What is the difference between a multicooker and an airfryer

Content:

Design differences
Cooking methods
Available modes and functions
Disadvantages and advantages of an airfryer and multicooker
Which devices are more convenient and safer?
How to make the right choice?

In the modern kitchen there are more and more various devices that facilitate and speed up the cooking process. The market offers a huge number of devices designed to solve culinary problems. Therefore, it is important to be able to make a choice and understand, for example, what is best for your goals. multicooker or airfryer? Let's figure out what are the differences between these devices and what are their features.

Design differences

Convection oven is an updated and modernized version of the electric convection oven. It looks like a glass vessel with a volume of 8-20 liters, placed on a plastic stand. There is a built-in heating element inside this structure. A cover with a fan is placed on top. This appliance is quite bulky, which makes it inconvenient for placement and use in small kitchens.

A multicooker is more like an electric pan with a range of different programs. Its complete set includes a bowl, a sealed lid and a heating element. The operation of the device is automated and regulated by setting modes and a timer. The multicooker is much smaller in size and usually weighs no more than 4 kilograms.

Cooking methods

The principle of operation of a multicooker is almost identical to cooking on an electric stove. Only heating parts are located inside the structure itself. And the ingredients for the dish are placed in the bowl. The airtight lid speeds up the cooking process and allows for a relatively short time to cook foods that usually take several hours to cook. Plus, there is no need to periodically monitor the process, the device automatically controls it.

The airfryer differs in its principle of operation, and is more like a fan heater located in the lid of the pan. Thanks to the separate sections, you can cook several different dishes at the same time. It blows hot air around the food in a heat-resistant dish.

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Available modes and functions

Since the airfryer is analogous to a convection oven, you can cook various dishes with it. It has over nine modes, which include:

defrosting;
drying;
cooking;
smoking;
baking;
grill, etc.

Thanks to the combination of modes, you can cook delicious and juicy food without the fear that it will burn or not cook.

The multicooker also has over ten cooking modes, which are marked with the names of the dishes, such as:

soup;
fried foods;
yogurt;
milk porridge;
stews;
bakery products;
cereals and cereals, etc.

This separation makes it easier to select the desired mode.The only inconvenient point is the need to combine cooking methods if the dish involves pre-frying and then stewing the ingredients. It is necessary to independently select the appropriate modes. This process may take longer and you will have to control the operation of the device.

Disadvantages and advantages of an airfryer and multicooker

An analysis of the pros and cons of each of the devices will help to solve the dilemma and answer the question of which multicooker or airfryer is better. The main disadvantage of the Airfryer is its large size. This impedes not only its comfortable placement in a small kitchen, but also further care, even when disassembled, it is difficult to put it in the dishwasher. This unit also has a high power consumption. Nevertheless, among its advantages are the following characteristics:

Multifunctionality, the device replaces many kitchen devices and utensils, and with its help you can cook not only meat or vegetables, but also baked goods and other delicious treats.
Minimal oil consumption and the ability to cook without it. This allows you to prepare dietary, but delicious meals without excess fat and calories.
Saving time. All processes are automated, so you don't need to watch the airfryer while grilling meat or boiling potatoes. The presence of compartments makes it possible to simultaneously cook several different products.

Cooking in a multicooker takes longer. In addition, only one dish can be cooked in its bowl at a time. Due to the way the device works, it will be difficult to achieve a crispy crust on meat or baked goods. And the relative fragility of the structure requires a more careful attitude and care. The advantages of this kitchen assistant include the following features:

Versatility, it allows you to solve many culinary problems. And the presence of several modes allows you to diversify the diet.
The pressure cooker mode allows you to prepare a delicious and healthy dinner in 10-15 minutes.
Delayed start is a function that will provide breakfast even before waking up.
Teflon coating prevents sticking and also reduces the need for oil.
Top notch safety thanks to a sealed cover.

Which devices are more convenient and safer?

If we talk about compactness, then a multicooker or a double boiler outperforms an airfryer. However, the two appliances have multiple functions for defrosting, reheating and preparing food, which is a common asset. The designs of the units ensure a high level of their operation, since they both have a sealed cover that protects against possible burns. Since in both cases an electrical heating element is used, the devices are equipped with overheating protection, which makes them fireproof.

How to make the right choice?

If you decide to buy one of the considered kitchen "helpers", then you need to make a choice based on culinary goals, needs and preferences. A multicooker will be useful for a family with small children; it prepares cereals and milk mixtures quickly and safely. It will also delight lovers of soups and stews, because, according to reviews, this food turns out to be especially tasty.

Families with already adult family members should opt for the airfryer. In this device you can cook barbecue and fry meat. And also the possibility of warming up and cooking several dishes at the same time is suitable for working people, as well as in case guests unexpectedly arrive and need to quickly come up with some kind of treat.

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