We continue our series on air fryers because, we know you just can’t get enough intel on what to buy next. There are now a baffling array of choices, from PFAS free (GreenPan), Dual Section (Instant Brands), steam versions (Tefal) and now Diamond Force from Sunbeam has just launched. So here is our low down on one of the best so far we have tested…
The Unboxing & Utensils
Too easy – There really isn’t anything to unbox. Lift out, pull off all the stickers, quick wash and plug in.
The Techy bit – The Power of DiamondForce Technology
At the heart of the DiamondForce lies its revolutionary heating system. Non Stick DiamondForce™ coating – is a unique diamond infused two-layer coating that is 2X more durable than traditional non-stick. The tech also achieves superior heat distribution and retention. After cooking various dishes this consistently leads to more evenly cooked food with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Plus here’s the kicker: it achieves all this while using up to 80% less oil compared to traditional frying methods. Health-conscious foodies, rejoice.
Design & Features
Many Air Fryers are all black, this one is a little different a stylish stainless steel front section surrounding the glass window. For its capacity it’s sleek, and, bang for buck takes up only a teeny bit more room than other fryers half the basket size. The fan is at the back. It does have a very short lead (think the length of a computer mouse), meaning you may need an extension cord.
Extra Large Capacity – The generous 7.5L capacity of this air fryer has won me over. Trust me, it’s a game-changer. When it comes to baking and roasting—whether it’s a whole roast chicken or a hearty loaf of bread, you need both width and depth. No more culinary compromises! I’ve seen too many novices invest in bulky air fryers that lack versatility due to their limited space. But those extra centimetres matter. Stick with 7.5L, and you won’t have to slice your cakes, bread, or pizzas into minuscule portions just to fit them in.
Large Viewing Window – Well this surprised me on how much I really like it. Having a large viewing window is a game-changer. Not only does it satisfy my inner foodie curiosity (because who doesn’t want to peek at their gyoza mid-cook?), but it’s also incredibly practical. I underestimated just how handy it is. It has an internal light, which is the kitchen equivalent of a spotlight! Seriously, though, having that illumination is a fantastic, quick check. The other bonus is that there is no need to open the basket and lose precious heat. That’s especially crucial for delicate dishes like soufflés.
Cooking features
Presets – It has 10 cooking presets including a dehydrate which is quite unusual in airfryers – starting from left to right. Fries (200 degrees for 20-25mins), chicken wings, whole roast chicken, steak, fish, veggies, bake, dessert (such as cookies), dehydrate and reheat.
You access the presets via a toggle button. Personally I find these really annoying and much prefer other versions where you can just touch screen and tap the icon you want, but it’s a minor design issue which might not bother others.
You can manually override heat and temperature with easy temperature +/- and time +/- features.
NutriCrisp™ Technology –This air fryer is powered by Sunbeam’s NutriCrisp™ Technology with 360° hot air flow, oil-reduction capability & high velocity fan speed for superior cooking results. I have found it superior to other brands in the cook.
Let’s Cook – Performance
There are sadly no steam options, but it has an excellent heat range from 60 – 200°C, though some other air fryers have a boost which takes it 230°C, which is helpful for things like pizza.
When it comes to performance it heats up quickly and within a minute it’s ready to go. I do recommend pre heating if you are doing things which really benefit from ultra crispness.
Fries – It’s a doddle. It even copes with a layer of overlapping and a beep mid cook means its easy to shake the basket and carry on cooking. The window is an absolute game changer with a button I can press to put it on and it auto turns off after a few seconds. I would say the fries on the corners get a touch more crispy than the centre ones.
Meats – I cook a 1.1kg Lilydale free range chook. A light rub of lemon oil, garlic and heaps of paprika and within 50 minutes it’s glossy. The preset gives it much longer, but it didn’t need it. I rest for 10 mins in the oven and it’s glorious. Better than cooking in my oven and much easier to baste. The only challenge with all fryers is how to get large items out without second degree burns so do invest in good silicone gloves which you can easily wash under the tap
Fish – I season a skin side up salmon on the fish setting. As it doesn’t have steam, my advice is to pre cook and put some water in the bottom just ahead of popping in the fish. The precision force heat means it’s evenly cooked.
Snacks – My go to test for all airfryers is gyoza. Aldi prawn gyoza are my staple pick, and it again needs less time than you think. Brilliantly crispy poppable morsels and absolutely no need to even add any oil. Winner winner gyoza dinner!
Sourdough Bread – A pre-heat is essential. Its got the height for it to rise, and I pour some cold water over the top (don’t put it into the bottom or you will have soggy bottom and no one likes that!). 25 mins is all it takes at 200 degrees for a cracking loaf. In my oven this would have been a 45 min preheat and a 36 min cook. Another win.
Veggies – I try this with frozen veggies (don’t judge me) and they are perfect.
The Clean Up
Nobody wants a kitchen appliance that’s a pain to clean. Fear not! The Sunbeam Air Fryer is one of the best air fryers I have tested. The basket has a nice large handle, easy to grip, and the bottom tray lifts out for easy maintenance. Removable parts, like the basket and tray, are dishwasher-safe, and the diamond force coating does a great job at repelling any sticky food residue. So, after enjoying your delicious meal, cleanup won’t be a chore.
The DA Verdict
What we are addicted to – Honestly this is one of the best air fryers on the market at a really compelling price point. I LOVE the viewing window. It’s simple design, with easy to use presets, smooth pull out and connect basket and simple to lift out tray cleaning is a breeze. The basket is deep and it’s relatively quiet running too.
What would we need to be more addicted? – I don’t like the ‘toggle feature’ where you have to scroll through the options to find your preset. It has a short power code. If it had steam then ‘damn’ it would be perfect.
See Sunbeam for more details RRP $229.
