How to choose the right air fryer for you

In recent years, the air fryer has become one of the most sought-after kitchen appliances. It promises crispy fried food with less oil, lighter dishes, and shorter cooking times. But which model should you choose? With so many options available, it's easy to get confused. In this guide, I'll help you understand how to choose the air fryer best suited to your needs , analyzing features, capacity, functions, and budget.

Why buy an air fryer?

• Healthier cooking : up to 90% less oil than traditional frying.

• Versatility : not just chips and croquettes, but also meat, fish, vegetables, sweets and even bread.

• Convenience : quick times, fewer odors and easy to clean.

• Energy saving : compared to a traditional oven it consumes less and is faster.

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Main features to evaluate in the air fryer

1. Capacity and dimensions

• Small (2–3 litres) : ideal for singles or couples.

• Medium (4–5 litres) : perfect for families of 3–4 people.

• Large (over 6 litres) : useful if you are cooking for more people or want to cook whole pieces (e.g. roast chicken).

• Double basket : a versatile solution that allows you to cook two different dishes at the same time, ideal for those who love to experiment or have different family needs.

2. Power

A 1400–2000 watt fryer ensures even and rapid cooking. Higher wattage means less waiting time, but also slightly higher energy consumption.

3. Typology

• Drawer-style : compact and easy to use.

• Oven : larger, with a front door and multiple grills, suitable for cooking multiple dishes at the same time.

4. Extra functions

• Preset programs (chips, meat, fish, pizza, desserts).

• Double basket to cook two different dishes together.

• Smart connectivity to control it from the app.

• Accessories : grill, skewers, cake pan.

5. Ease of cleaning

Choose models with a non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket : you'll save time and effort.

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Budget: How much to spend on a deep fryer.

• Entry level (€50–€90) : simple, suitable for beginners.

• Mid-range (€100–€150) : more features and greater capacity.

• High-end (over €180) : top of the range, with double basket, smart technology and accessories included.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryers

1. What is the best air fryer for families?
If you're cooking for 3–5 people, aim for a 4–6-liter model. For larger families or those who want to prepare multiple dishes at once, the double basket is the most practical option.

2. Can you cook desserts in the air fryer?
Yes! In addition to muffins and biscuits, many models allow you to prepare cheesecakes and plumcakes thanks to the dedicated accessories .

3. Does the air fryer replace the oven?
Not entirely: it's perfect for quick, crispy cooking, but if you love cooking large roasts or family-sized pizzas, the oven remains irreplaceable.

4. Does it consume a lot of energy?
In reality, it consumes less than a traditional oven, because it reaches the temperature quickly and cooks faster.

5. Do you need oil for cooking?
All it takes is a teaspoon or a light spray: the result will be crispy and healthier than traditional frying.

6. How long does an air fryer last?
With regular use and proper cleaning, it can last up to 5–7 years . The lifespan depends on the quality of the materials and maintenance.

Conclusion

Choosing the right air fryer means finding the right balance between capacity, power, features, and price . Before purchasing, ask yourself: How many people do I need to serve? What types of dishes do I cook most often? How much space do I have available?

With these answers, it will be easy to find your way and bring home the fryer that will make your cooking healthier, faster, and more fun.