Best Air Fryers Under $100 in 2025 (Top Picks for Small Kitchens)
Air fryers have become one of the most loved kitchen appliances in modern homes. They’re compact, easy to use, and perfect for healthier cooking without the hassle of traditional frying. But here’s the best part: you don’t have to break the bank to own one. In 2025, some of the best air fryers under $100 offer impressive features that rival more expensive models, making them ideal for students, families on a budget, or anyone with a small kitchen.
If you’ve been wondering whether affordable air fryers are worth it, the answer is a resounding yes. With a wide selection available, you can enjoy crispy fries, juicy chicken wings, and even baked desserts—all without spending a fortune.
Why Choose an Air Fryer Under $100?
Budget-Friendly Without Compromising Quality
Air fryers under $100 are perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy modern cooking technology without overspending. Affordable doesn’t mean cheap—in fact, many leading brands like Ninja, Dash, and COSORI design budget-friendly models that are compact yet powerful. These air fryers often feature adjustable temperature controls, timers, and durable materials that hold up to daily use. For most households, you’ll find they deliver crisp, evenly cooked food without the premium price tag.
Perfect for Small Kitchens and Apartments
Not everyone has the luxury of a large kitchen. If you’re living in a studio apartment, dorm, or RV, a compact air fryer under $100 is an ideal choice. They’re lightweight, easy to move, and take up minimal counter space. Many models are sleek enough to fit into cabinets or tuck into a corner, so you can enjoy the benefits of an air fryer without sacrificing valuable kitchen real estate.
Healthier Cooking Made Accessible
Eating healthier doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Air fryers make it possible to prepare crispy fries, chicken wings, or roasted veggies using up to 85% less oil than traditional frying. Even the most affordable air fryer models offer this health advantage, making low-oil cooking accessible to students, families, and budget-conscious home cooks. You’ll still enjoy the same golden-brown crunch without the guilt or the expense.
Key Features to Look for in Budget Air Fryers
Capacity and Size Considerations
Air fryers come in a range of sizes, and choosing the right one depends on your needs.
- 2–3 quarts: Best for singles, couples, or small snacks.
- 3.5–4 quarts: Great for small families or those who want a bit more flexibility in cooking larger meals.
Remember, a compact design saves space, but make sure it still meets your daily cooking needs.
Wattage and Cooking Performance
Power matters when it comes to cooking efficiency. A budget-friendly model with 1200–1500 watts will heat up quickly and cook food faster. This not only saves time but also ensures that meals are evenly cooked with that desired crispy finish.
Pre-set Functions and Smart Controls
Don’t assume budget means basic. Many air fryers under $100 include preset cooking programs for popular foods like fries, chicken, fish, and even baked goods. These one-touch settings simplify cooking for beginners and guarantee consistent results every time. Some models even include digital touchscreens or smart timers for extra convenience.
Easy Cleaning and Dishwasher-Safe Parts
Nobody wants to spend more time cleaning than cooking. Look for models with nonstick baskets and removable trays that are dishwasher-safe. This makes cleanup quick and easy, especially if you’re cooking regularly. A smooth, wipe-clean exterior also helps keep your air fryer looking fresh on the counter.
Top 7 Best Air Fryers Under $100 in 2025
1. Ninja AF080 Mini Air Fryer
The Ninja AF080 Mini is a compact 2-quart air fryer built for quick snacks and small meals. It’s super simple to use with just a timer dial and cooks evenly at 400°F. Perfect for people who don’t need a large appliance.
Best For:
- Singles, students, or couples
- Small kitchens, dorms, or RVs
- Quick snacks like fries, nuggets, or wings
2. Chefman 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer
The Chefman 2-Quart Mini is another small but mighty option. It offers adjustable temperature controls, so it’s a bit more flexible than the Ninja Mini while staying compact.
Best For:
- Health-conscious beginners
- Small servings and personal meals
- Affordable, everyday use
3. Chefman TurboFry 7-Qt 6-in-1 Air Fryer
This Chefman TurboFry 7-Quart is built for families. With 6 cooking modes and a large basket, it can handle everything from chicken wings to baked desserts. Its high heat (up to 450°F) makes food extra crispy.
Best For:
- Families or meal prepping
- Multi-function cooking (fry, bake, reheat, dehydrate)
- Those who want restaurant-style crispiness
4. COSORI 4 Qt Lite Air Fryer
The COSORI Lite 4-Quart balances size and features perfectly. With 7 preset cooking functions and access to 150+ recipes via the COSORI app, it’s great for everyday healthy meals.
Best For:
- Couples or small families (1–3 people)
- Easy, preset cooking options
- Healthy frying with less oil
5. XL 8.5 Qt 8-in-1 Large Air Fryer
If you need maximum capacity without overspending, this XL 8.5-Quart Air Fryer is for you. With 8 cooking modes, a see-through window, and a huge basket, it can cook full meals in one go.
Best For:
- Large families or hosting guests
- Cooking multiple dishes at once
- Quick, oil-free big-batch meals
6. DASH Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt Air Fryer
The DASH Tasti-Crisp is cute, compact, and practical. Its 2.6-quart capacity makes it ideal for small kitchens, while the auto shut-off and simple controls keep it beginner-friendly.
Best For:
- First-time air fryer users
- Small spaces and stylish kitchens
- Quick, healthier meals on a budget
7. Instant Vortex 4 Qt Air Fryer
Rounding off the list is the Instant Vortex 4-Quart, from the makers of the Instant Pot. It offers one-touch smart programs, an easy-to-clean basket, and a perfect balance of size and power—all usually priced under $100.
Best For:
- Everyday home cooking
- Anyone who wants reliable quality from a top brand
- Balanced choice between size, features, and price
Pros and Cons of Air Fryers Under $100
The Benefits of Affordable Models
Budget-friendly for every household
Air fryers under $100 make this modern cooking trend accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a student, a small family, or someone just starting their healthy cooking journey, you can enjoy the benefits of air frying without straining your budget.
Compact and easy to store
Cheaper air fryers are often designed to be smaller and lighter. This makes them perfect for apartments, dorm rooms, RVs, or anyone who doesn’t want a bulky appliance taking over the countertop.
Healthier meals without oil
Even budget models allow you to prepare crispy fries, chicken, or veggies using little to no oil. You still get that golden crunch while cutting down on unnecessary calories and fat.
Surprisingly powerful performance
Don’t be fooled by the price tag—many affordable air fryers still deliver impressive heat circulation, ensuring evenly cooked meals in less time. They may not have every premium feature, but they get the job done effectively.
The Drawbacks to Consider
Smaller cooking capacity
Most budget air fryers come in 2–4 quart sizes, which are fine for singles or couples but may feel limiting for larger families. You may need to cook in batches when preparing big meals.
Fewer smart features compared to premium models
High-end air fryers often come with touchscreens, smart app connectivity, and dozens of preset programs. Budget-friendly ones usually stick to the basics—temperature and timer controls.
May not last as long as high-end appliances
While affordable air fryers perform well, they might use lighter materials or less durable components. With proper care, they can last years, but heavy daily use might wear them out faster compared to premium brands.
How to Maintain and Extend the Life of Your Air Fryer
Regular Cleaning Tips
Always clean the basket and tray after every use to prevent grease buildup. Stick to mild soap and soft sponges—abrasive cleaners can damage the nonstick coating and shorten the fryer’s lifespan.
Proper Usage and Storage
Avoid overcrowding food inside the basket, as this reduces airflow and strains the heating system. When not in use, store the air fryer in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. This helps keep the internal components in good condition.
Budget vs. Premium Air Fryers – What’s the Difference?
Premium air fryers generally come with larger capacities (5–10 quarts), smart app controls, multiple cooking presets, and even features like rotisserie functions or dual baskets. They’re built with more durable materials and often come with longer warranties.
Budget air fryers, on the other hand, may lack these extras but still cook just as effectively. They’re ideal for those who want healthier meals without spending too much. For everyday frying, reheating, and roasting, a budget model delivers excellent value.
FAQs – Best Air Fryers Under $100 in 2025
Conclusion: Finding the Right Budget Air Fryer in 2025
The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy healthier, faster, and tastier meals. The best air fryers under $100 in 2025 pack surprising power into compact designs, making them ideal for small kitchens and budget-conscious households.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your partner, or a small family, these affordable appliances deliver convenience and value that’s hard to beat.
👉 Ready to make your choice? Check out trusted retailers like Amazon to compare prices and grab the best deals today.
