How Much You Should Spend On A Good Air Fryer In 2026

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There are several advantages to using an air fryer, which is why it's one of the most popular small, modern kitchen appliances for home cooks. These beloved countertop devices offer ultimate convenience with quick cooking, easy cleanup, and a heart-healthier alternative to deep-frying in oil. High-performing models are also relatively affordable, making them a good-value cooking tool, especially considering they are typically used multiple times a week. For a good-quality air fryer that shoppers love, expect to spend between $100 and $200. 

Sure, premium air fryers are often made with high-end materials, include upgraded preset cooking functions, and come with smart features like hands-free voice activation and app integration. You'll also pay a pretty penny for one — well over $200, with larger-capacity models closer to $500. While smart features can be nice, they aren't necessary for perfectly air-fried food since the cooking method, rapidly circulating hot air, is the same for all air fryers (even the cheapest air fryer on Amazon). That said, you might want to spend a bit more and get an air fryer with a longer lifespan, as better build quality is a proven contributor to its longevity. Fortunately, there are plenty of well-reviewed, medium-to-large capacity air fryers from trusted brands under $200. 

While convection ovens(which use the same fan-powered heating technology as air fryers) have been around since the 1940s, countertop air fryers weren't on the market until 2010, with the release of the Philips air fryer. Home air fryers saw particular growth in sales during the COVID-19 pandemic, with sales increasing 76% from 2020 to 2021. As popularity grew, more air fryer brands emerged, driving competition and lowering prices. For example, a Philips digital air fryer with a 1.8-pound capacity cost a whopping $350 in 2017, while a Philips Essential Connected Digital Airfryer with a 2.65-pound capacity costs less than half that at $170 in 2026. 

Aside from Philips, other air fryer brands reputed for their reliable performance include Ninja, Cuisinart, and Instant Pot. The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer is a highly-rated and popular air fryer listed for $149.95 on Amazon. This single-basket air fryer features a stainless steel finish, 6 cooking functions, and a dishwasher-safe basket. Another top-rated option is the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer, 4 Qt Capacity for $119.99. This single-basket air fryer features 4 cooking programs (air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate), dishwasher-safe parts, and a decent-sized capacity that fits up to 2 pounds of fries. For a well-reviewed dual-basket air fryer, like the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer, 8 QT, expect to pay closer to $200.