Air fryer vs deep fryer — it's time to solve this kitchen conundrum once and for all. 

Our industry experts lift the lid on the pros and cons of these famous foes, with top tips and product recommendations to help you decide what works best for you. From size, speed and cooking capabilities, through cleaning, energy consumption, and versatility, they will walk you through the pros and cons of both air fryers and deep fryers in each department.

Comparing the best air fryers with what the deep fryer can offer will have you cooking up a storm in no time. 

Size: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

One of the most noticeable differences between air fryers and deep fryers is their size. 

Air fryers are typically compact and designed to fit easily on a kitchen counter. They are ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or those who need a portable cooking option. Small air fryers have an equally small footprint and take up less space and are easy to store when not in use. However, the compact size can also limit the amount of food you can cook at one time, which might be a drawback for larger families or entertaining, but perform for dorm, shared space or solo living.

Deep fryers, on the other hand, come in a range of sizes from small countertop models to large commercial units. While a small deep fryer can be suitable for home use, larger models can take up significant counter space and may be more challenging to store.

The benefit of a deep fryer is its capacity to cook larger quantities of food at once, making it ideal for gatherings or when cooking for a crowd. The downside is that it requires more space and can be cumbersome to handle and store.

Kevin Ashton, culinary advisor at Restaurantji, says, "Typically more compact in design, air fryers are usually more suitable for smaller kitchens or places where counter space is limited. Deep fryers' larger size makes them ideal for use in commercial kitchens where large quantities of food are prepared."

However, if you're looking for a deep fryer and have a small kitchen or apartment, Kevin recommends the Hamilton Beach Triple Basket Electric Deep Fryer from Amazon. He says, "I love this deep fryer as it's well-designed to fit in small spaces, affordable, and delivers top-notch results. 

"It comes with three separate baskets — one full-size one and two half-sized, which allows you to fry two different food items at the same time. It's also so easy to use — simply set the temperature knob, wait for the green light, and you're good to go."

Speed: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Speed is an important consideration when choosing between an air fryer vs deep fryer.

Kevin says, "Air fryers are generally faster for cooking compared to deep fryers. Air fryers use rapid technology to circulate hot air around the food at high speed. This allows them to heat up quickly and cook food faster compared to deep fryers, which require a lot of time to heat large quantities of oil to frying temperature.

"Furthermore, air fryers cook through convection, where a stream of hot air rapidly surrounds the food, crisping it up efficiently. The process is faster than deep frying."

The best deep fat fryers often require more time to heat the oil to the desired temperature. Once the oil is hot, deep fryers can cook food quickly, producing a crispy exterior and tender interior. However, the initial heating time and the need to maintain a consistent temperature can add to the overall cooking time. 

If speed and convenience are your priorities, an air fryer might be the better choice.

Cooking: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

The cooking capabilities of air fryers and deep fryers differ significantly, influencing the texture and taste of food. 

Air fryers use hot air to cook food, mimicking the effect of frying but with little to no oil. This results in a healthier cooking method, reducing fat content by up to 75% compared to traditional frying. 

Deep fryers, on the other hand, are the gold standard for achieving that classic fried texture and flavor. Submerging food in hot oil produces a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. For those who prioritize taste and texture, a deep fryer might be the preferred option.

Kevin says, "Air fryers are ideal for preparing foods that require less oil for cooking and benefit more from dry heat. They include mozzarella sticks, and chicken nuggets. They are also great for roasting vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

"Deep fryers are ideal for foods that benefit from deep frying because the cooking process involves submerging the food in hot oil. Ideal foods for a deep fryer include fish fillets, fried chicken, tempura, onion rings and doughnuts."

Kevin recommends the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro from Amazon for its culinary prowess. He says, "I love it because it is relatively affordable and has 13 preset functions, including slow cook, roast, pizza and bagel. Its pre-heating function adds a level of precision to my cooking. And a handy bonus — it's easy to clean."

Adonis Icalina is an experienced chef and author at Carnivore Style. He says, "For me, when it comes to deep fryers, you can't look past the Breville Smart Fryer from Amazon. Its precise temperature control with digital interface is incredibly helpful in my restaurant because it ensures our fried foods come out at consistent quality — perfectly crispy every time. 

"Another thing I'm obsessed with is this deep fryer's 'Cool Zone' technology, which helps keep the oil cleaner for longer. This is a huge benefit for us as it reduces the need for frequent oil changes, saving both time and money. Cleaner oil also means better-tasting food and less waste, which is important for both the environment and our bottom line."

Cleaning: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Cleaning is a significant factor to consider when choosing between an air fryer and a deep fryer. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Air fryers are typically easier to clean because they use little to no oil. Most models have dishwasher-safe components, such as the basket and tray, which simplifies the cleaning process. Additionally, because air fryers don't involve large amounts of hot oil, there's less risk of greasy splatters.

"Deep fryers can be more challenging to clean due to the large quantity of oil used, which can splash and leave a greasy residue. The oil reservoir and other components usually need to be cleaned by hand, and disposing of used oil can be messy and inconvenient."

Some deep fryers come with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe, which can help with the cleaning process, but the overall maintenance is generally more demanding than that of an air fryer.

When it comes to cleaning an air fryer, Karina trusts one above all else — the Phillips Premium Air Fryer XXL from Amazon. She says, "This model is renowned for its ease of cleaning, with dishwasher-safe parts and minimal oil usage."

For deep fryers, Karina recommends the Cuisinart Deep Fryer from Amazon. She adds, "I like how it offers a large oil container with a pour spout for easier oil management and cleaning."

Energy: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Energy consumption when comparing the air fryer vs deep fryer.

Adonis says, "Air fryers operate by circulating hot air around the food at a high speed, using convection technology to cook food quickly and evenly. This method requires less energy because it heats up rapidly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Air fryers also have shorter cooking times compared to deep fryers, which further contributes to energy savings.

"On the other hand, deep fryers use a significant amount of energy to heat and maintain large quantities of oil to high temperatures. Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, the fryer must continue to expend energy to maintain that heat level throughout the cooking process. Plus, deep fryers may need to heat up again between batches if the oil temperature drops significantly, further adding to energy consumption."

Kevin adds, "Air fryers typically have precise temperature controls and can quickly adjust temperatures as needed. On the contrary, deep fryers require more energy to maintain a consistently high temperature of the oil."

For those looking to minimize energy consumption, an air fryer may be the better choice.

Versatility: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Versatility is a key category where air fryers often outperform deep fryers. 

The best small air fryers can cook a wide range of foods beyond just frying, including roasting, baking, and grilling. This makes them a more versatile kitchen appliance that can replace multiple other devices. For individuals with limited kitchen space or those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods, an air fryer offers a broader range of culinary possibilities.

Deep fryers, while excellent for traditional frying, are more limited in their cooking applications. They are specifically designed for frying and do not offer the same versatility as air fryers. However, for those who frequently prepare large quantities of fried foods and prioritize achieving the perfect fried texture and flavor, a deep fryer is an unmatched tool.

Adonis recommends the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Air Fryer from Amazon, saying, "There's so much to love, from its large capacity, with two separate baskets allowing you to cook multiple items at once, to its 'Smart Finish' technology, which allows different foods to finish cooking at the same time. 

"The ability to synchronize cooking times helps us streamline our workflow and deliver consistently high-quality dishes to our restaurant customers."

Meet our experts

So there you have it — air fryer vs deep fryer, solved. 

Choosing between an air fryer and a deep fryer depends on your cooking needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. If you value healthier cooking, quick meal preparation, and easy cleanup, an air fryer might be the best option for you. Its versatility and energy efficiency make it a practical addition to any kitchen. 

On the other hand, if you prioritize achieving the perfect fried texture and flavor, enjoy cooking large quantities of food, and don't mind the additional cleaning and energy usage, a deep fryer might be more suitable.

Next, check out when we put an air fryer and deep fryer to the test. 

Learning the differences and merits of air fryers vs convection oven will come in handy when choosing which to use for each cooking task, and whether or not to even invest in an air fryer.

From speed of cooking to energy efficiency, our culinary expert explains the pros and cons of each kitchen appliance, providing top tips and product recommendations along the way.

In the red corner, the best air fryers are our lightweight contender, producing great food at super speeds; in the blue corner, convection ovens are the heavyweight to underestimate at your peril. 

Size: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

One of the most noticeable differences between an air fryers and convection ovens are their size. 

Convection ovens are larger and typically built into kitchen cabinetry or come as a part of a range. This increased size allows for more cooking space, making them suitable for baking large batches of cookies, roasting whole chickens, or cooking multiple dishes at once. The downside is that convection ovens require cabinet space and may not be as convenient for those with limited kitchen real estate.

In contrast, air fryers are much smaller and portable.

Kevin Ashton, culinary advisor at Restaurantji, says, "Air fryers are generally more compact and take up less space on your counter. They are ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or for those who don't have the luxury of big kitchen space. Their vertical design allows for efficient storage when they are not in use. So, if you are more concerned about size because you don't have much space in your kitchen, an air fryer wins the race."

While the best small air fryers are ideal for tight kitchens, apartments, or for those who want to save counter space. Their small size allows them to preheat quickly and cook smaller portions efficiently, if you're cooking for a large family or often prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, a convection oven is the way to go.

Speed: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

When it comes to cooking speed, air fryers often have the edge due to their compact size and high-speed fans. 

The concentrated hot air in an air fryer circulates more rapidly around the food, resulting in faster cooking times, making it an excellent choice for quick meals, snacks, and reheating leftovers. For busy individuals or those who value quick meal preparation, an air fryer can be a game-changer.

We like this Larinest 8-Quart Air Fryer from Amazon for its combination of a family-sized basket and quick cooking time.

Convection ovens, while still faster than traditional ovens, typically take longer to cook food than air fryers, especially if fully loaded, and need more time to preheat due to their size. However, the even heat distribution in convection ovens ensures consistent cooking results, which can be beneficial for baking and roasting larger items.

Kevin adds, "If speed is your primary concern, the air fryer is better. Its compact design and size allow food to cook quickly by circulating hot air around it at high speed. An air fryer is perfect for preparing fast meals and snacks. Although ovens are relatively quick, they are better suited for preparing larger meals requiring a bit more time."

Cooking: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Cooking capabilities differ significantly between air fryers and convection ovens, with each appliance excelling at different types of food. 

Kevin says, "Air fryers are good for preparing foods such as French fries, mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, and other traditionally deep-fried items that taste delicious when crispy. The compact cooking chamber also makes it the best option for preparing vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. These vegetables roast quickly and evenly in an air fryer, achieving a nice crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside."

Air fryers also perform well with reheating leftovers, as they can quickly restore crispiness to foods that might become soggy in a microwave or overcook in a convection oven.

The best convection ovens, on the other hand, are more versatile and can handle a wider range of cooking tasks. They excel at baking cakes, cookies, and bread, thanks to the even heat distribution. Roasting meats and vegetables in a convection oven yields consistently delicious results with a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.

Additionally, the larger size of convection ovens allows for simultaneous cooking of multiple dishes, which can be a significant advantage when preparing meals for gatherings or family dinners.

Cleaning: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Ease of cleaning is an important consideration when choosing between using an air fryer or a convection oven, especially if you're crunched on time. 

Cleaning air fryers comes with several plus-points. In particular, they often have removable baskets and trays that are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup relatively easy.

However, their smaller size means that food particles and grease can become trapped in tight spaces, requiring regular and thorough cleaning to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance. This includes grease on the protective and usually removable mesh protected in the lid, which protects the heating element from direct spatter.

Convection ovens, especially built-in models, can be more challenging to clean due to their larger size and fixed components. However, regular cleaning of the oven racks, interior surfaces, and fans is necessary to maintain efficiency and prevent food contamination. 

Many convection ovens come with a self-cleaning feature, which uses high heat to burn off food residues, but this process can be time-consuming and energy-intensive.

While cleaning a convection oven can be more labor-intensive, the ability to cook larger meals may outweigh this drawback for some users but we'd say that boils down to how large your household is and the type of foods you love cooking.

Energy: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Energy consumption is another factor to consider when comparing air fryers and convection ovens. 

Kevin says, "Air fryers are generally more energy efficient because they are small and require less energy to heat up and maintain temperature. Also, since air fryers typically cook faster than convection ovens, shorter cooking times translate to less energy usage overall. 

"For instance, cooking a batch of French fries in an air fryer takes approximately 15 minutes compared to 25 minutes in an oven. The rapid air circulation in an air fryer ensures even cooking without the need for prolonged exposure to heat, which further reduces energy consumption."

Though some convection ovens are designed with energy-saving features, they are likely to have a higher energy usage compared to air fryers; this energy efficiency can lead to lower electricity bills and a reduced environmental footprint, making air fryers an appealing choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Versatility: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Versatility is a key category where convection ovens often outperform air fryers.

While air fryers are excellent for specific tasks like frying and reheating, convection ovens offer broader cooking options.

From baking and roasting to broiling and dehydrating, the best integrated convection ovens provide greater flexibility for a wide range of culinary activities. This versatility makes convection ovens a more comprehensive solution for those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods and recipes.

Air fryers, though less versatile, are perfect for individuals who primarily seek a healthier way to enjoy fried foods without the hassle of deep frying. They are also convenient for quick snacks and meals, making them a valuable addition to a kitchen that already has a conventional or convection oven.

When it comes to more versatile air fryers, we love this Instant Vortex Plus XL 8-Quart ClearCook Air Fryer from Amazon thanks to its large capacity combined with its dual controls that allow you different settings for each basket.

Kevin recommends the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro from Amazon. He says, "I love it because it has 13 preset functions, including slow cook, roast, pizza and bagel. Its pre-heating function also adds a level of precision to my cooking. It's easy to clean, too."

Meet our expert

So there you have it — air fryer vs convection oven, solved. 

Choosing between an air fryer and a convection oven ultimately depends on your cooking needs, kitchen space, and personal preferences. If you have limited space, need quick meal preparation, and prefer healthier fried foods, an air fryer may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a versatile appliance capable of handling a variety of cooking tasks and larger meal preparations, a convection oven might be more suitable.

Next, check out our run-down of how air fryers and deep fryers compare.

Start cooking up a storm with Amazon's #1 bestselling air fryer. The appliance which sold over 20,000 units in the past month is on sale now with over 30% off. 

Air fryers are a practical choice for every kitchen as they're so versatile and easy to use. The Ninja AF101, available on Amazon, takes the crown as the best-selling model loved by thousands of customers online. We've tested it ourselves and found it performed incredibly well. 

Check out everything you need to know about one of the best air fryers and how to get this great deal.

Amazon's #1 bestselling air fryer

If you're limited on counter space, a small air fryer like the Ninja AF101 is the perfect solution. No need to stock up on tons of small kitchen appliances, a good air fryer can replace your microwave, slow cooker, and pressure cooker. So if you're running out of places to store appliances in a small kitchen, one device is all you need.

It's well-loved by customers with a 4.7-star rating and over 53,000 reviews. So what makes this model the best of the bunch? In our Ninja AF101 review, we tested this machine to see if it was worth the hype and we gave it a 4.5/5 stars.

What we love about the Ninja AF101

We tested this air fryer ourselves to find everything this machine is capable of. According to our reviewer, the machine cooked signature staples using air and up to 75% less fat. She was clear the control panel was incredibly intuitive, and the machine provided excellent results when cooking all sorts of foods. 

While not massive, the air fryer is large enough to feed a family as the four-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket can fit two pounds of French fries. It has four cooking modes — air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate — that you can customize based on what you're making. 

It's typically pretty easy to clean an air fryer and this model from Ninja is no exception. Our reviewer found it was a breeze.

If you follow all the dos and don'ts of using an air fryer, you won't run into any problems, but our reviewer noted an important point about its function, adding that it's so powerful, you might need to reduce conventional cooking times down by a few minutes to avoid drying out, overcooking or burning your food by mistake.

More air fryers we love

Looking for other models with the Real Homes seal of approval? We tested plenty of other highly-rated machines in our dedicated testing HQ or in our homes. We also got the low-down on celeb favorites, like Paris Hilton's air fryer and Drew Barrymore's air fryer. 

Discover our top selections from Instant, Cosori, and more below.

Still not sure whether it's the right time to snag this? It's worth checking the best times to snag a new appliance, as there are various sales events throughout the year that offer big discounts.

Ninja is dialing back complicated machines and the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL is no exception. Air fryers these days keep presenting us with more options, functions and uses and it's not uncommon to see them have 10 or more settings, all sorts of automated directions, and more buttons than I can keep track of or understand. 

This super straightforward air fryer does have six options — max crisp, air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate — but each one has a singular button, along with power, temperature, time, and start. It's not trying to do too much. It's keeping things simple and that makes my life easier, and it makes me a heck of a lot more likely to use it on a daily basis (which I have been so far!).

Plus, it works, and it's quick. I've made everything from falafel to grilled cheese. I've baked, air-fried, reheated, and max-crisped. Every time, it's consistent and fast. The Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL has convinced me it's one of the best air fryers you can add to the kitchen.

Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL Review

What I thought of the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

This sticker, which I promptly peeled off after taking this photo, sums up the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 in one small rectangle. Straightforward and easy to use. Each button clearly tells you what its job is, and this diagram clearly spells out exactly how long you should cook different types of food. 

With Max Crisp Technology and temperatures of up to 450° Fahrenheit, this Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL cooks quickly, which I appreciate when I'm trying to make lunch between deadlines and meetings. 

I can throw in a grilled cheese and it's done in just a few minutes flat. It does automatically set the time to 20 minutes each time you use it, so make sure you keep an eye on the time rather than relying on the timer, or manually adjust the time duration down.

My favorite use for an air fryer is heating up restaurant and takeout leftovers so that they actually taste like they did when they were fresh, and, whether it's fries or Brussels sprouts, this Ninja does the trick perfectly.

At 6.5 quarts, it's the perfect size for a small family. My husband and I can make dinner in it, but it's not so big that it's taking up precious counter space. Plus, it's so sleek that I don't mind leaving it out — and that's saying something.

Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL specifications

Unboxing the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

Whenever I open up an appliance, I'm quietly dreading the setup. How many parts am I going to have to assemble? How long am I going to spend trying to match numbers up to a diagram? 

Luckily, the minute I pulled this Ninja air fryer out, I knew I was in luck. It was packed safely in styrofoam, which I don't love from an environmental standpoint, but it kept it snugly in the box. And then the assembly — there was none. 

This came fully assembled, and I could immediately see the basket and crisping plate were well-made and fit perfectly into the unit. All I had to do was pull off four stickers, which easily lifted off the surface. Setup couldn't have been easier, and the air fryer comes with a quick start guide and a manual.

Then I cleaned the air fryer crisper plate and the inside of the basket with hot, soapy water, dried them, and we were ready to go.

Using the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

To get started using the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1, all you have to do is familiarize yourself with a few key buttons. First, you have power, temperature, time, and start — all self-explanatory. Then, right below, you have the cooking settings: max crisp, air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. And I can't tell you how much I value words over icons, where I can never tell if I'm looking at a turkey leg or a chicken wing.

Regardless of which mode you're using, you'll turn the unit on, make sure the crisper plate is locked in the basket, then select the mode and temperature, and let it preheat for three minutes before putting your food in. The air fryer will automatically be set to 20 minutes, but you can use the time button to adjust for your recipe (20 minutes is longer than most food will need in an air fryer). 

If you're air frying or using max crisp, halfway through cooking, you should use the start button to pause cooking, then take out the basket and shake the food to make sure everything is cooking evenly. 

This is where the only real complaint I had came into play — I wish there was a way to see the food while it's cooking (like the COSORI Dual Basket, which we reviewed, which has a handy viewing window) rather than having to open the basket. But, if you're opening it to shake the food anyway, then I suppose it's no big deal.

If you're roasting, the quick start guide says you should subtract 25° Fahrenheit whenever you're baking in an air fryer. It doesn't say the same for baking, but I found that it bakes super fast, which could be because of the temperature. If you look below, those croissant rolls were supposed to take 20 minutes, yet I popped them in and, nine minutes later, they were a golden brown.

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL also has a list of tips and tricks in the quick start manual that I found incredibly helpful. I wouldn't have thought to secure lightweight food to keep it from blowing around, or to reduce the time when there's less food, but now I know.

How to clean and maintain the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

To clean the air fryer, Ninja recommends hand washing the crisper plate basket to extend the life of the unit. They can be put in the dishwasher in a pinch. However, ideally, hand washing with warm, soapy water and towel drying will help the non-stick surface last longer.

Once you've found the right cadence on how often to clean your air fryer, you can wipe down the exterior with a damp microfiber cloth with a bit of dish soap if necessary to keep the exterior as clean as the inside, but never submerge the appliance in water.

Should you buy the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL?

If you're looking for a sleek, stylish, and straightforward air fryer that is a big enough size to make dinner for a small family but doesn't take up major counter space, then this is your air fryer. 

Of all the air fryers I've ever used, this one does the best job of keeping things super simple while still giving you options. We're definitely in a new era of air fryers where one setting isn't enough, but I also don't want to choose from 15 different options every time I want to heat up fries or falafel. 

By limiting it to six settings, this Ninja air fryer makes it easy. Less thinking, more eating. If that's your motto, this is the air fryer for you.

Good to know

Instructions
The Ninja® Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 comes with an instruction manual and a quick start guide with recipes. I also found the sticker on the front of the machine to be super helpful in understanding timing.

Warranty
A one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Ninja® Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1.

Where to buy the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

The Ninja® Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 is available to buy directly from Ninja, via their Amazon storefront, or from retailers such as Target.

How we test air fryers

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 was sent to me by the brand, and I used it over a several-week period. Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing air fryers:

If you love the sound of this air fryer, but would indeed like more cooking functions, the Ninja Speedi, which we reviewed — a multicooker air fryer able to cook whole meals in 15 minutes flat — might be the one for you.

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is changing the way I use my blender. Unlike previous models which have gone unused in my kitchen, I'm using it for just about everything.

It has a full-size pitcher, of course, but it also comes with two personal-size containers and a small blade. I'd made a smoothie to go with my lunch within ten minutes of pulling this blender out of the box. This blender could actually earn its keep on my countertop — or at least a cabinet within arm's reach.

The BlendSense feature means that it can detect the type of recipe you're making, how to blend, and how long it needs to be blended, making it one of the best blenders in my opinion. Watching the neon lights on the dial countdown is a new type of satisfaction.

Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro Review

I love that the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro keeps it simple. While there are both processing and manual options, I really only have to worry about turning it on, then turning on the BlendSense. If I want to go with the processing modes or one of 10 manual speeds, it's easy to select the right one on the dial.

If I had one main complaint, it's that this machine is huge. It's tall. It's heavy. And those suction cups work. Moving this around is a workout.

Prices in this article were correct at the time of publication.

Setting up the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro

Unboxing the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is super easy. It came safely packed in between corrugated cardboard, and each piece was wrapped in plastic, but it didn't feel excessive. 

Included in the box is the base, pitcher and lid, two single serve containers, two sipping tops for the containers, and a blade for the single serve containers.

There's no assembly involved. Just take each piece out, then pop the blender on the base, and you're ready to go. The blade was even already in the pitcher, ready for action. I cleaned the blender by giving each piece a quick rinse before using.

Using the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro

I like to think most blenders are intuitive, especially when they boast BlendSense technology, but I did give the guide a quick read. They included an extra sheet with a Pineapple Mango Margarita recipe, which I will 100% try this weekend. 

The guide is incredibly easy to follow, with lots of images and 10 quick and easy recipes at the back. I loved that the recipes focused primarily on smoothies, since that's what I'm most often making, but also included a dip, salsa, and meatballs (I haven't made the meatballs yet, but that idea of doing so in a blender was totally new to me).

Obviously my first foray into using the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro had to include leveraging the BlendSense technology. I threw in ice, peaches, and pineapple for a refreshing midday smoothie. The top locked right into place. Then I pressed the Power button, followed by the BlendSense button.  

BlendSense can go into several different modes: Blending, Crush, Max Crush, and Thick Mode.

It blended my first smoothie within seconds, crushing right through the ice and frozen fruit. To be honest, it shocked me a little bit with just how loud the motor was, but, hey, it got the job done! I added a bit more water to get the consistency I wanted. It never had to go into Crush or Max Crush mode, but I still got a smooth consistency from Blending mode.

When I first tried out the single serve container, I made another smoothie. This one had frozen cherries in it, and that seemed to make the motor work even harder. This is what sent it into Crush mode, but, let me tell you, the velvety smooth consistency of this smoothie was unmatched.

I hate a chunky smoothie, and Ninja delivers here. There was not a speck of fruit that wasn't pulverized — and I mean that in the most positive way.

Plus, I couldn't get over the convenience of the single serve option. It attaches just as easily as the full-size pitcher, and the blade is just as powerful. This is truly a game changer.

So far, in addition to near daily smoothies, I've also tried chopping bell peppers and making an açai bowl. The processing mode allows for large and small chops, as well as mince. 

Then the manual blending has 10 speed modes. These are all simple to use, though I'm still going to primarily use it for smoothies. Next on my list to try is nut butters (though the idea of the clean up there has stopped me so far) so I will update this article once I have done so.

Cleaning the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro

The beautiful thing about cleaning this blender is that the parts are top-rack dishwasher safe, so you can just run the pitcher, single-serve containers, and the blades all through the dishwasher. Of course, you may need to soak them if you don't plan on running a load right away, but you can't beat the convenience. 

You can also just run soapy water through the blender quickly if it's an easy clean-up job.

Is the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro Right for You?

If you're looking for an easy-to-use blender, you have counter or cabinet space, and you're okay splurging $179.99, then the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is the way to go. With the ability to blend both full-size 72 oz. pitchers and single serve containers, this eliminates the need for a separate smoothie blender. It also chops and minces, so you might be able to go without a food processor, too.

The BlendSense technology makes it easy to multitask while you make a quick smoothie or prep the rest of your meal, and, as they say, time is money. That alone could make the price worth it.

Good to Know

Instructions

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro comes with an easy-to-follow guide that includes ten recipes.

Warranty

A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro.

Where to buy the  Ninja Blast Portable Blender

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is available to buy from the Ninja website, Amazon, Target, and other major retailers.

About this review and the reviewer

We have a set process for our reviews at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the blender.

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro was sent to me by Ninja, and I tested it out several weeks before writing this review. I tried frozen fruit smoothies, protein smoothies, açai bowls, and even a salsa. I made sure I tested each mode (though I loved the BlendSense mode for its ease!). I tested how it performed against ice, various frozen fruit, and adding almond butter to my smoothies. I tested it for speed, efficiency, and how smoothly it blends (very!).

How we test small kitchen appliances

When testing small kitchen appliances for Real Homes, our experienced reviewers either test then in our professional kitchen, or like I did with this blender, test it in our homes to be able to deliver the authentic review of how an item like the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro can fit into your day-to-day life.

During our testing, we'll also assess:Size: Can they fit into a small kitchen space (like a studio apartment or tiny kitchen)?

• Features: Are they effective, how many are there, and how easy is it to use the appliance?
• Size: Can the appliance fit into a small kitchen space (such as a studio apartment, or tiny kitchen with limited counter space?
• Energy usage: We'll calculate the wattage and cost per use
• Purpose: Does it deserve space on the counter or in kitchen cabinets compared to a a similarly-functioning appliance 
• Cost: Is it worth the price tag, or will another similar item that costs less do the job on a smaller budget.

If you like the look of this blender, but do not have the counter space to dedicate to it, consider the Nutribullet Pro 900, rated our best personal blender in the Real Homes Best Small Kitchen Appliances guide and given five stars by our test team.

The KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry is a great choice for kitchens with limited space where you can’t buy a separate air fryer, toaster oven, toaster, and dehydrator.

It’s also a great alternative to a full-size oven when preparing side or even main dishes since it preheats so quickly. A super-legible digital display and simple control panel are designed for easy use, and a convection fan helps to ensure even cooking.

Other features, like a built-in timer and a preheat time of under four minutes, make this one of the best air fryers on the market. See how I got on testing seven of the 12 cook functions.

KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry review

KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry specifications

What I thought of the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

The KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry preheats in less than four minutes, so it’s great for cooking air fryer recipes or reheating foods. With just two knobs and three buttons, it’s easy to learn to use. While the design limits what you can cook in an air fryer (most whole chickens won’t fit), I was impressed by the oven's efficiency.

Setting up the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

The setup process is very simple. I removed the protective packaging and some tape from the oven, and then unwrapped each accessory. KitchenAid states that the accessories can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but I hand washed them before using the oven for the first time.  

Using the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

The countertop oven features one knob to select a cook mode, and another to adjust time and temperature. The oven also features Start, Cancel, and Convection buttons. You can figure out how to operate it in just a few minutes. 

Choosing settings

When you select a setting, the oven automatically displays a suggested temperature and cooking time. The instruction manual also provides some time recommendations for air frying. 

Since the oven offers two rack positions, you do need to pay attention to the recommended rack position for each setting. When testing the bagel function, I had the rack positioned too low and burned the bottom of the bagel. 

I quickly realized that I should use the higher rack position for most cooking settings, and didn’t have additional issues. 

The oven’s digital display is large, so I had no trouble changing the temperature and cooking times. Once set, it provides a countdown of cooking time that I could see from across my kitchen. 

The timer was quiet, and I had difficulty hearing it from the next room while the television was on. The oven’s automatic shutoff feature stops the cooking cycle once the timer goes off, so even if I didn’t hear the timer right away, it didn’t burn the food. 

Preheating and general operation

One of my favorite features is this oven’s rapid preheating capability. I found in every mode, the oven reached its desired temperature in three and a half minutes. That rapid preheat made it a convenient addition to my kitchen, and I found that I quickly started using it for most of my cooking needs. 

The interior light remains on throughout its entire use. It’s bright and illuminates the food well, so it’s easy to keep an eye on cooking progress. On most settings, like the toast, bagel, bake, and broil settings, the oven is nearly silent.

The convection fan, which must operate during the air fry cycle, can be turned on and off for other cooking settings. Even when running, the fan is quiet. I would compare it to a desktop fan running on medium, and you could easily hold a conversation in the kitchen without feeling the need to talk over it.

Toast and bagel

The toast and bagel functions display different darkness settings, and turning the dial changes the settings. I found that the default darkness setting for both the toast and the bagel settings were perfect and toasted the foods to my preferences. 

The oven can accommodate up to six slices at a time (most of the best toasters can only fit four), ideal for preparing meals for multiple people.

The toasting was even (once I raised the rack to the right level), and even a thicker bagel was well-toasted but not burnt. I used the oven to make toast and bagels daily for a week, and the results were consistent. 

Baking function

I found the bake and broil settings were very convenient, especially since the oven preheats so quickly. I baked several frozen foods, including a frozen chicken meal, according to the meal manufacturer’s cooking instructions. Those meals were cooked thoroughly and completely, and not at all burnt. 

While KitchenAid markets the oven as being able to accommodate up to two full chickens weighing 3.4 lbs each, I couldn’t find poultry that small available in any grocery store. 

Broiling function

Air fryer mode

This small kitchen appliance's air fry mode doesn’t require you to turn the foods and features a convection fan for even cooking. I made four batches of French fries with the air fryer and used the default settings.

I found the default time was a little long and burnt the ends of the fries, but after decreasing it by two minutes the results were perfectly crisp, thoroughly-cooked fries. 

Cooking bacon

I also used the air fry setting to cook bacon. The bacon was a little softer than I'm used to when using my best non-stick frying pan, but I think if I’d left it in for another few minutes it would have crisped up. The air frying took longer to cook than the broil function, but the bacon was evenly cooked and I didn’t have to worry about turning it.

Reheating function

The reheat and keep warm functions also performed well. I reheated refrigerated pizza several times, and the reheat function worked well without overly baking or burning it. I also used the keep warm function to keep the bacon hot with no problems. 

I should mention that if you enjoy making pizza from scratch, but hate waiting for the yeast to activate, the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry has a dough-proofing function too.

Dehydrating fruit

While I’ve never dehydrated food before, I sliced an apple and tested the dehydrate feature. I used the default settings, which are a 150° Fahrenheit cook temperature and a six-hour cook time. 

The apple slices were not fully dehydrated by the end of the cycle, but I suspect if I had sliced them thinner, or used a mandoline slicer (like this one from OXO at Amazon) they would have been. They were a bit chewy, but tasted extra sweet, as if the flavor were concentrated. 

Cleaning the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

KitchenAid specifies that the oven rack, multipurpose pan, and broiling rack are dishwasher safe, but that hand washing with a little unfragranced dish soap (like Palmolive's Pure+Clear on Amazon) is recommended. I found that all three were easy to wash by hand. 

After several uses, the multipurpose pan’s surface started to lose a bit of its shine, though the food didn’t stick and I couldn’t feel any residue on the pan. The crumb tray slides out of the oven, and it’s easy to hand wash. It’s a convenient feature and simplifies the process of cleaning the air fryer. 

I noticed that the oven’s interior, especially the interior of the door, gets dirty quickly, and I imagine that’s because the oven is small. Since the interior walls feature a nonstick coating, I was able to easily wipe the oven clean using a damp microfiber cloth (we like these on Amazon). 

Is the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry right for you?

Outside of the recipe testing that I conducted, KitchenAid claims that it can be used to cook sheet cakes, full one-pan meals, and beef tenderloin/rib roast. 

It includes a 62-page instruction manual, and the first 18 pages are in English. The manual includes clear instructions and detailed graphics. KitchenAid offers a one-year warranty from the date of purchase on this oven.

But if you're not keen on this appliance, you might be interested in these:

How we test air fryers

KitchenAid sent me the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry and I tested this air fryer in my home for several weeks. I used these criteria during the testing and review process. 

Unboxing: I considered the condition of the packaging and the oven when it arrived. I evaluated the types of packing materials used, including whether the materials were recyclable. I also evaluated how easily I was able to remove and assemble the oven. 

The countertop oven was shipped via FedEx, and it was double-boxed. When it arrived, there was a large hole and tear through the top of the exterior box. The hole was also present in the interior box, but because the oven was so well packed with Styrofoam inserts, there was no damage to the oven, itself. 

The oven and the accessories were individually wrapped in protective plastic, and the accessories were also packaged in a smaller cardboard box. Everything was in excellent condition upon unboxing.

Operation: I considered my entire experience in using the oven, including how easily I could understand the instructions and operate the appliance. I evaluated how well the different cooking modes worked, and tested the oven using many different types of foods. I repeated many of those tests and looked for a quality cook. 

Ease of use: I also evaluated the machine’s ease of use, considering factors like how simple its operation is, the usefulness of the presets, and my experience in using the different accessories and modes. 

Ease of cleaning: Finally, I considered how easily I could clean the machine, including whether accessories are dishwasher-safe, and the process of cleaning the interior.

Many two-drawer air fryers exist, but the COSORI dual basket air fryer might be one of few to rival the Ninja DualZone. The latter might be the most well-known model, but that doesn't mean there isn't space for a bit of healthy competition, and the COSORI certainly brings it. 

As the Real Homes kitchen appliance expert, I've tested more than 10 of these air fryers, and few brands have dared to play David vs. Goliath...until now.

This dual-basket appliance can cook two types of food at the same time, something that Ninja held the top spot for. But what sets this new-to-market machine apart is two independently-operating lights and viewing windows. These are small design considerations that make a huge difference to the way you monitor your meal's readiness.

I tested this air fryer in our test kitchen to cook fries, nuggets, bacon, and vegetables. However, I may return to reviewing the air fryer's baking and rotisserie functions, given that COSORI includes several accessories including a baking rack, skewers for kabobs, and a skewer rack (great for ensuring the metal rods don't scratch the non-stick coating).

COSORI dual basket air fryer review

What I thought of the COSORI dual basket air fryer

Aesthetically, the COSORI dual basket air fryer looks like many other models on the market with a smart-looking touchscreen. The glass-topped control panel is fingerprint-prone but easy to use with legible text and clear iconography.

Unlike the COSORI DualBlaze air fryer (available on Amazon), this premium air fryer has softer and rounder edges, making it a good fit for any modern kitchen. All of the cardboard packaging was recyclable, however, I have fed back to the brand about the levels of single-use plastic in the box.

My favorite feature is the independently operating viewing lights, so you can monitor food without pulling the drawers out. Often, if you do open an oven door, you'll get a blast of heat to your face as well as the internal temperature dropping, which can result in uneven cooking. 

Size-wise, it's similar to my microwave at home but can do so much more. In a small galley kitchen, this will take up approximately a quarter of your countertop, so bear its large footprint in mind. My pain points lie in the powerfulness of the air fryer, its packaging, and its stiff components (namely the drawers and non-stick feet on the underside of the crisper tray).

Testing the dual sync cooking function

Similar to Ninja's Dualzone, this COSORI appliance also boasts Sync Cook and finish programs, allowing users to prepare large capacities of food either at the same temperature/time or synchronized to finish simultaneously. The only exception is broiling, which you can only do with one basket at a time.

The easiest way to review this feature was to make some plant-based nuggets and fries. After syncing both drawers to 390° Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, our main and side were good to go.

What we learned by trial and error is that the COSORI dual basket air fryer will preheat for six minutes before cooking (displaying instruction to add food after the time has elapsed). Alternatively, you may want to run it without any food inside or forego preheating altogether by switching this function off.

COSORI's preset guide (displayed on a printed, but peelable label) recommended a cooking time of 20-25 minutes for French fries. But, from experience, I like to think I know better and started with a more conservative cook time. My colleagues and I decided to also add on a 'shake reminder' while we prepared foods for the subsequent air fryer recipes.

After 15 minutes the vegan nuggets were done, but the fries needed a toss and an extra five minutes. This test had mixed results: the Quorn shapes had a crisp exterior, but needed condiments to counter the dryness. The chipped potatoes also managed to be simultaneously fluffy and dry. My advice is to shave time off the recommendation in your recipe, but check your food is cooked thoroughly and pop back in if not.

Cooking Mediterranean vegetables

The combination of zucchini, mixed peppers, eggplant, and onion is always welcomed in our testing suite as it offers a much-needed respite from the beige courses before it.

With this Cosori air fryer being powerful, we disregarded the advice to cook this mix for 15 minutes at 350° Fahrenheit, instead opting for a shorter guestimation of nine minutes. During this cook time, the team noticed steam coming out of the air fryer, but this did not impair the ability to see what was going on in the viewing window.

Even with six minutes shaved off, there was still a palatable char on these vegetables, so some users might want to adjust the temperature or time for more even cooking. We also also noticed some of the now-shrunken veg had slipped through the crisper tray and into the basket. This wasn't a biggie with vegetables, but might be a concern if you're cooking something that renders a lot of oil.

Cooking bacon

As one of two meat eaters on our four-person panel, this was the last test we conducted. No one enjoys the violent attack of bacon grease spluttering from their best non-stick fry pan, so this Cosori air fryer provides a safe haven from licks of hot oil splattering your arm.

After cooking it at 340° Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, I can say with conviction this was the best bacon I've eaten. I generally cook mine under the broiler, but using the air fryer means  I don't need to monitor the rashers as much. 

Cleaning the COSORI dual basket air fryer

Cleaning the air fryer is simple. The test team and I used a damp microfiber cleaning cloth (bought on Amazon) on the exterior of the machine and hand-washed the baskets with unscented liquid detergent (like this Whole Foods pick from Amazon) and our trusty (scratch-free) Scrub Daddy (also available on Amazon)

Should you buy the COSORI dual basket air fryer?

At almost $169.99, the COSORI's 9-quart dual-basket air fryer isn't the cheapest but sits in a similar price range to the Ninja Foodi DualZone air fryer we've reviewed. Given that it can reheat, and has tons of features, the size isn't an issue. I can see this replacing your oven, microwave, and even your toaster.

I've listed some alternatives you might also like, but don't forget the Paris Rhone air fryer I tested and rated 4.5 stars out of 5. It's a great single-basket option that's under $80.

How we tested the COSORI dual basket air fryer

When testing air fryers, we try to replicate your at-home experience of using the product. Our full methodology is available online, but here are some of the criteria we use when rating this appliance:

The Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer has all the best features users love about air fryers — it's versatile and lightens calories. While many air fryers are cumbersome and have too many confusing settings, this model from Cuisinart seeks to strike a balance.

The machine has a more compact design, but it’s still capable of air frying up to two pounds of French fries at a time. Its control panel features five cooking functions and five presets, as well as features like a toss notification and timer, so while it’s still plenty versatile, it isn’t overwhelming.

The air fryer is very quiet while operating, resembling a small fan that’s running in the background. I found that I was able to hear the timer and notifications well from the living room adjoining the kitchen, but the sounds might be a little quiet to hear if you have a louder home environment. 

Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer review

Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer specifications

What I thought of the Cuisinart Basket air fryer

The Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer is a user-friendly, air fryer without tons of bells and whistles. With five cooking functions and five presets, it gives you plenty of options without being overwhelming. Features like the automatic keep-warm function and toss notification contribute to its overall ease of use, and the machine performed very well during all of our tests. It can't fry a chicken over four pounds, but its design makes it practical for anyone with limited kitchen space. The main issues I encountered centered around determining the right cooking time for the foods I was preparing. That issue was pretty easy to fix as I became more familiar with this small kitchen appliance.

Setting up the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

The setup was very easy. The crisper plate securely fits into the base of the crisper basket, thanks to four rubber feet. I had to remove two pieces of tape securing the crisper basket in place and also remove the label from the front of the crisper basket. 

Using the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

The air fryer comes with a booklet containing 21 air fryer recipes. These included cinnamon rolls, nachos, chicken Caesar salad, and beef sliders (just in case you wondered about what you could cook in an air fryer). I made the donut bites, following the guidelines.

Test 1: Donut bites

When cooking the donut bites, I was pleased to see that it was easy to adjust the temperature setting and timer. The digital display is clear and easy to read, and though I wish the buttons were slightly more sensitive, holding down the buttons lets you scroll through temperatures or time settings, ideal for making large adjustments. At the end of a cooking cycle, the air fryer automatically shuts the cooking function off and turns on the “keep warm” function. 

The donut bites turned out very well and cooked for eight minutes. I used the settings specified in the recipe and they were evenly cooked without being overcooked. It’s a recipe that I would make again, and I was surprised to discover how good they tasted. 

Test 2: Cooking vegetables

Finding the right cooking time for other items proved a bit more challenging. I used the vegetable setting to cook Brussels sprouts that I had sliced and marinated in a balsamic vinaigrette. I let the setting run for one of its automated cook cycles but found that I needed to run it for a second cycle before they were thoroughly cooked. 

Test three: Cooking French fries

The air fryer is capable of frying up to two pounds of French fries at a time. I used it to air-fry individual servings on three occasions. On my first attempt, I overestimated the time and some of the fries were burnt. I adjusted the time on the subsequent attempts and was rewarded with fries that were evenly cooked and crispy. 

It is equipped with a toss notification, which you can turn on and off with the push of a button. I found this notification very helpful when cooking the Brussels sprouts, bacon, and fries. It seems to go off about two-thirds of the way through a cook cycle, and the machine automatically shuts off when you pull out the drawer to toss or turn the food. It starts right up again when the drawer is reinserted, and I think that feature is part of what contributes to such an even, thorough cook. 

Other tests

I used the machine to air-fry bacon. On my first attempt, I overestimated the cooking time needed and ended up with overcooked and very crisp bacon. I reduced the cooking time for my second attempt and found the bacon perfectly cooked. Using the crisper plate keeps the bacon out of the grease, and it ends up crispier than when cooked in your best non-stick fry pan.

Cleaning the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

The air fryer features a stainless steel finish that easily wipes clean with a damp microfiber cloth (you can pick these up from Amazon). The interior walls can be cleaned with that same damp cloth and mild liquid detergent. I found that the interior started to form residue quickly and that I needed to clean the air fryer after every use. 

The basket and crisper plate are dishwasher safe. I wiped them with Bounty essentials paper towel (available from Amazon) after cooking anything greasy. I also hand-washed them and found that thanks to their nonstick surfaces, they cleaned up well, even after cooking greasy foods like bacon. 

Should you buy the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

All in all, the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer is easy to use, and it’s hard to find fault with it. The drawer’s handle is generously sized and offers a secure feel. I didn’t encounter any issues with the machine’s operation, and while it features five cook modes and plenty of options, it isn’t so full of features and options that it’s overwhelming.

Comparisons

If you're looking for a similar-looking air fryer with a clear viewing window, do read our Paris Rhone air fryer review (slightly smaller, but cheaper at 5.3 quarts), or the Gourmia Fry 'n fold air fryer review (rated 4 out of 5 stars, but larger).

Last time we checked, the Paris Rhone air fryer was on sale on the brand's site, and the Gourmia Fry 'n fold air fryer could be snapped up for under $80 at Target. 

How we test air fryers

Cuisinart sent me the product, and I tested it for several weeks in my home. Here are some of the things I look out for when testing air fryers:

Packaging: The Cuisinart Basket air fryer arrived double-boxed and in excellent condition. The packaging used no Styrofoam, instead relying on cardboard inserts to hold the components secure. Each piece was also wrapped in a protective plastic layer. Included, was also a two-page guide with lots of helpful information on operation, troubleshooting, and preset/function recommendations.

Operation: I considered the overall experience of operating the air fryer, including how clear the instructions were, how easily I was able to learn the settings, and how well the machine performed in each of my tests. I used several types of foods and cooking modes, and looked for consistency and overall quality, even cooking. 

Ease of use: In determining the machine’s ease of use, I looked at factors including instructions, time-saving features, and how simple the overall operation is. I also considered how smoothly I was able to remove and insert the drawer and fryer plate, and how easily I could insert and remove food. 

Ease of cleaning: I also considered how easy the machine is to clean. I gave bonus points for the ability to clean components in the dishwasher and tested to see if I could easily wipe the machine’s exterior and interior clean. 

As a staunch air-fryer lover, The COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer has been a true testing highlight and one of the best I've tried. And I would know, given that I use an air fryer for everything from reheating leftovers, to cooking meat and giving vegetables the perfect crunchy kick. 

My usual air fryer is large, chunky, and lives in a cabinet, despite my frequent use, simply because of how much space it takes up on my counter. Trying the COSORI TurboBlaze has been a gamechanger. I was excited to see how it would compare to the larger model I’ve used for years, and whether its small profile could still cook food with the same energy. Spoiler: it doesn't disappoint!

Sure enough, this air fryer proves great things can come in small, well-designed packages. From its sleek, minimalist exterior to its incredibly easy-to-use control panel to the well-thought-out details, including a crisping tray that is secured in place, this is one of the most functional kitchen appliances I’ve ever used. 

Did I mention it turned a lightly seasoned package of chicken thighs into the juiciest and easiest recipe I’ve made in ages? It might just be enough to make me take over all cooking duties in my household. 

• Model name: Cosori TurboBlaze™ 6.0-Quart Air Fryer
• Dimensions (in.): H11.8 x W14.4 x L11.9
• Weight: 13.2 lbs
• Wattage: 1725 Watts
• Capacity: 6 qt
• Temperature range: 90°–450°F / 30°–230°C
• Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, frozen, proof, reheat, and keep warm
• Power supply: AC 120V, 60Hz

COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer review

What I thought of the Cosori TurboBlaze air fryer

Testing the Cosori TurboBlaze air fryer

While my first impression of the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer was taking in its good looks, functionality-wise, the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer turned out to be one of the best air fryers I’ve tried. 

It’s fast and it crisps food perfectly. I put skinless chicken thighs in there, and you would have sworn they had skin on them. The outside had a satisfying crisp and the inside was mouthwateringly juicy. From fries to Brussels sprouts, all of my air fryer recipes came out just as I’d hoped. I even tried a frozen cookie from Levain’s in the air fryer after hearing that’s the best way to reheat them. I can now 100% confirm — and that experiment made me incredibly grateful for the bake function.

The sheer number of functions available is mind-blowing. You can do anything from a one-minute reheat to a 24-hour dehydrating function. That’s not one I’ve tried yet, but perhaps I’ll come back here in a few weeks with an update. 

There was only one little snag in my first use of it, in that I was a bit confused by having to preheat. I've used a few small air fryers in my day, and I can’t recall a single one having a preheat button. But, COSORI makes you fully preheat with a separate setting, before you can select the time you’ll cook your item. 

Despite the extra step, I like that it has the preheat because the air fryer feels ready to go by the time you add the food in. However, it's slightly awkward that you have to first let the preheat run, and only then can you choose how you’re going to cook your item. 

Still, the control panel is simple to use. Depending on the setting you choose, you’ll then see the fan bar, time, and temperature, which can all be adjusted to accommodate the type of cooking you're doing.

The basket and crisping tray are surprisingly large for the size of the air fryer, and COSORI boasts that it can fit food for three to five people. I believe it. I only made food for two, but we had leftovers for another meal. That adds up to four portions, so I’m going with COSORI’s word. 

There are also tiny details that make a big difference in this small kitchen appliance, like the silicone stoppers that keep the crisping tray secured in place when you’re dumping out a deliciously crisp batch of fries, or cleaning out any residual grease, and the safety lock on the basket.

Here’s why I think air fryers are worth it: They are usually so incredibly easy to assemble, and the COSORI TurboBlaze was no exception. It came securely packed with the crisping tray on top of a styrofoam piece and the air fryer and basket below. While I never love styrofoam, it kept it perfectly in place. 

I took the three pieces out, put them together, took off a few stickers, and I had my new air fryer. There was also an instruction manual and 56-page recipe book included. I don’t always keep the recipe books that come with appliances, but this one is going to earn a spot in my kitchen for at least a few weeks.

Before using it for the first time, I washed the basket and tray with Gain dish soap (available from Amazon) and water, then wiped down the machine itself with a damp microfiber cleaning cloth (I buy these in bulk from Amazon). Super easy and took only a few minutes.

Using the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer

There are quite a few controls on the top of the TurboBlaze, but it’s an easy machine to use and fairly intuitive. First, you’ll place the crisping tray in the basket. Then, the air fryer should be preheated for four minutes at 400° Fahrenheit unless it’s already been used, and still hot. When it’s ready, it’ll beep and show “End” on the display. 

The next step depends on your goal for that meal. Are you baking? Roasting? Boiling? You’ll select the button for your particular food, then adjust the suggested time and temperature as needed. When you have it to the right setting, hit the play button. And that’s it! You can flip your food halfway through or simply divide the time in two and do it in two sets. 

A few tips from COSORI include avoiding overfilling the basket since that can impact cooking, adding up to two tablespoons of oil to add crisp, air frying frozen foods to get them hot and fresh, and putting aluminum foil (i.e: Reynold's Wrap from Amazon) down before attempting to bake any type of dough.

Test 1: Cooking chicken

Chicken thighs are one of the gold-standard foods to cook in an air fryer. You know they're going to come out consistently yummy. I used skinless, boneless chicken thighs sprayed with a bit of avocado oil and seasoned with Mediterranean herbs.

With the air fryer on 450°Fahrenheit, I did approximately 14 minutes on each side. I've seen in reviews online that some people expected a notification to flip their food halfway through, but I didn't find it a big deal to just split the time in half. I ended up taking them out early to check the temperature, and, voila, they were actually done early and came out a perfectly juicy, golden brown. 

Test 2: Reheating a storebought cookie

If you've ever had a cookie from the world-famous Levain's Bakery, you know they're delicious, gigantic, thick cookies. I received a dozen as a gift, and was told to freeze what I couldn't eat and use the air fryer to reheat. I used testing the TurboBlaze as an excuse to eat one more. I chose the Bake function and put eight minutes on the clock. The result was a perfectly gooey on the inside, crisp on the outside, chocolate cookie.

Cleaning and maintaining the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer

Air fryers aren’t known for being difficult to clean, but some details can make life easier or harder. Thankfully the TurboBlaze makes it easier because the crisper plate fits securely into the basket, you can turn it upside down to shake out any crumbs without worrying that you’re going to lose the crisper plate in the trash (a constant worry with an air fryer I used to have).

Both pieces are easy to wash in the sink with liquid soap and a sponge (or this non-scratch Scotch-Brite dishwand from Amazon). Though all accessories are also dishwasher-safe, which is a serious win. For stubborn grease, which is always a concern with air fryers, COSORI suggests cleaning the air fryer with a 2:1 baking soda (available from Amazon) to water paste, and spreading it on those areas. Leave it for 15 minutes before rinsing and washing.

The outside can be wiped down with a damp rag. And, of course, turn the machine off and unplug it before you do any type of cleaning. 

Is the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer right for you?

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced air fryer with a small footprint and big capabilities, then the COSORI TurboBlaze could be the answer. This sleek machine is smaller than other 6-quart air fryers, yet it packs a punch with its settings. 

From the preheat, which makes for crispier, better-cooked food, to settings including reheat, bake, and proof, this machine is a great substitute for someone who doesn’t have a full-size oven because they live in a dorm room, or other small space. It’s also great for those who don’t have storage space for an air fryer and need a model that takes up less kitchen counter space.

Good to know

Warranty
A two-year limited warranty from the date of purchase is included with the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer.

Where to buy the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer

The COSORI TurboBlaze™ is available through COSORI, Amazon, and Walmart. 

If this one isn't for you, our team has tried and tested similar models, including another from the same brand, just in case you're trying to figure out which COSORI air fryer to buy.

How we test air fryers

We have a set process for testing air fryers at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the air fryer. I used it for fries, chicken, cookies, reheating leftovers, and any of the multitude of ways you can imagine using an air fryer. I experimented with all the many settings and wondered way too many times why more air fryers don’t have a preheat setting.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing air fryers:

Basket: Is the basket easy to remove and replace? Does it hold into place?

Operation: How easy is it to use? Are the prompts/buttons legible? Do I know when the machine is done?

Controls: Are the settings easy to use with the help of the instruction guide? Are they clearly labeled? Is it easy to remember which ones do which?

Cleaning: How easy is it to clean? Does the cleaning basket easily pop in and out?

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the COSORI TurboBlaze, the preheat function as well as the multiple functions, including bake and dry, were worth noting.

I’ve tested out a lot of appliances, and the new Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer quickly solidified itself as one of my all-time favorites. It’s the perfect size, includes all the settings I want, none of the ones I don’t, and cooks my favorite foods just the way I like them — seriously, what more can you ask for?

Cosori is one of the most popular air fryer brands out there, forever occupying the bestsellers list on Amazon, and this new model proves they know what works and what doesn’t with these countertop appliances. The Premium II Plus has a spacious 6.5-quart basket that can fit food for the whole family, eliminating the need to cook in batches, and I’m obsessed with its window and inner light, which make it easy to monitor your meal — without interrupting the cooking cycle. 

These are just a few of the features making this one of the best air fryers around, and over several weeks of testing, I struggled to find anything that I didn’t like about the gadget. Here’s the low-down on everything I cooked in the Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer, and how it won me over in the kitchen. 

Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer review

As a product tester, there’s nothing more satisfying than finding a product that ticks all the right boxes, and the Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer did just that. It’s the ideal size to cook three, or even four, servings of food at a time, and the window on the front of the basket? Genius! It lets you quickly check the doneness of your food without having to constantly stop the cooking cycle, and after just a few weeks of use, it’s officially a feature I never want to live without.

While the design of this air fryer is great, the cooking performance is just as impressive. It delivers great results while cooking a variety of frozen foods, salmon filets, chicken breasts, and even when reheating multiple kinds of leftovers. It did take me a while to figure out all the controls, but I love the versatility the appliance offers — unlike most air fryers, this one lets you change its preset functions to meet your cooking preferences. Again, genius! Overall, it’s a thoughtfully designed appliance sure to please anyone who can’t live without an air fryer in their kitchen.

Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer specifications

• Model Number: CAF-P652-KUS
• Dimensions (in.): H12.7 x W11.8 x D14.6
• Weight: 12.6 pounds
• Capacity: 6.5 quarts
• Temperature range: 170-400℉
• Timer: 0-60 minutes
• Basket dimensions (in.): H3.5 x W9.8 x D9.8 
• Rated power: 1,700 watts
• Warranty: 2 years

Unboxing and setting up the Cosori Premium II Plus air fryer

It took around five minutes to get the Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer unboxed and set up. The package had a convenient carrying handle, and the appliance was surrounded by Styrofoam to prevent it from shifting around inside the box. After taking it out, all I had to do was remove the plastic bag and a few pieces of tape from the basket. There was also a piece of cardboard inside the basket that needed to be removed. 

When I plugged the air fryer in, its touchscreen control panel lit up. It clearly displays the cooking time and temperature in the middle, and there are a variety of one-touch cooking settings around it. Some buttons let you turn on a short preheat cycle or a mid-cycle “shake" setting.

It’s worth noting this air fryer doesn’t have a dehydration setting, nor does the temperature go low enough for most dehydrating recipes — the lowest temperature you can set it to is 170 degrees Fahrenheit. This isn’t ideal if you want to make apple chips in your air fryer, but personally, I never once used that setting on my old small air fryer, so I wasn’t bothered by its absence here. 

Cooking in the Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer Review

Cooking chicken bites

I put the most mileage on my air fryer cooking frozen foods like French fries — they cook faster and more evenly than they do in the oven. So naturally, the first thing I cooked in this small kitchen appliance was my latest obsession: frozen chicken bites.

I’ll admit I didn’t read the user manual before trialing any air fryer recipes, and I couldn’t figure out how to add preheating to my regular cooking cycle. In case you’re wondering, you need to first set the cooking time, temperature and then press preheat. The icon will turn blue to let you know it's on. 

I ended up running a preheat cycle separately, then set the air fryer to 350 degrees for 12 minutes with a mid-cycle shake reminder. I only cooked a single serving of the small breaded chicken pieces, but the basket could have easily fit three or four times more food, thanks to its square shape.

After six minutes, the air fryer beeped a few times, letting me know to shake the basket. The unit automatically pauses when you pull the basket out, and it starts back up on its own when the basket is back in place. When the cycle was finished, the unit beeped again before automatically shutting itself off. The chicken was perfectly crisp on the outside and piping hot inside, and it made for a quick and convenient lunch. 

Several mornings for breakfast, I cooked mini frozen hash browns in the air fryer, which didn’t come with specific air frying instructions. It took a little trial and error to find the right settings but ultimately, they come out browned and crispy when cooked at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, flipping mid-way. I love that I can pop them in to cook while I make scrambled eggs, and it’s quickly become one of my go-to breakfasts.

 Cooking salmon 

Before my next test with the air fryer, I took a minute to read through the manual, and I learned several things about the controls I wouldn’t have realised on my own. 

For instance, the unit has 12 one-touch cooking buttons, which are indicated by little icons like a chicken leg or French fries, and while they come preset with cooking times and temperatures, you can change the saved settings. The French fry button, for example, cooks for 18 minutes at 380 degrees Fahrenheit, but I changed it to 12 minutes at 400 degrees. The ability to customize their settings makes the buttons infinitely more useful in my view.

With my newfound know-how, I decided to cook two small salmon filets in the air fryer. I used the seafood setting, which defaults to 10 minutes at 370 degrees Fahrenheit without a mid-cycle shake reminder. They ended up just a hair overdone — likely because they were quite small — but I was impressed that they released easily from the nonstick cooking surface, even though I forgot to spray them with cooking oil. 

Reheating stuffed peppers

While I love stuffed peppers, I don’t like reheating them in the microwave — they get too mushy. Instead, I prefer to pop them in the air fryer the next day, which crisps up the top and bottom. This air fryer doesn’t have a designated reheat setting, so I opted for the bake setting instead. After preheating the unit, I cooked the peppers at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for around eight minutes and monitored their doneness through the basket window, making sure the tops didn’t get too brown. 

By the time they were done cooking, the whole kitchen was filled with a mouth-watering smell. The cheese on top of the peppers was beautifully crisped, and the filling was warmed throughout, as well. It was definitely more appetizing than nuking them in the microwave, and my partner even wandered in to ask what I was cooking, since it smelled so good.

Later in the week, I also used this strategy to warm up some leftover pizza, and the results were equally impressive. The crust and pepperoni were toasty warm and crisp, while the cheese was melty and gooey. It practically tasted the same as it did freshly delivered!

Cooking chicken breasts

I wanted to meal prep some chicken salads at the beginning of the week, so I used the Cosori to cook two chicken breasts using the air fryer’s one-touch chicken function. This sets it to cook at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, and includes a mid-cycle shake (or in this case, flip) reminder. 

After the 20 minutes was up, the chicken was at the right internal temperature, and lightly browned on the outside. They were cooked all the way through and retained a lot of moisture, making the protein perfect for tossing on top of a salad for a quick meal on busy days. 

Cleaning and maintaining the Cosori Premium II Plus air fryer

Both the crisper plate and the basket itself have a nonstick, easy-to-clean finish. I’m not one for hand-washing dishes, but even I had no problem quickly wiping down the basket with some dish soap (I like this unscented detergent by Whole Foods on Amazon) and water. Even the toughest residue came out with a few passes with my Scrub Daddy sponge. You do have to be sure to clean the basket’s window, otherwise residue can make it hard to see inside. This is easily done with a damp microfiber cloth (such as MR.SIGA's bestselling ones on Amazon).

If you’re more of a hands-off cleaner, both the crisper plate and basket can go in the dishwasher, too. I put the crisper plate through a wash cycle after cooking chicken on it, and it came out sparkling clean. In summary — cleaning the air fryer is easy, requiring very few cleaning supplies.

How often you should clean this air fryer will depend on how frequently you use it, and what you cook in it. If you want to work smarter, not harder, invest in some air fryer liners.  Silicon liners from Amazon are reusable, but you can also use disposable parchment paper liners if you prefer. 

If you notice the outside of your air fryer gets a little gross, wipe it down with some Lysol disinfecting wipes from Amazon, or use some paper towel (such as Bounty Essentials) with a good antibacterial cleaner (like Method's lime and sea salt spray).

Good to know

The Cosori Premium II Plus air fryer comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, a two-year limited warranty, and free shipping if bought directly.

Is the Cosori Premium II Plus air fryer right for you?

If you’re an air fryer enthusiast looking for your next appliance, the Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer is a great pick. It’s slightly more expensive than several of the other models we’ve tested, but its spacious basket and customizable settings make this air fryer worth it if you use your air fryer regularly. 

Because of the higher price and the learning curve for operation, this probably isn’t the best air fryer for beginners — it’s better to start with a more basic (and cheaper) option to see if it’s something you’ll use regularly in your home. If you are inexperienced, we've covered what you can cook in an air fryer.

If this air fryer isn't the right product for you, I have some alternative recommendations, including another COSORI air fryer.

Where to buy the Cosori Premium II Plus air fryer

The Cosori Premium II Plus Air Fryer is available through the brand’s website for $139.99. It’s also for sale on Amazon, where it has the same model number but is called the Cosori Clear Blaze Air Fryer.

How we test air fryers

Virtually every appliance brand sells air fryers these days and many offer multiple models, meaning there’s no shortage of products to choose from. To find out which ones are truly the best, here’s what we look for when we test air fryers at Real Homes:  

• Power: Air fryers are known for creating a brown, crispy exterior on food without using oil (or at least a lot less), and they do this by circulating hot air around the cooking basket, just like a convection oven. When testing air fryers, I cook a variety of foods, including both fresh and frozen ingredients to see how well it browns. I also evaluate whether the one-touch cooking functions are accurate and consider the overall wattage of the appliance. 
• Ease of use: The best air fryers are easy and intuitive to operate — you should be able to figure out how they work without having to consult the manual every time. In this department, I look at things like whether the basket slides smoothly, if the buttons are clearly labeled, if the beep is loud enough to be heard from another room, and if the special features are useful. 
• Safety: As with any countertop appliance, air fryers should have good safety features to keep you and your home safe. I look at how much clearance the appliance needs, whether it has overheat protection, and if it automatically pauses when the basket is removed. I also note whether the exterior of the basket or handle gets too hot during operation.
• Clean-up and storage: It can make a mess when you cook greasy foods like bacon in an air fryer, so we look for models that are quick and easy to clean. We like to see if messy foods like melted cheese or bacon grease are easy to clean out of the basket, and we also love when components can be put in the dishwasher!

The Dash Compact Air Fryer may not have all the fancy features of other air fryers, but what it lacks in pizazz, it makes up for in ease of use. There are no complicated menus to navigate or a hundred buttons to press — the whole thing operates with two simple dials. Seriously, anyone could use this thing.

That’s not all this small air fryer has going for it, either. The Dash is as budget-friendly as they come these days, and it’s lightweight, (as air fryers go, anyway), so it won’t take up too much real estate on your counter. It all makes for a winning combination, especially for those with smaller kitchens (me).

I took this cute, colorful little air fryer for a spin, and I’m pleased to report that good things do, in fact, come in small packages. Here’s the lowdown on everything I cooked in the Dash Compact Air Fryer and whether it’s right for your home.

What I thought of the Dash Compact Air Fryer

After all my testing was said and done, I was really impressed with the Dash Compact Air Fryer. The appliance might be small, but its performance sure isn’t! It boasts 1,000 watts of power — more than enough to cook up all sorts of tasty foods — and the basket is the perfect size to hold one or two portions. (Though, if you have a large family, you’ll end up having to cook your meals in several batches.)

I also loved that this small kitchen appliance is straightforward and, frankly, idiot-proof to use. So many air fryers these days have dozens of unnecessary and often confusing settings, but the Dash has just two dials: One to set the timer (below left) and another for the timer (below right) — that’s it! Even the most un-tech-savvy chef could use it, and the whole thing weighs just a few pounds, making it easy to tuck away when it’s not in use. 

Unboxing and setup

Unboxing the Dash Compact Air Fryer is a quick and easy task. The appliance is packaged with a few pieces of styrofoam, and it’s wrapped in a thin plastic bag for protection. Once removed, the appliance is basically good to go — just be sure to peel off the stickers on its exterior and give it a quick wash before you start cooking. 

I love the bright, cheery color of this small air fryer (there are five different options to choose from), and I was surprised at how small and lightweight it is. There are two control knobs on the front of the device — one that ranks the temp up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and another that lets you set a timer for up to 30 minutes.

To start the air fryer, you simply turn the timer on. It’s that easy! The only thing I don’t love is that there’s no preheat option. Instead, you simply have to add a few minutes to your cooking time so it can warm up. Still, overall, it couldn’t be easier to use, and it’s small enough that it won’t take up too much space in your kitchen. 

Testing the Dash Compact Air Fryer

The important stuff

• Dimensions: 11.4 x 8.1 x 10.2 inches
• Weight: 5.6 pounds
• Capacity: 2 quarts
• Temperature Range: 
• Voltage: 120V ~ 60Hz
• Power Rating: 1,000 watts
• Cost to run per hour (cents): 15c
• Warranty: 1-year limited

Making food

 Cooking Tater Tots 

I always keep a bag of frozen French fries in my freezer — they make the perfect quick and easy afternoon snack — but this week I was feeling wild, so I bought tater tots instead. I was able to fit a generous serving in the basket of the Dash air fryer without overlapping them too much, and I cooked them at 400 degrees, letting the appliance heat up for a few minutes before putting the tots in. 

The bag didn’t have instructions for air fryer cooking, so I checked the tots after ten minutes. (The fryer automatically stops its fan when you pull the basket out, but the timer doesn’t pause). They were almost done, so I gave them a shake and put them in for another five minutes. They came out perfectly browned and absolutely delicious — I may have found my new go-to snack! 

Cooking bacon

For breakfast on the weekend, I decided to make eggs and bacon, and my favorite way to cook bacon is in the air fryer. It’s so much faster and less messy than using a frying pan or an oven. 

I popped a few strips into the air fryer at 400 degrees, though the basket was too small to lay them out straight. I ended up overlapping them a bit (you could also cut them in half), and I cooked them for five minutes. While they were a bit misshapen, the strips were delightfully crispy and perfectly cooked. 

Cooking garlic knots

At this point in testing, I started to get a little more adventurous. I had leftover dough from pizza night, so I decided to try making little garlic knots. I basically cut the dough into strips, tied them in knots, and brushed butter and minced garlic over the top. (Because you can’t go wrong with butter and garlic!)

I didn’t have a recipe to follow, so I made an educated guess on how best to cook the knots. I left the air fryer at 400 degrees and cooked the dough for eight minutes, but it was definitely too hot. The dough itself was cooked well, with a fluffy inside and crunchy exterior, but the garlic on top had burnt. Still, it was a tasty side dish for dinner, and I’m planning to try making them again at a lower temp to see if I can get them just right. 

Cooking chicken tenders

For my final test, I wanted to use the Dash air fryer to cook an entree, not just a side dish. I decided to make homemade chicken tenders, which are always a hit in my house. I dredged chicken tenderloins in egg then a mix of panko breadcrumbs and seasonings. I preheated the air fryer for around five minutes, then arranged several pieces of chicken in the basket. I was able to fit three strips comfortably — four fit, but they were too close together and didn’t end up browning as nicely. 

I cooked the chicken for five minutes on each side, and the end result was perfectly crispy tenders that were ideal for dipping. It was a quick and easy meal for our two-person household, but if you’re serving any more people, you’re definitely going to end up cooking in multiple batches. 

Cleaning the Dash Compact Air Fryer

Cleaning this air fryer is easy (because it's so small). The inner plate and basket both have a nonstick coating that wipes clean — for instance, after cooking bacon, I was able to clean out the solidified grease using a paper towel. From there, I just washed it quickly with a dish sponge and soapy water, and it was as good as new. 

Alternatively, the whole basket and inner plate can be put in the dishwasher for hands-free maintenance. I’m usually the person who puts everything in the dishwasher, but this air fryer was truly much easier to clean by hand.

Is it right for you?

If you’re in the market for an air fryer but don’t want anything too bulky or expensive, the Dash Compact Air Fryer will check all your boxes. It’s exceedingly simple to use, and the basket is the perfect size for one or two servings at a time. Plus, despite its compact size, it’s quite powerful, cooking foods in just a few minutes. 

This air fryer isn’t for everyone, though. Because it’s smaller than many other models, it’s definitely not the best choice for large households — you’ll find yourself having to cook in several batches to feed more than two people. It also lacks convenient features like a preheat setting and digital timer, which some people may not want to go without.  

If you're not sure that this is the right small air fryer for you, then see some more models that we recommend just below...

Where to buy the Dash Compact Air Fryer

You can buy the Dash Compact Air Fryer directly from Dash for $49.99, or via Amazon or Wayfair. 

How we test

I’m no stranger to testing air fryers, and at this point, I have it down to a science. Here’s what I look for when I’m evaluating these countertop appliances: 

• Power: Air fryers are basically countertop convection ovens, and their claim to fame is that they can create a browned, crispy exterior on your food without using much (if any) oil. However, to do this, an air fryer needs to be fairly powerful with a suitable temperature range and a good fan to circulate air around the basket. When testing air fryers, I always look at their wattage — this model is 1,000 watts, which is pretty good for its size — and I make note of how long they take to cook food and if it’s evenly cooked. 
• Ease of use: I’m a firm believer that the best air fryers are intuitive to use — it gets old quickly if I have to consult the manual every time I’m cooking. For this reason, I look for air fryers that are straightforward to operate. I like to try them at different temperatures, and when applicable, I try out different settings to see if they’re actually useful. 
• Safety: Air fryers get quite hot during operation, so you shouldn’t leave them unattended during use. Good safety features are also a must-have for these appliances. I like to look at whether the outside of the appliance and basket handle is comfortable to touch during use, if the appliance automatically pauses when the basket is removed, and overall, whether it feels safe to operate. 
• Clean-up and storage: There’s nothing worse than when cleaning up after dinner takes twice as long as it did to eat. The best air fryers are quick and easy to clean, even after cooking messy foods like bacon, and they always get extra points in my book if the components can be put in the dishwasher. 

When I got the chance to review the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer — I was stoked. Because let's be real: she's America's sweetheart and a total queen. I opted for the lavender shade — one of my favorite colors and one that I thought would complement my pastel blue backsplash.

As someone who lives in a hot climate and is currently experiencing one of the most intense heat waves in history, cooking in an oven is a huge no-no. I’ve used some of the best air fryers in the past and have enjoyed getting the “oven experience” without the dark side of that (turning my entire apartment into a sauna).

I’ll be testing a few different foods in the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer to see how they fare against my standard American diet. I’ll be judging its effectiveness and I’ll be hoping you don’t judge my diet too harshly (sorry not sorry for loving bacon and cookies!).

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer review

TLDR: What I thought of the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer

The Beautiful Air Fryer by Drew Barrymore looks like your standard air fryer, with a few notable improvements. You won’t find any buttons, knobs, dials, or thingamabobs on this small kitchen appliance thanks to the touchscreen display. It also has its signature gold handle and accents which give a touch of elegance.

The air fryer has four functions — air fry, roast, dehydrate, and reheat — and comes with an instruction manual that has a chart of common foods with their recommended function and cook time. Neither the Dehydrate nor Reheat functions came with such directions, which seems like a missed opportunity.

All that to say, I’m giving this air fryer four out of five stars. Let’s dive into why!

The air fryer itself is, indeed, beautiful as the name implies. When it’s plugged in but not turned on, the power “button” (again, not a button but a glowing touchscreen light) glows faintly. Tap the power button and the full screen appears with all four cooking functions.

The basket is a fairly typical size at six quarts, and although the separate crisping tray is nice to have, it fits a bit strangely inside the basket. It has padded feet on all four corners, and I had to really make sure I pressed firmly in the center to get it to fit. There’s no preheating required for this air fryer, and it has a 60-minute auto shut-off safety function. I did not test this function, mostly because I was ready to eat each time I popped some food into this air fryer!

Testing the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer specs

• Power (watts): 1700W
• Capacity: 6 quarts / 5 pounds
• Temp settings: 90–400 degrees Fahrenheit
• Functions: Air Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, and Reheat

Unboxing the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer

The air fryer comes in a cute and colorful box with a lovely little photo of Drew and a message from her that reads, “Make Something Beautiful.”

The packaging itself was minimal: a plastic bag and two pieces of cardboard cutouts that contour the air fryer to protect it in transit. I read the instruction manual and gave the basket and the crisping tray a quick wash so I could get started.

Making food in the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer

Cooking bacon

It’s breakfast time in this reviewer’s home, so bacon it is! Normally I fry bacon on the stovetop and just deal with the fact that I’ll be spending 20 minutes afterward cleaning up all the splattered grease. I was curious and hopeful that this air fryer would give me that precious time back.

I laid out three thick-cut slices of bacon and followed the cooking guide. Roast at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for eight minutes. And that was it for prep! No oil required. I noticed some rattling going on while the machine was operating. I crossed my fingers and hoped that it wouldn’t affect my bacon.

After the eight minutes were up, I opened the drawer and found that one of the slices had flown on top of another slice. Surprisingly, this didn’t impact the cook — the bacon was that perfect in-between of meaty and crispy. And I was very happy that cleanup was a breeze. Because it’s nonstick, it only took a quick swipe of a soapy sponge to get the residue off of the crisping tray. Success!

Cooking a frozen hash brown

As I let the bacon cool down, I quickly washed the basket and added in my next target: a frozen hashbrown (it’s called a balanced breakfast!). There wasn’t a recommendation for this particular food, so I did my best guess and chose: Air Fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for seven minutes. 

Somehow this temp/time guess was right on the money. The hashbrown came out nice and crispy with the most gorgeous shade of golden brown. It was evenly cooked through, with no cold spots in the middle (a real concern when you regularly cook frozen potato products #IYKYK). 

Just like with the bacon, I didn’t use any oil or cooking spray for the hashbrown. I was feeling pretty good that in just 15 minutes combined, I had already made two-thirds of my breakfast (I scrambled eggs during the 'brown frying). Given that bacon alone would take longer than that on the stovetop, the air fryer was starting to impress me.

Baking a cookie

I am a chocolate chip cookie fanatic, and I’m not afraid to say it. About once a month or so, I whip up a batch of brown butter choc chip cookie dough and portion it out into individual scoops. I’ll freeze the dough balls and, as such, I am always about 10 minutes away from a freshly-baked cookie.

This past year I learned something life-changing: you can air fry cookie dough. Yes, it’s true. I don’t need to turn my apartment into a sweat lodge just for one cookie. Since then, I’ve been ditching my oven and using an air fryer to whip up one at a time. I digress.

My standard setting is 300 degrees Fahrenheit for eight minutes for a single cookie, so for this Beautiful Air Fryer, that’s exactly what I did on the Air Fry function. As I usually do, I laid out a square of parchment paper underneath to prevent the dough from falling through the crisping tray. Two minutes in, I heard this whooshing sound and just hoped that it was NBD. After the eight minutes were up, I opened the basket and found a perfectly baked cookie…and a wrinkled piece of parchment off to the side.

So despite a bit of paper aviation, this air fryer can definitely bake a cookie. (You’re welcome for the pro tip.)

Reheating a sausage patty

I’ve been on my meal prep game, which means I baked several sausage patties days ago and will reheat one every now and then. So when it came time to make my lunch wrap, I knew exactly what I was going to do.

I popped the sausage patty into the basket and selected Reheat at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for six minutes. I opted not to use oil (are you sensing a theme here?), for no reason other than I didn’t think it needed it. 

As expected from my previous trials with this air fryer, it came out nicely. Because this was already cooked before, the color or look of the sausage patty didn’t change during the Reheat. Hot, fresh, ready to be wrapped up in a big tortilla — this sausage patty was another success for the Beautiful air fryer.

Cooking a steak

For my final test, I went big and went home (kidding, I was already home!) by deciding to cook a steak. NGL, I was skeptical about this one. I’ve seen and heard of others cooking steaks in air fryers before, but never have myself. I’m a Texan and I’m pretty sure I’d be disowned if I cooked a steak on anything other than an outdoor grill with George Strait playing in the background.

I chose to go with everything I’ve ever known and opened the air fryer drawer, rubbed a little extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper on the steak, and pray it turned out okay. I followed the cooking chart guide and went with roasting at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes.

Don’t tell my dad, but this turned out pretty good. The outside edges got crispy and brown, while the inside was a moist and juicy medium-rare. Although it doesn’t compare to a grill with that nice, smoky flavor, this was a decent alternative if you need to cook a steak indoors and without a stove/oven. I probably wouldn’t do a steak in the air fryer again, but it was still a fun test and worked out!

Cleaning the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer

The instruction guide asks that you clean the air fryer basket and crisping tray after every use, after they’ve cooled completely. You can also wipe the exterior of the air fryer with a soft, damp cloth, though I didn’t need to do that during my testing.

The guide also states that you can wash the basket and crisping tray in the top rack of a dishwasher. I try to avoid using mine, especially for large items, so I went with the old soap and sponge method. They advise against using metal utensils and abrasive cleansers so you don’t damage the nonstick coating.

Honestly, everything is so non-stick that I feel like I could’ve just pursed my lips and blown the food residue off. Taking the more sanitary route, I rinsed the basket and crisping tray in hot water and with a quick swipe of a soapy sponge, all traces of bacon, cookie, and steak were gone. (Don’t worry, I cleaned everything in between each food.)

Is the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer right for you?

At just under $80, I’d say the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer is worth the money. It’s easy to use, looks great on a countertop, and makes single-serve cookies a reality. What’s not to love? 

If you're not sure that this is the right air fryer for you, then see some more convection ovens that we recommend just below. Or, if it's just air fryer aesthetics you're after, Paris Hilton's air fryer is also very cute.

Where to buy the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer

The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Touchscreen Air Fryer can be purchased at Walmart.

How we test

There are several different factors that we look for whenever we're testing an air fryers at Real Homes. We make a point to test out as many different features as we can and cook popular foods, as well as more unique meals. During testing, our reviewers make notes on several factors: 

• Power: The best air fryers are able to give your food a crispy, brown exterior with minimal oil, and they often cook faster than traditional ovens. In addition to the wattage of air fryers, we consider things like how long it takes to cook different foods, how well the ingredients are cooked, and whether recipes need to be adjusted to achieve the expected results. 
• Ease of use: Is the control panel intuitive to use? Does the tray slide in and out easily? Can you hear the end signal from the next room when the TV is on? I consider all these factors (and more) to determine whether appliances are convenient to operate. 
• Safety: We’ve heard horror stories about air fryers melting countertops or setting food on fire, so safety is always a top priority when I’m reviewing appliances. To this end, we look at things like the device’s safety features, construction quality, and overall design, noting if it gets overly hot during operation, turns off as expected, and overall feels safe to operate. 
• Clean-up: There are some people out there who enjoy washing dishes, but we're not them. After cooking (and devouring) a homemade meal, we want the clean-up to be as quick and easy as possible. We look at whether components are dishwasher safe, and if not, evaluate how easy it is to keep them clean. 

The Our Place Wonder Oven definitely fits the bill for my meal-prepping goals ATM. You see, to make space for actual cooking, I’ve been trying to invest in more multi-functional gadgets. I’m somewhat of a kitchen appliance collector — I’ve never met a unitasker I didn’t want to take for a spin. While I love having a tool for everything, I don’t love the clutter it creates on my kitchen counter. 

The brand is known for its aesthetic and versatile Always Pan, and its new small air fryer-toaster oven combo promises to be just as handy in the kitchen. It looks more like a miniature oven than a traditional air fryer, and it boasts a total of six cooking functions, replacing several common countertop appliances. Consider me intrigued! 

Quick Menu
1. TLDR
2. Testing
3. Important stuff
4. Unboxing
5. Cooking
6. Cleaning
7. Is it right for you?
8. Where to buy
9. How we test

To see if it’s worthy of a permanent spot on your countertop, I put the Wonder Oven to the test, using it to cook all sorts of food, from air fryer staples like French fries to homemade strawberry pastries — yum! Here’s what I think about this gorgeous gadget from Our Place. 

What I thought of the Our Place Wonder Oven

I lived in small apartments with small kitchens for many years, and I wish I had a small kitchen appliance like the Wonder Oven back then. It doesn’t take up too much space on the counter and looks cute enough so you won’t mind leaving it out. It does the job of several other useful kitchen gadgets, and I had no problem air frying, baking, toasting, and reheating with this countertop oven. I also love that you can cook with multiple racks at once.

As cute as it is, there are a few design quirks that you should know about. The biggest one is that the timer is a little analog dial, and it’s pretty much impossible to set precisely. If you try to set it to 10 minutes, you might get 9 or 12 minutes by accident. Still, once you get used to using the Our Place Wonder Oven, it’s impressively versatile and a breeze to use.

Testing the Our Place Wonder Oven

Our Place Wonder Oven specifications

• Exterior dimensions (in.): H11.6 x D10.6 x W10.5
• Interior dimensions (in.): H7.6 x D10.3 x W10
• Weight: 11.6 lbs
• Capacity: 12 L
• Modes: Air fry, bake, toast, roast, reheat, broil
• Heat range (Farenheight): 200°F–450°F
• Timer (minutes): Up to 60 mins
• Wattage: 1400 W
• Volts: 120 V
• Color(s): Char, Steam, Blue Salt, Spice
• Includes: Bake pan, air fryer basket, wire rack, crumb tray

Unboxing the Our Place Wonder Oven

It took me less than five minutes to unbox and set up the Wonder Oven. The oven comes wrapped in a plastic bag and secured with cardboard, and its accessories are wrapped in cardboard and tucked next to the oven inside the package. I definitely appreciated that there wasn’t excess plastic or styrofoam in the box — the majority of the packaging was recyclable, which is always a nice touch. 

Once I had everything unwrapped, it was just a matter of inserting the crumb tray and racks into the oven. The door has a large handle and opens downward, allowing you to slide the racks inside. The crumb tray goes underneath the bottom heating element, and there are two different tracks on the sides of the oven, allowing you to set two racks at different heights. My oven came in the color Char, which is a pretty matte charcoal color, and it has three control knobs to adjust the cooking mode, temperature, and timer. I will say that the markings around the control knobs aren’t the most defined — because they’re in a light gray color, they’re tricky to read in low lighting. 

The final step before I jumped into testing was to run a test cycle with the oven. The directions say to run the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes before first use, so that’s exactly what I did. The manual said there might be some smoking or odors — pretty common for right-out-of-the-box appliances — but I didn’t notice any while it was running. 

Cooking with the Our Place Wonder Oven

Cooking French fries

For my first test with the Wonder Oven, I opted to make frozen French fries — one of the most common things I use my air fryer for. I put the air fryer basket, which has a mesh-like bottom, into the oven and let it pre-heat for five minutes before putting in a single serving of fries. I don’t love that there’s no way to pause the oven to insert/remove items — you just have to open the oven while it’s running and use a mitt to remove the basket. The tray also doesn’t support itself when pulled out more than halfway, so I had to use one hand to hold it up so my food didn’t slide off.

The fries were supposed to be cooked for three minutes on each side, but it was impossible to tell if the analog dial was actually pointing at three minutes. I ended up setting the oven to 20 minutes and just using a separate timer on my Amazon Echoto let me know when to turn the fries. (Thanks, Alexa!) 

The interior of the oven has a light that turns on when it’s cooking, which let me monitor the color of my fries. They were perfectly done in around eight minutes. When they finished, I turned the time dial back to zero to turn it off. The fries were crispy and golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making for the perfect mid-afternoon snack. 

Cooking pastries

I was feeling ambitious, so I decided to try out the Wonder Oven’s bake function with a pastry. I used frozen puff pastry dough and strawberry jelly to create two cute triangular turnovers, which I was able to fit back-to-back onto the oven’s baking sheet. (I wouldn’t have been able to fit a third one, though.)

After preheating the oven for five minutes, I put in the desserts and set them to cook for 10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. I loved being able to monitor the progress of my treats as they cooked — it’s so satisfying to watch the pastry dough puff up. The filling of the pastries ended up leaking (my fault for not sealing them well), which led to jam being burnt all over the baking tray, but they still tasted so good and had the perfect amount of crunch. 

Making toast

My toaster lives on a high shelf in my pantry (mostly due to my aforementioned cluttered kitchen counters), so instead of climbing up a step stool to get it, I decided to try toasting some bread right in the Wonder Oven. There’s a little note on the dial to set it to 450 degrees when using the toast function, so I did that and inserted the wire rack into the middle of the oven. 

I popped a piece of sliced bread in for around five minutes, and I ended up flipping it mid-cycle for more even cooking. I wasn’t sure how long it would take, so I ended up just keeping my eye on it. My bread was nicely browned after about four or five minutes, and it was the perfect crunchy base for some avocado toast. It was definitely convenient that I didn’t have to get the toaster out of the cupboard, but I will say that it wasn’t as easy as using a toaster, as I had to flip the bread manually and monitor its doneness.

Cooking turkey burgers

While I would usually broil turkey burgers, or use a small portable grill in the summer, I wanted to see how the Wonder Oven would handle a larger recipe like this. I used the air fryer basket, but if I ever made this recipe again, I think I’d use the baking sheet to prevent it from dripping juices down onto the heating element. 

The recipe I followed said to cook the burger for five minutes on each side at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, but that wasn’t nearly enough. The total cook time ended up being around 25 to 30 minutes (it’s hard to tell exactly because the li'l dial is so imprecise), and while it did take much longer than expected, the burger was nicely browned on the outside and still juicy inside. 

Reheating leftovers

The next day, I decided to have a leftover turkey burger for lunch, and the Wonder Oven proved to be the perfect way to reheat it. I put the burger on the baking sheet and popped it in the oven for around 10 minutes on the reheat setting. Toward the end of the cycle, I also slid the wire rack in with a burger bun to toast it up a little. It was really handy to be able to heat up both elements at once, and the results were way better than what even the best microwave could have delivered.  

Cleaning the Our Place Wonder Oven

The Wonder Oven did get a bit dirty after a few weeks of use. There were grease drippings on the lower crumb rack, and the air fryer basket had some discoloration. Not to mention the incident with the burnt jam! Unfortunately, none of the trays are dishwasher safe, and I found that some of the accessories were easier to wash than others. 

After baking the pastries, I had to soak the baking tray for about four hours, which gave the burnt-on jelly enough time to soften up. From there, it came off easily with a sponge, and the tray looked as good as new. The crumb tray was also easy to wipe clean, but the air frying basket was trickier. The manual says to clean the air fryer with a nylon brush (like this one on Amazon), but it’s still tricky to get the gunk out of all the little crevices.  

Is the Our Place Wonder Oven right for you?

I can see the Wonder Oven being a game-changer for anyone who lives in a small apartment — or even in an RV or dorm room. Its 6-in-1 functionality is really versatile, and you can use it to cook almost anything, from classic air fryer recipes like French fries to made-from-scratch desserts. It can toast, roast, and reheat leftovers like a pro, and despite its compact form, it does the job of a conventional oven, air fryer, toaster/toaster oven, and microwave. So if you’re looking to make the most of every inch of space in your kitchen, I’d say to kick the other appliances to the curb and upgrade to this multifunctional gadget. 

While I was impressed with the oven’s overall performance, I do need to mention its design quirks. There are a few poorly-designed elements that may impact your experience with the appliance. First and foremost, the analog dial-style timer can be really irritating, as it’s impossible to tell exactly what you’re setting it to. It could be 10 minutes or it could be 13 minutes — which is a great way to end up with burnt food. I ended up using my Alexa to set timers for most of my meals, just to be safe. 

There are a few other little issues to keep in mind, as well. For instance, the markings on the control panel are faint and small, making them hard to read, especially in low light, and the oven racks don’t support themselves, making it tricky to insert or flip food mid-cycle. 

Still, if you don’t mind working around these aspects of the Wonder Oven, it’s a stylish and useful appliance that’s perfect for small homes. 

Where to buy the Our Place Wonder Oven

Because it’s a new product, the Wonder Oven is currently only available directly from Our Place.

How we test

There are several different factors that I look for whenever I’m testing an air fryer — or in this case, a 6-in-1 countertop oven! I make a point to test out as many different features as I can and cook popular foods, as well as more unique meals. During testing, I make notes on several factors:  

• Power: The best air fryers are able to give your food a crispy, brown exterior with minimal oil, and they often cook faster than traditional ovens. In addition to the wattage of air fryers, I consider things like how long it takes to cook different foods, how well the ingredients are cooked, and whether recipes need to be adjusted to achieve the expected results. 
• Ease of use: Is the control panel intuitive to use? Does the tray slide in and out easily? Can you hear the end signal from the next room when the TV is on? I consider all these factors (and more) to determine whether appliances are convenient to operate. For instance, one of my biggest woes with the Wonder Oven was its less-than-perfect timer, which I found made it somewhat inconvenient to use. 
• Safety: I’ve heard horror stories about air fryers melting countertops or setting food on fire, so safety is always a top priority when I’m reviewing appliances. To this end, I look at things like the device’s safety features, construction quality, and overall design, noting if it gets overly hot during operation, turns off as expected, and overall feels safe to operate. 
• Clean-up: There are some people out there who enjoy washing dishes, but I’m not one of them. After cooking (and devouring) a homemade meal, I want the clean-up to be as quick and easy as possible. I look at whether components are dishwasher safe, and if not, evaluate how easy it is to keep them clean. 

Of all the textures, I'm a crispy food gal. So when the Cosori Pro LE L501 Air Fryer came up for review, you best believe my hand was raised *high.* This sleek operator claims to cook food with up to 85% less fat than deep frying. Plus, rumor has it, you can slash prep times in half with this amazing air fryer.

If you're an avid Amazon shopper, you might have noticed that some of the best small air fryers are produced by Cosori. Yes, there are bigger, more well-known names out there (ie: Ninja and Instant to name a few). But, this Chinese brand is getting highly-rated reviews left, right, and center.

So, come to Chez Christina as I cook up some savory staples you'd find in your refrigerator and freezer. Think bacon, fries, and chicken wings (#teamflats, always) — essentially everything you'd need for watching sports or having a sleepover and hot snacks with your besties.

Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer review

TLDR: What I thought of the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer

Looks alone, the Cosori Pro LE air fryer is probably my favorite. Its matte gray aesthetic is what MAC's Velvet Teddy is to lipsticks. But with a 5-quart capacity, it can feed one to four people, so it's defo not style over substance. In fact, according to Amazon's Best Seller data, it's currently the #2 most popular air fryer (with the Ninja AF101 taking the top spot).

Whether you've just marinated chicken or got a li'l batter/breadcrumb on your hands, you'll want clean digits to operate the touchscreen control panel to clean it in tip-top condition. It's best to keep a microfiber cloth (available on Amazon) nearby to get rid of any greasy streaks.

However, I'm yet to find an air fryer that evenly browns food as well as an oven, but for speed, power, appearance, and quietness — this one's a winner.

Testing the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer

The techy stuff

• Model: CAF-L501-KUS
• Capacity: 5 qts
• Weight: 10 lbs
• Dimensions (in): H14.4 x W10.8 x L12
• Temperature: 170°F–450°F
• Modes: Chicken, chips, frozen, steak, seafood, veggies, bacon 
• Power (watts): 1500 W
• Power supply: 120 V
• Cost to run air fryer (per hour): $0.22
• Cooking modes: Nine one-touch cooking functions on a tempered glass display
• Price: $98.49
• Color(s): Gray

Unboxing the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer

Unboxing the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer took less time than I'd thought. Aside from a little (read: minimal) styrofoam mold and some plastic wrap (literally everything you can see below), it was a piece to cake to take out.

The removable film on the display panel talked you through setup with clear pictograms and easy-to-understand plain English. This also has a secondary role of keeping your tilted glass screen both scratch and smudge-free. There was even a QR code you could scan to get access to the VeSync App (available on Apple's app Store) and recipes.

Excuse the lighting here, but it just goes to show how clean and shiny the tempered glass display can look if you maintain your Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer and give it a proper wipe-down after each use. More on cleaning later.

Using the COSORI Pro LE L501 air fryer

Unlike any other air fryer I've tested before, the drawer handle featured a button that must be depressed to push the basket into place. This definitely gave the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer that high-end feel. I defo felt that this plastic puck made the whole thing feel more secure. It's the little things right?!

Cooking sweet potato fries

Sweet potato fries are one of my all-time favorite carby sides. Especially served with a li'l barbecue sauce on the side. Though there's a preset for fries, I've learned from past experience that you'll want to keep an eye on timings when you first "get to know" your air fryer.

These pics were taken ten minutes of cooking, and despite the scorched ends, they were still crispy on the outside and fluffy in the middle.

Cooking wedges

Our head of reviews, Millie Fender cooked up some freshly-cut potato wedges when she tested the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer. She popped these into the air fryer pan for 20 minutes at 375°F. As you can hopefully see from the pics she provided, the results were golden. BTW, if you're cooking frozen readymade wedges, you'll probs want to use the fry preset (which will cook at the same temperature, but for an additional 10 minutes).

Cooking bacon

NGL, a picture of flabby bacon isn't going to whet your appetite, so I'm not going to show you the before image here. However, having conducted the bacon-cooking test, our head of reviews said that the preset (330°F for eight minutes) felt too low.

The after pic is the result of being cooked at 375°F for eight minutes. I wouldn't turn these down (especially served alongside some pancakes or atop waffles).

Cooking frozen fish sticks

You'll probs have guessed by now that I'm pretty particular about food. So when it comes to frozen fish sticks, I like mine coated in batter *not* breadcrumbs. So, as light as these look, girl did good by setting these at 375°F for eight minutes. Note (again) — not the 12–15 minutes as suggested on the cardboard carton.

Cooking veggies

I know neutrals go down in the fashion and home sectors. But beige in excess is so not a vibe when it comes to eating a healthy balanced diet. So in the spirit of introducing a pop of color into my weekly shop, I opted for some mixed Mediterranean veggies.

Forget "50 shades of greige," these veggies retained their bright but natural traffic-like shades of green, red, and yellow. It's a go from me! Especially if you're not one of those people who CBA to slice and dice veg. Gone are the days of a veggie graveyard in your refrigerator.

Cleaning the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer

As with the other Cosori air fryers we've reviewed, the Cosori Pro LE air fryer is easy to clean. The basket and the crisper plate are both dishwasher-safe, which makes it easy to degrease (especially if you've cooked bacon in it). My top tip is to slide the crisper accessory into the place where your plates go.

Is it right for you?

I do have a preference for square baskets versus the cylindrical versions on the market. So this might just trump the Ninja AF101 in my eyes.

Apples to apples, I know two 5-quart air fryers should (in theory) hold the same amount of food. But arranging raw food in the pan is just easier in a boxy basket. IDK how to explain it. It's just like asking someone how they cut their sandwiches. Cut diagonally always taste better. I'll say it until I'm blue in the face, ok!

If you're a little more tech-savvy (and don't mind a smaller air fryer), I'd recommend the Cosori Lite. It's got a similar matt finish (available in white/sage green/blue) and can be synced up to your Wi-Fi for smart cooking.

And, if you're a kitchen loiterer, and won't be able to get past a basic-looking machine — girl, get it. This Cosori air fryer is actually really competitively priced given what's available, and how much you could potentially spend. It's not too big, or small — it's the perfect mid-size air fryer to tackle all sorts of social scenarios.

And, with Black Friday fast approaching, defo look out for deals on this air fryer. If you're a bit of a clean freak, grab some air fryer liners while you're at it. FYI, it has historically appeared in Amazon's Black Friday deals so the chance of it being on APD promotion is strong. Bookmark our Prime Day page to stay updated.

Where to buy the Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer

As well as using our handy shopping widget above, you can also find the Cosori Pro Le L501 air fryer at the following outlets:

• Shop Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer on Amazon
• Shop Cosori Pro LE L501  air fryer direct from Cosori (Use HAPPYJULY for 15% off)
• Shop Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer on Walmart

How we test air fryers

While you might assume that I gorge on fries for a living, it's a li'l more complicated than that. Our air fryer testing methodology ensures that you can make the right buying decision and that you're happy with your purchase for years to come.

We'll track everything from delivery to clean-up (being completely transparent in the process). And don't think that unboxing is pretty as the TikTok/Insta videos you see. If there's too much plastic, or if a box has been dented in transit... we'll show you.

An awkward-shaped box is hard enough to get into a large home, let alone a shoebox-sized apartment. So we'll also share our thoughts on packaging (and we're pretty blunt when it comes to boxes that could've been better designed).

One of the main reasons to buy an air fryer is that it's less fussy (and energy-consuming) than a traditional oven. So we'll assess how suitable the size of the model is for a small apartment kitchen, and if it's powerful enough to cook quickly and safely. Because no one is #teamsalmonella.

To keep things fair when comparing air fryers, we'll tend to cook the same foods each time, sticking to the same air fryer recipes so we can keep the variables consistent. Of course, if you fancy being a bit more experimental (outside of bacon, fries, and fish sticks), do check out our piece on what foods you can cook in an air fryer. This includes boiled eggs (without using water!)

In the case of this COSORI air fryer, we had two people test it for us.

If you've typed "how often to clean an air fryer" into your search bar — then I assume you sit in one of two camps. Camp A is concerned that they clean is too often and will end up scrubbing off a layer of non-stick. And Camp B.... well, I can smell that greasy basket from here, SNM.

Of course, there have been times when I've come in late from a night out, cooked some nugs to soak up the liquor, and haven't been bothered to clean my small air fryer. But I know if I leave it any longer, I'm opening a whole Pandora's box of sore tums (caused by pathogens) and the risk of practically inviting pests in for an all-you-can-eat. Oh, and did I mention that being a lazy babe can kill your countertop convection oven (RIP, air fryer 💀)

That's right — burnt-on bits are not only carcinogenic (aka harmful to your health), but they can also get stuck onto the non-stick surface (and inadvertently cause damage to your device when you go to remove it). Here, I've scribbled down a timeline with a checklist of what you need to do and when to ensure you (and your small kitchen appliance) can live your best lives. Because, IDK about you — but cooking in my oven is so last season.

How often should I clean my air fryer?

Cleaning your air fryer will also save you $$$ in the long run as it's much cheaper to cook this way versus a conventional fan-assisted oven. I mean, for this reason, solely, air fryers are worth it — let alone how much easier they are to maintain.

If you're the lucky owner of this useful kitchen gadget (welcome to the club), you'll also want to make sure you listen to the advice my gal Eve has on the do's and don’ts for using an air fryer.

WARNING: Before you get into main character mode with cleaning, always wait for it to cool down and unplug it from the mains. And on a more serious note — don't immerse the whole thing in water. It's uber dangerous and nine times out of ten will ruin your machine. Ain't nobody got time  —  or money — for that.

Here's what you'll need

• A good, preferably unscented dish soap —this one from Whole Foods on Amazon is highly rated
• A non-abrasive sponge or dish wand — I've linked my faves, babes (both from Amazon)
• A microfiber cloth like this 24 pack which is Amazon's bestseller (or strong paper towels)
• Anti-bacterial spray — It's got to be Method in pink grapefruit scent for me, and you can grab it at Amazon
• Antibacterial wipes (optional) — these Lysol ones have a 5-star rating on Amazon
• Baking soda — Arm & Hammer from Amazon always, bb
• An old toothbrush

After each use

Even if you can't see crumbs, batter, or grease in your basket — you should really clean the cooking pan every time you use your air fryer. Set your iPhone timer, and I bet you, with a little washing-up liquid and warm water, handwashing the non-stick tin takes no longer than five minutes.

If you're smart — you may have invested in some air fryer liners from Amazon. These lazy girl-approved removable silicone liners won't take long to wash either and will save you a job from cleaning the basket so frequently. Occasionally, when removing these inserts, some debris might fall drip or fall into the main cooking compartment, so you might want to give your fryer a wipe-down with a piece of paper towel. The same goes for if you've created a DIY aluminium foil tray, bb.

Though you shouldn't cook anything too saucy in it, occasionally a li'l BBQ sauce might catch on the pan. In this case, you might want to clean with baking soda to get rid this (or anything else that's a bit stubborn TBF). To do this, you'll need to create a paste (baking soda + water) and spoon it onto the affected area (yeah, it'll be a little crusty but don't panic). Let it dry and then gently handwash it as normal.

Oh, and how many times do you touch the handle to get a BTS look at your battered favorites? Unless you've got an air fryer with a transparent pane (e.g.: the Paris Rhone air fryer or an Instant Vortex air fryer with ClearCook cooking window — both on Amazon btw), it'll be more than you think. So sanitize that touchpoint by washing it with soap, wiping it with an anti-bac wipe, or spritzing a piece of paper towel with a good cleaning spray that's going to disinfect and get rid of any germs.

Got a fancy air fryer toaster oven? Then you'll have to remove the racks and clean them good and proper. Believe me when I say you do not want any burnt cheese to dry on hard. I've been there so you don't have to. Here, you can either clean 'em quickly or leave them to soak in the kitchen sink. While you're at it, scan your air fryer "floor" to see if there's any grease, goo, or gunk that needs attacking. Don't ignore it: at best, your air fryer will be stinky and smoky. At worse, it's a fire hazard waiting to happen. 

Once in a while

Want some good news girl? Unless you've spotted fingerprints or marks on the exterior, you don't *have* to clean the outside of your air fryer. Removing scraps and sauce stains won't affect the performance of the machine, but I'm house-proud. In most cases, you can use a cleaning wipe/spray. I've even been *that* girl who scratches dried-on debris off with my nail prior (don't @ me).

On the odd occasion, you might want to clean the heating element inside your air fryer. But it's important that you don't get it too wet. The easiest way to do this is to lay it on its back and give it the baking soda paste treatment I mentioned before. Once it's dried on, use an old toothbrush to *gently* scrub away at the white coating.

I've been vague with timings here as there are many variables to consider. For example: how often you use your air fryer, the air fryer recipes you cook, and your level of hygiene. No one's calling you out here, but if you quite literally take a "hands-on" approach to handling food, then go pressing the touchscreen functions or turning knobs — things are bound to get sticky and icky.

Whether your oven is small or you're too impatient to wait for it to preheat, I've reviewed a bunch of small air fryers that prove you don't need mountains of space to own this innovative appliance that will cook fresh and frozen food in minutes.

So if your kitchen has just enough countertop space for an air fryer, this small kitchen appliance can either sit flush, at an angle, or be stowed away in your cupboard after use. Apartment-dwellers, college-goers, and solo renters, this list is for you. The best part? Smaller air fryers tend to be easier to use, simpler to clean, and you guessed it — more affordable than goliath gadgets too.

Though Cosori air fryers take up a third of this buying guide, I've featured some other convection ovens from the brands you know and love including Ninja, Dash, Instant, and Dreo, as well as other air fryers on Amazon.

The best small air fryers to buy in 2026

We've written a brief summary of the things we love about the small air fryers below, but you can click to read our full reviews if you want to know more.

2-quart air fryers

"A smaller air fryer may be perfect for two people as it will take up less space and require less energy to operate," says adds Ruiz Asri, chief knowledge officer and editor at Honest Food Talks. "Small air fryers are typically easier to clean and can be more affordable than their larger counterparts. However, the downside is that they may not be suitable for cooking larger portions or for entertaining guests."

We recommend 2-quart air fryers for cooking for one to two people. They're mostly great at cooking side dishes as they're tiny inside.

4-quart air fryers

"As long as you choose a reputable brand and model, you can expect your small air fryer to deliver delicious and healthy meals with less oil and in less time than traditional cooking methods," says Asri. "Another factor to consider when choosing an air fryer is its features. Some air fryers come with programmable settings, while others have a digital display that allows you to monitor the cooking process. Some air fryers have multiple functions and can be used to bake, grill, and roast, in addition to air frying."

We recommend four-quart air fryers for two or three people, or even for small families. You'll be able to cook more than a side dish for one or two, but for any more people, this is the size air fryer you need to make healthy homemade fries.

FAQs

How we review small air fryers

Big or small, we test air fryers with the same methodology in our Future plc test kitchen. In a nutshell, we examine how well these appliances cook a set inventory of items, and how easy it is to clean the air fryer after use.

But don't forget to experiment with other foods you can cook in an air fryer. We've got lots of air fryer recipes you can try.

We'll also look at the economic concerns you might have. For example, the cost to run a particular machine, and if the wattage output is appropriate for the size of the machine. Because on one hand, you don't want it to be so powerful that you ruin dinner, but conversely, you don't want to wait around for your fries or fish sticks only to find they're still half-frozen!

Where we haven't had a chance to call in a particular petite air fryer, we'll scan retailer sites for highly-rated products and sift through pages of reviews — saving you time to manually shortlist and make up your mind.

Just remember. Smaller machines still come with the same sets of air fryer do's and don'ts. We don't want to be party poopers but some of the things we warn against can either stop your appliance from working (boo), make your food taste funky, or cause an electrical fire risk in the kitchen. Try explaining that to your landlord (or neighbors when they have to evacuate the apartment building).

We've tested five out of the six air fryers on this list (with the remaining one on the way). 

Meet our air fryer reviewers:

Where to buy a small air fryer

No, you don't need to go to a specialist shop made for The Borrowers to buy a smaller-sized air fryer. In fact, lots of retailers have clocked onto the demand for mini versions of this already small appliance. It's far cheaper than turning on an oven, and won't raise the temperature in your city apartment.

Here's where you can buy a small air fryer from:

• Shop small air fryers from Amazon
• Shop small air fryers from Best Buy
• Shop small air fryers from Home Depot 
• Shop small air fryers from Target
• Shop small air fryers from Walmart

Confession time: Between Millie Fender (Real Homes' head of reviews) and I, we've tested around 20 air fryers in our Reading, UK office and at home. Even though we've given quite a few three- to five-star ratings, I still haven't found the ideal kitchen appliance for my home. Until now, that is. I guess you have to kiss a few frogs to find the one, and I can officially say the Cosori Lite is my culinary bae.

Now I hate to go against the "it's what's on the inside that counts" saying, but this is a good-looking machine. Aesthetically, it's giving me modern chic vibes. And, if Joseph Joseph made a small kitchen appliance — I think it would look like this! It also comes in dreamy colorways that would suit a Gen Z home, including "Truffle Grey," sage green (with teal trim), and white (with orange deets), perfect for if you're sick of another appliance that only comes in black, white, or stainless steel.

Cosori makes some of the best air fryers on the market in my opinion, and they come at an affordable price point. Even if you're an amateur in the kitchen, there are lots of helpful videos under the #cosori hashtag on TikTok, plenty of Facebook support in the Cosori Cooks Community, and a recipe gallery online.

TLDR: What we thought of the Cosori Lite air fryer

Only got a minute or two to read? Got it. The Cosori Lite air fryer is a great purchase for a household with two to four people. Available in three attractive colors, it stands out from the small appliance crowd, with the exterior matte finish making it easy to clean. Silicone "feet" on the crisper liner are great for ensuring the plate is strapped in, but they also provide a soft cushion so there's no friction between two metal surfaces. At 1500 W, it's a powerful machine for its size, so it might take a while to adjust to if you like your bacon crispy, but not crunchy.

How to use the Cosori Lite

Once you've taken it out of the box, you'll need to remove all of the temporary stickers and the protective cover that's fitted over the power plug. You'll then want to decide where to put it. Make sure this is on a stable, level, and heat and steam-resistant surface (nowhere that's at risk of warping, for example).

It's always common practice to give any kitchen appliance a wipedown as you don't know who has touched it, where it's been stored, and whether or not it was a store return.

The control panel is pretty self-explanatory. It has a power button, seven cooking presets, buttons to navigate time and temperature, as well as preheat, shake, and keep warm buttons. There's even a start/pause button if you need to step away from the kitchen or delay dinner time.

Cosori recommends that you use the pre-heat function to get your basket to optimum temperature. This takes anywhere from three to five minutes and definitely makes a difference to the crisp factor of your food. 

The techy stuff

• Model: CAF-LI401S
• Capacity: 3.8 L / 4 qt
• Weight: 4.52 kg / 9.97 lb
• Dimensions: 14.8 x 10.8 x 12.8 in / 37.6 x 27.5 x 32.5 cm
• Temperature:
  Power: 1500 W
• Cost to run air fryer (per hour): 22c
• Cooking modes: bacon, veggies, steak, fries, chicken, preheat, shake, keep warm
• RRP: $99.99
• Color(s): Truffle Grey, Sage Green, White
• Wi-Fi frequency range: 2412–2472MHz <20dbM (E.I.R.P)
• Bluetooth frequency range: 2402–2480MHz <10dBm (E.I.R.P)

Unboxing the Cosori Lite

First impressions of the Cosori Lite

For under $100, this is an impressive little machine. On looks alone, the color is a great visual respite from your usual "black cooking box." Slightly worryingly, the air fryer will emit white smoke with a plastic-like smell, but having consulted the user manual's troubleshooting section, I was reassured that this is normal on first use... phew!

Setting up the VeSync application is fairly easy. Once you've registered, you just need to select the Lite model from the Cosori air fryers list and follow the in-app instructions. Here, you'll be able to remotely control the device via Wi-Fi, check on your meal's progress, find in-app recipes, and use Google Assistant to command your convection oven to cook.

Cooking bacon

Streaky, back, or as a joint... I love bacon. Give me a salty slice of pork any day, as part of a fry-up, a sandwich, even on a donut, in a milkshake, or on ice-cream (don't knock it until you've tried it, kids). So testing a couple of rashers in the Cosori air fryer was actually a normal part of my day.

One thing I will say is that despite following pack instructions, the finished cuts were a little more on the crispy side than I would've likes. Don't get me wrong, they weren't inedible — I'd just have taken a couple of minutes off the cooking time — and I know people who do like it this way.

Cooking hard boiled eggs

I thought I'd go with a nice and easy one next that would suit both meat eaters and vegetarians alike. The humble boiled egg. It's a great on-the-go snack, but can easily be the foundation of a good egg mayo sandwich or a protein-rich addition to a potato salad.

Having referred to Millie Fender's air fryer guide on hard-boiled eggs, I set the digital screen accordingly (150°C/302°F for 12 minutes) and pressed the play button. I was pretty egg-cited about the result!

Twelve minutes later, I took the (very hot) chicken eggs out of the machine. My first observation was that there was a slight scorch mark on the shell. Carefully peeling the eggshell and membrane, I spotted that this "burnt bottom" ran through to the edible white. However, this blemish was only aesthetic, and it tasted just as expected.

Cooking breaded fish fillets

My fiancé was quite excited to see battered sea bass on the menu. While I prefer giving these fishies a char on the barbecue, it's just not practical in winter (when I reviewed this appliance). What I can say is that I was pleasantly surprised with the air-fried treatment of the fillets. They weren't dry and the layered of batter remained intact, with not a smidge of grease in the basket or on my chops.

Thou shall have a little fishy on a little dishy!

Cooking homemade fries

Even if I'm not hungry, I can't resist a chipped potato. Of course, our head of reviews did the test on air fryer vs. deep fryer and included fries in her food tests.

I'll be honest, I was a bit pedantic when slicing the potatoes. So rather than keeping their skins on for a rustic effect, I removed the outer with a peeler and tried to create as uniform fries as possible.

I saw that there was a "fries" function on the machine, which cooks the spuds on a two-phase program that switches between 200–220°C (392–428°F). Once set, I saw that the "shake" button remained lit, and at nine minutes, the appliance bleeped prompting me to jiggle the basket (or use a tong to rotate).

Of course, singing Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off" at this stage is completely optional.

I actually thought these were ready three minutes shy of the programmed time. The finished fry was caramelized, and one advantage of my wonky ends was that the narrow gnarly bits came out crispier. I'm not ashamed to say that I took this photo in iPhone's portrait mode because look at the color on them.

"Alexa, play Harry Styles — 'Golden'"

Cooking meat-free nuggets in the Cosori Lite

Despite being a meat eater, I like to break up my carnivorous habits with some Quorn. Close your eyes and this imitation meat product is pretty close to chicken. Plus, when it's coated with Southern-fried seasoning, it's texturally akin to a poultry nugget.

Cooking kale in an air fryer

If you're still boiling or stir-frying greens — you need to crawl out from under that rock. Seriously, of all the things you can cook in an air fryer — kale is up there. You might see it as a boring superfood, but once you air fry it in a little oil, it transforms into a crispy delight that's also healthier. I know a lot of places that use the flavor enhancer monosodium glutamate (aka MSG) and making my favorite hors d'oeuvres at home means I get to choose what goes in it.

Making pasta chips in an air fryer

I love a bowl of comforting carbs coated in a glossy sauce as much as the next person. But if you're looking for a snack that's (sort of) healthy, air fryer pasta chips are the latest TikTok trend I thought I'd try out. Yes, I know mom used to say "don't play with your food," but I really did have fun with this one.

I had some surplus conchiglioni lying about from an al forno dish I made a while back. But, you don't have to use a specialty pasta shape. Penne, farfalle (bows), or rigatoni tubes work just as well. Millie's tutorial takes you through all the steps, including how to season, but I had the choice between nutritional yeast (a vegan cheese alternative) or parmesan, along with some herbs and spices.

"Pas-ta me" a bowl of these on the sofa any night. They contain less oil than potato chips and if you upgrade to wholemeal pasta, it's a great source of fiber, too! And, for all of you ASMR lovers, I can assure you the crunchy sound was #goals.

How to clean the Cosori Lite air fryer

To get the most out of your appliance, you need to clean your air fryer's basket and crisper plate after every use. Yes, you can line the cooking area with foil (or better still buy paper or silicone air fryer liners on Amazon, but you might still need to give it a gentle (non-abrasive) scrub after your grub is served up. This means no metal scouring pads!

Otherwise, you can remove these components and use your dishwasher to clean them on a normal cycle. If you don't have one, handwashing with dish soap, water, and a soft sponge will get rid of food debris.

For stubborn grease, Cosori advises that you clean with baking soda (which we're so here for!). To do this, mix 30 g / 2 US tbsp of bicarb and 15 ml / 1 US tbsp of water to form a spreadable paste. Leave this for 15 minutes before rinsing with hot soapy water. Including this eco-friendly cleaning solution in its manual is such a pleasant surprise from a big brand!

Unlike a deep fryer, you don't need to add any oil to an air fryer, but a little can help to crisp food (and add flavor). My top tip would be to use a neutral-flavored oil in a bottle with a pump spray attachment. This way you can control how much fat you use (which will affect how much (or little) of a pool there is in the basket. These products are also great to decant vinegar into so you can add a spritz to your fries — such a novelty at the dining table.

How does it compare to other air fryers?

In this game of small air fryer top trumps, I'm pleased to say this appliance wins on all fronts including price, power, and looks. Plus, the Wi-Fi connectivity is a winner in my eyes. You might not be able to air fry a whole turkey in it come Thanksgiving or Christmas, but it'd do a good job of cooking a crown if there are only two to three of you eating.

Should you buy the Cosori Lite?

Absolutely! Type "Amazon air fryers" into your internet browser, and it's easy to get overwhelmed by the plethora of machines that promise to win you over. But like those handy food apps, the Cosori Lite delivers fast and tasty food (without eating into your disposable income).

You've heard it from me. If you've shopped around and seen either super basic, cheap black boxes that seem too good to be true or flash fixtures from leading brands, give this one a go. As an Amazon Exclusive, it's earned the trust of the huge online retailer and its customers with 83% of reviews being awarded five stars.

I'm all for popping my food pics on Instagram and Facebook, and this is one brand that actively endorses the use of microblogging sites to share your creations. I'll certainly be using the #iCookCosori and #LiveLifeTastefully hashtags in my next post.

About this review and the reviewer

Christina Chrysostomou is an ecommerce editor for Real Homes where she reviews household products to make your life easier at home, primarily focusing on cleaning and small kitchen appliances. She was sent this product to review at home to test out its air frying performance.

We are not given any compensation for our reviews, but we may be gifted the product. In this case, Cosori sent us the sample. This means that we can test it over a greater length of time and update our reviews if required. We also receive affiliate commission for some products brought through our site.

Black Friday has been and gone but there's still time to grab yourself a Ninja air fryer dupe. Cyber week air fryer deals are now in full swing, so set yourself up for a week of tasty meals, and less of that "blah" feeling we associate with dark winter days.

With around 3 weeks until Christmas (eek), take the hard work out of food prep by shopping for one of the best air fryers on the market, in our humble opinion. These two-drawer lookalikes can lend a culinary hand when it comes to festive fodder, cooking anything from canapes to veg... and even a small Turkey joint! Come the new year, you'll be primed with plenty of new recipes that can all be made in an air fryer. So whether you're bored of your current weekly menu or just want the family to be fed fast, this convection oven is a worthwhile investment (that you won't be taking back).

If you still have your heart set on a Ninja Foodi Dual Zone, we'll show you where to find a brand-new appliance during the extended Black Friday period, plus sites where you can reap the rewards of a refurbished item.

The Ninja air fryer dupes to buy this Cyber Monday

US

UK

Where can you still buy a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer?

If you've been after a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer in the last couple of weeks, you've probably noticed the "out of stock" pages popping up left, right, and centre. While they may feel more like unicorns these days, we've crawled the internet to find places that still have the air fryer in stock. Act fast though as they are selling like hotcakes. In the UK, Argos is setting the levels for inventory right now, so we'll be sure to update this page regularly, as and when retailers replenish these sought-after items.

It's also worth shopping around for a refurbished Ninja air fryer. While you might have preconceived notions about going this route, you can sigh relief. Refurbished items are professionally checked, cleaned, and restored. So don't worry — you won't end up with someone else's scraps as a free "gift." Not to mention, you'll typically save a lot more money this way, too.

However, there might be a slight cosmetic blemish (like a scuff or a scratch), but this will always be mentioned in the product info if that's the case. We've got a good spread of information on refurbs and pre-loved appliances below. 

Otherwise, look out for less popular colors (that will undoubtedly look great in your kitchen. We've found the Ninja Dual Zone air fryer in navy blue and cinnamon red because who says that all convection ovens have to come in black, gray, or stainless steel — not us, that's for sure!

US Ninja DualZone air fryers (new)

• Ninja DZ100 DualZone 8-qt. 4-in-1 air fryer|$149 at Walmart
• Ninja DZ201 DualZone 8-qt. 6-in-1 air Fryer| $199.99 at Target
• Ninja DZ201 DualZone 8-qt. 6-in-1 air Fryer | $199.99 at Best Buy
• Ninja DZ401 DualZone 10-qt. 6-in-1 air fryer (Dark grey)|$224.99. at Amazon
• Ninja AD350CO DualZone 10-qt 6-in-1 air fryer| $225.99 at Amazon
• Ninja DZ401 DualZone 10-qt. 6-in-1 air fryer| $229.99 at Best Buy
• Ninja DZ401 DualZone 10-qt. 6-in-1 air Fryer| $229.99 at Target
• Ninja AD150 DualZone 8-qt. 6-in-1 air fryer | $268.90 at Walmart
• Ninja DZ550 DualZone 10-qt. 6-in-1 air fryer|$249.99 at Best Buy

US refurbished and renewed Ninja DualZone air fryers

• Refurbished Ninja DZ100 DualZone 8-qt. 4-in-1 air fryer | $139.90 at Walmart
• Renewed Ninja AD350CO DualZone 10-qt 6-in-1 air fryer|$139.95 at Amazon
• Renewed DZ201 Ninja DualZone 8-qt 6-in-1 air fryer Blue|$139.99 at Amazon
• Renewed Ninja DZ100 DualZone 4-in-1 air fryer| $139.99 at Amazon
• Renewed DZ201 Ninja DualZone 8-qt 6-in-1 air fryer Red | $149.95 at Amazon
• Refurbished DZ201 Ninja DualZone 8-qt. 6-in-1 air fryer | $164.99 at Amazon
• Renewed DZ401 DualZone 10-qt. 6-in-1 air fryer Cinnamon|$199.95 at Amazon
• Renewed DZ401 DualZone 10-qt. 6-in-1 air fryer Grey|$199.95 at Amazon

UK Ninja DualZone air fryers (new)

It's slim pickings in the United Kingdom, but here are the places where you can still get a Ninja Foodi Dual Zone air fryer. As always, we've listed drawer capacity and model number so you can quickly compare (without having a million tabs open on your phone or PC).

• Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone AF400UK 9.5L Air Fryer | £180 at Argos
• Ninja Foodi Dual Zone 7.6 L Air Fryer and Dehydrator|£200 at Argos

UK refurbished and renewed Ninja DualZone air fryers

• Certified Refurbished Ninja Foodi AF300UK 7.6L Dual Zone Air Fryer | £179.99 at eBay

Why do you need a two-drawer air fryer?

There are so many reasons to buy an air fryer with drawers. We can certainly see the appeal and why the Ninja Dual Zone is so popular. The sectioned areas mean that you can cook two things at once (sometimes with independently-operated temperatures) and cater to different dietary requirements, too.

Having more than one compartment is perfect for cooking a protein and roast potatoes or other sides. It also means that if your oven is full of food (Christmas, for example), you essentially have another piece of cooking equipment for the rest of the catch-all culinary bits (like canapes and a bottomless portion of pigs in blankets). 

The internet is your oyster when looking for air fryer recipes so you don't have to follow the meat and two veg formula. Making brunch and even dessert is totally possible, too. Another route to take is to get yourself an air fryer toaster oven (like the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven) as these have different shelves and wired racks.

A two-compartment air fryer is also a great choice for families. Even if you're cooking all the same food, you have plenty of extra space to do so over an appliance that may only have one section.

There is one (tiny) disadvantage when cleaning an air fryer of this type: You have to clean two baskets, but the versatility outweighs this minor inconvenience. Plus, when you weigh up maintaining an air fryer vs. deep fryer, there's no hot smelly oil to deal with when it comes to the former. Saying that there are some drawer-shaped air fryer liners on Amazon for anyone who can't stand any form of untidiness or disorder.

Alternative ways to get a Ninja Foodi air fryer

Aside from buying brand new, there are loads of sites that sell renewed Ninja Foodi air fryers if you've really got your heart set on buying this brand. Amazon and eBay, for example, both sell refurbished appliances that look and perform just like new — so the cost to run an air fryer will remain the same, plus it's eco-friendly.

If you're looking to cut costs even further. Look out for refurbished versions of the Ninja Foodi dupes. For example, eBay has refurbished Tower, Tefal, and Vortx air fryers available.

Be aware that some third-party retailers will have bought the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone air fryer in bulk, only to inflate the price far beyond the brand's RRP. While we're all for supply and demand, don't feel you need to pay in excess. Check prices across numerous sites and the brand's own website to get a better understanding of what you should expect to pay.

If appropriate and you have the means, consider paying by credit card as section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act will give you extra protection and you can claim a refund (or from your provider should the goods not arrive). The Financial Ombudsman has more information on this.

Scratching your head on which COSORI air fryers are worth buying? With over three million happy customers, COSORI has recently claimed some real estate in Amazon's air fryer search results and we can certainly see why.

With a whole host of air fryers to choose from, including models fit for large families and ones for modern spaces, we're here to help make this decision a bunch easier. All of these COSORI air fryers have been reviewed or are in the process of being put through their paces in our test kitchen. Otherwise, these are the deals you want to see. 

So, COSORI makes some of the best air fryers in the biz, which is another reason why you should invest this sale season. If you're already sold on the brand itself, but not totally sure which Cosori air fryer will fit in your kitchen (size and style-wise), we can help with your buying decision based on how many mouths you need to feed, how much money you're working with (including a section on how much it costs to run an air fryer), and even your dietary requirements. Because there's no point in buying an air fryer with additional niche functions if you're not going to use all of them.

See which of these COSORI air fryers will suit you

Wondering how we review air fryers? Learn more about our testing process.

Wondering how to clean an air fryer? Understanding how to get rid of oil, crumbs, batter, and bits of food debris is essential if you want your appliance to last for a long time. Even if you only have a small air fryer, it still needs regular cleaning in the same way that you maintain your other small kitchen appliances. Cleaning your air fryer ensures it stays hygienic, maintains the ability to heat up quickly, and this makes sure isn't a fire hazard on your kitchen countertop!

We trekked to our test kitchen to review a bunch of different air fryers, which obviously involved cleaning the basket inserts, heating elements, glass screens, and racks after we were done cooking. Rather than asking someone else to do it, we got our hands dirty, creating a step-by-step guide in the process. We've also recommended some cleaning supplies to help you do this (let's be honest: boring and gross) job, so you can keep calm and carry on cooking.

How to clean an air fryer?

Good to know

Not all air fryers are made equal. Some have baskets, others have trays, many have separate drawers, and a few even have rotisserie functionality to air fryer turkey or chicken! But, so we can be thorough in our explanation, we've decided to show you how to clean the most popular types: (a basket-style machine), and the Cusinart Air Fryer Toaster (which is akin to a mini countertop convection oven).

Here's what you'll need

• A soft bristle brush (or old toothbrush) like these on Amazon
• Dish soap, we love Method's lime and sea salt dish soap on Amazon
• Baking soda, Arm and Hammer is the one for me
• A small oven-safe bowl that fits inside your air fryer
• A multi-surface anti-bac spray, I like Mrs. Meyers which you can buy on Amazon
• Some paper towels
• A dry cloth like these Amazon microfiber ones
• A handheld vac, or your current vacuum and its crevice tool 
• A small torch (or the setting on your phone will do)

1. Let the air fryer cool completely

Air fryers can get very, very hot when cooking, so unplug it and wait until it’s completely cooled before you get stuck in with cleaning. Don’t leave it too long though, or you’ll have to deal with solidified fat, which is trickier to remove.

2. Take the air fryer apart

Most air fryers come with a removable basket and a tray that either slots inside or is attached to your air fryer by its handle. Either way, this should lift away from the basket itself. Both need to be cleaned for sparkling results. 

There’s also the interior of the air fryer itself, which does not have to be cleaned after every use — but it is still good to clean every once in a while. 

When we reviewed air fryers in our test kitchen, Millie our head of reviews used a dish wand, which is super effective at making sure you've got enough washing-up liquid on your sponge without being wasteful. We like the Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Advanced Soap Control Dishwand, personally.

Wondering how to clean an air fryer basket? Just like a good non-stick pan, most air fryer baskets have a coating, which makes cooking in an air fryer easier but can be more sensitive to harsh and abrasive cleaning methods. Treat it with care to prolong the life of your machine. Do not — we repeat — do not use a metal scourer! This will scratch off the protective layer of your air fryer leaving it exposed to air and water. And you know what happens when metal, air, and water get together? Rust.

3. Get scrubbing

You know how this bit works: Submerge your basket and/or tray into warm water and start scrubbing away with a soft-bristled brush/sponge and some dish soap to bust the grease. For food that's practically glued on, you can create a thick baking soda paste (mixing the bicarb with a little water). Smooth this over (it's messy!) the tougher stains and leave it to do its thing before attempting to go in with warm water and soap again.

Do not, under any circumstances, submerge your air fryer in water. This presents an electrical shock risk, will probably break your appliance, and you'll probably invalidate your warranty too.

If your air fryer has shelves — you'll need to clean these too. Depending on how dirty they are, you can either give these a quick wipe-down or clean them properly in the kitchen sink with some warm water and eco-friendly cleaning product (I like Method's lime and sea salt dish soap on Amazon. Or you've got a little more time on your hands you can also clean them like you would an oven rack — my personal (and natural) favorite is using vinegar to clean them.

4. Wipe with a dry cloth

Take a soft (ideally microfiber) cloth to remove any remaining grease as well as the leftover water. Then just leave the air fryer to air dry either on your counter or drying rack. 

Don't put it back inside the machine itself until the air fryer is fully dry, as this could result in steam the next time you cook, which is not helpful when aiming for that air-fried crisp result. 

5. Wipe down the exterior

It’s worth giving the outside of your air fryer a wipe down with a slightly damp cloth (or sponge) too, as this can get greasy from daily use. Think about how many times you've touched the handle to impatiently sneak a peek of your food, or smudged the glass display window with fingerprints.

If you want that chef's kiss standard of clean, wipe it down with an antibacterial spray, or if you're feeling extra AF, treat your air fryer to a cleanse with an anti-bac wipe. 

6. Clean the heating element

You don’t have to clean the heating element after every use, but it’s a good idea to do this every few uses to make sure your air fryer is working properly and safely. You'll be surprised how gunky things can get! 

Carefully flip the air fryer upside-down to access the heating element — you should have the basket removed in order to do this, FYI. And you obvs want it unplugged. Try not to use anything that could leave fumes when cleaning this element, as it could prove dangerous when you have your next air-fried meal.

Use a microfiber cloth or paper towel to remove any grease that’s on the heating element. If it’s difficult to remove, you can use a very gentle scrubbing brush (or even better, an old toothbrush) to really get stuck in.

I used a little Mrs. Meyer's multi-surface cleaner to get into all the nooks and crannies. My top tip is to use your smartphone's torch to help you get into all the dark crevices.

The results below are a little gross, but not bad going for the amount I use my appliance. N.B: You might need to quickly blast your air fryer on high for a few minutes to get rid of any excess cleaner. In hindsight, I'd have used an unfragranced cleaner.

Keep your appliance clean with these air fryer liners

If you don't want to clean your air fryer frequently, or just don't like chores full stop, invest in some air fryer liners. They're super cheap on Amazon, and there are different types available, including single-use parchment paper options or silicone/rubber sheets. Rather than cleaning the air fryer parts, you literally lay one of these down and then lift it out after cooking.

Whatever you do, don't try this TikTok air fryer cleaning "hack" that's doing the rounds. It will invalidate any guarantee and make your food taste soapy!

How often should I clean my air fryer? 

You need to clean your air fryer after every use. While air frying is the ultimate low-fat way of cooking air fryer recipe ideas, it can leave a lot of residual grease when cooking something that’s naturally fatty, like streaky bacon or lamb chops. Not paying your due diligence will result in smelly appliances that harbor potentially-harmful germs, bacteria, and mold.

There’s also a high chance that anything coated in breadcrumbs or seasoning will leave some residue at the bottom of your air fryer, so removing this before your next use is a must.

With that said, when you compare an air fryer to a deep-fat fryer, it's far less messy to cook fries in!

What happens if I don’t clean my air fryer?

We’ve been there. Sure, it can be annoying to clean your air fryer after every use, but if you don’t, then you could end up with nasty smells circulating your kitchen and even smoke coming off all the leftover crumbs and burnt oils. Granted, when you compare an air fryer to a deep-fat fryer you're using a lot less cooking fat (if any), but the principle still stands: clean your air fryer.

Generally speaking, air fryers are a healthy way to cook food — granted you are cleaning your appliance regularly to get rid of anything that could cause you ill health — and not eating scorched scraps from the previous meal.

Also, failing to clean your air fryer doesn't make financial sense — let me explain. When a small kitchen appliance (like an air fryer) is clean and fully operational, it can cost as little as 20 cents per hour. But if your machine is clogged up with all sorts of nastiness, the heating element has to work a lot harder to reach the optimal temperature, which means it'll take longer to cook your air fryer recipes.

Can I put my air fryer in the dishwasher? 

Yes — most air fryer parts are dishwasher safe, so if yours fits in your dishwasher, you can put it on a hot pan cycle. For this reason alone, air fryers are worth the investment, because you can't exactly put your oven on a dishwashing cycle now, can you?!

However, you will need to do a bit of pre-cleaning. Pay attention to the air fryer basket and the inner chamber — any food that's stuck will need to be removed with a brush before you put the air fryer in the dishwasher. Otherwise, the bits of food will stay stuck to the parts or they could clog your dishwasher filter. If you find yours does get clogged, learn how to clean a dishwasher filter correctly.

Our air fryer cleaning experts

On the lookout for an air fryer cleaning hack? As much as this gourmet gadget has changed the way we eat forever, making sure the basket is ready to use each time isn't the most exciting thing on our to-do list.

Even if you own the best air fryer, manufacturers haven't quite come up with a pyrolytic model just yet. (By the way, that's totally my idea if any entrepreneurs are reading!)

In the meantime, while we're waiting for a self-cleaning appliance to land on the market, air fryer cleaning hacks are super popular on TikTok and there are tons of videos to feast your eyes on.

However, not all methods are approved by brands — in fact, some may do more harm than good. So we've done the handiwork and trawled through videos to vet which methods are a go, and which ones are a damn right no.

The air fryer cleaning hacks you should avoid

Wondering what you can cook in an air fryer? A soapy solution isn't one of them. We've seen plenty of TikTok videos that advocate pouring your favorite dish soap and water into the basket, selecting a temperature or program, and letting it do its thing. While this method sounds great if you're grossed out by touching food, everything you make from there on will taste like your dishwashing liquid. Our advice? If slimy debris gives you the ick, invest in some rubber gloves.

It goes without saying that the video we've used is an extreme example. You should clean your air fryer after use as it can affect your health. But more on that below...

Real Homes verdict: Instead of trying out the popular dishwasher tablet hack, you could invest in an air fryer liner from Amazon. Paper or silicone, these sheets literally lift out of your appliance for fuss-free cleaning. Alternatively, using a sponge and eco-friendly washing-up liquid will also do the trick.

Otherwise, most air fryers have removable, dishwasher-safe parts, so use your tabs for the greater good and clean a full load of crockery and cutlery! Calling it a hack implies that this how-to can save time, however, dishwasher vs. handwashing vs. TikTok trick — the social media method comes last.

What not to do when cleaning an air fryer

1. Using a scourer to clean your air fryer

Remember that episode of The Office where Michael Scott screams "No, God! No, God, Please No! No! No!" Well, that's our reaction when someone mentions metal scourer and air fryer in the same sentence.

Reason being is that nine times out of 10 it will take off the non-stick coating on your appliance. Because air fryers rely on hot air (and no oil), this will mean that food will inevitably stick to the basket.

Another reason not to reach for a metal sponge is that removing the non-stick coating might make your air fryer prone to rust. Not only does it look ugly, but letting water and metal mix could impact your air fryer's performance.

2. Using metal utensils to retrieve food

Yeah, no, pass. We know that pair of super shiny stainless steel tongs or fish slice looks fancy, but personally, we wouldn't risk scraping the non-stick coating for the same reasons as above. Instead, invest in some silicone utensils. These Hotec premium stainless locking tongs have a five-star rating on Amazon.

3. Putting a wet basket back into the air fryer

If you're a guy or gal who likes to let dishes and cutlery drip dry on the drying rack — listen up. Using a tea towel to ensure your baskets are bone dry is a small step that will help your air fryer live its best life; yours too with all the tasty air fryer recipes you'll be making.

Put a damp basket back into the appliance and you might be asking for trouble. At the very least, it can affect how quickly your air fryer heats up. At worst, you risk damaging the internal components. Try explaining that to anyone with a craving for nuggets and fries!

4. Submerging the whole air fryer in water

RIP air fryer. No, really. Electricity and water don't mix, but it doesn't take a genius to figure that one out. When cleaning an air fryer, don't be tempted to hand wash it without disassembling the basket and/or tray. 1.) It's lazy 2.) It's dangerous, and 3.) You could invalidate your warranty and most instruction manuals advise against this.

Given that the cost to run an air fryer is cheaper than using your oven, you'll indirectly increase your energy bills by reverting back to your fixed cooker. Plus, if you plan to replace a broken air fryer, you'll be forking out even more — assuming you can get your hands on another, that is.

5. Thinking you can get away with not cleaning it

Yup, we've learned the hard way. When reviewing air fryers in our test kitchen, we made the rookie mistake of trying to cook foods consecutively. What's the worst that can happen you might ask?

Smoke, setting off fire alarms, not to mention a foul odor that left our hair smelling a bit gross too. But, the experts have also warned that not cleaning your air fryer could be a fire hazard too. This totally makes sense considering that one in five dirty ovens can cause house fires.

Though your air fryer might not burst into flames, let's be honest: eating burnt, acrid scraps isn't pleasant. Plus leaving grease and crumbs leave your components to harbor bacteria, which in turn can cause food poisoning. Gross.

Wondering what can you cook in an air fryer (that isn't fries or fish sticks)? Pull up a chair (and some cutlery) — because you're bound to be hungry after this. We already know that the best air fryers can cut down the cooking time of our favorite "beige dinner" staples. If you love your fries, garlic bread, goujons, and other breaded and battered goods — this machine is for you.

I don't know about you, but I also love a boujee (and boozy) brunch. But, let's be honest: they can come at a premium price. Then there's the messy group chat, getting a reservation at said spot, plus working out what to wear!

Save yourself the stress and DIY your coffee bar favorites. From French toast to avo fries, all you need to add is a few bottles of fizz and some orange juice and you can have a fancy meal on a budget, all thanks to your air fryer. And, if you've overspent during the holiday season, but want to see 2023 in good and well, your air fryer is your New Year's Eve BFF as you can cook up endless canapes and ask your mates to BYOB!

Surprising things you can air fry

If you're getting burnt out on your go-to air fryer recipes, it might be time to diversify what you're cooking. Here are a few ideas worth experimenting with.

1. Cheese

Yup, you read right... because who else doesn't get excited over a whole baked Camembert or Brie. And, as long as you keep it in the wooden box, there's little mess to clean up either. Go in with warm baguette or dig in with slightly healthier sticks of celery.

2. French toast

Whether you call it French toast or eggy bread — this fluffy staple is the thing of brunch dreams. According to Jules Domanski, recipe developer at Ocado, you can make this sweet treat in your air fryer.

"For an indulgent morning treat, coat sliced bread in a custard mixture of beaten egg, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, shaking off any excess liquid before adding to your air fryer to cook for around three minutes on each side," she explains. "It’s also a good idea to use an air [fryer] liner in the basket to catch any residual liquid."

Jenny Tschiesche, author of Sunday Times Bestseller, Air Fryer Cookbook also says:
"French toast is always a favorite. The air fryer is a much healthier way of enjoying this delicious breakfast. Usually, you’d fry the eggy bread in butter but with an air fryer you can simply coat the bread in a mixture of beaten egg, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon prior to air frying. Not only is this a healthier way but also a more cost-effective way of making your favorite French toast breakfast."

3. Avocado fries

Move over smashed avo on toast, there's a new kid in town. "Slice your avocado halves into long fingers and coat each in flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper," instructs Domanski. "Dip the floured fingers into beaten egg and then roll them in panko breadcrumbs. Repeat this process twice for a thick, crunchy coating. Pop your fries into the basket and cook for seven minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time."

4. Mozzarella sticks

Yes — adding some stretchy sides to your McDonald's drive-thru or Uber Eats order is easy, but you'll be shocked as to how much the occasional treat here and there adds up budget-wise. The solution: Make your cheesy fries at home. It's cheaper and you can elevate the flavor in a flash using herbs from your spice rack. Better still, if you've got a bag of flavored tortilla chips in your cupboard (i.e. Doritos), these can add a smack of seasoning.

"DIY mozzarella sticks are the perfect fast-food alternative," says Domanski. "Take string cheese and coat it in seasoned flour (dried oregano, salt, and pepper will do the trick), beaten egg, and then breadcrumbs, repeating the process twice through. Cook for six to seven minutes until golden-brown and molten."

5. S'mores

You don't need a campfire or even a barbecue to enjoy this childhood classic! Wherever you live in the world, treating yo' self to gooey goodness is easy.

"Air fryers can be used for more than just savory treats," explains Domanski. "An American classic, it’s about time we embraced s’mores internationally. For a British twist, grab your chocolate digestives, split large marshmallows in half and press the sticky side down onto the cookie."

She notes to cook them for seven minutes — checking halfway through — until your marshmallows go from white to golden. "Remove and top with a square of milk chocolate, finishing with another digestive on top to encase your oozy choccy sandwich."

6. Turkey

Okay, so we wouldn't wager your whole holiday meal by shoving this big bird into your air fryer, but hear us out. If you're having to cook multiple pieces of poultry at a time, a crown or turkey leg can be cooked in your countertop appliance.

"Whilst most air fryers won’t be large enough to accommodate a standard-size turkey, turkey crowns will fit perfectly in some of those fryers with a large drawer," says Tschiesche.

"One such appliance is the Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone air fryer. With its 8.5L capacity it’s ideal for not only a crown but also some trimmings such as vegetables or even stuffing alongside."

Oh, and if you're partial to chicken wings, try upgrading to turkey wings. They're obviously bigger, a good source of protein, and are super economical to buy from your butchers. It doesn't need to be Christmas to enjoy this on-the-bone cut. Next time you've got friends around for a sports event or your fave series, try swapping your usual buffalo-sauced spread for these.

If you read our Cosori CP358-AF Pro Air Fryer review, you'll notice it has a rather large basket, so it's good for flatties or drums.

7. Toast

This is a great one if you're looking to declutter your cooking space and organize your kitchen countertops. If your toaster is on its way out, your air fryer can grill bread just as easily. Sure, you'll have to get used to the fact there aren't any numbers to measure "toastiness" (FYI, those dials actually denote the strength of the current), but if your toaster is a deadweight outside of breakfast hours, you can free up some space with an all-encompassing appliance. 

The best machine for the job? We reviewed the Cuisinart air toaster oven and, if it's not obvious enough in the name, this one does a good job of browning bread. 

8. Pasta

Sorry to any traditional Italian nonnas out there for this one. But did you know you can make pasta in an air fryer? While this isn't your usual al dente or al forno affair, the kids on TikTok think this is molto bene.

Rather than just boiling your pasta in salted water, this air fryer hack involves parboiling your chosen shapes, then "frying" them until they're nice and crispy. You can make air fryer pasta chips or buy a pack of ready-filled ravioli for a fancy entrée when hosting guests. They make the perfect home bar snack. Consider them the boujee alternative to basic potato chips.

"Although we don’t recommend cooking traditional pasta dishes in the air fryer, pasta chips are a tasty snack that can be cooked to crisp perfection with this appliance," Domanski says. "Boil the pasta first until al dente before draining and patting dry with kitchen paper, toss the pasta with grated parmesan and your favorite seasonings — I love a blend of sea salt and a pinch of smoked paprika. Cook in the air fryer for seven to 10 minutes until golden and crunchy, and serve with a tasty aioli or tangy tomato dipping sauce."

9. Fakeaway treats

If you've ever wondered whether air fryers are worth it, honestly, they are very cost-effective. And, if you're on a tight budget, cutting down on takeout is wise, but that shouldn't mean you feel deprived of your favorite foods. That's where air-fryers will help. Christina swears by this tried-and-tested prawn toast recipe on TikTok.

The cost of running an air fryer is a lot less than most delivery apps charge for service, so you'll be saving money on the restaurant markup, time waiting, and that awkward thing where you stand outside your house in your sliders, acting as your driver's personal GPS.

Maybe food delivery apps are your way of saving on time. If that's the case, check out our Proscenic T21 smart air fryer review. You can set the air fryer to cook from your smartphone or smart speaker, leaving you more time to shower, get ready for work, or spend time with the family. "Alexa, where's my dinner?"

For vegans, vegetarians, or flexitarians, Domanski has just the (plant-based) thing if you're feeling hungry.

"The texture of tofu can be divisive, but crisp it up and it completely transforms," she says. "Use firm tofu, pressing as much moisture out of it as possible, before cutting it into cubes and coating it with cornflour, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a smattering of chili flakes. Air fry for 10–15 minutes for the perfect crunch."

10. Cooked fries

Whether you say fries or chips (hey, UK readers), we take this potato snack very seriously. Aside from what cooking fat to use or what condiments are best, no one wants soggy, tasteless fries. 

Whether you've ordered the UK classic battered cod and chips for home delivery or a McDonald's drive-thru and need to refresh the fries, you can simply decant your fries into your air fryer to bring them back to life.

It's far healthier than refrying them if you've considered an air fryer vs. deep fat fryer. With an air fryer, you've got the guarantee that a.) your fries won't be greasy, b.) the appliance won't make your kitchen smell, and c.) you won't have to work out what to do with the dirty oil.

11. Hard boiled eggs

The thought of air frying boiled eggs is a little odd, but it's true, you can cook eggs in your machine. This news was obviously a godsend to us as it cuts out the risk of having shattered eggs all over your best saucepan.

Also, if you've ever wondered what can you microwave, eggs are part of that list too. (Yes, but check out our guide before you blow up the place.)

Again, if you've got a small apartment with a teeny kitchen and need to scale back on your appliances, ditching your microwave for an air fryer is a possibility, though microwaves still have their place for "wetter" foods.

12. Popcorn

Movie night is nothing without a bowl of popcorn. While we were all for making those pre-packaged, pre-seasoned bags in our microwave, this air fryer hack is a-maizing (sorry, not sorry).

Personally, I'm too afraid to make this maize snack on the hob, so attempting to cook it in an air fryer is much more up my street. It's also a great way to make it a little healthier for kids you can control how much salt or sugar you use to season the corn. Just watch out for any unpopped kernels which can be a choking and dental hazard.

Now for the hard decision — which film do you watch on your TV or projector?

13. Rice

Cooking rice is always a bit of a funny one. And, hands up, even with an Asian background, mine can turn into a gloopy sludge. If mom is coming round, I'm known for buying a few boxes of boil-in-the-bag or opting for the microwavable pouches. However, if you look at the cost per pound, you'd be nuts to carry on with this buying behavior.

Eat cheaply by playing the economies of scale game. Next time you're at the supermarket or at an independent bulk retailer, look at the cost per pound. Better still, seek out your local ethnic store that is bound to have offers on basmati and other popular types.

It's always good practice to rinse your rice beforehand to get rid of excess starch, then follow this TikTok to cook rice in an air fryer.

14. Jerky

Jerky and biltong are great for on-the-go snacking, and definitely a more socially-acceptable protein-packed snack when compared to boiled eggs. But, these small packets can cost a small fortune (not to mention that little inedible silica pouch can be a slightly unnerving).

Instead, get yourself some lean beef strips, marinate them as you wish, and pop them in an air fryer until they reach the desired consistency. Of course, this could be done in a convection oven or dehydrator, but the latter is a niche appliance to have on hand!

Looking at the findings of our Ninja Foodi dual-zone air fryer review, this would be our go-to gadget for making this meaty chew. Depending on your dietary requirements, you can also try using pork or salmon too!

15. Dog treats

It wouldn't be fair to write a Real Homes air fryer article without paying homage to our furry friends. If you've been to the pet shop recently, you might have noticed that pre-made goodies have shot up in price. Also, observant pet parents may have noticed that the ingredients on the back of the pack can be a bit nondescript.

Take control of your dog's diet by getting some liver from the store, chopping it up into bite-size pieces, and popping it in the air fryer. This vitamin A-rich snack is super nutritious, cheaper than branded tidbits, and saves on plastic!

Of course, if you are a little squeamish about offal, there are some more air fryer recipes online. We particularly like these ones from Rene, blog owner at Spoiled Hounds. 

16. Dried fruit and vegetable crisps

If dried orange slices always make it into your cocktails, you could actually use your air fryer's dehydrator setting to "cook" them. Fancy-looking, simple to do, and far cheaper than buying a whole pack when you only need a few!

Plus, have you seen the price of dried fruits and vegetables lately? To cut the cost on these snacks, and the plastic, Domanski has got the method down to a T.

"Thinly sliced apple, parsnip, sweet potato, and beetroot are all great options for a healthier take on your usual bag of crisps," she says. "The best part? No oil involved. Use a sharp knife to thinly slice your chosen fruit or veg and toss through with salt and pepper for a savory snack, or cinnamon and nutmeg for something sweet. Cook in a single layer for 4-5 minutes or until crisp." 

Tschiesche also agrees. She says: "We’re all trying to save money by not wasting food,"

"Keep your vegetable peelings and these can be made into, wait for it…, vegetable peel crisps.  Simply toss your root vegetable peelings in olive oil, salt, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder then pop into the air fryer at 180°C (preheated) until crispy. Eat immediately."

17. Crispy chickpeas

Not sure about you, but I spend a pretty penny on snacks at the health food store. And while I feel virtuous about my purchase at the time, one look at the packet and I'm pretty annoyed to find that not every snack is as nutritious at the brand makes out.

Thankfully, Domanski's crispy chickpea recipe contains nothing artificial and costs next-to-nothing to make. It's a great way to increase your protein and fiber intake too.

"Chickpeas aren’t only delicious in curries and salads, they’re also a great standalone snack," she says. "Drain and rinse your chickpeas before patting them dry with kitchen paper. Coat them in a spicy paprika seasoning made up of salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika then cook the chickpeas for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket a couple of times during the cooking time to prevent sticking and to ensure even crisping."

Looking for other seasonings? Try an assortment of different spices for a global twist, like sumac for a Middle-Eastern lemony spin, or add curry powder for an Asian alternative.

What else can you put in an air fryer?

Dried oranges and apples can be used beyond cocktails, think fall and Christmas wreaths. You can use your air fryer for other decor DIYs too, like dried flowers. Petals and stems can be preserved in your air fryer by using the lowest setting of your appliance to dehydrate them.

And, if you're trying to save on your nuptials, start looking for reduced flowers at the supermarket and begin drying bouquets over in batches for a do-it-yourself confetti project. Fill some paper bags and no one will ever know the difference.

Safety notice: Be sure to thoroughly clean your air fryer after using it for any non-edible items. 

Never put anything inorganic or foreign in your appliance — it can damage your machine, be a fire hazard, and invalidate your warranty.

Want the expert's answer to this question... We spill the beans on what they had to say: "A good rule to follow is if you’d cook it in a fat fryer, then it’ll be done just as well in an air fryer, so treats like chips, wedges, and chicken will come out perfectly," says Nick Small, category manager, AO.com.

"Air fryers are just like mini ovens, so they’re really versatile, and you can use them for all sorts like steak, pizza, fish, and even cakes," Small adds. "They’re great for vegetables as well, although you might want to give them a sprinkling of oil before cooking to make sure they have that lovely crispy finish."

"The secret is finally out that air fryers are super energy efficient and incredibly versatile — there is very little you can’t cook in one," says Wendy Miranda, consumer expert at Lakeland. "Our recent survey found that social media, particularly Tik Tok, is the first place Gen Z turns to for cooking inspiration and kitchen hacks, so no surprise that nearly five billion searches have been racked up."

She also adds that air fryer desserts are wildly popular searches on TikTok. "Apple turnovers are really fab in the air fryer — the puff pastry gets lovely and crisp on the outside," says Miranda. "I also love doing roast chicken, it really speeds up cooking time and produces super moist chicken with a crispy skin."

The best air fryers make pre-heating your oven and getting a face full of hot air a thing of the past. Investing in an air fryer is a great way to make weeknight cooking easier and faster.

I tested these top models by cooking a variety of foods in each one. From frozen French fries to chicken nuggets, these machines produced a crispy and delicious result. And I'm not the only one who thinks so, these models all have top reviews from shoppers.

Even if your kitchen is small and your countertop space is precious, there are plenty of small air fryers for you to browse. Take a look at all of the air fryers our experts have tried below and read our rave reviews from Real Homes editors and freelancers. 

10 of the best air fryers for fuss-free and quick cooking

Unlike a deep fryer, air fryers circulate hot air to cook and crisp your food with little to no fat necessary. The fat from your food drips into the basket, as your food usually will sit on a tray or grill plate, making things less greasy and smelly. 

See my top picks, tested by us and loved by shoppers.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

The quick list

In a rush? Here's a quick glance at all of our best air fryers that we recommend.

The best air fryers as rated by the experts

If you're comparing an air fryer to a convection oven, you may be surprised by the pros and cons. Air fryers have a huge advantage for smaller meals and side dishes as they're small, quick, and don't heat up the entire kitchen like an oven can. 

See my favorite picks that came out on top during testing.

Our #1 best air fryer

The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart 6-in-1 Air Fryer wowed us in testing with its generous capacity and multiple cooking modes. And it seems Hailey Bieber is impressed too as this is featured in her latest YouTube kitchen series. We're a big fan of air fryers that have a slatted insert. This one allows you to air fry and remove the insert to use the flat base of the drawer to reheat leftovers and bake anything from roasts to apple crumbles.

We found that it cooked frozen chicken breast fillets in just 12 minutes, which is just over half the time it takes in an oven. It also made delicious and evenly-cooked homemade fries in just 25 minutes. This is due to the alert that reminds you to shake up your food as it's part-way through cooking, making sure your spuds get an even browning. Also, it remembers your most recent settings and timings, so if you cook a lot of the same air fryer recipes, it will save you from adjusting the timings and temperatures each time.

At 1,700 watts, this air fryer should cost approximately 25 cents to run for one hour. This is plenty of time to cook pretty much anything other than a large joint. According to the brand, this model saves up to 80% energy when compared to using a 2,400-watt electric oven. The drawer is not dishwasher-safe, but the insert is. Because it's non-stick, you can easily clean it by hand each time. This air fryer is one of the larger options in our guide but for families and those who can spare the counter space, we think this is the best air fryer you can buy.

Read our full Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer review.

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The best energy-efficient air fryer

We adore this multi-cooker (that's also an air fryer) for its versatility. It can also bake, slow cook, pressure cook, and even dehydrate. It's one of the most affordable models in this guide to run, especially when you consider its hefty 6-liter capacity.

The Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker comes with a basket and crisper lid to create delicious fries, fish, and veggies. It has a large footprint but if you can find room for it, this air fryer is ready to usurp your slow cooker and pressure cooker. It has a lid for air frying and a separate lid for other options like pressure cooking, so space might be a concern if you're short on it already. 

Bearing in mind that this is an eight-in-one appliance, it costs a mere 22 cents to run for one hour, on all modes. Just in case you were wondering "Are air fryers worth it?" — the question is almost rhetorical! The air fry basket is large and circular. It could fit a whole chicken in theory, but the shape isn't quite right for larger, more awkward-shaped cuts of meat. If you do want to cook joints, your best bet is to get your butcher to secure it tightly with some twine. The controls are incredibly intuitive, and the actual air frying quality is top-notch, so you won't miss out if you opt for this multi-functional machine.

Read our full Ninja Foodi Max 9-in-1 review.

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The best air fryer for families

The Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer allows you to take control of the temperature and timings with simple controls. You can sync the drawers so they finish at the same time, meaning if you take out one drawer to have a look, the other will pause too. This air fryer can also be used for cooking two foods simultaneously, making it an idyllic machine for catering to different dietary requirements. The capacity is large because it's spread across a wider space, so it cooks quickly and evenly.

There are six ways to cook — Max Crisp, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, and Air Fry — which gives you the ultimate cooking experience. It's super quick, so you may have to adjust the cooking instructions that come with your food. It works out to approximately 36 cents per hour to run.

Most air fryers have a basket that lifts out of the drawer, but you simply pull out the slatted inserts in this air fryer. This means you can use the drawers without the basket, so even "wet" dishes like pasta bakes and apple crumbles are perfectly possible (and yes, we tried both in this air fryer when testing!). So while you're enjoying your main course, you can have your dessert cooking.

Read our full Ninja Foodi Dual Zone air fryer review.

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The best Amazon air fryer

The COSORI CP358-AF Pro Air Fryer is the latest release from the brand. It has many of the same presets that we enjoyed from the original, but the digital control panel is elevated, which makes it great for ergonomic use and easy access. The controls were easy to use in testing, and we enjoyed how adjustable the shake reminder and presets were. The toast setting is a new addition, and it comes in handy for morning muffins and croissants. Another thing we enjoyed in testing was the basket. Its square shape means it is expertly crafted to fit cuts of meat and generous portions — including an entire chicken.

Cooking time was faster than in a conventional oven. So much so that our food was ready as early as 10 minutes ahead of schedule. Fries only took a drizzle of oil to cook, and they came out evenly cooked thanks to the wide basket distribution. Costing just 25 cents per hour to run, this brilliant Amazon air fryer is affordable in price and it's cheap to run. Especially considering the fact it cooks food fast, so you will rarely end up using it for one hour in total at a time.

A word of warning. This air fryer is a little larger than the earlier COSORI models. The COSORI CP358-AF Pro Air Fryer struggled to fit under our tester's kitchen cabinets, so if you're short on kitchen space, it's not the one for you. 

Read our full Cosori CP358-AF Pro Air Fryer review

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The best small air fryer

Mini by name and miniature by nature, this small air fryer left a big impact when we tested it. Not only was it small enough to sit neatly on our cluttered countertops, but it also produced some of the most crispy and evenly-cooked fries, chicken, and other snacks that we've tried. We think this is down to the EvenCrisp technology, which creates that perfect texture using 95% less oil than a deep fryer.

We found this air fryer to be the best bet for smaller households. It was particularly handy for cooking frozen foods for kids. The design is smart, with a tactile touchscreen display that's easy to use especially if you're in a rush. This allows you to adjust timings and temperatures using a dial, as well as choose between reheat, roast, bake, and air fry modes. Despite being only 2 liters, the capacity was capable of cooking fries and a quarter chicken (enough for two). It also managed to do this very evenly, despite looking a little cramped. There's even a reminder to shake your food halfway through cooking. Our food cooked fast and came out very crispy. With a small capacity, this is naturally one of the cheapest air fryers on our list to run. It'll cost you around 19 cents an hour, though you'll rarely use it for longer than that time anyway. It doesn't have space for large pieces of meat and it only has one basket.

It's advisable to clean the air fryer after each use, or it will start to smoke. Cleaning this model is easy though because you can pull out the insert and place it in the dishwasher. Because it's so small, the tray also fits easily into both slimline and regular-sized dishwashers. It also comes in a range of colors to match your home decor, including teal and red, which are great for adding an accent to a white kitchen. 

Read our full Instant Vortex Mini Air Fryer review

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The most stylish air fryer

If you're looking for an air fryer that ticks the boxes for style and substance without taking up too much space, you need the COSORI Lite. Available in gray, truffle white, and sage green, this machine proves that air fryers can be trendy, too. No task was too small or large for this design-led device. We tried family favorites including bacon, "boiled" eggs (no water needed!), breaded fish fillets, and fries. 

One of the most impressive features is the crisper plate, which allows food to be cooked on a raised shelf without swimming in oil. The silicone feet mean that it is easy to detach and clean, without the risk of scraping the non-stick base.

As a mid-sized air fryer, this sits right in the middle energy-wise and costs 22 cents per hour to run. The pre-heat and keep warm functions allow you to get the machine nice and hot (up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit), and keep food temperate once the initial cook time is over. Great for late guests, or if you want to reheat leftovers without burning them. And, if you're often multi-tasking while cooking, you'll be pleased to know that you can remotely monitor your meals, adjust settings, and even ask Amazon Alexa or Google to fire up your fries using the free VeSync app.

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The best air fryer toaster oven combo

Boasting an extra-large capacity, we think that this air fryer is perfect for those who want the most value for their money. The smart modes offer custom cooking times and temperatures depending on what you're cooking, which can be a big help for amateur chefs or those who want a reminder to shake halfway through. After testing what feels like a mountain of air fryers, the Cosori was one of the best when it came to actual quality results. Fries? Done in 15 minutes. Frozen food? Always crispy. The 5.8-quart capacity makes this air fryer suitable for families of up to six people, and it can fit a whole chicken, resulting in delicious crispy skin.

Similar in size and price per use to our first pick from Instant, if you want a no-frills air fryer that's affordable to run, then this should be it. At only 25 cents an hour to run, there's no point in even turning your oven on to preheat. The fryer comes with a recipe book that's crammed with 100 ideas and plenty more inspiration. These really utilize the 14 cooking modes, which could feel overwhelming if they came without instructions.

Read our full Cosori Air Fryer Max XL review

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The best value air fryer

Boasting an extra-large capacity, we think that this air fryer is perfect for those who want the most value for their money. The smart modes offer custom cooking times and temperatures depending on what you're cooking, which can be helpful for amateur chefs or those who want a reminder to shake halfway through. After testing what feels like a mountain of air fryers, the Cosori was one of the best when it came to actual quality results. Fries? Done in 15 minutes. Frozen food? Always crispy. The 5.8-quart capacity makes this air fryer suitable for families of up to six people, and it can fit a whole chicken, resulting in delicious crispy skin.

This is another option that costs 25 cents an hour to run. With something this affordable, using your oven won't be necessary. This air fryer also comes with a recipe book that's crammed with 100 ideas and plenty more inspiration. These really utilize the 14 cooking modes, which could feel overwhelming if they came without instruction.

Read our full Cosori Air Fryer Max XL review

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The best air fryer for small households

The Dreo air fryer is the best you can get to help you cut down on costs, plus it looks smart and performs well. It cooks breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a way that's quicker and cheaper than your oven. In fact, it can almost replace it — unless you're cooking for more than two.

Carrying this lightweight air fryer up a flight of stairs is a breeze, so if you live in a city apartment you won't need to break a sweat before you begin cooking. Though it does come with some plastic packaging, a cookbook containing 50 recipes is a nice treat for when you're feeling uninspired. Assembly is easy and given its compact size, the basket is deep. Cleaning the Dreo air fryer is simple as the removable drawer and insert are both dishwasher-friendly. Handwashing these parts is equally easy if you'd rather rinse them with dish soap and a sponge.

Cost-wise, this machine takes the title of joint-second for energy efficiency, costing just 22 cents per hour to use. And, out of all the air fryers we've tested, this seems to be one of the most versatile models on the market.

Read our full Dreo Aircrisp Pro air fryer review

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The best non-toxic air fryer

Looking for a sleek model that will look nice on your kitchen counter? This model from CORSORI is just as stylish as it is functional.

This air fryer isn't made with BPA (bisphenol A) plastic, nor do they use Perfluorochemical coatings (PFCs), so you can just focus on feeding yourself and your family. This doesn't mean that the air fryer is any harder to clean. In fact, most components can go in the dishwasher.

And practically, this matte grey air fryer makes sense in a small kitchen. While wide designs can take up counter space, and cylindrical designs can't often be pushed into the corner, this soft square design can sit flush or at an angle.

Read our full COSORI Pro LE L501 review 

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Compare these air fryers

Things to consider when buying an air fryer

1. How big is its capacity? To start with, how many mouths do you have to feed? Compare the quarts with how many people are in your household. This will also depend on what you are planning on using it for. If you only want an air fryer for fries, then you can go small(er), but if it's a whole chicken that you want to squeeze in there, the bigger the better.

2. What about size? Will it fit on your countertop? A bigger capacity, unfortunately, means a larger size air fryer. Get out your tape measure as some models can be pretty big. If you're planning on keeping your air fryer on your countertop, think of where it will go (preferably in a corner!) as you need to allow some room behind your air fryer for air to escape. Otherwise, a lot of the models above can easily be squeezed inside a cabinet after use.

3. Is it versatile or can it only air fry food? What else can your air fryer do? Some models are great little multi-taskers and have the ability to reheat, roast, or grill as well as fry, so if you’re in the market for a versatile small appliance, these are a good bet. 

4. How easy is it to clean? If you have a dishwasher, then be sure to check that your new air fryer is safe to be cleaned in there. This makes washing your air fryer a whole lot easier, though they are pretty simple to clean regardless. See our guide on how to clean an air fryer the right way for more tips and tricks.

5. How much does it cost to run? We've searched the price per usage (based on one hour) and popped those stats alongside each air fryer we've reviewed, so if your bills are at the forefront of this purchase, you can choose wisely.

6. Does it have a cooking rack? Finally, if you’re short on time but your ingredients list is long, look for an air fryer with a cooking rack included, which offers an extra compartment for cooking two different foods at the same time, or one with a mixing paddle, so you don’t have to hover over it.

7. Can it separate foods? Vegan, veggie, or celiac? Whether you've chosen to adopt a certain way of eating, or you've had strict dietary requirements since birth, sometimes it's important to separate main dishes and sides from what others are eating. Aside from the aforementioned cooking racks, we've checked whether any of these air fryers have drawers so there's no risk of cross-contamination.

8. Help, I can't cook (or need inspiration) Many air fryers now come with either a physical recipe booklet, an app to check out the latest chef or community-created recipes, or both, so you'll never be stuck for culinary ideas.

How we test air fryers

All of the air fryers in this guide have been tested hands-on for over a month by a member of the Real Homes team. When testing, there are a few recipes we always follow so that we're able to compare cooking results directly. You can read about our air fryer testing process, otherwise, one food that we always cook is homemade fries, obviously. 

Some of the speediest air fryers have been able to crisp these up in just 12 minutes, while others have taken as long as 20. Even then, this is much quicker than cooking fries in an oven. Other recipes will depend on the type of product and what it claims to do well. Some air fryers come with their own recipes, so we like to try these out alongside our own dishes to see if they are a good introduction to the product. 

With all of the above air fryers, you can click through to read full reviews with images of our hands-on experience. 

Meet our air fryer testers below:

Where to buy an air fryer

Purchasing from a reputable brand is one way to ensure you're getting a great air fryer The following retailers carry a decent selection of affordable air fryers and convection ovens, packed full of nifty features.

• Amazon: Shop some of the best brands including Cosori, Instant, and Ninja with promotional discounts around Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day
• Best Buy: Not just for electronics, here you can find small kitchen appliances (including air fryers) from Breville, Phillips, and even Best Buy's own brand.
• Target: Shop 30+ brands of air fryers, including big names and lesser-known value brands if you can't afford the best.
• Walmart: There are over 1,000 air fryers up for grabs, including picks from exclusive brands like Beautiful by Drew Barrymore.

FAQs

When is the best time to buy the best air fryer?

Historically, some of the biggest discounts on air fryers have been spotted on Prime Day, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Cyber Week. However, we at Real Homes compare prices and provide insight using the Amazon price tracking site, camelcamelcamel. This allows us to see the lowest and highest prices recorded and provide guidance on the right time to buy.

What is the #1 air fryer?

Our favorite option, the Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer, has a total of six cooking modes and a drawer insert that can be removed to cook things with sauces and even make brownies. It's a do-it-all machine with a rather reasonable price, and it costs just 25 cents to run for one hour.

As long as you follow all the dos and don'ts of using an air fryer, this machine can make a big difference in your kitchen. They're so popular that even celebs have jumped on this cooking trend. This viral pink air fryer made by Paris Hilton is taking TikTok by storm. It goes to show you can find a model that looks good and works well.

I've tried and tested a good glut of air fryers now in our test kitchen. And, while I have all the room in the world in our corporate space, my own cooking area is petite in comparison. Don't get me wrong, for a galley layout it's pretty generous, but once you take into account a microwave, bean-to-cup coffee maker, and a kettle, the counter gets pretty cramped. When I was asked to try out this compact air fryer, my eyes lit up: "Could this actually be 'the one'?"

My fiance often rolls his eyes when we get air fryer samples sent. Before I can get the box through the door, two questions spurt from his mouth. "Another one?" and "Where's it going to go?" So it was nice to test an appliance that was on the smaller side.

The T-fal / Tefal (UK) Easy Fry Compact Digital Health Air Fryer didn't exactly fit in the palm of my hand, but unlike other makes and models, this small-scale appliance is practical enough to be popped on my counter without creating clutter.

T-fal Easy Fry Compact Digital Health Air Fryer specifications

• Weight: 1.6kg (with 0.4kg capacity)
• Dimensions: H11.7" x W10" x D8.1"
• Temperature: 80°C to 200°C
  Power: 1300W
• Cost to run air fryer (per hour): 19c / 17p
• Cooking modes: 6 presets (fries, shrimp, grill, roast, fish, and cake)
• RRP: £94 / $105
• Color(s): Black
• Cleaning: Base: wipe clean | Crisper drawer and basket: wash in hot soapy water
• Comes with: A 15-page A6 instruction booklet

Unboxing

This is a super lightweight air fryer. It rather helpfully comes packaged in an appropriately-sized box that makes carrying it more than manageable.

Opening the box, I was thrilled to score this a star for its eco-friendly approach to packaging. No plastic *check* and a postcard-sized 15-page instruction booklet that didn't feel overwhelming. 

Being completely honest, the test kitchen was a bit chaotic when we arrived, so rather than trying to snap a quick picture of the air fryer, the T-fal video I found on YouTube should manage your expectations on what you'll find inside your cardboard box.

First impressions of the T-fal

My initial reaction was, "Aww, this is cute," especially when I placed it in an air fryer photo lineup against other appliances, like the Ninja Foodi Max and Cuisinart Toaster Oven Air Fryer. Despite its slim stature, I was hopeful that it would perform just as well as the Goliath gadgets.

The LED digital interface is slick with a smart blue aesthetic. When turning the machine on, you are presented with six icons to illustrate what can be cooked in the air fryer. If you want a little more control (or are reading the instructions from convenience foods), you can also press the touchscreen to adjust the temperature and timings to your liking. If you leave it on and forget about it, the machine, fortunately, has an auto-off function — ideal because energy is expensive right now!

The non-stick removable grid and basket are both dishwasher safe, which is great if I'm feeling particularly lazy eating late and don't want to wash up at the sink.

Cooking fish fingers

Battered or breadcrumbed, who doesn't love a fish finger? So in the name of science, I sourced some good old-fashioned Birds Eye fish sticks for this (available in the US and UK). The reason being, they're not too chunky, not too slim. If I were Goldilocks, these coated cod pieces would be just right for testing.

To ensure they were spaced out, I arranged them in a square formation so as not to cramp the container. But this does present an issue. If this machine is made for two (or a small family), then two pieces per person is hardly a portion. If you are trying to feed yourself and your partner, then you'd have to cook your servings separately. Not quite the idyllic night in you'd hope for, especially if you've got home from work and are particularly hungry.

Capacity crisis aside, I was satisfied with the cooking of the fish fingers. The white flesh was piping hot and their little carby jackets were as crispy as you'd expect from your oven.

Would I cook fish sticks in the air fryer again? Aye aye, Captain! But, I'd probably cook them as a part of a meal for one.

Cooking thick-cut frozen fries

Much as I love homemade fries, a bag of frozen tatoes can always be found in my freezer. Although white spuds are my tuber of choice, prepping and peeling after work gives me home economics vibes. And, dare you forget about your fresh potatoes, they'll start growing eyes — gross!

To test the T-fal's ability to cook fluffy, thick-cut fries, we filled the basket with around 12oz / 350g of product and set the fries function. After being alerted by the cute high-pitched pings (five in total), they were cooked, but not as golden as the Instant Pot 6-in-1 air fryer. Regretfully, some of the fries on top were browner than those at the bottom.

Having said that, this might have been because the Instant Pot was set to the packet instructions, whereas I used the T-fal's preset (which was probably for thinner French fries). In hindsight, I would use the custom temperature and time settings to ensure these are as moreish as the other machines.

Cooking bacon

Cooking bacon rashers is a little bit of a challenge with this machine. If you're fine with playing foodie Jenga, you're going to be okay. Otherwise, arranging your strips can be a bit stressful, particularly if you've bought longer strips from a butcher.

Making roasted Mediterranean vegetables

I'm not sure about you, but those pre-made packs of vegetables are an absolute godsend when it comes to getting my five a day in. Otherwise, while I have all the best intentions, those loosely bought zucchinis and bell peppers die a slow (and furry) death in my refrigerator. So while it is more expensive (and involves a little more plastic), a girl's got to do what a girl's got to do.

However, I do like to be a bit fancy, so I zhuzhed these veggies up with some oil and spices and bunged them in on 350°F / 180°C for around 20 minutes. The end result was super tasty and the vegetables maintained their vibrant colors too. If there was one observation, the red onions burned a little, but this was largely down to their size (and this usually happens in the oven anyway).

Cooking Halloumi in the air fryer

Given this is the cheese I grew up on (before it got popular), this was a bit of a sensitive subject for me. As far as I was concerned, there are a few ways to treat this squeaky dairy product. Eat it "raw" sprinkled over pasta, grill or fry your slices, or my favorite: use your barbecue for a marshmallow-like texture.

So the thought of using a countertop convection oven to cook it with hot air seemed bizarre to me. And, my hypothesis was right. I don't mean to say I told you so, but the resulting four pieces of salty Cypriot cheese looked a little sad for themselves after the time elapsed. Yes, they were brown, but texture-wise, they fell short of their charcoal-treated cousins.

Having had years of experience eating it, I even tried to give it a helping hand in the test process. Knowing that it comes packaged in a mint-flecked brine, I was sure to remove all the excess moisture between two pieces of paper towel and add a small spritz of sunflower oil before popping them in the air fryer. Despite this attention to detail, I'm afraid to report that the end product was a little dry in texture.

My advice if you're worried about your energy consumption: fry it quickly in a little oil using a good non-stick frying pan. Or, in the summer, secure the cheese in a BBQ grill basket and place it over hot coals.

How to clean the T-fal EasyFry Compact Digital

When cleaning an air fryer made by T-fal (or any other brand), you need to be careful not to damage the non-stick coating on the basket and tray. Though it may seem like an overly conservative thing to do, I consulted the instruction booklet for advice on how to get rid of oil, marinades, crumbs, and batter.

But if you don't fancy getting to grips with page nine of the booklet — or if you've bought the machine, lost the paperwork, and stumbled across this review — let me summarize.

First things first, you'll want to remove the plug from the wall socket and let the air fryer cool down. You can speed up this process by removing the bowl so no hot air is internalized.

Getting rid of grime on the outside of the appliance is pretty straightforward; simply wipe with a damp cloth and a little elbow grease if stubborn stickiness or grease remains. 

To clean the bowl and the grid, use a good washing-up liquid and a non-abrasive sponge. Steer clear of those scratchy metal scourers or be prepared to see your basket rust. As well as facilitating the preparation of mess-free munchies, this layer also protects the metal underneath. Or, if you have a dishwasher, you could pop them straight in there (making sure the spray arm can move freely).

If you've got stubborn batter or a piece of fish skin stuck on the bottom of the bowl or grid, let them soak in hot, soapy water for around 10 minutes. It should be much easier to clean afterward.

Once you've cleaned your basket and grid, wipe them down with a microfiber cloth or tea towel. They should be rust resistant, but better to be safe than sorry.

How does it compare to other air fryers?

For me, although the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer is bulkier, it makes better fries, salmon, and Mediterranean veg than the T-fal model. The former gives the ingredients a little "breathing room," so food can cook more evenly and have a solid chance of crisping up. Given the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer is only £16 more, it does have a larger capacity and two more presets. However, I appreciate that this machine is only available in the UK.

If you're in the US and want a small machine, take a look at our Instant Pot 4-in-1 review. This five-star rated machine is available in the UK too, and you'll be paying almost half the price for the Instant Pot 4-in1 at $59.95/£59.99 on Amazon. We've actually seen it go for much less on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Should you buy the T-fal Easy Fry Compact Digital?

I'm going to put it out there and say, while it is a great entry-level model for studio apartments with a strip of counter space, I appreciate that the machine is not a match for my lifestyle.

My significant other and I do enjoy sharing a hearty meal in the evening, so this falls a little short from a practical perspective. Saying that, if you're an independent woman who wants a quick meal and air fryer for around £100/$105, this is a feasible option. 

But, if you're weighing up the air fryer vs. deep fat fryer argument in your head, and have an open-plan kitchen diner — go for this. It's healthier, plus your place (including linen and upholstery) won't stink of oil.

I'd say it's good for people who don't eat at the same time but don't want to rely on their microwave or ovens for solitary sustenance. That's not to say it's a bad machine, quite the opposite. From my own user experience, I just don't think I'd be able to cook a protein and carb side for two in it.

T-fal has listed some house rules in its instruction manual when it comes to properly using your air fryer. Notably that you should only use it in your household, so tread carefully if you're thinking about packing it up for a bed and breakfast, hotel/motel, or residential-type environment that you don't own/rent from a landlord.

About this review and the reviewer

Christina Chrysostomou is an eCommerce editor for Real Homes where she reviews household products to make your life easier at home, primarily focusing on cleaning and small kitchen appliances. She was sent this product to review at home to test out its air frying performance.

We are not given any compensation for our reviews, but we may be gifted the product. In this case, the lovely people at AO.com sent us the sample. This means that we can test it over a greater length of time and update our reviews if required. We also receive affiliate commission for some products brought through our site.

I don’t usually fall into the trap of trendy kitchen purchases. However, I heard that this Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven was worth the hype and had the potential to put my oven on standby.

From appearances alone, this appliance looked like a grown-up version of those Easy-Bake toys that were popular in the '90s. So purely for nostalgic reasons, I was excited to try this.

Thirty-something years later, and with air fryers being the 'in' thing at the moment, now seemed a great time to see if I could declutter my worktop, cook meals quickly, and spend less on energy costs when prepping meals.

Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven specifications

• Weight: 21lbs / 12kg (with 18-quart capacity)
• Dimensions: H14" x W15.98" x D15.5"
• Temperature: 194–446F
• Power: 1800W
• Cost to run this air fryer per hour: 27c
• Cooking modes: air fry, roast, bake, grill, toasties, toast, and keep warm functions
• RRP: $279.90
• Colors: Polished stainless steel / Black

Unboxing the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Clear your kitchen clutter and make room for a Cuisinart combo toaster oven/air fryer. The best thing since sliced bread to, well, toast your bread, has arrived. Air fryers have been all the rage for years now, and there are so many options. I was lucky enough to receive one of these brilliant appliances to test and feel compelled to tell you why you need one, too.

So what exactly does an air fryer do? Turns out, it works pretty similarly to your oven. Both use a fan to circulate hot air. An air fryer is obviously a smaller appliance, so your food is cooked faster, and in my experience, more evenly. Biggest advantages? No waiting for your oven to preheat, and no need to crank up the AC or your extractor fan.

We are a family of five, so at first, I was concerned it may not be large enough to feed us all in a sitting. Don’t worry, though, I tested tons of air fryer recipe ideas and have the scoop on what you can cook in an air fryer (including a whole chicken!)

What is the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven best for?

If you’re in a crunch for time — this was made for you. The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven combo will cook your food quickly, with no risk to the integrity of your food. One of my initial concerns was, what if it’s crisp on the outside, but raw on the inside? Come on, we’ve all been there before! Luckily, I found the air fryer cooked foods all the way through. 

Overall, here are my favorite things to cook (so far):

Chicken nuggets: I may never turn my oven on again for frozen kids' food. This air fryer is a living miracle and can whip up chicken nuggets in seven minutes! Did I mention the nugs were perfectly crispy? If you're not a meat eater, the vegetarian option fares just as well in this machine. 'Quorn' in the USA?' You got it.

Chicken fajitas: The air fryer cooks the chicken breast strips quickly and evenly. They were so juicy too! Also, I was shocked at how great the bell peppers and onions cooked up. (I recommend using bigger slices, as smaller ones cook super fast.) Great if you don't mind a slightly charred edge, but serving up acrid veg is not the way to persuade the kids to eat the rainbow.

Sweet potato fries: or any fries for that matter! Whether they’re fresh-cut or frozen, white or orange — they’ve turned out great each time.

Cooking bacon in the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Yes, bacon. I cook it in the air fryer basket with the pan underneath (catches the bacon grease!) and it tastes even better than your local breakfast joint. Don’t knock it 'til you try it! My only concern is that the hot air was quite powerful, so your rashers are at risk of curling up onto themselves.

Pizza: My kids have a pizza cookoff every Friday, and this air fryer has halved our cooking time! The crust of a 12" pie is crispy in 10 minutes, there are no arguments over toppings, and it saves a lot of dough (sorry, couldn't resist). Being a mom, I'm also trying to find a way to reduce our sodium intake, so making them from scratch means I can keep an eye on everything from the dough, sauce, and the ratio of pepperoni to pineapple. Yes, we sit on that side of the fence when it comes to this very divisive pizza topping.

Toast: Okay, so, heads up that you're not exactly going to score points against Chef Ramsey for this one. But if your space is a kitchen nightmare because of how cramped your counter is, you can use this machine to brown bread. Choose your level of 'toastiness' (I like a four) and watch your fluffy slices get a good grilling.

First impressions of the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven

The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven arrived with everything needed to bake, air fry, and toast. Included in the box were the air fryer toaster oven, a baking pan, an air frying basket, and a perfectly-sized rack to bake foods like pizza.

I didn’t expect the oven to be quite so large, but it did fit nicely on our countertop. If you have limited space between your cabinets and countertop, I would measure before purchasing. It’s a little over a foot tall and deep and requires a few inches between the outlet and the appliance.

A major difference between this model and traditional air fryers is aesthetics. When shopping for an air fryer, you’ll likely notice most are black cylinders with a removable basket. If your kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, you may want what’s on your countertops to match. If you've got a dark scheme, you'll be pleased to know this also comes in a smart-looking black colorway too. This Cuisinart air fryer is sleek and trendy, and you won’t feel bad displaying it.

I unboxed the air fryer solo, and while it was a bit heavy, it was totally manageable setting up on my own. The oven itself was already assembled, so all I had to do was pick a place to put it, and plug it in. The instructions were clear and even included a handful of recipes!

Before its first use, the directions recommend washing the removable trays with dishwashing liquid and water. Easy-peasy and literally ready to cook within minutes. Additional parts and accessories are available online and are very reasonably priced.

Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven cooking functions

Cuisinart wasn’t fooling around when they created this top-notch gadget. Pick a food in your freezer and this can cook it. Air fry, bake, broil, convection bake, convection broil, warm, and toast. Pretty impressive, right?

To be completely honest, I’ve opted to use the air fryer option for nearly everything. It somehow manages to cook everything just as well as baking in the oven. The air frying basket is the ideal size for snacks like fries, chicken nuggets, and veggies. It’s large enough for one layer with nothing overlapping, which ensures even cooking.

Speaking of the air fryer, did you know it is basically famous for cooking chicken wings? Raw chicken wings, frozen chicken wings — you name it — and they all turn out delicious! Crispy skin and juicy meat in a whopping 15 minutes.

The toast function makes a killer bagel and gets both sides perfectly brown. This is the setting I used for grilled cheese, which I'd 10/10 recommend. I was pleasantly surprised with the broil option, as it melted cheese into golden brown gooey greatness without burning.

Using the bake feature, I noticed the temperature is hotter than my oven. I’ve reduced the temp by 10-20°F to get the same results. Prepare yourself for the smell of burning plastic the first few uses, and for the sake of your nose, open up a window. After ruining the taste of a whole chicken (which, although had notes of said plastic, cooked nicely), I recommend baking plain bread until the odor is gone.

Alright, now that we’ve talked about the delish foods, let’s talk about maintenance.

Cleaning the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven

The instructions recommend you clean the top of the oven after each use. This part was simple. I washed the glass off after each use too, as I noticed it was looking a little greasy. Heads up, the included baking pan is impossible to clean. I washed it as soon as it cooled — it was spotted with brown stains after the first use.

These spots worsened the more it was used. The instruction manual recommends against using foil, which is my go-to in preventing stained baking sheets. Instead, I'd recommend using a shallow rectangular air fryer liner, which you can find pretty cheap on Amazon.

The air fryer racks and baskets are simple to clean, and I didn’t run into the same problem of staining with these two. Soap and water removed all signs of use!

Our eCommerce editor Christina Chrysostomou tried to clean this air fryer too and also noted difficulty getting stains out of the baking pan after one use. She tried using eco-friendly washing-up liquid and a sponge, but this wasn't strong enough. Eventually, she tried using a whole dishwasher tablet as a last-resort stain removal solution. 

Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven: Ease of use

What is this air fryer like to use? Well, I’ve used it every single day since it arrived on my doorstep right before summer started. I love it. It has replaced my oven use by at least 85 percent, and that’s not an exaggeration. I’ve even used it to make grilled cheese! Totally kid-approved, by the way.

This convenient machine has an impressive temperature range of 80–450°F. It can keep food warm and even broil. There’s a handy interior light that's way better than an oven light and allows you to check on food without opening. If you bake, you know opening an oven can be the death of your cake.

If I trusted said kids with a hot device, I’m certain even my five-year-old could use this Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven. The settings are clear and easy to read, and the timer is self-explanatory. The loud retro-sounding ding alerts you once the time is up. Another nice touch — especially with young kids in the house — is the auto shutoff function.

The instructions give great advice as far as how to cook a wide array of foods (chicken, pork, beef, etc.) and they seem to be fairly spot on.

Is the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven worth it?

A quick search on google will pull thousands of five-star reviews, so it's not just me spreading the gospel of this countertop convection oven. Going for just under $200, this air fryer is worth it: every single cent, without question. We’ve eaten way more meals at home since the air fryer moved in, and it’s definitely saved us at least the $200 investment.

How does it compare to similar products?

I’ve never used an air fryer before, however, I now rarely turn on the oven anymore. It toasts bread better than a toaster, makes the most delish crispy bacon, and even broils food (think perfectly bubbly and gooey golden brown cheese).

Lots of comparable products look much smaller, which online reviews confirm. We’ve got a big family, so this Cuisinart air fryer is awesome. A common complaint among air fryer users is that overlapping food becomes soggy. The air fryer basket included is large enough to avoid that problem.

Unless I’m cooking Thanksgiving dinner, my vote goes to this air fryer!

About this reviewer/review

I’m not a gourmet chef, but this air fryer makes me feel like one. With three young kids, you can’t put a price tag on convenience, but this is the real deal. I wish I bought one sooner, as it quickly became a family favorite.

Living in Columbus, Ohio, there are plenty of restaurant options to choose from and this air fryer has undoubtedly saved us hundreds of dollars. Moving to a larger house offered extra countertop space to store appliances, but this one has taken the place of them all. (Except for the coffee machine — that’s going nowhere!)

After testing out *almost* every cleaning product (including oven cleaners) known to man, I had fallen out of love with my oven. Yes, it's great for roasts and baking but when you're 30 plus, there's only so much scrubbing a gal can do. So, when sales of air fryers started to soar, I raised a curious eyebrow...

A mini oven that can cook almost anything for 46 pence an hour? Sign me up! I've always known Lakeland as a retailer my Mum and Aunties would go to for their homewares, but this was the first time that the brand appealed to a millennial (just) like me.

Living with my husband-to-be isn't all fancy dinners and flowers. As unromantic as it sounds, sometimes we just need a bit of beige. Planning for a wedding is costly in this climate, so now seemed like the perfect time to test an air fryer. And for budget but delicious meals, the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer seemed like a good contender.

TLDR: What I thought of the Lakeland air fryer

This Lakeland air fryer was one of the first I tested, and I was impressed with its performance to say the least. It's great for cooking side dishes, or for making homemade cooking chips or even for reheating food. While we're still renting, we're hoping that this appliance will allow us to pare back the need for a toaster, microwave, and oven... Until we can afford a larger kitchen at least! Given the cost to run an air fryer, it's totally worth the money as it costs a mere 46p to run for one whole hour. If you're a large family then this won't be the best air fryer for you, but if you're a couple or you want something to cook frozen fodder or smaller dishes, then this is the air fryer you want to buy. It's also super easy to use, my only complaints are minor ones!

Testing the Lakeland air fryer

The techy stuff

• Weight: 5kg
• Dimensions (cm): H26 x W32 x D35
• Temperature: 80°C to 200°C
• Power: 1350W
• Cost to run (per hour): 46p
• Cooking modes: 8 (pizza, baked goods, poultry, steak/meat, fresh fries and vegetables, fish, seafood, frozen fries and vegetables)
• RRP: £109.99
• Colour(s): Black
• Cleaning: Base - wipe clean | Drawer and basket - wash in hot soapy water
• Comes with: A 24-page instruction manual with a few basic recipes

Unboxing

I'd consider this air fryer to be on the light side at 5kg. We're thankful to live in a ground-floor maisonette, so the exchange with the courier was pretty easy, as things go.

Opening the box, I was pleased to see that the product was secured with moulded cardboard, but regrettably was wrapped in a thin plastic bag, which felt a little unnecessary.

The plug had a plastic cover, and the wire for the appliance was wrapped in a cable tie. Note that you'll need a pair of scissors to carefully remove the cable tie, and take out the circular piece of cardboard in between the air fryer basket and tray. Also included, (but not guaranteed), was a HelloFresh discount, which was great if you have not tried this meal-in-a-box delivery service.

First impressions of the Lakeland Digital Air Fryer

After taking it out of the box, I gave the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer a quick wipe down for my own sanity. This involved separating the crisper basket and drawer by push the basket release and separating the two parts. The basket and drawer were then reassembled with a click and slide of a button.

To operate, I pressed the main 'on' button, and was greeted by a pleasant bleep to confirm the machine was awake! The 'on' button also works as a dial to select a preprogrammed setting or choose your own temperature and time.

The temperature ranges from 80°C to 200°C and you can cook anywhere from 1-30 minutes. This is displayed on an attractive LED touchscreen control panel. I particularly liked that with everything I cooked, I could see a countdown timer to let me know how long it would be until I was eating!

Using the machine was pretty self-explanatory with illuminated icons to indicate what can be cooked inside the gadget. In summary, all you need to do is touch the START/PAUSE button, add the food (ensuring not to fill beyond the 'MAX' line), choose your program and the air fryer will automatically start. To pause, simply pull the handle, and to stop, simply press the silver START/PAUSE button. When your food is ready, the machine will bleep five times.

On the first few cooking attempts, the machine did smell a little funny (like plastic burning) but this subsides the more you use the appliance.

Cooking croissants

We aren't all lucky enough to live in Paris or have an artisan bakery on our doorstep. So unless you've got the time and patience to make laminated dough like a pro, a warm croissant with lots of honeycomb layers is hard to come by. But pre-heating the oven to heat up a few viennoiseries can seem a bit excessive at times... enter the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer.

Instead of going to Gail's, I tried to cheat the freshly baked mouthfeel by buying a pack of pastries from the local supermarket. Sure, you get what you pay for, so it's worth investing in all-butter pastries where pennies permit. Croissants can otherwise feel a bit bready if cold, but this machine transformed them into a French masterpiece.

Initially, I popped the baked goods on the preprogrammed cake setting and while it wasn't a doughy disaster, they were maybe a little too brown.  On the second attempt, I used the manual function, lowering the temperature and time accordingly (150C for 10 mins), et voila, one crescent-shaped bit of pastry perfection.

Christina's observation: When using the manual function, you'll need to preheat the air fryer with no food in the crisper... a little annoying, but quicker than a conventional fan oven.

Cooking fish fingers

Fish fingers are a Brit favourite... especially when sandwiched between two slices of soft white bread. It can be a bit of a faff to pre-heat the oven and line a baking sheet to stop the batter or breadcrumb coating from sticking.

While our large cod fingers usually take 15–18 minutes, the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer cut that time in half. Confusingly, the instruction manual does advise that you use the 'chips and frozen food' function (the fish function is reserved for fillets of fish, like salmon, which we also tried out).

Cooking homemade chips

Okay, so it's not an air fryer recipe, per se, but French fries are my go-to savoury snack slash side of choice. Given how cheap potatoes are, homemade fries are an affordable mealtime accompaniment, but no one's going to judge if you keep a pack of frozen frites or thick-cut fries in your freezer.

Whichever route you take, you should expect a crispy outer and fluffy center, and that's exactly what we got when we used the Lakeland air fryer. Air fryer vs. oven they're spot on for crunch and a cost-effective choice for when you've got those drive-thru cravings.

If you're cooking shop-bought fries, nine times out of 10 these will come pre-coated in oil, so there's no need to add extra. Use a spray oil if you're chipping your own taters. This way you can control the fat content and cover them evenly.

I cooked my Maris Pipers for 20 minutes on 200°C with 1 tablespoon of oil and the results were pleasantly passable. But having practically lived in my grandad's chippy as a child, I did miss my chips cooked in groundnut oil or beef tallow. Going forward, I'd just make them a special treat instead of compromising on a fakeaway. Air fryer vs. deep fryer – the latter wins for me on this occasion, I'm afraid.

But, the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer gets kudos for making healthier fried potatoes and has some other benefits. I found out recently that most pre-seasoned fries are coated in a herbed/spiced batter made from wheat, which is a no-no for a family member with coeliac disease. We were able to quickly rustle up hers (first, to eliminate risk of contamination) within minutes.

Cooking bacon

I love bacon as much as the next person, but the grease can be a bit gross to clean up. And, what I often find is that it often requires an eagle-eyed watch under the grill *hello squats for days*, or a torturous swine fat splatter on the forearm if you're using your best non-stick frying pan.

With the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer, you can safely crisp bacon in the enclosed tray and don't need to supervise your strips.

What I liked about this machine, is that the non-stick basket had holes so that the excess fat could drip off the meat and into the basket, rather than have the rashers swim in grease.

Unfortunately, when looking at what you can cook in an air fryer, the manual advises you not to cook bacon's BFF (sausage) because it is extremely greasy, which was a bit sad because I love a cooked breakfast on the weekend. 

Cooking vegetables

As well as cooking 'fast food' in the air fryer, we also tried to bake veggies. To be fair, after all the processed goods, it was nice to get a bit of colour on my plate. So I opted for red onions, butternut squash, courgettes, and peppers, coating 600g of chunky cut veg in about a tablespoon of oil, before seasoning the mix with fajita spices.

The rainbow-coloured result was topped with cubes of feta cheese, a squeeze of lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses for a super tasty lunch while I worked from home!

Cooking toast

Toast is one of those foods that you can have any time of the day. While it's most commonly consumed between breakfast and brunch hours, I personally love a spontaneous slice in the evening. But, in this day and age, why do two-slice toasters take up so much room? And, if an air fryer can brown bread, then surely it's worth giving your toaster to someone else, right?

We set the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer to 170°C for four minutes, flipping halfway through. It's worth mentioning that if you open the air fryer before the time is actually up, it does sound like a bit of a drama queen. But low and behold, after the elapsed time, it understood the assignment.

Texture-wise the toast was a bit dryer than expected (crunchier, but this could be rectified with a shorter cooking time, or fresher bread. But, that colour gets a tick on the toast scale from us.

But – and this is a big but – the basket was only big enough to fit in one slice of bread. Yes, I could have stood two pieces upright, but as I went to close the drawer, the bread looked like it was going to get jammed. Also, having done my homework and reading the instruction manual prior, it appears that overpacking the drawer is the main cause of food not being cooked properly.

Cooking eggs

Being a bit of a gym bunny, I know how important it is to get my protein in. Plus, anything high in this macronutrient tends to keep me full at work. So, of course, the first snack I wanted to try was air fryer hard-boiled eggs.

Sticking to Millie Fender's word, I set the time and temperature and crossed my fingers hoping I'd end up with a solidified white and set yolk. After the (slightly annoying) five bleeps, I was presented with hot shells, but the real proof of the (eggy) pudding was whether the finished ovum would be edible.

Safe to say, after 12 minutes and some careful peeling, I had a perfect egg. No splattering H2O on the hob, and no dry pan from forgetting about the water altogether! I could also recycle that ugly-looking microwave poacher

I repeated the 'eggs-periment' shaving off a few minutes for a soft set egg. Nine minutes was ample enough for the white to harden and middle to remain gooey, which was great for dipping into the aforementioned toast or sat on top of some smashed avocado.

How to clean the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer

To ensure the food didn't look dry, I coated some of the above foods in a little oil to help them brown. Of course, you don't have to do this, but if you prefer to use your hands to mix food or you're a little messy, you may accidentally end up with fingerprints on the exterior of your Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer. This can be quickly resolved by wiping the base unit and control panel with a clean, damp cloth, then drying it.

To clean the crisper drawer and basket, I washed them in hot soapy water, using a non-abrasive sponge. Unfortunately, when referring back to the instruction manual on how to clean the air fryer, it didn't look like any of the components were dishwasher friendly.

And, if you've taken the crisper drawer and basket out and have spotted some crumbs, a damp non-abrasive cloth will pick up any debris. I actually hovered a handheld vac inside to pick up any remaining bits of food. If there's anything stuck to the bottom of the crisper drawer or basket, pre-soak them for 10 minutes before washing up with a soft-bristled brush or sponge that isn't going to damage or scratch the non-stick surfaces.

You shouldn't need to, but if you do, cleaning the heating element isn't as scary as it seems. Just use a clean, dry brush around the area.

It goes without saying that electronics and water don't mix, so do not be tempted to submerge the machine itself it in a sink of water, otherwise your warranty will be invalidated and you could end up with a nasty shock!

Of course, you can also put the non-stick basket in the dishwasher too, as demonstrated below.

How does it compare to other air fryers?

I'll be honest, until a few months ago *shock horror*, I was an air fryer virgin... but my mum had the Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 MAX Multi Cooker, so I thought I'd pop the Lakeland in the car and take it for a play date with this appliance. In all honesty, it wouldn't be a fair comparison to look at them alongside one another. The Ninja Foodi is intended for a larger family, has several specialist functions...and, as a brand leader is practically the Goliath of the air fryer market.

Over time, I'll be testing out a number of other air fryers where she will be able to make a fair assessment of these countertop convection ovens.

Is the Lakeland Digital Crisp Air Fryer right for you?

Yes, but I feel that your expectations should be managed before making the purchase to ensure this air fryer is worth it. It's great for cooking the same 'category' of food if it can be cooked at the same temperature and time.

If you're wanting to cook, for example, salmon fillets and some homemade sweet potato fries for two at the same time, this might not be for you. One of the mistakes people commonly make is to overpack their air fryer (and this dish alone would cramp the container).

Saying that, if your oven is already full and you only wanted to cook chips or onion rings as a side, then you can cook up to half a kilo of sides without taking up a oven shelf's worth of space.

Here are some more air fryer recommendations from us:

About this review and our reviewer

Christina Chrysostomou is a content editor for Real Homes where she reviews household products to make your life easier at home, primarily focusing on cleaning and small kitchen appliances. She was sent this product to review at home, and she tested it in our impressive review lab in order to compare it with other air fryers. You can find out more about our air fryer testing process if you're interested.

We are not given any compensation for our reviews, but we may be gifted the product meaning that we can test it over a greater length of time and update our reviews if required.

Knowing how much an air fryer costs to run is the question on everyone's mind right now. With the cost of living impacting not only how we live in our own homes, but also how we go about our day-to-day, we've all become more conscious of our energy consumption and household expenditures. 

Whether you're swapping turning the radiators on with buying a heated clothes rack, banning takeout, or getting even more creative with keeping costs down, there are many ways to cut back. And it may come as a surprise, but investing in high-quality kitchen appliances like air fryers could actually be one of the best moves you make for your bank balance.

These nifty gadgets came into the spotlight a couple of years back thanks to their incredible ability to pretty much replicate the humble French fry, taking something typically loaded with oil and salt, and miraculously turning it into a far healthier and just as, if not more, delicious food. Now, they are a staple in many kitchens, so if you already have one you might be wondering how much it costs every time you use it. And if you're considering trying one out, you might want to know if it's worth your cash now and in the long run.

The cost efficiency of air fryers is definitely one of their best-selling points.

A lot depends on your regular cooking habits and more to be discussed below, of course. But, if you're looking to join the air fryer crew and want to know how much this cool kitchen appliance will cost to use, compared to your cooker or microwave, you're in the right place. We asked the experts, and here's what they had to say.

How much does it cost to run an air fryer?

As a general estimate, air fryers cost anywhere between $0.20 and $0.80 to run for an hour, depending on the air fryer model and the cost of energy where you live. In the UK, it is estimated the average air fryer costs about a penny for every five minutes it is on.

There's a very simple formula for working out how much it costs to run an air fryer in your home, as provided to us by Daniel P. Craig, the founder of Kitchen Deets. Craig explains that air fryers 'use anywhere from 1,200 watts (1.2kwh) to 1,800 watts (1.8 kwh)' but it varies depending on the model you're using. 

'You can easily figure out the cost by converting this to kilowatts per hour (kwh) in use depending on your electricity provider,' Craig notes. 'Suppose, the average residential retail price per kilowatt-hour is $0.14, so if you have an air fryer that runs on 1.4 kilowatts and it runs for 15 minutes (0.35 kwh multiply by $0.14), it will cost you $0.049.'

You can easily find out how many watts of energy your specific air fryer uses by having a look through the product manual.

Is an air fryer cheaper to run than a microwave?

No, a microwave is cheaper to run than an air fryer. 'Microwaves usually have a wattage between 700 watts (0.7 kwh) to 1200 watts (1.2 kwh),' according to Craig. 'If we do the math again with an average microwave running on 0.9 kilowatts for 15 minutes which would be 0.225 kWh (0.225 kwh Multiply by $0.14= $0.0315) then microwaves cost less than air fryers per hour of use at current retail prices when using a comparable amount of power.'

This doesn't mean that you should automatically switch to a microwave. The difference in cost is small. Craig also explains that although air fryers are a tad more expensive, 'the benefits outweigh the cost.' These benefits primarily revolve around the very small amount of oil or fat you have to use to cook with an air fryer, even smaller than with a microwave. 

Also, microwaves are predominantly used for reheating leftovers or cooking ready meals. Store-bought microwave dinners can be expensive, so you might find the versatility of an air fryer means your overall cost is less. You can make far tastier meals with humble ingredients in an air fryer – pretty much any vegetable air-fried is much better than microwaved. And, contrary to belief, you can reheat a lot of foods in an air fryer too, from pizza to chow mein. Microwave pizza anyone? No thanks.

The other reason why air fryers are preferred by many people is that they use convection heat rather than electromagnetic waves to heat food. Although there's no conclusive evidence that the electromagnetic waves from microwaves are harmful to your health, some people prefer to steer clear. An air fryer is the one for you if you want something similar to a microwave that doesn't use radiation. 

Are air fryers cheaper to run than conventional ovens?

Yes, definitely. An average oven uses 3,000 watts of energy per hour – double the average air fryer. You may also see a secondary energy-saving effect if you use your air fryer instead of your oven during the hot summer months and use an AC unit to cool down your home. Stuart Melling, of A Matter of Taste, explains how this works: 'The unit outputs far less ambient heat than running the much larger oven. In the warmer months that means less heat for my AC to dissipate, and lower energy costs there for certain. These days we *never* run the oven in the warmer summer months, the improved air cooling is noticeable, and I am certain, the costs therein.'

Viewed this way, an air fryer becomes an attractive proposition cost-wise. However, this doesn't mean you should just get rid of your oven. Although an air fryer can cook many foods (just check out our list of air fryer recipes), it's not nearly as versatile as a proper oven. Sure, it's great for fries and even fried chicken, but you may struggle with more elaborate dishes.

Ben Price, a home and HVAC expert and co-founder of Heatable UK also points out that if you typically cook larger meals for a family, a conventional oven is still your best bet: 'If you're cooking something big like a turkey or a roast, then an oven will probably be cheaper because it can take advantage of more heat and space.'

Should you use an air fryer instead of your oven?

It really depends on your cooking/eating habits and on how much you want to reduce energy bills by. Then of course it depends on the model itself, its cooking functions and whether it can cater to your entire family or just yourself if you live solo. 

Head of reviews, Millie Fender, looked at all the reasons why air fryers are worth it and lots of our in-house reviewers disclosed how they would happily cook entire meals in their air fryers.

Then if you look at some of the Amazon reviews out there of specific products, it seems that they are becoming a viable option to take over the conventional oven. 

Take Instant Pot's Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer for example. While it's actually a multi-cooker with air frying capabilities, and although we haven't personally reviewed it, alongside its Amazon Best Seller status for pressure cookers and 4.5 star rating, it has some rave reviews commenting on how it almost replaced their need for a conventional oven, not to mention, how delicious and quick food is to make.

'I bought this on advice that it would replace a lot of items I used to put in the oven. Takes up some bench space but in the few weeks we’ve used it (there are 2 of us) we’ve not used the oven. Very energy efficient and easy to clean. Loads of recipes online. Once you get the hang of it there’s no looking back.' Instant Pot Pro Crisp Amazon reviewer.

In case you were wondering, this model operates at 1500W, so if we go by Craig's conversion formula. it should cost around $0.053 to run for 15 minutes compared to roughly double that (around $0.10) if you were to use your oven for 15 minutes, which let's face it, is hardly enough time to warm it up, let alone cook a good meal...

This UK-based reviewer noted: 

'I cooked 4 chicken breasts in less than 20 mins, much better than the fan oven too. One of my best buys ever.'

We will take their word for it.

In all, using an air fryer at home is pretty cost-efficient and if you're looking at ways to keep mealtimes interesting, without forking out – excuse the pun – it's a good time to invest.

Could an air fryer replace your microwave? Definitely. Could it replace your oven? If you wanted it to but we would personally keep it as an additional kitchen appliance so that you're not so heavily reliant on your oven.

Keep your air fryer for cooking smaller meals or side dishes, and your oven for larger, more substantial meals. 

Are air fryers worth it you ask? In short: Yes, oui, si, ja! Whatever language you ask the question in, there are so many reasons to buy an air fryer, and oh can I tell you the ways it can save time, money, and energy (especially after that post-work commute on the subway).  

Whether you want French fries on the regular, without the guilt, or if it's the cost of living crisis that's got you considering alternative ways of cooking to cater to a shoestring budget, now that I've tried at least a dozen of the best air fryers on the market, honestly, I can't really imagine my kitchen life without this countertop essential.

Are air fryers worth it in the long run?

Why invest in an air fryer

Topline, air fryers just make cooking a whole lot quicker without compensating for delicious results, and food in some cases is even tastier than if you were to use your conventional oven or, try to keep it a lot healthier by using a microwave, subbing out oil or resorting to just boiling veggies... 

Plus, there are an absolute ton of cool and unexpected air fryer recipes out there. The French fry is not the limit here and you can do everything from reviving store-bought croissants to cooking entire joints of meat. 

Need I say more? Um yes I can, and I'd like to elaborate on why small air fryers (in particular) are so worth it, for every kitchen and every kind of cook.

They make frozen food taste so much better

We’ve all got a bag of frozen fries or chicken nuggets in our chest freezer. Often they make for a lackluster meal when time and energy are in short supply. But the hype is real when it comes to the difference that air frying can make. Oven fries really don’t come close to your favorite takeout, but air fryers use a basket to circulate hot air around your food, distributing what little fat and oil is in your oven fries evenly and recreating the taste and texture of fried food. The difference really is noticeable – I promise. 

They can refresh takeout foods

You know what I mean. If you've used a takeout app to order thick-cut fries you'll know they'll either come wrapped in paper or delivered in a polystyrene container... and how the hot air will spoil the crispiness of your fries. Now, when I want that just-served texture, I just put them in my air fryer and it pretty much revives their crispy texture. Because no one likes a limp fry. The same goes for soggy samosas or bhajis if you've overordered at your favorite curry house.

Air frying leftovers trumps the microwave

Move over microwave oven — there's a new cool kid in town. Yep, your trusty pinging machine might have served you for many years (including college), but even the best microwaves have their downfalls, including soggy reheats, and cold spots in your food.

So for a more consistent reheat that won't give baked goods a squishy texture, try using an air fryer to warm through your leftovers. It is especially good for reheating pizza – in fact, I think it makes takeout pizza even better. You can even reheat wet leftovers including pasta, noodles, and casserole in an air fryer as long as you put them in a suitable container (though note some manufacturer instructions will advise against this).

4. They're cheap to run 

They're cheap to run

With food and energy prices varying from day to day, feeding your family on a budget is something everyone should be conscious of. But that shouldn't mean living on cheap fast food or scrimping on portion sizes. Presenting: the air fryer

The good news is, if you're wondering: 'are air fryers expensive to run?', the answer is no. In fact, air fryers cost anywhere between $0.20 and $0.80 to run for an hour — not that you'll even be using it for that long unless you're cooking large cuts of meat. The cost to run an air fryer is therefore much cheaper than the best oven.

5. It is way healthier to cook in

It's healthier to cook in

If you're wondering how healthy an air fryer is, it does depend on what you cook in it. What cannot be disputed is that you don’t need to use nearly as much oil when air frying, compared to frying in a pan or even cooking in an oven tray. 

Cooking chicken wings or oven fries? Placing them in an air fryer basket allows the fat to drain off and into the drawer below, which not only helps to crisp your food evenly, but it also means you will end up not eating that fat when you tuck into your meal. If you want to cut down on the amount of fat you consume, buying an air fryer is a great way to do it.

And don't forget the kid's school snacks. If you're spending unfathomable amounts on fruit jerky and don't fancy spending a gazillion bucks or waste counter space on specialist equipment like a food dehydrator, you can DIY this tasty treat in your air fryer.

They speed up th cooking process

Air fryers take almost no time to preheat, in contrast to your fan oven or even your best non-stick frying pan. Simply press to start the cooking process and add your food, and you already got a jump start on your meal prep time. Then there’s the fact that most air fryers I’ve tried have significantly sped along the cooking process. Oven fries that are described as taking 25 minutes to cook only take 15, fishcakes that would take 40 minutes in an oven are often ready in 25. If you want a device to make mealtimes faster and more convenient – this is it.

Plus, as everything is concealed in the basket, and with the lid being shut, you won't get splattered by any oil.

7. Cleaning an air fryer is easy

Cleaning an air fryer is easy

It takes only a few minutes to clean an air fryer, and many of the top models you can buy are also dishwasher-safe. Simply place the basket and tray into your dishwasher after each use and you’ve just saved yourself a whole lot of cleaning. Better still, invest in some silicone air fryer liners (available on Amazon) and you'll only have to rinse these rubbery accessories.

Another big yes is that there's no hot oil to clean up, because performing a risk assessment every time we go to clean our deep fat fryer gives us unreal levels of anxiety, not to mention the smell cooking oil leaves on clothes and our hair. Someone pass the dry shampoo please!

However, that doesn't mean binning your deep fryer as it still has some advantages if you read through our head-to-head battle of air fryer vs. deep fryer.

If you've ever had to clean an oven from top to bottom, you'll know that even with the best oven cleaner, it can still be a mammoth task. Baked-on and burnt debris (hello cheese) is just the worst, and if you don't tend to it immediately, that greasy smell will permeate through the house. So working with a smaller appliance, *ahem, air fryer* will save you from getting on your hands and knees (without those scarily-corrosive substances).

It's easy to invest in quality

Because there are so many air fryers on the market, it is easy to find great air fryer deals. Top brands such as COSORI (available on Amazon), Philips and Ninja will be vying for your attention with great deals and record-low prices. It is possible to pick up top air fryers for way less than $100, and some of the top ones can even be bought for around $50.

And, if one of the top brands keeps going out of stock, there are some serious contenders that do the job just as well... sometimes for less. Take, for example, these Ninja air fryer dupes that rival the Dual Zone.

Air fryers are great for cozy eats

Cozy and comforting eats aren't reserved for your slow cooker and air fryers can make everything from porridge oats to crispy brussels sprouts and speedy mug cakes. And because it is oh so speedy, if you want a hunger fix in minutes, it's a winner. 

Air fryers economize on space

Air fryers cook so quickly that they won't heat your space in the same way that your oven will. So I love using mine in summer for quick light bites but it's also ideal if you're in a studio that can quickly become too hot if your oven is on full blast. 

Plus, if fries are on the menu, using a deep-fat fryer often feels a little like a faff, and depending on your model, you could end up turning your kitchen into a super heated and kind of sweaty mess.  Not a good look for guests, so I love my air fryer for keeping my kitchen space literally cool but also a little more calm and collected.

The same can be said for using a hot oven, eCommerce Editor Christina Chrysostomou loves her air fryer for a similar reason, "When I use my air fryer, I feel like I can kick back a little more and have a drink with guests as I go. Plus, there's none of that opening the oven door and getting a hot sauna experience that you did not want." It's way more manageable.

I have a relatively small kitchen, so I have enjoyed testing out a variety of air fryer sizes. The top small air fryer I’ve tested was the Philips Essential which had a modest footprint and lightweight design, but on the other end of the scale, Philips also does an extra large air fryer that can fit an entire chicken and cook enough fries for a family of six. So if you're looking for ideas for a small kitchen, without taking up worktop real estate, this is the air fryer for you.

On the flip side, if you're already dreading Thanksgiving and Christmas because of a lack of oven space, there are machines are big enough to air fryer a turkey!

There are so many air fryer types to choose from

The top air fryers I’ve tested come in a range of designs and sizes. My absolute favorite is the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone (available on Amazon), because you can cook two elements of a meal simultaneously, in different drawers and even in different modes. Wanna know even more about this machine? Take a look at our Ninja Foodi Dual Zone review.

They just keep getting smarter

Air fryers offer convenience but they also actively try and make your life easier. One such example is the Proscenic T21 Smart Air Fryer (I’ve tested this one too) which not only comes with Alexa-enabled controls, it also has an app that can suggest recipes and pair with the air fryer to select the right timings and temperature settings for your specific meal. That’s super smart.  

You can cook so much in an air fryer

Most good air fryers have settings for grilling, roasting, reheating, and even baking. There are a ton of surprising things to cook in an air fryer and more.

In fact, when you buy an air fryer you’re really not restricted to just cooking food you would usually fry. Think tray cakes and even air fryer hard boiled eggs. We've also seen people make cheesecakes, toast, and muffins in their air fryers, so you can get plenty of use out of an air fryer all year long, for your breakfasts, lunches, dinners, desserts and snacks.

They will elevate your cooking game

If a packet of ramen is your go-to, I know you can do better. And air fryers can be argued to actually make you more creative with what you cook. You can go totally gourmet like Christina who has been baking wild salmon and roasted vegetables with feta (as above) plus lots more in her air fryer, because, why not. Or, go a little more simple but nonetheless exciting like E-commerce writer, Louise Oliphant, who loves using her Dreo air fryer for cooking asparagus in particular... 

So whether you're making a chicken salad or want to make a small side dish to accompany said noodles (there actually is no shame), an air fryer will elevate the taste of all of your ingredients so that you enjoy more elaborate eats and flavor, minus the usual time and effort that would usually go into it!

'Air fryers have become so popular over the past couple of years because they just make everything so much quicker and they’re so versatile,' says Rebecca Bebbington, content strategist at NetVoucherCodes.

'People love that you can make everything in there from chicken and potatoes to roast vegetables and burgers. The best thing is that nothing really takes too long to make it there, so they’re perfect for busy people who find dinners a struggle. On top of that, things made in the air fryer usually require fewer ingredients so in some respects it saves you money too.'

'People still underestimate just how many things they can actually make in the air fryer so we’ve put together a list of things that people probably wouldn’t have thought of.'

Stirzaker's surprising list of six things you can air fry

1. Macaroni cheese
'Baked pasta is probably one of the last things you would think to make in your air fryer but it works! Place your uncooked pasta into your air fryer along with some water, heavy cream, seasoning and cheese and mix it all together ensuring that the pasta is covered. The key to this is letting it cool for around five minutes in the end so that the sauce thickens up. You’ll also want to give this a stir halfway through.'

2. Cakes
'Baked goods like cakes and muffins can also be made in the air fryer. Of course, the size of the cake you can make will depend on the size of your air fryer, you’ll need to ensure that your cake tin can sit in there comfortably.' 

3. Wraps
'The air fryer can be used to achieve that perfect crispy, golden wrap too. Just fold up your wrap like a burrito to avoid any of the filling falling out, spray it with some fry light or spread some butter over it and then place it in the air fryer for a couple of minutes until golden.'

4. Tortilla chips
'Using your air fryer to make things like tortilla chips gives you a much healthier version of the snack as it’s made with air rather than being deep-fried. Simply brush your small tortilla wraps in some olive oil and cover in seasonings of your choice like salt and tajin and cut into pieces. Cook these in the air fryer until golden brown.'

5. Cinnamon rolls
'The circulation of air in the air fryer is what makes foods come out crispier than if they were to be made in the oven. When baked in the air fryer cinnamon rolls come out airy, light and extra flaky and crispy!'

6. Grilled cheese sandwiches
'When made in the oven, grilled cheese sandwiches can often come out a little soggy. For maximum crisp place these in the air fryer instead. Not only will it come out crispier, but it will also be cooked a lot quicker than if it was in the oven.'

Given the current climate and the cost of doing everyday things, like using water or turning on the oven becoming a concern, I was eager to get my hands on one of the best air fryers. Yes, I know, adding another appliance to the mix of a coffee machine, microwave, kettle, and toaster, may not seem the most beneficial for my energy bills. But if I choose to cook the majority of my meals in it, rather than turning the oven on, I figured I could save some money. After all, the air fryer is 1500 watts and my oven draws around 3500 watts, by comparison. Though I’ll save the technical talk for later. 

The Dreo model I reviewed is one of the smallest we’ve seen on the market, so not only is it a cost-effective air fryer, but it’s also space-saving. If you’re cooking for yourself, or one another and don’t have a large kitchen space, then this one’s for you. And if you like the modern look, then its appearance is particularly pleasing too. Dreo is a leading brand in the smart-tech industry, so there’s no surprise this air fryer is stylish, with a sleek LED screen that's simple to navigate all of nine pre-sets and many more adjustable settings. Another impressive quality, considering it retails for just under $90 in the US. 

So far, it sounds good, but believe me: it only gets better when it comes to cooking. The only downside? The pre-set programs are a little hit-and-miss - it’s not something you can’t work with, though. Putting performance, design, and function to the test, I cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner, preparing everyday recipes and some unconventional foods you can cook in an air fryer. See how they turned out… 

Dreo air fryer: the important stuff

• Weight: 7lbs
• Dimensions: ‎H19.4" x W11.6" x D9.4"
• Temperature: 100°F to 450°F / 40°C to 200°C
• Power: 1500W
• Capacity: 4 quarts / 3.8 litres
• Cooking modes: Fries, steak, chicken, fish, bread, vegetables, dehydrate, reheat 
• RRP: $89.99 / £84.99
• Colour: Black 
• Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe, nonstick tray 
• Comes with: User guide, reference guide, cookbook, and removable tray insert 

Unboxing the Dreo air fryer 

Being a small air fryer, the box was relatively small and light. Easy enough for the postman to carry up a few flights of stairs. In fact, it says ‘perfectly portable’ on the box itself, which sums it up nicely. I was disappointed to open the box to quite a lot of polystyrene packaging cushioning the product. A more eco-friendly option couldn't have been used here instead I feel. On top sat a small packet including the user guide, reference guide, and cookbook. 

The cookbook features over 50 recipes, which is perfect if you’re struggling with meal ideas or are unsure of what is possible to make in an air fryer. 

After taking it out of the box, the Dreo was easy to assemble. Simply pop in the removable tray and unravel the plug. Notably, the design of this air fryer is different to others I’ve come across or that we’ve tested on Real Homes. The cylinder shape looks stylish and its sleek black exterior makes it look more luxurious than an air fryer needs to be. The lack of buttons and switches replaced with the LED screen also adds to the clean, modern look. My kitchen is fairly new, with shiny white cabinets and backlit lights. I also have a number of black appliances, which the Dreo air fryer ties in with seamlessly. Black is the only color available, but it would work great with any similar-style kitchen space.

Our first impressions of the Dreo air fryer

We cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner in this air fryer.

Once plugged in, the air fryer will light up with symbols and settings, all of which are listed in the reference guide and are really quite simple to work out. There are pictures for ease of use. Otherwise, there is a temperature sign indicating the heat it will cook at and the time it takes. You can adapt and change these with the arrows accordingly. The temperature ranges from 100°F to 450°F which is a much larger scale range compared to other small air fryers, like the Instant Vortex Mini which goes up to 400°F. 

The tray of the air fryer is quite large, considering its compact design. It’s big enough to cook for two and even a few items at a time. For any more food, you might have to do more than one air frying session, and I definitely wouldn't recommend it for more than a family of four.  It's quite deep too, so I do wish it had come with an additional tray to stack more than one food type. The tray is easy to remove and wash, as well as the removable draw, which is released using the button on the handle. 

Breakfast

You may have heard of the cooking a boiled egg in an air fryer hack, which made me wonder what breakfast pieces I could create in the air fryer. Besides the obvious sausages, bacon, and frozen hash browns for a big breakfast, I found myself quickly heating up my pastries before I dashed off to work. Usually, I’d eat them cold since I’m not prepared enough to give the oven enough time to heat up before I’d need to leave. But what’s better than a hot pain au chocolat? A quick pop in the tray, and turn on using the custom settings of 385°F for 5 minutes, and it melted the chocolate and crisped the pastry to perfection. In fact, I prefer the outcome to heating one up in the oven. 

 Lunch

While I didn't use any pre-settings when it came to breakfast, cooking lunches like bread, toasted sandwiches, and jacket potatoes require taking advantage of the recommended times and temperatures from Dreo. I used the bread function for example, which cooks at 356°F for 8 mins. It baked my ciabatta well, with a crisp outside and fluffy middle. I found cooking a jacket potato a little more difficult, and perhaps would opt back to the part microwave, part oven bake I’m used to. The potato cooked a little too well on the outside, and not enough in the middle. The heat needed to be lower and the time longer. 

Otherwise, I found reheating foods a total breeze. I set the air fryer at an average of 385°F for eight minutes. It did take a few check-ups to see how it was doing and trial and error to how long to leave it in for, before I decided that around six minutes heated up my leftover pizza and melted the cheese in my toastie perfectly.

Dinner

Cooking fries
Arguably a go-to for any food lover to cook in the air fryer is fries. Be it skin-on, sweet-potato, or frozen curly fries, air fryers are known for quickly making near to deep-fried standards. With this being a smaller capacity model, I chopped up around 7oz of sweet potatoes, which cooked enough for two small portions. The pre-set fries program cooks at 385°F for 20 minutes. What I do like is the shake feature, where the machine beeps and alerts you to shake the fries halfway for an even bake. On another occasion, I cooked frozen french fries instead, which worked great. However, the sweet potato came out a little too dark for my liking, with the smaller ones being slightly burnt. Nonetheless, they were tasty and I could easily switch up the settings next time.

Cooking veggies and vegan foods
With this, I cooked veggies (for me) and meat sausages for my friend. Then large portobello mushrooms and asparagus seasoned with parmesan for the sides. I used the steak setting for the sausages, which worked great for both the meat-free and pork sausages. The vegetable setting cooked the sides well too, crisping the asparagus and mushrooms without drying them out. As you may have guessed, I couldn't cook these all at once. It took me three sessions, first cooking the fries, then the meat and veg. But considering the quick cook time, none of the foods went cold while I cooked the rest.

It’s clear this air fryer isn't designed with big families in mind, as you’d have to do more than a few rounds of cooking - not ideal. But if you’re a single-person household or are cooking for yourself and a friend, like I was, then it’s a better alternative to heating up the whole oven. Otherwise, it's great for cooking side dishes only.

What's the Dreo air fryer like to clean? 

Cleaning up after a full meal is pretty simple, especially if you have a dishwasher. I took out the removable drawer and the insert and popped it in with the rest of my plates in the dishwasher. It cleaned fine, even with the crumbs and seasoning spills left from the vegetables. Since I rarely use oil on the foods I fry, they came out as clean as new. If you do have a smaller dishwasher, however, the drawer may take up too much room. Cleaning it by hand might be more efficient. I’ve rarely had to wipe it down either. Despite the LED display screen, it’s barely smudged or streaked. In fact, it still looks good as new. 

Should you buy the Dreo air fryer? 

If you have the budget to initially buy, find yourself cooking for you or just one other, and have a small kitchen space, then there’s no reason why you shouldn't get the Dreo air fryer, in my opinion. It’s great for quick meals, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, cooking food just as good (if not better) as it does in the oven. Besides, it’ll save you money in the long run, since an air fryer costs much less to use than your oven. The pre-sets are a little hit and miss and it may take more than one attempt to get the perfect bake, roast, or fry, but once you’ve figured it out, you’ll have mastered air fryer food forever. 

On the other hand, if you have more than two mouths to feed and would benefit from a larger air fryer then the Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer review might be better for you. And there are some simpler options out there, with a one-button approach to use, you may prefer. The Ninja Bullet air fryer, for example, is a low-tech, low-cost option. 

For a smart-looking, good-performing air fryer to help you cut down on costs, then the Dreo air fryer is the best you can get. For a fair price, it’s an investment we now can’t do without. 

How does the Dreo air fryer compare against other models?

Taking multicookers out of the equation, the Dreo air fryer is right up there as one of our favorite appliances on the market in the UK right now. It's cheaper than the Lakeland Digital Crisp air fryer, and holds much more than T-fal Easy Fry Compact Digital Health Air Fryer.

About this review and the reviewer 

Louise is a foodie, and enjoys cooking at home. But with less time on her hands due to long office days and busy weekends, cooking in the oven isn't always the most convenient option. With her current household bills on the rise too, she’s committed to trying anything she can do to save energy at home. The Dreo air fryer has hence been a practically useful product for her to test. Whether she’s throwing in some frozen food after work or reheating her leftover pizza from the night before, she’s been getting her use out of having it at home.  

If you’re wondering about our testing method, and how we compare air fryer performance fairly, then our air fryer tested methodology page might be worth a read. Louise has followed this procedure for her review of the Dreo model. To summarize, she used the air fryer for a prolonged period before writing and cooked a range of meal types to cater to all kinds of eaters. Using it at least once a day, it's been thoroughly tried and tested to find all pros and cons possible. Since she’s been able to keep the product, it’s now kept in her kitchen, next to other appliances she’s trying out too. 

How we test air fryers is both an art and a science. Reviewing these small kitchen appliances requires consistent methodology, which is why we have developed a rigorous testing process to make sure that all of the products we review can be compared directly. This is how we choose which appliances to feature in our buying guide, and how we decide which models are the top choice for certain buyers.

We've been reviewing air fryers both at home and in our dedicated testing lab for nearly three years now, and as a result, we've landed on our top favorites. That's not to say that this will never change, of course. We also review brand-new air fryers, as they are released or sometimes just before. Either way: we will always have hands-on experience with an air fryer before we recommend it. 

All of our air fryer reviews are conducted either by team members or in the case that we have no more space left on our kitchen worktops, by a freelance reviewer. Whilst thinking about who is the best person to test which air fryer, we always consider our writers' living situation.

This means that the best air fryers we can recommend have been put through their paces to check that they can cope everywhere from a busy family home to a single household with a tiny kitchen and every other situation in between. We always try to use these air fryers for at least a month before coming to a decision, and in some cases, we might review air fryers in batches or have two going at one time, as this makes it easier to compare different models for our key criteria. 

Air fryer experts

We use a rigorous five-stage process to become a Customer Advisor. Customer Advisors are proven experts, with hands-on, long-term experience of industry-leading products and the ability to compare between major brands to help you make the best choices for your home. Our acting head of ecommerce, Christina Chrysostomou, is our current in-house air fryer Customer Advisor. 

The process is as follows:

1. Home user: We own a market-leading option, and use it in our home or garden on a regular basis. This means we see how the top products hold up over time, and compare new releases to our top choice. 
2. Industry expert: We know the market leaders, and stay up to date on their latest releases to make sure we're always in the know. 
3. Behind the scenes: We've been to a factory or showroom to see how products are made and experienced the behind-the-scenes of how new products are tested and developed. 
4. Technical know-how: It's one thing to test a product, but the key to being a customer advisor is knowing how it works. We understand the inner workings of a product and can explain exactly what makes it satisfactory (or unsatisfactory). 
5. Reader awareness: We answer to our readers. Ask us questions, request new product releases, or just let us know what your favorite products are! We want to understand how you shop so we can help with your purchasing decision.

How we test air fryers

While air fryers have been around for over five years, for a lot of people an air fryer is still a new concept, and their purchase at the moment will likely be their first. This is why we make sure to include plenty of photos of our testing process and advise how to get the most out of each product when we review them.

We do like to add some objective measures to our reviews, tracking how long it takes an air fryer to cook certain foods, and measuring noise levels while the air fryer is on. But more on that later.

Even the most outstanding air fryer might not be the right fit for your kitchen or lifestyle, which is why we always test an air fryer in our own home, to help you decide if a product is right for yours. This enables us to figure out how a product slots into day-to-day life, for example, how easy an air fryer is to clean, if an alarm noise can get a bit annoying over time, or if a small air fryer can easily fit into a kitchen cupboard to hide it away.

How we decide which products to review

Our reviews are always completely impartial and never paid for. Brands will often send us air fryers free of charge to give us the opportunity to review them. We are often allowed to keep them, which means we can add to our reviews over the months (and even years!) to note how well the product has fared after consistent use. 

When we're not allowed to keep a product we try to hang onto it for at least three or four weeks to make sure that the product is put through its paces before we send it back to the company. This means we rarely miss a new launch and are constantly reviewing new air fryers back-to-back, breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Some brands are trickier to get hold of than others, but we're always striving to include as many different products as possible, with different price points and designs to suit any space or budget. We're genuine air fryer enthusiasts, so if someone launches a new product with an interesting feature, we'll be first in line to try it out. You can find our 'Review in progress' badge on the air fryers we are currently testing. 

Why we bother with unboxing

First impressions are everything — so how the air fryer arrives is important to us. While things like a battered cardboard box can happen in transit, having something stable that you can carry home or get delivered without the packaging getting too damaged is essential.

Many of our Real Homes reviewers live and commute into the city, so we also have to think about lugging boxes on public transport. What's more, many of us rent apartments so more often than not have to shuffle stuff through lifts or carry these small kitchen appliances up sets of stairs.

We are all for sustainability packing too. So even if the air fryer comes in 100 percent FSC cardboard — the box should be appropriately sized. Inside, some plastic is fine (for example plug protectors) but we would prefer it to be kept to a minimum. We'll always state where a product arrives with excess packaging that's harsh on the environment, as this is very important to us.

And, no one needs a forest's worth of instruction manuals and bits of paper, too, so where a PDF or page can be found online or kept to one sheet with a QR code, we're happy to scan this on our smartphone to find extra information.

Our standard testing procedures

Functionality tests

Air fryers tend to (generally) fall into two camps: manual/analog or touchscreen. When operating a manual air fryer, you are instructed to move the dial to the desired temperature and time. Whereas, with a digital screen, you simply press an illuminated screen to set degrees and cooking duration.

We don't have a bias on which is necessarily better as it all comes down to the overall experience. Yes, dials can sometimes be clunky, but if you're too light or heavy-handed with an LED interface, the user experience can be equally irritating.

It's also worth noting that some air fryers have pre-programmed settings that are supposed to make cooking popular foods simple. Times and temps may vary from model to model as the manufacturers may have taken into account the wattage and capacity of the device. 

Outside of its convection-oven abilities, the air fryer may serve as a multicooker meaning it can act as a rotisserie, cook rice, make yogurt, charbroil, and even steam. So to be fair, we'll try and compare like-for-like models against each other.

After the cooking process is complete, most air fryers will make a noise to alert you. This may range from a short ping to a sequence of bleeps. While it's not the be-all and end-all of making a purchasing decision, if you're hypersensitive to noise (or want a late-night snack without disturbing family or roommates), a celebratory announcement at midnight is the last thing you want.

Cooking tests

When testing an air fryer, our first step is to cook a selection of standard air fryer recipes. There are four we use with every air fryer, but we will add some depending on the range of features offered. These are:

• Chunky fries
• Frozen food
• Streaky bacon
• Meditteranean vegetables

1. Air frying fries

The first recipe we'll always do is french fries, of course. The ability to make speedy and delicious fries is one of the main selling points of an air fryer — after all, they are designed to replicate that deep-fried taste but without as much fat, so fries are a must-try. It's good to note at this point that some ultra-processed foods will have been cooked in oil before we reheat them. So although you may question how healthy air fryers actually are, you only have to look in the bottom of the basket to see the pool of fat that drips off your food. 

The recipe we use in every test involves taking whole potatoes, chopping them into chunky, half-inch wedges, and letting them soak for a few minutes to remove any starchiness. We then dry them off and toss the fries in a drizzle of neutral-tasting oil and some seasoning.

In a conventional, pre-heated oven, these would take around 25–35 minutes to cook, but some of our air fryers have crisped up our homemade fries in as little as 12 minutes. We measure how long this takes each air fryer, check for the consistency of cooking across the different fries, and do our all-important taste test. 

2. Air frying frozen foods

Air fryers also work well with frozen food, so we make sure to cook something from frozen in every air fryer we test. This is usually some kind of breaded chicken fillet, nugget, fish finger or goujon, and we use this test to see if it can crisp out the exterior of frozen food on the exterior without drying out the middle. We also, where we can, will test things like hash browns, fish fingers, and more frozen foods in our air fryer, however, this won't be a standard requirement for every review.

Unless the reviewer has a particular dietary requirement, such as veggie, vegan or gluten-free, coatings are typically wheat-flour based and we usually test with meat. But, foods will be chosen by the reviewer based on what they want to eat and what they can eat, to avoid any unnecessary food waste.

We've recently introduced frozen fries into the catalog of testing; simply because we know that it's a popular choice with our audience. Our objective is to keep the product consistent when testing, so we'd never compare a thick-cut fry to a skinnier French fry for example. Ultimately, we're looking for a crisp exterior with a fluffy center.  

3. Air frying bacon

Another important test we always carry out is cooking bacon. Air fryers can do this in as little as a few minutes, and it is a great way of seeing how evenly an air fryer can cook. In some air fryers, we have found that the fat renders on some of the bacon but not all of it, which is a sign of inconsistent cooking. In other air fryers, the fan has been so powerful that the bacon has been blown around the inside of the air fryer and lost its shape completely; curling on itself in the process. 

Of course, there are different cuts of pork including thick cut, back, and streaky which all cook at various rates with differing results. So where possible, we will aim to use the same type each time for comparison. Whether the product has been smoked or cured in a particular way (e.g: using nitrates) can also affect the flavor, color, and water content, so again, these variables will be taken into account when cooking. And, it goes without saying, if any of our reviewers have any dietary/religious requirements, we will always seek to accommodate by allowing them to test, for example: a turkey-based, halal or kosher alternative.

4. Air frying vegetables

Our final standardized test is a bake or roast test. Many air fryers come with settings to bake or roast vegetables, meat, or other foods you may not want to air fry. Others come with dedicated vegetable pre-set modes which we use in our tests. As vegetables have a high moisture content, this is a good way of seeing how well an air fryer can remove this moisture from the cooking basket. It also helps to get some greens on our plate after all of the fries and frozen chicken!

Aside from the more exotic-looking Mediterranean vegetables, we've tried local produce closer to home and will try and source veg that is in season. For example, baked Tenderstem® broccoli and air-fried asparagus go down well in our test kitchen.

Cleaning tests

After we've made the food and assessed the cooking quality — it's time to clean the air fryer. 

There are, of course, a few variables that might affect how easy or difficult this task is. So when getting rid of grease, crumbs, and sticky sauces, we ask ourselves:

• Is the air fryer basket dishwasher safe?
• How easy is it to clean the outside of the air fryer; can it be wiped clean?
• How easy is it to clean the air fryer cavity?
• If the parts are not dishwasher safe, can they be hand-washed with dish soap?
• Does the air fryer have any other accessories —  how do these scrub up?

How we test at home

An air fryer slots easily into everyday life, so we will always use an air fryer for at least a few weeks before completing our review. This helps us to notice any issues that we may have missed in our initial testing, and it will help us observe how well an air fryer slots into day-to-day life.

When testing air fryers at home we obviously use them to cook our four standardized testing foods, otherwise, we also use the air fryer for the occasional lunch or dinner meal, and we have even air-fried the odd sweet treat (such as a cake, cookie, or reheated pastry) as part of this testing. After the standardized testing, we won't force ourselves to use this air fryer so that we can truly comment on if we found that it made our lives easier or not. 

We will review how much kitchen counter space it takes up, how long the connecting cable is, and how easy it is to clean the product by hand, or in the dishwasher, too. It's also worth noting that we will look at the wattage of an appliance, not only just to see how powerful it is (and how that affects cooking results), but also what impact it will have on your energy bills. We will often calculate the cost to run an air fryer by the hour using Sust-it. Typically, our results range between 20-30 cents.

Our air fryer reviews

5 star air fryers

These reviews have been given our gold badge and are considered to be the top-rated models we've tested.

• Cosori CP358-AF Pro Air Fryer review
• Cosori Lite Air Fryer review
• Instant Vortex Mini 4-in-1 Air Fryer review
• Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer review
• Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer review
• Ninja Foodi Multicooker review

4.5 star air fryers

• Breville Halo Air review
• Cosori Air Fryer review
• Cuisinart Air Fryer toaster oven review
• Dash Compact Air Fryer review
• Dreo Air Fryer review

4 star air fryers

• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer
• Cosori Pro LE L501 air fryer review
• Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer review
• Ninja AF101 air fryer review
• Paris Rhone air fryer review
• Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer review

3.5 star air fryers 

• Magic Bullet Air Fryer review
• Proscenic T21 Smart Air Fryer review
• T-fal Actifry Genius XL 2-in-1 air fryer review
• T-fal Easy Fry Compact Digital Health Air Fryer review
• Tower Xpress Pro Combo Air Fryer review

Dash has a wide range of easy-to-use kitchen products and the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer is a great example of what the brand has to offer. I own an older model of the Dash Digital Air Fryer and was excited to see how this newer model measured up and improved upon it. 

I tested this appliance using different recipes to gain a more complete understanding of the product's strengths and shortcomings, and to see if it deserves a spot in our guide to the best air fryers. 

Just like the rest of the brand’s offerings, the air fryer comes in a variety of colors and is designed to facilitate cooking at home. The air fryer’s 2.6qt capacity is well suited for individuals or two people looking for easy reheating and cooking smaller meals from frozen. When it comes to air frying items such as potatoes, bacon and chicken, a lot of trial and error is required. The recipes included in the instruction manual as well as the suggested temperature and time chart fall short.

This model has three preset options that are customizable depending on what you like to cook the most often. The Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer is also very easy to clean. The non-stick coating on the inside of the Crisper Drawer prevents pieces of food and grease from sticking to it. The Crisper Drawer itself, as well as the Crisper Tray, are dishwasher safe. 

Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer specs

• Dimensions: 11.3 x 8.7 x 10.7
• Weight: 7.2 lbs
• Temperature: 200˚F – 400˚F
• Cooking modes: One, but there are 3 saved preset buttons
• Power: 1000 Watts
• Size: 2.6 qt
• Color(s): Aqua, Black, Cool Grey, Red and White

Unboxing

The Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer comes in a Dash branded cardboard box that displays the chosen color on the outside. The contents of the box were not heavy so overall it was easy to carry at a little over 7.2 lbs. The design of the box is consistent with the Dash brand, whimsical and colorful. 

Opening the box I saw that, to keep the air fryer in place, Dash had utilized the very unsustainable styrofoam material for their inserts. The Crisper Drawer itself was also wrapped in plastic as well as the cord and plug. 

Cooking onion rings

The Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer was very easy to use and the digital display is straightforward. When you plug in the air fryer, the digital display lights up and you can press the START/STOP button to begin. On the left side of the digital display is the temperature setter, ranging from 200˚F to 400˚F. You can set the temperature with the up and down buttons. The same can be said for setting the time on the right side. The time ranges from 0 to 60 minutes on the Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer. There are three preset buttons that you can customize based on the temperatures/times you use the most. 

For the first use, I decided to delve into the recipe section of the instruction manual and try my hand at the onion rings. Onion rings are a classic deep fried appetizer and I was curious to see if this air fryer would be able to replicate this rich and crispy dish. 

Overall, not the best experience. The recipe calls for you to coat the panko breadcrumbs with grapeseed or vegetable oil but I found that this prevented the mixture from sticking to the onion rings, even after dredging them in flour and egg. I started over without the oil and the panko breadcrumbs stuck to the onion rings a little better. I proceeded to air fry the onion rings for 10 minutes at 290˚F. While the onion rings came out cooked throughout, they were a poor substitution for the classic deep fried onion rings.

Making French fries

When you think of air fryer recipes, the idea of healthier French fries comes to mind. Like onion rings, French fries are notorious for their crispy texture but also for the copious amounts of oil needed to fry them. Ever since air fryers exploded in popularity, French fries remain the favorite recipe to try out. For my first attempt at air frying potato wedges to make fries, I followed the recipe provided in the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer instruction manual: 15 minutes at 320˚F.

After 15 minutes, and shaking the Crisper Drawer at minute seven for an even fry, the fries came out fully cooked but not crispy enough. The fries felt and tasted like I had baked them in the oven instead of frying them. The longer fries drooped over when held up for further inspection. For my second attempt I air fried another batch for 17 minutes at 390˚F. I was hoping this time I would get the crispness that everyone loves in fries. This batch came out fully cooked and crispy but I could tell some of the smaller wedges were a little burnt.

The third and final attempt at making fries in the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer was the most successful. I air fried the wedges for 16 minutes at 360˚F and they came out perfect: crispy, fully cooked and held their shape. The tip I followed to get the best use out of the air fryer was to not overcrowd the Crisper Drawer since doing so will prevent an even cook. For French fries specifically, make sure the potatoes are dry before frying and, if you want to add a small amount of oil, do so right before air frying.

Cooking bacon

I tested the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer’s capacity to air fry smaller servings of meat by making bacon. I placed three strips of bacon on the Crisper Tray, folding them like in the picture below so that they would fit inside the Crisper Drawer. 

I air fried the bacon for 10 minutes at the maximum heat of 400˚F and it did not turn out as I hoped. The bacon strips looked shriveled up and were so crunchy that they bordered on burnt. These slices could be chopped up and put in a salad, but on their own, the flavor was lost. One of the issues with frying bacon in an air fryer is that there’s not enough surface area in the Crisper Drawer for the bacon slices to lay flat and cook evenly. 

After many tries, and many slices of bacon, I found that a maximum temperature of 350˚F, and seven minutes for softer bacon and nine minutes for crispy bacon, led to the best outcome more consistently. Turning the bacon midway through and cutting the bacon slices in half so as to not fold them on the Crisper Tray, yielded even better results. The fat gathers at the bottom of the Crisper Drawer for easy cleaning.

Cooking from frozen

In my opinion, the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer’s most useful application is cooking something frozen. Buying frozen food or freezing items is the best way to store your food. But when time comes to cook those frozen items, waiting for them to defrost is enough to deter you from preparing them. We’ve all been there. But the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer is here to help. Over the weeks that I tested this product, my favorite meal to prepare was salmon, air fried from frozen.

I found a recipe online that directed me to preheat the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer for three minutes at 390˚F and then to place the frozen salmon filet, skin down, inside the Crisper Drawer and to air fry for seven minutes. After those seven minutes go by, that’s when you can add salt, pepper and any condiments or marinades to the salmon for extra flavor. Then all you have to do is air fry the filet for another seven minutes at 390˚F and you are good to go.

The salmon that comes out of the air fryer is cooked to perfection. I bake salmon all the time in the oven and I have to say the air fryer is by far my favorite way to prepare this fish. When you take it out of the Crisper Drawer, immediately you can see how crispy the outside is. The salmon flakes easily and moisture is retained. Usually when I bake salmon in the oven, my main concern is drying out the filet. But air frying the salmon from frozen prevented this from happening every single time. If I were to rate the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer based solely on air frying frozen food, I would award it a five out of five. 

How to clean the Dash Tasti-Crisp air fryer

The non-stick coating inside the Crisper Drawer is easy to clean. Just remove the Crisper Tray from the air fryer and fill the Drawer with hot water and soap. Then put the Crisper Tray in the Drawer and let it soak for around 10 minutes. Rinse and wipe off any excess grease and food. For safety, make sure the Air Fryer has completely cooled and is unplugged before cleaning. The outside of the appliance can be wiped with a moist, soft cloth. The Crisper Drawer and Crisper Tray is dishwasher safe. 

For more tips, check out how to clean an air fryer.

How does it compare to other air fryers?

As I stated earlier, I have owned an older model of a Dash Air Fryer for years before reviewing the current Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer. The DASH Compact Electric Air Fryer, which is no longer available, has a capacity of up to two quarts. This model is also digital, with presets depending on what you want to cook, such, poultry, meat, bake, French fries and frozen fries. Even though the older model had a smaller air frying capacity, the amount of space it took up on the counter compared to the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer was very similar. The older DASH Compact Electric Air Fryer also does not have a handle like the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer, which has led to a few injuries while attempting to open the Crisper Drawer. Overall I prefer the newer model.

Another similar model by Dash is the Tasti-Crisp™ Air Fryer 2.6Qt which is identical to the reviewed Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer in every way except that it requires adjusting dials as opposed to using a digital screen. There are no preset options but it retails at $59.99, a lower price compared to this model.

The closest competitor for the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp 2.6qt Air Fryer I could find is the Instant Pot Vortex 4-in-1, 2-quart Mini Air Fryer. This product air fries, broils, roasts, and reheats with a range of 120 to 400°F. It also comes in a variety of similar colors to the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer. It has a smaller capacity than the reviewed Dash model and retails at $49.99.

Should you buy the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer?

If you are looking for an easy-to-use air fryer to reheat and air fry smaller batches of food, then the Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer 2.6qt is for you. I found that the best use of the air fryer was to cook from frozen a variety of meals such as party foods, salmon (and other fish filets) and chicken. It cut down the defrosting time of meats, poultry and fish significantly. In one sitting, you could have a meal prepared without wasting any time. When you cook from frozen, one of the issues you may face is the moisture preventing the food from getting crispy. The Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer solves that problem.

For people who want an air fryer to feed a family of three or more, I recommend sizing up and choosing an Air Fryer with a higher capacity. Dash has air fryers with six quart capacity especially made to feed families. The smaller size is also perfect for those with smaller kitchens or not enough storage. The Dash Digital Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer comes in a wide variety of colors to suit people with different color schemes in their kitchens. 

About this review, and the reviewer

Alexandra is a contributor to Real Homes and Homes & Gardens, where she reviews household products to make your life easier at home, whether it’s cooking, cleaning or sleeping. She was sent this product to review at home to test out its air frying performance via constant use and with different types of recipes. This product was tested over the course of one month.

We are not given any compensation for our reviews, but we may be gifted the product meaning that we can test it over a greater length of time, and update our reviews if required. We also receive affiliate commission for some products brought through our site.

The Magic Bullet Air Fryer is one of the latest launches from Magic Bullet, with the budget-friendly and user-lead design that we have come to expect from the brand's blenders and food processor. This is not a brand that is known for cooking though, so I was curious to see how well it cooked alongside some of the leading air fryers on the market from Philips and Instant when I reviewed it in the Real Homes testing kitchen. 

Coming in at $60/£70, there is no denying that this is one of the most affordable small air fryers on the market. Unsurprisingly though, it does not have the most high-quality construction, and it also lacks some of the fancier features you will find in the best air fryers that cost over $150. Find out how it held up in our testing with my full Magic Bullet Air Fryer review. 

Magic Bullet Air Fryer specs

• Weight: 7.9lbs
• Dimensions: ‎11.81 x 11.81 x 12.6 inches
• Temperature: 180°F to 400°F / 80°C to 200°C
• Capacity: 2.5 liters/2.6 quarts
• Cooking modes: Vegetables, fries, chicken wings, frozen chicken, fish, poultry
• RRP: $59.99 / £69.99
• Color: White
• Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe drawer and basket, nonstick coating

Unboxing the Magic Bullet Air Fryer 

My first impression was how lightweight this air fryer is. It's a good option for those who want to store a neat and compact fryer in the cupboard and lift it onto the counter when they want to use it. 

There are two dials that you can use to control the Magic Bullet Air Fryer. On the front is a timer, which goes up to 60 minutes, and on top of the fryer is a temperature dial which goes from 180°F to 400°F / 80°C to 200°C.

I have not used an air fryer with controls like this before, and if you are someone who prefers a more tactile dial or simple, oven-style controls, the Magic Bullet Air Fryer is a good choice for you. Most other air fryers have buttons that will allow you to toggle the temperature and timing, which is shown on a control panel. 

The downside of not offering this is that you're never going to get an exact timing or temperature, and there is a bit more guesswork involved. If your food is ready before your timer is up, you'll have to force the timer to finish early which does feel like it could be damaging to the air fryer long-term.

Roasting vegetables in the Magic Bullet Air Fryer 

Some air fryers such as the Instant Vortex Plus air fryer have modes to roast, bake, dehydrate, and air fry, but with this small kitchen appliance, you can only air fry. There are some icons on top of the fryer that offer different temperature suggestions for different types of food, but ultimately it all depends on what you're cooking. 

When I test air fryers I do a standardized test process to directly compare performance between models. This includes roasting a mix of vegetables to see how well an air fryer can cook foods with a higher moisture content, and achieve a crisp exterior that you'd expect from oven cooking. 

The Magic Bullet Air Fryer did cook the vegetables quite well. They had a lot of flavor and crisped up nicely, but we did notice a little smoke coming out of the basket where other fryers didn't give off smoke. When pouring out the finished vegetables I also found that a few had stuck to the supposedly non-stick insert, which was not ideal. 

When running my first test I also found that I had to push quite hard to get the basket into place in the Magic Bullet Air Fryer, because it was quite stiff. This did loosen up over the testing day, but it made it tricky to check on the vegetables while cooking, and it didn't offer the same high-quality experience as other air fryers which easily click into place. 

UPDATE: Our e-commerce editor Christina Chrysostomou tested Asparagus (spritzed with a little extra virgin olive oil) in April 2023. Cooking them at 180C/ 360F for 10 minutes. She found that the spears were fine to eat (albeit a little undercooked) and gave them another 5 minutes. 15 minutes was adequate, but still not as good as the Paris Rhone air fryers (which we tested at the same time).

Cooking frozen food

Air fryers usually do an amazing job of cooking frozen food, so I cooked some frozen breaded chicken in all of the air fryers I tested. 

Across the board, the air fryers reduced the required cooking time from around 25 minutes to between 12 and 18 minutes, and in the Magic Bullet Air Fryer I found that the finished chicken was cooked through and hadn't dried out after 18 minutes. 

I will say that other air fryers cooked my chicken in a lot less time than this, and even after it was cooked through the chicken could have been more browned across the breaded coating.

UPDATE: Our e-commerce editor, Christina Chrysostomou tried cooked vegan nuggets in the Magic Bullet air fryer going off the packet instructions (190C for 15 mins). The resulting plant-based product was fine for a quick snack, but she commented that they were a little on the dry side so would reduce the time or temperature if serving to guests.

Cooking bacon

Air fryers usually do a brilliant job of cooking bacon in less than 10 minutes, which can save a lot of stress and cleaning up splattered bacon fat from the stove. 

The Magic Bullet Air Fryer did have quite a small basket for my bacon strips, so I had to fold them in order to fit them in. 

I cooked the bacon at the highest temperature, which was 400°F/200°C. Some air fryers from Ninja go up to 250°C, and it was these air fryers in testing that cooked our bacon in the least time. 

The bacon did shrink when cooking, but it remained misshapen from having to be folded to fit in the basket. One thing I noticed throughout testing is that this air fryer ticks while it cooks in the way that a cooking timer would tick. This is because of the timer on the front of the air fryer. Its noise level is quite low, but this ticking is a little annoying. On the plus side, when it is finished cooking it makes a shrill ringing noise (again, like a cooking timer) that's impossible to miss. 

Cooking French fries in the Magic Bullet Air Fryer

Look: I get that people like varying degrees of crispiness when cooking fries. I like a light shade when it comes to this skinny potato product, as I find them a little dry if properly browned in the air fryer. We trusted Magic Bullet's recommendation and popped these on for 25 minutes at 190C. The results were disappointing IMO. The outerside was overcooked, which resulted in a hard and unpaletable eat that was hollow inside.

Cooking hand-cut fries in the Magic Bullet Air Fryer 

The fries I made in the Magic Bullet Air Fryer were the most disappointing of the air fryers we tested, but again, this air fryer was significantly the cheapest of the lineup. After 20 minutes of cooking they were very unevenly browned and the fries at the bottom of the basket were still uncooked. 

After shaking up the basket and adding another 10 minutes to the cooking time, I was happy with how the finished fries looked. However, they still weren't fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside, and I was disappointed with the results for taste and texture.

Cleaning the Magic Bullet Air Fryer 

The Magic Bullet Air Fryer is designed to be non-stick inside, and the removable insert is also coated in a non-stick layer. However, it can't be placed in the dishwasher which is a bit of a shame because many other options on the market can be placed on the top rack.

We did find that the Magic Bullet Air Fryer cleaned up easily by hand, but you need to wait for it to cool down before removing the insert to give it a good scrub. 

Should you buy the Magic Bullet Air Fryer? 

The Magic Bullet Air Fryer is very comparable to the Instant Vortex Mini 4-in-1 Air Fryer, which is also small and affordable. However, if it were a choice between the Magic Bullet Air Fryer and the Vortex Mini I would recommend the Instant every time. It's the air fryer I use in my own small kitchen, and it comes in a fun range of colors. 

However, this air fryer is still a good choice if you want a budget-friendly model with a small capacity that can be easily moved around the kitchen. Because of its unique dial control panel, it's not like many models on the market. If you like the sound of the kitchen timer dial you will enjoy this air fryer. However, if you have more to spend and you want a larger air fryer, I would recommend the Cosori Air Fryer.

Meet our experts

Just when we think we've tried all of the best air fryers on the market, another one comes onto our radar that deserves a spot in our top ten. This can certainly be said for the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer, which comes from a brand that's traditionally known for creating smartphones, watches and speakers, we didn't know what to expect when we took the Xiaomi Mi for a spin in our test kitchen.

While we did come away from testing feeling that other air fryers outperformed when it purely came to cooking, this is the air fryer that we had the most fun using on our testing day, and we also felt that it fitted right in on the white marble countertops and sleek, modern fittings. If your kitchen design is carefully curated and you're worried about bringing the style down with a conventional air fryer, the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer will be the one for you. 

Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer: specs

• Weight: 5kg
• Power: 1700w
• Dimensions: ‎9.92 x 13.19 x 11.97 cm
• Temperature: 40°c to 200°c
• Capacity: 5.5 litres/5.8 quarts
• RRP: £84.99
• Colour: White
• Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe drawer and basket, nonstick coating

Getting started

This air fryer is one of the more attractive options on the market. It's white, with a black smart dial on the front and a pleasing lack of other buttons. It's also quite compact, meaning you'll enjoy cooking for one or two people in its 3.5 litre capacity, but may struggle for large family meals. Setting it up was easy, we simply plugged it in and made sure to remove all the plastic from the inside before touching the controls.

Another big feature is the smart controls. I may be the Small Appliance Editor for Real Homes, but usually app-controlled products fill me with a sense of dread. And while I can't deny that I had a bit of a meltdown syncing this air fryer to my phone, I do genuinely think this was down to our testing facility WiFi and not the fault of the machine. The facility's internet access is (understandably) very secure, so getting it to pair with this random air fryer was virtually impossible. If you're planning on cooking at home though (which let's face it, you definitely are) this won't be a problem.

Better yet, even sans-app, this air fryer is indubitably smart. All the controls happen from the black dial that sits front and centre on the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer, and while I was initially concerned about the lack of buttons on the air fryer, this is because everything can be controlled neatly from this one central button.

The air fryer comes with pre-set options for cooking everything from vegetables to chicken, which is something I'm usually sceptical about. With Cosori air fryers, for example, each setting is laid out in a cluttered display on the front of the air fryer, but in reality you will need different time and temperature settings for every dish you cook due to the size and volume of the dish. For example on a chicken mode, it will only take about 10 minutes to cook chicken wings, but chicken breasts should be cooked on lower temperatures and for longer.

Xiaomi does have an answer for this though. You can select how full the cooking basket is (half or full) and adjust the time and temperature of each pre-set. And if you're like me and prefer to go manual, that's fine too. There's a manual mode available once you've scrolled through the other pre-sets, which only takes a few seconds.

Cooking bacon 

There are loads of things you can cook in an air fryer, so when we test we get a good spread of ingredients to test various functions. We always cook bacon when reviewing air fryers to see how fast the air fryer can cook smaller servings of meat, perfect for brunches or salads. 

In the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer we cooked at the maximum 200-degree temperature, and laid out three rashers in the basket. We did use quite long rashers, but we noted that they didn't quite fit inside the basket and went slightly up the sides of the basket.

Overall we found that while the bacon cooked in a reasonable six minutes, it was not as crisp as in the Ninja air fryer we tested, and it was a bit chewy in places. We suspected that this might be down to the lower temperature, meaning the bacon didn't get the same treatment as it would from a roaring-hot pan. 

On the plus side, the bacon didn't blow around inside the cooking basket, and we noted that the air fryer was one of the quietest ones we tested. 

Roasting vegetables

A lot of air fryers come with roast settings, and while the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer doesn't, we were looking forward to cooking vegetables using the vegetable setting in this air fryer. At this point we found that the dial does require you to turn very slowly if you want to increase the cooking time in one-minute increments, and it defaults to going up at ten minutes at a time if you turn the dial too fast, which isn't very helpful. The same applies to temperature. These are pretty big increments for air fryers which cook things pretty quickly.

We cooked cubes of butternut squash, courgette, pepper and red onion, which all have different cooking points. We noted in some air fryers that the red onion came out burnt, but the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer didn't burn it. 

We were missing the char we'd usually expect when roasting vegetables after 20 minutes, but they were all cooked quite well and there was also no burning. The results didn't impress us too much, but they're definitely comparable to the results you'd get cooking in an oven for about 30 minutes, meaning you still save time overall. 

Cooking fries

Air fryers are famed for making delicious fries, so we always test to see how well they make homemade wedges when putting one through its paces. The Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer has a fries setting, so we used this but adjusted the temperature so it was consistent with the other air fryers we were testing, to make the review fair. 

The chips looked pretty good after 20 minutes of cooking, but even after shaking midway we noticed that the tops of the fries were more cooked than the bottom, and that some were more cooked than others. Our results in the Instant Vortex were more consistent. 

We did enjoy how fluffy the fries were, but they were lacking that crispiness we are used to when air frying. After our bacon and vegetable test, we started to suspect that this air fryer doesn't extract as much moisture as it could, meaning that items may not get as crisp because they're sat in a more moist environment when cooking. 

Cooking from frozen

Air fryers and freezer food are a match made in heaven. Whether you only have time for a 20-minute lunch, or you have hungry mouths to feed and can't wait for the oven to pre-heat, the air fryer will always speed up your cooking time when it comes to chicken fillets or fish fingers. 

We tested some chicken goujons in the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer, cooking them for just 12 minutes to reach a crisp texture, half of the recommended oven cooking time (yes, we did check to see if they were thoroughly cooked through). 

Of all the air fryers we tested, the chicken goujons came out as one of the crispiest consistencies, which surprised us giving its lack of crisping ability for bacon or chips. We suspected that because there was a low moisture content the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer was able to add that bread-coated crunch a bit more easily this time around. 

After this testing we noted that the air fryer had become quite hot to touch, suggesting that after prolonged periods you'd have to be careful around kids or pets. 

Cleaning

No complaints here, the nonstick coating of this air fryer means it's easy to clean by hand, and it also can go in the dishwasher. Happy days. 

The included grilling rack is not nonstick, so you might struggle to scrub away remnants of meat or veggies after using it, but again, it can go in the dishwasher. 

Should you buy the Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer 

Despite some hit-and-miss cooking results, we did really enjoy this air fryer. The design feels high-quality for something that costs well under £100, and it's got some smart features that we've not seen elsewhere. Top of our tick list was the uncluttered design and easy controls, which don't sacrifice user experience for smart features, something I've experienced with rival air fryers in the past. 

That said, don't buy this air fryer if you don't mind an uglier model but want something that cooks like a pro. For that, take a look at our Cosori Air Fryer review, which is slightly more expensive but will achieve that crisp finish with no difficulties. 

About this review, and our reviewer

Millie Fender is an ecommerce editor at Real Homes, specializing in small appliances and all things cooking. She loves putting new products to the test, whether they're air fryers, blenders, or even pizza ovens, and her family and friends love eating the results. 

Millie has a constant stream of new products waiting to be reviewed in her kitchen. It's a little snug, so if she thinks anything deserves to stay there, you know it's something special. 

The Instant Vortex Mini was sent to Millie by Instant Brands, and she tested it for a prolonged period before writing this review. Millie uses her air fryer at least once a day, so it was very thoroughly put through its paces ahead of this review. Because Instant Brands kindly allowed her to keep it, she will keep this review updated as she continues to use it in her kitchen (that is, when she's not testing other air fryers!)

Find out more about how we review products at Real Homes.