Choosing the right air fryer can feel overwhelming with hundreds of models on the market. This guide cuts through the noise — covering the key specs, features, and what to look for based on your cooking habits and kitchen size.
1–2 people: 2–3L basket. 3–4 people: 4–5L basket. Family of 5+: 6L+ or a dual-zone/oven model. Bigger baskets let you cook in fewer batches.
⚡
Power & Wattage
Look for 1400–1800W for a standard basket fryer. Higher wattage = faster preheat and more consistent results, especially for thick proteins.
🎛️
Digital vs Analogue
Digital controls offer precise temperature and time settings. Analogue dials are simpler and more robust. Either works well — it’s mostly personal preference.
🔁
Basket vs Oven Style
Basket air fryers are compact and great for everyday frying. Oven-style models have more space for whole chickens, toast, and dehydrating.
📶
Smart Features Worth Having
Dual-zone cooking (two independent baskets), app connectivity, and built-in recipe programmes all add genuine value — not just marketing.