Air fryers use little to no oil and can cook meals faster, making them a useful kitchen appliance. But buying one requires some thought. There are a range of models from different brands, each with unique features. One must choose an option only after researching and comparing multiple options. Haste can cause one to pick an air fryer that does not meet their requirements, leading to a waste of money.

1. Budget
Setting a budget is the first thing to do when buying any kitchen appliance. The market has a wide range of air fryers at different prices. The cost usually varies based on size, capacity, brand, type, and features.

2. Brand
The brand is one of the most important things that affect a kitchen appliance’s price. The top air fryer brands offer quality products with advanced features, such as one-touch smart programs, quick and even heating, and touchscreens. The best way to know whether a brand is good is to read online reviews. Many customers review air fryers after using them for some time. While writing the review, they talk about the price they paid and their experience with a particular brand.

3. Size
An air fryer’s size can be a deal breaker. It’s a crucial factor that helps decide where to place the appliance on the countertop. It also determines the amount of food one can cook at a  time. Small air fryers can accommodate limited food, so they are best suited for small families. Larger families or families that host guests often may benefit from a larger model. Picking a smaller size than required may force a person to cook in batches, wasting time and effort. That’s why it’s important to get the right option. 

When choosing a size, one must also check whether the air fryer can accommodate the baking dishes, cake pans, and other dishware they already own. A small device may be unable to accommodate most dishware, so users would need to invest in new ones. Since the air fryer must also fit dishware, its actual usable capacity will be less.

4. Temperature settings and timer
Not every air fryer has the same temperature range. While some can heat food to very high temperatures, others may not be able to keep up. One must consider this before choosing a model. The household’s eating and cooking preferences play a crucial role here. Those who cook meat may need an air fryer supporting high temperatures. But that may not be necessary if the primary goal is baking and cooking veggies.

Besides the temperature range, one must check whether the air fryer has a built-in timer. A timer switches off the appliance automatically after a set period, which can be adjusted depending on what’s being cooked. Once the timer is set, users can concentrate on other tasks and let the appliance complete the cooking process.

5. Safety and maintenance
Another thing to prioritize when buying an air fryer is its safety features. Air fryers with built-in timers are safer as they turn off automatically. This not only keeps the food from burning but also prevents mishaps. One must also check whether the device is dishwasher-safe. While most can be washed in the dishwasher, it’s always best to verify this. Models that are not dishwasher-safe may get damaged if tossed into a dishwasher. If one has no time to maintain an air fryer, one must consider investing in a smaller, lighter one.

6. Features
It’s important to invest in an air fryer that one knows for sure will be used and not just occupy precious counter space. For an air fryer to be handy, it must have a few important features.

• Air fryers are not just used for frying food without excess oil. They come with modes like baking, dehydrating, reheating, toasting, and even rotisserie cooking. One should ensure the model they are considering has the modes they need.
• Some models also have preset modes, such as frozen snacks, cakes, and fish. These modes save time as one does not need to find the right temperature and timing to cook a particular food.
• Another advanced feature to look for is the “keep warm” option. It allows one to maintain the temperature and crispiness of the food.
• Other standard features include a digital display, temperature probe, glass doors, cooking zones, and manual controls.

7. Warranty
When buying an air fryer, one should pay attention to the warranty period. Some models have a warranty period of 45 to 60 days. If the appliance malfunctions or breaks down after this period, one must pay for replacement or repairs. It’s best to opt for air fryers with a warranty period of 1 to 2 years. Reputable brands offering quality air fryers may also offer a 3-year warranty. It’s important to check the terms and conditions of the warranty before finalizing a product.