Air fryers have quickly become a must-have in modern kitchens. They make it easy to enjoy crispy, tasty meals without using much oil. Whether you’re frying, baking, or reheating food, an air fryer can save you time and cut down on cleanup.
But with so many models available, how do you know which one to pick? It’s important to think about size, features, and ease of cleaning especially if you want something that’s easy to maintain. A self cleaning air fryer can make a big difference.
Let’s take a look at what you should keep in mind before making a purchase.
How Do Air Fryers Work?
So what’s the deal? Is it a tiny oven? A hairdryer in a box?
Not quite. Air fryers utilise a technology called rapid air circulation, where a powerful fan blows hot air around your food to cook it quickly and evenly. It gives that crispy, golden finish you usually get from deep-frying, but with a fraction of the oil.
Think of it like a turbo-charged convection oven, but faster and more efficient. And way less cleanup. That’s the real win.
What Kind of Air Fryer Should You Get?
When I started shopping, I had no idea there were so many types. Some resemble large pods with a pull-out basket, while others resemble small toaster ovens. The pod-style ones are great if you just want to throw in a batch of frozen nuggets or reheat leftovers. They’re compact, fast, and super easy to use.
But if you’re hoping to roast a whole chicken or cook for more than two people, you might want to look at the oven-style ones. Those have racks, trays, and a bit more flexibility. Some even let you toast, bake, or dehydrate, making them a kind of one-stop shop if you don’t have a full-sized oven.
And here’s a tip: If you’re the type who likes to “set it and forget it,” go for one with digital controls. It’s just more accurate. Analog dials are fine, but they’re less precise and kind of old-school.
1. Choose the Right Size
One of the first things to consider is the air fryer’s size. You want something that fits your cooking needs and your kitchen space.
- Family size: Smaller units (3-5 quarts) are good for 1-3 people. For families or meal prep, choose a larger air fryer like the Typhur Dome.
- Counter space: Make sure the fryer fits comfortably on your countertop.
- Meal portions: If you plan to cook whole meals or large batches, go for a higher capacity.
The Typhur Dome 2 air fryer offers an ample cooking space, which can fit a 12’’ pizza, up to 32 chicken wings. Perfect for a large group.
2. Look for Easy Cleaning Options
Cleaning is often the part people dislike the most. That’s where self-cleaning air fryers come in handy.
- No scrubbing: Some models, like the Typhur Dome, clean themselves with the push of a button.
- Better hygiene: A clean fryer means less grease build-up and fewer food smells.
- Saves time: Skip the sink and let the machine handle the mess.
If you want convenience, this feature is worth it.
3. Check Cooking Performance
Not all air fryers cook food the same way. Some heat more evenly and cook faster than others.
- Strong air circulation helps cook food thoroughly on all sides.
- High power (around 1700W or more) shortens cooking time.
- A wide temperature range gives you more control, especially for crispier foods.
- Fast preheating means less waiting around.
Look for an air fryer that delivers both speed and consistent results.
4. Easy-to-Use Controls
Your air fryer should be simple to operate even if you’re not an experienced cook.
- Digital touchscreen is easier to use than dials.
- Presets let you cook common foods like fries or chicken with one tap.
- Manual settings are helpful if you want full control over time and temperature.
Simple controls mean less guesswork and better meals.
5. Build Quality Matters
A well-built air fryer will last longer and work more reliably.
- Sturdy materials, such as stainless steel, are more durable.
- Heat-resistant housing keeps the exterior safe to touch.
- Clean design saves space and looks good in your kitchen.
- Well-made baskets and trays make cooking smoother.
Choosing a quality product ensures it will serve you well for years.
6. Keep Noise Levels in Mind
Some air fryers can be louder than others, particularly when the fan is in operation.
- Quiet operation makes it easier to use during early mornings or late nights.
- Noise levels under 65 decibels are generally considered comfortable.
- Customer reviews can tell you how loud the unit is in real use.
A quieter fryer is always better in shared or open spaces.
7. Look for Versatility
Air fryers are great for more than just fries.
- Roast meats and vegetables
- Bake cakes, muffins, and more
- Reheat leftovers without drying them out
- Dehydrate fruits or herbs (on select models)
The more it can do, the more use you’ll get from it.
8. Safety Features Are Important
Since air fryers use high heat, safety should be a top priority.
- Auto shut-off helps prevent overcooking.
- Cool-touch handles protect your hands when opening the basket.
- Non-slip base keeps the unit stable during use.
- Overheat protection adds extra safety for long cooking sessions.
These features help protect both your food and your kitchen.
9. Easy Maintenance
Even with self-cleaning, it’s still important that the parts are easy to clean or replace when needed.
- Dishwasher-safe baskets and trays save you time.
- Non-stick coatings reduce stuck-on food.
- Removable parts are easier to wash.
- A simple design means fewer places for grease to build up.
A low-maintenance air fryer makes daily use much more enjoyable.
10. Compare Price and Warranty
Don’t just go for the cheapest option. A well-priced air fryer should offer both quality and long-term value.
- Compare features to price: Are you getting enough for what you’re paying?
- Warranty coverage: A one-year warranty is the minimum you should look for.
- Good customer service: Check user reviews for any service or support issues.
- Spare parts availability: It’s helpful if you can buy replacement baskets or trays later.
Make sure the fryer is worth the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
A: Depends on the model. Some newer ones preheat almost instantly. If yours doesn’t, a 3–5 minute preheat at the desired temp is usually enough.
Q: Can I use foil or parchment paper?
A: Yup — as long as it’s weighed down by food and doesn’t block airflow.
Q: Are air fryers really healthier?
A: Generally, yes. You use way less oil while still getting crispy results. Just don’t turn every meal into a fried feast 😉
Q: Can I cook frozen foods?
A: Absolutely. In fact, frozen fries and nuggets were made for air fryers.
Q: Can I leave it unattended while cooking?
A: I wouldn’t recommend it — it’s still a high-heat appliance. Best to stick around.
Q: How long does an air fryer last?
A: A good one should last 2–5 years depending on usage and build quality.
Q: Anything I shouldn’t cook in it?
A: Wet batters (like tempura) don’t work well. Also, cheese melts into a mess if not breaded.
Final Thoughts
An air fryer can change the way you cook, saving time, using less oil, and making cleanup easier. However, the key is selecting the right one for your specific needs.If you’re looking for a modern, easy-to-use option with powerful performance and self-cleaning convenience, the Typhur Dome Air Fryer is a strong contender. It checks all the boxes: size, cooking power, easy controls, and low maintenance.
