Choose an air fryer if you often prepare a variety of small portions and are happy to accommodate an extra appliance, its fan noise and the need to clean the basket. Stick with the oven if it already covers your roasting needs; choose a deep-fat fryer only if this is specifically the cooking method you want and you are prepared to manage the oil, odours and associated safety precautions.
A compact air fryer can be suitable for chips, breaded vegetables or roasted food prepared regularly, provided that the noise, available space and quantity it can realistically cook match the way you use it. Que Choisir highlights the importance of capacity, ease of handling and maintenance.
Before adding another appliance, consider how often you cook small batches and what your oven does not already handle conveniently. Que Choisir points out that an air fryer can duplicate the oven’s roasting, grilling and fan-assisted cooking functions.
A traditional hob-top fryer can still be an option for occasional use if your hob is compatible and you are happy to monitor its stability and deal with hot oil and frying odours. Que Choisir presents this as a suitable route for certain occasional uses.
Start with the amount you actually cook, then compare the space, noise and cleaning requirements with your usual preparation routine.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity and even cooking | Compare the recommended quantity in the instructions with your usual portion. Que Choisir’s testing protocol also examines a maximum quantity with the basket filled to two-thirds. Look at the basket’s shape and usable dimensions, not just its stated capacity. | I want to prepare a complete portion without overfilling the basket or cooking multiple batches. |
| Odours, noise and footprint | Measure your worktop before buying. In an open-plan kitchen, look for an independent noise measurement where possible: Que Choisir says that the convection fan is an important factor and that differences between models can be significant. | In a small space, I want to limit bulky appliances and disruption while cooking. |
| Cleaning and oil | Check whether the basket or removable parts are dishwasher-safe for the exact model. For a deep-fat fryer, examine the thermostat, lid, removable parts and, where available, the filtration system or cool zone. | I am looking for a cleaning routine that suits how often I cook, without underestimating the work involved in handling oil. |
An air fryer also uses circulated hot air and can cook, roast or grill. If you rarely prepare small batches, it may duplicate an oven that already suits the way you cook.
List the dishes you prepare over two weeks, their quantities and how often you use the oven. An air fryer becomes more worthwhile if preparing small portions justifies the extra space, noise and cleaning.
Cooking results, noise, energy consumption and ease of use can vary depending on the model, quantity prepared and recipe. Que Choisir assesses these criteria separately in its testing protocol.
Compare tests carried out under conditions similar to your own and prioritise features that suit your portions rather than relying on a general promise.
The Easy Fry range includes compact, wide and dual-drawer formats, including 3.5 L, 4 L and 8.3 L models.
The Airfryer range includes 4.2 L and 6.2 L formats, as well as dual-basket appliances and XXL models.
Tefal offers electric deep-fat fryers with features such as filtration and a cool zone, designed for people who specifically want this frying method.
These Joybuy options are air fryers for preparing chips, breaded vegetables or roasted food without a deep-fat bath. Compare their format and features with your usual portions and the space available.
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For small batches of chips, breaded vegetables or roasted food without a deep-fat bath.
4 L capacity, eight modes, temperature adjustment from 35 to 200 °C, a 1- to 60-minute timer and shake reminder. Check the quantity suitable for your batch and allow for a stable, heat-resistant surface.
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An option for preparing chips, vegetables and roasted dishes in a hot-air basket.
Stated capacity of 5 L, power of 1450 W, six automatic programmes, temperature adjustment from 80 to 200 °C and a dishwasher-safe non-stick basket. Keep the 30 cm clearance from flammable objects specified for this model and do not use it beneath wall cupboards.
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Worth considering if you often coordinate a side dish and main course with different cooking times.
Two baskets, synchronisation, copy function, eight programmes, thermostat from 40 to 200 °C and removable baskets stated to be dishwasher-safe. Its dimensions of 382,5 × 443,9 × 314,2 mm and weight of 7,85 kg require more space than a compact format.
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This model is suitable for people who want to monitor chips, fish, chicken or cakes through the viewing window without removing the basket.
7 L basket, touchscreen, seven programmes, cooking window, removable non-stick basket and automatic shut-off when the basket is removed. This capacity is presented as suitable for family meals: check that it fits your available space and usual portions.
No. Air fryers and ovens both use hot air; an air fryer can cook, roast or grill, but Que Choisir advises avoiding over-equipping your kitchen when it duplicates the oven. It is most useful if you frequently prepare small batches and are happy to have an additional appliance.
Read the instructions for the exact model and place the appliance on a flat, stable, heat-resistant surface. Moulinex also recommends keeping it away from a water source or wall; follow the specific clearances stated in your appliance’s instructions.
The fan that circulates hot air creates convection noise. Que Choisir recommends considering this in an open-plan kitchen or small space and notes that differences between models can be significant; look for an independent measurement if this is an important factor.
Only if the material of the bowl is compatible with induction. Que Choisir specifically states that an aluminium cast bowl is not suitable for an induction hob, unlike the steel mentioned in its guide. Check both the bowl and your hob before buying.
Choose an identifiable retailer, check that suitable instructions and warnings are provided in English, then review the compliance and safety information supplied with the product. The DGCCRF reminds consumers that electrical appliances can pose risks of electric shock, fire or burns.