The choice of air fryer size depends on the number of people you’re cooking for, how often you’ll use it, and your kitchen space. Models with a capacity of 2–4 liters are suitable for small families, while air fryers of 5 liters or more are ideal for large families. If you plan to cook large dishes, like a whole chicken, it’s better to choose a model with a larger capacity.
What Size Air Fryer Do I Need?
According to SIA’s recommendations, each liter of fryer capacity is designed to prepare one serving of food. This general rule can help you determine the necessary size.
| Capacity | Number of Servings | Suitable For | Example Dishes |
| 1–2 liters | 1–2 servings | 1–2 people | French fries, chicken pieces |
| 3–4 liters | 3–4 servings | Small family (up to 4 people) | Whole chicken, several steaks |
| 5 liters + | 5 or more servings | Large families (5+ people) | Large portions of fries, large cuts of meat |
Air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens.
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What is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is not a conventional deep fryer; it’s more like a mini convection oven. This option is ideal for those who want fried foods with minimal fat and without needing to use large amounts of oil, as required by traditional deep fryers.
How Does an Air Fryer Work?
The basic working principle of an air fryer involves circulating hot air inside the device. Heating elements (resistors) positioned in various areas heat the air quickly. A fan then circulates this hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking. It functions similarly to an electric convection oven but in a more compact form.
Main Advantages
- Cost Reduction: These devices consume less electricity compared to large ovens.
- Minimal Fat: Only a few drops of oil are used to prepare tasty dishes.
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How to Choose the Right Air Fryer Size?
How often do you plan to use the air fryer?
If you plan to use an air fryer only occasionally for specific dishes, a smaller model might suffice. However, if you want to cook meals for a large family, it’s best to choose an air fryer with a larger capacity.
What do you plan to cook?
The type of dishes you cook also affects your choice of size. For example, if you want to prepare a whole chicken or large portions of meat, a larger device is needed. Consider whether you’ll be cooking dishes with lots of liquid, like curries or stews, in which case models with a removable grill are preferable for easier cooking control. Some models with dual-zone baskets allow you to cook different dishes simultaneously, which is especially convenient for large families or when preparing meals with varying requirements (gluten-free dishes, vegetarian options, etc.).
| Dish Type | Recommended Size |
| Whole chicken, large meals | 5 liters + |
| Fried potatoes, fish dishes | 2–4 liters |
| Dishes with liquid (curries) | Models with a removable grill |
Kitchen Space
Lastly, consider your kitchen space. While compact, air fryers still require enough room to operate. If you have a small kitchen, it’s best to choose a smaller model. However, if you have more space, you can opt for a larger device or even a multifunctional model that can replace an oven.
| Kitchen Space | Recommendations |
| Small Kitchen | Compact air fryer of 2–4 liters |
| Large Kitchen | Consider a larger model or a mini oven |
Types of Air Fryers
There are several types of air fryers, and your choice depends on your needs and preferences. Differences include shape, size, and functionality.
| Air Fryer Type | Description |
| Front-Opening | It has doors that open at the front, with a pull-out tray or basket for food. The control panel is typically located on the front, making it easy to use. |
| With Basket | This version has a removable basket where you can place food. Note that food is not immersed in oil as in a traditional fryer but cooked with hot air. |
| Top-Opening | This type has a lid that opens from the top. Some models have a transparent lid for easy monitoring. This is convenient for checking the dish’s doneness without additional steps. |
| With Paddle | This device has a rotating paddle that stirs the food, ensuring it cooks evenly. It is especially useful for dishes that require stirring, such as fries. |
| Multi-Function | These devices can perform various functions, from frying to baking, drying, or even grilling. Some models include accessories for roasting chicken or cooking kebabs. |
| Mini Oven | Such air fryers are larger and can replace an oven in a small kitchen. They have multiple levels for racks or trays, allowing you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. A mini oven also has transparent doors for visual cooking control. |
