10 Best Budget Air Fryer 2026 in the United States

The Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer is a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly and versatile air fryer. It boasts a 5.5-quart capacity, which is ample for cooking meals for a small family or batch cooking snacks. The high gloss grey finish gives it a sleek look that can fit well in most modern kitchens.

Its power is reflected in the Max Crisp Technology, delivering up to 450 degrees of superheated air to cook food faster and achieve crispier results with up to 75% less fat compared to traditional frying methods. This makes it a healthier option for fried food lovers. The 7-in-1 functionality, including options to air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate, adds versatility, allowing you to prepare a range of dishes with one appliance.

The ceramic coated nonstick basket and crisper plate not only ensure even cooking but also make cleaning easier as both are dishwasher safe. However, the plastic build may not appeal to everyone as it might not feel as premium or durable as metal alternatives. The product dimensions are fairly large, so it might take up significant counter space - something to consider if you have a smaller kitchen. Additionally, some users might find the 2.6 ft cord slightly limiting in terms of placement flexibility. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Ninja AF161 is packed with useful features and offers great value, especially for those looking to explore healthier cooking methods without breaking the bank.

The COSORI Air Fryer offers a range of impressive features for a budget-friendly price. With a 6-quart capacity, it’s suitable for preparing family-sized meals. The TurboBlaze Technology and 3600 rpm fan speed allow for quick and even cooking, achieving crispy results with up to 95% less oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

The temperature range of 90°–450°F and advanced airflow technology ensure versatile and precise cooking, whether you’re roasting, baking, drying, reheating, or broiling. It also includes nine versatile cooking functions and five fan speeds, providing professional-grade versatility in one compact appliance. The quieter operation at less than 53 dB and dishwasher-safe components make it convenient to use and clean.

The compact size might still be a bit bulky for some smaller kitchens, and the non-stick coating requires careful handling to maintain its longevity. The inclusion of a customizable preheat function and additional resources like a 30-recipe cookbook are thoughtful touches that enhance user experience. This air fryer is ideal for families and individuals looking for an all-in-one cooking appliance without breaking the bank.

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 is a notable contender in the budget air fryer category, offering a respectable 5-quart capacity. This size is ample for preparing meals for a family, handling up to 4 pounds of French fries or 5 pounds of chicken wings, making it quite versatile. It operates at 1750 watts, providing sufficient power to achieve crispy and hot results. The maximum temperature setting of 400°F is standard for air fryers, allowing for efficient air frying, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating, thanks to its 4-in-1 functionality.

The air crisp technology further enhances its appeal by delivering a healthier cooking option with up to 75% less fat compared to traditional frying methods. The Ninja Air Fryer Pro is user-friendly with a push-button control type and touch control method, which simplifies operation. Its design is compact, saving countertop space, despite its generous capacity. The exterior is grey, with dimensions of 14.84 inches deep, 11.29 inches wide, and 10.39 inches high, which should fit comfortably in most kitchens.

Additional features such as automatic shut-off and programmable settings, alongside a nonstick basket and crisper plate, make it easy to clean and maintain. However, it is important to note that the unit's weight is 10.34 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users when moving or storing it. Despite being dishwasher safe, users may need to handle the metal inner material with care to avoid damage. Included in the package is a chef-inspired recipe book, adding value for those seeking culinary inspiration. With high customer ratings and a competitive price, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro is a strong choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want robust features.