Air Fryer, Grill or Air Fryer Grill: Which One Should I get?
Choosing the right cooking appliance can be confusing, especially when modern kitchens offer more options than ever. Air fryers, grills, and combination air fryer grills all promise faster cooking, healthier meals, and great flavour - but they work in very different ways and suit different cooking styles.
An air fryer is ideal for crispy, low-oil meals, a grill excels at high-heat cooking and authentic charred flavour, while an air fryer grill combines elements of both to offer greater versatility in a single appliance. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the option that best fits your lifestyle, available space, and the types of meals you cook most often.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between air fryers, grills, and air fryer grills, including how they cook food, their advantages and limitations, and when each one makes the most sense. We’ll also highlight how multi-function options like the Duronic FG19 Air Fryer Grill can provide a practical middle ground for households looking to maximise flexibility without filling their kitchen with multiple appliances.
What is an Air Fryer and How Does It Work?
An air fryer is a revolutionary kitchen appliance designed to fry food with minimal oil. It uses rapid air technology to circulate hot air around the food, producing a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside moist. The result is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Duronic Air Fryers Specifications
Duronic AF24 Air Fryer:
Power: 2400W
10 pre-set cooking modes: Preheat, reheat, quick 5-minute cook, fries, chicken, meat, fish, vegetable, bake, dehydrate.
Sync finish and sync cook functions.
Cooking temperature range: 50ºC to 200ºC.
Dimensions: 39x37.7x32.5 cm, cable length 105 cm.
Dishwasher safe drawers and inner trays.
Cooks from frozen: French fries, chicken wings, nuggets, fish fingers, fillets, vegetables, pizza, pies, desserts, etc.
Duronic AF34 Air Fryer:
Power: 2400W
10 pre-set cooking modes: Preheat, reheat, quick 5-minute cook, fries, chicken, meat, fish, vegetable, bake, dehydrate.
Sync finish and sync cook functions.
Cooking temperature range: 50ºC to 200ºC.
Large 10L cooking drawer along with the twin drawers.
Dimensions: 39x37.7x32.5 cm, cable length 105 cm.
Dishwasher safe drawers and inner trays.
Cooks from frozen: French fries, chicken wings, nuggets, fish fingers, fillets, vegetables, pizza, pies, desserts, etc.
Pros and Cons of Air Fryers:
| Air Fryer Pros | Air Cooker Cons |
|---|---|
| Healthier Cooking: Minimal oil usage. | Capacity: Limited space for large meals with some air fryers. |
| Speed: Faster than traditional ovens. | Ease of Cleaning: Most parts are dishwasher safe. |
| Versatility: Can fry, bake, roast, and dehydrate. | |
| Ease of Cleaning: Most parts are dishwasher safe. |
What is a Grill and How Does It Work?
A grill uses direct heat to cook food, providing a distinctive charred flavour. Electric grills, like the Duronic Teppanyaki grill GP20, offer the convenience of indoor grilling without the smoke of traditional methods.
Duronic Teppanyaki Grill GP20
Power: 2000W
Non-stick cooking surface: 52 x 27 cm.
Adjustable temperature/thermostat dial.
Removable grease tray for easy cleaning.
Ergonomic handles for safe handling.
Portable: Ideal for small spaces.
Pros and Cons of a Grill:
| Electric Grill Pros | Teppanyaki Grills Cons |
|---|---|
| Flavour: Provides a unique grilled taste. | Cleaning: Grease and residue can be challenging to remove. |
| Versatility: Suitable for a variety of foods. | Safety: Requires careful handling to avoid burns and accidents.
|
| Entertainment: Great for social cooking. |
What is an Air Fryer Grill and How Does It Work?
An air fryer grill combines the functionalities of an air fryer and a grill, offering a versatile cooking experience. The Duronic Air Fryer Grill FG19 uses hot air circulation and a grill plate to cook food evenly with a crispy finish.
Duronic Air Fryer Grill FG19
Power: 1900W
Six pre-set functions: Air fry, roast, dehydrate, reheat, defrost, and bake.
Four quick start settings.
Intuitive touchscreen panel.
Three inner trays: Outer tray, inner basket, and grill plate.
Dimensions: 27(H) x 39.7(W) x 42(D) cm.
Safety features: Automatic shut-off when lid is lifted.
Pros and Cons of a Air Fryer Grill:
| Air Fryer Grill Pros | Air Grill Cooker Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatility: Combines multiple cooking methods. | Learning Curve: May require some time to master all functions. |
| Convenience: Compact and multifunctional. | |
| Space-Saving: Replaces several kitchen appliances. |
Comparison Table: Duronic AF24, AF34, and FG19 Air Fryers and the GP20 Teppanyaki Grill
| Feature | Duronic AF24 Air Fryer | Duronic AF34 Air Fryer | Duronic FG19 Air Fryer Grill | Duronic GP20 Teppanyaki Grill |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 2400W | 2400W | 1900W | 2000W |
| Capacity | 2x 5L drawers
| 2x5L drawers & 1x10L drawer | N/A | N/A |
| Dimensions | 39x37.7x32.5 cm | 39x37.7x32.5 cm | 27x39.7x42 cm | 32x62 cm (cooking surface) |
| Features | Dual drawers with clear windows and internal lights, removable trays, Tactile control panel, 10 pre-set modes, Sync finish and Sync cook functions, Hot air circulation, Cable storage, Dishwasher safe | Dual drawers with clear windows and internal lights, Removable trays, Tactile control panel, 10 pre-set modes, Sync finish and Sync cook functions, Hot air circulation, Cable storage, Dishwasher safe | Air fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Reheat, Defrost, Bake, Intuitive Touch screen panel, Three inner trays, Safety shutoff, Keep warm mode | Non-stick cooking surface, Adjustable temperature, Removable grease tray, Ergonomic handles |
| Temperature Range | 50º-200ºC | 50º-200ºC | Pre-set temperatures and Adjustable | Adjustable |
| Ease of Cleaning | Dishwasher safe | Dishwasher safe | Easy to clean | Easy to clean |
The Duronic AF34 and AF24 air fryers excel with their dual 5L drawers and various cooking modes, but the AF34 also includes a larger 10L drawer option, perfect for family meals. The Duronic GP20 Electric Grill Griddle is versatile and portable, suitable for numerous settings such as balconies, camping grounds, and offices, offering a healthier alternative to frying. However, the FG19 Air Fryer Grill truly shines with its dual functionality as both an air fryer and a grill.
It features an intuitive touch screen, six pre-set functions, and unique safety features like automatic shutoff and a keep-warm mode. This airfryer grill is multifunctional; not only can it grill chicken or fish, but it can bake pastries, pies and cook pasta dishes. This combination of air frying and grilling capabilities makes the FG19 a standout option for those seeking versatility and convenience in meal preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the main difference between an air fryer and grill?
An air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food with minimal oil, while a grill uses direct heat to provide a charred flavour. Air fryer grills work a bit like both as they provide heat from the bottom and through hot air circulation.
Can I use an air fryer grill indoors?
Yes, the Duronic Air Fryer Grill FG19 is designed for indoor use, providing the benefits of both grilling and air frying.
Which appliance is better for cooking large meals?
The Duronic AF34 with its 10L drawer is ideal for larger meals, while the FG19 air grill cooker offers versatility with its multiple trays and the GP20 Teppanyaki grill is perfect for small BBQ get-togethers.
Is cooking with an air fryer healthier than using a grill?
Air fryers typically use less oil, making them a healthier option compared to traditional grilling methods. Using an electric grill is also a good option and is also healthier. The air fryer grill therefore combines everything together allowing you to grill, cook and bake.
Which appliance produces the best flavour?
Grills generally provide the strongest flavour due to direct heat and caramelisation, especially for meats and vegetables. Air fryers offer crisp textures but milder flavour by comparison. Air fryer grills deliver a compromise, allowing users to enjoy grill-style results while retaining the convenience and lower oil usage of air frying.
How easy is it to clean each appliance?
Most parts of Duronic air fryers and the FG19 are dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean. Traditional Grills may require more effort to remove grease and residue however with an electric grill, cleaning is simple and easy.
What are the best foods to cook in each appliance?
Air Fryer: Fries, chicken wings, vegetables, chips, frozen items.
Grill: Steaks, burgers, kebabs, chicken.
Air Fryer Grill: Versatile enough for both air-fried and grilled foods.
How do the cooking times compare between an air fryer and a grill?
Air fryers generally cook faster due to rapid air circulation, while grills may take longer to reach the desired temperature and cook food. However the Air Fryer grill cooks from the bottom and the top and therefore is also a fast cooker.
Can an air fryer grill replace both an air fryer and a grill in my kitchen?
Yes, the Duronic FG19 air grill combines the features of both appliances, making it a space-saving all-in-one solution.
Which appliance is best for small kitchens?
Air fryers and air fryer grills are generally more space-efficient than standalone grills. Combination models are particularly useful for smaller kitchens because they offer multiple cooking functions without requiring additional storage or countertop space.
Do air fryers and air fryer grills require preheating?
Some models may require preheating, but many, like the Duronic FG19 air fryer grill, have quick start functions that reduce the need for preheating.
Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer or air fryer grill?
Yes, both the air fryers and the air grill cooker are designed to cook frozen foods efficiently.
Which option cooks food the fastest?
Air fryers typically cook faster than grills for smaller portions due to rapid air circulation and preheating efficiency. Grills may take longer to heat up but excel at cooking thicker cuts of meat. Air fryer grills offer competitive cooking times by combining fast airflow with grill-style heating.
What safety features should I look for in these appliances?
Look for automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and secure lids. The FG19 air fryer grill has an automatic shut-off feature when the lid is lifted.
How energy-efficient are air fryers and air fryer grills compared to grills?
Air fryers and air fryer grills are generally more energy-efficient than traditional grills, as they cook faster and use less power.
Can you bake in an air fryer grill?
Yes, the FG19 air grill includes a baking function allowing you to make lasagne, pastries, cookies, pies and more.
Which appliance offers the best value for money?
The best value depends on how often you cook and the variety of meals you prepare. Air fryers offer excellent value for everyday meals, grills are ideal for flavour-focused cooking, and air fryer grills provide strong value by combining multiple functions into one appliance.
Conclusion:
Choosing between an air fryer, a grill, or an air fryer grill ultimately comes down to how you cook and what you value most in the kitchen. Air fryers are ideal for quick, low-oil meals with a crispy finish, grills excel at high-heat cooking and rich, charred flavour, and air fryer grills offer a versatile middle ground by combining both cooking methods in one appliance.
For households looking to simplify their setup without sacrificing variety, an air fryer grill can be a practical and space-saving solution. By offering the ability to air fry, grill, roast, and crisp, combination models allow you to adapt your cooking style to different meals and occasions.
If flexibility, convenience, and everyday usability are key priorities, a well-designed option like the Duronic Air Fryer Grill provides a balanced alternative to owning multiple appliances. Whichever option you choose, understanding the strengths and limitations of each cooking method will help you make a more informed decision and get the most out of your kitchen investment.
