may need adjustment (e.g., toast preset at 4 minutes, users report needing 6 minutes)
- Slightly smaller interior compared to some competitors (21 quarts)
- Dropdown door design may require more counter space in front
The Nuwave Bravo Pro Convection Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo is a powerful 10-in-1 countertop appliance designed for home cooks who want versatility without sacrificing counter space. It combines air frying, roasting, baking, toasting, and more in one sleek stainless steel unit. With a 2025 improved digital display and a high-speed fan, it promises faster, more even cooking than previous models.
Standout features include customizable heating zones that let you adjust the ratio of top and bottom heaters from 0 to 100%. This is ideal for achieving a crispy crust on pizza or perfectly melted cheese. The high-speed fan is 100% faster than earlier designs, delivering irresistibly crispy air-fried foods and reducing cooking time. Multi-layer even cooking ensures that food on different racks cooks uniformly, with only a 0-1°F temperature difference between layers.
Design and build quality are solid: a stainless steel exterior, tempered glass door, and non-toxic, PFAS-free materials. The 2025 digital display is cool white and easy to read, though some users note a slight learning curve. The included accessories (baking pan, air fry basket, heavy-duty rack) add value. At 16 pounds and 21 quarts, it's compact enough for most countertops but may feel slightly smaller than some competitors.
Potential drawbacks include preset times that may need tweaking (e.g., toast preset at 4 minutes, but some users prefer 6 minutes). The dropdown door requires clearance in front, and the interior capacity might be limiting for larger families. However, customer reviews praise its durability, with one user replacing their 5-year-old Bravo Pro with this improved model.
Overall, the Nuwave Bravo Pro is a top-tier choice for anyone seeking a versatile, efficient countertop oven that excels at multiple cooking methods. Its customizable heating zones and fast fan make it stand out, and the high rating (4.5 stars) reflects strong user satisfaction. If you're willing to adjust presets slightly, this oven is a worthy investment for your kitchen.
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
- Cooks food faster and more evenly than traditional ovens
- Healthy non-stick coating free from PFAS
- Intuitive touch screen with extensive presets
- Large 8-quart capacity for family meals
- Versatile functions replace multiple kitchen appliances
Cons
- Large footprint may not suit small countertops
- Price is premium compared to entry-level air fryers
- Touch screen controls may require careful cleaning to avoid residue
The Nuwave Brio Plus 8 Qt air fryer is a significant upgrade over previous models, designed for health-conscious home cooks who want speed and versatility. With its 2026 new and improved features, it targets families seeking a single appliance that can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, toast, reheat, and preheat with ease.
Its standout feature is the Turbo Convection technology, which uses a powerful 6-blade fan and up to 1800W to circulate hot air 4x faster than conventional ovens. This results in food that is crispy on the outside and juicy inside, with even cooking across the 8-quart basket. The 150 presets (100 preprogrammed plus 50 DIY slots) make it simple to cook a wide variety of dishes without guesswork.
The full digital touch screen is a welcome upgrade from analog buttons, offering a futuristic interface that is both responsive and easy to clean. The PFAS-free ceramic coating is a major health benefit, tested to be free of 106 known PFAS chemicals, giving you peace of mind when cooking for your family.
Potential drawbacks include its size, which may not fit in compact kitchens, and a price point that is higher than basic air fryers. The touch screen, while sleek, can be prone to fingerprints and requires gentle cleaning to avoid damage. However, these are minor trade-offs for the performance and safety features offered.
Overall, the Nuwave Brio Plus 8 Qt is a top-tier air fryer that delivers on its promises of faster, healthier cooking. If you value convenience, versatility, and non-toxic materials, this is a worthy investment for your kitchen.
Pros
- Fast preheating and crispy results thanks to the upgraded fan.
- Versatile with many presets and functions for various cooking styles.
- Even cooking on multiple layers with minimal temperature variation.
- Large capacity fits family meals and multiple dishes at once.
- User-friendly controls and easy cleaning with pull-out crumb tray.
Cons
- Exterior door gets hot during use, requiring caution when opening.
- Interior size slightly smaller than some standard ovens; may not fit full-size baking sheets.
- Initial learning curve for customizing presets and settings to personal preference.
The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro is a 30-quart countertop air fryer toaster oven designed for families who want faster, healthier cooking without sacrificing taste. With its upgraded 100% faster fan and 112 presets including air fry, bake, roast, and pizza, it replaces multiple appliances and fits easily on most countertops.
The standout feature is the super convection system that reduces temperature variation between layers to just 0-1°F, ensuring even results whether you are cooking on one rack or four. The 500°F max temperature allows for restaurant-quality searing, while the adjustable top and bottom heaters let you customize heating zones for perfect pizza crusts or delicate pastries.
Build quality is solid with brushed stainless steel and a tempered glass dropdown door. The included accessories (two heavy-duty racks, enamel baking pan, broiler rack, temperature probe, and crumb tray) add value. The PFAS-free interior gives peace of mind for health-conscious users.
Some users note that the exterior door gets hot, so caution is needed when opening. Also, the interior is slightly smaller than some traditional toaster ovens, so standard half-sheet pans may not fit. A brief learning curve exists for mastering the many presets and custom settings.</p
Overall, the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro delivers on its promise of quikker, crispier results with impressive versatality. It is an excellent choice for those who want to reduce oil usage while still enjoying perfectly cooked meals. The combination of speed, capacity, and precision makes it a top contender in the air fryer toaster oven market.
Pros
- Exceptional temperature accuracy with Linear T Technology ensures consistent, professional-quality cooking results every time
- Digital temperature probe eliminates guesswork and prevents food waste from overcooking or undercooking
- Massive capacity and 12-in-1 functionality consolidates multiple appliances into one elegant countertop unit
- Intuitive digital controls allow real-time adjustments without restarting the cooking process
- Generous recipe storage with 100 presets plus 50 custom slots provides endless cooking inspiration
Cons
- Large footprint requires significant countertop space, which may be challenging in smaller kitchens
- Premium price point may be higher than basic toaster ovens or single-function air fryers
- Steep learning curve to master all 12 functions and 112 preset options for new users
The NuWave Bravo XL is a comprehensive countertop cooking solution that merges air frying, toasting, baking, roasting, grilling, and dehydrating into one sophisticated 30-quart appliance. This is the ideal choice for home cooks who want to eliminate kitchen clutter while gaining access to professional-grade cooking capabilities without investing in multiple single-function devices.
What truly sets the Bravo XL apart is its patented Linear Thermal Technology, which continuously monitors and adjusts heating power every second to maintain your exact target temperature with precision. Combined with the integrated digital temperature probe that automatically stops cooking when your food reaches the desired doneness level, you get foolproof results whether you're baking delicate pastries or air frying chicken wings. The ability to independently control top and bottom heater intensity opens up advanced cooking techniques, like achieving crispy pizza crusts while melting cheese to perfection.
Build quality is impressive throughout, from the shatter-proof tempered glass door and heavy-duty cooking racks to the non-stick enamel baking pan and included air fry basket. The brushed stainless steel exterior looks sleek on any countertop, and the intuitive digital interface makes on-the-fly adjustments simple. With 112 preset cooking functions, 100 recipe programs, and 50 custom recipe slots, you'll have endless culinary options at your fingertips.
The main considerations are the appliance's substantial size, which demands significant counter real estate, and the learning curve required to fully leverage all 12 cooking functions. Additionally, the premium price reflects the advanced technology and versatility you're gaining compared to basic toaster ovens.
The NuWave Bravo XL delivers exceptional value for serious home cooks seeking a single, multifunctional appliance that produces restaurant-quality results consistently. Its precise temperature control, intelligent cooking automation, and extensive preset library make it a worthwhile investment for anyone tired of mediocre countertop cooking.
Linear Thermal Technology: Unlike conventional ovens that cycle heaters on and off, the Bravo XL's patented Linear T Technology maintains continuous heating while making micro-adjustments every second. This ensures your set temperature stays constant throughout cooking, eliminating hot spots and temperature fluctuations that ruin food quality.
Digital Temperature Probe: This integrated sensor monitors your food's internal temperature in real-time and automatically stops cooking when your target doneness is reached. Perfect for proteins, this feature prevents the common mistakes of undercooked chicken or overdone steak.
Independent Heater Control: Adjust top and bottom heaters separately from 0-100% power. This lets you achieve results impossible with standard ovens, such as crisping a pizza bottom while gently melting cheese on top, or broiling without burning delicate items.
Preset Programs and Recipe Storage: Choose from 12 cooking functions with 100 pre-programmed recipes, or save up to 50 of your own custom recipes for instant recall. This library of cooking intelligence accelerates your learning and ensures consistent results.
Best For: Home cooks and food enthusiasts who cook frequently and value precision, versatility, and consistent results. Ideal for families wanting to replace multiple appliances with one high-performance unit. Perfect for anyone interested in air frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and grilling without dedicated equipment for each function.
Not Ideal For: Minimalist kitchens with limited counter space or budget-conscious buyers seeking the cheapest air fryer option. Those who only need basic toasting or simple reheating may find the 12-in-1 functionality unnecessary.
Pros
- Even heat distribution across multiple layers thanks to advanced convection system.
- Versatile 10-in-1 functionality replaces multiple countertop appliances.
- Customizable heat zones let you tailor cooking to different foods like pizza or baked goods.
- Large 21-quart capacity accommodates family-sized meals.
- Easy-to-use touch controls with 10 preset options simplify cooking.
Cons
- No customer reviews yet, so real-world performance is unverified.
- Adjusting heater ratios and fan speeds may have a learning curve for some users.
- Size (13x17.6x9.5 inches) may be bulky for small countertops.
The Nuwave Bravo Pro Smart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a feature-rich countertop appliance that combines air frying, toasting, baking, and more. Designed for home cooks who want versatility and speed, it offers 10 preset functions and a large 21-quart capacity suitable for families or meal prep enthusiasts.
Its standout feature is the adjustable top and bottom heaters, allowing you to fine-tune heat distribution for perfect pizza crust and melted toppings. The high-speed fan (100% faster than previous models) ensures even browning and quicker cooking times. The multi-layer convection system keeps temperature variance across shelves to just 1°F, so you can cook multiple items consistently.
Build quality is solid with a stainless steel exterior and tempered glass door. The dropdown door design is sturdy, and included accessories like the air fry basket and enamel baking pan add value. Touch controls are intuitive, and the 450°F max temperature handles everything from dehydrating to broiling.
Potential drawbacks include a learning curve for optimizing heater ratios and fan speeds, and the unit's footprint may challenge small kitchens. The absence of reviews at launch means long-term reliability is unproven, though NuWave's reputation offers confidence.
Overall, the Nuwave Bravo Pro is a powerful, customizable oven that excels at pizza and multi-layer cooking. If you value precise heat control and want an all-in-one solution, it's a strong contender in the air fryer toaster oven market.
Brand: NuWave
Model: Bravo Pro Smart Oven
Capacity: 21 quarts
Wattage: 1800 watts
Temperature Range: 50°F to 450°F (5°F increments)
Fan Speeds: 3 adjustable (off, low, high)
Heater Control: Top and bottom independently adjustable 0-100%
Preset Functions: Air Fry, Grill, Bake, Reheat, Bagel, Pizza, Toast, Broil, Waffle, Dehydrate, Frozen, Keep Warm
Door Style: Dropdown with tempered glass
Control Type: Touch
Material: Stainless steel (brushed finish)
Dimensions: 13" D x 17.6" W x 9.5" H
Weight: 14.4 pounds
Included Accessories: Air Fry Basket, Enamel Baking Pan, Heavy-Duty Cooking Rack, Crumb Tray, Quick Start Guide, Recipe Book, Instruction Manual
UPC: 652185902022
Pros
- Massive capacity fits a whole chicken or large family meals
- Highly versatile with 10 cooking functions and 100 presets
- Precise temperature control with real-time adjustments
- Included digital temperature probe for perfect doneness
- Smokeless operation thanks to powerful convection fan
Cons
- Heavy at 26 pounds, not easily portable
- No built-in Wi-Fi or smart features
- Some users may find the interface complex with many presets
The Nuwave Brio 15.5Qt Air Fryer Rotisserie Oven is a powerhouse for home cooks who want to replace multiple countertop appliances. With 10 cooking functions and 100 pre-programmed presets, it handles everything from air frying crispy fries to rotisserie chicken, baking, dehydrating, and more. This is an excellent choice for families or anyone who cooks frequently and values convenience.
Its standout feature is the powerful 5-inch top-mounted convection fan, which circulates heat evenly for fast, crispy results without smoke. The 15.5-quart capacity easily fits a whole chicken or a large batch of vegetables, and the included rotisserie basket and skewer add versatility. The digital controls allow precise temperature adjustments from 50°F to 425°F in 5°F increments, and you can change settings on the fly without interrupting cooking.
Build quality is solid with a stainless-steel mesh rack, non-stick grill/griddle, and drip tray. The unit is heavy at 26 pounds, so it's not meant to be moved around frequently. The large size also takes up significant counter space. While the interface is intuitive, the sheer number of presets may overwhelm some users initially.
A potential drawback is the lack of smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, which some competing models offer. Also, the price point is mid-range, but the included accessories add value. The 4-star rating (though based on limited reviews) suggests general satisfaction, but we'd like to see more user feedback over time.
Overall, the Nuwave Brio is a versatile, large-capacity air fryer oven that delivers on performance and convenience. If you have the space and need a multifunctional countertop cooker, it's a solid investment. Recommended for families and avid home cooks who want to simplify meal prep.
What to Consider When Choosing a NuWave Air Fryer
Capacity and Size
NuWave air fryers range from a 3-quart compact model to a 30-quart XL oven. If you cook for one or two people, the NUWAVE Brio 3-Quart Digital Air Fryer One-Touch is a space-saving choice. For families or meal preppers, the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven offers a 30-quart interior that can fit a 10-pound chicken or two 13-inch pizzas. Consider your counter space and how often you cook for a crowd.
Cooking Functions and Presets
All NuWave air fryers come with digital controls and multiple presets. The Nuwave Bravo Pro Convection Air Fryer Toaster Oven offers 10 pre-programmed functions including air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate. Higher-end models like the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven w/Grill include 142 presets with 100 one-touch recipes and 30 memory slots. If you value convenience, look for a model with a wide range of built-in options.
Temperature Range and Precision
NuWave is known for its Linear T technology that maintains temperature within 1°F. The Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven reaches up to 500°F, while the Nuwave Brio 15.5Qt Air Fryer Rotisserie Oven tops out at 425°F. For delicate tasks like dehydrating or proofing, a lower minimum temperature (50°F) is a bonus. Always check the range if you plan to use your air fryer for more than just frying.
Additional Features: Probe, Rotisserie, and Heat Adjustment
Several NuWave models include a digital temperature probe for perfect doneness, rotisserie skewers for self-basting chickens, and adjustable top/bottom heaters for custom browning. The Nuwave Brio 6-Quart Healthy Digital Smart Air features a removable divider for cooking two foods at once. If you want a true oven replacement, look for a model with a rotisserie or grill function. For more ideas on versatile air fryers, read our instant vortex plus air fryer oven reviews.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the lineup, we believe NuWave offers a strong air fryer for every need. For singles or small kitchens, the NUWAVE Brio 3-Quart Digital Air Fryer One-Touch delivers simple presets and consistent results without taking up much space. If you want a full countertop oven that can air fry, roast, grill, and even bake a pizza, the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven is our top pick for its massive capacity, 112 presets, and precise temperature control. Whichever you choose, you will enjoy healthier meals with less oil and more flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a NuWave air fryer compare to other brands? NuWave air fryers stand out for their precise temperature control (Linear T technology) and wide temperature range (50°F to 500°F in some models). They also offer more presets and memory slots than many competitors. For a side-by-side comparison, see our power XL microwave air fryer reviews.
Can you bake in a NuWave air fryer? Yes, many NuWave models like the Bravo Pro and Bravo XL Pro include a bake function. They can handle cookies, cakes, and even pizza. The adjustable top and bottom heaters let you customize the heat distribution for perfect baking results.
What is the difference between NuWave Brio and Bravo? The Brio series is a traditional basket-style air fryer, available in 3, 6, 8, and 15.5 quart sizes. The Bravo series is a larger toaster oven style with a front door, multiple racks, and more functions like rotisserie, broil, and dehydrate. Choose Brio for compact simplicity, Bravo for versatility.
Is the NuWave air fryer easy to clean? Most models have nonstick or ceramic coatings and dishwasher-safe accessories. The Brio Plus 8 Qt uses a PFAS-free ceramic coating that releases food easily. The Bravo ovens include a pull-out crumb tray to catch drips. A quick wipe after each use keeps them in top shape.
