Start by choosing the capacity and number of zones based on the portions you prepare at the same time: a single 3 to 4 L basket is generally best suited to one or two people, while dual-zone models make it easier to cook a main dish and a side with different settings. An air fryer is a useful complement to your oven for regular small-batch cooking; for large dishes, multi-level cooking or bulky recipes, the oven is often more suitable.
If space is limited and you mainly prepare small portions, a single 3 to 4 L basket is a sensible starting point. UFC-Que Choisir associates this capacity range with households of one or two people; however, it does not guarantee that the appliance can replace an oven for large dishes.
Two drawers can be useful when different foods require different temperatures or cooking times. However, compare the capacity of each zone and the synchronisation function rather than relying solely on the advertised total capacity.
A model with a capacity of 7 L or more is worth considering for larger portions or advance preparation, provided its weight, footprint and required ventilation space are suitable for your kitchen. In some cases, your existing oven may be more practical.
Start with the portions you usually prepare, then check the baskets’ actual size, the available space and how easy the appliance is to clean. UFC-Que Choisir’s capacity guidelines are useful for narrowing down your options, but the dimensions of your dishes are still decisive.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Compare the capacity with the number of people you are serving, measure your dishes and check a basket’s width and depth. With a dual model, look at each drawer separately. | I want to avoid cooking in successive batches without buying an appliance that is oversized for my usual meals. UFC-Que Choisir gives 3 to 4 L as a guideline for one or two people and 5 to 6 L for three or four people. |
| Cleaning and space | Check which parts are removable and dishwasher-safe. Measure your worktop, cupboard, the appliance’s weight and the clearance needed for ventilation. | I want to use it regularly without washing up, storage or fan noise putting me off everyday use. Noise, cleaning and storage are among the criteria assessed by UFC-Que Choisir. |
| Complementing your oven | Check the number of zones, independent settings and synchronisation. To compare energy consumption, always use the same recipe, quantity and cooking time as you would in your oven. | I am looking for a more convenient option for small batches or cooking two foods at once, not a duplicate appliance for dishes my oven already handles better. |
A dual appliance with a capacity of 8 or 10 L will usually divide that capacity between two zones. If a joint, tin or family-sized portion needs to fit in a single basket, the capacity of the other drawer will not solve that limitation.
Measure your dishes and check the individual capacity, usable width and depth of each drawer before buying.
XXL models can be heavy, take up a significant amount of worktop space and require clearance around the appliance. A model that is difficult to install may end up being used very little.
Measure your worktop, cupboard and the space required for ventilation before choosing a larger capacity.
Energy consumption depends on the appliance’s size, the quantity being cooked, the recipe, preheating and cooking time. Comparing one food does not allow you to draw conclusions for every meal.
Compare your actual oven usage using the same food, quantity, desired result and total cooking time.
UFC-Que Choisir’s analysis of six coatings looked at the presence of banned PFAS; it did not measure coating longevity and does not apply to every product reference.
Check the warranty terms, availability of spare parts and feedback on the exact model before making your decision.
The Easy Fry range includes single-basket, dual-basket and large-capacity models. The Moulinex product information reviewed includes a 5 L + 3 L dual-drawer model and a 7.5 L single-basket model.
Philips offers single-basket, XXL and dual-basket models. The NA461/00 reviewed has two 5 L baskets with synchronisation, as stated by Philips.
Ninja is among the manufacturers featured in French tests and analyses by UFC-Que Choisir. The Ninja Foodi AF300EU is one of the six models whose coatings were analysed in 2025.
This selection brings together single- and dual-drawer Joybuy air fryers for small batches, meals with a side dish and households looking for more capacity.
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Worth considering if you want to serve two dishes with different settings at the same time.
Two independent 4.75 L drawers, six functions and digital controls for each zone. The drawers and crisper plates are stated to be dishwasher-safe.
The 4.75 L capacity is divided between the drawers: check that one zone is large enough for your main dish. The appliance measures 32.5 × 41.5 × 27 cm and weighs 8.8 kg.
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This dual-zone model suits households that alternate between a main dish and a side, using separate settings.
Two independent 3.8 L drawers, six functions and parts stated to be dishwasher-safe.
Each drawer holds 3.8 L: check the size of your main dish. The appliance measures 31.5 × 38 × 26.5 cm and weighs 8.2 kg.
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This adjustable basket may suit family meals that alternate between larger batches and separate preparations.
Eight presets, a temperature range of 80 to 200 °C, viewing window, SYNC and DUAL modes, with baskets and trays stated to be dishwasher-safe.
The capacity is listed as 12QT in the title and 12 L in the description: confirm the nominal capacity, external dimensions and weight before buying.
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The dual-basket design is intended for meals where the main dish and side need to be ready together.
Two different-sized baskets, synchronisation, copy function, eight programmes, a 40 to 200 °C thermostat and a 60-minute timer. The removable parts are stated to be dishwasher-safe.
The capacity of each basket should be checked separately. With a width of 443.9 mm and a weight of 7.85 kg, make sure you have a permanent place for it.
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A single-drawer model to consider for preparing one main dish or side at a time.
5 L basket, 1450 W power, six automatic programmes, an 80 to 200 °C temperature range and touch controls. The non-stick basket is stated to be dishwasher-safe.
A single drawer means successive batches are needed when two foods require different temperatures or cooking times. Check the dimensions, weight and ventilation space before buying.
As a starting point, UFC-Que Choisir suggests 3 to 4 L for one or two people, 5 to 6 L for three or four people, 7 to 9 L for five or six people, then 9 to 10 L or more for larger households or batch cooking. Also check the size of your dishes and the capacity of each drawer on a dual model.
Not always. It can complement an oven for small portions or two synchronised preparations, but an oven is often more practical for large items, wide dishes and multi-level cooking. Compare your usual recipes using the same quantities and cooking times before changing your routine.
Check exactly which parts are removable and dishwasher-safe: the basket, rack, plate and any front panels. This feature can make cleaning easier, but on its own it does not indicate how long the coating will last.
Yes, particularly in an open-plan kitchen. UFC-Que Choisir says the fan should be taken into account and measures noise at 0.50 m as part of its testing protocol. Where an independent measurement is available, compare it before buying.