Air fryers are now a common sight in home kitchens, but the range of models is confusing. Before you spend money, it helps to know which features change your daily cooking and which are just marketing.
1. Start with capacity
Capacity is measured in litres. A small unit suits one or two people, while a family of four will usually want a larger basket so food can be cooked in a single batch. Overcrowding a basket leads to uneven, soggy results, so size up if you cook for a group.
2. Check the wattage and temperature range
Higher wattage generally means faster pre-heating and more even cooking. Look for a wide temperature range so you can both roast vegetables and reheat leftovers without drying them out.
3. Basket or oven style?
Basket models are compact and easy to store. Oven-style air fryers with racks let you cook several items at once, but they take more counter space. Think about where the appliance will live before you buy.
4. Cleaning matters more than you think
A non-stick basket that is dishwasher safe saves time every week. Avoid designs with many small crevices where grease collects.
5. Useful extras
Preset programmes, a shake reminder and a viewing window are nice but optional. A reliable digital timer and an auto shut-off are the features worth paying for.
Quick checklist
- Capacity that fits your household
- Adjustable temperature and timer
- Easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe parts
- Auto shut-off for safety
- Size that fits your counter or cupboard
Final thoughts
The best air fryer is the one that fits your habits. Match the size and style to how you cook, check how easy it is to clean, and ignore gimmicks. For more kitchen tech, see our guide to smart kitchen gadgets.
Further reading: Air fryer overview on Wikipedia and our comparison of the best air fryers in India.