Air fryer vs Convection Oven — it’s the age old question.
The popularity of air fryers began in 2010, and they’ve since taken over kitchens worldwide — going head-to-head with the classic convection oven, which has been a staple since 1967.
Naturally, the debate followed: which is the better choice for your home — air fryer vs convection oven? Both the appliances have been chart-topping for quite some time now, with home chefs touting them as the go-to solution for easy meals.
Statistics suggest that air fryers have become more popular than ever since its origins, despite the ongoing debate on whether or not air fryers are toxic.
While the market for convection ovens was valued at 403 million USD in 2023, it is expected to reach a valuation of 586 million USD in 2033. On the other hand, the air fryer market was valued at 972 million USD in 2023, analysts estimate a whopping growth of 2.1 billion USD by 2033! Claps for air fryers, but convection ovens continue to hold their ground.
Which one is better for you?
While this has become a head-scratcher, we’re here to dive into the difference between convection oven and air fryer, comparing their performance, efficiency, health benefits, and so much more so that you can make the most thoughtful choice.
What Is A Convection Oven?
Before we get into the differences, it’s imperative for us to understand what a convection oven and an air fryer are. Is a convection oven the same as an air fryer? No, not quite.
A convection oven works much like a traditional one, using heating elements at the top and bottom. What sets it apart, is the convection setting, which operates with a fan typically positioned at the back.
If your family is craving some good old-fashioned cookies and cakes, you can turn off the fan for traditional baking. It’s true that convection ovens don’t often come with special accessories, but some offer air trays to mimic air frying.
When you use a convection oven, remember to dial the recipe temperature down by 25°F compared to a traditional bake setting.
What Is An Air Fryer?
How does an air fryer work? Simply put, air fryers operate like convection ovens but with a stronger fan and a compact build. You place the food on a perforated tray inside the air fryer basket, which serves perfectly cooked results with little to no oil. The perforated tray enhances airflow, quickening the cooking time.
Air fryers are a great way to fix yourself a meal when you can’t really invest time and effort in cooking. Just be sure not to overstuff the basket, as this would restrict airflow. The more space there is, the faster and crispier your food will be.
Air Fryer Vs Convection Oven: Key Differences
Sometimes, despite knowing what an appliance does, people can just be influenced by a fad and focus on wants more than needs. In situations like these, one might end up making the wrong choices.
But don’t fret. We’re determined to help you make a pick, and scrolling through these differences might help you land a fruitful decision!
Coming to differences, one might believe that there’s a lot to differentiate between the two, but truth be told, the main difference largely comes down to their size and, of course, their fan speed.
Here are a couple differences between convection oven and air fryer to note:
1. Cooking Method & Performance
Air fryers use rapid heat circulation, ensuring crispier results, particularly for fried-style foods. In contrast, convection ovens offer greater versatility, making them the go-to option for baking, roasting, and other cooking methods that require even heat distribution.
Different food works for either of these choices. For example, if you’re baking a cake, you definitely want a convection oven for that. If you want to make French fries for a late-night snack, the air fryer is your best friend.
In terms of accessibility, air fryers are simpler to operate with all the preset functions, whereas a convection oven might require a learning curve. While convection ovens provide even heat distribution, an air fryer offers precise temperature settings for different cooking needs.
2. Cooking Time & Efficiency
When comparing a convection oven vs air fryer, a convection oven circulates heat from top to bottom, whereas in an air fryer, heat emits from the top.
This top-down method, along with concentrated heat and larger fans, makes air fryers cook 20% to 30% faster than convection ovens. Air fryers also preheat faster than convection ovens.
3. Health & Oil Usage
People usually regard air fryers as the healthier option. Why, you ask? An air fryer requires very little to no oil for most cooking, making it ideal for achieving that crispy texture with minimal fat. Conversely, a convection oven requires more oil to achieve similar output.
4. Size & Space Requirements
In the debate of air fryer vs convection oven, an air fryer’s small and compact design allows it to sit on a countertop and cook smaller portions, faster and more efficiently. Contrariwise, convection ovens are either built-in or larger appliances, making them better for cooking larger portions for a family.
5. Energy Efficiency & Cost
An air fryer is more energy efficient and consumes 50% less energy due to its smaller size and focused air circulation. Coming to costs, a single air fryer is more affordable than a convection oven. While a typical air fryer can cost between $50 and $350, a convection oven can cost anywhere between $300 to $500.
Toaster Oven Vs Air Fryer: Is There A Difference?
Picking between a toaster oven vs air fryer comes down to your cooking needs, space, and preferences. Both appliances have their strengths, but they serve different purposes in the kitchen.
1. Cooking Method
Toaster ovens use radiant heat from heating elements and sometimes include a fan to circulate hot air. Air fryers, on the other hand, use powerful convection technology to rapidly circulate heat, resulting in crispier textures without excessive oil.
2. Effectiveness
Toaster ovens excel at reheating leftovers, toasting bread, and baking small batches of cookies, while air fryers are best for frying-style cooking without the oil.
3. Cooking Time
Air fryers cook significantly faster due to their rapid air circulation, whereas toaster ovens take longer, especially when baking or roasting.
4. Versatility
If you want a multi-functional appliance that can toast, bake, and broil, a toaster oven is a solid choice. If you prioritize crispy, healthier meals in a fraction of the time, an air fryer is the way to go.
5. Space & Convenience
Air fryers are typically smaller and more compact, making them ideal for limited counter space. Toaster ovens take up more room but offer more cooking flexibility.
If you love kitchen gadgets and have the counter space, getting both can be a great option. However, if you're choosing one, it all depends on whether you prioritize crispier, faster meals (air fryer) or a more traditional oven experience (toaster oven).
In terms of maintenance, an air fryer is easier to clean, portable, and small enough (compared to a convection) to not overcrowd your space. Convection ovens are harder to clean, but do wonders for if you’re ever cooking in batches — something an air fryer would struggle with.
But let’s get down to the buzzing question at hand.
Which Is Better, An Air Fryer Or Convection Oven?
Choosing between a convection oven vs air fryer depends entirely on your cooking habits.
Choose an Air Fryer if...
- You love crispy, fried-style foods with minimal oil.
- You want faster cooking times and a compact design.
- You prefer an energy-efficient appliance that doesn’t heat up the kitchen.
- You don’t need large baking or soup-making capabilities.
- You want an easy-to-clean, low-maintenance cooking solution.
Choose a Convection Oven if...
- You need a versatile appliance for baking, roasting, and broiling.
- You cook for a larger family or batch-prep meals often.
- You prefer an appliance that can handle multiple dishes at once.
- You don’t mind slightly longer cooking times for more even results.
- You want the flexibility of using a larger variety of cookware.
- You have the counter space for it.
Given their individual strengths, you can make your pick according to what fits your lifestyle the most. Regardless, both the appliances serve a purpose and will give you the crispiest and the tastiest results.
The Fritaire Difference: Why It’s The Best Air Fryer For You
Not all air fryers are created equal, and the Fritaire Glass Air Fryer takes things to the next level.
Here’s why it stands out:
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Self-Cleaning
Cleaning up has never been easier. Just add water and dish soap, let Fritaire do the work, then drain the soapy water — it’s that simple. No scrubbing, no hassle. -
Healthier Cooking
Unlike traditional frying, Fritaire delivers crispy, golden textures with up to 90% less oil — without sacrificing flavor. Say goodbye to greasy, calorie-heavy meals and hello to guilt-free indulgence. -
BPA-Free, Teflon-Free, PFAS-Free
Many air fryers on the market contain materials that can release harmful chemicals over time. Fritaire is built with safe materials, ensuring peace of mind with every meal. No forever chemicals, and no Teflon flu over here! -
Glass & Space-Saving Design
Forget bulky, ugly kitchen gadgets. Fritaire is compact yet powerful, with a tempered glass bowl so you can watch the cooking magic happen, making it the ideal countertop companion for any kitchen, big or small. -
Seven Air Fryer Colors
Fritaire doesn’t just perform exceptionally — it looks stunning too. With a new range of stylish colors to match your kitchen aesthetic, you can choose the perfect hue to complement your space.
If you’re looking for the best air fryer that combines performance, convenience, and health benefits, Fritaire, the non-toxic air fryer, is the clear winner.
Air Fryer vs Convection Oven: Bottom Line
The debate of an air fryer vs convection oven can be never-ending. The truth is, air fryers and convection ovens are very similar appliances. It’s only a matter of choice or need, what appliance you’re inclined towards.
While one is your instant fix, the other is for elaborate and homely meals. Drifting away from the wants, focus on what you need and then make a choice on which is better, an air fryer or a convection oven.
We hope that this blog brought things into perspective for you, which would help you make a thoughtful choice. With Fritaire, we promise to bring you the best — both food and appliances.