Consumer organization Which? has tested more than 70 air fryers, with prices spanning from a £35 Total Chef model to a £270 Ninja device, to identify the best performing options on the market.
The testing process involved assessing how well each air fryer cooked chips, chicken drumsticks, and baguettes. Researchers also noted the speed of cooking, energy usage, and how easy each appliance was to clean. The quickest models completed a four-portion batch of chips in just 20 minutes without preheating, while the slowest required over 45 minutes.
Which? purchased all the products it tested to ensure unbiased results.
Best Basket Air Fryer
The top-rated basket-style air fryer is noted for its effective cooking of various foods, user-friendly operation, and quick cleaning. It features a viewing window to monitor food during cooking. While it consumes slightly more energy than some alternatives, it remains more energy-efficient than a conventional oven for single batches.
Best Oven-Type Air Fryer
In the oven-style category, a standout model designed for pizza also performed exceptionally well with chips and baguettes. This model includes preset programs for various foods, such as fish and vegetables. Users are advised to avoid placing it in a corner to prevent overheating.
Best Dual-Zone Air Fryer
For larger households, a dual-zone air fryer was highlighted for its ability to cook two different types of food simultaneously. Its drawers can be synced to finish cooking at the same time. A drawback mentioned is the lack of a viewing window, making it impossible to check food without opening the drawers. Its size and weight could also present storage and maneuvering challenges.
The air fryer was initially conceived in 2006 by Dutch engineer Fred van der Weij, who sought a healthier alternative to deep-frying using hot air. The first prototype was reportedly the size of a dog kennel. Today, air fryers are owned by approximately 65 percent of UK households.