FryConvert is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Read our full affiliate disclosure.
⚡ In a hurry?
The Ninja AF150AMZ (5.5-quart) is our top stainless pick (~$110–130). Its stainless-steel, PFAS-free basket skips traditional nonstick coating entirely, which is the whole point for buyers avoiding “forever chemicals.” Just know stainless can stick more than a coated basket, so a light oil spray matters.
Check Price on Amazon →Why people want stainless in the first place
Most air-fryer baskets use a nonstick coating, and some shoppers specifically want to avoid PFAS — the family of “forever chemicals” historically associated with nonstick surfaces. A stainless-steel, PFAS-free basket sidesteps that concern by cooking food on bare metal instead of a coating, which is exactly why this category exists.
The honest trade-off is stickiness. Bare stainless does not release food as effortlessly as a slick nonstick coating, so eggs, breaded items and cheese can grab the metal. The good news is that a light spray of oil, a preheat, or a parchment liner solves most of it — and in return you get a basket with no coating to scratch off or wear out.
Quick comparison
| Model | Best for | Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja AF150AMZ | Best stainless PFAS-free | 5.5 qt | ~$110–130 |
| Cuisinart TOA-60 | Stainless oven-style body | Fits 12" pizza | ~$200 |
| Breville Smart Oven Air | Premium stainless build | Large | ~$350 |
Prices are typical street prices and move around — tap any “Check Price” button for the current number.
Ninja AF150AMZ Air Fryer XL, 5.5-Quart
The AF150AMZ is the hero of this category: a 5.5-quart Ninja with a stainless-steel, PFAS-free basket, so you get Ninja crisping without a nonstick coating. Power sits around 1550W and it carries the same simple, reliable controls Ninja is known for. If your reason for buying is avoiding coated baskets, this is the one to start with.
What We Like
- Stainless, PFAS-free basket — no coating
- Proven Ninja crisping and reliability
- Roomy 5.5 qt for two to four people
- No coating to scratch or wear off
What Could Be Better
- Stainless can stick — oil the basket
- Costs more than a coated Ninja
Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Toaster Oven
If you like the look and durability of stainless and also want oven-style versatility, the TOA-60 pairs a stainless exterior with a chamber roomy enough for a roughly 12-inch pizza. It toasts and bakes as well as air-fries. Note that oven-style racks and trays vary in finish, so if a fully PFAS-free cooking surface is your goal, confirm the tray materials on the listing.
What We Like
- Durable stainless exterior
- Oven-style versatility — toast and bake
- Roomy chamber for big meals
- Handsome on the counter
What Could Be Better
- Confirm tray coatings for PFAS goals
- Large footprint and pricier
Breville Smart Oven Air
The Breville Smart Oven Air brings a premium stainless build and even heating across roughly 13 functions. It is the pick for someone who wants a stainless countertop appliance that feels built to last and does far more than air-fry. As with any oven-style unit, check the internal tray and rack materials if a completely coating-free cooking surface is the priority.
What We Like
- Premium stainless build quality
- Even, consistent heating
- Roughly 13 functions in one unit
- Large capacity for families
What Could Be Better
- Most expensive pick here
- Verify tray finishes for PFAS goals
Getting the most from a stainless basket
Oil lightly — stainless sticks more
Bare metal does not release food like nonstick. A quick spray of oil and a short preheat dramatically cut sticking for eggs, breaded foods and cheese.
PFAS-free is the real benefit
The reason to buy stainless is skipping nonstick coatings and the “forever chemical” concern. If that is not your priority, a good coated basket is easier day to day.
It will not wear out the same way
A nonstick coating can scratch or flake over years; bare stainless has nothing to peel. Metal utensils are far less of a worry, and cleanup is just a scrub.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best stainless steel air fryer?
The Ninja AF150AMZ 5.5-quart is the best stainless pick for most people, at around $110 to $130. Its basket is stainless steel and PFAS-free, so there is no nonstick coating, while you still get Ninja’s reliable crisping. For an oven-style stainless option, the Cuisinart TOA-60 is a strong step up.
Are stainless steel air fryers better than nonstick?
It depends on your priority. Stainless, PFAS-free baskets like the Ninja AF150AMZ avoid nonstick coatings entirely and have nothing to scratch or wear off, which appeals to buyers avoiding forever chemicals. The trade-off is that bare stainless sticks more, so you need a light oil spray. Nonstick is easier day to day; stainless is the choice if coating-free matters to you.
Does food stick to a stainless steel air fryer basket?
More than to a nonstick basket, yes. Bare stainless does not release food as easily, so eggs, breaded items and cheese can grab the metal. A light spray of oil, a short preheat, or a parchment liner solves most sticking, and in exchange you get a basket with no coating to degrade.
Is the Ninja AF150AMZ basket really PFAS-free?
Yes — the Ninja AF150AMZ is sold with a stainless-steel, PFAS-free basket, meaning it does not rely on the traditional nonstick coating that PFAS concerns center on. That is the main reason to choose it over a standard coated Ninja. Always confirm the current basket description on the listing you buy, since manufacturers occasionally revise materials.