How to Choose the Right Air Fryers
Published 2026-07-30 · Updated 2026-07-30
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-07-30.
Our pick: the Ninja Air Fryer AF100UK, 3.8L, 4-in-1, Digital, Grey & Black — the best Air Fryers we tested, from £99.00.
Thinking about buying an air fryer? Before you invest, consider the size you need, how many people you typically cook for, and whether you want extra features like multiple cooking zones or pre-set programs. Factors such as capacity – with options ranging from compact models to larger family-sized units – alongside desired functionalities will help ensure you select an air fryer that perfectly suits your kitchen and culinary preferences. Ultimately, assessing your typical usage patterns is key to finding the right appliance for your needs.
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#1 Pick
Ninja Air Fryer AF100UK, 3.8L, 4-in-1, Digital, Grey & Black- Single or couple households
- 3.8L
£99.00
Pros
- Air fry, roast, reheat and dehydrate in one 4-in-1 unit
- Dishwasher-safe non-stick basket
- Compact enough for smaller kitchens
Cons
- 3.8L capacity is snug for a family of 4+
#2 Pick
Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer, 2 Drawers, 6-in-1, 7.6L, Black (AF300UK)- Family cooking
- 7.6L
£194.99
Pros
- Two independent drawers cook different foods at different temperatures
- Match Cook button syncs both drawers to finish together
- 6-in-1 functions including roast, bake and dehydrate
Cons
- Two-drawer design takes up more worktop and storage space than a single basket
#3 Pick
COSORI Air Fryer 5.5L Capacity, Oil Free, 11 Presets with 100 Recipes Cookbook, Non-Stick, Dishwasher Safe Basket, 1700-Watt (CP158-AF)- Family cooking
- 5.5L
£71.00
Pros
- 11 presets cover everything from fries to whole chicken
- Non-stick dishwasher-safe square basket maximises usable space
- Shake reminder helps food cook evenly
Cons
- Touchscreen controls can be fiddly with wet hands
#4 Pick
Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer that Cooks, Crisps, Roasts, Bakes, Reheats and Dehydrates, with 5.5 Quart Capacity, and a High Gloss Finish, Grey- Family cooking
- 5.5QT
£179.00
Pros
- 5.5-quart basket cooks and crisps up to 3lbs of fries
- Cooks, crisps, roasts, bakes, reheats and dehydrates in one unit
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and crisper plate
Cons
- Larger footprint than single-basket compact air fryers
FAQ
What size air fryer do I need?+
Consider your household size and cooking habits – a smaller 2-3 litre capacity is fine for one or two people, while families will benefit from 5 litres or more. Also, think about the space available in your kitchen; larger models can be bulky.
How do I clean my air fryer?+
Always unplug and allow the unit to cool completely before cleaning. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove loose food particles, then wipe down with a damp (not soaking wet) cloth – avoid submerging the basket in water.
Can I use foil in an air fryer?+
While some manufacturers permit thin sheets of baking parchment, using foil can significantly reduce airflow and hinder optimal cooking. Stick to recommended liners or silicone mats for best results.
What temperature settings should I use?+
Generally, preheating at 200°C (400°F) is a good starting point for most foods – check the specific recipe instructions as timings vary greatly. Don’t overcrowd the basket; ensure there's space around food items for air circulation.
My food isn't crispy - what am I doing wrong?+
Overcrowding the basket will steam the food instead of crisping it, so reduce the quantity. Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated fully and that you’re using a sufficiently powerful fan; some models are better than others.
Do I need special oils for an air fryer?+
You don't *need* to use oil, but a light spray of vegetable or olive oil can improve crisping. Use sparingly – too much oil will lead to soggy food and smoke.
What about using my air fryer in a damp UK climate?+
Humidity can affect cooking times slightly; you might need to add a few extra minutes if your kitchen is particularly damp. Ensure good ventilation during operation.
Are there any safety considerations I should be aware of?+
Always ensure the air fryer is on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Never operate it with a damaged cord or basket – refer to the manufacturer's instructions for repair or replacement.
Can I cook frozen chips in an air fryer?+
Yes, but shake the basket frequently during cooking (around 8-10 minutes at 200°C) to ensure even browning. A light coating of oil helps them crisp up effectively.
What are the UK regulations regarding air fryers?+
Air fryers must be plugged into a functioning mains outlet and should adhere to all electrical safety standards as outlined by the BSI – check for the BS EN 60335 certification mark on the product.
In depth
Choosing an air fryer involves more than just picking one that looks appealing; it’s about understanding your needs and ensuring you select a model suited to the demands of cooking in a UK home. Initially, consider the volume of food you typically prepare – are you feeding a family of four regularly, or mostly individuals? This will heavily influence the size of air fryer you require. Don't be tempted by larger models simply because they seem more impressive; an oversized appliance is inefficient and can produce uneven cooking results. Capacity generally ranges from 3 litres (ideal for singles) to 8 litres or more – assess your usual portions carefully.
Before purchasing, examine the basket design. Many air fryers utilize a static wire mesh basket which, while effective, can be cumbersome when transferring food. Look for models with removable, dishwasher-safe baskets – this dramatically reduces cleaning time and simplifies the process. Also, pay close attention to the cooking pot material; stainless steel is generally preferred as it’s durable, easy to clean, and doesn't react with food. Non-stick coatings are convenient but require careful handling to avoid scratching, so a robust stainless steel option offers longevity. Furthermore, consider the presence of adjustable legs or feet – this allows you to level the air fryer on uneven surfaces commonly found in older UK homes.
Safety is paramount when using any electrical appliance, and air fryers are no exception. Always ensure the unit is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface, well away from flammable materials like curtains or paper towels. Regularly check the power cord for damage – a frayed cord presents a serious electrocution risk. Familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s operating instructions thoroughly before first use and always unplug the air fryer when not in use or during cleaning. UK regulations require appliances to be tested against stringent safety standards; ensure your chosen model carries the necessary BS EN 60335 certification. It's also wise to have a working smoke alarm installed near the cooking area, just as you would with any other heat-generating appliance.
Climate considerations in the UK are important too. The relatively high humidity can affect food drying times – expect slightly longer cooking periods compared to drier climates. Conversely, the often cooler temperatures mean that your air fryer will need more time to reach and maintain its operating temperature. Adjusting cooking times accordingly is crucial; don’t rely solely on the preset timers provided by the manufacturer. Regularly monitor your food for doneness, particularly when cooking denser items like root vegetables or chicken pieces. Using a meat thermometer can be invaluable in ensuring food safety, especially with poultry.
A common mistake UK buyers make is overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding significantly reduces airflow and leads to uneven cooking – some areas will become overcooked while others remain underdone. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding maximum capacity for each batch size. A good starting point is roughly 3/4 full, leaving adequate space for air circulation around the food items. Another frequent error involves applying too much oil or fat, which can create excessive smoke and potentially damage the appliance’s heating element. Use sparingly – a light spray of oil is often sufficient to prevent sticking.
Finally, don't neglect cleaning. While many baskets are advertised as ‘easy clean’, regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance and hygiene. After each use, remove the basket and cooking pot and wash them with warm soapy water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could damage the non-stick coating (if applicable). Thoroughly dry all components before reassembling. A quick wipe down of the exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth is recommended after each session. UK electricity supplies can be sensitive to sudden surges; ensure your home’s electrical system is properly grounded and consider using a surge protector for added protection – particularly if you plan to use the air fryer frequently.