Air fryer vs OTG oven: What are the differences? Our comparison with top options
Do you get confused about which is right for you, an air fryer or an OTG oven? This article compares their differences and offers top picks to help you decide.
Are you also confused when it comes to choosing between an air fryer vs OTG oven? You’re not alone! With so many kitchen appliances on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when deciding which one will best suit your cooking needs. An air fryer promises quick, crispy results with minimal oil, making it a favourite for those looking to enjoy fried foods in a healthy manner. On the other hand, an OTG oven offers the versatility of traditional baking, grilling, and toasting, perfect for those who love to bake bread, cakes, and more.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences in the air fryer vs OTG oven debate, helping you understand their unique features and benefits. We’ll also guide you on which appliance might be right for your kitchen based on your cooking habits and preferences. Plus, we'll recommend top picks for both kitchen appliances from Amazon. Let’s dive in!
What is an air fryer?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, similar to a convection oven. This method gives food a crispy texture without the need for much oil. For example, you can make crispy French fries in an air fryer using just a teaspoon of oil, resulting in a healthier version of the traditionally deep-fried treat.
How does an air fryer work?
An air fryer cooks food using hot air that circulates rapidly around it. Inside there's a heating element that warms up the air. Then, a fan blows the hot air around the food, cooking it evenly from all sides. This circulating air crisps up the food's outer layer, giving it a crunchy texture similar to frying but with much less oil. For example, if you put frozen French fries in an air fryer, they come out crispy and golden without needing to be deep-fried in oil. This makes air fryers a healthier option for enjoying fried foods, as they use minimal oil to achieve the same crispy results.
What are the key features of air fryers?
Let's delve into the key features of air fryers and what makes them popular:
1) Rapid air circulation: Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food at high speed. This ensures that the food cooks evenly and becomes crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. This rapid air circulation mimics the effect of deep frying but with significantly less oil.
2) Versatility: Air fryers are versatile appliances that can handle a wide range of cooking tasks. They can fry, roast, grill, and even bake various foods such as fries, chicken wings, vegetables, fish, and desserts like cakes and muffins. This versatility makes them suitable for preparing a variety of dishes quickly and efficiently.
3) Easy cleanup: Many air fryer models feature non-stick cooking baskets or trays that are easy to clean. Some parts of the air fryer are also dishwasher safe, making cleanup after cooking a simple and hassle-free task.
4) Adjustable temperature and timer: Most air fryers come with adjustable temperature settings and timers. This allows you to customise the cooking temperature and duration according to the specific requirements of different recipes. The timer ensures that you can set the cooking time and let the air fryer handle the rest, providing convenience and precision in cooking.
What are the major benefits of using an air fryer?
Here are some major benefits of using an air fryer that are practical for daily cooking routines:
1) Healthier cooking: By using little to no oil, air fryers help reduce fat intake, making everyday meals healthier without sacrificing taste.
2) Quick cooking: Air fryers cook food faster than traditional methods, perfect for busy mornings or quick dinners after work.
3) Versatility in cooking: From crispy fries to juicy chicken and even baking desserts like cookies, air fryers offer a wide range of cooking options in one appliance.
4) Easy cleanup: Non-stick baskets and trays that are dishwasher-safe make cleaning up after cooking hassle-free, saving time and effort.
5) Reduced kitchen odours: Compared to deep frying, air fryers produce fewer cooking odours, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh while cooking your favourite meals.
These benefits not only contribute to healthier eating habits but also streamline meal preparation and cleanup, making air fryers a practical and convenient choice for daily cooking needs.
What is an OTG oven?
An OTG (Oven, Toaster, Grill) oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of baking, toasting, and grilling in one unit. It typically sits on countertops and is smaller than conventional ovens, making it suitable for home kitchens.
You may use an OTG oven to bake various dishes such as homemade pizzas, cookies, and cakes. It provides consistent heat distribution, allowing these items to bake evenly. Additionally, the OTG oven is perfect for toasting bread slices for breakfast or snacks, ensuring they are crispy and golden brown. The grill function also helps give sandwiches or vegetables a delicious grilled flavour, just like using an outdoor grill but indoors.
How does an OTG oven work?
An OTG (Oven, Toaster, Grill) oven works by using electric coils or elements to generate heat inside a closed cooking chamber. Here's how it operates:
- Heating elements: Inside the OTG oven, there are heating elements located at the top and bottom of the cooking chamber.
- Temperature control: You can set the desired cooking temperature using a dial or digital controls on the front of the oven.
- Heat distribution: When you turn on the OTG oven, the heating elements start to generate heat. The bottom element heats up to cook food from below, while the top element provides additional heat for broiling and grilling.
- Cooking modes: OTG ovens typically have different cooking modes like baking, toasting, and grilling. Each mode adjusts how the heating elements operate to achieve the specific cooking method. Example: For baking, both heating elements work together to create an even temperature inside the oven, ensuring that cakes and breads cook uniformly. When toasting, the top and bottom elements quickly brown and crisp bread slices. For grilling, the top element heats up to give food a grilled texture and flavour.
- Usage: You place the food on a rack or tray inside the OTG oven and adjust the settings based on what you're cooking and how you want it prepared. This versatility makes the OTG oven a handy appliance for baking, toasting, and grilling various dishes at home.
What are the key features of an OTG oven?
Here are the key features of an OTG (Oven, Toaster, Grill) oven explained below:
1) Cooking modes: They offer multiple modes like baking, toasting, and grilling, each using specific combinations of heating elements for different cooking techniques.
2) Timer: OTG ovens come with a timer that allows you to set a cooking duration, after which the oven will automatically turn off.
3) Rack and tray: They include racks and trays for placing food inside the oven, allowing for easy cooking and removal.
4) Crumb tray: Many models have a removable crumb tray that collects food crumbs and drippings, making cleanup simpler.
5) Compact design: OTG ovens are compact and designed to fit well on countertops, making them suitable for kitchens with limited space.
6) Versatility: They can cook a variety of foods such as cakes, pizzas, toast, and grilled sandwiches, providing flexibility in meal preparation.
An OTG oven may be used for various cooking tasks. Whether you're baking a cake, toasting bread for breakfast, or grilling chicken for dinner, it always delivers even cooking and great flavours. Its adjustable temperature settings ensure everything cooks just right, and cleanup is easy with its removable crumb tray.
What are the major benefits of using an OTG oven?
Using an OTG oven offers several key benefits that make it a valuable addition to your kitchen:
1) Versatility: From baking cakes to toasting bread and grilling sandwiches, an OTG oven handles various cooking tasks, adapting to your culinary needs.
2) Consistent results: Its top and bottom heating elements ensure even cooking, so your meals come out perfectly cooked every time.
3) Control at your fingertips: With adjustable temperature settings, you have precise control over how your food cooks, ensuring delicious results.
4) Efficiency: OTG ovens are efficient, saving you time with faster cooking than traditional ovens, making them perfect for busy schedules.
5) Convenience: Designed to fit on your countertop, an OTG oven is compact yet powerful, ideal for homes where space is at a premium.
6) Easy cleanup: Featuring removable trays and crumb trays, cleaning up after cooking is quick and easy, letting you enjoy your meals without the stress of cleanup.
Air fryer vs OTG oven: Key differences and which is better for you?
| Features | Air Fryer | OTG Oven |
| Cooking Method | Uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly with little to no oil. | Uses heating elements at the top and bottom to bake, toast, and grill, providing even cooking. |
| Versatility | Excellent for frying foods like french fries, chicken wings, and veggies. Can also bake, roast, and reheat. | More versatile, allows baking cakes, cookies, bread, toasting slices, and grilling sandwiches. |
| Cooking Time | Cooks faster due to rapid air technology, perfect for quick meals and snacks. | Takes longer as it relies on traditional heating; better for recipes requiring slow, even cooking. |
| Capacity | Typically smaller, suitable for small to medium-sized meals; great for individuals or small families. | Generally offers more cooking space, ideal for larger families or multiple dishes at once. |
| Health Aspect | Promotes healthier cooking by using less oil, significantly reducing fat content in fried foods. | Doesn’t specifically reduce oil usage but supports a balanced diet with baking and grilling options. |
| Technology | Utilizes rapid air technology with a fan circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy outer layer. | Employs traditional heating elements at the top and bottom for effective baking, toasting, and grilling. |
| Energy Efficiency | More energy-efficient due to shorter cooking times and lower power consumption. | Typically consumes more energy due to longer cooking times and the need to preheat. |
Air fryer vs OTG oven: Which is better for you?
When deciding between an air fryer and an OTG oven, it really comes down to your cooking habits and what you value most in your kitchen appliances.
Scenario 1: Quick and healthy cooking
For instance, if someone often craves quick, healthy snacks, an air fryer proves to be a game-changer. Suppose you come home after a long day and crave crispy sweet potato fries without the guilt. With the air fryer, achieving that crispy texture using very little oil is possible in just a fraction of the time it would take in a conventional oven.
Scenario 2: Versatility and family meals
On the other hand, when it's time to prepare larger meals or indulge in baking projects, the OTG oven shines. For example, during weekends when hosting family gatherings, the OTG oven is relied upon to bake lasagnas, roast chickens, and bake batches of cookies. Its spacious interior and even heat distribution ensure consistent and delicious results every time.
Factors to consider when choosing between an air fryer and an OTG oven:
When choosing between an air fryer and an OTG oven, several key factors should guide your decision to ensure you select the right appliance for your kitchen and cooking needs:
1) Cooking preferences: Consider the types of dishes you enjoy preparing. If you love crispy, fried-like textures with minimal oil, an air fryer is ideal for foods like fries and chicken wings. On the other hand, if you prefer baking cakes, toasting bread, or grilling sandwiches, an OTG oven offers more versatility.
2) Kitchen space: Evaluate the size of your kitchen and countertop. Air fryers are compact and fit well in smaller spaces, making them suitable for flats or kitchens with limited room. OTG ovens, though larger, provide greater cooking capacity and versatility but require more countertop space.
3) Cooking speed: Assess how quickly you need meals prepared. Air fryers cook faster due to their rapid air technology, perfect for quick snacks or meals. OTG ovens take longer to heat up but offer consistent cooking results, suitable for baking and roasting larger portions.
4) Health considerations: If you prioritise healthier cooking with less oil, an air fryer is designed to fry foods with minimal oil, reducing overall fat intake. OTG ovens may require added fats for certain recipes but provide options like baking and grilling.
5) Ease of use and cleaning: Consider convenience in operation and maintenance. Air fryers typically have simple controls and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup. OTG ovens may have more complex settings but offer larger trays and racks that are easier to clean manually.
6) Budget: Take into account your budget and the initial investment versus long-term savings. Air fryers are often more affordable upfront and energy-efficient for quick cooking. OTG ovens may have a higher initial cost but provide broader cooking capabilities and can be more economical for larger meals.
Considering these factors based on your cooking habits and kitchen setup will help you make an informed decision, ensuring the appliance you choose enhances your cooking experience and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Also Read: Looking for the best oven for baking at home? Check out our detailed buying guide to help you choose
Top 3 options for air fryers:
The PHILIPS Air Fryer HD9200/90 offers a healthier way to cook your favourite foods, using up to 90% less fat compared to traditional frying methods. With a capacity of 4.1 litres and powered by 1400 Watts, it utilises Rapid Air Technology to circulate hot air around the food, creating a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender. Its sleek black design complements any kitchen, and it's large enough to prepare meals for the whole family with ease.
Specifications of PHILIPS Air Fryer HD9200/90:
Model: PHILIPS Air Fryer HD9200/90
Capacity: 4.1 Litres
Power: 1400 Watts
Technology: Rapid Air Technology
Colour: Black
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Healthier cooking with less oil | Small kitchens with limited counter space |
| Rapid Air Technology for quick, even cooking | Prefer deep-fried textures |
The PHILIPS Air Fryer NA130/00 revolutionises cooking with up to 90% less fat using Rapid Air Technology. It boasts a generous 6.2 litre capacity and operates at 1700 Watts, ensuring efficient and quick cooking. Ideal for large families, it crisps food evenly while maintaining its juiciness inside. Its sleek black design adds a modern touch to any kitchen, making it a versatile appliance for healthier frying and cooking.
Specifications of PHILIPS Air Fryer NA130/00:
Model: PHILIPS Air Fryer NA130/00
Capacity: 6.2 Litres
Power: 1700 Watts
Technology: Rapid Air Technology
Colour: Black
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Uses up to 90% less fat for healthier cooking | Requires significant counter space due to its large size |
| Extra-large 6.2 litre capacity, ideal for large families | Not suitable for those who prefer deep-fried textures |
Also Read: Best air fryers: Upgrade to healthier and quicker cooking with top 10 options
The Pigeon Healthifry Digital Air Fryer features advanced 360 degree High Speed Air Circulation Technology, delivering crispy results with just a fraction of the oil traditionally used. With a 4.2 litre non-stick basket and 1200 watt power, it's suitable for cooking a variety of meals for small to medium-sized families. Its vibrant green design adds a pop of colour to any kitchen while promoting healthier cooking habits.
Specifications of Pigeon Healthifry Digital Air Fryer:
Brand: Pigeon
Model: Healthifry Digital Air Fryer
Capacity: 4.2 Litres
Power: 1200 Watts
Technology: 360 Degree High Speed Air Circulation
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Uses less oil for healthier cooking | May not be suitable for large families or batch cooking |
| Non-stick basket for easy cleaning | Basic features compared to more advanced air fryer models |
Top 3 options for OTG ovens:
The Philips HD6975/00 Digital Oven Toaster Grill is a versatile kitchen appliance. It can toast, bake, and grill food with its 25 litre capacity and 1500 watts of power. Featuring Opti Temp Technology for precise cooking, it includes a chamber light and an inner lamp for visibility while cooking. With 10 preset menus, it offers convenience for various cooking needs.
Specifications of Philips HD6975/00 Digital OTG oven:
Capacity: 25 Litres
Power: 1500 Watts
Technology: Opti Temp Technology
Features: Chamber light, Inner Lamp
Preset Menus: 10
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Versatile: Functions as an oven, toaster, and grill, offering flexibility in cooking various dishes. | Size: May occupy more space on the kitchen countertop. |
| Opti Temp Technology: Ensures precise and uniform cooking results throughout the cooking process. | High Power Consumption: Uses 1500 watts of power. |
Also Read: Bake like pro with best OTG ovens between ₹10000-20000: Top 10 options for you
The Bajaj Majesty 45 Litre Oven Toaster Grill is a versatile kitchen appliance. It features a motorised rotisserie and convection fan for even cooking. With a stainless steel body and transparent glass door, it offers durability and visibility while cooking. Operating at 1200 Watts, it provides ample power for baking, toasting, and grilling. It comes with a 2-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind for its users.
Specifications of Bajaj Majesty 45 Litre Oven Toaster Grill:
Capacity: 45 Litres
Power: 1200 Watts
Warranty: 2 years
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Versatile Functionality: The oven toaster grill can bake, toast, and grill, featuring a motorised rotisserie for even cooking. | Larger Size: Requires more kitchen space due to its 45-litre capacity. |
| Convection Fan: Ensures even heat distribution, resulting in consistent cooking results. | Higher Power Consumption: Operates at 1200 watts, potentially leading to increased electricity costs. |
Also Read: Best air fryer: Explore our top 10 picks guide for an informed choice
The Morphy Richards 30 RCSS OTG Oven is ideal for your kitchen, offering a 30-litre capacity with features like convection fan and rotisserie functions. Made of stainless steel, it includes temperature control and comes with a 2-year warranty from the brand. Operating at 1600 Watts, it blends functionality with durability in a stylish gold and black design.
Specifications of Morphy Richards 30 RCSS OTG Oven:
Capacity: 30 Litres
Functions: Convection fan, rotisserie
Material: Stainless steel
Power: 1600 Watts
Warranty: 2 years
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Spacious 30-litre capacity for versatile cooking | May occupy considerable space in smaller kitchens |
| Convection and rotisserie functions enhance cooking | Higher power consumption (1600 Watts) |
FAQs on Air Fryer vs OTG Oven:
1. What is the main difference between an air fryer and an OTG oven?
The main difference lies in their cooking methods. An air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly with little to no oil, resulting in crispy textures. On the other hand, an OTG oven uses traditional heating elements for baking, toasting, and grilling.
2. Which is healthier, an air fryer or an OTG oven?
Generally, an air fryer is considered healthier as it requires minimal oil to achieve crispy results. It helps reduce fat intake compared to traditional frying methods. An OTG oven does not specifically reduce oil usage but offers options for baking and grilling.
3. Can an air fryer replace an OTG oven?
It depends on your cooking needs. An air fryer is best for quick frying, grilling, and roasting small to medium-sized portions. However, an OTG oven is more versatile for baking cakes, cookies, and toasting larger quantities of food. Both appliances complement each other rather than directly replacing one another.
4. Which appliance is more suitable for family meals and gatherings?
An OTG oven is generally more suitable for family meals and gatherings due to its larger capacity and versatility. It can accommodate baking dishes, roasting meats, and preparing multiple servings at once, making it ideal for larger gatherings.
5. Are air fryers easy to clean compared to OTG ovens?
Yes, air fryers are generally easier to clean due to their non-stick surfaces and removable parts that are dishwasher-safe. OTG ovens may require more effort for cleaning, especially inside the oven cavity.
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