Air fryers have gone from novelty to kitchen staple in the UK. But with hundreds of models available, how do you choose? Here’s what actually matters.
What Capacity Do You Need?
Capacity is measured in litres. As a rule of thumb:
- 1–2 people: 3–4L is plenty
- 3–4 people: 5–6L is the sweet spot
- 5+ people or batch cooking: 7L+ or a dual-zone model
Don’t be tempted to go too big — a large basket with a small amount of food doesn’t circulate air as well.
Basket vs Drawer
Most air fryers use a pull-out drawer with a basket inside. This is fine for chips, nuggets and most everyday use. If you want to cook whole joints or bake, look for a larger flat basket design or an oven-style model.
Wattage
Higher wattage means faster preheating and cooking. 1400–1700W is standard for smaller models; 2400W+ for family-sized units. The difference in electricity cost is minimal for most households.
Our Top Picks by Price
Under £80 — Cosori Pro 5.5L (£79.99)
Excellent value for solo cooks and couples. 13 presets, app connectivity and a square basket that fits more food than round alternatives. See on Amazon UK →
Under £150 — Ninja AF300UK 7.6L (£149.99)
The best all-rounder for families. 7.6L capacity, 6 cooking functions, dishwasher-safe parts and a Ninja pedigree. This is the one most UK households should buy.
Best Dual-Zone — Ninja Foodi MAX AF400UK (£199.99)
Two independent drawers mean you can cook chips and chicken at the same time, finishing simultaneously. Game-changing for family meal prep. See on Amazon UK →
What to Avoid
- Cheap no-brand models under £30 — build quality and temperature accuracy are poor
- Buying too small — a cramped basket means food steams rather than crisps
- Oven-style models for small kitchens — they’re bulky and rarely worth the counter space
