Many air fryers and air fryer ovens now have a dehydrate mode. For a tray of herbs or a few apple chips, that can be enough. For regular drying, a dehydrator's capacity and low, steady heat win.
Side by side
| Dehydrator | Air fryer | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 95 to 165°F on the models we compare | Many air fryers start well above dehydrating range; dehydrate modes vary by model |
| Capacity | 4 to 16 sq ft of trays | One basket or a few racks |
| Long runs | Built for 12 to 48 hours | Check the maker's limits |
| Price | About $65 to $550 | You may already own one |
Temperature
Missouri Extension recommends 95 to 105°F for herbs and 115 to 130°F for vegetables. Check your air fryer's manual for its lowest dehydrate setting before relying on it for delicate food.
Capacity
Even a $65 Presto has four trays; an Excalibur 9-Tray has 15 square feet. An air fryer basket holds a single layer.
Jerky
Whatever you use, follow USDA's advice to heat meat to 160°F before drying.
Which to use
Use your air fryer if
You dry occasionally and in small amounts.
Buy a dehydrator if
You dry harvests, jerky or fruit leather regularly.
