We’ve tested dozens of budget air fryers to separate the genuinely capable models from the disappointing ones. Finding an air fryer under £100 that actually delivers crispy chips and juicy chicken isn’t as straightforward as you’d think—many cheap options simply don’t generate enough heat or circulate air properly. That’s why we’ve narrowed down the field to ten models that won’t let you down, each offering specific advantages depending on what you’re looking to cook.
Contents
- 1 Hamilton Beach Air Fryer, 4.2L SimpliFry (HB4001)
- 2 Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer (27160)
- 3 Duronic XXL Air Fryer AF34 BK 10L Digital Family Size with Dual Zone Triple Drawers
- 4 Instant Vortex Digital Single Drawer Air Fryer, 5.7 Litre
- 5 Tower Vortx Vizion 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer (T17100)
- 6 Cuisinart 7-in-1 Air Fryer Mini Oven, 17L Capacity
- 7 AEROFRY Air Fryer 4.5L Capacity with 10 Presets
- 8 Gourmia 7.6L Digital Air Fryer (GAF858)
- 9 Homend Airfryday 6L Digital Air Fryer Oven with Steam Function
- 10 Kitchen Perfected 4L XL Digi-Touch Air Fryer (1500w)
- 11 Factors to Consider When Choosing Air Fryers Under £100
- 12 Frequently Asked Questions
- 12.1 Can Air Fryers Replace Traditional Ovens for Everyday Cooking?
- 12.2 How Much Electricity Do Air Fryers Use Compared to Conventional Ovens?
- 12.3 Are Air Fryers Dishwasher Safe or Must They Be Hand Washed?
- 12.4 What Health Benefits Do Air Fryers Offer Over Deep Frying?
- 12.5 Can You Cook Frozen Food Directly in an Air Fryer?
- 13 Conclusion
Hamilton Beach Air Fryer, 4.2L SimpliFry (HB4001)
If you’re new to air frying and need an appliance that won’t overwhelm your kitchen counter or your budget, the Hamilton Beach SimpliFry HB4001 is your ideal starting point. This 4.2-liter air fryer handles the essentials—frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and reheating—without complicated features you’ll never use. Its manual controls with a 60-minute timer make operation straightforward, whilst the 1300-watt power efficiently cooks for 2-6 people. The compact 35 x 25 x 29.5 cm design fits neatly on most counters, and you’ll use little to no oil for healthier meals. With 4.1 stars from 92 ratings, it’s proven reliable for beginners seeking value.
Best For: Beginners and small households seeking an affordable, straightforward air fryer that handles essential cooking functions without complicated features or taking up excessive counter space.
Pros:
- Simple manual controls with adjustable temperature and 60-minute timer make it easy for air frying newcomers to operate
- Versatile 5-in-1 functionality (fry, roast, bake, broil, reheat) handles multiple cooking methods in one compact appliance
- Energy-efficient 1300-watt design with little to no oil required reduces both electricity costs and fat content in meals
Cons:
- Plastic construction may feel less durable compared to metal-bodied air fryers in higher price ranges
- 4.2-liter capacity may be limiting for larger families or those who frequently entertain guests
- Manual-only controls lack preset programs or digital displays that some users prefer for convenience
Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer (27160)
The Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer (27160) stands out as an excellent choice for budget-conscious cooks who want versatility without sacrificing counter space. You’ll get seven cooking functions and ten pre-set programs, including air fry, bake, grill, and dehydrate options. The touch screen makes operation straightforward, whilst the air fry technology circulates super-heated air up to 220°C for crispy results. You’ll save up to 46% on energy costs compared to conventional ovens. The 4L capacity handles up to 800g of food, though 500g works best for ideal browning. Register online within 28 days to extend your warranty to three years.
Best For: Budget-conscious home cooks and small households seeking a versatile, energy-efficient air fryer with multiple cooking functions that won’t take up too much counter space.
Pros:
- Seven cooking functions and ten pre-set programs offer excellent versatility for various cooking needs including air frying, baking, grilling, and dehydrating
- Saves up to 46% on energy costs compared to conventional ovens, making it economical for daily use
- Comes with a 2-year manufacturer’s guarantee that extends to 3 years when registered online within 28 days
Cons:
- The 4L capacity may be limiting for larger families, with a maximum of 800g food capacity
- Recommended load of only 500g for optimal browning results is quite small and may require cooking in batches
- Compact size means limited cooking space compared to larger air fryer models on the market
Duronic XXL Air Fryer AF34 BK 10L Digital Family Size with Dual Zone Triple Drawers
With its innovative triple drawer system and generous 10-litre capacity, the Duronic XXL Air Fryer AF34 BK stands out as the ideal choice for larger households and families who need to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously. You’ll appreciate the dual 5L baskets that cook different foods at once, plus there’s an interchangeable 10L basket for roasting larger portions. The viewing windows with internal lights let you monitor progress without releasing heat. You’ll access 10 cooking presets including dehydrate, bake, and roast, whilst the Sync Finish feature guarantees everything’s ready together. The non-stick baskets are dishwasher safe, making cleanup effortless.
Best For: Large families and busy households who need to cook multiple dishes simultaneously while maintaining healthier eating habits through oil-free cooking.
Pros:
- Triple drawer system with dual 5L baskets and interchangeable 10L basket allows cooking multiple dishes at once or preparing large family portions
- Viewing windows with internal lights enable food monitoring without opening drawers, preserving heat and energy efficiency
- 10 versatile cooking presets including dehydrate, bake, roast, and steam with Sync Finish feature for perfectly timed meals
Cons:
- Large size (39×37.7×32.5cm) and heavy weight (12.1kg) require significant counter space and may be difficult to move or store
- 2400W power consumption could result in higher electricity costs compared to standard air fryers
- Premium features and capacity may be excessive for singles or couples with limited cooking needs
Instant Vortex Digital Single Drawer Air Fryer, 5.7 Litre
Designed for small households and compact kitchens, the Instant Vortex Digital Single Drawer Air Fryer delivers impressive versatility in its 5.7-litre capacity. You’ll appreciate its four smart programs—Air Fry, Bake, Roast, and Reheat—that handle everything from a 1.6kg whole chicken to 750g of crispy fries. The ClearCook window lets you monitor progress without opening the drawer, whilst the 1700W power reduces cooking time by 50%. You’ll save up to 80% on energy bills compared to conventional ovens and enjoy guilt-free meals using 95% less oil without sacrificing crunch or flavour.
Best For: Small households, couples, or individuals living in compact kitchens who want to prepare healthier meals quickly whilst saving on energy costs.
Pros:
- Four versatile cooking programs (Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Reheat) with ClearCook window for easy monitoring
- Exceptional energy efficiency saving up to 80% on bills with 50% faster cooking times
- Healthier cooking using 95% less oil whilst maintaining crispy texture and full flavour
Cons:
- 5.7-litre capacity may be too small for families of four or more people
- Single drawer design limits ability to cook multiple dishes simultaneously at different temperatures
- No mention of dishwasher-safe components or ease of cleaning features
Tower Vortx Vizion 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer (T17100)
Looking to feed a crowd without breaking the bank? The Tower Vortx Vizion T17100 delivers exceptional value with its dual 4.5L baskets, providing 9L total capacity that’ll feed up to eight people. You’ll cook 30% faster than conventional ovens using Vortx technology, which rapidly circulates hot air for crispy results with little or no oil. Choose from four cooking methods—air fry, roast, bake, and grill—plus ten one-touch pre-sets for foolproof meals. You’ll potentially save £259 annually on energy bills compared to traditional ovens. Register online to extend your warranty from one year to three years total.
Best For: Families or households of up to 8 people who want to cook healthy meals quickly while significantly reducing energy costs compared to conventional ovens.
Pros:
- Dual 4.5L baskets provide versatile cooking options and 9L total capacity to feed large groups
- Cooks 30% faster than conventional ovens and uses up to 70% less energy, potentially saving £259 annually
- Extended 3-year total warranty available with online registration plus 10 convenient one-touch pre-sets
Cons:
- Requires online registration to access the full 3-year warranty coverage (only 1 year standard)
- May take up significant counter space due to dual basket design
- Limited color option available (only in black)
Cuisinart 7-in-1 Air Fryer Mini Oven, 17L Capacity
The Cuisinart 7-in-1 Air Fryer Mini Oven delivers exceptional versatility for families seeking multiple cooking functions without sacrificing counter space. You’ll access seven cooking methods—air fry, bake, roast, grill, toasties, toast, and keep warm—all in one compact appliance. The 17L capacity accommodates a 12″ pizza across two cooking levels, while dual heaters guarantee even results throughout.
You’ll appreciate the 90-second heat-up time and 30% faster cooking compared to conventional ovens, using minimal oil for healthier meals. Intuitive dials control temperature, function, and timing, whilst automatic shut-off prevents overcooking. With a 4.1-star rating, it’s a reliable investment.
Best For: Families and home cooks who want a versatile, space-saving appliance that can handle multiple cooking methods from air frying to baking while preparing healthier meals quickly and efficiently.
Pros:
- Seven cooking functions in one compact unit with 17L capacity that fits a 12″ pizza, offering excellent versatility without cluttering countertops
- Impressive speed and efficiency with 90-second heat-up time and 30% faster cooking than conventional ovens while using minimal oil for healthier results
- User-friendly operation with intuitive dials, automatic shut-off safety feature, and dual heaters for consistent, even cooking across two levels
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at 11.6 kg, which may make it difficult to move or reposition on the counter
- Mid-range customer rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars suggests some users may have experienced issues or limitations
- Best Sellers Rank of 56,569 in Home & Kitchen indicates it’s not among the most popular choices in its category
AEROFRY Air Fryer 4.5L Capacity with 10 Presets
For families seeking generous portions without the premium price tag, AEROFRY’s 4.5L air fryer delivers exceptional value with its spacious XL capacity that accommodates meals for 4-6 people. You’ll save 50% on cooking time and 55% on energy bills compared to conventional ovens, whilst using 85% less oil than traditional deep frying.
The 10 cooking presets simplify meal preparation, whether you’re air frying, baking, or roasting. The non-stick basket is dishwasher-safe, requiring just a quick rinse for cleanup. With automatic shut-off ensuring safety, plus a 2-year warranty and lifelong customer support, you’re investing in reliability that’s trusted by over 50,000 users.
Best For: Families of 4-6 people who want to cook healthier meals quickly and affordably, while saving on energy costs and minimizing cleanup time.
Pros:
- Exceptional cost savings with 50% faster cooking and 55% reduced energy bills compared to conventional ovens
- Healthier cooking using 85% less oil than deep frying while maintaining crispy, delicious results
- Easy maintenance with dishwasher-safe, non-stick basket and backed by 2-year warranty plus lifelong customer support
Cons:
- Single basket design means you can only cook one type of food at a time, unlike dual basket models
- Plastic and aluminum construction may not feel as premium as stainless steel alternatives
- 4.5L capacity may be insufficient for larger families or batch cooking needs
Gourmia 7.6L Digital Air Fryer (GAF858)
Families cooking for four or more will appreciate the Gourmia GAF858’s spacious 7.6L capacity, which handles multiple servings in one go. You’ll find seven one-touch cooking functions that simplify meal preparation, whilst FryForce 360° Technology guarantees even heat distribution throughout your food.
The temperature range spans 32°C-230°C, giving you versatility for various recipes. You’ll benefit from helpful guided cooking prompts and turn food reminders displayed on-screen. Cleanup’s straightforward with dishwasher-safe components including the basket, two crisper trays, and multi-purpose rack.
At 4.4 stars from 18 ratings, this PFOA-free air fryer delivers reliable performance for larger households.
Best For: Large families or households of four or more people who need to prepare multiple servings simultaneously and want straightforward, one-touch cooking functionality with minimal cleanup.
Pros:
- Generous 7.6L capacity accommodates family-sized portions with FryForce 360° Technology ensuring even cooking throughout
- Seven preset cooking functions with helpful guided prompts and food-turning reminders make operation simple for beginners and experienced cooks alike
- Dishwasher-safe components (basket, crisper trays, and rack) plus convenient cord storage make cleanup and kitchen organization effortless
Cons:
- Relatively large footprint (38.7 x 29.7 x 29.2 cm) and heavy weight (6.1kg) may be challenging for kitchens with limited counter space
- Limited customer review sample (only 18 ratings) makes it difficult to assess long-term reliability and performance across diverse use cases
- Lower sales ranking (#322 in Air Fryers category) suggests it’s a newer or less popular model compared to established competitors in the market
Homend Airfryday 6L Digital Air Fryer Oven with Steam Function
If you’re seeking an air fryer that’ll handle family-sized portions without breaking the bank, the Homend Airfryday 6L Digital Air Fryer Oven delivers exceptional value with its unique steam function. This feature locks in moisture while dual heaters distribute heat evenly, eliminating the tedious shaking routine. You’ll cook meals 30% faster than conventional ovens whilst using 95% less oil. The 6L capacity accommodates a whole chicken or feeds 4-6 people comfortably. Its touchscreen interface offers 12 preset modes, and the viewing window lets you monitor progress without interrupting the cooking process. The nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket simplifies cleanup remarkably.
Best For: Families of 4-6 people or home cooks who want a versatile, healthier cooking appliance that can handle large portions while saving time and reducing oil usage.
Pros:
- Unique steam function locks in moisture and dual heaters eliminate the need for shaking food during cooking
- Cooks 30% faster than conventional ovens and uses 95% less oil than traditional deep frying
- Large 6L capacity can fit a whole chicken while the viewing window, 12 preset modes, and dishwasher-safe components make it convenient to use and clean
Cons:
- Relatively new product with limited customer reviews (only 18 ratings as of listing date)
- Lower sales ranking (#411,981 in Home & Kitchen) suggests less market validation compared to competitors
- At 7.77 kg, it’s heavier than some competing models which may make it less portable despite claims of lightweight construction
Kitchen Perfected 4L XL Digi-Touch Air Fryer (1500w)
The Kitchen Perfected 4L XL Digi-Touch Air Fryer tackles family-sized portions with its spacious basket that fits an entire small chicken. You’ll use 80% less oil whilst still achieving crispy results through rapid heatwave technology that speeds up cooking times considerably.
This multifunctional appliance works as a fryer, grill, oven, and steamer with 7 preset cooking programmes. Simply load your ingredients, select temperature and time via the digital touch screen, and let the auto-shutoff prevent overcooking.
The detachable 3.7L basket is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup effortless. You’ll receive a complimentary recipe book with 20 homemade recipes and a 2-year guarantee for peace of mind.
Best For: Families seeking a healthier cooking alternative that can handle large portions whilst offering multiple cooking methods in one convenient appliance.
Pros:
- Uses 80% less oil than traditional frying methods whilst rapid heatwave technology delivers crispy results and faster cooking times
- Versatile 7-preset programmes allow frying, grilling, baking, and steaming with simple digital touch controls and auto-shutoff protection
- Easy maintenance with dishwasher-safe detachable basket, plus includes 20-recipe book and 2-year guarantee
Cons:
- 1500W power consumption may be higher than some competing air fryers
- The 4L capacity, whilst family-sized, may be limiting for larger households or batch cooking
- Plastic construction components may be less durable than full stainless steel alternatives
Factors to Consider When Choosing Air Fryers Under £100
We’ve examined specific models, but how do you determine which air fryer under £100 suits your needs? The right choice depends on several practical factors that directly impact your cooking experience and long-term satisfaction. Let’s explore the key considerations that’ll help you make an informed decision: capacity for your household size, available cooking functions, energy efficiency, cleaning requirements, and temperature controls.
Capacity and Family Size
When selecting an air fryer under £100, capacity stands as one of your most essential decisions. Most models range from 4L to 10L, with 4L accommodating 2-6 people comfortably. We recommend evaluating your household size before purchasing—a 4.2L model works brilliantly for small families, whilst 10L options suit larger households or those who enjoy entertaining.
Pay attention to maximum cooking weights too. For instance, many 4L fryers perform best with loads around 500g for ideal browning. If you’re cooking substantial meals regularly, consider dual-basket models that let you prepare different foods simultaneously.
The right capacity guarantees you’re not constantly batch-cooking or wasting energy on an oversized appliance. Match the fryer’s size to your family’s needs and cooking habits for maximum satisfaction.
Cooking Functions and Presets
Beyond finding the perfect size for your household, you’ll want to examine what your air fryer can actually do. We recommend looking for models offering multiple cooking functions—air frying, baking, roasting, and grilling—to maximize meal versatility without exceeding your budget.
Pre-set cooking programs are particularly valuable, as they automatically adjust temperature and time for specific foods like fries, chicken, or vegetables. This eliminates guesswork and guarantees consistent results. Check the maximum temperature capability; models reaching 220°C provide better cooking performance across various recipes.
An adjustable timer is essential—we look for options extending to 60 minutes to prevent overcooking. Finally, consider the control interface. Touch screens and manual dials each offer different advantages, so choose what feels most intuitive for your cooking style.
Energy Efficiency and Savings
Energy costs matter just as much as the upfront price when choosing an air fryer under £100. We’ve found that air fryers can slash energy bills by up to 80% compared to traditional ovens, making them remarkably economical over time.
Most models we’ve tested use rapid air circulation technology, cooking food 30% faster than conventional methods. This speed translates directly into lower electricity consumption. Look for units operating between 1300 to 1700 watts—they optimize energy use without sacrificing performance.
The minimal oil requirement doesn’t just promote healthier eating; it reduces ongoing costs by eliminating frequent oil purchases. We’ve seen users report consistently lower utility bills alongside reduced cooking times, creating a more efficient kitchen overall. These savings quickly offset the initial investment.
Ease of Cleaning
An air fryer’s performance means little if it becomes a chore to clean after every use. We recommend prioritising models with non-stick, removable baskets that are dishwasher safe—this dramatically reduces scrubbing time. Look for designs offering easy access to all cooking compartments, allowing you to wipe away food residue effortlessly.
Consider air fryers with automatic shut-off mechanisms. Beyond safety benefits, they prevent overcooking and burning, which means less baked-on mess to tackle. Reusable silicone liners or mats are excellent additions, catching splatters and drips before they reach the appliance interior.
Don’t overlook user reviews focused on cleaning experiences. Real-world feedback reveals which models genuinely simplify maintenance and which ones require excessive effort, helping you avoid frustrating purchases within your budget.
Temperature Range and Controls
Temperature flexibility separates capable air fryers from limited ones. We recommend looking for models with a range of 80°C to 220°C, which lets you handle everything from delicate dehydrating to high-heat crisping. Adjustable temperature controls are essential—they allow us to fine-tune settings for different recipes and achieve consistent results.
Digital control panels make temperature adjustments straightforward and accurate, eliminating guesswork during cooking. If you’re new to air frying, consider models with pre-set programs that automatically adjust temperatures for specific foods like chips, chicken, or fish.
The ability to monitor and control cooking temperatures directly impacts whether we achieve the right doneness and texture. Without proper temperature controls, even budget-friendly air fryers struggle to deliver quality meals.
Build Quality and Durability
While price matters when shopping for air fryers under £100, we shouldn’t overlook build quality—it’s what determines whether your appliance lasts years or months.
We recommend prioritizing models constructed from aluminum and BPA-free plastics, which offer superior durability and safety. Non-stick coatings are essential; they make cleaning effortless and prevent food residue buildup that degrades performance over time.
Pay attention to construction details like sturdy handles and stable bases—these features guarantee your air fryer withstands daily use without wobbling or breaking. While lighter models seem convenient, heavier units typically indicate better construction and stability.
Finally, we always check warranty coverage. A minimum 2-year warranty signals the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s longevity, giving you protection against premature failures.
Warranty and Support Coverage
Beyond the physical construction of your air fryer, warranty and support coverage serve as your safety net when things go wrong. We recommend prioritizing models with warranties of 2 years or more, as this indicates manufacturer confidence in their product’s longevity. Look for brands offering extended protection when you register online—an extra year’s coverage can prove invaluable.
Verify that warranties cover both parts and labor, not just components. Extensive coverage protects you from expensive repairs if malfunctions occur. We also suggest checking customer support availability before purchasing. Responsive service makes troubleshooting frustrations much easier.
Finally, consider manufacturers offering satisfaction guarantees or flexible return policies. These risk-free testing periods let you evaluate whether the air fryer meets your expectations without commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Air Fryers Replace Traditional Ovens for Everyday Cooking?
Air fryers can’t fully replace traditional ovens for everyday cooking. While they’re brilliant for quick meals and smaller portions, we’d struggle with larger roasts, multiple dishes, or baking bigger items that need oven space.
How Much Electricity Do Air Fryers Use Compared to Conventional Ovens?
Air fryers typically use 50-70% less electricity than conventional ovens. We’ve found they’re more energy-efficient because they’re smaller, preheat faster, and cook food quicker—which means you’ll save money on your energy bills over time.
Are Air Fryers Dishwasher Safe or Must They Be Hand Washed?
Most air fryer baskets and trays we’ve tested are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easy. However, we always recommend checking your specific model’s manual first, as some manufacturers suggest hand washing to preserve non-stick coatings longer.
What Health Benefits Do Air Fryers Offer Over Deep Frying?
Air fryers use considerably less oil than deep frying, which means you’ll consume fewer calories and less fat. We’ve found they help reduce harmful compounds that form during traditional deep frying, making meals healthier overall.
Can You Cook Frozen Food Directly in an Air Fryer?
Yes, we can cook frozen food straight from the freezer in an air fryer. We don’t need to defrost chips, nuggets, or fish fingers first—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
Conclusion
We’ve covered some excellent air fryers that won’t strain your budget while delivering crispy, delicious results. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, there’s an option here that’ll suit your needs. Remember to take into account capacity, features, and energy efficiency when making your choice. With any of these models under £100, you’ll enjoy healthier meals and faster cooking times without compromising on taste or quality.