Air Fryers vs Microwaves - Efficiency and Performance

Compare air fryers and microwaves to see which is more efficient and better for your cooking needs. Understand their differences in energy use and versatility.
Explore Air Fryers
3 min
13-August-2024
When deciding between an air fryer and a microwave, it is essential to consider what you value most in your kitchen appliances. air fryers are known for their ability to mimic the crispy texture of fried foods using minimal oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. They excel at cooking a variety of foods, from fries to chicken, with a crisp outer layer and moist interior. On the other hand, microwaves are champions of convenience, quickly heating or cooking food using electromagnetic waves.

Explore the extensive selection of air fryers on Bajaj Mall, or visit our partner stores to compare top brands. Choose the ideal appliance that meets your cooking needs with advanced features, efficient performance, and sleek designs, bringing both convenience and style to your kitchen.

Overview of air fryers and microwaves

The air fryers and microwaves are essential kitchen appliances, each offering distinct advantages depending on your cooking needs. air fryers operate by circulating hot air around the food, achieving a crispy, fried-like texture with minimal oil, making them a healthier option for frying. In contrast, microwaves use electromagnetic waves to heat and cook food quickly, ideal for reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking tasks. While air fryers are perfect for those who enjoy crispy foods with fewer calories, microwaves are unmatched in their speed and convenience, making them indispensable for quick meals and reheating leftovers. Understanding these kitchen appliances' unique features can help you determine which one suits your kitchen best.

Key features and specifications: air fryer and microwaves

Key features:

  • Cooking method: The air fryer uses rapid air circulation to cook food, producing a crispy exterior similar to frying but with less oil. Microwaves use electromagnetic waves to heat and cook food quickly from the inside out.
  • Health benefits: air fryers offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying by reducing oil usage, making them ideal for those watching their fat intake. Microwaves are efficient for quick cooking and reheating but may not provide the same texture or flavour as an air fryer.
  • Versatility: The air fryer excels in cooking a wide range of foods, including fries, chicken, and even baked goods, while maintaining a crisp texture. Microwaves are versatile electronics in their ability to heat, cook, and defrost various types of food quickly and efficiently.
Air fryer's specifications:

SpecificationDetails
CapacityRanges from 2 to 6 litres
PowerTypically between 1200 to 1800 watts
TechnologyRapid air circulation technology
ControlAnalog or digital controls with LED display
Temperature range80°C to 200°C
Timer0 to 60 minutes with auto shut-off
Cooking modesFry, grill, roast, bake
Body materialPlastic or stainless steel with cool-touch handle
Additional featuresNon-stick coated cooking basket, overheat protection, dishwasher-safe parts


Microwave's specifications

SpecificationDetails
CapacityRanges from 17 to 32 litres
PowerTypically between 700 to 1200 watts
TechnologyMicrowave radiation (some models include convection, and grill functions)
ControlMechanical or digital controls with LED display
Cooking modesReheat, cook, defrost, grill, convection baking (in some models)
Body materialStainless steel, glass, or plastic exterior
Turntable sizeVaries from 24 cm to 31 cm diameter
Additional featuresAuto-cook menus, child lock, defrost function, timer, multi-stage cooking


You can also explore a range of other home appliances on Bajaj Mall.

Differences between an air fryer and a microwave oven

AspectAir fryerMicrowave oven
Cooking methodUses hot air circulation for cookingUses electromagnetic waves for heating and cooking
Health impactRequires little to no oil, promoting healthier mealsCan cause nutrient loss in some foods
Cooking timeSlower than a microwave but offers a crisp textureFast cooking, ideal for reheating and defrosting
VersatilityBest for frying, roasting, and bakingSuitable for reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking
Energy consumptionGenerally consumes more energy due to longer cooking timesMore energy-efficient for short cooking tasks



Explore air fryers and microwaves on the lowest EMI from Bajaj Finserv

Bajaj Mall offers a diverse selection of the latest electronics. Compare different models and their features to determine which appliance best meets your cooking needs. After reviewing your options, visit a Bajaj Finserv partner store to make your choice. Use the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, which comes with a pre-approved limit, to complete your purchase. Select a repayment tenure that suits your budget and enjoy the convenience of interest-free EMIs.

Benefits of shopping with the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card

  • Flexible payment options: The Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card allows you to purchase an air fryer or microwave with easy, interest-free instalments, making it more affordable to invest in quality kitchen appliances.
  • No Cost EMI: Spread the cost over a convenient period without any additional financial burden. Enjoy the flexibility of paying in instalments with no added interest.
  • Zero down payment: On select models, you can take advantage of zero down payment options, bringing home your desired appliance without any upfront cost.
  • Exclusive deals and cashback: Shopping with the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card gives you access to special discounts, offers, and cashback deals, ensuring maximum value for your purchase.
  • Pre-approved credit limit: The EMI Network Card provides a pre-approved credit limit, allowing you to make quick and hassle-free purchases, both online and in-store.
  • Free home delivery: Enjoy the convenience of free home delivery on select air fryer and microwave models, adding to the overall ease and satisfaction of your shopping experience.

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Frequently asked questions

Which is better: a microwave or an air fryer?
The answer depends on your cooking needs. air fryers are better for cooking crispy foods with less oil, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. Microwaves are better for quick cooking, reheating, and defrosting, making them more versatile for everyday use.

Can an air fryer replace a microwave?
An air fryer can replace some functions of a microwave, such as cooking and reheating certain foods, but it cannot match the microwave’s speed in reheating or defrosting. If you frequently need to reheat or cook food quickly, a microwave may still be necessary.

Is it better to reheat food in the microwave or air fryer?
Reheating in an air fryer can result in a crispier texture, especially for items like pizza or fries. However, a microwave is faster and more efficient for reheating soups, stews, and other foods that do not require crispiness.

Which is cheaper to run: an air fryer or a microwave?
Microwaves are generally cheaper to run because they cook food faster and use less energy for shorter periods. air fryers, while energy-efficient in their own right, typically take longer to cook food and therefore use more electricity over time.

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