Choosing an air fryer for a family is mostly a question of capacity and organization: how much food you need to get out at once and whether you want to cook two different things at the same time. Here are the essentials, with figures that are always approximate because every model and every recipe is different.

For three or four people, capacity is usually the first thing to fall short. A large basket lets you cook in a single batch without overcrowding, which matters because food packed too tightly doesn't brown well. If there are five or more of you, or there are kids with big appetites, consider a large-capacity or dual-basket model. Don't rely only on the advertised litres: look at how many servings the manufacturer states and compare that with your real use.

A dual basket offers two independent zones, with different times and temperatures, and can synchronize them so they finish at the same time.

• Pros: you can make a main and a side at once; you save time on weeknight dinners.
• Cons: it usually takes up more space and, since there are two compartments, each one has less individual capacity.
• When it pays off: if you almost always cook two different things or eat dinner at different times.

1. Cook in an orderly sequence. Start with whatever takes longest; see the order in quick air fryer dinners.
2. Make use of frozen foods without thawing, with the approximate times for frozen foods.
3. Store and reheat leftovers properly, with the guide to reheating in an air fryer.
4. Keep a time chart handy: approximate cooking time chart.

• The size of the basket versus the counter space you have.
• Whether the basket or baskets can be washed according to the manufacturer (it saves a lot of time for a family).
• The maximum power draw and how much you use the kitchen every day: work it out with how much power an air fryer uses.
• The compatible accessories, in air fryer accessories.

After that, go through the air fryer brands or return to the guide to best air fryers for your kitchen.

As a rough guide, a large-capacity one or a dual-basket model. What matters is that the servings for one meal fit in one or two batches without overcrowding.

A large one takes up less space and keeps the energy use of a single appliance. Two small ones only pay off in very specific cases. A dual basket is usually the middle ground.

• Best Air Fryers: How to Choose Yours — What makes an air fryer "best" for you: capacity, dual basket, cleaning, noise and budget. Clear criteria to decide without sponsored lists.
• Air Fryers by Brand — Compare the air fryer brands we feature (Cosori, Cecotec, Philips, Ninja and Moulinex): what each one offers and who it suits best.
• Air Fryer Cooking Times and Temperatures Chart — Approximate air fryer cooking times and temperatures chart for potatoes, chicken, fish, vegetables, frozen food and eggs, plus how to adjust it.
• Air Fryer Accessories: What's Actually Worth Buying — The air fryer accessories you'll actually use: perforated liners, racks, silicone moulds, tongs and oil sprayers, with tips for choosing them.