Joybuy Insights

Buying an air fryer: how to choose a model that suits your household

An air fryer can prepare chips, vegetables, chicken, bread rolls and even cake with very little oil. Yet many people end up buying an appliance that mainly takes up space after a few weeks. The problem is often not the brand, but an incorrect assessment of capacity, cleaning and everyday use.

The most important question, therefore, is not which air fryer has the most functions, but which model suits your kitchen, household and cooking routine.

Three common air fryer pitfalls

1. The capacity seems larger than the usable cooking surface

A 5-litre air fryer sounds spacious, but the shape of the basket determines how much food you can actually arrange next to each other. A tall, narrow basket is suitable for smaller portions, while a wider drawer is often more practical for chips or vegetables. A 7-litre air fryer may be a better fit for a family, but it also takes up more space on the worktop.

So don’t just look at the number of litres. Also check the dimensions, the number of baskets and whether you can cook your food in a single layer.

2. “Healthier” does not automatically mean every dish is healthy

An air fryer generally uses less oil than a traditional deep-fat fryer. However, brands may make their own claims about, for example, a certain percentage less oil or energy. According to the relevant brand’s own research, such figures may apply under specific conditions. The result depends partly on the dish, the quantity and the temperature selected.

See an air fryer as an appliance for cooking with little oil, rather than an automatically healthy fryer. The ingredients still make the biggest difference.

3. Cleaning is underestimated

Fat, crumbs and marinade can build up around the heating element and air vents. A dishwasher-safe basket saves time, but the housing itself must not be immersed in water. Also check whether a rack, inner pan or additional baking tray can be removed easily.

A viewing window is useful for monitoring the cooking process, but it does not eliminate the need to clean the components regularly.

Which specifications are important?

Capacity and layout

Use this practical guide:

  • 4 to 5 litres: suitable for one or a few people, or smaller family portions.
  • 6 to 7 litres: more space for a family air fryer, larger portions or a meal containing several ingredients.
  • Two baskets: useful when you want to cook vegetables and chicken at the same time, for example.
  • Total capacity in combination models: check whether the stated volume is divided between two separate cooking areas.

An air fryer with dual baskets offers flexibility, but it may be wider or taller. Measure the available space in advance, including the ventilation space around the appliance.

Temperature range and programmes

A digital air fryer with automatic programmes is easy to operate. Also look at the manual settings. A range of around 40 to 200 °C supports a variety of cooking methods, such as reheating, baking and roasting. A higher maximum temperature can be useful for crispier results, but always check the instructions and cooking time.

A timer, automatic switch-off and shake reminder are practical features. More programmes do not automatically mean greater ease of use: clear controls and easy-to-read information are at least as important.

Materials, safety and maintenance

Look for:

  • a stable base and heat-resistant housing;
  • sufficient clearance from walls and wall cabinets;
  • a basket with a sturdy, cool-touch handle;
  • overheat protection and automatic switch-off;
  • components that are easy to remove;
  • clear information about dishwasher safety.

For every electrical kitchen appliance, the statutory conformity and consumer guarantee rules applicable in the European Union apply. Keep your proof of purchase and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.

Recommended models for different usage profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Heinrich's air fryer HFR 8216 black 5L

Heinrich's air fryer HFR 8216 black 5L

Why it suits this profile: The 5-litre capacity and simple touch controls are ideal for everyday use without taking up too much space on the worktop.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list six automatic programmes, an adjustable temperature of 80 to 200 °C and a dishwasher-safe basket.

Key benefit & advantages

5-litre capacity, 1450-watt power, touch controls and timer function.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
Tefal Easy Fry Silence Vision 5L

Tefal Easy Fry Silence Vision 5L

Why it suits this profile: If you value convenient controls, visibility of your food and easy maintenance, this compact air fryer offers several comfort features.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The viewing window lets you check your food without opening the basket every time. The front section is removable according to the product description.

Key benefit & advantages

5-litre capacity, touchscreen, ten programmes, keep-warm function and dishwasher-safe components.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Midea MAD1100DADK 2-in-1 air fryer and oven

Midea MAD1100DADK 2-in-1 air fryer and oven

Why it suits this profile: The two independent cooking areas are practical for families who want to prepare a main course and side dish at the same time.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity is split into approximately 6.4 litres for the air fryer and 4.4 litres for the oven. This makes it clearer what each space is intended for.

Key benefit & advantages

Two cooking zones, 1850 watts, ten programmes and synchronised cooking times.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Air fryer or traditional deep-fat fryer?

An air fryer heats food with hot air and usually requires very little oil. A traditional deep-fat fryer uses a bath of oil and is primarily designed for deep-frying. If you regularly prepare large quantities of chips or snacks at the same time, you could consider a double fryer with two separate compartments. For example, the Fritel FR 1355 Duo has two 3-litre reservoirs and, according to the product specifications, is intended for 2 to 8 people.

If you mainly prepare chips, snacks and the occasional vegetables, an air fryer may be more versatile. For grilling, making panini or preparing complete meals, additional kitchen equipment such as a contact grill may make more sense than one appliance with functions you rarely use.

Frequently asked questions about air fryers

How many litres do I need for a family?

For one or two people, 4 to 5 litres is often sufficient. A family will generally benefit more from 6 to 7 litres or an air fryer with dual baskets. Always check the basket shape: the usable surface is more important than the stated capacity alone.

Does an air fryer use a lot of electricity?

Consumption depends on the power, cooking time and frequency of use. An air fryer generally heats up faster than a large oven, but the difference varies by dish and appliance. So compare the wattage and cooking time, rather than looking only at a brand’s general energy claims.

How long does an air fryer last?

Its lifespan depends on usage, cleaning and the quality of components such as the basket, non-stick coating and heating element. Clean the appliance according to the instructions, avoid overloading it and do not use abrasive products. When buying, also check whether replacement parts and service information are available.