Tower Elite Dual Basket Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.1/10
Best for: Faster, lower-oil everyday cooking and reheating
Not for: Large family roasts and big-batch cooking, where a full-size oven still wins on capacity
Bottom line: A practical air fryer (8L) that crisps food fast with little oil and costs less to run than an oven.
The Tower Elite Dual Basket is a dual-basket air fryer with an 8L capacity and 1700W power, controlled via a digital panel with preset-based cooking. The unit suits households that want to cook two items at once, with 8 cooking presets for everyday use. Crisping results depend on the food type and the load size, so outcomes can vary, making it a practical preset-led choice rather than a precision tool.
Key specifications
| Feature | Value Notes |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 8L Not specified beyond title |
| Power | 1700W From title only |
| Presets | 8 Digital control panel |
Pros
- 8L capacity
- Faster and cheaper to run than a full-size oven
Cons
- Takes up worktop space
- Cooks smaller batches than a full-size oven
- Some foods still need a light spray of oil to crisp up
Capacity and Size
Capacity is a key factor for the Tower Air Fryer T17194, and its 8L total capacity is designed to cook more food in fewer batches, particularly when using the two baskets at the same time. The dual-basket setup allows portions to be separated, which is useful when preparing different meals or cooking styles side by side. The unit is rated at 8L total. Storage planning is also not detailed, so measuring the available counter or cabinet space before purchase is sensible.
Cooking Performance and Functions
Cooking performance for the Tower Elite Dual Basket Air Fryer T17194 is supported by its 1700W rating and digital control panel, designed to make fast, repeatable cooking easier to manage. It includes Match Cook and Smart Finish functions, which time both baskets to finish together when cooking multiple items. With 8L capacity, it is suited to family portions, but very large loads may need careful spacing to help the food cook evenly.
Single or Dual Zone
Typically, the air fryer works as a dual zone air fryer, with two baskets that can be used at the same time. It offers an 8L overall capacity and a 1700W power rating, with portions split between baskets rather than crowding one tray. For single-zone use, one basket can be loaded while the other remains empty, which can suit smaller meals and a simpler clean-up. If foods need very different temperatures, coordinating the cooking times between baskets can require careful planning, as separation does not guarantee identical results.
Ease of Use and Controls
The Tower is built for simple operation, with a digital control panel used to select cooking options and manage the two-basket workflow. It includes 8 cooking presets, which lets users choose common meal types quickly. Cooking is split across two baskets so separate loads can be handled at the same time, while both zones use the same overall user interface. Match Cook and Smart Finish functions help coordinate cooking times for more even results, although performance still depends on portion size and thickness. The digital display remains visible during cooking for clear status checking, though there can be a short learning period to become familiar with the settings.
Cleaning and Maintenance
With regular upkeep, the air fryer stays easier to use and helps reduce lingering food smells. After cooking, it should be unplugged and allowed to cool completely, then the dual baskets can be lifted out. Grease and crumbs are best wiped away with warm, damp cloths, and stubborn residue can be soaked in hot water for a short period. The interior should be cleaned gently to avoid damage to the surfaces, and any removable parts should be dried thoroughly before reassembly. If oil buildup remains, performance may feel less consistent, so cleaning should not be delayed.
Noise and Energy Use
Noise level and energy use matter because they affect day-to-day comfort and running costs. The Tower Elite Dual Basket is rated at 1700W, so it draws substantial power when running. In a kitchen, a dual-basket air fryer typically makes fan and airflow sounds during preheating and cooking, which can be noticeable in quieter homes. For practical use, it helps to run cooking times when noise is less disruptive, and to cook in batches because repeated short cycles can increase energy use.
Who Is This Air Fryer For?
Who is the Tower really suited for? This 8L, 1700W dual basket air fryer is designed for flexibility during cooking, because it uses two zones to handle different foods at the same time via its digital control panel. It suits busy households that prefer preset-driven cooking, with 8 cooking presets to reduce guesswork. It also fits smaller to mid-size families, as the stated 8L capacity helps cover batch meals. The dual sections may not suit anyone needing a single, large space for very large items, as the available area is split across two drawers.
Where to Buy in the UK
Finding the Tower Elite Dual Basket Air Fryer T17194 in the UK is usually easiest through major home appliance retailers and The Tower's own sales channels, since the model name and code help avoid mix-ups with other versions. Shoppers should search for "T17194" and confirm the listing matches the verified details, including an 8L capacity, 1700W, a dual basket design, a digital control panel, and a graphite finish. If stock is limited, marketplace listings can be used, but seller ratings and clear return terms should be checked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the air fryer worth it?
For faster, lower-oil cooking of chips, chicken, veg and reheats, this air fryer earns its place with 8L capacity. It is also cheaper to run than heating a full-size oven - check the current Amazon UK price, as it changes often.
Is the Tower big enough for a family?
The Tower Elite Dual Basket has 8L capacity. As a rough guide, 4-5L suits 1-2 people, 6-8L suits 3-4, and larger or dual-drawer models suit families of 4 or more.
What are the downsides of the air fryer?
Air fryers take up worktop space, cook smaller batches than a full oven, and some foods still need a light oil spray. They are best for crisping and reheating rather than replacing every oven job, which is why they suit some kitchens better than others.
Is this air fryer cheaper to run than an oven?
For small and medium portions, usually yes - the Tower heats a much smaller space than a full-size oven and cooks faster, so it uses less energy. For large meals that fill a big oven anyway, the saving is smaller. Exact cost depends on its wattage and your tariff.
Is the air fryer easy to clean?
The drawer and crisper plate wipe or wash clean; non-stick coatings make this easier. Clean it after each use, as baked-on grease is harder to remove later.
Do you need oil in the Tower?
Little or none - the air fryer circulates hot air to crisp food, so most things need only a light spray of oil or none at all. Naturally fatty foods like sausages need no added oil, while a fine mist helps fresh chips and breaded items crisp up.