First, choose a size that can accommodate your usual portions. Then decide whether you need to cook two foods using different settings. A single drawer is suited to cooking one batch at a time, while two zones work well for meals with several components, provided you check the size of each basket and whether cooking times can be synchronised. A flexible zone can be used for separate foods or one large dish, if the model allows it. A mini air fryer oven is better suited to using trays and racks, but you’ll need to allow for the space it takes up and the cleaning involved.
If your main and side dishes need different cooking times, look for two independent zones and a synchronisation function. Moulinex and Philips describe this feature on some of their dual-basket models. Also check that each basket can hold your portion.
A large dish needs a different amount of space from two smaller ones. Compare the shape and usable surface area of the baskets. UFC-Que Choisir points out that usable capacity matters more than the ‘XXL’ label alone. If you want to switch between one large space and two separate zones, check that the model is genuinely flexible.
Measure the space available, including the clearance needed to open the drawers or door. If you’ll use it often, check which parts need removing and which the product specifications say are dishwasher-safe. UFC-Que Choisir includes ease of use and cleaning among its selection criteria.
The right size largely depends on what needs to fit in the appliance and what needs to cook at the same time. Other factors determine whether it’ll be easy to position and clean day to day.
Consider it if: you usually cook one dish or one batch at a time.
Bear in mind: a single basket can’t use different settings for two separate foods.
Consider it if: you often cook the main and side dishes together using different settings.
Bear in mind: the total capacity is split between the baskets, and synchronisation depends on the model.
Consider it if: you alternate between cooking two separate foods and one large dish, provided the divider is removable.
Bear in mind: the zone layout and accessories vary by model.
Consider it if: your dishes are better suited to trays, racks or cooking on several levels.
Bear in mind: check how much space you’ll need to open the door, and allow time to clean any accessories you use.
| Factor | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Compare the basket shape and internal dimensions, and check that each basket can hold your usual portions. | If I’m serving several people without cooking another batch, I want the food to fit comfortably in the basket. Around 29% of consumers would make capacity their top priority. |
| Cooking at the same time | Check whether the specific model has independent settings and, if needed, a function to synchronise the end of cooking. | When a main dish and its side need different cooking times, I want to serve them together. Coordinated cooking would be the main priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Space and cleaning | Measure the appliance and the clearance needed to open it. Check which parts are actually dishwasher-safe. | In a kitchen where worktop space is limited, I want an appliance that’s easy to open and clean. Around 21% of consumers would prioritise these practical considerations. |
| Types of dishes | Check that your dishes fit the chosen size and that any trays or racks you need are included. | If I regularly cook dishes that need a tray or rack, I want them to fit in my appliance. Around 21% of consumers would put this versatility at the top of their list. |
Two appliances with a similar capacity can have baskets of different shapes. UFC-Que Choisir points out that usable capacity determines how much you can actually cook.
Compare the basket dimensions with the foods you usually cook, and work out whether you’ll need to cook your meal in several batches.
The capacity is split between the zones. For example, Moulinex lists two drawers of 5,2 L and 3,1 L for the Easy Fry Dual Essential. The smaller basket may not fit the same dish as the larger one.
Check the space available for your main dish and side dish separately.
A mini air fryer oven may accommodate trays and racks, but only its dimensions, accessories and specific functions will tell you whether it can fit your dishes.
Start with the dishes you regularly cook, then compare the space required and the parts you’ll need to clean.
Moulinex offers a 15-year repairability commitment on certain models. This doesn’t automatically describe the terms that apply to another air fryer.
Check the exact model number and read the repair terms and parts availability information for that model.
The Easy Fry range includes single-basket, dual-drawer and mini oven-style models, making it useful for comparing the space available for portions and dishes.
The 3000 Series includes dual-basket models for cooking different parts of a meal separately.
Ninja air fryers with separate cooking zones are worth considering if you want to cook several parts of a meal separately.
These Joybuy models let you compare dual-drawer air fryers, a single-basket model and one described as flexible. Before choosing an appliance for your meals, check how much food each configuration can hold.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you want to cook two parts of a meal separately. The model name lists six functions and dishwasher-safe baskets. If both parts need to be ready together, check whether the cooking times can be synchronised.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you want to split your meal between two drawers. The model name lists six functions. Check that each basket can hold your portion and that cooking times can be synchronised if needed.
Image unavailable
Worth comparing if you want to prepare a main dish and side separately. The stated 9 L is the total capacity, so check that each basket can hold your portions, as well as the synchronisation features available on this specific model.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you mainly cook one dish at a time and would like to see it through the advertised viewing window. Check the basket shape, external dimensions and cleaning instructions against your kitchen setup.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you alternate between cooking two separate dishes and one dish that needs a single large zone. Before choosing it based on the stated 10 L capacity, confirm the usable capacity in each configuration, the space available for food and the external dimensions.
Capacity in litres doesn’t translate directly into portions. UFC-Que Choisir suggests 3 to 4 L for one or two people, 5 to 6 L for three or four, and 7 to 9 L for five or six, while highlighting the importance of usable capacity. Check the basket shape and the space your usual foods need, especially if the capacity is split between two drawers.
No. Check that the model has a synchronisation function suited to this purpose. Moulinex and Philips describe this feature on some of their dual-basket models, but each basket must also be large enough for the food you want to cook in it.
Measure the available width, depth and height, as well as the clearance needed to open the drawers or door fully. For cleaning, check the product details for the exact model to see which parts are listed as dishwasher-safe.
Check the commitments made for the specific model, including parts availability and repair terms. Moulinex offers a 15-year repairability commitment on certain models, but the brand’s statement doesn’t automatically apply to all its air fryers.