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Air Fryer vs. Toaster Oven: Which Is the Better Investment?

Published: Aug 15, 2023 6 min read
Asian wife made Oilless Air Fryer machine for cooking a fried chicken for today dinner

Are you debating investing in an air fryer or a toaster oven? Both appliances can make tasty dishes, but which is the better investment? That's what we’ll discuss in this guide. We’ll compare air fryers and toaster ovens based on convenience and cost, so you can decide which is right for you.

In this article, we’ll break down the functions and benefits of each appliance to help you determine which is more appropriate for your needs and space. After reading this post, you’ll be prepared to make an informed decision on whether an air fryer or toaster oven will be more useful to you for whipping up delicious dishes in the kitchen.

Definitions

An air fryer is a compact kitchen appliance that uses convection technology to cook food quickly and efficiently with minimal to no oil. It circulates hot air around the food to achieve a crispy exterior while retaining moisture inside.

On the other hand, a toaster oven is a larger kitchen appliance with multiple functions, including toasting, baking, broiling, roasting and reheating leftovers. It offers various temperature and timer settings for customizable cooking experiences based on your needs.

Cost comparison

The cost of a basic air fryer ranges from $50 to $200, while a basic toaster oven can cost between $30 and $150, depending on features and size. For those seeking a versatile all-in-one solution, an air fryer toaster oven may be the best option, combining the features of both appliances into one unit at a price range of $100 to $300.

In terms of maintenance, both appliances require little compared to traditional ovens. During operation, however, they consume a fair amount of energy. Air fryers have been found to use significantly less power than convection ovens, making them more cost-effective in the long run for energy-conscious individuals.

Benefits of air fryers

Air fryers offer a safer cooking option than traditional ovens, thanks to their smaller size and shorter cooking times. This reduces the risk of burns or fires caused by leaving food unattended for extended periods. Their quick and easy operation also makes air fryers ideal for busy households that can't wait around for food to cook in traditional ovens or stovetops. The absence of pre-heating requirements further reduces wait times, so they’re a great investment for those who often feel rushed to get dinner on the table.

Beyond frying, air fryers have versatile cooking capabilities, including baking and roasting items like potatoes, chicken wings and vegetables. This eliminates the need to stand over a hot stovetop or preheat an entire oven for smaller meals.

Benefits of toaster ovens

Toaster ovens use less energy than regular ovens, leading to cost savings over time, especially when cooking small portions quickly. They also offer additional features such as convection baking or roasting, providing more control over the cooking process for healthier and appealing meals.

Toaster ovens heat up rapidly, making them excellent for reheating leftovers or baking small quantities of items like cookies or muffins. The inclusion of timer settings allows for convenient cooking without constant monitoring. In general, they are a great choice for those who want to be able to cook small dishes efficiently.

Practical considerations

If you have limited counter space, a slimline air fryer is a practical option as it takes up little room while still offering all the necessary features. But if counter space isn’t an issue, a larger model with more cooking settings may better suit your needs, potentially saving time in meal preparation.

Consider your frequency of use when choosing an appliance. Investing in a more energy-efficient option like an air fryer or air fryer toaster oven might be financially sensible in the long run. Toaster ovens are also usually more energy efficient than conventional ovens. Otherwise, you can explore alternatives like electric roasters or griddles.

Both air fryers and traditional models require regular cleaning. An air fryer should be cleaned every one or two uses, while a toaster oven’s interior should ideally be wiped down every few months, depending on its usage frequency.

Conclusion

When it comes to the air fryer versus toaster oven debate, both appliances offer great value for optimizing time in the kitchen while delivering delicious and healthy meals. An air fryer is perfect for quick and convenient cooking, reducing the need for oil in recipes to make them healthier. On the other hand, a toaster oven's versatility and ease of use make it ideal for preparing larger portions, reheating leftovers and baking with minimal effort. If your budget allows it, a combination air fryer toaster oven provides the best of both worlds. Consider your preferences for convenience, cost and benefits to choose the best investment for your kitchen.