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Telegraph
2 days ago
- Business
- Telegraph
The best sparkling water makers from SodaStream to SMEG, tested for refreshing bubbles
Whether you're cutting down on bottled water or mixing up bar-worthy spritzes at home, a soda maker can be a savvy, sustainable investment. These compact machines use a CO2 cylinder to carbonate tap or filtered water (and, in some cases, juice, wine or cocktails) in seconds. Prices range from £80 to over £150, with entry-level options from ProCook and SodaStream and more premium models by Aarke, SMEG and Sage. When choosing a carbonator, consider how easily the CO2 can be replaced (either exchanging the empty cylinder in-store, or via a more streamlined home delivery service), whether the bottles are dishwasher-safe and how much counter space it needs. Newer models can be stylish, but fiddlier to use, while others prioritise simplicity (via silent levers and one-touch presets) over aesthetics. Each soda maker has been thoroughly tested and we regularly update this guide to keep pace with new arrivals and pricing changes. The best sparkling water makers: At a glance JUMP TO REVIEWS How to choose the best sparkling water makers There's more to choosing a soda maker than meets the eye. The first consideration is carbonation strength: some machines offer adjustable fizz levels (necessary if your household prefers different degrees of sparkle) while others use a single, manual pump. If you like full control or stronger bubbles, look for models with multiple pressure presets or lever systems. Next, it's worth noting the bottle type. Most makers use BPA-free plastic, which is lightweight and durable, while premium models offer dishwasher-safe glass bottles that deserve to be seen on the dining table when hosting. CO2 compatibility is another factor. Some brands, like SodaStream, require specific cylinders, while others work with standard threaded options that are often cheaper and easier to refill. Be sure to check which type your machine supports before buying. Finally, think about footprint and design. Sure, some machines look good on your countertop, but form shouldn't come at the expense of function; some of the best performers are also the simplest to use. How we test sparkling water makers I tested 10 soda makers, but only the seven sparkliest performers made it into this guide. Each machine was scored against the following criteria: Design: I assessed how each fits into a typical kitchen: is it compact enough and sturdy for withstanding regular use? Visual appeal was also considered as these appliances tend to live on the counter. Ease of use: From setup to daily operation, I tested the intuitiveness of each model, including attaching bottles, inserting CO2 cartridges and using the controls. Carbonation and taste: Following the manufacturer's guidelines, I compared each drink to shop-bought sparkling water. I also tested the same bottle 24 hours later to see if it retained fizz. Quality and value: Build quality, durability and overall materials were carefully considered, noting the cost of refills and how long each cylinder actually lasts. Additional features: Extras such as the ability to carbonate other liquids (like juice or wine), included accessories such as reusable bottles, or the option to add syrups were all factored into final scores. All soda makers are retained for long-term testing, allowing us to spot-check carbonation performance, cylinder lifespan and build quality over time. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. All opinions are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The Best Sparkling Water Makers of 2025 1. Best Buy Soda Maker: Sage The InFizz Fusion Unlike most models, which are strictly for water, the InFizz can add bubbles to juices, cocktails and iced teas with ease. Yes, it's larger than most rivals, but there's a reassuring weight to the brushed stainless steel design and it feels every inch a premium appliance. Performance-wise, it's faultless. The ergonomic lever gives you full carbonation control (a couple of short presses for light bubbles, or a longer hold for the bold effervescence you'd expect from bottled brands like Acqua Panna or Perrier). Thanks to the cap design, it lasts, too; sparkling water I made on a Monday still had a pleasant bite when I revisited it on the following Wednesday. Mixed drinks were a hit and it quickly tackled batch after batch of sparkling peach sangria without splutters or spills. The included one-litre bottle is solid, fashionable and great for serving and thirstier households can purchase extras separately to ensure they never run dry. With an RRP of £179.95, it's undeniably an investment, but if you're looking to experiment with beverages beyond sparkling water, the Sage InFizz Fusion is in a league of its own. Key specifications 2. Best Value Soda Maker: ProCook Sparkling Water Maker ProCook's Sparkling Water Maker punches well above its price tag. At under £100 with two one-litre bottles included, it'll work hard in your kitchen and quickly save the pennies on pre-bottled fizzy water. Design-wise, we'll admit it's no showstopper. The plastic body is fairly utilitarian, but it is light and compact enough to stash in a cupboard if space is tight. Plus, it uses standard screw-in CO2 cylinders, so you're not tied into a costly brand. Though there's no lever or dial to customise to your preferences, it couldn't be simpler to use; just a few firm presses of the top button delivered an impressive level of fizz, which held up well after 48 hours. The included bottles lock in easily and the added value of a second means never running out of bubbles – good if you're mixing up pitchers for summer picnics. If you're all about aesthetics, this won't be for you. But as an entry-level pick that does the basics well, the ProCook is tough to top. This is currently out of stock, but we have been told it will be available again shortly. For now, you can sign up for stock notifications. Key specifications 3. Best Designed Soda Maker: SMEG Soda Maker SMEG's entry into the home carbonation market strikes the same blend of style and simplicity that made its kettles, coffee machines and toasters cult kitchen favourites. Design-wise, it's unmistakably SMEG: sculptural, rounded edges and a soft matte finish available in minimalist shades including black, emerald green and storm blue. But beyond the looks, it's refreshingly easy to use – no electricity, no screen, no learning curve. Carbonation is controlled via a satisfying metal dial; two twists gave a lightly sparkling water, four gave a sharp, nose-tingling fizz akin to San Pellegrino. During testing, the results were crisp and consistent. I followed the recommended fill and fizz times and got well-carbonated water with good bubble retention after 24 hours. The included 800ml Tritan bottle felt robust and clicked in with minimal effort. It uses standard screw-thread CO2 cylinders and swapping one out took less than a minute. The only let downs? At this price, I'd have liked a second bottle and while it looks premium, the plastic build doesn't quite match the brushed metal finish of the Aarke or Sage models. Still, if you want a simple soda maker that complements a curated kitchen, the SMEG SKC01 is as handsome as it is handy. Key specifications 4. Best Luxury Soda Maker: Aarke Carbonator 3 If soda makers were judged on looks alone, the Aarke Carbonator 3 would win hands down. So much so that it had been unboxed just four short hours before it gained as many compliments from curious house guests. But rest assured, it's more than just a pretty face. The stainless-steel construction looks undeniably high-end (and wouldn't be out of place in a home bar). It also has a surprisingly compact footprint – good if you're short on countertop space, or looking to lean into Marie Kondo minimalism. It works with standard CO2 canisters and includes a custom BPA-free bottle that slots in easily. There's no adjustable fizz dial (you control the carbonation level by how long you press the lever), but I found it intuitive, consistent and satisfyingly smooth to operate. In taste tests, the bubbles were crisp and long-lasting; even after 48 hours, there was a noticeable sparkle. This isn't the most feature-packed machine on the market (there are no glass bottles and it cannot carbonate other liquids), but for those who value elegant design and solid build quality, it's an investment piece that will stand the test of time. Key specifications 5. Best SodaStream Soda Marker: SodaStream Art What sets the SodaStream Art apart is the side lever, which gives you tactile control over carbonation. Short pull for light bubbles, longer for something punchier – it's a game-changer for those who know exactly how they like they're soda (and, in my opinion, a lot more fun than repeatedly pressing a button). The slim retro body looks striking on the counter; however, its height is worth noting, as it didn't quite fit under my kitchen units. Be sure to measure before you buy if this is a dealbreaker for you. Like the Terra (below), the Art uses SodaStream's Quick‑Connect CO2 system, which clicks easily into place and saves fiddling with screw threads. You don't get a glass bottle at this price, which feels like a missed opportunity; though the included plastic one is robust, it lacks the premium feel and presentation of glass. All in all, the Art strikes a good balance of design, performance and fizz customisation. If you like a bit of theatre with your bubbles, this is the SodaStream to go for. Key specifications 6. Best Eco-friendly Sparkling Water Maker: Mysoda Glassy Sparkling Water Maker This Finnish-born brand boasts impressive sustainability credentials – and, refreshingly, its latest release outperformed many bigger brands on test. Built from renewable wood composite in a matte finish, the Glassy made a welcome change from clunkier plastic models, scoring serious style points with its automated sliding door opening and range of colourways. After weeks of loud hissing and fizzing, I particularly appreciated its near-silent carbonation system. It works with readily available screw-in CO2 cylinders and the included bottles are a real plus: they feel sturdy, look smart and hold fizz well. You don't get a lever or fizz dial (carbonation is handled by short button presses), but the resulting bubbles are clean, consistent and lasted 48 hours without fading. It's slightly slower to fizz than SodaStream or Aarke models, but not frustratingly so. If you want a greener appliance that performs, the Mysoda Glassy is a quiet overachiever. Key specifications 7. Best Entry-level SodaStream: SodaStream Terra If you're looking for a straightforward, affordable way to cut back on bottled water, the SodaStream Terra delivers. I tested it over four weeks and found it simple to set up, with a no-fuss Quick‑Connect cylinder that slots neatly into place. It carbonates well, delivering solid fizz that holds up over 24 hours and the lightweight frame makes it easy to whisk from cupboard to countertop. Functionally, it's solid. Simply press the top button in short bursts to get reliably fizzy water every time. But there's no way to customise the fizz level and it lacks the satisfying feel of other lever or rotary systems. It only supports plastic bottles, which may put off those who prefer glass. That said, the bottles are BPA-free and feel sturdy in use. Still, at under £110 (and often on offer), it's a solid starter option for fizz fans. Key specifications Soda Maker FAQs How long does a CO2 cartridge last? Standard cartridges last for around 60 litres of water, roughly four to eight weeks for an average household. Heavier use (or higher fizz settings) will use gas faster. Is making sparkling water at home cheaper than buying bottled water? Yes, especially over time. Once you've bought the machine, the cost per litre drops to as little as 15 to 25p, compared to 50 to 80p for bottled water. Plus, there's less plastic waste. Can I use any brand of CO2 cylinder with my sparkling water maker? Not always. Some machines (like SodaStream) use proprietary cartridges, while others accept standard screw-thread cylinders. Check your model's compatibility before switching. Are glass bottles better than plastic ones for sparkling water makers? Glass bottles are more eco-friendly and dishwasher-safe, but heavier and not offered by all brands. Plastic bottles are lighter and safer to store, but may need replacing more often. Can I carbonate drinks other than water? Only with certain models like the Sage InFizz. Most soda makers are designed for water only and carbonating other liquids can void the warranty or damage the machine.
ITV News
08-05-2025
- General
- ITV News
The best pizza ovens and BBQs for under £100 this summer
If you're looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game this summer without breaking the bank, then look no further! Discover the ultimate al fresco dining experience with our expert guide to the best BBQs and pizza ovens available right now... and they're all under £100! Whether you're dreaming of sizzling sausages, perfectly charred burgers, or authentic, crispy homemade pizzas, we've scoured the market to bring you top-rated, budget-friendly options to make sure you're covered this summer season. Advertisement. We earn commission from some links on this page. When you click on a link, our affiliate partner sets cookies - you can opt out here. Our full disclosure notice is here. Prices correct at time of publication. Pizza Ovens Lidded Pizza Topping Station £24.99, Lakeland £99.99, Robert Dyas La Hacienda BBQ Pizza Oven £84.99, Amazon Pizza Stone £15, ProCook £16, ProCook BBQ Drum Charcoal BBQ With Cover & Utensils £50, Argos 25pc BBQ Tool Set with Aluminium Case £34.99, VonHaus £100, B&Q £19.99, Amazon Kettle Charcoal BBQ £99.99, VonHaus
The Guardian
16-04-2025
- General
- The Guardian
The best espresso machines to unleash your inner barista at home, tested
More espresso, less depresso. To be clear, these weren't the words of Angelo Moriondo, the Italian inventor who patented the first espresso machine in 1884, but it's nice to imagine that he shared the sentiment. Without him, and the inventors that refined his creation, our daily lives – the sour-faced commutes and sunny weekend strolls – would be all the poorer. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. Espresso forms the bedrock of many coffee staples – the latte, the cappuccino, the flat white, the americano – but making the perfect shot, or just a rather good one, is a thrillingly contentious topic. Millions of hours of YouTube videos have been dedicated to the craft, and the associated Reddit threads may one day form a voluminous historical artefact. The truth? It's not hard to brew good espresso at home. It's not even that hard to make a fairly great one – all you need is a decent espresso machine on your worktop, a respectable grinder, some freshly roasted coffee and the patience to do more than press a single button. The new breed of 'assisted' models even do most of the hard work for you, if you prefer. Over the past couple of months, I've put a troop of espresso machines, from £100 manual wonders to four-figure assisted wunderkinds, through a highly caffeinated bootcamp to find the best-value espresso machines money can buy. Best manual espresso machine overall: Lelit Anna PL41TEM£509.95 at Amazon Best budget espresso machine:De'Longhi Stilosa EC230£89 at Amazon Best for temperature control on a budget: ProCook espresso machine£199 at ProCook Best if you can afford it:Sage Dual Boiler£1,249.95 at Sage Best assisted espresso machine overall: Ninja Luxe Cafe Premier£499 at John Lewis Best assisted machine for beginners: Sage Bambino Plus£349 at John Lewis Best high-end assisted espresso machine:Sage Oracle Jet£1,699 at John Lewis My kitchen has hosted many coffee machines since I started reviewing them seven years ago. I've come to learn why even good coffee beans can make bad coffee, and I've spent hundreds of hours swearing at grinders, measuring scales and coffee machines in the search of bliss in a cup. My ideal? The best possible coffee with the bare minimum of effort. My attention span is short, my kids noisy and my need for caffeine insatiable. By the time I've decided a machine is worthy of sitting on my kitchen worktop, I've spent hours poking, prodding, pouring and slurping before finally putting pen to pad and fingers to keyboard. Over the course of several weeks, I made a lot of espresso. Some awful, some wonderful – but a lot of espresso all the same. The sheer number of machines (12, plus others that I'll be reviewing in the coming months) meant I had to rotate the various machines in my kitchen, and then come back to specific models to test them side by side with their closest competitors. The starting point is good coffee. Several kilos of freshly roasted beans from Craft House Coffee were consumed during testing, and they were used about a fortnight after the roast date for optimum and comparable results. Grinders included a Kingrinder K6 hand grinder and a Baratza Vario W+ (which featured in our guide to everything you need to make great coffee). In addition to taste testing, I also timed how long it took for machines to reach brewing temperature from cold, and how long it took to froth 180ml of fridge-cold milk to a creamy 65C microfoam. And if you've ever wondered how much espresso is too much, then I can safely say that it is once your eyeballs begin to feel as if they're sweating. At this point, I recommend a drink of water, a nice sit down and some calming music. This paragraph is unofficially sponsored by Brian Eno. Thanks, Brian. £509.95 at Coffee Friend£509.95 at Amazon It might look similar to the Gaggia Classic, but the Anna PL41TEM squeezes in one key feature missing on that machine: PID temperature control for brewing and steaming. A PID controller maintains temperature more precisely than thermostat boilers, and the result is more adjustability, better shot-to-shot consistency and no need to consider third-party upgrades. Why we love itThe simple LCD screen shows you the temperature and you can separately adjust the brew and steam temperature in a range from 80C to 130C. The default brew setting is a sensible 95C. A dial shows you the brew pressure, too, which is handy, and you can adjust it if you're brave enough to delve inside the machine with a screwdriver. The machine takes about three minutes to heat up, and usefully the top tray warms up enough to heat a few espresso cups. The results are uniformly good, too. Excellent, even, for the money, and the adjustable temperature makes it easy to dial in lighter and darker roasts to perfection. Lelit is confident of the build quality. Unusually, you get two years of warranty for home use and a full year of warranty for commercial use – something that would void all the other warranties here. It's a shame that … the build might be tough, but it all feels quite clunky, and beginners may find the manual fill boiler daunting. The bullet-point instructions look as if they've been printed straight out of Microsoft Word. Another minor annoyance: the 57mm portafilter is not a standard size, so upgrades are in shorter supply than the usual 58mm. Take note when buying replacement baskets, or a proper metal tamper for that matter – the awful plastic one supplied is sadly destined for the recycling bin. If you have hard water, you'll want to stock up on Lelit's dedicated resin water filters, too – none are included. Type: manual Dimensions: 23 x 38 x 34cm (WDH) Water tank: 2.7l Time to heat up: 3mins Time to steam milk: 1min 19secs Grinder included: noNoise: 50dB (brew), 67dB (steam) Warranty: two-year repair or replace at Lelit's discretion £89.99 at De'Longhi£89 at Amazon The De'Longhi Stilosa is a rare sight: a genuinely decent espresso machine with an RRP that's a whisker under £100. Pair it with a good grinder and it'll pour a ludicrously tasty shot. What's more, its basic steam wand creates the perfect microfoam for silky cappuccinos and flat whites. Why we love itThe first thing to be aware of is that there are three similar-looking models: the EC230, EC235 and EC260. The EC235 and EC260 come with pressurised baskets designed for use with pre-ground, not-so-fresh coffee; the EC235 has a manual steam wand, the EC260 a low-effort automatic wand. I tested the EC230 and the EC260, and it's the EC230 I'd recommend: it comes with unpressurised single and double baskets and a manual steaming wand. There is a simple, plasticky charm to the Stilosa. It's sturdy and solid for the cash; the controls are easy to get to grips with; and the design is sensible. The one-litre water tank slides in and out easily, and a little slot alongside stores the spare single or double shot basket. Leave the machine on for a few minutes, and the front section warms up enough to gently warm cups before you begin brewing. The manual steam wand makes a far silkier foam than the EC260's automatic wand with the right technique, and with a little effort, the EC230 produced microfoam as good as any of the assisted machines here – and that includes the £1,699 Oracle Jet. It's a shame that … at this price, my biggest complaint is that the user manual is awful. It swaps text for confusing illustrations, and this makes a simple machine far harder to understand than it needs to be. Also, the plastic tamper is rubbish – but frankly, at this price, you can afford to upgrade it. Type: manual Dimensions: 21 x 34 x 29cm (WDH) Water tank: 1lTime to heat up: 1min 30secsTime to steam milk: 1min 25secsGrinder included: noNoise: 50dB (brew), 65dB (steam)Warranty: one-year repair or replace £199 at ProCook£174.98 at eBay ProCook's machines combine familiar-looking design with the kind of features that usually command a far higher price. This is the entry-level model in the range, delivering adjustable PID temperature control and a solid all-round performance for the price. Why we love itIf you initially thought you were looking at a Sage machine, then join the club: the silver metal and curved plastics are terribly familiar. Flip the machine on, and the simple button layout and LCD screen make it easy to get brewing. You can set the brewing temperature between 90C and 96C in two-degree increments, and while the single and double shot buttons produce a standard volume, you can manually set it to your preference. The dedicated hot-water button is a boon, too – take note, Sage – although it rather awkwardly dispenses from the steam wand. Brewing quality and steaming performance are respectable for the cash. Heat-up time is less than 30 seconds thanks to the Thermoblock design, and the only disappointment is that, despite the promising-looking wand, steaming feels underpowered. All importantly, though, espresso quality is good for the money, and the adjustable temperature makes a big difference here, especially with the medium-light roast beans I had on the shelf. It's a shame that … it's not as solid-feeling as Sage's Bambino models: the 58mm portafilter feels light and cheap, and the overall build feels more plasticky. You'll have to buy your own stainless-steel milk jug for steaming milk, too, and there's no water filter included or available to buy. If you're in a hard-water area, you'll want to use a good water filter jug. There was lots of dripping after pulling shots: the machine does eventually purge the excess water into the drip tray, but it takes its time. Only time will tell what the long-term reliability looks like. Type: manualDimensions: 27 x 30 x 33cm (WDH) Water tank: 2.2l Time to heat up: 45secsTime to steam milk: 1min 35secsGrinder included: noNoise: 48dB (brew), 73dB (steam)Warranty: two-year replace or refund £1,249.95 at Sage£1,299.95 at Assembly Coffee It may sound like an exceedingly strange thing to say about a coffee machine this expensive, but Sage's Dual Boiler is very good value for money. Half the battle with espresso is consistency, and the Dual Boiler provides a firm bedrock for everyone from beginners to seasoned aficionados. It's easy to use, highly adjustable and makes stunning coffee. Why we love itIt's not as daunting to use as some enthusiast machines, which means that anyone in the house who's eager to learn – not just the coffee obsessives – will get the benefit, and the simple LCD screen and push-button controls make it easy to tinker with. The dual stainless-steel boilers require a five-minute warm-up time – far longer than any of the other machines here – but once they're up to temperature, they stay there. Even the portafilter is temperature controlled, and the steam wand is supremely powerful – though it takes a little getting used to. Dial in the grind, dosage, brewing temperature, pre-infusion and shot time, and you can tweak the results to perfection with confidence. Pour a bad shot and you know it's entirely your fault, which makes it far easier to fix. The other details only add to the appeal. The hidden caster wheels that allow you to roll the machine forward to access the water tank; the little window that shows the remaining water level; the weighty-feeling portafilter, generous drip tray and the little compartment hidden behind so you can hide useful accessories. It's a shame that … you need a truly great grinder to get anywhere close to the Dual Boiler's capabilities. Don't skimp – if you can't afford another £300 or so, then split your budget more evenly between a sub-£1,000 machine and grinder. Also, the powerful boilers make themselves heard. Start pulling a shot and the machine begins to thrum excitedly – your flat- or housemates may be less so. Until they taste the coffee, that is. Type: manualDimensions: 40 x 37 x 38 cm (WDH) Water tank: 2.5l Time to heat up: 5mins Time to steam milk: 45secsGrinder included: noNoise: 60dB (brew), 64dB (steam) Warranty: two-year repair, replace or refund at Sage's discretion £499 at John Lewis£499.99 at Argos With most assisted machines costing closer to £1,000, this £550-ish machine breaks the mould. Ninja's superb Barista Assist feature is the best of any machine here – and means that the Luxe Cafe is a viable, and better-tasting, alternative to a fully automatic bean-to-cup machine. Why we love itYou get a lot for the money. The patchwork of black plastics and brushed metal looks good and feels solid, and most of the parts feel hefty. I'm a big fan of the heavy, sprung tamper, which makes it easy and satisfying to get the coffee puck just so. The sheer number of drinks the Luxe Cafe can concoct is dizzying. The coffee staples include espresso, cold-press espresso, filter coffee and iced coffee, and the ingenious milk frother is more versatile than most, producing steamed milk, thin and thick froth and even cold frothed milk. The result? There are few coffee-based drinks it can't prepare. Ninja's Barista Assist technology is superb. It's terrific at dialling in the grind, the dosage and the shot, and it does a better job of tweaking grind size to maintain a consistent brew from shot to shot than any machine here – and for each brewing method. It's a godsend for users who just want great coffee, but obsessives can still tweak grind size and brew temperature to produce the perfect shot. It's a shame that … the plastic dosing funnel is an obvious weak point, and given that you need to shove the portafilter under the grinder, we suspect it may be the first part to break. Only time will tell. Also, the controls are initially rather daunting. With multiple buttons scattered across the fascia, and a huge number of drink options, beginners will want to keep the simple step-by-step manual close to hand. Type: assistedDimensions: 37 x 33 x 37cm (WDH) Water tank: 2l Time to heat up: 35secs Time to steam milk: 2mins 20secsGrinder included: yesNoise: 48dB (brew), 58dB (steam), 63dB (grind)Warranty: two years £349 at John Lewis£349.95 at Amazon The Bambino Plus remains a go-to recommendation. Watch a few of Sage's helpful YouTube tutorials, take a little time to learn the ropes, and you'll soon be making stonking cups of coffee. The automatic milk frothing makes life so much easier, too. Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion Why we love itThe stylish, compact design – it's just under 20cm wide – is perfect for smaller kitchens, and you get all the accessories you need. There are pressurised and unpressurised baskets, so you can brew with freshly ground coffee or bags of pre-ground supermarket coffee, and you get single and double baskets for both types. The 'razor' dosing tool means you don't need to shell out on scales right away – it ensures you don't overpack the portafilter – and the light plastic tamper is fine for starting out. The stainless-steel milk jug and cleaning accessories are a nice touch. The Bambino Plus's PID temperature controller ensures that brewing temperatures are consistent. It's not adjustable, but if you feed the machine with medium or dark roast beans and carefully optimise the grind size and dosage, you'll be pouring consistently good espresso. With zero faff, espresso is very good indeed, but it's the automatic milk texturing that's really handy. It's possible to get better results doing it manually, but being able to hit the button and walk off while the Bambino whips up a silken microfoam is a godsend on busy mornings, or when you're feeling lazy. It's a shame that … at this price, the Bambino Plus isn't much cheaper than models with adjustable brew temperature, such as the Lelit Anna PL41TEM, that give you more versatility when it comes to light or dark roasts. It's more user friendly, but it's a question of priorities. Type: assistedDimensions: 19 x 36 x 30cm (WDH) Water tank: 1.9l Time to heat up: 6secsTime to steam milk: 56secsGrinder included: noNoise: 46dB (brew), 59dB (steam)Warranty: two-year repair, replace or refund at Sage's discretion £1,699 at John Lewis£1,699.95 at Sage Imagine being able to put many of your local coffee shops to shame – and without having the faintest idea where to start. That's the appeal of the Oracle Jet. Why we love itThe colour touchscreen provides a silky-smooth interface. Slick animations lead users through the preparation and brewing process, and you can pick from 14 preset drinks recipes, including espresso, cappuccino, flat white, iced espresso, cold espresso and cold-brew coffee. You can also add your own. The automatic dosing and tamping works well: just slot in the portafilter, nudge it to the right and the Oracle Jet will grind the perfect amount and tamp the puck beautifully with no faff. Double shots tended to be a little long, but they tasted great – there's more depth of flavour than any of the cheaper assisted machines here. Sage's Auto MilQ feature froths dairy, soy, almond and oat-based milks, and temperature is adjustable from 40C to 75C (in case you prefer burned milk). The froth is a bit too bubbly with semi-skimmed milk, but whole milk is wonderfully creamy. Once you gain confidence, there's oodles of adjustability. The fine grind-size adjustment allows for tiny tweaks, and the brewing temperature adjusts in single degree increments from 86C to 96C. It's a shame that … at this price, there's room for improvement. The barista guidance doesn't adapt as readily as the cheaper Ninja; I'm hoping firmware updates over the wifi connection will improve things. Given the potential of the machine, I often found myself fine-tuning manually – it's nice to have the option, but arguably defeats the point somewhat. Type: assistedDimensions: 38 x 37 x 43cm (WDH)Water tank: 2.3l Time to heat up: 6secsTime to steam milk: 1min 12secsGrinder included: yesNoise: 46dB (brew), 58dB (steam), 66dB (grind) Warranty: two-year repair, replace or refund at Sage's discretion £999.95 at Sage£999.99 at Currys Best for: Sage's excellent barista assistance at a slightly lower price Let's get one thing straight: is the Barista Touch Impress (RRP £1,199.95) twice as good as the £549 Ninja Luxe Cafe? No, it isn't. Is it still good, though? Yes, very. And despite being another assisted model, it's a very different type of machine. We love that the touchscreen is more welcoming than rows of buttons and little LED lights. Anyone can walk up to the machine, prod an icon and make some coffee (or a hot chocolate, or babycino). Once you've filled the 340g bean hopper and run through the initial setup process, there's little in the way of faff. There's nothing to get wrong: the grind is automatic, the lever tamps for you, and as long as you rerun the 'intelligent' set-up process when you buy new beans, the espresso is great. Then simply shove the milk jug in place with your choice of dairy or plant-based milks, and the Impress whips it to a pleasing froth. If everyone in the house has their preferred recipe, then they can create their own drinks icon, too. It all feels elegant and slick; it's more refined than the Ninja. It's still not as simple or immediate as a brilliant automatic bean-to-cup machine, but the coffee is on a different planet – and all the difficult bits are done for you. The only danger? The hand-holding may embolden nervous baristas to upgrade to a fully manual machine and go it alone. It didn't make the final cut because … it's still expensive, and now that it's flanked by the more capable Oracle Jet and the dramatically cheaper Ninja Luxe Cafe, it's tougher to recommend unequivocally. It's a great assisted machine. Type: assisted; dimensions: 36 x 34 x 42cm (WDH); water tank: 2l; time to heat up: 5mins; time to steam milk: 1min 10secs; grinder included: yes; noise: 50dB (brew), 57dB (steam), 69dB (grind); warranty: two-year repair, replace or refund at Sage's discretion £699.99 at De'Longhi£699.99 at John Lewis Best for: touchscreen barista guidance for less than rival models The La Specialista Touch sees De'Longhi attempt to blend the ease of use of its bean-to-cup machines with the brewing talents of its La Specialista manual espresso models. The result is a touchscreen-powered, assisted espresso experience for less money than other touchscreen-equipped rivals. The bright colour 3.5in touchscreen leads you through the process step by step. It asks for the roast type of your beans and adjusts the brewing temperature to suit – something other assisted machines don't tend to automate. It also helps you balance the grind size, dosage and pour with a guided, hands-on approach. Looks and size are a major plus point: this is a nicely styled machine and it's also relatively compact. Despite the small footprint, the 1.7-litre water tank, which can be topped up in place or unclipped from the rear, is a sensible size and the bean hopper on top has a 180g capacity and 15 grind settings. You also get unpressurised single and double baskets in the box, a nice stainless-steel milk jug and the steam wand has adjustable modes for different dairy or plant-based milks, alongside four temperature settings and five adjustable froth levels. It didn't make the final cut because … the coffee it brews is good, but not mind-blowing. Milk frothing could be better, too: the automatic mode struggles to produce a genuinely fine microfoam. It's a shame there isn't a water filter included. It's not available to buy, either, which could eventually spell trouble in hard-water areas. Crucially, though, the assisted brewing is below par. Unlike the Sage or Ninja machines, there's no sensor to detect the correct amount of ground coffee, so you manually have to grind, check the tamp height, grind again, trim, tamp and repeat the process when you change beans. Frankly, it's as much of a faff as doing it manually. Type: assisted; dimensions: 32 x 37 x 40cm (WDH); water tank: 1.7l; time to heat up: 46secs; time to steam milk: 1min 55secs; grinder included: yes; noise: 46dB (brew), 70dB (steam), 72dB (grind); warranty: one-year repair or replace £549 at Gaggia£549 at Amazon Best for: hands-on espresso enthusiasts and secondhand bargain hunters The Gaggia Classic keeps on having things added to its name – Evo, Pro, E24 – but the changes are minor. While recent redesigns have chopped and changed the boiler design between polished aluminium, non-stick coated and brass, it's otherwise unchanged and remains a firm favourite of upgrade-focused tinkerers. The simplicity of the Classic is its biggest asset: there are no LCD screens or LED-lit, button-clad fasciae. There are three big, clicky buttons. One is an on switch. One brews coffee. One toggles the steam. A big plastic dial at the side opens and closes the valve to the steam wand. You get the essential accessories in the box. The big, heavy 58mm portafilter isn't beautifully cast, but it's fine – the 58mm size means it's easy to find bottomless upgraded alternatives and better-machined baskets – and you get single and double baskets in the box. The supplied plastic tamper fits well in the recycling bin. It didn't make the final cut because … the Classic Evo Pro is a lovely machine, but to get the best from it you need to modify it straight away. Out of the box, the brew pressure is high, and this can make pulling consistently balanced shots tricky. It's only a few quid for a new OPV (over-pressure valve) spring and about 10 minutes' effort to modify it, but it's a hassle many won't want. Even with that done, the lack of a temperature controller can make consistent brewing a bit of a stab in the dark. Aftermarket PID upgrades – or turbo-charged mods such as the Gaggiuino – take the Classic into giantkiller territory, but those £200+ DIY projects aren't for everyone. Type: manual; dimensions: 23 x 24 x 38cm (WDH); water tank: 2.1l; time to heat up: 1min; time to steam milk: 1min 24secs; grinder included: no; noise: 54dB (brew), 72dB (steam); warranty: three-year repair or replace Truly great espresso is akin to alchemy. A high-pressure pump forces hot water through a small puck of finely ground coffee at precisely the rate required to draw out a perfect balance of the coffee's sour, sweet and bitter flavours. Done correctly, the result is a tiny cup of gold-topped ebony. Every facet of the brew must be in equilibrium: the coffee should be fresh (look for a roast date, not a best before); the grind fine, but not too fine; the water hot, but not too hot; and the pressure high, but – you get the idea. If the espresso flows too fast, the sour flavours dominate. If it slows to a drip, the bitterness draws focus. Somewhere in between lies perfection: a staccato drip quickening to an elastic pour. To put it in numbers: you want 15-20g of ground coffee to produce two to three times that weight of espresso in about 20 to 30 seconds. The coffee you use, and the way it's been roasted, presents different challenges. Beans come broadly in light, medium and dark roasts. The longer a bean is roasted, the softer and more porous it becomes, and this means two things – it becomes easier to dissolve its flavours in hot water, and it goes stale more quickly. The first of these issues is why it's desirable for an espresso machine to have an adjustable brewing temperature: dark roast beans might only need to be brewed at 80C to 90C before bitterness overwhelms, whereas a more dense light or medium roast bean might need 90C to 96C to mollify the mouth-puckering sourness. If you're intent on using something other than freshly roasted coffee, then you'll need to think about baskets. These are the little metal containers that hold the coffee and slot in and out of the portafilter handle, and they come in two options: pressurised and unpressurised. Pressurised baskets are designed to compensate for coffee that is either not fresh enough or too coarsely ground – such as supermarket coffee – by forcing the coffee through a couple of tiny holes underneath. By contrast, unpressurised baskets have lots of pinprick holes all over, and these rely on fresh, finely ground coffee to provide enough resistance to build up a sufficient brew pressure. Using the right type of basket for the coffee you have is essential. Broadly speaking, several types of coffee machines claim to brew espresso. There are capsule machines that provide a facile foil-wrapped approximation, fully automatic bean-to-cup boxes that concoct a half-decent espresso at the touch of a button, and then there are 'proper' manual espresso machines of the kind you see in coffee shops. You know, the ones with fancy portafilter handles and big stainless-steel exteriors. It's this latter sort, and their modern 'assisted' derivatives, that are covered in this article, and – with no exceptions to the rule – it's this type of machine that makes the best-tasting espresso. Where it gets a little confusing is that there are fully manual portafilter espresso machines and assisted variations, all of which provide differing amounts of assistance. (To confuse things further, some manufacturers refer to manual espresso machines with integrated grinders as bean-to-cup espresso machines, which are not to be confused with the fully automatic bean-to-cup type, but I digress.) Some machines, such as the Sage Bambino Plus, provide a bare minimum of assistance and leave the grinding, tamping and brewing entirely to you (and you'll need to buy your own grinder, too). Press a button, however, and they'll automatically steam a jug of milk to a hot, creamy froth. Right at the other end of the scale, fully assisted machines, such as the Ninja Luxe Cafe or Sage Oracle Jet, are akin to an AI barista: they use integrated grinders and sensors to automatically grind the right amount of coffee into the portafilter, help you to tamp (in other words, squish) it down just so, and then time and measure the shot to ensure that you're extracting the perfect espresso. Shove the milk jug in place, and they automatically froth the milk to a silky perfect microfoam. The fun barista role play is all yours, though: you get to manually lever the portafilter into place, thunk the spent coffee puck into the bin and attempt to daub latte art on top of your flat white. Sasha Muller is a freelance tech and consumer journalist, avid coffee drinker and craft beer enthusiast with more than two decades of experience in testing products and avoiding deadlines. If he's not exploring the local woods with his kids, boring people talking about mountain bike tyres or spending ill-advised amounts on classic drum'n'bass vinyl, he's probably to be found somewhere swearing at an inanimate object
The Guardian
02-03-2025
- General
- The Guardian
The best air fryers, tried and tested for crisp and crunch
Air fryers inspire the sort of feelings that microwaves did in the 1980s. I vividly remember those new-fangled boxes being spoken about often, either dismissively or with delight. A rash of cookbooks followed, and dinner changed across the land. Fast-forward a few decades and air fryers have become the same kind of kitchen 'disruptors', offering time-saving convenience and healthier cooking, but with the added allure of easily achieved, mouth-watering crispiness. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. Since launching with a single-drawer design, air fryers have evolved. Sizes range from compact to XL, while drawer configurations can be double, split or stacked. Alongside air frying, many will grill, roast and bake, and some will dip to lower temperatures for dehydrating, fermenting and proving dough. One we tested features steam cooking, allowing you to whip up dim sum as easily as a roast dinner, while another included racks for cooking on four levels. Given that the air fryer market is so crowded, it's worth seeking out the best style for your needs – whether that's for the simple pleasures of homemade chips or to really shake up your meals. Best air fryer overall: Tefal Dual Easy Fry XXL EY942BG0£149.99 at Amazon Best single-drawer air fryer: Lakeland Slimline air fryer£89.99 at Lakeland Best air fryer for chips: Philips 5000 Series NA555/09 dual basket steam air fryer £179.99 at John Lewis Best air fryer grill: ProCook air fryer health grill£179 at ProCook Best compact air fryer: Ninja Double Stack XL SL400UK air fryer £214.21 at Amazon While air fryers have made the transition from novelty to must-have in recent years, there's been one in my kitchen for well over a decade, and it's in daily use. I've been a consumer journalist for decades, and as well as air fryers, I've tested air-frying health grills and ovens, multi-cookers that can air fry, and everything in between. Anything I can make chips with is welcome in my kitchen. Hang around me long enough and I'll fill you in on what air fryers can do, how they work, common issues, and how many I've tested over the years (about 45). By now, you must have worked out that I take testing air fryers very seriously. My commitment to the cause has seen me peel and chip more than 5kg of potatoes – which was just as tedious as it sounds. The internet is awash with hacks for peeling potatoes, including everything from worktop gadgets to peeling hot pre-boiled potatoes with your hands – and even (and I'm not making this up) power drills and toilet brushes in a bucket. I decided a sharp peeler was the best choice. Each air fryer was run empty from cold for one hour at 200C to rate its power use. Where available, I followed the manufacturer's instructions for cooking chips. This is because the guidance is often based on the air fryer's capabilities. Where there was none, I defaulted to 24 minutes at 200C. The same was true for onion rings – if there was a similar frozen food, I followed the suggested times and temperatures; if not, I chose 18 minutes at 200C. Any food that looked at risk of burning was removed before it did so, meaning one or two cycles were ended early. Finished food was assessed on appearance (colour and texture), crisp and crunch, and the consistency of the batch (such as whether some items were less brown than others). The nine machines I tested for this article are either recognisably an air fryer or an air fryer grill. I haven't tested compact ovens or multi-cookers that air fry because they don't offer the same experience, such as the ability to shake or turn the contents quickly, and they often don't have removable parts that are easy to clean. £200 at Argos£149.99 at Amazon Given that Tefal is behind the pioneering Actifry, it comes as no surprise that the Easy Fry Dual XXL is a fantastic all-rounder, excelling at both making chips and handling frozen food. It's also Tefal's largest double-drawer air fryer, providing a generous capacity for families and entertaining, and it has the company's 15-year repairability commitment to cut waste. Why we love itWhile I remain unconvinced of Tefal's claim that this air fryer's 11-litre capacity will cater for eight to 10 people – perhaps if they're not very hungry – it ticks almost every box, making it my choice for the best air fryer overall. There's a good temperature range of 40-200C, programs for common foods, and the drawers and plates are dishwasher-safe and feel robust. More importantly, it performed excellently during testing, with the only head-scratcher being its recommendation for chips at 180C for 45 minutes, which was too long. After only 35 minutes, some chips were already slightly overdone, but the overall result was lovely and crisp. Onion rings emerged beautifully browned, they were the best of the lot. It's a shame that … most buttons are icons – my pet hate – making it a challenge to program without the instructions to hand. Size: 38.5 x 45.8cm x 33 (WDH) Capacity: 11 litresPower draw: 1.154kWh = 28p an hour Dishwasher safe: yesPrograms: fries, chicken, vegetables, fish, dessert, dehydration and manual £89.99 at Lakeland£89.99 at Amazon If you don't have much counter space and don't want to compromise on capacity, Lakeland's slimline model is a good choice. There's adequate flat space inside for family-size meals, or up to 1.3kg of chips, plus an internal light and a clear window to check on dinner. Why we love itI felt this air fryer was great value for money, with a good cooking capacity for its price, and it was economical to run. Its slimline shape meant food could be spread out and I was pleased with the results of testing. Chips were golden brown, crisp at the ends and fluffy in the middle, and the batch was consistent overall, while onion rings were pleasingly crunchy. I found the window redundant once it became greasy, but it could be useful for less oily foods. I also wasn't keen on the button that needed to be depressed to open the drawer – but it might keep curious fingers away from harm. It's a shame that … its lowest temperature is 80C, so you won't be dehydrating or proving dough. Size: 27.7 x 42 x 29cm (WDH) Capacity: 8 litresPower draw: 0.674kWh = 16p an hour Dishwasher safe: no, hand-wash onlyPrograms: fries, seafood, steak, fish, chicken wings, pizza, bake £179.99 at John Lewis£189.99 at Currys One of only a few air fryers that can also steam your food, the 5000 Series is particularly suitable if you want to trim fat from your diet – or if you dislike the dry textures that result from overcooking. Introducing steam into the mix means it's possible to air fry, steam or use a combination of both for moist meats, bakes and reheated leftovers. Why we love itThis double air fryer offers a lot of versatility, and I felt it was the best air fryer for chips. It's well-built, feels robust and is easy to keep clean even without a dishwasher, thanks to the self-clean mode that uses steam to loosen debris. Programming can be puzzling at first – especially as you'll need to download its manual rather than getting one in the box – but the food it cooked made up for it: crisp, perfectly browned onion rings and chips with a moreish crunch, fluffy interior and pretty consistent browning throughout. It's frustrating that only the six-litre drawer steams, the three-litre one being limited to air frying, but you're sure to get plenty of use out of both. It's a shame that … if you live in a hard-water area, you'll need to descale this air fryer to keep it in tip-top condition. Size: 49 x 39 x 40cm (WDH)Capacity: 9 litresPower draw: 0.79kWh = 19p an hour Dishwasher safe: yesPrograms: fresh fries, frozen fries, chicken, meat, veggies, fish, cake, reheat £179 at ProCook If you find the flat cooking space of some air fryers restrictive, you can spread your (chicken) wings with ProCook's Air Fryer Health Grill. It comes with a 4.5-litre cooking pot and basket for air frying, as well as accessories to turn it into a slow-cooking and steaming kitchen helper. Why we love itAir fryer grills aren't always the most convenient for making chips from scratch, because you can't quickly shake a drawer for even results. However, with the toss of a spatula, the ProCook ensured great consistency throughout its batch of chips. They emerged crisp at the ends and golden overall, with no pieces that overcooked and only one or two paler chips. Onion rings were crunchy and nothing stuck to the basket. My only niggle was that the settings could be confusing for a first-time user: once you've altered them to suit and hit start, the display shows the program's default settings instead while it preheats. It's a shame that … I found cleaning the basket and cooking pot a chore: it comes with its own brush for tackling greasy residue and you will need to use it. Size: 40 x 40 x 28cm (WDH)Capacity: 4.5 litresPower draw: 0.83kWh = 20p an hourDishwasher safe: no (basket and pot)Programs: air fry, roast, broil, bake, dehydrate, slow cook, grill, griddle, stew, steam, keep warm, manual £249.99 at Argos£219.99 at Amazon No article about air fryers would be complete without Ninja, which has given the world models in all shapes and sizes – most notably its stacked designs. The Double Stack XL offers capacity without a huge worktop footprint, thanks to its twin 4.75-litre drawers and a pair of racks that double its flat area, allowing you to cook four layers of food. Ideal for families, newbies and those struggling to squeeze in an air fryer. Why we love itNinja's air fryers always come packed with guidance and recipes, and the Double Stack XL is no exception. These serve to underline how versatile it is: you could cook two whole chickens at the same time, for example – great if your barbecue's rained off. It's incredibly easy to program and adjust as it cooks – and the top temperature of 240C is perfect for crisping food from the freezer. That said, some of its recommended times and temperatures might be a bit off. After 26 minutes at 200C, some chips were still pale and soft, which suggests they'd need longer. There were similar results from the onion rings, which after 18 minutes didn't have the crisp and crunch produced by the other machines. It's a shame that … its results didn't impress me as much as Ninja's other air fryers have – you may need to tweak settings. Size: 28 x 47 x 38.5cm (WDH)Capacity: 9.5 litresPower draw: 1.049kWh = 26p an hourDishwasher safe: yes – but hand-washing recommended to extend lifespanPrograms: air fry, max crisp, roast, bake, dehydrate, reheat Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion £52.89 at Charlies£60 at Amazon Best for: a budget If funds or worktop space are tight, Tower's Vortx Colour air fryer offers a lot in a compact footprint: touchscreen digital controls (no buttons that can grow greasy), a choice of colours to brighten up your kitchen, and enough capacity to cater for a small family or a couple. The temperature range – 80-200C – should cover most tasks and the presets include bacon for a lower-fat fry-up. On test, chips were good overall – mostly crispy, with a few pale/soft pieces that escaped the heat – while onion rings were brown and crunchy in a mere 12 minutes. I was also pleased that the non-stick-coated basket and plate cleaned up easily by hand. It didn't make the final cut because … the drawer doesn't feel especially robust, flexing slightly with pressure. Size: 34.5 x 28.4 x 30cm (WDH); capacity: 6 litres; power draw: 0.782kWh = 19p an hour; dishwasher safe: no; programs: fries, bacon, drumsticks, prawns, steak, cake, veg, fish £79.99 at Robert Dyas£105 at Currys Best for: families on a budget If you're feeding many mouths, you'll need a big air fryer. Salter's Fuzion offers a lot of space at an affordable price – and thanks to the 8-litre drawer's divider, you can air fry two foods at the same time. Alternatively, with the divider in place, you can just use half the air fryer: perfect for snacks. However, like other air fryers with dividers, it has issues with shaking: both types of food will be tossed around, and larger drawers are harder to shake. I was disappointed with the level of browning on the chips and found that the onion rings weren't quite as crisp as they should be. Keeping its clear window grease-free may be a challenge, too. It didn't make the final cut because … the drawer doesn't feel as durable as it should be for this type of air fryer: its metal is thin enough to flex. Size: 36.4 x 38 x 32cm (WDH); capacity: 8 litres; power draw: 0.912kWh = 22p an hour; dishwasher safe: no; programs: manual, chips, shellfish, steak, pork, bake, chicken, vegetables £136 at John Lewis£119 at Amazon Best for: confident air fryer cooks I'm afraid Instant Pot commits one of my air fryer cardinal sins with its Vortex Plus VersaZone: there's no instructions or guidance in the box, but simply a QR code that directs you to videos. I'm not a fan of forcing tech into the kitchen, and it was also one of the trickiest to program (for example, you have to switch from single drawer to dual by holding its control knob), so it's probably not a good choice for air fryer newbies. There are some good things here, though: two 4.2-litre compartments with a divider, the ability to switch to fahrenheit, and the option to turn off the beeps if they annoy. It also produced great results, and perhaps that's the most important thing: plenty of crispy chips – though not consistently so – and crunchy, well-browned onion rings. It didn't make the final cut because … the display is busy and hard to read in bright light. Size: 31.4 x 38.4 x 40.4cm (WDH); capacity: 8.5 litres; power draw: 1.187kWh = 29p an hour; dishwasher safe: yes; programs: air fry, roast, bake, grill, dehydrate, reheat £125 at Argos£67.95 at Amazon Best for: small households If you're unsure about how much you might use an air fryer and so want an appliance that does more to earn its place on the worktop, the compact SatisFry could suit. It may stretch the definition of a multi-cooker somewhat, lacking some of the functions you might associate with one, but its spacious pot can be used for air frying and other tasks, including slow cooking and searing. There's not much guidance, however, and the results were mixed: chips were browned but soft and not very crisp, while onion rings were doughy with some singeing. I suspect both could have benefited from different times and temperatures. The other downside is that it recommends no more than 800g at a time for air frying, so you won't be able to use all its space for this function. It didn't make the final cut because … it's not the easiest to program: for example, there are no separate up and down buttons for time and temperature. Size: 37.8 x 32 x 28.2cm (WDH); capacity: 5.5 litres; power draw: 0.550kWh = 13p an hour; dishwasher safe: yes; programs: air fry, bake, grill, keep warm, roast, sear, slow cook high/low A good-quality air fryer is an investment, so check its programs, ease of cleaning and temperature/time range before you buy. There's no need for the lower temperatures and long durations (usually up to 12 hours) for dehydrating fruit and fermenting yoghurt if you'll mostly be using it for air frying, for example. Similarly, if you're a keen cook, look for one with plenty of space – a small air fryer may soon limit your horizons. For those with a dishwasher, check that drawers and crisping plates are safe to clean this way, while if you're cleaning by hand, robust non-stick coatings will make degreasing easier. Air fryers are best thought of as smaller, modified convection ovens with a fast fan. Rather than having the fan and element at the rear, these are above, producing powerful fanned heat that's circulated around the drawer. Food sits on a perforated crisper plate, allowing heat to reach the underside, while a thin layer of oil on the surface 'fries' the exterior to create browning and crunch. Shaking the contents in the drawer roughens up the surface, creating more area for crisping. Yes, both because you need a lower amount of oil – a tablespoon should be enough to coat a 500g batch of chipped potato, while other foods require no oil at all – but also because the way food is 'fried' is different. Conventional frying uses the oil in the pan to seal the exterior. This prevents moisture from escaping, which is then heated, steaming the inside. To do this, oil penetrates the food's surface, meaning that more fat is retained than when air frying. Linger on social media long enough and you'll find worries about air fryer toxicity. It's usually centred on plastic parts growing hot (which, as it's limited to the exterior of air fryers, rather than the parts that come into contact with food, shouldn't present a problem) and non-stick coatings containing PFAS/PFOA. Most manufacturers have phased out PFOA (since 2013, all Teflon products have been PFOA-free), while potential deterioration of non-stick (which may use PFAS as this is a term for a large group of chemicals) tends to happen at temperatures of 260C and above. Most air fryers have a limit of 200C, with the top temperatures on others 240C. If you're concerned about the safety of non-stick, choose an air fryer with a ceramic-coated pan and plates, or clean yours carefully: damaged coatings are more likely to release chemicals. Another concern linked to air fryers is about cooking starchy food, which produces acrylamide (a potential carcinogen). However, the same risks apply when oven cooking food. Cooking oil at high temperatures can also produce potentially harmful compounds. Air fryers don't use much oil but if you're concerned about this, choose an oil with a high smoke point (the temperature when oil starts to smoke and break down), such as vegetable, peanut, sunflower or rapeseed. Air fryers have gained a reputation for being economical, and while this is true for the most part, it won't always be the case. For small amounts of food, air fryers use less energy, heating up quickly and only circulating hot air within a small space. An example A+-rated 72-litre oven might use 1.395kWh to cook a roast chicken over 90 minutes, while an air fryer could do the same job in less than an hour and use only 0.782kWh – almost half the energy and cost. However, if you were cooking large amounts, such as a whole roast dinner – chicken, roast potatoes, yorkshire pudding, roast veggies and so on – running several cycles of air frying would cost more, making an oven the more energy-efficient choice. Rachel Ogden has worked as a consumer journalist for decades, becoming an expert unboxer before it was a thing, although she is much less successful at repacking. Her home has hosted hundreds of small appliances from blenders and air fryers to robot vacuums, while outside, you'll find her messing about with pizza ovens, barbecues and heaters. Unsurprisingly, it takes a lot to impress her – many have tried and failed
