MomSkoop
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, making it possible to enjoy crispy, delicious food with way less oil. Finding a quality air fryer doesn’t mean emptying your wallet! Many excellent models are available for less than $100, offering the perfect blend of performance and affordability. I’ve tested dozens of budget-friendly air fryers to bring you the absolute best options that won’t break the bank.
1. Ninja AF101: The Versatility Champion
Sleek, powerful, and surprisingly quiet—the Ninja AF101 packs a serious punch for under $100. This 3.8-quart powerhouse handles everything from crispy french fries to dehydrated fruit chips with impressive results.
The ceramic-coated basket makes cleanup a breeze, sliding effortlessly into the dishwasher after use. Temperature ranges from 105°F to 400°F give you precise control whether you’re air frying chicken wings or gently dehydrating herbs from your garden.
Four cooking functions (air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate) make this model exceptionally versatile for its price point. The user-friendly digital control panel and dishwasher-safe parts earn this model top marks for convenience.
2. Chefman TurboFry: Perfect for Small Spaces
Small but mighty describes the Chefman TurboFry 2-Quart air fryer perfectly. Singles and couples rejoice—this compact cooker delivers crispy results without monopolizing precious counter space in apartments or tiny kitchens.
The square basket design maximizes cooking surface while minimizing footprint. Analog controls keep things simple and intuitive, ideal for air fryer beginners or those who prefer straightforward operation without digital bells and whistles.
At around $60, it represents exceptional value without sacrificing performance. Food cooks evenly thanks to rapid air technology that circulates hot air around your food, creating that coveted crispy exterior while keeping interiors tender and juicy.
3. Dash Tasti-Crisp: Ultra-Compact Marvel
Apartment dwellers and dorm room chefs, meet your new best friend. The Dash Tasti-Crisp DCAF260 might be the cutest kitchen appliance you’ll ever own at just 1.9 quarts, but don’t let its diminutive size fool you—it delivers seriously crispy results.
Setting up takes seconds with minimal assembly required out of the box. The AquaBlue color option adds a pop of retro-inspired charm to any kitchen, though several color choices are available to match your decor.
Operation couldn’t be simpler with just two dials—one for time and one for temperature. This no-frills approach means less confusion and more cooking. For singles or couples who want occasional air-fried treats without the counter space commitment, this petite performer is ideal.
4. GoWISE USA GW22731: Family-Sized Value
Feeding a hungry family? The GoWISE USA GW22731 offers an impressive 4.9-quart capacity that can handle everything from a whole chicken to enough french fries for four people. The sleek touchscreen interface gives this budget-friendly model a premium feel.
Eight cooking presets take the guesswork out of preparing popular foods like fries, chicken, steak, and even cake! A built-in alarm function reminds you to shake ingredients halfway through cooking—a thoughtful feature that ensures even crispiness.
The non-stick, PFOA-free basket slides out easily and cleans up quickly. At around $80, this air fryer delivers exceptional value considering its generous capacity and smart features. The combination of large cooking space and intuitive controls makes this perfect for busy families.
5. Bella Pro Series 90174: Reliability Champion
Sometimes you just want an air fryer that works consistently without fuss—enter the Bella Pro Series 90174. This 3.4-quart workhorse earns top marks for reliability, performing admirably across all cooking tests from frozen foods to fresh vegetables.
The warming feature sets this model apart from competitors, keeping food hot until you’re ready to serve. This proves invaluable when family members eat at different times or when you’re preparing multiple dishes for a meal.
Programmed settings for popular foods like chicken, fish, and fries eliminate guesswork and deliver consistent results every time. The stainless steel accent adds a touch of sophistication to kitchens without the premium price tag. For everyday cooking that delivers reliable results, this Bella model shines brightly.