Air Fryer vs. Convection Oven: Which One Should You Get?

Did you know 63% of U.S. households own at least one countertop cooking appliance? Yet, many can’t explain how they work. Whirlpool’s research shows these two kitchen tools use similar airflow tech but give different results. Ever wondered why air-fried fries taste better than oven-baked ones?

Kitchens are changing, and the debate between saving space and being versatile is growing. Both appliances cook food fast by circulating hot air. But, their design affects texture and energy use. Can a convection oven make chicken as crispy as an air fryer?

Choosing between them impacts your daily life, cleaning time, and even your electricity bill. We’ll explore the science behind cooking and help you pick the right tool for your kitchen.

Key Takeaways

• Compact air fryers cook faster for single servings, while convection ovens excel at larger meals
• Texture differences matter: rapid air circulation creates crispier results in smaller appliances
• Countertop models use 25-40% less energy than full-sized ovens during typical cooking cycles
• Versatility varies widely—some convection ovens bake and roast, while premium air fryers add dehydrating functions
• Cleaning and storage needs differ significantly between the two appliance types

Understanding Modern Cooking Appliances

Modern kitchens are now high-tech hubs for cooking. Smart technology and meal prep meet here. Air fryers and convection ovens are key in today’s kitchens. Let’s see why they’re so important for home cooks.

The Rise of Countertop Cooking Solutions

Evolution of Home Kitchen Technology

For years, ovens were the kitchen’s mainstay. But new tech has changed that. Now, small appliances can match restaurant quality without the big equipment. Whirlpool’s research shows air fryers cook 25% faster than old models.

Three main changes have led to this:

• Advanced heating for exact temperatures
• Compact designs for small kitchens
• Smart features through mobile apps

Consumer Demand for Faster, Healthier Meals

Fast, healthy meals are what people want. A Serious Eats survey found 68% of Americans want meals in under 30 minutes. Air fryers are perfect for this, cooking fast and using little oil.

“Today’s appliances must multitask as effectively as the people using them.”

Defining the Contenders

What Exactly Is an Air Fryer?

Despite its name, air fryers don’t fry food. They’re like supercharged mini-ovens, using hot air to cook food crispy. They use up to 80% less oil than deep-frying.

Convection Oven Basic Functionality

Convection ovens are regular ovens with fans. These fans spread heat evenly. Premium ranges have special systems for even better baking.

Here’s how they differ:

Air Fryer vs. Convection Oven: Key Differences

Knowing how these appliances differ helps you choose the best for your kitchen. Let’s look at their design and cooking performance.

Core Design Distinctions

Air fryers and convection ovens are very different in size and design. Compact air fryers are 6-12 quarts, perfect for small spaces. Full-size convection ovens need 3-5 cubic feet, much more space.

The Spruce found that air fryers are usually under 1 square foot. This makes them great for small kitchens.

Size and Form Factor Comparison

Air fryers have a vertical design with pull-out baskets. Convection ovens look like traditional ovens. This design affects how heat moves.

Air fryers push hot air down through tight spaces. Ovens spread heat across multiple racks.

Heating Element Configuration

Serious Eats found that air fryers have a top-mounted heating coil and a fast fan. Convection ovens have multiple heating zones and slower fans. This lets ovens cook more at once but makes air-fried foods less crispy.

Operational Characteristics

These appliances behave differently during cooking. This affects your daily cooking routine. Each has its own strengths.

Preheating Requirements Comparison

Whirlpool’s data shows air fryers heat up in 2-3 minutes. Convection ovens take 10-15 minutes. Air fryers are faster because of their smaller size and focused heating.

Some ovens now have quick-preheat modes, though.

Cooking Chamber Airflow Patterns

Air fryers have cyclonic airflow that surrounds food from all sides. This is thanks to their perforated baskets. Convection ovens have broader airflow that’s less focused.

This is why air-fried foods get crispy faster.

How They Work: Technology Comparison

Looking into the tech of these appliances shows why they’re good at different things. Both use hot air, but their designs make cooking unique. Let’s see what’s behind the controls.

Air Fryer Heating Mechanism

Air fryers use Rapid Air Technology to get that deep-fry taste. A strong heating element and a turbo fan blast air around your food.

Rapid Air Technology Explained

Philips’ system blows air up to 60% faster than regular ovens. This creates a vortex effect that:

• Cooks food 30% faster than traditional ovens
• Needs 80% less oil for crispy food
• Is quieter than most blenders at 65dB

Basket Design for Optimal Circulation

Serious Eats found that baskets aren’t just for draining. Their design:

1. Creates vertical airflow channels
2. Prevents “dead zones” under food
3. Helps grease drip away from food

Convection Oven Air Circulation

Convection ovens work differently with hot air. Whirlpool’s tech shows how built-in models save space and energy.

Fan Placement and Heat Distribution

The Spruce’s diagrams show three important design points:

Thermostat Precision Differences

Convection ovens keep temperatures within ±15°F. But, top air fryers get ±5°F accurate. This affects:

• Baking consistency
• Multi-rack cooking
• Energy use during preheating

“The best convection systems use dual sensors to compensate for door openings and load changes.”

Cooking Performance Face-Off

Choosing between air fryers and convection ovens comes down to real results. We’ll look at how they do with fried foods and baked goods.

Fried Food Results

Air fryers win when it comes to fried foods. They have small cooking spaces and focused air flow. Serious Eats found air-fried chicken wings have 35% crisper skin than oven-cooked ones.

The Instant Vortex Plus made wings golden outside and juicy inside. Traditional ovens can’t match this.

French Fry Texture Comparison

Thin-cut fries are best in air fryers, getting that fast-food crunch without oil. Convection ovens are better for thicker fries, but you need to flip them halfway.

Testers said air-fried fries stay the same texture every time. Oven fries can dry out.

Chicken Wing Crispness Test

Whirlpool found air fryers use 80% less oil and are just as crispy as deep frying. Breville Smart Oven wings took 5 more minutes to cook, with less fat.

For game-day snacks, air fryers are faster and better textured.

Baked Goods Quality

Convection ovens are better for precise baking. They have bigger spaces for even heat, which is key for rising pastries. The Breville Smart Oven made croissants with perfect layers, unlike air fryers.

Cookie Browning Consistency

Convection baking gives cookies golden edges without burnt bottoms. Air fryers need smaller batches and watching closely. Test batches showed 20% more variation in browning.

For holiday cookie swaps, convection ovens are more reliable for big batches.

Pastry Rise and Structure

Convection ovens beat air fryers in puff pastry. They let dough rise 15% more. Air fryer palmiers cooked faster but lost flaky layers.

Capacity and Batch Cooking Capabilities

Choosing between air fryers and convection ovens depends on your meal planning needs. Air fryers are great for quick meals, while convection ovens are perfect for big family dinners.

Family-Sized Meal Preparation

For big families, convection ovens are the better choice. The Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Oven can handle a whole 18-pound turkey. In contrast, even the biggest air fryers, like the Cosori Max XL (5.8QT), can only cook up to 6 pounds of chicken.

Test kitchen results show a big difference:

• Convection ovens cook 12 chicken thighs at once
• Premium air fryers can only handle 8-10 pieces

Maximum Turkey Breast Capacity

Need to cook a big turkey for the holidays? A standard convection oven can handle a 14-16 pound bird. Air fryers, on the other hand, can only manage up to 6 pounds, meaning you might need to cook in batches.

Simultaneous Rack Cooking

Convection models, like the KitchenAid Dual Convection, let you bake cookies on two racks at once. Air fryers usually only have one basket, but some newer models have dividers for cooking different items together.

Single-Serve Convenience

For quick meals and snacks, air fryers are the best kitchen appliance. The Whirlpool Compact Air Fryer can reheat 1-2 servings of fries in just 5 minutes. It uses 35% less energy than a full-sized oven.

Reheating Small Portions Efficiently

Test kitchen tests show air fryers heat up 60% faster than convection ovens for small portions. They’re perfect for:

1. Leftover pizza slices
2. Frozen appetizers
3. Personal-sized desserts

Energy Use for Minimal Quantities

Heating a 6-quart convection oven for just one sandwich wastes 1.2 kWh. An air fryer uses only 0.4 kWh. Energy Star data shows air fryers save 55% on electricity for small batches.

Energy Efficiency Compared

Choosing between countertop appliances affects your kitchen’s eco-footprint and budget. Let’s look at how air fryers and convection ovens compare in energy use and costs over time.

Power Consumption Metrics

Air fryers use 1,200-1,700 watts. Full-sized convection ovens need 2,000-5,000 watts. Smaller countertop models use 1,500-1,800 watts. The difference is clear when preheating.

Wattage Differences Explained

Panasonic’s FlashXpress air fryer heats to 400°F in 90 seconds using 1,400 watts. A standard convection oven takes 12 minutes and 3,500 watts to reach the same temperature. This means air fryers heat up to 83% faster, saving energy right away.

Peak Energy Draw During Preheating

EPA Energy Star data shows convection ovens use 25% more power when preheating than when cooking. Air fryers, with their compact design, heat quickly and use consistent energy.

*Based on 4 weekly uses at $0.14/kWh (The Spruce projections)

Long-Term Operating Costs

Whirlpool’s studies show air fryers last 3-5 years with daily use. Convection ovens last 8-12 years. Air fryers’ energy savings often cover replacement costs.

Monthly Electricity Bill Impact

Using an air fryer 5 times a week adds $1.50-$2 to your bill. A convection oven used the same amount costs $6.50-$8 monthly. For those who cook often, this difference is significant.

Appliance Lifespan Expectations

Premium convection ovens like Breville’s Smart Oven can last over 10 years. Air fryers need basket replacements every 2-3 years but are cheaper to maintain overall.

“Countertop air fryers reduce annual energy use by 75% compared to full-sized ovens when cooking small batches.”

Cost Analysis: Initial and Long-Term

When you upgrade your kitchen, knowing the costs upfront and over time is key. Let’s look at how air fryers and convection ovens compare in cost at different price points.

Entry-Level Price Points

At the lower end, prices are more affordable. Air fryers usually start at a lower price, making them great for those just starting or with small families.

Budget Air Fryer Options ($50-$100)

The Instant Vortex Plus at $140 offers crisp results. But, models under $100 might have less capacity but are cheaper. These small devices are perfect for:

• Quick single-serving meals
• Oil-free cooking experiments
• Apartment-friendly energy use

Basic Convection Ovens Under $200

The Black+Decker 8-Slice convection oven starts at $150. It’s great for:

• Family-sized casseroles
• Multi-rack baking
• Countertop space optimization

Premium Model Investments

High-end appliances offer more features and last longer. Serious Eats found that premium air fryers pay off faster for those who use them a lot.

Smart Air Fryers With Wi-Fi ($200+)

The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 at $229 shows how connectivity improves cooking:

Professional-Grade Convection Ranges

Breville’s $400 Smart Oven Pro offers top-notch performance with:

• Precision temperature control
• 13 cooking functions
• 10-year motor warranty

Home cooks who use these appliances a lot can save money. Compare your weekly use to local prices and meal costs to see if it’s worth it.

Ease of Use and Learning Curve

Learning to use kitchen appliances should be easy, not hard. When we compare air fryers and convection ovens, intuitive operation makes a big difference. This means how easy it is to use from the start to every day.

Control Interface Comparison

The control panel is where your cooking journey begins. Basic convection ovens, like Cuisinart’s TOB-260N1, have manual dials. These are simple but might not be precise enough for some recipes. On the other hand, high-end air fryers, such as Cosori’s Smart Pro, have touchscreen displays. These displays show you exactly what’s happening in real-time.

Manual Dials vs Digital Displays

• Whirlpool’s convection models with analog controls need 3-5 tries to get consistent results
• Cosori’s digital interface makes it easier with 1°F temperature changes (Serious Eats found it 23% faster to set up)
• Seniors and those who aren’t tech-savvy often like the feel of manual dials for simple tasks

Preset Program Availability

Today’s convection ovens stand out with specialized cooking modes. Whirlpool’s WOS51EC0AS has 10 smart presets for roasting and baking. Ninja’s Foodi 6-in-1 air fryer has 13 one-touch functions. These presets help you avoid trial and error for:

1. Dehydrating fruits
2. Reheating pizza without it getting soggy
3. Preparing perfect proteins for the week

Accessibility Features

Kitchens can be busy, and safety shouldn’t be an afterthought. Top models now include features that keep users safe while they multitask.

Automatic Shut-Off Safety

Breville’s Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro turns off after 12 minutes of inactivity. This is great for when you’re helping with homework while dinner cooks. It prevents:

• Energy waste from forgotten appliances
• Potential fire hazards
• Overcooked disasters

Child Lock Functionality

Instant Vortex Plus models show why family-friendly design matters. Their single-button lock keeps curious kids from changing settings. You can relax knowing:

1. Settings stay safe during cooking
2. No sudden temperature spikes happen
3. Delicate bakeware is protected from sudden mode changes

Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements

Keeping your cooking appliances clean is key to better performance and longer life. Whether you’re making Air Fryer recipes or baking in a convection oven, knowing how to maintain them saves time and avoids headaches.

Daily Upkeep Demands

Non-Stick Surface Care

Modern air fryers, like the Instant Pot Vortex, have removable non-stick baskets. To keep the coating in good shape:

• Use soft sponges instead of steel wool
• Avoid aerosol cooking sprays (opt for brush-applied oil)
• Wipe spills immediately after cooling

The Breville Smart Oven Air’s crumb tray needs weekly cleaning. Tests show it’s 35% faster to clean than traditional oven racks.

Crumb Tray Maintenance

Empty the tray after each use to avoid smoke and odors. For greasy Air Fryer recipes, use parchment paper. Most models make it easy to access – the Instant Pot Vortex basket comes out in 2 seconds, while Breville’s tray slides out.

“Appliances with dishwasher-safe parts reduce cleaning time by up to 70% compared to manual scrubbing.”

Deep Cleaning Procedures

Removing Baked-On Grease

For tough residue:

1. Soak parts in warm soapy water for 15 minutes
2. Use baking soda paste on persistent spots
3. Rinse thoroughly to avoid soap buildup

Whirlpool’s dishwasher-safe baskets are great for weekly deep cleans. Don’t soak heating elements – it can damage 23% of air fryers, repair data shows.

Dishwasher-Safe Components

Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before washing parts. Most basket handles and trays can go in the top rack. But never wash digital interfaces. The Instant Pot Vortex Pro’s rack system cleans faster in dishwashers (12 minutes vs. 18-minute manual scrub).

Versatility in Meal Preparation

When picking between countertop appliances, versatility is key. Air fryers and convection ovens each bring unique benefits to meal prep. Let’s see how they handle special cooking tasks beyond basic frying and baking.

Multi-Function Cooking Modes

Today’s appliances are like mini kitchens. The Ninja Foodi’s 6-in-1 system is a great example. It air fries, roasts, and dehydrates all in one. This means you can make many dishes without taking up too much space.

Dehydrating Fruits and Jerky

Air fryers are better at drying snacks than many convection ovens. Serious Eats found air fryers dry mango slices 25% faster. But, Whirlpool’s top convection ovens can handle bigger batches, perfect for keeping summer fruits fresh.

Rotisserie-Style Meat Cooking

Convection ovens are great for rotisserie-style chicken. They use rotating baskets and broiling to get chicken browned like deli-style. Air fryers can do similar things, but their smaller size means you might need to cut poultry in half.

Specialty Cooking Capabilities

Both appliances have special features for unique cooking needs. These can even replace tools like proofing drawers or slow cookers in some cases.

Proofing Dough Performance

Panasonic’s convection ovens are top-notch for dough proofing. They keep a steady 100°F, making dough rise faster than in air fryers. Most air fryers don’t have a proofing mode, but some users use low-temperature settings as a workaround.

Low-Temperature Simmering

Convection ovens can simmer at very low temperatures, better than air fryers. They’re great for slow-cooked dishes like short ribs or sauces. Air fryers start at 300°F, which limits their low-temperature use.

Your choice depends on what specialty functions you need most. If you often dehydrate, air fryers might be better. But, if you bake a lot, convection ovens are more accurate for proofing. Think about your cooking habits before making a decision.

Best Use Cases for Each Appliance

Choosing the right appliance depends on your cooking style and household needs. Air fryers and ovens use rapid air circulation but excel in different situations. Let’s explore when each appliance performs best.

Ideal Air Fryer Scenarios

Air fryers are great when speed and convenience are key. They heat up faster than big ovens, making them ideal for specific tasks.

Quick Frozen Snacks

Revive frozen fries, chicken nuggets, or mozzarella sticks in minutes. Air fryers crisp these foods 20% faster than ovens, with less preheating. The single-layer basket ensures even browning without flipping, perfect for quick snacks or game-day appetizers.

Small-Batch Crispy Proteins

For perfectly golden chicken wings or salmon fillets, air fryers are unbeatable. Their concentrated airflow creates a Maillard reaction faster, locking in juices while achieving crispy skin. But, you’ll cook in batches for superior texture.

Convection Oven Advantages

Convection ovens are unmatched for cooking for crowds or complex meals. Whirlpool’s study found families use convection settings 38% more often for large cooking tasks.

Family-Sized Casseroles

Bake a 9×13-inch lasagna or shepherd’s pie without splitting ingredients. Convection ovens maintain even heat, preventing soggy bottoms that air fryers can get during long bakes.

Multi-Rack Holiday Baking

Hosting Thanksgiving? A convection oven can roast a 20-pound turkey while baking rolls and roasting vegetables. The forced air circulation works across multiple racks, ensuring consistent results – something air fryers can’t match.

For singles or small households, air fryers save time and energy on daily meals. Families and entertainers will love the convection oven’s capacity, though it costs more energy. Think about your cooking needs when deciding between an air fryer and an oven.

Popular Models and Brand Recommendations

Finding the right countertop appliance can be tough with so many choices. We’ve picked tested models that are top in performance, durability, and user happiness. These picks cover the best kitchen appliances for today’s cooking needs, whether you want smart features or simple use.

Top Air Fryer Choices

Air fryers are great for small-batch cooking, thanks to their fast heating and crispy food. Here are three models loved by experts and home cooks:

Ninja Foodi 6-in-1

• 6-quart capacity for big meals
• Six functions: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, Bake, and Broil
• Ranked #1 in Serious Eats’ speed tests for frozen fries

Instant Vortex Plus

• EvenCrisp™ technology for even browning
• ClearCook window to check food without opening the basket
• Includes 30+ one-touch programs for easy cooking

Cosori Air Fryer Max XL

• 13 customizable presets for global cuisines
• Dishwasher-safe parts with non-toxic coating
• Works with Alexa for voice control

“The Ninja Foodi’s versatility makes it a standout choice for households craving restaurant-quality textures with minimal oil.”

Leading Convection Ovens

For full-oven needs with better airflow, these convection models offer top results:

Breville Smart Oven Air

• Element IQ® system adjusts heat automatically
• Air Fry setting cuts oil use by 98% compared to deep frying
• Fits a 13″ pizza or six slices of toast

Cuisinart Chef’s Convection

• Dual-stone technology for perfect crispy crusts
• 15 cooking functions including Proof and Warm
• Stainless steel construction with fingerprint-resistant finish

Panasonic FlashXpress

• Compact design perfect for small kitchens
• Inverter Turbo technology speeds cooking by 25%
• Pre-programmed settings for 25 common dishes

Whirlpool’s latest smart oven specs show a trend: modern convection models now have app connectivity for remote temperature control. This feature is great in the Breville Smart Oven Air, letting you preheat while on your way home.

Space Considerations for Your Kitchen

Choosing the right appliances is key to a well-organized kitchen. Air fryers and convection ovens differ in size and how they fit into your space. Let’s explore how they work in various kitchen setups.

Countertop Footprint Analysis

For small kitchens, air fryers like the Cosori Max XL are perfect. It’s only 12.8” tall. In contrast, the Breville Smart Oven Air is 21.5” high. Here’s a side-by-side look at their sizes:

Standard appliance dimensions

Convection ovens usually need 18-24” of width. Air fryers are smaller, needing less than 15”. Always check your space before buying. The Spruce suggests leaving 2-3” around appliances for air.

Storage solutions when not in use

For tight spots, try these tips from Serious Eats:

• Store air fryers vertically in deep cabinets
• Use rolling carts for heavy convection ovens
• Install under-cabinet hooks for accessories

Built-In Configuration Options

For those who use their appliances a lot, built-in options are great. They fit right into your cabinets. Some air fryers even have designs for custom setups.

Wall oven convection models

Brands like Wolf and Thermador have 24” and 30” wall ovens. They save floor space but need a pro to install.

Under-counter installation

Some convection ovens fit in 24” under-counter spaces. Look for ones with controls on the front and slide-out racks. This keeps your counters clear while you cook.

Healthier Cooking Options Explored

Health-conscious cooks now have powerful tools to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor. Modern appliances like air fryers and convection ovens change how you cook. They offer smarter ways to cut calories while keeping taste and texture.

Oil Usage Comparison

Air fryers use less oil thanks to their rapid-air technology. Whirlpool’s studies show they use 20-25% less oil than traditional frying. Convection ovens need a bit more oil for similar results.

Spray vs Brush Application

Misting oil with a spray bottle creates thinner, more even coatings. This method reduces total fat content by up to 40% in air-fried foods, according to USDA data. Convection ovens often need brushed oil to prevent dryness in larger batches.

Fat Reduction Percentages

USDA analysis reveals striking differences:

• Air-fried chicken: 25-30% less fat than deep-fried
• Convection-oven fries: 15-20% less fat than standard baking
• Vegetable tempura: 35% fat reduction in air fryer tests

Nutrient Retention Studies

Serious Eats’ lab tests show how cooking methods affect food’s nutritional value. Air fryers cook faster and use concentrated heat. This helps preserve sensitive vitamins better than most oven-based approaches.

Vitamin C Preservation Tests

Broccoli cooked in air fryers retained 90% of its vitamin C. This is compared to 78% in convection ovens. The difference is due to reduced exposure time to high heat – air fryers cook vegetables 25% faster on average.

Protein Structure Analysis

USDA researchers found air-fried salmon has 12% more omega-3 fatty acids than oven-baked versions. The quick cooking process prevents excessive fat breakdown. This keeps proteins intact and nutrient-dense.

“Air frying isn’t just about less oil – it’s a complete nutritional upgrade for fried food favorites.”

These findings show air fryer benefits go beyond simple calorie reduction. You get restaurant-style crispness with home-cooked nutrition. This makes it easier to enjoy guilt-free versions of classic comfort foods.

User Experience and Real-World Feedback

Appliance owners share surprising insights on daily use. Specs and features are important, but real-world performance matters more. Let’s see what users really think after months of cooking.

Common User Complaints

Air Fryer Smoke Issues

Many users face smoke when cooking fatty foods like bacon. Philips models are often criticized for this, with 23% of reviews mentioning it. One owner said:

“The smoke alarm went off twice during my first week of air frying chicken wings – even after cleaning the basket thoroughly.”

Smoke usually comes from grease on heating elements or when the basket is too full. Using parchment liners and cooking in smaller batches can help.

Convection Fan Noise Levels

Convection ovens are 10-15dB louder than regular ovens, according to Serious Eats. Breville’s Smart Oven Air is as loud as a vacuum, at 68dB. While most get used to it, 18% find it too loud in open kitchens.

Most Praised Features

One-Touch Smart Programs

Whirlpool’s latest convection models get high praise for their 12 pre-programmed cooking modes. Users love how these make Air Fryer recipes easy without adjusting temperatures. A home chef said:

“The ‘crispy fries’ button delivers perfect results every time – it’s like having a restaurant fry cook in my countertop!”

Consistent Temperature Control

Breville’s dual-element heating system keeps temperatures accurate to ±5°F, 94% of users agree. This is key for baking and even browning. A baker noted:

“Now, I have a countertop oven that doesn’t burn cookie edges while undercooking the centers!”

These stories show why real-world performance is more important than specs. Whether you value quiet or reliable programs, listening to user experiences is key.

Conclusion

Choosing between an air fryer and a convection oven depends on your cooking habits and household needs. For quick meals with minimal oil, compact air fryers like the Ninja Foodi are great. They deliver crispy results faster than traditional ovens.

Families needing larger capacity may prefer convection models such as the Breville Smart Oven Air. It handles multiple dishes at once while keeping heat even.

Serious Eats’ testing shows air fryers get better crispiness for frozen foods and snacks. Convection ovens are better for roasting meats or baking cookies. They have more space inside.

Whirlpool’s guides suggest built-in convection models for kitchen renovations. Countertop air fryers are perfect for renters or small spaces.

Health-conscious cooks will like both appliances for using less oil, up to 75% less than deep frying. Air fryers keep more vitamins in vegetables because they cook faster. Convection ovens can broil, dehydrate, and proof, which air fryers can’t.

Your choice depends on your daily meals and kitchen space. Singles and couples might prefer air fryers like the Ninja DualZone. Families cooking different meals might like Breville’s multi-functional convection models.

Think about your counter space, how often you cook, and what you like to make. This will help you choose the right appliance for your kitchen.