When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more »
The Instant Vortex Air Fryer is the pioneer of the brand’s countertop convection ovens. To date, it’s still their most popular airfryer.
It was initially released as a 6-quart single basket air fryer. However, they scaled it down to 5.7 qt. (4.4 L) in the refreshed model.
The 4-in-1 cooking functions were retained, but there are some notable improvements. It now boasts a refined all-black exterior with glossy highlights. Plus, the control panel now looks more organized.
There are also new cooking status indicators at the center of the console. It will let you know if it’s preheating, cooking, and will also tell you to turn your food (when you’re air frying and roasting).
Award: 8th Best Instant Air Fryer
Basically, the new Instant Vortex is a more intelligent machine than its predecessor, commanding a slight premium. However, the standalone model is still below a hundred bucks. IMHO, it’s still within the range of affordability.
If you’re looking for a great deal, the Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer is also available in an all-in-one bundle that includes grilling accessories.
I also have to mention that the Instant Vortex family is quite big. It comprises four basket-type Air Fryers and two oven-type ones. We’ll discuss all of it in the succeeding sections.
There’s the 2-quart Instant Vortex Mini should you need a more compact Air Fryer. The Instant Vortex Plus offers more functions which is now the defacto 6-quart Air Fryer of Instant Brands. And lastly, you can also check the Instant Vortex Plus Dual Air Fryer, their biggest drawer type air fryer, which can handle 3 lbs of fries. And there’s more…
In the meantime, let’s go over the pros and cons of the classic Instant Vortex Air fryer.
PROS
- Absolutely affordable
- The redesigned (5.7) version looks more sleek
- Touchscreen control panel
- Cooks evenly (EvenCrisp technology)
- Basket air fryer design has the best usability
- 5.7 – 6 quart capacity which fits approximately 2 lbs of fries
- Rectangular air fryer basket fits more food
- 4 core cooking functions: Air fry, roast, bake, reheat
- PFOA and BPA Free
- Quick preheating time
- 1-year warranty
CONS
- Non-stick are usually not long lasting
- Several reviews of “plastic smell”
- Not dishwasher safe
What can you cook in the Instant Vortex Air Fryer?
As a 4-in-1 air fryer, the Instant Vortex can do so much.
Here’s the full list of its cooking functions:
Here’s the deal:
The Instant Vortex Air Fryer has 2 fewer functions than its bigger sibling, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus. Fortunately, that doesn’t make it any less of an airfryer.
An air fryer is basically a convection oven. If you’re going to play with the time and temperature, it could do more than those listed functions.
Here’s more:
You can quickly whip up meals with this machine. For instance, it’ll require less preheating time than a full-sized oven. As a result, you can enjoy your food much faster than traditional methods.
Simultaneously, you can cook from frozen to crispy. In short, at times, you don’t need to thaw your frozen food. Although, it still depends on what item you’ll fry. Regardless, this is a significant win if you have a busy schedule.
And of course, let’s not forget the best part:
You’ll use 95% less oil with an air fryer, so you can enjoy your favorite fried foods in a healthier and more budget-friendly way.
Is the Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer easy to use?
One thing that differentiates basket-drawer types is the control panel. Fortunately, the Instant Vortex Air Fryer is still exceptional in that category.
To add, the control panel is pretty much self-explanatory.
It has four smart programs that will undoubtedly streamline your kitchen tasks. Generally, you only need to add food, press your desired function, and let the machine do the rest.
Of course, you can also customize those settings to your liking. Thanks to this feature, you don’t need to change the settings every single time when batch cooking.
In the end, you can never really lose with an appliance that simplifies your work, right?
Here’s more:
It hallmarks a cooking status that includes preheat, cook, and turn. By having so, you don’t need to guess when to flip/shake/turn your food since the machine does the guessing. Therefore, this simple feature is beneficial when you’re especially busy in the kitchen.
On a slightly different note:
The Instant Vortex Air Fryer is, sadly, not dishwasher safe.
But wait, here’s the good news:
Given that the cooking tray is non-stick, cleaning will still be effortless. Simply use a soft sponge, warm water, and dish soap to wash the removable components (air fryer basket and cooking tray).
Whereas the rest of the unit only requires a damp cloth for wiping. After that, you’re done with cleaning! Pretty simple, right?
Pro tip: Never use metal utensils with the Vortex Air Fryer to prevent the non-stick coating from chipping.
See the Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Air Fryer in Action
Don’t take my word for it, watch this quick video demonstration.
The Instant Vortex Air Fryer is a 4-in-1 kitchen appliance that can air fry, bake, roast, and reheat. It features a substantial 5.7-qt (4.4 L) capacity, perfect for up to 6 people. Instant Vortex can handle 2 lbs of fries in one go.
What’s new with the updated Instant Vortex Airfryer?
To be frank, the 2021 redesigned Instant Vortex 4 in 1 Air Fryer is more on cosmetic improvements.
 |  | |
| Price range | $ | $$ |
| Year | 2019 Model | 2021 Model |
| Capacity | 6 qt. (5.7 L) | 5.7 qt. (4.4 L) |
| Functions | Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Reheat | Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Reheat |
| Extra Features | – | Cooking Status Indicators (Preheating, Cooking, Turn) |
| Get at Amazon → | Get at Amazon → |
First off, the new version has a 0.3-qt less volume than the previous one. Luckily, this minor change doesn’t affect the air fryer’s ‘what you can fit’ factor.
Second, the 2021 Instant Vortex Air Fryer features a more aesthetic design. The clean lines, smoother texture, refreshed control panel and glossy details sums everything up.
The cooking capabilities remains the same, It’s still a 4-in-1 Airfryer. Aside from the new cooking status indicators, there’s nothing really new.
4-in-1 Instant Vortex Air Fryer Accessories
Nonstick Donut/Bagel Pan
Model # 5273749
The Nonstick Donut/Bagel pan is a must-have when making homemade donuts or bagels is your thing.
Nonstick Grill Pan
Model # 5273748
If you want to mimic grilling experience (even a bit), you should consider this Grill Pan.
Nonstick Mini Muffin Pan
Model # 5273752
Since air fryers are technically oven, it won’t be complete without a muffin tray.
Nonstick Perforated Pizza Pan
Model # 5273750
Excellent accessory for an air fryer since it encourages better airflow which then, bakes better pizza.
Nonstick Round Cake Pan
Model # 5271553
If you like baking, it’s only natural to get this Round Cake Pan for, well, cakes!
Stainless Steel Skewer Set
Model # 5271735
For another bonus grilling experience, you can also get this must-have Skewer Set.
*Product Images and Video Courtesy of Instant Brands
Technical Specifications
| Type | Air Fryer |
| Brand/Series | Instant Air Fryer |
| Model # | 5.7 Quart: 140-3080-01 6 Quart: 140-3001-01 |
| Price | $$ |
| Rating | 4.4 out of 5 |
| Wattage | 1700 Watts |
| Functions | 4-in-1: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Reheat |
| Air Fryer Type | Basket / Drawer Type |
| Basket Shape | Rectangular |
| Basket Material | Nonstick coated |
| Capacity | 5.7 – 6 quarts, fit 2 lbs of fries |
| Dishwasher safe | No |
| PFOA, BPA Free | Yes |
| Colors | Black |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | New Model: 5.7-quart – 12.01 x 15.31 x 12.72 inches (30.5 x 33.9 x 32.3 cm) Original Model: 6-quart – 14.92 x 12.36 x 12.83 inches (37.9 x 31.4 x 32.6 cm) |
| Cord Length | ~32 inches (81.3 cm) |
| Application | Personal Use |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Related Products | Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer, Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer, Instant Vortex Plus Dual Air Fryer, Instant Vortex Mini, Instant Pot Vortex Pro, Instant Pot Omni Plus Air Fryer, Instant Omni Pro |
FAQs
Is Instant Vortex a good air fryer?
Yes, the Instant Vortex is a good air fryer, if you’re just getting started. Apart from air frying, it can also help you roast, bake and reheat your food.
What is the difference between Instant Vortex and Instant Vortex Plus?
The Instant Vortex is the original air fryer from the brand featuring basic cooking functions. On the other hand, Instant Vortex Plus is a premium option that has more functions and a larger cooking capacity.
Can you make toast in the Vortex Air Fryer?
Yes, you can make toast in the Vortex Air Fryer.
