How do you choose the best airfryer in 2026? What properties and features should the best airfryer have to suit your needs? Read our guide and make an informed choice.
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience and health often seem to be at odds, especially when it comes to food. Enter the airfryer—a revolutionary kitchen appliance that promises to transform your cooking experience by offering a healthier, quicker, and more versatile way to prepare meals. But with a myriad of options flooding the market, how do you choose the one that’s perfect for you?
This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process of selecting the best airfryer for your needs. From understanding the basic mechanics and types of airfryers to exploring the nuances of special features, cooking functions, and safety measures, we’ll cover everything you need to know. We’ll also delve into the often-overlooked aspects of ease of cleaning and energy efficiency, and why they matter.
Whether you’re a culinary novice looking for a simple and effective way to start cooking or a seasoned chef eager to expand your culinary repertoire, this article will provide you with the insights you need to make an informed decision. So let’s embark on this culinary journey and find the airfryer that will elevate your cooking to new heights.
Top 3 Recommended Best Airfryers
Understanding the Basics of Airfryers
When it comes to understanding the basics of airfryers, it’s crucial to grasp how they differ from traditional cooking methods and what sets them apart from other kitchen appliances.
At its core, an airfryer is a countertop appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food. However, there’s more to it than just hot air. Let’s explore the fundamental components and elements that make airfryers a unique and versatile cooking tool.
The Science Behind Airfrying
Airfryers operate on the principle of convection cooking. A fan circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside moist.
This method allows for a speedy cooking process, often cutting down the cooking time by up to 50% compared to conventional ovens. Moreover, because it uses hot air instead of oil, the food turns out to be much healthier, with fewer calories and less fat.
The Key Components
The heating element generates the heat, while the fan circulates the hot air. Some models come with additional accessories like grill racks or skewers, enhancing their versatility.
Temperature and Time Controls
Most airfryers come with adjustable temperature settings, usually ranging from around 180 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (or approximately 80 to 200 degrees Celsius). This wide range allows you to cook a variety of foods, from delicate pastries to hearty meats.
The time control is another crucial feature, enabling you to set the cooking duration to achieve the desired results.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount concern when dealing with hot appliances. Many airfryers come equipped with safety features like auto-shutoff, which turns off the appliance when the cooking time is up, and cool-touch exteriors to prevent accidental burns. S
ome even have overheat protection, which shuts off the appliance if it gets too hot.
Energy Efficiency
Airfryers are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ovens. They heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature, reducing the overall cooking time and, consequently, energy consumption. This efficiency not only saves you time but also contributes to lower electricity bills.
By understanding these basic elements and features, you’ll be better equipped to choose an airfryer that suits your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in quick and healthy meals or looking for an appliance that offers a range of cooking options, an airfryer can be a valuable addition to your kitchen.
The Best Airfryer: What to Look For
Choosing the right airfryer can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in the market.
Types of Airfryers
When it comes to airfryers, one size doesn’t fit all. The market is flooded with various types, each offering unique features and benefits. Understanding the different types can help you make a more informed decision tailored to your specific needs.
Classic Airfryers
These are the original models that most people are familiar with. They come with a removable basket where you place the food for cooking. Classic airfryers are straightforward to use and generally more affordable, making them a good fit for those new to air frying or those who prefer simplicity.
Airfryer Ovens
These models resemble mini ovens and often come with additional cooking functions like baking, roasting, and even dehydrating. They usually have more extensive cooking space and may include multiple racks or trays, allowing you to cook different foods simultaneously. If you’re looking for a multi-functional appliance, an airfryer oven could be the right choice.
Dual-Basket Airfryers
These airfryers come with two separate cooking compartments, enabling you to cook two different foods at the same time. This feature is particularly useful for preparing complete meals more quickly and efficiently. However, they do tend to take up more counter space.
Airfryer Toaster Ovens
A hybrid between a toaster oven and an airfryer, these models offer the best of both worlds. They can toast, bake, and air fry, providing a versatile cooking experience. They are usually larger and can be a good option if you’re looking to replace multiple appliances.
Instant Pot with Airfryer Lid
If you already own an Instant Pot, you can buy an airfryer lid to convert it into an airfryer. This is a space-saving option that adds air frying capabilities to your existing pressure cooker.
Examining Size and Capacity: What to Consider
The size and capacity of an airfryer are crucial factors that can significantly impact your cooking experience. Here’s what you need to consider:
Countertop Space
Before buying an airfryer, measure the available space on your kitchen countertop.
Cooking Volume
The capacity of the airfryer’s basket or cooking compartment is measured in litres or quarts.
Smaller models may have a capacity as low as 2 litres, suitable for one or two people.
Medium-sized airfryers often have a capacity of around 4 to 5 litres, ideal for a family of four.
Larger models can go up to 12 litres, suitable for larger families or batch cooking.
Number of People
If you’re cooking for just yourself or another person, a smaller model may suffice. For families, a medium to large airfryer is generally more practical. Consider the amount of food you’ll typically be cooking to determine the best size for your needs.
Cooking Speed
Larger airfryers may take slightly longer to cook food due to the increased volume. However, models with higher wattage can cook faster. If speed is a priority, look for an airfryer with a higher wattage and advanced airflow technology.
By understanding the different types of airfryers and considering the size and capacity that best suit your needs, you’ll be well on your way to making a purchase that brings convenience, versatility, and health benefits to your cooking routine.
Cooking Functions, Temperature, and Time Controls in Airfryers
When it comes to airfryers, the devil is in the details—or rather, in the cooking functions, temperature, and time controls.
These features can significantly impact your cooking experience, and understanding them can help you make a more informed choice.
Let’s delve deeper into these aspects.
Cooking Functions: More Than Just Frying
Airfryers have evolved to become multi-functional appliances, offering a range of cooking methods beyond just frying. Here’s a breakdown of some common cooking functions you might encounter:
- Air Frying: The primary function, ideal for cooking foods like fries, chicken wings, and fish sticks to crispy perfection.
- Grilling: Some models come with grill plates or accessories that allow you to grill meats and vegetables, adding a smoky flavor and grill marks.
- Roasting: Ideal for cooking larger pieces of meat or whole vegetables, roasting in an airfryer can be quicker and more energy-efficient than using a conventional oven.
- Baking: Yes, you can bake in an airfryer! From cupcakes to small batches of cookies, some airfryers come with a baking function and accessories like cake pans.
- Dehydrating: A feature usually found in high-end models, dehydrating allows you to make homemade dried fruits, jerky, and herbs.
- Reheating: Some airfryers offer a reheating function that revives leftover food better than a microwave, restoring its original texture.
Temperature Controls: Precision Matters
The ability to control the cooking temperature is crucial for achieving the desired results. Here’s why temperature controls are important:
- Wide Range: Most airfryers offer a temperature range from around 180 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 80 to 200 degrees Celsius). A wider range provides more versatility in cooking different types of food.
- Digital vs. Manual: While manual dials offer a more tactile experience, digital controls provide more precise temperature settings. Some high-end models even allow you to adjust the temperature in 5-degree increments.
- Pre-Set Options: Many airfryers come with pre-set temperature options for common foods, taking the guesswork out of cooking.
Time Controls: Timing is Everything
Just like temperature, the ability to control cooking time is vital for perfecting your dishes. Here’s what to look for:
- Adjustable Timer: Most airfryers come with a timer that can be set for up to 60 minutes, although some models offer extended times for slow-cooking recipes.
- Auto-Shutoff: This safety feature automatically turns off the airfryer when the set time has elapsed, preventing overcooking and potential fire hazards.
- Delay Start: Some advanced models offer a delay start feature, allowing you to set the airfryer to start cooking at a later time.
- Keep Warm: A convenient feature that keeps your food warm after cooking, ideal for those times when you’re not quite ready to eat.
By understanding the intricacies of cooking functions, temperature, and time controls, you can select an airfryer that offers the flexibility and precision you need to master a wide array of culinary delights. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, these features can make your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient.
Special Features of Airfryers
In today’s tech-savvy world, airfryers are no longer just about hot air and a cooking basket.
Digital Touchscreen Interface
While traditional airfryers come with manual dials for time and temperature settings, many modern models feature a digital touchscreen interface. This allows for more precise control over cooking conditions and often includes pre-set cooking options for popular foods like fries, chicken, and fish.
Mobile App Connectivity
Some high-end airfryers offer the ability to connect to a mobile app via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This feature allows you to control your airfryer remotely, receive notifications when your food is ready, and even access a library of recipes tailored for air frying.
Pre-Set Cooking Programs
Many airfryers come with pre-set cooking programs that take the guesswork out of preparing certain dishes. For instance, you can select a ‘Chicken’ or ‘Fish’ option, and the airfryer will automatically adjust the time and temperature based on that specific food.
Multiple Cooking Functions
Apart from air frying, some models offer additional cooking methods like grilling, roasting, baking, and even dehydrating. These multi-functional airfryers are excellent for those who want to experiment with different cooking styles without investing in multiple appliances.
Viewing Window
A viewing window can be a handy feature, especially for those new to air frying. It allows you to monitor the cooking process without opening the appliance, thus maintaining a consistent temperature and cooking time.
Auto-Shutoff and Timer
Safety is paramount, and the auto-shutoff feature ensures that the airfryer turns off once the cooking time has elapsed. This is particularly useful for those who are often multi-tasking and might forget to switch off the appliance. Some models also come with a timer that can be set for extended periods, useful for recipes that require longer cooking times.
Food Agitator
Some airfryers come with a built-in food agitator that automatically stirs the food during the cooking process. This ensures even cooking and eliminates the need to manually shake the basket, particularly useful for foods like fries or vegetable chunks.
Non-Stick and Dishwasher-Safe Components
Ease of cleaning is a significant factor for many people. Airfryers with non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe components make the cleaning process much more straightforward, saving you time and effort.
Voice Control and Smart Home Integration
In the age of smart homes, some airfryers can be integrated with voice-controlled assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This allows you to control the appliance using voice commands, adding an extra layer of convenience.
By considering these special features, you can choose an airfryer that not only meets your basic cooking needs but also offers additional conveniences that align with your lifestyle. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast looking for the latest innovations or someone who values safety and ease of use, there’s likely an airfryer out there with features designed just for you.
Ease of Cleaning: A Hassle-Free Experience
Nobody enjoys spending ages scrubbing kitchen appliances. That’s why ease of cleaning is a vital factor to consider when choosing an airfryer. Here are some features that can make your life easier:
- Removable Parts: Look for an airfryer with removable cooking baskets, trays, and racks. This makes it easier to clean each component thoroughly.
- Non-Stick Coating: A non-stick surface on the cooking basket or tray can be a game-changer. It not only makes for easier food release but also simplifies the cleaning process.
- Dishwasher-Safe Components: Some airfryers come with parts that are dishwasher-safe. This feature can save you a lot of time and effort, especially if you use your airfryer frequently.
- Easy-to-Wipe Exterior: An airfryer with a smooth exterior that’s easy to wipe down can help maintain the appliance’s appearance over time.
- Built-in Oil Collector: Some models come with a built-in oil collector that gathers excess oil during cooking. This feature makes it easier to dispose of the oil and keeps the appliance cleaner.
Energy Efficiency: Good for Your Wallet and the Planet
Airfryers are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ovens, but there are still variations between models. Here’s what to consider:
- Wattage: Airfryers typically range from 800 to 2100 watts. Higher wattage usually means faster cooking, but it can also mean higher energy consumption. Choose a model that offers a good balance between cooking speed and energy use.
- Quick Preheating: One of the advantages of airfryers is their quick preheating time, usually around 2-5 minutes. This not only speeds up your cooking but also saves energy compared to traditional ovens that can take up to 15 minutes to preheat.
- Auto-Shutoff: This feature not only adds a layer of safety but also contributes to energy efficiency by turning off the appliance as soon as the cooking is done.
- Insulated Body: Some high-end airfryers come with an insulated body that retains heat better, reducing the amount of energy needed to maintain cooking temperatures.
- Energy Star Rating: While not common for all airfryers, some models may come with an Energy Star rating, indicating that they meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Safety Features: More Than Just a Cooking Tool
When it comes to kitchen appliances, safety should never be an afterthought. Airfryers, with their high temperatures and electrical components, are no exception.
Another safety feature to consider is the cool-touch exterior. This is especially important in households with children or pets, where accidental touches can lead to burns. Some airfryers also come with overheat protection, which automatically shuts off the appliance if it gets too hot, providing an extra layer of safety.
Price and Budget: Balancing Cost and Features
Price is often a decisive factor when choosing an airfryer, but it’s important to balance cost with features. Airfryers come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly models that cost around $50 to high-end versions that can go up to $300 or more. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest model, it’s crucial to consider what you’re getting for the price.
Budget models often offer basic features and may lack the durability and versatility of more expensive ones. On the other hand, high-end models usually come with additional features like digital displays, mobile app connectivity, and multiple cooking functions. If you’re planning to use your airfryer frequently or for various cooking methods, investing in a more expensive model may offer better value in the long run.
Reviews: The Voice of Experience
Last but not least, never underestimate the power of customer reviews. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance, durability, and ease of use of an airfryer. They can also highlight any common issues or drawbacks that may not be immediately apparent from the product description.
While brand reputation can give you some indication of quality, reviews offer real-world experiences from people who have actually used the product. Look for reviews that cover a range of experiences and focus on aspects that are important to you, such as ease of cleaning, cooking speed, and the quality of the food produced.
By taking the time to read reviews, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of how an airfryer performs, helping you make a more informed decision. It’s always better to spend a little extra time researching than to rush into a purchase you might later regret.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect airfryer is more than just a shopping decision; it’s an investment in your culinary journey. From understanding the basics and types of airfryers to diving into the nitty-gritty of special features, cooking functions, and safety measures, each aspect plays a crucial role in shaping your cooking experience.
In the end, the best airfryer for you is one that aligns with your cooking needs, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you’re a college student looking for a healthier way to prepare meals, a busy parent in need of quick and easy dinner solutions, or a culinary enthusiast eager to experiment, there’s an airfryer out there that’s just right for you.
So take your time, do your research, and make a choice that you’ll be happy with for years to come. Happy cooking!
Recommended Airfryers
Taking into account the advice above, analysing buyer opinions, and the available offerings, we recommend the following models of Airfryers that offer excellent value for money.
Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer, 2 Drawers, 7.6L, 6-in-1, Uses No Oil, Air Fry, Max Crisp,…
- ENERGY-SAVING: Save up to 75% on your energy bill* (*testing and calculations based on recommended cook time for sausages, using…
- 2 INDEPENDENT COOKING ZONES: Cook 2 foods, 2 ways, both ready at the same time. Use different functions, times and…
- 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate. Cook from frozen to crispy. Up to 75% less…
- LARGE CAPACITY: Cook 4-6 portions. Each drawer fits up to 1kg of fries or a 1.6kg chicken. Cook up to…
- INCLUDES: Ninja Air Fryer (UK Plug), 2x Non-stick, dishwasher-safe 3.8L Drawers (7.6L total capacity) & Crisper Plates. Chef-Created Recipe Guide.…
- DIMENSIONS: H31.5cm x W38cm x D26.5cm. 2-year guarantee upon registration with Ninja (UK & ROI only).
COSORI Dual Blaze Smart Air Fryer Oven, 6.4L, No Shaking Double Heating Elements, 12 Functions with APP Control,…
- 𝑫𝒖𝒂𝒍-𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕: Top and bottom heating elements with dual sensors deliver more precise temperature control — cooking up to twice…
- 6.4𝑳 𝑳𝒂𝒓𝒈𝒆 𝑪𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒊𝒕𝒚: Ideal for family meals and gatherings; cook more in one go. The BPA-free, non-stick basket makes clean-up…
- 𝑺𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑼𝒑 𝑻𝒐 55% 𝑶𝒏 𝑬𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒈𝒚 𝑩𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒔: COSORI is committed to providing a better way for cooking holding the half…
- 12 𝑽𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝑭𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔: No Preheating, No Waiting Nearby; A simple tap on the screen is all it takes to start…
- 𝑪𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝑺𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒓: Get the most out of your smart air fryer with access to all Cosori recipes and personal recipe…
CHEFMAN 5.6L Dual Air Fryer Oven, Dishwasher Safe Frying Baskets, Double Air Fryer with Sync Finish, Hi-Fry, Auto…
- DUAL AIR FRYER WITH 2 BASKETS: Cook food faster and more conveniently with two powerful air fryers in one with…
- VERSATILE COOKING OPTIONS: Dual zone air fryer technology gives you the flexibility to cook different dishes simultaneously, or to easily…
- FOOD FINISHES TOGETHER: Convenient Sync Finish allows individual 2.8-litre large capacity air fryer double baskets to finish cooking at the…
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: Digital air fryer dual basket temperature settings from 90-235°C allows you to cook at low and high…
- HEALTHY FOOD PREP: Enjoy all your favorite fried foods without sacrificing flavor or quality; this dual basket air fryer convection…
- LARGE VIEWING WINDOWS: Effortlessly monitor and observe your air-fryer oven's cooking progress, ensuring perfect doneness and precision every single time.
- EASY CLEANUP: The removable, non-stick coated air fryer dual baskets are dishwasher safe and easy to clean after every use.
- AIR FRY ALL YOUR FAVORITES: Perfectly cook chicken, vegetables, pizza, chips, frozen foods, and even leftovers with touchscreen presets in…
- SLEEK COUNTERTOP DESIGN: The compact air fryer size and sleek convection oven countertop design will seamlessly fit in with your…
- RESOURCES: REACH & RoHS approved with advanced safety technology for long lasting durability, & 2-year warranty provided by Chefman, so…
Ninja Air Fryer MAX PRO, 6.2L, Uses No Oil, Large Square Single Drawer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Family…
- AMAZON EXCLUSIVE: Black and Copper Air Fryer with Silicone Tongs. Quickly cook delicious mains, sides & snacks using little to…
- ENERGY-SAVING: Save up to 60% on your energy bill* (*testing and calculations based on recommended cook time for sausages, using…
- 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate. Cook frozen food in minutes with Max Crisp and…
- LARGER CAPACITY (vs Ninja AF160). Family-size 6.2L square drawer fits 4 chicken breasts. Perfect for 1-4 people. Cooks up to…
- INCLUDES: Ninja Single Drawer Air Fryer (UK Plug), Silicone Tongs, Non-stick, dishwasher-safe 6.2L Basket & Adjustable Crisper Plate. Chef-Created Recipe…
- DIMENSIONS: H:30.5cm x W:28cm x D:36cm. 2-year guarantee upon registration with Ninja (UK & ROI only).
Philips Airfryer 2000 Series 6.2L - 1700W Power, Cooking Window, RapidAir Technology, Digital Touch Screen, 13 Cooking Options,…
- RapidAir Technology: Enjoy irresistibly crispy exteriors and tender interiors with minimal oil, thanks to the unique starfish bottom design that…
- 13 in 1 Baking: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets to…
- Cooking window: Keep an eye on your food while it is cooking and see when it is cooked to perfection.
- Compact design: Ideal for all kitchen sizes, this versatile airfryer holds up to 800g of French fries, 8 chicken drumsticks…
- Touch screen control with 9 presets: frozen fries, fresh fries, chicken, meat, fish, breakfast, vegetables, cakes, keep warm.
- Quick and easy to clean: Save time on cleaning with our non-stick StarPlate that is dishwasher safe.
- HomeID Recipe App: Discover a variety of free recipes and custom settings for your airfryer, simplifying cooking for 93% of…
Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone Air Fryer, Amazon Exclusive, Tongs, 2 Drawers, 9.5L, 6-in-1, Use No Oil, Air…
- AMAZON EXCLUSIVE: This 6-in-1 Dual Zone Air Fryer features sleek copper accents and includes a pair of Silicone Tongs. 6…
- ENERGY-SAVING: Save up to 65% on your energy bill* (*testing and calculations based on recommended cook time for sausages, using…
- 2 INDEPENDENT COOKING ZONES: Cook 2 foods, 2 ways, both ready at the same time. Quick, complete meals using no…
- EXTRA-LARGE CAPACITY: Cook up to 8 portions. Each drawer fits up to 1.4kg fries or a 2kg chicken. Cook up…
- INCLUDES: Ninja Dual Drawer Air Fryer (UK Plug), Silicone tongs, 2x non-stick dishwasher-safe 4.75L Drawers (9.5L total capacity) & Crisper…
- DIMENSIONS: H32.5cm x W41.5cm x D27cm. 2-year guarantee upon registration with Ninja (UK & ROI only).
Tefal Easy Fry Pizza, XL Surface, Large Air Fryer, Spacious Basket, Up To 1 Kg of Fries, Compact…
- Perfect pizza, every time: Fresh pizza in just 6 minutes, frozen in 8, with precise, even cooking
- Extra Large Cooking surface: Cook more in a compact, space-saving design, Giant Zone: W34cm x L23cm x H12.5cm
- More than just Pizza: From pizza to fries, the Easy Fry Pizza handles all your favourites.
- Crispier food, faster cooking: Extra-Crisp technology and double heaters ensure crispy results in no time.
- Monitor cooking without interruptions: The viewing window lets you check your food without opening the basket.
- Effortless control at your fingertips: User-friendly digital controls make adjusting time, temperature, and settings simple.
- Energy-efficient, faster cooking: Uses up to 70% less energy** and cooks up to 45% faster* than traditional ovens.
- Personalised cooking with My Tefal: Tailor-made recipes and personalised services via the My Tefal app.
- 15-year repairability guarantee: We extensively test our products to ensure the highest safety and quality, with the added benefit of…
- * test conducted on frozen fries in 2022. ** test conducted in 2024
Ninja Double Stack XL Air Fryer, Vertical Dual Drawer AirFryer with 4 cooking levels, 2 Drawers and 2…
- SAVE SPACE ON YOUR KITCHEN COUNTER: 30% slimmer (vs AF400). Extra-large 9.5L capacity feeds 8 people. Cook up to 55%…
- COOK ON 4 LEVELS AT THE SAME TIME: Includes 2 x drawers AND 2x meal racks giving you 4 levels,…
- ENERGY EFFICIENT: Cook using up to 55% less energy than an oven* (*testing and calculations based on recommended cook time…
- 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate. Up to 75% less fat* using the Air Fry…
- INCLUDES: Ninja Double Stack 9.5L Air Fryer (UK Plug), 2x 4.75L Drawers, 2x Non-Stick Crisper Plates, 2x Racks. Dishwasher Safe…
- Free 2 year guarantee upon registration with Ninja (UK & ROI only)
