Airfryers have become an absolute must-have in the kitchen. And let's be honest, you're totally right: it's fast, uses hardly any oil, and keeps your oven nice and clean. Think you have to spend a fortune for a decent device? Think again. Nowadays, even with a budget under 100 euro, you can get surprisingly good and powerful appliances. Super handy if you're moving into a dorm, living together, or looking for a practical gift for a wish list.
Before you just click the first best airfryer into your shopping cart, there are a few things you should keep in mind. This way you'll avoid realizing later that the appliance is too small for your hungry friends.
Things to consider when choosing an airfryer
- Capacity and persons: a compact model up to 4 liters is ideal for one to two people or for a student dorm. From 5 to 6 liters you're looking at XL models where you can easily prepare portions for a family of up to four or five people.
- Single or dual baskets: want to prepare crispy fries and meat at the same time at different temperatures? Then a dual zone drawer is handy. If you usually cook everything all at once, a single basket will suffice.
- Basket or viewing window: a drawer with a handy viewing window and built-in lighting is worth its weight in gold. That way you can take a peek inside without letting all the warm air escape.
- Power and consumption: a higher wattage (often around 1500 to 2200 watts or more for dual drawers) ensures your appliance reaches the right temperature in no time. Much more energy-efficient than your traditional built-in oven for a small portion!
- Cleaning: always choose parts with a good non-stick coating that can just go in the dishwasher. That saves you a lot of scrubbing afterwards.
- Dimensions and noise: measure your countertop in advance. Some XXL models take up quite a bit of space, and a slight hum is normal for any device, but it shouldn't be annoying.
Ninja AF140EU: compact powerhouse
Looking for a quality appliance from a top brand that doesn't take up your entire countertop? Then this Ninja is a strong option. This model focuses mainly on a household of one to two people who don't want to compromise on cooking results. The control panel is well-arranged and responds quickly. A small downside is that with this type of single drawer, you are less flexible if you want to prepare different dishes at the same time at different temperatures.
Pierre dual basket airfryer: double the fun for the family
For those who regularly cook for multiple people and like to keep control over two different preparations at the same time, there is the Pierre dual basket airfryer. With a generous capacity of eleven liters divided over two separate drawers, this appliance is made for larger meals or families. The big advantage is that you can time meat and vegetables separately. Do keep in mind that a dual drawer is quite a bit wider and therefore takes up a bit more space on your countertop.
Philips NA230/00: reliable cooking with window
Philips has been one of the established names in the fryer world for years, and with the Philips NA230/00 (6.2 liters) they bring a nice XL variant within our budget. The Rapid Air technology ensures an even airflow, and the built-in viewing window completes the package. You no longer have to pull out the drawer to see if your snacks are turning golden brown. Ideal for families of up to four people who love a sleek design and no-nonsense controls.
Inventum GF501HLDB: a friend to your wallet
Looking for something more budget-friendly, for instance for a student in a dorm or a first own apartment? Then the Inventum GF501HLDB (5 liters) is a smart choice. You get a spacious five liters of capacity and handy pre-programmed settings for a gentle price. Don't expect ultra-luxury finishes or futuristic gadgets, but rather a rock-solid appliance that simply does what it's supposed to do without any fuss.
Double airfryer XXL 9L (COOK-IT): maximum volume
Anyone looking for a dual zone while staying strictly within this budget will quickly end up with this double airfryer XXL by COOK-IT (2 × 4.5 liters). Thanks to the handy 'Smart finish' function, you ensure that both drawers (4.5 liters each) finish at the exact same time, even if they have a different cooking time. Furthermore, the baskets are PFAS-free and dishwasher safe. The high power of 3200 watts does mean you should check whether your kitchen outlet can handle it.
Philips 2000 series NA220/00: compact with handy window
Love the quality of Philips, but don't need a giant appliance? The Philips NA220/00 (4.2 liters) offers a capacity of 4.2 liters, which is more than enough for a household of two to three people. Just like its bigger brother, this model features that handy viewing window. The control element is digital and very intuitive. The downside is that with this size you are somewhat limited when unexpected guests drop by.
Philips 1000 series NA120/00: rock-solid with rotary knobs
Not in the mood for complicated touchscreens or digital menus you have to click through? The Philips NA120/00 opts for simplicity with classic rotary knobs. You set the timer and temperature in a snap and you're good to go. This model shares the same handy 4.2-liter capacity as the NA220, but without the viewing window and digital bells and whistles. Perfect for those who like it straightforward.
Moulinex Easy Fry Infrared EZ832HF0: innovative heat
The Moulinex Easy Fry Infrared EZ832HF0 takes a slightly different approach thanks to the addition of infrared technology and bottom heating. This ensures fast and even heat distribution, which is useful if you're going for a nice piece of meat or crispy vegetables. With a generous capacity of seven liters and a sleekly finished viewing window, this is a modern appearance on your countertop. Due to the unique technology, the price sits right at the limit of your budget.
Ninja airfryer 4.7 liters (AF110EU): the golden mean
The Ninja AF110EU nicely bridges the gap between small compact models and large family fryers. With a capacity of 4.7 liters, you have just a bit more legroom than with a basic 4-liter model, without immediately becoming a colossal appliance. Besides baking and reheating, you can also use it to dehydrate. A reliable all-rounder for anyone looking for just that little bit of extra capacity.
In short
- Best for 1 to 2 people: Ninja AF140EU
- Best for a family: Pierre dual basket airfryer
- Best value for money: Inventum GF501HLDB
See? You don't have to spend a fortune for a handy kitchen helper. Whether you're treating someone to a nice wedding gift or want to cook faster yourself: put your favorite model right on your wish list on ChristmasList.app, so family and friends know exactly which appliance can make your kitchen dreams come true.
The prices listed were those at the time of writing and may have changed in the meantime.