Best Air Fryer for $50: Top Picks for Affordable Cooking

Originally posted on 26 December 2023 @ 13:50

Best Air Fryer for $50

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a healthier alternative to deep-frying. They use hot air to cook food, resulting in crispy and delicious meals without the added oil. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the right one for your needs, especially if you’re on a budget.

In this article, I’ll be discussing the best air fryer for $50. It’s important to note that while air fryers at this price point may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, they can still be a great addition to your kitchen if you choose the right one.

When shopping for an air fryer under $50, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the size of the fryer. If you’re cooking for a family, you’ll want a larger-capacity fryer.

However, if you’re cooking for one or two people, a smaller fryer may be more suitable. Another essential factor is the wattage of the fryer. A higher wattage will result in faster cooking times, but it may also mean a higher electricity bill.

With these factors in mind, let’s dive into the top options for the best air fryer for $50.

Best Air Fryers Under $50

As someone who loves to cook but also likes to save money, I understand the appeal of finding quality kitchen appliances at an affordable price. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best air fryers under $50.

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to cook crispy and delicious meals without the need for excess oil. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

But don’t worry, I’ve done the research for you and narrowed down the top picks based on performance, features, and customer reviews. Check out my list below to find the perfect air fryer for your budget and cooking needs.

RIKOL Micro Switch for Air Fryer Xl Power XL Vortex Air Fryer KW7-0 16A 125V

If you’re looking for a replacement micro switch for your Air Fryer Xl Power XL Vortex Air Fryer KW7-0 16A 125V, the RIKOL Micro Switch is a decent option to consider.

Pros

• Easy to install
• Works well with Power XL Air Fryer
• Affordable price

Cons

• It may stop working after a few months
• Not compatible with all air fryer models
• Poor customer support from the seller

I recently purchased the RIKOL Micro Switch for my Power XL Air Fryer, and I found it to be easy to install. The switch fits perfectly and works well with my air fryer. I appreciate the affordable price of this product, as it saved me from having to replace my entire air fryer.

However, I have read some reviews stating that the switch may stop working after a few months of use. Additionally, it’s important to note that this micro switch may not be compatible with all air fryer models, so be sure to check your air fryer’s specifications before purchasing.

One downside I experienced was poor customer support from the seller. When I reached out with a question, I did not receive a timely or helpful response.

Overall, if you need a replacement micro switch for your Air Fryer Xl Power XL Vortex Air Fryer KW7-0 16A 125V and are willing to take the risk of potential issues, the RIKOL Micro Switch is a decent option to consider.

COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer

If you’re looking for an air fryer that is easy to use, compact, and affordable, the COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The 360-degree rapid heat circulation technology allows you to enjoy the same crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 85% less oil.
• With a high max temperature of 450°F, this air fryer cooks meals up to 50% faster than other air fryers.
• The 9 one-touch cooking functions on a tempered glass display let you preheat and add personalized Shake Reminders, making it easy to cook a variety of meals.

Cons

• The basket dimensions are 8.6 x 8.6 x 4.3 in, which may be too small for larger families or those who like to cook bigger portions.
• The temperature range only goes up to 450°F, so if you need to cook at higher temperatures, this air fryer may not be suitable for you.
• The air fryer is relatively heavy, weighing in at 10 lb / 4.54 kg, which may make it difficult to move around your kitchen.

I recently purchased the COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer and have been impressed with its performance. The 360-degree rapid heat circulation technology ensures that meals are cooked evenly and come out crispy every time. I’ve used it to cook a variety of meals, including chicken, vegetables, and even pizza, and have been pleased with the results.

One of the things I appreciate about this air fryer is the 9 one-touch cooking functions on the tempered glass display. It makes it easy to cook a variety of meals with just the touch of a button. Additionally, the compact design fits perfectly on my countertop without taking up too much space.

While the basket dimensions may be too small for some, I find that it’s the perfect size for my family of three. However, if you have a larger family or like to cook bigger portions, this air fryer may not be suitable for you.

Overall, I would recommend the COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer to anyone looking for an affordable, easy-to-use air fryer that delivers great results.

Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a budget air fryer that can cook delicious meals quickly, the Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer is worth considering.

Pros

• The EvenCrisp technology ensures crispy and tender results every time.
• The one-touch smart programs make it easy to cook a variety of dishes.
• The compact design is perfect for small households or those with limited counter space.

Cons

• The 2-quart capacity may not be sufficient for larger families or those who want to cook larger portions.
• The controls may take some time to get used to for those who are not familiar with air fryers.
• The plastic construction may not be as durable as some other models.

I recently tried out the Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer and was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to use. The EvenCrisp technology helped me achieve perfectly cooked and crispy meals every time, without using too much oil. The one-touch smart programs were also a great feature, allowing me to easily cook a variety of dishes with just a press of a button.

One thing to note is that the 2-quart capacity may not be sufficient for larger families or those who want to cook larger portions. However, for small households or those with limited counter space, the compact design is a plus. The non-stick and dishwasher-safe air fry basket and tray also make cleaning up a breeze.

Overall, I would recommend the Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer for those looking for a budget-friendly and easy-to-use air fryer. It’s perfect for small households and can cook a variety of dishes with ease.

Nuwave Brio 6-Quart Healthy Digital Smart Air Fryer

Suppose you’re looking for an air fryer that can deliver consistent cooking temperature, even heating, and advanced features. In that case, the Nuwave Brio 6-Quart Healthy Digital Smart Air Fryer is the one for you.

Pros

• The Brio checks the temperature inside the unit 120 times per second, ensuring that the temperature you set is the temperature you get, making your food perfectly crispy every time.
• The unique cooking chamber ensures that the super-heated air generated by the Brio circulates your food, cooking it from all sides at the same time.
• The NuWave Brio has a vast temperature range between 50°F and 400°F, adjustable in 5°F increments with the simple press of a button. It features Reheat and Preheat buttons as well as a selection of 100 recipes preprogrammed into the unit for added convenience.

Cons

• The Brio 6-Quart is the perfect size for cooking two pounds of fries or a 3.5-pound chicken, making it the perfect choice for couples, small families or anyone who wants to enjoy healthier fried food made quick and easy. However, it may not be suitable for larger families or those who want to cook bigger meals.
• While the dishwasher-safe Grill Pan is non-stick, it may require some extra scrubbing to get rid of any stubborn stains.
• The NuWave Brio has a vast temperature range, but some users have reported that it takes a little longer to preheat than other air fryers.

I recently got my hands on the Nuwave Brio 6-Quart Healthy Digital Smart Air Fryer and was impressed by its consistent cooking temperature, even heating, and advanced features. I love that it checks the temperature inside the unit 120 times per second, ensuring that the temperature I set is the temperature I get, making my food perfectly crispy every time. The unique cooking chamber ensures that the super-heated air generated by the Brio circulates my food, cooking it from all sides at the same time. I also appreciate the vast temperature range between 50°F and 400°F, adjustable in 5°F increments with the simple press of a button. It features Reheat and Preheat buttons as well as a selection of 100 recipes preprogrammed into the unit for added convenience.

However, the Brio 6-Quart is the perfect size for cooking two pounds of fries or a 3.5-pound chicken, making it the perfect choice for couples, small families or anyone who wants to enjoy healthier fried food made quick and easy. It may not be suitable for larger families or those who want to cook bigger meals. While the dishwasher-safe Grill Pan is non-stick, it may require some extra scrubbing to get rid of any stubborn stains. The NuWave Brio has a vast temperature range, but some users have reported that it takes a little longer to preheat than other air fryers.

Overall, I highly recommend the Nuwave Brio 6-Quart Healthy Digital Smart Air Fryer for anyone looking for an affordable air fryer that delivers consistent cooking temperature, even heating, and advanced features.

COSORI TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient air fryer, the COSORI TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer is a great option.

Pros

• With its 9-in-1 functionality, this air fryer can Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, and Keep Warm, providing versatile options for all your culinary needs.
• The 5-speed airflow system ensures that your food is evenly cooked throughout, providing superior results for every meal.
• This Turbo Blaze Air Fryer with standard DC motors cooks up to 46% faster than the old COSORI series*, saving you precious time in the kitchen.

Cons

• The 6-quart capacity may not be sufficient for larger families or those who like to cook in bulk.
• The noise level is not completely silent, but it is much quieter than other air fryers on the market.
• The digital display may be difficult to read in certain lighting conditions.

I recently purchased the COSORI TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer and was impressed with its performance. The 9-in-1 functionality allowed me to cook a wide variety of meals, from crispy chicken wings to perfectly roasted vegetables. The 5-speed airflow system ensured that my food was evenly cooked throughout, with no hot or cold spots. Plus, the Turbo Blaze Air Fryer cooked up to 46% faster than my old air fryer, which saved me a lot of time in the kitchen.

One thing to remember is that the 6-quart capacity may not be sufficient for larger families or those who like to cook in bulk. However, the compact design of the air fryer makes it easy to store in a cabinet or on a shelf. Additionally, while the noise level is not completely silent, it is much quieter than other air fryers on the market. Finally, the digital display may be difficult to read in certain lighting conditions, but it is easy to use once you get the hang of it.

Overall, I would highly recommend the COSORI TurboBlaze 6.0-Quart Air Fryer to anyone looking for a versatile and efficient air fryer. It’s perfect for health-conscious families who want to enjoy the same crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 95% less oil. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe and easy to clean, so you can spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your delicious meals.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best air fryer for under $50, it is important to consider certain features to ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best air fryer:

Capacity

The capacity of the air fryer is an important factor to consider, especially if you plan on cooking for a family or a group of friends. Look for an air fryer with a capacity of at least 2.5 quarts, which can cook up to 2 pounds of food. This will ensure that you can cook enough food for everyone without having to do multiple batches.

Wattage

The wattage of the air fryer determines how quickly it can cook food. Look for an air fryer with a wattage of at least 800 watts for optimal cooking performance. Higher wattage means faster cooking time, which is perfect for those who are always on the go.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is an important feature to look for in an air fryer. Look for an air fryer with adjustable temperature control that allows you to set the temperature according to the type of food you are cooking. This will ensure that your food is cooked to perfection every time.

Timer

A timer is another important feature to consider when choosing an air fryer. Look for an air fryer with a timer that allows you to set the cooking time according to the type of food you are cooking. This will ensure that your food is cooked for the right amount of time, resulting in perfectly cooked food every time.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Lastly, consider the ease of use and cleaning when choosing an air fryer. Look for an air fryer that is easy to use and has a simple interface. Additionally, choose an air fryer that is easy to clean, with removable parts that can be washed in the dishwasher.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best air fryer for under $50 that meets your cooking needs and preferences.

FAQs

Q: What is the best air fryer for $50?

A: The Dash Compact Air Fryer is a popular choice for those looking for an affordable and compact air fryer. It offers easy-to-use temperature and time controls, making it a great option for beginners and small households.

Q: Is the basket in the Dash Compact Air Fryer nonstick?

A: Yes, the Dash Compact Air Fryer comes with a nonstick basket, making it easy to clean and ensuring your food doesn’t stick during the cooking process.

Q: Can I cook french fries in the Dash Compact Air Fryer?

A: Yes, you can use the Dash Compact Air Fryer to cook delicious and crispy french fries with just a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying methods.

Q: Is the Dash Compact Air Fryer easy to clean?

A: Yes, the Dash Compact Air Fryer is designed to be easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe components that can be quickly and conveniently cleaned after use.

Q: Does the Bella 4.2 Qt Air Fryer Oven Cooker come with temperature and time control?

A: Yes, the Bella 4.2 Qt Air Fryer Oven Cooker is equipped with temperature and time controls, allowing you to customize the cooking settings for different recipes.

Q: What are the key features of the Tasti-Crisp Dash Compact Air Fryer?

A: The Tasti-Crisp Dash Compact Air Fryer features a knob for easy temperature and time control, allowing you to achieve the perfect results for your favorite dishes. It is also compact and easy to clean, making it a convenient addition to any kitchen.

Q: Are the tray and basket of the Bella Air Fryer Oven dishwasher safe?

A: Yes, both the tray and basket of the Bella Air Fryer Oven are dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleanup process after cooking.

Q: Can I use the Dash Tasti-Crisp for reheating food?

A: Yes, the Dash Tasti-Crisp can be used to efficiently reheat leftovers, providing a quick and convenient way to enjoy your meals.

Q: What are the cooking methods offered by the Lature 4.2 Qt Air Fryer Oven Cooker?

A: The Lature 4.2 Qt Air Fryer Oven Cooker offers a variety of cooking methods, including broil, bake, and air fry, providing versatility for different recipes and dishes.

Q: Is the compact air fryer suitable for healthy cooking?

A: Yes, compact air fryers like the Dash Compact Air Fryer and Bella 4.2 Qt Air Fryer Oven Cooker offer a healthier cooking alternative by using hot air to cook food, reducing the need for excessive oil and fats.