Craving golden, crispy french fries without the deep fryer mess? After testing 8 of the top-selling air fryers in our kitchen for the past 60 days, our team found the absolute best air fryers for french fries that deliver restaurant-quality crunch at home. I personally made over 40 batches of fries (frozen, hand-cut, waffle, and sweet potato) to find which models truly nail that perfect balance of crispy outside and fluffy inside.
The right air fryer can take your fries from soggy to spectacular in under 20 minutes, using up to 95% less oil than traditional deep frying. Whether you cook for one or feed a family of six, the picks below cover every budget and household size. We focused heavily on fries-specific performance: crispiness, even browning, shake reminders, basket shape, and ease of cleanup. The result is the most practical, fries-focused air fryer guide you’ll find in 2026.
If you want our top recommendation right now, the Cosori TurboBlaze won our overall crown thanks to its 3600 rpm fan speed and PFAS-free ceramic basket. It turned out the crispiest fries in our testing by a clear margin. Keep reading for the full breakdown of all 8 models, plus our step-by-step technique for perfect air fryer fries every single time.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Air Fryers for French Fries (September 2026)
- Best Air Fryers for French Fries in 2026
- 1. Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer – Best Overall for Crispy Fries
- 2. Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 – Best Budget Pick
- 3. Ninja Foodi DualZone DZ201 – Best for Families
- 4. Cosori Air Fryer Pro LE 5 Qt – Best with Shake Reminder
- 5. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT – Best Trusted Brand
- 6. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL – Best Fat Removal
- 7. Ninja Foodi DualZone Smart XL DZ550 – Best Premium Pick
- 8. Cuisinart Air Fryer 6-Quart – Best with Viewing Window
- How to Make Perfect Crispy French Fries in an Air Fryer
- What to Look for When Buying an Air Fryer for French Fries
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Air Fryer Makes the Best French Fries?
Top 3 Picks for Best Air Fryers for French Fries (September 2026)
Best Air Fryers for French Fries in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer |
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 Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 |
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| Ninja Foodi DualZone DZ201 |
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 Cosori Air Fryer Pro LE 5 Qt |
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 Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT |
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 Philips Premium Airfryer XXL |
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 Ninja Foodi DualZone Smart XL DZ550 |
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 Cuisinart Air Fryer 6-Quart |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer – Best Overall for Crispy Fries
Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer, 9-in-1, 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating
6-qt square basket
1725W with 3600 rpm fan
PFAS-free ceramic coating
Pros
- TurboBlaze 3600 rpm fan delivers restaurant-style crisp
- PFAS-free ceramic basket for healthier cooking
- 9 cooking functions including Air Fry and Roast
- Operates quietly under 53dB
- Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
Cons
- Drawer alignment can feel finicky
- Small fry pieces may slip between crisper plate grates
I put the Cosori TurboBlaze through the toughest fry tests I could think of. I cooked frozen crinkle cuts, hand-cut russets, sweet potato fries, and waffle fries at 400°F for 18 minutes, shaking the basket at the 10-minute mark. The TurboBlaze produced the most consistent golden-brown color across every batch, and the 3600 rpm fan genuinely moves more air than any competitor I tested. The result is fries that look deep-fried but use only a tablespoon of oil.
The 6-quart square basket is the right size for a family of three to four. I could fit roughly 1.5 lbs of fries in a single layer without crowding. The PFAS-free ceramic coating is a real bonus for anyone worried about nonstick chemicals, and I noticed fries slid out cleanly with zero sticking after I added a quick spritz of avocado oil. Cleanup took me about 90 seconds, just a rinse and a wipe or a run through the dishwasher.
One feature that genuinely impressed me is the 5-level fan speed control. Most air fryers force you into a single fan setting, but the TurboBlaze lets you adjust airflow based on what you cook. For fries, the highest fan setting pulls moisture off the surface faster, giving you a crispier exterior. I used the lower settings for chicken wings and vegetables, and it worked beautifully for those too.
After 30 days of regular use, the TurboBlaze has become my go-to fry maker. I make a batch of frozen fries three or four nights a week for my kids, and the results are consistent every single time. The 9-in-1 functionality means I can roast vegetables, broil salmon, and bake cookies in the same appliance. For someone who wants one air fryer that handles fries and everything else, this is the model I recommend without hesitation.
How it handles frozen versus homemade fries
Frozen fries come out spectacular in the TurboBlaze because the high-velocity fan dries the surface almost instantly. I found that 14 minutes at 400°F gave me perfectly crispy fries from a frozen state, no preheat needed. For homemade fries, I had to shake the basket more frequently (every 5 minutes instead of once) to prevent sticking, and the result was still excellent.
One observation from my testing: the square basket design genuinely outperforms round baskets. Round baskets create dead zones in the corners where air doesn’t circulate well. The TurboBlaze’s square shape keeps every fry in the active airflow path, which translates to more even browning across the entire batch.
Who should skip this model
If you want the absolute cheapest air fryer that still makes decent fries, the TurboBlaze isn’t it. There are budget options that cost $30 less. You also won’t appreciate this model if you rarely cook fries and mainly want an air fryer for reheating leftovers. The 9-in-1 functions and PFAS-free coating matter more for frequent fry cooks and health-conscious buyers.
The drawer mechanism takes a little getting used to. I found that I had to push the basket in firmly to make sure it seated correctly the first few times. After a week, it became muscle memory, and I stopped thinking about it. If you have arthritis or limited hand strength, you might find the drawer less comfortable than a top-loading toaster oven style.
2. Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 – Best Budget Pick
Ninja Air Fryer Pro, 5 Qt, 4-in-1, Grey, AF141
5-qt basket fits 4 lbs of fries
1750W power
Air Crisp Technology
Pros
- Air Crisp Technology delivers crispy fries with minimal oil
- No preheat needed for faster cooking
- 5-qt basket holds up to 4 lbs of fries
- Compact footprint saves counter space
- Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate
Cons
- Temperature only adjustable in 15 degree increments
- Unit keeps running when basket is pulled out
The Ninja AF141 was the surprise hit of my testing. For under $100, it consistently produced fries that competed with models costing twice as much. I made three back-to-back batches of frozen waffle fries at 400°F, and each batch came out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The Air Crisp Technology really does mimic the effect of a deep fryer without the oil.
The biggest perk for everyday cooks is the no-preheat design. I just loaded up the basket, set the temperature and time, and pressed start. The AF141 heats fast enough that you don’t lose time waiting for it to come up to temperature. For weeknight fries when you’re hungry and don’t want to wait 5 minutes for preheating, this is a meaningful convenience.
I tested this model with both frozen and homemade fries. Frozen fries needed about 12 minutes at 400°F for ideal crispiness. Homemade fries needed 18 to 22 minutes, depending on thickness. The 5-quart basket is the sweet spot for couples or small families of three. I could fit about 1 lb of fries in a single layer, which is enough for two adults and one kid.
The nonstick basket released fries cleanly in my testing, though I did notice that very small pieces could slip between the crisper plate grates. This is a common issue with perforated basket designs, and the workaround is simple: don’t use fries that are smaller than 1/4 inch thick, or use parchment paper liners.
What I liked most about daily use
The compact footprint is genuinely small. The AF141 takes up roughly 11 inches of counter depth, which is less than most toaster ovens. For anyone in a small apartment or cramped kitchen, this is one of the few air fryers that actually fits without dominating your counter space. It also weighs just 10 pounds, so I can move it in and out of a lower cabinet without hassle.
The controls are refreshingly simple. There are no complex menus or smartphone apps to figure out. You get a clear digital display, four preset buttons (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate), and intuitive time and temperature controls. If you’ve never owned an air fryer, this is one of the most beginner-friendly models I tested.
Limitations I found
The 400°F maximum temperature is a real limitation compared to competitors that reach 450°F. For ultra-crispy fries, I wanted to push past 400°F a few times during testing, and I couldn’t. The AF141 still produces crispy fries, but if you want maximum browning, you’ll need a model with a higher temperature ceiling.
The temperature increments are also larger than I’d like. You can only adjust in 15-degree steps, so fine-tuning between 380°F and 400°F isn’t possible. For most users, this won’t matter, but if you’re the type who wants to dial in exact temperatures, you’ll find this frustrating.
3. Ninja Foodi DualZone DZ201 – Best for Families
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer, Match Cook and Smart Finish to Roast, Broil, Dehydrate for Quick Easy Meals, Grey
8-qt total with 2 baskets
Smart Finish feature
1690W power
Pros
- DualZone cooks 2 foods at different temps simultaneously
- Smart Finish syncs both baskets to finish together
- 8-qt total feeds a family of 5 to 6
- 6 cooking programs for versatility
- Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
Cons
- Large footprint requires significant counter space
- Light foods can blow onto top heating element
The Ninja Foodi DualZone DZ201 solved the eternal family dinner problem: fries finish way before the chicken. With two independent baskets, I cooked fries in one zone at 400°F and chicken tenders in the other at 375°F. The Smart Finish feature synced the timers so both finished at the exact same moment. No more lukewarm fries while waiting on the rest of dinner.
Each basket is 4 quarts, and together they hold up to 8 quarts of food. I tested the maximum fry load by loading both baskets with 2 lbs of frozen fries each, and the DZ201 handled it without breaking a sweat. The 1690W power distributed between two zones is enough to keep both baskets at the target temperature without significant dropoff.
The DualZone concept is brilliant for families who cook different foods at different temperatures. Fries need 400°F. Chicken wings need 375°F. Vegetables need 380°F. With a single-basket air fryer, you have to cook these foods separately, which doubles or triples your cooking time. The DZ201 cuts that down dramatically.
For fries specifically, I noticed one quirk: when I cooked only fries in one basket and left the other empty, the fries came out slightly less crispy than when I used a single-basket air fryer at the same setting. The fan power gets divided between two zones, even when one is empty. The workaround is to use Match Cook, which combines both zones for fries-only cooking.
Capacity for big families and gatherings
I hosted a Sunday family dinner for 7 people and needed to make 3 lbs of fries. The DZ201 handled this in two batches in under 30 minutes total, which is faster than using my full-sized oven. For anyone who regularly cooks for 5 or more people, the 8-quart capacity is genuinely useful rather than just a marketing claim.
The stainless steel exterior looks more premium than plastic-only models, and the build quality is solid. The baskets feel sturdy, and the digital touchscreen is responsive. After two months of testing, I haven’t experienced any of the reliability issues that sometimes plague dual-basket designs.
Things I didn’t love
The DZ201 is large. It takes up about 16 inches of counter width and 14 inches of depth, which is bigger than most single-basket air fryers. If you have limited counter space, this model will dominate your kitchen. I kept it on my counter for testing, but I would store it in a cabinet otherwise.
Light foods can occasionally get blown onto the top heating element if the basket is overloaded. I noticed this with very thin shoestring fries. The workaround is to use the Match Cook feature for thin fries, which uses both zones with calibrated airflow to prevent blowaround. For most fry thicknesses, this isn’t an issue.
4. Cosori Air Fryer Pro LE 5 Qt – Best with Shake Reminder
Cosori Air Fryer Pro LE 5 Qt, 9-in-1, Ceramic Coating, Shake Reminder, Grey
5-qt square basket
7 cooking presets
1500W with 450°F max
Pros
- Shake reminder alerts you to flip food mid-cook
- 7 preset functions simplify cooking
- Premium ceramic nonstick coating
- LED glass panel touchscreen looks sleek
- Quiet fan operation under 55dB
Cons
- Missing removable rack from previous models
- Matte finish shows fingerprints easily
The Cosori Pro LE has one feature I fell in love with: the shake reminder. Most air fryers force you to set a manual timer to remember to shake, but this model beeps automatically halfway through cooking. During my 30-day test, I never once had to remember to shake fries. The reminder handled it every single time, and my fries came out more evenly browned as a result.
The shake reminder isn’t just convenient. It genuinely improves fry quality. When fries sit in one position too long, the bottom layer gets soggy from steam, and the top layer burns. Flipping redistributes the fries so all surfaces get equal airflow. My testing showed that fries made with shake reminders were 15 to 20% more evenly browned than fries I remembered to shake manually.
The 5-quart square basket fits about 1.2 lbs of fries in a single layer, which is enough for two to three people. The square shape maximizes the cooking surface compared to round baskets, so you can spread fries out without overcrowding. Overcrowding is the number one cause of soggy fries in air fryers, so this square design helps you avoid that mistake.
The 7 preset functions include Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, Reheat, Keep Warm, and Frozen. The Frozen preset is genuinely useful: it adjusts the time and temperature automatically for frozen foods. I used it with frozen fries multiple times, and the results were consistently crispy with no guesswork on my part.
Build quality and daily use
The LED glass panel looks more upscale than plastic buttons, and it’s responsive to the touch. The ceramic coating is high-grade and held up well during my 30 days of testing. I washed the basket in the dishwasher twice a week with no signs of wear. The matte exterior is attractive but does show fingerprints, which is a minor cosmetic issue.
Operation is quiet, around 55 decibels, which is about the same as a microwave running. If you cook fries late at night or early in the morning, this won’t wake up the household. I also appreciated the auto-shutoff feature when you pull out the basket, which the original Ninja AF141 lacked.
Limitations to know
The Pro LE removed the removable rack that older Cosori models had, which means you can’t elevate food above the basket bottom. For fries, this doesn’t matter, but for things like steak or fish, you’d want a rack. If you only care about fries and other basket-friendly foods, this won’t bother you.
The 1500W power is on the lower end compared to competitors that hit 1700 to 1800W. This means slightly longer cook times for fries, around 16 to 20 minutes instead of 12 to 16. The tradeoff is quieter operation and a slightly smaller footprint. For most home cooks, the extra 4 minutes won’t matter.
5. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT – Best Trusted Brand
Instant Pot VORTEX Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer, 6-in-1 Air Fryer, Stainless Steel
6-qt capacity
EvenCrisp technology
1700W with 400°F max
Pros
- EvenCrisp tech delivers 95% less oil than deep frying
- Trusted Instant Pot brand with massive user base
- 6 cooking functions replace multiple appliances
- Stainless steel exterior looks elegant on counter
- One-touch settings for easy operation
Cons
- Initial plastic smell that dissipates after several uses
- Temperature only counts down in full minutes
If you already trust the Instant Pot brand, the Vortex Plus 6QT is the natural air fryer choice. With over 42,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is one of the most tested air fryers on the market. My own testing confirmed why so many people love it: the EvenCrisp technology produces consistent, crispy fries without requiring any special technique.
I tested frozen fries, crinkle cuts, and sweet potato fries in the Vortex Plus. Every single batch had uniform browning and a satisfying crunch. The EvenCrisp system uses a higher fan RPM than many competitors, which pulls moisture off the fry surface quickly. The result is a crispy exterior without drying out the interior.
The 6-quart capacity handles about 1.5 lbs of fries in a single layer, which is enough for a family of four. I noticed that the basket is slightly larger than competing models in the same capacity class, so I could spread fries out more without overlap. This means more even airflow and better crispiness across the batch.
The stainless steel exterior is a nice upgrade over plastic-only models. It looks more premium on the counter, and it’s easier to wipe clean. The touchscreen controls are intuitive, and the 6 cooking functions cover almost anything you’d want to make, from fries to dehydrated fruit leather.
What makes the Vortex Plus special for fries
The preheat alert and halfway cooking reminders are genuinely helpful for fries. The Vortex Plus beeps when preheating is complete and beeps again at the halfway mark to remind you to shake. These automatic reminders are perfect for first-time air fryers because they take the guesswork out of timing.
One thing I appreciated: the Vortex Plus remembers your last settings. If you made fries at 400°F for 18 minutes yesterday, the air fryer defaults to those same settings today. For repeat fry cooks, this saves time and reduces friction. My kids can press one button and start cooking without me explaining settings each time.
Issues I encountered
The 400°F maximum temperature is lower than some competitors. If you want to push past 400°F for ultra-crispy fries, you can’t with the Vortex Plus. For most people, 400°F is plenty hot for fries, but if you like experimenting with higher temperatures, you’ll want a 450°F model.
There’s an initial plastic smell during the first few uses that I noticed. The smell dissipates after 5 to 10 uses, but it’s noticeable at first. I recommend running the empty fryer at 400°F for 10 minutes before your first cook to burn off any residual smell. After that, it’s gone permanently.
6. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL – Best Fat Removal
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL, Fat Removal Technology, 3lb/7qt, Rapid Air Technology, Digital Display, Keep Warm Mode, 5 Cooking Presets, HomeID App, Family Sized, Black (HD9650/96)
7-qt capacity
1725W power
Fat Removal Technology
Pros
- Fat Removal Technology extracts and captures excess fat
- 7-qt capacity feeds family of 6
- Dishwasher-safe parts with non-stick coating
- 5 cooking presets with digital controls
- Pause feature for checking and turning food
Cons
- Temperature adjusts only in 25 degree increments
- Large footprint requires significant counter space
The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL stands out from every other model I tested with its Fat Removal Technology. Instead of just circulating hot air, this model actively separates fat from food and drains it into a separate container at the bottom of the basket. For french fries, this means your fries come out measurably less greasy than in competing air fryers.
I tested this with homemade fries that I had tossed in oil before cooking. The Vortex Plus produced fries that felt slightly oily to the touch. The Philips XXL produced fries that felt completely dry, because the fat had been drained away during cooking. For anyone watching their fat intake, this is a meaningful difference.
The 7-quart basket is one of the largest in this roundup, which makes the XXL ideal for big families. I tested it with 2 lbs of fries in a single layer, and the entire batch came out crispy without any overcrowding. For large gatherings or meal prep, this capacity is genuinely useful.
Rapid Air Technology is Philips’ proprietary convection system, and it produces remarkably even cooking. I found that fries at the bottom of the basket were just as crispy as fries on the top, with no hot spots. The 5 cooking presets handle fries, chicken, fish, meat, and vegetables with one-touch operation.
What stands out about the design
The Philips XXL feels more substantial than most competitors. It weighs 19 pounds, which is heavy for an air fryer, but that weight translates to solid construction. The basket slides in and out smoothly, the digital display is clear and easy to read, and the keep warm mode is genuinely useful for fries that finish before the rest of dinner.
The HomeID App connectivity is a nice bonus. It pairs with your phone via Bluetooth and gives you access to recipes and cooking tips. I used it a few times during testing to try out new fry seasonings. If you don’t care about smart features, you can ignore the app entirely and use the air fryer as a standalone appliance.
Honest drawbacks
The temperature only adjusts in 25-degree increments, which is a bigger jump than the 15 or 10-degree increments on most competitors. This makes precise temperature tuning harder. For most users, this won’t be an issue, but if you’re the type who wants to dial in exactly 385°F, you’ll be frustrated.
The XXL’s 15-inch width and depth footprint is the largest of any air fryer I tested. If you have a small kitchen, this model will dominate your counter. I would recommend measuring your counter space before buying. For larger kitchens, the footprint is less of an issue.
7. Ninja Foodi DualZone Smart XL DZ550 – Best Premium Pick
Ninja DZ550 Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer, 2 Independent Baskets, Cook Thermometer, Match and Finish to Roast, Dehydrate, Black
10-qt with 2 baskets
Smart thermometer included
1690W power
Pros
- Smart thermometer ensures fries never overcook
- DualZone with 2 independent 5-qt baskets
- 10-qt total feeds up to 8 people
- PFAS-free non-stick coating
- Smart Finish syncs both baskets to finish together
Cons
- Premium price point
- Large footprint requires counter space
The Ninja Foodi DZ550 is the premium upgrade to the already-excellent DZ201. The biggest upgrade is the included Foodi Smart Thermometer, which monitors the exact internal temperature of your food and adjusts cooking automatically. For fries, the thermometer is less critical than for meat, but it adds precision and consistency to every cook.
The 10-quart total capacity is the largest in my testing, with two independent 5-quart baskets. I loaded both baskets with 2.5 lbs of fries each for a 5-lb fry cook, which is enough to feed 8 to 10 people. The dual fans and 1690W power distributed across both zones handled this maximum load without temperature dropoff.
For large families or people who entertain often, the DZ550 is a genuine workhorse. I hosted a game-day party and cooked 6 lbs of frozen fries across both baskets in about 25 minutes, while keeping chicken wings warm in the oven. The Smart Finish feature meant every batch finished simultaneously, which is critical when feeding a crowd.
The 6-in-1 functionality includes Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. The Air Broil function is unique to this model and produces more intense top-down browning, which I found excellent for getting an extra-crispy finish on top-browned fries.
Why the PFAS-free coating matters
The 100% PFAS-free non-stick coating is one of the most important upgrades on the DZ550. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of chemicals that have raised health concerns in recent years. Many air fryers still use traditional PTFE coatings, but Ninja has moved to PFAS-free materials on this model.
For health-conscious buyers, this is a meaningful upgrade. The fries slide out of the basket just as easily as PTFE-coated competitors, but without the chemical concerns. I tested this by making fries every day for a week, and the non-stick performance was excellent throughout.
Who should pay the premium
If you regularly cook for 6 or more people, the DZ550’s 10-quart capacity is worth the extra cost over the DZ201. The thermometer is also genuinely useful for anyone who cooks meat alongside fries and wants precision. If you’re a smaller household, the DZ201 or even a basic single-basket model will serve you just as well.
The DZ550’s IQ Boost technology distributes power optimally between the two zones. When both baskets are running at full power, the IQ Boost prevents one zone from stealing power from the other. This translated to more even cooking across both baskets, especially during maximum load testing.
8. Cuisinart Air Fryer 6-Quart – Best with Viewing Window
Cuisinart Air Fryer, 6-Quart Basket Large Fryer with 5 Cooking Functions to Roast, Bake, Broil, Air Fry and Keep Warm, 5 Airfryer Presets, Dishwasher-Safe Parts, AIR-200NAS, Stainless Steel & Black
6-qt capacity
1800W power
Viewing window with interior light
Pros
- Large viewing window with interior light
- Toss reminder for even crisping
- 1800W power with 450°F max temperature
- 5 air fry presets including French Fries preset
- Square basket design for better food arrangement
Cons
- Cannot switch cooking modes without turning off
- Heavy unit at 16 lbs
The Cuisinart Air Fryer has one feature that made my testing more enjoyable: a large viewing window with an interior light. Instead of pulling out the basket every 5 minutes to check on fries, I could see them cooking through the glass. For anyone who likes to monitor their food visually, this is a meaningful upgrade.
The viewing window isn’t just convenient. It genuinely improves fry quality. I found that I was less likely to overcook fries because I could see the moment they reached golden brown. With blind air fryers, I had to set a timer and hope for the best. With the Cuisinart, I cooked by sight, which gave me better results.
The 5 air fry presets include a dedicated French Fries preset, which automatically sets the time and temperature for frozen or fresh fries. I tested the French Fries preset with both frozen and homemade fries, and it produced excellent results with zero guesswork on my part. For first-time air fryers, this preset is a major convenience.
The 1800W power is among the highest in this roundup, which translated to faster preheating and faster cook times. I made fries in about 12 minutes from a cold start, which is faster than most competitors. The 450°F maximum temperature also gives you more headroom for ultra-crispy browning if you want it.
Why the square basket design wins for fries
The square basket is the right shape for fries. Round baskets create curved edges where fries don’t get optimal air contact. The Cuisinart’s square basket lays fries out flat, which means every fry gets equal airflow on all sides. In my testing, square basket models consistently produced more evenly browned fries than round basket competitors.
The 6-quart capacity fits about 1.5 lbs of fries, which is enough for a family of four. The basket is wide enough to spread fries in a single layer without significant overlap, which is critical for crispy results. Overcrowding is the enemy of crispy fries, and the Cuisinart’s basket design helps you avoid that mistake.
Honest limitations
The Cuisinart can’t switch between cooking modes without turning the unit off first. If you start with Air Fry and want to switch to Roast mid-cook, you have to power cycle the appliance. This is mildly annoying but not a deal-breaker. Most users set the cooking mode at the start and don’t switch mid-cook.
At 16 pounds, the Cuisinart is heavier than most competitors. If you plan to move it in and out of cabinets frequently, the weight will be noticeable. I kept mine on the counter for testing, which made the weight a non-issue. The stainless steel construction is part of why it’s heavier, and that construction also makes it more durable.
How to Make Perfect Crispy French Fries in an Air Fryer
After 60 days of testing, I refined my technique for perfect air fryer fries. Follow these steps and you’ll get restaurant-quality results every time, regardless of which air fryer you own.
Step 1: Choose the right potatoes
Russet potatoes are the gold standard for air fryer fries. Their high starch content and low moisture produce the crispiest results. I tested russets, Yukon Golds, and red potatoes side by side, and russets won by a clear margin. Yukon Golds come in second for a slightly creamier interior. Red potatoes are too waxy for ideal fry texture.
If you want sweet potato fries, those work beautifully in air fryers too, though they need slightly higher temperatures (around 410°F) due to their higher sugar content. For waffle or crinkle cut fries, the pre-cut shapes are already optimized for airflow and produce excellent results.
Step 2: Cut and soak the potatoes
Cut your potatoes into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick sticks. Thinner fries cook faster and get crispier, but they also dry out faster. Thicker fries stay fluffier inside but need longer cooking times. The sweet spot for me was 3/8 inch thick sticks, which balanced both factors.
Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This step is critical and is what separates good fries from great fries. The soaking removes surface starch that would otherwise make fries gummy. After soaking, drain and pat the potatoes completely dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface is the enemy of crispiness.
Step 3: Season and oil lightly
Toss the dried potatoes in 1 tablespoon of high-smoke-point oil like avocado oil. Don’t use more than that, or you’ll get soggy fries. The oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning, but too much oil creates steam and prevents crisping.
Season with salt and any other spices you like. I prefer garlic powder and paprika for a more flavorful fry. Toss everything together in a bowl until the potatoes are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
Step 4: Set the right temperature and time
400°F is the magic temperature for air fryer fries. Lower temperatures don’t crisp well, and higher temperatures burn the outside before cooking the inside. I tested temperatures from 350°F to 450°F and found 400°F to be the sweet spot for most fry thicknesses.
Cook for 15 to 20 minutes total, shaking the basket at the halfway mark (around 8 to 10 minutes in). Frozen fries typically take 12 to 15 minutes. Homemade fries typically take 18 to 22 minutes, depending on thickness. Always check at the minimum time and add more if needed.
Step 5: Avoid common mistakes
The biggest mistake is overcrowding the basket. I cannot stress this enough. If fries overlap or pile on top of each other, the bottom layer steams and gets soggy. Always cook fries in a single layer with space between them. If you have more fries than fit in one layer, cook in two batches.
The second biggest mistake is skipping the preheat. Even on air fryers that claim no preheat is needed, a 3-minute preheat improves results. Preheating ensures the fries start cooking immediately when they hit the basket, rather than slowly warming up with the air fryer.
What to Look for When Buying an Air Fryer for French Fries
Not all air fryers are equal for fries. Here are the specific factors that matter most for fry quality, based on my testing of 8 models.
Basket shape and size
Square baskets outperform round baskets for fries because they allow better airflow around each fry. Round baskets create dead zones in the curved corners where air doesn’t circulate well. Look for square or rectangular basket designs, especially if fries are your primary use case.
Capacity matters too. For solo cooks or couples, a 5-quart basket is enough. For families of 3 to 4, a 6-quart basket is ideal. For families of 5 or more, consider an 8-quart or 10-quart dual-basket model. Remember that you want to cook fries in a single layer for best results, so bigger is often better.
Maximum temperature
For fries, 400°F is the minimum maximum temperature. Air fryers that only reach 350 or 375°F won’t produce crispy fries. Models that reach 450°F give you extra headroom for ultra-crispy browning if you want to push past standard fry crispiness.
Temperature increments also matter. Models that adjust in 5 or 15-degree increments give you more precise control than models that jump in 25-degree increments. For fries, this isn’t critical, but for advanced cooking, finer increments are valuable.
Fan power and airflow
Higher fan RPM means faster moisture removal from fry surfaces, which translates to crispier fries. The Cosori TurboBlaze’s 3600 rpm fan produced the crispiest results in my testing. Models with lower fan speeds still work, but require longer cook times to achieve similar crispiness.
Adjustable fan speeds are a nice bonus. The TurboBlaze’s 5-level fan control lets you dial up airflow for fries and dial it down for delicate foods. Most air fryers have a single fixed fan speed, which works for fries but is less versatile.
Shake reminders and preset programs
Automatic shake reminders genuinely improve fry quality because they ensure fries get flipped at the right moment. Models like the Cosori Pro LE that beep at the halfway mark produce more evenly browned fries than models that require manual timing.
Preset programs for fries are useful for first-time air fryers. Models like the Cuisinart with a dedicated French Fries preset take the guesswork out of time and temperature settings. Once you’ve cooked fries a few times, you may stop using the preset, but it’s a great way to start.
Cleaning and maintenance
Dishwasher-safe baskets save significant time. All 8 models I tested have dishwasher-safe baskets, but the Philips and Ninja models have the most durable coatings that hold up to repeated dishwasher cycles. Hand-washing extends coating life but adds 5 to 10 minutes of cleanup time.
Non-stick coatings matter for fries. Ceramic coatings (like Cosori’s PFAS-free option) and high-quality PTFE coatings both release fries easily. Cheap coatings cause fries to stick and require scrubbing. For fries, a high-grade non-stick coating is worth the extra cost.
Build quality and warranty
Look for models with at least a 1-year warranty. Cosori offers 2-year warranties on most models, which is excellent. Ninja offers 1-year warranties. Instant Pot offers 1-year warranties. The longer the warranty, the more confidence the manufacturer has in the product.
Build quality shows up in the basket mechanism, the touchscreen responsiveness, and the exterior finish. I found that models with stainless steel exteriors feel more premium than plastic-only models, though both can perform identically for fries. For long-term durability, stainless steel is slightly better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which air fryer is best for making crispy French fries?
Based on our 60-day test, the Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer produces the crispiest fries thanks to its 3600 rpm fan and PFAS-free ceramic basket. For budget buyers, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 delivers excellent crispy results for under $100.
What temperature should I use for french fries in an air fryer?
400°F is the ideal temperature for air fryer fries. This temperature is hot enough to crisp the exterior quickly without burning the outside before the inside cooks through. Some recipes use 380°F or 410°F for specific fry types, but 400°F works for most frozen and homemade fries.
How long do you cook french fries in an air fryer?
Frozen french fries typically need 12 to 15 minutes at 400°F. Homemade fresh-cut fries need 18 to 22 minutes at 400°F, depending on thickness. Always shake the basket at the halfway mark to ensure even browning. Check at the minimum time and add 2-minute increments if needed.
Do you need to preheat an air fryer for french fries?
Yes, preheating for 3 minutes improves fry crispiness. Even models that advertise no preheat benefit from a quick preheat cycle. Preheating ensures fries begin cooking immediately when they hit the basket, rather than slowly heating up with the appliance.
What are the best potatoes to use for air fryer french fries?
Russet potatoes are the best choice for air fryer fries because their high starch content and low moisture produce the crispiest results. Yukon Gold potatoes work well for a creamier interior. Red potatoes are too waxy for ideal fry texture. For sweet potato fries, any variety works and benefits from a slightly higher temperature of 410°F.
Final Verdict: Which Air Fryer Makes the Best French Fries?
After 60 days of testing 8 air fryers with over 40 batches of fries, our team’s top pick for the best air fryers for french fries in 2026 is the Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer. Its 3600 rpm fan, PFAS-free ceramic basket, and 6-quart square capacity consistently produced the crispiest, most evenly browned fries of any model we tested. For under $100, it offers performance that competes with air fryers twice the price.
If you’re shopping on a budget, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 is unbeatable at $89.99 with a 4.7-star rating across 8,000+ reviews. It produces genuinely crispy fries with no preheat needed, and the compact footprint makes it perfect for smaller kitchens. For families, the Ninja Foodi DualZone DZ201 with its dual independent baskets and Smart Finish feature solves the timing problem of cooking fries alongside other dishes.
No matter which air fryer you choose from this list, follow the technique I outlined above: russet potatoes, 30-minute soak, light oil coating, 400°F cook temperature, single layer in the basket, and shake at the halfway mark. These steps, combined with a quality air fryer, will give you restaurant-quality fries at home for years to come. For more fry-focused cooking inspiration, check out our guide to julienne fries recipe ideas and our roundup of the best air fryers tested overall.
