Best Budget Air Fryers Under $100

If you’re shopping for your first air fryer or looking to add a compact second unit to your kitchen, the under-$100 category is exactly where the best values hide. The secret is simple: crisp, juicy food doesn’t require a luxury price tag. What you need is fast, even heat, a basket that fits the food you actually cook, and parts that clean up without a fight. Many budget air fryers deliver exactly that—without the bells and whistles that inflate price and complicate your countertop.

In this guide, you’ll find 20 excellent air fryers under $100 that punch far above their price. These are models from familiar brands—Instant, Ninja, COSORI, Chefman, GoWISE USA, and more—that have earned trust through reliability and thousands of real-world kitchens. For each pick, I’ve explained who it’s for, how it performs, and what trade-offs to expect. You’ll also see quick feature snapshots, concise pros and cons, and a direct Amazon link so you can check today’s price in a click.

Why are air fryers so popular—and do you really need one? Think of them as compact convection ovens with turbocharged airflow. Because the chamber is small and the fan is powerful, you get faster preheats, more intense browning, and crisp textures that a microwave or sluggish toaster oven can’t match. Fries and wings are the headliners, but the everyday wins are bigger: roasted vegetables that don’t shrivel, salmon that stays moist with a lacquered top, and leftovers that actually taste freshly cooked.

Buying Guide Before the Reviews

Capacity vs. household size. The sweet spot for couples and small families is 4–5 quarts. Solo cooks and dorm rooms do great at 2–3 quarts, which reheat leftovers and crisp frozen snacks perfectly while taking almost no space. If you routinely cook mains for 3–4 people, 5 quarts is the actual minimum. Go smaller, and you’ll end up cooking in batches. Also note that square baskets hold more usable food than round baskets of the same quart size.

Wattage and heat ceiling. Most budget baskets run 1200–1700 watts and peak at 400–450°F. Higher wattage usually means faster preheats and better browning; a 450°F ceiling can deliver extra crunch on fries, wings, and anything breaded. Don’t be seduced by wattage alone, though—airflow design and basket geometry matter just as much.

Controls you’ll actually use. Dials are dead-simple and hard to break. Touch panels give you shake reminders, precise timers, and handy presets. Neither style inherently cooks better—consistency comes from a dependable heater and airflow—so pick the interface you won’t fight.

Cleanup is everything. Look for dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates. Dark nonstick interiors hide stains; removable trays make soaking and scrubbing painless. Paper liners are convenient but slightly reduce airflow; when you’re chasing peak crunch, cook directly on the crisper plate.

Noise, size, and storage. Budget models are generally quiet hums, but 2–3 qt units are the stealth winners for studio apartments. Measure your counter depth and cabinet height—an extra inch is often the difference between “lives on the counter” and “put away (and forgotten).”

Safety basics. Auto-shutoff, cool-touch walls and handles, and non-slip feet are table stakes. If you have curious kids or pets, choose baskets with firm detents so they can’t slide out easily when hot.

Nonstick coatings. Nearly all baskets use PTFE or ceramic-style coatings. Hand-wash with soft sponges, avoid metal utensils, and don’t blast them empty at max heat. Treated kindly, even budget baskets last years.

1. Instant Vortex Plus 4QT Air Fryer

The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT is a stylish, stainless-accented air fryer that balances performance, usability, and price. With its 4-quart capacity, it comfortably prepares meals for 1–3 people, making it an excellent choice for small households, couples, or anyone wanting a compact yet capable unit. The square basket design maximizes space, fitting foods like salmon fillets or chicken thighs with minimal overlap.

Performance-wise, the Vortex Plus preheats quickly and maintains consistent heat. Its powerful fan circulates air evenly, so fries, nuggets, and roasted vegetables come out crisp without requiring constant shaking. The digital interface is intuitive, featuring clear temperature/time adjustments, preset cooking programs, and a shake reminder. It runs quietly compared to larger appliances, making it perfect for apartments.

Cleaning is hassle-free thanks to the dishwasher-safe basket and tray. The nonstick surface ensures that even sticky marinades or breaded crumbs wash away with minimal scrubbing. A sleek exterior and compact footprint also mean this air fryer can sit on the counter without hogging space. For under $100, it offers premium features without unnecessary complexity.

➡️ Features:

• 4-quart square basket design
• Digital touchscreen with presets & shake reminder
• Preheats quickly, cooks evenly
• Dishwasher-safe basket & tray

✅ Pros:

1. Stylish stainless-steel finish
2. Even crisping with little effort
3. Compact yet roomy for small households
4. Easy to clean

❌ Cons:

1. Too small for large family meals
2. No dual-zone cooking
3. The exterior can smudge easily
4. Must avoid metal utensils

2. Instant Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer

The Instant Vortex Mini 2QT is designed for single servings, snacks, and reheats. Despite its tiny footprint, this air fryer offers the same efficient heating and reliable crisping as its larger siblings. It’s ideal for dorm rooms, small kitchens, or offices where counter space is limited.

With a 2-quart capacity, it can handle a personal portion of fries, wings, or a reheated slice of pizza. The digital controls are simple, with preset programs and adjustable time/temperature settings. Preheating takes just a couple of minutes, so you can go from craving to cooking quickly. While it won’t cook full meals for a family, it excels at delivering perfectly crisp snacks without hogging space or energy.

The compact basket is nonstick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup painless. Its lightweight body is easy to move, so you can tuck it away in a cabinet or take it on the go. Owners love it for late-night cravings, quick breakfasts, or heating frozen appetizers. If you only need a small-capacity model, the Vortex Mini delivers top-tier convenience at a budget price.

➡️ Features:

• 2-quart nonstick basket
• Compact design fits anywhere
• Digital presets for quick cooking
• Dishwasher-safe parts

✅ Pros:

1. Ultra-compact and portable
2. Perfect for singles or dorm use
3. Quick heating and crisping
4. Affordable Instant quality

❌ Cons:

1. Too small for family portions
2. Limited basket space
3. Not ideal for baking or large proteins
4. Requires frequent batch cooking

3. COSORI 2.1-Qt Small Air Fryer (CAF-LI211)

The COSORI CAF-LI211 is one of the best compact air fryers on the market. Despite its 2.1-quart size, it offers excellent performance, making it ideal for individuals or couples who need something small but powerful. COSORI is a trusted brand known for reliability, and this model delivers crisp, evenly cooked food every time.

The digital interface is easy to use, with intuitive controls for temperature and time. Preheating is fast, and the basket design ensures airflow reaches food from all sides. This means frozen snacks, fries, or roasted veggies come out with a satisfying crunch. Its compact footprint allows it to fit neatly in small kitchens, RVs, or offices.

Cleaning is effortless thanks to the nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket. Owners appreciate that despite being a budget model, it feels sturdy and durable. If you want reliable performance without wasting counter space, this COSORI compact fryer is a smart pick under $100.

➡️ Features:

• 2.1-quart compact basket
• Digital control panel
• Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket
• Lightweight and portable

✅ Pros:

1. Compact yet powerful
2. Easy to operate
3. Cleans quickly
4. Reliable brand reputation

❌ Cons:

1. Limited cooking capacity
2. No advanced features
3. Not for family meals
4. Can’t handle large cuts of meat

4. COSORI Pro LE 5-Qt Air Fryer

If you need something larger, the COSORI Pro LE 5-Qt is a standout. Its square basket design maximizes space, making it possible to cook up to two pounds of wings or four chicken thighs in one batch. It also reaches 450°F, giving food an extra layer of crispiness.

The sleek digital panel features presets, precise temperature control, and a shake reminder. This model is perfect for couples or small families who want to cook mains in a single go without upgrading to a bulky 6–7 quart machine. Preheating is quick, and airflow is even, ensuring food comes out golden brown.

The nonstick basket is dishwasher-safe, so cleanup takes only a few minutes. COSORI’s build quality ensures long-lasting use, and this unit balances affordability with premium performance.

➡️ Features:

• 5-quart square basket
• 450°F max heat for crisping
• Digital presets and shake reminder
• Dishwasher-safe basket

✅ Pros:

1. Larger basket for full meals
2. Extra heat for crunch
3. Trusted COSORI build
4. Easy to clean

❌ Cons:

1. Bigger footprint than smaller models
2. No dual-zone cooking
3. Exterior warms slightly
4. Pricier than tiny compact fryers

5. Instant Essentials 4QT Air Fryer

The Instant Essentials 4QT is a no-frills option that focuses on performance. With a 4-quart basket, it comfortably handles meals for 1–2 people, making it a great everyday option. It forgoes flashy features, sticking to reliable cooking and simple digital controls.

Preheating is quick, and food cooks evenly thanks to Instant’s consistent airflow design. Fries, nuggets, and vegetables crisp reliably without over-drying. It’s quiet during operation and compact enough to keep on the counter.

Cleanup is simple thanks to the dishwasher-safe, nonstick basket. While it doesn’t have extra features like dual-zone or higher heat ranges, it excels in what matters: easy cooking and crisp results.

➡️ Features:

• 4-quart nonstick basket
• Simple digital controls
• Dishwasher-safe parts
• Compact footprint

✅ Pros:

1. Reliable heating performance
2. Simple interface
3. Compact size
4. Easy cleanup

❌ Cons:

1. Basic design, no extras
2. The basket may be small for families
3. No glass window or fancy features
4. Exterior finish is less premium

6. Ninja Air Fryer AF101, 4-Qt

The Ninja Air Fryer AF101 Ninja AF080 Mini is a trusted compact fryer. With its 2-quart basket, it’s built for individuals and small snacks. Ninja is known for durability, and this model is no exception—it feels sturdy and delivers consistent results.

Controls are as simple as they get: a single dial for time, with a fixed temperature setting. This makes it almost foolproof for beginners. It preheats quickly and crisps frozen foods or leftovers better than a microwave.

The basket is nonstick, dishwasher-safe, and easy to wipe down. Compact enough to fit anywhere, this fryer is perfect for small spaces.

➡️ Features:

• 4-quart basket
• Single-dial control
• Quick preheat
• Dishwasher-safe basket

✅ Pros:

1. Extremely simple to use
2. Trusted Ninja durability
3. Compact design
4. Quick cleanup

❌ Cons:

1. Only one temperature setting
2. Small basket capacity
3. No advanced features
4. Limited versatility

7. Chefman Digital 5-Qt Air Fryer (RJ38-5T)

The Chefman 5-Qt Digital balances capacity and affordability. Its 5-quart basket is big enough for couples or small families, while the digital interface makes it easy to select presets, adjust temperatures, and set timers.

It preheats quickly, cooks evenly, and includes a shake reminder. Food comes out with reliable crispiness, and the nonstick basket ensures easy cleanup. The slim profile makes it suitable for smaller counters despite its roomy basket.

➡️ Features:

• 5-quart basket
• Digital presets with shake reminder
• Compact but spacious design
• Dishwasher-safe basket

✅ Pros:

1. Affordable price for a larger size
2. Even cooking performance
3. Slim countertop footprint
4. Easy to operate

❌ Cons:

1. The plastic body feels less premium
2. No dual-zone cooking
3. Not ideal for huge families
4. Exterior warms during long cooks

8. Chefman TurboFry 2-Qt Air Fryer (Manual)

The Chefman TurboFry 2-Qt Manual is built for simplicity. With just two dials one for temperature and one for time—it strips air frying down to the essentials. That makes it especially appealing for beginners, dorm rooms, or anyone who wants a compact unit that’s impossible to overcomplicate.

Despite its modest size, it delivers consistent results on snacks, frozen foods, and small portions. Fries come out crisp, wings cook evenly, and reheated leftovers regain the crunch that microwaves can’t replicate. The basket is coated with a nonstick finish and is dishwasher-safe, which keeps cleanup stress-free.

The 2-quart capacity means this fryer is designed for single servings or small snacks rather than family meals. It’s also lightweight and easy to store when not in use. Overall, the TurboFry is a reliable, no-frills air fryer that’s ideal for personal use.

➡️ Features:

• 2-quart nonstick basket
• Dual manual dials (time & temp)
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dishwasher-safe parts

✅ Pros:

1. Inexpensive and beginner-friendly
2. Small footprint for tight kitchens
3. Very easy to use
4. Cleans quickly

❌ Cons:

1. Minimal capacity
2. No digital presets or reminders
3. Less precise than digital models
4. Basic plastic build

9. Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6-Qt Air Fryer

The Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6-Qt is one of the most popular compact air fryers thanks to its colorful design and reliable cooking. Its capacity is slightly larger than many mini models, giving you just enough room to prepare two small portions of food at once.

It uses a simple temperature dial and timer, so anyone can operate it without a learning curve. The Tasti-Crisp heats up quickly and cooks frozen snacks, fries, and veggies with impressive crispness. It’s particularly popular for college students, small apartments, or offices because of its fun design and small footprint.

Cleanup is easy with a nonstick basket and crisper tray that wipe down quickly or go in the dishwasher. With its lightweight body, you can easily store it in a cabinet when not in use. Dash also offers it in multiple colors, which makes it a stylish pick for those who care about looks as much as performance.

➡️ Features:

• 2.6-quart capacity
• Simple dial controls
• Lightweight and portable
• Multiple color options

✅ Pros:

1. Fun, stylish design
2. Easy to use for beginners
3. Compact but slightly larger than 2-qt models
4. Affordable price

❌ Cons:

1. Not ideal for family-sized meals
2. Limited precision with dial controls
3. No advanced features or presets
4. Exterior plastic can feel light

10. Dash Compact 2-Qt Air Fryer

The Dash Compact 2-Qt is the smaller sibling to the Tasti-Crisp, making it ideal for ultra-tight spaces. With its retro-inspired look and simple controls, it’s a favorite among students, singles, and people who want quick snacks without cluttering the counter.

The 2-quart basket is just enough for a handful of wings, a serving of fries, or reheating a slice of pizza. The manual dial for temperature and timer is straightforward, and the air fryer preheats within minutes. Though small, it produces evenly crisp results and saves energy compared to heating a full oven.

Its small footprint makes it one of the most portable air fryers available, and it’s available in bright colors for a touch of style. Cleanup is quick, thanks to the nonstick basket. It won’t replace a larger appliance for family cooking, but for single-serve convenience, it’s a solid choice.

➡️ Features:

• 2-quart compact basket
• Retro-inspired design
• Manual time and temp dials
• Multiple color choices

✅ Pros:

1. Extremely compact size
2. Perfect for singles or dorms
3. Lightweight and portable
4. Fun colors and design

❌ Cons:

1. Minimal cooking capacity
2. No digital accuracy
3. Not great for large proteins
4. Can feel limited over time

11. GoWISE USA 5.8-Qt 8-in-1 Digital Air Fryer

The GoWISE USA 5.8-Qt Digital offers one of the most extensive baskets you’ll find under $100. Its roomy design makes it possible to cook mains for a small family in one go, including a pound of fries, wings, or several chicken thighs.

The digital interface includes eight presets, precise temperature control, and a timer. With 1700 watts of power, it preheats quickly and produces consistently crisp results. It’s especially appealing for buyers who want versatility and don’t want to be limited by a small-capacity basket.

Despite its larger size, it remains affordable and easy to clean, with a dishwasher-safe nonstick basket. For households of 2–4 people, it’s one of the best budget choices on the market.

➡️ Features:

• 5.8-quart capacity
• Digital touchscreen with 8 presets
• 1700-watt heating power
• Dishwasher-safe basket

✅ Pros:

1. Large basket for family meals
2. Wide range of presets
3. Strong heating performance
4. Affordable for its size

❌ Cons:

1. Bulkier footprint than smaller models
2. Exterior plastic can get warm
3. Takes more counter space
4. Less portable

12. GoWISE USA 3.7-Qt Air Fryer (GW22638)

The GoWISE USA 3.7-Qt GW22638 is a slightly smaller sibling to the 5.8-quart version but still offers family-friendly capacity. It features multiple presets, a digital control panel, and a durable nonstick basket.

With its square design, it maximizes usable cooking space. Preheating is fast, and food comes out evenly browned, whether you’re making wings, roasted vegetables, or frozen snacks. For households of two to three, it’s a great option under $100.

Cleaning is straightforward, as the basket is dishwasher-safe. It’s slightly more compact than the 5.8-qt model, which makes it a better fit for smaller counters.

➡️ Features:

• 3.7-quart square basket
• Digital presets
• Nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket
• Compact design for its capacity

✅ Pros:

1. Outstanding balance of size and price
2. Easy-to-use presets
3. Large enough for small families
4. Easy to clean

❌ Cons:

1. Bulkier than mini models
2. Digital screen feels basic
3. Exterior warms during extended use
4. No dual-basket option

13. Greenlife 4.5-Qt Air Fryer

The Greenlife 4.5-Qt is a strong, budget-friendly mid-size fryer. It’s simple yet effective, with digital controls that make operation easy. Its basket size works well for 1–3 people, offering enough space for mains and sides.

The digital panel allows you to select cooking times and temperatures quickly. Performance is reliable, producing crisp fries, meats, and veggies with minimal oil. Many users appreciate its quiet operation and consistent cooking results.

Cleaning is convenient thanks to the nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket. Ultrean is known for offering value-packed appliances, and this one is no exception. It delivers everyday functionality without unnecessary complexity.

➡️ Features:

• 4.5-quart capacity
• Digital control panel
• Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket
• Compact mid-size design

✅ Pros:

1. Affordable and reliable
2. Good size for couples/small families
3. Digital controls are intuitive
4. Easy cleanup

❌ Cons:

1. Not large enough for big families
2. Fewer presets than premium brands
3. Exterior feels lightweight
4. Basic styling

14. Hamilton Beach 5.8-Qt Digital Air Fryer (35075)

The Hamilton Beach 5.8-Qt Digital Air Fryer offers trusted brand reliability with an easy-to-use digital interface. Its 5.8-quart capacity makes it suitable for individuals or couples who want a little extra room compared to compact models.

The digital presets make cooking straightforward, with options for fries, chicken, and vegetables. It preheats quickly and cooks evenly, delivering crisp results every time. Hamilton Beach’s design focuses on simplicity and practicality, making this model great for everyday use.

The nonstick basket is dishwasher-safe, which makes cleaning stress-free. Its mid-size capacity strikes a balance between compact and roomy, making it an ideal choice for small households.

➡️ Features:

• 5.8-quart nonstick basket
• Digital presets for easy cooking
• Dishwasher-safe design
• Compact countertop size

✅ Pros:

1. Trusted Hamilton Beach quality
2. Reliable cooking performance
3. Easy-to-use presets
4. Compact size with decent capacity

❌ Cons:

1. Not suitable for large meals
2. Basic feature set
3. Limited advanced options
4. Exterior is plain-looking

15. BLACK+DECKER Purify 2-L Air Fryer (HF100WD)

The BLACK+DECKER Purify 2-L Air Fryer is a reliable compact model from a brand most households already trust. Its 2-liter (≈2.1-quart) basket is designed for singles or couples who primarily want an appliance for quick snacks, frozen foods, or reheating.

The standout feature of this unit is its dual convection fan system, which ensures stronger airflow than many budget fryers. That means you get more even browning on fries, chicken nuggets, or vegetables without needing to shake constantly. The simple dial controls make it easy to select cooking times and temperatures, and its 1200 watts of power provide plenty of heat for its size.

It has a clean, modern look with a white exterior that fits into most kitchen decors. The nonstick basket and separator are dishwasher-safe, which makes cleaning easy. While it won’t cook family-sized portions, it’s dependable for personal use and backed by the durability of BLACK+DECKER.

➡️ Features:

• 2-liter nonstick basket with dual convection fans
• Manual time and temperature dials
• Dishwasher-safe basket and separator
• Compact, modern design

✅ Pros:

1. Trusted household brand
2. Dual-fan airflow for even cooking
3. Easy-to-use manual controls
4. Compact and space-saving

❌ Cons:

1. Minimal capacity
2. No digital presets
3. Not suitable for family meals
4. The white exterior may stain over time

16. COMFEE’ 5.8-Qt Air Fryer

The COMFEE’ 5.8-Qt Air Fryer combines affordability with solid functionality. With its mid-size basket, it can handle small meals for 1–2 people or snacks for a group. The design is sleek, with a digital control panel that provides multiple presets for popular foods.

Its 1400 watts of power help it preheat quickly and maintain steady cooking temperatures. Fries, wings, and vegetables come out crisp, while reheated foods taste fresh again. The compact design doesn’t overwhelm small kitchens, yet it offers more space than tiny 2-quart models.

The basket and crisper tray are nonstick and dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup. Overall, COMFEE’ is known for delivering budget-friendly appliances that work reliably, and this model continues that trend. It’s an excellent pick for buyers who want digital convenience without breaking $100.

➡️ Features:

• 5.8-quart nonstick basket
• Digital presets for easy cooking
• 1400 watts of power
• Dishwasher-safe design

✅ Pros:

1. Affordable price point
2. Digital controls are simple and clear
3. Mid-size basket works for singles/couples
4. Compact countertop footprint

❌ Cons:

1. Not ideal for families of 4+
2. Build quality feels lighter than premium brands
3. Limited to basic presets
4. The exterior can be scratched easily

17. Elite Gourmet EAF4617 4-Qt Digital Air Fryer

The Elite Gourmet 4-Qt Air Fryer delivers an affordable way to cook healthy meals with little to no oil. Its 4-quart basket size makes it versatile enough to cook mains for two or sides for three to four.

It features a digital control panel with preset functions, making cooking simple and repeatable. The fryer heats quickly and circulates air evenly, producing crispy fries, meats, and vegetables. Its quiet operation makes it an excellent option for apartments or smaller kitchens.

The basket is coated with nonstick material and can be cleaned in the dishwasher. This air fryer stands out for offering a good balance of size, digital convenience, and value under $100.

➡️ Features:

• 4-quart nonstick basket
• Digital presets and timer controls
• Dishwasher-safe parts
• Compact but versatile size

✅ Pros:

1. Good balance of capacity and price
2. Digital controls with presets
3. Easy to clean
4. Quiet operation

❌ Cons:

1. No advanced features
2. Basket slightly smaller than 5-qt units
3. Build quality is basic
4. Exterior design is plain

18. PowerXL 4-Qt Digital Air Fryer

The PowerXL 4-Qt Air Fryer is a well-known infomercial brand that delivers exactly what it promises: one-touch crispy cooking at an affordable price. Its 4-quart basket makes it suitable for small households or couples who want to prepare mains or shareable snacks.

The digital interface includes presets for popular foods, so you can start cooking with minimal effort. It runs on 1200 watts, heating quickly and cooking evenly. Fries, wings, and chicken breasts come out with satisfying crispiness.

Its compact body makes it easy to fit on a countertop, and the nonstick basket is dishwasher-safe. While it doesn’t offer advanced features, it’s an accessible, straightforward model from a brand with wide availability.

➡️ Features:

• 4-quart nonstick basket
• Digital presets for one-touch cooking
• Compact design
• Dishwasher-safe basket

✅ Pros:

1. Popular, recognizable brand
2. Easy digital operation
3. Good size for couples/small households
4. Cleans quickly

❌ Cons:

1. Lacks advanced features
2. Build quality feels basic
3. Not for larger families
4. Exterior warms during extended use

19. Gourmia GAF486 4-Qt Digital Air Fryer

The Gourmia GAF486 is a 4-quart air fryer that stands out with guided cooking prompts. These reminders help beginners know when to shake or add ingredients, taking the guesswork out of the process.

Its digital panel is easy to use, offering presets for common foods. With 1500 watts of power, it cooks quickly and evenly, producing crisp results across fries, meats, and veggies. The basket is dishwasher-safe, so cleaning takes minimal effort.

Its mid-size design makes it suitable for 1–3 people. Gourmia is known for budget-friendly appliances, and this model is a smart option for those who want simplicity plus cooking guidance.

➡️ Features:

• 4-quart basket with guided prompts
• Digital presets and timer
• 1500-watt heating power
• Dishwasher-safe basket

✅ Pros:

1. Guided cooking is beginner-friendly
2. Compact yet roomy design
3. Digital panel is intuitive
4. Affordable price

❌ Cons:

1. Not suited for prominent families
2. Build feels lightweight
3. Exterior can scuff
4. Basic design aesthetics

20. Proctor Silex 5.8-Qt Air Fryer (35056)

The Proctor Silex 5.8-Qt Air Fryer is a dependable, straightforward model from a heritage kitchen brand. With its 3.7-quart basket, it handles small meals and sides with ease.

It uses manual dials for time and temperature, keeping the operation beginner-friendly and straightforward. Cooking performance is reliable, delivering crisp fries, chicken, and vegetables without much oil. While it lacks the bells and whistles of digital models, it shines in durability and ease of use.

The basket is nonstick and dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup effortless. Its mid-size capacity makes it versatile for individuals or couples. For buyers who want a no-nonsense air fryer from a trusted brand, this Proctor Silex model is a smart, budget-conscious pick.

➡️ Features:

• 5.8-quart basket
• Manual time and temperature dials
• Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket
• Compact, durable design

✅ Pros:

1. Trusted heritage brand
2. Easy-to-use manual dials
3. Solid cooking performance
4. Affordable price

❌ Cons:

1. No digital presets
2. Basic appearance
3. The basket is not large enough for big meals
4. Exterior warms slightly

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🙋1. Are budget air fryers as good as expensive ones?

📝: Yes, in many cases, budget air fryers deliver results that are nearly identical to expensive models. For everyday tasks like cooking fries, chicken wings, vegetables, or reheating leftovers, a $70 air fryer can perform just as well as a $200 one. The main differences come down to features and build quality. Premium models often include extras like dual cooking baskets, built-in temperature probes, app connectivity, or transparent glass windows so you can monitor food while it cooks. While these features are nice to have, they don’t always impact the crispiness or taste of your food.

Budget air fryers focus on what really matters: strong airflow, consistent heating, and a nonstick basket that’s easy to clean. For singles, couples, or small families, these affordable models are often the more intelligent choice, especially since many of them come from trusted brands like Instant, COSORI, Ninja, and Chefman. Unless you need advanced features or want to cook huge batches at once, a budget air fryer will give you 90% of the performance at less than half the cost.

🙋2. What size air fryer should I buy—2 qt, 4 qt, or 5 qt?

📝: The right size depends on your household and cooking habits. A 2–3-quart air fryer is ideal for singles, students, or office use. It’s compact, lightweight, and perfect for snacks, reheats, or small servings. These models won’t handle large family meals, but are excellent for personal portions. A 4–5-quart air fryer is the sweet spot for most couples or small families. It allows you to cook mains like chicken breasts, salmon fillets, or a pound of wings in one batch without crowding the basket.

The extra space means food browns more evenly and you don’t need to cook in multiple rounds. If you routinely cook for 4 or more people, you may want to step up to 6–7 quarts, though those are often above the $100 range. It’s also worth noting that square baskets hold more food than round ones of the same quart size because they fit flat foods better. When in doubt, go slightly bigger—it’s easier to cook a small portion in a large basket than to cram too much into a tiny one.

🙋3. Do air fryers save energy compared to ovens?

📝: Yes, air fryers generally use less energy than full-size ovens, especially for small meals and reheats. The reason is simple: air fryers heat a smaller space with more concentrated airflow. Most air fryers preheat in 2–3 minutes, compared to 10–15 minutes for an oven. They also cook food faster because of the rapid convection fan. This efficiency translates into lower energy consumption. For example, reheating pizza in an oven might take 12 minutes, while an air fryer can do it in 5.

The savings may not be dramatic on a single cook, but over weeks and months, they add up. Air fryers also keep your kitchen cooler than ovens, which is especially helpful in summer. That said, if you’re cooking large roasts or baking multiple trays, a conventional oven is still better because of its capacity. The bottom line: for quick, everyday meals, snacks, and reheats, air fryers are not only faster but more energy-efficient than ovens.

🙋4. How do I prevent smoke and lingering odors in my air fryer?

📝: The most common cause of smoke in air fryers is excess grease or crumbs at the bottom of the basket. To prevent this, always use the crisper plate so drippings fall underneath instead of sitting directly on the heating element. For especially fatty foods like bacon or chicken wings, consider draining the grease halfway through cooking. Another tip is to avoid using too much oil—brushing or misting food lightly is better than pouring it in. After each use, let the basket cool slightly, then wipe or wash it to prevent grease buildup that can cause odors over time.

Lingering smells can also be reduced by running a short “empty cycle” with lemon slices or a bit of vinegar water in the basket. Avoid aerosol cooking sprays that contain propellants, as they can damage nonstick coatings and leave residue. With quick maintenance after each cook, your air fryer will stay smoke-free and fresh-smelling.

🙋5. Are air fryer liners worth it?

📝: Air fryer liners can be convenient, especially if you cook sticky or saucy foods. Parchment paper liners catch drips and crumbs, which reduces cleanup time and helps keep the nonstick coating in better shape over time. However, they can slightly block airflow, meaning you may not get the same level of crispiness as when cooking directly on the crisper plate. For foods like fries or wings where maximum crunch is the goal, it’s better to skip the liners. If you do use parchment, always add food on top so the paper doesn’t blow into the heating element.

Reusable silicone liners are another option. They’re sturdier, dishwasher-safe, and eco-friendly, but they are thicker than parchment and can reduce browning more noticeably. Overall, liners are helpful for messy meals, but they’re not essential. If your priority is crisp, golden results, use the bare basket and wash it afterward.

Final Thoughts: Best Budget Air Fryers Under $100

The best budget air fryer is the one you’ll actually use every day. If you live alone or only need something for quick snacks, a 2–3-quart model like the Instant Vortex Mini, Ninja AF080, or Dash Compact will serve you well. They’re portable, affordable, and perfect for small portions. For couples or small families, the 4–5 quart models like the COSORI Pro LE, Instant Vortex Plus, or Chefman 5-Qt strike the perfect balance between size and convenience—they can cook mains in one batch without hogging counter space.

What matters most isn’t having the fanciest screen or the largest basket—it’s choosing a model that fits your lifestyle and encourages you to use it daily. Every air fryer in this list delivers crisp, delicious results at a price point under $100, making them excellent value buys.

If you’re ready to upgrade your cooking routine with faster meals, healthier crisping, and stress-free cleanup, one of these budget-friendly air fryers is the perfect place to start.