Is a Toaster Oven an Air Fryer? Breakdown, Comparison, and Pros vs Cons

ByJasmine Guillen Updated

Is a Toaster Oven an Air Fryer?

No, a toaster oven is not an air fryer.

While both appliances have the capability to cook and crisp foods, they use different cooking methods.

An air fryer rapidly circulates heated air to cook and crisp up foods, while a toaster oven uses conventional heating elements to cook.

Additionally, toaster ovens are generally larger and can handle multiple dishes or larger portions, whereas air fryers are designed for smaller batches of food.

Therefore, while they may have some overlapping functions, they are not the same appliance.

Key Points:

  • A toaster oven is not an air fryer
  • Both appliances can cook and crisp foods
  • Air fryers use rapidly circulating heated air, while toaster ovens use conventional heating elements
  • Toaster ovens are generally larger and can handle multiple dishes or larger portions
  • Air fryers are designed for smaller batches of food
  • While they have some overlapping functions, they are not the same appliance.

Did You Know?

1. Despite being similar in appearance, a toaster oven and an air fryer serve different purposes. While a toaster oven is primarily designed for toasting, baking, and reheating food, an air fryer uses a high-speed convection mechanism to produce crispy and fried-like results using very little or no oil.

2. Did you know that the concept of air frying actually originated in the 1970s as a response to concerns about the health risks associated with consuming deep-fried foods? The initial goal was to create a cooking method that could mimic the texture and flavor of deep frying using less oil or no oil at all.

3. Air fryers can be an excellent option for those who have dietary restrictions or allergies. By using hot air circulation, air fryers can achieve a crispy texture for foods like French fries, chicken wings, or even vegetables, without the need for deep frying. This makes them a healthier choice for individuals with dietary restrictions or who are trying to reduce their intake of unhealthy fats.

4. Toaster ovens have been around much longer than air fryers. The first commercially successful toaster oven was invented in 1910 by William Hadaway. Its main purpose, as the name suggests, was to toast bread. Over time, toaster ovens evolved to include additional functionalities such as baking and broiling.

5. While a toaster oven and an air fryer may not be the same thing, some kitchen appliances exist that combine both functionalities. These hybrid appliances are designed with features like a toaster oven, but also have an air frying function. So, if you’re looking for the best of both worlds, you can find toaster ovens with an added air frying feature to enjoy the versatility of both appliances in one.

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Countertop Appliance Differences: Air Fryer Vs. Oven

When it comes to countertop cooking appliances, two popular options are the air fryer and the oven. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two.

An air fryer is a compact appliance designed to cook a single dish at a time, while an oven has the capacity to handle multiple dishes or larger portions.

The key feature of an air fryer is its ability to rapidly circulate heated air to cook and crisp up foods. In contrast, a conventional oven typically uses still air for cooking.

This rapid circulation of hot air in the air fryer allows for quick and even cooking, resulting in crispy and delicious meals.

Air Fryers Vs. Conventional Ovens: Cooking Methods

When it comes to cooking methods, air fryers and conventional ovens have distinct approaches.

  • Air fryers use the rapid circulation of heated air.
  • Conventional ovens rely on still air to cook food.

This difference in cooking methods can have an impact on the texture and taste of the final dish.

The rapid circulation of hot air in an air fryer creates a crispy exterior, similar to the results achieved through deep frying.

  • This makes air fryers great for foods like chicken wings, bacon, salmon, and zucchini fries.

On the other hand, a conventional oven may take longer to achieve the same level of crispness, but it can handle larger quantities and a variety of dishes simultaneously.

  • Air fryers:
  • Rapid circulation of heated air.
  • Creates a crispy exterior similar to deep frying.

  • Great for chicken wings, bacon, salmon, and zucchini fries.

  • Conventional ovens:

  • Rely on still air.
  • Can handle larger quantities and a variety of dishes simultaneously.

Air Fryers And Convection Ovens: Similar Technologies, Similar Results

Convection ovens and air fryers both use hot air circulation to cook and crisp up foods, achieving similar results. However, they differ in size and capacity.

  • Convection ovens are versatile and can handle large quantities of food and multiple dishes simultaneously. They offer the functions of a full-sized oven with the added benefit of air fry capabilities. This makes them ideal for preparing multi-dish meals.

  • On the other hand, air fryers are compact and suitable for preparing single batches of food. They are more practical choice for smaller households or those with limited kitchen space.

Consider your specific needs and kitchen requirements when choosing between a convection oven and an air fryer.

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Countertop Ovens With Air Fry Setting: Combining Convenience And Functionality

Countertop ovens with an air fry setting offer the convenience of a compact appliance with the functionality of a full-sized oven. These versatile appliances provide the option to air fry, bake, toast, broil, and more, all in one device. This makes them a great solution for those who want to enjoy the benefits of an air fryer without sacrificing the capabilities of a traditional oven.

These countertop ovens typically feature 9 to 12 cooking settings, allowing you to easily adjust the cooking method to suit your dish. Whether you want to achieve a crispy exterior with the air fry setting or bake a fluffy cake with the baking function, these appliances offer a wide range of possibilities.

Kitchenaid® Countertop Ovens With Air Fry: Multiple Cooking Settings

KitchenAid® countertop ovens with air fry are designed to elevate your cooking experience with their advanced features. These premium appliances not only offer the air fry setting but also provide a range of other cooking options. With a total of 12 cooking settings, including convection bake, broil, and roast, these ovens allow you to prepare a wide variety of dishes effortlessly.

Whether you’re craving crispy chicken wings, a delicious pizza, or succulent roasted chicken, KitchenAid® countertop ovens with air fry have got you covered. The combination of multiple cooking settings and the innovative air fry feature makes these appliances the ultimate choice for those who value versatility and convenience in their kitchen. Prepare your favorite meals with ease and enjoy the benefits of a professional cooking experience at home.

Air Fryer Vs. Oven Size: The Main Difference

When comparing a standalone air fryer to an oven, the main difference lies in their size. Air fryers are compact and suitable for preparing single batches of food, making them perfect for individuals or smaller households. On the other hand, ovens, whether conventional or convection, are larger and can accommodate multiple dishes or larger quantities of food. They are ideal for families or those who frequently cook for larger gatherings.

In summary, while an air fryer offers the convenience of quickly cooking and crisping up single batches of food, a conventional or convection oven provides the capacity to handle multi-dish meals and larger portions. Countertop ovens with an air fry setting offer a compromise, combining the convenience of a compact appliance with the functionality of a full-sized oven. Ultimately, the choice between a toaster oven and an air fryer depends on individual needs, kitchen space, and cooking preferences.

  • Air fryers are compact and suitable for single batches of food
  • Ovens can handle multiple dishes or larger quantities of food
  • Countertop ovens with air fry setting combine convenience and functionality
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use a toaster oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can indeed use a toaster oven instead of an air fryer. Many modern toaster ovens now feature convection technology, which operates similarly to countertop air fryers by circulating hot air using fans. This convection function allows toaster ovens to effectively air fry food, providing the same crispy and evenly cooked results. So, if you already have a toaster oven with convection, you can easily achieve the desired air frying effect without the need for a separate appliance. This versatility makes a toaster oven a convenient alternative to an air fryer while still achieving delicious and crispy results.

Is an air fryer just a glorified toaster oven?

While an air fryer shares some similarities with a toaster oven, it is more than just a glorified version of it. While both appliances use heating elements to cook food, the air fryer excels at achieving a crispy texture without the need for oil. The high-powered convection fan in an air fryer circulates hot air rapidly, ensuring even cooking and browning of food. This unique feature sets it apart from a traditional toaster oven, making it a versatile appliance that can provide healthier and quicker cooking options. So, while they may share some similarities, an air fryer offers a distinct frying experience without the need for excessive oil.

What is a substitute for an air fryer?

One alternative to an air fryer is a convection oven or a toaster oven with a convection oven setting. These appliances can be used to prepare any air fryer recipe, as recommended by the New York Times’ Wirecutter column. In fact, the column suggests that the best air fryer is, in fact, a toaster oven. So, if you have one of these ovens, you can achieve similar results to an air fryer without the need for an additional appliance.

Should I get an air fryer or a convection toaster oven?

When deciding between an air fryer and a convection toaster oven, it ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you often cook for larger groups or require more cooking space, a convection toaster oven might be the better choice due to its multiple racks and generous surface area. On the other hand, if you frequently cook smaller portions and prioritize faster cooking times, an air fryer can be a suitable option as it excels in speed and efficiency. Consider your cooking habits and capacity requirements to determine which appliance best suits your lifestyle.