Ever dreamt of enjoying perfectly crispy fries, succulent chicken wings, or even roasted veggies without all that unhealthy oil? Air fryers have become a kitchen superstar, offering a healthier way to enjoy your favorite fried foods. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best air fryer for price that delivers amazing results without emptying your wallet?
It’s a common dilemma! You want performance, convenience, and durability, but you’re also watching your budget. That’s where we come in. We’ve scoured the market to bring you a hand-picked selection of air fryers that offer incredible value for money. These aren’t just the cheapest options; they’re the ones that balance affordability with features, capacity, and excellent cooking performance. So, let’s dive in and find your perfect, budget-friendly kitchen companion!
Our Top Picks for the Best Air Fryer for Price
1. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil,…
If you’re looking for a versatile kitchen workhorse that won’t break the bank, the Ninja Air Fryer is a fantastic contender. This model really shines with its ability to cook food with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, making it a guilt-free indulgence. It’s not just for air frying either; with its wide temperature range and multiple cooking programs, you can roast, reheat, and even dehydrate your way to delicious meals. Plus, its family-sized 4-quart capacity is just right for most households.
Key Features:
– LESS FAT: Enjoy food with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods.
– WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F for versatile cooking.
– FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket fits 2 lbs of French fries.
– 4-IN-1 VERSATILITY: Includes Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate programs.
– DEHYDRATE: Create flat, chip-like dehydrated foods for homemade snacks.
– EASY-TO-CLEAN: Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate.
– WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 4 Quart Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate, and 20 Recipe Booklet.
Pros:
– Excellent fat reduction for healthier eating.
– Multi-functional (4-in-1) adds great value.
– Good capacity for small to medium families.
– Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
– Dehydrate function is a nice bonus.
Cons:
– May lack some of the more advanced pre-set options found in pricier models.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise this Ninja air fryer for its reliable performance and how easy it makes preparing healthier versions of their favorite fried dishes. Many highlight its straightforward operation and simple cleanup as major positives.
2. Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick…
The Chefman 4 QT Compact Airfryer is designed for speed and convenience, making it a stellar option if you’re looking for a quick meal solution. Its standout feature is the 450°F Hi-Fry Technology, perfect for adding that extra crispy finish to your air-fried favorites. It’s also incredibly stylish and compact, ensuring it won’t hog too much precious counter space. This appliance is great for couples or small families, serving 2-4 people with ease.
Key Features:
– FAST AND EASY: Digital touch screen display with customizable time/temperature and four preset functions.
– 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Achieve extra crispy results during the final two minutes of cooking.
– STYLISH AND COMPACT: Sleek, narrow design maximizes 4-quart capacity while minimizing footprint.
– HEALTHY COOKING: Enjoy delicious meals with little-to-no oil.
– SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake food for crispier results.
– SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Dishwasher-safe 4-quart nonstick basket and rack.
– SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology for added safety.
Pros:
– High temperature setting ensures superior crispiness.
– Space-saving design fits well in smaller kitchens.
– Shake notifications are very helpful for even cooking.
– Simple digital controls and presets make it user-friendly.
Cons:
– 4-quart capacity might be too small for larger families or meal prepping.
– Fewer multi-function capabilities compared to oven-style air fryers.
User Impressions: Customers love the Chefman’s ability to deliver genuinely crispy food and its user-friendly interface. Its sleek design and compact size are frequently mentioned as significant advantages for modern kitchens.
3. CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie,…
Ready to upgrade your kitchen game? The CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie is more than just an air fryer; it’s a versatile countertop oven! With an extra-large 10-liter capacity, this appliance can air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, or roast, making it ideal for family-sized meals or batch cooking. The rotisserie spit is a fantastic bonus for evenly cooked meats, and the clear window lets you watch your food transform to crispy perfection.
Key Features:
– VERSATILE COUNTERTOP COOKING: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, or roast in one appliance.
– COOK FASTER: Rapid air heating elements cook food fast, even, and crispy without preheating.
– HEALTHY COOKING MADE EASY: Uses 98% less oil than traditional fryers.
– SIMPLIFIED SET-UP: 17 preset options and easy-to-use capacitive touch control screen.
– ALL-INCLUSIVE: Includes three air flow racks, stainless steel rotisserie oven spit with retrieval tool, and a drip tray.
– FAMILY-SIZE MEALS: Extra-large 10-Liter capacity for large quantities of food.
– MONITOR COOKING PROGRESS: Interior lights and extra-large oven window.
– MINIMAL CLEAN-UP: Removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts.
Pros:
– Exceptional 10-liter capacity for large families or entertaining.
– True multi-functional oven replacement (rotisserie, bake, dehydrate).
– 17 presets simplify a wide range of cooking tasks.
– Viewing window is a convenient feature.
– Comes with useful accessories.
Cons:
– Its larger size requires more countertop space.
– Might be overkill for single individuals or very small households.
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by this Chefman’s large capacity and its ability to handle complex cooking tasks like rotisserie chicken. The clear window and multiple presets are often cited as favorite features that enhance the cooking experience.
4. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving…
If you’re living solo, in a small apartment, or just need a compact solution for quick snacks, the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer is your go-to. This little powerhouse maximizes its small footprint with a square basket, making it incredibly space-efficient on your counter. It cooks food up to three times quicker than a conventional oven and features those handy shake notifications to ensure your meals are always perfectly crispy. It’s truly one of the best air fryer for price options if compactness is your priority.
Key Features:
– FAST AND EASY: Customizable time and temperature up to 400°F; cooks food up to three times quicker than an oven.
– HEALTHY COOKING: Uses little-to-no oil for delicious, guilt-free meals.
– SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: Square basket maximizes 2-quart capacity within a sleek, narrow design.
– SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake food for crispiest results.
– COMPACT STORAGE: Perfectly sized for healthy meals for 1-2 people; fits easily on countertop or in cabinets.
– SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Nonstick 2-quart basket and rack are dishwasher safe.
– SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology for added safety.
Pros:
– Ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or single/two-person households.
– Super compact and easy to store.
– Quick cooking times are perfect for busy schedules.
– Shake reminder ensures even crisping.
– Simple to operate and clean.
Cons:
– Very limited capacity for larger meals or families.
– Fewer advanced features due to its mini size.
User Impressions: This mini air fryer earns high marks for its tiny footprint and ability to deliver perfectly air-fried snacks and small meals. Customers appreciate its simplicity and how it fits into even the most constrained kitchen spaces.
5. Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick…
Hitting that sweet spot between compact size and generous capacity, the Chefman 6 QT Compact Airfryer is an excellent choice for families of 3-5. It packs a punch with the same 450°F Hi-Fry Technology found in its smaller sibling, guaranteeing that irresistible crunch. Despite its larger capacity, its sleek and narrow design keeps your countertop uncluttered, making it a fantastic blend of form and function. This is a very strong contender for the best air fryer for price for mid-sized families.
Key Features:
– FAST AND EASY: Digital touch screen with customizable time/temperature and four presets, ideal for 3-5 people.
– 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Perfect for achieving extra crispy chicken tenders and French fries.
– STYLISH AND COMPACT: Maximizes 6-quart capacity while minimizing countertop footprint.
– HEALTHY COOKING: Enjoy delicious meals with little-to-no oil.
– LED SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake your food for the crispiest results.
– SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Dishwasher-safe 6-quart nonstick basket and rack.
– SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology for added safety.
Pros:
– Good capacity for mid-sized families without being overly bulky.
– High-temperature crisping technology is a major plus.
– Sleek design enhances kitchen aesthetics.
– Easy to use with digital display and presets.
– Shake reminders are a convenient feature.
Cons:
– Limited to air frying and basic presets, not a multi-oven replacement.
– Still requires some counter space, though compact for its size.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend this Chefman model for its balance of capacity and design, making it a highly practical addition to family kitchens. The powerful crisping ability and easy cleaning are also widely appreciated.
6. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity, Air…
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro takes air frying to the next level with its signature Air Crisp Technology, enveloping food in 400℉ superheated air for unparalleled crispy results with minimal oil. Its 5-quart capacity is spacious enough for family meals, easily fitting up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings. What’s more, Ninja has designed this model to be a fantastic space-saver for its capacity, giving you more counter real estate while still enjoying versatile 4-in-1 functionality.
Key Features:
– AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air delivers hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
– LARGE CAPACITY: 5-QT nonstick basket fits up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
– 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
– GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods.
– FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods quickly for an extra-crispy finish.
– SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest design saves countertop space without compromising capacity.
– EASY TO CLEAN: Nonstick basket and crisper plate are easy to clean.
Pros:
– Excellent crisping performance with Ninja’s Air Crisp Technology.
– Generous 5-quart capacity suits most families.
– Versatile 4-in-1 functions extend cooking possibilities.
– Efficient space-saving design for a larger unit.
– Handles frozen foods effectively.
Cons:
– Similar to other Ninja models, it focuses on core functions rather than extensive presets.
User Impressions: Customers rave about the consistent crispiness this Ninja Pro delivers, especially for frozen items. Its ease of use and efficient design that helps save counter space are frequently highlighted as major benefits.
7. OLIXIS Air Fryer 6 Quart with Window Square Air Fryer…
The OLIXIS Air Fryer stands out with its smart design and incredible versatility. Boasting a spacious 6.34-quart capacity, it’s perfect for family-sized meals and entertaining. The real game-changer here is the built-in viewing window, allowing you to monitor your food’s progress without opening the basket and losing heat – say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked surprises! With 12-in-1 multi-functional capabilities, this sleek appliance is a complete kitchen solution for creative cooks.
Key Features:
– SPACIOUS 6.34QT CAPACITY: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
– BUILT-IN WINDOW: Convenient see-through window to monitor food progress without interruption.
– HIGH HEAT UP TO 400°F: Ensures golden, crispy results every time.
– 12-IN-1 MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: Includes air frying, roasting, baking, reheating, dehydrating, steaming, and more.
– SLEEK TOUCH PAD: Modern touch pad with intuitive controls for effortless operation.
Pros:
– Generous capacity suitable for larger families.
– Viewing window is a highly convenient and unique feature.
– Exceptional 12-in-1 versatility replaces multiple appliances.
– High temperature capability for optimal crisping.
– Modern and easy-to-use touch control panel.
Cons:
– As a larger capacity unit, it will occupy a significant amount of counter space.
– A newer brand compared to some established names, though features are impressive.
User Impressions: Users absolutely love the convenience of the viewing window, stating it makes air frying much easier and more predictable. The broad range of cooking functions and the large capacity also receive high praise, making it a very appealing option for those who cook a lot.
8. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Fast Turbo…
The COSORI Air Fryer takes performance to a professional level with its innovative TurboBlaze Technology, delivering a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉. This means unbelievably crispy and juicy results every time! Beyond just air frying, its unique 5-fan speed system and precise temperature control offer 9-in-1 versatility for a wide array of dishes. Despite its robust performance and 6-quart family capacity, it operates whisper-quietly (less than 53 dB), providing a more comfortable kitchen environment. It truly is a strong contender for the best air fryer for price category when looking for premium features without a premium tag.
Key Features:
– TURBOBLAZE TECHNOLOGY: Powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉ for superior crisping.
– TEXTURE UPGRADE: Advanced airflow and precise temperature control for evenly cooked side dishes.
– PRO UPGRADE: Unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°–450°F temperature control for professional versatility (9-in-1).
– TIME UPGRADE: Speeds up cooking for quick family meals.
– CAPACITY UPGRADE: 6-quart square basket for family meals while saving space.
– EXPERIENCE UPGRADE: Operates at less than 53 dB for whisper-quiet performance.
– 95% LESS OIL: Enjoy crispy textures with significantly less oil.
– DISHWASHER-SAFE: Nonstick cooking basket and detachable accessories for easy cleaning.
– CUSTOMIZABLE PREHEAT FUNCTION: Flexibility to preheat or skip.
Pros:
– Exceptional crisping and even cooking with TurboBlaze technology.
– Highly versatile with 9 functions and 5 fan speeds.
– Remarkably quiet operation is a huge advantage.
– Good 6-quart capacity for families.
– Very easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons:
– While offering great value, it might be at the higher end of the “budget-friendly” spectrum due to its advanced features.
User Impressions: Customers consistently highlight the COSORI’s incredible performance, especially its ability to get food perfectly crispy and its surprisingly quiet operation. Many consider it a significant upgrade from previous air fryers due to its precision and versatility.
9. Gourmia Air Fryer Oven Digital Display 4 Quart Large…
As the #1 bestselling air fryer brand in the USA in 2023, Gourmia delivers on its promise of value and quality. This 4-quart digital air fryer oven is a true multicooker, capable of air frying, baking, roasting, broiling, dehydrating, and more. One of its most impressive features is the fat removal technology, which can remove up to 90% of fat during the cooking process, making your meals incredibly healthy. Plus, with dishwasher-safe parts, cleanup is an absolute breeze. This Gourmia air fryer really earns its spot as one of the best air fryer for price on the market.
Key Features:
– GOURMIA is the #1 BESTSELLING Airfryer Brand in the USA in 2023!
– THE PERFECT KITCHEN COOKING GADGET: Multicooker Combo Electric Oven for various cooking tasks.
– HEALTHIEST WAY TO FRY: Fat removal technology removes up to 90% of fat.
– DISHWASHER SAFE: Quick and easy cleanup of accessories.
– COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY: Includes a 1 Year Comprehensive International Warranty.
– MULTIFUNCTION: 12 One-Touch Digital Presets for best results.
Pros:
– Backed by the reputation of a bestselling brand.
– Exceptional fat reduction for healthier meals.
– Highly versatile with 12 one-touch digital presets.
– Very easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts.
– Strong warranty for peace of mind.
Cons:
– 4-quart capacity might be limiting for larger families or batch cooking.
– Oven-style design means a fixed countertop footprint.
User Impressions: Gourmia users consistently rave about the fantastic healthy results they achieve with this air fryer, particularly the significant fat reduction. Its ease of cleaning and the wide array of preset options are also highly praised.
10. Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt Family Size,…
For larger families or those who love to entertain, the Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer is an ideal choice. This XL 8-quart model is designed to get dinner ready swiftly for 4-6 people, making it perfect for busy evenings. It delivers crispy, healthy delights with up to 98% less oil, combining powerful performance with effortless convenience. With one-touch presets, an LED shake reminder, precise temperature control, and intelligent shutoff, this air fryer simplifies your cooking while ensuring perfectly cooked results every time. Its sleek stainless steel design makes it a chic addition to any modern kitchen.
Key Features:
– CRISPY & HEALTHY: Relish crispy delights with 98% less oil.
– ONE-TOUCH MAGIC: Large Air Fryer Presets for fries, chicken, fish, and meat.
– LED SHAKE REMINDER: Ensures even crispiness by reminding you to shake.
– PRECISE TEMPERATURES: XL Range from 200-400°F caters to every dish.
– EFFORTLESS CLEANING: Dishwasher-safe basket and tray, easy-to-wipe exterior.
– INTELLIGENT SHUTOFF: Pauses heating when opened, resumes when closed, auto shuts off post-cooking.
– FAMILY-SIZED QUICK COOKING: Designed for 4-6 people, gets dinner ready swiftly.
– SLEEK & SPACIOUS DESIGN: Elegance without occupying much space.
Pros:
– Impressive 8-quart capacity, perfect for large families or gatherings.
– Achieves excellent crispy results with very little oil.
– User-friendly with one-touch presets and shake reminders.
– Highly convenient cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts.
– Advanced safety features like intelligent shutoff.
Cons:
– Its large capacity means it will definitely take up a significant amount of counter space.
User Impressions: Users of the Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer frequently highlight its huge capacity and ability to cook large batches of food evenly. The ease of cleaning and the intelligent safety features are also commonly cited as reasons for high satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What defines the “best air fryer for price”?
A1: The “best air fryer for price” isn’t necessarily the cheapest one. It’s about finding an appliance that offers the best balance of features, capacity, durability, and performance for its cost. This means looking for good crisping ability, adequate capacity for your needs, useful presets, easy cleanup, and reliable brand reputation, all within a reasonable budget.
Q2: How much oil do air fryers actually save compared to deep frying?
A2: Air fryers significantly reduce the need for oil, typically using 75% to 98% less oil than traditional deep frying methods. This allows you to enjoy the crispy texture of fried foods with a fraction of the fat, making your meals much healthier.
Q3: What capacity air fryer do I need for my household?
A3:
* 1-2 people: A 2-4 quart air fryer is usually sufficient for single servings or small meals.
* 3-4 people: A 4-6 quart air fryer offers a good balance for average family meals.
* 5+ people or meal prepping: An 8-quart or 10-liter air fryer/oven is ideal for larger quantities, whole chickens, or batch cooking.
Q4: Are air fryers hard to clean?
A4: Most modern air fryers are designed for easy cleanup. Many feature non-stick baskets and crisper plates that are often dishwasher safe. For the exterior, a simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed.
Q5: Can I cook anything in an air fryer?
A5: Air fryers are incredibly versatile! You can air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and often even dehydrate foods. They’re great for everything from frozen snacks like fries and chicken nuggets to fresh vegetables, chicken breasts, fish, and even some baked goods like small cakes or cookies.
Q6: Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
A6: While not always strictly necessary, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes is generally recommended. It helps ensure consistent cooking temperatures from the start, leading to more even cooking and crispier results, especially for items like fries or chicken.
Q7: What features should I look for in a budget-friendly air fryer?
A7: When looking for a great value air fryer, consider:
* Temperature Range: A wide range (e.g., 170°F to 400°F/450°F) offers more cooking versatility.
* Presets: One-touch presets simplify cooking for common items.
* Digital vs. Dial Controls: Digital displays often offer more precise temperature and time control.
* Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe parts are a huge plus.
* Safety Features: Automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors are important.
* Shake Reminder: A great feature for ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
* Brand Reputation: While focusing on price, opting for a reputable brand often means better quality and customer support.