An air fryer can make everyday meals much easier, but not all appliances are created equal or suited to the same needs. Between promises of fast cooking, stated capacities and connected features, it is easy to pay for options you will never use or underestimate the installation requirements.
Here are the criteria to consider before buying, along with a selection of models suited to different needs.
An appliance advertised as holding 8 or 10 litres will not necessarily let you cook a large quantity of food in a single compartment. With a dual-compartment air fryer, the volume is generally divided between two drawers. This configuration is useful for preparing two foods separately, but each zone may be too narrow for a large joint of meat.
Conversely, a large-capacity air fryer with a single basket is better suited to larger preparations. However, it may not allow you to cook two recipes with different settings.
The ‘chips’, ‘chicken’, ‘cake’ and ‘dehydration’ modes make the appliance easier to use. However, they do not replace manual temperature and time settings. The quantity of food, its thickness and its starting temperature all have a direct impact on cooking.
A model offering 8 or 10 programmes can therefore be convenient, without guaranteeing even results for every recipe.
A non-stick basket that is difficult to remove or incompatible with a dishwasher can turn every meal into a chore. You also need to leave enough space around the air outlets. Some appliances exceed 2,400 W and must be connected to a suitable wall socket, without an extension lead if the manufacturer advises against it.
Before ordering, measure your worktop and check the available height, particularly for an air fryer oven fitted with a door or supplied with several accessories.
The stated capacity is primarily an indication. For even cooking, avoid packing the food too tightly and allow hot air to circulate between the pieces.
A range of 80 to 200°C covers most everyday uses. Models that operate from 30 to 240°C are better suited to dehydration, gentle reheating and a wider range of cooking methods. A 60-minute timer is sufficient for most meals, while a longer duration can be useful for certain dehydration functions.
A multifunction air fryer may offer air frying, roasting, oven cooking, reheating and dehydration. For everyday use, it is better to start with the functions you will genuinely use rather than accumulating rarely used modes.
Prioritise removable baskets, easy-to-clean surfaces and, where specified, dishwasher-safe components. An air fryer with a viewing window lets you monitor browning without repeatedly opening the drawer. However, the window does not remove the need to follow the cooking times.
Also check for an insulated handle, automatic shut-off, a pause function when the drawer is opened and electrical specifications compatible with the French mains supply, generally 220-240 V. Parts that come into contact with food must be used in accordance with the instructions provided by the manual and manufacturer.
Why this choice suits this profile : Its 5 L capacity is well suited to everyday meals for a small household. The touch controls are easy to use, while the viewing window lets you monitor cooking without opening the drawer.
The viewing window reduces the need to open the drawer repeatedly, while the 8 preset menus make those first uses easier. However, the capacity should be matched to the size of your portions.
5 L bowl, 1,450 W power, 80 to 200°C temperature control, handle lock and automatic shut-off when the drawer is removed.
Why this choice suits this profile : Its convertible bowl switches from one 10 L compartment to two 5 L zones. The Wi-Fi connection also lets you monitor cooking from the VeSync app.
Its adaptable configuration means you do not have to choose between a large preparation and two separate recipes. However, connectivity is an added convenience, not a requirement for operating the appliance.
Convertible 10 L capacity, four heating elements, temperature from 35 to 240°C, 2,800 W power and a timer of up to 48 hours, depending on the mode.
Why this choice suits this profile : Its three independent zones are ideal for households that want to prepare a side dish, a main course and an oven-baked item at the same time.
The capacity is divided between two 4.3 L baskets and a 5 L oven drawer. This layout is more informative than a simple overall volume, which can be misleading.
13.6 L, 2,400 W, windows with lighting, synchronisation functions and an oven drawer suitable for pizza or toast.
Why this choice suits this profile : Its two independent 4.75 L drawers let you prepare a main dish and its side with separate settings.
The details of the two compartments make it easier to assess the capacity actually available. The baskets and removable crisper plates are advertised as dishwasher-safe.
9.5 L, 2,470 W, six functions, independent settings and 4.75 L baskets.
We have put together a complete, real-time updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria as well as European safety standards.
For even cooking, spread the food out in a relatively thin layer and shake or turn it when recommended in the instructions. You can add a drizzle of oil to some ingredients, but avoid filling the bowl with oil as you would with a traditional deep-fat fryer.
Place the appliance on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Never block the air inlets or outlets. Wait until the bowl has cooled completely before cleaning it, and never immerse the electrical unit. Baskets should be washed after every use to prevent grease build-up and unpleasant odours.
Consumption depends on the power rating, cooking time and number of zones in use. A 1,450 W appliance uses less electricity per hour than a 2,800 W model, but cooking time and preheating are also important. Compare your actual needs rather than relying solely on the stated power rating.
For three or four people, a capacity of 6 to 8.5 L is generally a good starting point. If you often prepare two recipes at once, an air fryer with two drawers will usually be more practical. To cook a whole chicken, a pizza or several portions of the same dish, check the internal dimensions and choose a single bowl that is wide enough.
Its lifespan depends on how often it is used, how well it is maintained, whether filling levels are respected and the condition of the coating or heating elements. Avoid using metal utensils on non-stick baskets, do not cover the air vents and replace any damaged part in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.