Joybuy Insights

Buying a Multicooker With an Air Fryer? Avoid These 3 Pitfalls

A device that can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, AND air fry to a crispy finish sounds like a dream for any kitchen. But the market for the multicooker with an air fryer is filled with marketing promises that don't always hold up. Before you invest in a new all-in-one kitchen appliance, it's crucial to know what to look for. Many models look impressive on paper but prove to be impractical or limited in practice.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter the information and help you make the right choices based on specifications, not hype. Here are the three most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Pitfall 1: The "all-in-one" claim is often misleading

Many appliances are marketed as multifunctional but are essentially an air fryer with an extra grill plate. They lack the essential functions that define a true multicooker, such as high-pressure cooking (pressure cooking) or slow cooking. You end up paying for a promise that isn't delivered, leaving you with a glorified air fryer.

Pitfall 2: The inconvenience of dual lids

A true multicooker with an air fryer function often comes with two separate, bulky lids: one for pressure cooking and one for air frying. Manufacturers frequently omit this detail in their marketing. In reality, this means you need significant storage space for the lid you're not currently using. This can be a daily source of frustration in a tidy kitchen.

Pitfall 3: The stated volume is not the usable capacity

A 7.6-litre multicooker sounds ideal for a family. However, this capacity often only applies to the main functions like making soup or stew. The air fryer basket that fits inside is typically much smaller. As a result, you can only prepare a small portion of fries or snacks at a time, which isn't practical for a family-sized multicooker.

What to Look For: Deconstructing the Core Specifications

To avoid a bad purchase, focus on the specifications that truly matter. These are the three most important points to check before you decide to buy an Instant Pot or a similar model.

1. Functions: Is it a real multicooker?

Look beyond the air fry function. A versatile appliance should offer at least the following programs:

  • Electric Pressure Cooker: For cooking stews, beans, or soups at lightning speed. This is the core function that distinguishes a multicooker.
  • Slow Cooker: For slowly simmering dishes, resulting in tender and flavourful meals.
  • Sauté/Sear: To brown ingredients directly in the pot before using another function.
  • Steam: For the healthy preparation of vegetables or fish.

Extra features like a sous vide device or dehydrator are a plus, but the basic functions determine whether you're getting a true 11-in-1 multicooker.

2. Capacity: What really fits inside?

Check the dimensions and capacity of both the inner pot and the air fryer basket. For a family of four, an inner pot of at least 6 litres is recommended. Ask yourself how many fries or chicken wings will actually fit in the air fryer basket. A capacity of 1 kg for fries is a good guideline for family use.

3. Material and Maintenance: Stainless Steel vs. Non-Stick

The inner pot is the most frequently used component, making the choice of material crucial.

  • Stainless Steel (SS): Durable, safe at high temperatures, and ideal for searing (sauté). The downside is that food can stick more easily, and cleaning requires more effort.
  • Non-stick coating: Easy to clean and ideal for ingredients that tend to stick. The disadvantage is its fragility; the coating can be damaged by metal utensils or harsh cleaning agents.

For longevity and versatility, a stainless steel pot is often preferred, especially if you plan to use the sauté function frequently.

Popular Models: Which One Fits?

Not everyone has the same needs. Below are some recommendations tailored to different user profiles.

MATCH FOR: The Versatile Home Chef
Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Electric Multicooker

Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Electric Multicooker

Why This Fits Their Persona: This user wants to get the most out of a single appliance. From quick weekday meals with the pressure cooker to experimenting with sous-vide on the weekend. The large 7.6-litre capacity is perfect for family meals or for meal-prepping.

How It Avoids the Trap

This is a true 11-in-1 multicooker, not a glorified air fryer. It offers full-fledged pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sous-vide functions. The dual lid is a deliberate choice for functionality, not a hidden drawback.

Key Advantage & Pros

Combines a powerful electric pressure cooker with an effective air fryer. The stainless steel inner pot is durable and suitable for high-temperature searing.

MATCH FOR: The Efficient Meal Planner
Tefal EY801D - Easy Fry & Grill XXL Air Fryer

Tefal EY801D - Easy Fry & Grill XXL Air Fryer

Why This Fits Their Persona: This user is primarily looking for a fast and healthy way to prepare a complete meal. The focus is on air frying and grilling. The dual-zone feature is ideal for cooking chicken and vegetables simultaneously, ensuring everything is ready at the same time.

How It Avoids the Trap

This model doesn't pretend to be a full multicooker. It's a specialised air fryer and grill. The dual drawer with a sync function cleverly addresses the pitfall of limited capacity.

Key Advantage & Pros

The Flexcook divider allows you to switch from one XXL zone (6.5L) to two separate zones. The intelligent sync function ensures both dishes are ready at the same time.

MATCH FOR: The Space-Conscious Starter
Tefal EY5058 - Easy Fry & Grill Precision Air Fryer

Tefal EY5058 - Easy Fry & Grill Precision Air Fryer

Why This Fits Their Persona: Perfect for those with limited space or a one- to two-person household. This model offers the benefits of air frying and grilling without taking up much counter space. The 4.2L capacity is more than enough for smaller portions.

How It Avoids the Trap

This appliance is honest about what it is: a compact 2-in-1 air fryer and grill. It avoids the pitfall of superfluous functions and a bulky design. It does what it promises, in a practical size.

Key Advantage & Pros

Combines an efficient air fryer with a die-cast aluminium grill plate for excellent grilling results. The dehydration function is a valuable extra in this price range.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and Dutch safety regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a multicooker with an air fryer and a regular air fryer?

A regular air fryer uses hot, circulating air to cook food and give it a crispy layer. A multicooker with an air fryer is a more versatile all-in-one kitchen appliance that, in addition to air frying, also masters other cooking techniques like pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, rice cooking, and sometimes even sous-vide. It is essentially multiple kitchen appliances in one.

How much power does an 11-in-1 multicooker use?

Power consumption depends on the function. An 11-in-1 multicooker like the Instant Pot Pro Crisp has a power rating of around 1500 Watts. The air fryer and sauté functions consume the most energy as they need to reach high temperatures. Functions like slow cooking and keep-warm are significantly more economical. According to the manufacturer, pressure cooking can be up to 70% faster than traditional methods, which can save energy in the long run.

Is a stainless steel (SS) inner pot better than one with a non-stick coating?

Both have their pros and cons. A stainless steel inner pot is very durable, can withstand rough handling, is safe for use with metal utensils, and is ideal for searing meat at high temperatures. A pot with a non-stick coating is easier to clean and more convenient for delicate ingredients like eggs or fish. For a multicooker, where you often start by searing ingredients, stainless steel is frequently the more robust and versatile choice.