Introduction
Air fryers have completely changed the way we cook at home. They deliver crispy fries, juicy chicken, and even baked goods with minimal oil and maximum convenience. But for a long time, air fryers felt like a luxury item, with premium models costing $150 or more. That’s no longer the case.
Today, budget air fryers are everywhere. You can pick up a perfectly functional model for under $30 at a variety of retailers. But that raises the obvious question: who has the cheapest air fryer? And more importantly, are the cheapest options actually any good?
In this guide, we’ll answer both questions. We’ll look at the retailers offering the most affordable air fryers, compare their specs and prices, and help you figure out which budget air fryer is right for your kitchen. Whether you’re a college student outfitting your first apartment or a parent looking to make weeknight dinners easier without breaking the bank, there’s a budget air fryer out there for you.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is an Air Fryer and Why Buy a Budget Model?
- Who Has the Cheapest Air Fryer? Our Top Budget Picks
- Budget Air Fryer Comparison Table
- How to Choose a Budget Air Fryer
- Step-by-Step: How to Find the Best Deals on Air Fryers
- Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Cheap Air Fryer
- Best Practices for Maintaining a Budget Air Fryer
- Are Cheap Air Fryers Worth It?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What Is an Air Fryer and Why Buy a Budget Model?
Before we dive into who has the cheapest air fryer, let’s quickly cover what an air fryer actually does. An air fryer is essentially a compact convection oven. It circulates hot air around your food at high speed, creating a crispy outer layer that mimics the texture of deep frying. The key difference is that you only need a fraction of the oil, which makes it a healthier option for everything from french fries to chicken wings.
Budget air fryers work on the exact same principle as their expensive counterparts. The main differences come down to capacity, build quality, and extra features. A $30 air fryer will still crisp up your food, but it might have a smaller basket, fewer presets, and a simpler control panel than a $150 model.
So why buy a budget model? For most people, the simple answer is that you don’t need all the bells and whistles. A basic air fryer does the job just fine. If you’re cooking for one or two people, a smaller capacity model is actually more efficient. And if you’re trying an air fryer for the first time, starting with a cheap one lets you figure out whether you’ll actually use it regularly before committing to a premium appliance.
Who Has the Cheapest Air Fryer? Our Top Budget Picks
Now let’s get to the question you came here for: who has the cheapest air fryer? We’ve scoured the major retailers to bring you the best budget finds.
Walmart
Walmart is consistently one of the best places to find cheap air fryers. Their store brand, Mainstays, offers a compact air fryer that regularly sells for around $25. It’s a basic model with a 2.6-quart basket and simple dial controls. For that price, you’re getting a no-frills appliance that does exactly what it’s supposed to do: air fry your food.
Walmart also frequently runs sales on name-brand air fryers during major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. During these sales, you can often find models from Bella, Gourmia, and even Ninja at significant discounts. If you’re flexible about brand, Walmart is a fantastic place to shop for budget air fryers.
Target
Target is another great option for budget air fryers. Their Good & Gather brand has a compact air fryer that typically retails for around $30. It features a 2-quart capacity, which is perfect for singles or couples, and it has a simple manual temperature dial that’s easy to use.
Target also carries the Up & Up brand, which occasionally includes kitchen appliances at very competitive prices. And like Walmart, Target marks down air fryers during seasonal sales, so keep an eye on their weekly ads and Circle app for additional savings.
Aldi
Aldi is the hidden gem when it comes to cheap air fryers. The store’s Ambiano brand air fryer is a favorite among budget shoppers. It usually shows up during Aldi’s Special Buys events and sells for around $30. The Ambiano air fryer has a larger 3.4-quart capacity than many budget models, making it an incredible value.
The catch is availability. Aldi’s Special Buys are limited-time offers, and once they sell out, they’re gone until the next cycle. If you see an Ambiano air fryer at your local Aldi, grab it while you can. It’s one of the best budget air fryer deals out there.
Amazon
Amazon is a bit different because the prices vary wildly depending on the brand and time of year. However, you can frequently find basic air fryers from brands like Chefman, Bella, and Emeril Lagasse for under $40. Amazon also has its own brands and regularly runs lightning deals on kitchen appliances.
One advantage of shopping on Amazon is the ability to read customer reviews before you buy. This can be incredibly helpful when you’re trying to figure out which budget air fryer is worth your money. Just be sure to filter for recent reviews and look at the lower-rated ones to spot potential issues.
Budget Air Fryer Comparison Table
To make it easy to compare your options, here’s a table of the cheapest air fryers available at major retailers:
| Retailer | Brand / Model | Typical Price | Capacity | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Mainstays 2.6 Quart | $25 | 2.6 quarts | Dial controls, dishwasher-safe basket |
| Target | Good & Gather 2 Quart | $30 | 2 quarts | Manual temperature dial, compact design |
| Aldi | Ambiano 3.4 Quart | $30 | 3.4 quarts | Larger capacity, digital touchscreen, presets |
| Amazon | Chefman 2 Quart Compact | $35 | 2 quarts | Adjustable temperature, auto shut-off |
Keep in mind that prices fluctuate based on sales, season, and location. But this gives you a solid baseline for what to expect when you’re shopping for the cheapest air fryer.
How to Choose a Budget Air Fryer
Not all cheap air fryers are created equal. Here’s what to consider when comparing budget options.
Size and Capacity
The most important factor is capacity. Air fryers range from tiny 2-quart models to massive 10-quart ovens. For a budget air fryer, you’ll typically be looking at 2 to 4 quarts. A 2-quart model is great for one person or a couple. A 3 to 4-quart model can handle a small family.
Think about what you’ll actually be cooking. If you’re making frozen fries for one, a 2-quart air fryer is perfect. If you’re cooking chicken thighs or small batches of wings, go bigger. Remember that you can always cook in batches with a smaller model, but it’s much harder to cook a small amount efficiently in a huge air fryer.
Wattage
Wattage determines how quickly and evenly your air fryer cooks. Budget air fryers usually range from 800 to 1500 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking and better crisping. Look for at least 1000 watts if you can, but don’t overlook a cheaper model with lower wattage if it fits your needs. A lower-wattage air fryer will still work; it just takes a little longer.
Features and Controls
Budget air fryers come with either manual dials or digital touchscreens. Manual dials are simpler and less likely to break, but they require you to monitor cooking time yourself. Digital controls often come with preset programs for common foods like fries, chicken, and fish, which take the guesswork out of cooking.
Some budget models also have a shake reminder, which tells you when to flip or shake your food mid-cook. It’s a small feature, but it makes a big difference in how evenly your food cooks. If you can find a budget air fryer with this feature, it’s worth the extra few dollars.
Step-by-Step: How to Find the Best Deals on Air Fryers
If you want to score the absolute cheapest air fryer, follow these steps:
- Set a budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping. This will keep you from being tempted by premium models that you don’t really need.
- Compare prices across retailers. Check Walmart, Target, Aldi, and Amazon. Don’t forget to look at local stores like Kroger or Costco, which sometimes have exclusive deals on kitchen appliances.
- Check clearance sections. Stores frequently clearance out air fryers when new models arrive. This is one of the best ways to snag a name-brand air fryer at a budget price. Look for clearance tags in-store and filter for clearance items online.
- Look for open-box deals. Amazon Warehouse and Best Buy often sell open-box appliances at a discount. These are usually returns that are in perfect working condition, often with just minor cosmetic damage to the packaging.
- Use price tracking tools. Apps like CamelCamelCamel and Honey can alert you when prices drop on Amazon. If you’re not in a hurry, this is a great way to wait for a deal instead of paying full price.
- Time your purchase. Air fryers go on sale during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the weeks leading up to the holidays. If you can wait, this is the best time to buy. You can often find air fryers at 40 to 50 percent off during these sales.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Cheap Air Fryer
A budget air fryer can perform just as well as an expensive one if you use it correctly. Here are some tips to help you get the best results.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate around your food to create that crispy texture. If you pile too much in, your food will steam instead of crisp. Cook in batches if you have to. It takes a little longer, but the results are worth it.
Preheat your air fryer. Many budget models don’t have a preheat function, but you can easily run it empty for a few minutes before adding your food. This helps everything cook more evenly and gives you a better crispy result.
Shake or flip halfway through. This is one of the simplest ways to improve your results. Most food cooks better when you shake the basket or flip the pieces halfway through the cooking time. It ensures that all sides get exposed to the hot air equally.
Use a light coat of oil. Even though air fryers require much less oil than deep frying, a light spray or brush of oil helps food get golden and crispy. Use an oil sprayer or a pastry brush for even coverage. You only need a small amount, so don’t overdo it.
Pat food dry. Wet food won’t crisp up properly. If you’re cooking something like raw chicken or potatoes, pat them dry with a paper towel before adding oil and seasoning. This is a small step that makes a big difference.
Experiment with temperature. Don’t be afraid to adjust the temperature from what a recipe suggests. Budget air fryers can run hot or cold depending on the brand. Start with the recipe’s recommendation and adjust based on your results.
Best Practices for Maintaining a Budget Air Fryer
Taking care of your air fryer will extend its life and keep it performing well. Here are some best practices to follow.
Clean after every use. This is the most important thing you can do. Let the air fryer cool down, then wash the basket and tray with warm soapy water. Most baskets are dishwasher-safe, but check the manual first to be sure.
Avoid metal utensils. The non-stick coating on budget air fryers is easily scratched. Use silicone, wood, or plastic utensils instead. Even a small scratch can compromise the coating and make food stick over time.
Don’t submerge the base. The main unit contains electrical components. Only clean the removable parts in water. Wipe down the base with a damp cloth. Submerging the base can cause serious damage and create a safety hazard.
Check the cord regularly. If the cord gets frayed or damaged, stop using the air fryer immediately and replace it. This is a safety issue, and it’s not worth taking risks with electrical appliances.
Store it properly. Keep your air fryer in a dry place where it won’t get bumped or knocked around. If space is tight, store the basket separately to prevent scratching the non-stick surface.
Are Cheap Air Fryers Worth It?
So, are cheap air fryers actually worth buying? In most cases, yes. A budget air fryer will still give you crispy, delicious food with less oil. The main trade-offs are smaller capacity, fewer features, and sometimes a shorter lifespan.
That said, there are a few situations where you might want to spend more. If you cook for a large family, a cheap 2-quart model won’t cut it. You’d be cooking in batches constantly, which gets tedious. If you want specialty features like a rotisserie setting or dehydration mode, you’ll need to step up in price. And if you plan to use your air fryer every single day, a higher-quality model might be a better investment in the long run.
But for most people, a budget air fryer is more than enough. The answer to “who has the cheapest air fryer?” is clear: you can find great options at Walmart, Target, Aldi, and Amazon for under $35. That’s a tiny price to pay for a kitchen appliance that can transform the way you cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheap air fryers safe?
Yes. Budget air fryers sold at major retailers meet safety standards and include features like auto shut-off and cool-touch handles. Just make sure to follow the instructions in the manual and keep the air fryer on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Also, be sure to register your appliance with the manufacturer if that’s an option, so you’ll be notified of any recalls.
How long do budget air fryers last?
With proper care, a budget air fryer can last anywhere from two to five years. The non-stick coating and heating element are the most likely parts to wear out. If you clean the basket regularly and avoid metal utensils, your air fryer should serve you well for years to come.
Can I cook frozen food in a cheap air fryer?
Absolutely. Frozen fries, chicken nuggets, and even frozen fish cook beautifully in a budget air fryer. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly compared to a premium model, but the results are just as good. Frozen foods are actually one of the best things to cook in a budget air fryer because they’re forgiving and cook quickly.
What is the cheapest air fryer on the market right now?
Prices change frequently, but the Walmart Mainstays 2.6-quart air fryer is consistently one of the cheapest options at around $25. Aldi’s Ambiano air fryer is also a great value at around $30 when it’s available. Keep in mind that “cheapest” doesn’t always mean “best value” — consider the capacity and features too.
Do I need to use oil in an air fryer?
Not necessarily. Many foods have enough natural fat to crisp up without added oil. However, a light coat of oil can help you achieve a golden, crispy texture, especially with foods like potatoes or vegetables. A small spray or brush of oil goes a long way.
Conclusion
So, who has the cheapest air fryer? The honest answer is that it depends on what you need. Walmart consistently offers the lowest price with the Mainstays 2.6-quart air fryer at around $25. Target and Aldi are close behind at around $30, with Aldi’s Ambiano offering the best capacity for the price. Amazon is a solid option if you want to compare reviews and score a deal on a name-brand model.
The bottom line is that