10 Best Air Fryer Under $100! I Found It
Finding the perfect air fryer under $100 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As someone who’s tested countless kitchen appliances, I know how frustrating it can be to sift through endless options online.
The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get crispy, delicious results. After weeks of testing, I’ve found 10 amazing air fryer under $100 models that deliver restaurant-quality food without breaking your budget.
Let me share my honest findings with you.
Table of Contents
Why Choose an Air Fryer Under $100?
Budget-friendly doesn’t mean cheap quality. These affordable air fryers prove you can enjoy healthier cooking without the premium price tag.
Here’s what makes these models special:
- Healthier cooking: Up to 85% less oil than traditional frying
- Faster meals: Cook food 25% quicker than conventional ovens
- Easy cleanup: Most parts are dishwasher-safe
- Versatile cooking: Fry, bake, roast, and reheat all in one appliance
The key is knowing which features matter most for your cooking style.
What to Look for in an Air Fryer Under $100
Before diving into my top picks, let’s talk about the essentials. Not every air fryer under $100 offers the same value.
Size Matters
Compact models (1-2 quarts) work great for singles or couples. Medium-sized units (3-5 quarts) handle family meals perfectly. Anything larger might push your budget beyond $100.
Temperature Control
Look for models with precise temperature settings between 180°F and 400°F. This range gives you complete control over your cooking.
Timer Function
A built-in timer with auto shut-off prevents overcooking. This feature is non-negotiable for busy home cooks.
Easy Maintenance
Non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll appreciate this after making crispy chicken thighs.
Top 10 Best Air Fryer Under $100 Reviews
1. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer – $79.99
This compact powerhouse tops my list of the best air fryer under $100 options. The Ninja AF101 delivers consistent results every single time.
Key Features:
- 4-quart capacity perfect for families of 4
- Wide temperature range (105°F to 400°F)
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup
- Compact design fits most countertops
Why I Love It: The even heat distribution creates perfectly crispy food without hot spots. Plus, it’s quiet during operation.
Best For: Families wanting reliable, everyday cooking performance.
2. COSORI Air Fryer – $89.99
The COSORI model offers premium features at an affordable price point. This air fryer under $100 includes preset cooking functions that take the guesswork out of meal prep.
Key Features:
- 5.8-quart large capacity
- 11 preset functions for different foods
- Shake reminder for even cooking
- Recipe book included
Why It Stands Out: The preset functions work incredibly well for beginners. You can cook perfect vegetables with just one button press.
Best For: Cooking newcomers who want guided assistance.
3. BLACK+DECKER Purify Air Fryer – $69.99
Don’t let the lower price fool you. This air fryer under $100 delivers solid performance with essential features that actually work.
Key Features:
- 2-liter capacity ideal for smaller households
- Simple dial controls for easy operation
- Compact footprint saves counter space
- 60-minute timer with auto shut-off
Why I Recommend It: Sometimes simple is better. The straightforward design means fewer things can break.
Best For: Singles, couples, or anyone wanting basic functionality.
4. Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer – $99.99
Just squeaking under our budget, the Instant Vortex Plus offers 4-in-1 functionality. This versatile air fryer under $100 handles multiple cooking methods beautifully.
Key Features:
- 4-quart capacity with square basket design
- 4 cooking functions: Air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate
- One-touch smart programs
- Little to no preheating required
Why It’s Worth It: The square basket fits more food than round designs. Perfect for making delicious eggplant recipes.
Best For: Home cooks wanting maximum versatility.
5. Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer – $59.99
The most budget-friendly option on my list, this air fryer under $100 proves you don’t need expensive gadgets for great results.
Key Features:
- 3.5-quart capacity
- Adjustable temperature control (200°F to 400°F)
- 30-minute timer
- Cool-touch handle for safety
Why It’s Great: Excellent value for money. The heating element distributes heat evenly throughout the cooking chamber.
Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers who still want quality.
6. GoWISE USA Air Fryer – $79.99
This air fryer under $100 combines modern technology with user-friendly design. The digital display makes cooking precise and effortless.
Key Features:
- 5.8-quart extra-large capacity
- 8 preset cooking programs
- Digital touchscreen display
- Dishwasher-safe basket
Why I Like It: The large capacity handles big batches perfectly. Great for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Best For: Large families or frequent entertainers.
7. Dash Compact Air Fryer – $49.99
The smallest and most affordable air fryer under $100 on my list. Don’t underestimate this little powerhouse.
Key Features:
- 2-quart compact size
- Auto shut-off feature
- Recipe guide included
- Available in multiple colors
Why It Works: Perfect portion control for healthy eating. The compact size doesn’t sacrifice cooking quality.
Best For: Dorm rooms, RVs, or anyone with limited space.
8. Ultrean Air Fryer – $69.99
This air fryer under $100 offers excellent build quality and consistent performance. The sleek design looks great on any countertop.
Key Features:
- 4.2-quart capacity
- Rapid air circulation technology
- Easy-to-clean non-stick coating
- Overheat protection
Why I Recommend It: The rapid air circulation creates incredibly crispy exteriors while keeping interiors tender.
Best For: Home cooks focused on texture and taste.
9. BELLA Pro Series Air Fryer – $89.99
Featuring professional-grade construction, this air fryer under $100 delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Key Features:
- 4-quart stainless steel basket
- Precision temperature control
- 90-minute timer
- 1700-watt heating element
Why It’s Special: The stainless steel basket heats more evenly than non-stick alternatives. Perfect for cooking shrimp to perfection.
Best For: Serious home cooks wanting professional results.
10. PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer – $79.99
Rounding out my top 10, this air fryer under $100 offers excellent value with premium features.
Key Features:
- 5-quart family-size capacity
- 7 preset cooking functions
- LED digital display
- Rapid air technology
Why It Made the List: The combination of size, features, and price creates outstanding value for families.
Best For: Growing families who need consistent, reliable cooking.
How to Get the Most from Your Air Fryer Under $100
Preheating Tips
Always preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before cooking. This ensures even heating and better results.
Don’t Overcrowd
Leave space between food pieces for proper air circulation. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
Shake It Up
Shake or flip food halfway through cooking time for even browning on all sides.
Oil Usage
You still need a light coating of oil (about 1-2 teaspoons) for the crispiest results.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Daily Cleaning
Wash the basket after each use with warm, soapy water. Most are dishwasher-safe for convenience.
Deep Cleaning
Wipe down the interior weekly with a damp cloth. Remove any grease buildup to prevent smoking.
Storage
Store in a dry place and ensure the unit is completely cool before putting it away.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Too Much Oil
Your air fryer under $100 needs minimal oil. Too much creates soggy, greasy food.
Ignoring Preheating
Skipping preheating results in longer cooking times and uneven results.
Wrong Temperature Settings
Using incorrect temperatures can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
Not Cleaning Regularly
Grease buildup affects taste and can cause smoking during cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size air fryer under $100 should I buy?
For 1-2 people, choose 2-3 quarts. For families of 3-4, go with 4-5 quarts. Larger families need 5+ quarts, but options become limited under $100.
Can I cook frozen food in my air fryer under $100?
Absolutely! Frozen foods cook beautifully in air fryers. Add 2-3 minutes to the recommended cooking time.
How much electricity does an air fryer under $100 use?
Most models use 800-1500 watts, similar to a microwave. They’re more energy-efficient than conventional ovens.
Is it safe to use aluminum foil in my air fryer under $100?
Yes, but carefully. Use small pieces and don’t block airflow. Never let foil touch the heating element.
How long do air fryers under $100 typically last?
With proper care, expect 3-5 years of regular use. Higher-end models in this price range often last longer.
Can I bake in my air fryer under $100?
Most models can bake small items like muffins or cookies. Check your manual for specific baking instructions.
My Final Verdict
After testing all these models, the Ninja AF101 takes the crown as the best air fryer under $100. It offers the perfect balance of performance, reliability, and features.
For large families, the GoWISE USA model provides excellent value with its 5.8-quart capacity.
Budget shoppers will love the Chefman TurboFry, which delivers surprising quality at just $59.99.
Space-conscious users should consider the Dash Compact for its tiny footprint and reliable performance.
Ready to Start Air Frying?
Choosing the right air fryer under $100 transforms your cooking routine. You’ll enjoy healthier meals, faster cooking times, and easier cleanup.
The models I’ve reviewed offer proven performance without breaking your budget. Each one delivers crispy, delicious results that rival expensive alternatives.
What’s your cooking priority? Size, features, or budget? Let me know in the comments below which air fryer under $100 caught your attention. I’d love to hear about your air frying adventures!
Ready to upgrade your kitchen? Pick your favorite model from this list and start enjoying healthier, crispier meals today!
