Air Fryer Glossary: Terms Every Beginner Should Know

Published February 12, 2026 | By mikefocus2012

Last updated: February 12, 2026

If you’re new to air frying, you’ve probably seen terms like crisper plate, dual zone, Smart Finish, or convection technology and wondered what they actually mean.

This Air Fryer Glossary explains the most common air fryer terms in simple, clear language so you can:

* Understand product descriptions
* Follow recipes confidently
* Compare models more easily
* Avoid common beginner confusion

Use this page as a reference whenever you need a quick definition.

🔤 Air Fryer Terms A–Z

Air Fryer

A countertop appliance that circulates hot air rapidly to cook food, creating a crispy outer texture similar to deep frying but with little to no oil.

Air Fryer Oven

A larger, oven-style air fryer that looks like a small toaster oven. These usually have multiple racks and higher capacity than basket models.

Airflow

The movement of hot air inside the cooking chamber. Proper airflow is essential for crisp, even cooking. Overcrowding blocks airflow.

Basket

The removable container that holds food in traditional air fryers. Usually coated with nonstick material.

Batch Cooking

Cooking multiple rounds of food instead of overloading the basket. This improves crispness and even cooking.

Capacity (Quarts or Liters)

The amount of food the air fryer can hold. Measured in quarts (US) or liters (international). Larger capacity usually means more counter space required.

Convection Cooking

A cooking method that uses a fan to circulate hot air. Air fryers are essentially compact convection ovens.

Crisper Plate (or Crisper Tray)

A perforated insert that elevates food slightly, allowing air to circulate underneath for better browning.

Dehydrate Function

A low-temperature setting used to remove moisture from foods like fruit, vegetables, or jerky over an extended period.

Dual Basket

An air fryer with two separate cooking compartments that can run independently.

Dual Zone

Similar to dual basket, but specifically refers to models that allow different temperatures and times in each compartment.

Food Thermometer

A kitchen tool used to measure internal food temperature to ensure safe cooking, especially for meat.

Heating Element

The internal component that generates heat. Usually located at the top of the air fryer.

Match Cook

A feature on dual-basket models that copies settings from one basket to the other.

Nonstick Coating

A protective surface inside the basket or tray that prevents food from sticking. Avoid metal utensils to preserve it.

Overcrowding

Placing too much food in the basket or tray. This reduces airflow and leads to soggy or uneven results.

Parchment Paper (Air Fryer Safe)

Special perforated paper designed for air fryers. Must be weighed down with food to prevent contact with the heating element.

Preheat

Running the air fryer empty for a few minutes before adding food. Helps with even cooking and crisp texture.

Presets

Pre-programmed cooking functions for foods like fries, chicken, or fish. Useful but not always perfectly accurate.

PTFE / PFOA-Free

Refers to the safety standards of nonstick coatings. Most modern air fryers advertise PTFE/PFOA-free materials.

Rack

An accessory that allows multi-layer cooking inside oven-style air fryers.

Reheat Function

A setting designed to warm leftovers while restoring crispness.

Shake Reminder

A timer alert that reminds you to shake or flip food halfway through cooking.

Smart Finish

A feature on dual-basket air fryers that syncs cooking times so both baskets finish at the same time.

Temperature Range

The adjustable heat range of the appliance, typically 180°F to 400°F (82°C–200°C).

Wattage

The electrical power rating of the air fryer. Higher wattage usually means faster heating but higher energy use.

📌 Why Understanding These Terms Matters

Knowing air fryer terminology helps you:

* Avoid buying the wrong size
* Understand product comparisons
* Follow recipes more accurately
* Prevent beginner mistakes
* Cook more confidently

If you’re new to air frying, start with our How to Use an Air Fryer (Beginner Guide) and explore our Air Fryer Cooking Times Chart for practical help.

Frequently Asked Questions

💬 Q: What is the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
🔹 A: An air fryer is a smaller, more compact convection appliance that circulates air more aggressively, often leading to faster cooking and crispier textures.

💬 Q: Do all air fryers need preheating?
🔹 A: Not all models require it, but preheating can improve results, especially for frozen foods.

💬 Q: What does dual zone mean?
🔹 A: It means the air fryer has two independent cooking compartments that can run at different temperatures and times.

Final Thoughts

Air fryers are simple once you understand the terminology. This glossary is designed to remove confusion and make cooking easier for beginners and experienced users alike.

Bookmark this page as a reference, and explore the rest of AirFryerTrend.com for guides, reviews, and practical cooking tips.