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10 Best Are Air Fryers Any Good of 2026

#1

Best for budget-conscious buyers wanting large-capacity air frying.

#2

Best for households wanting a simple, reliable multi-function cooker.

#3

Best for singles who want visible, multi-use cooking vessels.

#4

Best for singles, students, and small households.

Best Dual-Basket
#5

Best for couples or households cooking different dishes simultaneously.

Best Value
#6

Best value for families wanting versatile, large-capacity ovens.

#7

Best for small families needing a precise, compact multi-function oven.

Best for Families
#8

Best for large families and frequent entertainers.

#9

Best for multi-tasking households and serious home cooks.

Best Overall
#10

Best for cooks wanting premium multi-function and dehydration capability.

Buying Guide

Capacity

Choose a size that matches your household: 2–3 litres for singles or couples, 3–5 litres for small families, and 5 litres plus for larger households or roasting joints. Remember manufacturers quote total capacity, but usable basket volume is what matters for real cooking.

Cooking performance and features

Look at wattage, temperature range and cooking modes - higher wattage typically means quicker preheating and crisper results. Consider extra functions such as bake, roast, grill, rotisserie or dual‑zone cooking if you want a versatile appliance.

Ease of cleaning

Non‑stick baskets and dishwasher‑safe parts save time; check whether trays, crisper plates and racks can go in the dishwasher. Also consider how easy it is to reach corners and whether the basket has replaceable liners or crumb trays.

Size and kitchen footprint

Measure your worktop or cupboard space before buying - some air fryers are compact tower designs, others are wide with large baskets. If you intend to store it between uses, choose a lighter model with detachable parts that stack neatly.

Safety, reliability and running costs

Check for safety features like cool‑touch handles, auto shut‑off and overheat protection, plus a decent warranty from a reputable brand. Air fryers generally use less energy than a full-size oven, but also consider long‑term reliability and availability of replacement parts or accessories in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are air fryers any good?
Yes - air fryers are effective for making crisp food with much less oil than deep frying, and they’re quicker to heat than conventional ovens. They’re best for smaller portions, reheating, and foods that benefit from fast, dry heat such as chips, chicken wings and roasted veg.
What is the best air fryer in 2026?
There isn’t a single ‘best’ model for everyone, but in 2026 top picks often include multi‑function models from Philips, Ninja and Cosori for consistent results and durability. Choose by use case - compact models for singles, XXL or dual‑zone units for families.
Is an air fryer worth buying in the UK?
For many households an air fryer is worth it if you want quicker cooking, crisper results and lower oil usage than deep frying. With energy prices in the UK, it can also be cheaper to run than heating a large oven for small meals, but consider how often you’ll use it.
Which air fryer offers the best value for money?
Mid‑range models around £80–£150 from brands such as Cosori, Ninja and Tower usually offer the best balance of capacity, build quality and features. Budget models under £60 can be fine for occasional use, while premium machines over £200 add extras like smart apps and dual baskets.
Philips vs Ninja - which should I buy?
Philips is known for consistent air circulation and durable build, while Ninja tends to offer more multifunctionality (e.g. dual‑zone, bake, dehydrate) at similar prices. Pick Philips for reliability and simple performance, Ninja for flexible cooking modes and larger capacity options.
Can I use an air fryer like a small oven (for baking and roasting)?
Yes - most air fryers can bake, roast and reheat smaller roasts or cakes, though you’ll be limited by basket size and depth. For cakes or larger roasts a conventional oven may still be preferable, but many models include bake and roast presets.
Are air‑fried foods healthier than deep‑fried ones?
Generally yes - air frying uses a fraction of the oil of deep frying which reduces calories and fat, but the healthiness still depends on the food you cook and portion sizes. Foods heavily processed or coated in batter will still be less healthy even when air‑fried.
Where can I buy air fryers in the UK and is there a price range?
Major retailers include Argos, John Lewis, Currys and Amazon UK; supermarket lines appear at Tesco and Sainsbury’s too. Prices vary from around £40 for basic models to £250+ for premium multi‑function machines - mid‑range units are typically £80–£150.
What is the best air fryer for a family in 2026?
For families in 2026, look for models with at least 5 litres capacity and 1,700–2,200W power such as the Ninja Foodi DualZone or Philips XXL; they offer large baskets or two cooking zones for simultaneous dishes and steady heat distribution.
Is it worth buying an air fryer in 2026?
Yes, if you value faster preheat times, lower oil use and convenience - modern air fryers in 2026 add features like dual zones, app control and improved temperature accuracy. Consider frequency of use and compare running costs versus your electric oven to decide.
Cosori vs Philips - which air fryer should I buy?
Choose Philips if you want tried‑and‑tested air circulation and a solid warranty; pick Cosori for better value and user‑friendly presets at a lower price. Cosori often offers larger basket sizes and multiple accessories, while Philips focuses on build quality and consistent cooking.
Which air fryer is best value for money in the UK?
The best value tends to be mid‑range models around £80–£150 from brands like Cosori or Tower, which combine decent capacity, reliable heating and dishwasher‑safe parts. Look for units with at least 3–4 litre usable basket size and a 1,500W+ rating for versatile everyday use.

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Review Analysis: We use AI to analyze customer review trends, identify common themes, and summarize the key strengths and weaknesses of each product.

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Last updated: June 25, 2026

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