An air fryer with a grill function promises the best of both worlds: crispy French fries with almost no oil and juicy steaks with authentic grill marks, all from a single, compact appliance. These 2-in-1 devices are especially appealing for households looking for a versatile and fast indoor cooking solution. However, the market is flooded with models whose marketing promises often fall short in practice. Before you make a decision, it's crucial to understand the common pitfalls that can lead to disappointment.
Many appliances boast multifunctionality, but not all deliver convincing results. Watch out for these three common issues to avoid making a bad purchase.
To ensure your appliance excels at both air frying and grilling, you should check three core technical features.
High wattage is crucial for authentic grilling performance. Models with at least 1800 watts and a maximum temperature of 230°C (450°F) or more are capable of generating the necessary heat for a proper sear. This high temperature is the fundamental requirement for a true electric indoor grill that creates roasted flavours and grill marks instead of just drying out the food.
The quality of the grill grate directly impacts the result. A solid die-cast aluminium or cast-iron grill grate retains heat much better than a simple chrome-plated wire rack. Only a heavy, highly conductive grate can transfer heat quickly to the food to create those signature grill marks. Look for a sturdy, non-stick surface that also simplifies cleaning.
Check the dimensions of the grill plate or basket, not just the litre volume. Consider what you typically plan to cook. For a family of four, the grilling surface should have enough space for at least four burger patties or two large steaks. Useful accessories, like different inserts for oil-free frying or dehydrating, expand the appliance's functionality and turn it into a true 2-in-1 air fryer.
Instead of making a one-size-fits-all recommendation, we have identified models tailored to specific needs and household sizes.
Why it's a good fit: Ideal for families seeking a straightforward, all-in-one solution for daily use. The 4.2-litre capacity is designed for up to 6 portions, and its 8 automatic programs cover many common dishes, from French fries to grilled chicken.
The appliance features a die-cast aluminium grill grate that effectively retains heat to create proper grill marks, thus avoiding the trap of simply "browning with hot air."
The combination of Extra Crisp technology for crunchy results and a cooking time that is, according to Tefal, 49% faster than a conventional oven makes it a time- and energy-saving option.
Why it's a good fit: For those who demand maximum power and control for perfect grilling results. Its high power and temperature are ideal for searing meat and fish, making it a favourite for discerning cooks.
With a power output of 2400 watts and a maximum temperature of 260°C (500°F), this appliance is one of the most powerful in its class. It delivers the necessary heat for a true grilling reaction, bypassing the problem of weak "grill" programs.
Four adjustable grill levels allow for precise customisation for different types of food. The high power ensures rapid preheating and efficient, energy-saving cooking.
Why this accessory fits: For users who leave nothing to chance. A precise thermometer is essential for measuring the internal temperature of meat and hitting the perfect level of doneness—no matter which appliance you use.
It exposes inaccurate temperature displays on the appliance itself. You can precisely measure the actual surface temperature of the grill grate and the internal temperature of the food, giving you complete control.
The combination of non-contact infrared measurement and a K-type probe for contact measurement offers maximum flexibility. It provides a highly accurate reading in just 0.5 seconds.
Outdoor cooking remains a popular alternative. We've curated a selection of appliances for this purpose that cater to a variety of needs.
Power consumption depends on the wattage and duration of use. An appliance with 2000 watts (2 kW) running for half an hour consumes 1 kWh of electricity. Compared to a conventional oven, which often requires 2500-3000 watts and a longer preheating time, an air fryer is typically the more energy-efficient choice for small to medium portions. Furthermore, efficient high-power models cook faster, which further reduces the total runtime and consumption.
The typical smoky aroma of a charcoal grill cannot be fully replicated in an electric indoor appliance. However, a high-quality air fryer with a grill function can use high temperatures and a solid grill grate to create intense roasted flavours and a caramelised crust (the Maillard reaction), which comes very close to the taste experience of a gas grill. For quick and healthy recipes in daily life, the result is often more than convincing.
Most modern grill grates and baskets are dishwasher-safe. For stubborn residue, it's best to soak the grate in warm, soapy water immediately after it has cooled down. A soft brush helps remove burnt-on food without damaging the non-stick coating. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive scourers, as they can scratch the surface and compromise its non-stick properties.