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An air fryer with a grill on top brings searing and direct-grill capability to the compact, fast-cooking world of air fryers. If you want browned crusts, quick weeknight steaks, or grill marks on vegetables without firing up an outdoor grill, choosing the right model changes how reliably those results happen in your kitchen. This guide shortlists the top options that combine convection air-frying with a dedicated top grill surface and evaluates them for cooking performance, temperature control, and day-to-day maintenance. Read on to see which designs deliver consistent browning, easy cleanup, and the features most useful for home grilling and frying. The next section explains how we evaluated the picks.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Nuwave Pro-Smart Plug-In Grill |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Nuwave Bravo XL Pro |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Dash Flip & Fry Digital 3-Qt |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | 2-in-1 Air Fryer Grill Combo |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Ninja Foodi AG301 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill FG551 |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven TOA-70BKS |  |
Nuwave Pro-Smart Plug-In Grill
| Capacity | 15.5 quarts |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1800 watts |
| Max Temperature | 500 °F |
| Included Components | Air Fry Basket, Baking & Drip Pan, Digital Smart Probe, Non-Stick Plug-In Grill, Wire Cooking Rack |
The Nuwave Pro-Smart Plug-In Grill combines an air fryer oven with an integrated plug-in grill plate to deliver grilled sear marks and convection crisping in one countertop unit. It is used like a toaster oven but adds a removable non-stick grill plate with embedded heating elements for direct radiant heat and authentic char without flare-ups. The oven uses Nuwave's Linear T Technology and a double-layer glass door to promote more even heat and retain warmth while the control panel offers 150 presets and space to save custom recipes for repeat cooking. Included accessories such as an air fry basket, baking/drip pan, wire rack, and a digital probe make it flexible for air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and indoor grilling. Expect concentrated grilling performance in a 15.5 quart cavity and strong 1800 watt output, though the unit is a compact countertop appliance so it is best for family-sized meals rather than very large batches. The exterior stays relatively cool thanks to the insulation, but the non-stick grill plate and interior will require routine cleaning to avoid buildup from grilled foods.
Best for: Buyers who want a single countertop appliance that grills and air-fries with real sear marks and many convenience presets for everyday family meals.
Less Ideal for: People who need very large-capacity cooking for frequent big gatherings or who prefer a separate full-size outdoor grill experience.
- Plug-in non-stick grill plate with embedded sheath heaters for direct radiant searing and grill marks
- Large set of 150 cooking presets with room for up to 50 saved custom recipes
- Powerful 1800 watt output and max 500°F temperature for quick searing and crisping
- Double-layer glass door and precision gasket improve heat retention while keeping exterior cooler
- Comes with air fry basket, baking/drip pan, wire rack, and digital temperature probe
- Compact 15.5 quart capacity limits very large roasts or multi-rack cooking
- Non-stick grill plate requires regular cleaning to prevent residue and flavor transfer
Verdict: Choose this if you want a compact countertop unit that combines true radiant grilling with convection air frying and a huge library of presets for everyday versatility.
Nuwave Bravo XL Pro
| Capacity | 30 quarts |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1800 watts |
| Temperature range | 50-500℉ |
| Control type | Knob and Push Button |
The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro is a large-capacity air fryer toaster oven with an integrated grill plate aimed at fast, evenly cooked results. It uses an upgraded ultra-fast convection fan and 1800W power to accelerate cooking and promote crisping across multiple racks, while adjustable top and bottom heaters plus selectable fan speeds let you fine-tune heat distribution for tasks from baking pizzas to searing meats. The included reversible ceramic grill/griddle reproduces char marks and drains excess oil, and a smart probe automates doneness by ending the cycle when the target internal temperature is reached. Practical touches such as 100 one-touch presets, 30 user memory slots, a pull-out crumb tray, dishwasher-safe accessories, and PFAS-free surfaces make routine use and cleanup easier. Trade-offs are typical for a 30QT countertop oven: it is fairly heavy and wide compared with compact units and delivers best value when you need the extra capacity and grilling function rather than just occasional toasting. For performance-focused cooks who want faster convection and flexible heat control plus an indoor grill option, this oven packs a lot of features into one appliance.
Best for: Home cooks who prioritize speed, even multi-rack performance, and indoor grilling capability for family-sized meals and entertaining.
Less Ideal for: Those who only occasionally need an air fryer or who have very limited counter space should consider smaller, simpler units instead.
- High-power 1800W motor and upgraded ultra-fast convection fan for quicker cooking and improved crisping
- Adjustable top and bottom heaters plus three fan speeds allow precise control over heat zones
- Large 30-quart capacity with multiple rack positions accommodates two 13-inch pizzas or a whole chicken
- Reversible ceramic grill/griddle produces char-grilled flavor and drains excess oil
- Smart digital probe stops cooking at target internal temperature for consistent doneness
- Relatively large and heavy for countertop placement in very small kitchens
- Complex feature set and many presets may have a learning curve for basic users
Verdict: Choose the Bravo XL Pro if you want a high-power, grill-equipped convection oven that delivers faster, more even cooking for large meals.
Dash Flip & Fry Digital 3-Qt
| Capacity | 3 quarts |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1150 W |
| Max Temperature | 400 °F |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Air Frying Technology | Cyclonic Air Flow |
The Dash Flip & Fry is a small 2-in-1 grill and air fryer designed for everyday countertop use. It pairs a removable ceramic nonstick grill plate with a crisper tray and a flip-over lid so you can sear and then air fry or cook both sides without flipping manually. The digital touchscreen includes one-touch presets for air fry, roast, bake, reheat and a dedicated dehydrate setting, and temperature control reaches up to 400°F with 1150W output for quick preheat and crisping. Its AirCrisp cyclonic airflow aims to circulate heat evenly so snacks, wings and small proteins get a crisp exterior with little or no added oil. The unit is best for small households or meal prep thanks to its 3-quart capacity and compact footprint, and removable dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup straightforward. Limitations are the modest capacity that constrains larger cuts or full family meals and the plastic exterior that can feel less durable than heavier stainless models. If you want a space-saving grill-plus-air-fryer for frequent small batches, this balances features and convenience well.
Best for: Buyers who want a compact, multiuse appliance to replace a separate small grill and air fryer and prioritize convenience, easy cleanup, and frequent small-batch cooking.
Less Ideal for: If you cook large family meals, entertain often, or need heavy-duty commercial-style grilling performance, this small-capacity consumer unit will be limiting.
- Two-in-one grill and air fryer saves counter space and reduces need for separate appliances
- Digital touchscreen with preset functions simplifies everyday cooking
- Ceramic nonstick grill plate and removable crisper tray are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
- AirCrisp cyclonic airflow aims for even, crispy results with less oil
- 3-quart capacity is small for large families or whole roasts
- Plastic exterior may feel less sturdy than metal-bodied competitors
Verdict: A compact, feature-rich grill-plus-air-fryer that delivers convenient one-touch cooking and easy cleanup for small households and meal prep.
2-in-1 Air Fryer Grill Combo
| Capacity | 7.5 quarts |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1400 watts |
| Max Temperature | 400 °F |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Special Features | Automatic Shut-Off |
This dual-function unit combines a 7.5 quart air fryer basket with a grill plate to let you air fry, grill, roast, bake, and reheat using one countertop appliance. It offers 360 degree hot-air circulation and a 160°F–400°F range for quick, even cooking, plus eight one-touch presets that simplify common dishes like fries, steak, shrimp, and chicken. The grill plate mode gives sear marks and a more grilled finish when you want it, while air-fry mode cuts oil use for crisp results. The stainless steel housing, nonstick removable parts, and clear viewing window make everyday use and cleanup straightforward, though the product instructions note hand-wash care and some parts may require more attention. Safety features include overheat protection and a cooling fan. Expect a solid set of features for the price but not the finesse of higher-end brands in build refinement or long-term durability.
Best for: Buyers seeking an affordable countertop appliance that combines air frying and grilling for family meals and straightforward one-touch cooking.
Less Ideal for: Anyone wanting premium build quality, advanced warranty coverage, or professional-grade grilling performance should consider higher-end alternatives.
- Two cooking modes (air fryer and grill plate) for versatile meal options
- Large 7.5 quart capacity suitable for family-size portions
- Eight one-touch presets simplify common recipes and reduce guesswork
- 360° hot-air circulation and wide temperature range for even cooking
- Clear viewing window and removable nonstick parts for easy monitoring and cleanup
- Build and long-term durability may not match higher-end brands
- Some parts require hand washing despite marketing claims
Verdict: A budget-friendly, family-sized air fryer that doubles as a grill, offering simple presets and solid cooking performance for everyday meals.
Ninja Foodi AG301 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer
| Wattage | 1760 watts |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Included components | Grill grate, 4-qt crisper basket, 6-qt cooking pot |
The Ninja Foodi AG301 pairs a high-density 500°F grill grate with cyclonic hot-air circulation to deliver char-grilled marks and crisp results from a single countertop unit. It functions as an indoor contact grill, air fryer, roaster, oven, and dehydrator, and includes a 10"x10" grill grate, a 4-qt crisper basket and a 6-qt cooking pot for versatile cooking. The cyclonic grilling technology concentrates rapid hot air around food so you can sear steaks, grill vegetables, or air-fry frozen items without needing to pre-thaw, and the manufacturer claims char-grilling from frozen in under 25 minutes. The removable ceramic-coated nonstick parts are dishwasher safe, which keeps cleanup straightforward after fatty or sticky foods. At 1760 watts the unit brings near-outdoor grilling heat on a countertop, but its size and 20 lb weight mean it is best suited to a dedicated counter space rather than frequent transit. If you prioritize reliable, high-heat indoor grilling with easy maintenance and multiple cooking modes, this unit delivers, though it requires a standard 120V outlet and a bit of counter real estate.
Best for: Buyers who want a dependable indoor grill that reliably produces high-heat sears and versatile cooking modes for everyday meals and weekend grilling without needing outdoor equipment.
Less Ideal for: People who need an ultra-compact or lightweight travel appliance or who have extremely limited counter space should consider smaller units instead.
- Delivers high grill temperatures and searing similar to outdoor grills for authentic char marks
- Five cooking modes in one unit expand versatility for mains, sides, and snacks
- Removable ceramic-coated grill grate and baskets are nonstick and dishwasher safe for easier cleanup
- Can cook from frozen to finished in short time, reducing prep steps
- Large and relatively heavy for countertop appliances, needs dedicated storage or placement
- High wattage requires a standard 120V outlet and will draw significant power during use
Verdict: Choose the Ninja Foodi AG301 if you want a reliable, high-heat indoor grill that doubles as an air fryer and handles frozen-to-grilled cooking with minimal fuss.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill FG551
| Wattage | 1760 watts |
|---|---|
| Max Temperature Setting | 500 °F |
| Capacity | 4 quarts |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Air Frying Technology | Cyclonic Air Flow |
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill FG551 combines a high-temperature indoor grill with air frying and multi-cook functions to handle family-size meals on the countertop. It uses 500°F cyclonic air and a high-density grill grate to sear and char foods while a smart, dual-sensor thermometer monitors internal temperature and automatically shuts off when the selected doneness is reached. Typical uses include searing steaks, grilling vegetables, and air-crisping frozen foods without flipping, plus roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating in the included crisper basket and cooking pot. The XL grate fits multiple steaks or hot dogs so you can cook mains and sides simultaneously, and the smoke-control design reduces kitchen smoke compared with traditional indoor searing. Practical benefits are easy one-touch protein settings, consistent doneness from the thermometer, and dishwasher-safe components for cleanup. Important limitations are its countertop footprint and weight that may be bulky for small kitchens and that the 4-quart crisper basket limits large-volume air-fry batches despite the roomy grate for grilling.
Best for: Buyers who want a versatile indoor grill that reliably hits steak doneness and can also air-fry and roast for family meals, and who value proven performance and clear temperature control.
Less Ideal for: Anyone with very limited counter space or who needs large-capacity air-fryer batches should consider smaller or higher-capacity air fryers instead.
- Smart Cook System with thermometer delivers consistent doneness without guesswork
- 500°F cyclonic air and high-density grill grate produce char-grilled sear marks indoors
- XL grill capacity fits multiple steaks or hot dogs so you can cook larger family meals
- Multiple cooking modes (grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate) replace several appliances
- Dishwasher-safe removable parts simplify cleanup
- 4-quart crisper basket limits large single-batch air-fry capacity
- Relatively heavy and sizable countertop footprint compared with compact air fryers
Verdict: If you want an indoor grill-first air fryer that reliably sears and cooks to exact doneness for family-sized meals, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is the practical choice.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven TOA-70BKS
| Output Wattage | 1800 watts |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Max Temperature Setting | 450 °F |
| Capacity | 0.6 cubic feet |
| Control Method | Touch |
The Cuisinart TOA-70BKS combines an air fryer, toaster oven, convection oven, broiler and a dual-sided grill/griddle into a single 1800W countertop appliance. It is typically used for everyday cooking tasks like air frying wings, toasting bread, baking a 12" pizza, roasting a small chicken, or searing on the reversible grill plate. Notable features include AirAdvantage hot-air circulation for crisping, a wide temperature range up to 450°F, a 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff, and included accessories such as an oven rack, baking pan, air-fry basket and grill/griddle. In practice the unit handles family-sized portions and multi-function cooking without separate devices, and the stainless steel interior and removable components simplify cleanup. Trade-offs are its relatively heavy countertop footprint and 25 lb weight, which make it less portable than compact units, and the 0.6 cu ft capacity may still be small for large gatherings despite claiming "large" capacity.
Best for: Buyers seeking a reliable, multi-function countertop oven that replaces several appliances and prioritizes consistent, predictable cooking results and easy cleanup.
Less Ideal for: People who need an ultra-compact or highly portable air fryer for small kitchens, dorms, or frequent travel should consider smaller, lighter models instead.
- Multiple cooking modes in one unit including air fry, bake, convection bake, broil, grill and warm
- AirAdvantage circulation and 450°F top temperature for crisp, fast results
- Includes practical accessories: air-fry basket, baking pan, oven rack and reversible grill/griddle
- 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff and toast shade selector for predictable results
- Heavier and bulkier than compact air fryers, so it occupies substantial counter space
- 0.6 cubic foot interior may be limiting for very large batches or big roasts
Verdict: Choose this Cuisinart if you want a sturdy, all-in-one air fryer toaster oven with a built-in grill that reliably handles family meals and replaces multiple appliances.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer with Grill on Top: Key Factors to Consider
Grill Power and Heat Distribution
The intensity and distribution of heat from the top grill element determine whether you get quick searing and clear grill marks. A high maximum temperature helps with browning, but evenness matters more for consistent results across a steak or several pieces of chicken.
Look for units with a dedicated grill element and good airflow so the top sear does not overcook what the air-fry basket is doing. Uneven heat can leave hot spots that char while other areas remain underdone, which is especially noticeable on thin cuts and quicker-cooking vegetables.
Air-Fry Circulation and Evenness
Air-frying depends on rapid, even circulation to crisp foods without excess oil. In combo units, the grill element should not disrupt the convection path; good designs maintain consistent air movement around the basket while the top grill is active.
Consider how the unit channels hot air around food and whether accessories like racks or crisper baskets promote exposure to flowing air. Units with adjustable airflow or engineered vents typically deliver more even browning and shorter cook times.
Cooking Capacity and Rack Arrangement
Capacity affects how much you can cook at once and whether you can use both modes simultaneously. If you regularly cook for two or more people, choose a layout that fits portions without overcrowding the basket or blocking the grill surface.
Multiple rack positions or a two-tier arrangement increase flexibility, letting you grill on top while air-frying below. Pay attention to usable interior volume rather than only external dimensions, because shape and accessory placement determine practical capacity.
Control Precision and Temperature Range
Precise controls let you switch smoothly between low-temperature dehydration and high-heat searing. A wide temperature range and clear increments help when following recipes that require exact temperatures for crisping or finishing with a sear.
Digital thermostats and separate grill controls are useful for repeatable results. Manual dials can work but may be less reliable for fine temperature adjustments, which matters when timing sears to avoid overcooking the interior of thicker cuts.
Cleaning, Maintenance, and Materials
A top grill adds surfaces that accumulate grease and residue. Removable, dishwasher-safe grill plates and nonstick interiors reduce the time and effort needed after high-heat grilling sessions. Pay attention to crevices around the grill where drips can bake on.
Durable materials like stainless-steel contact surfaces and robust nonstick coatings prolong the appliance lifespan. Also consider how easy it is to access heating elements and vents for occasional deep cleaning to prevent odor transfer and maintain airflow.
Safety Features and Ventilation
High-heat grilling produces more smoke and grease splatter than basic air-frying, so proper ventilation and safety interlocks matter. Features such as automatic shutoff, cool-touch handles, and well-placed exhaust vents reduce burn and smoke risks during aggressive searing.
Look for units that channel exhaust away from control panels and counters. Stable feet and a low center of gravity are practical considerations because heavier grill plates and accessories can shift the appliance's balance during use or cleaning.
How Dual-Mode Cooking Changes Weeknight Meal Planning
Combining an air-fryer basket with a top grill shortens total cook time by allowing simultaneous methods. For example, you can air-fry fries or roasted veggies in the lower chamber while searing thin steaks or toasting sandwiches on the top plate. That parallel workflow reduces oven or stovetop reliance and speeds dinner prep.
When planning meals, think in terms of heat zones. Use the top grill for last-minute finishing or quick searing and the basket for the main crisping step. This approach keeps textures distinct and helps you coordinate timing without overcooking delicate items.
- Start protein on the grill for sear marks, finish in the basket to reach target doneness.
- Use the grill for quick toasting or charring while air-frying sides below.
- Plan recipes to avoid steam buildup that can reduce grill effectiveness.
Accessories That Make a Difference
Useful accessories include removable grill plates, multi-level racks, drip trays, and perforated baskets. A perforated basket promotes air flow while a solid grill plate concentrates surface heat for searing. Drip trays placed beneath the grill help catch grease and simplify cleanup.
Quality accessories fit securely and are easy to remove for washing. Dishwasher-safe parts save time, but also consider whether replacement accessories are available in case of wear.
- Perforated baskets for crisping
- Removable grill plates for direct searing
- Drip trays to minimize mess
- Multi-level racks for flexible staging
Managing Smoke and Odors
High-heat grilling inside a countertop appliance can generate noticeable smoke. To minimize this, start with relatively dry food, trim excess fat from meats, and use the drip tray to catch fats before they burn. Running the unit near a hood or a vented area helps reduce lingering smells.
Some models include smoke-reduction features such as built-in charcoal or grease collection design. If smoke is a concern in your kitchen, prioritize units with well-designed exhaust and consider using lower-fat cuts for indoor grilling sessions.
- Trim visible fat to reduce flare-ups
- Use drip trays and clean them frequently
- Run near existing kitchen ventilation when possible
Recipes and Technique Tips for Best Results
For the best sear, pat proteins dry and preheat the grill surface when the unit indicates readiness. Thin cuts benefit from a short, hot sear while thicker pieces can be reverse-seared: air-fry to near-doneness in the basket, then finish on the top grill for color.
Vegetables get better caramelization when sliced evenly and given a light oil coating. Rotate items on the grill for even marks and avoid overcrowding the basket to maintain airflow and crisping efficiency.
- Reverse-sear thick steaks for even doneness
- Preheat grill plate for clear grill marks
- Cut vegetables uniformly for even caramelization
Placement, Counter Space, and Ventilation Needs
These combo units require space above for heat and smoke to dissipate and some clearance on the sides for vents. Keep the appliance away from walls and overhead cabinets that could be affected by prolonged heat or steam exposure. A sturdy, heat-resistant surface reduces risk during high-heat grilling.
Think about storage for accessories and where you will clean larger removable parts. If you have limited counter space, choose a location that balances usability during cooking with easy access to a sink for cleanup tasks.
- Allow clearance above and around the unit
- Keep a clean drip-tray disposal area nearby
- Store accessories close to the appliance for faster setup
How We Chose the Best Air Fryer with Grill on Top
We focused on models that integrate a top-mounted grill element with a convection basket or drawer so the unit can both air-fry and deliver direct searing. Key filters included verified temperature range and stability, grill surface design and heat output, basket or rack capacity for realistic portion sizes, and how straightforward routine cleaning and maintenance are. We excluded units that only offered passive contact plates or that lacked a distinct, controllable top-grill element. We also filtered out products with poorly documented safety features or insufficient ventilation for high-heat grilling. The evaluation emphasized measurable, buyer-relevant specs: max and steady-state cooking temperatures to judge searing capability, layout and size of the grill surface for practical use, accessory quality and dishwasher compatibility for cleanup, and user controls for mode switching between air-fry and grill. Durability signals such as materials and ventilation design were considered. Editorial judgment favored models that balanced grill power with even air circulation so you do not sacrifice crispy air-fry results when using the top grill.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I get proper grill marks from an air fryer with a top grill?
Yes. A dedicated top grill element and a hot, preheated grill plate can produce visible grill marks. Results vary with surface contact and the amount of moisture on the food, so pat proteins dry and press gently for better contact.
Will using the grill interfere with air-frying performance?
It can if the design does not maintain good airflow. Well-designed units balance the top grill heat while preserving convection around the basket. Avoid overcrowding and follow manufacturer guidance on simultaneous use to retain even air-fry results.
How much extra smoke should I expect when grilling indoors?
Indoor grilling generates more smoke than basic air-frying, especially with fatty cuts. Smoke levels depend on temperature, ventilation, and food fat content. Using drip trays, trimming fat, and running the unit near a vent or hood reduces smoke and odors.
Are grill plates and baskets usually dishwasher-safe?
Many models include dishwasher-safe grill plates and baskets, but this varies. Even when listed as dishwasher-safe, frequent hand washing can extend nonstick coatings. Check care instructions for recommended cleaning methods.
Can I use the top grill to sear thick cuts without overcooking the interior?
Yes, by using a two-step approach. Air-fry the cut until it is close to the desired internal temperature, then finish on the top grill for a short sear. This reverse-sear method gives a caramelized exterior while protecting internal doneness.
What safety features should I look for in these combo units?
Look for automatic shutoff, cool-touch handles, stable footing, and well-placed exhaust vents. These features help prevent burns, reduce fire risk from grease buildup, and make the appliance safer to operate in a typical kitchen environment.
Final Verdict
When choosing an air fryer with a grill on top, prioritize a unit that balances a powerful top grill with uninterrupted convection airflow. Decide how often you will use the grill versus the basket and choose capacity and accessory sets that match portion sizes and meal types. Tradeoffs are common: stronger searing elements can increase smoke and cleaning needs, while gentler designs may produce less dramatic grill marks. Focus on grill heat, air-fry evenness, and cleaning convenience to pick a model that fits your cooking style with confidence.