**Small air fryers** are flying off the shelves because they cook tasty, crispy food with much less oil than regular frying. These handy gadgets are ideal for tight kitchens in city apartments or for whipping up quick meals. But with so many choices out there, picking the **best one** can be tricky.
The best small air fryers should be efficient in cooking and space-saving, yet versatile to prepare a wide range of food. Furthermore, it’s essential that a good small air fryer evenly cooks food and is easy to clean. Factors like build quality, additional features, and noise levels should also not be overlooked.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the best small air fryer for your specific needs. We have researched and tested a variety of models to identify the ones that provide the optimal balance of performance, convenience, and value. Armed with this practical knowledge, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on an air fryer that will stand as a worthy addition to your kitchen.
Best Small Air Fryer
Selecting the right small air fryer is crucial for efficient cooking, and to ensure it ultimately meets your expectations. The air fryer should be able to snugly fit into your kitchen without taking up too much space, yet cook your favorite foods perfectly. Given the multitude of options available, it can be daunting to find a model that’s the best fit for your needs. In this article, we have consolidated a list of the best small air fryers based on our in-depth research and testing, to help you make an informed decision.
DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Electric Air Fryer Oven, 2.6 Qt., Grey – Compact Air Fryer for Healthier Food in Minutes, Ideal for Small Spaces – Auto Shut Off, Digital, 1000-Watt
If you’re looking for a compact and efficient air fryer, the DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Electric Air Fryer Oven is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 2.6 quartz capacity is perfect for singles or couples, allowing you to prepare enough food for one or two people without wasting space or energy.
- With a cooking area of 8.5 inches in diameter and 3.5 inches in height, this air fryer can accommodate a variety of foods, including fries, chicken wings, and even small whole chickens.
- The 1000-watt power level allows you to cook your favorite foods quickly and efficiently, while the digital control panel with preset functions makes it easy to use.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the basket is difficult to clean, so be sure to use a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- The fan can be loud, especially when cooking at higher temperatures, so keep this in mind if you plan to use it in a quiet space.
- While the air fryer is compact, it may still take up some counter space, so consider your available space before purchasing.
Overall, the DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Electric Air Fryer Oven is a great choice for those who want a compact and efficient air fryer that can cook their favorite foods quickly and easily. Its digital control panel with preset functions makes it easy to use, and the 2.6 quartz capacity is perfect for singles or couples.
If you’re looking for a smaller air fryer that can still cook a variety of foods, this one is definitely worth considering.
Instant Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a compact air fryer that can cook your favorite foods quickly and easily, then the Instant Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 2qt capacity is perfect for small households or those who live alone.
- The EvenCrisp technology ensures that your food is cooked evenly and to perfection.
- The 75% size reduction makes it easy to store in small kitchens or apartments.
Cons
- The cooking basket is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to wash it by hand.
- The cord storage could be better, as the cord is quite long and bulky.
- The timer could be more precise, as it only goes up to 60 minutes.
We’ve been using the Instant Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The EvenCrisp technology ensures that our fries and chicken wings come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, every time. We also appreciate the fact that we can air fry, reheat, roast, or bake our food with just the touch of a button.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cooking basket is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to wash it by hand. However, the basket, tray, and shake/stirring skewer are all dishwasher safe, which is a nice feature. Additionally, the cord storage could be better, as the cord is quite long and bulky. Finally, the timer could be more precise, as it only goes up to 60 minutes, which may not be enough time for some recipes.
Overall, we would recommend the Instant Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer to anyone who is looking for a compact and efficient air fryer that can cook their favorite foods quickly and easily.
Cosori Mini Air Fryer 2.1 Qt, 4-in-1 Small Airfryer, Bake, Roast, Reheat, Space-saving & Low-noise, Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket, 30 In-App Recipes, Sticker with 6 Reference Guides, Gray
If you’re looking for a compact air fryer that can cook your favorite dishes quickly and easily, the Cosori Mini Air Fryer might be just what you need.
Pros
- With 4 cooking functions, this air fryer can do it all, from frying to baking to roasting and reheating.
- The 2.1-quart capacity is perfect for small households or for those who don’t want to cook in large batches.
- The nonstick basket is easy to clean and the dishwasher-safe design makes cleanup a breeze.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the basket is a bit small for a whole chicken, so keep that in mind if you plan to cook larger items.
- The air fryer can be a bit loud, especially when cooking at higher temperatures.
- The digital display can be a bit difficult to read in low light conditions.
We’ve been using the Cosori Mini Air Fryer for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The 4 cooking functions make it easy to cook a variety of dishes, from fries and chicken wings to cakes and cookies. The 2.1-quart capacity is perfect for our small household, and we appreciate the fact that we can cook our favorite dishes quickly and easily.
One thing to keep in mind is that the basket is a bit small for larger items, so if you plan to cook a whole chicken or a large roast, you may need to cook it in batches. Additionally, the air fryer can be a bit loud, especially when cooking at higher temperatures, so keep that in mind if you plan to use it in a quiet environment.
Overall, we think the Cosori Mini Air Fryer is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact, easy-to-use air fryer. With its 4 cooking functions, nonstick basket, and dishwasher-safe design, it’s a great addition to any kitchen.
CHEFMAN Small, Compact Air Fryer Healthy Cooking, 2 Qt, Nonstick, User Friendly and Adjustable Temperature Control w/ 60 Minute Timer & Auto Shutoff, Dishwasher Safe Basket, BPA – Free, Black
If you’re looking for a compact and easy-to-use air fryer, the CHEFMAN Small, Compact Air Fryer is a great option.
Pros
- The compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
- The adjustable temperature control and 60-minute timer allow for precise cooking.
- The non-stick basket and dishwasher-safe design make cleaning a breeze.
Cons
- The 2-quart capacity may not be enough for larger families or groups.
- Some users have reported issues with the temperature control.
- The lack of a display may be a downside for some users.
We’ve used the CHEFMAN Small, Compact Air Fryer and found it to be a great option for those who want a compact and easy-to-use air fryer. The adjustable temperature control and 60-minute timer allow for precise cooking, and the non-stick basket and dishwasher-safe design make cleaning a breeze.
The compact size of the air fryer is a major plus, especially for those who have limited counter space or small kitchens. The adjustable temperature control also allows for more versatile cooking, as you can adjust the heat to your liking.
However, the 2-quart capacity may not be enough for larger families or groups. Some users have also reported issues with the temperature control, so it’s important to keep an eye on your food while it’s cooking. Finally, the lack of a display may be a downside for some users, as it can make it more difficult to keep track of your cooking progress.
Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and easy-to-use air fryer, the CHEFMAN Small, Compact Air Fryer is definitely worth considering.
Ninja AF101 Air Fryer that Crisps, Roasts, Reheats, & Dehydrates, for Quick, Easy Meals, 4 Quart Capacity, & High Gloss Finish, Grey
If you’re looking for a versatile air fryer that can cook a variety of dishes, then the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a 5.5QT/5.2L 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker that can Air Fry, Air Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, and keep food warm. It can also make delicious steamed baskets.
- With 1500-watt power, this air fryer heats up quickly and cooks food evenly. It also comes with a range of customizable functions, including a time and temperature control dial, a non-stick basket, and a crisper plate with a reversible rack.
- The Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is easy to use and clean. It comes with a non-stick basket and crisper plate, making it easy to remove food and clean up afterwards. It also has a dishwasher-safe basket and crisper plate for added convenience.
Cons
- The Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a bit bulky and heavy, which may make it difficult to store in smaller kitchens. It also takes up a lot of counter space, so you’ll need to have enough room to accommodate it.
- While the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is versatile and can cook a variety of dishes, some users have reported that it doesn’t cook food evenly or thoroughly. This may require some trial and error to get the right cooking time and temperature.
- The Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a bit pricey compared to other air fryers on the market. While it has a lot of great features, it may not be worth the investment for those on a tight budget.
Overall, the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is a great option for those who want a versatile and easy-to-use air fryer. With its range of customizable functions and even heating, it can cook a variety of dishes to perfection. However, it may not be the best option for those who are short on counter space or have a limited budget.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a small air fryer, there are several factors to consider. We’ve used and tested various models, and here are some key features to look for:
Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider is the capacity of the air fryer. If you plan on cooking for a small family or just for yourself, a smaller capacity air fryer may be sufficient. However, if you plan on cooking for a larger group, you may want to consider a larger capacity model.
Cooking Functionality
Another important factor to consider is the cooking functionality of the air fryer. Look for models that offer a variety of cooking functions, such as air frying, baking, roasting, and even dehydrating. This will give you more flexibility in the types of dishes you can cook.
Ease of Use
When choosing an air fryer, it’s important to consider how easy it is to use. Look for models with simple controls and a clear display. Additionally, consider how easy it is to clean, as this can make a big difference in how often you use your air fryer.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the air fryer. While it’s important to choose a model that meets your needs, it’s also important to stay within your budget. Look for models that offer good value for their price, rather than simply choosing the cheapest option available.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best small air fryer for your needs.
