An air fryer is one of the most popular kitchen appliances in 2022. It’s said to be a healthier and faster alternative to the usual ovens and deep fryers. With such a vast selection, how do you choose the best one for your home?
Huge Air Fryer World
When one hears about an air fryer, they tend to think that it fries with air – hence the name. Yet, it’s not the case for this appliance. This small oven-like robot can really be a lot healthier than a deep fryer, but it works similarly to a convection oven. Hot air circulates inside with the help of the fan, thus cooking the food. What about the prices? No one has to spend all their money on an air fryer, and the most expensive choices won’t necessarily bring the best results. Instead, focus on your financial abilities and basic cooking needs. For example, the smallest models are around $30. They already do a decent job at cooking food. More powerful models will cost up to $40. Of course, these would have a better design as well. Generally, air fryers go up to $300.
Newbies should get a smaller version – a solo air fryer. They have a cylindrical shape with a small basket inside. It moves in and out and holds the food. While some small appliances have only one compartment, the biggest solo air fryers might include two for a faster experience. That said, two foods can cook at the same time but at different temperatures. On top, there are either digital or manual controls. In case you don’t want to spend a fortune on a cooker, a solo air fryer is your choice, and it won’t take up a lot of space in the kitchen either.
Advanced Types
Another amazing type is an air frying toaster oven – this model looks just like a countertop oven or microwave. Apart from the oven functions, it includes air frying. The air frying oven is a big upgrade from a solo air fryer as it can broil, roast, bake, toast and so much more, just like an actual kitchen oven. More expensive models even have a rotisserie function! Big families or party hosts might opt for this even if it costs more. Unfortunately, the bigger size of the oven also means a longer cooking time in general. Moreover, they will probably take more effort to make the food crisp. Be ready to spend a minimum of $150 on an air frying toaster oven.
There’s one more combo option. Your air fryer can also be a multicooker! While they cost from $175 to $250, the option is the most convenient on the market. If you want an Instant Pot with a fryer option, get that one! Ninja’s Foodi multicooker and the Instant Pot Duo Crisp are the most popular models out there. Thankfully, these models also make the most delicious food – without actually frying it! If you already have an Instant Pot, there’s no need to get another one. The company provides its users with a small extension – an Instant Pot air fryer lid. It costs $90.
Mealthy for $60 is a second choice. It’s attached on top of the cookers and air fries food on the bottom. These lids work very well, but they don’t have much space in them.
Sources: Choice, CNET, Insider, The Manual