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12 Best Small Air Fryers for Your Countertop!

Say goodbye to greasy dishes and hello to crispy goodness with these top small air fryers that will fit perfectly on your countertop.

17 min read
Photo-Illustration: Catchy Shopper; Photos: Retailers
Photo-Illustration: Catchy Shopper; Photos: Retailers

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Air fryers are revolutionizing the way people cook and providing a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Not only do these handy little kitchen appliances take up minimal countertop space, but they can also help you prepare smaller meals without compromising on taste. But with so many different models on the market, picking the right one for your needs can be tricky. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the 12 best small air fryer for your countertop. From budget-friendly options to high-tech models that come with smart features, these air fryers will give you delicious and perfect results every time! Whether you're looking to make homemade potato chips or crispy chicken wings, read on to find the perfect small air fryer for your needs.

Benefits of Having a Small Air Fryer

Air fryers have been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. These countertop appliances offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying by using hot air to cook food to a crispy texture. While there are many air fryer models on the market, small air fryers have become increasingly popular due to their space-saving design and efficiency. Now, we will explore the benefits of having a small air fryer and how it can be a versatile addition to your kitchen.

Space-saving

Small air fryers are perfect for small kitchens or for those who have limited counter space. They take up less space than larger models, making them easier to store and use.

Faster cooking

Since a small air fryer has a smaller cooking area, it heats up faster and cooks food more quickly. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are short on time or who want to cook smaller portions.

Energy-efficient

Unlike most air fryers, smaller air fryers use less electricity than larger models, making them more energy-efficient. This can help you save money on your electricity bill over time.

Versatile

Small air fryers are just as versatile as larger models and can cook a wide variety of foods, including chicken wings, French fries, vegetables, and more. They are also great for reheating leftovers and cooking frozen foods.

Easy to clean

Since small air fryers have fewer parts and a smaller cooking area, they are easier to clean than larger models. Many models also come with dishwasher-safe parts for added convenience.

Overall, a small air fryer can be a great investment for those who want to enjoy the benefits of air frying without taking up too much space or breaking the bank.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Small Air Fryer

Before diving headfirst into the world of air frying, it's crucial to consider a few factors to ensure that your new purchase meets all your kitchen needs. From sizing and cooking capabilities to power and temperature range, we've got the inside scoop on everything you need to know before pulling the trigger. Keep reading to become an air fryer expert and purchase with confidence!

Capacity

Small air fryers typically have a capacity of 2-4 quarts, which is suitable for 1-2 people. If you have a larger family or like to cook for guests, a larger air fryer may be a better option.

Cooking functions

Some air fryers come with additional cooking functions, such as baking, grilling, and roasting. Consider what types of foods you will be cooking and whether you would benefit from these additional functions.

Power and wattage

Higher wattage means faster cooking times, but also higher energy consumption. Consider your energy usage and how often you will be using the air fryer before making a decision.

Temperature range

Look for an air fryer with a wide temperature range, so you can cook a variety of foods at different temperatures.

Price

Small air fryers are typically more affordable than larger models, but prices can vary depending on the brand, features, and quality. Set a budget and compare prices and features before making a purchase.

Brand reputation and reviews

Research the brand reputation and read customer reviews before making a purchase. Look for a brand that is known for producing high-quality and durable air fryers.

Our Favorite Small Air Fryers to Try

Struggling to pick the perfect air fryer? Fear not, my foodie friends! We've scoured the market and rounded up the most epic small air fryers that deserve a spot in your kitchen. From top-notch features to rave reviews, these little wonders have it all. Get ready to fry up a storm and take your culinary skills to the next level with these top picks.

COSORI Air Fryer Max XL - 5.8 Quart

www.amazon.com

With a whopping 5.8-quart capacity, it's the best compact air fryer for a family of 3-5. So, if you're tired of cramming all your food into a teeny tiny air fryer basket, this is the answer to your prayers. Now, let's talk about the real star of the show: the 10 presets. That's right, this air fryer has not one, not two, but TEN presets for easy cooking. And if you're feeling extra fancy, you can even save your own custom settings for future use. Plus, the digital touch screen makes it super easy to operate (even if you're technologically challenged like me).

This air fryer also comes with a cookbook and access to online recipes. So, whether you're a seasoned chef or a newbie in the kitchen, you'll have plenty of inspiration to get those creative juices flowing. And if you have any questions along the way, don't worry! COSORI has got your back with a contact line available for questions to their chefs.

Now, let's talk about what really matters: the reviews. With an impressive 4.7-star average and over 10,400 five-star ratings, it's safe to say that people are loving this air fryer. Customers are raving about its ease of use, large capacity, and the fact that it works great with both frozen and fresh foods. And let's not forget about the easy-to-follow instruction manual - because let's face it, we all need a little help sometimes.

One reviewer, in particular, said they chose this air fryer because it was frequently included as one of the top units in multiple product reviews of air fryers that they checked out. They also praised the large capacity basket, ease of cleaning, and extensive recipe booklet. And, of course, they recommended the unit to others.

Ninja Air Fryer Max XL - 5.5 Quart

www.amazon.com

With a 5.5-quart basket, this bad boy can cook up to 3 pounds of food at once. That's right, you can finally cook a whole meal in one go without having to juggle multiple pots and pans. Plus, the high gloss finish in grey gives it a sleek, modern look that will complement any kitchen.

But wait, there's more! This air fryer is not just a one-trick pony. It has a wide temperature range and 7 presets, so you can cook, crisp, roast, bake, reheat, and even dehydrate your favorite foods with ease. And the best part? The presets are all customizable, so you can adjust the time and temperature to your liking.

Now, let's talk about what really matters: the reviews. This air fryer boasts an impressive 4.7-star average and over 13,400 five-star ratings on a popular retailer's website. Customers rave about its even cooking and easy cleaning. One reviewer even said, "This Ninja has become my go-to cooking device." Can't argue with that kind of endorsement!

So, if you're looking for a versatile cooking device that can handle all your mealtime needs, look no further than the Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer. It'll revolutionize the way you cook and leave you with more time to do the things you love (like eating, of course).

Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven - 6 Quart

www.amazon.com

From the makers of the Instant Pot, this air fryer oven boasts impressive features that are sure to satisfy your cooking needs. First off, the multi-functionality of this air fryer is absolutely amazing. You can air fry, roast, bake, broil, and even dehydrate your food with ease, all in one compact appliance. The clear cook-cooking window also allows you to keep an eye on your food as it cooks, so you can ensure that it comes out perfectly every time.

But that's not all. The Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer Oven also comes with a range of accessories that allow you to cook a variety of different dishes. Whether you're making chicken wings or baking a cake, this air fryer has got you covered.

What's more, this air fryer has an odor-erase technology that helps to eliminate any unpleasant smells that may come from cooking. So you can fry up a storm without worrying about your kitchen smelling like a fast food restaurant.

The accompanying app with over 100 recipes is also a great bonus. It provides you with a range of ideas and inspiration for dishes that you can cook in your air fryer. And with over 18,400 five-star ratings, it's clear that customers are loving this product.

GoWISE USA 5.8-Quarts 8-in-1 Electric Air Fryer XL

www.amazon.com

Get ready to experience the wonders of this impressive appliance, designed to make cooking for the family a breeze. With a whopping 5.8-quart capacity, it can accommodate large batches of succulent roasted chicken, crispy fries, or virtually anything you desire thanks to its versatile 8-in-1 design.

And the best part? You don't have to take our word for it. Customers are going wild for this air fryer, leaving over 1,200 five-star ratings and an impressive 4.6-star average. It's no wonder this appliance is a real crowd-pleaser! They can't get enough of its versatility and ease of use, declaring it a must-have for all cooking aficionados.

But what sets this air fryer apart from the rest is its easy cleaning. Customers love the non-stick coating inside the basket, which makes cleaning up super easy. It's just like cleaning a regular non-stick pan, but with the added benefit of a basket that can hold all your favorite foods. As an added bonus, the recipe book that comes with the air fryer includes some pretty good recipes that will leave your family begging for more.

Like any product, there are a few things to keep in mind. One reviewer noted that the colors are more matte and less metallic than what the picture suggests, which is something to keep in mind if you're looking for a specific aesthetic. Also, while the non-stick coating is easy to clean, users should handle the basket with care to avoid scratching the coating.

Chefman TurboFry 3.6 Quart Air Fryer

www.amazon.com

This air fryer toaster oven has a 3.6-quart capacity, which is perfect for whipping up small meals or snacks. And the sleek matte black design? Well, let's just say it'll look right at home on your kitchen counter. But enough about appearances—let's get to the good stuff.

The CHEFMAN Small Air Fryer has a temperature range of 200-400°F, which means you can cook anything from crispy chicken wings to tender veggies with ease. And the 60-minute timer ensures that your food comes out perfectly every time. Plus, the auto-shutoff feature means you don't have to worry about overcooking or burning your food, making it perfect for busy bees who need to multitask.

But what really sets this air fryer apart is its user-friendly interface. The digital touch screen is super easy to navigate, and the nonstick basket is a breeze to clean (did we mention it's dishwasher safe?). And if you're new to air frying, don't worry—the included cookbook has plenty of delicious recipes to get you started.

Ultrean Air Fryer - 4.2 Quart

www.amazon.com

This air fryer boasts a 4.2-quart capacity and a temperature range of 180-400°F, making it perfect for cooking up your favorite snacks and meals. And with over 40,700 five-star ratings, you can trust that this air fryer delivers on its promises.

One of the standout features of this air fryer is its easy-to-clean design. The inner tray can be removed with tongs for effortless cleaning, and using a paper towel to soak up any grease after each use will keep your air fryer looking pristine. Plus, its compact size means it won't take up too much space in your kitchen.

But the real magic of the Ultrean Air Fryer lies in its cooking capabilities. Reviewers rave about how it cooks bacon and chicken to perfection, and one happy customer even said they'll never cook those meats any other way again. Plus, the default temperature and time settings are easily adjustable to suit your needs.

And if you're worried about quality and safety, rest assured that this air fryer is UL certified and comes with a one-year warranty. So what are you waiting for? Invest in the Ultrean Air Fryer and experience deliciously crispy, oil-free meals that are easy to make and even easier to clean up. One satisfied customer highly recommend this air fryer and even said ' Worth every cent.'

Dash Compact Air Fryer - 2 Quart

www.amazon.com

With a 2 Quart capacity, this little guy is perfect for whipping up single servings of your favorite fried treats without taking up too much counter space.

But don't let its size fool you - this air fryer packs a punch when it comes to temperature control. With a range of 170-400°F, you can cook up everything from crispy chicken wings to perfectly roasted veggies. And with a 30-minute timer, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day.

But what really sets this air fryer apart from the pack is its ease of use. The non-stick fry basket makes cleanup a breeze, while the included recipe guide helps you explore new and delicious ways to use your air fryer. And for those of us who tend to forget about our appliances, the auto shut-off feature ensures that your food won't overcook.

With over 12,000 five-star ratings and an impressive 4.5-star average, customers can't stop raving about this little air fryer. So whether you're cooking for one or just looking for a compact and convenient way to fry up your favorite foods, the DASH Compact Air Fryer Oven Cooker with Temperature Control is definitely worth a look.

Bella 2.6 Quart Air Fryer

www.amazon.com

With a roomy 2.6-quart capacity and a temperature range of 175-400°F, this air fryer can handle everything from chicken wings to sweet potato fries with ease. And thanks to its 60-minute timer, you won't have to worry about overcooking or undercooking your meals.

But what really sets the BELLA Electric Hot Air Fryer apart from the competition is its no-oil deep frying technology. That's right, you can enjoy all the crispy goodness of your favorite fried foods without the added fat and calories. Plus, this air fryer is versatile enough to handle everything from cooking to baking and roasting, so you can whip up a variety of meals with ease.

But perhaps the best part of the BELLA Electric Hot Air Fryer is its easy clean-up. The removable, dishwasher-safe basket makes post-meal tidying a breeze, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your delicious creations.

Don't believe us? With an impressive 4.6-star average and over 3,000 five-star ratings all over the world, one satisfied customer said that this " is everything I could ask for in an air fryer. "

Cuisinart AFR-25 Air Fryer - 2.5 Quart

www.amazon.com

With its 2.5-quart capacity and temperature range of 175-400°F, this little guy packs a punch. First of all, can we talk about how cute and compact this air fryer is? It's the perfect size for small apartments or those who don't want to take up too much counter space. And don't let its size fool you, it can easily cook up a meal for two without any issues.

The 60-minute timer is a lifesaver, and the temperature control is spot on. Plus, the included cookbook is filled with delicious recipes that will have you drooling. We especially love using it to make crispy sweet potato fries or perfectly cooked chicken breasts.

But what we really appreciate about this air fryer is how easy it is to use. No complicated settings or confusing buttons, just plug it in and get cooking. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to deep-frying, so you can indulge in all your favorite fried foods without guilt.

Overall, we highly recommend the Cuisinart Air Fryer. With its impressive 4.3-star average, it's clear that customers agree. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this air fryer is a must-have.

PowerXL Air Fryer Pro - 3.4 Quart

www.amazon.com

The Power Air Fryer XL boasts a 3.4-quart capacity, which is more than enough to whip up a meal for a couple of hungry mouths. It also comes with a recipe book, which is perfect for those of us who need a little inspiration in the kitchen.

But let's get to the good stuff: how does it cook? We're happy to report that the Power Air Fryer XL does not disappoint. It has a temperature range of 150-400°F and a 60-minute timer, which gives you plenty of flexibility when it comes to cooking different dishes. And the best part? The food comes out evenly cooked and super crispy. We're talking restaurant quality, people.

But what really sets this air fryer apart is how easy it is to use. You simply set the temperature and timer, and you're good to go. No complicated controls or confusing instructions here. And when you're done cooking, the non-stick surface makes cleanup a breeze. It's almost too good to be true. Plus, customers are raving about how versatile, quiet, and easy to clean this air fryer is.

Of course, no product is perfect, and we did notice that the basket can be a bit difficult to remove from the unit. But honestly, that's a minor quibble when you consider how well this air fryer performs overall.

BLACK+DECKER Purify 2-Liter Air Fryer

www.amazon.com

This compact appliance boasts a 2-liter capacity, perfect for smaller households or meal prep. With a temperature range of 175-400°F, you're free to whip up a wide range of dishes with ease, and the 60-minute timer takes the pressure off so you can indulge in guilty pleasures like binge-watching your favorite shows on Netflix.

But here's the cherry on top: with an impressive 4.5-star average and over 1,400 five-star ratings, customers are raving about this air fryer, declaring it the best investment they've made in their kitchen. The BLACK+DECKER Purify 2-Liter Air Fryer's compact size allows for easy storage and its easy-to-clean design means more time for you to relish your delicious creations.

So, if you're on the hunt for a guilt-free solution to your favorite fried foods, look no further. You don't want to miss this - join the thousands of satisfied customers and get ready to indulge in tasty treats while keeping up a healthy lifestyle. Say goodbye to your kitchen woes and hello to your new partner in crime today!

Proscenic T22 Smart Air Fryer - 5.8 Quart

www.amazon.com

This kitchen gadget has it all: a spacious 5.3-quart capacity, 13-in-1 cooking capabilities, and over 100 online recipes to choose from. And that's just the beginning! One of the coolest features of the Proscenic T22 is its compatibility with both the ProscenicHome app and Alexa. Yes, you read that right—now you can control your air fryer with just your voice! And if you're not in the mood for talking, simply whip out your phone and let the app do the work for you. It's like having a personal chef at your fingertips.

But the Proscenic T22 isn't just about convenience—it also delivers on performance. With a temperature range of 100-400°F and a 30-minute timer, this air fryer crisps food and fry anything from potatoes to the juicy, tender meat.

One thing that sets the Proscenic T22 apart from other air fryers is its Shake Reminder feature. No more guesswork or manual shaking is required—the air fryer will remind you when it's time to give your food a little flip. And if you're worried about preheating, don't be—the Proscenic T22 has got you covered there too.

Last but not least, cleanup is a breeze with the Proscenic T22. All its removable parts are dishwasher-safe, so you can spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your delicious creations. It's no wonder the Proscenic T22 has an impressive 4.5-star average and over 9,700 five-star ratings. Customers can't get enough of its convenience, versatility, and performance.

Small Air Fryers FAQs

Small air fryers are designed for single individuals or small families who want to cook small quantities of food and are also ideal for people with limited counter space or storage space. Now, let's answer some frequently asked questions about small air fryers, including what they are, what you can cook in them, how to clean them, and more.

What can I cook in a small air fryer?

You can cook a variety of foods in a small air fryer, including chicken wings, french fries, onion rings, fish sticks, mozzarella sticks, and vegetables. You can also bake desserts like brownies, cupcakes, and muffins in a small air fryer.

How much food can I cook in a small air fryer?

The amount of food you can cook in a small air fryer depends on the model you choose. Most small air fryers have a cooking capacity of 1.5 to 2.5 quarts, which can hold up to two servings of food.

How do I clean a small air fryer?

To clean a small air fryer, first, unplug the appliance and let it cool down. Then, remove the cooking basket and wash it with warm, soapy water. Use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the non-stick coating. You can also put the cooking basket in the dishwasher if it is dishwasher-safe. Wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals on the appliance.

How long does it take to cook food in a small air fryer?

The cooking time varies depending on the type and quantity of food you are cooking. As a general rule, small air fryers cook food faster than larger air fryers, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it worth getting a small air fryer?

Small air fryers are a great addition to any kitchen as they offer convenience, health benefits, and versatility. They allow you to cook crispy and healthy meals without the need for excess oil. Additionally, they are relatively affordable and easy to use and clean. If you're someone who enjoys crispy and healthy meals, then a small air fryer may be worth getting. It all depends on your personal needs and preferences.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using an air fryer?

An air fryer cooks food with hot, circulating air instead of oil - using up to 80% less fat than traditional frying. It's a healthier option and cooks meals faster. Plus, most foods stay crispy and flavorful. However, some criticize the taste/texture, and cleanup can be challenging. These appliances also take up counter space. Overall, air fryers have become increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals looking for quick, tasty, and nutritious meals.

Final Thoughts

Small air fryers are a great choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of air frying without taking up too much space or breaking the bank. Before purchasing, it’s important to consider factors such as capacity, cooking functions, power and wattage, temperature range, price, and brand reputation.

We have provided some top picks that boast exceptional features and rave reviews so you can purchase with confidence! Whether you’re feeding 1-2 people or hosting a dinner party for 10 guests, small air fryers will help take your culinary skills to new heights while saving time and energy in the kitchen.

Reviews in this blog post have been edited for clarity and/or length.

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