Are you tired of greasy, unhealthy deep-fried foods but still crave that satisfying crunch? Enter the air fryer! This countertop marvel has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier, quicker way to enjoy your favorite crispy treats. The good news? You don’t need to break the bank to get one. Finding the best air fryer for $100 might seem like a challenge, but with the right guidance, you can snag a fantastic deal that fits your budget and your kitchen needs.
While our goal here is to pinpoint the absolute best air fryer for $100, we’ve also included a couple of highly versatile “air fryer oven” options that often stretch the budget a little but offer incredible multi-functionality, along with a must-have accessory. Think of it as getting the most bang for your buck, whether it’s a straightforward air fryer or a more advanced kitchen companion. Let’s dive in and find your next favorite appliance!
TOPZEE Air Fryer 12-in-1 with 5.5 QT Large Capacity
Looking for a dedicated air fryer that packs a punch without emptying your wallet? The TOPZEE Air Fryer could be your ideal match. This appliance stands out with its generous 5.5-quart capacity, making it perfect for families, combined with 12 preset functions that take the guesswork out of cooking. Its 360° hot air circulation technology ensures your food comes out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, achieving that coveted “fried” taste with up to 95% less oil. Plus, the handy visual window means you can keep an eye on your culinary creations without interrupting the cooking process.
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Key Features:
- Excellent Taste with 360° hot air circulation and precise 40-200℃ temperature control
- 12-in-1 preset functions for versatile cooking
- 5.5QT large capacity, ideal for family meals
- Up to 95% oil saving compared to traditional deep-frying
- Convenient preheat function
- Easy to clean with non-stick, detachable, dishwasher-safe parts
- HD touch screen with visual window and LED lights
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Pros:
- Large capacity fits family-sized portions
- Wide temperature range and precise control for optimal results
- Numerous presets simplify cooking
- Significant oil reduction for healthier meals
- See-through window is a great convenience
- Simple cleanup
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Cons:
- Might take up a fair bit of counter space
- Some users may prefer physical dials over touch screen
- Specific 12-in-1 functions might not cover all unique cooking needs
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise its large size and how well it cooks food, delivering consistently crispy results. Many appreciate the convenience of the preheat function and the ease of cleaning. The visual window is a definite crowd-pleaser, allowing for quick checks without opening the basket. For its price point, it’s considered an excellent value.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
Ninja is a name synonymous with quality kitchen appliances, and their Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 lives up to that reputation, often being a strong contender for the best air fryer for $100. This compact yet powerful unit utilizes Ninja’s signature Air Crisp Technology, blasting food with superheated air up to 400℉ for incredibly crispy results with minimal oil. With a 5-quart capacity, it’s great for anything from a batch of fries to a whole chicken. Its 4-in-1 functionality means you can air fry, roast, reheat, and even dehydrate, making it a versatile workhorse for everyday meals.
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Key Features:
- Air Crisp Technology for superheated, crispy results with little to no oil
- 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, fits up to 4 lbs of French fries
- 4-in-1 Functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate
- Up to 75% less fat than traditional deep frying
- Efficiently cooks frozen foods to a crispy finish
- Space-saving design for countertops
- Easy to clean nonstick basket and crisper plate
- Includes a chef-inspired 20 recipe book and cooking charts
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Pros:
- Delivers excellent crispy texture
- Multi-functional, expanding cooking possibilities
- Generous capacity for its size
- Reputable brand known for durability
- Very easy to clean
- Compact footprint for smaller kitchens
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Cons:
- Fewer preset functions compared to some competitors
- Lacks a transparent window to view food
- May not be ideal for very large families needing more than 5QT
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User Impressions: Customers love the Ninja Air Fryer Pro for its consistent performance and user-friendliness. The ability to cook frozen foods quickly and achieve impressive crispiness is a huge plus for busy households. Many highlight how easy it is to clean and its sleek design that doesn’t overwhelm the counter. It’s often recommended as a solid, reliable choice.
Instant Pot 10QT Air Fryer, 7-in-1 Functions with EvenCrisp Technology
While slightly different from a traditional basket air fryer, the Instant Pot 10QT Air Fryer is a powerful “air fryer oven” that brings incredible versatility to your kitchen, making it a worthy mention for those considering the best air fryer for $100 who might stretch their budget slightly for more features. This appliance doesn’t just air fry; it roasts, broils, bakes, reheats, dehydrates, and even rotisseries! Its large 10-quart capacity is fantastic for bigger families or meal prepping, and the EvenCrisp Technology ensures uniform cooking and that signature crunch with 95% less oil. The front window is a bonus, letting you monitor your food without opening the door.
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Key Features:
- 7 Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, dehydrate, and rotisserie
- Customizable Smart Programs with 6 one-touch options
- EvenCrisp Technology for perfect crunch with 95% less oil
- Large front window for easy monitoring
- Family-Sized 10-quart capacity (up to 6 portions)
- ETL Certified with safety features like overheat protection and auto-off
- Includes non-stick drip pan, 2 perforated cooking trays, and rotisserie accessories
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Pros:
- Highly versatile with multiple cooking functions
- Large capacity suitable for families and entertaining
- Excellent for rotisserie chicken
- Transparent viewing window is very convenient
- Delivers superior crispiness
- Quick preheat time
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Cons:
- Larger countertop footprint than basket air fryers
- Can be a bit pricier than basic air fryers
- Cleaning multiple accessories might take more effort than a single basket
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User Impressions: Users rave about the Instant Pot Air Fryer’s multi-functionality, especially the rotisserie feature which yields delicious whole chickens. The large capacity is a major selling point for families, and the viewing window is highly appreciated. While it’s a bigger appliance, its versatility often makes it a favorite for those looking to declutter their kitchen by combining multiple appliances into one.
Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Improved 100%
The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a full-fledged air fryer toaster oven, offering an expansive range of cooking options that make it a compelling choice for those seeking maximum utility in their kitchen. With its improved fan for faster cooking and crispier results, alongside precise temperature control (from 50°F to 500°F) and customizable top/bottom heating elements, you get unparalleled control. Its generous 30-quart compact size can handle two 13-inch pizzas or a 10-lb chicken, perfect for large families or entertaining. The integrated smart digital thermometer is a standout feature, ensuring your food is cooked to perfection every time.
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Key Features:
- Faster fan for quicker cooking and crispier results
- Customize top/bottom heaters (0-100%) and 3 fan speeds for different heating zones
- 112 Easy-Cook Presets (12 cooking functions + 100 one-touch recipes)
- Multi-layer even cooking with upgraded convection system (0-1°F temp difference)
- Wide temperature range (50°F to 500°F) in 5°F increments
- 30QT compact size: fits two 13-inch pizzas, 10-lb Chicken, etc.
- Integrated Smart Digital Thermometer for automatic cooking termination
- Intuitive digital controls with cool white display, panel lock, mute functions
- Heavy duty, food-grade stainless steel construction, no plastic odors
- PFAS-Free Accessories included (racks, crumb tray, baking pan, broiler rack, air fry basket, smart thermometer, recipe book)
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Pros:
- Extreme versatility as a toaster oven and air fryer
- Large capacity for big meals
- Precise temperature and heating zone control
- Smart thermometer ensures perfect doneness
- Durable stainless steel construction and PFAS-free accessories
- Excellent for even multi-layer cooking
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Cons:
- Significantly larger countertop footprint than standard air fryers
- Higher price point than basic air fryers
- Learning curve for all the advanced features and settings
- Cleaning can be more involved due to its size and multiple racks
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User Impressions: Users absolutely adore the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro for its incredible versatility and precision. The ability to cook a wide variety of foods with such control is frequently highlighted. The integrated thermometer is a game-changer for many, guaranteeing perfectly cooked meats. While it’s a larger investment, customers feel it replaces multiple appliances, making it a valuable addition to their kitchen.
SIUDANGKA Air Fryer Liners for Ninja Air Fryer, 100 Pcs
While not an air fryer itself, these SIUDANGKA Air Fryer Liners are an essential accessory that can significantly enhance your air frying experience, especially if you’re trying to keep your new appliance (perhaps even the best air fryer for $100 you just bought!) in pristine condition. These disposable parchment paper liners are designed to fit popular Ninja air fryer models perfectly, making cleanup a breeze. Made from unbleached, food-grade, BPA-free wood pulp with silicone oil, they are heat-resistant up to 450℉/230℃, ensuring safe cooking without sticking or mess. Say goodbye to scrubbing stubborn food residue from your air fryer basket!
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Key Features:
- Safe Selection of Materials: Raw wood pulp, unbleached, fluorescent agent-free, BPA-free, food-grade silicone oil
- Heat resistant up to 450℉/230℃
- Precise Compatibility: Custom made for Ninja AF101 (4qt), Ninja AF150 (5.5qt XL), and Ninja AF161 (5.5 qt Max XL)
- Best Choice for Air Fryer: Disposable for quick and easy cleaning
- Package Including: 100pcs air fryer paper liners
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Pros:
- Dramatically simplifies air fryer cleanup
- Prevents food from sticking to the basket
- Safe and food-grade materials
- Perfect fit for specified Ninja models
- Disposable, saving time and effort
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Cons:
- Disposable, which can create waste
- Requires careful placement to prevent burning if not weighted down by food
- Specific to certain air fryer basket shapes/sizes, may not fit all models
- An additional ongoing cost
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User Impressions: Users who’ve tried these liners generally can’t imagine air frying without them. The convenience of simply tossing the liner after cooking is a massive time-saver. Many note that it keeps their air fryer basket looking new. The fit for Ninja models is consistently praised, making them a top pick for hassle-free cooking and cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What should I look for when buying the best air fryer for $100?
A1: When shopping for an air fryer in this budget, focus on capacity (3-6 quarts is common), essential functions (air fry, roast), ease of cleaning (non-stick basket, dishwasher-safe parts), and simple controls. Check user reviews for consistent performance and durability. While extras like presets or viewing windows are nice, prioritize core functionality and reliability within your budget.
Q2: Are budget air fryers worth it, or should I spend more?
A2: Absolutely, budget air fryers are worth it! Many affordable models deliver excellent results, especially for typical air frying tasks like making crispy fries, chicken wings, or vegetables. While higher-priced models might offer more advanced features, larger capacities, or multi-functionality (like those that double as toaster ovens), a well-chosen air fryer under $100 can significantly enhance your cooking experience and promote healthier eating habits.
Q3: What’s the difference between an air fryer and an air fryer oven?
A3: A traditional air fryer typically has a pull-out basket and is primarily designed for air frying. An air fryer oven (or air fryer toaster oven) is usually larger, has a door like a conventional oven, and can perform multiple functions like air frying, baking, roasting, toasting, and dehydrating. Air fryer ovens often offer more capacity and versatility but take up more counter space and are generally more expensive.
Q4: How do air fryers work?
A4: Air fryers work by circulating extremely hot air around food, similar to a convection oven. A heating element and a powerful fan rapidly distribute heat, creating a super-heated environment that crisps up the food’s exterior while cooking the interior. This process mimics the effect of deep-frying, using little to no oil.
Q5: What can I cook in an air fryer?
A5: The possibilities are vast! Air fryers are fantastic for achieving crispy textures on foods like French fries, chicken wings, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, and frozen snacks. You can also cook vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts), roast smaller cuts of meat, bake small desserts, reheat leftovers, and even “fry” eggs or make grilled cheese sandwiches.
Q6: How do I clean my air fryer?
A6: Most air fryer baskets and crisper plates are non-stick and detachable, making them easy to clean. You can typically wash them with warm, soapy water or place them in the dishwasher (check the manufacturer’s instructions). For the main unit, wipe it down with a damp cloth after it has cooled. Using air fryer liners can significantly reduce cleanup time.
Q7: Do I need air fryer liners?
A7: While not strictly necessary for the air fryer to function, air fryer liners are highly recommended for easier cleanup. They prevent food from sticking to the basket and eliminate the need for scrubbing. If you cook messy or greasy foods frequently, liners can be a game-changer for maintaining your air fryer’s cleanliness.