Evaluating Large-Capacity Air Fryer Ovens: What Australian Households Should Know
The Kenmore 24L 11-in-1 model represents a specific category of benchtop appliance: the high-capacity multi-function air fryer oven. Unlike smaller basket-style air fryers, this appliance combines convection cooking with dedicated presets for baking, dehydrating, and slow-cooking, making it more akin to a compact countertop oven with enhanced air frying capabilities. Australian buyers should understand that its 24L capacity requires significant bench space but offers family-sized meal preparation.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- The 24L capacity is ideal for families or batch cooking but requires approximately 45cm of bench depth; measure your space before considering this Kenmore model.
- Dishwasher-safe accessories are crucial for this multi-function oven, as the air fry basket, baking tray, and dehydrating racks will require frequent cleaning after oil-spattering air frying or sticky baking projects.
- The 'slow-cook' and 'dehydrate' functions on this Kenmore unit use lower temperature ranges and extended timers, differing from dedicated appliances, so temper expectations for dehydrating jerky or slow-cooked casseroles.
What Our Analysts Recommend
For multi-function air fryer ovens, examine the wattage (typically 1700-1800W for this size) and heating element placement—dual elements with a convection fan provide more even cooking. Check that the stainless steel construction extends to interior cavities, not just the exterior, for durability against high-heat air frying and greasy residues.
Air Fryers Market Context
Market Overview
The Australian market for large-capacity air fryer ovens is competitive, with brands like Philips, Ninja, and Kmart's Anko offering similar 10+ function models. These appliances appeal to consumers seeking to replace or supplement a traditional oven for energy efficiency and summer heat avoidance. The 24L size category specifically targets families wanting to air fry whole chickens or bake multiple trays of snacks simultaneously.
Common Issues
Common issues with this appliance category include inconsistent temperature calibration (where '180°C' varies from actual cavity temperature), noisy convection fans during air fry cycles, and non-stick coatings that degrade on accessories after dishwasher cycles. The sheer number of functions can also mean some presets are under-optimised compared to single-purpose appliances.
Quality Indicators
Quality indicators include robust hinge mechanisms on the door (a frequent failure point), clear digital displays with responsive controls, and accessories with substantial, warp-resistant construction. Genuine stainless steel interiors, rather than coated aluminium, better withstand the abrasive cleaning required after high-fat air frying.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade B Interpretation
A Grade B authenticity rating with an estimated 15% fake review rate indicates a mostly trustworthy review pool with some minor manipulation. For this Kenmore model, it suggests the 4.22/5 Amazon rating is slightly inflated; the adjusted 3.90/5 rating from authentic reviews is a more reliable performance indicator, placing it in the 'good but not exceptional' range.
Trust Recommendation
Focus on verified purchase reviews that mention specific use cases relevant to you, such as 'cooking a 2kg chicken' or 'using the pizza function weekly.' Be slightly sceptical of reviews that overly praise all 11 functions equally without noting any limitations, as genuine users typically report varied success across different cooking modes.
Tips for Reading Reviews
For multi-function appliances, prioritise reviews that detail experiences with at least 3-4 different functions (e.g., air frying chips, baking muffins, dehydrating herbs). Look for mentions of long-term durability over 6+ months, as issues with element longevity or control panel responsiveness often appear after the initial honeymoon period.
Expert Perspective
The Kenmore 24L 11-in-1 presents a compelling value proposition for Australian households seeking a versatile, large-capacity benchtop cooker. Its strength lies in consolidating multiple appliances (air fryer, toaster oven, dehydrator) into one stainless steel unit with dishwasher-safe cleanup. However, the authenticity-adjusted rating of 3.9/5 suggests users encounter expected trade-offs: some functions like slow-cooking may underperform versus dedicated appliances, and the physical size is substantial. The inclusion of dehydrate and broil presets at this price point is notable for food enthusiasts.
Purchase Considerations
Weigh this purchase if your primary needs are high-volume air frying and baking with occasional use of specialty functions. Consider your bench space and power point access, as this 1700W+ appliance requires a dedicated circuit if running alongside other high-wattage devices like kettles. The stainless steel build suggests better longevity than plastic-housed competitors, but verify warranty coverage for the heating elements and digital controls.
Comparing Alternatives
Shoppers should compare this Kenmore's performance claims and accessory set against similarly priced 24L models from Ninja (Foodi range) and Philips (Essential XXL), particularly regarding preheat speed and actual air fry crispiness results.
