Air fryers have established themselves as versatile helpers in many kitchens. They allow you to prepare food with significantly less fat compared to conventional deep fryers and impress with their speed and versatility. However, the market is vast, and the selection can be overwhelming. This guide is designed to help you understand the key criteria and find a model that meets your needs for capacity, materials, and functionality.
The right model for you depends on your individual needs. Three main factors are particularly relevant: capacity and design, the material of the cooking chamber, and the range of functions.
Capacity, usually measured in litres, is a crucial criterion. For individuals or couples, appliances with a volume of 3 to 5 litres are often sufficient. In contrast, a large air fryer for a family should have a capacity of at least 6 litres to prepare enough portions at once. Such models are often labelled as XXL air fryers.
An interesting development is the emergence of models like the dual-zone air fryer. These allow you to cook two different dishes simultaneously at different temperatures and times—ideal for preparing complete meals without any components getting cold.
The material of the basket and the interior is an important consideration for many users, especially regarding durability and food safety.
The type of control system impacts everyday convenience. There are two basic approaches:
Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of models that cater to different needs. If you're looking to buy an air fryer, you'll find your guide here.
What sets this model apart The ROUNY Air Fryer makes a strong statement with its material quality. Both the interior and the cooking basket are made entirely of 304 stainless steel, preventing food from coming into contact with plastic at high temperatures. Operation is kept deliberately simple with two classic rotary dials for temperature and time. With a 6.5-litre capacity and a viewing window, this appliance is well-suited for families who value durability and a minimalist user experience.
Advantages:
Who is this appliance for? This model is an excellent choice for health- and safety-conscious users who prefer an uncoated air fryer and can do without digital extras or app control. It is aimed at those looking for a robust, straightforward appliance for daily family use.
What sets this model apart The Philips Air Fryer XL is a smart air fryer with app connectivity. It connects to the NutriU app, which provides access to hundreds of recipes and allows for remote control of the appliance. According to the manufacturer, its Rapid Air technology ensures even air circulation. With a 6.2-litre capacity and 13 preset cooking functions, this device offers great flexibility for a wide variety of dishes.
Advantages:
Who is this appliance for? This appliance is aimed at tech-savvy users and families who appreciate the convenience of app control and the inspiration from a recipe database. Anyone looking for a versatile all-rounder from an established brand will find this to be an excellent match.
What sets this model apart The COSORI Turbo Tower is a dual-zone air fryer with an innovative, vertical design. With its stacked baskets (6.5 L and 4.3 L), the manufacturer claims it saves up to 32% of counter space compared to side-by-side dual-chamber models. The baskets feature a PFAS-free ceramic coating. Thanks to its SYNC functions, both zones can be coordinated so that all components of a meal finish cooking at the same time.
Advantages:
Who is this appliance for? Ideal for families or ambitious home cooks who want to prepare complete meals in a single appliance and value a space-saving solution. The PFAS-free coating also appeals to safety-conscious consumers.
The models featured here cover a broad spectrum, but the market offers many more variations. If you're looking for specific features or different sizes, it's worth exploring the entire range.
Discover our full selection of air fryers and find the appliance that fits perfectly into your kitchen.
An air fryer is essentially a small, high-powered convection oven. A heating element heats the air inside to 200°C or more. A fan then circulates this hot air rapidly and evenly around the food. This process cooks the food and creates a crispy exterior, similar to deep-frying, but with minimal or no oil.
No, adding oil is not strictly necessary in most cases. For many foods like frozen French fries or breaded items, no extra oil is needed. For fresh ingredients like homemade fries or vegetables, a teaspoon of oil can help make the result even crispier and more flavourful. However, compared to a conventional deep fryer, the amount of fat is drastically reduced.
Cleaning is generally straightforward. On most models, the cooking basket and drip tray are removable and dishwasher-safe. It is recommended to clean these parts after each use to prevent food residue from baking on. The appliance's housing and interior can be wiped down with a damp cloth after it has cooled. The main unit itself must never be submerged in water.