Summer is the perfect time to enjoy quick, delicious, and healthy meals with less fuss. An air fryer can be your best kitchen companion for crispy fries, roasted veggies, and more, all with minimal oil.
Listen free for 30 days with Audible
Thousands of audiobooks and originals — cancel anytime.
Start your free trialAs an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
The Ninja Air Fryer XL stands out in this space, offering a larger capacity and advanced features that make summer cooking easier, healthier, and more fun for the whole family.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja Air Fryer XL
- ✔ Weight: 12.3 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1800W
- ✔ Dimensions: 14 x 12 x 14 inches
Performance and Technology
The Ninja AF181 Air Fryer XL uses MaxCrisp technology to deliver fast, crispy results with up to 75% less fat. Unlike typical competitors that may struggle with achieving that perfect crunch, this air fryer ensures your foods come out golden and satisfying every time.
Its maximum temperature of 450°F allows for thorough cooking and browning, making it excellent for everything from crispy chicken wings to roasted vegetables. The inclusion of six cooking functions adds flexibility, enabling you to switch from air frying to baking or dehydrating with ease.
Capacity and Size
With a generous 6.5-quart capacity, the Ninja Air Fryer XL is ideal for family meals or summer gatherings. It comfortably cooks enough food for multiple people, making it a practical choice compared to smaller models often found in competitors’ lines.
However, its size can be a drawback for small kitchens where space is limited. Its bulkier design might require some planning to fit comfortably on your countertop.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
The Ninja AF181 features straightforward controls, but some users might find the array of functions a little complex initially. Once familiar, however, it becomes an intuitive tool for versatile cooking.
Cleanup is simple thanks to its nonstick basket and crisper plate, which are dishwasher safe. This makes post-meal cleanup quick and hassle-free—perfect for busy summer days.
Comparison with Competitors
Compared to standard air fryers, the Ninja Air Fryer XL excels with its MaxCrisp technology and larger capacity, making it more suitable for family-sized meals. Many competitors lack the multi-function versatility or the capacity to handle larger portions.
However, some budget models might offer similar basic air frying functions at a lower price point, albeit without the advanced features or the same level of crispiness and durability provided by Ninja.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Air Fryer XL

The Ninja Air Fryer XL combines innovative MaxCrisp technology with a spacious design, making it one of the top choices for summer cooking. It offers multiple functions and easy cleanup, perfect for busy households looking for healthier, crispy dishes.
Pros:
- Delivers crispy results with minimal oil
- Large 6.5-quart capacity for family meals
- Multiple cooking functions including dehydrate
Cons:
- Can be bulky for small kitchens
- Limited to 450°F maximum temperature
- Controls may seem complex initially
Best for: Families and those who want versatile summer cooking options
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users seeking a lower-cost basic air fryer
Bottom line: A versatile, large-capacity air fryer perfect for family summer meals and healthier crispy dishes.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.