Air Fryers Compared: Capacity, Wattage & Price

A good air fryer delivers crispy, golden results with minimal oil whilst being straightforward to use and clean. The best models circulate superheated air rapidly and evenly, creating that coveted crunch on chips, chicken, and vegetables without deep frying. Look for units with sufficient power (at least 1400W for efficient cooking), intuitive controls, and basket designs that allow proper air circulation around your food.

Capacity is crucial—a 3-4L basket suits one or two people, whilst families of four or more should consider 5.5L or larger models. Dual-zone air fryers with separate compartments let you cook different foods simultaneously at different temperatures, saving considerable time. Check for dishwasher-safe components, particularly the basket and crisper plate, as these make cleanup far easier. Digital controls with preset programmes take the guesswork out of timing and temperature, though simple manual dials work perfectly well if you're confident adjusting settings yourself.

Avoid choosing based solely on capacity numbers—a taller, narrower basket may have the same litres as a wider, shallower one, but the latter cooks more evenly because food sits in a single layer. Similarly, don't overlook the unit's footprint on your worktop; some larger models are surprisingly bulky and may not fit under standard kitchen cabinets when the drawer is open.