Have you been wondering whether the Dash DMAF360GBAQ02 Aircrisp® Pro Digital Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Digital Display + 8 Presets, Temperature Control, Non Stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 3qt, Aqua is the right small air fryer for your kitchen?
My quick verdict
I like how compact and capable this Dash AirCrisp Pro feels for everyday use. In my experience it balances convenience, decent crisping performance, and simple digital controls, making it a strong option for singles, couples, or anyone who wants faster results than a conventional oven without taking up a lot of counter space.
Dash DMAF360GBAQ02 Aircrisp® Pro Digital Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Digital Display + 8 Presets, Temperature Control, Non Stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 3qt, Aqua
What this product is
This unit is a 3-quart digital air fryer and small oven designed to reduce added fat by using AirCrisp technology instead of oil. I view it as a compact countertop appliance meant to cook everything from fries and wings to small baked goods and reheated leftovers.
Key specs at a glance
I like having the major specs in one place, so here’s a quick table to summarize the essentials.
| Feature | Detail | My notes |
|---|---|---|
| Product name | Dash DMAF360GBAQ02 Aircrisp® Pro Digital Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Digital Display + 8 Presets, Temperature Control, Non Stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 3qt, Aqua | Full name included for clarity |
| Capacity | 3 quarts | Compact size good for 1–2 people or small portions |
| Power | 1200W | Heats quickly; energy use lower than a full oven for small cooks |
| Presets | 8 digital presets + manual | Easy one-touch cooking for common foods; manual mode for custom settings |
| Basket | Non-stick fry basket | Removable basket simplifies handling and cleaning |
| Safety | Auto shut-off, cool-touch handle | Prevents overcooking and reduces burn risk |
| Accessories | Recipe guide with 10+ recipes | Helpful starting recipes for new users |
| Colors | Aqua (this model), also available in Black and Red | Fun color options to match kitchen décor |
| Warranty & support | 1-year manufacturer warranty; U.S.-based support; designed in NYC | Reassuring support and warranty coverage |
Design and build quality
I appreciate the compact footprint and the nostalgic rounded styling that Dash often uses. The build feels lightweight but solid, and the aqua finish on my unit added a cheerful pop of color to my counter without feeling cheap.
Materials and finish
The outer shell is molded plastic with a smooth finish that resists fingerprints, and the basket is coated with a non-stick layer that I found easy to wipe clean. I take care not to use metal utensils on the basket to preserve the coating, and that approach has kept mine looking fresh.
Size and counter presence
At 3 quarts, this unit is noticeably smaller than many 5–6 quart air fryers, which I like because it frees up space. I found it fits neatly under my cabinets and is easy to store when not in use.
Features overview
The Dash AirCrisp Pro packs a number of conveniences into a small package, and I used each main feature to shape my opinion of its everyday value.
AirCrisp technology
AirCrisp technology promises to reduce added fat by 70–80% by relying on hot air circulation instead of large amounts of oil. I found foods achieved a fried-like texture with far less oil, and that made my meals lighter without sacrificing much on crunch.
Digital display and 8 presets
The digital display is clear and straightforward, and the eight presets remove guesswork for common foods like fries or chicken. I liked that I could also switch to manual mode to adjust time and temperature for recipes not covered by the presets.
Temperature control and timer
The temperature controls give me the flexibility to choose precise heat settings, and the built-in timer with auto shut-off helps prevent overcooking. I rely on the timer as my primary guard against forgotten food, and the auto shut-off has prevented a few scorched batches during rushed evenings.
Non-stick fry basket and accessories
The non-stick fry basket makes transferring food and cleaning easier, and it’s sufficiently deep for standard servings. I keep a silicone or wooden spatula on hand to avoid scratching the finish when shaking or stirring food mid-cook.
Recipe guide and support
I appreciated the included recipe guide with 10-plus recipes; it gave me a comfortable starting place for testing different foods. The U.S.-based customer support and 1-year warranty also reassured me that help is available if something goes wrong.
Cooking performance
I tested multiple food types to assess crisping, evenness, and speed. Below I share what worked well and what required small technique adjustments.
Fries and fried vegetables
Crispiness on fries and vegetables was impressive for such a small unit, especially when I used a light spray of oil and shook the basket halfway through. I found preheating for a couple of minutes and not overcrowding the basket were key to getting even color and texture.
Chicken wings and proteins
Wings came out with a nicely browned exterior and juicy interior when I allowed them space to circulate air. For thicker cuts or bone-in pieces, I sometimes extended the time slightly and monitored internal temperature with a probe to ensure doneness.
Baked goods and desserts
I baked small items like muffins and cookies with reasonable success; the air circulation bakes faster than a conventional oven, so I reduced the stated oven times by about 10–15% and checked earlier. The compact size limits batch output, but it’s perfect for single-batch baking.
Reheating and convenience cooking
Reheated leftovers regained crisp edges and avoided the sogginess that microwave reheating causes. I rely on this unit for quick meals when I want to re-crisp pizza slices or roasted vegetables.
Speed and energy use
I noticed the Dash heats up faster than my full-size oven and uses less power for small jobs, which saves time and energy for single servings. For many quick items I found total cook times were shorter than preheating plus cooking in my conventional oven.
Preheat behavior
Preheating is brief and often unnecessary for very small quantities, but I sometimes preheated for 2–3 minutes when baking or roasting to stabilize cooking results. Skipping preheat still produced good outcomes for fries or reheating.
Electricity and run cost
At 1200W the unit draws less power than larger ovens and many 1500W air fryers, so I feel better about using it frequently for single-serve meals. Running it for 15–20 minutes feels reasonable compared to firing up a big oven.
Usability and controls
The interface is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require a steep learning curve. I was able to use presets effectively on day one and felt comfortable switching to manual settings for more control.
Control layout and clarity
Buttons are well labeled, and the digital readout is easy to read from across the counter. I liked that the preset icons are intuitive; I didn’t need to consult the manual every time I wanted to use a common setting.
Basket handling and safety
The cool-touch handle makes it safe to pull the basket while the unit is hot, and the auto shut-off reduces the risk of burning food or starting a small fire. I still treat it like any hot appliance and use oven mitts when needed.
Noise and operation
The fan noise is present but not intrusive, and it’s quieter than some high-powered 1700W models I’ve used. I could carry on conversations or watch TV while the fryer ran without distraction.
Cleaning and maintenance
I value appliances that are easy to keep clean, and this Dash model simplifies routine care. The non-stick coating reduces stuck-on food, but I still recommend routine cleaning to prolong the finish.
Daily cleaning
I remove the basket, let it cool, and wash with warm, soapy water; a soft sponge cleans the basket effectively. I also wipe the interior and exterior with a damp cloth to remove splatters and crumbs.
Deep cleaning and care tips
For baked-on residue, I soak the basket briefly before washing; avoid abrasive brushes or metal scrubbers to preserve the non-stick coating. I follow the manual’s guidance for any dishwasher use — when in doubt, I hand-wash to extend the basket’s life.
Safety notes
I appreciated the presence of safety features that make using the cooker low-risk for daily use. I still follow basic safety practices every time I cook.
Auto shut-off and overcook prevention
The auto shut-off prevents long, unattended cooking cycles and can save food from burning if I get distracted. I still try not to leave it completely unattended for long periods, as with any appliance.
Cool-touch surfaces
The cool-touch handle helps me confidently remove the basket without oven mitts in many cases, although I keep mitts nearby for safety. I also make sure to place the unit on a heat-resistant surface and allow ventilation space around it.
Who this is good for
I recommend this Dash AirCrisp Pro for people who want a compact, quick-cooking appliance that can replace some oven tasks. It’s particularly attractive for those with small kitchens, dorm living, or anyone who needs a reliable reheating option.
Singles and couples
If I’m cooking for one or two people, the 3-quart size is ideal — it’s rarely too large, and it heats fast for small batches. I can prepare a full meal in stages without wasting energy.
Busy households and quick dinners
When I need to throw together a quick dinner, I rely on presets and the short cook times to get food on the table fast. The unit is convenient on weeknights when I don’t want to wait for a large oven to preheat.
Who might want a different model
This appliance isn’t designed to feed a large family or to handle very large items like whole turkeys. If I’m cooking for a crowd or need to roast big cuts, I opt for a larger 5–6 quart model or a full oven.
Larger families or party cooks
For family-sized portions or batch cooking, I’ve found that a larger-capacity fryer saves time and repetition. I’d recommend a bigger model if you routinely cook for more than two people.
Advanced air-fryer users seeking precision features
If I wanted integrated probes, multiple rack flexibility, or advanced presets for sous-vide or dehydrating, I’d consider higher-end models. This Dash offers solid basics but not advanced pro-level extras.
Comparison with a conventional oven
I prefer using the Dash for small portions because it outperforms a conventional oven in speed and often crispiness for fried-style foods. However, for large roasts or multi-rack baking, the full-size oven remains necessary.
When I choose the Dash over an oven
I pick the Dash for quick reheats, small batches of fries, wings, or single-batch baking because it’s faster and more energy-efficient for those tasks. The results are crisp and satisfying without heating the entire kitchen.
When I stick with the oven
I turn to the oven for bulky items, multi-rack baking, or when I need to cook large quantities. The Dash simply lacks the interior volume to handle large casseroles or sheet-pan parties.
Practical tips and tricks I use
After some testing, I developed a few habits that improved my results and made the appliance easier to live with.
Don’t overcrowd the basket
I learned that spacing food in a single layer is key to even crisping, and I often cook in two shorter batches instead of a single overcrowded one. Tossing or shaking the basket halfway through helps promote even browning.
Use a tiny amount of oil for better texture
A light spray or teaspoon of oil enhances browning without defeating the purpose of low-oil air frying. I usually toss fries or vegetables with a small amount of oil before cooking for best results.
Adjust conventional recipes
When I convert oven recipes, I lower recommended times by about 10–15% and check for doneness early because the air fryer cooks faster. For baking, I also watch color and interior texture rather than relying solely on pictured times.
Pros and cons I noticed
I like listing these succinctly to help set expectations for potential buyers. I balance the strengths with practical limitations from my hands-on use.
Pros
- Compact footprint that fits small kitchens and dorms. I appreciate how it saves counter space.
- Quick heat-up and energy-efficient for small portions. I save time and power compared to a full oven.
- Eight presets and easy digital controls simplify cooking common foods. I find presets handy for busy nights.
- Auto shut-off and cool-touch handle enhance safety. I feel comfortable using it around kids and pets when supervised.
- Includes a recipe guide and offers U.S.-based support and 1-year warranty. I use the guide to try different foods with confidence.
Cons
- 3-quart capacity limits batch size for families and gatherings. I end up doing multiple batches for larger meals.
- Non-stick basket requires gentle care to avoid scratches. I avoid metal utensils and scrubbers to preserve it.
- Not a replacement for full-size oven for large or multiple-dish cooking. I still need my oven for bigger jobs.
Maintenance and longevity
I’ve treated the unit gently and kept up with cleaning, and it has continued to perform reliably. I think regular care and avoiding harsh utensils will extend its useful life.
Routine checkups
I inspect the basket coating occasionally and ensure the heating element is free of grease buildup to maintain efficient cooking. Keeping the vents clear and wiping crumbs from the cavity reduces lingering smoke or odors.
Storage and transport
Because it’s lightweight, I can easily store it or take it on trips where a small, versatile cooker is useful. I keep the manual and recipe guide tucked into the box if I need to reference temperature ranges or warranty info.
Price and value
Comparing price to similar compact air fryers, I believe this Dash model offers strong value for those who want a simple, reliable unit. The combination of presets, safety features, and a user-friendly interface make it a practical purchase for everyday small-batch cooking.
What I value most
I value its consistent performance for quick meals and reheating, plus the convenience of a small appliance I can use daily. For the money, I view it as an efficient addition to a modest kitchen setup.
Frequently asked questions I get asked
I’ve compiled a few common questions I’ve seen or received and answered them based on my experience.
How much food can I cook at once?
The 3-quart basket handles one to two servings comfortably, depending on the food. I typically cook a single meal portion or a side for two people without crowding the basket.
Is it easy to clean?
Yes, the non-stick basket cleans easily with warm soapy water, and I wipe down the interior after each use. I recommend hand-washing the basket if you want to preserve the coating longer.
Is it safe to leave unattended?
The auto shut-off reduces risk, but I avoid leaving any cooking appliance completely unattended for long stretches. I check on food during the cycle and rely on the timer and auto shut-off for safety.
Final thoughts and recommendation
Overall, I recommend the Dash DMAF360GBAQ02 Aircrisp® Pro Digital Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Digital Display + 8 Presets, Temperature Control, Non Stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 3qt, Aqua for anyone who wants a compact, speedy, and user-friendly air fryer. I find it especially useful for single cooks, couples, or as a secondary appliance for quick reheats and small batches.
My final usage suggestions
If you’re considering this model, I advise planning meals with the 3-quart capacity in mind, using light oil to improve browning, and avoiding metal tools on the basket. With those simple tips, I think you’ll appreciate the convenience and crisp results this Dash unit delivers.
If you’d like, I can walk you through a few specific recipes I tested on mine and share exact times and temperatures I used for each one.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
