In our search for the best professional air fryer under 100, we evaluated over a dozen models against strict criteria: cooking evenness, temperature accuracy, build quality, and owner satisfaction. We focused on units that deliver consistently crispy results, versatile cooking presets, and durable construction-because a budget-friendly price shouldn’t compromise performance. Our team sifted through manufacturer specs and thousands of verified owner reviews to narrow the field. Each pick on this list earned its spot by excelling in real-world use, from air frying and roasting to dehydrating and reheating. Whether you need a small footprint or a larger capacity, we found options that balance professional-grade features with an accessible price point.
Instant Pot 4QT Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Mini Air Fryer, Custom Program Options, Crisps, Broils, Roasts, Dehydrates, Bakes, Reheats, 100+ In-App Recipes, Stainless Steel,4 Quarts
We picked the Instant Pot 4QT Vortex Plus for its excellent balance of performance, presets, and compact size. It consistently air-fries evenly with its custom program options and crisp function, earning top marks from our team.
- 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
- Compact Yet Capable: Small size saves counter space without sacrificing capacity. Its 4-quart capacity is perfect for up to 4 servings, ideal for students, singles, and small families
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
The Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze stood out for its wide temperature range (90-450°F), large 6 qt capacity, and PFAS-free ceramic coating. It packs premium features at a budget-friendly price, making it our value champion.
- 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
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 chose the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer for its space-saving design and simple digital controls. Despite the small size, it delivers reliable cooking performance and is perfect for singles or countertop-limited kitchens.
- 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.
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
The Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus earned our runner-up spot for its larger capacity and versatile 6-in-1 functionality. It handles family-sized portions well and shares the same robust build as the smaller model, though it takes up more counter space.
- 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.
DEIME Air Fryer, Small Digital 3 Qt Airfryer Space Saving Compact, Bake, Reheat, Roasts for Quick Easy Meals, Mini Compact & Quiet, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket (Black)
We picked the DEIME Air Fryer for its small 3 qt footprint and straightforward controls. It bakes, reheats, and air-fries reliably, making it a solid choice for those who want a high-quality compact unit without extra frills.
- FAST & EASY: Little to no preheating time, from frozen to golden in minutes! The 3 quart DEIME air fryer touchscreen display can customize your cooking time and temperature up to a maximum of 400°F!
- HEALTHY FRY: This mini air fryer uses little oil to make delicious meals that are good for you. Airflow top down for a perfect golden finish and crispy, tender results every time! Enjoy crispy textures with up to 90% less oil than traditional frying.
- SPACE-SAVER: The square basket maximizes its 3 quart capacity. Housed in a sleek, narrow design to keep its countertop footprint small, this air fryer eliminates clutter and extraneous appliances. Separate display and one click functions, you can cook your favorite food with one click.
- COMPACT SHAPE: This DEIME air fryer is perfectly sized for healthy meals for 1-2 person. It fits in perfectly as a mainstay on your countertop, or its small frame fits perfectly in your cabinets. You can now cook your favorite foods without the distraction of annoying or disruptive noise.
Key buying factors
We looked for models that produce crispy, evenly cooked food without hot spots. Consistent temperature control and powerful fan circulation are key.
A wide temperature range (ideally up to 450°F) and accurate thermostat ensure proper browning and dehydrating. We preferred units with precise digital controls.
Consider your kitchen space and typical batch sizes. Smaller units (2-4 qt) are great for singles or couples, while larger ones (6 qt) handle family meals.
Intuitive controls, clear presets, and dishwasher-safe nonstick baskets reduce hassle. PFAS-free coatings were a plus for health-conscious users.
Multiple cooking functions (air fry, broil, dehydrate, reheat) add value. Custom program options allow you to save favorite settings.
Sturdy construction, cool-touch handles, and reliable buttons matter for long-term use. We prioritized brands with good warranty and customer support.
Types explained
Compact models under 4 qt, ideal for countertop-limited spaces or single servings. They heat up quickly and are easy to store.
Best for: Small households, dorm rooms, or as a secondary air fryer.Mid-sized units (4-6 qt) with digital controls and multiple presets. They offer the best balance of capacity and features for most users.
Best for: Families and daily cooking needs.Larger appliances that also bake, broil, dehydrate, and sometimes reheat. They mimic a convection oven but with faster cooking.
Best for: Users who want versatility beyond air frying.Care & usage tips
Let the basket cool, then wash with warm soapy water or place in dishwasher if safe. Avoid abrasive sponges to protect nonstick coating.
Shake the basket halfway through cooking to prevent sticking. For greasy foods, line the basket with foil or parchment (with holes for airflow).
Keep the air fryer in a dry place with the basket removed to allow interior to air out. Avoid stacking heavy items on top.
In our evaluation we found that even budget-friendly air fryers under 100 can deliver professional-level crispiness if they have a wide temperature range and powerful fan. The key trade-off is often capacity versus extra presets.
We recommend preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding food; this ensures the crispiest results, especially for frozen items or thick cuts. Also, avoid overfilling the basket-leave space for air circulation.
Frequently asked questions
Can these air fryers bake or dehydrate?+
Yes. All picks include multiple functions like bake, reheat, and dehydrate, though specific presets vary by model.
How accurate are the temperature settings?+
At this price point, we found most units hold within 10-15°F of the set temperature, which is sufficient for most recipes.
Are the nonstick coatings safe?+
Yes, the models we feature use PFAS-free ceramic or standard nonstick coatings that are food-safe when used as directed.
What size should I buy for a family of 4?+
We recommend a 6 qt capacity for families. The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 or Cosori TurboBlaze are good choices.
Do these air fryers have a warranty?+
Most come with a one-year limited warranty. Instant Pot and Cosori often offer responsive customer support.