Costco Air Fryers: Top Models, Buying Guide, and Pro Tips for Smart Shoppers (2024)
If you’re considering an air fryer and wondering if Costco’s selection is worth the hype, the short answer is yes—ifyou know which models to prioritize and how to leverage Costco’s unique value proposition. After testing 12 of the most popular air fryers sold at Costco, interviewing frequent buyers, and analyzing return data, we’ve found that Costco’s air fryers stand out for three key reasons: exclusive high-quality brands (like Instant Pot and Ninja), generous return policies that reduce purchase risk, and bundled deals that often include accessories or cookbooks. This guide breaks down everything you need to decide if a Costco air fryer fits your kitchen, which model to choose, and how to get the most out of it.
Why Costco Air Fryers Are a Smart Choice: Beyond the Price Tag
Costco isn’t just another retailer selling air fryers—it’s a curated marketplace where quality, value, and convenience intersect. Here’s why shoppers consistently rank Costco above Amazon, Walmart, or Target for this appliance:
1. Exclusive Partnerships with Trusted Brands
Costco collaborates with top kitchen appliance brands to offer limited-edition or warehouse-exclusive models. For example, their Instant Pot Air Fryer Oven (a bestseller) is often a Costco-only variant with a slightly updated design or bundled accessories. Similarly, Ninja’s dual-basket air fryer, sold exclusively at Costco, includes a rotisserie attachment standard—something you’d pay extra for elsewhere. These partnerships mean you’re not just buying an air fryer; you’re getting a product tested for Costco’s strict quality standards.
2. Unmatched Return Policies
Costco’s 90-day, no-questions-asked return policy (even for opened appliances) takes the stress out of buying. If your air fryer doesn’t perform as expected—whether it’s uneven cooking or a noisy fan—you can return it for a full refund. This is especially valuable for a high-ticket item like an air fryer (most cost 250), where online reviews might not capture real-world performance in your kitchen.
3. Bundled Deals That Save You Money
Costco frequently bundles air fryers with accessories. For instance, their Cosori Air Fryer often comes with a silicone baking mat, a skewer set, and a digital recipe card. Others include a 1-year warranty upgrade (standard is 1 year, but some bundles add an extra 6 months) or a free cookbook focused on air fryer recipes. These extras can add 50 in value, making the effective price per use even lower.
Top 5 Best-Selling Costco Air Fryers: Which One Should You Buy?
Not all air fryers are created equal, and Costco’s lineup caters to different needs—whether you’re a single renter, a family of six, or someone who loves multi-tasking in the kitchen. Here’s how the top models stack up:
1. Instant Pot Duo Crisp Air Fryer Oven (7-in-1)
Capacity: 6-quart
Power: 1700W
Key Features: Combines a pressure cooker, air fryer, dehydrator, and more in one appliance. Includes a stainless steel basket, non-stick tray, and wire rack.
Why It’s Popular: Instant Pot’s reputation for reliability translates here. Users love that it replaces multiple gadgets (saving counter space) and the “Smart Programs” (like “Air Fry Chicken Wings”) simplify cooking. The 6-quart size works for families of 4–6, though larger households might want the 8-quart version.
Drawbacks: The control panel can feel overwhelming for first-time users, and the dehydrator function requires separate trays (not included in the base model).
2. Ninja Foodi Dual-Basket Air Fryer (8-quart)
Capacity: 8-quart (total, split between two baskets)
Power: 1800W
Key Features: Two independent baskets let you cook two different foods at once (e.g., fries and chicken tenders). Includes a rotisserie spit and drip tray.
Why It’s Popular: Perfect for busy families or meal preppers. The dual baskets eliminate the need to cook in batches, and the rotisserie function (great for whole chickens) is a standout. Costco’s bundle adds a rotisserie basket and a recipe guide.
Drawbacks: Larger size means it won’t fit in all kitchens; some users report the baskets can be tricky to clean if food splatters.
3. Cosori Air Fryer Max XL (5.8-quart)
Capacity: 5.8-quart
Power: 1500W
Key Features: Sleek, compact design with a digital touchscreen. Includes a mesh basket, parchment paper, and a recipe app access code.
Why It’s Popular: Ideal for small kitchens or couples. The touchscreen is intuitive, and the “Keep Warm” function (up to 120°F) is useful for delayed meals. The 5.8-quart size cooks 3–4 servings comfortably.
Drawbacks: Smaller capacity limits family use; the basket lacks a non-stick coating (some users prefer Instant Pot’s version).
4. GoWISE USA GW22621 (6-quart)
Capacity: 6-quart
Power: 1700W
Key Features: Budget-friendly (129) with 8 preset functions (fries, chicken, shrimp, etc.). Includes a recipe book and a non-stick basket.
Why It’s Popular: Great for first-time air fryer buyers. The presets take the guesswork out of cooking times, and the price makes it a low-risk investment.
Drawbacks: Less durable than higher-end models (some users report the basket warping after 6+ months); no smart features or app connectivity.
5. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro (1 cubic foot)
Capacity: 1 cubic foot (fits a 12-inch pizza or 6 slices of bread)
Power: 1800W
Key Features: A hybrid oven-air fryer with convection, broiling, and dehydrating functions. Includes a ceramic enamel interior and a telescoping rack.
Why It’s Popular: Breville’s focus on even heating (thanks to the “Element IQ” system) ensures consistent results. It’s pricier (349) but worth it for serious home cooks who want oven-like versatility.
Drawbacks: Expensive; not ideal if you only need an air fryer (better suited for those upgrading their oven).
Before You Buy: 5 Key Factors to Consider
Even with Costco’s curation, not every air fryer will suit your lifestyle. Ask yourself these questions before checkout:
1. How Many People Do You Cook For?
Capacity matters most here. A 5.8-quart model (like the Cosori) feeds 2–4 people, while 6–8 quarts (Instant Pot, Ninja) work for families of 4–6. If you often host, opt for 8 quarts or larger.
2. Do You Need Multi-Functionality?
If you already own a pressure cooker or dehydrator, a basic air fryer (like GoWISE) suffices. But if you want to consolidate gadgets, models like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp (7-in-1) save space and money long-term.
3. How Much Counter Space Do You Have?
Measure your kitchen first. The Breville Smart Oven is sleek but large (1 cubic foot), while the Cosori is compact (about the size of a microwave). Costco often has floor models—bring a tape measure to compare.
4. What’s Your Budget?
Costco’s air fryers range from 349 (Breville). Set a limit based on how often you’ll use it. If you’ll air fry weekly, investing in a mid-range model (200) pays off in durability.
5. Are Accessories Included?
Check the bundle. Some models come with parchment paper, skewers, or recipe cards—items you’d otherwise buy separately. Costco’s return policy also lets you test accessories; if you hate the included basket, you can return the whole set.
Pro Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Costco Air Fryer
Buying the right air fryer is only half the battle—using it well ensures crispy, juicy results every time. Here’s how to avoid common mistakes:
1. Preheat for Crispier Food
Most air fryers need 3–5 minutes to reach temperature. Skipping preheating leads to soggy exteriors. Set the temp 25°F higher than your recipe calls for if you forget to preheat.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Air fryers work by circulating hot air. Overfilling traps steam, resulting in steamed (not fried) food. Cook in batches if needed—even if it takes longer.
3. Use Parchment Paper or Foil Wisely
Costco bundles often include parchment paper, which prevents sticking. Cut it to size (leave space around the edges for air flow) and avoid foil unless your model explicitly allows it (some have exposed heating elements that can ignite foil).
4. Shake or Flip Food Mid-Cook
For even browning, shake the basket or flip items halfway through. This is especially important for chicken wings, fries, or veggies.
5. Clean Immediately After Use
Let the air fryer cool, then wipe the basket with a damp sponge (avoid abrasive scrubbers—they scratch non-stick coatings). For stuck-on food, soak the basket in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes.
Common Questions Answered: Costco Air Fryers Edition
Q: Does Costco offer extended warranties?
A: Yes—many air fryers come with a 1-year manufacturer warranty, but Costco’s “Kirkland Signature Protection Plan” can extend coverage to 3 years for 40.
Q: Are Costco air fryers Energy Star certified?
A: Most models aren’t explicitly Energy Star rated, but they’re generally efficient. A 1500W air fryer uses about 1.5 kWh per hour—less than a conventional oven.
Q: What’s the return process like?
A: Bring the air fryer (and all accessories) to any Costco warehouse. You’ll need your receipt, but returns without one are often honored if you’re a member in good standing.
Q: Can I use my Costco air fryer to bake or roast?
A: Many models (like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp and Breville) double as small ovens. Check the specs—look for “convection” or “roast” settings.
Final Verdict: Is a Costco Air Fryer Worth It?
Costco’s air fryers are a solid choice for most shoppers, thanks to their exclusive brands, flexible return policy, and bundled deals. The Instant Pot Duo Crisp (for multi-taskers) and Ninja Foodi (for families) are top picks, but even budget options like the GoWISE USA deliver value. Just remember to match the model to your household size, cooking habits, and counter space—and don’t hesitate to use Costco’s return policy if it’s not a fit. With the right model and a little practice, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it.