An air fryer with a grill function promises the best of both worlds: crispy French fries with almost no oil and juicy grilled steak with authentic char-grilled flavours, all from one compact appliance. However, the market is saturated with models whose marketing promises often fall short in practice. Many buyers soon discover that the grill function is disappointing, or that cleaning the appliance negates its everyday usability.
This guide will help you identify the crucial features that define a high-quality combination appliance. We'll show you the three typical pitfalls to avoid and which technical parameters truly matter, enabling you to make an informed purchasing decision.
Before you invest, you should be aware of these common issues that often only become apparent after the purchase:
To avoid the pitfalls mentioned above, focus your selection on the following three core technical features. These are the primary determinants of the performance and everyday usability of your air fryer with grill function.
A true grill and air fryer combo needs more than just circulating hot air. Look for models that feature a separate, powerful heating element located under or within the grill plate. The achievable temperature range is critical. While temperatures around 200°C are sufficient for oil-free frying, an electric indoor grill requires temperatures of at least 230°C to 260°C for searing meat. A wide temperature spectrum also allows for versatile applications like dehydrating at low temperatures and provides flexibility for healthy cooking.
The quality of the grill plate is non-negotiable. A simple wire rack cannot retain and transfer heat effectively. Look for a solid grill plate made of die-cast aluminium or cast iron. These materials offer excellent heat retention and distribute it evenly to the food, which is essential for creating characteristic grill marks and an intense Maillard reaction (browning). A high-quality non-stick coating also facilitates low-fat cooking and subsequent cleaning.
The size of the appliance should suit your household. A capacity of approx. 4 litres is generally sufficient for two to three people, while families should opt for models with over 6 litres. Ensure that all parts that come into contact with food, such as the cooking basket and grill plate, are easily removable and explicitly labelled as dishwasher-safe. This is a crucial factor for long-term user satisfaction.
Based on the criteria above, we have curated a selection of products suitable for various user profiles and needs.
Why it's a good fit: Ideal for small families or couples in city apartments who need a fast, versatile, and straightforward solution for daily meals. The 8 automatic programmes take the guesswork out of cooking.
The included die-cast aluminium grill plate ensures authentic grilling results, bypassing the "pseudo-grill" trap. Furthermore, the parts are dishwasher-safe, which solves the cleaning problem.
Combines proven 2-in-1 technology with intuitive operation and easy cleaning. According to the manufacturer, the appliance is up to 49% faster than a conventional oven.
Why it's a good fit: For ambitious cooks who demand maximum power and control for perfect grilling results. The high temperature allows for searing steaks just like on a full-sized grill.
With 2400 watts of power and a maximum temperature of 260°C, this model directly addresses the inefficient performance trap. It delivers the necessary heat for true grilling, not just warming.
The high temperature, combined with 4 adjustable grill levels, offers exceptional control and versatility that goes beyond standard air fryers.
Why this accessory is a good fit: For anyone who refuses to leave cooking to chance. An indispensable tool for accurately measuring the surface temperature of the grill plate and the internal temperature of your food.
It allows you to objectively verify your appliance's actual performance. You can measure precisely whether the advertised temperature is being reached, thus avoiding the trap of inefficient performance.
The combination of non-contact infrared measurement and a K-type probe port (grill thermometer) offers maximum precision for reproducible results with every cook.
Why it's a good fit: For users with a balcony or patio who prefer the authentic charcoal aroma and are looking for a space-saving yet dedicated outdoor grilling solution.
This appliance makes no compromises. It is a pure charcoal grill and doesn't try to imitate other functions. You get exactly what you expect: a classic grilling experience.
Authentic charcoal-grilled flavour in a compact, portable, and GS/T?V-certified design that is ideal for small outdoor spaces.
If you prefer the classic outdoor grilling experience, we have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet strict selection criteria and safety regulations.
As a rule, such a combination appliance is significantly more energy-efficient for preparing small to medium-sized portions than a conventional oven. The cooking chamber is smaller, heats up faster, and cooking times are often shorter. Manufacturers like Tefal state that their devices can operate up to 49% faster, which can lead to corresponding energy savings.
Yes, it is possible, provided the appliance meets the right criteria. A solid grill plate made of a heat-retaining material like die-cast aluminium and a sufficiently high maximum temperature (above 230°C) are crucial. Models that only offer a simple wire rack will not produce satisfactory grill marks.
The cleaning effort depends heavily on the specific model. When purchasing, make sure that the grill plate, cooking basket, and any other inserts are easily removable and explicitly labelled as dishwasher-safe. A high-quality non-stick coating reduces food from sticking and makes manual cleaning much easier.