What Is AirFry in Ovens? Everything You Need to Know
AirFry has become one of the most requested features in new ovens and oven/microwave combinations over the past few years. But what does AirFry actually mean in a full-size oven, and how does it compare to a dedicated countertop air fryer? Here's a comprehensive explanation.
How AirFry Works in an Oven
AirFry in an oven is a cooking mode that uses the oven's convection fan at a higher speed than standard fan-forced cooking, combined with high heat from a top heating element, to create rapid hot air circulation around food. The result is similar to deep-frying: a crispy exterior with a moist, cooked interior — but using little to no oil.
The science is straightforward. Standard deep frying works by surrounding food in very hot oil, which rapidly transfers heat and creates Maillard reaction (the browning of proteins and sugars that creates crispiness). AirFry replaces the oil with very fast-moving hot air, achieving a similar effect with much less fat.
AirFry in a Full-Size Oven vs Countertop Air Fryer
| Comparison | AirFry in Full-Size Oven | Countertop Air Fryer |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Full oven rack — cook large batches | Small basket — limited quantity |
| Preheat time | Longer (10–15 minutes) | Faster (3–5 minutes) |
| Crispiness | Very good, slightly less than countertop | Excellent — more concentrated heat |
| Versatility | Full oven still available for other tasks | Single purpose |
| Counter space | No extra counter space needed | Requires dedicated bench space |
| Energy | Higher (full oven heating) | Lower (small cavity) |
| Cleanup | Standard oven cleaning | Small basket easy to clean |
What You Can Cook with AirFry
- Frozen chips, potato gems, wedges and other frozen snacks
- Chicken wings, drumsticks and other poultry pieces
- Fish and seafood — fish fillets, prawns, calamari
- Vegetables — broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, pumpkin
- Homemade chips and potato wedges
- Crumbed chicken schnitzel and cutlets
- Spring rolls, dumplings and other Asian snacks
- Leftovers that you want to re-crisp rather than microwave
Which Ovens Have AirFry in Australia?
AirFry is increasingly common in mid-range to premium ovens. Brands and models with AirFry capability include:
- Samsung: Multiple dual cook and built-in oven models with AirFry mode
- LG: InstaView range with AirFry functionality
- Westinghouse: Several models with AirFry in their fan-forced oven range
- Electrolux: Select models with TasteGuard AirFry
- Hisense: Several 60cm and 90cm models with integrated air fry
Do You Need a Special Tray?
Yes — most AirFry ovens come with or recommend a perforated AirFry tray or basket that allows hot air to circulate underneath the food as well as over and around it. This is what creates the crispiness on the bottom. Using a solid baking tray will work, but results won't be as crispy. The AirFry tray is usually included with the oven or available as an accessory.
Is AirFry Worth Having?
Yes, for most households. If you currently own a countertop air fryer and want to free up bench space, an AirFry oven replaces it. If you don't own an air fryer, the AirFry mode adds a genuinely useful cooking technique for crispy food without deep-frying. The main trade-off compared to a dedicated air fryer is slightly longer preheat time and marginally less intense crispiness on small quantities — offset by the ability to cook a full tray at once.
Shop AirFry Ovens at Oceania Appliances
We stock ovens with AirFry capability from Samsung, LG, Westinghouse, Electrolux and Hisense. Free delivery across Sydney. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park, call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au. Open 7 days, 10am–8pm.