Airfryer selection: Key criteria for capacity and design

When selecting an airfryer, consumers should consider capacity, design, and specific cooking needs. According to Christian Kästl, Technical Manager at TÜV SÜD, the choice between a single basket, a dual-zone model, or an oven-style design depends on whether a household typically prepares single items or multiple components simultaneously.

Dual-zone models allow for different temperatures and cooking times for different foods, though it is important to check if the zones can operate independently to save energy when cooking smaller portions. Oven-style models with drop-down doors offer multiple levels for cooking but require more vertical and horizontal clearance.

Practical considerations include kitchen space, noise levels, and ventilation. Users must ensure there is enough room to fully extend baskets and maintain the minimum distances required for ventilation as specified in manufacturer instructions. Additionally, because fans circulate hot air, the noise level (decibels) can be a significant factor in open-plan living spaces. While capacity is often listed in liters, the actual usable surface area and the ability for air to circulate are equally important for effective cooking.