10 Best Air Fryers

Buying guide

Are you unsure about which air fryer to choose? With our buying guide, you can learn more about what to look for before choosing an air fryer.

Determine the right capacity based on your cooking needs:

• Small (1-2 liters): Ideal for small families of 4 to 5 people.
• Medium (1.8-2.5 liters): Suitable for households with up to 6 members.
• Large (3-6 liters): Best for larger families with seven people or more.

The following graph shows how the capacity is distributed across the air fryers:

Remember that the best air fryer for you depends on your cooking needs and preferences, so consider these factors before purchasing.

The cheapest air fryer in our comparison is the Russell Hobbs SatisFry 26510 at £39.95, while the most expensive is the Philips HD9880/90 at £380.72.

The following graph shows the price distribution for air fryers.

If you are looking for a cheap air fryer, consider these five budget-friendly options:

The power of an air fryer impacts its cooking speed and efficiency. Air fryers with higher wattage tend to cook faster and more evenly.

The power for air fryers varies from 1100 to 2750 Watts.

The distribution in power usage is shown in the following graph:

If you’re in search of an air fryer with high power, explore these five models known for their exceptional power:

Most air fryers come with a single cooking basket, which means you can cook one batch of food at a time. However, some air fryer models are built with two baskets, allowing you to cook two dishes simultaneously. These air fryers with two baskets are especially useful when preparing meals for a larger group or when you want to cook different items with varying cooking times and temperatures.

Look for an air fryer with a wide temperature range; the optimal range is typically between 80°C and 200°C. This range allows you to cook a wide variety of foods.

Ensure the air fryer has a timer that allows you to set precise cooking durations. Most units have timers that can be set for up to 60 minutes.

Regular cleaning and proper maintenance are essential to keep your air fryer in top condition and ensure consistent cooking results. Here’s what to consider when it comes to cleaning and maintaining your air fryer:

• Non-stick coating: Choose an air fryer with a durable non-stick coating to prevent food from sticking. This makes cleaning easier.
• Dishwasher-safe parts: Opt for models with dishwasher-safe components for effortless cleaning. Dishwasher-safe parts simplify the cleaning process and save time and effort.
• Removable components: Look for air fryers with easily removable and re-installable parts. This construction allows convenient access to all unit areas, ensures thorough cleaning, and prevents the accumulation of food residues.

Look for safety features like overheat protection, automatic shut-off, and cool-touch handles. These features ensure safe operation and minimize the risk of accidents.

• Preset programs: Some air fryers come with preset cooking programs for common dishes like french fries, chicken, and fish. These programs simplify the cooking and guarantee consistent results.
• Smart functionality: You can consider a smart air fryer that offers Wi-Fi compatibility, enabling you to access an extensive library of recipes and cooking guides.

Air fryer or deep fryer?

Is an air fryer or a deep fryer the best pick for you? These are the main differences between the two:

Air fryer

Cooking method

Uses hot air circulation to cook food by convection, creating a crispy exterior.

Advantages

Healthier

Easier to clean

Reduced risk of oil-related accidents

Disadvantages

Usually requires longer cooking durations

Generally more expensive

Price

£40-381 (Avg.: £111)

Deep fryer

Cooking method

Submerge food in hot oil for quick and crispy frying.

Advantages

Offers a distinct deep-fried flavour and texture

Faster cooking times

Often more affordable

Disadvantages

Requires a significant amount of oil

Unhealthy

Risk of oil splatters and burns

Requires more effort to clean

Price

£36-160 (Avg.: £81)

Ultimately, choosing between an air fryer and a deep fryer depends on your cooking preferences, health considerations, and the foods you want to prepare. Air fryers are known for healthier cooking with less oil, while deep fryers offer the classic deep-fried taste and texture.

You can find our comparison of deep fryers here.