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Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep Fryer vs Presto GranPappy Deep Fryer

The Mainstays 4-Liter Deep Fryer is best for families needing precise control and large batches, while the Presto GranPappy is a compact, durable choice for smaller kitchens. The Mainstays offers adjustable heat and a viewing window, whereas the GranPappy relies on a fixed temperature and a heavy-duty cast-aluminum build. Owners appreciate the Mainstays for its versatility and the Presto for its simplicity and easy storage.

  • Choose the Mainstays 4-Liter if you need adjustable temperature settings and a larger capacity for family-sized meals.
  • Choose the Presto GranPappy if you want a compact, durable fryer that maintains a consistent temperature without manual adjustments.

Prices

  • Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep Fryer: $49.97 at Walmart (last seen Nov 10)
  • Presto GranPappy Deep Fryer: $64.99 at Amazon (last seen Nov 10)
  • Difference: the Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep Fryer is $15.02 cheaper than the Presto GranPappy Deep Fryer at the latest prices (Nov 10)
Mainstays
Mainstays 4-Liter Black Electric Deep Fryer with Adjustable Temperature Control

Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep Fryer

Mainstays 4-Liter Black Electric Deep Fryer with Adjustable Temperature Control

4.4(4,519 ratings)
$49.97at WalmartChecked 13 h ago
See all prices and details
Visit Walmart
Pros
  • Adjustable thermostat for different food types
  • Large 4-liter capacity for big batches
  • Viewing window to monitor browning
  • High 1800-watt power for fast recovery
Cons
  • Requires significant counter space
  • Analog dials can be less precise than digital
  • California Prop 65 warning for lead
Presto
Presto 05411 GranPappy

Presto GranPappy Deep Fryer

Presto 05411 GranPappy

$64.99at AmazonChecked 13 h ago
See all prices and details
Visit Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

Pros
  • Heavy-duty cast-aluminum construction
  • Non-stick surface for easy cleaning
  • Includes snap-on lid for oil storage
  • Compact design fits in small cabinets
Cons
  • No adjustable temperature control
  • Much smaller oil capacity
  • No viewing window during cooking

What separates them

Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep FryerPresto GranPappy Deep Fryer
Temperature ControlAdjustable thermostat (265°F to 375°F)Fixed automatic temperature
Capacity4 Liters (approx. 4.2 quarts)6 cups of oil (approx. 1.5 quarts)
Power Output1800 Watts1500 Watts
ConstructionStainless steel with immersion elementHeavy cast-aluminum with non-stick interior
MonitoringLid with viewing windowSolid lid (storage only)
FootprintLarge (18.23" x 12.24")Compact (10.63" x 9.88")

Price history

$66.79$49.97
Nov 9Nov 11
  • Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep Fryer: lowest $49.97 on Nov 9 at Walmart; $49.97 on Nov 11.
  • Presto GranPappy Deep Fryer: lowest $64.99 on Nov 9 at Amazon; $64.99 on Nov 11.

Prices at every store

Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep Fryer

  • WalmartNew

    In stock

    $49.97Checked 13 h ago
    Visit Walmart
  • WalmartNew

    In stock

    $49.97Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit Walmart

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

Prices and history →

Presto GranPappy Deep Fryer

  • National Presto IndustriesNew

    In stock

    $64.99Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit National Presto Industries
  • Best BuyNew

    In stock

    $66.79Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit Best Buy
  • Lowe'sNew

    In stock

    $68.99Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit Lowe's
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $64.99Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit Amazon

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

All 8 stores and price history →

Specs compared

SpecMainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep FryerPresto GranPappy Deep Fryer
Capacity4 Liter4.5 Qt.
Power1800 Watts1500 watts
MaterialStainless SteelHeavy cast-aluminum base
Dimensions18.23 in. x 12.24 in. x 10.83 in.10.63" x 9.88" x 9.19"
colorBlack—
Temperature ControlAdjustable Thermostat—
Heating ElementImmersion—
Control TypeAnalog—
ModelMS8400778514-2—
Oil capacity—six cups of oil
Servings—up to six servings
Surface—Non-stick surface inside and out
Show all 17 specsShow fewer specs
SpecMainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep FryerPresto GranPappy Deep Fryer
Included accessories—slotted scoop, snap-on storage lid and magnetic…
Warranty—1-year limited warranty
Maximum oil capacity—6 cup
Number of baskets—1
Height—10.5 in

What reviewers say

Mainstays 4-Liter Electric Deep Fryer

  • 4.4 / 54,519 ratings

Owners rate it around 4.4 out of 5 and mostly praise how quickly it heats and how much it holds for the money. Complaints center on cleaning, oil changes and the lack of a timer or drain valve.

What people mention
  • Heating speedPraisedOwners say the 1800-watt element brings oil up to temperature quickly.
  • CapacityPraisedReviewers like that 4 liters fits a family-sized batch without crowding.
  • CleaningCriticisedOwners find the basket, lid and reservoir fiddly to clean and not dishwasher-friendly.
  • Oil changesCriticisedWithout a drain valve, emptying and filtering used oil is messy.

Presto GranPappy Deep Fryer

Owners describe the GranPappy as a simple, fast-heating fryer that is easy to clean thanks to the non-stick coating. Most criticism centers on the small batch size and the fiddly job of draining oil.

What people mention
  • Heat-upPraisedOwners say the 1500-watt element brings oil to frying temperature quickly.
  • CleanupPraisedThe non-stick interior and exterior are reported to wipe clean easily.
  • Batch sizeCriticisedReviewers say the six-cup oil capacity limits how much can be fried at once.
  • Oil handlingCriticisedDraining and storing oil is described as messy without a drain valve.

Questions and answers

Which fryer is better for cooking different types of food?
The Mainstays is better because it has an adjustable thermostat. This allows you to lower the heat for delicate items or raise it to 375°F for crispy fries, whereas the Presto stays at one set temperature.
Can I store oil inside these fryers?
The Presto GranPappy includes a snap-on storage lid specifically designed to keep oil inside between uses. The Mainstays lid is intended for use during cooking and may not provide the same airtight seal for long-term storage.
Which model is easier to clean?
The Presto GranPappy is often considered easier to clean due to its non-stick interior and lack of a removable immersion heating element. However, the Mainstays' stainless steel parts are durable for heavy scrubbing.
Is the Mainstays worth the extra counter space?
Yes, if you are cooking for more than two people. Its 4-liter capacity and 1800-watt heating element allow for much larger batches and faster cooking times than the compact Presto.

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