Are there differences between air fryers and convection ovens?
Size: Air fryers are countertop appliances while convection settings are built into full-sized ovens and toaster ovens, hence the introduction of air fryer toaster ovens. The countertop size allows air fryers and convection toaster ovens to heat quickly. It also positions the food closer to the heating elements, which encourages food to cook quickly. Some convection ovens and toaster ovens now include an air fry setting, too, as do certain pressure cookers and microwaves.
Heating: The heat comes from the top in an air fryer, while it comes from the top and bottom in a convection oven. The top-down method style makes it more concentrated and cooks food faster.
Fan placement: The fan is located on the top of an air fryer, directly below the heating element. In a convection oven, it's located in the back of the oven, either in the center or on the side.
Fan size and speed: Air fryer fans are large and operate faster than convection fans. One manufacturer confirmed that the fan on their air fryer setting is 30% faster than their fan on convection.
Accessories: Air fryers are paired with many perforated accessories that allow for quick and even cooking with little flipping or tossing. They include air fryer baskets, trays, racks, spits for rotisseries and skewers for kebabs. Small baking pans or tin cans also be placed on racks, if desired.
Cleaning: Air fryers are relatively easy to clean — most are dishwasher safe, but their parts can be bulky and they require cleaning every time you use them. Convection ovens don't need to be cleaned every time you use them, but the accessories you use do.
So, are air fryers or convection ovens better?
Air fryers cook quicker than convection ovens and don't require heating a large appliance, like your full-sized oven. Their perforated racks also allow fat to drip onto the drip pan so your food doesn't absorb excess oil, which minimizes calories and becomes crispier since it is drier.
The downside of air fryers is they can't cook as much food at one time as you can in an oven. Food cooks better in an air fryer when it's in a single layer. Some foods, like French fries, can be stacked, but should be tossed at least once. Air fryers can also be loud, although many manufacturers consider this in development.
Can I use my convection oven as an air fryer?
You can use your convection oven as an air fryer but it might not yield the same results. The best way to mimic an air fryer in an oven is to create more air circulation around your food with the purchase of an air fryer basket accessory. You can also try using a cooling rack that can withstand high temps set atop a baking tray. If you're still not getting the crispy results you want, try increasing the temperature a little but be mindful of burning.
