8 Best Deep Fryers Under $100 of 2026

This compact powerhouse redefines what a small deep fryer can do. With a 1.1-liter oil capacity and a 1000-watt heating element, it’s engineered for quick heat-up and efficient frying—perfect for whipping up small batches like mozzarella sticks or a quick serving of fries. The nonstick die-cast bowl with an integrated heating element ensures even heat distribution, while the brushed stainless steel housing gives it a sleek, space-saving design ideal for minimalist kitchens. If counter real estate is tight but you still crave crispy, golden results, this model delivers without compromise.

In real-world use, the Cuisinart shines brightest for solo cooks or couples. It heats oil to frying temperature in under 10 minutes and handles light-duty frying with ease—think onion rings or chicken nuggets—but struggles with larger portions due to its small 3/4-pound basket capacity. The detachable power cord and cool-touch exterior enhance safety, though there’s no built-in timer or automatic shutoff. Cleaning is manageable thanks to dishwasher-safe basket, handle, and lid, but emptying the oil requires careful handling since the pouring spout isn’t insulated.

Compared to bulkier models like the Chefman 4.5L, this Cuisinart is the go-to for those prioritizing space efficiency over volume. It doesn’t compete with family-sized fryers, but it outshines them in kitchen integration and countertop stealth. For apartment dwellers or snack lovers who want fast, fuss-free frying without clutter, this model is a standout. It offers more precision and build quality than budget mini fryers, making it a smarter long-term pick despite its limited capacity.

The Hamilton Beach 35021 is a safety-first fryer built for peace of mind without sacrificing performance. Its cool-touch sides are a game-changer, allowing safe handling even during active frying—ideal for homes with kids or tight countertops. Fueled by a 1500-watt immersed heating element, it heats oil quickly and maintains stable temperatures, while the 2-liter capacity handles up to 6 cups of fries or chicken tenders with ease. The special lid design with a built-in basket lifter minimizes splatter and lets you drain food without opening the unit—making it one of the cleanest frying experiences under $100.

During testing, this fryer proved reliable across multiple batches. It reached frying temps in under 8 minutes and held consistency when adding food, thanks to the efficient heating element and enamel-coated tank. The adjustable thermostat with ready light removes guesswork, and the viewing window lets you monitor progress without lifting the lid. However, the removable heating element requires cautious reattachment to avoid damage, and the oil tank, while durable, isn’t fully nonstick—so scrubbing is occasionally needed.

Against rivals like the OVENTE FDM2201BR, the Hamilton Beach matches it in power and safety but edges ahead with its unique lid-activated basket lift. It’s less flashy than digital models but more intuitive for beginners. This fryer is perfect for families or frequent fryers who value consistent results and burn prevention. While it lacks oil storage or filtration, it offers better real-world safety and usability than most in its class.

When you need to feed a crowd in one go, the Chefman 4.5L XL fryer steps up as the undisputed volume king under $100. With a massive 4.5-liter oil capacity and 1700 watts of power, it can deep-fry a full batch of wings or a whole chicken without reloading—something most compact models can’t touch. The adjustable temperature dial and built-in timer give you precise control, while the removable oil container makes cleanup and storage surprisingly manageable for such a large unit. If your idea of comfort food involves restaurant-style feasts at home, this fryer delivers on scale and convenience.

In practice, it heats oil rapidly and maintains temperature well, even with large food loads. The 1700-watt element compensates for heat loss, and the magnetic breakaway cord adds a crucial safety layer. We successfully fried a full pound of shrimp and 3 lbs of fries in succession, with minimal oil top-ups. The clipping basket design allows for easy draining, and the dishwasher-safe components simplify post-meal cleanup. However, its size demands serious counter space, and the unit is heavy when filled—making it less ideal for small kitchens or frequent movers.

Next to the T-fal 3.5L, this Chefman offers more capacity and raw power, but lacks oil filtration for reuse. It’s the best pick for those who prioritize batch size over oil economy. Compared to mid-range models, it delivers exceptional value for family-sized frying, packing commercial-like volume into a home appliance. For holiday meals, game-day spreads, or fried-food enthusiasts, it’s the most capable workhorse in its price range.

The Chefman Fry Guy is the ultimate space-saving fryer for tiny kitchens, dorms, or RVs. Despite its mini 1.5-liter capacity, it packs a 1000-watt punch, reaching frying temps fast and delivering crisp results on small batches like curly fries or jalapeño poppers. The transparent viewing window lets you monitor browning in real time, and the restaurant-style basket ensures even cooking—making it feel more professional than its size suggests. With a detachable magnetic cord and sleek stainless finish, it’s designed for easy storage and safe operation in tight spaces.

In daily use, it excels at quick, single-serving frying—perfect for a snack attack or side dish. The adjustable thermostat goes up to 375°F, covering most frying needs, and the power indicator light confirms when it’s ready. Cleaning is a breeze: the lid and basket are dishwasher-safe, and the exterior wipes clean. However, the small basket fills quickly, and there’s no timer—so you’ll need to watch the clock manually. It also struggles with dense foods like thick chicken pieces, which can lead to uneven results.

Against the Cuisinart CDF-100NAS, the Fry Guy offers better visibility and a slightly larger capacity, though both share similar wattage. It’s not built for families, but for urban dwellers or minimalists, it’s unmatched in compact convenience. While it lacks the power of 1500W+ models, it delivers more kitchen flexibility than any other mini fryer, blending portability with reliable performance.

The T-fal 3.5L stands out as the smartest choice for oil conservation, thanks to its integrated oil filtration system that automatically stores and strains used oil—extending its life and saving money over time. With 1700 watts of power and a 3.5-liter capacity, it balances performance and efficiency, handling meals for up to six people with ease. The digital timer and precise thermostat (300°F–375°F) offer exact control, while the locking lid with large viewing window keeps splatter in and visibility high. For anyone tired of wasting oil or dealing with greasy cleanup, this fryer is a game-changing upgrade.

In testing, the oil filtration worked seamlessly, capturing food particles and storing oil in a sealed compartment—cutting down on odor and waste. The fryer heated to temp in under 9 minutes and maintained stability across multiple batches. The cool-touch handles and auto shut-off enhance safety, and the removable bowl and basket simplify cleaning. However, the filtration system requires proper assembly, and if misaligned, won’t function—adding a small learning curve.

Compared to the Chefman 4.5L, the T-fal trades a bit of capacity for superior oil management and smarter features. It’s ideal for health-conscious or eco-minded users who fry regularly but want to minimize waste. While pricier in upfront effort, it offers better long-term value than non-filtration models, combining restaurant-grade efficiency with home-friendly design.

The OVENTE FDM2201BR earns its title as best overall by striking the perfect balance between performance, safety, and polish. With a 1500-watt heating element and 2-liter capacity, it fries quickly and cleanly, handling everything from blooming onions to homemade donuts with confidence. The adjustable thermostat (275°F–375°F) and dual LED indicator lights take the guesswork out of frying, while the locking lid with viewing window and odor filter keeps your kitchen smelling fresh. Its brushed stainless steel body isn’t just stylish—it’s fingerprint-resistant and easy to wipe down, making it a standout in both form and function.

Real-world tests showed consistent heat retention and minimal oil splatter. The removable basket is dishwasher-safe, and the cool-touch handles stayed comfortable even after prolonged use. The magnetic cord disconnects under tension, adding a crucial safety net. One minor flaw: the oil level markings aren’t backlit, making it hard to read in low light. Still, it handled multiple frying sessions without overheating or performance drops.

Pitted against the Hamilton Beach 35021, the OVENTE offers better aesthetics, clearer controls, and more reliable odor filtering. It doesn’t have oil storage like the T-fal, but it delivers the most complete package for everyday use. For first-time buyers or those upgrading from stovetop pots, it’s the most well-rounded electric deep fryer under $100, blending pro-level features with user-friendly design.

The Elite Gourmet EDF2100 is the best budget-friendly entry for those who want serious frying power without overspending. Don’t let the low price fool you—its 1500-watt immersion heater brings oil to temp in minutes and holds it steady, rivaling models twice its cost. With a 2-quart (2L) capacity, it can fry up to 5.75 lbs of food per batch, making it surprisingly capable for family meals. The adjustable thermostat, power-ready lights, and odor-filtering lid give it a premium feel, while the cool-touch handles and non-slip feet ensure stability and safety during use.

In action, it performed reliably across multiple frying sessions—handling fries, chicken, and even donuts with crisp, even results. The viewing window allowed easy monitoring without lifting the lid, and the removable basket made cleanup simple. However, the plastic housing feels less durable than stainless steel models, and the heating element lacks full encapsulation, raising slight concerns about long-term wear. It also doesn’t include oil filtration, limiting reuse options.

Compared to the Pukomc 3L, it offers similar wattage and capacity at a lower price, though with slightly less build refinement. For students, first-time cooks, or occasional fryers, it’s the most value-packed option available. While it may not last a decade, it delivers exceptional performance for the price, making it the smartest starting point for budget-conscious buyers.

The Pukomc 3L hits the sweet spot between size and simplicity, offering a 3-liter oil capacity and 1500 watts of power in a no-frills, stainless steel build. It’s designed for mid-sized frying needs—perfect for frying a weeknight batch of fries or a portion of shrimp for four. The adjustable temperature range (266°F–374°F) covers most frying applications, and the enamel-coated tank, lid, and basket are all dishwasher-safe, making cleanup effortless. With cool-touch handles and a viewing lid, it balances safety and convenience without overcomplicating the design.

In testing, it heated oil quickly and maintained temperature well, though it required careful setup—the user manual warns that incorrect cord connection or temp knob positioning can prevent heating. Once properly assembled, it performed consistently, with minimal splatter and even browning. The detachable basket made food retrieval easy, but the interior coating isn’t fully nonstick, so scrubbing was occasionally needed after sticky batters.

Against the Elite Gourmet EDF2100, the Pukomc offers more capacity and a sturdier stainless build, though at a slightly higher price. It lacks advanced features like oil filtration or digital timers, but for cooks who want a reliable, mid-range fryer without bells and whistles, it’s an excellent choice. It outperforms budget models in durability and capacity, while staying accessible for most households.