Frequent small portions
You often prepare a side dish or a small meal and want to know whether a single drawer would be a useful addition to your oven. UFC-Que Choisir reports that results vary depending on the food and the model.
Who is this option for?
Cooking two dishes at once
You want to cook a main and a side separately, without finding that each compartment is too small. UFC-Que Choisir describes two-drawer models as a way to cook different foods at the same time.
Making the most of kitchen space
You’re hesitant to add another appliance because of the space available, noise in an open-plan kitchen or the extra washing-up. UFC-Que Choisir includes noise among the factors to consider before buying.
What to compare
Single drawer
Best for: frequent small batches, if you have a suitable, well-ventilated space.
Bear in mind: you may need to cook different dishes in separate batches, and the fan makes some noise.
Two compartments
Best for: regularly cooking two separate foods with different settings.
Bear in mind: the appliance may take up more space, and each compartment needs to be large enough for your food.
Your existing oven
Best for: large dishes or when you already cook several foods in the oven.
Bear in mind: tests of small recipes don’t prove that you’ll always save time or energy at home.
Deep fat fryer
Best for: when the texture of deep-fried food is your priority and you’re happy with your current appliance.
Bear in mind: an air fryer can also roast and cook other dishes, but it may not achieve the same texture.
| What matters to you | What to check before buying | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Usefulness for small portions | Make a note of your usual recipes and quantities, then compare test results for those specific foods. | If I often cook a small quantity, I want to know whether I’ll use the appliance often enough to justify the space it takes up. Around 29% of consumers prioritise this use. |
| Capacity and cooking two foods | Check the capacity of each compartment, the dimensions of your food and whether there’s a synchronised control if you need one. | If I want to cook a main and a side at the same time, I check that each food will fit in its compartment. Around 23% of consumers prioritise cooking two dishes at once. |
| Available space | Measure the space, check there’s room to open the drawer and allow the clearances specified in the model’s instructions. | If my kitchen worktop is already occupied, I want to be sure I can fit the appliance and open it. Around 18% of consumers prioritise available space. |
| Noise while in use | If measurements are available, compare tests carried out using the same method and at a specified distance. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to keep noise to a minimum while cooking. Around 12% of consumers put quiet operation at the top of their list. |
| Cleaning after use | Check which parts are removable and dishwasher-safe, without assuming this applies to the other parts. | After meals, I want to know which parts will be easy to clean. Around 18% of consumers prioritise easy cleaning. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Confusing stated volume with usable capacity
The total volume alone doesn’t tell you whether your food or dishes will fit in the drawer. For a model with two compartments, the capacity of each one matters too.
Compare the stated dimensions and quantities with the dishes you usually prepare.
If your food won’t fit in the available space, you may need to cook it in several batches.
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Choosing two drawers without regularly cooking two dishes
Cooking two dishes at once is the main benefit of having two compartments, but a larger appliance can take up more space and mean extra parts to clean.
Choose based on how often you really prepare two different foods.
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Expecting an air fryer to match the texture of deep-fried food
UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes air frying from traditional deep frying, particularly in terms of taste and texture.
If deep-fried food is your priority, compare results for the foods you’re interested in and consider keeping your existing fryer.
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Assuming energy test results guarantee savings
Comparison results depend on the appliances and dishes tested; they can’t predict how much energy every household will use.
Use tests only to compare uses that are similar to your own, and don’t assume they indicate a specific saving or percentage off your bill.
Brands to consider for these uses
Philips
The models covered include the 3.2 L Series 2000 NA210/00 with one drawer and the 7.1 L NA154/00 with a modular basket that can be divided into two compartments, according to Philips France.
- Philips France says the NA210/00’s StarPlate is dishwasher-safe and the NA154/00’s divider is removable.
- These features apply to these specific models. General claims about speed or savings don’t guarantee the same results in your home.
Moulinex
The Easy Fry range includes the 4.2 L EZ401810, which has a single drawer.
- Moulinex states that spare parts are available and that this model is covered by a repairability commitment.
- Check the availability and cost of the specific part you might need. The brand’s claims about cooking results aren’t the same as findings from independent tests.
Ninja
The brand features in French tests with two-zone appliances and other formats.
- The two-drawer models described by UFC-Que Choisir can cook different foods at the same time.
- Features and noise levels vary between models; a result for one model doesn’t apply to the whole range.
EssentielB
The documented models include the 3.5 L EAF1 with a single drawer and the 7.6 L EAF4 Dual Heat, also with a single drawer.
- The product information lists a removable bowl for both models.
- Capacity and which parts are listed as dishwasher-safe vary by model. The quantities of chips stated by the retailer are commercial estimates.
Air fryers on Joybuy for different needs
This selection includes single-drawer models for small portions and two-drawer models for cooking two dishes separately.
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Heinrich's HFR 8216, pink, 5 L
A single-drawer model to consider if you’re looking for an appliance that can handle different types of dishes.
The product information lists a capacity of 5 L, 1450 W of power, six automatic programmes and a non-stick basket that’s dishwasher-safe.
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Ninja AF110EU, 4.7 L
A 4.7 L drawer, stated to be suitable for one to two people, worth considering for smaller dishes.
The product information lists 2000 W of power, capacity for up to 500 g of chips, and Air Fry, Reheat and Dehydrate functions. The basket is listed as dishwasher-safe. This appliance is not suitable for deep frying.
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Ninja DZ400EU, two drawers, 9.5 L
Worth considering if you regularly prepare two dishes at once and want to set each drawer separately.
The product information lists two 4.75 L drawers and dishwasher-safe drawers and crisper plates. Six functions are listed, including Roast and Bake.
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Ninja DZ300EU, two drawers, 7.6 L
A two-zone model to consider if you want to cook two dishes at the same time with separate settings.
The stated capacity is 7.6 L, split between two 3.8 L drawers. The drawers and plates are listed as dishwasher-safe; six functions are listed, including Air Fry, Roast and Reheat.
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Philips NA210/00, Series 2000, 3.2 L
Its stated capacity of 3.2 L may be worth considering for small portions; check that it suits the quantities you cook.
The product information lists dimensions of 368 × 273 × 293 mm and a minimum clearance of 100 mm on all sides. The drawer and removable basket are listed as dishwasher-safe.
Frequently asked questions
Can an air fryer replace my oven for every dish?
Not necessarily. First, check the size of your dishes and how many portions you cook. UFC-Que Choisir reports that results vary by recipe; its energy comparisons don’t cover every oven or cooking method.
What should I consider before putting an air fryer in a small kitchen?
Make sure you have a stable surface, enough room to open the drawer fully and the clearances specified in the model’s instructions. For the Philips NA210/00, the product information specifies a minimum clearance of 100 mm on all sides.
Are all air fryer parts dishwasher-safe?
No. Check the instructions for each individual part. Philips says the NA210/00’s StarPlate is dishwasher-safe; Boulanger lists the bowl of the EssentielB EAF1 as dishwasher-safe.
What warranty applies when buying from a retailer in France?
The statutory legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand or refurbished goods sold by a trader to a consumer. The French Ministry of the Economy explains that you claim under it from the seller, and that it is separate from a paid commercial warranty.
Is the CE mark an independent safety certification?
No. The DGCCRF explains that the CE mark is not a certification mark. For products covered by European legislation, it indicates the manufacturer’s commitment to meeting the relevant requirements.