The Instant Pot air fryer, available as an accessory lid or in all-in-one models like the Duo Crisp, effectively transforms your multi-cooker into an air fryer, producing crispy, golden-brown results. This versatile appliance is ideal for home cooks seeking to save counter space and combine pressure cooking with air frying capabilities, though dedicated air fryers may offer slightly superior crispiness for larger batches. It leverages a heating element and a powerful fan within its lid to circulate hot air, achieving the Maillard reaction for desired textures.
What Exactly Is an Instant Pot Air Fryer?
First things first, let’s clear up some confusion. “Instant Pot air fryer” isn’t just one single product. It generally refers to two main options from the beloved Instant Pot brand:
- The Air Fryer Lid: This is an accessory you can buy separately to fit on top of most 6-quart Instant Pot models. You swap out the standard pressure-cooking lid for this special, heated lid, instantly transforming your multi-cooker into an air fryer.
- All-in-One Models: These are specific Instant Pot models, like the popular Duo Crisp or Pro Crisp, that come with two separate lids right out of the box—one for pressure cooking and one for air frying.
Both options work on the same principle, but the all-in-one models often have more integrated features and a slightly more streamlined user experience. For the purpose of this review, we’re looking at the overall performance of the air frying function itself, which is consistent across both types.
How Does the Air Frying Magic Happen?
So, how does a pot designed to cook with steam and pressure suddenly start making things crispy? It’s all in the lid.
Think of a dedicated air fryer as a small, high-powered convection oven. It uses a heating element and a strong fan to circulate scorching hot air all around your food at high speed. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, is what creates that delicious, crispy, golden-brown exterior we all crave, without needing to submerge the food in oil.
The Instant Pot’s air fryer lid essentially does the same thing. It contains its own heating element and a powerful fan. When you place it on the inner pot, it turns that stainless steel container into a compact cooking chamber. The fan blasts hot air down onto your food, and the confined space helps that air circulate efficiently, crisping up everything inside. It’s a pretty ingenious way to add a whole new dimension of healthy cooking to an already versatile appliance.
The Good, The Bad, and The Crispy: An Honest Breakdown
No kitchen appliance is perfect. After countless batches of fries, wings, and roasted veggies, here’s my honest take on the pros and cons based on real-world experience.
The Pros: What We Absolutely Love
- Space-Saving Superstar: This is the number one reason people are drawn to it. If your kitchen counter is already prime real estate, combining a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and air fryer into one footprint is a massive win.
- Unbeatable Versatility: The ability to pressure cook chicken until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender and then switch lids to crisp up the skin is a genuine game-changer. It opens up a world of one-pot meals that you simply can’t achieve with separate appliances.
- Perfect for Existing Instant Pot Fans: If you already own and love a compatible Instant Pot, buying just the air fryer lid is an incredibly cost-effective way to get into the air frying game without buying a whole new machine.
- Easy Cleanup: The main cooking area is the stainless steel inner pot, which is famously durable and dishwasher-safe. While the lid itself needs a wipe-down, you’re not dealing with a complex basket system.
The Cons: Where It Falls Short
- Limited Capacity: This is probably the biggest drawback. The circular shape of the Instant Pot means you have less flat surface area than you would in a typical basket-style air fryer. You can’t lay out as many chicken wings or fries in a single layer, which means you might have to cook in smaller batches.
- It’s a Bulky Beast: While the appliance itself saves space, the air fryer lid is not small. You’ll need to find a dedicated spot in your cupboard to store this large, heavy accessory when it’s not in use. It comes with a protective pad to rest on, but storage is a real consideration.
- Performance vs. a Dedicated Unit: Let’s be real. While the Instant Pot air fryer review shows it does a very good job, a top-tier, dedicated air fryer will often circulate air a bit more evenly and might get you slightly crispier results, faster. The difference is minor for most people, but for air frying purists, it’s noticeable.
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Our Picks for the Best Air Fryer in 2026
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 5QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of French Fries | 400F Max Temp | Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate | 120V | Grey | AF141 |
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| 2 | Cuisinart Air Fryer, 2.6-Quart Compact Basket Fryer with 3 Cooking Functions to Air Fry, Roast, and Bake, 3 Airfryer Presets, Dishwasher-Safe Parts, AIR-80, Stainless Steel & Black |
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| 3 | CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket, Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Digital Timer and Shake Reminder – Black |
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| 4 | Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black |
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| 5 | Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer, Large 5-Quart Family Size, One Touch Digital Control Presets, French Fries, Chicken, Meat, Fish, Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Parts, Automatic Shutoff, Stainless Steel |
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| 6 | Instant Pot 4QT VORTEX 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer, Air fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, Dehydrate or Reheat, Rosewater, 4 Quarts |
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| 7 | Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black |
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| 8 | Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black |
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| 9 | Ninja | Air Fryer | 4 QT Capacity | 4-in1 Roast, Crisp, Roast, Reheats, & Dehydrates | Dishwasher Safe Parts | Includes 20 Easy & Healthy Recipes | Compact | Grey | AF101 |
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| 10 | Amazon Basics 3.2 Quart 6-In-1 Air Fryer (Fry, Crisp, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate), Non-Stick, with Timer, Auto Shut-Off, Digital Touch Screen, 180-400°F, 1400W, Black/Silver |
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An Instant Pot Air Fryer vs. a Dedicated Air Fryer
To help you decide, let’s put them head-to-head. This is one of the most common questions we get at Air Fryer Mart, so here’s a simple comparison table.
| Feature | Instant Pot with Air Fryer Lid | Dedicated Basket-Style Air Fryer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Multi-cooking (pressure, slow cook, etc.) | Air Frying, Roasting, Reheating |
| Best For | All-in-one convenience, one-pot meals | Maximum crispiness, larger batches |
| Footprint | One appliance on the counter | A separate appliance on the counter |
| Capacity | Smaller, circular cooking area | Larger, often square or rectangular basket |
| Storage | Must store a large, separate lid | The entire unit needs storage space |
| Evenness of Cooking | Good, but may require more shaking | Generally excellent due to basket design |
Expert Tip: As kitchen equipment specialist Sarah Jenkins notes, “The ideal choice depends entirely on your cooking style. If you value convenience and multi-functionality above all, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp is a phenomenal tool. If your absolute priority is making the crispiest food for a family of four, a dedicated air fryer might serve you better.”
Is the Instant Pot Air Fryer Right for You?
After this Instant Pot air fryer review, the big question remains: should you get one? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide based on your needs.
- The Kitchen Minimalist: If you live in an apartment or simply hate countertop clutter, YES. This is your dream machine. The ability to replace multiple appliances with one is its greatest strength.
- The Existing Instant Pot Owner: If you already have a compatible 6-quart model, ABSOLUTELY. Buying the Air Fryer Lid is a no-brainer. It’s an affordable upgrade that unlocks a whole new world of recipes for a device you already own.
- The Large Family or Entertainer: Probably not as your primary air fryer. The limited capacity will likely frustrate you. You’d be better off with a large-capacity dedicated air fryer for big batches and considering the Instant Pot for its other amazing functions.
- The Air Frying Aficionado: If you are obsessed with achieving the absolute crispiest results possible, you might be slightly happier with a high-end, dedicated air fryer. The performance is very close, but dedicated machines still have a slight edge in pure crisping power.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some quick answers to the most common questions about the Instant Pot’s air frying capabilities.
Is the Instant Pot air fryer as good as a regular air fryer?
It’s very good, but not always quite as good as a top-tier dedicated air fryer. For most everyday cooking, you’ll be thrilled with the results. Dedicated models may offer slightly more even browning and crispiness on larger batches due to their basket shape.
Which Instant Pot models have an air fryer?
The main all-in-one models are the Instant Pot Duo Crisp and the Instant Pot Pro Crisp. Additionally, the separate Air Fryer Lid accessory is compatible with most 6-quart models, including the popular Duo, Duo Nova, and Ultra. Always check compatibility before buying the lid!
Is the Instant Pot air fryer hard to clean?
No, it’s quite easy. The stainless steel inner pot and the air fryer basket/tray are dishwasher safe. The lid itself just needs to be wiped down with a damp cloth, as it houses the electronics and should never be submerged in water.
Can you use the air fryer lid on the 8-quart Instant Pot?
Currently, Instant Pot makes an Air Fryer Lid specifically for 8-quart models as well as the more common 6-quart version. It’s crucial to buy the lid that matches the size of your Instant Pot base.
What’s the biggest mistake people make when using it?
Overcrowding the pot is the number one mistake. For the best crispy food, the hot air needs to circulate around every piece. Cook in a single layer, and if you’re making a big meal, cook in batches. It’s worth the extra few minutes!
The Final Verdict
So, after a thorough Instant Pot air fryer review, what’s the bottom line? The Instant Pot’s air fryer function is a fantastic, legitimate feature that turns an already incredible kitchen workhorse into an unparalleled all-in-one machine. It’s not just a gimmick; it works, and it works well.
While it may not outperform a premium, dedicated air fryer in a side-by-side crispiness contest, its convenience and space-saving versatility are off the charts. For the home cook looking to maximize functionality while minimizing clutter, it is an absolute triumph. If you’re ready to explore the world of healthy cooking, crispy textures, and incredible one-pot meals, this multi-tasking wonder from Instant Pot is more than worth the hype.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Instant Pot air fryer as good as a regular air fryer?
The Instant Pot air fryer performs very well for most everyday cooking, delivering satisfyingly crispy results. However, a top-tier dedicated air fryer may offer slightly more even browning and crispiness, especially for larger batches, due to its specialized basket design.
Which Instant Pot models include an air fryer function?
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp and Instant Pot Pro Crisp are all-in-one models that come with an air fryer function. Additionally, the separate Air Fryer Lid accessory is compatible with most 6-quart Instant Pot models, including the Duo, Duo Nova, and Ultra, allowing you to add air frying capabilities.
Is the Instant Pot air fryer difficult to clean after use?
No, cleaning the Instant Pot air fryer is quite easy. The stainless steel inner pot and the air fryer basket/tray are dishwasher safe. The air fryer lid, which contains electronics, should be wiped down with a damp cloth and never submerged in water.
Can the air fryer lid be used with an 8-quart Instant Pot?
Yes, Instant Pot manufactures an Air Fryer Lid specifically designed for 8-quart models, in addition to the more common 6-quart version. It is essential to purchase the lid that precisely matches the size of your Instant Pot base for proper fit and function.
What is the most common error when using an Instant Pot air fryer?
The most common mistake users make is overcrowding the pot. For optimal crispiness, hot air needs to circulate freely around each food item. Always cook in a single layer, and if preparing a large meal, cook in multiple batches to ensure even results.
Decide if an Instant Pot Air Fryer is Right for You
Determine if an Instant Pot air fryer fits your kitchen and cooking style by considering your space, current appliances, and family size.
If you have limited countertop space or prefer minimal clutter, the Instant Pot air fryer is an excellent choice. It combines multiple appliances into one footprint, making it ideal for small kitchens or apartments.
If you already own a compatible 6-quart Instant Pot model, purchasing the Air Fryer Lid is a cost-effective upgrade. This accessory unlocks air frying capabilities for a device you already possess, expanding its versatility without buying a new machine.
For large families or frequent entertainers, the Instant Pot air fryer's limited circular capacity might be a drawback. A dedicated, larger-capacity air fryer may be more suitable for cooking big batches efficiently, while the Instant Pot can still serve other functions.
If achieving the absolute crispiest results is your top priority, a high-end, dedicated air fryer might offer a slight edge in performance. While the Instant Pot air fryer delivers very good crispiness, dedicated units often provide slightly more even air circulation.
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I got the air fryer lid hoping to make my weeknight dinners easier, and it mostly does. I love how it makes my frozen spring rolls super crispy. However, I find the basket a little small for my family of four, so I often have to cook in multiple batches, which kinda defeats the purpose of saving time. It’s good, but not perfect for bigger families.
I was really on the fence about getting a dedicated air fryer, but the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid has been a game-changer for me. I already had a 6-quart Instant Pot, so just buying the lid saved me so much counter space. It makes the best crispy chicken wings and roasted veggies without heating up my whole kitchen. Definitely worth it if you’re tight on space!
I picked up the Instant Pot Duo Crisp a few weeks ago and I’m pretty happy with it. The pressure cooking and air frying combo is super convenient for weeknight meals. While it does a great job with most things, I’ve noticed that for really large batches of fries, a standalone air fryer might give you a bit more even crispiness. Still, for everyday use, it’s fantastic.
This appliance is a lifesaver! I was skeptical about how well an Instant Pot could air fry, but the Maillard reaction it achieves is spot on. Everything comes out golden-brown and delicious. I’ve made everything from salmon to sweet potato fries, and it’s all been fantastic. Highly recommend for anyone looking for versatility.