While air fryers may be a more modern introduction to kitchen appliances, that doesn’t mean they can’t look vintage. We’re taking a look at the best retro air fryers out there, so you can pair the techniques of today with the looks of the past.
Whether you’re going for just one gadget or an entire retro-themed kitchen, we’ve got you covered.
In fact, we can help you find the best retro microwave if you’re looking to change that up as well!
So, let’s take a look at the best retro air fryer options there are. Then, I’ll walk you through a buying guide with some things to be on the lookout for as you settle on your next appliance.
OUR TOP PICK
Galanz Retro Electric Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a retro air fryer, the Galanz retro electric air fryer gets the top pick. It comes in adorable retro-appropriate colors to start.
Galanz designs their appliances to match, which is great if you happen to pick up their retro microwave, which also makes the list of our best microwaves under $100.
This fryer has 1500W of cooking power to handle your fresh and frozen cooking needs. The temperature options span a wide range from 180-400 Fahrenheit.
The downside is that only 4 temperatures are marked. You’ll have to move the sliding lever to an approximation when you’re setting it.
A wide knob is easy to adjust the time, and keeps with the retro look.
Make sure to only set it for half the recipe time if you need to do a flip – the basket doesn’t stop the cook cycle when it’s pulled out.
Inside, a helpful nonstick coating keeps things pretty clean. However, you can wash the inserts in the dishwasher for quick and easy cleanup.
This air fryer is everything I like from the look to the function. The downsides are minor inconveniences and frankly brought on by keeping the design true to style!
Pros
- 4.8 qt basket suitable for 1-4 people
- Available in retro red and light blue colors
- Simple controls in retro style
- Chrome accents
- Dishwasher safe basket for easy cleanup
- Auto shutoff for safety
Cons
- Only 4 temperature markings; you’ll have to guess in between
- Doesn’t stop automatically when basket is removed
Also Available At
BEST VALUE
Aria Premium Retro Air Fryer
The Aria premium retro air fryer gets the pick for the best value.
It’s one of the cheapest air fryers I’ve honestly seen, but is still a quality unit for the price.
Cute retro styling in a variety of colors make it fit right in. However, it won’t take up much space at all thanks to the compact design.
It heats up very quickly, which helps mitigate the lower wattage and increased cook times you may otherwise experience.
Cleanup is a snap thanks to the ceramic basket and it being dishwasher safe.
As a budget unit, you had to expect some missing functions, and for the Aria it’s the temperature. There is no adjustment, so the unit will always run at a 400 degree setting.
That said, it’s perfect for heating frozen foods and cooking a lot of items. It just won’t excel if you do a lot of cooking with varied temperatures. This cheap retro air fryer is perfect for dorms or small apartments, and ideal for those that reheat a lot of premade foods.
Pair it with one of our best dorm microwaves and you’ve got a complete, space-friendly kitchen!
Pros
- Under $40 price point is a great price
- Available in black, white, and red retro colors (and hunter green as well)
- 2 Qt basket is suitable for 1-2 people
- No preheating required
- Slim design doesn’t take up much counter space
- Ceramic basket conducts heat well, and is dishwasher safe
Cons
- Only 800W
- No temperature adjustment – only cooks at 400 degrees F
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BEST COMPACT
Nostalgia Personal Retro Air Fryer 1 Qt
The Nostalgia personal retro air fryer gets the best compact retro air fryer pick.
This small air fryer doesn’t take up a lot of space, so it’s perfect for small apartments, RVs, and other tiny spaces.
In fact, every dimension is under 10 inches!
A 1-qt basket is small, but perfect for those who are cooking for one or keeping strict portion control.
You’ll still be able to heat up your favorite snacks, appetizers, and small entrees in it.
You can cook up an air fryer baked potato with foil in this small air fryer for an easy side or top it for a whole meal!
Unlike the Aria, this Nostalgia model actually does have adjustable temperature. Choose from 120-400 degrees, with up to a 30 minute timer.
This retro air fryer is easy to use, simple to clean, and an overall great (albeit tiny) appliance.
That’s why it’s the perfect choice if you need a compact, space-saving option!
Pros
- Great for cooking for one and portion control
- Adjustable time and temperature options
- Dishwasher safe cooking basket
- Cute retro aqua blue color with large dials
- Under $50 price point
- Weighs less than 10 pounds
Cons
- All plastic exterior feels a little “cheap”
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BEST ROTISSERIE ENABLED
Wetie 7qt Retro Air Fryer
The Wetie 7 qt retro air fryer gets my pick when it comes to the best retro air fryer with a rotisserie attachment.
That’s right, you can fit a whole roaster chicken in this unit!
If you’re not cooking a chicken, it also fits individual sized pizzas, and has a lot of space for other types of food as well.
It’s great for feeding a crew!
At just under 12” on most sides, it does take up a decent amount of counter space, but I would expect that given its capacity.
I wish it came in more colors besides the black finish, but the details still fit in well with any retro themed kitchen.
If the rotisserie attachment is more important to you than looks, make sure to check out our best air fryers with rotisserie for more great choices.
Overall though, the Wetie is a great retro inspired air fryer that feeds a crowd or rotisseries your meat for an easy home cooked meal.
Pros
- Large 7 qt capacity is suitable for up to 8 people
- Adjustable temperature from 180-400
- Up to 1 hour programmable time
- Fit an entire 6-lb roasting chicken
- Easy to use large retro dials
- Dishwasher safe cooking chamber
Cons
- Only available in black
- Large size takes up a lot of space
- Doesn’t shut off when opened mid cook cycle
Also Available At
BEST MULTI-FUNCTION
Comfee Retro Air Fryer Toaster Oven
The Comfee retro air fryer toaster oven is the best multifunction retro air fryer option.
It has 7 different cooking settings that cover toasting, baking, broiling, air frying, and more.
This is a pretty large appliance, but since it will take the place of your toaster oven and air fryer in one unit, you can ditch the others to free up some room.
I like that this oven can go a little hotter than typical air fryers, reaching 450 Fahrenheit.
That said, it means the appliance gets pretty hot and needs adequate space and ventilation in the kitchen.
The dials are easy to use, and some recommended programs are included on the front.
The large style gives off perfect retro vibes for your kitchen. I wish it came in more options than just black, but it’s neutral enough to fit with most other schemes.
If you want an all in one unit to cut down on appliances, but still keep with the retro theme, then you’ll love this Comfee retro air fryer toaster oven.
Alternatively, you may want to check out the best air fryer microwave combos for another option in condensing your appliances!
Pros
- Huge 14-qt capacity
- Features 7 different cooking functions in 1 unit
- Adjustable rack levels
- Large, easy to use dials
- Temperature adjusts from 200-450F
- Top and bottom heating elements for even distribution
Cons
- Only available in black
- Takes up a lot of counter space
- Hand wash components
- Outside heats up, so not great in enclosed or small spaces
Also Available At
BEST 2 PERSON
DASH Deluxe Retro Electric Air Fryer
The Dash Deluxe retro air fryer is my favorite retro air fryer for 2 people.
I know it’s rated for 4-6 people technically, but if you cram as much in the basket as they’re suggesting, it’ll never cook evenly.
Having owned several air fryers in the 6-qt size range I can tell you from experience this is great for cooking for 2 (maybe 3 if you stretch it). However, you can always cook in batches if you need more.
Size of the air fryer aside, this cute Dash unit comes in a bunch of retro colors, with large, easy to use analog dials.
I wish it was a little more precise in temperature settings, but you can at least get close with a guess.
The biggest downside to the unit is that the basket is hand wash only, and even still the nonstick coating flakes off even with gentle cleaning tools.
It’s PFOA free so not a health hazard, but it’s still unsightly and defeats the actual nonstick qualities.
All in all though, it’s a great retro-themed air fryer that’s ideal for your two person households.
If you’ve just purchased one, make sure to check out some of the best Dash air fryer recipes you can make with it!
Pros
- Available in aqua blue, red, black, and white retro colors
- 6-qt capacity is perfect for 2 people
- Up to 30 minute timer with automatic shutoff
- Cool touch exterior housing for safety
Cons
- Temperature is variable but uses a dial with few markings, making it difficult to actually set a specific temp
- Hand wash baskets
- Nonstick coating seems to flake off easily
Also Available At
EASIEST TO USE
Nostalgia CLAF7AQ Classic Retro 7-Quart Air Fryer
A different Nostalgia retro air fryer makes the pick for easiest to use with the classic retro 7-qt model.
Unlike the small personal fryer that was earlier in the list, this Nostalgia fryer is suitable for 2-4 people.
It features a simple lever for temperature and knob for time that’s incredibly user friendly.
I didn’t even need to pull out the instructions to figure out how it worked.
Chrome accents seal the retro style, though I wish there were more options besides blue. Not that aqua isn’t great, but if that’s not your current retro theme it’s a downer.
If you want an incredibly user-friendly retro air fryer that’ll look great on the counter but crank out the power to cook your foods, look no further.
Pros
- 7 qt capacity works for 2-4 people
- Temperature level adjusts from 140-400 degrees F
- Cooking basket and insert are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Chrome accents
- Set for up to 60 minutes at a time
- 1800W of cooking power
Cons
- Only available in retro aqua blue color
- Cooking at high temperatures discolors exterior
Also Available At
BEST DIGITAL
GoWise GW22954 7-Quart Retro Electric Air Fryer
If you’re looking where a retro style air fryer meets the modern digital programming options, then this GoWise 7-qt retro air fryer is it.
It features ample space (enough to accommodate a 5-lb chicken) with several racks for cooking smaller items.
A variety of functions allow you to air fry, roast, dehydrate, grill, bake, and more.
The touchscreen modernizes the controls and allows for more flexibility in setting both time and temperature, which is great.
That does mean it’s less intuitive and beginner user friendly, since it’s more complicated.
Additionally, after 15 minutes, the time button sets in 1-minute increments. So, for 30 minutes you’re looking at 15 additional button presses which feels excessive to me.
This GoWise air fryer still boasts a cute retro style, which it’s melded with the modern digital controls.
If you’re looking to match a retro themed kitchen but not move back to an analog model, then this is a great choice for a digital retro air fryer.
After picking up this appliance, review our helpful guide on how to use a GoWise USA air fryer.
I also recommend taking a look at my favorite GoWISE air fryer recipes for some food inspiration to try today!
Pros
- 7-qt basket is suitable for 3-4 people
- 3 stackable racks for lots of cooking options
- 8 cooking settings
- Temperature ranges from 180-400 in 5-degree increments
- Digital touchscreen for more customization
- Available in mint green, red, and black retro colors
Cons
- A little less “true” to retro style
- Basket and accessories are hand wash recommended
- More complicated to use
Also Available At
BEST LOW WATTAGE
Elite Gourmet EAF-0201BL Retro Air Fryer
This Elite Gourmet is the best low wattage retro air fryer. It’s only 1000W on 120V power supply, meaning it requires about 8.5 amps to run!
That makes it ideal for RV’s and other arrangements where you may not have higher amps available.
Learn more about how many amps an air fryer uses typically to compare!
The Elite Gourmet is a small fryer, meaning it takes up less counter space as well.
However, it can still cook up snacks and meals for 1-2 people. It even has 6 cooking guides printed on the top.
Easy to use dials make adjusting time and temperature simple – I didn’t even consult the manual for that.
I do wish the timer could be set back if your food finished early or if you overshoot your intended time.
Since it’s an analog timer though, you can just unplug the fryer and let it run down on its own when you’re done!
All in all, if you need a lower power air fryer that can still cook really well and you want that retro look, then this Elite Gourmet model is the perfect choice.
Pros
- Compact space-saving design
- 2.1-qt basket designed for 1-2 people
- Only 1000W
- Adjustable time and temperature
- Dishwasher safe cooking tray
- Air filtration system reduces cooking odor
Cons
- Max temperature only 395 F due to lower wattage
- Only available in black or mint green retro colors
- Timer cannot be reset (needs to run down on its own)
Also Available At
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Neretva Retro Air Fryer Toaster Oven
The Neretva air fryer toaster oven combo gets the pick for the best retro air fryer for families.
A large 21-qt cooking area holds a 5-lb roaster chicken, or a variety of racks for cooking smaller foods.
With a wide range of temperature options, you’ll be able to defrost, air fry, bake, and more all in one countertop appliance.
Cleanup is easy thanks to dishwasher safe inserts!
Setting time and temperature is very easy and completely user friendly. However, until you learn to recognize the symbols, the actual cooking mode selection will require the manual to decipher.
My only real complaint is at the $200 price point, all of the knobs and handles are made of plastic.
I’ve had no issue with longevity on it; but it does make it feel a bit “cheap” in my opinion.
All in all, if you want a large unit to feed a crowd with a lot of function, while keeping your aesthetic, this Neretva retro air fryer toaster oven is a great option.
If you want some non-retro style options, check out our other best air fryers for large families for other great choices!
Pros
- Huge 21-qt capacity great for families
- 5-in-1 function reduces number of appliances
- Includes multiple accessories for use with many types of food
- Retro mint green color with analog dials
- Adjustable temperature from 140-450F
- Dishwasher safe cooking trays
Cons
- You’ll need the manual to identify cooking modes
- Accents are metallic plastic instead of actual metal
- High price point
Also Available At
HONORABLE MENTION
Swan Retro 6L Manual Air Fryer
The Swan retro manual air fryer gets an honorable mention here. Mostly, this is because it’s not available in the US (as of now, that is).
However, if you’re in the UK or Australia you should be able to get a hold of one if you like!
This particular air fryer has one of the largest selections of colors for a retro air fryer I’ve seen, which is great.
All the adjustments are analog and true to style. It’s easy to set without a manual, and boasts a large range of temperature and time up to 60 minutes.
Cleanup is easy in the dishwasher as well!
It loses some points for me because the basket and cooking tray should separate, but sometimes they “stick” a bit.
This leaves you a choice of managing a large, heavy basket, or trying to forcibly separate a hot tray.
All in all, though, it cooks wonderfully, has a capacity that’s great for 2-4 people, and will look great in your retro kitchen.
Though, if you have other Swan retro blue appliances in particular, make sure to keep them apart – the blue is a different color here!
Pros
- Huge variety of retro colors: black, cream, yellow, aqua blue, green, and more
- Chrome accents and true to retro style analog knobs and levers
- Adjustable temperature from 0-200C (32-392F)
- Dishwasher safe parts
Cons
- Colors don’t always match other Swan retro appliances
- Basket and interior trays can be hard to separate
Also Available At
What is a Retro Air Fryer?
A retro air fryer is just a regular air fryer at its core with a retro-inspired exterior look. Most models offer large knobs or levers, and keep with an analog instead of digital design.
They’re available in a variety of retro-inspired colors such as mint green, light aqua blue, yellow, red, black, or cream.
Air fryers weren’t even invented back in the decades these retro models were inspired by! However, nothing says you can’t have a modern appliance with a classic aesthetic.
The retro style of these small countertop fryers is timeless and makes for a sharp-looking contemporary air fryer.
Top Features to Look For in a Retro Air Fryer
Now that I’ve gone over some of the best retro air fryers out there to fit a variety of lifestyles, let’s talk about what to look for in one.
Whether you choose one of those mentioned above or something else entirely, you’ll know what features to consider when shopping.
Exterior Color and Features
I’m all for matching kitchen appliances, but retro appliances really take this to a new level. It’s important to consider the exterior color when purchasing a retro air fryer.
If you plan to have an all retro-themed kitchen, you’ll want to choose coordinating colors.
Stick with black or white if you plan to have a variety of different brands of appliances. While mint green and aqua blue are great retro colors, they vary between manufacturers.
In addition to the actual appliance color, there’s also the knobs, levers, and handles to consider.
Most retro appliances offer chrome to keep with style. Make sure you choose one that you like the look of and that’s easy for you to operate.
Control Type
There are two main control types of air fryer, whether it’s a retro version or not: analog and digital.
Digital air fryers offer a touch screen, and allow for more customization of time, temperature, and pre-programmed cooking modes.
However, they are more complicated to learn, and not quite as “true” to the retro look of your unit.
Analog fryers use manual knobs, levers, and other adjustment mechanisms. It’s a simple slide or turn to set things, making it super user friendly.
The downside is less finite adjustments and less ability to cancel mid-cycle. These controls look far more retro aesthetically, though.
Size
The size of the retro air fryer to choose is important, and that’s both exterior and interior size.
From the exterior, you’ll want to consider how much counter space it will take up. If you’re in a small apartment or an RV this is obviously more important than someone with a huge space available.
The interior cooking basket is the other main spot to pay attention to, and this is related to the number of people you feed on a regular basis.
| Air Fryer Capacity | Number of People |
|---|---|
| 1-3 Quarts | 1-2 People |
| 4-7 Quarts | 3-4 People |
| 8-10 Quarts | 5-6 People |
| 11+ Quarts | 8+ People |
It’s definitely fine to have a bigger air fryer than you technically need (and it’s great for entertaining). However, if you go too small this will result in needing batch cooking often.
There’s also a big difference in what you cook.
Cooking appetizers or a side dish will feed more people than cooking the main entrée in your fryer.
Functions & Accessories
To piggyback off of size, the functions and accessories your retro air fryer comes with can be very important.
If you want to reduce the number of appliances you have in your kitchen for the space, you’ll want one that can toast and bake so you can ditch the toaster and toaster oven.
Many larger retro air fryers come with different racks and baskets, and the biggest fit a whole chicken or small pizza.
Depending on what you think you’ll cook most, you’ll want to choose a unit that has all the functions or features to support that.
Cleanup
If you plan to use your retro air fryer a lot, make sure to look at the cleanup.
Some units have dishwasher safe racks, and others do not. If being able to throw everything in the dishwasher is important to you, factor that in.
Even if your favorite model isn’t dishwasher safe, cleanup still shouldn’t be too bad as long as you keep up with it.
Check out how to clean a Cuisinart air fryer for an example of a non-dishwasher safe unit.
Final Thoughts
Retro air fryers offer all the modern conveniences of a countertop convection oven, with a cool, retro-inspired exterior.
Most models stay true to style with analog controls, but if digital is a must-have for you, you’ll find those as well.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, there’s a way to keep your retro vibe going strong!
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
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