An air fryer can replace a deep-fat fryer if you mainly want to roast, grill or crisp small to medium-sized portions, but it won’t replicate deep-frying. A single-drawer model is a good fit if you usually cook one dish at a time; if you often cook two things at once, it’s worth comparing dual-drawer models. To replace some oven functions too, check that your dishes fit inside the appliance, and that you’re happy with the space it takes up, its noise and the cleaning involved.
If you mainly cook everyday portions, start by comparing single-drawer models and measuring the space you have available. UFC-Que Choisir suggests 3 to 4 L for one to two people, and 5 to 6 L for three to four people.
A dual-drawer appliance could be a good option if you want to cook a side and a main separately. Check the capacity of each drawer, the settings available and whether the specific model has a synchronisation function.
Start with the dishes you actually cook: hot-air cooking won’t replicate deep-frying, while a large dish may be easier to cook in the oven. Also consider worktop space, noise and cleaning.
Your choice depends first on the type of cooking you want, then on the size of your dishes and the space the appliance will take up in your kitchen.
Worth considering: for everyday portions and cooking one dish at a time.
Bear in mind: you may need to cook in batches if two foods require different cooking times.
Worth considering: if you regularly cook two separate things for the same meal.
Bear in mind: check the space it needs and the functions of each drawer; synchronisation isn’t a given.
Keep in the running: if your dishes are large or you don’t want another appliance on your worktop.
Compare: the dimensions of your dishes with the types of food you’d cook in an air fryer.
Worth considering: if deep-frying is specifically the cooking method you want.
Bear in mind: the oil handling and cleaning involved with this type of cooking.
| Criteria | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Compare the stated capacity, the usable size of each drawer and the dimensions of your dishes. UFC-Que Choisir suggests 3 to 4 L for one to two people, and 5 to 6 L for three to four people. | I want to cook the usual portions for my household without making several batches or giving the appliance too much space. |
| Available space | Measure the appliance’s external dimensions, the space where you plan to put it and the clearance required in the instructions. Also check that you can access the drawers or door. | I need to be able to use my worktop when the appliance is in place. |
| Noise | Look for a measurement taken using a clearly stated method and compare models tested under similar conditions. UFC-Que Choisir highlights fan noise as something to consider. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to know whether I’ll be comfortable with the noise while cooking. |
| Cleaning | Check which parts can be removed and consult the model’s instructions to see whether they’re dishwasher-safe. Follow the care instructions for the coating. | After cooking breaded or greasy food, I want to clean the parts that come into contact with food without damaging the drawer. |
| Cooking method | Remember that hot-air cooking is different from deep-frying. For two dishes, check the cooking zones and their settings; for larger dishes, compare the usable dimensions with those of your oven. | I’m looking for roasted or crispy food without deep-frying, or I specifically want to cook by immersion in oil. |
A capacity in litres doesn’t tell you on its own whether your dish or portions will fit in the drawer. If it’s too small, you may need to cook in several batches.
Measure the dishes you usually use and compare them with the drawer’s usable dimensions, not just its total capacity.
Results and uses vary between appliances: UFC-Que Choisir has found that performance differs from one model to another. The shape of the drawer also matters for larger dishes.
Think about the recipes you’d often make in an air fryer, and use the dimensions of your largest dishes as a comparison with your oven.
UFC-Que Choisir draws attention to operating noise, which is particularly worth considering if you often use the appliance in an open-plan kitchen.
Compare measurements taken under clearly stated conditions rather than relying on a simple ‘quiet’ claim.
For its Airfryers, Philips advises against using metal utensils or abrasive products on the non-stick coating.
Check the instructions for your chosen model to find out which parts are dishwasher-safe, and let the appliance cool before cleaning it as directed by the manufacturer.
The Série 4000 Vertical Duo NA460/00 is an example of a dual-drawer configuration.
The Easy Fry Mega Compact is another configuration worth comparing for meals with multiple portions.
Ninja is a brand worth looking at if you’re comparing different air fryer configurations.
These air fryers come in different capacities and configurations, so you can compare them based on your portions, cooking needs and available space. This selection doesn’t include an oven or a deep-fat fryer.
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The two drawers let you cook two separate dishes. The stated total capacity is 7,6 L; check how much worktop space it needs, and look for a noise measurement if you cook in an open-plan room.
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Worth comparing for smaller portions. If you want to cook two foods at once, check whether this model’s containers can be used simultaneously; also look at its dimensions and operating noise.
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Its stated capacity of 7,6 L is worth comparing with the size of your portions and dishes. If cooking two things at once matters to you, check the layout of the drawers or cooking zones; also measure the space where you plan to put it.
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The stated 5 L capacity matches the guide from UFC-Que Choisir for three to four people, though you’ll need to check whether it suits your portions. The title lists six automatic programmes; check the external dimensions and noise level if these are important in your kitchen.
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The stated 2 L drawer is best compared with the smaller portions you usually cook. The title mentions a 60 min timer and a non-stick drawer; check the appliance’s dimensions and care instructions before choosing.
As a starting point, UFC-Que Choisir suggests 3 to 4 L for one to two people, and 5 to 6 L for three to four people. Then check that the shape and usable dimensions of the drawer suit your portions and dishes.
Yes, if you often cook two separate dishes. Check the capacity of each drawer, its settings and whether it has a synchronisation function. Philips states that its NA460/00 has this feature, but that doesn’t mean all dual-drawer appliances do.
First, let the appliance cool down and follow its instructions. For its Airfryers, Philips recommends cleaning the relevant parts with hot water, washing-up liquid and a non-abrasive sponge, and advises against using metal utensils on the non-stick coating.
No, an oven’s energy label isn’t enough to compare different types of appliance. The Ministry of the Economy lists ovens among the categories covered by energy labels. To compare how you use them, look for measurements of similar cooking tasks carried out using the same method.