Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried food? But the health implications and the mess of deep-frying can be a real turn-off. What if I told you that you could achieve that golden, crispy perfection without the guilt and for a price that won’t make your wallet weep? Finding the Best Air Fryer Under 100 is no longer a myth; it’s a delicious reality that’s about to revolutionize your kitchen. Forget the idea that you need to spend a fortune to get a quality appliance. We’re here to guide you through the maze of options and prove that amazing, healthy meals are just one affordable machine away.
For a more in-depth look at what to expect in this price range, our detailed budget air fryer review breaks down the features and performance you can count on.
Why a Budget-Friendly Air Fryer is a Kitchen Game-Changer
You might be wondering, “Is a cheaper air fryer really worth it?” The answer is a resounding yes! An air fryer is essentially a compact, high-powered convection oven. It works by circulating super-hot air around your food at high speed, creating a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender and juicy—all with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying. Think of it as a tiny tornado of hot air that crisps everything it touches.
Here’s why investing in an affordable model is one of the smartest kitchen decisions you can make:
- Healthier Cooking: You can cut down on oil usage by up to 80%. This means fewer calories and less saturated fat, making your favorite “guilty pleasures” like french fries and chicken wings a regular, guilt-free part of your menu.
- Unbeatable Convenience: These machines preheat in minutes, cook food faster than a conventional oven, and are incredibly easy to clean. Dinner on the table in under 20 minutes? Absolutely possible.
- Incredible Versatility: An air fryer isn’t just for frying. You can use it to roast vegetables, bake small desserts, grill a steak, or even reheat leftovers to crispy perfection (goodbye, soggy microwave pizza!).
- Energy Efficiency: Because they’re smaller and heat up faster than a full-sized oven, air fryers use significantly less energy, which is great for both the environment and your electricity bill.
What to Look for in the Best Air Fryer Under 100
When you’re shopping on a budget, knowing which features are essential and which are just nice-to-haves is key. A sub-$100 model won’t have Wi-Fi connectivity or a built-in food thermometer, but it will absolutely have everything you need to make incredible food.
Expert Tip: Don’t get distracted by a dozen pre-set functions you’ll never use. Focus on the core performance: temperature control, timer accuracy, and basket design. These are the elements that truly make or break an air fryer.
Capacity: How Much Food Can It Actually Hold?
The size of the air fryer is one of the most important factors. Capacity is usually measured in quarts (QT).
- 2-4 Quarts: Perfect for individuals or couples. You can comfortably cook two chicken breasts, a generous portion of fries for two, or a side of roasted broccoli. It’s the ideal size for smaller kitchens and countertops.
- 5-6 Quarts: This is the sweet spot for small families (3-4 people). It gives you enough room to cook a whole small chicken (around 3 lbs) or enough wings for game night without having to cook in multiple batches.
I learned the hard way about overcrowding the basket when I first started. I tried to stuff a whole bag of frozen fries into my 3-quart model, and they came out steamed and soggy. Remember, the hot air needs space to circulate to create that signature crispiness.
Controls: Digital Touchscreen vs. Manual Dials
In this price range, you’ll find both types of controls. Neither is inherently better; it’s all about personal preference.
- Manual Dials: These are simple, intuitive, and durable. You have one dial for temperature and one for time. They are straightforward and get the job done with no fuss. They have a classic, tactile feel that many people love.
- Digital Touchscreen: These offer more precise temperature and time settings. They often come with a few pre-programmed settings for common foods like fries or chicken, which can be a nice bonus for beginners. The sleek, modern look is also a plus.
Wattage: The Power Behind the Crisp
Wattage is a measure of the air fryer’s power. Generally, a higher wattage (around 1500-1700W) means the unit can heat up faster and maintain a consistent temperature more effectively. This leads to better browning and crispier results. While you can find decent models with lower wattage, try to aim for at least 1400W if you can.
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Our Picks for the Best Air Fryer in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
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| 1 | Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 5QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of French Fries | 400F Max Temp | Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate | 120V | Grey | AF141 |
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| 2 | Amazon Basics 3.2 Quart 6-In-1 Air Fryer (Fry, Crisp, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate), Non-Stick, with Timer, Auto Shut-Off, Digital Touch Screen, 180-400°F, 1400W, Black/Silver |
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| 3 | Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer, Large 5-Quart Family Size, One Touch Digital Control Presets, French Fries, Chicken, Meat, Fish, Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Parts, Automatic Shutoff, Stainless Steel |
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| 4 | CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket, Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Digital Timer and Shake Reminder – Black |
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| 5 | Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black |
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| 6 | Cuisinart Air Fryer, 2.6-Quart Compact Basket Fryer with 3 Cooking Functions to Air Fry, Roast, and Bake, 3 Airfryer Presets, Dishwasher-Safe Parts, AIR-80, Stainless Steel & Black |
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| 7 | Instant Pot 4QT VORTEX 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer, Air fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, Dehydrate or Reheat, Rosewater, 4 Quarts |
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| 8 | Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black |
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| 9 | Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black |
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| 10 | Ninja | Air Fryer | 4 QT Capacity | 4-in1 Roast, Crisp, Roast, Reheats, & Dehydrates | Dishwasher Safe Parts | Includes 20 Easy & Healthy Recipes | Compact | Grey | AF101 |
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How Do I Get the Most Out of My Budget Air Fryer?
Getting a great deal on an appliance is just the first step. The real magic happens when you know how to use it properly. Here are my tried-and-true tips for getting restaurant-quality results from your affordable air fryer.
- Always Preheat: Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes ensures that your food starts cooking immediately at the right temperature. This is the secret to a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is the golden rule of air frying. Arrange your food in a single layer, leaving a bit of space between pieces. This allows the hot air to circulate freely and cook everything evenly. Cook in batches if you need to—it’s worth the extra time!
- A Little Oil Goes a Long Way: While it’s called an “air fryer,” a light spritz or toss with your favorite cooking oil (about a teaspoon) helps with browning and crisping. It also prevents food from sticking. An oil mister is a fantastic accessory for this.
- Shake, Shake, Shake: For small items like fries, tater tots, or chopped vegetables, give the basket a good shake halfway through the cooking time. For larger items like chicken thighs, flip them over. This simple step guarantees an even, golden-brown finish on all sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your New Kitchen Gadget
It’s easy to get excited and just throw things in, but avoiding these common pitfalls will take your air frying game from good to great.
- Using Wet Batters: Liquid batters (like the kind for tempura) will just drip through the basket and make a huge mess. Stick to dry coatings like flour, breadcrumbs, or panko.
- Ignoring the Drip Tray: The pan beneath the basket is there to catch crumbs and oil. Forgetting to clean it can lead to smoking and unpleasant odors.
- Putting Lightweight Items on Top: Be careful with very light items like loose spinach or small pieces of bread. The powerful fan can blow them around, potentially into the heating element.
- Using Aerosol Cooking Sprays: Many commercial cooking sprays contain propellants and agents that can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket over time. It’s better to use an oil mister or simply brush on a thin layer of oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are air fryers under $100 any good?
Absolutely! While they may lack some advanced features of premium models, the best air fryer under 100 delivers excellent cooking performance for everyday tasks. They are perfect for achieving crispy, delicious results on a budget and are a fantastic entry point into the world of air frying.
What is the ideal size for a budget air fryer?
For one to two people, a 2 to 4-quart air fryer is usually sufficient. For a family of three to four, look for a model that is 5 quarts or larger. Consider your counter space and the types of meals you plan to cook most often.
Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
Yes, you can use aluminum foil or parchment paper in an air fryer, but it’s important to do it correctly. Place it in the bottom of the basket, but never cover the entire surface, as this will block airflow. Also, never preheat the air fryer with just the foil inside, as it can fly up and hit the heating element.
Is cleaning an air fryer difficult?
Not at all. Most air fryer baskets and drip trays are non-stick and dishwasher-safe. For a quick clean, simply wash them with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Wiping down the interior with a damp cloth periodically will keep it in great shape.
What are the best foods to cook in an air fryer?
Air fryers excel at cooking frozen foods (fries, chicken nuggets), roasting vegetables (Brussels sprouts, broccoli), and cooking proteins like chicken wings, salmon fillets, and pork chops. They’re also fantastic for reheating pizza to its original crispy glory.
Your Crispy, Healthy Cooking Journey Starts Here
Navigating the world of kitchen appliances can feel overwhelming, but finding the best air fryer under 100 is an achievable and rewarding goal. You don’t need to spend a fortune to unlock the convenience and health benefits of this amazing device. By focusing on the core features—capacity, controls, and power—you can find a reliable machine that will quickly become your go-to for quick, delicious, and healthy meals. So go ahead, embrace the crunch, and get ready to fall in love with cooking all over again.