6 Best Crux Air Fryers of 2026

The CRUX x Marshmello 3.0 QT air fryer bursts onto the scene with a vibrant design and TurboCrisp Technology that delivers restaurant-level crispness without the grease. Packing a 1300-watt heating system, this compact powerhouse heats rapidly and maintains consistent airflow, turning frozen fries into golden perfection in under 15 minutes. Its touchscreen interface with pre-programmed settings makes it ideal for beginners, while the 3-quart capacity strikes a smart balance for couples or solo cooks who want quick, healthy meals without bulk.

In real-world testing, the Marshmello 3.0 QT shines in speed and ease—perfect for whipping up crispy chicken tenders, roasted veggies, or even baked apples. The non-stick basket and crisping tray slide out effortlessly and handle medium-sized portions (up to 2.5 lbs), though overcrowding leads to uneven results, as expected in smaller models. While the 60-minute timer with auto shut-off adds safety, the fan can get a bit loud at peak operation, and cooking larger family meals requires batch processing. Still, its rapid preheat and consistent browning outperform many budget rivals.

Positioned as the go-to for small households, this model edges out the basic Crux 3QT with its premium TurboCrisp tech and Marshmello-themed fun factor. It’s not as spacious as the 8QT versions, but for those tight on counter space or cooking for one to two people, it’s a smarter, more engaging pick. The included silicone cupcake molds add a playful twist for dessert lovers, making it more than just a fryer. Compared to the larger CRUX x Marshmello 8QT models, it offers similar tech in a smaller, more affordable package—just with less room for family-sized feasts.

The CRUX x Marshmello 8.0 QT (White) air fryer commands attention with its bold size and 1750-watt heating system, making it a true contender for family-sized cooking. Its TurboCrisp Technology ensures food comes out crispy on the outside, juicy within—whether it’s a whole chicken or a batch of spring rolls. With an 8-quart capacity that handles up to 6.6 lbs, this model eliminates the need for batch frying, a major win for busy households. The sleek white finish and intuitive touchscreen elevate kitchen aesthetics while offering full programmability.

During testing, the fryer handled everything from frozen nuggets to homemade fish and chips with impressive consistency. The rapid heat circulation ensures even cooking across all corners, and the 60-minute timer with auto shut-off prevents overcooking. It preheats in under 5 minutes and recovers heat quickly when the basket is pulled mid-cycle. However, its larger footprint demands serious counter space, and the white exterior shows fingerprints and splatters more easily than darker models. It’s also slightly heavier, making basket removal a two-hand job when fully loaded.

As the premium option in the Marshmello lineup, it outshines the 3.0 QT model in capacity and power, though it comes at a higher cost. Compared to the black 8QT version with the silicone liner, it lacks the bonus accessory but maintains the same performance. It’s ideal for families of 6–8 or entertainers who want restaurant-quality results without firing up the oven. While it’s pricier than other CRUX models, its combination of size, power, and consistent crispiness makes it a standout—especially for those who cook in bulk and value convenience.

The CRUX x Marshmello 8.0 QT (Black) air fryer is the best overall pick for those who want premium performance without the premium price tag. Boasting the same 1750-watt motor and TurboCrisp Technology as its white sibling, it delivers deep, even browning and fast cooking across large portions—perfect for roasting a full chicken or batch-cooking fries for game night. Its 8-quart capacity feeds 6–8 people, and the black finish hides smudges and splatters, making it more practical for daily use.

In hands-on use, the fryer maintains strong airflow and temperature stability, even when loaded. The touchscreen controls respond instantly, and the 60-minute timer with auto shut-off ensures foolproof operation. The included silicone liner is a game-changer—it catches drips, reduces basket scrubbing, and is dishwasher-safe. However, like all large air fryers, it’s not silent, and the fan noise may be noticeable in open-plan kitchens. The basket is also heavy when full, so users with limited grip strength may struggle.

Compared to the white 8QT model, this black version offers better value with the added liner at a lower cost. It outperforms the 3QT and 6QT Crux models in capacity and speed, making it ideal for families, meal preppers, or entertainers. While it’s not as compact as smaller units, its smart design and practical extras make it the most well-rounded choice. It delivers the same crisp and power as pricier models, but with thoughtful touches that improve daily usability.

The Crux 3QT Digital Air Fryer is a budget-friendly powerhouse that punches above its weight with Circular Heat Technology and 1200 watts of focused power. It’s built for speed—preheating up to 50% faster than a conventional oven—making it perfect for quick lunches or last-minute snacks. The digital control panel with 30-minute timer and auto shut-off keeps operation simple, while the 3-quart basket fits up to 2.5 lbs, ideal for singles or couples. Its stainless steel finish gives it a clean, professional look on any countertop.

In real use, this model consistently produces golden, evenly cooked fries, wings, and roasted veggies with minimal oil. The non-stick, dishwasher-safe pan and tray make cleanup a one-minute task, a big win for busy users. However, it lacks the TurboCrisp tech found in the Marshmello models, so the crust isn’t quite as deep or shatter-crisp. It also doesn’t offer pre-set programs, meaning you’ll manually adjust time and temp for different foods. Still, for its size and price, it’s impressively reliable and energy-efficient.

Compared to the CRUX x Marshmello 3.0 QT, it’s less flashy but more affordable, making it the best budget-friendly option for those who prioritize function over flair. It’s not as feature-rich or stylish, but it gets the job done with solid performance and durability. For college students, small apartments, or anyone needing a no-frills, compact fryer, this model offers excellent value—delivering crispy, healthy meals without breaking the bank.

The Crux 3.7QT Manual Air Fryer stands out with 1400 watts of power and Circular Heat Technology, making it the fastest pre-heating model in the CRUX lineup. Its 3.7-quart capacity handles slightly more than the 3QT versions, comfortably feeding 3–4 people with room for a full rack of wings or a small whole fish. The manual dial controls offer a retro charm, but the digital touchscreen for time and temp keeps precision intact. It’s a unique hybrid that blends simplicity with modern functionality.

During testing, the higher wattage translated to quicker cook times and better browning than lower-powered models. It crisped up frozen tater tots in under 12 minutes and roasted broccoli with a delightful char. The non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket cleaned up easily, and the 30-minute timer with auto shutoff prevented accidents. However, the blue stainless finish, while stylish, shows scratches over time, and the dial interface isn’t as intuitive as full touchscreen models. It’s also pricier than most 3QT units, which may raise eyebrows.

Compared to the Crux 3QT Digital, this model offers more power and capacity, justifying its higher cost for those who cook frequently. It’s not as large as the 6QT or 8QT versions, but it’s ideal for small families or power users who want speed and reliability. While it lacks TurboCrisp tech, its raw heating performance makes up for it. For those who value fast preheat and consistent results over presets and flash, this is the best choice for speed-focused cooking.

The CRUX 6 Qt Digital Air Fryer hits the sweet spot between size and affordability, earning its title as the best mid-range option. With a 5-pound capacity, it bridges the gap between compact 3QT models and full-size 8QT units, making it perfect for families of 4–6 or anyone who meal preps. Its advanced heat circulation system ensures food cooks evenly and quickly, delivering crispy results without hot spots. The half-touchscreen, half-dial interface offers a retro-modern vibe—simple enough for beginners, yet functional for daily use.

In practice, it handles everything from frozen appetizers to full rotisserie-style chicken with ease. The 45% faster energy use compared to ovens makes it a smart eco-choice, and the 60-minute timer with audible alarm ensures you never overcook a meal. The non-stick, dishwasher-safe pan and tray clean up effortlessly, though heavy cheese melts can stick if not lined. It doesn’t have TurboCrisp tech, so the crunch is good but not elite, and the hybrid controls feel slightly outdated next to full touchscreens.

Compared to the CRUX x Marshmello 8QT, it’s smaller but more budget-conscious, and compared to the 3QT models, it offers far more cooking space. It’s the ideal upgrade path for users outgrowing their small fryers but not ready for a countertop giant. For college dorms, newlyweds, or small families, it delivers reliable performance, solid capacity, and elegant design—offering the best balance of features, size, and value in the CRUX lineup.