Joybuy Insights

Buying an air fryer: what matters when it comes to size, features and cleaning

An air fryer can prepare chips, vegetables, fish and baked goods using very little oil, while also complementing the oven in many kitchens. Even so, it is worth taking a close look at the technical specifications. As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I assess marketing claims against clear, verifiable criteria and show which design is best suited to each household.

Common air fryer buying misconceptions

1. The litre capacity does not tell you everything

A high capacity figure may sound convincing at first. However, what really matters is how much cooking surface is actually available and whether the food can be arranged in a single, loose layer. An overfilled basket restricts hot-air circulation, which can result in unevenly cooked food.

For one person, a compact air fryer with a capacity of around 2 litres is often sufficient. Couples will usually prefer 4 to 6 litres. Families can benefit from a large family-sized air fryer or two separate cooking chambers.

2. “No oil” does not apply equally to every dish

An oil-free fryer uses circulating hot air instead of an oil bath. Some ingredients require no additional oil, but a few drops or a fine coating of oil can improve browning when cooking potatoes or breaded foods. The actual amount depends on the food, its preparation and the result you want to achieve.

Terms such as “low-fat fryer” therefore describe the cooking method, but do not constitute a health claim. Nutritional values and ingredients remain the deciding factors.

3. Convenience features are not automatically useful

A touchscreen, viewing window or wide range of programmes can make an appliance easier to use. However, these features often also increase the complexity of the appliance. Before buying, consider whether you will actually use the feature in everyday life. A viewing window, for example, is useful when you want to monitor the cooking process without pulling out the basket. Programmes still do not replace checking the quantity, thickness and cooking status of the food.

The most important technical criteria

Capacity and design

As well as the litre capacity, check the external dimensions and the amount of available worktop space. A vertical dual-zone air fryer can be practical when space is limited, while baskets arranged side by side are easier to access.

  • 1 to 2 people: around 2 to 4 litres
  • 2 to 4 people: around 5 to 8 litres
  • Families and meal prep: around 9 litres or more
  • Two cooking zones: separate temperature and time controls for different foods

With a dual-basket air fryer, features such as “Sync Finish” or simultaneous completion are useful when you want to serve the side dish and main course together.

Temperature range, power and programmes

The adjustable temperature range should suit the way you plan to use the appliance. According to its product specifications, the Gorenje model AF1350DWB, for example, operates at 80 to 200 °C, has a 60-minute timer and eight preset programmes. A higher wattage does not automatically mean shorter cooking times. Basket size, heating technology and airflow also affect the result.

Look for:

  • manual temperature and time settings,
  • easy-to-understand programme symbols,
  • an audible signal or shake reminder,
  • automatic switch-off,
  • sufficient ventilation clearance,
  • a mains connection with the correct voltage for Germany.

Coating, materials and cleaning

Metal utensils and abrasive cleaning products should not be used with coated baskets. A dishwasher-safe air fryer reduces the cleaning effort, but you should still follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the basket, rack and accessories.

Coating-free glass or stainless-steel containers may appeal to buyers who prefer an alternative material. Regardless of the material, the housing containing the heating element and electronics must never be immersed in water.

Our selection by user profile

The following models have been matched to different everyday situations based on their capacity, design, controls and cleaning features.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Midea 2L Air Fryer

Midea 2L Air Fryer, 1150 W

Why this product suits the profile: The 2-litre basket is designed for individuals or two smaller portions and takes up relatively little worktop space.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The clearly limited capacity prevents a small appliance from being overloaded with family-sized portions.

Main benefit & strengths

1150 W, 60-minute timer, non-stick basket and dishwasher-safe removable parts.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality expectations
COSORI Turbo Tower Air Fryer 10.8L

COSORI Turbo Tower Air Fryer 10.8 l

Why this product suits the profile: Two vertically arranged chambers and an additional rack are ideal for households that want to prepare several components while making efficient use of limited floor space.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The separate compartments reduce the mixing of different foods, while the vertical design makes targeted use of the available worktop space.

Main benefit & strengths

10.8-litre total capacity, seven functions, three cooking levels and dishwasher-safe accessories.

Suitable for: Households wanting to monitor cooking through a viewing window
Ninja Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer 9.5L

Ninja Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer 9.5 l

Why this product suits the profile: Meal-prep households and families can prepare different dishes in two independent drawers, each with its own settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The two 4.75-litre drawers eliminate the need to compromise between different temperatures and cooking times.

Main benefit & strengths

Six functions, independent zones, plus dishwasher-safe drawers and crisper plates.

Suitable for: Households wanting a clear view of the cooking process
Gorenje AF1350DWB Air Fryer 5.4 Litres

Gorenje AF1350DWB Air Fryer 5.4 l

Why this product suits the profile: The viewing window lets you monitor the cooking process without pulling out the basket and interrupting the cycle.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The viewing window reduces unnecessary opening, while manual settings remain available despite the eight programmes.

Main benefit & strengths

80 to 200 °C, 60-minute timer, LED touch controls and dishwasher-safe removable parts.

Accessories: how to use air fryer baking paper and inserts correctly

Air fryer baking paper can catch grease and batter residue, making cleaning easier. However, it must not be left loose in the basket while preheating, as the airflow could carry it towards the heating element. Food should weigh the paper down. The shape must also fit the basket, and air circulation must not be completely blocked.

When choosing air fryer inserts, the material, heat resistance and dimensions are crucial. According to the product specifications, round 20 cm inserts are suitable for many 5 to 8 quart baskets. For larger or rectangular baskets, sizes such as 23 × 23 × 4.5 cm are available. Measure the inside of your appliance before buying. In addition, a wire basket for air fryer can provide extra levels or allow for a different arrangement.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about air fryers

How much oil does an air fryer need?

Depending on the food, no additional oil or only a small amount may be needed. Frozen products that have already been partially fried often contain their own fat. Fresh potatoes can be tossed with a few drops of oil. The instruction manual and the specific recipe are the key points to follow.

How long does an air fryer last?

Its lifespan depends on how often it is used, how it is cleaned and how the coatings are treated. Removable parts should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Metal utensils, harsh cleaning products, overfilling and blocked ventilation can increase wear and tear.

Does an air fryer use less energy than an oven?

There is no universal answer. Cooking chamber size, operating time, temperature and how fully the appliance is loaded all affect energy consumption. For small portions, a compact air fryer may require less space to heat. Comparable figures can only be obtained by measuring both appliances under identical conditions.