The WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window in Action: First Look
My kitchen has always been a testing ground for new gadgets, and lately, the allure of crispy, guilt-free cooking has been impossible to ignore. The WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window caught my eye precisely because it promised to deliver just that, without a steep learning curve. I was looking for a larger capacity air fryer that could handle family-sized portions, and the generous 7-quart capacity seemed to fit the bill perfectly. My previous attempts with smaller, less intuitive models left me wanting more, especially when trying to cook for more than two people.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid, modern design. The black finish is sleek, and it doesn’t feel like a cheap appliance. It has a reassuring heft to it, suggesting better-than-average construction. I briefly considered a few other brands, but the combination of the easy-view window, extensive presets, and the reputation of WestBend tipped the scales. There’s a sense of immediate practicality about this unit; it feels ready to get to work.
Real-World Testing: Putting WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place right on my kitchen countertop, the prime real estate for any appliance that sees daily use. I decided to start with a classic: french fries. The intuitive touchscreen interface made selecting the “Fries” preset a breeze, and the easy-view clear window was a revelation, allowing me to monitor their crisping progress without interrupting the cooking cycle. The cooking itself was impressively even, with minimal need for manual intervention beyond shaking the basket midway.
What surprised me most was the lack of a steep learning curve. Unlike some other appliances that require a deep dive into the manual, this air fryer felt remarkably user-friendly from the get-go. The preheat function was quick and efficient, setting a good pace for the cooking process. The only minor quirk was ensuring the basket was fully seated before the timer started, but this was quickly learned.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, this WestBend appliance has become a workhorse in my kitchen. From chicken wings and roasted vegetables to reheating leftovers, it handles a diverse range of culinary tasks with aplomb. I’ve found myself using the 13 one-touch preset functions more than I initially anticipated; they’re genuinely helpful for dialing in perfect results for common items.
Durability has been excellent so far. The PTFE-free Diamond Shield infused coating on the frying basket has proven its worth, resisting scratches and, crucially, preventing food from sticking, even after multiple high-heat cooking sessions. Cleanup remains a breeze, with the dishwasher safe basket and tray significantly cutting down on post-meal chores. Compared to previous air fryers I’ve owned, this model feels more robust and built to last, without any noticeable drop in performance or any signs of premature wear.
Breaking Down the Features of WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window
Specifications
The WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window boasts a substantial 7-quart capacity, which is ample for feeding a family of four or even five. Its dimensions are practical for most countertops, and the 1700 watts of power ensure it heats up quickly and cooks efficiently. The digital interface is a touchscreen LED digital interface, offering clear visibility and responsive input.
The basket features a unique PTFE-free Diamond Shield infused coating, which is touted for its scratch resistance and non-stick properties. This material is a significant plus for health-conscious users, avoiding common concerns associated with some older non-stick technologies. The easy-view clear window integrated into the basket is a standout feature, allowing for visual confirmation of food’s doneness without needing to open the appliance.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core performance, this air fryer excels. It consistently delivers crispy, evenly cooked food across all the presets I’ve tested. The Air Fry function is particularly impressive, producing results comparable to deep-frying but with significantly less oil, often achieving up to 75% less fat than traditional methods. The Broil and Roast functions also perform admirably, providing excellent browning and tender interiors.
The 13 one-touch preset functions are not just marketing fluff; they are well-calibrated for their intended purposes. Whether it’s perfectly crisp Fries or tender Vegetables, the presets take the guesswork out of cooking. While it’s a powerful appliance, the 1700 watts translate into relatively quick cooking times. My only minor critique would be that the Dehydrate function, while present, is likely best suited for light dehydration tasks rather than commercial-level food preparation.
Design & Ergonomics
WestBend has clearly put thought into the design and user experience. The overall build quality feels solid, with a durable plastic exterior and a well-constructed basket. The easy-to-grip, ergonomic handle stays cool to the touch, which is a crucial safety feature, especially when pulling out a hot basket.
The touchscreen LED digital interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for those not particularly tech-savvy. The layout of the 13 presets is logical, and the display is bright enough to be seen in various kitchen lighting conditions. The sleek, black exterior complements most kitchen decors without being obtrusive.
Durability & Maintenance
The PTFE-free Diamond Shield infused coating is a key factor in the perceived durability of the basket. After numerous uses, it still looks and performs like new, with no signs of chipping or degradation. This coating promises enhanced durability and, importantly, makes cleaning remarkably simple.
Cleaning is exceptionally straightforward thanks to the non-stick basket and the fact that the basket and tray are dishwasher safe. This dramatically reduces cleanup time after meals, a huge benefit for busy households. Maintaining the exterior is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth, keeping it looking pristine.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window comes as a self-contained unit, focusing on its integrated features rather than a wide array of included accessories. The primary functional “accessory” is the 7-quart basket and tray itself, which is designed for optimal airflow and easy removal.
While there aren’t extensive customization options in the traditional sense (like interchangeable parts for different functions), the 13 presets serve as the primary customization mechanism for different food types. The appliance is designed to be a standalone solution, streamlining the air frying experience without requiring additional purchases for basic operation.
Pros and Cons of WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window
Pros
- Generous 7-quart capacity that’s perfect for families and batch cooking.
- 13 intuitive one-touch presets cover a wide range of common dishes, simplifying cooking.
- Easy-view clear window in the basket is a game-changer for monitoring food without interrupting the cooking process.
- PTFE-free Diamond Shield infused coating is durable, scratch-resistant, and makes cleaning effortless.
- Dishwasher safe basket and tray significantly ease post-meal cleanup.
- Sleek touchscreen LED digital interface is responsive and easy to understand.
- Cool-to-the-touch ergonomic handle ensures safe and comfortable operation.
- 1700 watts of power provide rapid heating and efficient cooking.
Cons
- While the Dehydrate preset is functional, it may not meet the needs of users requiring professional-grade dehydration.
- The unit is fairly substantial, so those with very limited counter space might need to consider its footprint.
Who Should Buy WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window?
This air fryer is an excellent choice for families looking to simplify meal preparation while still enjoying healthier, crispy food. Anyone who values convenience and ease of use will appreciate the 13 presets and the easy-view window. It’s also ideal for individuals who are new to air frying, as its intuitive design and straightforward operation make it very approachable.
Those who frequently cook for more than two people will find the 7-quart capacity particularly beneficial. However, if your primary interest is high-volume food dehydration or if you have extremely limited kitchen space, you might want to explore other options. For most home cooks seeking a reliable, feature-rich, and user-friendly air fryer, this WestBend model is a strong contender. Consider pairing it with a good set of silicone tongs for safely maneuvering food within the basket.
Conclusion on WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window
The WestBend Touchscreen Air Fryer w/ 13 Presets and Easy-View Window truly delivers on its promises, offering a compelling blend of functionality, ease of use, and performance. Its 7-quart capacity and numerous 13 presets make it incredibly versatile for everyday cooking, while the innovative easy-view window adds a layer of convenience that’s hard to beat. The robust construction and the durable, non-stick coating suggest this appliance is built to be a long-term fixture in the kitchen.
Priced at $79.99, the value proposition is excellent, providing premium features like the visual monitoring window and extensive presets at a very accessible price point. I wholeheartedly recommend this air fryer to anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a reliable, user-friendly, and highly effective cooking appliance. It’s a practical investment that makes healthy cooking more enjoyable and significantly less of a chore.