7 Best Air Fryers for Value (2026 Guide)

Finding the best air fryer for value can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Many people struggle to balance cost with essential features like capacity, cooking versatility, and ease of use—especially when they don’t want to overspend on unnecessary extras. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, the right air fryer should deliver consistent performance without breaking the bank.

To simplify your search, we’ve evaluated top models based on capacity, functionality, temperature range, and user-friendly features like dishwasher-safe parts and preset programs. Our recommendations focus on air fryers that offer the best bang for your buck, ensuring you get high-quality results and long-term reliability. Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best air fryer for value, tailored to meet your specific cooking needs.

Our Top Picks

Preview Product Best Price Review
COSORI Pro 9-in-1 Compact Air Fryer COSORI Pro 9-in-1 Compact Air Fryer Best Overall View on Amazon Go to Reviews
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 Best for Beginners View on Amazon Go to Reviews
COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact Best Mid-Range View on Amazon Go to Reviews
CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket Air Fryer CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket Air Fryer Best for Families View on Amazon Go to Reviews
bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer Best Compact View on Amazon Go to Reviews
Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer Best Portable View on Amazon Go to Reviews
GoWISE USA 5.8-QT 8-in-1 Air Fryer GoWISE USA 5.8-QT 8-in-1 Air Fryer Best Budget Friendly View on Amazon Go to Reviews

Best Air Fryer For Value Review

Best Overall

COSORI Pro 9-in-1 Compact Air Fryer

COSORI Pro 9-in-1 Compact Air Fryer
Capacity
5 QT
Temperature
450°F
Cooking Functions
9-in-1
Cleaning
Dishwasher-Safe
Oil Reduction
85% less
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

High 450℉ temp
9 cooking functions
App connectivity/recipes
JuiceLock technology
Compact 5QT capacity

LIMITATIONS

×
App optional but key feature
×
Basket size fits 2-3

Unleash chef-grade cooking with the COSORI Air Fryer Pro 5QT, a powerhouse designed to deliver maximum crispiness and juiciness thanks to its impressive 450℉ maximum temperature and advanced JuiceLock technology. This unit stands out with its 9 versatile cooking functions, tackling everything from steak and seafood to bacon with specific, tailored programs, making it incredibly easy to prepare nutritious, low-carb meals. The innovative one-wipe clean glass panel adds a touch of modern convenience, solving the common pain point of greasy control surfaces.

Beyond its raw cooking power, the COSORI Pro 5QT excels in practicality, offering a spacious 5-quart square basket ample for 2-3 servings, perfect for quick family meals. It rapidly heats food surfaces for faster cooking times, a boon on busy weeknights. While it boasts connectivity with the VeSync app for over 130 recipes and nutritional details, its core performance remains stellar even without the digital extras, achieving up to 85% less oil than traditional frying methods for healthier indulgence. Its compact design ensures it won’t dominate your counter space, making it a functional addition to any kitchen.

When positioned against rivals like the Ninja AF141, the COSORI Pro 5QT offers a higher maximum temperature and more cooking functions (9 vs 4), providing greater versatility for diverse culinary tasks. While the Ninja focuses on straightforward simplicity, the COSORI caters to users seeking enhanced control and detailed recipe support through its app integration. It provides a strong blend of performance features and smart capabilities, offering excellent value relative to its robust function set compared to simpler 5QT models.

Best for Beginners

Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1

Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1
Capacity
5 QT
Power
400F
Functions
4-in-1
Fat Reduction
Up to 75%
Basket Material
Nonstick
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Air Crisp Technology
Easy frozen to crispy
Simple 4 functions
5QT capacity
Space saver design

LIMITATIONS

×
Lower max temp (400F)
×
Fewer functions

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 AF141 is a straightforward workhorse built for effortless crispy results, leveraging Air Crisp Technology that circulates 400℉ superheated air with minimal oil. It’s designed to make air frying accessible and effective, particularly excelling at turning frozen foods crispy in minutes, a real time-saver for busy households. With its 4 essential cooking functions – Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate – it covers the most common culinary needs without overwhelming complexity.

Featuring a generous 5-quart nonstick basket, this Ninja model easily accommodates up to 4 lbs of fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings, making it suitable for family portions. Its design is touted as a “Space Saver,” aiming to minimize countertop footprint while maintaining ample internal capacity. The nonstick basket and crisper plate live up to the “Easy to Clean” promise, simplifying post-meal tidying, which is a significant plus for daily use.

Compared to the COSORI Pro 5QT (B0936FGLQS), the Ninja AF141 offers a slightly simpler feature set with fewer functions and a lower maximum temperature (400F vs 450F), positioning it as an ideal choice for beginners or those who prefer core functionality over extensive presets or app integration. While it may lack some of the advanced tech found in higher-end models, its reliable performance and ease of use provide solid value for those prioritizing simplicity and effective air frying.

Best Mid-Range

COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact

COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact
Capacity
6-Qt
Temperature Range
90–450°F
Technology
TurboBlaze
Oil Reduction
Up to 95%
Functions
9-in-1
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

TurboBlaze Technology
Large 6QT capacity
Wide 90-450°F range
Whisper-quiet operation
9 cooking functions

LIMITATIONS

×
No app connectivity
×
Slightly larger footprint

Step up your air frying game with the COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt, engineered for beyond-crispy, juicy perfection thanks to its innovative TurboBlaze Technology featuring a powerful 3600 rpm fan. This model boasts a wide and precise temperature range from 90°F to 450°F, offering professional-grade versatility across its 9 diverse functions, from air frying and roasting to proofing and broiling. The advanced airflow ensures evenly cooked results with perfectly balanced texture every time.

The expanded 6-quart square basket provides a wider and deeper cooking space compared to standard 5QT models, making it easier to cook family-sized meals or larger items in a single batch. TurboBlaze Technology also contributes to significantly faster cooking times, a major convenience for busy schedules. Impressively, this unit operates at less than 53 dB, delivering a remarkably quiet performance that enhances your kitchen environment, and the nonstick components are dishwasher-safe for hassle-free cleanup.

Positioned as a strong mid-range contender, the COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt offers a notable capacity increase and enhanced fan technology compared to the 5QT COSORI Pro (B0936FGLQS) or Ninja AF141, providing more cooking space and speed for larger families or batch cooking. While it may lack the app connectivity of its 5QT sibling, its superior capacity and TurboBlaze performance make it an exceptional value for those who need a larger volume and faster, more consistent results.

Best for Families

CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket Air Fryer

CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket Air Fryer
Capacity
6 Quart
Basket Count
Dual Baskets
Temperature Range
200-450°F
Power
1700 Watts
Dishwasher Safe
Yes, baskets
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Dual independent baskets
Sync Finish function
Large viewing windows
6QT total capacity
Easy cleanup

LIMITATIONS

×
Two smaller baskets
×
Wider countertop footprint

Revolutionize family meals with the CHEFMAN Dual Basket Air Fryer, a powerful double air fryer offering a combined 6-quart capacity across two independent 3-quart baskets. This dual-zone technology provides the ultimate flexibility to cook two different dishes simultaneously at different temperatures and times, or use the clever Sync Finish function to ensure both baskets complete cooking at the exact same moment. It’s a game-changer for preparing complete meals efficiently.

Each 3-quart basket is designed for practicality, featuring large viewing windows that allow you to effortlessly monitor cooking progress without opening the drawer and disrupting the airflow – a simple but highly effective feature. The wide temperature range of 200-450°F caters to various cooking needs, and like other air fryers, it requires little to no oil for healthier results. The non-stick coated baskets are also conveniently dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.

Unlike single-basket models such as the COSORI or Ninja 5QT units, the CHEFMAN Dual Basket focuses entirely on parallel cooking efficiency, making it the best choice for families or entertaining guests who need to cook multiple components of a meal at once. While the individual 3-quart baskets might be less ideal for single, very large items compared to a single 6QT basket like the COSORI TurboBlaze, its dual functionality and Sync Finish provide a unique value proposition for simultaneous meal preparation that single-basket units simply cannot match.

Best Compact

bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer

bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer
Capacity
3.3lb
Coating
EverGood Ceramic
Presets
6 cooking options
Power
1300 watts
Shutoff
60 min auto
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Slim, space-saving design
Ceramic nonstick coating
Easy digital controls
6 cooking presets
Compact 4QT capacity

LIMITATIONS

×
Smaller capacity
×
Fewer functions

Discover the bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer, the ultimate solution for small spaces, featuring a sleek, space-saving “Fits-anywhere” design that saves up to 50% more counter space compared to bulkier models. Despite its compact footprint, it boasts an XL basket capacity capable of holding up to 3.3 lbs of food, making it surprisingly practical for individuals, couples, or small families. The use of an EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating is a significant health-conscious feature, free from PFAS, PFOA, and other harmful chemicals, ensuring healthier cooking and effortless cleanup.

Operation is a breeze with its easy-to-use digital controls, offering an adjustable temperature and 6 convenient preset cooking options including air fry, bake, roast, broil, reheat, and dehydrate. Powered by 1300 watts and circular heat technology, it delivers crispy food fast. The 60-minute auto shutoff with an audible tone adds a layer of safety and convenience, ensuring peace of mind during cooking.

While its 4QT capacity is smaller than the 5QT or 6QT models like the Ninja AF141 or COSORI units, the bella Slim excels in its specific niche: providing effective air frying in a minimal footprint. It offers a great entry point into air frying for those constrained by space or budget, delivering core functionality and a healthier nonstick surface. It provides excellent value for compact living, focusing on essential features and a space-saving design rather than extensive presets or advanced tech.

Best Portable

Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer

Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer
Capacity
4 QT
Container Material
TempWare Glass
Functions
Air Fry, Bake
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Heat Resistance
Thermal Shock
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Portable glass system
Freezer to crispy glass
Cooks/stores in same dish
Easy storage
Dishwasher safe glass

LIMITATIONS

×
Higher price point
×
Unique system limitations

Introducing the Ninja Crispi Portable Glass Air Fryer, a unique and innovative system built around the concept of cooking directly in thermal shock resistant glass containers that can go from freezer to crispy in minutes. This all-in-one approach includes a powerful Crispi PowerPod and both 4-quart and 6-cup TempWare glass containers with storage lids, enabling seamless cooking, serving, and storing within the same vessel. Its fixed heat-safe feet allow safe placement on various countertop materials.

The system offers 4 versatile functions – Max Crisp, Bake, Air Fry, and Recrisp – covering essential cooking needs. The dual container sizes cater to both personal meals cooked rapidly (6 cup in 7 mins) and larger batches like a 4-lb chicken in the 4QT. A standout feature is the leak-proof snap-lock lids for the glass containers, making them ideal for meal prep and transport. The entire system, including the containers, crisper plates, and adapter, is dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup significantly.

Unlike traditional basket-style air fryers such as the COSORI or CHEFMAN models, the Ninja Crispi’s glass container system offers unparalleled convenience for meal prepping and storage directly in the cooking vessel, making it the best portable option. While its unique design and higher price point might not suit everyone, the ability to cook, store, and reheat in the same easy-to-clean, non-reactive glass container provides a distinct value proposition for those prioritizing convenience, portability, and simplified meal management over maximum cooking capacity or the lowest upfront cost.

Best Budget Friendly

GoWISE USA 5.8-QT 8-in-1 Air Fryer

GoWISE USA 5.8-QT 8-in-1 Air Fryer
Wattage
1700 Watts
Capacity
5.8 QT
Presets
8 Presets
Temperature Range
180-400°F
Timer
30 Minutes
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Best budget friendly
Large 5.8QT capacity
8 cooking presets
Built-in shake alarm
Includes recipe book

LIMITATIONS

×
Max temp 400F
×
Fewer functions than 9-in-1s

The GoWISE USA 5.8-QT Digital Air Fryer stands out as a solid value proposition, offering a generous capacity and versatile functionality without a premium price tag. It allows you to air fry, bake, grill, and roast with little to no oil, making healthier versions of your favorite fried foods accessible. The sleek design features an advanced touch screen menu with 8 built-in cooking presets, including options for steak, chicken, fish, and even pizza, taking the guesswork out of popular dishes.

Equipped with a wide temperature range from 180°F to 400°F and a 30-minute timer, it provides ample control for various recipes. A convenient Start/Stop button allows for easy adjustments mid-cycle, and the new built-in shake alarm is a thoughtful feature that reminds you to toss ingredients for even cooking. The non-stick pan and detachable basket, complete with a cool-touch handle and button guard, ensure both safety and easy cleaning.

Positioned as the best budget-friendly option, the GoWISE USA 5.8-QT competes effectively on capacity with mid-range models like the COSORI TurboBlaze 6QT, offering slightly less volume but at a significantly lower price point. While its maximum temperature is limited to 400F compared to the 450F found on some COSORI and CHEFMAN units, its combination of large capacity, 8 useful presets, and helpful features like the shake alarm delivers exceptional value for cost-conscious consumers seeking robust air frying performance without breaking the bank.

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How to Choose the Right Air Fryer for Value

Capacity & Family Size

The first consideration is capacity. Air fryers are measured in quarts (QT). A 2-4 QT model is ideal for individuals or couples. For families of 3-4, a 5-6 QT air fryer provides sufficient space. Larger families (5+) will benefit from 6QT or larger, or consider dual-basket models (like the CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket Air Fryer) to simultaneously cook different foods. A larger capacity doesn’t always mean better value; if you consistently only cook for one or two, you’ll be wasting energy and space.

Key Features: Temperature Range & Wattage

Temperature Range: A wider temperature range (typically 180°F – 450°F) offers greater versatility. Lower temperatures are essential for dehydrating, while higher temperatures are needed for achieving maximum crispiness. Models like the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact offer precise temperature control, allowing adjustment in small increments for optimal results.

Wattage: Wattage impacts cooking speed and overall performance. Generally, higher wattage (1500W+) heats up faster and cooks more efficiently. Lower wattage models (under 1300W) may take longer and struggle with larger quantities of food.

Functionality & Presets

Air fryers now offer a range of functionalities beyond basic air frying. Consider what you’ll actually use.

  • Multiple Cooking Programs: Many models (like the COSORI Pro 9-in-1 Compact Air Fryer) include presets for specific foods (fries, chicken, steak). These are convenient, but not essential.
  • Roasting & Baking: If you plan to use your air fryer for more than just frying, look for models that excel at roasting and baking.
  • Dehydration: A dehydration function is great for making jerky or fruit snacks.
  • Dual Zone Capabilities: Some models like the CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket Air Fryer allow you to cook two items simultaneously, which is useful for families.

Ease of Use & Cleaning

Digital Controls: Digital controls with preset programs (Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1) are user-friendly, especially for beginners. However, simpler manual controls can be just as effective and sometimes more reliable.

Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Look for models with dishwasher-safe baskets and accessories. This significantly reduces cleanup time. Non-stick coatings are also crucial for easy food release and cleaning. The bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer boasts an “EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating” for this purpose.

Additional Features to Consider:

  • Compact Design: Important if counter space is limited.
  • Viewing Window: Allows you to monitor cooking progress without opening the basket.
  • Portability: If you travel frequently, a portable model (like the Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer) might be ideal.
  • Recipe Book/App Integration: Some models include recipe books or app access for inspiration.

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Air Fryer Comparison: Best Value Options

Product Capacity (Qt) Presets/Functions Temperature Range (°F) Key Feature Dishwasher Safe? Price Range
COSORI Pro 9-in-1 Compact 5 9 (Steak, Chicken, Seafood, etc.) + 130+ Recipes Up to 450 JuiceLock Technology for Juicy Meat Yes Mid-Range
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 5 4 (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate) 400 Air Crisp Technology Yes Mid-Range
COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer 9-in-1 Compact 6 9 + TurboBlaze Technology 90-450 TurboBlaze Technology for Faster Cooking Yes Mid-Range
CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket 6 (2 x 3 Qt) Presets + Sync Finish 200-450 Dual Baskets for Simultaneous Cooking Yes Mid-Range
bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer 4 6 (Air Fry, Bake, Roast, etc.) Up to 400 Slim Design & EverGood Ceramic Coating Yes Budget-Friendly
Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer 4/6 (with containers) 4 (Max Crisp, Bake, Air Fry, Recrisp) N/A Portable PowerPod & TempWare Glass Yes (Containers) Mid-Range
GoWISE USA 5.8-QT 8-in-1 5.8 8 (Fries, Pork, Chicken, etc.) 180-400 Touch Screen & 50 Recipe Book Yes Budget-Friendly

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Data-Driven Air Fryer Value Assessment

Choosing the best air fryer for value requires going beyond feature lists. Our analysis focuses on comparative data from user reviews, expert testing (like those conducted by Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping), and price tracking. We evaluated models based on a “value score” factoring in performance metrics (crisping ability, cooking evenness – sourced from independent reviews), feature set relative to price, and long-term reliability as indicated by warranty periods and reported failure rates.

A key data point is price history; frequent sales significantly impact the value proposition. We analyzed Amazon sales data and retailer promotions to identify models offering the greatest discount for their specifications. We also cross-referenced features highlighted in the “Buying Guide” – capacity, temperature range, wattage, and functionality – with customer satisfaction ratings. For example, while higher wattage generally correlates with performance, it also impacts energy consumption, which is factored into total cost of ownership. Models consistently receiving high marks for ease of cleaning and durability, like those with dishwasher-safe components and robust warranties, were prioritized in our assessment of long-term air fryer value. Finally, user reported issues, such as non-stick coating durability were considered.

FAQs

What air fryer capacity is best for a single person or couple?

A 2-4 quart (QT) air fryer is generally ideal for individuals or couples. This capacity offers sufficient space without wasting energy or counter space.

How does wattage affect an air fryer’s value?

Higher wattage (1500W+) in an air fryer typically means faster heating and more efficient cooking. While it might cost slightly more upfront, it can provide better value in the long run by reducing cooking times and ensuring consistent results.

Are air fryers easy to clean?

Most modern air fryers are designed for easy cleaning. Look for models with dishwasher-safe baskets and non-stick coatings, like the bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer’s EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating, to minimize cleanup time.

What features offer the best value in an air fryer?

While many features are available, focusing on a wide temperature range, sufficient capacity for your needs, and dishwasher-safe parts will give you the most value from your air fryer. Dual zone capabilities, like on the CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket, can also be a great investment for families.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, finding the best air fryer for value isn’t about the flashiest features, but about aligning capacity and functionality with your cooking needs. Considering factors like family size, preferred cooking methods, and ease of cleaning ensures you invest in a model that delivers consistent performance and lasting satisfaction. Prioritize models offering a balance of performance, user-friendly design, and a reasonable price point.

Don’t hesitate to leverage online resources and comparison charts to pinpoint current deals and read verified customer reviews. A little research now can save you money and frustration later, ensuring your new air fryer becomes a kitchen staple for years to come. Explore models like the COSORI Pro 9-in-1 Compact or the CHEFMAN 6 Qt Dual Basket to start your search!

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