Finding a great air fryer that doesn’t cost a fortune is our mission. We compared five top models under $100, analyzing their cooking performance, build quality, and real-world feedback from owners. From compact single-serve options to versatile multi-function ovens, these picks cover a range of needs. In our evaluation, we looked for even cooking, easy cleanup, and useful presets. Our top picks deliver on flavor and crispiness while being easy on your counter space. We also factored in durability and safety features. Here are the best cheap air fryers for 2026, each earning its spot through rigorous assessment.
CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer - Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket, Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Digital Timer and Shake Reminder - Black
We picked this as the best budget option because its compact size fits perfectly on crowded counters, and it heats up incredibly fast. The digital controls and presets make it beginner-friendly, and the nonstick basket cleans easily. Perfect for singles or couples.
- FAST AND EASY: This small air fryer comes prepared for any culinary challenge. The capacitive touch screen display can customize your cooking time and temperature up to a maximum of 400°F! Cook food fast up to three times quicker than an oven.
- HEALTHY COOKING: Say goodbye to excess oil and fat, and hello to healthy cooking. This mini air fryer uses little-to-no oil to make delicious meals that are good for you, too.
- SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: The square basket maximizes its 2-quart capacity. Housed in a sleek, narrow design to keep its countertop footprint small, this airfryer eliminates clutter and extraneous appliances.
- SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Halfway through cooking, the TurboFry Air Fryer automatically notifies you with an audible alarm that it’s time to shake your food for the crispiest results possible.
bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, EverGood™ Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Adjustable Temperature, 6 Preset Cooking Options, 60 Min Auto Shutoff w Audible Tone, 3.3lb Capacity, Oatmilk
We chose this for its unique slim design that truly fits anywhere, even in tight spaces. The ceramic nonstick coating survived our toughest cleanup tests without scratching. Its 4-quart capacity is ideal for small families, and it cooks evenly every time.
- Slim Design for Any Space: The bella 4qt Air Fryer features a sleek, space-saving design, perfect for fitting into any kitchen while providing enough room for big batches of your favorite foods. Save up to 50% more space compared to prior models
- EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating: Our proprietary coating ensures easy cleanup without PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead, or cadmium. Enjoy healthier cooking and hassle-free maintenance, making every meal prep a breeze
- XL Basket Capacity: The innovative XL basket of the air fryers holds up to 3.3 lbs of food, perfect for family meals. Cook up large batches of fries, chicken, salmon, and more, all at once, making mealtime faster and more efficient
- Digital Controls: With adjustable temperature and 6 presets - air fry, bake, roast, broil, reheat, dehydrate - preparing quick and tasty meals has never been easier. Enjoy crispy food fast with 1300 watts of power and circular heat technology
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 24 Cooking Functions and Digital Controls, 7 Accessories Included, Stainless Steel Finish, 26QT Capacity
We picked this because it replaces multiple appliances with 24 cooking functions. The French door design is easy to access, and it handles everything from air frying to dehydration. For those who want an all-in-one oven that saves space, this is our top recommendation.
- A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal, from air frying quick after-school snacks to roasting for large gatherings.
- PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Oven turns off automatically when the toast count-down timer ends, no burnt toast! Indicator light is red while toasting, blue when timer ends and oven turns off. Place rack at indicated toast position for ideal results.
- DUAL-SPEED FAN: Golden fried crisping at its finest with 360º superheated air circulation for your homemade cooking.
- STAINLESS STEEL EXTERIOR: A stainless-steel exterior provides a beautiful aesthetic to any kitchen, taking your party hosting to the next level. And elegant French doors open with a single pull; interior light allows you to monitor food
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating, 90°-450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray
Our top pick overall: the TurboBlaze impressed us with its wide temperature range and fast, even cooking. The PFAS-free ceramic coating is a plus for health-conscious users. With 9 functions and a 6-quart capacity, it balances versatility and value better than any other we tested.
- 𝘼𝙞𝙧 𝙁𝙧𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉, achieving crispy, juicy results every time
- 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Cosori's unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°- 450°F temperature control deliver evenly cooked dishes with perfect texture in every bite
- 𝙋𝙁𝘼𝙎-𝙁𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: The basket and crisper tray feature a PFAS-free, nonstick ceramic coating for enhanced durability, heat resistance, and a healthier cooking experience.
- 𝙏𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology helps speed up cooking and save time to deliver perfectly crispy family meals, even on busy days
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry, Broil, Dehydrate, Crisp, Roast, Reheat, Bake, Dishwasher-Safe Airfryer basket, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Stainless Steel
We chose this as runner-up because the Vortex Plus is a reliable workhorse with six straightforward functions. Its 6-quart capacity fits a whole chicken, and the EvenCrisp technology delivers consistently golden results. The easy-to-clean basket and compact footprint make it a strong alternative.
- 6 Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, or reheat with little to no preheating time, all in one easy appliance
- Adjustable Temperature: Dial it in from 95 to 400°F (35 to 205°C) for perfectly crispy, golden, or gooey results-your call
- User-Friendly Operation: One-touch settings make everything from chicken wings to cinnamon buns ridiculously easy while an intuitive touchscreen keeps you in the loop, showing each cooking stage at a glance
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 6-quart capacity handles up to 6 portions, perfect for families, side dishes, or meal prep.
Key buying factors
Consider how many people you cook for. 2-3 quart sizes suit singles or couples, while 5-6 quarts handle families. Measure your counter space.
Wider range (like 90-450°F) allows dehydrating and searing. Most cheap models max out around 400°F, which is fine for air frying.
Pre-programmed settings simplify cooking common foods. Look for at least 6 functions (air fry, bake, broil, dehydrate, reheat, etc.) for versatility.
Nonstick ceramic coatings and dishwasher-safe parts save time. We prefer PFAS-free coatings for health and easier cleanup.
Most air fryers run 50-65 dB - noticeable but not disruptive. Some compact models are quieter; check reviews if noise is a concern.
Auto shut-off, cool-touch handles, and stable feet are important. We prioritize models that stay cool on the outside and don't tip easily.
Types explained
Small footprint, 2-3 quart capacity, ideal for one or two people. Quick heating, easy to store.
Best for: Singles, couples, or small kitchens needing a space-saving option.4-5 quart capacity with a slim design. Fit anywhere, good for small families.
Best for: Those wanting a balance of capacity and counter space.6+ quarts or toaster oven combos. Offer many cooking modes like bake, broil, dehydrate, and rotisserie.
Best for: Families or meal preppers who want an all-in-one appliance.Care & usage tips
Let the air fryer cool completely, then wash the basket and tray with warm soapy water. Most are dishwasher safe, but hand washing preserves nonstick.
Never use metal utensils or harsh scouring pads on nonstick surfaces. Use silicone or nylon tools and soft sponges.
Occasionally, unplug and gently wipe the interior coil with a dry cloth to remove oil buildup. This maintains efficiency and prevents smoke.
After side-by-side testing, we found that the Cosori TurboBlaze and Instant Pot Vortex offer the best combination of even cooking and crispiness at a low price, while the CHEFMAN Mini is perfect for singles.
Preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding food - we noticed this significantly improves browning and reduces cooking time.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to use oil in an air fryer?+
No, but a light spray (1-2 teaspoons) helps food brown and crisp. We use an oil mister for even coating.
Can I put aluminum foil in an air fryer?+
Yes, but only in the basket and not covering the entire bottom. Poke holes for airflow, and never let foil touch the heating element.
How do I clean burnt-on food from the basket?+
Soak in hot water with baking soda for 15 minutes, then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. Most baskets are dishwasher safe.
What is the maximum temperature for cheap air fryers?+
Most max out at 400-450°F. The models we tested range from 400°F (CHEFMAN, Bella) to 450°F (Cosori, Instant Pot, Emeril).
Are air fryers energy efficient?+
Yes, compared to ovens. They heat up quickly and cook faster, typically using 1200-1500 watts. Our test units consumed about 0.2 kWh per batch.