In today’s fast-paced world, finding healthier and more efficient ways to cook has become a growing trend. With people becoming more health-conscious, the demand for cooking methods that are both healthier and faster has skyrocketed. This is where air fryers come into play.
The best air fryers in NZ not only offer a compact design and low power consumption, but they also provide a versatile cooking solution. From frozen foods to roast chicken and grilled veggies, air fryers can cook a wide range of dishes without compromising on taste. What sets them apart is their ability to reduce the amount of oil used, resulting in a reduction of saturated fat consumption.
In this blog post, we will explore the many benefits of using air fryers as a healthier, faster, and simpler cooking method.
How do air fryers work?
Air fryers operate using a method that circulates hot air around the food placed in a perforated basket, mimicking the effects of deep frying without requiring much oil. At the heart of an air fryer is a heating element, typically located at the top, which heats the air inside. A powerful fan then rapidly circulates the hot air (often up to 200°C or 392°F), cooking the food evenly and creating a crispy outer layer through a combination of convective heat transfer and the Maillard reaction—a chemical process that gives fried foods their characteristic browned appearance and flavour.
Due to the efficient circulation of hot air, air fryers can cook food quickly while using significantly less oil than traditional frying, which makes them a healthier option. The result is food that has a similar texture and taste to deep-fried foods but with fewer calories and potentially harmful compounds that can be created during high-temperature oil frying.
What are the advantages of Air Fryers?
Air fryers provide a healthier alternative to deep frying by significantly reducing the amount of oil needed to achieve a similar texture and taste. A study suggests that air frying can cut calories by 70% to 80% and have a lot less fat compared to deep frying. This cooking method may also lower the formation of harmful compounds like acrylamide found in traditionally fried foods.
Additionally, air fryers offer convenience and versatility; they preheat quickly, can be used to grill, roast, and bake, and are easy to clean due to their non-stick surfaces. They’re also safer, producing less of the airborne oil particulates associated with traditional frying, and are compact, making them suitable for smaller kitchens.
What are types of Air Fryers?
There are several types of air fryers on the market, each with different features and cooking capacities. Below, we have discussed some of the most popular models.
Basket Air Fryers (Pull-out Tray):
The most common type of air fryer is the basket style, characterised by a pull-out drawer/basket. Users place the food into this basket, which fits into the main unit. The heating element is located above the food, and a fan circulates the hot air. Basket air fryers are typically designed for 1 to 4 people, making them suitable for individuals and small families. They are compact and can easily fit on most countertops.
Pros:
- Compact design is ideal for small kitchens.
- Usually more affordable.
- Simple to use, with a single basket for both cooking and serving.
- Many models are easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe components.
Cons:
- Limited capacity can be a constraint for larger families.
- Shaking or flipping is often required for even cooking.
- The basket can wear out over time, especially with frequent use.
Oven Air Fryers:
Oven air fryers mimic the look and functionality of mini convection ovens and often feature racks or shelves that allow for more food to be cooked at once, making them ideal for larger families or meal prepping. Many have additional functions beyond air frying, such as baking, broiling, and toasting. These models have a larger footprint and can serve as multifunctional appliances, which can be appealing for those with enough space.
Pros:
- Larger capacity suitable for families and meal prepping.
- Multi-functional capabilities, often replacing other small appliances.
- Multiple racks or shelves allow cooking different foods simultaneously.
- Transparent window in some models to monitor cooking.
Cons:
- Larger footprint requires more counter space.
- Often pricier than basket-type models.
- Preheating may take longer due to the larger size.
Paddle-Type Air Fryers:
These air fryers have a unique stirring paddle that automatically turns the food during the cooking process. This helps to ensure even cooking without the need for the user to shake or flip the food manually. Paddle-type air fryers are great for dishes that require stirring, such as risottos or certain types of stews.
Pros:
- Automatic stirring paddle helps food cook evenly without manual intervention.
- Good for dishes that need continuous stirring, like risottos.
- No need to stop the cooking process to shake or turn the food.
Cons:
- Paddles can break delicate foods apart.
- Some users might find cleaning the paddle mechanism cumbersome.
- Typically less versatile than oven air fryers.
Halogen Air Fryers:
Rather than using traditional heating elements, halogen air fryers utilise a halogen bulb to produce the necessary heat, often resulting in faster cooking times. These often have a glass bowl design, allowing users to watch their food as it cooks.
Pros:
- Fast cooking times thanks to efficient halogen heating.
- Transparent bowl design lets users watch the food as it cooks.
- Often come with accessories for versatile cooking options.
Cons:
- Bulky and require significant storage space.
- Halogen bulbs may need replacing and can be difficult to find.
- Glass bowls can be heavy and challenging to clean.
Rotisserie Air Fryers:
Some air fryers come with rotisserie functions, enabling the user to cook whole chickens or roasts evenly on a rotating spit. This type of air fryer is excellent for those who enjoy cooking meats with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Pros:
- Ideal for cooking whole meats evenly with a crispy exterior.
- Often include additional accessories for versatile cooking.
- Can create a visually appealing cooking process, making it entertaining for guests.
Cons:
- The rotisserie function can have a learning curve for optimal results.
- Cleaning can be more complex due to additional rotisserie components.
- May have a larger size, similar to oven air fryers.
What Can You Cook in an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can cook a wide range of foods. Essentially, anything that can be baked, fried, or grilled can also be cooked in an air fryer. Here are some examples of foods you can prepare:
1. Frozen Foods: This includes items like french fries, mozzarella sticks, chicken nuggets, and fish sticks. Air fryers excel at making these foods crispy and golden brown without requiring additional oil.
2. Meat: You can cook various meats, including chicken breasts, steak, pork chops, and meatballs. The circulating hot air creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
3. Vegetables: Air frying can caramelise vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and bell peppers more efficiently than roasting, delivering a crunchy texture with concentrated flavours.
4. Snacks and Appetisers: Foods such as jalapeño poppers, spring rolls, and samosas can be cooked to a crisp finish.
5. Seafood: Shrimp and fillets of fish air fry quickly with a flavorful crust, with no worry of the fish sticking to a pan or falling apart.
6. Baked Goods: Small batches of baked goods like cookies, muffins, and pastries can be made, although they may have a different texture from oven-baked equivalents.
7. Eggs: You can make hard-boiled eggs without water, and some even use the air fryer for omelettes or frittatas.
8. Reheating: An air fryer can reheat leftovers, restoring the crispiness that is often lost in the microwave.
What are the factors to Consider When Buying an Air Fryer
When investing in an air fryer, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that you purchase a model that fits your needs and preferences. Below are critical considerations:
Wattage: Ensure that your kitchen’s electrical outlets can support the wattage requirements of the air fryer, which generally range from 800 to 1500 watts. Higher wattage units can heat up and cook food faster but may also consume more energy.
Temperature Control: Look for air fryers with a wide temperature range, which increases the appliance’s versatility. A broad temperature range allows you to cook a variety of foods properly, from crispy vegetables to juicy meats.
Cooking Speeds: Some models heat up and cook food faster than others. If you’re looking for quick meal solutions, check for preheat times and total cooking speeds.
Safety Features: Features like cool-touch handles, automatic shut-off, and overheat protection add a layer of safety, especially in households with children.
Ease of Use: Consider air fryers with intuitive controls, whether they are digital or dial-based. Features like preset cooking programs can be convenient for common foods.
Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe parts simplify the cleaning process. An air fryer that’s difficult to clean may become a nuisance and deter you from using it.
Functions and Features: Some air fryers only fry, while others have multiple functions like roasting, baking, and grilling. Consider what cooking methods you use most often. Additionally, look for useful features like an integrated timer, automatic stirring, or the ability to cook two types of foods at once.
Space and Footprint: Air fryers can be bulky. Assess your kitchen space to determine what size and shape of air fryer you can accommodate. Remember that air fryers need clearance on all sides for proper ventilation.
Quality and Durability: Higher-quality materials may increase the longevity of the appliance. Read reviews to learn about the durability of the air fryer you’re considering.
Brand Reputation and Warranty: A reputable brand with good customer support can be important, especially if you encounter issues with your appliance. A good warranty also gives you peace of mind that you can get the product serviced or replaced if there are any faults.
Price: Set a budget based on how frequently you plan to use the air fryer and the features you require. Sometimes paying a bit more initially for a higher quality product can lead to better performance and longevity, which can save money in the long run.
Accessories: Some air fryers come with additional accessories like racks, skewers, or baking pans. These can be useful and add to the appliance’s versatility, but they also take up additional storage space
Top 20 Best Air Fryers NZ
Best Multi Cooker Air Fryers
1. Sunbeam Multi Function Air Fryer BT7200
The Sunbeam Multi Function Oven + Air Fryer is where convenience meets health, transforming the kitchen experience with its dual functionality. It’s not just an oven; it’s an innovation, combining the thoroughness of a convection oven with the health-conscious prowess of an air fryer.
You can now enjoy your favourite fried foods with a significant reduction in oil, thanks to its air frying capability which uses 99.6% less oil compared to a traditional Sunbeam deep fryer. The mesh basket feature is a thoughtful addition, simplifying the cooking process and making post-meal cleanup a breeze.
With Turbo Heat Fan Technology, the Sunbeam appliance ensures that your meals are cooked to crispy perfection. The spacious interior is impressive, accommodating everything from a 12-inch pizza to a hefty 2.8kg chicken, ensuring no dish is too big for this mighty kitchenaid.
Plus, the ability to cook a whole bag of fries is a testament to its capacity. Customization is at your fingertips with independent dial controls for temperature, cook function, and a 60-minute timer, making it a versatile tool fit for any culinary challenge. The stainless colour adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen decor, ensuring that this multifunctional oven is as stylish as it is practical.
2. Kogan 23L Digital Air Fryer Oven
The Kogan 23L Digital Air Fryer Oven is a marvel of modern kitchen technology, encapsulating the functions of an air fryer, rotisserie, oven, and dehydrator all in one robust appliance. Offering a more energy-efficient cooking method, this air fryer oven liberates you from the need for oil, allowing for healthier meals without sacrificing taste.
With an impressive 1700W of heating power, you have the flexibility to adjust the temperature from 60–230°C, ensuring precise cooking for a wide array of recipes. The digital control panel, equipped with 8 preset cooking settings, simplifies the cooking process, making it approachable for both novice cooks and seasoned food enthusiasts alike.
For those who crave the perfect rotisserie chicken or delightfully crispy chips, the rotisserie function with 360-degree food rotation brings even and succulent cooking results. The convenience doesn’t stop there; the adjustable timer feature allows for multitasking in the kitchen without the worry of overcooking.
Kogan has thoughtfully included a comprehensive set of accessories – a rotisserie spit, wire rack, baking pan, air fryer basket, spit removal tool, crumb tray, and rolling cage, each serving a key purpose to enhance your cooking experience. Whether you’re baking, frying, or dehydrating, this air fryer oven is designed to make your culinary endeavours smoother and your meals more diverse and delicious.
3. Maxkon 30L 18-In-1 Air Fryers
The Maxkon Air Fryers is a splendid addition to any kitchen, with its standout Dual Cook Function allowing for sequential cooking at the touch of a button. You can effortlessly program your air fryer oven to begin with one preset and then automatically shift to another, ensuring a meticulously executed dish every time.
With 18 integrated presets ranging from crispy french fries to succulent steak or even dehydrated snacks, the possibilities seem endless. Serving a group is no issue, as its spacious 30L interior can easily accommodate meals for 6-8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or social gatherings.
Health-conscious individuals will appreciate that this device operates without the hefty amount of oil typically used in conventional frying, featuring a balanced heating system with 6 heating tubes to achieve that perfect oil-free fry. Temperature and time settings are adjustable, providing the flexibility to perfect every recipe. Constructed with food-grade stainless steel and featuring a clear digital display, not only is the air fryer oven built to last, but it also offers ease of use.
4. Kitchen Couture 25 Lt Air Fryers
The Kitchen Couture Air Fryer is an innovative culinary tool that brings efficiency and style to your cooking routine with its sizable 25-litre capacity and elegant French door design. Not only does it enhance the aesthetic of your kitchen, but it also simplifies meal preparation with an array of 22 preset cooking functions, including a handy preheat option.
This air fryer’s advanced air-circulation technology ensures that your meals are cooked evenly with a crispy, tantalising finish that can compete with traditional frying methods, all while allowing you to cook at temperatures up to 200 Degrees Celsius. Its intuitive 60-minute digital timer allows for careful monitoring of cooking times, ensuring your dishes are prepared to perfection.
With an automatic shut-off function, safety is prioritised, giving peace of mind as you multitask in the kitchen. The unique air duct system is engineered to maximise airflow for consistent cooking results. Moreover, maintenance is made simple with tempered glass doors that offer durability and dishwasher-safe accessories, streamlining the post-dining cleanup process.
Best Toaster Oven With Air Fryers
5. Ninja Foodi XL DT200 Air Fry Oven
The Ninja Foodi Air Fry Oven is a powerhouse of versatility, featuring True Surround Convection technology that delivers faster, crispier, and juicier culinary results. The high-velocity fan works in tandem with a rear heat source to ensure two-level cooking with uniform temperature distribution, eliminating the need for rotation when cooking large dishes.
Its 10-in-1 functionality consolidates a variety of cooking methods into one 2400-watt appliance. Whether you’re air frying, baking, grilling, or roasting, this oven offers a setting to suit every meal-time need.
When it comes to preparing quick family dinners, the Ninja Foodi XL stands out, boasting a 90-second preheat time that significantly cuts down overall cooking duration compared to traditional ovens.
The extra-large capacity is impressive, providing ample space to cook a meal suitable for the entire family, such as a whole 2.3kg chicken with a side of vegetables, double 13-inch pizzas, or even a generous 5.4kg turkey. The digital display conveniently integrated into the handle highlights the optimal rack positions for your selected function, and pauses settings when the door is open to prevent unintended changes.
6. Breville the Smart Oven Air Fryer BOV860BSS
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer is a testament to advanced kitchen technology, powered by the ingenuity of the Element iQ system. This system is the brain behind the appliance, delivering not just an air frying dynamo but also a master of 9 additional cooking techniques.
Breville extends its intelligent design with the Element IQ system to steer power dynamically, providing an even heat distribution that ensures precise cooking without any cold spots. This level of control across independent heating elements and optimal rack positioning simplifies the cooking process, making it nearly foolproof.
Its versatility is further showcased in its 10 cooking functions that cater to a variety of needs from toasting bread to slow cooking tender meals. Cooking times can be expedited thanks to its dual-speed convection feature, which circulates heat effectively for quick and even results.
The intuitive LCD display not only grants easy access to all these smart functions but also indicates when the oven has reached the desired preheat temperature. Lastly, an integrated oven light is a cherry on top, providing a clear view of your meal’s progress without opening the door, mirroring the thoughtful design of larger, traditional ovens.
Best Two-Basket Air Fryers
7. Instant Pot Vortex Plus Dual Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus Dual Air Fryer is a versatile and convenient kitchen companion that offers a 6-in-1 function to air fry, roast, grill, bake, reheat, and dehydrate with ease. Its ClearCook window complemented by an internal light is a standout feature, allowing you to keep an eye on your food’s progress without the need to interrupt the cooking process by opening the basket.
Instant Pot’s innovative EvenCrisp technology ensures that your favourite foods achieve the same delicious crunch and tenderness you would expect from deep-frying, but with 95% less oil, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. The fryer’s temperature range is impressively broad, adjustable from 95 to 400°F to accommodate a multitude of recipes.
It’s designed to be efficient, heating up quickly and capable of transforming frozen food to golden perfection in minutes. The user-friendly touchscreen provides step-by-step instructions and displays each stage of cooking, ensuring a seamless experience.
It is sized to cook up to 6 portions, it’s perfect for families and meal prep enthusiasts. Post-cooking, the cleanup is just as streamlined, with dishwasher-safe components like the non-stick cooking basket and trays. Plus, its countertop-friendly design ensures it won’t dominate your kitchen space, and built-in safety features offer added peace of mind.
8. Kogan 8L Dual Zone Air Fryer Oven
The Kogan Dual Zone Air Fryer Oven introduces a revolution in home cooking with its dual 4-litre zones, allowing you to cook different foods concurrently without flavour cross-contamination.
Whether you’re preparing a protein in one compartment and a vegetable side in the other, the Smart Finish feature is particularly ingenious, syncing the zones to complete cooking simultaneously. This ensures a harmonious meal ready to be served at its freshest.
The appliance simplifies the cooking process with its 8 preset cooking options accessible via a user-friendly digital control panel. Despite its robust size, this air fryer oven operates at a power-efficient 1700W, demonstrating that bigger meals don’t necessarily mean a higher energy bill.
The adjustable temperature control ranges from a low 40° to a high 200°, allowing for a versatile cooking experience. Additionally, the non-stick cooking baskets are a welcome convenience, ensuring that the dreaded after-dinner cleanup is as hassle-free as possible.
9. Healthy Choice 8L Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer
The Healthy Choice 8L Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer revolutionises cooking with its dual-zone technology, allowing for the simultaneous preparation of different dishes in its two 4-litre non-stick baskets.This design not only saves time but also enables diverse menu options to be cooked together, catering to varying taste preferences.
The air fryer features two independent fans and heating elements which guarantee that heat distribution is even and efficient in both zones, ensuring your food is perfectly cooked every time.
With an adjustable temperature ranging from 85°C to 200°C and a timer that can be set from 1 to 60 minutes, this appliance offers great flexibility in cooking a wide variety of meals, from gently dehydrated fruits to crispy, golden fries.
The large digital display, coupled with intuitive touch controls, makes it simple to navigate through the 10 pre-set cooking programs, optimising convenience for every user. Whether you’re a busy parent in need of quick meal solutions or a health-conscious individual looking to prepare guilt-free dishes, the Healthy Choice air fryer fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, promising efficiency and ease in your culinary endeavours.
Best Air Fryer Pressure Cookers
10. Instant Pot Duo Crisp Pressure Cooker Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp Air Fryer epitomises the convergence of speed, versatility, and convenience in the kitchen. This 11-in-1 marvel not only serves as a multifunctional Instant Pot for wet cooking methods but transforms into an air fryer with the swap of a lid.
The pressure cooker lid comes with 6 wet cooking functions, enabling quick and diverse creations such as sautéed veggies, steamed dumplings, slow-cooked stews, perfect sous-vide steaks, or simply keeping your dish warm. Then, with the air fryer lid, 5 crisp cooking methods await: air frying for healthier fried food alternatives, roasting succulent meats, baking fluffy cakes, broiling for a crispy topping, and dehydrating snacks.
Simplicity is at the heart of the design with Smart Programs that make cooking accessible to all skill levels, while bright displays and user-friendly controls demystify the process, even when making adjustments mid-cook. The ability to customise time and temperature settings offers complete culinary control, and you can easily save presets for your favourite dishes.
The Delay Start function is a thoughtful touch, ensuring meals are ready at your convenience. Whether you’re an experienced chef or new to the world of pressure cooking and air frying, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp adapts to your pace and preference, promising a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience.
11. Ninja Foodi Pro 10-in-1 Multi Cooker
The Ninja Foodi Multi Cooker is a comprehensive tool for those who appreciate the intersection of speed, versatility, and efficiency in the kitchen. This 11-in-1 iteration of the original Ninja Foodi includes novel functions like Yoghurt, Sous Vide, and Dehydrate, all polished with a premium stainless-steel finish.
Its cornerstone TenderCrisp Technology allows you to pressure cook for succulent juices and then switch to the crisping lid to achieve that coveted golden finish. The reversible rack enhances the one-pot meal experience, enabling simultaneous cooking of proteins and sides, making it a time-saver for creating complex dishes.
Designed to cater to small families or gatherings, it comes with a sizable 6L pot and a 3.7L Cook & Crisp basket that can handle an impressive volume, whether it’s a hefty portion of fries or a whole chicken.
The ceramic-coated, non-stick components are a nod toward easy cleanup, being dishwasher safe. Additionally, if your day runs longer than expected, the Keep Warm mode ensures your dinner stays ready to eat for up to 12 hours.
This multi cooker isn’t just about cooking quickly; it’s also about bringing ease and joy to the process, complete with a 45-recipe guide to spark your culinary imagination. Whether you’re pressure cooking a stew, slow-cooking a roast, or giving a crispy edge to your fries, the Ninja Foodi Pro simplifies and streamlines the journey from prep to plate.
12. MasterPro Ultimate Multi Cooker Airfryer
The Masterpro 5L Ultimate Air Fryer MultiCooker stands out as a culinary innovator, designed to enhance your meal preparation with multifaceted cooking methods.
This appliance is not limited to air frying; it also has the capability to slow cook and pressure cook, broadening the spectrum of recipes and tastes you can explore. From tender slow-cooked stews to hearty pressure-cooked beans, the options are virtually limitless, making mealtime an exciting adventure.
The user-friendly LED control panels simplify the cooking process, offering convenience features like an automatic ‘keep warm’ setting and the ability to delay the start of cooking by as much as 24 hours.
Boasting 14 pre-programmed functions, including settings for rice, yoghurt, and soup, this MultiCooker invites you to be creative and expand your repertoire in the kitchen.
The inclusion of practical accessories – a removable stainless steel bowl, soup ladle, rice paddle, and measuring cup – ensures you have all the essentials needed to dive into your culinary pursuits. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting to discover your cooking prowess, the Masterpro Ultimate Air Fryer MultiCooker offers a dependable, easy-to-use solution for a wide range of delicious, homemade meals.
Best Compact Air Fryers
13. Sunbeam Duraceramic Air Fryer
The Sunbeam Copper Infused Duraceramic Air Fryer presents itself as a substantial kitchen aid, especially for those who entertain or have a family to feed. The large basket size ensures that you can prepare multiple servings of your favourite foods, satisfying everyone’s appetite in one go.
The inclusion of a 30-minute timer, temperature control that reaches up to 200 degrees, and an audible alert signal when your meal is ready, combine to take the guesswork out of cooking, allowing for a stress-free culinary process.
User-friendly aspects are at the heart of this air fryer’s design. The safe-to-touch handle makes it a breeze to operate without the fear of burns, and the ease of removing the fry basket streamlines both the cooking and cleaning processes, ensuring more time can be spent enjoying your food rather than scrubbing pots and pans. Additionally, cord storage is a smart feature that helps maintain a tidy countertop.
14. Nutribullet – 7L XXL Digital Air Fryer
The Nutribullet 7L XXL Digital Air Fryer simplifies the cooking process with eight preset programs, taking the guesswork out of preparing your favourite dishes. Utilising advanced Vortex convection technology, this air fryer proficiently circulates heat 360 degrees around the food, ensuring that each bite is evenly crispy and delicious. Not only does it achieve wonderfully textured results, but it also does so with less oil and in a reduced cooking time, promoting healthier eating habits without compromising on taste.
Accommodating larger portions is no challenge for the Nutribullet air fryer; its 7L cooking basket is more than capable of handling up to 1 kg of chips or even a 3kg chicken, making it an ideal choice for feeding families and friends.
The appliance’s built-in smart technology ingeniously adjusts the cooking time to compensate for heat loss every time the drawer is opened, ensuring consistent cooking temperatures. Clean-up is equally thought-out, with a removable drip tray and plates that are both dishwasher-safe and non-stick.
The user-friendly digital display provides easy access to settings and allows for manual time and temperature adjustments. Additional thoughtful touches include the versatile Ribbed and Flat plates for accommodating various types of food and the Cool Touch Handle, which makes it safe and easy to remove your meal once it’s ready.
15. Instant Pot Vortex 2L Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Vortex 2L Air Fryer is a compact and efficient addition to the kitchen, offering 4-in-1 versatility that allows you to quickly air fry, bake, roast, and reheat with ease. Its compact size belies its capability, with little to no need for preheating, meaning you can take foods from frozen to a golden, crispy finish in minutes.
This air fryer employs EvenCrisp technology, designed to provide the crunch and tenderness associated with deep-frying, but with significantly less oil, catering to those who are health-conscious yet unwilling to compromise on taste and texture.
With a basket spacious enough to fit up to 4 cups of fries or a quarter chicken, this air fryer is well-suited for small families, couples, or individuals. The emphasis on user convenience is evident, with the air fryer being straightforward to operate, a breeze to clean, and simple to store, making it an unobtrusive yet powerful kitchen gadget.
Safety isn’t overlooked either, with built-in features designed to offer peace of mind while cooking. Whether you’re crafting a quick meal, prepping a side dish, or reheating leftovers, the Instant Pot Vortex air fryer aims to streamline your cooking routine without taking up too much counter space.
Best Budget Air Fryers
16. Kogan 8.2L Digital Low Fat Air Fryer
The Kogan 8.2L Air Fryer is a versatile addition to the home kitchen, enabling you to fry, grill, roast, and bake your favourite dishes while significantly cutting down on oil usage.
This large-capacity air fryer is designed with family-sized meals in mind, featuring a 7.2L basket and an 8.2L pot, so you can prepare generous portions to satisfy everyone at the table. With 1800W of power and a temperature range of 80 – 200°C, it offers the flexibility to cook a variety of recipes to their optimal taste and texture.
This air fryer is not only about capacity and power; convenience plays a big part as well. The 8 preset modes streamline the cooking process, making it simple to select the perfect setting for a range of dishes. After cooking, cleanup becomes an afterthought with the removable, dishwasher-safe basket and non-stick coating pan.
The user-friendly LCD display includes a 0 – 60 minute timer, aiding in precise cooking, while overheat protection serves as a safety measure to ensure worry-free operation. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just embarking on your culinary journey, this Kogan air fryer offers a robust, easy-to-use solution for preparing healthy meals without compromising on flavour or convenience.
17. Midea Air Fryer 3.5L
The Midea Air Fryer is a compact yet capable kitchen appliance that caters to a range of cooking needs. Furnished with a 3.5L capacity, it’s suitably sized for smaller families or those with limited kitchen space, without sacrificing functionality. The 60-minute timer and adjustable temperature that reaches up to 200°C provide the control necessary to achieve precise cooking results across different dishes.
Visibility and ease of use are elevated with a clear blue LED display, offering a modern touch to your kitchen counter while keeping you informed of the cooking process. At the heart of the fryer’s performance is a rapid hot air circulation system within the frying basket, which ensures your food is cooked evenly and quickly, delivering that desired crispy texture with less oil.
Safety is a commendable focus of this product, featuring high-temperature resistant materials and a temperature control probe that offers real-time detection and protection, giving users peace of mind.
This Midea Air Fryer further enhances culinary versatility with its 6 pre-set functions that include air frying, roasting, broiling, dehydrating, reheating, and baking, providing a multifaceted tool for a wide array of cooking adventures.
18. Maxkon New 7L Air Fryer
The Maxkon New Air Fryer presents a family-friendly solution for healthier cooking, offering an intuitive experience with features designed for convenience and safety.
The air fryer’s auto cut-off function activates upon reaching a preset temperature, while an auto-resume feature kicks in when the temperature drops, ensuring your food is cooked with precision.
Its expansive temperature range of 80-200℃, coupled with a 0-60 minute timer, provides flexibility for a variety of cooking needs, from crispy fries to tender roasted vegetables.
Equipped with an LCD digital display, this air fryer makes it easy to monitor and adjust settings. Once cooking is complete, a ‘ready’ bell pleasantly signals that it’s time to dine. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the non-stick, dishwasher-safe pan, reducing the time spent on after-dinner chores. Additional features include overheating protection for safety and a user-friendly handle button for simple operation.
19. Westinghouse 3.2L Opti-Fry Air
The Westinghouse Opti-Fry Air is a versatile kitchen appliance that encompasses the ability to fry, roast, bake, toast, and grill, offering a multitude of ways to tackle your favourite recipes.
The 30-minute timer and variable temperature control, which goes up to 200 degrees, allow for precise cooking and perfect results, whether you’re aiming for a crispy exterior or a tender interior. The unit’s cool-touch exterior is a thoughtful safety feature, ensuring the outside remains safe to touch even when in use, avoiding any risk of burns.
The rapid air circulation system at the core of its operation cooks food efficiently for fast and even results. Furthermore, the inclusion of a convenient drip tray and the easy-clean non-stick coating simplifies the cleaning process, saving time and effort post-cooking. The Westinghouse Opti-Fry is ideal for those looking for a compact, easy-to-use air fryer that can cater to a variety of cooking methods without forfeiting health benefits or flavours.
20. Devanti Air Fryer 2.5L
The Devanti Air Fryer is designed to offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying, reducing fat by up to 80% without compromising on the taste and texture of your fried favourites.
Its 360-degree air circulation system ensures that your food is cooked evenly and efficiently, while the stainless steel heating elements provide durability and consistent performance. With the ability to cook within a wide temperature range of 80 to 200 degrees Celsius and a timer setting that extends up to 60 minutes, this air fryer offers both versatility and convenience for a variety of dishes.
In terms of user experience, the Devanti Air Fryer boasts a user-friendly rotary knob control, making it simple to adjust settings. The cool-touch handle and non-stick coating pan enhance safety and ease of use, while the removable crisper tray allows for straightforward cleanup. Additional features such as the automatic shut-off switch, heat shield vent, and non-slip feet contribute to the appliance’s overall reliability and stability during use.
In conclusion, air fryers offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying, reducing oil use and cutting calories without sacrificing flavour. They cater to a range of needs, from compact models for individuals to larger, feature-rich appliances for families. Top choices vary, ensuring there’s an option for every lifestyle and budget. Embracing air fryers can revolutionise your cooking, enabling quick, convenient, and nutritious meal preparation. Invest in one of these versatile kitchen gadgets and take a step toward healthier, more efficient home cooking.
FAQ’s
How to keep an air fryer in top condition for longevity?
To maintain an air fryer for longevity, regularly clean the removable parts after each use with hot, soapy water or in the dishwasher if they’re dishwasher-safe. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and clean the interior with a non-abrasive sponge. Ensure it’s completely dry before storing. Avoid overloading the basket to prevent uneven cooking and undue stress on the unit. Check and clean the heating element as needed, and always ensure adequate space around the air fryer for proper air circulation during use.
How do I choose the right size air fryer for my needs?
To choose the right size air fryer, consider the number of servings you typically make. For 1-2 people, a compact 2.5-3 litre size model suffices. For a family of 3-5, opt for a medium 5-8 litre unit. Large households or those who entertain should look at air fryers 10 litres and above. Also, factor in your kitchen space and whether you’ll cook whole meals or sides.
Can an air fryer save me money on my energy bills?
An air fryer can be more energy-efficient than an oven, using less electricity due to its smaller size and faster cooking times, thus potentially saving money on energy bills. Air fryers typically consume between 800 to 1500 watts. Assuming an average use of a 1400-watt air fryer for 30 minutes per day, the daily consumption would be 0.7 kWh. The monthly consumption would then be 21 kWh (0.7 kWh/day X 30 days). At an electricity rate of NZ$0.30 per kWh, the monthly cost to operate the air fryer would be NZ$6.30 (21 kWh X $0.30/kWh).
Is it healthy to cook food in an air fryer?
Cooking with an air fryer is generally healthier than traditional frying methods as it significantly reduces the amount of oil used. Air fryers circulate hot air to cook food, resulting in a crisp texture with less fat. Studies suggest this can lower calorie intake and reduce the risk of associated diseases.
How Much Does an Air Fryer Cost?
The cost of an air fryer varies widely depending on size, features, and brand, ranging from about $99 for basic compact models to $500 or more for advanced, larger capacity units with additional functions like dehydrating or rotisserie. Mid-range models usually cost between $150 and $300, offering a balance of features and size suitable for most consumers.