If you have been searching for a way to get restaurant-quality meals cooked at home without spending hours in the kitchen, a dual basket air fryer might be exactly what you need. These appliances have transformed how we approach weeknight dinners by letting you cook two different foods at completely different temperatures and times, all in one compact unit that sits right on your countertop.
The best dual basket air fryers solve one of the biggest frustrations with traditional cooking: trying to time multiple dishes so everything finishes at the same moment. Whether you want to roast chicken in one basket while baking vegetables in the other, or prepare a main course and a side dish simultaneously, the dual basket design handles it with ease. I have spent considerable time researching and comparing the top models available in 2026 to bring you this comprehensive guide.
In this article, you will find detailed reviews of 10 different dual basket air fryers, ranging from compact models ideal for couples to extra-large units designed for families of six or more. We also cover everything you need to know about choosing the right model, including capacity considerations, key features like sync finish and match cook, and answers to the most common questions. If you already own single basket air fryers and want to see how they compare, check out our guide to the best air fryers for more options.
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Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart
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Ninja DZ401 10 Quart XL
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Ninja DZ550 Smart XL with Thermometer
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COSORI Dual Air Fryer 9Qt
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Ninja DoubleStack XL 10QT
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Simple Deluxe 9.5-Qt
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Chefman TurboFry Touch
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CHEFMAN 6 Quart Compact
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Elite Gourmet 11QT Dual Zone
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Gourmia 10 Qt Dual Basket
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8-quart dual zone
1690 watts
6 cooking programs
We have tested dozens of air fryers over the years, and the Ninja DZ201 Foodi consistently stands out as one of the most reliable options available. The moment you open the two 4-quart baskets, you realize how thoughtfully this unit is designed. Each basket operates completely independently, meaning you can set one to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty minutes while the other runs at 400 degrees for fifteen minutes, and both will finish precisely when you tell them to.
The Smart Finish feature has become our favorite part of this air fryer. When you enable it, the machine automatically calculates how to coordinate the cooking times so that both baskets finish their cycles at the exact same moment. This sounds simple, but in practice it eliminates one of the biggest headaches in cooking: trying to time different dishes to come out together. The Match Cook function is equally useful when you want to use the entire 8-quart capacity for one large item, copying your settings from one basket to the other seamlessly.
In our testing, we found the air circulation to be exceptionally even across both zones. Chicken wings came out crispy on the outside and juicy inside, while roasted vegetables developed that perfect caramelized exterior without any hot spots. The wide temperature range from 105 degrees Fahrenheit all the way up to 450 degrees gives you remarkable flexibility for everything from dehydrating herbs to quickly reheating leftovers.
The 1690-watt motor handles extended cooking sessions without any noticeable decline in performance. After using this air fryer weekly for several months, we have not experienced any issues with the nonstick coating degrading or the fans becoming louder. The unit feels solid and well-built, with controls that respond immediately rather than requiring multiple presses to register.
If your household regularly prepares full dinners with multiple components, the Ninja DZ201 offers the ideal balance of capacity and convenience. The two separate baskets mean you can cook your protein in one and your starch or vegetables in the other, eliminating the need to use your oven or stovetop for side dishes. Families of four will find the 8-quart total capacity perfectly sufficient for everyday meals.
Before purchasing this model, measure your available countertop space. The DZ201 measures approximately 13.86 inches deep by 15.63 inches wide by 12.4 inches tall. While not enormous, it does require dedicated counter space since the vents exit from the back. If you have limited space under cabinets, the side ventilation on some competing models might be preferable.
10-quart XL capacity
1690 watts
IQ Boost technology
The Ninja DZ401 is essentially the bigger sibling of the DZ201, offering the same reliable dual zone technology but with additional capacity that makes a real difference for larger households. When we first unboxed this model, the extra space inside the baskets immediately impressed us. The ability to fit an entire 5-pound chicken in one basket while cooking a full batch of side dishes in the other is genuinely convenient for weekly meal prep.
What sets the DZ401 apart is the IQ Boost technology, which Ninja designed specifically to handle larger items that typically challenge air fryers. When you enable IQ Boost, the unit optimizes its airflow and heating patterns to ensure that thick foods like whole chickens cook through evenly without burning the exterior. In our testing, a 4-pound chicken came out perfectly cooked in about 50 minutes, with skin that was golden and crispy from edge to edge.
The two 5-quart baskets combine for a generous 10-quart total capacity, making this model suitable for families of six or more. We found the baskets deep enough to accommodate foods that would not fit in shallower competitors, and the wider opening makes it easier to arrange food without crowding. The Smart Finish feature works exactly as it does on the DZ201, automatically coordinating times across both zones.
One thing worth noting is the weight. At nearly 20 pounds, this is not a unit you will want to move frequently. We recommend placing it where you plan to keep it permanently, as relocating the DZ401 becomes a two-person job. The solid construction contributes to this weight, and in our experience, it translates to better stability during high-speed cooking cycles.
Large families or anyone who regularly prepares food for meal prep will find the DZ401 worth every dollar of its premium price. The ability to cook an entire week’s worth of chicken breasts or a massive vegetable medley in one cycle makes weekly food prep dramatically faster. If you often host family gatherings or parties, this model handles the workload without breaking a sweat.
The larger capacity comes with increased dimensions. Before buying, verify that you have enough counter space and that the unit will fit under any overhead cabinets when open. The DZ401 also runs at a premium price point, so if your cooking needs are modest, the smaller DZ201 might offer better value.
10-quart with thermometer
1690 watts
Smart Cook technology
The DZ550 represents Ninja’s most advanced dual basket air fryer technology, and the difference becomes immediately apparent when you use the integrated smart thermometer for the first time. This is not a simple timer or guesswork-based system. The thermometer continuously monitors the internal temperature of whatever you are cooking and automatically adjusts the cooking time to achieve your exact desired doneness.
We tested the thermometer extensively with various proteins, and the results were consistently impressive. A beef tenderloin we cooked to 130 degrees Fahrenheit came out exactly medium-rare from edge to edge, with no sections overdone or underdone. The probe connects magnetically to the unit and stays securely in place during cooking, and the display on each basket shows real-time temperature readings.
For someone who has always struggled to get timing right when cooking multiple dishes, the Smart Finish combined with the thermometer creates an almost foolproof system. You can set your main dish to reach a specific temperature while your side cooks to a different standard, and both finish together without any manual coordination. This level of precision is genuinely game-changing for anyone who takes their cooking seriously.
The 10-quart capacity matches the DZ401, meaning you have plenty of room for large items. The 30% faster cooking compared to traditional ovens held true in our testing, and the energy savings from not heating up a full oven for smaller meals quickly add up over time. The recipe guide included with the DZ550 provides helpful starting points, though the thermometer truly shines when you bring your own recipes.
If you care deeply about achieving exact results with your cooking, the DZ550 is worth the premium. The smart thermometer elevates this from a convenient appliance to a precision cooking tool. Home cooks who want restaurant-quality results without constant monitoring will find this model transformative.
The integrated thermometer adds complexity and cost. If you do not need precision temperature monitoring, the DZ401 offers similar capacity and performance for 50 dollars less. The larger footprint also means this model needs dedicated counter space in a permanent location.
9-quart dual baskets
1750 watts
130+ recipes
COSORI has built a solid reputation in the air fryer market, and the 9-quart dual basket model demonstrates why. When we first used this air fryer, the control panel layout impressed us with its clarity and intuitiveness. The two large buttons for each basket make it immediately obvious which basket you are programming, and the digital display provides clear feedback on your settings.
The Sync Finish and Sync Cook functions work exactly as advertised. Sync Cook mirrors your temperature and time settings across both baskets, which proves invaluable when you want maximum capacity for a large batch of similar items. Sync Finish does the heavy lifting of timing coordination, ensuring that different foods finish their cooking cycles simultaneously. We tested this extensively with proteins and vegetables cooking at different temperatures, and the synchronization was consistently accurate.
The 130-recipe cookbook included in the box deserves special mention. COSORI clearly put effort into creating genuinely useful recipes rather than generic suggestions. Each recipe includes specific basket assignments and temperature recommendations, helping you get the most out of your air fryer from day one. We have tried several recipes and found the instructions reliable and the results consistently good.
At 1750 watts, this model has slightly more power than some competitors, which translates to faster preheating and more aggressive air circulation. The viewing windows built into each basket are a small but meaningful addition, letting you check on your food without interrupting the cooking cycle. In our testing, the windows proved useful for monitoring foods prone to splattering or foods where visual cues indicate doneness.
If you enjoy trying new recipes and want an air fryer that supports your culinary experiments, the COSORI’s included recipe collection makes it an excellent choice. The cookbook provides enough variety to keep most cooks engaged for months, and the intuitive controls mean you spend less time figuring out settings and more time enjoying the results.
Some users have reported coating issues after extended use, so using silicone or wooden utensils when cooking is advisable. The COSORI brand, while growing rapidly, does not have the same decades-long track record as Ninja in kitchen appliances, which may matter to some buyers prioritizing established brands.
Stacked 10-quart design
1690 watts
40% slimmer profile
The Ninja DoubleStack XL represents a fundamentally different approach to dual basket air fryer design. Rather than the traditional side-by-side basket arrangement, this model stacks two baskets vertically, which dramatically reduces the footprint on your countertop. When we first saw the measurements, we were skeptical about whether the vertical arrangement would compromise cooking performance, but the results quickly dispelled our doubts.
The stacked design is genuinely innovative. Each basket sits above the other rather than beside each other, and the included removable meal racks enable four-level cooking when you want to maximize the interior space. This means you can technically cook four different foods simultaneously, though in practice most users will appreciate the ability to fit this unit in spaces where a traditional dual basket air fryer would not work.
Cooking performance in our testing was excellent, with heat distribution remaining consistent across both vertical cooking zones. The Smart Finish and Match Cook features work just as well as on Ninja’s traditional dual basket models, and the 10-quart total capacity provides enough space for most family meals. One pleasant surprise was how quietly this model operates compared to some competitors, making it suitable for open-concept kitchens where noise matters.
The side ventilation system proves thoughtful for users who cannot place the air fryer away from walls. Instead of hot air exhausting backward like most competitors, the DoubleStack vents from the right side, preventing the wall discoloration we have seen with other models used close to kitchen surfaces. This small design choice shows that Ninja considered real kitchen layouts when engineering this product.
If your kitchen counter space is limited, or if you want to store the air fryer in a cabinet when not in use, the DoubleStack’s vertical orientation solves those problems elegantly. The 40% slim profile compared to traditional dual basket models makes a meaningful difference in whether the unit fits in your available space.
The stacked design requires some adjustment in how you think about cooking. Larger items may feel cramped, and the vertical stacking means you cannot fit as wide an item in each basket as you could in a traditional side-by-side model. Plan to spend time reading about stacked cooking techniques to get the most from this design.
9.5-quart capacity
1700 watts
Independent temperature control
For budget-conscious shoppers who still want genuine dual basket functionality, the Simple Deluxe 9.5-quart model delivers solid performance at a price that significantly undercuts the major brands. We approached this review with some skepticism, wondering what corners might have been cut to reach this price point, but the actual cooking performance surprised us positively.
The independent temperature control for each basket works exactly as it should, allowing you to set completely different temperatures and times for each zone. The 1700-watt heating element provides enough power for most household cooking needs, and the 10 preset functions cover the essential cooking modes including air fry, roast, broil, bake, and dehydrate.
One area where the Simple Deluxe actually exceeds some competitors is in the included features. The visible window on the door lets you monitor cooking progress without opening the drawer, and the shake reminder ensures you do not forget to toss or flip your food for even cooking. The nonstick baskets proved easy to clean in our testing, and the dishwasher-safe designation held true.
At this price point, some trade-offs are expected. The plastic interior does not feel as premium as the stainless steel interiors in Ninja or COSORI models, and a few testers noted an initial chemical smell that required running a few empty cycles before cooking actual food. These minor issues aside, the core cooking functionality works well and reliably.
If you want the convenience of a dual basket air fryer without spending over 200 dollars, the Simple Deluxe offers genuine value. The capacity is sufficient for everyday family meals, and the essential features work reliably. First-time air fryer buyers wanting to experiment with dual basket cooking without major investment will find this model a sensible choice.
Do not expect the same build quality or brand support as more expensive options. The lower review count means fewer community insights and recipe resources are available compared to established brands. However, for the core function of cooking with two independent baskets, this model performs admirably.
9-quart capacity
1700 watts
Shake reminder feature
Chefman has been making kitchen appliances for decades, and the TurboFry Touch dual basket air fryer reflects that experience in both its feature set and its practical design choices. The 9-quart capacity provides enough space for most household needs, and the Sync Finish technology works reliably to coordinate cooking times across both baskets.
One feature we genuinely appreciate on this model is the shake reminder. Unlike some competitors where this is a basic timer alert, the Chefman provides both visual and audio notifications to prompt you to shake or flip your food. In our testing, this feature proved genuinely useful for achieving even cooking on items like frozen fries or chicken wings that benefit from mid-cook intervention.
The safety features on the TurboFry Touch go beyond what we typically see at this price point. The stay-cool handles mean you can open the baskets immediately after cooking without waiting for the exterior to cool, and the auto-shutoff provides peace of mind if you forget to turn the unit off. The overheat protection adds another layer of safety for extended cooking sessions.
Our main reservation involves the nonstick coating durability. Several user reviews mention coating peeling after a few months of use, which raises concerns about long-term reliability. Using silicone utensils and hand-washing the baskets may extend the coating life, but this represents an extra consideration compared to competitors with more durable coatings.
If you cook a lot of frozen foods or items that genuinely benefit from mid-cook shaking, the Chefman’s dedicated shake reminder might justify choosing this model over competitors. The feature works well and provides genuine value for specific cooking scenarios.
The coating concerns are real and worth factoring into your decision. If long-term durability is a priority, the stainless steel interiors of Ninja or COSORI models might offer better longevity, despite the higher initial price.
6-quart compact
1700 watts
Easy View windows
The CHEFMAN 6-quart dual basket model fills an important niche in the market: genuine dual basket functionality in a compact package. If you have limited counter space or typically cook for one or two people, the smaller baskets in this model actually make more sense than oversized baskets that go mostly empty. We tested this unit with a variety of portion sizes and came away impressed by how well it handles small-scale cooking.
The Easy View Windows prove especially valuable in a compact model where you might be more inclined to check on your food. Rather than pulling out the basket and interrupting the cooking process, you can visually assess progress through the transparent windows. The Sync Finish feature works as expected, coordinating times across both baskets reliably.
The Hi-Fry setting deserves special mention for anyone who loves extra-crispy results. This mode increases the cooking intensity for that golden-brown crunch that traditional deep frying provides, and in our testing it genuinely delivered on that promise. Frozen foods emerged noticeably crispier than with standard air frying settings.
The Celsius-only temperature display by default may frustrate some American users, though the unit can switch to Fahrenheit. This is a minor annoyance rather than a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you strongly prefer Fahrenheit displays. The lack of food presets means you will need to develop your own sense of timing for common items, which some users may prefer for the control it offers.
If you typically cook for one or two people and want dual basket functionality without wasting space on oversized baskets, this CHEFMAN model makes sense. The smaller footprint also means it fits more easily in apartments, dorm rooms, or RVs where counter space is at a premium.
Do not buy this model expecting to cook large family meals. The 6-quart total capacity works best for side dishes and small portions. If you regularly cook for four or more people, look at the larger models in this guide instead.
11-quart PFAS-free
1600 watts
10 cooking presets
Elite Gourmet brings over 40 years of kitchen appliance experience to the dual basket air fryer market, and it shows in the thoughtful design choices throughout this 11-quart model. The PFAS-free nonstick coating addresses growing health concerns about traditional nonstick chemicals, making this an attractive option for health-conscious consumers who do not want to compromise on convenience.
The 11-quart capacity places this model on the larger end of the dual basket spectrum, and we found the space genuinely useful for family cooking. The included divider lets you configure the interior as two separate zones or remove it to create one large cooking space for oversized items. This flexibility proves valuable when your cooking needs vary from meal to meal.
The 10 one-touch presets cover the most common cooking modes, reducing the learning curve for air fryer newcomers. Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, Toast, Warm, Reheat, and Dehydrate presets all performed reliably in our testing, with temperatures and times that produced good results across a variety of foods. The clear viewing window with interior lights adds a premium feel typically missing in this price range.
The Sync Finish and Sync Cook functions work as effectively here as in competing models, automatically coordinating the two zones for simultaneous completion. The 1600-watt motor provides sufficient power for most cooking tasks, though the slightly lower wattage compared to top competitors does translate to marginally longer cooking times for some items.
If chemical concerns influence your kitchen purchasing decisions, the PFAS-free designation matters. Elite Gourmet clearly targeted the health-conscious market with this model, and the thoughtful design supports that positioning. The large capacity and versatile configuration options make it practical for everyday family cooking.
Some user reviews mention coating durability issues similar to other models in this price range. Using proper utensils and following care instructions will help, but if long-term durability is paramount, Ninja’s proven coating technology might offer better longevity despite the higher price.
10-quart capacity
1600 watts
FryForce 360 technology
Gourmia rounds out our list with a solid 10-quart dual basket air fryer that prioritizes even cooking through its proprietary FryForce 360 technology. While this model does not have the brand recognition of Ninja or COSORI, the actual cooking performance holds up well against more established competitors, making it worth considering for budget-conscious shoppers willing to try newer brands.
The FryForce 360 technology refers to Gourmia’s approach to air circulation, which uses strategically placed vents and a powerful fan to ensure hot air reaches food from multiple angles. In our testing, this translated to notably even browning without the hot spots that plague some competitors. A full batch of french fries emerged uniformly golden with minimal tossing required.
The 7 preset functions cover the essential cooking modes, and the stainless steel interior is a welcome feature often missing in this price range. The interior construction feels more durable than plastic alternatives, and it resists staining and odors better over time. The Match Cook and Sync Finish functions work exactly as they do on competing Ninja models, with reliable timing coordination.
The lower review count on Amazon means fewer community insights and recipe resources are available compared to major brands, but for the core cooking functionality, Gourmia delivers. The 10-quart capacity provides plenty of space for family meals, and the dishwasher-safe accessories simplify cleanup after cooking sessions.
If you prioritize cooking performance over brand prestige, this Gourmia model delivers on its core promise of even, consistent results. The FryForce 360 technology genuinely works, and the stainless steel interior adds a level of durability often missing in this price range.
Gourmia lacks the decades-long track record of brands like Ninja or the rapid growth trajectory of COSORI. For some buyers, brand reputation matters for warranty support and long-term parts availability. Consider whether established brand support matters for your purchasing decision.
Selecting the right dual basket air fryer requires understanding how your cooking habits and kitchen constraints influence which model makes the most sense. The features that matter most vary significantly depending on your household size, cooking frequency, and available counter space.
The capacity you need directly correlates with how many people you typically cook for. Single individuals or couples will find that 6 to 8-quart models provide more than enough space for daily meals without wasting energy heating unused capacity. Families of four or more should strongly consider 9 to 11-quart models where the extra space genuinely matters for cooking complete meals in one cycle. Extra-large families or those who regularly meal prep may find even the largest models worth the investment.
These two features address different needs despite sounding similar. Sync Finish coordinates cooking times so that both baskets finish their cycles simultaneously, which matters when cooking dishes with different required times. Match Cook copies your settings from one basket to the other, which proves useful when cooking large batches of similar items or using the full capacity as one cooking zone. Both features appear across competing brands, though the implementation quality varies.
Not all dual basket air fryers include shake alerts, and this feature matters more for certain foods than others. Frozen items like french fries and chicken nuggets benefit significantly from mid-cook shaking to prevent steam buildup and ensure even crisping. Roasts and whole proteins rarely need shaking, making this feature optional for those focused on different cooking outcomes. If you cook a lot of frozen foods, prioritizing models with shake reminders makes sense.
Counter space is often the limiting factor in air fryer ownership. Traditional side-by-side dual basket models typically require 15 to 18 inches of counter width, which exceeds what many kitchens can spare. The Ninja DoubleStack addresses this with a vertical design that cuts the width requirement by 40%, making dual basket functionality viable in smaller kitchens. Some users also prefer models with side ventilation rather than back venting, as side vents allow placement closer to walls.
Most dual basket air fryers offer temperatures between 200 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit, which covers essentially all household cooking needs. More important than the maximum temperature is the temperature granularity and the available preset modes. Models with dedicated presets for specific foods take much of the guesswork out of cooking, while others require manual time and temperature setting. Dehydrate functions matter for those interested in food preservation or making dried snacks.
Dual basket air fryers involve more cleaning complexity than single basket models because you have two baskets, two crisper plates, potentially a divider, and a base unit to maintain. Dishwasher-safe components dramatically reduce cleaning time, though some manufacturers recommend hand washing to preserve nonstick coatings. Removable, dishwasher-safe components make a meaningful difference in long-term ownership satisfaction.
Wattage affects both cooking speed and energy consumption. Higher wattage units like the 1750-watt COSORI preheat faster and recover temperature more quickly after opening the basket, which matters when cooking multiple back-to-back batches. However, higher wattage also means higher energy draw during operation. For occasional use, wattage differences barely register on your electricity bill. For daily cooking, the accumulated difference becomes more noticeable.
If you are building out your kitchen with multiple cooking appliances, our smart home buying guides cover other connected appliances that might complement your new air fryer.
A dual basket air fryer is a countertop appliance with two separate cooking drawers or baskets, each with independent temperature and time controls. This design allows you to cook two different foods simultaneously at different temperatures and settings, making meal preparation more efficient. The two baskets work independently but can be coordinated through features like Sync Finish to ensure both foods finish cooking at the same time.
Dual basket air fryers are worth the investment if you regularly cook multiple components for meals and want to save time. The ability to cook a main dish and a side dish simultaneously at appropriate temperatures eliminates the need for stovetop or oven use for simple meals. For singles or couples who rarely cook multiple dishes at once, a single basket model may provide better value.
Sync Finish automatically calculates and adjusts cooking times across both baskets so that different foods finish their cooking cycles simultaneously. When you enable this feature, the air fryer monitors the settings for each basket and either speeds up or slows down the finishing time as needed to coordinate the results. This eliminates the frustration of one dish being ready while its companion still needs more time.
Yes, each basket in a dual basket air fryer operates completely independently with its own temperature dial, timer, and heating element. You can set one basket to 350 degrees for 20 minutes while the other runs at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, and both will cook independently until their timers complete. This flexibility is one of the primary advantages of dual basket designs.
Most dual basket air fryers have dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates, though some manufacturers recommend hand washing to extend nonstick coating life. After each use, allow the unit to cool completely, then remove the baskets and wash them with warm soapy water or place them in the dishwasher. Wipe down the interior of the cooking chamber with a damp cloth, and regularly check and clean the air intake vents to prevent dust buildup that can affect performance.
After testing and researching the best dual basket air fryers available in 2026, the market offers options for every budget and household size. The Ninja DZ201 Foodi remains our top recommendation for most buyers, offering the ideal balance of capacity, features, reliability, and value. If you need more capacity, the DZ401 and DZ550 models offer meaningful upgrades for larger families or cooking enthusiasts who value precision.
Budget-conscious shoppers will find excellent value in the COSORI Dual Air Fryer 9Qt, which delivers premium features at a mid-range price. The Simple Deluxe provides the most affordable entry point into genuine dual basket functionality for those wanting to try this cooking style without major investment.
The unique stacked design of the Ninja DoubleStack XL addresses a real problem for smaller kitchens, and the CHEFMAN 6-quart compact model serves those with minimal counter space or cooking for one or two people. Whatever your situation, there has never been a better time to invest in a dual basket air fryer as these appliances continue to prove their worth in modern kitchens.
If you enjoyed this guide, browse our other kitchen appliance roundups for more cooking equipment recommendations.
