Tired of greasy, unhealthy fried foods but still crave that satisfying crunch? Air fryers have become a kitchen essential, offering a healthier way to enjoy your favorite crispy treats with little to no oil. But often, the best kitchen gadgets come with a hefty price tag, right? Well, not always! You might be surprised to learn that you don’t have to break the bank to get a fantastic air fryer that delivers delicious results.
We’ve scoured the market to find the best air fryer for under $100, proving that quality and affordability can go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re a single person, a couple, or a small family, there’s a budget-friendly option out there that will fit your lifestyle and your countertop. Let’s dive into our top picks that offer incredible value without compromising on performance!
1. Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer
The Chefman 6-quart air fryer strikes an excellent balance between capacity and countertop footprint, making it a stellar option for families of 3-5 people. What truly sets this model apart is its “HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY,” allowing you to crank up the heat to 450°F during the final two minutes of cooking. This feature ensures an extra crispy finish on everything from chicken tenders to French fries, giving you that satisfying crunch without excess oil. Its sleek, narrow design is a boon for smaller kitchens, and the digital touch screen makes operation a breeze.
- Key Features:
- Fast and easy cooking with digital touch screen and four presets.
- 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY for extra crispiness.
- Sleek, compact design maximizes 6-quart capacity.
- Healthy cooking with little-to-no oil.
- LED Shake Notifications for even cooking.
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and rack for easy cleanup.
- Automatic shutoff for safety.
- Pros:
- Great capacity for its compact size.
- High-temperature crisping function is a game-changer.
- User-friendly digital display and presets.
- Easy to clean components.
- Shake reminder ensures even results.
- Cons:
- Limited number of presets compared to some competitors.
- The audible alarm for shaking might be too loud for some.
- User Impressions: Customers love this Chefman model for its impressive crisping ability and generous capacity without taking up too much counter space. Many highlight the ease of use and quick cleanup as major positives, making healthy eating more accessible for busy households.
2. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
Ninja is a household name for kitchen appliances, and their Air Fryer Pro lives up to the reputation. This 5-quart powerhouse isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a versatile 4-in-1 machine that can air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate. Its “AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY” ensures food is surrounded by 400℉ superheated air, delivering hot, crispy results with up to 75% less fat than traditional methods. If you’re looking for a reliable, multi-functional appliance from a trusted brand, this Ninja model is a fantastic choice, fitting a surprising amount of food for its footprint.
- Key Features:
- AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY for crispy, low-fat results.
- Large 5-quart nonstick basket fits up to 4 lbs of fries or 5 lbs of wings.
- 4-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate.
- Cooks frozen foods quickly to a crispy finish.
- Space-saving design.
- Easy-to-clean nonstick basket and crisper plate.
- Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with multiple cooking functions.
- Ninja’s renowned air crisp performance.
- Generous capacity for family meals.
- Quickly cooks food from frozen.
- Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleanup.
- Cons:
- Doesn’t have a viewing window to monitor food.
- Some users might prefer more advanced digital controls or presets.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Ninja Air Fryer Pro for its consistent performance and ability to make perfectly crispy food. Its multi-functionality is a big hit, allowing them to declutter their kitchen by replacing several appliances with one capable unit. It’s often cited as a kitchen staple for healthy cooking.
3. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving
For those living in smaller spaces, dorm rooms, or just cooking for one or two people, the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer is a perfect match. This little giant maximizes its small footprint with a square basket, allowing for efficient use of its 2-quart capacity. It boasts a digital touch screen, adjustable temperature up to 400°F, and even includes the helpful “Shake Notifications” to ensure your mini meals are cooked to crispy perfection. It’s the ideal best air fryer for under $100 if compactness and efficiency are your top priorities.
- Key Features:
- Fast and easy cooking with digital touch screen.
- Healthy cooking with little-to-no oil.
- Supreme space-saver with a sleek, narrow design.
- Shake Notifications for even crisping.
- Perfectly sized for 1-2 people.
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and rack.
- Automatic shutoff for safety.
- Pros:
- Incredibly compact, ideal for small kitchens.
- Digital controls for precise cooking.
- Quick cooking times, often faster than a traditional oven.
- Shake reminder is a thoughtful touch.
- Very easy to clean.
- Cons:
- Limited capacity, not suitable for larger families.
- Fewer advanced features compared to larger models.
- User Impressions: Reviewers love how this mini air fryer fits seamlessly into tight spaces while still delivering great results. It’s frequently recommended for singles, couples, or anyone needing a quick, healthy snack solution. Its simplicity and ease of cleaning are often highlighted.
4. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Dehydrate (4-Quart)
Another excellent contender from Ninja, this 4-quart air fryer offers fantastic versatility for its size, making it a prime candidate for the best air fryer for under $100. With four versatile cooking programs – Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate – it’s more than just a fryer. It allows you to create guilt-free fried foods with up to 75% less fat. The wide temperature range from 105°F to 400°F is particularly useful for dehydrating homemade snacks, offering a new dimension to your healthy cooking endeavors.
- Key Features:
- Up to 75% less fat than traditional frying.
- Wide temperature range (105°F-400°F) for versatile cooking.
- Family-sized 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket.
- 4-in-1 versatility: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- Dehydrate function for homemade snacks.
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning.
- Pros:
- Excellent fat reduction for healthier meals.
- Versatile with four distinct cooking functions.
- Great for making crispy snacks and even dehydrating fruits.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe components.
- Reliable performance from a trusted brand.
- Cons:
- No specific presets for common foods.
- Basket size might be a bit snug for larger families.
- User Impressions: Many users praise this Ninja air fryer for its consistent crisping results and impressive fat reduction. The dehydration function is a pleasant surprise for those looking to make their own healthy snacks. It’s seen as a solid, reliable workhorse for everyday healthy cooking.
5. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Fast Turbo
COSORI consistently delivers high-quality air fryers, and their 6-quart TurboBlaze model is a shining example. This 9-in-1 air fryer boasts innovative TurboBlaze Technology, featuring a powerful 3600 rpm fan and temperatures up to 450℉ for incredibly crispy and juicy results. It offers a unique 5-fan speed system and precise temperature control, elevating your cooking versatility to a professional grade. What’s more, it operates at a whisper-quiet less than 53 dB, making your kitchen experience much more comfortable.
- Key Features:
- TurboBlaze Technology with 3600 rpm fan and up to 450℉.
- Advanced airflow and precise temperature control for even cooking.
- Unique 5-fan speed system for professional-grade versatility.
- Speeds up cooking time.
- Large 6-quart square basket for family meals.
- Whisper-quiet operation (<53 dB).
- Up to 95% less oil than traditional deep frying.
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick cooking basket.
- Customizable Preheat function.
- Pros:
- Exceptional crisping and cooking performance with TurboBlaze.
- Impressive 9-in-1 functionality.
- Remarkably quiet operation.
- Large capacity yet space-efficient design.
- Adjustable preheat function is a nice touch.
- Cons:
- The initial learning curve with 9 functions might be a bit much for some.
- Some users might prefer physical buttons over touch controls.
- User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed by the speed and quiet operation of the COSORI TurboBlaze. The ability to achieve perfectly crispy food with minimal oil is a consistent highlight. Its versatile functions make it a go-to appliance for a wide range of dishes, from weeknight dinners to special treats.
6. Cuisinart Air Fryer Oven, 6-Qt Basket Stainless Steel Air
Cuisinart brings its trusted kitchen expertise to the air fryer world with this 6-quart stainless steel model. Designed for the whole family, it offers 5 air fry presets for common foods like French Fries, Wings, and Vegetables, making meal prep incredibly convenient. A standout feature is the large viewing window, allowing you to monitor your food without opening the basket and losing heat. Plus, the toss reminder ensures even crisping every time, while the automatic warming mode keeps your food perfectly warm until you’re ready to serve.
- Key Features:
- Large 6-quart capacity with stainless steel finish.
- 5 air fry presets for quick meals (French Fries, Wings, Frozen Snacks, Vegetables, Leftovers).
- Healthier cooking with even hot-air circulation.
- Digital display and large viewing window.
- Toss reminder for perfect crisping.
- Adjustable temperature up to 450°F and automatic warming mode.
- Pros:
- Stylish stainless steel aesthetic.
- Convenient presets for popular dishes.
- Viewing window is a fantastic feature for monitoring progress.
- Toss reminder ensures consistent results.
- Automatic warming mode is useful for busy families.
- Cons:
- Controls might be less intuitive for first-time air fryer users.
- Might be slightly bulkier than basket-style air fryers without a viewing window.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the Cuisinart’s sleek design and the practical viewing window, which many find indispensable. The presets and toss reminder are frequently praised for making air frying foolproof. It’s seen as a reliable and aesthetically pleasing addition to any kitchen.
7. CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, 10-Liter
If you’re looking for an air fryer that truly does it all without breaking the bank, the CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie is a prime contender. With an extra-large 10-liter capacity, this model isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a versatile convection oven capable of air frying, baking, dehydrating, rotisserie cooking, and roasting. It boasts 17 preset options and an easy-to-use capacitive touch control screen, making complex meals simple. The interior lights and extra-large window let you keep an eye on your culinary creations as they crisp to perfection.
- Key Features:
- Versatile countertop cooking: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, roast.
- Rapid air heating for faster cooking without preheating.
- Healthy cooking with 98% less oil.
- 17 preset options and easy-to-use touch control screen.
- Includes three air flow racks, stainless steel rotisserie spit, and drip tray.
- Extra-large 10-liter capacity for family-size meals or meal prepping.
- Interior lights and large viewing window to monitor cooking.
- Removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts for minimal clean-up.
- Pros:
- Unbeatable versatility with 5-in-1 functionality.
- Massive 10-liter capacity is excellent for large families or meal prep.
- Wide array of presets simplify cooking.
- Rotisserie function adds unique cooking options.
- Easy to monitor food through the large window.
- Cons:
- Larger footprint than traditional basket-style air fryers.
- Might be overkill for single users or small apartments.
- User Impressions: This Chefman air fryer oven receives rave reviews for its expansive capacity and multi-functionality. Users love the rotisserie feature for perfectly cooked chickens and the dehydrating option for healthy snacks. It’s considered a true kitchen workhorse, especially for larger families or those who love to experiment with different cooking methods.
Finding Your Perfect Match for Under $100
There you have it – our top picks for the best air fryer for under $100! It’s clear that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of air frying. When choosing, consider your household size (capacity is key!), the types of foods you’ll mostly cook (are presets important?), and if you’d benefit from extra functions like roasting, baking, or dehydrating. No matter your choice, getting an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy healthier, crispier food with less fuss. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How does an air fryer work?
A: An air fryer works like a miniature convection oven. It circulates hot air (usually between 300°F and 400°F) rapidly around your food. This superheated air cooks the food and creates a crispy, fried-like texture on the outside, similar to deep frying, but with little to no oil.
Q2: Are air fryers really healthier than deep frying?
A: Yes, absolutely! Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional deep frying, often using 75% to 98% less. This means your meals will have fewer calories and less fat, making them a much healthier alternative for enjoying your favorite “fried” foods.
Q3: What capacity air fryer do I need?
A: The ideal capacity depends on your household size:
– 2-quart or less: Ideal for single individuals or couples.
– 3-5 quarts: Great for small families (3-4 people).
– 6 quarts or more: Best for larger families (5+ people) or for meal prepping.
Q4: What kinds of food can I cook in an air fryer?
A: You can cook a wide variety of foods in an air fryer! Popular items include French fries, chicken wings, chicken nuggets, fish, shrimp, vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, potatoes), frozen snacks, and even baked goods like cookies or small cakes. Many multi-functional air fryers can also roast meats, dehydrate fruits, and more.
Q5: How do I clean my air fryer?
A: Most air fryer baskets and crisper plates are nonstick and often dishwasher-safe, making cleanup quite simple. For other parts, wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Always let the air fryer cool down completely before cleaning, and avoid abrasive scrubbers that could damage the nonstick coating. Refer to your specific model’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions.
Q6: What features should I look for in an air fryer under $100?
A: When shopping for an affordable air fryer, look for:
– Capacity: Ensure it fits your needs.
– Digital Controls/Presets: For ease of use and precise cooking.
– Temperature Range: A wider range offers more cooking versatility.
– Nonstick & Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Simplifies cleanup.
– Safety Features: Auto-shutoff, cool-touch exterior.
– Multi-functional: If you want to roast, bake, or dehydrate.
– Compact Design: If counter space is limited.
Q7: Is it worth buying a cheap air fryer, or should I save up for a more expensive one?
A: Absolutely, it’s worth it! As this article shows, there are many high-quality, reliable air fryers available for under $100. These budget-friendly options can deliver excellent performance, make healthier eating easier, and still offer a great range of features. Unless you need very specific, advanced functions (which are typically found in much higher price points), an affordable air fryer will likely exceed your expectations and be a fantastic addition to your kitchen.