Air fryers have become one of the most hyped kitchen appliances of the last decade, but are they worth the cost and counter space? While some swear by them for quick, low-fat cooking, others question whether they are just another gadget destined to gather dust.
Air fryers work similarly to convection ovens, using a heating element and fan to circulate hot air. Their smaller cavity heats up faster, saving energy. A jacket potato takes about 30 minutes in an air fryer compared to nearly an hour in a conventional oven, and running costs are lower—around 19p for 30 minutes versus 28p for a 2kW oven, according to energy expert Natalie Mathie.
However, air fryers come with upfront costs and require valuable worktop space. Chef Saifur Rahman notes that for family feasts, cooking in batches reduces the time and energy advantage. Chef Andy Bowler adds that traditional fan ovens can achieve similar results with proper preheating and a perforated tray, and that air fryers are not suited for saucy dishes.
If you decide to buy, choose a size that fits your needs—4-5 litres for one to two portions, larger for families. Avoid the cheapest models, as they often have poor build quality and non-stick coatings that don't last. Alternatively, make better use of appliances you already own, such as a convection oven or combi microwave, which can produce similar crisp textures.
