Air fryer has become synonymous with healthier eating. And who doesn’t want that? By circulating hot air using a convection mechanism, air fryers cook food with a fraction of the oil normally required for deep frying. Not only can they make crispy French fries and chicken wings with less fat, but some models are also versatile enough to bake, roast, and grill.
Table of Contents
When considering an air fryer, one key aspect to think about is capacity. Air fryers come in various sizes, catering to single servings or family-sized meals. Another consideration is the appliance’s footprint, as some kitchens may have limited counter space. Additionally, the wattage of the air fryer determines how quickly and evenly it can cook food, which is essential for those who value convenience and efficiency.
For potential buyers, it’s important to examine the air fryer’s ease of use, including intuitive controls and simple maintenance. Features such as dishwasher-safe components and non-stick surfaces can greatly enhance the user experience. The durability of an air fryer should also be taken into account to ensure a good investment.
After extensive research and numerous tests, filtering those selling for up to $100, we’ve identified air fryers that meet our criteria for efficiency, ease of use, and quality of output. This information aims to guide consumers in selecting the appliance that best suits their culinary needs and lifestyle preferences without breaking the bank.
We are part of Amazon Associates Program and may earn a commission if you purchase from the links below. We depend on those commissions to keep bringing up-to-date, curated information to you.
Top Air Fryers to Consider under $100
Our comprehensive roundup showcases the finest air fryers on the market, selected for their versatility, ease of use, and consistent performance. Whether you’re looking for compact designs for small kitchens or larger models to cater to family meals, our list offers a variety of options to suit your cooking needs.
Ninja 4 QT Air Fryer
We find the Ninja Air Fryer to be a remarkable tool for creating quick, healthy meals that don’t compromise on taste or texture.
Pros
- Offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods with much less fat
- Conveniently ranges from dehydrating snacks to cooking full meals
- Components are easy to wash, contributing to a hassle-free experience
Cons
- Can be bulkier than expected, taking up a fair amount of counter space
- Learning curve involved for perfecting cook times to avoid overcooking
- Exterior can gather fingerprints and smudges, requiring regular cleaning
The moment we took the Ninja Air Fryer for a spin, we were struck by its fast and efficient cooking. Transforming a batch of French fries into golden, crispy delights without the usual pool of oil felt nothing short of magic. Our taste buds rejoiced at the guilt-free crunch we get to savor each time.
Using it over the past few weeks has opened our eyes to the possibilities beyond just air frying—roasting vegetables brought a hearty, caramelized edge to our dinners, while the dehydration function introduced us to homemade, crunchy kale chips. Its versatility stands out in every meal we prepare.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Initially, we had our share of overcooked chicken strips as we got to grips with the faster cook times. Over time, we’ve honed our skills, and now, serving up perfectly cooked, moist, and flavorful meals has become second nature. Despite the few hiccups at the start, the Ninja has earned its pride of place on our countertop.
COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer
We recommend the COSORI TurboBlaze for its speedy cooking and multifunctionality that will revolutionize your kitchen routines.
Pros
- Whips up meals quickly, saving time
- Versatile functions cater to a range of dishes
- Operates more quietly than other models
Cons
- Compact size might not be for everyone
- Premium features may come with a higher price tag
- Learning curve for perfecting recipes
Our experience with the COSORI TurboBlaze has been overwhelmingly positive. We’re able to fry up our favorite foods much faster than before. It feels great to get a meal out in a fraction of the usual time, especially when we’re hungry and in a rush. The multiple cooking functions have allowed us to play with recipes beyond just frying — we’ve roasted and baked to our hearts’ content with consistently delicious results.
Cleanup is a breeze with this air fryer, a bonus that can’t be overstated. We simply remove the basket and pop it in the dishwasher. No one likes to end a good meal with the prospect of tedious scrubbing, and thankfully, the TurboBlaze continues to free us from that chore.
While we’ve immensely enjoyed the convenience and swift cooking times, we had to invest time experimenting with various settings to make each dish just right. It’s a smart kitchen gadget that has required us to be a bit smart about learning its ins and outs. That said, once we found our groove, the COSORI TurboBlaze has become an indispensable ally in our daily cooking.
Whether you are thinking about your first air fryer, or are a seasoned pro, check this awesome simple air fried vanilla cake recipe.
The LKJ Air Fryer Experience
We think this LKJ Air Fryer should be a staple in your kitchen for its health-conscious design and ease of use.
Pros
- Reduces use of cooking oils significantly, promoting healthier meals
- Built-in window eliminates guesswork by letting you monitor food as it cooks
- Cleanup is a breeze with dishwasher-safe components
Cons
- Size might be cumbersome for smaller kitchen spaces
- Can be an investment for budget-conscious buyers
- Pre-programmed modes may limit culinary creativity for some users
Having just prepared a batch of fries with this air fryer, we’re impressed by the even crispiness that rivals deep-frying. The usage of minimal oil didn’t just make for a guilt-free snack; it also meant a lack of greasy odors lingering in the kitchen afterward. Chickening out with this gadget is also not an option – the drumsticks we made were juicy on the inside and beautifully crunchy on the outside, with no hot spots or undercooked concerns.
Looking at the machine, it’s got a hefty size, but it’s justified by the generous 5.3 quart capacity. It’s been a real crowd-pleaser for get-togethers, and not once have we had to worry about not being able to satiate everybody’s appetite. The window feature maintained our curiosity at bay, letting us see the magic happen without losing heat or risking a burn.
We’ve decided to test the versatility of the air fryer by using the included accessories. The skewers allowed us to venture into kebabs, and the silicone tongs were handy for maneuvering and serving. While the preset options are convenient for quick setups, we also enjoyed the freedom to tweak temperatures and times for experimental recipes.
In summary, the LKJ Air Fryer brings a notable combination of healthy cooking, user-friendly features, and easy maintenance to your culinary arsenal – it’s clear why this has become a key player in our kitchen lineup.
Veken 6Qt Air Fryer
We believe this Veken Air Fryer is a top pick for those seeking a healthier cooking method without sacrificing the flavors they love.
Pros
- Effortlessly cuts down on oil use
- Simplifies cooking with steam fry and preset modes
- No need to flip food, thanks to the no flip design
Cons
- Controls can be difficult to read
- Steep learning curve to optimize settings
- Limited capacity for larger families
From the first use, we appreciated how the Veken Air Fryer’s steam function maintained the juiciness of our chicken while crisping the skin to perfection. The presets turned out to be genuine time-savers, allowing us to achieve great results with a press of a button for common foods like fries and vegetables.
The design’s standout feature, though, has to be the “no flip” requirement. The bottom heating element assured us of even cooking, and let’s be honest, it feels liberating to ditch the mid-cooking flip. We were pleasantly surprised by how quiet the unit operated as well.
On the flip side, the LED controls posed a challenge under certain lighting conditions, demanding some squinting and effort to operate. We also found ourselves learning through trial and error to discover the ideal settings for our cooking preferences, but once we got it, the results were consistent and satisfying.
While the 6QT capacity suited our needs for small family meals, those with more mouths to feed might find the space limiting. However, its compact size aligns with the easy-to-clean commitment, as the non-stick basket and tray went straight into the dishwasher without hassle.
All in all, if you’re dipping your toes in the world of healthy and efficient cooking, the Veken 6Qt Air Fryer is a trustworthy companion to consider.
COSORI Pro Air Fryer
We recommend this air fryer for its quick cooking capabilities, whisper-quiet operation, and healthy cooking options.
Pros
- Efficient cooking with high temperatures and rapid circulation
- Quieter operation compared to other models
- Comes with a helpful cookbook and app for culinary inspiration
Cons
- Initial test run and off-gassing process required before first use
- May require multiple presses for touch-sensitive buttons
- Basket size may be small for larger households
Cooking with the COSORI Pro has changed how we approach mealtime, especially on busy weeknights. The rapid heat technology means foods that used to take a while in the oven are ready in a fraction of the time. Imagine throwing in some fries, and they emerge perfectly crisp in minutes – it’s a game-changer.
The Air Whisper® Technology is remarkable; it keeps the kitchen peaceful, a stark contrast to other air fryers we’ve used that can compete with the hum of a microwave. Moreover, the COSORI air fryer integrates seamlessly into our kitchen routine.
Having the collection of recipes from the COSORI app encourages us to experiment. It’s refreshing to find a kitchen appliance that not only simplifies cooking but promotes a healthier lifestyle. The fact that all parts are dishwasher safe is the cherry on top – cleanup after indulging in our favorite crispy treats is a breeze.
Buying Guide
When we consider purchasing an air fryer, we assess various features that align with our cooking needs and preferences. Here’s how we can choose the best air fryer for our kitchen:
Capacity & Size
First, we look at the capacity. If we are cooking for a single person or a large family, the size of the basket will significantly affect our decision.
- Small (1-2 quarts) for single servings
- Medium (3-4 quarts) for couples
- Large (5-6 quarts) for families
- Extra-large (7+ quarts) for large gatherings or meal prep
Wattage & Power
The wattage of an air fryer usually ranges from 800 to 1500 watts. Higher wattage units heat up and cook faster, but they might consume more energy. Ensure our kitchen’s power outlets can support the wattage we choose.
Temperature Control
Accurate temperature control is essential for achieving perfect results. Most air fryers offer a wide range of temperatures, typically between 180°F to 400°F, allowing us to precisely cook a variety of dishes.
Preset Programs
If convenience is a priority for us, models with preset cooking programs might be suitable as they offer pre-programmed settings for different foods like chicken, fish, and vegetables.
Ease of Cleaning
We prefer air fryers with non-stick, dishwasher-safe parts for easy clean-up. Removable baskets and trays add to the convenience.
Additional Features
Finally, we consider any extra features such as:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Digital Display | For ease of control |
| Timer | To prevent overcooking |
| Auto Shut-Off | For added safety |
| Multi-function | For baking, roasting, etc. |
By methodically evaluating these features, we can select an air fryer that suits our culinary needs and enhances our cooking experience.
Make sure you check other posts from our blog and improve your home living!
