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Fried foods are so tempting that nobody can resist having them, especially French fries. But the flavor is accompanied by a lot of calories and trans fat because of cooking in oil. If you want to be health-conscious but don’t want to exclude fried foods from your diet, an air fryer is your best bet.
Back when they were introduced, people thought of them as a new fad. Over time, they proved their worth and are now a must-have in most residential and commercial kitchens.
If you are also interested in purchasing one but are holding back because of the high price tags associated with them, then this article is especially for you. We have rounded up the best air fryers under $100 to constitute a list that will help you choose a suitable model within your budget. A detailed description follows each unit, so stick around till the end for a better insight.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Air Fryers Under $100
- OUR TOP PICK: Ninja Air Fryer AF101
- RUNNER-UP: GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Digital Air Fryer
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Dash DFAF455GBAQ01
Comparison of the Best Air Fryers Under $100
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Are All Air Fryers The Same?
No, not all air fryers are the same. While surveying the market for this review, we noticed a huge price disparity between the super expensive, high-end models and the more affordable ones. The more expensive models are usually larger in size, have more power, and cook your food more quickly and efficiently than their more affordable, budget-friendly counterparts.
The bells and whistles of the costlier models also include ease of usage via many presets for different types of foods that remove the guesswork out of cooking. However, the main purpose of all the models remains the same, circulating hot air around food to cook it via convection.
Can You Find a Quality Air Fryer Under $100?
When we talk about purchasing air fryers, one would say that $100 is just not enough. The reason here is that unlike other smaller appliances, they tend to be expensive. However, for this appliance, the price dictates the size and features you will get. The market offers some units that are overpriced for some fancy features they possess. Then some models have all the essential features and deliver good results consistently and are reasonably priced.
So, yes, you can find a quality air fryer under $100. The trick is to have some prior knowledge so you can not only distinguish between what is a fancy addition and what will get the job done, but also choose one according to your needs and budget.
Willy's Top Picks - Best Air Fryers Under $100
Here are the best air fryers under $100:
Review of the Best Air Fryers Under $100
Over the last few years, air fryers have established themselves as a healthy alternative to deep-frying. They cook up crispy and juicy foods without burdening them with extra calories and transfat that come as add-ons in traditional frying.
Chicken wings, French fries, and even a beautiful, fully cooked burger are only a button’s push away with this appliance. Here are our top picks for the best air fryers under $100.
Best Overall:
Ninja Air Fryer AF101
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Judging from the multitude of reviews, Ninja AF101 is a great unit. Consumers like its compact size that takes up less space than a stand mixer. They are satisfied with its construction and say that the lightweight model is easy to pull out from the cabinet when they decide to store it there.
It cooks a fair amount of food for two people at once, is easy to use, and is effortless to clean compared to the pots and messy stovetops that are the result of traditional frying.
Why it Stands Out to Us
As manufacturers proudly state, this appliance uses 75% less oil on average, making it one of the most economical units. It is capable of cooking a wide variety of foods; no matter what you put inside it, it will come out perfectly, in a little time with no fuss and without breaking your bank.
It is a versatile machine that can fry, bake, grill, and roast. It features an easy-to-read control panel that is pre-programmed with four different cooking modes. With this control panel, you can easily choose between air fry, reheat, roast, and dehydrate functions. While the one-touch operation is certainly convenient, you can also manually adjust the cooking time and temperature as desired.
It comes with a ceramic-coated non-stick cooking basket with a capacity of four quarts. It is enough to cook about two pounds of French fries at once. A ceramic-coated crisper plate and a multi-layer rack are also included. Moreover, all the removable parts are dishwasher-friendly, so cooking with this device is a hassle-free experience.
Bottom Line
This is a great unit to start your air frying journey. It is very powerful and easy to use with its pre-programmed settings. You can easily choose your desired cooking function from the variety of modes it offers. It can easily prepare any food, making cooking an effortless task.
Use it to create flavorful foods from crispy fries to dehydrated veggies. Once you start using it, you will be surprised at how you managed to live without it.
Runner-up:
GoWISE USA 8-in-1 Digital Air Fryer
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The GoWISE USA appliance has generated positive feedback. Buyers are very proud of owning one of these. They say that it is not only very easy to use but cleaning it is also a breeze. There have been issues with some users saying that things stick to the basket that ruins its non-stick coat. But other consumers point out that using a liner resolves the issue.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We find this a very promising unit that comes at an unbeatable price. It knocks off most of its rivals and performs as well as any more expensive, high-end unit. With its rapid circulation technology and eight preset cooking modes, it certainly deserves a chance.
Equipped with the latest technology, it can efficiently use electricity to circulate heat. Operating at only 1400 watts, it is better than most high-power consuming units. Furthermore, negating the use of oil, this machine is highly economical.
It features a built-in touch screen LCD panel with a user-friendly interface. You can easily choose from the pre-programmed modes set to handle various foods. You can cook anything from fries to cakes with this masterpiece.
Bottom Line
You can easily make your favorite recipes with this reliable machine. It can take out the stress of cooking healthy food while allowing you to stick to your budget. The sleek device will not only add to the beauty of your kitchen but also your health with its little to no oil usage. As a versatile unit with its varied functions, this is certainly worth serious consideration.
Best for the Money:
Dash DFAF455GBAQ01
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are extremely happy with their decision to buy this air fryer. It is easy to use, prepares amazing mock-fried foods, and is effortless to clean. The compact size is also easier to store. The cooking capacity of the basket is enough for two people. Although it does not have any fancy features like preset cooking modes, users don’t think of it as a big issue.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Every aspect of this gadget screams simplicity. The design is simple yet very attractive. It is also very simple to use and clean, making it a great addition to your home.
Using its new Air Crisp technology, it reduces the added fat by 70 to 80 percent. Use it to create delicious mouthwatering meals and light to eat. It is highly suitable for people who have busy schedules and cannot attend to the long and tedious chore of stovetop cooking. With this one machine, you can easily cook both savory and sweet dishes in no time.
You can choose between four different color variations, each equally pleasant to look at. It comes with a sliding basket, tray, a recipe book, and access to a larger recipe database. Hence, it is a versatile cooking vessel that can not only blend in with your décor but also introduce you to a world of cooking you were previously unaware of.
Bottom Line
With its style, simplicity, and price range, this Dash appliance fills some gaping holes in the air fryer market. It is not only beautiful to look at but also very easy to use, allowing you to make perfectly cooked dishes. Whether you use it for a savory item such as chops or steaks or sweet desserts, you will be pleasantly surprised by the results it delivers.
4. Secura Air Fryer TXG-DS15
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
From what we have read, buyers love this unit for the time it saves, which would otherwise be spent preparing and cooking food. They report that this machine alone helps them stick to their budget by cutting down on oil. It cooks delicious and flavorful food, which is enough for two people in a single go. It not only saves valuable time and energy but also helps improve the overall health of its users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Secura is a brand that has earned the name and fame of producing durable appliances. This air cooking vessel is no different. We daresay, it is the most stylish unit on our list. Although it is bigger than many of its counterparts, sitting on a small countertop does not look out of place.
With a temperature range of 180°F to 395°F, you can not only air fry but also grill, bake, or roast your favorite food items. It features two time and temperature regulating knobs that are not only easy to adjust but also add to the beauty of the machine.
The cooking basket enclosed with it is finished with a non-stick coat so you can put the food in without having to oil it. A barbecue rack and skewers are also provided to facilitate the cooking process. All in all, it is a stylish, durable, and versatile unit that can tend to almost all of your cooking needs.
Bottom Line
Secura Air Fryer TXG-DS15 is a durable unit that is suitable for everyone. It is a relatively new model, so you will find a number of accessories enclosed that helps cook various dishes. It is available in a number of different sizes so you can easily choose the size which is more compatible with your requirements.
5. BELLA (14538)
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This unit is a huge hit amongst buyers. Even geezers who can barely cook have fallen in love with cooking once they started using this vessel. It is a huge blessing for people who have high cholesterol and cardiac issues. Some users did experience an unpleasant burning smell when they first started using it, but with frequent usage, it went away.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Bella 14538 is a compact version of any high-end full-size model. It looks great and performs as well as any fancier counterpart. With its attractive price, you can easily buy one to use in a dorm room or a shared apartment.
For family-oriented usage, it has a capacity of around 2.2 pounds, making it suitable for two persons. However, for a larger party, you will have to cook food in batches. Each batch it delivers is consistent in results, so you don’t have to worry about serving under or overcooked food.
It features a compact yet stylish design. The cooking basket is coated with a non-stick layer, making it easy to cook on and clean after usage. It is also dishwasher-friendly, so you can pop it in a dishwasher if you are feeling lazy to wash it by hand. It is safe to use and cool to touch, making it a worthy contender for our list.
Bottom Line
Your hunt for a sturdy and reliable unit that sticks to your budget ends with this air fryer. It is easy to use, clean, and store. Put any food item inside its cooking cavity, and you will be amazed by the results. Good for frying, grilling, and roasting, this is an economical choice to satisfy all your fried food cravings.
Advantages of Investing in a Quality Air Fryer
If you can’t have enough fried foods, then an air fryer is an economical and healthy way to satisfy your cravings. It is very easy to use and produces tasty “fried” food quicker than regular deep frying. In addition to this, most quality models are versatile units that can bake and roast as well. Here are some more advantages of investing in a quality air fryer.
Consistent Performance
A quality air frying appliance has a better overall performance than a cheap counterpart. It will cook faster, thoroughly, and evenly while producing the same consistent results every time. They are designed to please. You can't expect the same from a cheap product.
Longevity
While most air fryers are designed to serve for years, some last longer than that. When you invest in a quality product, rest assured that it will serve you for long without causing any issues. It will stand against the test of time, and with proper care and maintenance, it can even last for decades.
Comprehensive Warranty
Quality products are always backed up by comprehensive warranties. Manufacturers who are certain and confident about their products always follow them up with an extensive warranty to gain consumers' trust. Buying a quality unit qualifies you to avail the terms if your unit starts having issues.
Better Customer Support
By investing in a quality air fryer, you not only purchase a reliable unit but also gain strong customer care support. In case you have any difficulty with the product, you can always contact the customer service to address your problem. You can also trust them to have all the replacement parts if any component malfunctions even after the warranty period end.
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
Air fryers are steadily becoming a staple in every kitchen. They are extremely useful, especially in households that heavily rely on fried foods. Compared to other kitchen appliances, they may seem relatively expensive. But when you consider their potential as a mini-fryer, they are quite economical. Here are some cautious considerations that you should keep in mind while purchasing one.
Size
Air fryers tend to have a large footprint. We advise you to make sure that your kitchen has adequate space on the counter or inside the cabinets to store it before purchasing one. Additionally, we would like to clear a misconception that larger units need more time to cook. This is not true. Large units are capable of cooking more food in one go, but the cooking time remains, more or less, the same.
Cooking Capacity
The cooking capacity varies from one model to another. Cooking capacity is the amount of food it can process in a single batch. The standard capacity ranges from 1.8 to 2.5 pounds of food. This is enough for a family of three to five persons. If you have more or fewer people to cook for, choose a unit accordingly.
Configuration
Every unit is configured uniquely. Most are equipped with timers to simplify cooking and may reach temperatures as high as 400°F. However, as you compare models of different brands, you will notice that the degree of hotness and ease of usage varies amongst them.
Opening
While observing different models, you will notice that the way they open is also different. In some units, the cooking basket slides out from the front or sides, while in others, the lid on the top lifts up to open. We recommend buying slide opening ones as you can always open them during the cooking process to check on the progress. This is not a suitable protocol for top opening ones as it allows the hot air to escape.
Conclusion
Getting an air fryer is the best gift you can give yourself. Having one at hand does not let you compromise on flavor and texture that would otherwise be ruined by oven cooking. Now you don’t have to keep your undying love for fried food under control. You can keep up with those insatiable cravings while keeping your well being in check.
We have tried to round-up the best offerings on today’s marketplace in our list of the best air fryers under $100. All you now have to do is to check the cooking capacity and choose a suitable one according to your requirements.
People Also Ask
Air frying is a step towards a healthier way of life. So many people use air fryers nowadays. The foods mock-fried in it end up way better than oven frying. They are juicier and reminiscent of traditional fried food. If you also want to join the bandwagon but don’t know much about air frying, here are some common questions to fill you in.
What Can You Not Cook in an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is great for preparing frozen foods, making cookies, and cooking meat. But experts recommend that you do not put over-seasoned food items, wet batters, and cheese in your air cooking unit as they end up creating a mess. Dry seasoning will be blown away by the air circulation. And unlike traditional frying, air frying does not create an immediate crust, so your cheese will melt, and the batter won’t set. They will end up dripping down, burn, and stick to the bottom.
Can I Open an Air Fryer While Cooking?
The answer to this question lies in how the air fryer opens. If it has a front or side sliding basket, you can easily open it to check how your food is coming about. But if you own a model that opens from the top, lifting the lid while the cooking is in progress is not a good idea. Since they cook food by circulating hot air around and the air rises towards the top, so opening from the front or side is not a problem. But opening it from the top will certainly allow the heat to escape, thus disrupting the entire cooking process.
Is Air Fried Food Healthy?
Air fried food is certainly healthier than deep-fried food. It cuts down on extra fat, calories, and potentially harmful compounds present in traditionally-fried food. Switching to an air fryer is a good choice if you want to lower your fat intake or lose weight. It is a way of adopting healthy eating habits without cutting down on tempting fried foods.
How Long Does an Air Fryer Last?
An air fryer is a consumer item that is designed with a lifespan. The term refers to the time of service until the device wears out. Fortunately, it is made to last for years. And if used correctly and maintained properly, a high-quality air fryer can last for a decade.
Are Budget Air Fryers Small?
The size and cooking capacity of an air fryer are two different things. Size is the unit's actual dimension, while the cooking capacity is the amount of food it can cook at once. Budget air fryers come in varying sizes. The market has a number of great offerings in both small and large sizes that can easily be classified as budget models.
Is an Air Fryer Worth it?
An air fryer is a slick device that really shines at mock frying. Frozen food like nuggets and fries turn up way better than those baked in an oven. It gets the job done well while keeping your kitchen cool, making it a pretty useful gadget. However, if you are not really a fan of eating deep-fried foods, you will find it sitting uselessly on your kitchen counter.
What Are the Best Foods to Cook in an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is regarded as the healthiest method of frying. However, its use is not simply restricted to frying. It is great for both cooking and reheating purposes as well. The best foods to cook in an air fryer are frozen foods, Brussel sprouts, cookies, steaks, and fully-cooked burgers, among other things.
Other Fryer Reviews
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