How to buy an air fryer is not a difficult thing to do once you have considered what your air frying needs will be.
Is it worth getting an air fryer?
If you like easy cooking, easy clean up, and a healthier way of cookies, I would say "yes", it is worth getting an air fryer.
This is in my opinion as I own more than one (which I will explain to you in a moment).
Air fryers are basically an appliance that can easily fit on your countertop
Unlike regular fryers, air fryers can cook food without the oil (thus making things a bit healthier).
They work by circulating hot air, kind of like a convection oven does. Because of the size of the air fryer, they can cook food faster than an oven and more efficiently. Lastly, you can buy an air fryer for under $50 if you are looking for something inexpensive and useful.
Here is what you need to know about buying an air fryer.
Air fryers come in different sizes and shapes.
You can find an inexpensive egg-shaped air fryer that is basic and easy to use (great for teens!).
On the other end of the air frying spectrum, you can find a countertop multipurpose oven that has an air fryer in addition to a toaster oven, convection oven and more. I own both, for different reasons.
What to consider when looking for an air fryer.
- The level of your air frying needs.
- Size of the air fryer.
- Features that you are looking for in an air fryer.
- Price that you are willing to pay for your air fryer.
How to determine the level of your air frying needs.
When determining the level of you air frying needs, consider how many people will be using the air fryer.
Also consider how often the air fryer will get used.
Can you make every kind of recipe in an air fryer?
The quick answer is no, that is, not every air fryer can make every kind of recipe that can be made in an air fryer.
Some air fryers are intended to be used mostly for heating up foods such as frozen foods that can also be heated up in an oven (think cheese sticks or fries). Those larger multi purpose air fryers can make just about anything that can be made in an oven, only quicker and more efficiently (think pizzas or batches of cookies).
Are you following me?
What to know about the size of air fryers.
As mentioned, air fryers do come in a variety of sizes.
A small air fryer is best for making convenience foods quickly.
Basic models are inexpensive, easier to clean, 'dummy-proof' (for the most part), and they can travel well- dorm rooms, campers, vacation homes, etc...
Subscribe to TheAirFryingDiva!
Larger air fryers take up more space yet, they do come with many features.
My large air fryer takes up a bit of counterpace.
However, I rarely use my oven since my air fryer can oven can do anything that my appliance oven does in less time and with less clean up.
What are the different sizes of air fryers?
Air fryers come in different sizes and different shapes.
A multi purpose air fryer can be between 20 and 30 quart capacity while why an egg-shaped air fryer will be smaller.
What to know about quart sizes of air fryers.
Those basic air fryers,such as the oval or egg shaped ones, usually come in six quart sizes and under.
This is somewhat because they are intended to be used for efficient and simple air frying.
Expert Tip👉 While smaller quart air fryers are efficient and less expensive, they are not able to cook as much food at a time as a larger air fryer. This means that you may need to make some of your air fried recipes in batches as a result.
What kind of features should you look for in an air fryer?
If you are looking for something quick and basic that just does what it is supposed to do, you do not need a lot of features.
As it has a heat setting and a timer for cooking you should be set.
What are the advanced features in an air fryer?
- Other options for cooking such as roasting or dehydrating.
- Buttons for specific foods with the settings for air frying all ready to go.
- Recipes that work well in that specific air fryer.
- Accessories such as racks, baskets, or pans.
How much should pay for your air fryer?
How much you want to spend on an air fryer has a lot to do with what you are looking for in an air fryer.
You can find a basic air fryer easily for under $50 or purchase on for upwards of $300 with all of the bells and whistles.
Here is what to consider when you are setting the budget for your new air fryer.
- What are your 'must-haves' when it comes to an air fryer?
- Consider the add-on that are included with the air fryer?
- How much are you willing to spend on an air fryer?
Tips for purchasing a new air fryer
- Think about the quart size of the air fryer and the temperature capabilities as these can vary. Many air fryers just go to 500f for example.
- If you are unsure about air fryers, purchase a 'starter' air fryer and get to know things before upgrading for your needs.
- Read reviews. I like to go to Amazon and read the reviews and look at the pictures to learn more about the product.
- Compare prices for the same product. Take into consideration what comes with the air fryer (accessories etc) and shipping costs.
- Lastly, keep an eye out for special sale events (black Friday types) where air fryers may be a leader sale item.