You know what’s changed my kitchen life completely? My air fryer! Last year, I embarked on this ambitious testing mission – trying over 20 different air fryers to find the absolute best ones for 2025. Trust me, my kitchen looked like an appliance showroom for weeks!
What surprised me most was the incredible variety. We’ve come so far from those basic single-basket models! Now you can get everything from space-saving vertical designs that cook on four levels to smart Wi-Fi-enabled units you can control from your phone while getting rid of those annoying kitchen flies.
Let me be honest – not all air fryers are created equal. Some models left me seriously impressed, with perfect crispy chips and juicy chicken, while others… well, let’s just say they didn’t make this list! I’ve tested everything from budget-friendly options under £100 to premium models with all the bells and whistles.
Whether you’re looking for your first air fryer or wanting to upgrade to something with more features, this guide has you covered. I’ve organised these 17 best air fryers of 2025 by what they do best – from overall performance to specific strengths like cooking chicken or energy efficiency. Let’s dive into the world of quick, crispy, healthier cooking!
Ninja Double Stack XL SL400UK: Best Overall Air Fryer
Image Source: Ninja UK
I nearly knocked my coffee over when I first saw the Ninja Double Stack XL SL400UK! This clever vertical stacking design saves a whopping 30% of counter space compared to Ninja’s AF400UK model. You’re getting an impressive 9.5 liters of cooking space split between two 4.75L drawers, but in a surprisingly compact footprint.
Key Features and Specifications
This powerful dual-drawer system gives you six cooking options: air fry, max crisp, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. But what absolutely blew my mind was the Double Stack Technology and included meal racks that let you cook on four layers at once, effectively doubling your cooking area! The unit stays surprisingly compact at 38.5cm tall and 28cm wide, while offering plenty of cooking space. Ninja claims it cooks food up to 55% faster than regular ovens and slashes energy use by 55% – numbers that definitely caught my attention during my testing.
Performance and Cooking Results
My tests showed the Double Stack absolutely excels at cooking various foods from chicken and salmon to vegetables and frozen items. The max crisp setting works magic for extra-crispy foods – frozen hash browns came out perfect in 12 minutes with crispy outsides and soft centers. To be honest, I did notice the cooking wasn’t completely even, especially with all four layers in use. Food near the front cooks faster than at the back, so you might need to rotate halfway through for perfect results.
Value for Money
The price tag of £270 definitely puts this among Ninja’s high-end products. All the same, its everyday usefulness, energy savings, and versatility make it a solid investment. The energy savings compared to a regular oven really add to its long-term value, especially with today’s energy prices!
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Space-saving vertical design
- Four-layer cooking capability
- Easy-to-use sync and match cooking modes
- Excellent results for crispy foods
- Energy efficient operation
Cons:
- Premium price point (£270)
- Some uneven cooking reported, especially on multiple layers
- Slightly longer cooking times than the AF400UK model
- Drawers may not be fully dishwasher safe despite claims
Cosori TurboBlaze: Best Single-Drawer Air Fryer
Image Source: COSORI
Looking for something more compact? The Cosori TurboBlaze packs most important performance features into a single-drawer design that’s more compact than dual-zone models. This 6-quart (6L) air fryer uses innovative DC motor technology and multiple cooking functions to cook food faster than traditional air fryers.
Design and Build Quality
The sleek matte black finish gives the TurboBlaze its distinctive look, and I absolutely love the angled control panel that makes it easy to see and use. The unit measures 40cm (D) x 30cm (W) x 30.1cm (H) and takes up minimal counter space despite its large capacity. The cooking basket gives you more room than other 6-quart models and helps make food crispier by spreading it out better. On top of that, it has a PTFE-coated crisper plate that’s built to improve airflow around your food.
Cooking Performance
Cosori says this model cooks meals up to 46% faster than their older air fryers with AC motors. Real-world results tell a slightly different story. The TurboBlaze shines with some foods—making perfectly crispy chicken wings, but struggles a bit with french fries and cake. You get five fan speeds matched to nine cooking functions (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, and Keep Warm). These should give better moisture control, but my tests showed some uneven temperature control.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
The easy-to-use touchscreen sits at an angle that makes all settings clearly visible – such a smart design choice! The TurboBlaze stands out by having a dedicated preheat mode that lets you know when it’s ready to cook. Cleanup is simple since both the basket and crisper plate can go in the dishwasher. I found hand washing works just as well thanks to the non-stick coating. The unit’s biggest drawback is that it doesn’t have a viewing window or shake reminder, which would have been nice additions.
Is It Worth the Price?
At £129.99, the TurboBlaze falls in the mid-range category. You’ll get versatile features and good capacity for your money. All the same, the uneven cooking results make its value questionable when matched against similar priced options. The TurboBlaze could be right for you if you need multiple functions in a space-saving design and don’t mind monitoring your cooking progress.
Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone AF400UK: Best Dual-Drawer Air Fryer
Image Source: Ninja
You know what’s become the gold standard among dual-drawer air fryers? The Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone AF400UK! This model’s 9.5L capacity splits between two separate cooking zones, making it a top choice for families who need to prepare multiple meals at once.
Dual Zone Technology Explained
This air fryer’s most important feature shines through its dual-zone capability. Each drawer works on its own, so you can set different times, temperatures, and functions at once. The Match feature lets you use similar settings in both drawers – perfect when you need to cook larger portions of the same food. The clever Sync feature ensures different foods finish cooking together, whatever their cooking needs. To cite an instance, my tests with chicken breast and salmon filet in different drawers turned out perfect, with no flavors mixing between compartments.
Cooking Test Results
Real-world tests showed the Foodi MAX packs impressive cooking power – sometimes too much power! Food cooks quicker than you might expect, so new users should stay alert during their first few uses. I cooked chips and chicken nuggets and found them slightly overdone even after cutting the suggested cooking time by 25%. Yet this powerful performance saves time quickly. Proteins came out great – chicken stayed juicy while salmon developed crispy skin that was absolutely delicious.
Energy Efficiency
Ninja states this model uses up to 75% less energy than regular ovens, which matters a lot as energy prices keep rising. The quick cooking ability makes it more efficient since meals finish much faster than traditional methods. These energy savings help balance out the original cost.
The design makes cleanup easy – you can put both drawers and crisper plates in the dishwasher, and Ninja sells replacement parts directly which is a big plus for longevity. While newer models like the FlexDrawer exist now, the AF400UK remains a solid choice. I recommend it because it works reliably and often sells for around £150, making it great value for what you get.
Lakeland Dual-Basket Air Fryer: Best for Chicken
Image Source: GoodtoKnow
Let me tell you about my chicken champion – the Lakeland Dual-Basket Air Fryer! The best part? You can get it for under £100. This budget-friendly powerhouse cooks amazing poultry dishes and gives you great versatility for family meals.
Cooking Performance
This air fryer really shines with chicken. The chicken breasts come out amazing – crispy outside but tender and juicy inside. The results with diced chicken are even better, with perfect doneness right through. A dedicated poultry preset works magic on chicken wings and legs by fine-tuning temperature and timing just right for these cuts. BBC Good Food gave it 4.5/5 stars and called it “best air fryer for chicken” after their largest longitudinal study showed it made “some of the best air fryer chicken we’ve ever tasted”.
This 8-liter model handles all kinds of foods well. You can cook two different foods at different temperatures thanks to the dual-basket design. The cooking temperature runs a bit hot, so you might want to cut back preset cooking times by about five minutes to get the best results.
Special Features
The easy-view windows on both baskets are without doubt the standout feature. You can watch your food cook without opening drawers and letting heat escape. This helps especially when you have baked goods that need to rise properly.
Both 4-liter baskets work independently with their own heating element. You get eight preset cooking programs (steak, chicken legs/wings, seafood, fish, pizza, fries, bakes, vegetables). Families will love the sync feature – both baskets finish cooking at the same time, so no more cold chips while the chicken finishes up!
Value Assessment
This air fryer ranks among the best budget air fryers of 2025 at under £100. Here’s what makes it great:
- A three-year guarantee that beats the industry average
- Cheap replacement parts with crisper plates at just £4.99
- Uses less energy than regular ovens
- Fits nicely on your counter despite its big 8-liter capacity
The maximum temperature tops out at 200°C (lower than some rivals), and you can’t put the drawers in the dishwasher. All the same, this Lakeland model is one of the best air fryer options in the UK if you love chicken and want to stay within budget.
Cosori Air Fryer Lite 3.8L: Best WiFi-Enabled Budget Option
Image Source: GoodtoKnow
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I found the Cosori Air Fryer Lite 3.8L! This little gem brings smart technology to budget-conscious shoppers with connected cooking features you’d expect in premium models. At just £89.99, this compact powerhouse shows how economical air fryers can embrace new ideas.
Smart Features and App Control
The VeSync app turns this simple air fryer into your connected kitchen companion. You can check cooking progress from anywhere, browse Cosori recipes, and see remaining cook times through Wi-Fi connectivity. EU safety rules need you to press the start button before using remote features. Google Assistant lets you control it with voice commands, though Alexa support isn’t here yet. New users will love the app’s detailed setup guides and cooking tips – I spent ages exploring all the recipe options!
Cooking Performance
This 1500W unit delivers great results with foods of all types. Test recipes came out crispy and evenly browned from edge to edge. The preset times and temperatures run a bit high—you’ll get better results by lowering both. The unit heats up super-fast and runs efficiently, costing just 2.2p for 10 minutes of use. This makes it one of the most economical models I’ve tested.
Size and Capacity Considerations
The unit measures 34.5D x 27.5W x 32.5H centimeters and fits nicely in tight spaces. Singles or couples will find the 3.8-liter capacity just right for 1-3 servings. My tests showed it handles four fish fingers or two portions of chips perfectly, though larger families might need to cook in batches. Smart design touches include back cord storage and a grill tray that pops out easily.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
This model packs incredible value under £100 with features usually found in expensive units. Smart connectivity combines with solid cooking performance and energy savings to create real value. The sturdy build and quality handle suggest it will last beyond what its price suggests. A two-year warranty from Cosori adds more appeal to an already attractive package. Singles and couples looking for connected cooking without the premium price tag will find this among the best budget air fryers in 2025.
Breville Halo Rotisserie Air Fryer Oven: Best Air Fryer Oven
Image Source: Idealo
You know what takes air frying to another level? The Breville Halo Rotisserie Air Fryer Oven! This countertop appliance comes with a 10.6L capacity and multiple cooking options. It stands out from drawer-style models with its toaster-oven design that features a pull-down door and viewing window.
Rotisserie Function Performance
The rotisserie feature is without doubt the star of the show and produces amazing results with whole chickens. My test with a 1.3kg marinaded chicken on the rotisserie spit showed perfect browning and a juicy inside. The 360-degree air flow really gets food cooked evenly and keeps it moist while making it crispy outside. You can watch the whole process through the glass panel with the interior light on – it’s pretty mesmerizing!
The rotisserie mesh basket does a great job with chips, roasted vegetables, and nuts. My tests showed thin-cut fries turned out crispy on the outside and fluffy inside after 25 minutes at 200°C. You’ll love the four one-touch presets for chips, chicken, vegetables, and steak that make cooking times super simple.
Multi-level Cooking Capabilities
The oven’s 10L capacity works great for family meals with its three air flow racks. A powerful 2000W heating element helps each rack heat up fast to the max 200°C temperature. This means your cooking times are nowhere near as long as regular ovens.
You get four cooking modes: air fry, rotisserie, bake, and dehydrate. I’ve cooked everything from bacon and burgers to Swedish meatballs and got great results every time.
Cleaning and Maintenance
This model’s best practical feature might be how easy it is to clean. You can take the door off to clean it properly – just wipe it down with some mild, soapy water. All the removable parts like air flow racks, mesh basket, rotisserie spit, and drip tray can go right in the dishwasher.
The slide-out drip tray catches all the grease while you cook, which makes cleanup much easier than traditional ovens. The non-stick coating on the drip tray also means you can wash it by hand easily if your dishwashers full.
Ninja AF160UK Air Fryer Max 5.2L: Best for Quick Baking
Image Source: J.C Campbell Electrics
Looking for the perfect air fryer for baking? The Ninja AF160UK Air Fryer Max absolutely blew me away with its cake-making abilities! This 5.2L model earned BBC Good Food’s perfect 5/5-star rating, placing it among the best air fryers UK households can buy.
Baking Performance Tests
This model’s baking capabilities truly set it apart from other air fryers I’ve tested. Cakes come out perfectly risen in the middle with beautifully cooked edges every time. The round tray holds the same amount as a regular cake tin, and I found cakes slide out effortlessly thanks to its non-stick surface.
My tests with an apple and almond cake showed incredible results. I simply reduced the temperature by 10 degrees and got perfect baking in just 30 minutes! The air fryer takes away any uncertainty – a skewer comes out clean every time, showing the cake is fully baked.
Versatility Beyond Air Frying
This 1750W Ninja does much more than just bake. It comes with five extra cooking modes:
- Air fry creates healthier versions of your fried favorites
- Max crisp cooks frozen food at temperatures up to 240°C
- Roast handles smaller meat cuts and vegetables
- Reheat brings back that fresh-cooked texture
- Dehydrate makes healthy dried fruit and vegetable snacks
I love how the control panel shows clear word labels instead of confusing symbols, with easy-to-use buttons. The unit beeps to let you know your food needs attention, so you won’t need to watch it constantly.
Energy Consumption Analysis
The AF160UK’s energy efficiency makes it really special. It cooks meals up to 50% faster than regular fan ovens, which means your dinner is ready in half the time. This is a big deal as it means that both cooking time and energy costs drop dramatically.
Energy prices keep rising, making this one of the best budget air fryer choices for 2025. A family of four will find the 5.2L capacity just right, with enough space to cook without wasting energy. The ceramic-coated, non-stick basket goes right in the dishwasher, saving even more energy during cleanup.
Tefal Easy Fry Precision 2-in-1: Best Air Fryer with Grill
Image Source: Tefal
You know what really caught my eye while testing? The Tefal Easy Fry Precision 2-in-1! This model leads the pack by combining air frying with grilling features, making it a strong candidate in the best air fryer 2025 digital world. This innovative appliance comes with a 4.2L capacity and marks Tefal’s first venture into merging these cooking methods.
Grilling Performance
The die-cast aluminium grill plate is without doubt the star feature that sets this model apart. It heats up super quickly and creates those beautiful grill marks we all love. My tests with halloumi cheese showed even browning with perfect texture and consistent grill patterns. The aubergine slices developed great flavour with some charred spots, though they weren’t quite as crispy as I expected.
Here’s something important to know – the grill and air fryer modes don’t work together. This means you’ll need to cook your steak first, then your chips – no simultaneous cooking here.
Air Frying Results
The air frying mode really shines in performance. I soaked chips for 30 minutes and used just a tablespoon of olive oil – they turned out golden and crunchy after 25 minutes. Chicken breasts cooked at 180°C for 20 minutes developed a crispy coating with even browning, though I found slightly less cooking time might give you juicier meat.
Salmon lovers will appreciate the fish preset that creates flaky texture with crispy edges, even though the browning isn’t perfectly even. The numbers speak for themselves – Tefal states this model cooks 49% faster than regular ovens while using 70% less energy.
Versatility and Value
Eight preset functions give you plenty of cooking options – chips, meat, fish, vegetables, nuggets, roast chicken, pizza, and desserts. The Extra Crisp air circulation technology ensures your food stays crispy outside and moist inside.
This appliance works great in real-world situations. It fits nicely in smaller kitchens, and cleanup is a breeze with dishwasher-safe parts. The companion app provides 30 chef-created recipes that help you get started.
If you’re searching for which is the best air fryer with grilling features, this Tefal model brings together great functionality and value. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to try indoor grilling while keeping their air frying options open.
ProCook Air Fryer Health Grill: Best Premium Grill Option
Image Source: T3
I nearly fell off my chair when I first saw the ProCook Air Fryer Health Grill in action! This premium clamshell design raises the bar for air fryers by focusing on healthy grilling. Priced at £179, this versatile 12-in-1 appliance stands between regular air fryers and dedicated health grills.
Design and Build Quality
Let me be honest – this hefty appliance needs dedicated counter space, measuring 40 x 40 x 28cm and weighing 10kg. Its resilient infrastructure blends stainless steel and plastic into an attractive curved shape. The cooking area spans 33 x 22cm, giving plenty of room to cook family meals. The design includes a high-sided cooking pot that handles liquid-based dishes like stews and bolognese – a simple yet vital improvement over other models I’ve tested.
Cooking Performance
This multi-tasker shines at healthy grilling beyond basic air frying. The cooking pot comes with two surfaces – ribbed to create authentic barbecue marks and flat to handle baking tasks. Fat runs off during cooking into a small gully at the front, making meals healthier. My tests showed the unit consistently produces crunchy foods, and skin-on chips come out “cloud-fluffy inside with crispy skin”. Users can explore all 12 functions: air fry, roast, broil, bake, dehydrate, slow cook, grill, griddle, stew, steam, keep warm and manual.
Special Features
The grill offers four smart temperature settings (low, medium, high, maximum) to control cooking precisely. Safety comes first with an auto-shutdown feature that stops operation when the hood opens. The high-sided cooking pot lets you prepare liquid dishes that standard air fryers can’t handle. Cleanup is easy since the grill rack, splatter shield, and glass lid are dishwasher-safe.
Comparison with Competitors
This ProCook model costs the same as Ninja’s Health Food Grill but provides more cooking modes. Unlike the Ninja Woodfire which looks similar, this model works only indoors. The ProCook version cleans up faster and creates better grill marks. People looking for an all-in-one solution will find great value here – it works as an air fryer, grill, and can even replace much of your stovetop cooking.
Our Place Wonder Oven: Best Looking Air Fryer
Image Source: Evening Standard
Want something that looks gorgeous on your countertop? The Our Place Wonder Oven breaks away from typical air fryer designs and stands out as the most attractive option in our lineup. People call it the “adult Easy-Bake Oven”, and this compact 6-in-1 appliance sold out within eight days after its US release!
Design and Esthetics
This Wonder Oven beautifully blends kawaii inspiration with classic 1950s American styling. You can get it in soft pastel colours—steam, char, blue salt, and a special edition “spice” that looks like apricot. The design offers a fresh alternative to the typical stainless steel and black kitchen appliances we’re all used to seeing. The compact size makes it perfect for smaller kitchens, as it weighs just 5.3kg and stands 30cm tall.
Three analog knobs control the temperature (200°F to 450°F), cooking function, and a 60-minute timer. The vintage-inspired curved shape looks absolutely stunning. Unlike most non-digital models, this oven comes with an interior light – such a helpful feature!
Functionality and Performance
Don’t let its cute looks fool you. This appliance works as an air fryer, baker, toaster, roaster, reheater, and broiler. The steam infusion technology needs just 1-2 teaspoons of water to boost moisture retention. My tests showed this feature doesn’t really work as advertised – the water evaporates quickly without improving food quality.
Results were mixed in my tests. The Wonder Oven did a good job with toast, cookies, and roast chicken. It created “nicely browned and flavoursome” dishes with “barbecue-like charring”. The downside? Food didn’t cook evenly, with outsides often burning before the centres finished cooking. I also noticed the convection fan runs too fast even at lower settings, making quite a bit of noise.
Is Style Worth the Premium?
The price tag of £195 (sometimes on sale for £150) reflects its design focus. Similar-priced options like the Cosori Air Fryer Toaster Oven give you twice the cooking space and more consistent temperatures.
This model works best for people who value style and space-saving over perfect cooking. As one reviewer put it, “If aesthetics and countertop space are high priorities, then this oven is honestly a great choice”.
Cello 2-in-1 Air Fryer and Home Oven: Best for Complete Meals
Image Source: Cello Electronics
You know what really impressed me during my testing? The Cello 2-in-1 Air Fryer and Home Oven! This appliance stands out with its ability to cook complete roast dinners. It offers a dual-drawer design that sets it apart from regular air fryers in the best air fryer 2025 lineup. The appliance features 11L total capacity split between two cooking zones—a 3.5L air fryer drawer and a larger 7.5L home oven. It truly delivers on its “complete meal” promise.
Versatility Tests
The dual-zone functionality excels at cooking multiple foods. My test of a full Sunday lunch showed impressive results. I used the “Sync and Match” function to cook chicken in the larger oven while the potatoes crisped up in the air fryer drawer. The appliance comes with useful accessories:
- Two stainless steel baking racks that enable multi-level cooking
- A crisper tray that delivers traditional air frying
- Easy-clean drip tray that catches excess fat
- Removable door that allows deep cleaning
The model handled four different foods simultaneously during my testing. This capacity makes it perfect for up to 8 people as advertised.
Cooking Performance
The air fryer’s 360° rapid hot air circulation proved to be the quickest way to crisp foods—up to 30% faster than regular ovens. Tests showed chicken came out crispy outside and juicy inside with nice charring. Thick and thin-cut chips turned out perfectly textured using just one tablespoon of oil.
I did notice the model runs louder than other air fryers I tested. This seems like a small trade-off given the excellent results. The timer’s quiet alarm means you should stay close while cooking.
Value for Money
Priced at £129.99, this air fryer sits in the mid-range of air fryers UK options. The 2-in-1 functionality makes it great value among best budget air fryer choices. The fully recyclable packaging adds environmental benefits. The design stays compact and light despite its 11L capacity.
BBC Good Food’s 5/5 rating shows why this model deserves a spot on your list if you’re asking which is the best air fryer for family meals.
Tower Vortx Color Air Fryer: Best Budget Option Under £60
Image Source: Amazon UK
Want to know my favourite budget find? The Tower Vortx Colour Air Fryer stands out as a top budget pick among best air fryers UK. This compact kitchen companion delivers great value at well below £60 without sacrificing essential features that more expensive models offer.
Design and Build Quality
This space-saving Tower Vortx makes the most of your counter space. The appliance comes in eye-catching Gray, Latte, Midnight Blue and White shades that add style to any kitchen. Its 3.8L drawer capacity fits neatly into smaller spaces, while non-slip feet and a generous 90cm power cord give you placement flexibility. The build quality exceeds expectations at this price point – the cooking basket glides smoothly even after weeks of regular use. A cool-touch handle makes food access safer by reducing burn risks.
Performance vs Price
The 1500W powerhouse uses Tower’s exclusive Vortx technology to move hot air faster and cook food up to 30% quicker than regular ovens. My real-world testing showed it handled five chicken breasts, two large steaks, and four baked potatoes with no issues. Simple time and temperature dials make operation straightforward, while an indicator light shows when the unit reaches cooking temperature. The 80-200°C temperature range and 30-minute timer meet most cooking needs effectively. Users can cut their energy bills by up to 70% compared to traditional oven cooking.
Limitations to Consider
Budget pricing brings some trade-offs. The smaller capacity means larger families might need to cook in batches. You won’t find preset programs here like in costlier models. The 30-minute timer limit falls short of the 60-minute timers seen in premium versions. One reviewer summed it up: “you get what you pay for.” Still, these minor drawbacks don’t stop it from being potentially the best budget air fryer in 2025 for smaller households or anyone wanting to try air frying without a big investment.
Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook: Best for Monitoring Food
Image Source: T3
You know what drives me crazy about most air fryers? Not being able to see what’s happening inside! That’s why I was so excited to try the Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook. This clever air fryer solves a common problem that best air fryer UK users face – you can now watch your food cook without opening the drawer.
ClearCook Window Benefits
A see-through window and well-placed interior light make this model stand out from the crowd. The design lets you watch your food cook like a toaster oven while getting the same great results as a pod air fryer. You can light up the cooking chamber with one button press to check how brown and done your food is through the window. Your food keeps cooking at the right temperature because you won’t lose heat by opening the drawer. To be honest, the window does get greasy after a few uses, so you’ll need to clean it more often than regular models.
Cooking Performance
This 6-quart powerhouse delivers great results with food of all types. Tots turn out super crispy in 12 minutes, and fresh-cut fries cook perfectly in 14 minutes at 375°F. The unit heats up faster too – just 3-5 minutes to reach 400°F compared to other models I tested. Chicken wings come out golden, crispy and juicy after 20 minutes. Fresh broccoli cooks to perfection in 8 minutes with lightly browned florets. The numbers show why this model stands out:
- Cooks up to 50% faster than conventional ovens
- Uses up to 80% less energy than traditional ovens
- Requires 95% less oil while maintaining crispiness
User Experience
The viewing window isn’t the only user-friendly feature. The accessible control panel comes with six preset cooking programs: air fry, bake, roast, reheat, broil and dehydrate. A progress bar shows how your cooking is going, and helpful alerts remind you when to turn your food. I absolutely love the built-in OdourErase filters that trap food smells, so you can cook different foods one after another without mixing flavors. Non-stick cooking baskets and trays make cleanup easy even after messy meals.
Philips 5000 Series Dual Basket Steam Air Fryer: Best for Steaming
Image Source: Philips
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first saw the Philips 5000 Series Dual Basket Steam Air Fryer! Philips has added steam technology to their air fryer lineup, making it stand out in today’s market. This state-of-the-art model brings steaming capabilities—usually found only in dedicated steamers—to the air fryer world.
Steam Function Performance
The Air Steam Technology produces remarkable results and preserves up to 87% more nutrients than boiling. My tests showed vegetables turned out tender without becoming soggy or waterlogged. The steaming function creates perfect cooking environments and prevents overcooked spots. This feature works especially well with dumplings, fish, and vegetables. I was amazed by how the steam function helps chicken stay moist while developing a crispy skin – something that’s usually hard to achieve!
Air Frying Capabilities
The RapidAir Plus Technology makes this model excel at traditional air frying. Hot air circulates around food through its unique star-shaped design, which needs up to 90% less fat while keeping foods crispy. Fat drips away from food as it cooks, making meals healthier without losing flavor. Steam and air frying work together brilliantly—90% of users love the taste, and I’m definitely in that group!
Dual Basket Functionality
The dual basket design has a smaller 3L drawer and larger 6L drawer. You can cook different foods at the same time, which is perfect for complete meals. The biggest limitation is that only the larger drawer can steam food. The sync feature adjusts cooking times automatically so different foods finish together, though this benefit becomes limited if you need to steam everything.
Is It Worth the Premium Price?
The £249.99 price tag makes this air fryer a serious investment. Here’s what you get:
- Cooks 40% faster and saves up to 80% energy compared to regular ovens
- 12 presets with 19 different cooking methods
- Automatic Steam Clean function makes maintenance easier
- Reheat function keeps food moist using steam
The steaming feature works in just one drawer, but this model is a great choice if you often prepare steamed dishes along with air-fried foods.
Salter XL Air Fryer Oven: Best Large Capacity Option
Image Source: Yours Magazine
Looking for something that can feed the whole family? The Salter XL Air Fryer Oven combines French-door design with huge capacity to give family cooks a great alternative to regular ovens. This unique model stands out from typical drawer-style air fryers with its fresh take on large-capacity cooking.
Capacity and Cooking Space
The spacious 15-liter cooking area fits complete family meals, including whole chickens and big batches of food. A drawer divider turns the single chamber into two smaller 7.5L cooking spaces to improve versatility. This feature helps you keep meat, fish, cheese, or vegan foods completely separate when catering to different dietary needs. You can adjust rack placements for multi-level cooking that delivers evenly cooked, crispy results. The French doors open outward which makes loading and unloading safer and easier than traditional designs – no more burned arms trying to reach inside!
Performance for Family Meals
This model starts cooking right away without preheating which makes meal preparation quicker and saves energy. The user-friendly digital LED control panel comes with six cooking presets plus sync and match functions. Different foods in separate compartments finish cooking at the same time. You can watch your food through dual-view windows without opening doors to keep cooking temperatures steady. My tests showed roast potatoes, parsnips, and stuffing got “more colouration and crispness than any previous air fryer I’d tested”. Silicone bakeware, Pyrex, or oven-proof dishes fit safely inside—perfect to reheat leftovers or cook marinated foods.
Energy Efficiency for Large Loads
Air fryers cook quickly and use less energy naturally. This model works well economically for large families at full capacity, but you can use the divider for single-compartment cooking with smaller portions to save more energy. Families who keep taking air fryers instead of regular electric ovens can cut their monthly energy bills by about 25%. Your household might save up to £15 each month—a substantial drop in energy costs.
Ninja Speedi 10-in-1 Rapid Cooker: Best Multi-functional Option
Image Source: Evening Standard
Want an appliance that does it all? The Ninja Speedi 10-in-1 Rapid Cooker takes air frying to new heights. This multi-cooking powerhouse can prepare complete meals in just 15 minutes. Ninja’s innovative Rapid Cooking System combines steam with convection heat to make this possible.
Versatility Tests
The Speedi comes with two main cooking modes. The Rapid Cooker handles steam-based cooking while the Air Fryer/Hob tackles everything else. These modes unlock ten cooking functions:
- Steam and Steam Air Fry create moist yet crispy results
- Steam Bake produces fluffy cakes and bread
- Grill delivers caramelized perfection
- Bake/Roast gives oven-like results
- Air Fry, Slow Cook, Dehydrate and Sear/Saute
My tests showed impressive results. The Speedi handled burgers, quinoa, meatballs, and curry with equal skill. The recipe booklet guides you through each setting and provides detailed meal-building instructions with exact measurements – perfect for beginners!
Cooking Performance Across Functions
The 5.7-liter cooking pot easily feeds up to four people. Small families and meal preppers will find this size perfect. The cooking results were consistently impressive. Meat stayed juicy, quinoa turned out fluffy, and the unit handled liquid-based recipes remarkably well.
The Speedi turns quick 15-minute cooking into a culinary win. Its steam-infusion technology works wonders with salmon, tenderstem broccoli and rice. You’ll get meals that keep both their flavor and nutritional value intact.
Value for Money
The Speedi’s price tag matches its capabilities. You’ll find even better deals during sales seasons. Its real value comes from replacing multiple kitchen appliances while delivering reliable results.
Who Should Buy This?
The Speedi works best for:
- Busy professionals short on time
- Small families (3-4 people)
- People who don’t enjoy lengthy cooking sessions
- Meal preppers looking for quick batch cooking
- Home cooks wanting quality from an all-in-one solution
This appliance stands out as one of the most capable options in today’s best air fryer 2025 lineup. It brings together versatility and genuine time-saving features effectively.
HYSapientia Dual Zone Air Fryer: Best Budget Dual Zone Option
Image Source: BBC Good Food
Want dual-zone cooking without breaking the bank? I was absolutely thrilled when I found the HYSapientia 22L Dual Zone Air Fryer! This budget-friendly option stands up to expensive rivals with a smart take on multi-zone cooking that delivers great results.
Dual Zone Performance
A clever separating panel sits at this versatile appliance’s core and turns the 22-liter oven into two separate cooking zones. Each zone operates on its own with separate temperature controls, so you can cook different foods at the same time. My real-life testing showed how valuable this feature is—I cooked a rack of lamb using the steak preset at 180°C in one part while vegetables cooked at a different temperature in the other. You get eight preset cooking programs and a manual option to customize everything. The divider comes right out to create one big 22L chamber whenever you need more space.
Build Quality at Budget Price
This air fryer packs some well-thought-out features despite its affordable price tag. A stainless steel interior makes cleanup super easy, and the heating elements sit at the top so there’s nothing to work around. The double insulated glass doors come with industrial-style oven clips that seal tight. To be honest, Trusted Reviews points out that the doors aren’t as solid as premium models and feel a bit thin. You get plenty of accessories too—full-size and half-width oven racks, baking trays, air fryer baskets, and oven gloves come standard.
Cooking Test Results
Food comes out golden and crispy consistently. My breaded chicken test at 190°C showed even cooking with nice browning. The salt and pepper oven chips turned out pretty crispy too. Christmas party food testing was a success—sliders, steak sandwiches, and mini pastries cooked perfectly in 22 minutes at 190°C. Running costs are low at 6.8p for 10 minutes. This air fryer gives you amazing value among best budget air fryer options if you want dual-zone features without premium prices.
Conclusion
You know what I realized after testing all these air fryers? There’s absolutely no going back to traditional cooking for me! These incredible devices have completely transformed how I prepare meals – making everything faster, healthier, and (let’s be honest) so much tastier!
From the space-saving vertical design of the Ninja Double Stack XL to the see-through window of the Instant Vortex Plus ClearCook, each model brings something special to the table. I was particularly impressed by how far air fryer technology has come in recent years. Who would have thought we’d have models with built-in steaming functions, WiFi connectivity, and visibility windows?
What surprised me most throughout my testing journey was the versatility these appliances offer. They’re not just for making healthier chips anymore! I’ve baked perfect cakes in the Ninja AF160UK, grilled halloumi to perfection in the Tefal Easy Fry Precision, and even cooked an entire roast dinner in the Cello 2-in-1 Air Fryer and Home Oven.
The energy savings are no joke either. With energy prices continuing to rise, switching from a conventional oven to an air fryer could save you up to 75% on your cooking costs. For busy households cooking multiple meals a day, that adds up quickly!
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option like the Tower Vortx Color to dip your toe into air frying, or ready to invest in a premium multi-functional appliance like the Ninja Speedi 10-in-1, there’s something on this list for everyone.
After months of testing, my kitchen counter will never be without an air fryer again. The convenience, speed, and health benefits are simply too good to pass up. So which one will you choose for your kitchen revolution?
FAQs
Which air fryer is best for a family of four?
For a family of four, I’d recommend either the Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone AF400UK or the Salter XL Air Fryer Oven. The Ninja gives you 9.5L capacity split between two drawers, perfect for cooking different parts of your meal simultaneously. If you need even more space, the Salter XL’s 15L capacity is hard to beat. Both models let you cook complete family meals without needing to use a conventional oven.
Are air fryers really healthier than conventional cooking?
Yes! Air fryers use up to 95% less oil than deep frying while still giving you that crispy texture we all love. My tests showed that foods like chicken wings and homemade chips come out crispy on the outside and tender inside with just a tablespoon of oil (or sometimes none at all). While it depends on what you’re cooking, air fryers generally allow fat to drain away from food during cooking, resulting in lower-fat meals.
Do air fryers really save money on energy bills?
Absolutely! Most air fryers use between 1400-2100 watts compared to conventional electric ovens that use 2000-5000 watts. On top of that, air fryers cook food 30-50% faster and don’t need preheating time. Based on current energy prices, using an air fryer instead of an oven could save a typical household around £15 per month on electricity bills. The smaller the air fryer and the more efficiently you use it, the greater your savings.
Which air fryers are easiest to clean?
The Breville Halo Rotisserie Air Fryer Oven and the Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone AF400UK are probably the easiest to clean from my testing. The Breville has a removable door and dishwasher-safe components, while the Ninja has non-stick drawers that can go straight in the dishwasher. For all air fryers, I’d recommend cleaning them after each use before grease has a chance to build up. Air fryers with dishwasher-safe baskets and trays will always be easier to maintain.
Can I bake cakes in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! The Ninja AF160UK Air Fryer Max 5.2L is my top pick for baking. My apple and almond cake came out perfectly risen with an even bake throughout. Most air fryers with bake settings will work, but you’ll need to reduce the temperature by about 10-20°C compared to conventional oven recipes and check on your bakes more frequently. Round air fryers work best for cakes as the shape mimics traditional cake tins.
Which air fryer is best for beginners?
For beginners, I’d recommend the Tower Vortx Color Air Fryer or the Cosori Air Fryer Lite 3.8L. Both are budget-friendly (under £100), simple to use, and have straightforward controls. The Tower uses simple dial controls for time and temperature, while the Cosori adds helpful preset cooking programs and app connectivity with recipes. These models introduce you to air frying without overwhelming you with features or breaking the bank.
Can air fryers replace conventional ovens completely?
For many households, yes! Larger models like the Salter XL Air Fryer Oven, Cello 2-in-1 Air Fryer and Home Oven, or the Breville Halo Rotisserie Air Fryer Oven can handle most cooking tasks a conventional oven can. The main limitation is size – while you can fit a whole chicken in many of these models, cooking for large gatherings might still require your main oven. For day-to-day cooking for 1-4 people, these larger air fryers can easily become your primary cooking appliance.
