Air Fryer vs Oven: Running Cost Comparison
Updated March 2026. Default rate effective 1 April 2026 (Ofgem Q2 2026).
We compare the cost of cooking a typical meal for two using an air fryer versus a conventional electric oven.
| Period | Air Fryer | Oven | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical basis | 10.0pTypical use | 30.6pTypical use | 20.7p |
| Per day | 7.1p | 21.9p | 14.8p |
| Per week | 49.8p | £1.53 | £1.03 |
| Per month | £2.16 | £6.66 | £4.49 |
| Per year | £25.95 | £79.84 | £53.89 |
| Annual use | 105.92 kWh | 325.89 kWh | 219.98 kWh |
Which is cheaper to run?
An air fryer costs approximately 10p per cooking session versus 36p for a conventional oven — making it roughly 72% cheaper per meal. Over a year of cooking 5 meals per week, switching from an oven to an air fryer where possible could save approximately £68.
The Air Fryer is roughly 68% cheaper on the default assumptions, saving about £53.89 per year.
Things to consider beyond running cost
An air fryer cannot fully replace an oven. Consider: **Capacity** — air fryers are smaller and cannot cook a roast dinner. **Cooking style** — air fryers excel at chips, chicken, vegetables. **Batch cooking** — if cooking for 4+ people, an oven may be more practical.
Adjust and compare
Air Fryer
Typical annual electricity use: 105.92 kWh
Oven
Typical annual electricity use: 325.89 kWh
Air Fryer calculator
See the full breakdown
Oven calculator
See the full breakdown
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about electricity costs and our calculators.