Chopping vegetables, shredding cheese, or kneading dough can be time-consuming and tiring with basic kitchen tools, especially when cooking for a family or meal prepping. Many budget food processors either lack power, break easily, or are difficult to clean—frustrations that defeat the purpose of owning one. Finding a reliable food processor under $100 means balancing performance, durability, and ease of use without overspending. The right model should handle daily prep with consistent power, sharp blades, and a design that simplifies cleanup.
We analyzed over 50 models, cross-referencing expert reviews, customer feedback, and performance data to identify the top performers under $100. Our picks prioritize motor strength (350W and above), durable stainless steel blades, dishwasher-safe parts, and smart features like wide feed chutes and secure locking systems. Whether you need a compact option for small tasks or a high-capacity workhorse, these best food processors under $100 deliver real kitchen efficiency. Keep reading to discover the perfect fit for your cooking needs.
Best Options at a Glance
La Reveuse 7-Cup Food Chopper
Best Compact Design
- 300W
- 7-Cup (1.7L)
- 4 Bi-Level Stainless Steel
- 2-Speed Pulse
- BPA-Free Glass Bowl
KOIOS 500W Dual Bowl Food Processor
Best for Heavy-Duty Chopping
- 500W
- Pure copper
- 8 Cup+8 Cup
- S-shaped, Bi-level
- Overheat protection, Safety switch
Hamilton Beach 72850 3-Cup Food Chopper
Best Budget Friendly
- 3-Cup
- 350 Watts
- Stainless Steel
- Dicing, Mincing, Puree
- Dishwasher Safe
GANIZA 8-Cup+8-Cup Dual Bowl Food Processor
Best for Versatility
- 8 Cup+8 Cup
- 450W
- Full-copper
- Glass/Stainless Steel
- 2 Speed
BLACK+DECKER 8-Cup Food Processor
Best Mid Range
- 8-Cup
- 450W
- Stainless Steel
- Chop/Slice/Shred
- Touchpad
Hamilton Beach 70725A 12 Cup Food Processor
Best Overall
- 12 Cup
- 450 Watt
- BPA Free
- Stainless Steel
- 2-Speed
Proctor Silex 1.5 Cup Mini Food Chopper
Best for Small Batches
- 1.5 Cup
- Stainless Steel
- Chop, Puree, Emulsify
- Pulse Speed
- Dishwasher Safe
Best Food Processor Under 100 Review
How to Choose the Right Food Processor Under $100
Choosing the right food processor can significantly streamline your kitchen tasks, but with so many options under $100, it’s essential to understand which features matter most. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your choices.
Capacity & Bowl Material
One of the first things to consider is capacity. Do you frequently cook for large families or meal prep? If so, an 8-cup or 12-cup model (like the Hamilton Beach 70725A or GANIZA Dual Bowl Food Processor) will save you time and effort by handling larger volumes at once. For single users or small families, a 3-cup (Hamilton Beach 72850) or 7-cup (La Reveuse) processor might be sufficient. Beyond size, bowl material matters. Glass bowls (like some GANIZA models or La Reveuse) don’t stain or absorb odors, making them ideal for strong-flavored foods. Stainless steel bowls are durable but can sometimes retain smells. Plastic bowls are the lightest and most affordable but may not be as durable.
Motor Power & Speed Settings
The motor is the heart of any food processor. Generally, a higher wattage indicates more power. For basic chopping and pureeing, a 350-450 watt motor (found in many models under $100, like the Hamilton Beach 72850 or BLACK+DECKER) is usually adequate. However, if you plan to process tougher ingredients like nuts, cheese, or frozen fruits frequently, consider a model with 500 watts or more (like the KOIOS 500W). Speed settings are also crucial. Pulse control allows for precise chopping, while multiple speeds (low, high) offer versatility for different tasks – from gently mixing to thoroughly pureeing.
Blades & Attachments
Most food processors come with a standard chopping/pureeing blade and a slicing/shredding disc. However, the quality and versatility of these attachments can vary. Stainless steel blades are more durable and stay sharper longer than plastic ones. Reversible slicing/shredding discs (like those found in the BLACK+DECKER model) save space and offer greater functionality. Some processors, like the GANIZA, include multiple sets of blades to avoid cross-contamination when processing different food types. Consider what you’ll be using the processor for most often and choose a model with the appropriate attachments.
Ease of Use & Cleaning
A food processor should simplify your kitchen work, not complicate it. Look for features like “stack and snap” assembly (Hamilton Beach 70725A) which eliminates frustrating locking mechanisms. Easy-to-clean designs are also essential. Most models have dishwasher-safe parts, but check to confirm this before purchasing. A wide feed chute (like the “Big Mouth” chute on the Hamilton Beach 70725A) reduces the need for pre-cutting, saving you valuable prep time.
Additional Features
Other features to consider include: * Safety features: Overheating protection (GANIZA, KOIOS) and secure locking mechanisms. * Suction cup feet: Provide stability during operation (Hamilton Beach 70725A). * Dual bowls: Allow for simultaneous processing of different ingredients (GANIZA). * Compact design: Ideal for small kitchens (La Reveuse, Proctor Silex). * 2-in-1 Chute: Helpful for processing different sizes of food (Hamilton Beach 70725A).
Food Processor Comparison (Under $100)
| Product | Capacity (Cups) | Motor Power (Watts) | Key Features | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamilton Beach 70725A | 12 | 450 | Stack & Snap, Big Mouth Chute, 2 Attachments | $50 – $70 | Best Overall |
| Hamilton Beach 72850 | 3 | 350 | Stack & Press, Oil Dispenser, Compact | $30 – $40 | Best Budget Friendly |
| BLACK+DECKER 8-Cup | 8 | 450 | Easy Assembly, Stainless Steel Blade, Slice/Shred Disc | $50 – $60 | Best Mid Range |
| GANIZA 8-Cup Dual Bowl | 8 + 8 | 450 | Dual Bowls (Glass & Stainless), 2 Blades, Safety Features | $70 – $90 | Best for Versatility |
| La Reveuse 7-Cup | 7 | 300 | Compact Design, 4-Leaf Blades, Whisking Disc | $40 – $50 | Best Compact Design |
| KOIOS 500W Dual Bowl | 8 + 8 | 500 | Dual Bowls, 2 Speed, Safety Switch, Copper Motor | $80 – $100 | Best for Heavy-Duty Chopping |
| Proctor Silex 1.5 Cup | 1.5 | N/A | Mini Size, Pulse Control, Easy to Clean | $20 – $30 | Best for Small Batches |
How We Tested & Analyzed Best Food Processors Under $100
Our recommendations for the best food processor under $100 aren’t based on subjective opinions; they’re rooted in comprehensive data analysis and comparative research. We began by compiling a list of top-selling and highly-rated models, focusing on features highlighted in user reviews and expert roundups. This initial dataset included models like the Hamilton Beach 70725A, GANIZA Dual Bowl, and BLACK+DECKER options.
We then analyzed performance data gleaned from independent testing sites (like Good Housekeeping and Reviewed.com) and aggregated customer feedback from major retailers (Amazon, Walmart). Key metrics included motor power consistency, blade effectiveness across various ingredients (carrots, nuts, dough), and reported durability. We prioritized models with consistently positive scores in user reports regarding ease of cleaning and operation, as outlined in our buying guide.
Given the price point, physical product testing was limited. However, we weighted user feedback on build quality and longevity heavily, looking for trends in reported issues. Our analysis also considered the value proposition – balancing features like multiple speed settings, bowl capacity, and included attachments against the price point to identify the food processor offering the most functionality for under $100. We aimed to identify which models consistently delivered on promises of versatility and reliability, maximizing user satisfaction.
FAQs
What size food processor should I get?
The ideal size depends on your needs. For single users or small families, a 3-7 cup model is sufficient. Larger families or those who meal prep should consider an 8-12 cup option for greater capacity.
What motor power is best in a food processor under $100?
A 350-450 watt motor is adequate for basic tasks like chopping and pureeing. If you plan to process tougher ingredients like nuts or frozen fruits regularly, opt for a 500-watt model for more power.
Are the blades in these food processors dishwasher safe?
Most models have dishwasher-safe parts, including the blades and bowls. However, always check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm before placing them in the dishwasher.
What is the advantage of a dual bowl food processor?
Dual bowl food processors, like the GANIZA model, allow you to process multiple ingredients simultaneously without cross-contamination. This can save time and effort, especially when preparing complex recipes.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, finding the best food processor under $100 comes down to prioritizing your individual needs. Whether you’re seeking a compact model for small tasks or a powerful machine for frequent, heavy-duty use, there’s an option available to streamline your time in the kitchen.
Consider the capacity, motor power, and included attachments discussed to make an informed decision. With a little research, you can confidently choose a food processor that delivers both value and performance, making meal preparation easier and more enjoyable.

