Nine budget air fryers, all priced under £100, have been put through their paces, with the Ninja 4.7L PRO Air Fryer emerging as the best overall. The models were tested on everyday staples like chips, chicken, and vegetables, as well as pastries and seafood.
Why choose an air fryer?
Air fryers use circulating hot air to cook food with little to no oil, making them a lower-calorie alternative to traditional frying. They also tend to be more energy-efficient than ovens. Isabella Forgione, AO’s small appliance expert, explains: “Air fryers typically use less energy because they run for shorter periods and only heat a small space.” She adds that “with energy bills in mind, the difference can really add up over time, especially if you’re cooking for one or two people.”
Many models feature dishwasher-safe parts, and their compact size means faster cooking times and lower running costs.
Top picks at a glance
- Best overall: Ninja 4.7L PRO Air Fryer – £99.99
- Best dual drawer: VonShef 9L dual air fryer with liners – £69.99
- Best for one/two person households: Tefal 5L easy fry pop air fryer – £59.99
- Best for families: Daewoo 8L air fryer with window & divider – £89.99
- Best for small kitchens: Russell Hobbs Satisfry 4.3L air fryer – £59.99
How the testing was done
Each air fryer was tested on a variety of foods, including chips, chicken, vegetables, pastries, bacon, and seafood. The evaluation considered value for money, preset functions, and the taste and texture of the cooked food.
The Ninja impressed with its sleek design and crispy results, though it lacks a viewing window. The VonShef dual drawer offers independent baskets and a 'match' function, ideal for batch cooking. The Tefal model comes in multiple colours and has 10 presets, while the Daewoo features an 8L capacity with a removable divider. The Russell Hobbs is noted for its low 40°C temperature setting, useful for warming leftovers.
Other noteworthy models
The Salter 4L Crisp and Go portable air fryer stands out for its glass base, which allows for marinating and cooking in the same bowl. The Instant Pot 5L Vortex includes an odour filter, which reduced lingering smells from fish and spices. The Philips 6.2L 2000 series offers the most presets, including defrost and dehydrate functions. Finally, the Tower 8L AIRX AI Digital Air Fryer uses a built-in sensor to automatically set cooking time and temperature, though its drawer release button was stiff.
The best budget air fryer depends on household size and counter space. For most, the Ninja 4.7L PRO offers a balance of compact design, ample capacity, and crispy results, making it the top choice.
