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If you want the convenience of an air fryer plus the sear and char of a grill, choosing an air fryer with grill functionality changes everyday cooking. You will use it for quick weeknight dinners, small-batch grilling, and recipes that benefit from direct radiant heat. The right unit balances temperature control, rack or grill grate design, and easy cleanup so you get consistent crisping without extra work. This guide shortlists the top six air fryers with grill capability and explains the criteria we used to evaluate them, including heat consistency, cooking capacity, and maintenance. Read on to find a model that fits how you cook and the kinds of meals you prepare.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill FG551 |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Nuwave Bravo XL Pro 30QT |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | T-fal Easy Fry XXL EY705D51 |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Generic 2-in-1 Air Fryer Grill |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Ninja Foodi AG301 Indoor Grill |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven TOA-70BKS |  |
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill FG551
| Wattage | 1760 |
|---|---|
| Max Temperature Setting | 500 °F |
| Air Frying Technology | Cyclonic Air Flow |
| Capacity | 4 quarts |
| Control Method | Touch |
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill FG551 combines a high-heat indoor grill with an air-frying basket and a smart cook system to simplify family meals. It uses cyclonic grilling technology that reaches up to 500°F to deliver char marks and surround searing on the included high-density grill grate, while the 4-quart crisper basket lets you air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate. The Foodi Smart Thermometer continuously monitors internal temperature and supports four protein presets and nine doneness levels so you can set desired doneness and walk away without guesswork. XL capacity means you can cook multiple steaks or sides at once, and dishwasher-safe nonstick components make cleanup manageable. The unit is fairly powerful at 1760 watts, so it heats quickly but needs a dedicated countertop spot and a standard 110V outlet. While marketed as virtually smoke free, very fatty foods can still produce some smoke and the footprint is larger than compact air fryers. For buyers who want a grill-first air fryer that reliably hits high temperatures and removes much of the guesswork, this is a strong all-in-one choice.
Best for: Buyers who want a grill-focused air fryer that produces char-grilled results indoors and values built-in temperature control to reliably hit desired doneness for family-sized meals.
Less Ideal for: People who need a tiny, low-wattage appliance for small kitchens or those who primarily want a compact countertop air fryer for single-serve cooking.
- Smart Foodi thermometer with continuous temperature monitoring and preset doneness levels
- 500°F cyclonic grilling for fast searing and char-grill marks
- XL capacity fits multiple steaks or larger family meals
- Multiple cooking modes: grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick cooking pot and crisper basket for easier cleanup
- Large footprint compared with compact air fryers which may limit countertop space
- Can still produce smoke with very fatty foods despite smoke-control features
- Heavier and higher wattage means it needs more clearance and a stable surface
Verdict: If you want an indoor grill that also air fries and takes the guesswork out of doneness with a smart thermometer, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is a powerful all-in-one solution.
Nuwave Bravo XL Pro 30QT
| Capacity | 30 quarts |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1800 watts |
| Temperature Range | 50-500℉ |
| Control Type | Knob and Push Button |
The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro is a high-powered countertop convection oven that combines air frying, toasting, grilling, baking, roasting, dehydrating and more in a single 30-quart unit. Its 1800W ultra-fast convection system and adjustable top/bottom heaters plus selectable fan speeds are designed to deliver faster, more even results across multiple racks, while the included ceramic reversible grill/griddle adds authentic char marks and a way to drain excess fat. The unit ships with a smart digital probe that monitors internal temperature and can terminate cooking when a target is reached, which is useful for roasts and whole chickens. Controls mix knobs and push buttons with many one-touch presets and 30 memory slots for repeatable results, and accessories are dishwasher-safe and PFAS-free. Trade-offs are countertop footprint and weight for those wanting the large capacity, and the complexity of many presets and settings means a learning curve before you get reliably consistent outcomes.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize fast, restaurant-style results and want a single countertop unit that grills, air fries, and handles multi-rack cooking for family meals and entertaining.
Less Ideal for: People who need a minimal, ultra-compact toaster for occasional use or who prefer a very simple plug-and-play appliance with only basic controls.
- Powerful 1800W ultra-fast convection for quicker cooking and crispier results
- Reversible ceramic grill/griddle delivers char-grilled flavor and drains excess oil
- Smart digital probe for precise internal-temperature monitoring and auto shutoff
- Large 30-quart capacity fits two 13-inch pizzas or a whole chicken
- Extensive presets plus 30 memory slots make repeatable multi-dish cooking easy
- Large footprint and weight may not suit very small kitchens or tight counters
- Many features and settings create a steeper learning curve for casual users
Verdict: If you want a high-performance countertop oven that grills and air-fries with professional results and precise temperature control, this 30QT Bravo XL Pro is built for that job.
T-fal Easy Fry XXL EY705D51
| Wattage | 1500 watts |
|---|---|
| Control Method | Touch |
| Max Temperature Setting | 400 °F |
| Air Frying Technology | Air Pulse technology |
| Capacity | 5.8 liters |
The T-fal Easy Fry XXL is a versatile air fryer and indoor grill combo designed to handle family-size portions in a single unit. It uses Air Pulse technology and an elevated grill plate to circulate hot air, producing crispy results while directing excess fat beneath the cooking surface for easy disposal. The 8-program touch screen gives one-touch presets for fries, chicken, burgers, fish, pizza and more, and the unit reaches temperatures up to 400°F for broiling or roasting. Practical benefits include a roomy 5.9-quart capacity that fits a whole chicken or multiple patties, a cast-aluminum nonstick grill plate for seared grill marks without splatter, and a straightforward touch interface that simplifies everyday use. Expect faster, lower-fat versions of fried or grilled foods and less cleanup compared with deep frying or outdoor grilling. Important limitations are the need to hand wash components and the countertop footprint typical of a family-size air fryer, so it may not be ideal for very small kitchens or users wanting dishwasher-safe parts.
Best for: Buyers who want a single, family-capable countertop appliance that replaces separate fryer and indoor grill routines and prioritizes straightforward presets and lower-fat cooking.
Less Ideal for: People with very limited counter space or those who need fully dishwasher-safe components should consider more compact or dishwasher-friendly alternatives.
- Combined air fryer and indoor grill lets you switch between frying, grilling, baking, and roasting in one appliance
- Large 5.9-quart capacity fits whole chicken or several servings for family meals
- 8-program touch screen provides quick, one-touch presets for common foods
- Air Pulse circulation and elevated grill plate separate and collect excess fat for lower-fat cooking and easier cleanup
- Some parts require hand washing rather than dishwasher cleaning
- Countertop footprint and weight may be bulky for very small kitchens
Verdict: A roomy, programmable air fryer-grill combo that delivers family-sized, lower-fat fried and grilled foods with easy one-touch cooking.
Generic 2-in-1 Air Fryer Grill
| Capacity | 7.5 quarts |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1400 watts |
| Output Wattage | 1450 watts |
| Max Temperature Setting | 400 °F |
| Control Method | Touch |
This 2-in-1 air fryer grill combines a 7.5 quart air-fryer basket with a separate grill plate mode so you can air fry, grill, roast, bake, and reheat in one countertop appliance. It uses a 1400–1450 watt heating system and a turbo fan to circulate hot air for even browning and claims a temperature range up to 400°F, while the clear viewing window and touch controls make monitoring and operating simple. Eight one-touch presets cover common foods like fries, steak, shrimp, and cake, which helps remove guesswork for quick weeknight meals. The removable nonstick parts and dishwasher-safe components speed cleanup, and built-in overheat protection addresses safety during longer cooks. Expect a basic but capable performance for family portions, though the unit is a mainstream budget option so construction and long-term durability may not match premium brands and some specialized grill features are limited compared with standalone electric grills. For buyers wanting a single affordable appliance to handle both crisping and light grilling, it delivers good value.
Best for: Buyers looking for an affordable, space-saving appliance that can both air fry and grill family meals without needing multiple devices.
Less Ideal for: People who want a heavy-duty, restaurant-level grill or who need the highest-end construction and longevity should consider a dedicated grill or premium air-fryer instead.
- Two cooking modes (air fry and grill plate) provide flexibility for frying and searing in one unit
- Large 7.5 quart capacity fits family-size portions like a whole chicken or multiple burgers
- Eight one-touch presets simplify common recipes and reduce guesswork
- Removable nonstick parts and dishwasher-safe components make cleanup easier
- Built-in safety features include overheat protection and a cooling fan
- Build quality and long-term durability are typical of budget appliances rather than premium models
- Grill functionality is limited compared with a dedicated electric grill for high-heat searing
Verdict: An inexpensive, multipurpose air fryer grill that delivers family-sized capacity and convenient presets for everyday, budget-friendly cooking.
Ninja Foodi AG301 Indoor Grill
| Wattage | 1760 watts |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Included Components | 10 x 10 grill grate, 4-qt crisper basket, 6-qt cooking pot |
The Ninja Foodi AG301 is a powerful countertop grill that brings high-heat outdoor-style searing to indoor cooking while also functioning as an air fryer, roaster, oven, and dehydrator. It uses Cyclonic Grilling Technology and a 500F grill grate to deliver surround searing and visible char marks, and the included crisper basket lets you air-fry with much less oil. The unit is built with dishwasher-safe, ceramic-coated nonstick parts (grill grate, crisper basket, cooking pot) which makes cleanup straightforward after greasy jobs, and programmable controls simplify repeatable results. Its 1760-watt power level heats quickly and can take frozen proteins to a char-grilled finish in under 25 minutes. The trade-offs are size and weight for a countertop appliance and the need to let the hood cool after use; it is a substantial unit that requires dedicated counter or storage space. For buyers wanting dependable, outdoor-style sear and the convenience of air-fry and roast modes in one machine, the AG301 is a reliable, versatile choice.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize consistent, repeatable grilling results indoors and want a single reliable machine that also handles air frying and roasting without frequent maintenance hassles.
Less Ideal for: Those with very limited counter or storage space or buyers who need a lightweight, ultra-portable cooking device should consider smaller alternatives.
- Cyclonic Grilling Technology and 500F grill grate deliver strong sear and char marks
- Five cooking functions (grill, air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate) consolidate appliances
- Dishwasher-safe ceramic-coated nonstick parts make cleanup easy
- Can cook frozen proteins to a char-grilled finish in under 25 minutes
- Relatively large and heavy for a countertop appliance
- Requires cooling time with hood open after use
Verdict: Choose the Ninja Foodi AG301 if you want a dependable indoor grill that also air-fries and roasts while delivering real char-grilled sear on demand.
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 and a full toaster oven with a reversible grill/griddle to handle a wide range of cooking tasks from air frying wings to searing steaks. It runs at 1800 watts and uses Cuisinart's AirAdvantage fan/heater assembly for faster, crisp results while offering bake, convection bake, broil, convection broil, toast, grill, and warm modes plus a toast shade selector and a 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff. The interior is roomy enough for a 12-inch pizza, six slices of toast, or a multi-pound roast, and included accessories (air fry basket, baking pan, oven rack, and grill/griddle) make it usable straight from the box. Controls are a jog dial plus touch inputs for straightforward adjustments, and the stainless steel interior is designed for easier cleaning. Trade-offs are the countertop footprint and weight that come with the larger capacity and the absence of very long timers for slow dehydration, but for someone wanting a single appliance that crisps, grills, and bakes reliably, this unit covers those bases well.
Best for: Buyers who want a single, versatile countertop appliance that crisps, grills, and bakes for family meals and occasional entertaining and who prioritize proven features and reliable performance.
Less Ideal for: People with very limited counter space or those who only need a lightweight, ultra-compact air fryer for occasional single-serve use should consider smaller units instead.
- Eight cooking functions including dedicated air fry and grill modes for versatile meals
- 1800W power and AirAdvantage airflow for faster, crisp results
- Included reversible grill/griddle plus air fry basket and baking pan for immediate use
- Spacious 0.6 cu ft interior fits a 12" pizza or multiple slices of toast
- Touch controls with jog dial and a 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff for simple operation
- Larger countertop footprint and heavier weight compared with compact air fryers
- No very long timer settings for extended dehydration or slow-cook uses
Verdict: Choose this Cuisinart if you want a large, grill-capable air fryer toaster oven that reliably handles crispy air frying plus baking and searing in one appliance.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer with Grill: Key Factors to Consider
Heat Consistency Across the Cooking Surface
Even heat distribution matters because grill-style cooking relies on consistent radiant and convective heat to develop sear and even browning. Variations in temperature across racks or the grill plate will produce mixed results, with some pieces overcooked and others underdone.
Look for units with well-engineered fans and heating elements positioned to direct airflow over the grill grate. In practical terms, this reduces the need to rotate or shuffle pieces midcook and yields predictable timing for recipes that call for specific doneness levels.
Grill Surface Design
The shape, material, and height of the grill grate affect contact, airflow, and the ability to get grill marks. Raised, ridged grates create sear lines and allow fat to drip away, while flat plates deliver more surface contact and crisping. Porous or perforated grates let hot air reach the underside of food for more even charring.
Consider whether you need a continuous grate for bigger cuts or removable sections for easy cleaning. The grate material also matters: stainless or cast surfaces tolerate high heat better, while nonstick coatings can make cleanup easier but may not deliver the same sear over time.
Temperature Range and Control Precision
Grill-capable air fryers need a wide temperature range that includes high-heat settings for searing and lower settings for finishing or gentle cooking. Accurate digital controls and a reliable thermostat let you reproduce recipes and adjust for thickness of cuts.
Variable temperature control also enables multi-step cooking in one appliance, such as searing at high heat and then reducing temperature to finish through. Precise controls decrease guesswork and help avoid overcooking delicate proteins while still delivering a true grill effect.
Cooking Capacity and Rack Layout
Capacity determines how much you can cook in a single batch and thus how practical the appliance is for your household. Look beyond total liters or quarts and examine the usable grill area and whether the unit supports multiple rack levels without blocking airflow.
A taller cavity with adjustable racks is useful for stacking skewers or grilling different items simultaneously. Be realistic about portion sizes: a compact grilling surface may be perfect for solo cooks or couples but will require multiple batches for family meals.
Ease Of Cleaning and Maintenance
Grilling creates char and drips that can stick to grates and the interior. Removable grill plates, dishwasher-safe trays, and accessible grease channels cut the time you spend on maintenance and make you more likely to use the appliance regularly.
Materials that tolerate scrubbing and designs that prevent trapped grease are preferable. Also consider how easy it is to remove and reinstall parts so routine cleaning does not become a multi-step hassle after each meal.
Safety Features and Build Quality
High-heat grilling increases the risk of hot surfaces and splatter. A sturdy build, secure rack supports, and stable footing reduce the chance of accidents. Additional safety features to look for include cool-touch handles, automatic shutoff, and secure lid or door mechanisms to prevent unexpected opening.
Durable controls and well-fastened heating elements also prolong longevity and reduce the likelihood of failures when the unit is used frequently at high temperatures.
How Grill Mode Differs From Regular Air Frying
Grill mode emphasizes direct radiant heat and surface contact in combination with circulating hot air. While a standard air-fry cycle focuses on rapid convection to crisp surfaces, grill mode typically uses higher temperatures and a grate layout that exposes more of the food to direct heat for searing.
Understanding this difference helps set expectations for texture and cook times. Items that benefit from a quick, high-heat sear will do better in grill mode, while delicate breaded items may still be best cooked using a lower-temperature air-fry setting.
- Grill mode often produces char or sear marks not usually achieved in standard air-fry cycles
- Air circulation remains important to finish cooking evenly after searing
- Some recipes combine grill then air-fry steps for best texture and doneness
Best Foods to Cook on an Air Fryer with Grill
Proteins that benefit from a quick sear, such as steaks, pork chops, and firm fish fillets, are natural fits. Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus also develop concentrated flavor and appealing char when grilled at high heat.
Smaller skewers and kebabs are convenient because the grill grate supports direct contact and easy rotation. You can also use grill mode for finishing items that need a surface crisp after gentle cooking, such as brushing a sauce on chicken and then giving it a quick sear to caramelize.
- Steaks and chops for seared outside and tender inside
- Vegetable medleys and skewers for concentrated char
- Sandwiches or panini style items that need direct contact for crisping
Tips for Getting Good Grill Marks and Sear
Pat proteins dry and allow them to come closer to room temperature before grilling. Surface moisture inhibits searing and can cause steaming rather than browning. Lightly oiling food or the grate improves contact and reduces sticking.
Preheat the unit thoroughly so the grate reaches target temperature before adding food. Place items with space between them to allow airflow and avoid overcrowding, which reduces the effectiveness of the grill mode.
- Dry surfaces and light oiling encourage Maillard reaction
- Preheat for consistent searing
- Avoid overcrowding to maintain heat and airflow
Managing Smoke and Odors
High-heat grilling can produce smoke when fats hit hot surfaces. Use leaner cuts or trim excess fat to reduce smoke, and position a drip tray under the grill grate to capture runoff. Ensuring the appliance has adequate ventilation in your kitchen will also minimize lingering odors.
Cleaning char and grease promptly after use prevents buildup that contributes to heavier smoke later. Some units include smoke reduction modes or filters; know how your chosen model handles grease disposal and smoke control.
- Trim excess fat and use a drip tray to reduce smoke
- Ventilate the kitchen during high-heat sessions
- Clean grill surfaces after each use to prevent buildup
Using Rack Levels and Accessories Effectively
Adjustable racks and included accessories extend the versatility of an air fryer with grill. Use higher racks for closer contact with the heating element to maximize sear, and lower racks when you need gentler finishing heat. Accessories like grill plates or skewers change cooking dynamics and should be chosen for material and fit.
Be mindful that adding accessories can alter airflow and cooking times. Test and note timing adjustments when switching between a plain grate and specialty inserts so you get consistent results.
- Higher rack for direct sear, lower for finishing and gentler heat
- Accessories can improve function but may require time adjustments
- Store accessories clean and dry to extend material life
How We Chose the Best Air Fryer with Grill
We focused on practical, measurable criteria that affect how well an air fryer with grill performs for everyday cooking. Important evaluation dimensions included heat consistency across the cooking area, which determines even browning and reliable grill marks; grill grate design and airflow, which influence searing and smoke development; temperature range and control accuracy, so you can use both low-temperature finishing and high-heat searing; and usable cooking capacity and rack layout, which affect how many portions you can cook at once. We also prioritized ease of cleaning, including removable grates and dishwasher-safe components, because a grillable air fryer that is hard to maintain will see less use. Safety features and build quality were reviewed to ensure stable operation under high temperatures. Units were excluded if they lacked any real grill surface or if airflow design prevented direct radiant heat from reaching food. Overall, the list reflects units that strike a balance among grill performance, consistent heating, practical capacity, and upkeep burden.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Do I need to preheat an air fryer with grill mode?
Yes. Preheating brings the grill surface up to searing temperature and helps produce consistent grill marks. A short preheat of 5 to 10 minutes is usually sufficient, depending on the unit and target temperature.
Can I use the grill grate for breaded or delicate items?
You can, but take care. Breaded or fragile items may stick or crumble on an open grate. Consider using a perforated tray or lower-temperature air-fry setting for those items to protect coatings while still achieving crispness.
How do I reduce smoke when grilling fatty cuts?
Trim excess fat and use a drip tray to catch runoff. Shorter searing times at higher heat and prompt cleaning of grease channels after cooking also reduce smoke on subsequent uses.
Will grill mode change my cooking times compared with regular air frying?
Often it will. Grill mode typically uses higher temperatures and more direct heat, so surface browning happens faster. You may need to shorten searing steps and then lower temperature to finish cooking through without overbrowning.
Are grill grates dishwasher safe?
It depends on the material and manufacturer guidance. Many removable grates and trays are dishwasher-safe, but some coated surfaces recommend hand washing to preserve nonstick finishes. Check care instructions for the specific unit you own.
Final Verdict
When choosing an air fryer with grill, prioritize the combination of even heat distribution, a grate design that produces sear without excessive sticking, and a usable cooking area that matches the household size. Balance high-heat capability with straightforward cleaning features so the appliance stays practical for regular grilling and quick weeknight meals. Focus on how you plan to cook most often—large portions and family dinners favor larger grill areas and multi-rack layouts, while solo cooks may prefer compact units with easy cleanup. Use the evaluation criteria above to narrow choices and select a model that matches your cooking habits and cleanup tolerance.