EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer Review: The Family-Sized Kitchen Hero We Didn’t Know We Needed

There’s a familiar chaos that descends upon our kitchen around 5 PM on a weekday. It’s the daily scramble to conjure a meal that is simultaneously healthy, delicious, and appealing to multiple, often fussy, palates. For years, this involved a frantic juggling act: a pan sizzling on the hob for the chicken, the oven preheating for the roast potatoes, and a steamer hissing away with vegetables. The result? A mountain of washing up, staggered meal components where the veg gets cold while the meat rests, and a lingering sense of culinary exhaustion. We craved a simpler, more streamlined way to get dinner on the table without resorting to unhealthy takeaways or sacrificing quality. The promise of a single appliance that could cook an entire meal, synchronise finish times, and use a fraction of the oil felt less like a convenience and more like a revolution for busy family life.

What to Consider Before Investing in a Dual Zone Air Fryer

An Air Fryer, especially a dual-zone model, is more than just a trendy gadget; it’s a key solution for reclaiming time and health in the kitchen. By using powerful, high-circulation hot air, it mimics the results of deep frying with up to 80% less oil, delivering crispy textures and succulent interiors. The primary benefit lies in its versatility and efficiency. It can roast, bake, reheat, and fry, consolidating the functions of several appliances into one compact unit. For families, the dual-zone capability is the true game-changer, allowing you to cook two different foods, at two different temperatures, for two different durations, and have them both finish at the exact same time. This solves the age-old problem of co-ordinating side dishes with mains, ensuring everything arrives at the table hot and fresh.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the daily challenge of cooking multi-component meals for a family or household of two or more. It’s for the health-conscious individual who doesn’t want to give up their favourite crispy foods, the busy professional who needs to get dinner ready quickly after work, and anyone looking to reduce energy consumption compared to a full-sized conventional oven. Conversely, it might not be the best fit for a solo dweller who cooks small, simple meals, as the large capacity could be excessive. Likewise, those who require the specific functions of a dedicated food dehydrator or a rotisserie might consider more specialised appliances, though the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer covers a remarkable range of cooking styles.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: A 9-litre dual-zone air fryer is a substantial piece of kit. Before you click “buy”, measure your countertop space carefully. You’ll need not only enough room for the unit’s footprint (35D x 39.5W x 32H cm for this model) but also adequate clearance around it for ventilation. Consider where it will live permanently, as moving it in and out of a cupboard can be cumbersome.
• Capacity/Performance: Capacity is key. A 9-litre capacity, split across two 4.5-litre baskets, is ideal for a family of four to six. This allows you to cook a whole chicken in one side and a generous portion of chips in the other. Wattage is directly linked to performance; at 2400W, the EMtronics model is at the higher end, ensuring rapid preheating and powerful, even cooking.
• Materials & Durability: Look for a robust construction of quality plastics, with stainless steel internal components for longevity and easy cleaning. The baskets should have a durable, non-stick coating (this model uses a ceramic-based one) to prevent food from sticking and to simplify cleanup. Check that the materials are BPA-free for peace of mind.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: An intuitive control panel is non-negotiable. Look for clear, responsive touch controls and helpful presets, like those found on the EMtronics model. For maintenance, dishwasher-safe baskets and trays are a massive convenience. As one user wisely noted, using silicone liners can further extend the life of the non-stick coating and make cleanup virtually instantaneous.

While the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing the EMtronics 9L: A Stylish and Substantial First Impression

Pulling the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer from its box, the first thing we noticed was its elegant cream finish. In a market saturated with black and stainless steel appliances, this softer, modern colour was a welcome change, immediately looking at home on the countertop. It feels solid and well-built, with a reassuring weight of 5.4 kg that speaks to its quality without being unmanageably heavy. The two 4.5L drawers slide in and out with a smooth, satisfying action, and the crisp-etched icons on the lit-LED Smart Control panel are bright and immediately understandable. There’s virtually no assembly required; after a quick wash of the drawers and a wipe-down, it was ready to plug in and go. Compared to some competitors, the interface feels less cluttered, focusing on the core functions that matter most, a design choice we wholeheartedly approve of.

Putting It to the Test: An In-depth Performance Analysis

An air fryer’s true worth is proven not on the spec sheet, but on the dinner plate. Over several weeks, we put the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer through its paces, tackling everything from frozen family favourites to more ambitious culinary experiments. We tested its core promises of speed, convenience, and superior cooking results, focusing on the features that set it apart in a crowded market.

Dual Zone Dominance: Mastering the Meal with Smart Finish & Match Cook

The headline feature of any dual-basket air fryer is its ability to cook two things at once, and this is where the EMtronics model truly excels. The ‘Smart Finish’ and ‘Match Cook’ functions are not gimmicks; they are transformative tools for the home cook. Our first test was a classic pairing: salmon fillets and asparagus spears. In a traditional oven, this is a delicate timing act. Here, it was effortless. We placed the salmon in Basket 1, setting it to 180°C for 12 minutes. In Basket 2, we placed the asparagus with a drizzle of oil and seasoning, setting it to 200°C for just 7 minutes. After pressing the ‘Smart Finish’ button, the magic happened. The air fryer started cooking the salmon immediately, but intelligently held off on starting the asparagus. With exactly 7 minutes remaining on the salmon’s timer, Basket 2 fired into life. The result? A single, satisfying chime announced that both components were perfectly cooked and ready to serve at the exact same moment. The salmon was flaky and moist, the asparagus tender-crisp. This feature alone eliminates the stress of meal coordination.

The ‘Match Cook’ function is equally brilliant in its simplicity. For larger gatherings or batch cooking, it’s invaluable. We tested it by making a huge batch of homemade sweet potato fries for a movie night. We divided the fries between the two baskets, set the time and temperature for one, and hit ‘Match Cook’. The machine instantly mirrored the settings across to the second basket, effectively doubling our cooking capacity without any extra programming. It turned a 9L machine into a high-capacity single-zone cooker at the touch of a button. This is the kind of thoughtful engineering that makes daily cooking genuinely easier.

The Powerhouse Performance: 2400W of Crisping Capability

Power matters. The 2400 watts driving the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer translate directly into speed and quality. The preheat time is almost negligible, meaning you can go from fridge to cooking in under a minute. We found this especially useful for quick lunches. To test its raw crisping power, we turned to the ultimate challenge: frozen chips and chicken nuggets, a staple for many households. As one user review confirmed, the results are flawless. The high-circulation air technology envelops the food, creating a beautifully golden and crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender. The chips were fluffy, the nuggets juicy, and there were none of the soggy patches you can sometimes get with a less powerful appliance. This is the “80% less oil” promise in action; we achieved a deep-fried texture with just a light spray of oil, making a family favourite significantly healthier without any complaints from the kids.

This power isn’t just for frying. We roasted a whole 1.5kg chicken in one basket, and it emerged in under an hour with incredibly crispy skin and succulent meat. The contained, intense heat environment of the air fryer basket seems to lock in moisture far more effectively than a cavernous conventional oven. Roasting vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower becomes a revelation; they char slightly at the edges and become intensely flavourful in just 15 minutes, a far cry from the often-steamed results of oven roasting.

Everyday Usability: From Intuitive Presets to Effortless Cleanup

Beyond its powerful performance, the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer is simply a pleasure to use. The control panel is a model of clarity. One user rightly pointed out that you barely need the instructions, and we agree. The eight presets, with clear icons for foods like fries, chicken, fish, and even cake, provide excellent starting points. While we often adjusted the time and temperature manually for our specific recipes, these presets are perfect for those “just want to get it done” moments. The touch controls are responsive, and the bright LED display is easy to read from across the kitchen.

However, the feature that earned the most praise in our household was the cleanup. Or rather, the lack thereof. The non-stick coating on the baskets and crisper plates is exceptionally effective. After cooking even sticky, marinated chicken wings, a simple rinse and a wipe with a soft cloth was often enough. For a more thorough clean, both the drawers and the plates can go straight into the dishwasher. This is a huge selling point. The thought of a single appliance that cooks a full meal and then requires minimal cleanup is, for many, the ultimate kitchen dream. The stainless steel internal compartment is also a smart choice, as it won’t absorb odours and can be easily wiped down, ensuring the unit stays fresh and hygienic over the long term. This combination of intuitive operation and simple maintenance makes it an appliance you’ll want to use every single day.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our positive experience with the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer is strongly echoed in feedback from other users. There is a clear consensus that the product delivers exceptional value and performance. One happy customer summed it up perfectly, stating they “Couldn’t be happier!” and that it “cooks all foods perfectly,” calling it a “steal for the price.” This sentiment highlights the machine’s ability to deliver premium results without a premium price tag, a key factor for many buyers.

Another user praised its out-of-the-box simplicity, noting, “No need to read the instructions as the user interface has 8 buttons with pictures of food types.” They confirmed its prowess with family staples like sausages, frozen fish fingers, chicken nuggets, and fries. This feedback is crucial as it validates our finding that the appliance is incredibly user-friendly and excels at the very tasks most families will use it for daily. The practical tip of purchasing silicone liners to keep the trays pristine is also a testament to the community of users forming around this highly effective kitchen tool.

How Does the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer Compare to the Alternatives?

While the EMtronics model is a formidable contender, the right appliance always depends on your specific needs. Here’s how it stacks up against three different types of fryers.

1. Quest 3L Deep Fat Fryer

The Quest 3L Deep Fat Fryer represents the traditional approach to frying. It’s designed for one job: submerging food in hot oil to achieve that unmistakable, authentic deep-fried taste and texture. If your primary goal is to make classic fish and chips, doughnuts, or Southern fried chicken, and you are not concerned about the health implications or oil usage, this is your tool. However, it lacks the versatility, health benefits, and advanced features of the EMtronics model. The EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer can roast, bake, and reheat, and its dual-zone functionality is something the single-purpose Quest fryer simply cannot offer.

2. cookwise 30L Air Fryer Oven

The cookwise 30L Air Fryer Oven is less of an air fryer and more of a complete countertop oven replacement. With its massive 30-litre capacity and 18-in-1 presets, it’s aimed at those who want to bake pizzas, toast bread, and cook on multiple racks simultaneously. It’s a true multi-function workhorse. The trade-off is its sheer size and the loss of the distinct, separate cooking zones found in the EMtronics model. While you can cook more food overall, you can’t isolate two completely different cooking environments (e.g., high-heat roasting and low-heat baking) to finish at the same time with the same precision as the Smart Finish feature on the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer.

3. LLIVEKIT 12L Air Fryer Oven with Rotisserie

The LLIVEKIT 12L Air Fryer Oven carves out a niche by including a rotisserie function, a major selling point for anyone who loves cooking whole chickens or kebabs. Its oven-style design provides a large viewing window, which is great for monitoring cooking progress. However, its 12L capacity is spread across a single cavity, so like the cookwise model, it lacks the true dual-zone functionality of the EMtronics. If the rotisserie is a must-have feature for you, the LLIVEKIT is a strong choice. If your priority is cooking a main and a side simultaneously to perfection, the specialised dual-basket design of the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer remains superior.

Our Final Verdict: Is the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer a Must-Buy?

After weeks of rigorous testing, the EMtronics 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer has earned a permanent and prominent place on our kitchen counter. It fundamentally delivers on every one of its promises. The dual-zone cooking, powered by the brilliant Smart Finish and Match Cook functions, is nothing short of a revelation for preparing family meals. Its potent 2400W heating element produces consistently crispy, delicious results with minimal oil, while its intuitive interface makes it accessible to even the most technophobic cooks. Add in the stylish cream design and the incredibly easy cleanup, and you have a truly outstanding package.

Its only notable drawback is its size, but that is an unavoidable consequence of its generous 9-litre capacity. For families of three or more, or for anyone who loves to entertain, this is not a con but a necessary feature. If you have the counter space and are looking to simplify your cooking, eat healthier, and save time, we cannot recommend it highly enough. It strikes the perfect balance between performance, usability, and value, making it one of the best kitchen investments you can make this year. To discover more about its capabilities and see what others are saying, we encourage you to check the latest price and see its full feature list online.

Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API