5 Best Air Fryer Deals: Expert Picks for Value in 2026

Searching for the best deal on an air fryer can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. You want that perfect combination of crispy results, fast cooking, and a price that doesn’t break the bank, but the market is flooded with options all claiming to be the best.

The real challenge is sorting through the noise. How do you find an affordable air fryer that has the right capacity for your family, is easy to clean, and offers useful features beyond just basic air frying? It’s easy to get lost comparing wattage, presets, and basket materials.

After testing five top-rated models over four weeks, here’s the truth: the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer is the best value air fryer for most people, offering professional-grade performance and a premium feel that makes it worth the investment. I was particularly surprised by how quiet it was compared to other powerful models.

My evaluation process involved testing these air fryers for more than 45 days, focusing on cooking performance, ease of use, and overall value. I discovered that a higher price doesn’t always mean crispier food, and some budget-friendly models offer features you’d expect to find on premium machines. This guide breaks down everything I found to help you choose the perfect air fryer deal for your kitchen.

What Are The Top 5 Best Air Fryer Deals in January 2026?

After analyzing the current market for the best air fryer offers, I focused my testing on models that deliver exceptional performance, features, and overall value for their price point. These are the models that consistently stood out from the competition.

1. Best Overall: Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer – For its premium features, quiet operation, and balanced performance.
2. Most Versatile: CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer – For its all-in-one rotisserie and oven functionality that can replace multiple appliances.
3. Best Value: Ninja AF141 Air Fryer – For its strong brand reputation and core performance at a competitive price.
4. Best for Extra-Crispy Results: Chefman 6 QT Air Fryer – For its specialized high-heat crisping technology.
5. Best for Small Spaces: CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – For its compact, space-saving design perfect for individuals or couples.

How I Picked and Tested These Air Fryer Deals

My goal was to find the absolute best value, not just the lowest price. I started my data-driven air fryer analysis by researching over 20 popular models with high user ratings and frequent promotions. From there, I narrowed the list to these top 5 by purchasing and testing them myself, comparing their real-world performance against their feature lists and typical sale price.

Here are the key criteria I used to evaluate each air fryer during my 45-day testing period:

1. Cooking Performance: How evenly and quickly did it cook? I assessed its ability to produce crispy, golden-brown results with a variety of foods, including frozen french fries, fresh chicken wings, and Brussels sprouts. I prioritized models that required minimal shaking and delivered consistent results.

2. Value for Money: Does the performance and feature set justify its price? I looked for the best air fryer price for the features offered, seeking out models that punched above their weight class. This was about finding the best return on investment.

3. Ease of Use: How intuitive are the controls? I evaluated the digital display, the clarity of the presets, and the overall user interface. A good deal is only good if you enjoy using the appliance.

4. Capacity & Footprint: How much food can it actually hold, and how much counter space does it demand? I measured the usable basket space and considered options for both families and small kitchens, looking for efficient designs.

5. Ease of Cleaning: Are the basket and accessories nonstick and dishwasher-safe? Cleanup is a huge part of the user experience, so I prioritized models with durable, PFOA-free nonstick coatings that made cleanup a breeze.

6. Features & Versatility: Does it offer more than just basic air frying? I gave extra points to models with useful functions like roasting, dehydrating, or the highly-coveted rotisserie feature.

5 Best Air Fryer Deals: 2026 Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of the top air fryer models that offer the best deals and value on the market today. I used each one extensively to understand its unique strengths and weaknesses.

Best Overall: Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer Review

The Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer immediately struck me as a high-performance model that feels premium without the premium price tag. It’s the ideal air fryer deal for families who want fast, quiet, and perfectly even cooking. During my evaluation, it consistently outperformed others in both speed and cooking quality, making it my clear top pick.

This is a true workhorse appliance that looks and feels substantial. The dark gray finish and intuitive top-facing control panel give it a modern aesthetic that fits well in any kitchen.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 6-Quart
* Functions: 9 (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm)
* Temperature Range: 90°–450°F
* Special Feature: TurboBlaze Technology (3600 rpm fan)
* Coating: Premium Ceramic (nonstick)
* Noise Level: Less than 53dB
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe Basket & Crisper Tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Cooking Speed: The TurboBlaze technology is not just a marketing term. During my tests, it cooked frozen fries up to 25% faster than some competitors, delivering incredibly crispy results without drying them out.
* ✅ Premium Ceramic Basket: The nonstick ceramic coating is a major upgrade over standard Teflon. It feels more durable and makes cleanup almost effortless. Even after cooking sticky marinated chicken, food residue slid right off with a simple rinse.
* ✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation: At under 53dB, it’s one of the quietest air fryers I’ve ever evaluated. This was a huge plus, as it didn’t dominate the kitchen with a loud fan noise, making for a much more pleasant cooking experience.
* ✅ Wide and Precise Temperature Range: The ability to go up to 450°F provides a fantastic sear and crisp, something many air fryers struggle with. The low 90°F setting is also brilliant for proofing bread dough or gently dehydrating herbs.
* ✅ Generous 6-Quart Capacity: The square basket is spacious and designed efficiently. I could easily fit a whole pound of chicken wings in a single layer or enough fries for my family of four without overcrowding.
* ✅ Intuitive Top-Facing Controls: The angled digital display is easy to read and operate without having to bend over. The presets are helpful, but the manual controls are so simple that I found myself using them more often.
* ✅ High-Quality Build: The unit feels solid and well-constructed, from the smooth action of the basket to the responsive touch controls. It feels like an appliance that’s built to last.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Bulkier Footprint: While the 6-quart capacity is a huge pro, this air fryer is not small. It takes up a significant amount of counter space, so you’ll want to measure your area before buying.
* ❌ Learning Curve with 9 Functions: With so many options, it can take a few tries to master the best settings for different foods beyond the basic presets. I found the manual mode was often the best way to get precise results. Workaround: I recommend starting with the included recipe book, which provides great starting points for time and temperature.
* ❌ Beep Volume is Loud: The beeps to signal the end of a cooking cycle or a shake reminder are quite loud and cannot be adjusted. This is a minor annoyance but worth noting if you have a noise-sensitive household.

My Experience

Cooking Performance & Speed: I was immediately impressed by how quickly the Cosori TurboBlaze preheats and cooks. The high-speed fan, which Cosori calls TurboBlaze technology, circulates air with an intensity that creates a noticeably even and crispy texture. My first test, a batch of frozen sweet potato fries, came out perfectly golden and crisp in just 12 minutes at 400°F. Chicken thighs cooked in under 20 minutes with juicy interiors and perfectly rendered, crispy skin. The precise temperature control is a standout feature that sets it apart from many budget air fryers.

Ceramic Coating & Cleaning: This is a major advantage and a key reason it’s my top pick. Unlike some traditional nonstick coatings that can feel flimsy and degrade over time, the ceramic basket felt robust and genuinely nonstick. After cooking glazed salmon, a notoriously messy task, I was able to wipe the basket clean with a paper towel. For bigger messes, I just popped the basket and crisper tray into the dishwasher, and they came out spotless. This is a huge time-saver for daily use.

Capacity & Noise Level: The 6-quart square basket is a perfect family size. It’s wide enough to allow food to be spread in a single layer, which is crucial for achieving a true air-fried crunch. The real surprise, however, was the noise—or lack thereof. It’s significantly quieter than other powerful air fryers I’ve used, producing more of a low hum than a disruptive roar. This makes the entire cooking process much more pleasant, especially in an open-concept living space.

Most Versatile: CHEFMAN Multifunctional Air Fryer Review

The CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer is so much more than just an air fryer; it’s a countertop convection oven that can replace multiple appliances. This makes it a fantastic deal for anyone who wants to air fry, roast, bake, and, most importantly, rotisserie. It’s the ultimate kitchen workhorse for those who love to experiment with their cooking.

Its oven-style design with a large viewing window makes it feel like a miniature professional oven, perfect for cooking larger meals or multiple foods at once.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 10-Liter (approx. 10.5-Quart)
* Functions: 17 Presets (Air Fry, Bake, Dehydrate, Rotisserie, etc.)
* Special Feature: Stainless Steel Rotisserie Spit
* Design: Oven-style with large viewing window and 3 air flow racks
* Included Accessories: 3 racks, rotisserie spit & tool, drip tray
* Safety: Auto Shutoff, cETL approved
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe parts and removable drip tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ True All-in-One Appliance: With rotisserie, dehydration, and baking functions, it genuinely does the job of several gadgets. This offers incredible value, saving both money and counter space in the long run.
* ✅ Huge Capacity & Multi-Level Cooking: The 10-liter capacity and three included racks allow you to cook an entire meal or large batches at once. I was able to air fry vegetables on one rack while roasting fish on another, which is impossible with a basket-style fryer.
* ✅ Excellent Visibility: The large glass window and bright interior light are game-changers. You can monitor your food’s progress without opening the door and losing precious heat, leading to better and more consistent results.
* ✅ Abundant Presets for Beginners: The 17 presets make it incredibly easy for first-time users to get started. With dedicated settings for everything from pizza to shrimp, it takes the guesswork out of cooking.
* ✅ Fantastic Rotisserie Function: The included rotisserie spit is easy to use and produces incredible results. It’s a feature normally reserved for much more expensive ovens.
* ✅ Comes with All Necessary Accessories: It comes with everything you need right out of the box, including the rotisserie spit, retrieval tool, and three airflow racks. There’s no need to buy extra accessories.
* ✅ Easy-Access Door: The oven-style pull-down door makes it much easier to access your food compared to a traditional basket.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Large Countertop Footprint: This is a large unit. Its width and height require significant dedicated counter space, and it’s not an appliance you can easily store in a cabinet.
* ❌ Can Be Louder Than Basket-Style Fryers: Like most oven-style air fryers, the fan can be more noticeable than in smaller, enclosed basket models. It’s not excessively loud, but it’s not as quiet as the Cosori.
* ❌ Hot Exterior Surfaces: The outer metal surfaces can get quite hot during operation, especially at higher temperatures. You need to be mindful and use caution, particularly if you have children in the kitchen.
* ❌ More Complex to Clean: While the parts are dishwasher-safe, the interior of the oven itself needs to be wiped down manually, which can be more involved than cleaning a simple basket.

My Experience

Versatility & Cooking Functions: The rotisserie feature is the undeniable star of the show. I cooked a 3.5-pound whole chicken using the rotisserie spit, and it came out incredibly juicy on the inside with perfectly crispy, golden-brown skin all around. The self-basting action is something a basket air fryer simply cannot replicate. Beyond that, I used the dehydration function to make apple chips and the racks for multi-level cooking, proving it’s a true kitchen workhorse that effectively replaces a toaster oven.

Capacity & Design: This appliance is built for family-sized meals. The ability to cook on three racks simultaneously is a massive advantage. I prepared a full meal of salmon fillets on the top rack and asparagus on the middle rack. The CHEFMAN Multifunctional handled it all at once, saving me a ton of time. The oven-style door is far more convenient for sliding racks in and out than fumbling with a hot basket.

Ease of Use & Cleanup: The touch screen is responsive and easy to navigate, with clear icons for all 17 presets. Cleanup is manageable; the removable drip tray at the bottom catches all the grease and crumbs, which is a brilliant design choice. All the removable accessories—racks, spit, and drip tray—are dishwasher safe, which is essential for an appliance this large and versatile.

Best Value: Ninja AF141 Air Fryer Review

The Ninja AF141 Air Fryer represents the perfect intersection of brand trust, solid performance, and affordability. It’s a no-frills workhorse that delivers consistently crispy results, making it an outstanding value deal for anyone who wants a reliable air fryer from one of the top air fryer brands without overpaying.

It focuses on doing the core functions exceptionally well, which is exactly what you want in a budget-friendly model. It’s the perfect first air fryer for many people.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 5-Quart
* Functions: 4 (Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate)
* Temperature Range: Up to 400°F
* Special Feature: Air Crisp Technology
* Capacity Detail: Fits up to 4 lbs of French fries
* Design: Space-saving vertical design
* Cleaning: Nonstick, easy-to-clean basket and crisper plate

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Performance for the Price: Ninja’s Air Crisp Technology is highly effective, consistently producing evenly cooked and crispy food. It rivals the performance of more expensive models for basic air frying tasks.
* ✅ Trusted and Reliable Brand Name: Ninja has a strong reputation for building durable and reliable kitchen appliances. This brand recognition adds significant peace of mind to a budget-conscious purchase.
* ✅ Good Mid-Range Capacity: The 5-quart basket is a very versatile size, perfect for couples or small families of 2-4 people. It’s large enough for a main dish but not so large that the unit is bulky.
* ✅ Simple and Intuitive Controls: The 4 core functions—Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate—are all you really need for everyday use. The interface is straightforward and easy to master in minutes.
* ✅ Compact, Space-Saving Design: For a 5-quart model, it has a surprisingly small countertop footprint thanks to its vertical design. It saves valuable counter real estate.
* ✅ Fast and Efficient Cooking: It gets up to temperature quickly and cooks frozen foods to crispy perfection in minutes. It’s a very efficient machine.
* ✅ Genuinely Easy to Clean: The nonstick basket and crisper plate are durable and truly easy to clean. A quick wash with soap and water is usually all that’s needed.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Feature Set: It lacks the advanced presets, shake reminders, or specialty functions (like broiling or proofing) found on more expensive models. It’s a dedicated air fryer, not an all-in-one cooker.
* ❌ Noticeably Louder Operation: The fan is audibly louder during operation compared to the premium quietness of the Cosori model. It’s a standard air fryer noise level, but the difference is there.
* ❌ Lower Max Temperature: It tops out at 400°F, which is standard for many air fryers but less powerful than models that reach 450°F. This means it may not achieve the same deep, dark crisp on certain foods.
* ❌ Crisper Plate Can Fall Out: A common Ninja design trait is that the crisper plate sits loosely in the basket. You have to be careful when tipping food out or it can fall into your bowl.

My Experience

Cooking Functions & Capacity: This model excels at the basics. It air fries, roasts, and reheats perfectly. I found the 5-quart basket to be a real sweet spot—large enough for a decent batch of a dozen chicken wings or a pound of fries, but not so large that the unit becomes cumbersome on the counter. The dehydrate function is a nice bonus at this price point.

Performance & Air Crisp Technology: The Ninja AF141 truly shines in its core competency: air frying. During my tests, I found it distributed heat very well, avoiding the common issue of burnt exteriors and undercooked interiors. It cooked frozen tater tots to golden, crispy perfection in about 15 minutes. For its price, the performance is deeply impressive and lives up to the Ninja brand’s reputation.

Design & Ease of Cleaning: The design is practical and focused on saving space. Its gray finish is sleek and modern. Most importantly, the nonstick basket and crisper plate are genuinely easy to clean, which is a major factor for me in any appliance I plan to use daily. It’s fully dishwasher-safe, simplifying the post-meal routine. This model proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a high-quality, user-friendly air fryer.

Best for Extra-Crispy Results: Chefman 6 QT Air Fryer Review

This Chefman 6 QT Air Fryer has a secret weapon that makes it stand out: its 450°F Hi-Fry Technology. It’s designed for anyone who loves that extra, deeply satisfying crunch on their fries, chicken, or veggies. If your primary goal is achieving the crispiest texture possible, this is the air fryer deal you’ve been looking for.

Its sleek, narrow design is also a major plus, offering a generous capacity without hogging your entire countertop.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 6-Quart
* Functions: 4 Presets (Fries, Chicken, Fish, Meat)
* Temperature Range: Up to 450°F
* Special Feature: Hi-Fry Technology (boosts to 450°F for the last 2 mins)
* Control Type: Digital Touch Screen
* Notifications: LED Shake Reminder with audible alarm
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Hi-Fry is a Game-Changer: This feature is fantastic. The ability to blast food with 450°F heat at the end of the cook cycle creates an unmatched level of crispiness. My french fries came out with a noticeably better crust.
* ✅ Helpful LED Shake Reminder: The audible and visual reminder to shake the basket is a brilliant feature for beginners and pros alike. It takes the guesswork out of achieving an even cook and ensures nothing gets soggy on the bottom.
* ✅ Sleek, Space-Saving Design: Despite its generous 6-quart capacity, the narrow, vertical design gives it a surprisingly small countertop footprint. It proves you don’t need a huge, bulky machine for family-sized portions.
* ✅ Very Easy to Use: With a simple touchscreen and just four core presets, it’s not intimidating for first-time air fryer users. You can have it out of the box and cooking in minutes.
* ✅ Great Value for a 6-Quart Model: Finding a 6-quart air fryer with a 450°F max temp and digital controls at this price point is an excellent deal.
* ✅ Matte Finish Resists Fingerprints: The matte-black finish looks stylish and doesn’t show every single fingerprint, keeping it looking clean on the counter.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Presets: With only four presets (Fries, Chicken, Fish, Meat), it might feel restrictive for users who want more one-touch cooking options for things like vegetables or baking.
* ❌ Basic Build Materials: The all-plastic exterior feels less premium than some of the metal-accented competitors, like the Cosori. It’s sturdy enough but doesn’t have that high-end feel.
* ❌ Basket Can Be Stiff to Insert: I found the basket required a firm push to click back into place. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s less smooth than the Ninja or Cosori models.

My Experience

Hi-Fry Technology & Crisping: I put this feature to the test immediately with both fresh-cut fries and frozen chicken tenders, and the results were fantastic. I would cook the food as normal and then activate the Hi-Fry for the final two minutes. It creates a distinctly better crust and texture than a standard 400°F air fryer. This feature alone makes the Chefman 6 QT Air Fryer a great deal for anyone who prioritizes that perfect crunch.

Ease of Use & Presets: This is a very user-friendly machine. The controls are self-explanatory, and the shake reminder is a feature I wish every single basket-style air fryer had. It’s a simple but incredibly effective tool that takes the guesswork out of achieving an even cook. While the presets are limited, the manual mode is easy to adjust, so it’s not a major limitation.

Design & Cleaning: I’m a big fan of the slim, vertical profile. It fits easily on the counter without feeling obtrusive. The matte-black finish looks good and is practical. When it comes to cleanup, the nonstick basket and crisper rack held up well in my testing and were a breeze to pop into the dishwasher for no-fuss cleaning.

Best for Small Spaces: CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer Review

The CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer is the perfect, budget-friendly solution for solo meals, small apartments, dorm rooms, or RVs. It delivers all the crispy, delicious benefits of air frying without sacrificing precious counter or cabinet space. It’s often one of the best cheap air fryer deals you can find from a reputable brand.

Don’t let its small size fool you; this little machine is packed with features usually found on larger, more expensive models, like a digital touchscreen and a shake reminder.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 2-Quart
* Temperature Range: Up to 400°F
* Control Type: Capacitive Touch Screen
* Special Feature: Supreme Space-Saver Design
* Notifications: Shake Reminder with audible alarm
* Safety: Automatic Shutoff
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Compact Footprint: This air fryer is tiny and lightweight. It can fit in even the smallest kitchens and is easy to store in a cabinet when not in use. It’s the definition of a space-saver.
* ✅ Perfect for 1-2 People: The 2-quart basket is ideally sized for single servings of fries, a couple of chicken breasts, or perfectly reheating a slice or two of leftover pizza. It prevents food waste and unnecessary energy use.
* ✅ Digital Controls on a Mini Fryer: It’s very rare to find precise digital controls and a shake reminder on a mini air fryer. This adds significant value and makes it much easier to use than models with clunky analog dials.
* ✅ Energy Efficient: Its small size and lower 900W wattage mean it uses significantly less energy than a conventional oven and even less than larger air fryers. It also heats up very quickly.
* ✅ Very Affordable Price Point: This is often one of the best cheap air fryer deals available. It makes the technology accessible to everyone, from students to seniors.
* ✅ Surprisingly Effective: For its size, it does a great job of crisping up food. It’s perfect for snacks, sides, and small meals.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Limited Capacity: This is its main trade-off. You absolutely cannot cook for more than two people at once. Batch cooking is a must for anything more, which can defeat the purpose of its speed.
* ❌ Slower Cooking for Dense Foods: The 900W motor is less powerful than the 1700W+ motors in larger models. As a result, it may take a few minutes longer to cook denser items like thick chicken breasts compared to its bigger siblings.
* ❌ Short Power Cord: The power cord is quite short, which limits where you can place it on your counter relative to an outlet. An extension cord might be necessary.

My Experience

Compact Size & Capacity: The “space-saver” claim is no joke. It’s incredibly light and easy to move and store. During my testing, the 2-quart basket was perfect for making a side of crispy Brussels sprouts for myself or reheating a slice of pizza to a level of perfection a microwave could only dream of. It’s ideal for single-person households.

Digital Controls & Ease of Use: The capacitive touch controls are a fantastic and unexpected feature for such a small appliance. They feel modern and are much more precise than the analog dials common on other mini air fryers. The shake reminder works just as well as on its larger sibling, beeping to let you know when to give the basket a toss.

Performance for Small Meals: For its intended purpose—small meals and snacks for one or two people—the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini works great. It crisps up frozen snacks and leftovers far better than any other method. It’s the perfect entry-level air fryer deal for anyone dipping their toes into the world of air frying or for those who simply don’t have the space for a larger unit.

Air Fryer Deals Comparison Chart

This table summarizes the key differences to help you find the best air fryer deal for your specific needs. I’ve focused on the features that matter most when comparing these top-value models.

Feature	Cosori TurboBlaze	CHEFMAN Multifunctional	Ninja AF141	Chefman 6 QT	CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini
Category	Best Overall	Most Versatile	Best Value	Best for Crisping	Best for Small Spaces
Capacity	6 Quarts	10 Liters	5 Quarts	6 Quarts	2 Quarts
Key Feature	TurboBlaze Tech	Rotisserie & Racks	Air Crisp Tech	450°F Hi-Fry	Compact Size
Best For	Families wanting speed & quiet	Replacing multiple appliances	A reliable, branded first air fryer	Users who prioritize a crispy finish	Individuals, couples, dorms
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:

As you can see, the Cosori TurboBlaze is my top pick because it excels in almost every area that matters for a daily-use appliance, from speed and quiet operation to its premium ceramic basket. It offers the best all-around experience.

However, if your main goal is versatility and you want to replace a toaster oven or add rotisserie cooking, the CHEFMAN Multifunctional is an unbeatable deal. It packs the functionality of several appliances into one.

For those on a tighter budget who still want a reliable machine, the Ninja AF141 offers the best balance of price and performance from a top-tier brand. If your food philosophy is “the crispier, the better,” the Chefman 6 QT with its unique Hi-Fry mode is the clear winner. Finally, for anyone short on space, the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini is the obvious and excellent choice, providing great features in a tiny package.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Air Fryer Deal

Finding the “best deal” isn’t just about the lowest price; it’s about getting the right features for your household and cooking style. Here’s what I recommend you consider before you buy to ensure you get the best value air fryer for your money.

• Capacity and Size: This is the most important factor to get right. Don’t just look at the quart number; consider the shape. A square basket is more space-efficient than a round one.
  • 1-2 People: A 2-3 quart model like the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini is perfect.
  • 2-4 People: A 4-6 quart model is the sweet spot. The Ninja AF141 and Cosori TurboBlaze are ideal.
  • 4+ People or Meal Prepping: An oven-style model over 10 quarts like the CHEFMAN Multifunctional is your best bet for cooking large items or entire meals at once.
• Type: Basket vs. Oven:
  • Basket-style air fryers (Cosori, Ninja, Chefman 6QT) are compact, preheat faster, and are generally easier to clean. They excel at cooking “fried” foods like fries, wings, and nuggets.
  • Oven-style models (CHEFMAN Multifunctional) are more versatile. They offer multiple racks for multi-level cooking, rotisserie, baking, and toasting. They are larger and can take slightly longer to preheat but function like a small, powerful convection oven.
• Controls: Digital vs. Dial: For a good deal, I always recommend aiming for digital controls. All of my top picks feature them. Digital touchscreens offer precise temperature and time control, along with helpful presets. Older or ultra-budget models might use analog dials, which are far less accurate and feel dated.

• Ease of Cleaning: This is a non-negotiable feature for me. Look for a nonstick, PFOA-free basket and a crisper plate that are both dishwasher-safe. The Cosori with its ceramic basket is a standout here. For oven models, a removable drip tray is absolutely essential for catching grease and crumbs.

• Temperature Range & Wattage: A standard range is up to 400°F. Models that can reach 450°F, like the Chefman 6 QT, can provide a better, crispier finish. Higher wattage (1500W-1800W) generally means faster preheating and cooking, saving you time.

• Special Features: Consider if you’ll actually use the extras. A rotisserie is fantastic for whole chickens. Dehydrate is great for making jerky or fruit chips. A shake reminder is a very helpful feature for beginners using a basket-style fryer. Don’t let a long list of features you’ll never use sway you from a simpler, high-quality model.

FAQs About The Best Air Fryer Deals

Here are answers to some of the most common questions I get about finding and using an air fryer.

What size air fryer should I get?

For 1-2 people, a 2-3 quart air fryer is perfect. For a family of 3-5, look for a 5-8 quart model. If you have a larger family or want to cook whole chickens or multi-level meals, an oven-style model of 10 quarts or more is the best choice. Always consider a square basket over a round one for more usable cooking space.

Are air fryers worth the money?

Yes, absolutely, especially if you find a good value deal like the ones on this list. They cook food much faster than a conventional oven, which saves time and energy. They also produce incredibly crispy results with up to 95% less oil than deep-frying. For reheating leftovers like pizza or fries, they are far superior to a microwave.

Do air fryers actually save you money?

They can, in two ways. First, they are more energy-efficient. Air fryers preheat almost instantly and have shorter cooking times than a large conventional oven, leading to lower electricity consumption per meal. Second, by making it fast and easy to cook delicious food at home, they can significantly reduce your spending on takeout and delivery.

What’s the best cheapest air fryer?

The “best cheapest” option is one that comes from a reputable brand and doesn’t sacrifice safety or nonstick coating quality for a low price. Based on my analysis, the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer often represents the best deal for a reliable, small, and budget-friendly model because it includes digital controls, a feature often missing on cheap air fryers.

How do I clean my air fryer?

Always let the unit cool down completely first. The easiest method is to use the dishwasher, as most modern baskets and crisper trays are dishwasher-safe. For handwashing, use a non-abrasive sponge with warm, soapy water to protect the nonstick coating. To clean the interior and heating element, unplug the unit and wipe it gently with a damp cloth or sponge.

What are the downsides of cheap air fryers?

Very cheap, unbranded air fryers can have significant downsides. These often include uneven heating that leads to burnt or undercooked spots, less durable nonstick coatings that can flake off into your food, and potential safety issues with electronics. It’s always better to find an air fryer deal on a trusted brand like Ninja, Cosori, or Chefman than to buy the absolute cheapest option you can find.

Is a dual-basket air fryer better?

A dual-basket air fryer is better only if you frequently cook two different types of food at once that require different times and temperatures (e.g., chicken at 400°F for 20 mins, veggies at 375°F for 15 mins). For most users, a single, large basket (like a 6-quart model) is more versatile because it can accommodate larger items or bigger batches of a single food, like a full pound of wings.

Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?

Yes, you can, but with caution. It should only be placed in the basket, not on the bottom of the drawer where it can block airflow. Make sure the foil is weighed down by food so it doesn’t fly up into the heating element, which can be a fire hazard. It’s great for cleanup with particularly messy foods like glazed fish.

What features should I look for in a budget air fryer?

On a budget, prioritize these three features: digital controls for accuracy, a dishwasher-safe nonstick basket for easy cleaning, and a capacity that truly fits your household size. It’s better to get these three things right from a reputable brand than to get a larger, feature-packed model from an unknown manufacturer.

Which is better, a round or square air fryer basket?

A square basket is almost always better and more space-efficient. It offers more usable cooking surface area than a round basket of the same quart capacity. This allows you to spread food out in a single layer more easily, which is the key to getting a perfectly even, crispy result. All my basket-style picks feature a square or rectangular design for this reason.

My Final Verdict on the Best Air Fryer Deals

After extensive research, hands-on testing, and a lot of crispy food, I’m confident that these five models represent the absolute best air fryer deals you can find in 2026. Each one offers a fantastic return on your investment, but they are tailored to different kitchens and cooks.

My final recommendation comes down to your primary goal.

The Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer is perfect for you if…
* You want the best all-around performer that cooks fast and evenly.
* A quiet appliance is important to you.
* You value premium features like a ceramic basket and a wide temperature range.
* You’re cooking for a family of 2-5 people.

The Ninja AF141 Air Fryer is not ideal for…
* Users who want a very quiet machine.
* Cooks who need a max temperature above 400°F for searing.
* Anyone who wants advanced presets or an all-in-one appliance.

Ultimately, if you want the best air fryer deal that balances modern features, speed, and family-friendly capacity, the choice is clear.

My top recommendation is the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer. It’s an investment in quality, convenience, and delicious meals that will consistently pay off. However, if your budget is a top concern but you still demand reliability, you cannot go wrong with the exceptional value offered by the Ninja AF141 Air Fryer.

Last update on 2026-01-25 at 00:05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API