best deep fat fryer uk

Best Deep Fat Fryers of 2023

Last Updated on January 10, 2023

Top 10 Best Deep Fat Fryers

  1. Swan SD6040N (Editor’s Choice)
  2. Tefal FR701640 Oleoclean (Luxury Choice)
  3. Swan SD6080N (Best Value)
  4. Russell Hobbs 24570 (Best Compact)
  5. Aigostar Ushas 30JPN (Best Large)
  6. Swan SD6060N (Best Small)
  7. Tower T17001 (Best With Adjustable Temperature)
  8. Livivo Grey (Best Non-Stick)
  9. Breville VDF108 (Best Easy Clean)
  10. Tefal Easy Pro FR333040 (Best Semi-Professional)

While you can use your oven for chips, samosas, and chicken, you need a deep fat fryer if you want that authentic fried food taste. There are also many benefits when you use this cooking appliance.

The primary thing that makes it stand out is that the food you cook will always come out tasty and crunchy. Despite being considered an advanced piece of equipment, this type of fryer is convenient and easy to use. You need to push a few buttons, and then all that’s left to do is wait for your food to cook! In addition to crunchy food, a deep fat fryer is versatile and can cook other food types, such as sausage, burgers and even a delicious steak!

Deep fat fryers have come a long way since the chip pans of yesteryear. Today’s models are very safe easy to use, and some can even be dismantled for extra easy emptying and cleaning.

Looking for help finding the best deep fat fryer in the UK? Look no further; we’ve reviewed all of the best models right here.

How We Compared Deep Fat Fryers

To find the right deep fat fryers, we considered multiple factors, including:

  • Capacity
  • Power
  • Easy to clean
  • Storage
  • Temperature settings

Our editorial team examined and analysed hundreds of appliances to select the best options suitable for all kinds of needs. After planning comparison points and evaluating customer deep fat fryer reviews, we compiled the following list.

Have a look here to find out more about our process.

Deep Fat Fryer Reviews

Swan SD6040N (Editor’s Choice)

Easy to use, affordable and very easy to clean, the Swan SD6040N model is easily the best model to go for all-around and our editor’s choice.

With its generous three-litre capacity, this stainless steel deep fryer can feed the whole family, with its one-kilogram food capacity – plenty enough for four adult portions. Its powerful 2000W element heats your oil quickly and can even crisp up large portions, while the seven-setting thermostat gives you extra control over your cooking temperature.

Thanks to this fryer’s removable oil container, it’s very easy to empty and clean out. The large viewing window allows for quick and progress checking, while all standard safety features such as a safety cut-out overheat protection and anti-slip feet are included. This fryer has relatively compact dimensions for easy storage and nicely sized handles despite its generous capacity.

On the downside, the instructions for use could be improved. Also, some of the edges may be quite sharp so use a cloth or gloves when removing the oil container to avoid cutting your hands.

Pros:

  • 3L capacity
  • 2000W power
  • Viewing window
  • Removable oil container
  • Variable temperature control

Cons:

  • The instructions could be improved
  • Edges could be smoother

Tefal FR701640 Oleoclean (Luxury Choice)

Our luxury choice, the Tefal FR701640 Oleoclean Fryer comes complete with an automatic oil filtration system, so you can use the same oil for longer, saving money and hassle while enjoying better tasting meals.

Thanks to its two-litre capacity, there’s plenty of space to cook for up to three adults with a good 0.8kg deep-fried food capacity. Rated at 1500W power, this model heats up quickly and rapidly recovers when added frozen food. Adjust your desired temperature from 150-190 degrees C to ensure you get perfectly crispy chips and onion rings every time.

Thanks to its dishwasher-safe removable parts, this premium deep fryer is very easy to clean. Complete with easy-to-grip handles, a large viewing window and a built-in oil storage box, if you are looking for a deep fryer that makes fryer maintenance easier, the Oleoclean is the right model for you. It could even save you time and money with less frequent oil changes.

Bear in mind that as the filtration system is under the fryer, it is fairly tall, so you may struggle to fit this model on a standard kitchen cupboard shelf. As there is no seal at the drainage point, you may get a slight bit of oil spillage when emptying.

Pros:

  • 2L capacity
  • 1500W power
  • Dishwasher-safe removable parts
  • An automatic oil filtration system
  • Adjustable temperature 150-190°C

Cons:

  • Height may make for difficult storage
  • The drainage could be improved with a seal

Swan SD6080N (Best Value)

Are you looking for the best value deep fat fryer? Check out this budget-priced model by Swan. It has all the features you need at a highly affordable price, making it ideal for occasional use.

With a generous 2.5L oil capacity, this unit will feed three to four persons, while its 1800W power ensures you get speedy results. It also features a large viewing window so you can safely check on your food’s browning, while the adjustable thermostat allows for two-stage deep-frying — essential for perfect chips and crispy onion rings.

This square deep fryer is easy to store, and the handle neatly folds down, so you’ll have no problems closing your cupboard door on it. The non-stick fixed oil container is easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth, while the non-slip feet ensure safer frying. The power and heating indicator lights tell you when your unit is switched on and ready for use.

As this model only has three temperature graduations around its dial, you’ll have to estimate its cooking position at any other temperatures. It may be a little awkward to empty as you will need to tip the oil out without a removable oil container.

Pros:

  • 2.5L oil capacity
  • 1800W power
  • Large viewing window
  • Adjustable thermostat
  • Square shape for easier storage

Cons:

  • Could display more temperature indicators
  • It could be easier to empty

Russell Hobbs 24570 (Best Compact)

Are you short on kitchen storage space? The Russell Hobbs 24570 Deep Fat Fryer has a surprisingly compact cube design for easy storage with a sleek black finish.

This popular compact deep fryer from Russell Hobbs has a surprisingly high oil capacity of 2.5L with a one-kilogram food capacity — ideal for couples and families alike. The large observation window lets you see how your food progresses, while the cool touch walls protect you from burns, even if you accidentally brush the fryer housing.

Complete with an adjustable thermostat so you can select your perfect frying temperature, this versatile fryer also comes with a carbon odour filter to reduce any frying smells in your home. The interior features a non-stick coating for easier cleaning, while the anti-slip feet ensure your fryer remains securely in place.

On the downside, keep in mind that the oil pan is not removable, so emptying it may be a little tricky. Also, the fold-down handle system could be improved for better reliability.

Pros:

  • 2.5L oil capacity
  • 1800W power
  • Compact design
  • Carbon odour filter
  • Large viewing window

Cons:

  • Emptying may be tricky
  • The handle mechanism could be improved

Aigostar Ushas 30JPN (Best Large)

The Aigostar Ushas 30JPN is our top large deep fat fryer pick thanks to its three-litre oil capacity, capable of accommodating up to 1.2kg of French fries – ideal for large family homes.

Not only is the 30 JPN roomier than most other domestic deep fat fryers. Thanks to its 2200W heating element, it also has more power, so you won’t have to wait around while it heats up. With a temperature range marked out between 90-190 degrees C on the adjustable thermostat dial, you can easily select your ideal temperature.

Keeping an eye on your food is easy via the large viewing window, while the built-in filter reduces cooking odours. Best of all, this compact deep fat fryer features dishwasher-safe parts, including the non-stick removable oil container, for extra-easy clean-up. All in all, it’s a great high-capacity stainless steel fryer for cooking chips at home.

Note that the way the handle attaches to the basket can be misleading, so persist and make sure you have it figured out before cooking with it. Unfortunately, the lid could be better fitting, meaning you may have to clean the exterior, especially the controls, regularly.

Pros:

  • 3L oil capacity
  • 2200W power
  • Temperature range 90-190°C
  • Removable oil container
  • Dishwasher-safe parts

Cons:

  • Handle attachment may be confusing
  • The lid could be better fitting

Swan SD6060N (Best Small)

If you need the best small deep fat fryer in the UK, the Swan SD6060N makes a good option to consider, thanks to its compact cube design. Its 1.5L oil capacity makes it a popular size for couples and small families.

This unit has rapid heating capabilities with 900W power for its smaller-than-average capacity. The adjustable thermostat lets you select your frying temperature between 150-190 degrees C, ideal for cooking various dishes. This fryer’s lid design lets you leave the handle attached while you fry for ease of use and extra safety.

Non-slip feet and a highly-visible indicator light improve safety, while an extra-large viewing window allows you to keep an eye on your meal’s progress without risking any splashes. The detachable frying basket is dishwasher safe for easy clean deep fat fryer, while the interior features a non-stick coating.

Unfortunately, this good deep fat fryer may be tricky to empty when changing the oil as there is no removable container or graspable handles. Also, bear in mind that the lid may be rather loose-fitting.

Pros:

  • 1.5L oil capacity
  • 900W power
  • Compact design
  • The lid closes with a handle attached
  • Adjustable thermostat: 150-190°C

Cons:

  • It may be tricky to empty
  • The lid could fit better

Tower T17001 (Best With Adjustable Temperature)

A great deep fat fryer for couples and small households, the Tower T17001 is our best deep fat fryer with an adjustable temperature pick.

With its two-litre oil capacity, this fryer can cook meals for up to two or sides for up to four. Its powerful 1500W heating element gives you frying temperatures up to 190 degrees C, which are easily regulated via the thermostat dial and indicator light. Thanks to the large observation window, check on your cooking without splashing.

This model also features a fold-down handle with a lifting system for easy operation and more impact storage. The interior consists of a non-stick pan for easier cleaning, while the hinged lid comes with a carbon filtration system to help keep your home smelling fresh. A safety lock and release button, plus large easy-to-grasp handles and non-slip feet, make this unit secure and easy to carry.

If you are thinking of going for this model, note that you may need to be careful when filling it up – if you fill right up to the maximum level marker, your food may not clear the oil when you lift the basket. Also, steam may leak from around the lid as you cook.

Pros:

  • 2L capacity
  • 1500W power
  • Carbon filter system
  • Folding handle
  • Non-stick pan interior

Cons:

  • Steam may leak from around the lid
  • The basket may not clear the oil when lifted

Livivo Grey (Best Non-Stick)

The Livivo Grey Countertop Fryer has a non-stick coated interior, making it easier for you to deep fry your food and even simply wipe it clean. This is no wonder that it is included in several deep fat fryer reviews.

Its 2.5L capacity makes this the best chip pan deep for family portions of fried chips. Thanks to its 1800W heating capacity, this fryer reaches temperature rapidly, with its heating and power indicator letting you know when it’s ready for use. This fryer’s cool-touch housing and handles make it a good choice for tight spaces, ensuring you won’t get burned if you accidentally brush against the unit.

The fold-away handle makes for easier storage, while the large viewing window in the hinged lid allows you to see inside the appliance whilst cooking. An odour filter helps to reduce that tell-tale fryer smell, while the non-slip feet keep your fryer secure during its operation.

On the downside, this model could be easier to empty used oil if it had a removable oil container and protruding side handles. What’s more, you may find that the lid locking mechanism could do with some improvements.

Pros:

  • 2.5L capacity
  • 1800W power
  • Fold-away handle
  • Cool-touch housing
  • Power heating indicator lights

Cons:

  • Emptying could be easier
  • The lid locking mechanism could be improved

Breville VDF108 (Best Easy Clean)

Cleaning out the fryer has to be one of the most unpopular household tasks. The Breville VDF108 is a good pick because it allows you to go easy on yourself.

This fryer is a good average size for couples and small families with its two-litre capacity. Its 1800W of power ensures you get a fast heat-up time. This fryer’s folding handle makes it a good choice for small kitchens with limited space, while the cool-touch body and locking lid help to reduce the risk of minor burns.

One of the best advantages of this professional deep fat fryer is its removable enamel container, making for easy oil changes and cleaning. A permanent filter in the lid helps to prevent your home from developing cooking smells, while the viewing window allows you to see how your meal’s doing.

Unfortunately, the digital timer on this fryer may be pretty difficult to see and set up. Also, you may find that the white finish on the handle is very quick to become discoloured.

Pros:

  • 2L capacity
  • 1800W power
  • Folding handle
  • Cool-touch body
  • Removable lid, pan basket

Cons:

  • The digital timer could be improved
  • The handle may become discoloured

Tefal Easy Pro FR333040 (Best Semi-Professional)

Do you use your fryer a lot? If so, you need a semi-professional model, and our top pick is the Tefal Easy Pro FR333040, the best deep fat fryer for home use.

With its large three-litre capacity and impressive 2100W of power, this semi-professional fryer has the space and performance you need to deep fry large quantities of food, including fried fish. What’s more, this model even dismantles for extra-easy cleaning, with dishwasher-safe removable parts.

It has large handles, making it easy to move in and out of your cupboards. At the same time, its immersed heating element ensures maximum heating efficiency with a selectable temperature range between 150-190 degrees C. This smart-looking semi-professional fryer is one of the best models on the market and well worth checking out.

Two very minor improvements could be made; firstly, the maximum fill line could be clearer, so be careful when filling. Secondly, the black marker on the black temperature dial is a little tricky to see, although you could easily add a touch of white paint or Tipp-Ex.

Pros:

  • 3L capacity
  • 2100W power
  • Dismantles for easy cleaning
  • Large handles
  • Immersed heating element

Cons:

  • The maximum fill line could be clearer
  • The marker on the temperature dial could be improved

Choosing the Best Deep Fat Fryers

To help you make sure that you choose the best deep fat fryer in the UK for your needs, we’ve listed the essential features and considerations to bear in mind when choosing your new fryer.

Capacity

Most fryers are labelled by the amount of oil they can hold in litres. This is usually between 1.5-3 litres for your average domestic countertop fryers. Some models also state their food capacity in kilograms, which will give you a better idea of just how much food they can hold.

Small fryers for one to two persons generally have a 1.5L capacity. Two to two-and-a-half litre models can cook food for up to two to three persons, or potentially more if you are cooking for children or side dishes. Three-litre versions can normally accommodate around one kilogram of food, enough space for four portions of chips capacity and large family households.

a cooking appliance that needs cleaning

Dimensions

You’ll want to check your fryer’s external dimensions to ensure that it will fit comfortably on your worktop as well as in your designated storage space. If you are likely to be using your air fryer for other types of food, rather than just chips, it makes sense to check its internal dimensions, especially those of its frying basket. This will ensure that you will have the space you need to cook everything you want to in your new air fryer, from battered fish to spring rolls.

Safety Features

All the best deep fat fryers have built-in overheat protection and automatic cut-out systems. Other safety features that you may wish to look out for include a lockable lid, cool-touch housing and handles, as well as anti-slip feet.

Easy to Clean

The best deep fat fryers can be taken apart for easy cleaning. Detachable parts may also be dishwasher safe which is a great way to save time and effort cleaning your deep fat fryer by hand. Even if your fryer doesn’t have removable parts, having a non-stick interior can help to reduce the amount of time and effort it takes to get your fryer clean.

Viewing Window

Choosing a model with a viewing window will allow you to keep your eye on how your food is cooking without having to remove the lid. Keeping the lid shut will help protect you and your kitchen from splashes of hot oil.

Filter

A built-in filter can help to reduce odours from frying, although it won’t completely prevent them. Using your deep fat fryer under your extraction hood or near an open window will also help to ensure that your home doesn’t develop a strong “chip fat” smell.

Foldable/Detachable Handle

Don’t underestimate the impact your fryer’s handle can have on your storage options. Folding or detachable frying basket handles make it easier to store your fryer in kitchen cupboards when it’s not in use. They can also make it easier to safely use your fryer in a small kitchen that’s short on space, reducing the risk of your handle being caught or knocked.

Are Deep Fat Fryers Safe?

While having a vat of burning hot oil in your kitchen can be a scary thought, modern deep fat fryers are very safe, and they are much safer than traditional stovetop chip pans.

Unlike chip pans that risk overheating and bursting into flames, thermostats control the fryers that ensure their oil will not overheat. In case of a malfunction or overly high temperature, modern deep fat fryers are designed to cut out automatically.

Other features further improve safety, such as viewing windows and locking lids that prevent injury from splashes of hot oil. If you don’t have much worktop space in your kitchen or tend to be a little clumsy, you can also buy models with cool-touch housing to prevent minor burns from occurring should you accidentally touch your fryer’s housing.

The main risk from your deep fat fryer is likely to be user error. So, always pay close attention to the usage instructions. Also, change your oil when necessary and ensure that you use your deep fat fryer on a stable surface out of reach of children and pets. If you notice anything unusual about your fryer’s performance or any signs of wear, do not use it. Contact the manufacturer for advice or safely dispose of your fryer and purchase a new one if it is out of its warranty period.

Conclusion

Deep fat fryers have improved massively in recent years, so whether you’ve decided to upgrade an old model or are testing yourself to your first ever deep fat fryer, now’s an excellent time to do so. If you haven’t already decided which model to choose, we highly recommend the Swan SD6040N, our editor’s choice and undoubtedly the best deep fat fryer UK stores have to offer.

This affordable deep fat fryer has a large three-litre capacity to cook up to one kilogram of fried food in one go. Thanks to its powerful 2000W element, it heats up quickly and evenly. At the same time, the adjustable seven-setting thermostat allows you easily adjust your frying temperature to better cook certain foods, as well as allowing two-stage chip frying. Complete with various safety features, plus a large viewing window and compact dimensions for easy storage, little wonder this fantastic deep fat fryer gets such rave reviews.

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