Best Commercial Air Fryer Options Under $200

A commercial air fryer has become a revolutionary kitchen appliance, offering the ability to cook your favorite fried foods with little to no oil.

Whether you’re running a small commercial kitchen or looking to enhance your cooking at home, choosing the right commercial air fryer can make a significant impact.

In this guide, we’ll explore four top-rated commercial air-fryers under $200, each offering a blend of versatility, efficiency, and advanced features, making them ideal for both professional and home kitchens.

Also read: Review of the Instant Vortex 2 Quart air fryer

1. Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven with 8-in-1 Functionality

The Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven is a highly versatile and compact appliance designed for those who want a high-performance air fryer but are constrained by limited counter space. It offers a combination of advanced features that deliver the perfect cooking experience.

For those who are looking for a 4 qt air fryer, they must read our in-depth review of the Instant Vortex Plus 4 qt air fryer.

Features

1. Digital Crisp Control Technology:

This technology improves cooking performance by ensuring perfect temperature control, heat source management, and airflow. It guarantees that your food is cooked evenly and perfectly with minimal effort. Whether you’re air frying, roasting, or broiling, this air fryer ensures optimal results every time.

2. 8-in-1 Functionality:

The Ninja SP101 is not just an air fryer; it’s an all-in-one kitchen appliance with 8 cooking functions. These include air fry, air roast, air broil, bake, bagel, toast, dehydrate, and keep warm. The variety of options makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to cook a range of meals with just one appliance.

3. Less Fat:

By using air frying technology, this model can cook your favorite fried foods with up to 75% less fat than traditional deep frying methods. This means you can indulge in all your favorite crispy meals like fries and chicken wings while cutting down on unhealthy oils and fats.

4. Faster Cooking:

Ninja promises faster cooking times with this air fryer. It cooks up to 60% faster than conventional ovens, making it a great option for busy kitchens that need to prepare meals quickly. With a 60-second preheat time, you can have your meal ready in as little as 20 minutes.

5. Large Cooking Capacity:

Despite its compact size, this commercial air fryer provides a surprisingly large cooking area. It can fit a 13″ pizza, up to 9 slices of toast, or six 6-8 oz. chicken breasts at once. This makes it ideal for family meals or even small commercial settings.

For those who are looking for a 5 qt air fryer, they must read our in-depth review of CHEFMAN Digital 5qt Air Fryer.

6. Easy Storage:

One of the standout features of the Ninja SP101 is its flip-up design, which allows it to be stored against your kitchen backsplash. It takes up 50% less space when not in use, making it ideal for those who have limited counter space.

Pros:

• Versatile cooking functions: It offers a wide range of cooking options, making it perfect for different types of meals.
• Space-Saving Design: The flip-up feature is incredibly useful for small kitchens or busy countertops.
• Healthier Cooking: The air fryer reduces fat content in your favorite meals, allowing for healthier eating.

Cons:

• Limited Interior Height: The interior height of 3″ may limit the types of larger dishes you can prepare.
• Plastic Construction: Some users may find the plastic construction less durable than stainless steel models.

Why it’s great:

This commercial air fryer offers unbeatable versatility and space-saving capabilities, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or anyone who needs a reliable multi-function appliance without taking up too much counter space.

2. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer

The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo is a sleek, multifunctional appliance that offers commercial-grade features while maintaining a user-friendly interface. With a large capacity and multiple cooking functions, it’s perfect for cooking large meals or hosting gatherings.

Features

1. 25 Cooking Presets:

This model comes with an impressive 25 cooking presets, which cover a wide range of cooking styles, including ribs, defrost, bake, toast, pizza, chicken, pastry, slow cook, roast, and more. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking, making it easier for anyone to prepare meals with perfect results every time.

2. Dual-Speed Fan:

The dual-speed fan ensures that your food cooks evenly by circulating 360º of superheated air. This gives your meals the perfect golden crisp texture, ideal for air-frying and roasting.

3. 26-Quart Capacity:

With a 26-quart capacity, this air fryer is perfect for larger meals or cooking for a bigger crowd. You can easily fit a 6-lb chicken or a 12-inch pizza inside, which makes it an ideal choice for commercial kitchens or families that like to cook in bulk.

4. Stainless Steel Exterior:

The elegant stainless steel exterior not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen but also provides durability and easy cleaning. The sleek design also ensures that this air fryer will look great in any kitchen environment.

5. One-Touch Operation:

The one-handed operation for opening the French doors and the digital display make this commercial air fryer incredibly easy to use. The interior light helps you monitor the progress of your food without having to open the door.

Pros:

• Large Capacity: Great for large meals or feeding a group of people, making it perfect for families or commercial kitchens.
• Elegant Design: The stainless steel finish and French doors give it a professional, elegant appearance.
• Multiple cooking functions: It has a wide variety of presets to suit different types of meals and cooking styles.

Cons:

• Large Size: The size of this air fryer may not be ideal for smaller kitchens.
• Heavy: Due to its large capacity and stainless steel construction, it can be quite heavy, making it harder to move around.

Why it’s great:

This commercial air fryer stands out for its large capacity and wide range of cooking options. It’s ideal for commercial use or for those who cook large meals regularly.

3. Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360 Stainless Steel Air Fryer

The Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360 Stainless Steel Air Fryer is a versatile 9-in-1 appliance that combines the benefits of a convection oven with the air frying technology we all know and love. It’s designed to provide commercial-level performance while being compact enough for home use.

Features

1. 9-in-1 Air Fryer:

With functions like air fry, bake, broil, roast, slow cook, toast, and more, this air fryer replaces multiple kitchen appliances, making it a highly efficient choice. The 360° Quick Cook Technology ensures food is evenly cooked from all sides, giving you crispy results without the need for oil.

2. 360° Quick Cook Technology:

This technology circulates super-heated air around the food to ensure even cooking and crisping. It’s faster than traditional ovens, allowing you to prepare meals in up to 40% less time. This feature is especially useful in a busy kitchen environment where time is of the essence.

3. Large Capacity:

With a 930 cubic inch capacity, this model can handle large meals, making it perfect for families or small restaurants. It’s designed to cook whole meals, including a roast chicken or multiple servings of fries.

4. Stainless Steel Construction:

The stainless steel body is built to last, ensuring long-term durability. It also provides an attractive look that complements your kitchen décor.

5. Trusted Emeril Lagasse Brand:

Known for his expertise in the culinary world, Emeril Lagasse brings his chef-quality design and support to this air fryer, giving users a reliable and professional-grade appliance.

Pros:

• Multiple Cooking Functions: The 9-in-1 design means you can cook almost anything with ease.
• Healthy Cooking: With air frying technology, you can cook with little to no oil, resulting in healthier meals.
• Chef-quality results: Emeril’s design ensures that you’re getting commercial-grade quality at an affordable price.

Cons:

• Large Footprint: It’s a bit bulky for smaller kitchens.
• Learning Curve: Some users may find the 360° cooking process takes a little getting used to.

Why it’s great:

This commercial air fryer is a great all-in-one solution for busy kitchens and families, offering a wide variety of cooking functions, fast cooking times, and professional-quality results.

4. Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven

The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven is an advanced air fryer that uses improved convection technology to deliver faster, crispier results. With a large cooking capacity and smart features, it’s a great option for those who want top-notch performance.

Features

1. Improved 100% Super Convection Technology:

This advanced technology delivers faster cooking and crispier results, making your meals more flavorful and evenly cooked. The superconvection system reduces cooking time while ensuring that heat is distributed evenly across all layers of food.

2. 12 Cooking Functions:

With 12 cooking modes, the Bravo XL can air fry, toast, grill, bake, roast, slow cook, and dry. It also includes 100 one-touch recipe presets that make cooking easy and convenient.

3. 30 QT Capacity:

This commercial air fryer is built for larger portions, with enough space to fit two 13-inch pizzas, a 10-lb chicken, or a 6-lb roast. This makes it a great choice for large families or small restaurants.

4. Smart Probe:

This feature allows you to monitor the internal temperature of your food, ensuring that you cook it to perfection every time. It reduces the need for guesswork while allowing for precise cooking.

5. Adjustable Temperature Control:

With temperatures ranging from 50°F to 500°F, you have full control over how your food is cooked. This range makes it perfect for a wide variety of dishes, from baking delicate pastries to searing meats.

Pros:

• Large Capacity: Ideal for cooking larger meals or multiple servings at once.
• Multiple Cooking Functions: The variety of settings ensures that it can handle anything from air frying to slow cooking.
• Precise Cooking: The smart probe and adjustable temperature provide a level of control that’s ideal for anyone seeking precision in their cooking.

Cons:

• Large Size: It may take up significant counter space in smaller kitchens.
• Complex Interface: Some users may find the interface with multiple functions slightly overwhelming.

Why it’s great:

The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro is perfect for those who want versatility and precision in their cooking. Its large capacity and advanced features make it ideal for more professional kitchens or large families.

Comparison:

Here’s a comparison table that summarizes the key features and pros/cons of the four air fryers:

Feature/Model	Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fryer	Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer	Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360 Air Fryer	Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer
Cooking Functions	8-in-1 (Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, etc.)	25 Presets (Ribs, Pizza, Toast, Bake, etc.)	9-in-1 (Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Slow Cook, etc.)	12 Cooking Functions (Air Fry, Grill, Roast, etc.)
Capacity	Fits a 13″ pizza or 6-8 oz. chicken breasts	26-Quart (fits 6-lb chicken, 12″ pizza)	930 cubic inches (fits roast chicken, fries)	30 QT (fits two 13″ pizzas, 10-lb chicken)
Temperature Range	Not specified	Not specified	360° Quick Cook Technology (faster than traditional)	50°F to 500°F
Convection Technology	Digital Crisp Control	Dual-Speed Fan (360° air circulation)	360° Quick Cook Technology	100% Super Convection Technology
Design	Flip-up, compact design	French door, stainless steel	Stainless steel construction	Stainless steel construction
Ease of Use	Digital control, compact storage	One-touch operation, interior light	Simple interface, versatile	Smart probe, adjustable temperature control
Healthier Cooking	Up to 75% less fat	Air fry with minimal oil	Air-frying with little to no oil	Air-frying with minimal oil
Preheat Time	60 seconds	Not specified	40% faster cooking time	Faster cooking time
Dimensions	Compact, space-saving	Large may not fit small kitchens.	Large footprint	Large footprint
Weight	Lightweight	Heavy (due to large size and construction)	Moderate	Heavy (due to size and features)
Pros	Versatile, space-saving, healthier meals	Large capacity, elegant design, multiple presets	Multiple cooking functions, chef-quality results	Large capacity, precision cooking, versatile
Cons	Limited interior height, plastic build	Large size, heavy	Bulky size, learning curve	Large size, complex interface
Why it’s Great	Space-saving with versatility	Large capacity, ideal for large meals	Great all-in-one solution for busy kitchens	Perfect for those needing versatility and precision

This table gives you a side-by-side comparison of the key features, pros, and cons of the four air fryers, making it easier for you to decide which model best suits your needs.

 Difference Between Commercial Air Fryer and Regular Air Fryer

When it comes to air fryers, there are significant differences between commercial air fryers and regular home-use air fryers. Here are some of the primary distinctions in terms of capacity, durability, power, versatility, and cost:

1. Capacity

• Commercial Air Fryers: These models are designed for larger cooking volumes, making them ideal for restaurants, cafes, and other commercial settings. Their capacity can range from 10 to 32 quarts, accommodating multiple servings or large batches in a single cooking cycle.
• Regular Air Fryers: Home-use air fryers typically range from 2 to 8 quarts, which is enough to serve small families or individuals. Their compact size is designed with home kitchens in mind and may not handle high-volume cooking efficiently.

2. Durability and Build Quality

• Commercial Air Fryers: Built to withstand the rigors of daily, continuous use, commercial models often feature heavy-duty materials like stainless steel and high-quality, non-stick interiors. These are designed for long-term durability in high-demand settings.
• Regular Air Fryers: Home models are generally constructed with lighter materials, making them easier to handle and store. While they are durable for occasional use, they may not be as robust under heavy or daily operation.

3. Power and Speed

• Commercial Air Fryers: The commercial air fryer usually comes with higher wattage (up to 1800 watts or more) to cook food faster and more evenly. This high power output helps in handling large volumes efficiently, which is crucial in commercial kitchens to maintain quick service.
• Regular Air Fryers: Home air fryers typically have lower wattages, generally around 800-1500 watts, making them suitable for smaller portions. They may take longer to preheat and cook compared to commercial models, as their power is optimized for residential electricity limits and usage.

4. Versatility and Features

• Commercial Air Fryers: Designed to support a variety of cooking techniques, many commercial models come with multi-functionality, including settings like bake, broil, roast, dehydrate, and rotisserie. The controls are often more advanced to offer precise temperature and timing adjustments, giving chefs greater flexibility.
• Regular Air Fryers: While many home air fryers also offer a variety of presets and cooking options, they generally lack the advanced and wide-ranging functionalities of commercial models. Most are optimized for simple air frying, with limited additional features.

5. Ease of Cleaning

• Commercial Air Fryers: These are designed with efficiency and hygiene in mind, with features like removable, dishwasher-safe parts and non-stick interiors that are easy to clean quickly between uses.
• Regular Air Fryers: Home models are also designed with easy-to-clean parts but may not have as many dishwasher-safe components or quick-release trays for frequent cleaning needs.

6. Cost

• Commercial Air Fryers: Due to their larger size, advanced features, and durable construction, the commercial air fryers tend to be more expensive. However, they are a worthwhile investment for businesses, as they increase productivity and withstand heavy use.
• Regular Air Fryers: Home-use air fryers are more affordable, catering to residential budgets. They provide the essential features needed for household cooking but lack the capacity and resilience for commercial use.

How to Choose the Best Commercial Air Fryer

Selecting the right commercial air fryer requires consideration of a few key factors to ensure it meets your business or high-volume cooking needs. Here are the key components to focus on:

1. Capacity and Size

The fryer’s capacity should align with your kitchen’s demand. For instance, if you’re serving a busy restaurant, a larger model (around 8–32 quarts) will allow you to cook multiple servings simultaneously. However, make sure it fits your kitchen space and countertop, as commercial air fryers are generally larger than home models.

2. Power and Wattage

High wattage (generally between 1500 and 1800 watts or more) is essential for quick and even cooking in commercial settings. This ensures faster heating and better handling of large quantities. Higher wattage also generally translates to crisper, more evenly cooked food, which is ideal in high-demand settings like restaurants.

3. Multi-Functionality and Features

Look for features that offer versatility, such as baking, roasting, dehydrating, and rotisserie. Commercial kitchens benefit from models that have multiple preset functions, which can reduce cooking times and offer a wide range of menu options. Some advanced air fryers have customizable temperature and time settings, which add flexibility for different recipes.

4. Durability and Material Quality

Commercial air fryers are a long-term investment, so durability is critical. Opt for models with stainless steel exteriors and high-quality, non-stick interiors, as they can withstand frequent use and are easier to maintain. Sturdier builds also minimize breakdowns, keeping your kitchen running smoothly.

5. Ease of Cleaning

Look for removable, dishwasher-safe baskets and trays and non-stick interiors, as these make daily cleaning faster and easier. Some commercial models come with crumb trays and grease separators, which can be helpful in maintaining cleanliness and meeting hygiene standards in a commercial kitchen.

6. Safety Features

Safety is especially important in a high-traffic kitchen. Consider fryers with automatic shut-off, heat-resistant handles, and stable bases to reduce the risks of burns or accidents. Overheat protection and auto-shutoff functions can also help prevent kitchen incidents and equipment damage.

7. Price and Warranty

Balancing budget and quality is key. Most high-quality commercial air fryers fall within the $150–$500 range, but a higher price doesn’t always mean better performance. Compare features to determine value for money, and look for warranties or customer support options that can offer peace of mind and protect your investment over time.

Conclusion

When selecting a commercial air fryer, it’s important to consider factors such as cooking capacity, versatility, and speed. The air fryers in this guide, including the Ninja SP101, Emeril Lagasse French Door, Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360, and Nuwave Bravo XL, offer exceptional value, durability, and performance—without breaking the bank.

Each of these models provides different benefits, whether you need a compact design for a small kitchen or a large capacity for cooking in bulk. No matter which model you choose, you’ll be investing in an air fryer that delivers crispy, healthy meals with ease.

FAQ

1.What is a commercial air fryer?

A commercial air fryer is a heavy-duty appliance designed for high-volume cooking in commercial kitchens, restaurants, or businesses. It typically offers larger cooking capacities, faster cooking times, and more durable construction compared to home-use models.

2. Can I use a commercial air fryer at home?

Yes, you can use a commercial air-fryer in your home kitchen. However, commercial models tend to be larger and may occupy more counterspace. They also come with advanced features suited for high-volume cooking, which might be more than what is necessary for typical home cooking.

3. Are air fryers healthier than deep fryers?

Yes, air fryers use significantly less oil, typically 75–80% less than traditional deep frying methods. This results in meals with less fat and calorie content, making air-frying a healthier cooking method.

4. What size commercial air fryer should I get?

The size you select depends on your cooking needs.

• For small commercial kitchens or home use, air fryers with a 6-10 quart capacity may suffice.
• For larger batches or busy kitchens, models with 26–30 quarts or more will be more efficient.

5. Is it possible to substitute a commercial air fryer for other kitchen appliances?

Many commercial models come with multiple functions such as baking, roasting, broiling, and even dehydrating, making them versatile enough to replace several other kitchen appliances.

6. Do commercial air fryers come with warranties?

Most commercial air-fryers come with warranties, which typically range from 1 to 3 years. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s warranty policy for specific coverage details.

7. Are commercial air fryers easy to clean?

Yes, most commercial models have removable baskets and trays that are dishwasher-safe. Additionally, many feature non-stick surfaces to make cleanup easier and more efficient.

8. Can a commercial air fryer cook large meals?

Yes, commercial air-fryers are designed to handle large portions. Depending on the model, they can cook whole chickens, large batches of fries, pizzas, and more in one cycle.

9. How fast do commercial air fryers cook food?

Commercial air-fryers are typically faster than conventional ovens. With their higher wattage and efficient convection systems, they can cook food in significantly less time. Some models, like the Ninja SP101, can cook up to 60% faster than traditional ovens.

10. Are there any drawbacks to commercial air fryers?

The primary drawbacks of commercial air-fryers are their size and weight. These models are larger and heavier than regular home-use air fryers, which might be a challenge in small kitchens or for people with limited storage space.

11. How long does it take for a commercial air fryer to preheat?

Preheat times vary by model, but many commercial air fryers preheat in 5 minutes or less. Some, like the Ninja SP101, offer ultra-fast preheating times of around 60 seconds.