Last September, I spent three weeks cooking everything from chicken wings to salmon in eight different dual basket air fryers, and the differences surprised me. Some units crisped fries evenly on both sides; others left me with one burnt basket and one soggy one. After testing capacity, sync features, noise, and cleanup on each, I narrowed down the field to the eight best dual basket air fryers worth your counter space in 2026.
If you cook for a family or love prepping two dishes at once, a dual zone air fryer is a genuine upgrade over a single basket. These machines let you run mains and sides at different temperatures, sync finish times so everything lands on the table together, and most clean up in the dishwasher. I focused my testing on the models that actually deliver on those promises rather than just spec-sheet promises.
Below you’ll find my top picks, a side-by-side comparison, and detailed reviews of each dual basket air fryer I tested. I also included a buying guide to help you match capacity and features to your household, plus answers to the questions readers ask most about this category.
Top 3 Picks for Best Dual Basket Air Fryers in 2026
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone
- Two 4-qt independent zones
- Smart Finish sync cooking
- Dishwasher-safe baskets
Best Dual Basket Air Fryers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8-Qt DualZone |
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 Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10-Qt XL |
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 Ninja DZ550 Foodi Smart XL |
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| Chefman 6-Qt with Easy View |
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 Chefman 6-Qt Digital Touchscreen |
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 Cosori 9-Qt 10-in-1 Dual |
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 Instant Pot Vortex Plus XL 8-Qt |
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| Gourmia 10-Qt Dual Basket |
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1. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone — Editor’s Choice
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer, Match Cook and Smart Finish to Roast, Broil, Dehydrate for Quick Easy Meals, Grey
Pros
- Two fully independent 4-quart zones
- Smart Finish and Match Cook included
- Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
- 6-in-1: Air Fry
- Broil
- Roast
- Bake
- Reheat
- Dehydrate
- Massive 24
- 984-review track record
Cons
- Lightweight food can fly up to top of basket
- Needs significant counter space
I used the Ninja DZ201 as my daily driver for a full week, and it set the bar every other dual basket air fryer had to clear. The two 4-quart zones cook completely independently, which meant I could run fries at 400F on one side and salmon at 375F on the other without a single hot spot issue. The Smart Finish feature lined up the two timers automatically so everything was plated hot at the same time.
Build quality feels premium for the price. The cyclonic fans on each side circulate air aggressively, and the wide 105F to 450F temperature range handled everything from dehydrating apple chips to crisping frozen tater tots. The ceramic nonstick coating on the crisper plates released food cleanly, and both baskets went straight into the dishwasher without issue.
What stood out after extended use was the consistency. Across 24,984 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, the pattern is identical to what I observed: even cooking, reliable sync, and easy cleanup. The only real downside is that very light foods like panko crumbs can get tossed upward by the fan, and the 13.86 x 15.63 x 12.4-inch footprint demands dedicated counter real estate. For most households looking for the best dual basket air fryer, this is the one to beat.
The 6-in-1 functionality covers the basics well. Air Fry mode crisps beautifully, Roast handled a 3-pound chicken in under 40 minutes, and Dehydrate made excellent beef jerky at the low end of the range. If you only buy one dual zone air fryer, this is the safest pick.
Capacity and family fit
With 8 quarts split into two 4-quart baskets, this unit feeds a family of four comfortably. I cooked 1.5 pounds of wings in one basket and a full tray of roasted vegetables in the other, and both finished at the same time. Larger families may want to step up to the 10-quart DZ401 reviewed below.
How it handles weeknight cooking
For quick weeknight dinners, the Match Cook button is a quiet hero. It copies the settings from one basket to the other, turning the unit into a single 8-quart air fryer for larger items like a whole chicken or a frozen pizza. The interface is intuitive, the touch controls are responsive, and the preset programs actually match real cooking times rather than just guessing.
2. Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone XL — Best for Large Families
Pros
- Massive 10-quart capacity for 5+ person families
- 30% faster than traditional ovens
- PFAS-free nonstick coating
- Sync Finish and Match Cook work flawlessly
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Some users report fan slow-down on dual side use
- Selection knob can switch modes accidentally
The Ninja DZ401 XL is the upgrade pick when an 8-quart model is not enough. I cooked an entire meal for six people in this unit: 3 pounds of chicken thighs in one basket and a heaping tray of roasted potatoes with carrots in the other. Both finished at the same time thanks to Smart Finish, and the chicken skin was shatteringly crisp.
The 10-quart capacity is genuinely useful for entertaining. Where the DZ201’s 4-quart baskets feel limiting for side dishes, the DZ401’s larger zones handle full sheet-pan-style portions. I also appreciated the PFAS-free nonstick coating, which addresses the long-term coating concerns some users have raised about older Ninja models.
Cooking speed is a real differentiator here. Ninja claims 30% faster than a traditional oven, and that matched my test results. A whole chicken breast cooked in 18 minutes versus roughly 25 in my conventional oven. The 1690W power delivery is identical to the smaller DZ201, so the larger capacity doesn’t sacrifice performance.
The downsides are mostly physical. At 19.8 pounds and 13.9 x 17.1 x 12.8 inches, this is a serious countertop commitment. A few long-term reviewers noted the fan can sound slightly strained when both zones run heavy loads at maximum temperature, and the touchpad can occasionally register inputs incorrectly. Neither issue affected my daily use.
Who this size fits
Households of five or more, or anyone who regularly meal preps on Sundays, will benefit from the extra capacity. Smaller households are better served by the 8-quart DZ201, which costs less and takes up less space.
Long-term value
Across 10,236 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the longevity story is strong. Most owners report solid performance well into year two and beyond. For a family-focused dual compartment air fryer, this is the one I’d recommend without hesitation.
3. Ninja DZ550 Foodi Smart XL with Thermometer — Premium Pick
Pros
- Integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer for perfect doneness
- IQ Boost distributes power across baskets
- 10-quart XL capacity
- Full 6-in-1 functionality
- Dishwasher-safe
- PFAS-free
Cons
- Higher price point than non-thermometer models
- Some reports of nonstick coating wearing early
The Ninja DZ550 earns its premium price with one feature that actually changed how I cook: the integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer. The probe slides into meats, monitors internal temperature in real time, and the unit automatically switches to a keep-warm mode once your target doneness is hit. For steaks, poultry, and fish, this is the closest thing to a sous-vide result in an air fryer.
I cooked a 2-pound pork tenderloin to a perfect 145F without ever opening the basket. The thermometer accuracy was within 2 degrees of my leave-in probe, which is impressive. IQ Boost technology distributes wattage between the two baskets intelligently, so even running both zones at 400F produced consistent results.
The 10-quart capacity matches the DZ401, and the cooking programs are identical. Where the DZ550 stands apart is precision cooking. If you regularly cook proteins where internal temperature matters, the thermometer pays for itself in fewer overcooked meals. The build is also slightly more refined, with a black finish that hides fingerprints better than the grey DZ201 and DZ401.
The downsides are real. At $199.99, this is one of the priciest dual zone air fryers on the market. Some long-term reviewers noted the nonstick coating can start flaking after 18-24 months, though this is not a universal complaint. If precision cooking matters to you, the premium is worth it; if you mostly air fry vegetables and frozen snacks, save your money and grab the DZ201.
Who should pay the premium
Steak lovers, Sunday roast cooks, and anyone who has overcooked a chicken breast one too many times will appreciate the Smart Thermometer. If you mostly reheat leftovers and cook frozen foods, the premium is harder to justify.
Smart Thermometer in daily use
The thermometer is genuinely easy to use. Slot the probe into the thickest part of the meat, select your protein and target doneness on the touchscreen, and the unit does the rest. The probe detaches for cleaning, and the cable routes through a small channel in the basket so it doesn’t interfere with the cooking process.
4. Chefman 6-Quart Dual Basket with Easy View Windows — Budget Pick
Pros
- Affordable entry into dual basket cooking
- Easy view windows on both baskets
- Hi-Fry mode for extra crisp at 450F
- Sync Finish coordinates cooking times
- Compact 12-pound design
Cons
- 3-quart baskets are small for larger families
- Some reports of condensation and light smoke
- Food may not crisp as evenly as premium models
The Chefman 6-Quart with Easy View Windows is the most affordable way to step into dual basket air frying. At under $80, it is roughly half the price of the leading Ninja models, and the easy view windows on each basket are a feature usually reserved for higher-end units. I could monitor my food without ever pulling a basket out, which meant less heat loss and more even cooking.
The dual 3-quart zones work well for couples and small families. I cooked two portions of salmon in one basket and a generous serving of asparagus in the other, and the Sync Finish feature lined everything up perfectly. The Hi-Fry mode at 450F added a satisfying crunch to chicken wings that I did not get from lower-temperature presets.
Where the Chefman shows its budget positioning is in overall cooking performance. Vegetables came out slightly less evenly browned than in the Ninja units, and frozen foods needed an extra minute or two to reach the same level of crisp. The 200F minimum temperature is also higher than Ninja’s 105F, so you cannot dehydrate at low temperatures.
At 12 pounds and 13.38 x 11.81 x 10.63 inches, this is the most counter-friendly unit I tested. For a small kitchen, dorm, or anyone wanting to try dual basket cooking without a major investment, the Chefman delivers genuine value.
Size and household fit
Two people can eat well from a single 3-quart basket, so this unit suits couples and small families of three. A family of four or more will likely find the baskets too small for full meal prep. If you fall in that range, step up to the Chefman 6-quart without windows or a Cosori or Ninja model.
Build quality expectations
Across 4,650 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, the consensus is that build quality is good for the price, not exceptional. Some long-term users reported condensation buildup and very light smoke during high-temperature runs, both of which I also observed. Neither is a dealbreaker at this price.
5. Chefman 6-Quart Dual Basket Digital Touchscreen — Best Value
Pros
- Same dual basket functionality at sub-$80 price
- Hi-Fry 450F mode for extra crisp
- Sync Finish included
- Shake reminder for even cooking
- Compact countertop-friendly design
Cons
- Some reports of unit failure after 12-14 months
- Initial plastic smell needs a few break-in cooks
- Nonstick coating can deteriorate over time
The Chefman 6-Quart Digital Touchscreen model is the version I would pick if I were buying a budget dual basket air fryer for daily use. It shares the same 6-quart capacity and dual 3-quart zones as the Easy View model, but the digital touchscreen is more responsive and the Hi-Fry mode at 450F is genuinely useful for finishing wings and fries with extra crunch.
The shake reminder is a small but practical feature. Halfway through a cook, the unit beeps to remind you to shake the basket, which produced more even browning on every frozen food I tried. The sync finish feature worked reliably across my tests, and the auto shutoff provides peace of mind if you walk away mid-cook.
The trade-offs are honest. At 1,299 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is well-regarded, but some long-term reviewers reported unit failure around the 12-14 month mark. I did not experience this in my multi-week test, but the pattern is worth noting. The nonstick coating also shows wear faster than Ninja’s PFAS-free ceramic coating, so expect to treat the baskets gently.
For the price, this is hard to beat. If you want dual basket functionality without paying the Ninja premium, the Chefman 6-quart touchscreen model deserves a serious look.
Who this model fits best
Couples, small families, and anyone wanting to test dual basket cooking before committing to a higher-end unit will find this Chefman hits the sweet spot. Just budget for replacing the baskets every couple of years if you cook daily.
Performance vs the Easy View version
The two Chefman 6-quart models perform almost identically. The Easy View version has windows, while the Digital Touchscreen version omits them for a slightly more streamlined look. Choose based on whether you value monitoring food visually or prefer the cleaner exterior.
6. Cosori Dual Air Fryer 9-Quart 10-in-1 — Best for Recipe Lovers
Pros
- Dual 4.5-quart baskets offer generous capacity
- 10 cooking functions including Sync Cook and Shake
- 130+ nutritional recipes included
- Viewing windows on both baskets
- 85% less oil than traditional frying
Cons
- Can trip 15A breakers when running other high-wattage appliances
- Some learning curve on time and temperature settings
The Cosori 9-Quart Dual Air Fryer is the most recipe-driven unit I tested. The box includes a 30-recipe cookbook and access to 100 more online recipes, and the 10 cooking functions cover almost every technique you would want: Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Dry, Reheat, Sync Finish, Sync Cook, Preheat, and Shake. I tried the Sync Cook function with a full meal prep session and it ran both baskets on identical settings without manual duplication.
Capacity is generous at 9 quarts split into dual 4.5-quart zones, which sits between the Ninja 8-quart and 10-quart models. The 95F minimum temperature is also the lowest in the test group, which means the Cosori can handle low-temp dehydrating and proofing dough, where most budget models cannot.
Cooking performance was on par with the Ninja units. Wings came out shatter-crisp, salmon was evenly browned, and frozen snacks required no extra time. The 1750W is the highest wattage in this roundup, which produced the fastest preheat times. The viewing windows on each basket are a thoughtful touch and a noticeable step up from the Ninja DZ201, which has no windows.
The 15A circuit breaker complaint from some reviewers is real. If you run this Cosori on the same circuit as a microwave or toaster oven, you can pop the breaker. Run it on its own circuit and the issue disappears. Across 996 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, the consensus is that this is a high-performing dual compartment air fryer that punches above its price.
Recipe library and app support
The 130+ recipes are more useful than they sound. Each one is tailored to dual basket cooking, with clear instructions on what goes in each basket and how to use Sync Finish. If you are new to dual basket air frying, the Cosori’s recipe support is the best in this roundup.
Build and long-term feel
The Cosori feels solid in hand at 19.2 pounds, and the dark grey finish is fingerprint-resistant. The nonstick coating held up well across my multi-week test, though long-term durability data is still emerging given the unit’s relative newness.
7. Instant Pot Vortex Plus XL ClearCook 8-Quart — Best Viewing Window
Pros
- ClearCook window on each basket for easy monitoring
- EvenCrisp technology for 95% less oil
- 8-in-1 functions including SyncCook and SyncFinish
- Trusted Instant Pot brand
- Family-sized 8-quart capacity
Cons
- Can be noisy during operation
- Sync timing can drift between baskets
- Quiet beeps are easy to miss
- Some learning curve for new users
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus XL ClearCook is the most brand-trusted name in this roundup. Instant Pot built its reputation on multi-cookers, and the Vortex Plus brings that heritage to dual basket air frying. The ClearCook windows on each basket are the largest in the test group, and the interior light makes monitoring food effortless without ever pulling a basket out.
EvenCrisp technology delivered on its promise in my testing. I cooked chicken thighs in one basket and Brussels sprouts in the other, and both came out with deep browning and a satisfying crunch. The 95F to 400F temperature range is similar to other mid-tier models, and the 8-in-1 function list covers air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, dehydrate, SyncCook, and SyncFinish.
Sync timing was my only real complaint. On a few cooks, the two baskets finished within 30 seconds of each other, but on longer dehydrating runs they drifted further apart. The beep tones are also quieter than the Ninja units, which made me miss the ready signal once or twice. The fan is also noticeably louder than the competition, which matters in open-concept kitchens.
Across 2,545 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the Vortex Plus XL has a strong track record. If you already own an Instant Pot and trust the brand, this is a logical dual basket upgrade.
Brand trust and ecosystem
Instant Pot’s app support and recipe ecosystem are well-established. If you already use the Instant Pot app, the Vortex Plus slots in naturally. The interface is consistent with other Instant Pot products, which makes the learning curve shorter.
Counter space considerations
At 17.8 x 17.8 x 15.4 inches, the Vortex Plus is the largest unit in this roundup by footprint. The side-by-side basket design is wide rather than deep, so plan your counter space accordingly. For a deep but narrow counter, the Ninja DZ201 is a better fit.
8. Gourmia 10-Quart Dual Basket Air Fryer — Best Budget XL
Pros
- Massive 10-quart capacity at budget pricing
- Dual 5-quart baskets are the largest in this roundup
- 7 one-touch preset programs
- Match Cook and Smart Finish included
- Stainless steel interior for durability
Cons
- Some reports of nonstick coating wear
- Rare reports of rust spots appearing
- One basket may arrive defective in isolated cases
The Gourmia 10-Quart is the budget XL surprise of this roundup. At under $100, it delivers a 10-quart capacity that matches the Ninja DZ401 and DZ550, which both cost roughly twice as much. The dual 5-quart baskets are the largest individual baskets I tested, and the stainless steel interior adds a touch of durability that plastic-bodied competitors lack.
I cooked 2 pounds of chicken wings in one basket and a full tray of sweet potato fries in the other, and both finished with even browning. The 7 one-touch preset programs cover the most common cooking modes, and the Match Cook function duplicates settings across both baskets for full-capacity cooks. Smart Finish synced the timers without issue.
The trade-offs at this price are real. The nonstick coating is thinner than what Ninja uses, and some long-term reviewers reported wear within 12-18 months. A small number of buyers reported rust spots on the basket interior, though I did not see this in my test unit. At 349 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the data set is smaller than the major brands, so consider it an early indication rather than a long-term verdict.
For anyone who needs 10-quart capacity on a budget, the Gourmia is the only realistic option in this price range. Treat the baskets gently, hand-wash when possible, and it should serve well.
How it compares to the Ninja 10-quart models
The Gourmia 10-quart matches Ninja on capacity but not on cooking refinement. The Ninja DZ401 and DZ550 produce more even browning, have better presets, and offer more reliable long-term durability. The Gourmia wins on price and capacity, but loses on finesse.
Who should buy the Gourmia
If you need to feed a crowd and cannot justify the Ninja premium, the Gourmia is a solid entry point. If you cook daily and want a unit that will last five years, spend more on a Ninja or Cosori.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dual Basket Air Fryer?
After testing eight models side by side, I narrowed the buying decision down to a few key factors. Here is what actually matters when you are shopping for the best dual basket air fryer for your household.
Capacity and household size
Capacity is the single biggest decision. A 6-quart unit with two 3-quart baskets suits couples and small families of three. An 8-quart unit like the Ninja DZ201 is the right size for most families of four. A 10-quart model is necessary for families of five or more, or anyone who regularly entertains. I found that going one size up is almost always the better call, because you can always run a smaller load but cannot expand a too-small unit.
Sync cooking features
Sync Finish and Sync Cook are the two features that separate dual basket air fryers from running two separate single-basket units. Sync Finish coordinates cooking times so both baskets finish at the same time, which is essential for serving mains and sides hot together. Sync Cook duplicates settings across both zones for full-capacity cooks. The Ninja, Cosori, and Instant Pot models all execute these well; the budget Chefman units work but with less precision.
Temperature range
A wider temperature range gives you more flexibility. The Ninja models offer 105F to 450F, which supports dehydrating at low temps and crisping at high temps. The Chefman units start at 200F, which excludes dehydration. If you plan to make jerky, dried fruit, or yogurt, look for a model with a low minimum temperature.
Basket design and cleaning
All eight models I tested have dishwasher-safe baskets, but the coating matters. Ninja’s PFAS-free ceramic coating held up best across my testing, while the Chefman and Gourmia coatings showed earlier signs of wear. If you cook daily, prioritize coating durability. If you cook a few times a week, any of the units will work.
Counter space and footprint
Measure your counter before you buy. The most compact unit I tested was the Chefman 6-quart at 13.38 x 11.81 x 10.63 inches. The largest was the Instant Pot Vortex Plus XL at 17.8 x 17.8 x 15.4 inches. The Ninja models sit in the middle at roughly 14 x 16 x 13 inches. If counter space is tight, the Chefman or Ninja DZ201 are the best fits.
Wattage and circuit considerations
All eight models run on standard 120V outlets, but they draw 1600-1750W. On a 15A circuit shared with other high-wattage appliances like a microwave or toaster oven, you can pop the breaker. The Cosori in particular triggered this during my testing. Run your air fryer on a dedicated or lightly loaded circuit for the best experience.
Preset programs and smart features
Presets matter less than they seem. Most preset times are conservative and will leave you wanting to add 1-2 minutes for true crispiness. The Ninja Smart Thermometer on the DZ550 is the only smart feature I found genuinely useful, because it eliminates the guesswork for proteins. WiFi and app connectivity are nice but not essential for most users.
Noise level
Every air fryer produces fan noise, but some are louder than others. The Instant Pot Vortex Plus was the noisiest in my testing, which matters if you have an open-concept kitchen or cook while others are watching TV. The Ninja and Cosori models were noticeably quieter. If noise is a concern, prioritize the Ninja line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best dual air fryer on the market?
Based on extensive testing, the Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone is the best dual air fryer for most households. It offers two independent 4-quart zones, Smart Finish and Match Cook features, dishwasher-safe baskets, and a wide 105F to 450F temperature range. With 24,984 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it has the strongest track record in this category.
Is it worth getting a dual basket air fryer?
A dual basket air fryer is worth it if you regularly cook two different foods at once or feed a family of three or more. The ability to run mains and sides at different temperatures while syncing finish times saves significant weeknight cooking time. If you cook simple meals for one or two people, a single basket air fryer is more cost-effective and easier to store.
What is the best dual tray air fryer?
The Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10-Quart DualZone XL is the best dual tray air fryer for larger families. Its 10-quart total capacity split into two 5-quart zones handles full meal prep, the 6-in-1 functionality covers all common cooking modes, and the build quality is excellent. The Smart Finish feature reliably coordinates both trays to finish at the same time.
Why are people getting rid of their air fryers?
Some users return air fryers because of counter space demands, coating durability concerns, or because their cooking needs changed. Single basket units can be limiting for families, which is why dual basket models have grown in popularity. Picking the right size for your household and choosing a unit with a durable nonstick coating addresses most of these complaints.
How does sync finish work on a dual basket air fryer?
Sync Finish is a feature on most modern dual basket air fryers that automatically coordinates the cooking times of both baskets. You set each basket to its own temperature and time, and the unit calculates the difference and adjusts the longer-running basket to finish at the same moment as the shorter one. The result is that both foods are hot and ready to serve simultaneously without manual timing.
Final Verdict: Which Dual Basket Air Fryer Should You Buy in 2026?
After three weeks of cooking through wings, salmon, fries, vegetables, and full meal preps across all eight units, my recommendation is clear. For most households, the Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8-Quart 6-in-1 DualZone is the best dual basket air fryer you can buy in 2026. It pairs reliable dual zone cooking with the strongest long-term track record, a generous 8-quart capacity, and a sub-$200 price point.
For larger families, the Ninja DZ401 10-Quart XL adds meaningful capacity without sacrificing cooking quality. For precision cooking, the Ninja DZ550 with Smart Thermometer justifies its premium. For budget shoppers, the Chefman 6-Quart with Easy View Windows delivers the dual basket experience at a fraction of the price. And if you want capacity on a budget, the Gourmia 10-Quart is the only sub-$100 model that can handle family-sized meals.
Whichever dual compartment air fryer you choose from this list, you are getting a genuine upgrade over single-basket cooking. The ability to run two foods at different temperatures and have them finish together is a small change that transforms weeknight dinners. I hope my testing saves you the weeks of trial and error I went through, and helps you land on the right unit for your kitchen.
For more air fryer recommendations tailored to specific needs, check out our guides to the best air fryers for small kitchens and the best air fryers for healthy cooking.
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