Imagine crispy, golden fries or perfectly roasted veggies with hardly any oil. Sounds delicious, right? That’s the magic of an air fryer! But if you’re living in a cozy apartment or just cooking for one or two, those big, bulky air fryers just won’t do. You need something smaller, something that fits your space and your needs.
Choosing a small air fryer can feel like a puzzle. So many brands, so many features, and you’re left wondering which one will actually deliver those amazing results without taking over your entire kitchen counter. It can be frustrating to spend your hard-earned money on something that doesn’t quite measure up.
That’s where we come in. We’ve done the digging so you don’t have to. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a rated small air fryer. We’ll break down the best options, what makes them great, and help you find the perfect kitchen companion for your delicious, healthier cooking adventures.
Our Top 5 Rated Small Air Fryer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Small Air Fryer Detailed Reviews
1. Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for a kitchen game-changer with the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer! This amazing appliance is designed to make your cooking faster, healthier, and tastier. With its advanced technology and user-friendly features, it’s perfect for whipping up delicious meals for your whole family.
What We Like:
- The innovative TurboBlaze Technology uses a super-fast fan and high heat (up to 450°F) to make food extra crispy and juicy.
- It has a special 5-fan speed system and precise temperature control (90°–450°F) for perfectly cooked food every time.
- The premium ceramic coating on the basket and tray is nonstick and easy to clean, making your cooking experience better.
- This air fryer cooks food faster, saving you precious time on busy days.
- The large 6-quart basket is perfect for cooking meals for the whole family and doesn’t take up too much counter space.
- It operates quietly, keeping your kitchen peaceful even when it’s working hard.
- You can enjoy your favorite fried foods with 95% less oil, making them healthier.
- Cleaning is a breeze because the basket and plate are dishwasher-safe.
- The customizable Preheat function helps you get the best results, or you can skip it for a quicker start.
- It comes with a helpful 30-recipe cookbook created by chefs and dietitians.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 120V power rating means it might not be suitable for all electrical outlets without an adapter.
This Cosori air fryer is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves delicious, healthy food. It makes cooking easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
2. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet your new kitchen best friend: the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer. This compact appliance is designed to make cooking fast, healthy, and incredibly easy. Its sleek black design won’t take up much space, and it’s perfect for whipping up delicious meals for one or two people in just minutes.
What We Like:
- It cooks food up to three times faster than a regular oven, saving you precious time.
- You can enjoy healthier meals because it uses very little or no oil.
- The square basket design makes the most of its 2-quart size, and the narrow shape keeps your counter tidy.
- It has a helpful shake reminder so your food gets perfectly crispy every time.
- Cleaning is a breeze because the basket and rack are nonstick and dishwasher safe.
- Safety is a priority with automatic shutoff, giving you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2-quart capacity is best suited for individuals or couples, so larger families might need a bigger air fryer.
- While the shake reminder is great, some users might prefer an option to turn it off if they don’t need it.
This Chefman mini air fryer is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for quick, healthy, and convenient meals. Its smart features and compact size make it a winner for small kitchens and busy lifestyles.
3. COSORI Air Fryer 2.1 QT
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the COSORI Air Fryer 2.1 QT, a compact powerhouse designed for anyone looking for quick, healthy, and delicious meals. This 4-in-1 airfryer is perfect for simple meals, tasty snacks, and reviving leftovers to crispy perfection. Enjoy up to 97% less oil, making your favorite foods healthier without sacrificing flavor. Plus, with 30 in-app recipes and a nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket, cooking and cleanup are a breeze.
What We Like:
- Dorm-Friendly Cooking: Its small size fits easily in dorm rooms. It can Air Fry, Reheat, Roast, and Bake. This makes it great for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and late-night snacks.
- More Personal Moments: The small basket heats up fast. This saves you time in the kitchen. You’ll have more time to relax after work.
- Easier Cooking for Seniors: It’s super light, weighing only 4.87 lbs. This makes cooking easier than using heavy pans or ovens.
- Cut the Oil, Cut the Fat: Use up to 97% less oil. This means you can enjoy meals with little to no added oil.
- Snack Maker for Families: The 2.1-quart size is just right for families. It’s easy to use and clean. It makes snacks crispier than ovens.
- Reheat Like Fresh Meals: The “Reheat” function brings leftovers like fries, wings, and pizza back to crispy goodness.
- Compact for Trucks and RVs: Its small size (10.1 x 8.3 x 10.5 inches) and 120V/900W power make it ideal for small kitchens in trucks or RVs.
- Dishwasher-Safe: The nonstick basket and accessories clean up easily in the dishwasher.
- Included Recipes: Get 30 original recipes from chefs on the free VeSync app. There’s also a sticker with 6 classic recipes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Voltage Limitation: This air fryer only works with 120V. It’s designed for use in the US and Canada only.
This COSORI Air Fryer is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a convenient and healthier way to cook. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any kitchen, especially for those with limited space.
4. bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer, your new kitchen best friend! This air fryer isn’t just about cooking delicious food; it’s designed to make your life easier. Its “Fits-anywhere™” design means it won’t hog counter space, and the “EverGood™” ceramic nonstick coating makes cleanup a breeze. With adjustable temperature settings and handy presets, you can whip up crispy favorites in no time. Plus, its stylish “Oatmilk” color adds a touch of modern flair to your kitchen.
What We Like:
- Slim Design for Any Space: This air fryer is super slim, so it fits easily on any counter. It saves a lot of room, up to 50% more than older models.
- EverGood™ Ceramic Nonstick Coating: Cleaning is super easy because food doesn’t stick. This coating is also healthier, as it’s free from harmful chemicals.
- XL Basket Capacity: The big basket can cook up to 3.3 lbs of food. This is great for feeding your whole family at once.
- Digital Controls: It has easy-to-use digital controls with 6 helpful cooking options. You can air fry, bake, roast, broil, reheat, and even dehydrate.
- Stylish Look: The air fryer has a nice, modern look with rounded corners and a soft finish. It makes your kitchen look even better.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 3.3lb capacity is good for many families, larger households might need a bigger unit for big gatherings.
- The 60-minute auto shutoff is great, but some recipes might require longer cooking times, necessitating a restart.
This bella air fryer is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience, healthy cooking, and a stylish design. It’s perfect for busy individuals and families looking for quick and tasty meals.
5. COSORI Air Fryer Pro 9-in-1
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the COSORI Air Fryer Pro 9-in-1, a game-changer for your kitchen! This compact 5QT air fryer boasts a powerful 450℉ heat and smart features that make cooking faster and healthier. Its sleek gray ceramic finish and one-wipe clean glass panel add a touch of modern style to any countertop.
What We Like:
- Enjoy maximum crispiness and juiciness with up to 450℉ and JuiceLock technology. Your chicken will be golden, and your steak perfectly seared and tender.
- Cook versatile meals for low-carb diets with 9 cooking functions like steak, chicken, seafood, and bacon. It’s easy to prepare healthy food.
- Prepare quick family meals in minutes. The 450℉ setting heats food fast, so dinner is ready for everyone quickly.
- Access over 130 wellness recipes and 19 nutritional facts through the VeSync app. You get a cookbook and app recipes with details on protein, calories, and fat to help manage your diet.
- The 5-quart capacity is large enough for family meals. You can easily cook 2-3 servings at once in the spacious square basket.
- Cleanup is a breeze with the nonstick and dishwasher-safe basket. The glass panel wipes clean easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 5QT capacity is great for small families, it might be a bit small for larger gatherings.
- The app integration, while helpful, requires a smartphone and app download, which might not appeal to everyone.
The COSORI Air Fryer Pro 9-in-1 simplifies healthy cooking with its smart features and easy cleanup. It’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen looking for delicious and quick meals.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Rated Small Air Fryer
Why Choose a Small Air Fryer?
Small air fryers are great for individuals or small families. They save counter space. They cook food quickly and make it crispy. You can make fries, chicken wings, and even vegetables. They use less oil than deep fryers.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a small air fryer, keep these features in mind:
- Capacity: How much food can it hold? Small air fryers usually range from 1 to 4 quarts. A 2-quart size is good for one person. A 3-4 quart size works for two people.
- Temperature Control: Can you set the exact cooking temperature? Most air fryers go up to 400°F. This lets you cook many different foods.
- Timer: Does it have a timer? A timer helps you cook food perfectly. It usually goes up to 30 or 60 minutes.
- Ease of Cleaning: Is it easy to clean? Look for parts that are dishwasher safe. A non-stick basket makes cleaning simple.
- Preset Cooking Modes: Does it have pre-set buttons for common foods like fries or chicken? These can make cooking easier.
- Safety Features: Does it have auto shut-off? This stops the air fryer when the basket is removed.
Important Materials
The materials used in an air fryer affect its durability and safety.
- Basket and Pan: Most are made of stainless steel or aluminum. A good non-stick coating is important. This prevents food from sticking. It also makes cleaning easy. Some baskets have a ceramic coating.
- Outer Casing: The outside is usually made of plastic. Look for a sturdy, heat-resistant plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a small air fryer better or worse.
- Heating Element: A powerful heating element cooks food faster and more evenly.
- Air Circulation System: Good air flow is key to crispy food. The design of the fan and basket matters.
- Build Quality: A well-built air fryer will last longer. Check for sturdy construction.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable kitchen appliances.
- Customer Reviews: What do other people say about the air fryer? Read reviews to find out about common problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a small air fryer is usually very simple.
- Simple Operation: Most have easy-to-use controls. You set the temperature and time. Then you put the food in the basket.
- Quick Meals: Air fryers cook food much faster than ovens. You can have dinner ready in minutes.
- Healthier Cooking: They use a lot less oil. This makes your favorite fried foods a little healthier.
- Versatile Cooking: You can cook more than just fries. Try chicken tenders, fish fillets, or roasted vegetables. You can even reheat leftovers and make them crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size for a single person?
A: For one person, a 1 to 2-quart capacity air fryer is usually enough. It cooks a single serving well.
Q: Can I cook frozen food in a small air fryer?
A: Yes, you can. Frozen fries, chicken nuggets, and other frozen snacks cook very well in an air fryer. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Q: How do I clean my small air fryer?
A: Most baskets and pans are dishwasher safe. You can also wash them by hand with soap and warm water. Wipe down the outside with a damp cloth.
Q: Is it noisy to use a small air fryer?
A: Air fryers make some noise from the fan. It’s usually like a quiet fan. It’s not overly loud.
Q: Can I put aluminum foil in my air fryer?
A: Yes, you can. Line the basket with foil to make cleanup easier. Make sure the foil doesn’t cover the air vents. This can stop air from circulating.
Q: What foods cook best in a small air fryer?
A: Foods that do well include fries, chicken wings, fish sticks, chicken tenders, and vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. They get nice and crispy.
Q: Do I need to preheat a small air fryer?
A: Preheating is often recommended. It helps food cook more evenly and get crispier. Most air fryers only need a few minutes to preheat.
Q: How long do small air fryers last?
A: With good care, a small air fryer can last for several years. Regular cleaning and proper use help it last longer.
Q: Can I cook a whole chicken in a small air fryer?
A: No, a whole chicken is too large for a small air fryer. You can cook chicken pieces like breasts or thighs.
Q: Are small air fryers safe to use?
A: Yes, they are safe. Most have auto shut-off features. The outer casing stays cool to the touch. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Carlos Gadd, and I am the creator of AirPurityGuide.com.. With a passion for footwear, I share my experiences, insights, and expertise about shoes. Through my blog, I aim to guide readers in making informed decisions, finding the perfect pair, and enhancing their footwear knowledge. Join me on this journey to explore everything about shoes!