Tefal Air Fryer Reviews

There is a digital readout on the ActiFry Plus giving you a countdown timer readout. It can be set for 99 minutes and there is an audible “ready” alarm once zero has been reached.

You can open the lid at any point during the cooking cycle, doing so will automatically pause the cooking cycle. Closing the lid will resume the cooking.

There’s a non-stick pan which has a ceramic coating meaning cleaning is easy. This can also be placed in a dishwasher if you wish.

Free recipe booklet – if you’re new to health frying then you’ll find the free recipe booklet included a real help to get started in cooking your first delicious meals with this Tefal model. Tefal have embraced technology and also produced a mobile app called “My ActiFry” to make it even easier to help you get the most from your new Tefal.

The cooking temperature is set to approximately 170°C and remains constant during the cooking cycle.

There’s viewing window on this model which allows you to keep an eye of your food while it’s cooking.

The Tefal ActiFry really is a versatile cooking appliance which will benefit any home kitchen. You’ll be surprised at the variety of meal options you can cook and the free recipe book (and mobile app) will help you.

Currently, this ActiFry Plus is available in 3 colour options:

White
Grey
Black

Also in the box, you’ll find:

An instruction booklet
Recipe book
ActiFry spoon (for the oil)

Take a Closer Look at the Tefal ActiFry Plus

Common Questions

So let’s take a look at the common questions people have asked about this fryer.

Can you cook frozen chips?

Yes you can! You can cook both frozen and fresh chips. In fact, you can cook anything from frozen; it will just take a little longer.

Is there a guarantee?

Yes. Currently, there is a 1 year guarantee with this model.

Is it noisy when is use?

Not noisy, but there is a sound emitted during operation but no more louder than a cooker hood. Certainly not too loud to be a distraction.

Do you have to use a certain type of cooking oil?

No. Although vegetable or olive oil is recommended, you can also liquefied beef dripping or low calorie sprays.

Can you make stews in it?

Yes you can. It can be used as a slow cooker if you wish, but remember the timer allows a maximum of 99 cooking time. If you wish to cook for longer then you will need to reset the timer. The fryer can be used for stews, slow cooked curries, stir frys – the list is endless!

Is there any steam emitted – steaming up the kitchen windows?

No, there’s no steam emitted so your windows will stay clear!

How long to chips take to cook?

Between 25-35 minutes, a bit longer if you like them well done and crispy. If cooking fresh chips, then a little less.

Does it smell like a deep fat fryer when cooking?

No, there is no smell like a deep fat fryer. This is because there simply isn’t the volume of oil that a deep fat fryer uses.

Does the rotating paddle break up chips and other delicate items like fish?

No. The paddle moves slowly and gently.

Patented Versatile Cooking

Tefal’s patented hot air system demonstrates their aim to be at the forefront of health fryer technology. The success of any cooking device is its ability to cook food thoroughly and at the right temperature and the Tefal ActiFry excels in this department. The stirring paddle means you can enjoy hands-off cooking while the ActiFry takes care of everything.

What are people saying about their ActiFry?

Let’s take a look in detail at what owners have reported and commented about the Tefal ActiFry.

Healthy Eating

Many people point out the health benefits of cooking using a health fryer. Simply put, eating less calories will help you lose weight and cooking with just 3% oil will only assist anyone who is on a calorie controlled diet. If you attend a slimming club, your group leader will be pleased to hear you’ve taken the smart decision to invest in a low fat fryer. The price point of this model also means it won’t break the bank to get start eating more healthily.

Easy to Use

A common point among the reviews is just how easy the fryer is to use. Simply “throw” your food and oil in, set the timer and off you go. It’s also easy to clean afterwards too. Busy people like this.

Quality of parts

We found some comments regarding the brittleness of some of the plastic parts reported by a very small number of owners, but we don’t think this is a major problem and over 800 positive customer reviews on Amazon confirm this.

Tefal ActiFry Review

This model is a slightly smaller version of the ActiFry Plus fryer (review here), and has a 1KG cooking capacity bowl. Whilst this won’t concern most buyers, if you do have a large family to feed then the smaller capacity is something to take a note of. Tefal understand that to extend their reach in the low fat cooker market, they need a diverse range to suit as many tastes as possible, and this model is their base model in a range of 5 models currently on the market. Read enough? Head over now to Amazon to buy this air fryer.

In terms of look and feel, the ActiFry Low Fat fryer comes in stylish black or white colours. Whichever you choose comes down to personal preference but bear in mind that the white finish may show dirt and grime over time, more so than the black model.

What do you get in the box?

In the box comes the cooker itself with non-stick removal pan, plus a spoon for the oil. It’s worth noting that for this model, there’s no free recipe book to if you’re new to this type of cooking and need guidance, you may want to purchase this recommended guide so that you get the most out of your new fryer.

As with the the Tefal models, there’s also a digital timer with audible sound to alert you when your set timer has completed. It’s worth noting that this model doesn’t have the Auto-shut off feature, meaning your food will continue to be cooked even after your timer has run down to zero. Tefal do offer an auto-shut off on their more premium models such as the ActiFry Family, ActiFry Express XL and ActiFry 2 in 1. To ensure food is cooked thoroughly, there’s a rotating paddle which automatically stirs the food for you. This means there’s no need to attend to the food while it’s cooking. A great time saving feature from Tefal.

The main difference aside from the colours between this model and the ActiFry Plus is the serving amounts. The recommended servings for this model is 4, while the ActiFry Plus, with its 1.2KG capacity bowl offers up to 5 servings. Even you are a family of 4, or even 3, but big appetites, then you may wish to consider the slightly larger ActiFry Plus. At the time we’re writing this review, there is no difference in price between the two on Amazon.

Customer feedback

Before we have a closer look at the detail of what customers of this model have said, let’s just point out that there are over 1600 reviews on Amazon, with over 1200 rating this model at 5 stars, making this Tefal base model Low Fat Fryer a strong contender for our top ten.

On the whole, customer comments relate to the healthy style of cooking this fryer provides, especially if you’re on a diet and trying to lose weight. Some comments mention a well known slimming club that recommends this model to their members to redude the amount of saturated fat in the food they consume.

Reviewers also report how surprised they were at the quality of the cooking results, with many loving the crispiness of their chips and in some cases, much better than using a conventional oven.

In terms of noise levels, the ActiFry Low Fat fryer is louder than a conventional oven but for most people this isn’t an issue. If your kitchen is open plan onto the living room them this may present a problem, but all you’re doing is watching TV while your food cooks, simply turning the volume up will solve this minor issue!

With the controls of the fryer located toward the back of the machine, some reviews point out that you may feel a blast of hot air as you lean over. However, this is unlikely to be safety concern as Tefal undertake extensive product testing to ensure their products are safe to use.

As pointed out in our review above, although there is a timer on this model, once it reaches zero, the fryer will continue to cook. It is up to you to turn the cooking cycle off. If the auto-shut off feature is a must have for you, then consider purchasing one of the Tefal models which do have this feature, such as the ActiFry Family, ActiFry Express XL and ActiFry 2 in 1.

The only negatives which we thought we should mention for this model relate to the quality of the materials used, which some customers reporting brittle lid hinges and the lid not fitting flush with the body. On the latter point, Tefal do state there should be a gap of 3mm between the lid and body so don’t be alarmed if after purchasing this model you see the gap – it’s meant to be like that. Don’t forget there is a one year warranty with this model so in the unlikely event you do experience a problem with your fryer, Tefal customer service will be on hand to deal with your issue.

Final words

Summing up, the ActiFry Low Fat fryer is the base model in Tefal’s range of low fat health fryers. If you don’t need to cook for more than 4 people, then this model will be ideal for you. However, it is priced at a level very similar to it’s slightly bigger brother, the ActiFry Plus so if you think you will sometimes have the need to cook for an extra person or two, than it would make sense to go for the next model up (which also includes the free recipe book).

If you have a larger family but still want to enjoy the benefits of low fat cooking then the Tefal XL ActiFry Express (model number: AH950840) is an ideal choice to consider. It can cook 6 servings with a generous bowl capacity of 1.5KG. Apart from its larger capacity, this fryer also stands out from the other Tefal models for another reason – it has an express cooking feature, which we’ll come onto in a moment.

These health fryers aren’t just limited to cooking chips. You can use them to cook a wide range of dishes including curries, stir-frys and casseroles. Ideal for a family with a diverse mix of food tastes. In a hurry? Head over now to Amazon to buy this air fryer.

Tefal X-Large Express Review

Features of the Tefal ActiFry Express

In terms of basic features, you will find the same features on the other Tefal models in the range, such as the audible timer, non-stick removable pan and dishwasher safe parts. However, this model, being one of the more premium models in the range does come with the recipe book and automatic lid, which opens at the touch of a button. When the lid is opened, the cooking stops immediately, and resumes as soon as the lid is closed. One feature this model also has, which isn’t on the lower end models, is the automatic shut-off. This is a nice to have feature, as if you happen to be distracted from cooking, you can be safe in the knowledge you won’t return to the kitchen to find burned or over-cooked food.

There’s an easy to read LCD screen which shows the countdown timer you set at the start of cooking. As this model is designed for express cooking, for up to 6 people, it’s also Tefal most powerful model in the 2016 range, rated at 1550W.

In terms of look, the fryer comes in a choice of two colours – black or white. Each colour option has the same bright green locking mechanism on the front which some owners may feel is a little garish.

So let’s talk about the Express cooking feature and what it is.

Tefal have designed this model to cook up to 30% faster than the 1KG base model, meaning the same, great tasting food but in less time. If you like to have your food on the table ASAP, then the Express cooking feature will be an attractive feature.

This model also has a re-designed viewing panel, which is larger than other models meaning you can monitor the food cooking more easily.

For pricing, visit Amazon to see latest price.

What’s in the box?

In the box, you will find:

1 x Tefal ActiFry Express XL Black 1.5KG Health Fryer
1 x ActiFry Spoon (for the oil)
1 x Free Recipe Book
1 x Instruction Booklet

The biggest advantage this XL model gives you is the ability to cook more food, in less time. Depending on your family size and lifestyle, this might appeal to you and be worth the extra cost, over the other models in the range. We particularly liked the full transparent viewing lid on this model, and we hope Tefal will roll this out in other models going forward.

What do the owners say?

In amongst the reviews for this fryer are comments about how good the fryer looks, in either white or black. The body of the fryer has a gloss finish which reveived positive comments from owners.

One tip about cooking with low fat fryers, and this is applicable to any model, the key to cooking chips is to make sure the potatoes are thoroughly dry before cooking. Doing so will give the best results.

Have the LCD timer display and auto-shut off is something the owners like, particulary from a safety point of view. In terms of noise levels, there are some reports of a background ‘hum’ but it doesn’t present too much of a problem.

The Tefal XL ActiFry Express is a popular addition to kitchens in homes in which large families live. Cooking is easy and owners love how they can make real chips without the mess of deep fat frying.

There have been a couple of instances of broken parts on this model, but these are few and far between, and could have been caused by heavy handedness of the part of the user. We can’t verify those claims. However, judging by the overwhelming 4 and 5 star ratings this model has, we are pleased to include it our top ten range of health fryers. More customer reviews can be viewed at Amazon – click here to go there now.

Summing up

If you’re looking for a higher capacity, fast cooking health fryer then this would be our recommendation to you. Backed by Tefal’s knowledge and expertise in this market, the Tefal XL ActiFry Express would make an ideal additon to your kitchen. Another large capacity fryer you may want to consider is the German designed and built GOURMETmaxx air fryer.

Tefal ActiFry 2-in-1 Review

The ActiFry 2-in-1 is a versatile, 2 tier air fryer meaning you can cook an entire meal with minimal effort. For example, you can cook chips in the lower bowl and steak or chops on the upper tray.

An image of the Tefal YV960140, ActiFry, Air Fryer, 2-in-1, (6 Portions), Black, 1.5 Kg Capacity

Is the Tefal ActiFry 2 in 1 any good?
Let’s find out…

Every month, over 1500 visitors come to this review page every month looking to see if they should buy the ActiFry 2 in 1. It’s the most popular Tefal fryer we’ve reviewed so if you’re reading this, then you’ve made a good decision so far! Beware of cheap imitation fryers – Tefal are long established in the health fryer market and are a trusted brand. All of the links on this site are to trusted online sellers such as Amazon, who we often recommend due to their excellent customer service and prices. Visit Amazon now to view the ActiFry 2 in 1 model.

Tefal is a leading brand in the health fryer market with several models in their range. This is one of their top end models, with its 2 in 1 ability to cook an entire meal for the entire family.

Features of the ActiFry 2in1 – a closer look

Tefal have gone a step further with this model (#YV960140), with an additional rotating top plate, allowing you to cook an entire meal just using this one appliance. It has a 1.5KG capacity which caters for up to six servings. The top plate can be used to cook meat such as steaks, chops, and fish while the bottom bowl can cook whatever you choose to accompany your meat. It certainly lives up to its 2in1 name!

There is a rotating paddle on the base and a rotating top tray, allowing you to cook multiple food items all at the same time. The food on the tray at the top is cooked with hot air directed on to it.

In terms of size, the approximate footprint of the unit is 30 cm wide by 40cm deep, with a height of around 23 cm. The detachable power cord is approximately 90cm in length, which more than long enough to reach most power sockets around a kitchen. One thing to note is the space around the unit needed during cooking. The fryer does get quite warm so allow room around it for ventilation. See the instruction booklet for guidance on this.

As with other Tefal health fryers in the range, the 2 in 1 model only requires one spoonful of cooking oil to be added at the start of the cooking cycle. This keeps calorie intake to a minimum, especially good news if you’re on a calorie controlled diet.

In the box, you’ll find the free 2 in 1 recipe book to help get you started cooking delicious and healthy meals from day one of owning the health fryer. There’s also an instruction booklet and measuring spoon for the oil.

As this is one of the higher end Tefal fryers, it comes with a digital timer which has an auto shut-off feature, so there’s no need to be concerned about burning or over-cooking your food should you forget about it. The timer has a loud audible alert to notify you when zero has been reached.

For those who just hate washing up and cleaning up, you’ll love the fact that all of the removal components of the 2 in 1 are dishwasher safe. Sometimes though, depending on what you’ve cooked, a simple wipe down with a kitchen towel or damp dishcloth is all that is needed to clean the components, taking just a minute or two.

SummaryDimensionsOwners commentsWarranty & SupportCommon Questions

Summary of the Tefal Actifry 2 in 1 Fryer

Tefal have been making health fryers for several years, and with this model, we note a considerable improvement in the build quality over previous models. This is likely down to customer feedback and it’s good to know Tefal take on-board this feedback to improve their products further.

What we look about the 2 in 1 model is the even greater versatility of meal choices you can cook with the ‘set and forget’ type of cooking. This is great for people who have busy lives and don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen cooking. Simply place all of the meal ingredients into the 2 in 1 and set the timer. The audible timer will alert you when it’s time to serve up. For those who do like to check on their food whilst it’s cooking, there is a transparent viewing panel to see through.

View the latest reviews recently posted at Amazon for this model.

Another improvement from previous models is the detachable power cord. A small improvement you might think, but it does mean that storing the fryer away is that little bit easier now without a trailing power cable to contend with.

We also like the overall appearance of the machine, with its black base, large transparent viewing lid and bright green handle inserts and control panel buttons. Overall, this model wouldn’t look out of place sat on most kitchen worktops.

We love the versatility, appearance and build quality of the Tefal ActiFry 2 in 1. It’s a great addition to any kitchen and will give health benefits too. If your kitchen is modern then this unit will look amazing and not out of place on your worktop. As this is a large capacity health fryer, just make sure you have the room on your worktop to use it with the required ventilation. If space isn’t an issue, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and transform your cooking today with the ActiFry 2 in 1 from Tefal.

For the latest price for the 2 in 1, we recommend you visit Amazon where you will find the current price.

What are the dimensions?

What do owners have to say?

Once again, the ActiFry is a popular choice among dieters, as it means you can still enjoy delicious food but with far fewer calories. In fact, health fryers such as this ActiFry model are often recommended by slimming groups because of their health benefits. One reviewer reported losing over 1 stone in weight in 5 weeks, thanks in part to using the ActiFry. Food for thought!
Here’s a tip about cooking eggs from our review team: You can cook eggs in the top tray using fairy cake moulds (check them out on Amazon). So if you’re an egg and chips lover, you’ll appreciate this!

Some reviews mentioned that the remnants of food remains on the paddle even after a dishwasher clean, but this can be avoided by not letting food dry on the paddle. Cleaning the unit ASAP is always recommended.

Overall, owners are very pleased with their ActiFry 2 in 1, with ease of use and easy cleaning often mentioned.

Warranty information

The ActiFry 2 in 1 fryer comes with a standard 12 months manufacturers warranty and there is a telephone support line number included in the box.

Common questions answered

Is it Actifryer or ActiFry?

If you’re new to the Tefal air fryer range then you can be forgiven for mis-naming! Tefal market their model as the ActiFry but in reality, people also refer to it as the ActiFryer . Both terms work!

Where has the Actifry 2 in 1 best price?

You’ll find the Actifry 2 in 1 available at a range of household appliance retailers but our recommendation is Amazon, due to their excellent customer service, ease of ordering and competitive pricing.

Can you cook chips?

Yes you can! Frozen chips take between 20 and 30 minutes, while fresh chips take around 35 minutes. Tip: Use the top tray for even faster cooking of frozen chips! In our test, frozen chips cooked in just 12 minutes on the top tray.

Can you cook Salmon fillet?

Yes, but use the top tray as the bottom tray has the stirring paddle which will break up your fish fillets (although that is an alternative way to cook them!)

View more air fryer comparisons.

Conclusion

Overall, we think this is the best Tefal ActiFry available because the additional cooking tray, meaning you could cook entire meals with it.