What Is The Best Instant Pot Air Fryer Combo: Buying Guide

Instant Pot Pro Crisp 8-quart is the top all-in-one pick for most homes.

You want fast dinners that taste like they took hours. You want crispy wings and juicy roasts without heating the whole kitchen. You want fewer appliances on the counter, not more. That’s where Instant Pot air fryer combos shine. They pressure cook for speed, then air fry for crunch—all in one. In this guide, I’ll help you decide what is the best instant pot air fryer combo for your space, budget, and cooking style. I’ve cooked with these models, compared features, tested real recipes, and cut through the specs so you can buy with confidence.

Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1, 6-Quart

The 6-quart Duo Crisp 11-in-1 is the budget-friendly gateway into one-pot pressure cooking and air frying. It uses two lids: a standard pressure lid and a separate air fry lid. That keeps costs down and gives you the core Instant Pot experience with crisping power when you need it. For small families or tight kitchens, the 6-quart size is the sweet spot.

It comes with an app that features 800+ guided recipes, which is helpful for beginners. The stainless-steel inner pot handles sautéing well and holds heat. I like the simple control panel and clear programs. If you’re asking what is the best instant pot air fryer combo for first-timers, this model is a strong start.

Pros:

• Two lids give you pressure cook and air fry flexibility
• 6-quart size fits most kitchens and small families
• Stainless-steel inner pot is sturdy and easy to clean
• App support with 800+ recipes reduces guesswork
• Great value for an 11-in-1 multicooker

Cons:

• Two-lid storage can be annoying in small spaces
• Air fry capacity is limited for large batches
• No premium accessories in the box

My Recommendation

This is ideal for beginners, small households, and anyone testing an air fry/pressure combo for the first time. It handles weeknight meals well and keeps you on budget. If you’re focused on what is the best instant pot air fryer combo for simple, everyday cooking, this checks the key boxes without extras you may not use.

Best for	Why
First-time buyers	Simple controls and trusted 6-quart size
Small kitchens	Compact footprint with dual-lid flexibility
Budget shoppers	Lower price for full 11-in-1 functions

Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1, 8-Quart

The Pro Crisp is the powerhouse. The 8-quart size gives you room for family meals, meal prep, and big cuts of meat. The upgraded heating element and even air circulation help deliver better browning and faster crisping. The inner pot is the premium, stovetop-safe, tri-ply stainless pot that users love for sauté and sear.

The interface is more refined with delay start, keep warm, and easier toggles. Build quality feels a step up from base models. If you regularly cook for four or more, this is worth it. When people ask me what is the best instant pot air fryer combo for long-term use and performance, I point to the Pro Crisp.

Pros:

• 8-quart capacity for family-size meals and meal prep
• Tri-ply stainless inner pot is stovetop-safe and durable
• Excellent crisping with more even airflow
• More robust build and controls than entry models
• Great for roasts, whole chickens, and batch cooking

Cons:

• Larger footprint takes more counter and storage space
• Higher price than Duo Crisp models
• Two lids to store, like the Duo series

My Recommendation

This is the best pick for families, frequent cooks, and anyone who wants top-tier results. The extra space and stronger hardware pay off in speed and texture. If your goal is what is the best instant pot air fryer combo for daily use and entertaining, the Pro Crisp 8-quart stands out as the most versatile and reliable choice.

Best for	Why
Families of 4–6	8-quart capacity fits big proteins and sides
Meal preppers	Batch cooking with better browning and speed
Power users	Premium pot, stronger heating, durable build

Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1, 8-Quart

The 8-quart Duo Crisp gives you the larger size without the Pro price tag. It has the same two-lid system and the same core cooking modes. If you need room for a whole chicken, racks of ribs, or layered casseroles, this size is more forgiving. It hits a nice middle ground between value and volume.

I like it for bulk cooking and entertaining. The stainless pot holds up well to daily sautéing. Air fry results are solid, especially with preheat and shake reminders. If you’re deciding what is the best instant pot air fryer combo under a premium budget, the 8-quart Duo Crisp is a smart pick.

Pros:

• 8-quart size for families and entertaining
• Lower price than Pro Crisp with similar core functions
• Stainless inner pot is easy to clean and sear
• Good air fry performance for wings, fries, and veggies
• Versatile 11-in-1 modes cover most cooking needs

Cons:

• Two lids require storage space
• Not as refined or fast as the Pro Crisp
• Bulkier for small counters

My Recommendation

Choose this if you want 8-quart capacity without paying for the Pro-level upgrades. It’s great for bigger meals, game days, and freezer prep. For many, this answers what is the best instant pot air fryer combo when size matters more than premium finishes.

Best for	Why
Budget-conscious families	8-quart capacity at a lower cost
Entertaining	Handles large cuts and party snacks
New bulk cooks	Easy to learn, easy to scale recipes

Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid, 6.5-Quart

The Ultimate Lid solves the two-lid problem with one lid that does it all. Pressure cook, air fry, sauté, steam, bake, roast, dehydrate, sous vide, and more—no swapping. The 6.5-quart size is a sweet middle, giving you more room than 6-quart but without 8-quart bulk. It looks sleek on the counter and reduces clutter.

In my tests, this lid design is convenient, especially for those who cook daily. It heats fast and holds a steady temperature. You also get proof and sous vide modes for extra creativity. If you wonder what is the best instant pot air fryer combo for tight spaces, the Ultimate Lid belongs on your shortlist.

Pros:

• Single “Ultimate” lid simplifies storage and workflow
• 6.5-quart size balances space and capacity
• 13-in-1 functions with proof and sous vide add range
• Fast preheat and strong air fry performance
• Cleaner countertop aesthetic

Cons:

• Higher price than standard Duo models
• Single lid is heavier than a basic pressure lid
• Learning curve for new integrated controls

My Recommendation

Pick this if you hate storing a second lid and want a tidy setup. It’s perfect for apartment kitchens and daily cooks who value speed and simplicity. For many, this is what is the best instant pot air fryer combo when convenience and compact design matter most.

Best for	Why
Small spaces	One lid does everything, easier storage
Daily cooks	Faster workflow, no lid swapping
Creative bakers	Proof, bake, and sous vide in one appliance

Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer, 6-Quart

The Vortex Plus is a dedicated air fryer from the makers of Instant Pot. It does not pressure cook. If you already have a pressure cooker and only need crisping, this 6-quart Vortex Plus is a fast, even performer. It roasts, reheats, bakes, broils, and dehydrates with simple controls.

I like the basket space and the way it circulates air. Cleanup is easy, and the results are consistent. While it doesn’t answer what is the best instant pot air fryer combo, it’s excellent for crisp-only cooking at a fair price.

Pros:

• Fast preheating and even airflow
• 6-quart size fits family portions
• Simple interface with useful programs
• Reliable browning for fries, wings, and veggies
• Good value from a trusted brand

Cons:

• No pressure cooking functions
• Takes counter space alongside a pressure cooker
• Basket capacity still limited for very large batches

My Recommendation

Great for households that already own a pressure cooker but want better crisping. It’s a strong standalone fryer that pairs well with an Instant Pot. If your main search is what is the best instant pot air fryer combo, look at the Duo or Pro lines; if you only need air fry, choose this Vortex Plus.

Best for	Why
Crisp lovers	Strong air circulation and browning
Owners with Instant Pots	Complements pressure cookers without overlap
Quick snacks	Fast preheat and straightforward controls

Instant Vortex Mini Air Fryer, 4-Quart

The 4-quart Vortex Mini is compact but capable. It’s a dedicated air fryer with custom program options and the core modes: air fry, broil, roast, dehydrate, bake, and reheat. It’s a strong fit for singles, dorms, or RVs where space is tight. You can still do a pound of fries or a couple of chicken breasts with ease.

It preheats fast and cleans fast. I like it as a second air fryer for sides while the main dish cooks elsewhere. It’s not what is the best instant pot air fryer combo, but as a small, crisp-only unit, it’s a keeper.

Pros:

• Small footprint for tiny kitchens
• Simple presets and quick preheat
• Good for one to two servings
• Easy cleanup and light basket
• Budget friendly

Cons:

• No pressure cooking
• Too small for big families
• Limited batch size for parties

My Recommendation

Choose this for small households or as a secondary fryer. It’s perfect for snacks, sides, or quick lunches. If your question is what is the best instant pot air fryer combo, pair this Mini with a separate Instant Pot—or choose a Duo/Pro combo instead.

Best for	Why
Singles and couples	4-quart size matches small portions
RV and dorms	Compact and light
Side dishes	Great second fryer for busy dinners

Instant Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 6-Slice

This countertop oven brings air fry, bake, roast, toast, bagel, broil, dehydrate, reheat, pizza, and sear-crisp to one box. It’s larger inside than a basket fryer and can cook toast, 6-slice batches, and small pizzas. The InstantHeat tech helps reduce or skip preheat in many cases. If you want an all-rounder for crisp and bake, this is it.

It does not pressure cook, but it can replace a toaster, small oven, and air fryer. Trays clean well, and the controls are intuitive. If you’re not fixed on what is the best instant pot air fryer combo and you prefer an oven-style layout, this is a smart pick for multi-tasking.

Pros:

• 10-in-1 functions in an oven-style form
• Room for toast, pizzas, and sheet-pan meals
• InstantHeat helps cut preheat time
• More even browning than many toaster ovens
• Replaces multiple small appliances

Cons:

• No pressure cook features
• Needs more counter space than a basket fryer
• Trays take more effort to store

My Recommendation

Pick this if you want a do-it-all countertop oven with strong air fry skills. It’s great for families who toast, bake, and crisp daily. If your top question is what is the best instant pot air fryer combo with pressure cooking, look at the Duo, Pro, or Ultimate Lid instead.

Best for	Why
Multi-use kitchens	Replaces toaster, air fryer, and small oven
Sheet-pan meals	Wider interior fits larger food
Busy mornings	Toast and bagel modes are fast

Instant Vortex Air Fryer, 6-Quart

The standard Vortex 6-quart offers four core functions: air fry, roast, bake, and reheat. It’s a simple, reliable basket fryer with a good price tag. If you want quick weeknight crisping without extra programs, this fits. It’s roomy enough for a pound of fries or a batch of wings.

Controls are straightforward and the basket cleans easily. Heat is even, especially with a shake mid-cook. If your main goal is what is the best instant pot air fryer combo, this is not it, but it pairs well with a separate Instant Pot.

Pros:

• Simple four-mode interface
• 6-quart basket for family portions
• Good value and consistent results
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Reliable brand support

Cons:

• No pressure cooking, no dehydrate in this model
• Basket still limits flat, single-layer capacity
• No window to view food

My Recommendation

Opt for this if you want a dependable air fryer that keeps things basic. It’s a great match with an existing Instant Pot pressure cooker. When I’m asked what is the best instant pot air fryer combo, I remind people this Vortex is the crisp side of the combo—but it needs a separate pressure cooker to complete the pair.

Best for	Why
Budget families	6-quart space at a good price
Air fry basics	Four modes cover everyday needs
Pairing with Instant Pot	Makes a full “combo” with a separate cooker

Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook, 6-Quart

The ClearCook window is the hero here. You can watch your food crisp without pulling the basket out. It keeps heat in and reduces overcooking. The Vortex Plus ClearCook adds dehydrate and broil to the usual air fry, roast, bake, and reheat.

It’s a great visibility upgrade for those who like precision. Browning is even, and the sound prompts help. While it is not what is the best instant pot air fryer combo alone, pair it with a pressure cooker and you have a complete two-appliance solution.

Pros:

• ClearCook window to monitor progress
• Even browning and consistent crisp
• Useful dehydrate and broil modes
• Good size for families
• Visual control reduces guesswork

Cons:

• No pressure cook function
• Window needs careful cleaning to keep clear
• Takes counter space alongside other appliances

My Recommendation

Choose this for visibility and control. If you like to see food while it cooks, this is your air fryer. For shoppers asking what is the best instant pot air fryer combo and who already own an Instant Pot, the ClearCook becomes the perfect crisp partner.

Best for	Why
Precision cooks	Window shows doneness in real time
Families	6-quart size hits the sweet spot
Jerky makers	Dehydrate mode is reliable

Air Fryer Magnetic Cooking Guides

This set of magnetic cooking charts sticks to your fridge or the side of a steel appliance. It lists common foods with time and temperature ranges for air frying and pressure cooking. It’s handy when you don’t want to pull out a phone or search an app mid-cook. I like it as a quick baseline to fine-tune from.

The print is clear and easy to read from across the kitchen. It’s also a nice gift for new Instant Pot owners. If you’re still learning what is the best instant pot air fryer combo technique for your recipes, these guides help you dial in faster.

Pros:

• Quick reference for temps and times
• Magnetic backing for easy access
• Covers both air fry and pressure functions
• Good for beginners and busy cooks
• Affordable add-on to any purchase

Cons:

• General ranges; you still need to adjust for your model
• Magnets won’t stick to some stainless finishes

My Recommendation

Get this if you’re new to air frying or pressure cooking. It shortens the learning curve and reduces guesswork. For anyone exploring what is the best instant pot air fryer combo recipes for their family, these charts are the training wheels that help you ride faster.

Best for	Why
Beginners	Clear, at-a-glance time and temp charts
Busy parents	No phone or app needed mid-cook
Gift buyers	Useful, inexpensive, and universal

FAQs Of what is the best instant pot air fryer combo

Do I need an 8-quart or is 6-quart enough?

For one to three people, 6-quart works well. For four or more, 8-quart gives room for bigger cuts and batch cooking.

Are two-lid models hard to store?

They take more space. If storage is tight, the Ultimate Lid model solves this with one integrated lid.

Is the Pro Crisp worth the extra cost?

Yes if you cook often. It has better build quality, a premium inner pot, and more even crisping.

Can I replace a toaster oven with a Vortex?

Mostly, yes. The Vortex air fries and bakes well. The toaster oven model is better for toast and sheet-pan meals.

What should I choose for the crispiest wings?

The Pro Crisp and Vortex Plus models brown very well. Preheat, don’t crowd, and shake mid-cook.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

If you want one device to do almost everything, choose the Instant Pot Pro Crisp 8-quart. It’s fast, roomy, and delivers top-tier results. For small spaces, the Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid 6.5-quart is a smart alternative.

For tight budgets, the Duo Crisp 6-quart wins value. When you ask what is the best instant pot air fryer combo, match size and storage needs first, then pick the features you’ll use every week.