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Many people want delicious fried foods without the health drawbacks of deep frying. Air fryers use heated air and minimal oil to produce a crispy exterior that’s close to traditional frying. This makes them appealing if you’re trying to cut calories or fat without sacrificing taste.
In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of air fryers, how to choose a model that meets your needs, and provide a detailed list of options that won’t strain your budget. We’ll also cover common questions, highlight credible research, and offer practical tips to ensure you find the best air fryer under $100.
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Healthier Cooking Alternative
Most deep-fried foods soak up large amounts of oil. Air fryers circulate hot air at high speeds around the food, resulting in a crispy exterior. According to a study by the USDA, reducing oil in cooking can lower total fat intake significantly. If you want to fry chicken wings or French fries but keep calories in check, an air fryer can be a game-changer.
Energy and Time Efficiency
Unlike an oven, which can take several minutes to preheat and warm up the entire kitchen, air fryers heat quickly. Many recipes take 15 to 20 minutes, saving time. This also makes them more energy efficient, which can help cut down on utility bills.
Ease of Use
Air fryers are user-friendly. Most models feature a basket, temperature settings, and a timer. Some advanced models offer presets for common foods like fries, chicken, or fish, simplifying the cooking process even more.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying an Air Fryer
Capacity and Size
One of the main considerations is how much food you plan to cook at once. Air fryers typically range from 2 quarts to 6 quarts or more. If you often cook for a family of four, a larger capacity (4 quarts or more) may be ideal. However, for individuals or couples, a 2-to-3-quart model is usually sufficient.
Wattage and Power
Air fryers usually range from 800 to 1,800 watts. Higher wattage models tend to heat up faster, but they also consume more power. Check your kitchen’s outlet capacity to ensure the device can safely operate.
Temperature Range
Different foods require different cooking temperatures. For example, breaded chicken might need 375°F, while homemade fries could require 400°F. Look for an air fryer with a temperature range between 170°F and 400°F for maximum flexibility.
Additional Features
Some air fryers have preset cooking modes, digital displays, and automatic shut-off timers. These extras can enhance your cooking experience. Just make sure that paying for extra features doesn’t push the unit above $100 if you’re on a strict budget.
Warranty and Customer Support
Even the best air fryer under $100 can have defects. A reliable warranty means you won’t be stuck with a faulty product. Look for at least one year of coverage.
Top Picks for the Best Air Fryer Under $100
Below is a quick-reference table with some stand-out models you can find for less than $100, along with their capacity, wattage, and unique features. Pricing may vary based on sales or promotions, but these options typically hover around the $100 mark or lower.
| Model | Capacity | Wattage | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dash Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer | 2.6 Quarts | 1200 Watts | Auto shut-off, compact design |
| GoWISE USA Air Fryer | 3.7 Quarts | 1400 Watts | 8 cooking presets, digital display |
| Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer | 3.5 Quarts | 1200 Watts | Dishwasher-safe basket, timer |
| BLACK+DECKER Purify Air Fryer | 2 Liters | 1220 Watts | Dual fan convection system |
| Secura Air Fryer XL | 5.3 Quarts | 1700 Watts | Extra-large capacity, accessories |
1. Dash Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer
HEALTHIER FOOD – Dash Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer uses AirCrisp Technology instead of oil to cook vegetables, frozen foods and more, reducing added fat by 70-80%. It’s a must-have mini kitchen appliance ...
If space is limited in your kitchen, the Dash Tasti-Crisp is a solid pick. Its 2.6-quart capacity is great for couples or small households. It heats evenly and has an auto shut-off feature for safety. Its compact design can fit on most countertops without being an eyesore.
2. GoWISE USA Air Fryer
The latest model of electric Air Fryer lets you enjoy your favorite foods without the added calories of oil. Power supply: 120 volt, 60 hertz
Touch screen accessibility to manually program cooking ...
GoWISE is well-known for budget-friendly appliances. This model offers a 3.7-quart capacity, perfect for small to medium families. It comes with 8 cooking presets, which can handle everything from poultry to desserts. The digital display makes adjusting temperature and time effortless.
3. Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer
HEALTHIER FRYING: This air fryer makes ‘healthy fried foods’ a reality. Temperature ranges from 200-400 F allows you to cook at your desired temperature, achieving a healthy, crispy, fried finish u...
Chefman’s TurboFry strikes a balance between capacity and footprint. It’s often praised for a straightforward interface and dishwasher-safe parts. Many users love its timer that automatically stops the cooking process, preventing overcooking. For anyone just getting started, it’s a user-friendly choice.
4. BLACK+DECKER Purify Air Fryer
VERSATILE COUNTERTOP HERO: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, and Keep Food Warm with this multitasking appliance. Create and enjoy a wide variety of foods without taking up a lot of counter space.
A...
BLACK+DECKER’s Purify Air Fryer is known for its dual fan convection system. This technology circulates hot air more efficiently, leading to crispier results. Its 2-liter capacity works well for small portions. This model is often under $100 and provides decent performance at a reasonable cost.
5. Secura Air Fryer XL
BETTER CHOICE HEALTHIER LIFE - Food cooked in a Secura air fryer has 85% less fat than traditionally fried foods without losing the delicious tastes and crispy textures. Rapid hot air 360° circulat...
If you need more space, the Secura Air Fryer XL offers a 5.3-quart basket, making it suitable for larger families. Despite the bigger size, it’s often found just under $100. It includes a grill rack and skewers, expanding your cooking options. The higher wattage also ensures quick preheating.
FAQs
How Much Oil Do I Need?
One of the main benefits of air fryers is that you only need about 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil for most dishes. This significantly reduces fat content compared to deep-frying. According to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, cutting back on fried foods can decrease the risk of certain health issues.
Can I Cook Frozen Foods in an Air Fryer?
Yes. Air fryers excel at cooking frozen foods like mozzarella sticks, chicken nuggets, and fries. They quickly crisp the exterior without leaving the inside soggy. For best results, preheat the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes before adding the frozen items.
Are Air Fryers Hard to Clean?
Most come with a removable basket and tray. These parts are usually non-stick and often dishwasher-safe. If your basket isn’t dishwasher-safe, soak it in warm, soapy water for a few minutes and wipe it clean with a non-abrasive sponge.
Can I Bake or Roast in My Air Fryer?
Absolutely. Air fryers are mini convection ovens that are versatile enough for roasting vegetables or baking small desserts. Some models even come with additional racks for multi-layer cooking.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Air Fryer
Try experimenting with different cooking times and temperatures. If you want perfectly browned chicken thighs, for instance, set the temperature to around 380°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For a healthier lifestyle that involves balanced meals, you might also explore creative recipes such as air-fried salmon or roasted veggie medleys. Another way to maximize your air fryer’s potential is by learning how to season foods properly before air frying. A mix of herbs, olive oil, and spices can transform a simple chicken breast into a gourmet treat.
Conclusion
Finding the best air fryer under $100 doesn’t have to be a hassle. By focusing on capacity, wattage, and key features like presets and digital displays, you can easily locate an affordable model that fits your lifestyle. Whether you choose a smaller unit for limited counter space or a larger one for family-sized portions, modern air fryers can help you create tasty, crispy meals with fewer calories from fat.
Remember, the best device is the one that suits your specific needs—budget, kitchen space, and how many people you’re feeding. Once you bring your air fryer home, experiment with new recipes, adjust cooking times to your preference, and keep a close eye on temperature settings.
With these guidelines, you’re well on your way to enjoying crispy, guilt-free delights. Now that you have the details, take the next step and bring home your ideal air fryer. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can capture with just a little oil and a lot of hot air. Bon appétit!
