Regular small batches
If you often roast or reheat small portions, consider whether a basket would save you from turning on the oven. Que Choisir’s buying guide points out that air fryers can be used for some of the same things as an oven.
Who is this choice for?
Households with varied meals
If you cook larger dishes or two different recipes, compare the usable space in a large basket with the capacity of each drawer in a dual-compartment model. Que Choisir has also looked at how well dual-drawer models synchronise cooking times.
Households that already have an oven
If your oven already meets your needs, think about which dishes you would genuinely cook in an air fryer, as well as the space it takes up, its noise level and the cleaning involved. Que Choisir’s tests published in 2025 highlight that noise levels vary between models.
What to check before you buy
Start by considering which dishes you would genuinely move from the oven to an air fryer. Then choose a format based on how much you cook in each batch and how many dishes you want to prepare at once.
| Criterion | What to check before you buy | Consumers particularly concerned |
|---|---|---|
| How useful it is alongside your oven | List the dishes you would genuinely cook in it and check they fit in the basket without needing several batches. | If I want to avoid adding an appliance for cooking my oven already handles, this is a priority for around 28% of consumers. |
| Amount per batch | Compare the basket’s shape and usable dimensions with your dishes. Don’t assume the stated capacity in litres tells you how many portions it will hold. | If I want to cook my usual amount in one go, the usable surface area matters just as much as the stated volume. Around 22% of consumers prioritise this need. |
| Preparing two dishes | Check the capacity of each drawer and whether the specific model offers separate settings and a synchronisation function. | If I’m making two recipes that need different settings, two compartments could meet my needs. Around 22% of consumers prioritise this option. |
| Cleaning, noise and space | Measure the space available, check which parts are dishwasher-safe and look for noise measurements taken while the appliance is running. | If I use it frequently in an open-plan kitchen, I want to keep noise and cleaning time to a minimum. Around 17% of consumers share this priority. |
| Electricity and oil | When comparing electricity use, take the recipe, quantity and number of batches into account. Distinguish between oil added and fat already present in the food. | If I want to check claims about energy use or cooking with little oil rather than take them at face value, around 11% of consumers put these claims first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Assuming an air fryer always costs less to run than an oven
Results depend on the dish, the quantity and the appliances being compared. A measurement for one recipe won’t tell you what to expect for all your meals.
Work out which dishes you would cook in it and compare energy use for the same recipe and quantity, including any extra batches you might need.
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Confusing the stated capacity in litres with practical capacity
The basket’s shape and usable space determine whether your food or dishes will fit comfortably. With two drawers, the total volume is split between them.
Check the internal dimensions and the capacity of each compartment against the recipes you usually make.
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Overlooking noise and the parts you’ll need to clean
Noise levels vary between models, which is worth considering in an open-plan kitchen. Which parts are dishwasher-safe also depends on the model and the specific components.
Look for noise tests carried out while the appliance is running, and check the manual for the exact list of dishwasher-safe parts. Que Choisir’s tests published in 2025 found differences in noise levels between appliances.
Brands to consider as a guide
Philips
The single-drawer NA229/00 and dual-drawer NA352/24 are examples of two different formats.
- Philips describes several modes on the NA229/00 and a drawer synchronisation function on the NA352/24.
- These features apply to these specific models. Check they suit your recipes and the model you’re considering.
Moulinex
The Easy Fry Mega EZ855D20 is an example of a single-drawer model with a stated capacity of 7,5 L.
- Moulinex says the EZ855D20 basket is dishwasher-safe.
- The brand’s energy-saving claim is based on tests with frozen chips carried out in 2024. It doesn’t predict the results for other recipes or compared with your oven.
Ninja
A brand worth considering when comparing dual-drawer models included in Que Choisir’s French tests.
- Que Choisir’s tests looked at the synchronisation function on dual-drawer appliances.
- Synchronisation performance varies between models. This finding is not a ranking of Ninja or a guarantee for its entire range.
Tefal
The Easy Fry & Grill XXL EY801815 uses a removable divider to switch between one large basket and two cooking zones.
- Tefal says the basket and removable plate are dishwasher-safe.
- Tefal’s product page lists 6 L in its title and 6,5 L in its description, with two 3,25 L compartments. Check the capacity and usable dimensions of the model before comparing it with others.
Air fryers available on Joybuy
These Joybuy models show what’s available in single-drawer, dual-zone and convertible-basket formats, with a range of capacities and cleaning features.
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Ninja FN101EUGY Crispi Air Fryer
Its two glass containers come in different sizes, making them suitable for a range of portions.
The product information lists Air Fry and Roast functions, as well as dishwasher-safe containers and accessories. The glass containers and tray can get very hot after cooking, so the product information recommends using heat protection when handling them.
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9 L dual-zone air fryer, 2 × 4,5 L, 2 000 W
Its two independent baskets let you cook two foods using different settings.
The product information lists two 4,5 L baskets, synchronised cooking, a touchscreen and 10 automatic programmes.
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COSORI TF101S Airfryer Dual Blaze Twinfry™ 10 L
Its convertible basket lets you choose between one large cooking zone and two zones for separate dishes.
The product information lists a temperature range of 35 to 240 °C and app control.
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KITCHENCOOK AIRMED7W 7 L
With a stated capacity of 7 L, its basket is designed for those who want to cook larger batches.
The product information lists seven programmes, a digital display and a window to keep an eye on your food as it cooks.
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12QT dual-basket air fryer with 50PCS Paper Liners
The described design lets you switch between one large basket and two zones for cooking separate dishes.
The product information lists SYNC and DUAL modes, a viewing window, removable dishwasher-safe baskets and a pack of 50PCS Paper Liners.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if the stated capacity is enough for my meal?
Compare the basket’s shape and usable dimensions with the dish or quantity you usually cook. A stated capacity in litres and a “XXL” label don’t guarantee that your usual batch will fit. Que Choisir highlights the importance of the volume you can actually use.
Can I put the whole air fryer in the dishwasher?
No. Check which parts are listed as dishwasher-safe for the model you’re considering. For example, Moulinex says the basket of the Easy Fry Mega EZ855D20 is dishwasher-safe. This doesn’t apply to the whole appliance or to every model.
Does an air fryer always use less electricity than my oven?
No. The result depends on factors such as the recipe, the quantity and the appliances being compared. In tests published in 2024, Que Choisir measured an average of 36 % less electricity for a small quiche cooked in the air fryers tested than in a 19 L Moulinex Optimo mini oven, when cooking the same quantity. This result doesn’t tell you how much electricity an air fryer will use compared with your oven.
What does “oil-free” mean for the food I cook?
An air fryer cooks by circulating hot air, but “oil-free” doesn’t mean the food contains no fat at all. The amount of oil you add depends on the recipe, and ingredients may contain fat naturally.