If there’s one versatile appliance that can make French fries and fried chicken, and at the same time, homemade doughnuts and deep-fried cookies, it’s a deep fryer. Deep fryers have remained quite popular among homes and cooking enthusiasts, even with the recent popularity of air fryers.
But there are so many deep fryer models out there, and it might be challenging to pick one that works best for you. This is why we have compiled a complete review of the best 9 deep fryers that you can choose from in this guide. After considering a wide range of factors and researching many deep fryers in the market, we concluded that these are the best models to go for.
Our review also includes a buying guide for those who are new to using deep fryers, so it becomes easier for you to choose the best deep fryer. Continue reading below for the best nine deep fryers.
Other features: Power type – adjustable thermostat, external handle, viewing window, cool-touch handles, indicator light, safety fuse, oil filter, anti-odor filter
The best-rated deep fryer on our list is the De’Longhi Livenza, a premium deep fryer designed for use by large families or cooking for large groupings. The professional-grade deep fryer features a sleek stainless-steel design and offers impressive performance and efficiency. It is also easy to clean up afterward.
The highlight of this popular model is the Easy Clean drain system, making it easy for you to reuse oil after frying. The appliance has a larger cool zone, which keeps the oil clean by preventing food from burning. It also reduces the odor coming from the deep fryer, so your home doesn’t smell like food. The De’Longhi Livenza also keeps your used oil cleaner for longer.
Other features: liquid propane, low production, touch plastic-coated handles, a multi basket fryer, built-in thermometer
The premium pick on our review of the best deep fryers is the Cajun Fryer by R&V Works. This liquid propane-powered deep fryer features an impressive carbon steel construction with a charcoal finish and plastic handles that are cool to touch. It also comes with two cooking baskets, which are nickel-plated. It is known widely as the best turkey deep fryer.
Another popular deep fryer model, the R&V Works Cajun Fryer, is known for its brilliant mode of operation that helps you reduce oil usage up to 70%, unlike other deep fryers. The heat source is six inches over the bottom of the oil reservoir, situated at a 45 degrees angle, so food does not collect on the burner.
Other features: large stainless mesh basket with cool-touch handle, 120-minute timer, adjustable temperature control, ON and Ready indicator lights
The Cuisinart CDF-500 is an impressive deep fryer that focuses on combining its cooking performance with easy use and convenience. As the best small deep fryer on our list, it cannot only cook different kinds of foods but has more than enough space to cook large portions at once, much faster than other deep fryers in the market. The stainless-steel construction offers durability, and it has a pretty unique design.
This deep fryer is a newer model from Cuisinart, offering better functions than its previous models. For one, the CDF-500 deep fryer comes with a larger capacity than others, as it is an extra-large rotisserie deep fryer. Not only this, but it features a 120-minute timer and adjustable temperature control, which is a feature that you can’t find in many deep fryer models from Cuisinart. It can also work as a steamer and comes with oil-drain filtration, unlike other units in the CDF series.
Other features: temperature control and overheat protection, covers and cool-touch handles, installed guard plate, the anti-slip feet
For those cooking all kinds of deep-friable foods for a lot of mouths, the VIVOHOME 20.7 deep fryer is an impressive unit. The best large deep fryer comes with different helpful features that make it easier to operate, like the heating indicator lights. You can select a temperature as high as 374 degrees Fahrenheit, as it is powered by a 2500W heating element.
This powerful deep fryer is the perfect fit for those looking for a model that can be used commercially and at home. The VIVOHOME 20.7 can deep fry different foods while maintaining oil temperature and leaving you with evenly cooked food. It’s like two deep fryers in one because it comes with two oil tank containers and removable baskets.
Other features: adjustable thermostat, stay-cool handle, patented oil-filtration system
Next on our review is the best electric deep fryer, the T-fal FR8000. The stainless-steel deep fryer offers easy to use for anyone, whether it’s your first time operating this type of kitchen appliance or not. It also features the popular oil filtration system that you can find in popular deep fryer models, allowing you to store used oil and reuse it easily.
What makes this deep fryer stand out from other models is its ability to give professional results. This is made possible with its immersed heating element that maintains the oil temperature while cooking. Asides from this, it has a decent capacity and is powered by 1700 watts, so it is ideal for home use and also for serving guests. The deep fryer can be easily taken apart for the different parts to be cleaned in a dishwasher and put together again.
Other features: Cool Zone Technology, mesh filter, electronic thermostat
The Breville BDF500XL is the next on our list, which we consider to be the best home deep fryer. Commonly called a smart deep fryer, it comes with top-notch technology, which would result in professional results after cooking. You can enjoy using this compact-sized deep fryer in your home, with its small footprint and sleek finishing.
Breville is widely known as a popular brand in kitchen appliances, and the BDF500XL is quite popular because of its smart features. For one, this deep fryer comes with Cool Zone technology, which extends oil life and prevents excess burning while you fry your foods. It is also fitted with an electronic thermostat, so the frying temperature remains the same and can quickly recover whenever it is interrupted or drops.
Other features: magnetic breakaway cord, cETL approved, advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability
Often called the best deep fryer for fried chicken, the Chefman 1700W model comes with an impressive performance and 1700W heating element that allows you to bring restaurant quality to your home. The deep fryer has an average capacity, making it ideal when cooking for your family or bringing guests over and cooking many kinds of foods aside from fried chicken.
If you’re someone who likes a mess-free kitchen while cooking, you would be impressed with this Chefman deep fryer. It prevents oil from splattering and controls the cooking odor to no longer have a messy kitchen while you cook. You can also clip the frying basket to the side to quickly drain the oil and remove the basket afterward for easy cleaning in the dishwasher.
Other features: adjustable temperature settings and timer knob, immiscible heating element
The Elite Gourmet 1700W is the best-rated deep fryer on our list when it comes to versatility. This impressive deep fryer allows you to cook two different kinds of foods at once, as it can take up to two baskets. It also manages to feature this in its compact size and lightweight design, making it an ideal kitchen appliance for your home.
The versatility of the Elite Gourmet deep fryer is its major highlight, and it’s perfect for those who are just starting in deep fryers or who need a convenient deep fryer for individual or family use. Although it can take up to two baskets, it comes with three, so you have an extra one for cooking diverse meals. Its 1700W heating element provides brilliant power to cook your foods effectively and evenly, and you can easily adjust the temperature with the settings.
Other features: adjustable temperature and timer control, dishwasher-safe fryer baskets and removable lid, heating element, removable oil tank
Another dual-fry model on our list is the Secura 1800W, and although it’s pretty versatile, we consider it the best deep fryer for fish. With the two equal-sized baskets, you can make means like fish and chips, fish and onion rings, and other foods with different cook times. Or, you can use the jumbo basket for big batches of fish, chicken, and other foods.
The highlight of the Secura 1800W is the fast frying feature, which is something that you don’t find in many deep fryer models. While many customers complain about their deep fryers taking time to heat oil, this model comes with an immersion-type element that can preheat and recover oil temperature fast.
When shopping for a new deep fryer, choosing anyone on the list would be counterproductive until you’re sure of what you need. This is why you need to take into account certain factors so that you select the deep fryer that would meet your needs. What is seen as the best deep fryer for you might not be the same for others.
In this section, we will explore all you need to know before buying a deep fryer, whether you want to replace the one you’re already using in your home or you’re buying one for the first time. You also have to consider what and how often you would be deep-frying and how much you would deep fry at a time.
There are two main types of deep fryers, both of which we featured in our extensive review above. These two types have their benefits and disadvantages, so it all boils down to what you need and what works best for you.
As the name implies, electric deep fryers are usually powered by an electric source, so you would have to check the heating element before you purchase. You may also be interested in best small electric smoker in addition to deep fryer to vary your cooking experience. The typical heating element for home deep fryers is 1700W, although you can get more or less than this. Electric deep fryers are usually easy to set up and have a smaller design, making them more mobile.
They are also efficient in frying multiple batches of food. Electric deep fryers are also considered to be much safer. But you would have to figure out whether you have enough power for the heating element and your electricity bills.
Propane deep fryers are under gas deep fryers, and you can also use these types of appliances at home. These are powered by liquid propane, so you would have to load the unit with this gas regularly for it to work.
Propane deep fryers usually have a larger capacity for high-volume cooking and can heat up oil faster than an electric unit.
You also won’t have to worry about electricity bills or your power outlets, only purchasing liquid propane regularly. But propane deep fryers are considered less safe, especially since you have to find a safe place to store the liquid propane. They are also bulky.
There is a wide range of essential factors that one has to consider when choosing a new deep fryer. We also put these factors in mind when compiling our review of the best deep fryer models.
For one, the size and capacity of your deep fryer would determine how much you can cook with the fryer. If you need the best large deep fryer for large gatherings, or you just have a large family to feed, then you would do well with the VIVOHOME 20.7 deep fryer.
But, if you’re cooking for yourself alone or a small family, you can sacrifice the large capacity and go for a compact-sized unit. In some cases, you get decent capacity even with a small footprint, as the Cuisinart CDF-500 offers.
Check your counter space before purchasing a deep fryer to make sure you have enough space.
The size of the baskets is also vital, as it determines the kinds of foods you can deep fry. With some dual-fry models like the Elite Gourmet 1700W, you can fry two different types of foods with two baskets at once.
Another critical factor to think over is how long it would take for your deep fryer to wholly and evenly cook your meals. This is especially important if you would be cooking multiple batches or you just don’t like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
A model like the Secura 1800W comes with a fast-frying feature, as the best electric deep fryers with an immersed heating element usually do. You can also expect speed from all propane deep fryers.
When choosing the best home deep fryer, look out for controls for regulating temperature and setting a timer. The ideal temperature limit for a deep fryer is 375 degrees Fahrenheit, but it’s best if you can select lower or a little bit higher than this, as some types of foods can require this.
For preheating your oil and cooking foods without constant monitoring, a timer would also be necessary. It’s essential to look for deep fryers with these two controls, like the Cuisinart CDF-500, which features a 120-minute timer and temperature control.
A built-in thermometer would also go a long way in monitoring the temperature and saving money on a cooking thermometer, as the De’Longhi Livenza offers, so it’s important to look for this feature.
Safety is also an important feature that should be found in the best-rated deep fryer that you choose. Whether it’s providing automatic shut-off when the temperature is too high like the VIVOHOME 20.7, or protecting you from splatter like the Chefman 1700W, safety features allow you to focus less on staying safe and more on cooking up a storm.
Other safety features include a cool-touch exterior and a magnetic break-off cord that prevents hot oil from spilling out of the machine, also featured in the Chefman 1700W deep fryer. You are advised to check the deep fryer manual before using it to familiarize yourself with the operation and stay safe.
You can either go for the propane deep fryer, as seen in the Cajun Fryer by R&V Works, or choose the best electric deep fryer like the T-fal FR8000 model.
The type of deep fryer you go for depends on your needs and your skill level in handling these appliances.
Propane deep fryers are ideal for experienced cooks in deep frying because they offer fewer safety features and are usually bigger. But, it’s best to use them outside because of safety and space. On the other hand, electric deep fryers are more popular and come with different safety features for novices and experienced cooks. They are also smaller in size.
Convenience is essential when cooking, and no one wants a deep fryer that is hard to operate. This is why you should look out for easy-to-use features, like the oil draining feature, which you can find in deep fryers like the De’Longhi Livenza.
Another convenient feature is having easy-to-reach controls on the body of the deep fryer and cool-touch handles that you can easily carry the model from one place to another. If you’re looking for convenience, small deep fryers are usually easier to handle.
Most people dread the cleaning time of their deep fryer, but you need to ensure it’s properly maintained if you want to use it for a long time. So, it’s best to look for different cleaning features. Most deep fryers come with parts that are easy to remove, like the basket and the inner pot, which can also be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Other features that make it easy to clean are the non-stick coating, as seen in the Cuisinart CDF-500, which prevents food from sticking in and making it hard to clean. The Breville BDF500XL comes with technology that prevents burning, ensuring that your fryer is always easy to clean.
Deep fryers can cost between $30 and $500, depending on the model you prefer. Besides setting your budget, you should ensure that you’re looking for the model that offers more value for its price.
A budget-friendly option will do the trick if you want a simple model that can only deep fry. But if you prefer a more versatile deep fryer that you would use regularly, more expensive options would be fitting, but they must be worth the price.
There are different dishes that you can cook in your deep fryer, which is why they are known as versatile appliances for any kitchen. Here is a list of some kinds of dishes you can cook once you get your deep fryer:
Deep-fried foods can even go further than this. According to The Guardian Trusted Source The fry’s the limit! 17 delicious ways with batter, from tempura squid to churros | Food | The Guardian Name an ingredient and someone has deep-fried it. 17 delicious ways with batter, from tempura squid to churros www.theguardian.com , there are so many ingredients that taste even better once you deep fry them, even the Mars chocolate bar.
Asides from considering the factors we have explained above, you also have to keep some tips in mind when buying a deep fryer.
Start by looking at your kitchen space. Do you have enough space to accommodate a deep fryer, or is there room for a propane model outdoors? Even if you plan to bring the deep fryer out and store it back when you’re done using it, you have to make sure there is enough storage space.
You should also determine how much you’re willing to spend on a new deep fryer. Be strict with your budget range, and don’t end up going over because of flashy features that you might never use. You also have to take into account the costs of oil, which is why deep fryers that allow you to reuse oil safely are recommended. Keep in mind that deep-frying is only healthy when you use the most nourishing oils while cooking, according to different studies by Healthline Trusted Source What Is the Healthiest Oil for Deep Frying? The Crispy Truth | Healthline People often consider deep-fried foods unhealthy, but it depends partially on the type of oil used. www.healthline.com .
Although anyone can use a deep fryer, there’s no doubt that some would use it way better than others. You should consider how good of a cook you are and your experience with deep frying before choosing a model. Remember that electric models are best for beginners.
Finally, look at how many people you’re planning to feed. The type of deep fryer you will need if you live alone or live with a small nuclear family is different from what you might need if you have many people in your house. If you expect guests often, you can also factor this into your decision.
With our complete review of the best deep fryer models, you can easily pick one that fits your needs based on the buying guide. If you’re looking for overall quality, the De’Longhi Livenza is the best-rated deep fryer on our list with its Easy Drain system that helps to save money on oil.
Our premium pick is another excellent choice that you can go for if you’re an experienced cook looking for a propane deep fryer. The Cajun Fryer by R&V Works features a unique cooking process and a durable design that would last for years.
The Cuisinart CDF-500 is another impressive unit on our list, which would work best if you want a small footprint but decent frying capacity and convenient controls.
You can go for any other of the deep fryers on our list, as long as they meet your needs. With the best deep fryer in your kitchen, you can enjoy trying out different recipes while enjoying safety, efficiency, and performance at reasonable prices.
