Dinners for one or two
If you often cook one portion or a side dish in the evening, it’s worth comparing a single-drawer model with your oven. Also check how much space the appliance will take up between uses.
Who these options are for
Households cooking two parts of a meal
If you want to cook a main and a side at the same time, with different cooking times, look at models with two drawers or flexible baskets. The capacity of each compartment matters just as much as the total volume.
Home cooks who mostly use their oven
If your dinners often include large dishes, quiches or several batches, check that a worktop appliance would genuinely cover those needs before making space for one.
What matters for dinner?
Start with the portions and dishes you actually cook, then consider whether you need to cook two things at once. Available space and cleaning can then help you choose between formats.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Compare your usual portions and the internal dimensions with your dishes. UFC-Que Choisir suggests 3 to 4 L as a guide for one or two people. | If you want to cook dinner in one batch, the shape of the basket matters just as much as its stated capacity. Around 40% of consumers put having enough capacity first. |
| Cooking two foods at once | Check the size of each drawer, its settings and whether there’s a synchronisation function if you need the food to finish cooking at the same time. | If you want to serve a main and a side without waiting for a second round of cooking, two separate compartments can matter more than one large basket. Around 30% of consumers prioritise this ability to cook in parallel. |
| Space, noise and cleaning | Measure the space available and the clearance recommended in the instructions; check a sound test for the model and read the cleaning guidance. | If the appliance is going to stay on my worktop, I want to be able to use and clean it without it getting in the way. Around 30% of consumers prioritise these practical considerations. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Choosing based on litres alone
Capacity doesn’t tell you whether your tin will fit in the basket or if you can arrange portions as you’d like. Having to cook several batches can make an air fryer less useful for dinner.
Compare the internal dimensions with your dishes and work out whether you need to cook two foods separately.
-
Assuming you’ll save electricity
The results of a comparison vary depending on the recipe, quantity, preheating and cooking time. UFC-Que Choisir compared air fryers with oven cooking, but there isn’t one result that applies to every meal.
For your own needs, look for a comparison using the same dish and quantity over a complete cycle. Don’t estimate energy use based on the stated power alone.
-
Underestimating noise and the space needed
The fan makes noise while the food is cooking, and you’ll also need to allow the clearances specified in the instructions. UFC-Que Choisir measures noise from 0.50 m away in its testing protocol.
Measure the space available and, if noise matters to you, look for a test of the exact model you’re considering.
-
Assuming “dishwasher-safe” means “no maintenance”
Dishwasher compatibility depends on the parts and the model. Using unsuitable utensils can also scratch a non-stick coating.
Check the instructions for each part, let the appliance cool before cleaning and use utensils that are suitable for the coating.
Brands to compare
Moulinex
The Easy Fry range includes two-drawer models for cooking two foods at the same time.
- According to Moulinex, the Dual Easy Fry & Grill EZ905B20 has one 5.2 L drawer and one 3.1 L drawer; the smaller one is designed for individual portions.
- These specifications apply to this particular model. Check the dimensions of each drawer against your dishes, and don’t take them as a guarantee of cooking results.
Philips
The brand offers models with separate or adjustable baskets, with configurations varying by model number.
- According to Philips, the NA156/60 can switch from two 3.55 L compartments to one 7.1 L basket using a removable divider.
- Check the configuration and dimensions of the model being sold. The total volume alone doesn’t tell you how much room there is for a dish.
Ninja
Ninja models are among the air fryers tested by UFC-Que Choisir.
- This means you can look for test results on a specific model.
- UFC-Que Choisir found that air fryer performance varies. Compare the model you’re considering for cooking, cleaning and noise rather than judging by the brand alone.
Air fryers for different portions
These Joybuy models range from compact options with a single cooking compartment to two-drawer models for dinners with two different foods. Compare their size with the dishes you usually cook before deciding whether they could replace oven cooking.
Image unavailable
Ninja Dual Zone DZ300EU, two drawers, 7.6 L
Worth considering if you need to cook two parts of dinner at the same time. The product name lists six functions and a total capacity of 7.6 L; check how much space it needs and whether it has a synchronisation function if you want both foods to finish cooking together.
Image unavailable
Ninja Air Fryer MAX PRO AF180EU, 6.2 L
Its single basket suits anyone who cooks one thing at a time and is considering a 6.2 L model. If you want to cook two foods with different settings, you’ll need to cook them in separate batches or compare it with a two-zone model.
Image unavailable
Midea Air Fryer, 2 L, 1,150 W
This 2 L model is worth considering for a small portion, but check that your food will fit in the basket. Its capacity is below the 3 to 4 L guide given by UFC-Que Choisir for everyday portions for one or two people. The product name lists a 60-minute timer; check the dimensions and cleaning instructions for this model.
Image unavailable
Ninja Crispi FN101EUGY
Worth considering if you’re looking for a worktop appliance that can handle different quantities. The instructions for this model specify using just one container on the base at a time, so it can’t replace two cooking zones running simultaneously. You’ll also need suitable protection when handling hot containers and accessories.
Image unavailable
Midea Air Fryer, 4 L, 1,500 W, eight modes
Its stated 4 L capacity matches the size guide from UFC-Que Choisir for one or two people, but that doesn’t guarantee your dishes will fit in the basket. The product name lists eight pre-set modes, a temperature range of 35 to 200 °C and a 60-minute timer. Check the internal width and cleaning instructions before choosing.
Frequently asked questions
Does an air fryer always use less electricity than an oven?
No. It depends on the dish, quantity and cooking cycle. UFC-Que Choisir compared air fryers with oven cooking. To help you decide, look for measurements based on the same meal, including preheating, rather than relying on a percentage quoted for a different recipe.
What capacity do you need for evening meals?
UFC-Que Choisir suggests 3 to 4 L for one or two people, and 5 to 6 L for three or four. Then check the dimensions of the basket and your dishes: a capacity in litres doesn’t guarantee that a whole dinner will fit in one batch.
Are two drawers worth it for dinner?
They’re most useful if you regularly cook two foods at the same time. For one large dish, compare the cooking area of a large basket or an adjustable model with that of a mini oven or your existing oven.
How can you cut down on cleaning without damaging the basket?
Check the instructions to see which parts of your chosen model are dishwasher-safe, and use utensils that are suitable for its coating. UFC-Que Choisir recommends using wood or silicone, for example, to avoid scratching the non-stick surfaces of the models it tested.
What should you do if the appliance you receive doesn’t match its description in France?
For goods bought from a professional seller in France, the statutory guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods, as the Ministry of the Economy points out. Keep your proof of purchase and a copy of the advertised description, then tell the seller about any differences you find, such as the capacity, accessories or functions.