Ever found yourself stuck between the crispy magic of an air fryer and the smoky goodness of a grill? You’re not alone. Both promise delicious meals but go about it in totally different ways. Whether you’re craving perfectly golden fries without the oil or a juicy steak with those classic char marks, choosing the right appliance can transform your cooking. Let’s dive into a friendly breakdown of the best air fryers and grills, so you can pick the perfect match for your kitchen and taste buds.
Key Takeaways
- Smart thermometer and high-heat grilling are key strengths of the top choice.
- Choose models with multiple cooking functions for versatility.
- Prioritize large capacity for family-sized meals.
- Look for smokeless grilling to minimize indoor air pollution.
- Ensure ease of cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts.
Ninja | Indoor Grill and Air Fryer| Foodi Smart XL | 6-in-1 Grill
Smart XL Grill Master
- Smart thermometer included
- High-heat cyclonic grilling
- Large family-sized capacity
- BEST FOR VERSATILE COUNTERTOP OVEN: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ORIGINAL INDOOR GRILL: Ninja | Indoor Grill | Foodi | 5-in-1 (Grill Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SPACIOUS FRENCH DOOR OVEN: Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SMART XL GRILL MASTER: Ninja | Indoor Grill and Air Fryer| Foodi Smart XL | 6-in-1 Grill Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SLEEK SMART GRILL: Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry Read More ↓
- BEST FOR INTUITIVE GRILL CONTROL: Ninja EG201 Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ULTRA-PRECISE CONVECTION: Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill Combo Read More ↓
- BEST FOR FAST AIR ADVANTAGE: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill Read More ↓
- BEST FOR INTEGRATED SMART PROBE: Ninja Foodi Pro 5-in-1 Indoor Integrated Smart Probe Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT 11-IN-1 UPGRADE: COSORI 11-in-1 Air Fryer Oven Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Air Fryer And Grill
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill, 1800W 8-1 Air Fryer Oven with Bake, Convection Bake, Grill, Broil and Warm Options, Large Capacity, 60-Minute Timer, TOA-70NAS, Stainless Steel
The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a versatile kitchen powerhouse designed to replace multiple appliances. With 1800 watts of power, it air fries, toasts, bakes, broils, and grills, offering endless cooking possibilities.
Its spacious interior fits 6 slices of bread, a 12-inch pizza, or a 4-pound chicken, perfect for families. The AirAdvantage technology ensures crispy, flavorful results by optimizing hot air flow.
Features like adjustable temperature, a 60-minute timer, and a toast shade selector make it user-friendly. Included accessories like a non-stick grill/griddle and air fry basket add convenience.
The stainless steel interior ensures easy cleanup, making it a must-have for busy cooks.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Versatile cooking functions
- Large capacity fits family meals
- Fast and crispy results
- Easy to clean interior
- Includes useful accessories
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky on counter
- Takes time to preheat
Ninja | Indoor Grill | Foodi | 5-in-1 (Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Dehydrate | Fits up to 3lb Roast | Smoke Control System and Dishwasher Safe Parts| Black/Grey | AG301
The Ninja Foodi Indoor Grill brings outdoor grilling flavors to your countertop with ease. Its 5-in-1 functionality lets you grill, air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate, offering versatility for every meal.
The cyclonic grilling technology reaches 500°F, delivering perfect char-grilled marks and flavors without the need for an outdoor grill. It even cooks frozen foods to perfection in under 25 minutes, eliminating defrosting.
The included 4-quart crisper basket allows air frying with up to 75% less fat than deep frying. Compact yet powerful, this grill is ideal for year-round grilling, rain or shine, and fits up to 3 steaks or 6 burgers.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Authentic grill marks
- Cooks from frozen
- Multiple cooking modes
- Healthier air frying
- Compact countertop design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Learning curve for controls
- Limited cooking space
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 24 Cooking Functions and Digital Controls, 7 Accessories Included, Stainless Steel Finish, 26QT Capacity
The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo is a versatile kitchen powerhouse designed to handle a variety of cooking tasks with ease. Featuring 24 cooking functions, it elevates everyday meals from quick air-fried snacks to full roasted dinners for large gatherings.
The 26-quart capacity accommodates meals for 4–6 people, capable of rotisserie a 6-lb chicken or baking a 12-inch pizza. Its dual-speed fan ensures 360º superheated air circulation for perfectly crispy results, while the stainless steel exterior adds elegance to any kitchen.
The French doors open with a single pull, and the interior light lets you monitor cooking progress effortlessly.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large 26-quart capacity
- Multiple cooking functions
- Sleek stainless steel design
- Easy-to-use French doors
- Precise temperature control
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Takes up counter space
- Heavier than some models
- Learning curve for beginners
Ninja | Indoor Grill and Air Fryer| Foodi Smart XL | 6-in-1 Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate & Crisp |Smart Thermometer & Splatter Shield | Dishwasher Safe Parts | Black/Silver | FG551
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is an all-in-one indoor electric grill and air fryer that sears, sizzles, and crisps to perfection. Equipped with cyclonic grilling technology, it reaches 500°F to char-grill food evenly, delivering authentic BBQ flavor indoors without smoke.
The Smart Cook System includes a dual-sensor thermometer with 4 protein presets and 9 doneness levels, ensuring precise results every time. Its XL capacity fits up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs, making it ideal for family meals or meal prepping.
This 6-in-1 appliance also air crisps, roasts, bakes, broils, and dehydrates, replacing multiple kitchen gadgets with one versatile solution.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Smart thermometer included
- High-heat cyclonic grilling
- Large family-sized capacity
- Multiple cooking functions
- Smokeless indoor grilling
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky design
- Limited recipes included
- Requires counter clearance
Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, & Dehydrate, Foodi Smart Thermometer, 2nd Generation, Black/Silver
The Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating into one sleek unit. Its Smart Cook System and thermometer ensure precise cooking with customizable doneness levels for proteins, taking the guesswork out of meal prep.
With cyclonic grilling technology reaching 500°F, it delivers authentic char-grilled marks and flavors. The 1760-watt power ensures quick, consistent results, while the wide temperature range accommodates various recipes.
Perfect for busy households, this indoor grill offers restaurant-quality meals at home, making it a must-have for culinary enthusiasts.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Precise temperature control
- Versatile cooking options
- Authentic grill marks
- High power output
- Sleek modern design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Large footprint
- Heavier than average
Ninja EG201 Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, & Dehydrate, 2nd Generation, Dishwasher Safe, Black/Silver
The Ninja EG201 Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill is a second-generation model that sears, sizzles, and air fries with ease. Its cyclonic grilling technology reaches 500°F, creating delicious char-grilled marks and flavors, while the 4-qt.
crisper basket allows air frying with up to 75% less fat. This appliance excels at transforming frozen foods into grilled masterpieces in under 25 minutes, eliminating the need for defrosting.
With six versatile functions—grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate—it offers endless cooking possibilities. The updated exterior design adds a modern touch to any kitchen, making it a practical yet stylish addition.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cooks frozen food quickly
- Healthier air frying
- Multiple cooking functions
- Modern updated look
- Easy to clean
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No smart thermometer
- Slightly smaller capacity
Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill Combo, 2025 New Ultra-Fast Convection System, 35% Crispier, 2X More Even, 142 Presets, 50-500F, Smarter Probe, PFAS Free, 30QT, Stainless Steel
The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill Combo is a versatile kitchen powerhouse designed to replace your main oven. With 142 easy-cook presets and 12 cooking functions, it handles air frying, grilling, baking, and more effortlessly.
Its 2025 Ultra-Fast Convection System ensures 3x faster cooking and 35% crispier results while reducing oil use by 95%. The reversible grill plate delivers authentic char-grilled flavor with diamond marks, and the customizable heating zones let you tailor cooking for perfect pizzas.
With a wide temperature range and 100-hour timer, this appliance offers precision and convenience for all your culinary needs.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely versatile cooking options
- Ultra-fast convection system
- Authentic char-grilled flavor
- Reduces oil by 95%
- Customizable heating zones
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky countertop footprint
- Steeper learning curve
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill, 1800W 8-1 Air Fryer Oven with Bake, Convection Bake, Grill, Broil and Warm Options, Large Capacity, 60-Minute Timer, TOA-70W, White
The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill combines style and functionality in a premium 1800-watt appliance. It features eight versatile cooking functions, including air fry, bake, broil, and grill, making it perfect for diverse meals.
The spacious capacity accommodates up to 6 slices of bread, a 12-inch pizza, or a 4-pound chicken. Its AirAdvantage technology ensures fast, crispy results with optimized hot airflow, locking in flavor.
The adjustable temperature dial, 60-minute timer, and toast shade selector offer precise control. Included accessories like an air fry basket and reversible grill/griddle make cooking and cleanup simple and efficient.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Multiple cooking functions
- Large cooking capacity
- Fast and crispy results
- Easy-to-clean interior
- Includes essential accessories
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited temperature range
- No preset memory slots
Ninja Foodi Pro 5-in-1 Indoor Integrated Smart Probe, 4-Quart Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, an Cyclonic Grilling Technology, with 4 Steaks Capacity, in a Stainless Finish
The Ninja Foodi Pro 5-in-1 Indoor Grill is a versatile kitchen powerhouse that combines grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating in one sleek appliance. With its integrated smart probe, you can cook food to perfection without the guesswork, ensuring juicy results every time.
The Cyclonic Grilling Technology circulates 500°F air for even cooking, while the high-density grill grate creates authentic char-grilled marks. Whether you’re searing steaks or air frying crispy fries with up to 75% less fat, this 4-quart wonder delivers restaurant-quality meals at home.
Its variable fan speed and wide temperature range make it a must-have for culinary enthusiasts.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Integrated smart probe
- Cyclonic grilling technology
- Versatile cooking functions
- Reduces fat by 75%
- Easy-to-use controls
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited 4-quart capacity
- Bulky for small kitchens
COSORI 11-in-1 Air Fryer Oven , 13Qt Small Footprint Airfryer combo with Rotisserie, Toast, Bake, Roast, Reheat Functions and more, Recipe Book & 6 Accessories Included, Perfect for Small Contertop
The COSORI 11-in-1 Air Fryer Oven is a compact yet powerful appliance that replaces multiple kitchen gadgets. With 13 quarts of capacity, it fits up to 4 lbs of chicken or an 8-inch pizza, perfect for family meals.
Its two-level cooking lets you prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, saving time and energy. From rotisserie to toast, bake, and proof, this oven handles 11 functions effortlessly.
Cooking is 40% faster than traditional ovens, with no long preheating needed. The sleek design saves counter space, while the intuitive controls make operation a breeze.
Upgrade your cooking experience with this versatile and efficient air fryer combo.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large 13-quart capacity
- Two-level cooking
- 11 cooking functions
- Compact footprint design
- Faster than traditional ovens
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than expected
- Short power cord
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing between an air fryer and a grill?
Consider your cooking needs—air fryers are great for quick, crispy meals with less oil, while grills excel at searing meats and adding smoky flavors. Check the capacity to ensure it fits your household size, and prioritize ease of cleaning, especially for models with non-stick surfaces or dishwasher-safe parts.
How do air fryers and grills compare in terms of cooking performance?
Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food evenly and quickly, mimicking deep-frying with less fat. Grills, on the other hand, use direct or indirect heat to create char marks and a distinct grilled flavor, ideal for steaks, burgers, and vegetables.
What key features differentiate high-quality air fryers from grills?
Air fryers often come with presets for specific foods like fries or chicken, adjustable temperature controls, and rotisserie functions. Grills may feature removable plates, temperature probes, and smoke control vents for versatility in cooking styles.
Which option offers better value for money?
Air fryers are generally more affordable and energy-efficient, making them a cost-effective choice for everyday cooking. Grills tend to be pricier but offer superior versatility for outdoor cooking and larger gatherings, justifying the higher cost for frequent grillers.
Are there any health benefits to choosing an air fryer over a grill?
Air fryers require little to no oil, reducing calorie intake while still delivering crispy results. Grilling can also be healthy if you opt for lean meats and vegetables, but excessive charring may produce harmful compounds.
How much space do I need for an air fryer versus a grill?
Air fryers are compact and perfect for countertops or small kitchens, with most models requiring minimal storage. Grills, especially outdoor ones, need more space and often require a dedicated area for safe operation and storage.
Can I achieve similar results with an air fryer and a grill?
While both appliances can cook similar foods, they produce different textures and flavors—air fryers give a fried-like crunch, while grills add a smoky char. Some hybrid models offer both functions, but traditionalists may notice a difference in authenticity.
What are the maintenance differences between air fryers and grills?
Air fryers are easier to clean, often with dishwasher-safe baskets and minimal grease buildup. Grills require more effort, especially charcoal models, which need ash removal and regular grate scrubbing to maintain performance.
Which is better for cooking for a large family?
Grills typically offer larger cooking surfaces, making them ideal for batch-cooking or feeding a crowd. Air fryers come in various sizes, but larger models can be bulky and may still have limited capacity compared to grills.
Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of?
Air fryers can get hot during use, so handle with care and ensure proper ventilation. Grills, especially gas or charcoal models, pose fire and burn risks, requiring careful monitoring and safe placement away from flammable materials.