Air Fryer Pros and Cons: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Air Fryer Pros and Cons: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Air fryers use little to no oil and cook fast but have smaller capacity than deep frying. See the full pros and cons list and get yours Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finance.

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In summary

Air fryers offer a genuinely healthier alternative to deep frying, using little to no oil while cooking quickly and cleaning easily. The trade-off is smaller cooking capacity and a texture that does not always perfectly replicate deep-fried crispiness.

  • Main pros: little to no oil needed, fast and efficient cooking, easy to clean with non-stick, detachable parts
  • Main cons: smaller cooking capacity than deep frying, can take longer for certain dishes, texture not always identical to deep frying
  • Health benefit: most research shows air frying reduces acrylamide (a compound linked to cancer risk) by 70-90% compared to deep frying, though results vary by food type and specific study
  • Maximum temperature: most air fryers range from 200°C to 220°C
  • Best for larger families: a 6-litre air fryer cooks multiple servings in one batch, reducing the smaller-capacity drawback

You can buy air fryers on Easy EMIs at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities, including Reliance Digital, Croma, and Vijay Sales.

What are the real pros and cons of owning an air fryer?

 
 

Air fryers have become increasingly popular, promising healthier meals with less oil. However, like any appliance, they come with their own advantages and disadvantages. This guide explores both honestly, including a closer look at the health claims around acrylamide reduction, so you can make an informed decision about whether an air fryer is right for your kitchen.


If you are looking for a new air fryer, visit any of Bajaj Finance's 1.5 lakh partner stores — like Vijay Sales, Croma, Reliance Digital, and more — across 4,000 cities, including Tier 2 cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, Kochi, Bhopal, and more in India. Choose your preferred model, then use the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Bajaj Finance Easy EMI Loan to finance it. Convert the cost into Easy EMIs that suit your monthly budget and enjoy zero down payment on select models — take it home without any upfront payment. Check your loan eligibility online in minutes so you know exactly what you can get before you step into the store.

What are the pros and cons of an air fryer?

An air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. The points below set out the genuine trade-offs to weigh before buying one:

AspectProsCons
Oil usageRequires little to no oil, helping reduce fat and calorie intake compared to traditional deep frying.Some foods may require a small amount of oil to achieve better browning and crispness.
Cooking speed and convenienceHeats up quickly, cooks efficiently, and is generally easy to clean thanks to detachable components.Certain dishes can take longer to cook than in a deep fryer because hot air circulates around the food instead of immersing it in oil.
Cooking capacityCompact models are suitable for individuals, couples, and small households.Most air fryers have a smaller cooking capacity than deep fryers or conventional ovens, making batch cooking necessary for larger families.
Food textureProduces crispy and evenly cooked food with significantly less oil.The texture may not always match the crunch and richness of food cooked in deep oil.
VersatilityCan air fry, roast, bake, grill, and reheat a wide variety of foods.Some specialised recipes may still deliver better results in conventional ovens or deep fryers.
Overall valueOffers a healthier and more convenient way to prepare everyday meals while reducing oil consumption.Higher-capacity models with advanced features can be more expensive than basic cooking appliances.

Considering these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision before bringing an air fryer into your kitchen.


What are the health benefits of using an air fryer?

Beyond convenience, an air fryer offers genuine, evidence-supported health advantages over traditional deep frying.


  • Reduced oil consumption: An instant air fryer uses significantly less oil compared to traditional frying methods, helping lower fat intake while still providing a crispy texture.
  • Healthier cooking: With an instant pot air fryer, you can enjoy meals that retain more nutrients, since faster cooking at controlled temperatures helps prevent nutrient loss in vegetables and proteins.
  • Generally fewer harmful compounds though not universally confirmed: Most research shows that air frying's lower oil content and shorter cooking time reduce the formation of acrylamide, a compound the World Health Organization classifies as probably carcinogenic to humans, with commonly cited reductions of 70 to 90% compared to deep frying. It is worth noting this finding is not entirely uniform across all studies; a small number of more recent comparisons have found similar or even higher acrylamide levels in air-fried food under specific test conditions, so the reduction depends on the food type, temperature, and exact method used.
  • Versatile cooking: Air fryers suit a wide range of healthy recipes, from roasting vegetables to air-frying lean meats, supporting a well-rounded approach to health-conscious cooking.

How does an air fryer compare to traditional deep frying?

The table below sets out the practical differences across the factors that matter most when deciding between the two methods.

AspectAir fryerTraditional deep frying
Oil usageRequires little to no oil, making it a healthier optionUses large quantities of oil, increasing fat and calorie intake
Health factorLowers fat content in meals, reducing overall calorie consumptionIncreases fat content, making it less healthy for regular use
Cooking timeGenerally takes longer due to the air circulation methodFaster cooking time, especially for larger quantities
Taste and textureProduces crispy results, though not always as crunchy as deep-fried foodsAchieves perfectly crispy and crunchy textures, especially for battered items
Ease of cleaningEasy to clean with detachable, non-stick partsTime-consuming due to oil residue and grease buildup
Cooking capacityLimited space, especially in smaller modelsCan handle large quantities, ideal for family gatherings

For larger meals, a 6-litre air fryer is better suited for cooking multiple servings at once, directly addressing the capacity drawback above.


How can you maximise the benefits of an air fryer?

To fully enjoy the benefits of an air fryer, it is important to use it effectively.


  • Preheat for even cooking: Preheating helps ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness, though most modern air fryers do not strictly require it.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Overcrowding the basket can block air circulation and result in uneven cooking, so use small to medium-sized portions and shake the basket occasionally.
  • Invest in accessories: Grilling racks and baking pans can expand the air fryer's versatility, letting you bake, grill, and roast in addition to frying.
  • Use the right oil sprays: A light, even oil spray helps achieve the perfect texture without using too much oil.
  • Choose the right capacity for your family: For larger families, opting for a 5-litre air fryer helps cook more food in one go, maximising convenience and efficiency.

Updated price list of air fryers in India (2026)

Compare the latest air fryer prices in India across different capacities and budgets. From compact models for small households to large digital air fryers for families, there is an option for every cooking need.


ModelPrice*CapacityKey features
Philips NA120/00 Air FryerRs. 4,7804.2LRapid Air technology, 1,500W power, low-oil cooking
Crompton Ameo 4.2L Digital Air FryerRs. 4,1804.2LDigital controls, preset menus, rapid air circulation
Havells Prolife Neo Air FryerRs. 5,9995LDigital display, multiple cooking presets, large basket
AGARO Galaxy Digital Air FryerRs. 3,9994.5LTouch controls, adjustable temperature, timer function
Prestige Nutrifry Digital Air FryerRs. 4,4034LDigital operation, healthy low-oil cooking, preset modes
Wonderchef Neo Pro Digital Air FryerRs. 4,3995LRapid air technology, digital controls, compact design
Croma AO6998 Digital Air FryerRs. 6,9996L1,700W power, rapid air circulation, touchscreen controls
SOlara Air Fryer OvenRs. 7,79912LAir fryer oven design, rotisserie function, large capacity

Disclaimer: Each model's features, availability, and pricing are subject to change and may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official website.


Note: Although you can only use Bajaj Finance’s financing options to split any purchase above Rs. 5,000 into Easy EMIs, you can always club your product with other electronics and home appliances to meet the minimum amount and enjoy the same benefits.


Before you decide, explore the latest offers. You may find a great deal on a model that matches your needs.


What are my financing options to buy an air fryer?

Bajaj Finance offers two financing options for purchasing air fryers. Both options are available at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India. Here is how they compare:

OptionLimitKey features
Bajaj Finance Insta EMI CardPre-approved card loan offer up to Rs. 3 lakhZero annual fee; 3 to 60 months tenure; works at 1.5 lakh partner stores; 1 million eligible products
Bajaj Finance Easy EMI LoanLoan limit up to Rs. 5 lakhQuick loan approval; 3 to 60 months tenure; basic KYC documents needed; ideal for higher-value purchases

How to choose? Both options require you to be physically present at a partner store. The Insta EMI Card is ideal for shoppers who want to purchase across multiple categories over time. The Easy EMI Loan suits buyers looking to finance a higher-value purchase in a single transaction.

How do I buy an air fryer on EMI at a Bajaj Finance partner store?

The process is simple and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes once you are at the store.


  1. Browse air fryer models on Bajaj Mall: Compare models by capacity, wattage, and price on Bajaj Mall before visiting a store. Match the wattage to your household size using the breakdown in this guide.
  2. Find a partner store near you: Use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or other authorised retailers.
  3. Check the air fryer in person: Confirm the wattage and capacity suit your household's cooking habits, and check that your kitchen circuit can safely handle the appliance's current draw alongside other devices.
  4. Choose a suitable EMI option: At checkout, ask the store executive about the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan. Confirm available tenure options and whether your chosen model comes with a zero down payment offer.
  5. Complete payment and take your air fryer home: The in-store process is quick, and most models are available for same-day pickup.

You can also check your loan eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, helping you plan your purchase better before visiting the store.

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