The 6 Best Deep Fryers We Tested on French Fries, Chicken Tenders, and Yes, Even Whole Turkeys

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Russell Kilgore

People / Russell Kilgore

Fries. Doughnuts. Wings. Many of our favorite foods are made in a deep fryer. If you want to make these crispy delicacies at home where you can enjoy them hot and fresh, you need a hard-working deep fryer.These appliances are designed for indoor or outdoor use. They heat and maintain cooking oil at a precise temperature, so when you drop your food into the basket, you can watch your potatoes turn into golden, curly chips and your frozen tenders become juicy and crunchy.If you loveair fryingat home and are ready to advance to the real thing, we tested the most popular deep fryers for home cooks to find the best options for every kitchen. We also consulted experts to identify the most important features to consider when buying a deep fryer.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Breville Smart Fryer at Amazon$180Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Chefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$70Jump to ReviewBest Multi-Basket:Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer at Amazon$65Jump to ReviewBest with Oil Filter:All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$210Jump to ReviewBest for Turkey:Bayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer Kit at Amazon$329Jump to ReviewEasiest to Clean:SALEDeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer at Amazon$234$162Jump to Review

Fries. Doughnuts. Wings. Many of our favorite foods are made in a deep fryer. If you want to make these crispy delicacies at home where you can enjoy them hot and fresh, you need a hard-working deep fryer.

These appliances are designed for indoor or outdoor use. They heat and maintain cooking oil at a precise temperature, so when you drop your food into the basket, you can watch your potatoes turn into golden, curly chips and your frozen tenders become juicy and crunchy.

If you loveair fryingat home and are ready to advance to the real thing, we tested the most popular deep fryers for home cooks to find the best options for every kitchen. We also consulted experts to identify the most important features to consider when buying a deep fryer.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Breville Smart Fryer at Amazon$180Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Chefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$70Jump to ReviewBest Multi-Basket:Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer at Amazon$65Jump to ReviewBest with Oil Filter:All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$210Jump to ReviewBest for Turkey:Bayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer Kit at Amazon$329Jump to ReviewEasiest to Clean:SALEDeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer at Amazon$234$162Jump to Review

Best Overall:Breville Smart Fryer at Amazon$180Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Chefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$70Jump to ReviewBest Multi-Basket:Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer at Amazon$65Jump to ReviewBest with Oil Filter:All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$210Jump to ReviewBest for Turkey:Bayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer Kit at Amazon$329Jump to ReviewEasiest to Clean:SALEDeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer at Amazon$234$162Jump to Review

Best Overall:Breville Smart Fryer at Amazon$180Jump to Review

Best Overall:Breville Smart Fryer at Amazon$180

Best Overall:

Best Budget:Chefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$70Jump to Review

Best Budget:Chefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$70

Best Budget:

Best Multi-Basket:Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer at Amazon$65Jump to Review

Best Multi-Basket:Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer at Amazon$65

Best Multi-Basket:

Best with Oil Filter:All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$210Jump to Review

Best with Oil Filter:All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer at Amazon$210

Best with Oil Filter:

Best for Turkey:Bayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer Kit at Amazon$329Jump to Review

Best for Turkey:Bayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer Kit at Amazon$329

Best for Turkey:

Easiest to Clean:SALEDeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer at Amazon$234$162Jump to Review

Easiest to Clean:SALEDeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer at Amazon$234$162

Easiest to Clean:

SALE

Best OverallBreville Smart FryerPHOTO: Amazon$180 at Amazon$180 at QVCView on Abt.comOur RatingsSetup5/5Heat Retention5/5Size4.5/5Features4.5/5Safety5/5

Best OverallBreville Smart Fryer

Best Overall

Breville Smart Fryer

PHOTO: Amazon

$180 at Amazon$180 at QVCView on Abt.com

Our RatingsSetup5/5Heat Retention5/5Size4.5/5Features4.5/5Safety5/5

Our Ratings

Setup

5/5

Heat Retention

Size

4.5/5

Features

Safety

Star QualitiesEasy setup and assemblyPresets for both fresh and frozen foodMultiple safety featuresRed FlagsNot as large as other options

Star QualitiesEasy setup and assemblyPresets for both fresh and frozen foodMultiple safety features

Easy setup and assembly

Presets for both fresh and frozen food

Multiple safety features

Red FlagsNot as large as other options

Not as large as other options

The Breville Smart Fryer earned perfect scores in heat retention and safety. It has a wide temperature range that makes it highly versatile for a variety of foods. The oil temperature is displayed on an LCD screen, and the fryer beeps when it reaches temperature, which helps with efficiency in the kitchen. For safety, an error message pops up if the oil rises above 410 degrees, and a magnetic lid and cool-touch handles make this model one of the safest we tested.

The Breville Smart Fryer includes presets for commonly cooked items, though we had to scour the user manual to figure them out. Still, setup and assembly were a breeze, and the fryer is large enough to accommodate multiple servings at a time. While this isn’t the cheapest fryer we tested, it’s also not the most expensive, and the price feels justified given the smart features and ease of use.

Type:Basket |Dimensions:16 x 10.4 x 11.4 inches |Weight:8.6 pounds |Capacity:4 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range: 140-385°F

PHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell Kilgore

Deep Fryers vs. Air Fryers

Best BudgetChefman 4.5-Liter Deep FryerPHOTO: Amazon$70 at Amazon$76 at WalmartOur RatingsSetup4/5Heat Retention3/5Size4/5Features3/5Safety4/5Star QualitiesCompact size for easy storageDishwasher safeEasy to remove basketRed FlagsLacks extra featuresThe price and performance of this budget-friendly deep fryer can’t be beaten. While it doesn’t come with the extra features of some pricier models, it does its job well and is straightforward to use. The fryer has an easy-to-remove basket that’s smaller than most. We had to cook one recipe of homemade potato chips in two batches.That said, we still found this fryer large enough to handle most tasks (though if you’re cooking for a bigger group, it may not get the job done). The smaller size makes it easy to store, plus, it’s dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is quick and easy.Type:Basket |Dimensions:12 x 6.25 x 11.25 inches |Weight:7.13 pounds |Capacity:4.8 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range: 0-375°FPHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgoreChoosing the Right OilSince deep frying is done at high temperatures, you’ll want oil with a high smoke point, preferably above 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Canola, peanut, soybean, and vegetable oils all have a smoke point of 400 degrees or higher, so they’re appropriate to use in a deep fryer.

Best BudgetChefman 4.5-Liter Deep FryerPHOTO: Amazon$70 at Amazon$76 at WalmartOur RatingsSetup4/5Heat Retention3/5Size4/5Features3/5Safety4/5

Best BudgetChefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer

Best Budget

Chefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer

$70 at Amazon$76 at Walmart

Our RatingsSetup4/5Heat Retention3/5Size4/5Features3/5Safety4/5

4/5

3/5

Star QualitiesCompact size for easy storageDishwasher safeEasy to remove basketRed FlagsLacks extra features

Star QualitiesCompact size for easy storageDishwasher safeEasy to remove basket

Compact size for easy storage

Dishwasher safe

Easy to remove basket

Red FlagsLacks extra features

Lacks extra features

The price and performance of this budget-friendly deep fryer can’t be beaten. While it doesn’t come with the extra features of some pricier models, it does its job well and is straightforward to use. The fryer has an easy-to-remove basket that’s smaller than most. We had to cook one recipe of homemade potato chips in two batches.

That said, we still found this fryer large enough to handle most tasks (though if you’re cooking for a bigger group, it may not get the job done). The smaller size makes it easy to store, plus, it’s dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is quick and easy.

Type:Basket |Dimensions:12 x 6.25 x 11.25 inches |Weight:7.13 pounds |Capacity:4.8 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range: 0-375°F

PHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell Kilgore

Choosing the Right OilSince deep frying is done at high temperatures, you’ll want oil with a high smoke point, preferably above 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Canola, peanut, soybean, and vegetable oils all have a smoke point of 400 degrees or higher, so they’re appropriate to use in a deep fryer.

Choosing the Right Oil

Since deep frying is done at high temperatures, you’ll want oil with a high smoke point, preferably above 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Canola, peanut, soybean, and vegetable oils all have a smoke point of 400 degrees or higher, so they’re appropriate to use in a deep fryer.

Best Multi-BasketSecura Triple-Basket Deep FryerPHOTO: Amazon$65 at AmazonOur RatingsSetup3/5Heat Retention3.5/5Size4/5Features4/5Safety4/5Star QualitiesAffordableComes with two small baskets and one larger oneGreat for cooking frozen foodRed FlagsExposed heating element at the topThis is the best model for those prepping multiple courses of deep-fried deliciousness. The Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer comes with three baskets. You can use the two smaller bins simultaneously for two different recipes, or use the single large basket for a bigger batch. This fryer was a top performer in the crispiness department.While the baskets aren’t super spacious and the heat retention didn’t wow us, the affordable price and solid performance make this fryer more attractive than other fryers we tested. Be aware that the top heating element is exposed, which does pose a safety risk if you’re not paying attention.Type:Basket |Dimensions:15.5 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches |Weight:11.65 pounds |Capacity:4.2 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range: 0-375°FPHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgoreChanging the OilDepending on what you’re frying, you should change your cooking oil after eight to 10 uses at most. If you’ve been cooking fish or breaded ingredients, you may need to change the oil more frequently. To keep the oil usable for as long as possible, filter out any burned bits and food particles after the oil is cool and store it in a sealed container. If the color starts to turn or the oil has a strong odor, replace it immediately.

Best Multi-BasketSecura Triple-Basket Deep FryerPHOTO: Amazon$65 at AmazonOur RatingsSetup3/5Heat Retention3.5/5Size4/5Features4/5Safety4/5

Best Multi-BasketSecura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer

Best Multi-Basket

Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer

$65 at Amazon

Our RatingsSetup3/5Heat Retention3.5/5Size4/5Features4/5Safety4/5

3.5/5

Star QualitiesAffordableComes with two small baskets and one larger oneGreat for cooking frozen foodRed FlagsExposed heating element at the top

Star QualitiesAffordableComes with two small baskets and one larger oneGreat for cooking frozen food

Affordable

Comes with two small baskets and one larger one

Great for cooking frozen food

Red FlagsExposed heating element at the top

Exposed heating element at the top

This is the best model for those prepping multiple courses of deep-fried deliciousness. The Secura Triple-Basket Deep Fryer comes with three baskets. You can use the two smaller bins simultaneously for two different recipes, or use the single large basket for a bigger batch. This fryer was a top performer in the crispiness department.

While the baskets aren’t super spacious and the heat retention didn’t wow us, the affordable price and solid performance make this fryer more attractive than other fryers we tested. Be aware that the top heating element is exposed, which does pose a safety risk if you’re not paying attention.

Type:Basket |Dimensions:15.5 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches |Weight:11.65 pounds |Capacity:4.2 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range: 0-375°F

Changing the OilDepending on what you’re frying, you should change your cooking oil after eight to 10 uses at most. If you’ve been cooking fish or breaded ingredients, you may need to change the oil more frequently. To keep the oil usable for as long as possible, filter out any burned bits and food particles after the oil is cool and store it in a sealed container. If the color starts to turn or the oil has a strong odor, replace it immediately.

Changing the Oil

Depending on what you’re frying, you should change your cooking oil after eight to 10 uses at most. If you’ve been cooking fish or breaded ingredients, you may need to change the oil more frequently. To keep the oil usable for as long as possible, filter out any burned bits and food particles after the oil is cool and store it in a sealed container. If the color starts to turn or the oil has a strong odor, replace it immediately.

Best with Oil FilterAll-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep FryerPHOTO: Amazon$210 at Amazon$210 at Wayfair$210 at Sur La TableOur RatingsSetup5/5Heat Retention3/5Size3/5Features3/5Safety4/5Star QualitiesBuilt-in filtration system makes cleaning a breezeQuick and simple to set upDishwasher safeRed FlagsOnly appropriate for single (possibly double) batch cookingThe All-Clad 3.5-Quart Deep Fryer impressed us with its ease of use and smart design. As avid cooks, we would purchase this product based on the built-in oil filtration system alone. The removable fryer bowl automatically filters used oil into a bin so you can store it for reuse or dispose of it. The fryer bowl is also dishwasher-safe, which is always a win in our books.The setup took minimal time and effort. The basket on this fryer is on the smaller side, so our potato chips cooked unevenly. We’d recommend this model for smaller households. We’d also note that the metal handles can get hot during a longer frying session. We love that the fryer’s clear glass lid lets you keep an eye on your food while shielding you from splatters.Type:Basket |Dimensions:18.2 x 13.7 x 14.7 inches |Weight:16.5 pounds |Capacity:3.5 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range:0-385°FPHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell Kilgore

Best with Oil FilterAll-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep FryerPHOTO: Amazon$210 at Amazon$210 at Wayfair$210 at Sur La TableOur RatingsSetup5/5Heat Retention3/5Size3/5Features3/5Safety4/5

Best with Oil FilterAll-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer

Best with Oil Filter

All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer

$210 at Amazon$210 at Wayfair$210 at Sur La Table

Our RatingsSetup5/5Heat Retention3/5Size3/5Features3/5Safety4/5

Star QualitiesBuilt-in filtration system makes cleaning a breezeQuick and simple to set upDishwasher safeRed FlagsOnly appropriate for single (possibly double) batch cooking

Star QualitiesBuilt-in filtration system makes cleaning a breezeQuick and simple to set upDishwasher safe

Built-in filtration system makes cleaning a breeze

Quick and simple to set up

Red FlagsOnly appropriate for single (possibly double) batch cooking

Only appropriate for single (possibly double) batch cooking

The All-Clad 3.5-Quart Deep Fryer impressed us with its ease of use and smart design. As avid cooks, we would purchase this product based on the built-in oil filtration system alone. The removable fryer bowl automatically filters used oil into a bin so you can store it for reuse or dispose of it. The fryer bowl is also dishwasher-safe, which is always a win in our books.

The setup took minimal time and effort. The basket on this fryer is on the smaller side, so our potato chips cooked unevenly. We’d recommend this model for smaller households. We’d also note that the metal handles can get hot during a longer frying session. We love that the fryer’s clear glass lid lets you keep an eye on your food while shielding you from splatters.

Type:Basket |Dimensions:18.2 x 13.7 x 14.7 inches |Weight:16.5 pounds |Capacity:3.5 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range:0-385°F

Best for TurkeyBayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer KitPHOTO: Amazon$329 at Amazon$319 at WalmartView on Shop.comOur RatingsSetup2/5Heat Retention5/5Size5/5Features3/5Safety3/5Star QualitiesImpressive heat retentionPot made of durable 20-gauge stainless steelGreat for entertainingAppropriate for cooking a turkeyRed FlagsAssembling the stand is time-consumingIf this is the year you finally deep-fry yourThanksgiving turkey, this outdoor model is the ticket. The 44-quart pot is made of 20-gauge stainless steel, so it’s great for feeding a crowd. The Bayou Classic (outdoor only) model landed a perfect score in heat retention. It heated quickly, dropped just 20 degrees when a turkey went in, and quickly returned to temperature. The turkey came out with beautifully crispy skin and moist meat that wasn’t oily.Setting up this model was more challenging and took longer than our indoor fryers. Importantly, the pot can easily be bumped off the stand, so give it a wide birth and keep kids and pets indoors while frying. While the frying pot is dishwasher-safe, it can’t fit in most standard dishwashers. There are also no digital temperature settings, so you’ll have to keep tabs on your cook using the included thermometer.Type:Basket |Dimensions:16 x 16 x 21 inches |Weight:35 pounds |Capacity:44 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes, although the basket is too large to fit in most standard dishwashers |Temperature Range:Up to 375°FPHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell KilgorePHOTO: People / Russell Kilgore

Best for TurkeyBayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer KitPHOTO: Amazon$329 at Amazon$319 at WalmartView on Shop.comOur RatingsSetup2/5Heat Retention5/5Size5/5Features3/5Safety3/5

Best for TurkeyBayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer Kit

Best for Turkey

Bayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Turkey Fryer Kit

$329 at Amazon$319 at WalmartView on Shop.com

Our RatingsSetup2/5Heat Retention5/5Size5/5Features3/5Safety3/5

2/5

Star QualitiesImpressive heat retentionPot made of durable 20-gauge stainless steelGreat for entertainingAppropriate for cooking a turkeyRed FlagsAssembling the stand is time-consuming

Star QualitiesImpressive heat retentionPot made of durable 20-gauge stainless steelGreat for entertainingAppropriate for cooking a turkey

Impressive heat retention

Pot made of durable 20-gauge stainless steel

Great for entertaining

Appropriate for cooking a turkey

Red FlagsAssembling the stand is time-consuming

Assembling the stand is time-consuming

If this is the year you finally deep-fry yourThanksgiving turkey, this outdoor model is the ticket. The 44-quart pot is made of 20-gauge stainless steel, so it’s great for feeding a crowd. The Bayou Classic (outdoor only) model landed a perfect score in heat retention. It heated quickly, dropped just 20 degrees when a turkey went in, and quickly returned to temperature. The turkey came out with beautifully crispy skin and moist meat that wasn’t oily.

Setting up this model was more challenging and took longer than our indoor fryers. Importantly, the pot can easily be bumped off the stand, so give it a wide birth and keep kids and pets indoors while frying. While the frying pot is dishwasher-safe, it can’t fit in most standard dishwashers. There are also no digital temperature settings, so you’ll have to keep tabs on your cook using the included thermometer.

Type:Basket |Dimensions:16 x 16 x 21 inches |Weight:35 pounds |Capacity:44 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes, although the basket is too large to fit in most standard dishwashers |Temperature Range:Up to 375°F

Easiest to CleanDeLonghi Livenza Deep FryerPHOTO: Amazon$234$162 at Amazon$264$207 at Walmart$180 at WayfairOur RatingsSetup5/5Heat Retention3.5/5Size3.5/5Features3.5/5Safety3.5/5

Easiest to CleanDeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer

Easiest to Clean

DeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer

$234$162 at Amazon$264$207 at Walmart$180 at Wayfair

Our RatingsSetup5/5Heat Retention3.5/5Size3.5/5Features3.5/5Safety3.5/5

Star QualitiesFront-facing spigot makes it easy to drain oilIncludes a built-in oil filterAll removable parts are dishwasher-safeRed FlagsSome cooking tests yielded greasy results

Star QualitiesFront-facing spigot makes it easy to drain oilIncludes a built-in oil filterAll removable parts are dishwasher-safe

Front-facing spigot makes it easy to drain oil

Includes a built-in oil filter

All removable parts are dishwasher-safe

Red FlagsSome cooking tests yielded greasy results

Some cooking tests yielded greasy results

Deep fryers can be a pain to clean, but not this De’Longhi model. It has a unique oil drain that siphons out the oil for disposal. Draining the oil takes longer than dumping it directly from the frying bowl, but this method is mess-free and the oil is directed through a built-in filter. The fryer will also notify you when the oil needs changing and the removable parts are dishwasher-safe.

Type:Basket |Dimensions:11 x 18 x 12.5 inches |Weight:10.8 pounds |Capacity:5.7 quarts |Dishwasher Safe:Yes |Temperature Range:248-374°F

Cleaning Your Deep FryerFirst, dispose of all of the oil. Private chefLexis Gonzalezsuggests dumping it into a heavy plastic container once it’s completely cooled. “I mix Dawn dish detergent and Ajax or baking soda to help get all of the grime and grease out, then wash the oil bowl thoroughly,” she says. Next, wipe your fryer with a paper towel and make sure it’s fully dry before packing it away. Wipe down the base with hot, soapy water, but take caution not to completely immerse the heating element in water, as this could cause damage, notes Klein.

Cleaning Your Deep Fryer

First, dispose of all of the oil. Private chefLexis Gonzalezsuggests dumping it into a heavy plastic container once it’s completely cooled. “I mix Dawn dish detergent and Ajax or baking soda to help get all of the grime and grease out, then wash the oil bowl thoroughly,” she says. Next, wipe your fryer with a paper towel and make sure it’s fully dry before packing it away. Wipe down the base with hot, soapy water, but take caution not to completely immerse the heating element in water, as this could cause damage, notes Klein.

What to Know About Deep Fryers

Benefits

With a deep fryer in your kitchen, you can make your favorite crispy, golden treats at home. It’s a fun way to experiment with meals typically reserved for eating out. Plus, you can put your own seasonings and spin on your fries, chicken tenders, doughnuts, and more.

“Deep frying can go as far as your imagination,” says celebrity chefCordell Robinson.You can deep-fry almost anything edible. Frozen foods are easy to fry, but you can also batter things such as veggies, lobster tails, and even ice cream before throwing them in your fryer. If you plan to fry a turkey, you’ll need an extra-large fryer, like theBayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird”for outdoor frying.

Our favorite fryers come with features that make cleaning, setup, use, and safety easier.Oil filters and drainage mechanisms, like those on theDe’Longhi Livenza Deep Fryerand theAll-Clad 3.5-Quart Deep Fryer, make oil removal easy and clean.Temperature presetscan be handy for commonly cooked items, and alarms that indicate when the temperature is reached are great for keeping you in the know and efficient in the kitchen. Other handy features include dishwasher-safe parts,safety alarmsfor unnecessarily hot temperatures, and splatter screens.

Capacity

Consider how much food you’ll need to fry at once to find the right-sized fryer for your home.Theoil capacity listed is higher than the food capacitysince more oil is needed to completely cover the food in the basket. For example, a deep fryer with a 12-cup capacity can fry up to eight cups of food. Larger capacity fryers will also usually take longer to heat and you’ll need more oil, even if you’re preparing a smaller batch. Regardless of the size of the bowl, it’s key to never overfill a deep fryer to avoid a dangerous overflow at the worst and soggy chips at best.

Temperature Settings

Some deep fryers offer temperature presets for specific items like potatoes and chicken fingers. While this is a nice-to-have feature,it’s more important to have a clear and legible temperature display. Gonzalez says it’s imperative to easily see and keep tabs on your fryer’s temperature to avoid burning or undercooking your food. Our top pick, theBreville Smart Fryer, has seven preset settings as well as an easy-to-view digital temperature display. The outdoorBayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Kitnotably does not have a temperature display.

Ease of Cleaning

Eating fried foods can be a fun, nostalgic experience, but cleaning up grease? No one enjoys that. “No one likes a high-maintenance appliance, so make sure you consider how easy it is to clean and maintain,” says Robinson. Most deep fryers on our list haveremovable dishwasher-safe parts, and some — like theAll-Clad 3.5-Quart Deep Fryer, which has a built-in filtration system — catch debris from the oil to make cleanup a tad easier. TheDe’Longhi Livenza Deep Fryeralso has a filter and a spout to drain off the oil without splatter or spills.

Price Range

The cheapest fryer on our list, theChefman 4.5-Liter Deep Fryer, costs less than $60, and though it’s on the smaller side, it wasn’t the smallest fryer we tested. The priciest model, theBayou Classic 44-Quart “Big Bird” Kit, is also the largest, but because it can only be used outdoors, it’s not the most practical if you live in a colder climate. In the middle, our overall favorite, theBreville Smart Fryercomes in at $180, and theDe’Longhi Livenza Deep Fryerat $161.

We tested 17 deep fryers in our PEOPLE Tested lab to find the best ones for any home cook.

After conducting the tests, we used a standardized grading system to rate each model for ease of setup, heat retention, size, extra features, safety, ease of cleaning, and overall value. We also asked ourselves if we’d buy the fryer for ourselves or recommend it to family or friends.

Lizzy Briskinis a trained chef, recipe developer, and food writer. She is a contributing writer for PEOPLE, Real Simple, Delish, The Kitchn, and other outlets. She loves making cider donuts in her De’Longhi deep fryer every fall and thick-cut onion rings in the summer. To curate this list of the best deep fryers, she reviewed and synthesized the testing insights from the PEOPLE Tested team.

Melanie Rud, the original author of this article, is a shopping editor, writer, and expert. She tapped celebrity chef Cordell Robinson, private chef Lexis Gonzalez, and food consultant Laurie Klein for their takes on what makes for a great deep fryer.

Our Expert PanelCordell Robinsonis a celebrity chef known as “The Culinary Diva.“Lexis Gonzalezis a private chef at Lady Lexis Kitchen and was a contestant on Food Network’sChopped Sweets.Laurie Kleinis a food consultant and the former test kitchen manager for Hamilton Beach Brands.

Our Expert Panel

Cordell Robinsonis a celebrity chef known as “The Culinary Diva.“Lexis Gonzalezis a private chef at Lady Lexis Kitchen and was a contestant on Food Network’sChopped Sweets.Laurie Kleinis a food consultant and the former test kitchen manager for Hamilton Beach Brands.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com