Air fryers have taken over kitchens in recent years – and for good reason. Promising the crispy texture of deep-fried food with far less oil, they offer a healthier way to enjoy your favourites. But how do air fryers really compare to traditional deep fryers?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities – covering everything from health and taste to cost, convenience and safety – so you can decide which appliance deserves a spot on your worktop.
How do air fryers and deep fryers work?
Traditional deep fryers cook food by fully submerging it in hot oil. This method creates a crunchy coating while sealing in moisture, which is why it’s the go-to for classics like chips and crispy chicken.
Air fryers use a completely different method. Instead of oil, they rely on powerful hot air circulation to cook food from all angles, using little to no oil. The result is a crisp finish with less grease – think of it as a more compact, faster version of a convection oven.
Does air-fried food taste as good as deep-fried?
It all depends on your preferences. Deep-fried food has a richer, more indulgent flavour thanks to the oil – especially when it comes to battered or breaded items. It also tends to have a thicker, crunchier coating that many people associate with traditional fried foods.
Air-fried food is typically lighter, both in taste and texture. While it might not have quite the same depth of flavour, it still delivers a satisfying crunch and can be surprisingly close to the real thing, especially with a quick spray of oil or clever seasoning. Many people actually prefer the lighter taste of air-fried food once they get used to it.
For those who are health-conscious but don't want to sacrifice texture, air frying offers an excellent middle ground – you get that satisfying bite without the heavy, greasy aftermath that sometimes comes with deep-fried meals.
Which is healthier – air frying or deep frying?
If health is a top priority, an air fryer wins every time. It uses up to 90% less oil than deep frying, which can significantly cut down on fat and calories. It also avoids the issue of reused cooking oil, which can become less healthy with time.
With an air fryer, there’s no need to deal with draining or disposing of litres of oil, and your food won’t come out greasy – just crisp and golden, with fewer added fats.
What are the features of air fryers vs deep fryers?
Most deep fryers are straightforward appliances: they heat oil and maintain it at the right temperature for frying. Some offer handy extras like adjustable heat settings, removable oil containers or odour filters, but their purpose is fixed.
Air fryers, by contrast, are often multi-functional. The Haier I-Master Multi-Air Fryer XXL Series 5, for example, is designed to do far more than just air fry. It features nine cooking functions, including baking, roasting, grilling, slow cooking, and even yoghurt-making. These preset modes take the guesswork out of common dishes, and the LED-lit viewing window lets you check progress without interrupting the cooking process.
This versatility means an air fryer can potentially replace several appliances in your kitchen, saving both space and money.
Are air fryers safer than deep fryers?
Yes – air fryers are generally much safer than deep fryers. With no hot oil involved, there’s far less risk of splashes, spills or burns. Many models have built-in safety features like auto shut-off and cool-touch exteriors, making them a better choice in busy or family households.
Additionally, air fryers produce significantly less smoke and odour than deep fryers, keeping your kitchen cleaner and fresher. The reduced mess also means less time spent on clean-up and maintenance – it’s a win win!
Deep fryers, even with lids and filters, still involve handling hot oil – and that can be dangerous if left unattended or overheated.
Which is better – air fryer or deep fryer?
The answer depends on your priorities and cooking habits. If you love the full flavour and texture of traditional fried food and don’t mind the clean-up, a deep fryer still has its place. But for most people, the air fryer wins on convenience, health and versatility.
From quick dinners to creative weekend recipes, air fryers like Haier’s Series 5 offer a fuss-free way to cook crisp, tasty meals that are far less oily.
Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or save time in the kitchen, an air fryer is a smart investment. Explore the range from Haier and find the model that's right for your kitchen. With the right air fryer, you can enjoy all your favourite crispy foods with less oil, less mess, and more convenience than ever before.