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The 6 Best Air Fryers Under $100 of 2026 (Buying Guide)
ByZayyan
I still remember the day my old deep fryer died right before a family gathering, leaving me staring at a pile of raw fries and feeling totally stuck. That moment pushed me to try an air fryer, and honestly, it changed everything. These little machines give you that crispy, golden food we all love, but with almost no oil and way less mess. Right now, you can grab some really amazing ones without spending over $100. They save time, keep your kitchen cooler, and make healthy cooking feel fun instead of boring. If you are tired of soggy food or greasy smells, this list will help you find the perfect one that fits your life and budget.
Top 6 Best Air Fryers Under $100 You Can Buy
Ninja AF141 5QT 4-in-1 Pro Air Fryer – The Family Favorite Crunch Master
This Ninja feels like a trusted friend in the kitchen because it handles big batches so well. Imagine tossing in four pounds of wings for movie night and watching them turn golden and crispy without you standing over a pan. The 5-quart basket gives plenty of room for families of four or five, and the Air Crisp tech pushes hot air around perfectly so nothing stays soggy. I love how it reaches temperature fast, usually in just a couple of minutes, which means dinner hits the table quicker on busy evenings.
Cleaning is another big win here. The basket and crisper plate pop right out and go in the dishwasher without any drama. No more soaking greasy parts overnight. The controls are super simple with four clear buttons for air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate. You can make fruit chips for snacks or roast veggies that taste amazing.
Many people say they use this Ninja almost every day because it saves oil and still delivers that satisfying crunch we crave. It is sturdy too, built to last through lots of cooking. If you cook for more than two people regularly, this one brings real joy to mealtime without complicated extras.
- Great for families with its big 5-quart size
- Super easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
- Fast heating and even crispy results every time
- Simple four-function controls that anyone can use
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt – The Speedy All-Rounder
When I first tried the Cosori TurboBlaze, I could not believe how fast it cooked my frozen fries to perfection. This model uses smart tech to heat up quicker and circulate air better, so food finishes up to 46 percent faster than many others. The 6-quart size is perfect for medium families or when friends drop by unexpectedly. You get nine cooking modes including air fry, roast, bake, broil, and even dehydrate for homemade snacks.
The ceramic nonstick coating feels premium and releases food so easily. I have never had anything stick badly, even when I forget to shake the basket. Temperature goes from 90 to 450 degrees, which lets you do everything from gentle reheating to high-heat crisping.
Users rave about the quiet fan and the bright touchscreen that shows time and temperature clearly. It sits nicely on the counter without taking too much space. If you want one air fryer that does almost everything well and saves you precious minutes every day, this Cosori feels like a smart little helper.
- Lightning-fast cooking with TurboBlaze technology
- 9 versatile functions for all kinds of meals
- Premium ceramic coating for effortless cleanup
- Quiet and user-friendly touchscreen controls
Instant Pot 4Qt Vortex 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer – The Compact Space Saver
Living in a small apartment taught me the value of compact appliances that still perform like champs. This Instant Pot Vortex is small but mighty with its 4-quart basket that fits nicely for one or two people, or even quick sides for three. It has six functions including air fry, broil, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate, so you can experiment without needing extra gadgets.
The food comes out evenly cooked because of the smart vortex airflow. I love making single servings of sweet potato fries or reheating pizza so the crust stays crisp. It heats up fast and the nonstick basket wipes clean in seconds.
Many folks with tiny kitchens say this became their go-to because it does not crowd the counter but still delivers tasty results. If you want something simple, reliable, and perfect for small households, this little Vortex brings so much happiness to everyday cooking.
- Ideal size for small kitchens or 1-3 people
- Six handy cooking modes in a compact design
- Quick heat-up and even cooking results
- Very easy to clean and store
Chefman Compact 4QT Air Fryer – The Crispy Beginner Buddy
Starting with air frying can feel a bit scary, but the Chefman makes it so welcoming. This 4-quart model has a friendly touchscreen with preset buttons that guide you through common foods like fries, chicken, or veggies. The Hi-Fry technology gives an extra burst of heat at the end for that perfect golden crunch.
It reaches up to 450 degrees quickly, and the shake reminder helps you get even results without guessing. I remember my first batch of onion rings coming out better than takeout, and it felt like such a win. The basket is nonstick and dishwasher safe, so cleanup never feels like a chore.
For anyone new to air fryers or cooking for two to four people, this Chefman feels gentle and forgiving while still giving great food every time.
- Beginner-friendly touchscreen with presets
- Extra crisp finish with Hi-Fry technology
- Compact size perfect for smaller households
- Dishwasher-safe parts for fast cleanup
bella 6 Qt Slim Air Fryer – The Space-Smart Large Helper
Some kitchens have limited counter space, and that is where the bella Slim shines. Its tall but narrow design saves room while still offering a generous 6-quart basket for bigger families. It cooks evenly and gives that classic crispy texture we all love on wings, fries, or veggies.
The controls are straightforward with clear temperature and time dials, so no confusion even if you are multitasking. Many users say they appreciate how it fits neatly beside the toaster without feeling bulky.
If you need more capacity but hate crowded counters, this bella brings balance and reliable cooking to your daily routine.
- Slim design saves precious counter space
- Large 6-quart capacity for family meals
- Simple controls for easy everyday use
- Good even cooking for crispy favorites
Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer – The Easy Value Champion
When money is tight but you still want solid performance, the Nutrichef steps up nicely. The 5.8-quart basket holds plenty for most families, and the nonstick surface makes food release without any fight. Basic controls let you set temperature and time quickly so you can focus on enjoying the meal.
It handles air frying, roasting, and more without fuss. Lots of people say they were surprised by how well it crisps food for the price. If you want a no-drama air fryer that gets the job done well, this one feels like a smart, happy choice.
- Affordable with a generous 5.8-quart size
- Nonstick basket for simple cleanup
- Straightforward controls anyone can use
- Reliable crispy results on a budget
Picking the right air fryer under $100 is easier than you think when you match size and features to your real life. Whether you need speed like the Cosori, family size like the Ninja, or compact power like the Instant, these six options deliver real crispy joy without breaking the bank. Grab one that feels exciting to you, start with simple fries or wings, and watch how much happier cooking becomes. You deserve tasty food that feels light and fun every day.
| Model | Best For | Capacity | Key Strength | Approx Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja AF141 | Families, big batches | 5 Qt | Even crisp, easy cleanup | $80-90 |
| Cosori TurboBlaze | Speed lovers | 6 Qt | Fast cooking, 9 functions | $80-100 |
| Instant Pot Vortex | Small kitchens | 4 Qt | Compact, versatile | $60-90 |
| Chefman Compact | Beginners | 4 Qt | Simple presets, extra crisp | $50-80 |
| bella Slim | Limited counter space | 6 Qt | Slim design, good capacity | Under $90 |
| Nutrichef | Tight budget | 5.8 Qt | Value and reliability | Under $80 |
| General Tip | All users | – | Always preheat for best results | – |
| Cleaning Tip | Everyone | – | Use dishwasher-safe parts | – |
Things to Consider Before Buying Air Fryer Under $100
Last weekend I watched my neighbor toss her brand new air fryer because the basket scratched after just three uses, and it broke my heart a little. That tiny moment reminded me how easy it is to rush into buying one of these amazing gadgets without thinking things through.
Under $100 you can find real winners that crisp up your favorite foods beautifully, but only if you focus on the right details first. The good news is that smart choices make all the difference, turning everyday cooking into something joyful and hassle-free instead of frustrating.
Capacity – The Real Space You Actually Need
Capacity sounds boring but it changes everything about how much you love your air fryer. If you live alone or cook for two, a 4-quart model feels perfect, light, and easy to handle on small counters. But picture Sunday dinner with kids and friends, everyone waiting for more fries, and you realize you need 5 or 6 quarts to cook once and serve hot together.
Smaller baskets force you to do batches, which takes longer and sometimes leaves the first ones cold. I learned this the hard way with a tiny one that made me feel like a short-order cook instead of enjoying family time.
Bigger capacity usually means a slightly larger footprint, so measure your counter space before falling in love with a model. Many people regret buying too small because they end up using it less often. On the flip side, huge ones can feel overwhelming in tiny kitchens. The sweet spot for most families lands between 5 and 6 quarts under $100.
Think about the foods you love most. Wings and veggies need room to spread out for crispiness, while a single serving of nuggets fits anywhere. Matching size to your real life makes cooking feel effortless and exciting every time.
- Choose 4 quarts for 1-3 people or small kitchens
- Go 5-6 quarts for families or bigger batches
- Avoid overcrowding for best crispy results
- Measure counter space before buying
Build Quality and Nonstick Coating – The Long-Lasting Secret
Nothing hurts more than spending money on something that starts looking worn after a month. Good build quality under $100 means solid plastic that does not wobble, sturdy handles that stay cool, and a basket that feels heavy enough to last. The nonstick coating is the real hero here, because a great one lets food slide off without oil and wipes clean in seconds.
Some cheap coatings chip or flake after a few uses, making food stick and cleaning a nightmare. Look for ceramic or premium nonstick mentioned in descriptions, and read reviews for words like durable or long-lasting. I always feel a little rush of happiness when my basket still looks almost new after months of daily cooking.
Pay attention to dishwasher-safe parts too. Life gets busy, and scrubbing greasy baskets by hand gets old fast. Strong build plus excellent coating means your air fryer becomes a trusted kitchen friend instead of a one-time purchase.
- Seek premium nonstick for easy food release
- Choose dishwasher-safe baskets and trays
- Read reviews for real durability stories
- Avoid models with many complaints about chipping
Ease of Use and Controls – The Daily Joy Factor
You want an air fryer that feels welcoming, not confusing. Simple buttons or a clear touchscreen make a huge difference when you are rushing to feed hungry kids or just tired after work. Presets for fries, chicken, or veggies are wonderful because they take the guesswork away, especially when you are starting out.
Some models have tiny screens or complicated menus that make you reach for the manual every time. I love when the controls light up brightly and show time left so you can relax while it works. Shake reminders are a small but sweet touch that help food cook evenly without constant checking.
Think about how often you will use it. The easier it feels to turn on and set, the more you will reach for it instead of the old oven. That small comfort turns cooking into something you look forward to.
- Pick clear, bright controls or simple dials
- Love presets for quick everyday meals
- Enjoy shake reminders for perfect results
- Avoid complicated menus that slow you down
Cooking Performance – The Crispy Magic That Matters
At the end of the day, you buy an air fryer for that golden, crunchy outside and tender inside we all crave. Under $100 many models deliver surprisingly great performance thanks to strong fans and smart heat circulation. Look for ones that heat fast and cook evenly so fries do not stay soggy on one side.
Reviews often mention how well frozen foods turn out, because that is what most people cook first. If reviewers say things like crispy every time or better than expected, you know it is a keeper. Temperature range matters too, higher max like 450 degrees gives extra crunch on wings.
Do not overlook noise level. Some fans sound like jet engines, which can make kitchen time stressful. Quiet ones let you chat or watch TV while dinner cooks. Great performance makes you smile every time you open the basket.
- Check reviews for even crispy results
- Prefer fast heating for quicker meals
- Look for high max temperature for crunch
- Choose quieter models for peaceful cooking
Cleaning and Maintenance – The Part Nobody Wants to Hate
Cleaning should never be the reason you stop using your air fryer. The best ones have removable baskets that go straight into the dishwasher, and trays that wipe clean with a damp cloth. Avoid models where grease traps in hard-to-reach spots or where parts do not come apart easily.
I have a little ritual after dinner, quick rinse and into the machine, done in under two minutes. That habit keeps everything fresh and smelling nice. Some people forget that regular cleaning stops smells and keeps performance strong over time.
Nonstick that lasts means less soaking and scrubbing. When you love cleaning it, you use it more often. Simple maintenance turns your air fryer into a daily habit instead of a special occasion tool.
- Always pick fully dishwasher-safe parts
- Choose easy-to-wipe interiors
- Clean regularly to avoid buildup
- Enjoy quick cleanup for more cooking fun
Price and Value – The Smart Money Choice
Under $100 does not mean you have to settle for less. Watch for sales because great models drop from $130 to $80 all the time. Compare what you get for the money, like extra functions, bigger size, or better coating.
The cheapest one might save a few dollars now but cost you in frustration later if it breaks or cooks poorly. Reliable brands give peace of mind and usually last longer. Think about how much you spend on takeout each month, and suddenly a good air fryer feels like a bargain.
Read about warranty too. Even a one-year coverage adds confidence. When price matches real quality, you feel proud every time you use it.
- Hunt for sales under $100
- Compare features to price
- Choose trusted brands for longevity
- See it as a money-saving kitchen upgrade
Before you click buy on any air fryer under $100, pause and think about your real cooking life, your kitchen space, and what will make you happiest day after day. Focus on capacity, easy cleaning, simple controls, and true crispy results, and you will land on a winner that brings joy instead of regrets. Start small with fries or wings, feel that excitement when it works perfectly, and soon it will become your favorite kitchen helper. You got this, happy cooking awaits!
| Thing to Consider | Why It Matters | Quick Tip to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Fits your family without batches | 4 Qt for 1-3 people, 5-6 Qt for more |
| Nonstick Coating | Easy food release and cleanup | Look for ceramic or premium in reviews |
| Controls | Makes daily use fun and fast | Prefer presets and bright displays |
| Cooking Performance | Gives the crispy results you want | Read recent reviews for even cooking |
| Cleaning Ease | Keeps you using it every day | Ensure dishwasher-safe parts |
| Build Quality | Lasts longer without breaking | Choose sturdy feel from descriptions |
| Noise Level | Peaceful kitchen time | Check if reviewers call it quiet |
| Current Price | Best value under $100 | Watch for sales and compare features |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it worth buying an air fryer under $100?
Yes, absolutely worth it in 2025. These budget models use the same hot air technology as expensive ones, giving you crispy food with little oil. Brands like Ninja, Cosori, and Instant have proven they last well and perform consistently. You save money on oil, electricity, and takeout while enjoying healthier versions of your favorite fried foods. Many people cook daily with them and feel amazed at the results for such a small price.
Can a small air fryer cook for a family?
It depends on the size. A 4-quart model works great for one to three people with single layers, but for four or more you will want 5 to 6 quarts to avoid overcrowding. Bigger baskets let food cook evenly without needing multiple batches. If your family is bigger, go for the Ninja or Cosori for best results.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer every time?
Preheating helps a lot for the crispiest results, especially with frozen foods or meats. Most models heat up in two to three minutes, so it does not add much time. Skipping preheat sometimes makes the outside softer, but for quick reheats it is fine. Try both ways and see what you like best.
Is cleaning an air fryer hard?
No, cleaning is one of the easiest parts with modern models. Most baskets and trays are nonstick and dishwasher safe. A quick wipe with a soapy sponge works for light messes too. Avoid abrasive scrubbers to keep the coating nice. Regular cleaning keeps your air fryer smelling fresh and working great for years.
Can I bake cakes in these budget air fryers?
Yes, you can bake small cakes, muffins, or brownies beautifully. Use the bake function and lower temperature around 320 to 350 degrees. Many people make single layer cakes or cupcakes in just 15 to 25 minutes. The even heat gives nice results, and it is faster than a big oven on hot days.
Do air fryers use a lot of electricity?
Air fryers are actually energy savers compared to ovens. They cook faster and use less power because of the small space and quick heat. Running one for 20 minutes costs pennies in most places. You save even more because you avoid heating the whole kitchen in summer.
Is it safe to leave an air fryer on unattended?
It is generally safe since they have auto shut-off timers, but I always recommend staying nearby the first few times you use a new one. Keep it away from walls or curtains, and never cover the vents. Once you know your model, using the timer lets you step away for short moments safely.
Can I cook frozen food straight from the freezer?
Yes, that is one of the best things about air fryers. Frozen fries, nuggets, or veggies go right in with a few extra minutes added to the time. Shake halfway through for even crispiness. No thawing needed, which saves so much time on busy nights.
