Key takeaways
- Choose capacity based on portion sizes and usable basket space. Litres are a rough guide, so check the manufacturer’s recommended food quantities.
- An air fryer can use less electricity than a full-size oven for smaller portions. Savings depend on the model, cooking time and number of batches.
- Prioritise practical features: easy controls, a timer, a suitable basket and clear cleaning instructions.
- Before cleaning, unplug the appliance and let it cool completely. Wash removable parts and clean the heating area according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The right air fryer comes down to three things: a capacity that matches how many people you cook for, a few features you will actually use, and parts that are easy to clean. Get those right and the appliance earns its place on your counter. This air fryer buying guide walks you through each decision so you can choose with confidence rather than guesswork.
Air fryers have become a fixture in kitchens because they cook everyday food quickly, with little oil and less mess than a pan of hot fat. If you are close to buying and just want to compare sensibly, the sections below cover what matters and what you can safely ignore.
How air fryers work and why they are popular
An air fryer is a compact convection oven. A heating element warms the air inside, and a fan pushes that hot air quickly around the food in a basket. The moving air crisps the outside in a way that mimics deep frying, which is where the name comes from, but you use only a fraction of the oil.
That method brings a few practical benefits for a home kitchen.
- Speed. The small chamber heats fast and rarely needs a long preheat, so weeknight cooking feels quicker.
- Less oil. Foods that would normally be deep fried, such as chips or breaded cutlets, crisp up with a light spray or a teaspoon of oil.
- Lower energy use. Because the space is small, it heats efficiently.
That last point is measurable. In independent testing by the UK consumer group Which?, an air fryer used 0.54 kWh to roast a chicken compared with 1.157 kWh for a built-in oven, and 0.287 kWh to cook chips against 0.863 kWh in the oven. In homes where the cost of running the oven adds up, an air fryer can be a sensible everyday alternative for smaller portions.
These results apply to the appliances and portions tested, rather than every air fryer. Cooking several batches can reduce the savings, and an oven may be more economical when preparing several dishes together.
Popularity also comes from how forgiving these machines are. You shake the basket halfway through, check on the food, and adjust. There is little to learn before you feel comfortable.
Choosing the right capacity for your household
Capacity is the decision most people get wrong, usually by buying too small. Air fryer size is measured in litres, and that number describes the whole basket, not how much food cooks in a single flat layer. Food crisps best in one layer with room for air to move, so treat the litre figure as a guide rather than a promise.
Here is a practical starting point:
| Household | Suggested capacity | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 people | 2-3 litres | Snacks, sides, small portions |
| 3-4 people | 4-5 litres | A family dinner of chicken and vegetables |
| 5 or more, or batch cooking | 6 litres and up | Larger roasts, cooking two foods at once |
A few things to weigh before you decide:
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Counter and storage space. Check the appliance’s dimensions, room to open the drawer or lid, and the ventilation clearance required by its manual.
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How you cook. If you prepare a main and a side together, check whether the model has independently controlled cooking zones. A basket divider alone does not necessarily provide separate temperatures or timers.
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Guests and leftovers. Consider how often you cook larger quantities and whether you are comfortable preparing several batches.
Choose based on usable basket space, typical portion sizes and available counter space—not litres alone. Check the manufacturer’s recommended food quantities and allow the ventilation clearance specified in the manual.
Key features that matter
Once capacity is settled, features separate a model you enjoy from one that frustrates you. Focus on the ones you will use every week and treat the rest as bonuses.
Temperature range and controls
Look for a clear temperature range, commonly up to around 200°C. , and controls you can read at a glance. Some people prefer simple dials; others like a digital display with presets. Neither is better in itself. What matters is that you can set heat and time without a manual in your hand.
Timer and automatic shut-off
A reliable timer that switches the fryer off at the end of cooking is genuinely useful, especially when you are moving between tasks. It stops the cooking cycle when the set time ends, although food still needs checking.
Basket design and non-stick coating
The basket does most of the work. A good non-stick coating releases food cleanly and makes washing easier. A flat, roomy basket lets you spread food in a single layer, which is the secret to even, crisp results.
Dishwasher-safe parts
Removable parts that are safe for the dishwasher save real time. Check which components are dishwasher friendly before you buy, since it varies between models.
Divided baskets and accessories
Some models have independently controlled cooking zones for foods that need different temperatures or times. Others simply divide a basket, so check what the model actually offers. Use only racks, baking tins and other accessories that are compatible with your appliance.
Cleaning and maintenance made easy
An air fryer is one of the easier kitchen appliances to keep clean, and a little routine goes a long way.
After each use, unplug the appliance and let it cool completely. Follow the cleaning instructions for your specific model:
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- Remove the basket and drawer. Wash them in warm soapy water, or place them in the dishwasher if the maker says they are safe for it.
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Wipe the interior. A damp cloth removes splatters. Avoid metal scourers, which can scratch the non-stick surface.
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Clean the heating area as instructed. Follow the manufacturer’s method for removing grease and food residue around the heating element. Do not immerse the appliance or pour water into its electrical housing.
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Dry everything. Let the parts dry fully before you put them back.
For stuck-on grease, soak the basket for a few minutes before washing rather than scrubbing hard. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads, since both shorten the life of the coating. Cleaning the fryer regularly also reduces smoke and smell, because burnt-on residue is a common cause of both. A set of soft brushes and non-scratch sponges keeps this routine quick.
Simple recipes to try first
The best way to get comfortable with a new air fryer is to cook a few forgiving dishes before you attempt anything fancy. Start with these.
- Frozen chips or wedges. Spread them in a single layer, cook at a high temperature, and shake the basket halfway. This is the classic first test and shows how your model handles crisping.
- Roasted vegetables. Toss carrots, peppers or courgettes with a little oil, salt and pepper. Air frying concentrates their flavour and gives soft insides with browned edges.
- Chicken pieces. Season thighs or drumsticks and follow your appliance’s cooking guidance. Use a food thermometer to check that the thickest part reaches at least 74°C (165°F), avoiding the bone. Do not rely on colour or clear juices to judge whether chicken is safely cooked.
- Reheated leftovers. Pizza slices, pastries and roast potatoes reheat far better in an air fryer than a microwave, because they crisp again instead of going soft.
A note on browning: aim for a golden colour rather than a dark one. Food safety authorities recommend cooking starchy foods such as potatoes to a golden yellow rather than deep brown to limit acrylamide, a compound that forms when these foods are cooked at high heat. Guidance from the European Food Safety Authority on acrylamide applies whatever appliance you use, air fryer or oven. Cooking to golden is a simple habit that also keeps food tasting its best.
As you grow more confident, you can move on to breaded fish, homemade cutlets and small bakes. The principles stay the same: single layer, shake or turn partway, and check as you go.
Making your choice
If you take one thing from this guide, let it be the capacity decision. Choose a size that fits how many people you cook for and how you like to cook, then let features and cleaning ease guide you between models. A well-matched air fryer will save you time on busy evenings and give you crisp, satisfying food with very little oil.
Compare the Sonifer 4.2 L Air Fryer (1400W) and Sonifer 6 L Air Fryer (1500W) at European Household. Check each model’s capacity, controls and specifications against your cooking needs, or browse our Electric Appliances collection for more options.
Frequently asked questions
What size air fryer do I need?
As a rough starting point, consider 2–3 litres for smaller portions, 4–5 litres for more cooking space, and 6 litres or more for larger quantities. Check usable basket dimensions and the manufacturer’s recommended food quantities. Preparing a complete meal may still require several batches.
Do air fryers really use less energy than an oven?
In independent tests by the UK consumer group Which?, an air fryer used 0.54 kWh to roast a chicken compared with 1.157 kWh for a built-in oven. Savings will vary by model and dish.
Are air fryers hard to clean?
Regular cleaning is usually straightforward. Unplug the appliance and let it cool completely first. Clean removable parts according to the manual, using a dishwasher only where permitted. Follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions for the interior and heating area.
Can you cook a full meal in an air fryer?
Yes, depending on the portions and basket layout, although you may need separate batches. Models with independently controlled cooking zones can prepare foods at different temperatures or times. A larger basket or divider alone does not guarantee that feature.
Do you need to use oil in an air fryer?
Very little. A light spray or a teaspoon of oil helps foods crisp and brown, but many dishes cook well with almost none, which is one reason people choose an air fryer over deep frying.
