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6 Best Air Fryers Under $150 in 2026 (Buying Guide)
ByZayyan
Imagine coming home tired after a long day and still wanting hot, crispy fries without using much oil or waiting forever. Many people face this problem every day. The good news is that good air fryers under $150 can change your cooking life. They cook fast, use little oil, and make tasty food easily. In this guide, we look at six top choices that give great results for the price.
Top 6 Best Air Fryers Under $150
Chefman 9 QT TurboFry Touch Dual Air Fryer – The Family Multitasker
This air fryer has two separate baskets with a total of 9 quarts. That means you can cook two different foods at the same time without mixing flavors. One side can make crispy chicken while the other side does sweet potato fries. The dual design saves time and makes cooking for four or more people much easier. Both baskets have their own controls so you can set different times and temperatures.
The touch screen is bright and simple to use. You get eight preset buttons for popular foods like frozen snacks, fish, and vegetables. There is also a shake reminder that beeps when you need to toss the food. Cleaning is easy because the baskets and trays go in the dishwasher. Many families love how this model helps them prepare full meals quickly.
The 9-quart size fits big batches of wings, whole chicken pieces, or lots of veggies. It cooks evenly thanks to good hot air flow. People say it feels solid and does not take up too much space on the counter. If you cook for a family or like to meal prep, this dual fryer makes life simpler.
It also has a sync finish option. This lets both baskets finish cooking at the same time even if you started them differently. That small feature is very helpful when you are busy.
- Two baskets for cooking two foods at once
- 9-quart total capacity
- Easy touch controls with presets
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Great for families
Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6.5QT – The Crispy Results Champion
Ninja makes some of the most popular air fryers because they give very crispy food. This 6.5-quart model uses special Max Crisp technology that reaches high heat fast. You can get restaurant-style crispiness on frozen foods in less time. It is perfect for chicken wings, french fries, and roasted vegetables.
The controls are clear with seven cooking functions: air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate, broil, and keep warm. You can cook up to 9 pounds of food at once, which is enough for a small family. The basket is nonstick and dishwasher-safe, so cleaning takes almost no effort.
Many users say this model cooks more evenly than cheaper brands. The high power helps food get golden and crunchy outside while staying juicy inside. It also has a wide temperature range up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. That makes it great for different recipes.
People like the fast preheat time and how quiet it runs. If you love crispy textures and want food that tastes like it was deep-fried but with less oil, this Ninja is a top choice.
- Excellent crispy texture
- 6.5-quart capacity
- 7 cooking functions
- Dishwasher-safe basket
- Fast cooking times
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt – The Smart Value Winner
This Cosori model stands out because it gives premium features at a good price. It has nine cooking functions including air fry, roast, bake, broil, reheat, dehydrate, proof, warm, and dry. The TurboBlaze technology moves hot air very fast for even cooking. You get a wide temperature range from 90 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
The ceramic nonstick coating is safe and easy to clean. Food does not stick and cleanup is quick. The control panel is simple with big buttons and a clear display. It also comes with many free recipes through an app, which helps beginners try new dishes.
Users say it cooks quietly compared to other air fryers. The 6-quart size is perfect for two to four people. It handles frozen foods well and gives good results on vegetables, meat, and baked goods. Many people choose this model because it feels high-quality without being expensive.
The shake reminder and auto shut-off add extra convenience. If you want a versatile air fryer that does many jobs well, this is one of the best options under $150.
- 9 cooking functions
- Ceramic nonstick coating
- Quiet operation
- Wide temperature range
- Great for beginners
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer – The Reliable Classic
Instant Pot is a trusted name in kitchens, and this Vortex Plus air fryer lives up to that reputation. It has six cooking functions and uses EvenCrisp technology to make food crispy with up to 95 percent less oil. The 6-quart size is good for small to medium families.
The clear window on the lid lets you watch your food cook without opening the basket. That helps you avoid losing heat. The touchscreen is bright and easy to read. There are presets for common foods, and you can adjust time and temperature manually.
Cleaning is simple because the basket and tray are dishwasher-safe. Many users love how fast it preheats and how evenly it cooks. It works well for fries, chicken, fish, and even baking small cakes.
People say this model feels sturdy and lasts a long time. If you want a dependable air fryer from a brand you already know, this is a safe and solid choice.
- Clear viewing window
- 6-quart capacity
- EvenCrisp technology
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Trusted brand
Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer – The Easy Everyday Pick
Cuisinart makes kitchen tools that are simple and work well. This 6-quart air fryer has five cooking functions and five presets. It reaches up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for good browning. The viewing window and interior light help you check food without opening the lid.
The basket has a nonstick coating that makes cleanup easy. It also has a toss reminder to shake food for even cooking. The controls are straightforward with big buttons. This model is great for people who want something basic but effective.
Users like how it cooks vegetables and meats evenly. It handles frozen foods well and gives nice results on chicken wings and fries. The size is perfect for two to four people.
Many people choose this air fryer because it is quiet and does not take up much space. If you prefer simple controls and good performance, this Cuisinart is a great everyday option.
- Viewing window with light
- 6-quart capacity
- Simple controls
- Good even cooking
- Quiet design
bella 6 Qt Slim Air Fryer – The Space-Saving Budget Star
This bella air fryer is slim and tall, so it fits easily on small counters. It has 6 quarts of capacity and uses ceramic nonstick coating that is free from harmful chemicals. The design saves space while still holding plenty of food.
It comes with six presets for common foods and adjustable temperature controls. The basket is easy to remove and clean. Many users like how lightweight it is and how simple it is to use.
Even though it costs less than the others, it cooks food evenly and gives good crispiness. It works well for fries, chicken nuggets, vegetables, and fish. The auto shut-off feature adds safety.
This is a perfect choice if you have limited kitchen space or want an affordable first air fryer. It gives good value and performs better than many expect for the price.
- Slim space-saving design
- Ceramic nonstick coating
- 6-quart capacity
- Easy to clean
- Great for small kitchens
Choosing the right air fryer under $150 can make cooking faster, healthier, and more fun. Think about your family size, kitchen space, and favorite foods before you buy. All six models above are good choices with strong user reviews. Start with the one that matches your needs most. Soon you will enjoy crispy meals with less oil and less cleanup. Happy air frying!
| Feature to Consider | Why It Matters | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Decides how much food you can cook at once | 6 qt for 2-4 people, 9 qt for bigger meals |
| Single vs Dual Baskets | Dual lets you cook two foods separately | Pick dual if you cook sides and main dish |
| Nonstick Coating | Makes cleaning easy and food release better | Ceramic is safe and long-lasting |
| Temperature Range | Higher max temp gives crispier results | Look for at least 400-450°F |
| Dishwasher-Safe Parts | Saves time on cleanup | Check basket and tray are safe |
| Presets & Controls | Makes cooking easier for beginners | More presets help try new recipes fast |
| Viewing Window | Lets you check food without opening lid | Helps avoid heat loss |
| Shake Reminder | Prompts you to toss food for even cooking | Very helpful for best results |
Things to Consider Before Buying Air Fryer Under $150
Capacity and Family Size – The Right Size for Your Meals
Capacity matters a lot because it decides how much food you can cook at once. For one or two people, a 4 to 6 quart model works great. It fits enough fries, chicken pieces, or veggies for a meal without wasting space. Larger families or those who like batch cooking should go for 8 to 9 quarts. This size handles bigger batches like a whole tray of wings or multiple side dishes.
Think about what you cook most. If you often make snacks for kids or quick dinners, smaller sizes save energy and heat up faster. Bigger ones are better for meal prep or entertaining. Measure your counter space too because larger models take up more room.
Many people make the mistake of buying too big and then never using the full capacity. Start with what fits your daily life. A good rule is to choose a size that leaves a little extra room for air flow. That helps food cook evenly.
In the end, match the capacity to your habits. This simple choice makes the air fryer a tool you reach for every day instead of a one-time buy.
- Match size to family needs
- 4-6 qt for small households
- 8-9 qt for bigger meals
- Ensure good air flow
- Avoid oversized models
Single vs Dual Basket Design – The Multitasking Choice
Single basket air fryers are simple and straightforward. You cook one food at a time, which is fine for most people. They are usually cheaper and take less space. Dual basket models let you cook two things separately with different settings. This is perfect for making chicken and fries at the same time without flavors mixing.
Consider your cooking routine. If you like full meals with mains and sides, dual baskets save time. Single baskets work well for quick snacks or one-dish meals. Dual ones might cost a bit more but add huge convenience.
Look at the total capacity too. A dual model with two 4.5 quart baskets gives 9 quarts overall. That is more useful than a single 6 quart for families. Controls on dual models should be easy to use for each side.
Choose based on how often you cook multiple items. This feature can change how much you use your air fryer daily.
- Single for simple cooking
- Dual for two foods at once
- Prevents flavor mixing
- Great for family meals
- Check total capacity
Nonstick Coating and Easy Cleaning – The Hassle-Free Feature
Good nonstick coating makes cooking and cleaning simple. Look for ceramic or other safe coatings that are free from harmful chemicals. These let food slide off easily and clean up fast. Avoid cheap coatings that flake or wear out quickly.
Dishwasher-safe parts are a big plus. Baskets and trays that go in the dishwasher save time after cooking. Even if you hand wash, smooth surfaces make it quick. Some models have removable trays for extra easy cleanup.
Think about how often you will use it. Daily cooking means easy cleaning is important. Models with shake reminders help too because even cooking reduces stuck food.
A quality coating lasts longer and keeps your air fryer looking new. This small detail makes a big difference in daily use.
- Choose ceramic or safe coating
- Look for dishwasher-safe parts
- Easy cleanup saves time
- Prevents food sticking
- Check for removable trays
Temperature Range and Cooking Functions – The Versatile Pick
Wide temperature range gives more cooking options. Most good models go up to 400 or 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Higher heat makes food crispier, like restaurant fries. Lower settings work for dehydrating or gentle baking.
Look for multiple functions like air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. Presets for common foods make it easy for beginners. You just press a button and it sets the right time and temperature.
Versatile models let you try new recipes without buying extra tools. For example, you can dehydrate fruit snacks or roast veggies perfectly.
Pick one with at least five to seven functions. This makes the air fryer useful for many meals and keeps it exciting to use.
- Wide temp for crispy results
- Multiple functions add options
- Presets help beginners
- Try new recipes easily
- Look for at least 400°F max
Build Quality and Durability – The Long-Lasting Choice
Build quality affects how long your air fryer lasts. Look for solid plastic or metal parts that feel sturdy. Good models have strong handles and stable bases. Avoid flimsy ones that wobble or feel cheap.
Check user reviews for real experiences. Many people share how well the model holds up after months of daily use. Brands with good warranties offer extra peace of mind.
Features like auto shut-off and overheat protection add safety. These prevent accidents and protect the machine.
A durable air fryer becomes a kitchen staple. Investing in quality under $150 means you get years of reliable cooking.
- Sturdy build for daily use
- Check user reviews
- Look for safety features
- Strong handles and base
- Good warranty helps
User Reviews and Brand Reputation – The Smart Research Step
User reviews tell the real story. Look for thousands of ratings with high average scores. Read recent reviews to see if the model still performs well. Common complaints about uneven cooking or short lifespan are red flags.
Trusted brands like Ninja, Cosori, and Instant Pot often have better support and parts. They fix issues faster if something goes wrong.
Compare a few models and see what people say about crispy results, noise level, and ease of use. Real feedback helps avoid bad buys.
Spending time on reviews saves money and frustration. It guides you to the best air fryer for your needs.
- Read thousands of reviews
- Check recent feedback
- Trust known brands
- Look for common praises
- Avoid low-rated models
Before buying an air fryer under $150, focus on your real needs like size, cleaning ease, and cooking style. Think about daily use and choose features that make life simpler. With these tips, you will pick a model that cooks great food for years. Start shopping confidently and enjoy healthier, faster meals soon. Happy cooking!
| Thing to Consider | Why It Matters | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Family Size | Determines needed capacity | 4-6 qt for 1-3 people, larger for more |
| Kitchen Space | Affects where it fits | Measure counter before buying |
| Cleaning Ease | Saves time after cooking | Pick dishwasher-safe parts |
| Cooking Functions | Adds recipe options | Get at least 5-7 functions |
| Temperature Max | For crispier food | Choose 400°F or higher |
| Basket Type | For multitasking | Dual if cooking two foods often |
| Build Quality | For long-term use | Feel sturdy in reviews or store |
| User Reviews | Shows real performance | Read recent ones with high ratings |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it worth buying an air fryer under $150?
Yes, it is worth it. Modern air fryers in this price range cook food well, use little oil, and save time. They have good nonstick surfaces and useful presets. Many people use them every day for fries, chicken, and vegetables. You get great performance without spending a lot. Just pick a model with strong reviews and the size you need.
Can I cook frozen food in these air fryers?
Yes, all six models handle frozen food very well. They cook frozen fries, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, and vegetables quickly. You usually do not need to thaw anything. Just add a few extra minutes if the food is very thick. Shake the basket halfway for even cooking. You will get crispy results with almost no oil.
Do I need a dual basket air fryer?
You need a dual basket only if you often cook two different foods at the same time. For example, chicken and fries together. If you usually cook one food or small meals, a single basket is enough and often cheaper. Dual baskets are great for families but take more counter space.
Is cleaning an air fryer easy?
Yes, cleaning is easy with these models. Most have dishwasher-safe baskets and trays. After cooking, let the machine cool, then remove the basket and wash it. For stuck bits, wipe with a soft sponge and mild soap. Nonstick coatings help food come off easily. Regular cleaning keeps your air fryer working well.
Can I bake cakes or bread in an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake small cakes, muffins, bread rolls, and even brownies. Use the bake function and lower temperatures around 320 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Put batter in a small pan that fits inside. Cooking time is shorter than a regular oven. Check with a toothpick to see if it is done. Many people love baking in air fryers.
Do air fryers use a lot of electricity?
No, air fryers do not use much electricity. Most models use between 1500 and 1800 watts, similar to a hair dryer. They cook faster than ovens so total energy use is often less. You can use them daily without big electricity bills. They are more efficient than deep frying or using a big oven for small meals.
Is it safe to use an air fryer every day?
Yes, it is safe to use every day. Air fryers have auto shut-off timers and overheat protection. Just place it on a flat, heat-safe surface with space around it. Follow the manual for maximum food amounts. Regular cleaning stops grease buildup. Millions of people use them daily with no problems.
Can I use aluminum foil in an air fryer?
Yes, you can use aluminum foil safely in most cases. Use it to line the basket for easier cleanup or to wrap food. Make sure foil does not block air flow or touch the heating element. Never cover the entire basket. Crumple foil slightly if you want to make a small tray for messy foods.
