The air fryer is one of the few innovative technologies that does not cost you a fortune. And even the Best Air Fryers Under $100 are common to come by.
Fried food is delicious! An abundance of people’s favorite comfort foods is made by frying. However, as good as your fries and chicken may look and taste, they are unhealthy; this is mostly because of the greasy oil coating during frying.
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Nowadays, consumers are getting more aware of their food health.
Knowing of this urgent demand for “healthier fried food”, the product was born to replace your oily skillet.
New technology is not always cheap, and it can be difficult to find a high-quality budget product. For your convenience, we have conducted a list of some best ones you can get for a measly $100.
In-depth Review Of Top 8 Best Air Fryers Under $100
Now let’s not wait any longer and find the answer to the most important question: “What is the best air fryer under $100?”. Browse carefully as each product has its unique advantages and disadvantages. But, they can surely check at least one of your needs.
#1. DASH Deluxe Electric Air Fryer + Oven Cooker
The Dash Deluxe air fryer is a no-brainer for those who want to enjoy the crispiest fries while watching their favorite show. Therefore, the brand introduces an exclusive Aircrisp technology; the product can cut down to 80% of fat. Are you still not impressed? Well, there is more than that!
According to customer feedback, their affordable air fryer unit does not leave any distinct smell like the standard cheap ones. Because it is so good that you can not tell the difference between air-fried and oil-fried food.
When you take a closer look, the unit crisps up your food thoroughly. As long as you set the time and temperature correctly, the food can stay crunchy for a prolonged period.
Besides, it has a 6-quart capacity, which is enough for your family in one sitting, ensuring no wasteful leftovers. The removable frying basket is a plus, for it is a rare thing to find in budget air fryer. Additionally, the basket is not cut down on quality, having a non-stick surface to place your food in or take them out with little effort.
Unfortunately, we noticed that the fan noise is quite loud during operation, so you can feel the product quite annoying if you intend to use it frequently.
Pros
- Crisp food up effectively
- No residual odor
- Perfect size for snacks
Con
- Loud fan noise
#2. Instant Pot Compact Air Fryer Lid 6 in 1
We know that many households have already purchased an Instant Pot to prepare their daily meals. As such, spending extra on another kitchen appliance does not sound budget. If you are a pressure cooker user, this model lid will save you a lot of money.
This handy item is arguably the most portable 6-quart you can find on the market. Hence, the product works by acting as a replacement lid for your Instant Pot, transforming it into a multi-purpose function with a simple switch.
Do not underestimate its small size! The unit’s considerable 6-quart basket is capable of delivering family-sized dishes. Not only that, the product utilizes modern Evenfry technology for satisfying crispiness, which rivals the power of a full-size air fryer.
Having a bunch of appliances can fill up your stalls, leaving you with barely any room to cook; and the compact air fryer size of this unit makes it extremely easy to store, taking virtually no space in your beloved kitchen.
As we have mentioned, this product is a pressure cooker’s lid, so non-Instant Pot users should look for other products.
Pros
- Compact size
- Powerful Evenfry technology
- Large capacity
Con
- Require an Instant Pot to operate
#3. COMFEE 3.7QT Electric
Not everyone knows how electronics work, especially if there are elders and babies in your household. For this reason, looking at the sheer number of accidents caused by appliances used incorrectly, you may want a COMFEE model in your kitchen for maximum safety.
This product has multiple features that can tackle any potential situation in your kitchen. Hence, the unit can immediately shut off when the basket is not in place or when your food is ready.
Another accident many households have reported is adjusting the temperature incorrectly, usually cranking it up too high; this may pose a major fire hazard. You can count on the COMFEE, However, and if the air fryer reaches a certain temperature, it will shut off automatically, protecting the device as well as yourself.
One detail worth noting is that the nonstick coating inside the basket is UL certified to contain no toxic chemicals such as BPA or PFOA, so you can wholeheartedly enjoy cooking a healthier version of your comfort food.
Unfortunately, the bulky construction makes it relatively difficult to remove and clean. You might need to put extra force to carry it around.
Pros
- Overheat-protection
- Automatically shut off when finished
- Chemical-free material
Con
- Hard to clean thoroughly
#4. Chefman 4.5 Quart
People who want to go on a strict diet while still enjoying fried food should grab this Chefman product right away. Because, this heavy-duty machine can cook food to perfection with nearly no oil, cutting down up to a stunning 98%, the most amount of oil reduced you can get from these ones
“Would the taste be mediocre then?” Oil-frying believers may doubt, and the answer is clear once you look at the result! Thanks to rapid air technology, your food will come out with shimmering golden color and perfect crispiness with no leftover grease. Hence, you will no longer have to waste money on buying oil-absorbing paper and ruin your dishes.
Another benefit of this fryer is that it only fries the content lightly; thus, you do not have to check your food frequently, keeping your hands free from other preparations.
However, during our usage, we found no dedicated On/Off button on the digital air fryer display; the only way to turn the machine off is to unplug it.
Pros
- Exceptional 98% oil reduction
- Rapid air technology
- Hands-free operation process
#5. COSORI Air Fryer12-in-1
If you are fond of cooking and want to get air fryers under $100 you can take full control of every nook and cranny, the COSORI Air Fryer 12-in-1 will prove to be a reliable companion. Introducing a whopping 10 different presets, you can prepare a full-course dinner containing a wide array of food for the appetizer, main course, and dessert as well.
The pre-installed menu is not the only thing you can take advantage of. Got your own take on how to cook a type of food? Simply press on the preset you want to change and adjust the temperature and time as you wish. These presets are fully customizable, ensuring each dish will be the same as how you want it to be.
First-time air fryer users beware, the abundance of presets may feel quite confusing at first sight. If this product suits your need the most, we recommend you look at the instruction manual thoroughly for the best cooking experience.
Pros
- 10 different pre-installed presets
- Fully customizable features
Con
- May confuse first-time users
#6. NUWAVE BRIO Digital Air Fryer
It is not easy to cook various meals at the same time, and cooking them individually can take ages. Worry no more! The NUWAVE BRIO is here to save the day. This product is the only one on our list to offer a unique basket divider, which allows you to cook up to 2 ingredients at once without mixing them.
This handy divider is not the only accessory included in the box. The product also comes with a non-stick pan and baking rack. With those items on hand, you can fry snacks, grill a whole chicken and bake cookies in one unit, significantly reducing time for cooking and increasing time for enjoyment.
On the flip side, this product is very bulky and can take up a large space on your kitchen counter.
Pros
- Multiple accessories in the box
- Capable of cooking 2 ingredients at once
Con
- Relatively heavy
#7. GoWISE USA 2.75-Quart
We highly recommend this pick for busy users who cannot afford much time for cooking. The GoWISE can be purchased for under $100 and is easy to control, and comes with only the essential buttons for adjusting temperature and wattage, so you do not have to waste time reading the lengthy instructions.
Through a built-in Rapid Air Circulation Technology, it only takes you at most 30 minutes to cook any types of food that you can fit into the basket.
Moreover, the air fry basket and its components are removable; all you have to do is throw it into a dishwasher and go to work. The machine will be clean as new when you get back home.
For the air fryer’s super quick cooking time, its capacity is quite small, only at a modest 2.75 quart. So it is not suitable for parties or large family meetings.
Pros
- Lightning-fast cooking time
- Easy one-touch control system
- Dishwasher-safe
Con
- Small capacity
#8. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
Daily users would definitely want a well-built air fryer for long-term use. It is no point in buying a budget product to then replacing it in a couple of months. For that reason, the manufacturer has produced the Ninja to last through wear-and-tear with ease.
The outer shell of the item is made of plastic, however, it is of higher quality than that conventional ones. It does not feel low-quality and works as advertised, capable of taking kicks and drops unscathed.
The buttons are responsive, and the connecting hinges are sturdy, keeping them secure and safe to use.
Its interior also has good care; the maker chooses a multi-layer ceramic coating for the basket, which does not get scratched off easily, improving its durability after each use.
On the downside, there are no LEDs or displays to indicate the cooking time and temperature, making them very difficult to observe and adjust.
Pros
- Impact-resistant shell
- Durable ceramic-coated interior
- Sturdy hinges
Con
- No display for time and temperature
Buying Guide for Best Air Fryer Under $100
After you have browsed through the best air fryers under the $100 review we have conducted, below are some tips to further help you decide which will fit you best.
#1. How Much Does A Good Air Fryer Cost?
The best air fryers are getting more and more common as people’s quality of life increases. They are no longer a luxury product, quickly turning into a helpful hand in everyone’s kitchen.
And you do not have to spend a fortune to get your hands on a quality product. After many scrolling through the market, we found that a standard product with the necessary features would cost you around 60 to 70 dollars. But products in this price range tend to have poor build quality, leading to low long-term value.
If you want bang for your buck, we suggest you grab a unit in the 80 to 100-dollar range; they are the perfect balance between quality and price.
#2. Should I Get An Air Fryer?
As it is an innovative, and effective device, getting the product will improve your cooking experience. Overall, it shows its capability the best to small households or one-person apartments, who would appreciate a quick but healthy meal the most.
People who are having trouble with the scorching stoves and ovens in the summer should enjoy one model as well, as it does not give off much heat compared to an oven. Shopping for an oil-free fryer at reputable stores to avoid unnecessary risks
On the other hand, an air fryer is not essential if:
- You are living on a small budget and want to save as much money as possible.
- You already have an air fryer oven in your kitchen; these ones will only take up your cooking space.
- You prefer to use healthy oil in cooking such as olive oil and canola oil. If used correctly, oil frying can actually be more nutritious
#3. How Is An Air Fryer Compared To An Oven?
Despite its many cooking modes, an air fryer can only cook 1 type of food at a time. And cooking time should take roughly the same amount as a regular oven would take. Furthermore, the product generally has a smaller capacity, so large-scale meals may require you to split them into multiple batches. As a result, the product can use up more electricity than an oven.
They can take up quite a lot of space, depending on how much capacity the product is – you should measure where you’ll store it carefully before buying one.
Read More: Best Air Fryer Under $150: Top 5 Picks You Shouldn’t Miss
Health Benefits Of Air Fryer
It is scientifically proven that air frying is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. And it can potentially cut the fat content down by a measurable 70% to 90%. This cooking method should remove other harmful effects of oil such as grease and burnt fat.
#1. Promote Weight Loss
Consumption of greasy foods has been directly linked to a higher obesity rate. Therefore, this is due to the high fat and calorie content in the food after they absorb the oil.
Switching to air-fried foods can positively change your eating habit. Since they simulate the taste of oil-fried food, you can enjoy them without any increase in carbs.
#2. Safer Than Deep Fryers
Deep-frying foods means submerging them in a tub of boiling oil. This can pose a safety hazard to the cook. Meanwhile, air fryers cook internally, so there is no risk of popping oil or accidental touches. But we insist that you read the instruction manual carefully to avoid unwanted outcomes.
#3. Reduces Disease Risk
Consuming greasy fried foods regularly has always been the main cause of many severe health conditions, from heart disease to physical tiredness. By using the air fryer to start a healthier diet, we can reduce the risk of these problems by a large margin.
Read More: Are Air Fryers Toxic – Benefits and Ricks You Should Know
Frequently Asked Questions
We have stumbled upon many questions from the consumers we think you would have during your search for the best product.
#1. How Does An Air Fryer Work?
It is not something unfamiliar, many people see them as a smaller oven that produces and circulates dry and hot air around your food to simulate the frying process. The final result should be crispy outside and tender, minus the greasy layer of oil. Similar to an oven, food being cooked in these ones requires regular shakes to even out the heat.
#2. What Can You Cook In An Air Fryer?
You can cook all kinds of food in an air fryer. As long as it is written in the instruction manuals, a few drops of oil is all you need to start frying and grilling your favorite dishes.
Cooking frozen food in that one is more efficient as you do not need to add oil. They are super crunchy and delicious as well. Some extensive air fryers can even have the ability to grill, fry, bake, and roast.
The potential is limitless! From savory dishes to sweet desserts, the product can deliver similar results to professional kitchen ovens.
#3. Do You Need To Use Oil In An Air Fryer?
Contrary to popular belief, that one does need oil to operate efficiently. It is not much at all, the standard amount should be around 1 tablespoon of cooking oil for a hefty kilogram of ingredients. notwithstanding it is not always a bad thing, you can add a spray of olive oil to enhance the flavor.
#4. Are Air Fryers Healthier Than Fryers?
Overall, air fryers are definitely a healthier alternative to deep fat frying; air frying reduces the amount of oil in your food and minimizes grease burns. Remember, though, cooking food in an air fryer and the result is still fried food. T
his unhealthy cooking technique has been shown to contribute to alarming weight gain speed and chronic diseases like severe diabetes, heart failure, and even cancer.
It is not a replacement for cooking utensils, and limiting its use to special occasions will reap the most benefit and diminish negative effects.
Read More: Air Fryer Vs Deep Fryer Cooking Time: Which is Your Option?
#5. Are Air Fryers Easy To Clean?
Most budget air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts, which makes cleaning your pick a matter of a button click.
Do not have a dishwasher? Then it is still a piece of cake. As the name suggests, the product does not leave behind greasy, oily messes like a deep fryer. A soft brush and a non-abrasive detergent are sufficient for thorough cleaning without damaging the interior.
Other than that, should you find an unwanted odor hard to remove completely, pour some lemon juice into the basket and let it sit for half an hour; not only the residue is deleted, your product will smell even better than the original.
#6. Can Aluminum Foil Be Used In An Air Fryer?
The answer is a definite yes! You can throw foil in the frying basket no problem! Actually, we recommend that you layout the aluminum foil before cooking; this will keep bits of your food from sticking between the air holes.
Remember to only use a small amount of foil in the bottom of the basket, as too much coverage will obstruct air circulation. And your food may come out raw!
Read More: Can You Put Aluminum Foil In An Air Fryer – How To Use Safely
Last Words
And that was all about our in-depth review of top best air fryer under $100 on the market in 2023. These products are affordable while still delivering a quality experience to users. Browse with confidence! As every unit you have looked through is guaranteed to serve your family well.
Some of our favorite picks that we highly suggest are the COMFEE 3.7QT due to its plenty of safety measures, and the NUWAVE Brio for large outdoor BBQs.
Thank you all for reading, and see you soon in the next article!
