Air Fryer on Sale: When, Where, and How to Snag the Best Deals (and Avoid Scams) in 2024​

If you’ve been eyeing an air fryer but hesitated due to price, now might be the perfect time to buy. Air fryers are consistently among the top-selling small appliances, and retailers frequently discount them during key shopping periods—so timing your purchase right can save you hundreds. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading, this guide breaks down when to shop, where to find the best air fryer sales, how to spot genuine deals (not just marketing hype), and what to prioritize when choosing a model. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to maximize savings while getting a high-quality appliance that fits your lifestyle.

Why Now Is a Great Time to Buy an Air Fryer on Sale

Air fryers have evolved from niche gadgets to kitchen staples, with global sales growing by 12% year-over-year (according to Statista). This demand means retailers are motivated to move inventory, especially during seasonal promotions. Here’s why 2024 is an ideal year to hunt for deals:

1. Post-Holiday Clearance (January–February)

After Black Friday and Christmas, retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon clear out holiday stock to make room for new models. Many air fryers sold during peak seasons (October–December) are returned or overstocked, leading to steep discounts—sometimes up to 40% off original prices. Look for “open-box” or “refurbished” sections too; these often come with warranties and can save you even more.

2. Spring Cleaning & Tax Refund Season (March–April)

As people tackle home organization, air fryers (which take up less counter space than ovens) become appealing. Retailers use tax refund season to push big-ticket items, including small appliances. Check stores like Best Buy and Costco for bundle deals—e.g., an air fryer paired with a cookbook or kitchen tools—at reduced prices.

3. Prime Day & Back-to-School Sales (July–August)

Amazon’s Prime Day (usually mid-July) is legendary for tech and appliance deals, and air fryers are no exception. Competitors like Target and Walmart often match Amazon’s prices to stay competitive. Additionally, back-to-school shoppers looking to simplify meal prep (for busy students) drive demand, pushing retailers to offer discounts on mid-range models.

4. Black Friday & Cyber Monday (November)

The biggest sales event of the year. Nearly every retailer—from big-box stores to niche kitchenware shops—discounts air fryers. Last year, popular models like the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer dropped to $89(from$149), and the Instant Pot Vortex Plus fell to $79. Retailers also offer extended return windows, so you can buy now and return if it doesn’t suit your needs.

Where to Find the Best Air Fryer Sales: Top Retailers Compared

Not all sales are created equal. Here’s how to navigate the biggest retailers to find legitimate air fryer deals:

Amazon

• ​Pros: Largest selection (over 200 models), frequent flash sales, and easy price tracking with tools like Camelcamelcamel. Prime members get free 2-day shipping and exclusive deals.

• ​Cons: Counterfeit or refurbished items sometimes slip through—always check seller ratings (aim for 4.7+ stars) and verify “Sold by Amazon” or “Ships from Amazon.”

• ​Tip: Follow Amazon’s “Today’s Deals” page and sign up for alerts on specific models.

Walmart

• ​Pros: Competitive prices, especially on budget-friendly brands like GoWISE USA and Cosori. In-store pickup is available, and many air fryers come with a 1-year warranty.

• ​Cons: Limited high-end models (e.g., Philips Premium Air Fryer rarely goes on sale here).

• ​Tip: Use Walmart’s “Rollbacks” section for temporary price drops and check the “Clearance” tab for older models.

Best Buy

• ​Pros: Focuses on premium brands (Ninja, Instant Pot, Breville) and often includes extra perks like extended warranties or free delivery.

• ​Cons: Fewer budget options; prices may not drop as low as Amazon or Walmart.

• ​Tip: Sign up for Best Buy’s email newsletter for early access to sales and member-exclusive discounts.

Target

• ​Pros: Unique collaborations (e.g., Studio McGee-designed air fryers) and REDcard benefits (5% off, free shipping).

• ​Cons: Smaller inventory compared to Walmart or Amazon.

• ​Tip: Check Target’s “Circle Week” deals (exclusive to Circle members) for extra savings.

Brand Websites

• ​Pros: Direct-to-consumer sales mean no middleman markups. Brands like Ninja and Cosori often run “member-only” sales or bundle deals (e.g., air fryer + air fryer basket replacement).

• ​Cons: Limited stock; you might miss out if you wait too long.

• ​Tip: Subscribe to brand newsletters for restock alerts and early sale notifications.

How to Spot a Fake Air Fryer Sale (and Avoid Overpaying)

Not every “50% off” tag is real. Retailers use tactics like inflating original prices temporarily to make discounts look bigger. Here’s how to verify if a deal is genuine:

1. Check Historical Prices

Use tools like Camelcamelcamel (for Amazon) or Keepa to track a model’s price history. If a $100airfryerismarkeddownto$70, but its average price over the past 3 months was $75, it’s a minor sale—not a steal.

2. Compare Across Retailers

A model priced at $99onWalmartmightbe$89 on Target or $85 on Amazon. Cross-referencing ensures you’re getting the lowest price.

3. Beware of “Limited Stock” Scarcity Tactics

Phrases like “Only 3 left!” or “Sale ends tonight!” are often psychological tricks to pressure you into buying without researching. Take 10 minutes to compare prices before checkout.

4. Read Reviews for Red Flags

If a model suddenly has 1,000+ 5-star reviews overnight, it might be a counterfeit or a repackaged old unit. Stick to models with 100+ reviews and a 4.3+ average rating.

What to Look for When Buying an Air Fryer on Sale

Even if the price is right, a bad air fryer will waste your money. Prioritize these features:

1. Capacity: Match It to Your Household Size

• ​2–3 quarts: Ideal for singles or couples (cooks 1–2 servings).

• ​4–5 quarts: Perfect for families of 3–4 (fits a whole chicken or 4–5 fries portions).

• ​6+ quarts: Best for large families or frequent entertainers (cooks 6+ chicken wings or a 12-inch pizza).

2. Power: Higher Wattage = Faster Cooking

Most air fryers range from 1,200–1,700 watts. A 1,500-watt model heats faster and cooks more evenly than a 1,200-watt one. Avoid models under 1,200 watts—they’ll take longer and may leave food soggy.

3. Basket Design: Non-Stick vs. Stainless Steel

Non-stick baskets are easy to clean but can scratch over time. Stainless steel is durable but requires more effort to season. Some models (like the Cosori Pro II) offer removable, dishwasher-safe baskets—game-changers for busy users.

4. Smart Features: Do You Need Them?

Modern air fryers have app connectivity, preset cooking modes, and even voice control. While handy, these add $50–$100 to the price. If you’re a tech enthusiast, go for it—but for basic users, manual controls are sufficient.

5. Safety Certifications: Don’t Skimp

Look for UL, ETL, or CSA certifications. These ensure the air fryer meets safety standards for electrical components and overheating protection. Uncertified models pose fire risks—save money elsewhere, not here.

What to Do After Buying: Maximize Your Air Fryer’s Lifespan

A great deal isn’t great if the air fryer breaks in 6 months. Follow these tips to keep it working well:

• ​Clean Regularly: Wipe the basket and interior with a damp cloth after each use. For stuck-on food, soak the basket in warm, soapy water (never use steel wool—scratches ruin non-stick coatings).

• ​Avoid Overcrowding: Crowding the basket traps steam, leading to soggy food. Cook in batches if needed.

• ​Update Firmware (for Smart Models)​: Brands like Ninja release updates to improve performance and fix bugs. Check the app or website periodically.

Final Thoughts: Is an Air Fryer on Sale Worth It?

Absolutely—if you buy smart. By timing your purchase during key sales periods, shopping at the right retailers, and prioritizing quality over flashy features, you can score a top-rated air fryer for hundreds less than retail. Remember: the best deal isn’t just about the lowest price—it’s about getting a reliable appliance that fits your cooking habits. So start tracking prices, set alerts, and get ready to enjoy crispy, oil-free meals without breaking the bank.