Tefal ActiFry Genius XL 2in1 YV970840 review 2022
If you want a meal without multiple pots and pans, consider the Genius 2in1. Cook chips at the bottom and steak on top, and this paddle air fryer will rotate them for you. The limited functions may be a turn-off for some, though.
- 2 tiers make it an all-in-one meal maker
- Awkward shape and size and can’t handle a whole chicken
Compare sellers
- £209 at Very
- £210 at Argos
- £213.74 at John Lewis
- £214 at Amazon
Details
Price | £209 |
---|---|
Capacity (litres) | 6 |
Functions | 1 |
Functions include | Air fry, Keep warm |
Cooking zones | 2 |
Timer | Digital |
Dishwasher-safe parts | |
Transparency | |
Rotating basket | |
Convenience | ★★★★★ |
Capacity and size | ★★★★★ |
Stated functions | ★★★★★ |
Overall Finder score | ★★★★★ |
Tefal ActiFry Genius XL 2in1 air fryer review
What can you cook in a Tefal Actifry Genius XL 2in1?
You can cook plenty of things, but not a whole roast chicken unfortunately – whereas another double-compartment air fryer we’ve reviewed (Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer AF300UK) can take 2 chickens. However, chicken wings, breasts, legs and nuggets are good to go in the Tefal.
The bowl compartment is great for vegetables, roast potatoes and fries, while the upper tray will fit 4 steaks or salmon fillets, or 8 chicken drumsticks – good for a family of 4. You can make dessert in there too – like the cinnamon plum compote found in Tefal’s neat recipe booklet.

That said, its capacity isn’t as impressive as the Ninja Foodi 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker 7.5l OP450UK which is in a similar price range, or the TOWER Xpress Pro Combo T17076.
Be wary, while the bottom bowl can cook curries and stews, the wetter they are the less effective the paddle is at stirring it all. A better option for a curry lover is the Ninja Foodi 9 in 1 multicooker.
Finally, if you’re looking for a versatile air fryer, this Tefal won’t fit the bill. Its stated functions are just air fry and keep warm. While you can cook a host of foods in it, the lack of functions will leave you scratching your head if you want to slow cook tougher meats like lamb or beef, pressure cook rice or dehydrate some apple slices. The temperature can go all the way up to 220C and as low as 70C, but will only cook for as long as an hour, so you’ll have to check upon foods you wish to cook for longer and reset the timer and temperature, which isn’t convenient. If you like to experiment with food opt for any Ninja Foodi multicooker or the Instant Pot Duo Crisp which work as air fryers, pressure cookers and slow cookers.
How big is the Tefal Actifry Genius XL 2in1?
XL suggests big and the name doesn’t lie. Most kitchens will easily accommodate the height and width of the bowl, but the issue is with its depth. At 47cm, this air fryer is one of the biggest ones we reviewed, coming second to the Princess 182065.

It’s 18cm deeper than the Philips Essential Airfryer HD9252/91. Ideally, an air fryer would be 35cm depth-wise for ample heat ventilation from the back and enough counter space at the front. This one is awkward with the tail end which features all its cooking modes, temperature and timer settings.
Storage will be tough too unless you leave the appliance on the counter. If you have a big kitchen then the Tefal XL 2in1 shouldn’t pose a problem, but for smaller kitchens, this may not be the one for you.
Is the Tefal Actifry Genius XL 2in1 convenient to use?
If you want a complete meal done without the stress of figuring out how to cook it in different stages, this fryer is worth considering. The 2 in 1 setting is easy to operate, as is using its 9 presets which include steak, chicken, chips, desserts and “world foods” – more exotic dishes. For instance, chicken teriyaki with rice can be cooked in under 15 minutes. Turkey steaks with a root vegetable medley take under an hour without you having to flip or turn anything.
It’s very easy to clean too with dishwasher parts and non-stick removable baskets. It comes with non-slip feet and cool touch handles for that bit of additional safety.
Overall, this air fryer is one of the best for convenience out of those we’ve reviewed.
Tefal Actifry Genius XL 2in1 customer reviews
The Tefal Actifry Genius XL 2 in 1 has received excellent reviews in general on Amazon, John Lewis and Currys.
Many have praised the ease of use and cleaning, and the quality of the dishes cooked. A standout feature was the fact you don’t have to shake the food midway, which is a symptom of other air fryers.
Some comments criticise the noise it makes when operating, and others slam the awkward shape and bulkiness of the appliance.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 2 in 1 setting for complete meals
- Range of presets
- Rotating element for less hassle
- Dishwasher safe
- Transparent windows
Cons
- Not a great choice for small kitchens
- Relatively expensive
- Lack of cooking functions
- Can’t cook certain dishes well
- Can’t fit a whole chicken inside
Our verdict: Is the Tefal Actifry Genius XL 2in1 any good?
Go for the Genius XL 2in1 if you want fast dinners at your fingertips for a family of 4. The transparent front is also a big plus if you like to check on your food during cooking. Got a kitchen island or large counters? Great – this air fryer is a decent choice. If not, then it’ll probably remain sealed in the box in the shed until you rediscover it one day. Plus, if you’re a bit of a foodie vying for versatility, there are better choices. The presets are great but you can’t cook a pizza in it nor a whole chicken, and a tikka masala will be too runny for its poor paddle.
Frequently asked questions
Finder air fryers scores

Review by
Reemul Balla
reemul.balla@finder.comReemul is a writer at Finder, specialising in product reviews and news. He's a qualified journalist having worked at local papers in the UK covering breaking news, food and restaurant reviews. He has an MA in Film from UCL and a BA in History and French from Durham University.
Expert review
Despite its UFO-like appearance, the Tefal ActiFry Genius XL 2in1 can make you complete meals without hassle, but overall it’s not out of this world.
Its 2 tiers mean you can make chips or veg at the bottom, while cooking meat and fish at the top – and it’s easy to clean in the dishwasher. You’ll be able to view the food as it rotates and air fries for a less stressful cooking experience. Its transparent top is a key difference – many of its competitors don’t have this feature, meaning you have to open them to check on your food.
Where this fryer falls short compared with its rivals is its functions and capacity, plus you’ll have to make way for it on your worktop as it’s a bulky beast.