8 Best Deep Fryers of 2026

This little powerhouse redefines compact frying with surprising muscle. The 4-cup oil capacity may seem modest, but it’s engineered for precision—delivering crispy fries, golden shrimp, or fluffy donuts in just four servings, making it perfect for singles or couples. Its ceramic nonstick PFAS-free coating not only ensures health-conscious cooking but also makes cleanup a wipe-and-go affair. If you’re tired of bulky fryers hogging counter space, the FryDaddy answers the call with smart, minimalist design that doesn’t sacrifice performance.

In real-world use, the automatic temperature control shines—maintaining a steady heat even when cold ingredients hit the oil, which means consistent browning without guesswork. We tested it with frozen fries and fresh onion rings, and both came out uniformly crisp with zero greasiness. The swing-up handle and snap-on lid make storage seamless, though the lack of a timer means you’ll need to monitor cook times manually. It preheats in under 8 minutes, which is impressive for its class, but the small basket size limits batch cooking—ideal for quick snacks, not family feasts.

Compared to larger models like the Secura 1700-watt fryer, the FryDaddy trades capacity for ultra-portability and simplicity—a trade-off that benefits apartment dwellers or occasional fryers. It’s not built for parties, but for daily use where speed and space-saving matter most. While the Chefman or All-Clad models offer more features, this one excels in effortless operation and mess-free storage, making it a top pick for those who want no-fuss frying without clutter.

When simultaneous frying is the mission, the Secura 4L deep fryer steps up as a true multitasking champion. Its standout feature? A triple-basket system—one jumbo basket and two side-by-side smaller ones—that lets you fry chicken and fries at the same time, or cook foods with different doneness timelines without flavor transfer. With a 1700-watt immersion heater, it heats up fast and maintains oil temperature like a pro, making it ideal for hosting or feeding a hungry family. If cross-contamination or uneven cooking has ever ruined your fry game, this model flips the script with smart engineering.

During testing, the removable 4.0-liter oil tank proved a game-changer—no more wrestling with greasy interiors. We fried fish and fries together using separate baskets, and both finished perfectly, thanks to the independent basket control and adjustable heat dial (250°F–375°F). The 60-minute automatic timer shuts off the unit safely, and the see-thru lid with odor filter lets you monitor progress without losing heat or releasing kitchen-filling smells. However, the baskets can feel cramped when loading bulky items like whole chicken pieces, and the oil recovery time slightly lags after large additions.

Against the All-Clad or T-fal models, the Secura wins on versatility and value, offering triple baskets at a fraction of the premium price. It’s not as sleek as stainless steel counterparts, but it delivers where it counts—performance and practicality. For families or entertainers who need multi-task frying capability, this is the ultimate workhorse. It outpaces single-basket rivals in flexibility while matching them in power and safety—a high-functioning powerhouse that earns its counter space.

This 10-liter titan is built for those who don’t just fry—they host. With a massive 10.57-quart capacity, it handles whole turkeys, large batches of wings, or party-sized fries with room to spare. The 1700-watt heating element ramps up to frying temps in minutes and holds steady, even under heavy loads, making it a true crowd-pleaser for gatherings or small home-based food businesses. Its one-touch switch removes complexity—just press to start, and let the precise temperature control (175°F–375°F) do the rest. If your current fryer forces you to batch-cook endlessly, this one eliminates the bottleneck.

We tested it frying 3 pounds of chicken wings in a single round, and the oil temperature barely dipped—recovery was swift, and browning was even across all pieces. The stainless steel construction feels commercial-grade, resisting warping and staining even after repeated use. The detachable basket and oil tank make cleaning manageable, though the sheer size means it needs a sink with ample space. While the viewing window helps monitor cooking, the lack of a timer means you’re relying on visual cues or external clocks. It’s not ideal for small kitchens—this unit demands counter real estate.

Compared to the compact Presto or budget Elite Gourmet models, this fryer is in a different league—built for volume, not convenience. It outshines mid-sized units like the Amazon Basics in raw capacity and heat stability, though it lacks some premium touches like automatic oil filtration. For families, caterers, or weekend fry enthusiasts, it offers unmatched throughput and durability. It delivers professional-level frying power at a home-friendly price, making it the most well-rounded choice for serious frying needs.

The Chefman 4.5L deep fryer is a family-sized powerhouse that brings restaurant-style frying into the home kitchen without the restaurant-level complexity. With a 4.5-liter oil capacity, it handles generous batches of chicken, fries, or mozzarella sticks—perfect for weekend feasts or holiday spreads. The 1700-watt heating system delivers rapid preheating and solid temperature recovery, while the adjustable thermostat and 60-minute timer give you full control over crispness and doneness. If you’re tired of soggy takeout or undercooked homemade fries, this model delivers consistent, golden results with minimal effort.

In real-world testing, the removable oil container made cleanup a breeze—we simply lifted it out and wiped it down, avoiding messy splatter. The magnetic breakaway cord adds a layer of safety, instantly disconnecting if the unit is bumped, which is crucial around kids or busy kitchens. The viewing window in the lid lets you check progress without lifting, preserving heat and reducing oil splatter. However, the basket doesn’t drain as efficiently as some competitors, leaving food slightly oilier if not rested post-fry. It’s also heavier when full, making basket removal a two-handed task.

Stacked against the T-fal or All-Clad models, the Chefman holds its own with family-focused design and solid performance, though it lacks the premium oil filtration systems of those brands. It’s more spacious than the Amazon Basics and more feature-rich than the Elite Gourmet. For households that fry often and in volume, this is the sweet spot between capacity and convenience. It offers more smart features than similarly priced rivals, making it a top contender for family-centered frying.

The T-fal 3.5L deep fryer is a masterclass in efficiency, blending smart oil management with restaurant-grade performance in a sleek, home-friendly package. Its patented oil filtration system automatically channels used oil into a sealed storage container, cutting cleanup time in half and extending oil life—ideal for frequent fryers tired of wasting gallons of spent oil. With 1700 watts of power, it heats quickly and maintains temperature with impressive stability, while the digital timer and adjustable thermostat (300°F–375°F) ensure precision frying every time. If oil waste and messy cleanup are your pain points, this model offers a clever, engineered solution.

We tested it frying fish and fries over multiple sessions, and the oil filtration process took under a minute—just press a button and let it drain. The locking lid with large viewing window kept splatter contained, and the cool-touch handles made handling safe, even with hot oil. Temperature control was spot-on, producing crisp exteriors without overcooking interiors. However, the 2.65 lb food capacity feels tight for large families, and the filtered oil container, while convenient, takes up extra storage space. It’s best suited for 4–6 people, not big gatherings.

Compared to the All-Clad model, which shares similar filtration tech, the T-fal delivers nearly identical performance at a more accessible level. It outperforms the Amazon Basics in oil management and safety, though it lacks the larger capacity of the Chefman or 10L models. For home cooks who fry regularly but value cleanliness and convenience, this is the smartest long-term investment. It balances innovation, safety, and ease of use better than most—a premium experience without the premium price tag.

Don’t let the budget label fool you—the Amazon Basics 3.2-qt fryer punches well above its weight with solid performance and thoughtful design. The 1500-watt heating element brings oil to temp quickly, and the adjustable thermostat (265°F–375°F) handles everything from delicate fish to crispy fries with confidence. Its mesh basket with draining hooks ensures excess oil drips back efficiently, and the clear viewing window lets you monitor cooking without breaking the heat seal. For beginners or occasional fryers, this model delivers reliable results without complexity or clutter.

In testing, it handled a standard batch of frozen fries with ease—crisp outside, fluffy inside, no greasiness. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and wipes clean effortlessly, and the compact footprint fits neatly beside other appliances. However, the 3.0L oil capacity limits it to small-to-medium meals—don’t expect to fry a full chicken here. The heating element isn’t as responsive as 1700W models, so temperature recovery after adding food is slower, leading to slightly uneven results with large loads.

Against the Elite Gourmet or Presto models, it offers better build quality and a more modern look, though it lacks advanced features like oil filtration or triple baskets. It’s not as powerful as the Chefman or Secura, but for everyday frying on a budget, it’s a no-nonsense performer. It delivers more value than similarly priced rivals, making it the smartest entry-level pick for cost-conscious buyers.

The Elite Gourmet EDF2100 is a barebones hero—a no-frills, budget-friendly fryer that gets the job done without fluff. With a 2-quart capacity and 1500-watt heating element, it’s designed for singles, couples, or small snack runs. The adjustable temperature dial lets you fine-tune for different foods, and the lid with viewing window and odor filter keeps your kitchen smelling fresh while preventing splatter. If you’re after a simple, reliable fryer for occasional use, this one delivers solid performance at a minimal cost.

We tested it with frozen fries and mini onion rings, and results were consistently crisp and evenly cooked, though the basket is flimsy and requires careful handling. The power and ready indicator lights make operation intuitive—no guesswork when the oil is hot. However, the oil heats unevenly if not pre-filled properly, and the plastic components feel less durable than stainless steel rivals. It preheats quickly, but temperature stability lags under load, leading to slight browning inconsistencies.

Compared to the Amazon Basics or Presto models, it offers similar capacity but less premium build. It’s more affordable than the T-fal or All-Clad but lacks their safety and filtration features. For dorm rooms, small kitchens, or first-time fryers, it’s a functional, low-risk entry point. It doesn’t wow with features, but it outperforms its price tag in basic frying tasks—a utilitarian tool that earns its keep through simplicity.

The All-Clad electric deep fryer is the pinnacle of premium frying, blending restaurant-grade durability with home-kitchen intelligence. Its patented oil filtration system automatically stores used oil in a sealed chamber, eliminating messy transfers and preserving oil quality—ideal for health-conscious or eco-minded fryers. With 1700 watts of power and precise temperature control (300°F–375°F), it delivers crisp, golden results every time, whether frying delicate fish or hearty chicken. If you demand luxury, performance, and long-term value, this is the gold standard in countertop frying.

In testing, the dishwasher-safe components—basket, bowl, lid, and oil box—made cleanup effortless, a rare luxury in deep fryers. The locking lid and cool-touch handles ensured safe operation, and the 3.5-liter capacity handled meals for up to six with ease. Temperature recovery was swift, and browning was uniform. However, the filtration system adds bulk, making storage less convenient than simpler models. It’s also significantly heavier, requiring stable counter space.

Compared to the T-fal, which shares filtration tech, the All-Clad uses higher-grade stainless steel and superior craftsmanship, justifying its premium positioning. It lacks the massive capacity of the 10L model but excels in refined execution and ease of maintenance. For discerning cooks who fry frequently and value longevity, this is the ultimate investment. It offers better materials and smarter design than any other model, making it the best blend of luxury, function, and cleanliness.