Do you dream of crispy fries and juicy chicken without all the oil and mess? Air fryers make that possible! But when you start looking for one, you might feel a little lost. So many brands, so many prices! It’s tough to figure out which “cheapest air fryer” really gives you the best bang for your buck.
You want a great deal, but you also want something that actually cooks your food well. You might worry that a cheaper air fryer won’t be as good as the expensive ones. Or maybe you’re just overwhelmed by all the choices and don’t know where to start your search. It’s a common problem, and we get it!
That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. In this post, we’ll guide you through finding a fantastic air fryer that won’t break the bank. We’ll show you what to look for, share some top budget-friendly picks, and help you understand what makes a good air fryer even at a lower price. Get ready to discover your next kitchen favorite!
Our Top 5 Cheapest Air Fryer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cheapest Air Fryer Detailed Reviews
1. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer, your new kitchen best friend for fast, healthy, and delicious meals. This compact air fryer is designed to save space and make cooking a breeze, perfect for anyone looking to whip up quick dishes without the mess or extra oil.
What We Like:
- Cooks food up to three times faster than a traditional oven.
- Uses little to no oil for healthier meals.
- Its square basket maximizes the 2-quart capacity and the sleek design saves counter space.
- Includes a shake reminder to ensure perfectly crispy food.
- The nonstick basket and rack are dishwasher safe for super simple cleanup.
- Automatic shutoff provides extra safety.
- Comes with cETL approval and a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2-quart capacity is best suited for 1-2 people, so it might be too small for larger families.
This mini air fryer is a fantastic option for singles, couples, or anyone needing a quick and healthy way to prepare meals. Its compact size and easy cleanup make it a winner for busy lifestyles.
2. COMFEE’ Compact 2.1 Quart Air Fryer with 12 Menu Options
Rating: 9.0/10
Looking for a healthier way to enjoy your favorite fried foods? The COMFEE’ Compact 2.1 Quart Air Fryer is here to help! This little appliance makes cooking healthy and delicious meals a breeze. It uses much less oil than traditional frying, cutting down on fat by up to 90%. This means you can get that crispy texture you love without all the extra grease. It’s perfect for busy families who want tasty food that’s good for them.
What We Like:
- Uses 90% less oil for healthier meals.
- 12 handy menu options for everything from fries to desserts.
- Quick and even cooking thanks to rapid air circulation.
- Compact size fits easily on countertops and in small kitchens.
- Auto shut-off and overheat protection for safety.
- Dishwasher-safe basket makes cleaning super simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2.1-quart capacity might be small for larger families or cooking big batches.
- While compact, the 15-inch height might be a bit tall for some under-cabinet storage spaces.
This COMFEE’ air fryer is a fantastic option for anyone wanting to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Its ease of use and cleaning makes it a winner for everyday cooking.
3. 2.1Qt Small Air Fryer – Compact Digital Mini Airfryer with 7-in-1 Presets
Rating: 8.7/10
The TOPZEE 2.1QT Air Fryer is a game-changer for anyone wanting to eat healthier without giving up tasty food. This little powerhouse uses 1000W of energy and special air frying technology to make your food super crispy and moist. You can use way less oil, even up to 98% less! It’s perfect for making everything from crunchy fries to juicy chicken, all while enjoying delicious flavors.
What We Like:
- Makes food crispy and moist with little to no oil, promoting healthier eating.
- Features 7 easy-to-use presets, adjustable temperature (120°F-400°F), and a timer for effortless cooking.
- Compact 2.1QT size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or cooking for 1-2 people.
- The non-stick basket and tray make cooking and cleanup a breeze.
- Dishwasher-safe basket means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.
- Includes helpful features like auto shut-off and a shake reminder for perfect results.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2.1QT capacity might be too small for families or cooking larger batches.
- While compact, it still takes up counter space, which could be an issue in very tiny kitchens.
This air fryer makes healthy cooking simple and delicious. It’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen for quick, easy, and tasty meals.
4. BELLA 2 qt Manual Air Fryer Oven and 5-in-1 Multicooker with Removable Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Crisping Tray and Basket
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the BELLA 2 qt Manual Air Fryer Oven and 5-in-1 Multicooker in sleek Matte Black. This kitchen gadget is designed to make cooking simple and healthy, all while looking great on your countertop. Its 1200-watt heating system cooks food fast and evenly, giving you delicious results every time.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to use with simple knob controls, no complicated buttons!
- It’s perfect for making tasty meals for 2-3 people, like fries, chicken, and fish sticks.
- You can air fry, broil, bake, roast, or reheat food, making it a versatile 5-in-1 cooker.
- Enjoy healthier food with less fat and fewer calories than fast food.
- The basket and tray are nonstick, removable, and safe for the dishwasher, making cleanup a breeze.
- Its compact size saves counter space and is ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2-quart capacity might be a bit small for families or larger gatherings.
- As a manual air fryer, it doesn’t have digital presets for specific foods.
This BELLA air fryer is a fantastic addition for anyone wanting quick, healthy, and delicious meals with minimal fuss. It’s a smart choice for busy individuals and small households looking for convenience and better eating habits.
5. CRUX x Marshmello 3.0 QT Digital Air Fryer with TurboCrisp Technology
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to cook up some fun with the CRUX x Marshmello 3.0 QT Digital Air Fryer! This isn’t just any air fryer; it’s your new kitchen best friend for making delicious, crispy food. With its special TurboCrisp technology, your meals will be perfectly cooked every single time, getting that satisfying crunch without all the extra oil. Marshmello’s cool style makes it a fun addition to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- TurboCrisp tech makes food perfectly crispy and moist.
- Cooks food using up to 75% less fat, making meals healthier.
- Easy-to-use touch screen with pre-programmed settings.
- Just the right size for small families or gatherings (feeds 2-4 people).
- The cooking basket and tray are dishwasher-safe for super easy cleanup.
- Comes with fun Marshmello silicone cupcake molds to try new recipes.
- The 60-minute timer with an alert tells you when your food is ready.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3-quart capacity might be a bit small for larger families or entertaining big groups.
- While it’s great for snacks and smaller meals, it might not fit larger items like a whole chicken.
This air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy crispy favorites with less fat. It’s easy to use and clean, making it a great choice for busy households.
Your Guide to the Cheapest Air Fryer That’s Still Great
Ready to cook healthier, crispier food without breaking the bank? Finding the cheapest air fryer that actually works well can be a challenge. This guide will help you pick the best budget-friendly option for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For in a Cheap Air Fryer
When you’re on a budget, it’s easy to think you have to sacrifice features. But even the cheapest air fryers can offer great performance. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- Capacity: How much food can it cook at once? Smaller baskets are good for one or two people. Bigger ones are better for families.
- Temperature Range: Most air fryers cook between 180°F and 400°F. A wider range means more cooking options.
- Timer: A timer lets you set the cooking time and alerts you when food is ready. Some even turn off automatically.
- Easy Controls: Look for simple knobs or digital displays that are easy to understand and use.
- Dishwasher-Safe Parts: This makes cleanup a breeze! Check if the basket and tray can go in the dishwasher.
2. Important Materials to Consider
The materials used in an air fryer affect its durability and how it cooks.
- Basket and Tray: Most cheap air fryers have baskets made of metal with a non-stick coating. Look for BPA-free plastics for the outer parts. A good non-stick coating is important so food doesn’t stick and cleanup is easy.
- Housing: The outside of the air fryer is usually made of plastic. Sturdier plastic feels better and lasts longer.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a cheap air fryer a good buy, while others mean it won’t last long or cook well.
What Makes it Better:
- Even Heating: A good air fryer circulates hot air well. This makes food cook evenly and get crispy all over.
- Simple Design: Sometimes, fewer parts mean less can go wrong. A straightforward design can be very reliable.
- Good Reviews: Real people’s opinions tell you a lot. Look for air fryers with many positive reviews about how well they cook and how easy they are to use.
What Makes it Worse:
- Flimsy Construction: If the plastic feels cheap or the basket feels wobbly, it might not last.
- Uneven Cooking: If food only gets crispy on one side, the air circulation isn’t good.
- Bad Non-Stick Coating: If food sticks right away, it’s hard to cook and even harder to clean.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you’ll use your air fryer matters.
Ease of Use:
A good cheap air fryer is easy to set up and operate. You want to be able to preheat it, add your food, and set the time and temperature without a fuss. Cleaning should also be quick and simple.
What Can You Cook?
Even budget air fryers are great for making:
- Crispy French fries
- Chicken wings
- Roasted vegetables
- Small batches of fish or chicken
- Reheating leftovers for a crispier texture
They are perfect for single people, couples, or small families who want to enjoy healthier versions of their favorite fried foods. They’re also a great way to try out air frying without spending a lot of money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Cheapest Air Fryer
Q: What is the main advantage of buying the cheapest air fryer?
A: The main advantage is saving money. You can enjoy air-fried foods without spending a lot.
Q: Will a cheap air fryer cook as well as an expensive one?
A: It might not have all the fancy features, but many cheap air fryers cook very well. They can still make your food crispy and delicious.
Q: How do I know if a cheap air fryer is good quality?
A: Look for good reviews from other buyers. Check if the basket and parts feel sturdy and if the non-stick coating seems decent.
Q: What size air fryer should I get if I live alone?
A: A smaller capacity, usually around 1-3 quarts, is often enough for one person.
Q: Are the parts of a cheap air fryer easy to clean?
A: Many have dishwasher-safe baskets, which makes cleaning very easy. Always check the product details.
Q: Can I cook frozen foods in a cheap air fryer?
A: Yes, you can cook many frozen foods like fries and chicken nuggets. Just follow the cooking instructions.
Q: What are some common foods I can make in a cheap air fryer?
A: You can make French fries, chicken wings, roasted vegetables, and even some types of fish.
Q: Do cheap air fryers have a strong smell when new?
A: Some might have a slight plastic smell the first few times you use them. Running it empty for a few minutes can help get rid of this.
Q: How long do cheap air fryers usually last?
A: With good care, a cheap air fryer can last for several years. How well it’s made and how often you use it will affect its lifespan.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with cheap air fryers?
A: As long as you follow the instructions and don’t overload the basket, they are generally safe to use.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!