Best Compact Air Fryers for Healthy and Convenient Cooking

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, thanks to their ability to cook up crispy and delicious food without the need for deep frying.

Compact air fryers are a great option for those who are short on counter space or cooking for just one or two people. These smaller air fryers are also more energy-efficient and can be a more affordable option than larger models.

When looking for the best compact air fryer, there are a few key things to keep in mind. One of the most important factors is size - you'll want to make sure the air fryer you choose can fit comfortably in your kitchen and still have enough capacity to cook the amount of food you need. Other things to consider include the wattage of the fryer, the ease of use, and the quality of the cooking results.

After researching and testing several models, we have identified the top compact air fryers on the market. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end model with all the bells and whistles, we've got you covered. In the following sections, we'll break down the pros and cons of each model and help you choose the best compact air fryer for your needs.

Best Compact Air Fryers

If you're looking for a healthier way to cook your favorite fried foods, then an air fryer may be just what you need. These compact appliances use hot air to fry foods with little or no oil, resulting in crispy, delicious dishes that are lower in fat and calories. In this article, we've rounded up some of the best compact air fryers on the market, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

COSORI Lite 2.1-Quart Mini Air Fryer

If you're looking for a compact air fryer that's perfect for single servings, the COSORI Lite 2.1-Quart Mini Air Fryer might be just what you need. With four customizable cooking functions and 30 recipes available on the VeSync app, this air fryer is designed to make cooking effortless.

Pros

• The compact design makes it easy to store and carry.
• The noiseless operation lets you cook without any distractions.
• The fast and convenient cooking saves time and energy.

Cons

• The 2.1 quart capacity might not be enough for larger servings.
• The temperature range might not be suitable for some recipes.
• The nonstick coating might wear off over time.

This air fryer is perfect for those who want a compact and portable appliance that can deliver delicious and healthy meals. With its noiseless operation and fast cooking times, you can enjoy your favorite foods without any distractions. However, the 2.1 quart capacity might not be enough for larger servings, and the temperature range might not be suitable for some recipes. Additionally, the nonstick coating might wear off over time, so you'll need to be careful when cleaning it.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a compact and efficient air fryer that can deliver delicious and healthy meals, the COSORI Lite 2.1-Quart Mini Air Fryer is definitely worth considering.

DASH Compact Air Fryer Oven Cooker

The DASH Compact Air Fryer Oven Cooker is a great choice for those who want to eat healthier and enjoy fried food at the same time.

Pros

• The AirCrisp technology helps reduce added fat by 70-80% without sacrificing the flavor of your fried food.
• It is quick and easy to use, perfect for those short on time.
• The auto-shut off function prevents overcooking, making it safer to use.

Cons

• The 2 qt capacity may not be enough for larger families or those who want to cook larger portions.
• The plastic construction may feel less durable than other air fryers made from metal.
• The non-stick coating may wear off over time with frequent use.

The DASH Compact Air Fryer Oven Cooker is perfect for those who want to enjoy their favorite fried foods without the added fat. It is easy to use and clean, making it a great addition to any kitchen. The AirCrisp technology ensures that your food comes out crispy every time, and the auto-shut off function makes it safer to use.

If you are looking for a compact and lightweight air fryer that is perfect for single serving meals, the DASH Compact Air Fryer Oven Cooker is a great choice. It is versatile and can cook a variety of foods, from appetizers to desserts, making it a must-have for picky eaters, large families, or those with busy schedules.

Instant Pot Vortex 4-in-1, 2-quart Mini Air Fryer Oven Combo

If you are looking for a compact air fryer that can do more than just fry, then the Instant Pot Vortex 4-in-1, 2-quart Mini Air Fryer Oven Combo might be a good choice for you.

Pros

• The EvenCrisp technology ensures that your food comes out crispy and tender every time.
• The one-touch smart programs make it easy to cook a variety of foods with just the touch of a button.
• The compact design makes it a great addition to any kitchen, especially for those who live in small apartments or have limited counter space.

Cons

• The 2-quart capacity might be too small for those who need to cook for more than two people.
• The non-stick coating on the basket and tray might wear off after prolonged use.
• The temperature range only goes up to 400°F, which might not be hot enough for some recipes.

I recently tried the Instant Pot Vortex 4-in-1, 2-quart Mini Air Fryer Oven Combo and was impressed with its performance. The EvenCrisp technology really does work, and my food came out perfectly crispy and tender every time. The one-touch smart programs were also a nice touch, as they made it easy to cook a variety of foods with just the touch of a button. I especially liked the customizable programs for wings, roasted veggies, and garlicky potatoes.

The compact design of the air fryer is also a plus, as it doesn't take up much counter space. However, the 2-quart capacity might be too small for those who need to cook for more than two people. The non-stick coating on the basket and tray might also wear off after prolonged use, so it's important to be careful when cleaning it. Additionally, the temperature range only goes up to 400°F, which might not be hot enough for some recipes.

Overall, I would recommend the Instant Pot Vortex 4-in-1, 2-quart Mini Air Fryer Oven Combo to anyone who is looking for a compact air fryer that can do more than just fry. It's a great addition to any kitchen, especially for those who live in small apartments or have limited counter space.

Chefman Compact TurboFry™ Air Fryer

If you're looking for a compact air fryer that saves space on your counter and produces crispy fried texture with little or no oil, the Chefman Compact TurboFry™ Air Fryer is a great option.

Pros

• Achieve perfect fried results with little or even no oil
• Space-saving compact size perfect for any small kitchen, dorm, office, or RV trips
• Manual temperature control & 60-minute integrated timer lets you air-fry everything from frozen veggies to chicken

Cons

• The basket is small, so you may need to cook in batches for larger meals
• The non-stick coating may wear off after repeated use
• Some users have reported that the temperature control can be inconsistent

The Chefman Compact TurboFry™ Air Fryer is a great option for those looking for a healthier way to fry food. With a temperature range from 200°F - 400°F, you can cook at your desired temperature, achieving a healthy, crispy, fried finish using at least 98% less oil than traditional fryers.

One of the best features of this air fryer is its space-saving compact size. It's perfect for any small kitchen, dorm, office, RV trips, and more! The manual temperature control & 60-minute integrated timer lets you air-fry everything from frozen veggies to chicken.

However, the basket is small, so you may need to cook in batches for larger meals. Additionally, the non-stick coating may wear off after repeated use, and some users have reported that the temperature control can be inconsistent.

Overall, the Chefman Compact TurboFry™ Air Fryer is a great option for those looking for a healthier way to fry food in a compact and easy-to-use appliance.

Ninja Mini Air Fryer

If you're looking for a compact air fryer that can cook up to 1 lb. of French fries or 10 taquitos, the Ninja Mini Air Fryer might be the one for you. With its 2-qt. capacity and quick set timer, this air fryer is perfect for small spaces or quick cravings.

Pros

• The Ninja Mini Air Fryer is easy to use with its one easy temperature setting and quick set timer.
• It can cook your favorite foods from 1-60 minutes with the turn of the dial.
• The nonstick cooking basket and crisper plate make it easy to clean.

Cons

• The Ninja Mini Air Fryer has a small capacity, so it might not be suitable for larger families or people who want to cook bigger meals.
• It's not dishwasher safe, so you'll have to hand wash it.
• Some users have reported that the air fryer gets too hot and burns their food.

If you're looking for an air fryer that can cook small snacks quickly and easily, the Ninja Mini Air Fryer might be the one for you. Its compact size and easy-to-use features make it a great choice for people who don't have a lot of space in their kitchen. The one easy temperature setting and quick set timer make it easy to cook your favorite foods, and the nonstick cooking basket and crisper plate make it easy to clean. However, if you have a larger family or want to cook bigger meals, this air fryer might not be suitable for you. Additionally, some users have reported that the air fryer gets too hot and burns their food, so you might want to keep an eye on it while it's cooking.

Philips Essential Airfryer

If you're looking for a compact air fryer that can do more than just fry, the Philips Essential Airfryer is a great option. With its patented "starfish" design and digital touch screen, this air fryer can grill, roast, bake, and even reheat your food with up to 90% less fat.

Pros

• The "starfish" design ensures even cooking and crispy results with little to no added oil.
• The digital touch screen has 7 presets to make cooking easy and a keep warm function to ensure your food is ready when you are.
• The compact design minimizes counter space while still allowing you to cook up to 4 portions of food at once.

Cons

• The capacity may not be enough for larger families or those who like to cook in bulk.
• The air fryer can be noisy during operation.
• The price point may be higher than other compact air fryers on the market.

In my experience using the Philips Essential Airfryer, I found that it lived up to its claims of producing crispy and delicious food with little to no added oil. The digital touch screen was easy to use and the presets made cooking a breeze. The compact design was perfect for my small kitchen, but the capacity may not be enough for those who need to cook for larger families or like to cook in bulk.

Overall, if you're looking for a compact air fryer that can do more than just fry, the Philips Essential Airfryer is a great option. Its patented "starfish" design ensures even cooking and crispy results, while the digital touch screen and presets make cooking easy. However, the capacity may not be enough for larger families or those who like to cook in bulk, and the price point may be higher than other compact air fryers on the market.

Chefman Small Compact Air Fryer Healthy Cooking

If you're looking for a compact air fryer that is easy to use and clean, the Chefman Turbofry Black is a great option.

Pros

• The 2-quart capacity is perfect for single serving preparations.
• The Turbofry Black allows you to create culinary masterpieces in minutes without the mess and stress of traditional frying methods.
• The included frying basket and tray make for versatile meals with a simple cleanup process, as both are dishwasher safe.

Cons

• The maximum cook time of 60 minutes may not be long enough for some recipes.
• The lack of digital temperature controls and timer may be a downside for some users.
• The size may be too small for larger families.

The Chefman Turbofry Black is a great option for those who want to enjoy their favorite fried foods without the extra fat and calories. With up to 98% less oil – or even no oil – you can achieve the same crunchy, satisfying results. The rubber handle on the frying basket makes it easy to glide in and out of position without ever coming in contact with heated elements, and the power and heat indicator lights provide added safety.

The Turbofry Black is also easy to clean and store, with a dishwasher-safe cooking tray and basket. Its sleek, space-saving design makes for a beautiful addition on any countertop, but also stores easily for later use.

Overall, if you're looking for a compact air fryer that is easy to use and clean, the Chefman Turbofry Black is a great option. Its supreme space-saving design and healthy cooking options make it a must-have for anyone looking to enjoy delicious, guilt-free meals.

Fabuletta Air Fryer

If you're looking for a compact air fryer that can cook food quickly and efficiently, the Fabuletta Air Fryer is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Enjoy meals in minutes with 360° Rapid Air Circulation Technology and 450°F industry-leading temperatures, allowing you to cook food 30% faster than other air fryers with up to 85% less oil.
• With Even Crisp Technology and Thermo IQ Technology, you can achieve perfect golden finish, crispy and tender results with evenly cooked meals.
• Large advanced digital screen features 9 preset modes and customizable time and temperature settings for a variety of air-fried recipes.

Cons

• The Fabuletta Air Fryer has a strong smell during the initial use, which may require a few rounds of lemon cleaning to get rid of.
• The Power button may malfunction occasionally and require unplugging the unit to stop.
• The square design basket may not fit all types of food as well as a round design.

The Fabuletta Air Fryer is a great space-saving option with a large 4 QT capacity that can fit a 10 chicken wings or 1.5 Pounds of french fries and serves a family of at 2-4 people. The removable nonstick basket with food-graded material is dishwasher safe, PFOA Free and BPA free. The non-slip feet design provides safety and stability during cooking, and the memory function allows you to continue the original process when you put the basket back.

Overall, the Fabuletta Air Fryer is a reliable and customizable air fryer that can help you prepare delicious meals quickly and efficiently.

Oster Compact Countertop Oven With Air Fryer

If you're looking for a versatile appliance that can save you valuable counter space, the Oster Compact Countertop Oven with Air Fryer is a great choice.

Pros

• This appliance combines four kitchen appliances in one compact design, including a convection oven, air fryer, toaster, and broiler.
• With 99.5% less oil compared to 3.7L deep fryers, you can make all of your favorite fried dishes healthier, and even turn vegetables into delicious, crunchy snacks.
• The oven has independent dial controls for temperature, cook functions, and timer settings, as well as Turbo Convection Technology to cook food faster and brown more evenly than conventional ovens.

Cons

• The toaster function may not work as well as dedicated toasters, and the toast setting may require some trial and error to get right.
• The inside of the oven may be smaller than expected, and may not fit larger items like a whole chicken.
• Some users have reported that the oven's racks may be difficult to remove and clean.

In my experience, the Oster Compact Countertop Oven with Air Fryer is a great appliance for those who want to save counter space without sacrificing functionality. The air fryer function works well and makes delicious, crispy food with less oil, and the other functions are easy to use and produce good results. However, the toaster function may require some experimentation to get right, and the oven may not be large enough for some users' needs. Overall, if you're looking for a versatile appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, the Oster Compact Countertop Oven with Air Fryer is definitely worth considering.

DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Digital Air Fryer

If you're looking for a compact air fryer that can cook your favorite fried foods with less oil and less hassle, then the DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Digital Air Fryer is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The AirCrisp® technology helps reduce added fat by 70-80%, without sacrificing the flavor of your fried food.
• The digital interface allows for maximum control over time and temperature, from 200-400°F and up to 60 minutes, and the three saved preset buttons make it easy to choose and save your favorite cooking settings.
• The auto-shut off function prevents overcooking, and the cool touch housing and handle makes it safer to use.

Cons

• The 2.6 qt capacity might not be enough for larger families or bigger meals.
• The plastic construction might not be as durable as other materials.
• The lack of a recipe book might be a downside for those who are new to air frying.

In my experience, the DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Digital Air Fryer is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy crispy fried food without the added fat and calories. The AirCrisp® technology works really well, and the digital interface is easy to use and customize. The auto-shut off function is also a nice safety feature, especially if you're cooking for kids or pets.

That being said, the 2.6 qt capacity might not be enough for larger families or bigger meals, so keep that in mind if you're looking for a more versatile air fryer. Also, the plastic construction might not be as durable as other materials, so be careful when handling and cleaning the unit. Finally, the lack of a recipe book might be a downside for those who are new to air frying, but there are plenty of online resources and cookbooks available to help you get started.

Overall, I would definitely recommend the DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Digital Air Fryer to anyone who wants a compact and convenient air fryer that delivers delicious results every time.

Buying Guide

When choosing a compact air fryer, it is important to consider several factors to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look at:

Capacity

The capacity of an air fryer is an important factor to consider. If you are cooking for a small family or just for yourself, a compact air fryer with a capacity of 2-3 quarts may be sufficient. However, if you plan to cook for larger groups, you may want to consider a larger capacity air fryer.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is another important feature to consider. Look for an air fryer that allows you to set the temperature to the desired level. This will ensure that your food is cooked evenly and to the desired level of doneness.

Cooking Options

Some compact air fryers offer additional cooking options such as baking, grilling, and roasting. If you want a versatile appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, look for an air fryer that offers these additional cooking options.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Look for an air fryer that is easy to use and clean. Features such as a non-stick coating and dishwasher-safe parts can make cleaning a breeze. Additionally, look for an air fryer with intuitive controls that are easy to navigate.

Safety Features

Safety features such as automatic shut-off and overheat protection are important to ensure that your air fryer is safe to use. Look for an air fryer that offers these safety features to ensure that you can cook with peace of mind.

Overall, when choosing a compact air fryer, consider your specific needs and look for a product that offers the features that are most important to you. By doing so, you can ensure that you get the best product for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the smallest most efficient air fryer?

The smallest and most efficient air fryer currently available on the market is the Dash Compact Air Fryer. It has a capacity of 1.2 liters and can cook up to 2 servings of food at once. It is also highly energy-efficient, using only 1000 watts of power.

What is the best compact air fryer for a small kitchen?

The best compact air fryer for a small kitchen is the Philips HD9641/96 Avance Digital Turbostar Airfryer. It has a capacity of 0.8 liters and can cook up to 2 servings of food at once. It also has a compact design that makes it easy to store in small spaces.

Are compact air fryers worth it?

Yes, compact air fryers are definitely worth it. They are a healthier alternative to deep-frying and can cook a variety of foods quickly and efficiently. They are also easy to use and clean, making them a great addition to any kitchen.

What are some good small air fryers?

Some good small air fryers include the Dash Compact Air Fryer, Philips HD9641/96 Avance Digital Turbostar Airfryer, and the Ninja Air Fryer. These air fryers are all highly efficient and can cook a variety of foods quickly and easily.

Which is better: Dash Compact Air Fryer or Ninja Air Fryer?

Both the Dash Compact Air Fryer and Ninja Air Fryer are great options, but the best one for you will depend on your specific needs. The Dash Compact Air Fryer is more energy-efficient and has a smaller capacity, while the Ninja Air Fryer has a larger capacity and more advanced features.

Where can I find the best deals on small air fryers?

The best deals on small air fryers can be found on Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, as these retailers often offer great deals on air fryers.