Can an Air Fryer Be Used as a Dehydrator Find Out Here

Yes, an air fryer can be used as a dehydrator for fruits, vegetables, and even jerky, thanks to its circulating hot air technology. With proper temperature settings (95–165°F) and extended cook times (4–12 hours), it effectively removes moisture while preserving nutrients—just slice ingredients thinly and avoid overcrowding for optimal results.

Key Takeaways

• Air fryers can dehydrate if they have a low-temperature setting and airflow control.
• Slice food thinly for even dehydration and consistent results every time.
• Use dehydrator racks or mesh liners to prevent small pieces from falling through.
• Monitor time closely—air fryers work faster than traditional dehydrators.
• Ideal for herbs, fruits and jerky, but not large batches or tough meats.
• Rotate trays periodically to ensure uniform drying across all levels.

The Big Question: Can Your Air Fryer Replace a Dehydrator?

Let me take you back to a rainy Sunday afternoon when I was craving something crunchy and healthy. I had just made a batch of homemade banana chips in my dehydrator, but it was still running—and my snack craving was impatient. Then I looked at my air fryer, sitting there like a quiet hero. It was warm, efficient, and always delivered crispy results. So, I thought: Could I use it to dry food instead? That simple question sparked a kitchen experiment that changed how I think about food prep. If you’ve ever stood in front of your air fryer wondering the same thing, you’re not alone. The idea of turning a multi-tasking appliance into a dehydrator sounds almost too good to be true. But is it?

Air fryers have taken over kitchens by storm. They promise crispy fries without the oil, juicy chicken with less fat, and even baked desserts in record time. But beyond frying, their ability to circulate hot air at high speeds makes us wonder: can an air fryer be used as a dehydrator? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it’s more like “yes, with some caveats.” In this post, we’ll explore how air fryers and dehydrators compare, what foods work best, how to set your air fryer for dehydrating, and what you might lose (or gain) in the process. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious snacker, or just trying to save counter space, this guide will help you decide if your air fryer can double as your go-to dehydrator.

How Air Fryers and Dehydrators Work: The Science Behind the Heat

Understanding Air Fryer Technology

At first glance, air fryers and dehydrators seem like distant cousins—both use heat and airflow to transform food. But their goals are different. An air fryer’s job is to cook food quickly using rapid hot air circulation, mimicking deep-frying without the oil. Most models heat between 175°F and 400°F (80°C to 205°C), with powerful fans that blast air across the food in a small basket. This creates a Maillard reaction—those golden, crispy textures we love in roasted veggies or chicken wings.

But here’s the catch: air fryers are designed for short bursts of high heat, not long, slow drying. They heat up fast and cycle on and off to maintain temperature, which can cause uneven drying if you’re not careful. Plus, the fan is loud and powerful—great for frying, but it might blow delicate herbs or thin slices around if you’re not using the right settings or accessories.

How Dehydrators Are Built for Drying

Dehydrators, on the other hand, are built with one mission: remove moisture slowly and evenly. They typically operate at lower temperatures (95°F to 165°F / 35°C to 74°C), which preserves nutrients, enzymes, and flavor. Most have multiple stackable trays, allowing you to dry large batches of fruit, jerky, or herbs at once. The fan is quieter and moves air horizontally (in most models), ensuring even drying across all trays—no need to rotate or flip halfway through.

Think of it this way: a dehydrator is like a slow, steady marathon runner. It’s patient, consistent, and built for endurance. An air fryer? It’s a sprinter—fast, intense, and best for quick results. That’s why dehydrators can run for 8–12 hours without overheating or burning food, while an air fryer might struggle to maintain low, steady heat for that long.

The Key Difference: Temperature and Time Control

The real difference lies in temperature precision and time flexibility. Most air fryers have preset cooking modes (like “fries,” “chicken,” “bake”) but few offer a true “dehydrate” setting. Even models that claim to dehydrate often max out at 170°F—just barely in the safe zone for dehydrating. And while some let you set custom times, many shut off after 60 minutes, forcing you to restart the cycle manually.

Compare that to a dehydrator, which can run for 48 hours straight with precise temperature control. This matters for foods like raw vegan jerky or fermented sauerkraut, where maintaining a low temp (under 118°F) is crucial for preserving beneficial bacteria. If your air fryer can’t hold a steady 105°F for 10 hours, you might end up cooking the food instead of dehydrating it—losing the nutritional benefits you were after.

Can an Air Fryer Be Used as a Dehydrator? The Honest Truth

Yes, But It’s Not a Perfect Match

So, can an air fryer be used as a dehydrator? Yes—but with limitations. You can successfully dehydrate many foods in an air fryer, especially if you’re making small batches or experimenting. Think of it as a “dehydrator lite”—it works, but not as efficiently or evenly as a dedicated machine. The key is understanding what works, what doesn’t, and how to adapt your technique.

For example, I once tried to make apple chips in my air fryer at 200°F for 45 minutes. They came out crisp, but some were slightly burnt on the edges because the fan blew them around. When I switched to 170°F and used a silicone mesh liner to keep them in place, they dried evenly and tasted just as good as my dehydrator batch. The takeaway? It’s all about tweaking the settings and prep work.

Foods That Work Well in an Air Fryer as a Dehydrator

Not all foods dehydrate equally in an air fryer. Here are the ones that shine:

• Fruit slices (apples, bananas, pears): Thin, uniform slices dry well at 170°F. Just toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Vegetable chips (sweet potatoes, zucchini, beets): Slice thinly (1/8 inch or less) and pat dry before dehydrating.
• Herbs (basil, thyme, rosemary): Use a low temp (125–140°F) for 1–2 hours. Place on a parchment or mesh liner.
• Jerky (thin cuts): Beef, turkey, or tofu jerky works best if sliced thin and marinated. Use 160–170°F for 3–4 hours, flipping halfway.
• Yogurt drops: Spoon Greek yogurt onto parchment, freeze for 10 minutes, then dehydrate at 135°F for 2–3 hours.

These foods dry faster in an air fryer than in a dehydrator (often 2–4 hours vs. 6–10), which is great for quick snacks. But remember: speed can be a double-edged sword. Faster drying sometimes means less flavor development or texture variation.

Foods to Avoid (or Be Very Cautious With)

Some foods are better left to a true dehydrator:

• Raw vegan recipes (like zucchini noodles, fermented veggies): These need temps below 118°F to preserve enzymes. Most air fryers can’t go that low.
• Large batches: Air fryers have limited space. Dehydrating a full batch of tomatoes or mushrooms? You’ll need to do multiple rounds.
• Foods that release a lot of moisture (like cucumbers or watermelon): The air fryer’s small basket can’t handle the steam buildup, leading to soggy results.
• Long-dehydration items (like fruit leather or dried tomatoes): These take 8+ hours. Most air fryers aren’t built for that kind of marathon.

I learned this the hard way when I tried to make dried tomatoes in my air fryer. After 5 hours, they were still rubbery—and the machine started smelling like burnt plastic from running too long. A dehydrator handled them perfectly in 10 hours. Sometimes, patience wins.

How to Dehydrate Food in Your Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose the Right Air Fryer (and Accessories)

Not all air fryers are created equal for dehydrating. Look for these features:

• Adjustable temperature down to 120–135°F (some models only go to 170°F).
• Manual time control (no auto-shutoff under 60 minutes).
• Large basket or oven-style model (more space = better airflow).

Accessories make a big difference:

• Silicone mesh liners: Prevent small items from falling through and keep slices from blowing around.
• Dehydrator trays: Some brands (like Ninja or Cosori) sell stackable trays that fit inside the basket.
• Parchment paper: Use for sticky foods like marinated jerky or yogurt drops.

I keep a set of silicone liners in my pantry specifically for dehydrating. They’re reusable, easy to clean, and save me from losing half my herb batch to the fan’s gusts.

Step 2: Prep Your Food Like a Pro

Proper prep is 90% of success. Here’s how:

• Slice uniformly: Use a mandoline or sharp knife. 1/8 inch is ideal for most fruits and veggies.
• Pat dry: Remove excess moisture with a paper towel. Wet surfaces slow drying.
• Marinate or season: Jerky, mushrooms, or tofu benefit from a marinade (soy sauce, spices, etc.) before dehydrating.
• Pre-freeze sticky foods: Yogurt, fruit puree, or nut butter drops should be frozen for 10 minutes before dehydrating to prevent spreading.

One trick I love: blanching veggies like carrots or green beans for 2 minutes before dehydrating. It stops enzyme activity, so they stay brighter and crispier.

Step 3: Set the Right Temperature and Time

Here’s a general guide (adjust based on your model and food thickness):

Food	Temperature	Time	Tips
Apple chips	170°F	2–3 hours	Toss with lemon juice; flip halfway
Banana chips	170°F	3–4 hours	Use ripe bananas; check at 2 hours
Beef jerky	160°F	3–4 hours	Marinate overnight; slice against the grain
Herbs	125°F	1–2 hours	Use mesh liner; dry until brittle
Zucchini chips	170°F	2–3 hours	Salt and pat dry; slice thin

Pro tip: Start at the lower end of the time range. It’s easier to add more time than to fix burnt food. Check every 30–60 minutes after the first hour.

Step 4: Monitor and Rotate (If Needed)

Air fryers often have “hot spots” near the heating element. To prevent uneven drying:

• Rotate the basket halfway through (if your model allows).
• Flip or stir delicate items (like herbs or thin chips).
• Use a food thermometer to check internal temp. Jerky should reach 160°F internally for safety.

I keep a small timer on my counter. When it beeps, I peek inside, rotate, and take a bite (if safe). This saves me from over-drying—and gives me an excuse to snack early.

Pros and Cons of Using an Air Fryer as a Dehydrator

The Upsides: Why It’s Worth Trying

Let’s be real—air fryers are already on your counter. Using them for dehydrating makes sense for these reasons:

• Space-saving: No need for another bulky appliance.
• Faster drying: 2–4 hours vs. 6–10 for most foods.
• Multi-functional: Fry, bake, roast, and now… dehydrate!
• Cost-effective: You’re not buying a second machine.
• Great for small batches: Perfect for trying new recipes without a big commitment.

My husband, who hates clutter, was thrilled when I stopped using the dehydrator. “Why have two machines when one does both?” he asked. Fair point.

The Downsides: Where It Falls Short

But it’s not all sunshine and dried apricots. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Limited temperature range: Can’t go below 120°F on most models.
• Small capacity: Hard to dehydrate large quantities.
• Noisy and hot: The fan is loud, and the unit gets hot—keep it away from kids and pets.
• Short run time: Many shut off after 60 minutes, requiring manual restarts.
• Uneven drying: Without proper prep, you’ll get crispy edges and chewy middles.

I once tried to dehydrate a whole batch of mango slices for a party. The air fryer handled 6 slices at a time—took me 3 hours. A dehydrator would’ve done 20 slices in 8. Sometimes, convenience has its price.

When to Use an Air Fryer vs. a Dedicated Dehydrator

Stick with the Air Fryer If…

You’re a casual dehydrator who wants quick, small-batch snacks. The air fryer is perfect for:

• Weeknight cravings: Craving banana chips? 3 hours and you’re done.
• Experimenting: Testing a new jerky marinade? No need to fire up the big dehydrator.
• Small kitchens: Every inch of counter space counts.
• Time-crunched cooks: Faster drying means less waiting.

My go-to move? Dehydrating leftover herbs from the farmers market. In 2 hours, I have a year’s supply of dried basil—no extra machine needed.

Invest in a Dehydrator If…

You’re serious about dehydrating. Get a dedicated dehydrator if you:

• Make large batches: Meal prepping dried veggies or fruit for a week? A dehydrator saves time.
• Follow raw food diets: Need temps below 118°F? Only a true dehydrator delivers.
• Dehydrate often: Using it weekly? The investment pays off.
• Want hands-free drying: Set it and forget it for 12+ hours.

I finally bought a dehydrator when I started making fruit leather for my kids’ lunches. The air fryer couldn’t handle the long, low-temp process. Now, I use both: air fryer for quick snacks, dehydrator for big projects.

The Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

Why choose? Use both appliances strategically:

• Air fryer: Small batches, fast drying, crispy snacks.
• Dehydrator: Large batches, raw foods, long-term storage.

Think of it like your wardrobe: you don’t wear running shoes to a dinner party, but you don’t need a tuxedo for a jog. Match the tool to the task.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try It?

So, can an air fryer be used as a dehydrator? Absolutely—with a grain of salt. It’s not a perfect replacement, but it’s a fantastic option for casual dehydrating, small batches, and quick snacks. You’ll save space, time, and money—and discover new ways to use your favorite appliance.

But remember: it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re into raw foods, large-scale drying, or need precise temperature control, a dehydrator is worth the investment. And if you’re like me—someone who loves experimenting but hates clutter—the air fryer might be your new dehydrating sidekick.

The best part? You don’t have to choose right away. Try dehydrating a batch of apple chips in your air fryer this weekend. See how it goes. Adjust the time, tweak the temperature, and taste the results. Whether you end up loving it or going back to your dehydrator, you’ll learn something new—and maybe even impress your friends with your crunchy, homemade snacks.

After all, kitchen adventures are what make cooking fun. So go ahead: fire up that air fryer, slice some fruit, and see where the hot air takes you. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite way to dehydrate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an air fryer be used as a dehydrator?

Yes, many air fryers can function as a dehydrator, especially models with a dedicated dehydrate setting or low-temperature options (90°F–170°F). However, results may vary depending on the design and airflow of your specific air fryer.

What foods can I dehydrate in an air fryer?

You can dehydrate fruits (like apples or bananas), vegetables (such as kale or zucchini), and even make jerky in an air fryer. Just slice ingredients thinly and arrange them in a single layer for even drying.

How long does dehydration take in an air fryer compared to a traditional dehydrator?

Dehydrating in an air fryer typically takes 2–6 hours, depending on the food and model, while traditional dehydrators may take longer (4–12 hours). The air fryer’s rapid airflow speeds up the process but requires more frequent monitoring.

Do all air fryers have a dehydrate function?

Not all air fryers have a built-in dehydrate function, but most can still dehydrate foods if they allow temperatures as low as 90°F–120°F. Check your user manual to confirm temperature settings before attempting dehydration.

Can you over-dehydrate food in an air fryer?

Yes, over-dehydrating can happen quickly in an air fryer due to its powerful fan and compact space. Check your food every 30–60 minutes to avoid turning it into brittle crumbles instead of chewy, properly dehydrated snacks.

Is using an air fryer as a dehydrator cost-effective?

Using an air fryer as a dehydrator is cost-effective if you already own one, saving money compared to buying a separate appliance. Just ensure your air fryer’s capacity meets your dehydration needs for larger batches.