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Looks aren't everything, but they go a long way to helping this smart air fryer live up to its name. John Carlsen/CNET
Plastic has been a huge part of traditional air fryer designs, which comes with its share of problems. Plastic has the potential to collect grease, grime and fingerprints. Aesthetically, plastic doesn't always complement other kitchen appliances, especially if you splurge on high-end showpieces. That's why many air fryer brands are now increasing the amount of glass in their products or shifting to toaster oven combos to reduce plastic use.
VeSync is betting on something even classier: a premium stainless steel look. Its latest model, the 6.5-quart Cosori Iconic, was recently showcased at CES 2026. I've been testing the Iconic for the past few weeks, and I'm thoroughly impressed with the design. Let's jump right into what I like and dislike about the Cosori Iconic.
The Cosori Iconic's design is exceptional
Other than the touch controls, the Cosori Iconic almost feels like a deliberate throwback to vintage toaster designs from the 1940s. John Carlsen/CNET
I don't normally think about aesthetics when it comes to small kitchen appliances because functionality takes priority. But even I have to admit that the polished stainless steel curves of the Cosori Iconic are key to its appeal. The vertical exterior surfaces feature a brushed stainless steel that isn't as reflective. The flat, black glass control panel at the top of the unit is equally eye-catching, though I had to stop myself from storing things on it more than once.
The exterior is fairly easy to clean with a damp rag, though you might need a stainless-steel cleaner to remove stubborn fingerprints and grime from the brushed steel. In most cases, I found a dry, soft cloth to be more than enough to polish the glass and the rounded section just above the basket compartment.
Every surface inside the Iconic air fryer is polished steel, except for the heating element, which has the same nonstick coating as the basket interior. John Carlsen/CNET
Unlike the nonstick coating of my existing air fryer, I'm happy to report that you can wipe off most oil and residue with a rag or paper towel. For everything else, you can place the entire basket and crisper plate in the dishwasher. I typically wash it by hand to leave space for other dirty dishes.
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