These are two of the most popular budget air fryers in the US, and they sit in the same price tier. So which one should you buy? The short answer: it depends on how many people you cook for and how much you care about basket shape and noise.
Side by side
| Ninja AF101 | COSORI Pro LE | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4 Qt | 5 Qt |
| Basket | Round, single | Square, single |
| Price range | $ | $ |
| Viewing window | No | No |
| Best for | 2-3 people | Everyday cooking, meal prep |
| Standout | Strong crisping | Quieter, more flat space |
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Best value for 2-3 people | 4 Qt | Single basket |
 | Best budget everyday pick | 5 Qt | Single basket (square) |
- Check Price on Amazon
Ninja AF101 4-Qt Air Fryer
Best value for 2-3 people
4 Qt · Single basket · $
- Check Price on Amazon
COSORI Pro LE 5-Qt Air Fryer
Best budget everyday pick
5 Qt · Single basket (square) · $
Size and capacity
The COSORI has one extra quart and a square basket, which together give noticeably more flat cooking area. That matters because air fryers crisp best when food is in a single layer. If you often cook for three, or like to meal prep, the COSORI's extra room is useful.
The Ninja's smaller footprint is its advantage. It's easier to store in a cabinet and fits better in small kitchens. For two people it's plenty.
Power and noise
Based on verified customer reviews and expert tests, the Ninja is consistently praised for strong crisping for its price. The COSORI is frequently described as quieter than many rivals, which matters if your kitchen is open to the living room. Both have a fan, so neither is silent.
Ease of use and cleaning
Both are simple. The Ninja has no-fuss controls; the COSORI's are fairly basic too. Neither has a viewing window, so you'll pull the basket to check food. Both use nonstick baskets: hand wash gently or follow the manual for dishwasher use, and avoid metal utensils.
Who each one is for
Choose the Ninja AF101 if…
- You cook for one or two people
- Counter or cabinet space is limited
- You want the best crisping in a small package
Choose the COSORI Pro LE if…
- You cook for three or meal prep
- You want more single-layer space
- A quieter fan matters to you
The winner
Want more options? See the best air fryers of 2026, or read the Ninja AF101 review and COSORI Pro LE review.
Frequently asked questions
Which is bigger, the Ninja AF101 or COSORI Pro LE?
The COSORI Pro LE: 5 quarts with a square basket versus 4 quarts round on the Ninja.
Which is quieter?
Verified customer reviews frequently describe the COSORI Pro LE as quieter than many rivals.
Do either have a viewing window?
No. If you want one, look at the Instant Vortex Plus 6-Qt.
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