Gourmia GAF686 vs 698 air fryer: I’m Tested and Compared

Choosing the right air fryer can be a game-changer, especially when cooking healthier meals without sacrificing flavour. You’re not alone if you’ve wondered whether the Gourmia 686 vs. 698 Air Fryer is the right choice for your kitchen.

I’ve been using both models for some time now, and each has its strengths, depending on your preferences. In this guide, I’ll break down the features, performance, and personal experience with these two air fryers to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!

Why Gourmia?

Gourmia is one of those brands you can count on for a reliable kitchen gadget that does more than just the basics. If you’ve ever looked into air fryers, you’ve likely seen their name pop up. Gourmia has built quite a reputation for making high-quality, innovative appliances that make cooking healthier and more manageable. 

From easy-to-use controls to powerful technology, their products often strike the perfect balance of performance and convenience.

Using a Gourmia air fryer feels like having a personal chef. They’ve nailed the balance between speed, consistency, and taste, which makes them a favourite in kitchens worldwide. 

Plus, the brand isn’t just about innovation—it’s about offering products that make cooking less of a hassle, which is something we can all appreciate. Whether a beginner or a seasoned cook, you can trust that a Gourmia air fryer will step up to the plate and deliver.

Key Features

When choosing the right air fryer, the Gourmia GAF686 and Gourmia GAF698 stand out with their sleek designs and powerful features. Let’s explore what makes these two models unique and why they’re great options for frying, baking, or roasting with a fraction of the oil.

Gourmia GAF686 Features

The GAF686 has a 6-quart capacity, perfect for cooking meals for a family or prepping a batch of crispy fries. The design is simple yet stylish, blending effortlessly with most kitchen setups. One of its key features is the Fry Force 360° Technology, which ensures that hot air circulates the food evenly, giving you that perfect crispy exterior without using much (or any!) oil. It’s like giving your food a golden tan with the least fuss.

What I love most about the GAF686 is its 12 one-touch presets. These presets let you cook various dishes at the push of a button—whether it’s fries, wings, or even a batch of roasted veggies. The LCD screen makes it easy to adjust the settings, and the controls are straightforward. Cleanup is a breeze, too! The nonstick basket is detachable and dishwasher-safe, so you don’t have to dread the post-cooking cleanup.

With a temperature range of up to 400°F and an adjustable timer, this air fryer allows you to cook nearly anything precisely. Whether making a quick batch of fries or a juicy roast, this air fryer delivers.

Gourmia GAF698 Air fryer Features

If you upgrade to the GAF698, you’ll notice a few upgrades. While it also has a 6-quart capacity, this model feels more refined. It uses the same Fry Force 360° Technology as the GAF686, but the GAF698 takes it further with Express Heat Technology, cooking your food up to 30% faster than traditional ovens. So, if you’re in a rush and want crispy results quickly, this air fryer has your back.

The GAF698’s preset functions are more customizable, giving you more control over how your food turns out. It includes a dehydrator function, which is a game-changer if you love making healthy snacks like dried fruit or jerky.

Like the GAF686, the GAF698 features a dishwasher-safe nonstick basket, making cleanup easy. However, with the extra express heat and added features, the GAF698 is designed to be a little more versatile.

Personal Experience

Having used both models, the GAF686 is a reliable, no-fuss option, great for anyone who wants simplicity and efficiency. It gets the job done every time. On the other hand, the GAF698 is an upgrade with faster cooking times and additional features. If you love experimenting with dehydrating fruits or need quicker meals, the GAF698 would be the way to go.

So, whether you’re in it for the basic yet reliable performance of the GAF686 or the faster, feature-packed GAF698, you’ll get a solid air fryer to make healthier cooking easy and delicious.

Performance Comparison: GAF686 vs GAF698

The Gourmia GAF686 and GAF698 deliver impressive performance, but a few differences may influence your choice. Let’s break it down based on cooking performance, heat distribution, and efficiency to help you decide which best fits your needs.

Cooking Performance

Both models have that signature Fry Force 360° Technology, ensuring crispy results without the need for much oil. When I first tried the GAF686, I was amazed by how evenly it cooked fries and wings. The food was golden, crispy, and delicious, with just enough crunch.

One of my favorite things about this model is that it works like a charm for everything from vegetables to meats—no matter what, the results are consistently satisfying.

The GAF698, however, ups the ante. I’ve found that this model’s Express Heat Technology cooks faster and is a game-changer. If you’re often in a rush but still want tasty meals, the GAF698 heats up quicker and keeps things crispy. It’s perfect for anyone who needs food ready in a pinch—whether it’s a late-night snack or a quick dinner after a long day.

Heat Distribution and Airflow

The Fry Force 360° Technology in both models does wonders for even heat distribution. It surrounds the food with superheated air, ensuring everything cooks uniformly, from the outer crispy layer to the tender inside. It’s like the air fryer has a personal assistant inside, flipping your food around while cooking to ensure everything’s perfect.

With both air fryers, I noticed a significant reduction in spots where food doesn’t cook properly. Fries, for instance, get crispy on all sides without stopping and shaking the basket halfway through. While the GAF686 and GAF698 deliver excellent airflow, the GAF698 does slightly better thanks to its Express Heat Technology, which helps the heat spread quickly, resulting in a more even cook.

Efficiency and Speed

If speed is what you’re after, the GAF698 shines. Thanks to its Express Heat Technology, it cooks up to 30% faster than conventional ovens, so imagine preparing dinner in less time with the same crispy results. Whether roasting veggies or reheating leftovers, the GAF698 gets the job done in a fraction of the time, which is perfect for busy weeknights.

On the other hand, the GAF686 isn’t slow by any means. It still offers a solid cooking speed, and I’ve never waited too long for my food to be done. However, if you value getting meals on the table as quickly as possible, the GAF698 is worth considering for the added speed boost.

User-Friendliness

Ease of Use for Beginners

Regarding user-friendliness, the Gourmia GAF686 and GAF698 make cooking effortless, especially for beginners. I remember the first time I used an air fryer; I was worried it might be too complex. However, the learning curve is non-existent with both of these models.

They both come with simple one-touch presets that take the guesswork out of cooking. Whether making fries or roasting chicken, you only need to hit the reset button, and the fryer takes care of the rest. It’s like having a mini-chef in your kitchen, guiding you.

The GAF686 offers 12 presets, which cover the most common foods. It’s very straightforward, which I appreciate. You don’t need to be a cooking pro to get it right. The GAF698 takes it further with more customizable settings and even an option to dehydrate foods, making it more flexible for adventurous cooks.

However, the added functions don’t complicate things. Both models have clearly labeled, intuitive buttons, so even someone like me, who’s not a tech wizard, finds them super easy to use.

Display and Controls

Both air fryers sport LCD screens that make cooking times and temperature settings easy to navigate. The GAF686 display is essential, but it does the job. You’ll see the cooking time, temperature, and preset options all in one place, which makes adjusting things a breeze. I love not needing to fumble through a manual to figure things out.

The GAF698, the other hand, has a slightly more advanced interface. The LCD screen here displays the time and temperature and prompts during cooking, like when to flip your food or when the preheating is done. This extra guidance made my cooking experience more hands-off, a nice touch for anyone busy or just starting.

When I used both, I found the GAF698 display more satisfying because of the interactive prompts. It almost felt like having a cooking assistant tell me what to do next, while the GAF686 was more straightforward but still just as effective.

Maintenance and Cleanup

Let’s talk about one of my favorite things: cleanup. Both air fryers shine in this department. The GAF686 has a nonstick basket that’s a lifesaver for wiping down. It’s dishwasher-safe, so cleaning up after making crispy fries or chicken wings is quick and painless. You can pop it in the dishwasher and forget about it until the next meal.

The GAF698 also features a nonstick basket with the same dishwasher-safe convenience. I’ve noticed that both air fryers have excellent heat resistance, preventing any awkward cleanup from food sticking to the bottom.

However, you might clean up less often with the GAF698’s Express Heat Technology because it cooks things faster, reducing the overall mess and splatter. I’ve had both models for a while now, and cleaning is one of the reasons I continue to recommend them. There’s never any harsh residue left behind, making them both low-maintenance.

Special Features and Cooking Options

GAF686

One of the standout features of the GAF686 is its 12 preset cooking functions. These presets allow you to cook various meals with a simple touch of a button—whether you’re preparing crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or chicken wings. As someone who loves easy and delicious meals, I can honestly say that these presets have been a huge time-saver.

For instance, I’ve used the “fries” preset many times, and it always delivers perfectly crisp, golden fries without me needing to fiddle with settings. It’s like having a personal assistant who knows exactly how long to cook everything!

The GAF686 also includes a “dehydrate” function, which I was initially skeptical about. But after trying it with fruits, I was amazed at how easy it was to make dried apples and bananas for a healthy snack. This function adds a lot of versatility, especially if you like to experiment with making your snacks. The cooking outcomes from these functions are consistently good, from perfectly roasted veggies to juicy meats.

GAF698

The GAF698 builds on what the GAF686 offers, with some cool upgrades that make a noticeable difference. For example, this model’s dehydrator function is even better—perfect for anyone wanting to try homemade snacks like dried herbs or fruit jerky. I tried making dried mango slices in both air fryers, and while both did the job, the GAF698’s results were a bit more consistent and quicker, thanks to the added express heat.

One of my favorite features in the GAF698 is the Express Heat Technology. It significantly reduces cooking times, especially when you’re in a rush. For instance, if I’m making chicken wings, the GAF698 cooks them faster while keeping the crispiness and juice inside. It’s like having an air fryer that can keep up with your busy schedule without compromising on the quality of your food.

In addition to the faster cooking times, the GAF698 handles larger batches a little better. Whether it’s fries or wings, the even heat distribution and quick cooking cycle allow me to prepare more food at once without worrying about overcooking or unevenly done portions. The GAF698 has made cooking for friends and family easier since it’s so efficient with time and quality.

Durability and Build Quality

GAF686: Plastic Body – Some Concerns with Heat-Related Damage

When I first unboxed the GAF686, the design struck me as simple yet modern. Its plastic body is relatively lightweight, making it easy to move around the kitchen. But after some use, I noticed that while it’s functional, the plastic feels a little less durable than other materials.

The biggest concern I had was heat-related damage. Some users have mentioned in reviews that the plastic can warm around the edges, mainly if you use the air fryer frequently or cook at higher temperatures.

Now, I haven’t personally experienced any significant issues. Still, the GAF686 might not be as robust over time as other models built with sturdier materials. However, it offers excellent value for the price, and the average home cook gets the job done perfectly well. I also found that, after multiple uses, the overall build quality held up fine, with no signs of cracking or warping.

GAF698: More Durable with Stainless Steel Accents, Improved Design

In contrast, the GAF698 feels more solid. Its body is built with stainless steel accents, which give it a more premium look and improve its durability.

It feels a lot sturdier when you’re handling it, and the construction gives me more confidence, especially when using the air fryer for longer cooking sessions or at higher temperatures. Plus, the stainless steel components help it handle heat much better than the plastic body of the GAF686.

I’ve noticed that, even after regular use, the GAF698 doesn’t seem to retain heat or show signs of wear and tear like the GAF686. It has a bit of a weight to it, which makes it feel like it’s built to last. From a durability standpoint, the GAF698 can withstand heavy-duty use, making it an excellent option for those who cook often.

Personal Experience and Sturdiness After Prolonged Use

In my personal experience, both air fryers have performed well over time. However, after using them consistently for several months, the GAF698 feels like the more reliable long-term investment, thanks to its solid stainless steel accents. While the GAF686 is still doing just fine, the GAF698 will last longer, especially for more regular, intensive use.

I also had a few occasions where the GAF686 might need more careful handling due to its lighter construction. The GAF698, on the other hand, feels rock solid, and even though it’s slightly heavier, it’s more reassuring when moving it around or placing it in storage.

Warranty and Support

Both models come with a standard 1-year warranty covering any manufacturing defects. Regarding customer support, Gourmia has a decent reputation for helping customers when issues arise. I contacted them once with a small question about the GAF686, and their support team was responsive and helpful.

GAF686 Pros and Cons

Pros:

The GAF686 is an easy-to-use air fryer that does the job without fuss. One of the things I love about it is its simplicity—you don’t need to be a cooking expert to use it. The 12 preset cooking functions make it super convenient, and the 6-quart capacity is perfect for families or when you want to prep a good amount of food at once.

It’s also a great price compared to other models on the market, which makes it an excellent choice if you’re on a budget but still want reliable performance.

Cons:

The biggest downside for me is the plastic construction. While lightweight and easy to handle, it doesn’t feel as durable as the GAF698’s stainless steel accents. The GAF686 also has a slightly longer cooking time due to the lack of Express Heat Technology. This might be a dealbreaker in a hurry, but if you have extra time, the GAF686 does the job just fine.

GAF698 Pros and Cons

Pros:

The GAF698 is like the upgraded version of the GAF686. Thanks to its Express Heat Technology, a game-changer for those busy evenings when you need to get dinner on the table fast, it’s got faster cooking times. The stainless steel accents make it look sleek and contribute to better durability.

The additional dehydrator function is a huge win, especially if you like making healthy snacks like dried fruit or jerky. This feature alone made it feel more versatile and worth the investment.

Cons:

The GAF698 is a little more expensive than the GAF686, so it might not be the best option if you work within a tight budget. The slightly larger size also means it takes up more space on your countertop, which could be an issue if you’re short on kitchen space. But, considering the extra features and faster cooking, it does feel like a fair trade-off.

Personal Experience:

When I first got my hands on the GAF686, I was impressed with its ease of use. The cooking presets made it a breeze to make fries, wings, and veggies without hassle. It’s a great option if you’re new to air frying and don’t want to deal with complex settings.

The GAF698 took it up a notch with the added dehydrator and express heat. I used the dehydrator feature to make my dried mango slices (a big hit in my house), and the faster cooking time was a real bonus when I was rushing to get dinner ready. I’ve recently leaned more toward the GAF698 because of those extra features. But if I’m just making something simple and don’t need all the bells and whistles, the GAF686 still does the job perfectly well.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

• Busy Families: If you’re juggling work, school, and meal prep, the GAF698 might be a better fit. The express heat technology will speed up meal prep time, and the dehydrator function is perfect for making healthy snacks for your kids.
• Health-Conscious Individuals: Both models are excellent for healthier cooking, but if you love experimenting with drying fruits or want quicker meals, the GAF698 is the winner.
• Beginners: If you’re getting into air frying and want something super simple and affordable, the GAF686 is a fantastic starting point. It’ll help you build confidence in the kitchen without overwhelming you with too many features.

Final Recommendation:

If you’re on a budget and want something that’s easy to use and gets the basics right, the GAF686 will serve you well. However, if you’re looking for faster cooking and more features and don’t mind investing a little extra for long-term durability, the GAF698 is definitely the better choice.

Ultimately, it comes down to whether you’re willing to spend more for the added convenience and versatility or are content with the reliable, more straightforward option.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between the Gourmia 686 and 698 Air Fryers?

The Gourmia GAF686 offers simple, easy-to-use features with 12 presets, while the GAF698 upgrades this with faster cooking times and an additional dehydrator function.

2. Which is better for beginners, the Gourmia GAF686 or GAF698?

The GAF686 is excellent for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and simple one-touch presets. The GAF698, while more advanced, offers added features for those looking for versatility.

3. Does the Gourmia 686 cook faster than the Gourmia 698?

No, the Gourmia GAF698 cooks up to 30% faster thanks to its Express Heat Technology, making it a better choice for those in a rush.

4. Can I make healthy snacks with the Gourmia GAF686 and GAF698?

Yes! Both models offer a dehydrator function, but the GAF698 provides faster and more consistent results with additional features.

5. Which Gourmia Air Fryer has the better design?

The GAF686 has a plastic body, while the GAF698 features stainless steel accents, offering better durability and a more premium look.

6. Is the Gourmia GAF686 easy to clean?

Yes, the GAF686 has a dishwasher-safe nonstick basket, making cleanup easy and quick after cooking.

7. How long does it take to cook with the Gourmia 686?

The GAF686 offers good cooking speed but is a bit slower compared to the GAF698, which has Express Heat Technology for quicker results.

8. What is the capacity of the Gourmia GAF686 and GAF698 Air Fryers?

The GAF686 and GAF698 have a 6-quart capacity, perfect for cooking meals for a family or preparing multiple servings of food at once.

9. Which air fryer is better for making crispy fries, the GAF686 or the GAF698?

Both air fryers produce crispy fries with the Fry Force 360° Technology, but the GAF698’s faster cooking times might make it the better option for crispier fries in less time.

10. Are the Gourmia GAF686 and GAF698 suitable for large families?

Both models have a 6-quart capacity, making them perfect for cooking larger meals or serving a big family. The GAF698’s faster cooking time can be beneficial.