How Much Does a Deep Fryer Cost? (Top Picks for Beginners)
The cost of a deep fryer is often a topic of discussion among consumers. There are many factors that go into pricing, including the size and features of the fryer as well as where you’re buying it from.
We’ve done some research to help you find out how much a deep fryer will cost, so keep reading!
Key takeaways
- The cost of a deep fryer can vary widely depending on the type and features. A basic model can cost as little as $20, while high-end models can cost upwards of $500.
- For beginners, it’s recommended to start with a smaller and simpler model, such as a compact or electric deep fryer. These can cost between $20 to $50 and are ideal for single servings and small households.
- Larger deep fryers, such as propane models or those with multiple baskets, can cost anywhere from $50 to $200. These are suitable for larger families or those who plan to cook for groups.
- When shopping for a deep fryer, consider the features such as adjustable temperature control, oil filtration system, and safety features like auto-shutoff and cool-touch exterior. These can increase the cost but also improve the user experience and safety.
- It’s important to factor in the ongoing cost of purchasing oil and other supplies needed for deep frying. Some models may require more oil or have higher energy consumption, leading to higher costs over time.
How much does a deep fryer cost?
A deep fryer can cost anywhere from $30 to several hundred dollars.
The price of a deep fryer depends on the size and features of the machine. A small, basic deep fryer may cost around $30, while a larger, more advanced fryer with multiple baskets and digital controls could cost $100 or more.
Some high-end fryers with additional features like a built-in filtration system or a professional-grade heating element can cost several hundred dollars.
It’s important to consider your needs and budget when choosing a deep fryer. If you only need a fryer for occasional home use, a basic model may be sufficient. But if you plan on using the fryer frequently, or for a commercial kitchen, it may be worth investing in a higher-quality, more durable model.
Our top 3 deep fryers
- Large 4.5-liter capacity for feeding a crowd
- Restaurant-quality frying at home
- Mess-free cooking with removable, dishwasher-safe basket
- Convenient viewing window and magnetic cord for safety
- cETL approved with 1-year assurance
- Saves money with efficient 4:4 oil-to-food ratio
- Built-in thermostat for consistent frying
- Nonstick surface for easy cleaning
- Handy scoop for lifting and serving
- Versatile for cooking a variety of foods
- Powerful 1700-watt deep fryer
- 2-position basket and handles for easy use
- Patented EZ Clean oil-filtration system
- Immersed heating element for professional results
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
What types of deep fryers are available?
- Electric deep fryers: These fryers use electricity to heat the oil and are generally easy to use and clean. They come in a range of sizes, from small countertop models to large, freestanding units.
- Gas deep fryers: These fryers use propane or natural gas to heat the oil and are often used in commercial kitchens. They tend to be more expensive than electric fryers and may require professional installation.
- Air fryers: Air fryers are arguable. These fryers use hot air instead of oil to cook food. They are generally considered healthier than traditional deep fryers because they use less oil, but they may not produce the same crispy texture as a traditional fryer.
- Deep fryer baskets: These are baskets that fit inside a large pot or saucepan and allow you to deep fry food at home without a dedicated fryer. They are a good option for those who only need to fry small amounts of food occasionally.
- Turkey fryers: These are specialized fryers designed specifically for frying turkeys. They are usually large and for outdoor use only.
Best time to buy a deep fryer
- Holiday sales: Many retailers offer discounts and sales on appliances during major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas, and New Year’s. You may be able to find a great deal on a deep fryer during these sales.
- End-of-season sales: Some stores may offer discounts on deep fryers at the end of summer or at the end of winter as they clear out seasonal inventory to make room for new products.
- New product releases: If you’re interested in a specific model or brand of deep fryer, it may be worth waiting for the release of a newer version. Retailers may offer discounts on the older model to make room for the new one. Look for new models typically around Q3 of the year.
- Personal preferences: Ultimately, the best time to buy a deep fryer depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you need a deep fryer for a specific event or occasion, it may be worth purchasing it sooner rather than later. If you’re not in a rush, you may want to wait for a sale or discount to get the best deal.
Worst time to buy a deep fryer
The worst time to buy an air fryer could be during Q2 (April to June) because it’s not a peak shopping season for appliances.
Retailers often offer discounts and sales during holidays or specific sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
Q2 falls between these major sales events, which means you might not be able to find the best deals during this time.
The best deep fryers on the market
Best affordable deep fryer
The FryDaddy is a machine that helps you make yummy fried food like French fries, chicken, and shrimp. It keeps the oil at the right temperature and you can use it to make four servings with just four cups of oil. It’s easy to clean and store, and it has a scoop to lift and drain the food. It’s electric and uses 120 volts of power.
Best mid-range deep fryer
The T-Fal Deep Fryer is a machine that helps you make fried food as you would get at a restaurant. It’s big enough to make food for your family or for a party, and it has special temperature control so you can cook different foods just right. It also has a special system to filter and save the oil so you can use it again. You can use it to fry appetizers, main courses, or desserts, and it has a basket to cook and drain the food. When you’re done, you can clean it in the dishwasher.
Best large-range deep fryer
The Chefman Jumbo Deep Fryer is a machine that helps you make fried food at home. It’s really big and can cook a lot of food at once. It has a control to set the temperature and a timer to help you cook the food just right. The fryer is made of stainless steel and has a big basket to hold the food. It also has a lid with a handle and a window so you can see the food while it cooks. When you’re done, you can put the basket in the dishwasher to clean it. The fryer has a special cord that you can take apart for easy storage.
What factors should you consider when buying a deep fryer?
- Features and abilities: What do you plan on using the fryer for? Do you need a fryer with multiple baskets or a built-in filtration system? Consider the features and abilities of the fryer and how they align with your needs.
- Price: Deep fryers can range in price from under $50 to several hundred dollars. Determine your budget and look for a fryer that fits within it.
- Capacity: How much food do you need to fry at once? Consider the size of the fryer and the capacity of the baskets.
- Heating element: The heating element is what heats the oil to the proper temperature. Look for a fryer with a high-quality heating element to ensure consistent cooking results.
- Oil capacity: The amount of oil a fryer can hold will determine how much food you can fry at once. Consider the size of your frying needs and choose a fryer with an appropriate oil capacity.
- Temperature control: A fryer with adjustable temperature control will allow you to cook a range of foods at the proper temperature.
- Oil filtering system: A built-in oil filtering system can extend the life of your oil and save money in the long run.
- Basket: The basket is what holds the food as it fries. Look for a basket with a handle for easy removal and durable construction.
- Lid: Some fryers come with a lid to prevent hot oil splatters. This can be helpful for safety and for containing cooking odors.
- Hooks: Some fryers have hooks to hold the basket above the oil when not in use. This can help drain excess oil and make cleaning easier.
- Safety features: Look for a fryer with safety features such as an automatic shut-off and a breakaway cord to prevent accidents.
- Size: Consider the size of the fryer and whether it will fit in your kitchen.
- Material: Deep fryers can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or other materials. Consider the durability and ease of cleaning of the material.
- Customer reviews: Check out online reviews from other customers to get an idea of the pros and cons of the fryer.
- Warranty: Look for a fryer with a good warranty in case of any defects or issues.
- Accessory options: Some fryers come with accessory options such as extra baskets or a thermometer. Consider whether these options would be useful to you.
- Cooking odors: Deep frying can produce strong cooking odors. If this is a concern, look for a fryer with a lid or one that is designed to minimize odors.
- Cleaning: Consider how easy the fryer is to clean, including the ability to remove and wash parts such as the basket and oil filter.
- Temperature gauge: A temperature gauge can be helpful for ensuring that the oil is at the proper temperature for cooking.
What features should I look for in a deep fryer?
When looking for a deep fryer, there are several factors to consider. The capacity of the fryer and the size of the baskets are important for determining how much food you can fry at once.
For consistent cooking results, you need a good heating element. Adjustable temperature control lets you cook a wide range of foods at the right temperature. A built-in oil filtering system can extend the life of your oil and save you money in the long run.
Accidents can be avoided with safety features like an automatic shut-off and a cord that breaks away.
The size of the fryer and the material it is made of, such as stainless steel or aluminum, are also important considerations. Checking customer reviews and looking for a fryer with a good warranty can also be helpful.
Other features to consider include accessory options, cooking odors, and ease of cleaning.
A temperature gauge can be helpful for ensuring that the oil is at the proper temperature for cooking.
By considering these factors, you can find the best deep fryer to meet your needs.
What size deep fryer should I buy?
Here are some recommendations for deep fryer sizes based on household size:
| Household Size | Fryer Size | Oil Capacity | Basket Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Person | Small, Countertop | 1-2 quarts (4-8 cups) | 1-2 pounds |
| 2 Person | Medium | 3-5 quarts (12-20 cups) | 2-3 pounds |
| Family of 4 | Large | 5-6 quarts (20-24 cups) | 3-4 pounds |
| Family of 6+ | Very Large | 7 quarts or more (+28 cups) | 4 pounds or more |
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the actual size of the fryer you need may vary based on your specific frying needs.
For a single person
A small, countertop deep fryer with a capacity of 1-2 quarts of oil and a basket size of 1-2 pounds of food should be sufficient.
For a 2-person household
A medium-sized deep fryer with a capacity of 3–4 quarts of oil and a basket size of 2–3 pounds of food should be sufficient.
For a family of 4
A large deep fryer with a capacity of 5–6 quarts of oil and a basket size of 3–4 pounds of food should be sufficient.
For a family of 6 or more
A very large deep fryer with a capacity of 7 quarts or more of oil and a basket size of 4 pounds or more of food may be necessary. You could also think about buying two smaller fryers if you have a big family and need to fry more food.
Are deep fryers safe to use in a kitchen?
Deep fryers can be safe to use in a kitchen as long as they are used properly.
Always use the fryer in a well-ventilated area on a stable, flat surface away from flammable materials and heat sources.
Make sure the oil is at the right temperature by using a thermometer, and never leave the fryer unattended while it is in use.
Be careful when handling hot oil and follow the instructions from the manufacturer to make sure it works safely.
There are several reasons why you may want to use a deep fryer outside instead of in the kitchen.
Using the fryer outside may reduce the risk of fire and other accidents, help reduce cooking odors and contain the mess and free up space in the kitchen.
When using the fryer outside, it is important to have access to an outdoor outlet and to put it in a safe and proper place.
By following these safety tips, you can help prevent accidents and ensure that your deep fryer is safe to use in your kitchen.
How much oil does a deep fryer use?
The amount of oil a deep fryer uses will depend on the size of the fryer and the size of the food being fried. A small countertop fryer may use as little as 1-2 quarts of oil, while a large, commercial-grade fryer may use 7 quarts or more.
While electric deep fryers can vary in their oil capacity, many models use between 6 and 19 cups of oil for cooking. In our tests, we found that a model using slightly under 15 cups of oil was sufficient for most recipes.
This is slightly more oil than what is typically needed when deep frying in a Dutch oven, which usually requires between 8 and 12 cups of oil.
Too much oil in the fryer can be dangerous and cause the food to be overcooked or fried unevenly. If you don’t put enough food in the fryer, the food might not be fully submerged in the oil, which could lead to uneven cooking.
Most of the time, the best way to figure out how much oil to use is to fill the fryer up to the max fill line or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If there is no line option, I recommend filling the basket until it is approximately 2/3 full, or until the food that is deep-fried is fully submerged.
What is the best type of oil to use in a deep fryer?
There are several types of oil that can be used in a deep fryer, and the best type for you will depend on your personal preference and any dietary restrictions you may have.
Here are some of the most popular options:
- Peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good choice for deep frying. It is also relatively inexpensive. It has a smoke point of 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is another popular choice for deep frying. It has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, and it is generally less expensive than some other options. This oil has a smoke point of 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good choice for deep frying. It is also relatively inexpensive. Canola oil has a smoke point of approximately 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Extra Virgin olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil has a smoke point of 375°F, which is suitable for deep frying at moderate temperatures. It is also rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may have health benefits. However, extra virgin olive oil is generally more expensive than some other options and has a distinct flavor that may not be suitable for all types of fried foods.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil has a high smoke point and a slightly sweet, tropical flavor. It is generally more expensive than other options and may solidify at cooler temperatures, so it may not be the best choice for all deep frying needs. It has a smoke point of around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do you clean a deep fryer?
Cleaning a deep fryer can be a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that it is done safely and effectively. Here are some general steps for cleaning a deep fryer:
- Unplug the fryer and allow it to cool completely.
- Remove the oil from the fryer and dispose of it properly. This can typically be done by pouring the oil into a sealable container and disposing of it in accordance with your local regulations.
- Remove any food debris from the fryer basket and discard it.
- Rinse the basket and other removable parts of the fryer with hot water and mild dish soap. Scrub with a soft sponge or brush to remove any remaining food particles.
- Dry the basket and other parts thoroughly before reassembling the fryer.
- Wipe down the exterior of the fryer with a damp cloth and mild dish soap. Dry the exterior thoroughly.
- Reassemble the fryer and refill it with oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Most of the time, it is best to clean the deep fryer after each use to keep food particles from building up and to get the best cooking results. Some models may have a self-cleaning feature that can make the cleaning process easier.
Does owning a deep fryer cost a lot of money?
The cost of owning a deep fryer can vary depending on the size and features of the fryer, as well as the frequency of use.
In general, small, countertop fryers may be more affordable than larger, commercial-grade fryers.
Some factors that can affect the cost of owning a deep fryer include:
- Initial purchase price: Deep fryers can range in price from around $30 for a small, basic model to several hundred dollars for a larger, commercial-grade fryer with advanced features.
- Cost of oil: Deep frying can use a significant amount of oil, which can add to the overall cost of owning a fryer. The price of oil can vary depending on the type and quantity purchased.
- Energy costs: Electric deep fryers will use electricity to heat the oil, which can add to the cost of ownership.
- Maintenance and repairs: Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of a deep fryer and prevent the need for costly repairs.
Is a deep fryer worth it?
Whether a deep fryer is worth it or not will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Here are some factors to consider when determining if a deep fryer is worth it:
How often do you plan to use the deep fryer?
If you only plan to use the deep fryer occasionally, it may not be worth the investment. But if you plan to use it often, a deep fryer can save you time and make cooking easier.
Do you have the space to store a deep fryer?
Deep fryers can take up a significant amount of counter or storage space, so it is important to consider whether you have room for one in your kitchen.
Are you willing to pay for a deep fryer, both when you buy it and when you use it?
Deep fryers can range in price from around $30 for a small, basic model to several hundred dollars for a larger, commercial-grade fryer with advanced features. In addition to the initial purchase price, you will also need to consider the cost of oil and energy usage when determining if a deep fryer is worth it.
Do you have any dietary or health concerns that may be affected by deep frying?
Deep frying can add calories and fat to foods, so it is important to consider these factors if you are trying to watch your intake.
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