Journalist Glenn Kelly recently tested three air fryers – the Tefal Easy Fry Dual XXL, the Ninja MAX Dual Zone, and the Philips 4000 Series Stacked – to determine which best suits a busy family’s needs, according to a review published Wednesday by RTÉ.
The air fryer market has evolved beyond a simple choice between single or double units, now requiring consideration of capacity, speed, and counter space. The Tefal XXL offers a substantial 11L capacity, divided into 6.5L and 4.5L drawers, suitable for cooking large items like a whole chicken with sides. The Ninja MAX, priced at €259.99 from Ninjakitchen.ie, received a 5/5 rating and is lauded for its 9.5L capacity and “Max Crisp” technology, often surpassing traditional oven results. The Philips 4000 Series distinguishes itself with a vertical, stacked design, saving 45% of counter space while maintaining a 10L capacity and including viewing windows.
According to research from December 2023, air fryers can be significantly more cost-effective than traditional ovens, with a roast chicken costing approximately 18p to cook in an air fryer compared to 39p in an oven, as reported by Which?. However, the initial cost of an air fryer, ranging from €50 to €350, must be considered. The research also suggests that while air fryers are economical for smaller meals, conventional ovens may be more efficient for larger quantities.
RTÉ has previously published recipes designed for air fryers, including dishes like chicken tikka masala, garlic butter bolognese, and pumpkin lasagne, demonstrating the appliance’s versatility beyond simple frying. A 2022 article highlighted the ability to roast, bake, and even make desserts in an air fryer, while a more recent piece in October 2024 showcased a range of “showstopping” recipes.
Ocado’s in-house food expert, Laura Rowe, describes air fryers as “incredibly versatile,” capable of reheating, roasting, baking, grilling, and even dehydrating, often requiring less oil than other cooking methods.
