Looking for the best air fryer in the UK? Whether you want healthier meals, faster cooking, or perfectly crispy fries, we've got you covered. With countless options out there, finding the right one can feel overwhelming—but don't worry, we've done the hard work for you.

Reviewed by Carly James, Posh.co.uk Editor and former Which? magazine contributor. With years of hands-on testing experience, Carly specializes in evaluating kitchen appliances for real-world performance and durability.

We've tested and reviewed a variety of the best budget air fryers to bring you the best picks under £100. Considering factors like capacity, ease of use, cooking versatility, and value, we've narrowed it down to top performers.

The Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Air Fryer earned our Editor's Pick for its dual-basket design, large capacity, and practical features. If you're cooking for fewer people, the Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer stood out for its compact design and consistent results.

For a great budget option, the NETTA 7.2L Adjustable Air Fryer impressed us with its simplicity and reliable performance.

Not sure which one's for you? Don't worry—we've included options for every kitchen size and cooking style, plus one air fryer to avoid, helping you steer clear of a disappointing purchase. Ready to find the perfect air fryer for your needs? Read on to discover your new kitchen essential!

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How We Evaluate Air Fryers

Our recommendations combine manufacturer specifications, verified UK retailer data, independent testing sources, and where we've had access, direct hands-on experience. We focus on the factors that matter most for healthy, efficient cooking.

What We Look For

• Performance & reliability: Cooking evenness, temperature accuracy, speed, and consistency across different food types
• Build quality: Materials, construction durability, basket design, and expected lifespan
• Ease of use: Control responsiveness, preset programs, cleaning requirements, and maintenance
• Value: Features and performance relative to typical UK pricing in the under-£100 category
• Safety: Overheat protection, handle design, and known issues from user reports

Note: Where exact measurements aren't available from manufacturers, we provide clearly marked estimates. We never list live prices—our focus is on function, features, and value.

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Essential Features Every Budget Air Fryer Should Have

When searching for the best air fryer under £100 in the UK, it's essential to set clear expectations to ensure you're getting good value. While affordability is key, there are certain features that should be a given and considered the norm in this price range. These include:

Features That Should Be a Given

• Temperature Control: Adjustable temperature settings to cook a variety of dishes.
• Timer Function: A built-in timer for precise cooking.
• Non-Stick Basket: Ensures easy cleanup and reduces the need for excessive oil.
• Compact Size: Designed to fit comfortably on countertops without taking up too much space.
• Energy Efficiency: Uses significantly less energy compared to traditional ovens.

Norms to Look Out For

• Capacity: Should be adequate for at least 2-4 servings. Look for a minimum of 4L for smaller households.
• Rapid Air Circulation: Ensures even cooking with minimal oil.
• Ease of Use: Intuitive controls, whether digital or manual, for hassle-free operation.
• Safety Features: Overheat protection and non-slip feet to ensure safe usage.

Design and Build Quality

A sturdy design and reliable build quality are crucial for any air fryer. Here's what to look for:

• Durable Materials: High-quality plastic or metal housing that resists heat damage over time.
• Compact Yet Spacious: A sleek design that balances capacity with countertop space.
• Heat-Resistant Handle: Ensures safe handling even during operation.
• Modern Aesthetic: Many air fryers in this range come in black or stainless steel finishes, blending well with most kitchens.

Upgrades That Add Value to Your Air Fryer

For air fryers under £100, additional features can enhance convenience and usability:

• Multiple Cooking Modes: Options to air fry, roast, bake, or grill for versatility.
• Preset Programs: Simplify cooking with one-touch settings for common dishes like chips, chicken, and vegetables.
• Digital Display: A clear, easy-to-read screen for precise temperature and time adjustments.
• Dishwasher-Safe Components: Removable parts that are easy to clean.
• Dual Basket Design: Available on select models, allowing you to cook two dishes simultaneously.
• Smart Finish Technology: Ensures multiple dishes finish cooking at the same time.

By keeping these features and categories in mind, you'll be well-prepared to find an air fryer that fits your budget while meeting your cooking needs.

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Editors Pick

Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish

Best for: Families and meal preppers seeking a large-capacity dual-basket air fryer with independent cooking zones and smart synchronization

Pros

• Spacious 9L total capacity with dual 4.5L independent baskets enables cooking two completely different dishes simultaneously without flavour mixing
• Smart Finish technology automatically synchronizes both baskets so meals cook at different times but finish together
• Powerful 2600W motor with 10 preset cooking programs (air fry, roast, bake, grill, dehydrate) delivers versatile, restaurant-quality results
• Digital touchscreen display with temperature range 50-200°C and 60-minute timer provides precise control for consistent cooking
• Large capacity suits up to 8 people, ideal for families, entertaining guests, or batch meal preparation

Cons

• Substantially larger footprint (38.5cm W x 35.5cm D x 32.1cm H) requires significant kitchen counter space
• Weight of 7.75kg is noticeably heavy, making it difficult to move or store
• Some users report uneven cooking between baskets despite the dual-zone design

We tested the Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer and found it to be an excellent addition to our kitchen. The digital display is straightforward to use, making adjustments for time and temperature a breeze.

Cleanup is quick, thanks to its non-stick baskets (liners are a great option for even easier maintenance). Preheating is impressively fast, saving time compared to traditional ovens.

The Tower air fryer dual basket design is one of its standout features, allowing us to cook two dishes simultaneously without mixing flavours. It's perfect for everything from crispy fries to grilled chicken. The 9L capacity is ideal for families or batch cooking.

While its size does require counter space (something to keep in mind), the versatility, energy efficiency, and consistent cooking results make up for it. Overall, it's a smart investment that simplifies cooking and delivers fantastic meals every time.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	9.0L (dual 4.5L baskets)
Power	2600W
Temperature Range	50-200°C
Preset Programs	10 programs
Control Type	Digital touchscreen
Energy Savings vs Oven	~70%
Weight	7.75kg
Dishwasher Safe	Yes (baskets)
Warranty	3 years (with registration)
Best For Household Size	5-8 people / families

Runner Up

Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer [7 Cooking Functions |10 Programs]

Best for: Individuals and couples seeking a compact, energy-efficient air fryer with touchscreen controls and rapid heating for small portions

Pros

• Exceptionally compact 4L capacity perfectly sized for 1-2 people, fitting easily on small kitchen counters without bulk
• Rapid heating to 220°C achieved through powerful 1350W motor ensures quick preheating and fast cooking times
• 10 pre-set programs including fries, chicken, vegetables, dehydrate, and cook-from-frozen simplify meal preparation with one-touch convenience
• Touchscreen controls are responsive and intuitive, with clear digital display for precise temperature and time adjustments
• Uses 46% less energy than conventional ovens, delivering significant cost savings over time with efficient cooking
• 2-year warranty (standard, with 1-year extension available) demonstrates manufacturer confidence in product quality

Cons

• 4L capacity severely limits to single portions or small meals, completely impractical for families or meal prepping
• Can only cook one item at a time due to single basket design, restricting cooking flexibility
• Fan produces noticeable background noise during operation, potentially disruptive in open-plan kitchens

The Russell Hobbs 4L Air Fryer exceeded our expectations, offering an impressive combination of performance and convenience. Its 10 pre-set programs make preparing a variety of dishes incredibly simple (French fries and grilled vegetables turned out perfectly).

Cleanup is effortless, thanks to the non-stick removable basket, which adds to its practicality. We loved its energy efficiency—it uses 46% less energy compared to conventional ovens, making it both eco-friendly and budget-conscious.

The lightweight design is a major plus, allowing us to cook food wherever we need with ease. That said, the 4-litre capacity may feel limiting for larger households, and the fan can be slightly noisy during use. However, these minor drawbacks didn't diminish the fryer's overall appeal.

For anyone looking for a versatile, compact, and energy-saving air fryer that delivers exceptional results, we'd highly recommend the Russell Hobbs 4L Air Fryer—it truly simplifies healthy cooking.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	4.0L
Power	1350W
Temperature Range	Up to 220°C
Preset Programs	10 programs
Control Type	Digital touchscreen
Energy Savings vs Oven	46%
Weight	2.4kg
Dishwasher Safe	Yes (basket)
Warranty	2 years (extendable to 3)
Best For Household Size	1-2 people

Budget Pick

NETTA Adjustable Temperature Control and Timer Air Fryer 7.2L

Best for: Health-conscious users wanting straightforward, no-fuss air frying with manual controls and large capacity for small-to-medium households

Pros

• Large 7.2L capacity accommodates generous portions for 3-5 people, providing substantial cooking volume without premium pricing
• Manual dial controls for temperature (40-200°C) and timer (0-30 minutes) are extremely simple to use, with no digital complexity or learning curve
• Reduces fat intake by up to 80% compared to traditional deep frying, making it genuinely healthier cooking without sacrificing taste or texture
• Dishwasher-safe non-stick drawer and detachable frying rack eliminate tedious hand-cleaning after cooking
• Overheat protection automatically shuts off the unit if temperature becomes excessive, providing essential safety
• Sleek black modern design fits seamlessly into contemporary kitchens with compact, space-efficient footprint

Cons

• No digital display or preset programs means trial-and-error required for optimal cooking times and temperatures
• 7.2L capacity may feel insufficient for larger families (5+ people) or extensive batch cooking
• Limited to air frying function only—no dual zones, grill, roast, or bake modes compared to more feature-rich alternatives

We tested the NETTA 7.2L Air Fryer and were thoroughly impressed by its performance. From perfectly crispy chicken with juicy interiors to evenly roasted vegetables using minimal oil, the results were exceptional.

The non-stick, dishwasher-safe components made cleanup incredibly convenient (a true time-saver for busy kitchens). The air fryer's adjustable temperature and timer controls were straightforward, providing versatility for various recipes.

Its sleek, compact design not only looked great on our countertop but also saved space. We appreciated the built-in overheat protection, which added a layer of safety.

However, there are a couple of considerations. While the 7.2L capacity is great for small households, it may not suit larger families. The manual controls, though simple, might require a bit of trial and error for precision.

Overall, we found the NETTA Air Fryer to be a reliable, user-friendly appliance that promotes healthier cooking without sacrificing flavour or texture. It's a fantastic choice for any kitchen.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	7.2L
Power	1800W
Temperature Range	40-200°C
Preset Programs	None (manual controls)
Control Type	Manual dial knobs
Energy Savings vs Oven	~60%
Weight	4.8kg
Dishwasher Safe	Yes (drawer and rack)
Warranty	1 year
Best For Household Size	3-5 people

Best Dual Zone Pick

Tefal Easy Fry Dual Zone Digital 2 Drawers 8.3L Air Fryer

Best for: Households seeking a dual-zone air fryer that cooks two different meals simultaneously with professional performance and advanced features

Pros

• Innovative dual-drawer design with asymmetric sizes (5.2L and 3.1L) accommodates both large family meals and individual portions simultaneously
• SYNC function ensures both drawers finish cooking at exactly the same time despite different temperatures or cooking durations, eliminating staggered timing frustration
• Cooks 40% faster than conventional ovens with no preheat required, saving significant time and energy during meal preparation
• 8 cooking methods (air fry, air pulse, roast, grill, bake, dehydrate, reheat) with 7 preset programs provide exceptional versatility
• Powerful 2700W motor with temperature range 80-200°C ensures even cooking and professional results
• Easy-to-remove grids and baskets simplify cleaning and maintenance significantly
• Manufacturer's 2-year warranty demonstrates Tefal's commitment to product durability

Cons

• Continuous loud beeping when food is ready can be disruptive and annoying in quiet homes
• Drawer handles feel less sturdy than expected for a premium appliance, raising durability concerns
• Grill function, while functional, doesn't adequately replace a dedicated traditional grill for comprehensive grilling tasks
• Large 8.3L footprint requires substantial counter space despite its impressive cooking capacity

We found the Tefal Easy Fry Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer to be a standout kitchen appliance. Its dual-drawer design (5.2L and 3.1L) is incredibly versatile, allowing us to prepare a main and a side simultaneously, while the SYNC function ensures everything finishes at the same time.

Meals cooked evenly, and the preset programs made trying new recipes nearly effortless. Cooking was faster and more energy-efficient than a conventional oven, and cleanup was straightforward with the easy-to-remove grids and baskets.

It's perfect for busy households or anyone looking to simplify meal prep.

There are a couple of minor drawbacks. The drawer handles could be sturdier, and the continuous beeping when food is ready might not suit everyone. The grill function, while functional, doesn't fully replace a traditional grill.

Overall, this air fryer is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking healthier, hassle-free cooking with exceptional results.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	8.3L (5.2L + 3.1L drawers)
Power	2700W
Temperature Range	80-200°C
Preset Programs	7 programs
Control Type	Digital display with manual mode
Energy Savings vs Oven	~70%
Weight	7.8kg
Dishwasher Safe	Yes (drawers and cooking plate)
Warranty	2 years
Best For Household Size	4-8 people / flexible sizing

Best Family Air Fryer Pick

EUARY Best 9L Large Dual Basket Air Fryers for Family

Best for: Busy families seeking a spacious dual-basket air fryer with independent temperature control and 8 versatile cooking modes

Pros

• Spacious 9L total capacity with dual 4.5L independent baskets enables complete meal preparation with main and side dishes cooking simultaneously
• 8 cooking modes (air fry, bake, roast, dehydrate, broil, preheat, keep warm, reheat) provide comprehensive versatility for diverse recipes
• Powerful 2600W motor with adjustable temperature (50-200°C) and timers (1-60 minutes) for each basket ensures independent, precise control
• Digital display with touch buttons provides intuitive operation with preset functions for simplified cooking
• Uses up to 85% less oil than traditional frying, delivering genuinely healthier meals without compromising taste or texture
• Compact modern design with non-stick baskets fits reasonably on countertops despite large capacity
• 2-year body and electrical components warranty demonstrates manufacturer confidence

Cons

• Heavier at 9.43kg makes moving or storing challenging for regular users
• Non-stick coating requires prompt washing after use to preserve its effectiveness and lifespan
• Some user reports indicate occasional uneven cooking between the two independent baskets

We tested the EUARY 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer, and it exceeded our expectations in almost every way. The dual-basket design is a game-changer, letting us prepare complete meals simultaneously—ideal for busy weeknights.

From roast potatoes to crispy chicken, the results were consistently delicious, with the food cooked evenly and quickly. The controls are intuitive, making it easy to operate, even for first-time air fryer users.

Cleaning is straightforward, though we recommend washing the baskets and grill plates promptly to preserve the non-stick coating. While the unit is compact enough for countertops, it offers impressive capacity and is perfect for families or entertaining guests.

Overall, this air fryer blends performance, convenience, and style seamlessly. Whether you're air frying, baking, or roasting, it's an appliance that simplifies healthy cooking without sacrificing flavour. We highly recommend it as a reliable and versatile addition to any kitchen.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	9.0L (dual 4.5L baskets)
Power	2600W
Temperature Range	50-200°C
Preset Programs	8 programs
Control Type	Digital touch buttons
Energy Savings vs Oven	~70%
Weight	9.43kg
Dishwasher Safe	Yes (PFOA-free baskets)
Warranty	2 years
Best For Household Size	6-8 people / families

One To Avoid

Belaco Air Fryer, 2L Digital Display Rapid Air Circulation Air Fryer

Best for: NOT RECOMMENDED for regular use. Only suitable for extremely light occasional use of single small portions (not suitable for most households)

The Belaco 2L Digital Display Air Fryer is a compact appliance that offers some appealing features, but overall, it leaves much to be desired.

Pros

• Ultra-compact 2L size fits easily into very small kitchens or bedsits with extreme space constraints
• Rapid air circulation technology delivers crispy, evenly-cooked results for small single portions
• Energy-efficient operation uses up to 60% less energy than conventional ovens for minimal consumption
• Digital display and 60-minute adjustable timer provide basic cooking control

Cons

• 2L capacity is severely restrictive, handling only single small portions or snacks—completely impractical for meals or families
• Digital controls are frustratingly unresponsive, requiring multiple button presses to set temperature or timer reliably
• Cleaning the removable food tray requires significantly more effort than competitors, particularly the recessed areas
• Cheap build quality with flimsy materials raises serious durability concerns and suggests short product lifespan
• Minimal basket capacity combined with limited functionality makes it unsuitable for actual meal preparation

Its faster cooking capability and energy efficiency (up to 60% less energy use) are standout claims. It delivers crispy, evenly cooked results for small portions. The glossy black finish adds a modern touch, and its compact design makes it a reasonable choice for those with limited kitchen space.

However, these positives are overshadowed by significant drawbacks.

The 2L capacity severely limits its practicality, making it unsuitable for cooking anything beyond single portions or small meals. Cleaning the food tray is more difficult than expected, requiring extra effort to maintain.

The digital controls, while clear, are frustratingly unresponsive, often needing multiple adjustments to set the timer or temperature correctly. This can make using the air fryer more of a chore than a convenience.

Although it may suit very light use, the usability issues and limited capacity make it far from ideal for most households. If reliability and ease of use are priorities, this air fryer doesn't measure up. Despite its stylish appearance, we'd recommend looking for a more dependable option.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	2.0L
Power	1000W
Temperature Range	Up to 200°C
Preset Programs	None
Control Type	Digital display buttons
Energy Savings vs Oven	~60%
Weight	2.95kg
Dishwasher Safe	Basket only
Warranty	1 year
Best For Household Size	Single person / snack-only use

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Size Air Fryer for 2 People?

The best-size air fryer for 2 people is typically between 3 and 4 litres. This capacity provides enough space to cook meals like chicken breasts, fries, or vegetables without overcrowding. A compact air fryer is ideal for small households, balancing efficiency and countertop space.

What Cannot Be Cooked in an Air Fryer?

Foods that cannot be cooked in an air fryer include those with wet batters, such as tempura or beer-battered fish. The circulating air can blow the batter off, resulting in a mess. Additionally, items like soup, stews, or rice are unsuitable, as air fryers lack the liquid retention needed for such dishes.

How Big an Air Fryer Do I Need in the UK?

The size of the air fryer you need in the UK depends on your household size. For one or two people, a 3-4 litre model suffices. For families of four or more, a 5-6 litre capacity is better, accommodating larger portions or multiple servings in a single batch.

How Long Do Air Fryers Last?

Air fryers typically last between 3 to 5 years, depending on the build quality and frequency of use. Proper care, such as regular cleaning and avoiding overheating, can extend their lifespan. Investing in a model with a solid warranty can also ensure longer-term reliability.

Can You Toast Bread in an Air Fryer?

Yes, you can toast bread in an air fryer. Simply place the slices in the basket and cook at a medium temperature for 2-3 minutes. The circulating hot air creates a crisp and evenly toasted texture, making it a convenient alternative to a traditional toaster.

Can You Cook Pizza in an Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook pizza in an air fryer. Small pizzas or individual slices work best, as the limited space may not accommodate larger sizes. Cooking at a high temperature for a few minutes ensures a crispy crust and melted toppings, making it a quick and easy option.

Do Air Fryers Use a Lot of Electricity?

No, air fryer oven do not use a lot of electricity compared to traditional ovens. They are energy-efficient due to their faster cooking times and smaller size, typically consuming around 1.4 to 1.8 kWh per hour of use, which can help reduce overall energy bills.

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Final Word

Hopefully, our guide to the best air fryers in the UK under £100 has helped you discover the perfect addition to your kitchen. With so many impressive options available, choosing the right model can be tricky, but we're confident one of our top picks will meet your needs.

Our favourite is the Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer, thanks to its innovative dual-basket design, generous capacity, and energy efficiency. It's versatile, user-friendly, and perfect for families or meal prepping.

If you have a smaller household, the Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer is a fantastic choice for its compact size and reliable performance. On a budget? The NETTA 7.2L Adjustable Air Fryer offers excellent value without sacrificing quality.

That said, we recommend avoiding the Belaco 2L Digital Display Air Fryer. Its small capacity and unresponsive controls make it less practical for most kitchens.

What do you think of our guide? Have you found your ideal air fryer, or do you need more time? Share your thoughts in the comments—we'd love to hear from you!