Air fryers have skyrocketed in popularity, promising the ultimate crispy indulgence—without the guilt. But with so many brands crowding the market, choosing the right one feels like trying to pick the best fry from a fresh batch. Tefal and Cosori are two of the biggest names in this game, and if you’ve been eyeing them, you’re not alone.
We’ve spent hours digging through real customer feedback, expert reviews, and hands-on testing experiences to break down how these air fryers truly perform in the kitchen. Which one gives you the best crunch? Which is easier to use? And most importantly, which one deserves a spot on your countertop?
Let’s dive in.
Tefal vs Cosori Air Fryer:
Design & Build Quality: Sleek vs. Functional
At first glance, the Cosori air fryer is a stunner. It’s got that modern, minimalist aesthetic—sleek, matte black, and designed to sit beautifully on your counter. The touchscreen is intuitive, and the compact footprint makes it a great fit for smaller kitchens.
Meanwhile, Tefal takes a different approach. It’s bigger, bolder, and built for convenience. Some models (like the Tefal Actifry Genius+) even come with a transparent lid, so you can watch your food cook—a feature Cosori lacks. Another game-changer? Tefal’s signature automatic stirring paddle. While Cosori requires you to shake the basket manually, Tefal stirs the food for you. Lazy chefs, rejoice.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Cosori: Stylish, compact, modern touchscreen
✔ Tefal: Bulkier but has hands-free stirring & a see-through lid
Performance & Cooking Results: Which One Nails the Perfect Crisp?
Now, let’s talk about the real deal: how well do these air fryers actually cook?
We found that Cosori air fryers excel at making food crispy, fast. They heat up quickly and circulate hot air evenly, thanks to their high-powered fans. Fries? Golden perfection. Chicken wings? Crispy outside, juicy inside.
Tefal, on the other hand, prioritizes even cooking. Thanks to its stirring paddle, food is constantly rotated, eliminating the need for manual shaking. But there’s a catch—because of this motion, certain delicate foods (like battered items) may not cook as well. If you love crunchy textures, Cosori might have the edge.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Cosori: Crispier results, ideal for fries, wings, and crunchy snacks
✔ Tefal: Even cooking with no shaking, but slightly less crispy outcomes
Ease of Use & Controls: Which One is More User-Friendly?
A great air fryer shouldn’t just cook well—it should also be easy to operate. After all, no one wants to spend extra time figuring out which button does what.
Cosori: Touchscreen Simplicity with Presets
Cosori air fryers lean into modern convenience. Most models feature a sleek digital touchscreen with clearly labeled cooking presets. Whether you’re making fries, steak, shrimp, or even desserts, a single tap gets the job done.
The controls are intuitive, even for beginners. The preset temperature and time settings take the guesswork out of cooking, and the shake reminder (on certain models) ensures you don’t forget to toss your food for even crispiness.
✔ Pros:
- Simple, modern touchscreen interface
- 11+ cooking presets make meal prep effortless
- Shake reminder ensures crispier results
✖ Cons:
- Requires manual shaking for even cooking
- No automatic stirring mechanism like Tefal
Tefal: Hands-Free Cooking with Physical Buttons
Tefal air fryers feel more old-school in terms of controls. Instead of a full touchscreen, you get physical buttons and a dial (depending on the model). While some users appreciate the tactile feedback, others might find it a bit less intuitive compared to Cosori’s interface.
The real highlight, though, is Tefal’s automatic stirring paddle. Unlike Cosori, which requires you to shake the basket manually, Tefal stirs the food for you. This is a game-changer for people who want hands-free convenience—no stopping, no shaking, just let it cook.
✔ Pros:
- Automatic stirring paddle = no need to shake food manually
- Set-it-and-forget-it style cooking
- Physical buttons & dial (some prefer this over touchscreens)
✖ Cons:
- Bulkier design means it takes up more counter space
- No shake reminder (but less necessary due to auto-stirring)
Key Takeaway:
- If you prefer modern, touchscreen controls, go for Cosori.
- If you want fully hands-free cooking, Tefal’s auto-stirring is a game-changer.
Cleaning & Maintenance: Which One is Less of a Hassle?
No one enjoys scrubbing an air fryer after a meal. So, which one is easier to clean?
Cosori: Quick, Basket-Style Cleanup
Cosori air fryers have removable, non-stick baskets that are dishwasher safe. Just pop them out, give them a rinse (or toss them in the dishwasher), and you’re done.
✔ Pros:
- Dishwasher-safe baskets = minimal cleanup
- Non-stick coating makes wiping down easy
✖ Cons:
- Food residue can get stuck in the basket holes
- Basket design may require extra scrubbing for greasy foods
Tefal: Stirring Paddle = More Parts to Clean
Tefal’s automatic stirring mechanism is great for cooking, but it adds an extra piece to wash. The good news? Most Tefal air fryer parts are also dishwasher safe. The cooking bowl, paddle, and lid can be removed for easy cleaning.
✔ Pros:
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Less oil buildup since food is constantly moving
✖ Cons:
- More parts to clean (paddle, bowl, and lid)
- Paddle can sometimes be tricky to remove
Key Takeaway:
- Cosori is easier to clean due to its simple basket design.
- Tefal has more removable parts, but they are dishwasher safe.
Features & Technology: What Extras Do You Get?
Beyond just frying food, both brands pack in extra features that enhance usability.
Cosori: More Presets & Cooking Flexibility
Cosori air fryers are feature-packed. Many models offer:
✅ 11+ Cooking Presets (for fries, chicken, steak, seafood, vegetables, etc.)
✅ Shake Reminder (so you don’t forget to toss food)
✅ Preheat Function (ensures even cooking from the start)
✅ Keep Warm Mode (keeps food warm without overcooking)
Some premium models even include smart Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the air fryer from your phone via an app. Pretty cool.
Tefal: Stirring & Multi-Cooking Functionality
Tefal focuses on automating the cooking process. Its key features include:
✅ Automatic Stirring Paddle (no manual shaking required)
✅ Dual Cooking Zones (some models can cook two different foods at once)
✅ Transparent Lid (watch your food cook in real-time)
Key Takeaway:
- Cosori offers more presets & smart features.
- Tefal prioritizes automation & hands-free cooking.
Cooking Capacity: Which One Feeds More People?
If you’re cooking for a big family, capacity matters.
✔ Cosori air fryers range from 2.5 to 5.8 quarts, making them great for small to medium-sized families. The larger models can cook a whole chicken or enough fries for 4-5 people in one go.
✔ Tefal air fryers generally offer bigger cooking capacity, with models like the Tefal Actifry Genius XL handling up to 3.3 pounds of food at once. The dual-zone cooking feature (in some models) lets you cook two foods separately at different temperatures—a huge plus for multitasking.
Key Takeaway:
- For a smaller kitchen & household, Cosori is great.
- For larger meals or multi-tasking, Tefal’s bigger capacity & dual-zone feature win.
Price & Value: Which One is Worth Your Money?
Price is often the make-or-break factor.
✔ Cosori air fryers are generally more affordable. Prices range from $80 to $150, making them a budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance.
✔ Tefal air fryers are more expensive, often costing $150 to $300 due to their premium automation features.
Which one gives you better value?
- If you’re on a budget, Cosori wins.
- If you want automatic stirring & larger capacity, Tefal justifies its higher price.
Cooking Speed: Which One is Faster?
Speed matters. Whether you’re rushing to get dinner on the table or just too hungry to wait, an air fryer that cooks faster is a big plus.
✔ Cosori Air Fryers:
- Cosori models heat up quickly and cook food fast due to their high-powered heating element and rapid air circulation.
- Preheating takes 2-5 minutes (depending on the model). Some premium models have a preheat function, which helps reduce overall cooking time by getting the fryer hot before you even start.
- Fries take 12-15 minutes, chicken wings 18-22 minutes, and a whole chicken 35-40 minutes.
✔ Tefal Air Fryers:
- Tefal’s stirring paddle means food gets moved around constantly, eliminating cold spots. However, this can sometimes slow down cooking because the motion prevents food from crisping as quickly.
- No preheat required, but initial heating is slower than Cosori.
- Fries take 20-25 minutes, chicken wings 25-30 minutes, and a whole chicken 45-50 minutes.
Key Takeaway:
- Cosori is faster, making it the better choice if speed is a priority.
- Tefal’s stirring helps with even cooking but adds extra time.
Noise Level: Which One is Quieter?
Some air fryers sound like a jet engine taking off. If you prefer a quieter kitchen, this is an important factor.
✔ Cosori Air Fryers:
- Generally quieter, with a noise level of 50-60 dB (similar to a normal conversation).
- The fan noise is noticeable but not overwhelming.
✔ Tefal Air Fryers:
- Louder, averaging 65-70 dB due to the stirring paddle mechanism.
- The paddle movement and fan combined make this fryer noisier than Cosori.
Key Takeaway:
- Cosori is quieter and better suited for noise-sensitive households.
- Tefal’s stirring paddle adds extra sound but isn’t unbearable.
Cooking Versatility: What Can You Cook?
✔ Cosori:
- Excels at fried and crispy foods (fries, nuggets, wings, fish, onion rings, etc.).
- Bakes well (cakes, muffins, cookies).
- Handles steak and chicken breast perfectly.
- Dehydration function (on some models) for making fruit chips or jerky.
✔ Tefal:
- Great for one-pot meals (stir-fries, stews, curries).
- Perfect for rice-based dishes due to continuous stirring.
- Can cook larger items (whole fish, roasts).
- Less ideal for battered foods (the paddle can break delicate coatings).
Key Takeaway:
- If you love crispy, fried-style food, Cosori is better.
- If you prefer stews, stir-fries, or mixed dishes, Tefal is better.
Smart Features: Does Technology Make a Difference?
If you love tech-savvy appliances, this might be a deal-breaker.
✔ Cosori (Some Models Have Smart Features):
- Wi-Fi-enabled models let you control the fryer from your phone (via the VeSync app).
- Alexa & Google Assistant compatibility lets you start cooking with voice commands.
- App includes recipe suggestions and cooking tips.
✔ Tefal:
- No smart connectivity.
- Manual operation only (though some high-end models have more automatic presets).
Key Takeaway:
- Cosori wins for smart features & app connectivity.
- Tefal keeps it old-school with manual controls.
Safety Features: Which One Is Safer?
✔ Cosori:
- Auto shut-off prevents overheating.
- Cool-touch handle to avoid burns.
- Non-slip feet for stability.
✔ Tefal:
- Lid lock system prevents accidental opening during cooking.
- Cool-touch exterior (safer if kids are around).
- Auto shut-off if the paddle gets jammed.
Key Takeaway:
- Both have solid safety features, but Tefal’s lid lock makes it slightly safer for homes with children.
Durability & Build Quality: Which One Lasts Longer?
✔ Cosori:
- Sturdy basket design.
- Non-stick coating lasts 1-2 years with regular use.
- Touchscreen durability depends on model—some users report issues after 1-2 years.
✔ Tefal:
- Heavier, more solid construction.
- Stirring paddle can wear down over time (may need replacement).
- Longer lifespan (some users report 5+ years of use).
Key Takeaway:
- Tefal has a sturdier build & lasts longer.
- Cosori is well-built but touchscreen wear can be an issue.
Energy Efficiency: Which One Saves More Power?
✔ Cosori:
- 1200W – 1700W power consumption.
- Cooks faster, so uses less electricity over time.
✔ Tefal:
- 1400W – 1550W power consumption.
- Takes longer to cook, using slightly more energy.
Key Takeaway:
- Cosori is more energy-efficient due to shorter cooking times.
Customer Reviews & Common Complaints
Cosori Reviews:
⭐ Most praised for crispy results & modern design.
⚠ Common complaint: Touchscreen can stop working over time.
⚠ Basket coating wears out after ~2 years.
Tefal Reviews:
⭐ Most praised for hands-free cooking & durability.
⚠ Common complaint: Takes longer to cook food.
⚠ Stirring paddle can break down after heavy use.
Key Takeaway:
- Cosori is loved for crispiness & ease of use but has some longevity concerns.
- Tefal lasts longer but isn’t as fast or crisp-focused.
Final Ultimate Comparison Table: Side-by-Side Breakdown
| Feature | Cosori | Tefal |
|---|---|---|
| Crispiness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Good) |
| Even Cooking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Requires shaking) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Stirring paddle) |
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Touchscreen, presets) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Physical buttons, auto-stir) |
| Cooking Speed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Faster) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Slower due to stirring) |
| Cleaning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Dishwasher-safe basket) | ⭐⭐⭐ (More parts to clean) |
| Noise Level | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Quieter) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Louder due to paddle) |
| Smart Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Wi-Fi, app, Alexa) | ⭐⭐ (None) |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐ (Basket coating wears out) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Longer lifespan) |
| Price | 💰💰 (More affordable) | 💰💰💰 (More expensive) |
Hidden Features & Lesser-Known Tricks
Even though Cosori and Tefal air fryers advertise their core functions, there are some hidden gems that users only discover after using them for a while.
Cosori’s Underrated Features & Tricks
✔ Dual Layer Cooking (With an Extra Rack):
- Some Cosori models allow you to stack food using an extra rack accessory. This means you can air fry chicken on one level and veggies on the other—doubling the cooking capacity.
✔ Shake Reminder Customization:
- The built-in shake reminder isn’t just a random alarm. If you hold down the shake button, you can adjust the interval (great if you’re cooking something extra delicate or extra thick).
✔ Silicone Liners = Zero Cleanup:
- While the non-stick basket is easy to clean, some users found that using silicone air fryer liners helps avoid any grease buildup completely.
✔ Low-Temperature Cooking for Drying Fruits & Jerky:
- Some models have a dehydrate function (e.g., the Cosori Pro II), which allows you to dry fruits, make beef jerky, or crisp up leftover pizza at a lower temperature.
✔ Reheat Mode (Better Than a Microwave):
- Unlike a microwave, which can make fried foods soggy, Cosori’s reheat mode restores crispiness without overcooking.
Tefal’s Underrated Features & Tricks
✔ No Preheating Needed (Saves Time):
- Unlike Cosori, Tefal air fryers do not require preheating. You can toss in your ingredients immediately without waiting for the fryer to warm up.
✔ Hands-Free Cooking for Batch Cooking:
- If you’re making large batches of food, Tefal’s stirring mechanism eliminates the need for shaking or flipping. Just set it and forget it.
✔ Oil-Free Stir-Fries & Curries:
- Tefal’s paddle continuously moves food around, making it perfect for oil-free stir-fries, curries, and rice dishes.
- Some users even use it to cook scrambled eggs and fried rice.
✔ Multi-Zone Cooking = Cook Two Different Dishes at Once:
- Some Tefal models (like the ActiFry Genius XL) allow you to cook two separate dishes at once, thanks to a dual-zone cooking tray.
✔ Transparent Lid = No Guesswork:
- Tefal’s clear viewing window lets you see your food cook in real time, unlike Cosori’s closed basket design.
✔ Tefal Can Be Used for Wet Batter (If You Remove the Paddle!):
- Normally, battered foods don’t work well in an air fryer because the high-speed air circulation blows off the coating. However, if you remove Tefal’s stirring paddle, it allows more delicate foods like battered fish or tempura to cook better.
Accessories & Compatibility
Both air fryers support extra accessories, but some work better than others.
Best Accessories for Cosori:
✅ Dual-layer rack: Doubles cooking capacity
✅ Silicone air fryer liners: Makes cleanup effortless
✅ Grill pan insert: Great for searing steaks
✅ Pizza pan accessory: Helps cook crispy homemade pizzas
Best Accessories for Tefal:
✅ Extra stirring paddles: Some users get a second one in case of wear and tear
✅ Baking tray insert: Lets you bake cakes, brownies, and bread
✅ Snacking grid: Perfect for delicate foods like fish fillets
Which One Works Better for Special Diets?
If you’re following a specific diet, you might prefer one air fryer over the other.
✔ For Keto & Low-Carb Diets → Cosori Wins
- Since Cosori air fryers crisp food better, they work great for low-carb fried chicken, cheese crisps, pork rinds, and keto-friendly “breaded” items (using almond flour).
✔ For Oil-Free Diets → Tefal Wins
- Tefal’s stirring mechanism allows you to cook with almost zero oil, making it better for oil-free cooking & low-fat diets.
✔ For Meal Prep & Batch Cooking → Tefal Wins
- If you cook in large quantities and want a hands-free experience, Tefal’s bigger capacity and stirring paddle make it the better choice.
✔ For Fast, Single-Serving Meals → Cosori Wins
- If you just need quick, small meals (like one portion of fries or wings), Cosori cooks faster and doesn’t require stirring.
Real-World Use Cases: Who Will Love Each Air Fryer?
Still can’t decide? Let’s break it down by lifestyle.
Who Should Buy Cosori?
✔ Busy Professionals → Need quick, crispy food? Cosori is faster.
✔ Crispy Food Lovers → Better for fries, wings, and crunchy foods.
✔ Tech Enthusiasts → Smart app & Alexa integration.
✔ People with Small Kitchens → Takes up less space.
Who Should Buy Tefal?
✔ Families & Meal Preppers → Can cook large batches hands-free.
✔ Health-Conscious Cooks → Uses less oil and makes great stir-fries.
✔ People Who Hate Manual Cooking → No need to shake or flip food.
✔ Multi-Dish Cooks → Can cook two dishes at once in some models.
Cosori vs Tefal Air Fryer: Which One Wins?
At the end of the day, both air fryers are excellent—but for different people.
Cosori Wins If You Want:
✅ Better crispiness (best for fries, wings, and crunchy foods)
✅ Faster cooking times
✅ Smart features (Wi-Fi, app, Alexa support)
✅ A more affordable option
Tefal Wins If You Want:
✅ Hands-free cooking (automatic stirring means no shaking required)
✅ Larger capacity for big meals & families
✅ More versatility (stir-fries, curries, rice dishes)
✅ More durability & long-term reliability
Final Choice?
➡ For most people, Cosori is the better everyday air fryer.
➡ If you love automation & bigger meals, Tefal is worth the extra cost.
That’s every last detail you need to know. Want insights on something even more specific? Let me know!
Final Recommendation:
✔ Get Cosori if:
- You want faster, crispier food.
- You like modern touchscreen & smart features.
- You prefer easier cleanup.
✔ Get Tefal if:
- You want hands-free cooking.
- You cook stir-fry or mixed dishes often.
- You want a more durable machine.