CalcBeast

Kitchen cost comparison · UK energy estimate

Air Fryer vs Oven Running Cost

Compare air fryer and electric oven running costs for a typical UK meal using your tariff, appliance wattage, cooking time and current Ofgem defaults.

Published and reviewed 18 July 2026 · By CalcBeast · Estimates run in your browser

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Cost comparison

Default: 26.11p/kWh, 1 July 2026–30 September 2026. This is an Ofgem average; your region, tariff and payment method can differ. View Ofgem's price-cap rates.

01
Small air fryer20-minute cook
Per use
30 days
02
Dual-drawer air fryer20-minute cook
Per use
30 days
03
Electric oven45 minutes including preheat
Per use
30 days
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Transparent formula

How the estimate works

(watts ÷ 1,000) × hours × your unit rate

For the monthly figure, the calculator repeats that use for 30 days. Change the tariff above to use the rate from your bill.

Worked example

What that means in practice

For a small meal, an air fryer can use less electricity because it often heats a smaller space for less time. Large batch cooking can change the result.

Before you compare

Assumptions and limitations

  • Power ratings are representative and appliances do not always draw maximum power continuously.
  • The oven example allows for preheating; air fryer cooking times vary by food and basket load.
  • Compare like-for-like portions: an oven may be more efficient when cooking several dishes at once.

Power draw can vary with a thermostat, mode, room conditions and appliance model. This is a running-cost estimate, not a performance or safety recommendation.