5 Best Air Fryers Under $100

Looking for crispy, golden food without the guilt of deep frying? Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, making healthy meals faster and easier than ever. The best part is you don’t need to spend a fortune to get quality results.

Finding a reliable air fryer under $100 might seem challenging with so many options flooding the market. This comprehensive guide breaks down the top performers that deliver restaurant-quality results without breaking the bank. Each model has been carefully evaluated for performance, features, and real-world usability.

From compact units perfect for small spaces to larger family-sized options with advanced features, there’s an air fryer on this list for every kitchen and lifestyle. Let’s explore the best budget-friendly air fryers that prove you can achieve crispy perfection without spending big.

What Makes a Great Budget Air Fryer?

Before diving into specific models, it helps to understand what separates excellent air fryers from mediocre ones. The best budget air fryers combine powerful heating elements, efficient air circulation, and user-friendly controls. They should deliver crispy exteriors and tender interiors consistently across different foods.

Capacity matters tremendously based on your household size. Singles or couples might prefer compact 4-quart models, while families need 6-quart or larger baskets. Temperature range is crucial too – look for units reaching at least 400°F for proper crisping.

Easy cleanup can make or break your air frying experience. Nonstick coatings and dishwasher-safe components save time and frustration. Preset functions help beginners, though experienced cooks often prefer manual temperature and time controls for precision.

Top Pick: Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6.5 QT (AF181)

The Ninja AF181 stands as the crown jewel among budget air fryers. This powerhouse combines generous capacity with cutting-edge MaxCrisp Technology, delivering professional results at a fraction of premium model costs.

Product Overview

This 6.5-quart beast fits up to 9 pounds of chicken wings or 5 pounds of french fries. The spacious basket handles family meals, game day spreads, or serious meal prep sessions. At 1750 watts, it packs serious power for lightning-fast cooking.

The sleek gray design looks professional on any countertop. Measuring approximately 14.96 inches long, 11.2 inches wide, and 12 inches tall, it occupies minimal space despite its generous capacity. The unit weighs just 11.4 pounds, making it easy to move and store.

MaxCrisp Technology sets this model apart. Superheated air reaches 450°F, surrounding food for hotter, crispier results than standard air fryers. This technology transforms frozen foods into crispy perfection in minutes without thawing.

Key Features

Six cooking functions provide incredible versatility: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. The Max Crisp function excels at turning frozen foods golden and crunchy straight from the freezer.

The ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate make cleanup effortless. Both components are dishwasher safe, though they rinse clean easily with warm water. The crisper plate elevates food for optimal air circulation underneath.

A 20-recipe book and cooking charts come included. These guides take guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures for beginners. The charts cover everything from fresh vegetables to frozen snacks.

Performance

Users consistently praise the AF181 for even cooking and reliable results. French fries emerge golden with fluffy interiors. Chicken wings achieve crispy skin while staying juicy inside. Frozen foods cook faster than package directions suggest.

The high 450°F temperature capability means you can tackle challenging recipes. Roasted vegetables caramelize beautifully. Baked goods develop nice browning. Reheated pizza tastes fresh rather than soggy.

Temperature accuracy stays consistent throughout cooking cycles. The unit preheats quickly, saving time when hunger strikes. Noise levels remain reasonable – quieter than many competitors despite powerful fans.

Pros

• Huge 6.5-quart capacity perfect for families
• MaxCrisp Technology reaches 450°F for superior crisping
• Six versatile cooking functions
• Dishwasher-safe nonstick components
• Excellent frozen food performance
• Space-efficient design for the capacity
• Comes with recipe book and cooking guides
• Strong temperature control accuracy
• Quick preheating
• Relatively quiet operation

Cons

• Shorter power cord than some users prefer
• No interior light for monitoring food
• Single basket design (no dual zone option)
• Slightly larger footprint than compact models
• Learning curve for optimal basket arrangement

Best For

Families of 3-6 people seeking reliable everyday performance. Home cooks who prepare frequent batches of fries, wings, or frozen foods. Anyone wanting professional results without complicated controls or excessive cost.

Price Range

The Ninja AF181 typically retails around $70-90 depending on sales and retailers. This competitive pricing makes it outstanding value given its capacity and performance. Watch for discounts at major retailers during holiday periods.

Runner-Up: Cosori TurboBlaze 6-Quart Air Fryer

The Cosori TurboBlaze represents the next generation of air fryer technology. Its DC motor delivers faster cooking speeds while maintaining whisper-quiet operation. This premium-feeling appliance challenges much pricier competitors.

Product Overview

The 6-quart capacity accommodates generous portions for families or meal preppers. Its compact footprint measures just 11.8 inches wide and tall, with 14.4 inches depth including the handle. At approximately 11 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver.

Available in attractive colors like Dark Gray and Cream, the TurboBlaze looks sophisticated on modern countertops. The angled touchscreen display ensures clear visibility and ease of use. The matte finish resists fingerprints beautifully.

DC motor technology represents a significant upgrade over traditional AC motors. This innovation enables five fan speeds for precise temperature control. The faster motor cuts cooking time by up to 46% compared to previous Cosori models.

Key Features

Nine cooking functions cover every need: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, and Keep Warm. The Proof function excels for bread baking enthusiasts, maintaining perfect temperature for rising dough.

The wide temperature range spans 90°F to 450°F, offering flexibility for delicate and high-heat cooking. This range supports everything from slow-roasting to rapid crisping. The extended timer goes up to 24 hours for dehydrating projects.

Premium ceramic coating provides superior nonstick performance without PFAS, PFOA, or PTFE. Both the basket and crisper plate go in the dishwasher. The crisper plate design maximizes airflow with its slightly raised position.

Performance

The TurboBlaze consistently delivers exceptional results across food types. Potato wedges emerge golden with crispy exteriors and fluffy centers. Chicken breasts stay moist inside while developing appealing browning outside.

Five-speed fan control allows customization based on recipe requirements. High-speed Turbo mode works brilliantly for frozen foods and air frying. Lower speeds suit baking and dehydrating without excessive air movement.

The ultra-quiet operation surprises users accustomed to noisy air fryers. You can hold normal conversations while it runs. External surfaces stay cool to the touch, enhancing kitchen safety during extended cooking sessions.

Pros

• DC motor cooks up to 46% faster
• Nine versatile cooking functions
• Exceptionally quiet operation
• Premium ceramic nonstick coating
• Wide temperature range (90°F-450°F)
• Proof function for bread baking
• Five adjustable fan speeds
• Angled display for easy visibility
• Cool exterior surfaces
• Sleek, modern design

Cons

• Slightly higher price point in the range
• Large center hole in crisper tray lets small items fall through
• Some users report inconsistent results with certain vegetables
• Learning curve for optimizing fan speeds
• Smart features require VeSync app setup

Best For

Home bakers who appreciate the proof function. Quiet-sensitive households or open-plan living spaces. Tech enthusiasts who enjoy customizing cooking parameters. Health-conscious cooks wanting ceramic nonstick surfaces.

Price Range

The Cosori TurboBlaze typically sells for $90-120. Watch for Amazon deals that frequently drop it under $100. The smart version with WiFi connectivity runs slightly higher but often goes on sale.

Best Multi-Function: Chefman 10L Digital Air Fryer with Rotisserie

The Chefman 10L transforms from simple air fryer to complete cooking center. Its rotisserie function and multiple racks open possibilities beyond basic air frying. This versatile powerhouse suits adventurous cooks on budgets.

Product Overview

The generous 10-liter capacity provides ample cooking space. The compact 12x12x15-inch footprint proves surprisingly small given interior volume. Three removable racks allow cooking multiple items simultaneously at different levels.

The transparent glass door lets you monitor cooking progress without opening the unit. Interior lighting illuminates food for easy checking. The front-mounted digital touchscreen controls 17 preset options plus manual adjustments.

At 1700 watts, this unit delivers serious cooking power. The temperature range spans 200°F to 400°F. The convection system circulates hot air efficiently throughout the interior chamber.

Key Features

Five main cooking functions include Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Rotisserie, and Dehydrate. The rotisserie function accommodates chickens up to 4 pounds. The included stainless steel spit and forks secure food for even rotation.

Three stainless steel mesh racks provide flexibility for different foods. The rotating basket works perfectly for fries, tater tots, and similar items. A drip tray catches grease and crumbs for easier cleaning.

Seventeen preset programs take guesswork out of common foods. Six air fry presets, five bake settings, and six dehydrate options cover most needs. The auto shut-off feature prevents overcooking or accidents.

Performance

The Chefman excels at rotisserie chicken, producing moist meat with crispy skin. Vegetables roast beautifully across all three racks. Dehydrating fruit yields professional results comparable to dedicated dehydrators.

Temperature consistency remains solid throughout cooking cycles. The glass door design does require some learning for optimal rack positioning. Food on the middle rack tends to cook most evenly.

Cleaning requires more effort than basket-style air fryers. The wire racks need thorough scrubbing after use. The drip tray cleans easily, especially when lined with aluminum foil.

Pros

• Huge 10-liter capacity
• Rotisserie function for whole chickens
• Three racks for cooking multiple items
• Glass door for monitoring progress
• Interior lighting
• 17 preset programs
• Excellent for dehydrating
• Compact design for capacity
• Rotisserie basket for fries
• Good temperature accuracy

Cons

• Wire racks difficult to clean
• Racks stick to side walls during removal
• No sidewalls on trays makes flipping challenging
• Small handle gets very hot
• Light unit requires bracing when opening door
• Learning curve for rack positioning
• Front door runs hotter than desired

Best For

Families who appreciate multi-level cooking. Rotisserie chicken enthusiasts. Dehydrating hobbyists. Households wanting one appliance for multiple cooking methods. RV owners needing versatile compact cooking solutions.

Price Range

The Chefman 10L typically retails between $80-110 at major retailers. Costco occasionally offers special pricing around $99. Watch for Best Buy and Walmart promotions during holiday shopping periods.

Best Compact: Chefman 6-Quart Digital Touch Air Fryer

The Chefman 6-quart brings simplicity and reliability to budget air frying. Its streamlined design and intuitive controls appeal to beginners and experienced users alike. This no-frills option delivers consistent results without complexity.

Product Overview

The 6-quart capacity suits small families or couples perfectly. The slim profile maximizes capacity while minimizing counter space requirements. The matte-black finish looks professional and hides fingerprints.

Four preset functions simplify common cooking tasks. The digital touchscreen responds accurately to inputs. LED shake reminder notifications prompt you to toss food halfway through cooking for even results.

Hi-Fry Technology boosts temperature to 450°F during the final cooking minutes. This feature delivers extra crunch to fries, chicken tenders, and similar foods. The automatic shutoff engages when you remove the basket or time expires.

Key Features

The temperature range extends from 200°F to 450°F, covering most cooking needs. Manual time and temperature controls allow customization beyond presets. The countdown timer displays remaining cooking time clearly.

The nonstick basket and rack handle dishwasher cleaning without issues. Both components feature ceramic coating for stick-free performance. The basket holds approximately 3-5 servings depending on food type.

Cool-touch handle stays safe to grip even during extended cooking sessions. The compact footprint fits easily in cabinets when not in use. Cord storage keeps cables tidy during storage.

Performance

This straightforward air fryer performs admirably across common foods. Frozen fries achieve golden crispiness consistently. Chicken pieces cook evenly with appealing browning. Reheated foods taste fresh rather than dried out.

The Hi-Fry button delivers noticeable improvement in final texture. Those extra minutes at 450°F create restaurant-quality crunch. The shake reminder helps ensure even cooking without constant monitoring.

Operation remains pleasantly quiet compared to many competitors. Temperature accuracy stays consistent throughout cooking cycles. Preheating takes minimal time, getting food cooking quickly.

Pros

• User-friendly interface and controls
• 450°F Hi-Fry Technology for extra crisp
• LED shake reminders
• Automatic shutoff safety feature
• Dishwasher-safe components
• Compact, space-saving design
• Cool-touch handle
• Quiet operation
• Good value pricing
• Reliable consistent performance

Cons

• Only four preset functions
• No interior light
• Basic feature set compared to premium models
• Single basket design
• No dehydrate function
• Smaller capacity than some competitors
• No recipe book included
• Limited advanced features

Best For

Beginners wanting simple, reliable air frying. Small households or couples. Anyone seeking no-nonsense performance without complex features. Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over bells and whistles.

Price Range

The Chefman 6-quart typically sells for $50-70 at various retailers. Sales frequently drop prices below $60. This aggressive pricing makes it exceptional value for the capacity and performance offered.

Best Space-Saver: Bella 4-Quart Slim Air Fryer

The Bella Slim redefines space efficiency in air fryers. Its ultra-narrow profile saves up to 50% more counter space than traditional models. This innovative design proves perfect for tight kitchens, dorms, or RVs.

Product Overview

The 4-quart capacity handles 3.3 pounds of food comfortably. Despite compact dimensions, the extra-long basket holds impressive quantities. The slim vertical design maximizes cooking space while minimizing footprint.

Available in stylish colors like Oatmilk, Plum, Blossom, and Surf, it coordinates beautifully with modern kitchens. The matte finish resists fingerprints and smudges. Soft rounded edges create an elegant, approachable aesthetic.

At 1300 watts, it delivers solid cooking power. The digital touchscreen glows softly during operation, then disappears when inactive. The compact size weighs just 7.27 pounds, making it easy to move and store.

Key Features

Six preset functions provide cooking versatility: Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, Reheat, and Dehydrate. Each preset optimizes temperature and time for specific food types. Manual controls allow customization when desired.

EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating eliminates PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium concerns. This proprietary coating ensures easy food release and simple cleanup. Both basket and crisper tray withstand dishwasher cycles.

The 60-minute auto shut-off timer includes an audible tone notification. Cool-touch handle remains safe throughout cooking. Circular heat technology distributes hot air evenly for consistent results.

Performance

The Bella Slim surprises users with its cooking prowess despite small size. French fries emerge crispy with fluffy interiors. Chicken tenders develop appealing golden color while staying juicy. Vegetables roast evenly.

The extra-long basket design promotes better air circulation than round baskets. Food spreads out in a single layer more easily, improving crispiness. Temperature consistency remains solid across cooking cycles.

Noise levels stay impressively low during operation. The unit preheats quickly despite lower wattage. Cleanup takes seconds thanks to excellent nonstick properties and dishwasher-safe parts.

Pros

• Ultra-slim design saves 50% counter space
• Extra-long basket maximizes capacity
• EverGood Ceramic nonstick coating
• Free from harmful chemicals
• Six cooking presets
• Stylish color options
• Very quiet operation
• Lightweight and portable
• Cord wrap feature
• Budget-friendly pricing

Cons

• Smaller 4-quart capacity
• Lower 1300-watt power
• Maximum temperature only 400°F
• Power light blinks when plugged in constantly
• Best for 1-2 people only
• No interior viewing window
• Limited capacity for larger items
• Requires unplugging to stop light blinking

Best For

Singles, couples, or small households. Apartment dwellers with limited counter space. College students in dorms. RV and camper users. Anyone prioritizing space efficiency and clean design aesthetics.

Price Range

The Bella Slim typically retails between $40-60 depending on color choice and retailer. Frequent sales drop prices below $50. This attractive pricing combined with space-saving design creates exceptional value.

Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Perfect Air Fryer

Capacity Considerations

Capacity directly impacts cooking efficiency and versatility. A 4-quart model serves 1-2 people adequately. Couples or small families do well with 5-6 quart options. Larger families of 4+ should target 6-quart or bigger models.

Remember capacity measurements can be deceiving. Basket shape matters tremendously. Square or rectangular baskets use space more efficiently than round designs. Check actual food capacity claims rather than just quart ratings.

Essential Features

Temperature range significantly affects cooking possibilities. Minimum 400°F capability ensures proper crisping for most foods. Units reaching 450°F excel at frozen food preparation and extra-crispy results.

Preset functions help beginners but often prove unnecessary for experienced cooks. Manual controls provide ultimate flexibility. Look for easily adjustable temperature and time settings with clear digital displays.

Nonstick coatings dramatically simplify cleanup. Ceramic coatings offer nontoxic benefits over traditional nonstick. Dishwasher-safe components save tremendous time and effort. Consider ease of component removal and reassembly.

Power and Performance

Wattage indicates heating capability. Budget models range from 1300-1750 watts typically. Higher wattage generally means faster preheating and cooking. However, efficient air circulation matters as much as raw power.

Temperature accuracy varies among brands and models. Reliable units maintain consistent temperatures throughout cooking cycles. Some cheaper models experience significant temperature fluctuations affecting results.

Noise levels differ substantially between models. DC motors run quieter than traditional AC motors. Consider your tolerance for fan noise, especially in open-plan homes or apartments with thin walls.

Design and Usability

Footprint matters if counter space is limited. Vertical designs maximize capacity while minimizing width and depth. Consider storage options when not in use. Lighter units move and store more easily.

Control interfaces range from simple analog dials to sophisticated touchscreens. Touchscreens look modern but can be tricky with wet or greasy hands. Ensure controls are intuitive and responsive.

Viewing windows or interior lights help monitor cooking progress. Glass doors enable constant observation without opening units. However, they require more cleaning and may develop residue buildup over time.

Safety Features

Automatic shutoff prevents accidents and overcooking. Look for units that stop when baskets are removed. Cool-touch exteriors and handles prevent burns. External temperature matters especially with children or pets around.

Overheat protection safeguards against equipment failure. Certifications like cETL or UL indicate safety testing compliance. Non-slip feet prevent sliding during basket insertion and removal.

Additional Considerations

Warranty coverage provides peace of mind. Most budget air fryers offer one-year warranties minimum. Longer warranties indicate manufacturer confidence in durability.

Accessory inclusion varies widely. Some models include recipe books, cooking charts, extra pans, or rotisserie components. Consider whether included items match your cooking intentions.

Brand reputation and customer service matter when issues arise. Established brands typically offer better support and replacement part availability. Read reviews focusing on long-term durability and customer service experiences.

Air Fryer Cooking Tips for Best Results

Preparation Techniques

Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air needs circulation space around food for proper crisping. Cook in batches rather than stacking food. Single layers produce far superior results.

Light oil coating enhances browning and crispiness. Use spray oil or brush foods lightly. Don’t submerge items in oil – that defeats air frying’s purpose. Even a teaspoon can make tremendous difference.

Shake or flip food halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning and prevents sticking. Most models include shake reminders or you can set phone timers.

Temperature Guidelines

Start with recommended temperatures but adjust based on results. Frozen foods often need higher temperatures than fresh. Delicate items like fish require gentler heat than sturdy vegetables.

Preheating improves consistency, though many air fryers claim preheating isn’t necessary. Three to five minutes of preheating helps achieve better initial sear on proteins.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Clean components after every use to prevent buildup. Stuck-on food becomes increasingly difficult to remove over time. Soak stubborn residue in warm soapy water before scrubbing.

Avoid abrasive scrubbers that damage nonstick coatings. Use soft sponges or cloths. Baking soda paste works wonders on tough spots without scratching.

Wipe exterior surfaces regularly to maintain appearance. Check heating elements for accumulated debris. Ensure proper airflow by keeping vents clear of dust and grease.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding

The number one error beginners make is packing baskets too full. Crowded food steams rather than air fries, resulting in soggy disappointment. Leave space between pieces for air circulation.

Skipping Oil Entirely

While air frying uses less oil than deep frying, some oil is often beneficial. Completely dry food may not achieve desired crispiness. A light misting transforms results dramatically.

Ignoring Shake Reminders

Shaking or flipping food halfway through ensures even cooking. Ignoring this step leads to uneven browning and texture. Set reminders if your model doesn’t include automatic alerts.

Using Wrong Temperatures

Following oven recipes directly often disappoints. Air fryers cook hotter and faster than conventional ovens. Reduce temperatures by 25°F and cooking times by about 20% as starting points.

Neglecting Preheating

While not always necessary, preheating improves results for many foods. Three minutes of preheating helps achieve better browning and crispiness, particularly for proteins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do air fryers really work as well as deep fryers?

Air fryers produce remarkably similar results to deep frying for many foods. The texture differs slightly – air fried foods have crunchier exteriors while deep fried items have more uniform crispiness. Most people find air fried results equally or more satisfying once adjusted to the difference.

Q: Can I cook frozen foods directly in air fryers?

Absolutely! Air fryers excel at frozen foods. No thawing required for most items. Frozen fries, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, and similar foods often taste better air fried than oven baked. Many models include specific frozen food presets.

Q: How much healthier is air frying compared to deep frying?

Air frying reduces fat content by up to 75% compared to deep frying. A batch of fries uses tablespoons of oil rather than quarts. Fewer calories and less fat make significant differences for regular consumers.

Q: Are air fryers difficult to clean?

Modern air fryers with nonstick coatings clean easily. Most components are dishwasher safe. Proper maintenance prevents buildup. Wipe units after each use and deep clean weekly for best results.

Q: Can air fryers replace my oven?

For many tasks, yes! Air fryers handle most everyday cooking needs efficiently. They can’t accommodate large roasts or multiple dishes simultaneously like full ovens. Many households use air fryers for daily cooking and ovens for special occasions.

Q: What can’t you cook in an air fryer?

Wet batters don’t work well in air fryers. Leafy greens blow around excessively. Large whole items exceeding basket capacity obviously won’t fit. Beyond these limitations, air fryers handle remarkable variety.

Q: Do air fryers save energy compared to ovens?

Yes, significantly! Air fryers use less electricity and don’t heat entire kitchens. Smaller cooking chambers heat faster and maintain temperature more efficiently. Energy savings add up over time.

Final Recommendations

The Ninja AF181 Air Fryer Pro XL earns top honors for best overall value under $100. Its combination of generous capacity, MaxCrisp Technology, and consistent performance makes it ideal for most households. The six cooking functions provide versatility while remaining user-friendly.

The Cosori TurboBlaze takes the crown for performance and innovation. Its DC motor technology, nine functions, and whisper-quiet operation justify the slightly higher price. Home bakers particularly appreciate the proof function.

The Chefman 10L wins for maximum versatility on a budget. Its rotisserie function and multi-rack design appeal to adventurous cooks wanting one appliance for multiple techniques. The glass door design adds convenience despite requiring more cleaning effort.

The Chefman 6-Quart offers unbeatable value for basic air frying needs. Its straightforward operation and reliable performance make it perfect for beginners or anyone prioritizing simplicity over features.

The Bella Slim stands alone for space-conscious buyers. Its innovative vertical design delivers impressive capacity in minimal footprint. The chemical-free ceramic coating provides health-conscious peace of mind.

Conclusion

Finding an excellent air fryer under $100 proves entirely possible with smart shopping. Each model reviewed here delivers solid performance while fitting budget constraints. Your ideal choice depends on household size, cooking style, and space availability.

Consider capacity needs first, then evaluate features matching your cooking habits. Don’t pay for functions you won’t use. Focus on build quality, ease of cleaning, and temperature accuracy over flashy extras.

Budget air fryers have improved dramatically in recent years. Today’s affordable models rival premium options from just a few years ago. You’re getting tremendous value and capability regardless of which model you choose.

Start with proper technique and realistic expectations. Air fryers excel at many foods but aren’t magic. Understanding their strengths and limitations ensures satisfaction with your investment.

Happy air frying! With any of these excellent budget options, you’ll soon be creating crispy, delicious, healthier meals your whole family loves. The hardest part will be deciding what to cook first.