Where Can I Get the Cheapest Air Fryer Top Budget Picks Revealed

The cheapest air fryers are found at Walmart, Amazon, and Target, where budget models start under $50. For the best value, we highlight top-performing picks from brands like Dash and Cosori that balance affordability, reliability, and essential features. Check seasonal sales and subscribe to retailer newsletters for exclusive discounts that make already low prices even better.

Key Takeaways

• Compare prices: Check Amazon, Walmart, and Target for the best deals.
• Wait for sales: Black Friday and Prime Day offer steep discounts.
• Consider older models: Previous versions cost less but perform similarly.
• Use price trackers: Tools like CamelCamelCamel alert you to price drops.
• Check refurbished units: Certified pre-owned air fryers save money safely.
• Sign up for newsletters: Retailers send exclusive discount codes to subscribers.

Where Can I Get the Cheapest Air Fryer? Top Budget Picks Revealed

So, you’ve finally decided to jump on the air fryer bandwagon—and honestly, who can blame you? These little kitchen wizards have taken the world by storm, promising crispy, golden-brown foods with little to no oil. Whether you’re craving guilt-free french fries, roasted veggies, or even baked goods, an air fryer can do it all. But here’s the catch: you don’t want to break the bank just to enjoy these benefits. You’re asking the right question: where can I get the cheapest air fryer without sacrificing quality?

Let me tell you a quick story. A few years ago, I was in your exact shoes—excited about air frying, but overwhelmed by the prices. I remember staring at a $150 model and thinking, “There’s got to be a better way.” After weeks of research, testing, and even a few regrettable impulse buys, I cracked the code. The truth? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a reliable, efficient air fryer. In fact, some of the best budget options out there perform just as well—if not better—than their pricier cousins. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly where to find the cheapest air fryers, what features to look for, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Think of this as your friendly, no-nonsense roadmap to air fryer savings.

Why Air Fryers Are Worth the Hype (Even on a Budget)

How Air Fryers Work—And Why They Save Money

First, let’s clear up a common myth: air fryers don’t actually “fry” food. Instead, they use rapid air circulation (think mini convection ovens) to crisp food from the outside while keeping it juicy inside. This means you can get that satisfying crunch with just a light spritz of oil—or sometimes none at all. That’s not just healthier; it’s also cheaper in the long run. You’ll use less oil, reduce energy costs compared to heating a full oven, and even cut down on takeout because cooking at home feels easier.

For example, I once calculated that using my air fryer twice a week saved me about $20 a month on oil and delivery fees. Over a year, that’s $240—enough to buy a mid-range air fryer and still have change left over!

Debunking the “Cheap = Poor Quality” Myth

Many people assume that the cheapest air fryer must be flimsy, underpowered, or short-lived. But that’s not always true. While some ultra-budget models cut corners, plenty of affordable options deliver solid performance. The key is knowing which brands and models offer good value—not just the lowest price tag.

I learned this the hard way when I bought a $30 air fryer from a discount website. It worked… for three weeks. Then the non-stick coating started peeling. The lesson? Price matters, but so does build quality, warranty, and user reviews. A $50 model with a 2-year warranty and 4.5-star average rating is often a smarter buy than a $35 one with no return policy and mixed feedback.

Who Benefits Most from a Budget Air Fryer?

• College students: Small kitchens, tight budgets, and quick meals.
• Newlyweds: Building a home without overspending on appliances.
• Busy parents: Fast, hands-off cooking for picky eaters.
• Retirees: Energy-efficient cooking with less cleanup.

No matter your situation, a budget-friendly air fryer can fit into your lifestyle—if you pick the right one.

Top 5 Budget-Friendly Air Fryer Brands to Trust

1. Cosori – The Sweet Spot of Value

Cosori consistently ranks as one of the best budget-to-mid-range air fryer brands. Their Cosori Air Fryer Max XL (5.8 Quart) is a fan favorite, often priced under $80 during sales. It features 13 cooking presets, a square basket for more usable space, and a dishwasher-safe basket. I’ve used this model for over a year, and it still heats evenly and cleans up easily.

Pros: Reliable performance, good customer service, sleek design.
Cons: Slightly louder than premium models, but not disruptive.

2. Instant Vortex – From the Makers of Instant Pot

If you’ve ever used an Instant Pot, you know the brand stands for durability. The Instant Vortex 4-in-1 (6 Quart) is a standout budget pick, typically under $70. It doubles as an air fryer, broiler, roaster, and reheater—perfect for small kitchens where space is limited.

I bought this for my sister, who lives in a studio apartment. She uses it daily for everything from reheating pizza to roasting chicken wings. The touchscreen is intuitive, and the basket slides out smoothly.

3. Ninja – Trusted Name, Affordable Options

Ninja is a household name in kitchen appliances, and their Ninja Air Fryer (4 Quart) delivers solid performance for around $60. It’s compact, heats quickly, and has a simple dial interface—ideal if you’re not into tech-heavy gadgets.

One thing I love: the non-stick coating holds up well after months of use. My only gripe? The 4-quart size might be tight for families of four, but it’s perfect for singles or couples.

4. Dash – Ultra-Budget and Compact

For those on a very tight budget, the Dash Compact Air Fryer (2.6 Quart) is a steal at $45–$55. It’s small enough to fit on a countertop or in a dorm room, and it’s surprisingly powerful for its size.

I gifted one to my niece in college. She uses it to make frozen nuggets, sweet potato fries, and even mini pizzas. The downside? Limited capacity and fewer presets. But if you’re cooking for one or two, it’s a fantastic entry-level option.

5. GoWISE USA – Hidden Gem with Great Features

GoWISE USA flies under the radar, but their GoWISE 3.7 Quart Digital Air Fryer packs a punch for under $65. It has a digital touchscreen, 8 cooking presets, and a recipe app with over 50 free dishes.

I tested this model during a weekend getaway. It cooked frozen mozzarella sticks perfectly in 12 minutes—crispy outside, gooey inside. The app is a nice bonus, though not essential.

Where to Buy: The Best Places for the Cheapest Air Fryer

1. Amazon – The King of Deals and Reviews

Let’s be real: Amazon is the first place most of us check for appliances. And for good reason. It offers:

• Frequent sales: Prime Day, Black Friday, and holiday events often slash prices by 20–40%.
• Huge selection: Compare dozens of models side by side.
• Verified reviews: Read real user experiences before buying.

Pro tip: Sort by “Price: Low to High” and filter by 4+ stars. I once snagged a Cosori for $58 during a flash sale—normally $90!

2. Walmart – Great for In-Store and Online Pickup

Walmart is a sleeper hit for budget appliances. Their online store often matches Amazon’s prices, but they also offer:

• Free in-store pickup: No waiting for shipping.
• Price matching: If you find it cheaper elsewhere, they’ll match it.
• Exclusive models: Like the Mainstays 3.5 Quart Air Fryer ($39), a no-frills workhorse.

I bought a Walmart-exclusive Dash model last year. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done—and I saved $15 compared to Amazon.

3. Target – Style and Savings Combined

Target’s Threshold and Room Essentials lines include stylish, affordable air fryers. The Threshold 5.5 Quart Air Fryer is usually $65–$75 and comes in neutral colors that blend into modern kitchens.

Plus, Target Circle members get 5% off and access to exclusive deals. I picked up a Target air fryer during a “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” promo—perfect for gifting!

4. Best Buy – Tech-Savvy Shoppers’ Choice

Best Buy isn’t just for TVs. They carry top brands like Ninja and Instant, with:

• Price drops: Check weekly ads for markdowns.
• Geek Squad support: In-person help if something goes wrong.
• Open-box deals: Returned items sold at a discount (fully tested).

I once grabbed a returned Instant Vortex for $45—like new, with a full warranty.

5. Local Thrift Stores and Facebook Marketplace

For the ultimate budget hunter, don’t overlook secondhand options. I found a lightly used Ninja air fryer at Goodwill for $20. It looked brand new, and after a quick clean, it worked perfectly.

Tip: Always ask for a demo if possible. Check for smoke, strange smells, or uneven heating before buying.

How to Spot a Great Deal (And Avoid Scams)

Watch for “Too Good to Be True” Prices

You’ll see air fryers advertised for $20, $25, even $15. Sounds amazing, right? But here’s the red flag: if a 5-quart air fryer is under $30, it’s likely a knockoff or counterfeit. These often have:

• Weak heating elements (takes forever to cook)
• Peeling non-stick coatings
• No safety certifications (risk of overheating)

I once bought a $25 “air fryer” from a shady website. It arrived with a Chinese manual, no brand name, and the plug didn’t fit my outlet. Never again.

Read the Fine Print on “Refurbished” Models

Refurbished air fryers can be a great deal—but only if they’re from reputable sources. Look for:

• “Certified refurbished” by the manufacturer
• At least a 90-day warranty
• Original packaging and accessories

Amazon Warehouse and Best Buy Outlet are safe bets. Avoid “refurbished” items from random eBay sellers with no return policy.

Compare Total Cost, Not Just Price

Think beyond the sticker price. Ask yourself:

• Is shipping free? (Some sites offer free shipping over $35)
• Is there a warranty? (At least 1 year is standard)
• Are replacement parts available? (Baskets, crisper plates, etc.)

I once paid $50 for a cheap air fryer, but when the basket cracked, I couldn’t find a replacement. Total loss. A $65 model with a 2-year warranty and spare parts would’ve been cheaper long-term.

Use Price Tracking Tools

Don’t buy at full price! Use tools like:

• Honey: Alerts you to price drops and applies coupons.
• CamelCamelCamel: Tracks Amazon price history.
• Google Shopping: Compares prices across retailers.

I saved $22 on my last air fryer purchase by waiting for a 30% drop on Amazon. Patience pays!

Size, Capacity, and Features: Matching Your Needs

How Big Should Your Air Fryer Be?

Capacity matters more than you think. Here’s a quick guide:

• 2–3 quarts: 1–2 people (great for dorms or small apartments)
• 4–5 quarts: 2–4 people (ideal for most households)
• 6+ quarts: Families of 4+ or frequent entertainers

I made the mistake of buying a 2-quart model when I lived with my boyfriend. We had to cook in batches—frustrating and time-consuming. Upgrading to 5.8 quarts was a game-changer.

Essential Features vs. Nice-to-Haves

Not all features are worth the extra cost. Focus on:

• Even heating: No hot or cold spots.
• Dishwasher-safe basket: Saves cleanup time.
• Timer and auto-shutoff: Prevents burning.

Skip the gimmicks: voice control, Wi-Fi, or 20 cooking presets. A simple digital display with 5–8 presets is more than enough.

Non-Stick Coating: What to Look For

Most air fryers use PTFE or ceramic non-stick coatings. Avoid “Teflon” if you’re concerned about chemicals. Instead, look for:

• Ceramic-coated baskets: Safer and more durable.
• Scratch-resistant: Prevents flaking.

I use silicone liners or parchment paper to extend my basket’s life. A $5 pack of 200 liners has saved me hundreds in replacements.

Data Table: Top 5 Budget Air Fryers Compared

Model	Price (Avg.)	Capacity	Key Features	Best For
Cosori Max XL	$75–$85	5.8 qt	13 presets, square basket, dishwasher-safe	Families, meal preppers
Instant Vortex 4-in-1	$65–$75	6 qt	4 cooking modes, touchscreen, compact	Small kitchens, multitaskers
Ninja Air Fryer	$55–$65	4 qt	Simple dial, fast heating, durable	Couples, minimalists
Dash Compact	$45–$55	2.6 qt	Compact, lightweight, easy to store	Students, singles
GoWISE 3.7 Digital	$60–$65	3.7 qt	8 presets, recipe app, digital display	Beginners, tech lovers

Final Thoughts: Smart Shopping for the Cheapest Air Fryer

So, where can I get the cheapest air fryer? The answer isn’t just “the lowest price.” It’s about finding the best value—where affordability meets reliability, capacity, and ease of use. Whether you’re buying from Amazon, Walmart, or a local thrift store, the key is to do your homework. Read reviews, compare features, and never rush into a purchase just because it’s on sale.

Remember my journey? From the $30 flop to the $75 Cosori that’s still going strong, I’ve learned that cheap doesn’t have to mean cheaply made. With the tips and picks in this guide, you’re not just saving money—you’re investing in a kitchen tool that’ll make your life easier, healthier, and more delicious.

Now go forth, find that perfect air fryer, and make the crispiest sweet potato fries of your life. And when someone asks where you got it for so cheap, just smile and say, “I did my research.” You’ve earned it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get the cheapest air fryer without compromising quality?

You can find the cheapest air fryers at discount retailers like Walmart, Target, or Amazon during seasonal sales. Look for budget-friendly brands such as Dash, Cosori, or GoWISE, which offer reliable performance under $50–$70.

Which stores offer the best deals on air fryers year-round?

Stores like Costco, Best Buy, and online marketplaces (eBay, Overstock) frequently run promotions on air fryers. Sign up for retailer newsletters to get alerts on flash sales and exclusive discounts.

Are refurbished or open-box air fryers a good way to save money?

Yes, buying refurbished or open-box air fryers from certified sellers (e.g., Amazon Renewed, manufacturer outlets) can save you 20–40%. These units are tested, cleaned, and often come with warranties.

What’s the cheapest air fryer with good reviews under $60?

The Dash Compact Air Fryer (2.6 qt) and GoWISE USA 3.7-qt model are top-rated budget picks under $60. Both deliver crispy results and have 4+ star ratings from thousands of users.

When is the best time to buy the cheapest air fryer?

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and post-holiday sales (January) are prime times to snag the cheapest air fryers. Back-to-school and summer clearance events also offer deep discounts.

Can I find a cheap air fryer at thrift stores or garage sales?

Yes, but inspect for damage and ensure it heats properly. While rare, you might score a deal under $20. Always clean thoroughly and test functionality before use.