If you’re looking for the best digital air fryers under $100, there are some great options that deliver crispy, healthy results quickly. I recommend models like CHEFMAN’s versatile unit with rotisserie and dehydrator, Gourmia’s 6-quart digital version, and compact options like the 2.1-quart fryer with 7-in-1 presets. Larger family-sized models like the 8.5-quart air fryer also fit the budget. Keep reading to discover which features make these models stand out!
Key Takeaways
- Many budget-friendly models offer digital controls, multiple presets, and rapid air technology for crispy, evenly cooked results.
- Compact sizes and space-saving designs make affordable air fryers suitable for small kitchens and limited countertops.
- Features like dishwasher-safe baskets and non-stick coatings simplify cleaning and maintenance.
- Top models under $100 include brands like Nuwave, Sur La Table, and CRUX, all delivering crispy, healthy meals with minimal oil.
- Safety features such as auto shutoff and shake reminders ensure easy and secure operation within budget constraints.
CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer with Rotisserie and Dehydrator
If you’re looking for a versatile and budget-friendly air fryer, the CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer with Rotisserie and Dehydrator is an excellent choice. It combines air frying, baking, dehydrating, rotisserie, and roasting in one appliance, making it perfect for diverse meals. With 17 preset options, I can quickly prepare my favorite dishes without fuss. The large 10-liter capacity suits family-sized meals, and the easy-view window helps me monitor progress. Plus, it heats rapidly with no preheating needed and uses 98% less oil for healthier cooking. Its simple touch controls and safety features make it a practical and efficient addition to any kitchen.
Best For: those seeking a versatile, space-saving, and healthier cooking appliance suitable for large families or meal prepping.
Pros:
- Combines multiple cooking functions including air frying, baking, dehydrating, rotisserie, and roasting in one device.
- Large 10-liter capacity with easy-view window for convenient monitoring.
- Uses rapid air technology with no preheating required, promoting faster, healthier meals with minimal oil.
Cons:
- May be bulky for small kitchens or limited counter space.
- Some users might find the numerous preset options overwhelming initially.
- Cleaning the racks and accessories could be time-consuming due to multiple components.
Gourmia Air Fryer 6 QT Digital
The Gourmia Air Fryer 6 QT Digital stands out as an excellent choice for those who want versatile, healthy cooking without breaking the bank. As the top-selling air fryer in the USA in 2022, it offers 16 presets for frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and more, all in a spacious 6-quart basket. Its touchscreen makes operation simple, while fat removal technology promotes healthier meals. Compact and durable, it heats quickly and cooks evenly, delivering crispy results with minimal effort. Plus, its stainless steel design and dishwasher-safe accessories make cleanup a breeze. Overall, this multicooker combo balances performance, convenience, and value perfectly.
Best For: those seeking a versatile, easy-to-use air fryer that offers healthy cooking options, compact size, and great value for everyday family meals.
Pros:
- 16 versatile presets for frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and more
- Touchscreen control and dishwasher-safe accessories for ease of use and cleaning
- Even cooking with crispy, restaurant-quality results in a space-saving design
Cons:
- Limited to a 6-quart capacity, which may not suit large families or gatherings
- Made in China, which may concern some users regarding manufacturing standards
- Lacks advanced features like smart connectivity or customizable cooking programs
2.1Qt Small Air Fryer with 7-in-1 Presets
The Qt Small Air Fryer with 7-in-1 presets is perfect for anyone seeking versatile, space-saving cooking. Its compact 2.1-quart size makes it ideal for 1-2 servings, fitting easily into small kitchens, apartments, or RVs. With a sleek black design and simple touch controls, it’s easy to use and clean. Powered by 1000W, it delivers crispy, moist results with 98% less oil. The seven preset functions—including air fry, roast, bake, and reheat—make meal prep quick and straightforward. Its adjustable temperature up to 400°F and auto shut-off ensure both convenience and safety, making it a great all-in-one cooking solution.
Best For: those seeking a compact, versatile air fryer perfect for small households, quick meals, and space-constrained kitchens.
Pros:
- Space-saving design ideal for small kitchens, apartments, and RVs
- Easy-to-use touch controls with preset functions for quick meal prep
- Delivers crispy, moist results with 98% less oil, promoting healthier eating
Cons:
- Control sensitivity may make manual adjustments tricky for some users
- Basket capacity may limit larger food items or multiple servings
- Limited size might not suit those cooking for more than 2 people
Chefman 4 QT Air Fryer with Touchscreen Controls
With its compact 4-quart capacity and sleek touchscreen controls, the Chefman Air Fryer is perfect for small households or anyone seeking quick, fuss-free meals. It features Hi-Fry technology that heats up to 450°F, ensuring extra crispy results in minutes. The digital touchscreen offers four preset functions for easy one-touch cooking, and shake notifications help you achieve perfect crispiness. Its nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket makes cleanup simple, while the safety features, including automatic shutoff and cETL certification, provide peace of mind. Stylish and durable, this air fryer combines convenience, safety, and versatility in a compact design that fits comfortably on any countertop.
Best For: small households or individuals seeking quick, easy, and healthy meals with minimal cleanup in a compact and stylish appliance.
Pros:
- Compact 4-quart size ideal for serving 2-4 people and fitting on most countertops
- User-friendly digital touchscreen with four preset cooking functions for convenience
- Nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket simplifies cleaning and maintenance
Cons:
- Limited capacity may not be suitable for larger families or bigger meal portions
- Only four preset functions might restrict customization options for some users
- Power at 1500W may result in longer cooking times compared to larger or more powerful models
Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt
If you’re looking for an air fryer that can handle large family meals with ease, the Chefman TurboFry Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt stands out as an excellent choice. Its stainless steel exterior offers a sleek, modern look, while the lightweight design makes it easy to move around. With a spacious 8-quart capacity, it’s perfect for feeding 4-6 people. The digital touch controls and presets simplify cooking, and the dishwasher-safe basket makes cleanup a breeze. It delivers crispy, evenly cooked food with 98% less oil, making it a healthier yet delicious option for everything from fries to roasted chicken.
Best For: families or individuals seeking a large-capacity, versatile air fryer that simplifies cooking with digital controls and delivers healthy, crispy results.
Pros:
- Spacious 8-quart capacity ideal for feeding 4-6 people and large meal prep
- Easy-to-use digital touch controls with preset functions for various dishes
- Dishwasher-safe basket and tray for quick and effortless cleanup
Cons:
- Slightly heavy at nearly 10 pounds, which may affect portability for some users
- Some users report occasional issues with the digital display or minor malfunctions
- Price can vary, and discounts may be necessary to get the best deal
Chefman 6 Quart Dual Basket Air Fryer
Looking for an air fryer that can handle multiple dishes at once? The Chefman 6 Quart Dual Basket Air Fryer is perfect. It has two independent 3-quart nonstick, dishwasher-safe baskets, giving you a total capacity of 6 quarts. This setup lets you cook different foods simultaneously or switch between baskets easily. The digital touchscreen makes adjusting temperatures from 200°F to 450°F straightforward, and the Hi-Fry option adds extra crispness. With Smart Finish technology, both baskets finish cooking together, ensuring everything is hot and crispy at the same time. It’s versatile, easy to use, and promotes healthier fried foods with little to no oil.
Best For: Home cooks who want to prepare multiple dishes at once with a versatile, easy-to-use air fryer that promotes healthier eating.
Pros:
- Dual basket design allows cooking different foods simultaneously or switching between baskets with ease.
- Digital touchscreen controls with adjustable temperature and Smart Finish technology for synchronized cooking.
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick baskets make cleanup quick and convenient.
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint may require more counter space.
- Price point could be higher compared to single-basket models.
- Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with digital controls and dual-zone features.
DEIME 3 Qt Air Fryer, Compact Digital Space-Saving Mini
The DEIME 3 Qt Air Fryer is an excellent choice for small households, apartments, or anyone short on kitchen space, thanks to its compact and sleek design. Its 3-quart square basket maximizes capacity while fitting easily on countertops or inside cabinets. Weighing just under 7 pounds, it features a stainless steel exterior and a digital touchscreen control up to 400°F. The quiet operation, BPA-free, dishwasher-safe basket, and window for monitoring make it user-friendly. Perfect for single servings or small meals, it delivers crispy, healthy results with minimal oil—ideal for quick, convenient cooking in limited spaces.
Best For: small households, singles, couples, or those with limited kitchen space seeking quick, healthy cooking options.
Pros:
- Compact, space-saving design ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or RVs.
- Easy to use digital touchscreen with quick monitoring via front window.
- Quick and versatile cooking capabilities with minimal oil, producing crispy and healthy results.
Cons:
- Limited capacity, not suitable for larger families or cooking multiple servings at once.
- Basket and accessories are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, but the main basket lacks a separate basket within, which may cause some handling issues.
- Size constraints may require adjusting cooking times for larger or denser foods to prevent overcooking.
COSORI 9-in-1 Air Fryer, 6-Qt, TurboBlaze, Precise Heat
For busy families and health-conscious cooks, the COSORI 9-in-1 Air Fryer stands out with its TurboBlaze Technology, which delivers crispy, evenly cooked meals in minutes—using up to 95% less oil. Its 5-speed airflow system, combined with a powerful 3600 rpm fan and precise temperature control from 90°F to 450°F, ensures consistent results. With nine versatile functions, including baking, roasting, and dehydrating, it handles a wide range of recipes. The 6-quart basket offers ample space for family-sized meals, while the ceramic non-stick coating and easy-to-clean design make maintenance simple. It’s a smart, efficient addition to any kitchen.
Best For: busy families and health-conscious cooks seeking quick, versatile, and healthier meal options with minimal oil and fuss.
Pros:
- Features TurboBlaze Technology for fast, evenly cooked, crispy results with up to 95% less oil.
- Offers 9 versatile cooking functions including baking, roasting, and dehydrating for a wide range of recipes.
- Large 6-quart capacity with easy-to-clean ceramic non-stick coating, perfect for family-sized meals.
Cons:
- Relatively bulky size may require ample counter space for some kitchens.
- May have a learning curve for new users unfamiliar with multiple functions and settings.
- As a high-powered appliance, it might generate noticeable noise during operation.
CHEFMAN 6 Quart Dual Basket Air Fryer Oven
If you want to cook multiple dishes at once without sacrificing crispy texture, the CHEFMAN 6 Quart Dual Basket Air Fryer Oven is an excellent choice. Its dual-zone technology with two independent 3-quart baskets lets you prepare different foods simultaneously or separately, with a handy Sync Finish feature that guarantees both finish cooking together. The digital touch controls make it easy to set temperatures between 200°F and 450°F, perfect for roasting, reheating, or air frying. With features like Hi-Fry, Auto Shutoff, and easy-to-clean non-stick baskets, it delivers crispy results and versatile performance, all within an affordable price point.
Best For: those seeking a versatile, space-efficient air fryer capable of cooking multiple dishes simultaneously with crispy results and easy operation.
Pros:
- Dual-zone technology allows cooking two different foods at once or separately, saving time and effort
- Digital touch controls with adjustable temperature range (200°F-450°F) for precise cooking
- Easy-to-clean non-stick baskets and additional accessories enhance convenience
Cons:
- Some users report cosmetic scratches upon delivery, affecting appearance
- Lacks actual air vents in baskets, relying on top-down airflow which may require flipping foods for even crispiness
- Non-stick coating durability concerns over time, potentially affecting longevity
Ninja Air Fryer, 4 QT, Grey
Looking for a versatile and user-friendly air fryer that fits comfortably on your countertop? The Ninja Air Fryer AF101 offers a compact 4-quart capacity with a sleek grey design. Its modern touch controls and digital display make meal prep simple, while the ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate ensure easy cleaning. With convection heat technology and a wide temperature range from 105°F to 400°F, it can fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, and reheat. Capable of cooking up to 2 pounds of food, it delivers crispy, healthy results quickly. Rated 4.7 stars from over 85,000 reviews, it’s a reliable, space-saving addition to any kitchen.
Best For: those seeking a compact, easy-to-use air fryer for healthy, quick meals suitable for families or individuals with limited kitchen space.
Pros:
- Easy to operate with modern touch controls and digital display for precise cooking.
- Versatile 4-in-1 functions including air fry, bake, roast, dehydrate, and reheat.
- Dishwasher-safe parts and quick preheat for convenient cleaning and minimal wait times.
Cons:
- Lacks a pause feature; the unit continues running when opened, which may pose safety concerns.
- Some users prefer different color options for aesthetic matching.
- Compact size may limit cooking larger portions beyond 2 pounds of food.
CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer
The CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer stands out as an ideal choice for small households or anyone with limited kitchen space. Its sleek, space-saving square basket maximizes capacity while fitting easily on countertops or in cabinets. The digital touch screen makes it simple to set customized cooking times and temperatures up to 400°F. Thanks to its TurboFry system, it cooks food up to three times faster than traditional ovens and alerts you when to shake for extra crispiness. With automatic shutoff, dishwasher-safe parts, and a 1-year warranty, this compact fryer offers quick, healthy, and convenient meals without sacrificing safety or durability.
Best For: small households or individuals with limited kitchen space seeking quick, healthy meals with easy-to-use cooking features.
Pros:
- Compact, space-saving design that fits easily on countertops or in cabinets
- Fast cooking times, up to three times quicker than traditional ovens with TurboFry system
- Safety features including automatic shutoff and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Limited 2-quart capacity may not be suitable for cooking large batches or families
- Power rated at 900W, which may result in longer cooking times for certain foods compared to higher-watt models
- Basic controls and features may lack advanced customization options found in larger or more expensive air fryers
Gourmia Compact 2-Qt Digital Air Fryer
The Gourmia Compact 2-Qt Digital Air Fryer stands out as the perfect choice for small households, students, or anyone short on kitchen space. Its space-saving design measures just 11.4 x 8.46 x 11.3 inches and weighs only 2 pounds, making it easy to store and place on any countertop. It uses FryForce 360° rapid air circulation technology to cook crispy foods with up to 98% less oil. With 10 preset functions, a user-friendly LED display, and a non-stick dishwasher-safe basket, it offers quick, easy, and healthy meal prep. Overall, it’s a compact, efficient, and budget-friendly option for crispy perfection.
Best For: small households, students, or anyone with limited kitchen space seeking quick, healthy, and crispy meals.
Pros:
- Compact size fits easily on small countertops or storage spaces
- Uses FryForce 360° rapid air circulation technology for healthier frying with up to 98% less oil
- Easy to operate with 10 preset functions and dishwasher-safe non-stick basket
Cons:
- Limited 2-quart capacity may not suit larger families or bigger meals
- Constructed from plastic, potentially less durable over long-term use
- Lacks advanced features like digital timers beyond 30 minutes or additional cooking modes
Sur La Table Compact Air Fryer with Touchscreen
If you’re searching for a versatile and user-friendly air fryer under $100, the Sur La Table Compact Air Fryer with Touchscreen is a solid choice. It features a 3.8-quart capacity, perfect for small to medium meals, and offers eight presets like air fry, bake, roast, broil, and reheat. Its digital LED touchscreen makes operation simple, while its sleek design looks great on any countertop. The appliance heats quickly, cooks evenly, and produces crispy results with minimal oil. Although it’s made of plastic and isn’t dishwasher safe, most users praise its performance, ease of use, and stylish appearance—making it a reliable, budget-friendly option.
Best For: those seeking an affordable, versatile, and easy-to-use air fryer for small to medium-sized meals with modern features.
Pros:
- User-friendly digital touchscreen with multiple presets for simple operation
- Compact design with a large 3.8-quart capacity suitable for families or small households
- Produces crispy, evenly cooked food with minimal oil, enhancing health and flavor
Cons:
- Made of plastic and not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning
- Some users report initial plastic or electrical burning smells during operation
- Taller items may burn if placed too close to the heating element
CRUX x Marshmello 3.0 QT Digital Air Fryer
For anyone seeking a compact yet powerful air fryer that delivers crispy results quickly, the CRUX x Marshmello 3.0 QT Digital Air Fryer is an excellent choice. It features TurboCrisp technology, which crisps up to 50% faster than traditional ovens, ensuring perfect crunch every time. With 1300 watts of power and a 400°F max temperature, it cooks efficiently. The fully programmable touchscreen offers preset options for roasting, broiling, and baking, plus a 60-minute auto shut-off for safety. Its sleek stainless steel design and non-stick basket make cleanup easy. Ideal for small households, it consistently delivers crispy, healthy food in less time.
Best For: small households or individuals seeking a compact, efficient air fryer that cooks quickly and delivers crispy, healthy results.
Pros:
- TurboCrisp technology crisps food up to 50% faster than traditional ovens.
- Fully programmable touchscreen with preset options for roasting, broiling, and baking.
- Easy to clean non-stick basket and crisping tray, with dishwasher-safe components.
Cons:
- Some users report durability issues after prolonged use, such as malfunctioning or flashing lights.
- Lack of backlit buttons may make operation less convenient in low-light conditions.
- Slightly smaller capacity may be limiting for larger families or bigger meals.
8.5QT Air Fryer, Family Size Digital Air Fryer
Looking for a spacious air fryer that can handle family-sized meals without breaking the bank? The QT Air Fryer offers an 8.5-quart capacity, perfect for cooking large portions like wings, fries, or veggies. Its sleek stainless steel exterior is durable and easy to clean, with a fingerprint-resistant finish. The touchscreen controls allow precise temperature and time adjustments, plus eight preset recipes for quick meals. With a visual window and smart features like auto shut-off and shake reminders, it guarantees even, crispy results. Compact yet roomy, it’s ideal for busy households seeking versatile, efficient cooking without sacrificing space or style.
Best For: families and busy households seeking a spacious, versatile, and easy-to-clean air fryer for preparing large meals efficiently.
Pros:
- Large 8.5QT capacity ideal for family-sized portions and versatile cooking needs
- Stylish stainless steel exterior with fingerprint-resistant finish for durability and easy maintenance
- Touchscreen controls with preset recipes and smart features like auto shut-off and shake reminders for precision and convenience
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint may require more kitchen space
- May be more expensive than smaller or basic models
- Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with touchscreen controls
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Digital Air Fryer Under $100
When selecting a digital air fryer under $100, I focus on size and capacity to guarantee it fits my needs. I also consider how versatile it is for different recipes, how easy it is to operate, and how simple it is to clean. Safety features are key too, so I look for models with reliable protections for peace of mind.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right size and capacity for a digital air fryer under $100 depends on your household’s needs and available space. Smaller models, with 1 to 3-quart capacities, are perfect for singles or small meals, saving counter space and energy. Larger models, offering 3 to 6 quarts, are better suited for families or when cooking for multiple people, allowing you to prepare more food at once. The capacity directly influences meal prep efficiency—larger units reduce cooking time for bigger groups. If your kitchen space is limited, a compact model is a smart choice. Conversely, if you often cook for others, a bigger capacity guarantees you can prepare enough food without multiple batches. Consider your household size and typical meal portions to find the ideal balance.
Cooking Versatility
To get the most out of a digital air fryer under $100, it’s essential to contemplate its cooking versatility. A versatile model should have multiple preset functions like frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and reheating, allowing me to prepare a variety of dishes with ease. Adjustable temperature controls that range from around 120°F to at least 400°F are vital for handling different recipes and food textures. Additionally, having multiple racks or accessories, such as skewers or baking pans, enables me to cook multiple items simultaneously or use different cooking styles. Supporting both quick-cooking modes for snacks and slower settings for more complex meals truly expands the appliance’s utility. Dehydration and roasting functions further enhance versatility, making the air fryer a multi-purpose kitchen companion.
Ease of Operation
Since ease of operation directly impacts how quickly and confidently I can use an air fryer, I focus on models with intuitive controls. I look for simple touchscreens or control panels that let me adjust temperature and time quickly. Preset cooking modes are a huge plus because they let me prepare common recipes with just one button press, saving time and effort. Clear display screens with icons or labels make navigation straightforward, so I don’t get confused during use. I also prefer models with straightforward start and stop buttons, minimizing unnecessary controls. Audible alerts or shake reminders are helpful features that keep me on track during cooking. Overall, these simple, user-friendly features make operating my air fryer more comfortable and efficient.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Ease of operation is important, but I also pay close attention to how easy it is to keep my air fryer clean and maintained. I look for models with dishwasher-safe baskets and accessories, which makes cleanup much simpler. Non-stick coatings on the interior and basket help prevent food from sticking, so wiping or rinsing is quick and effortless. Features like auto shutoff and accessible panels make cleaning safer and more convenient. Compact designs with removable trays allow me to clean thoroughly without disassembling the whole unit. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the heating element and interior to prevent buildup, ensuring my air fryer works efficiently over time. Choosing a model with these features saves me time and keeps my appliance in top shape.
Safety Features
When choosing a digital air fryer under $100, prioritizing safety features is essential to guarantee worry-free cooking. Look for models with automatic shutoff to prevent overcooking and reduce fire risks. Safety certifications like cETL or UL ensure the appliance meets electrical safety standards. Check that the exterior surfaces are cool-touch, and the handles are designed to prevent burns during use and handling. An easy-to-operate, responsive control panel minimizes the chance of accidental missettings. Overheat protection or thermal cutoff mechanisms are vital to prevent damage from overheating. These features work together to keep you safe while enjoying crispy, healthy food. Remember, a few safety precautions can make your air frying experience more secure and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Energy-Efficient Are Budget-Friendly Digital Air Fryers?
You’re wondering about the energy efficiency of budget-friendly digital air fryers. From my experience, these models tend to use less electricity compared to traditional ovens, thanks to their compact size and fast cooking times. While they might not be the absolute most energy-efficient appliances out there, they strike a good balance between performance and power consumption, making them a smart choice for saving energy without sacrificing crispy, delicious results.
Do Cheaper Air Fryers Have Longer Preheat Times?
I’ve noticed that cheaper air fryers often have longer preheat times compared to pricier models. This is mainly because they use less powerful heating elements, which take more time to reach the desired temperature. While it can be a bit frustrating, I find that being patient during preheating still results in crispy, delicious food. So, if you’re budget-conscious, just plan a little extra time for preheating.
Are There Safety Features in Under-$100 Models?
I’ve looked into budget air fryers, and safety features are usually basic but important. For example, many under-$100 models include auto shut-off to prevent overheating or accidents, which I find reassuring. While they might lack advanced safety tech, these essential features help keep your cooking safe. So, if you’re cautious, choosing a model with an auto shut-off is a smart move to guarantee peace of mind.
How Durable Are Low-Cost Digital Air Fryers Over Time?
When it comes to durability, I’ve found that low-cost digital air fryers can last several years with proper care. While they might not be as heavy-duty as pricier models, many still perform well over time, especially if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular cleaning and avoiding overloading help extend their lifespan. Overall, I believe you get decent durability value at this price point if you treat them gently.
Can These Air Fryers Replace Traditional Ovens for Baking?
They say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” but when it comes to air fryers replacing ovens, I say don’t judge their potential too quickly. While digital air fryers under $100 excel at quick, crispy snacks, they can’t fully replace traditional ovens for baking large batches or complex recipes. They’re great supplemental appliances, but I wouldn’t rely on them entirely for all baking needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, these affordable digital air fryers prove that you don’t need to splurge for crispy perfection. While one offers compact convenience, another boasts family-sized capacity; each balances budget with performance. Just as a simple tool can elevate your cooking, a modest investment can transform your kitchen routine. In the end, choosing the right fryer is about aligning your needs with your budget—proving that great taste doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
