Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Our top picks deliver big flavor and healthy cooking with minimal counter space.
Craving crispy fries, wings, or veggies without the guilt or grease? Compact air fryers are kitchen game-changers, using hot air circulation to mimic deep frying with just a spritz of oil. In 2025, these pint-sized powerhouses are sleeker, smarter, and more efficient than ever, perfect for apartments, dorms, or any cramped countertop.
With skyrocketing demand for healthy, quick meals, compact air fryers matter more than ever—they save time, reduce cleanup, and fit seamlessly into modern lifestyles. We tested dozens of models based on real-world performance: crisping ability, even cooking, ease of use, capacity for 1-4 servings, energy efficiency, and durability. Factors like preset programs, noise levels, and dishwasher-safe parts were key differentiators.
From ultra-budget steals under $50 to premium brands over $120, our selection covers every buyer: solo cooks, small families, tech-savvy users, and value hunters. Whether you prioritize digital displays, viewing windows, or max capacity in a tiny footprint, we've got the perfect compact air fryer to elevate your meals.
The Ninja AF101 excels with its versatile 4 cooking functions—air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate—in a super-compact design that punches above its size. It delivers consistently crispy results with minimal oil, and the ceramic nonstick basket wipes clean effortlessly. Ideal for daily use, it's our top recommendation for balanced performance and reliability.
Dash Tasti-Crisp proves you don't need to spend big for great air frying, offering rapid air technology for crunchy favorites in a tiny package. Its simple one-touch operation and lightweight build make it beginner-friendly, while the included recipe book adds value. Perfect entry-level pick without skimping on taste.
Our Editor's Choice, the Cosori Pro II stands out with 12 presets, shake reminders, and app connectivity for guided cooking in a sleek, compact form. It maximizes capacity without bulk, cooking up to 5 servings evenly, and its premium build ensures longevity. Unique smart features make it a standout for tech-forward kitchens.
For the tiniest counters, the Instant Vortex Mini shines with 4-in-1 functions and odor-reducing filters in a 2-quart basket that's smaller than a microwave drawer. It preheats lightning-fast and crisps single servings perfectly. A lifesaver for RVs, dorms, or minimalists craving convenience.
Dreo Smart wows with an intuitive touchscreen, 50+ recipes via app, and stellar crisping power in a quiet, compact unit. Its square basket optimizes space for batches, and auto-shutoff adds safety. Excellent mid-range choice blending smarts and simplicity.
The Philips Essential brings pro-level Rapid Air tech for fat-reduced cooking (up to 90% less oil) in a premium matte finish with 7 presets. Its durable construction and even heat distribution justify the splurge for superior results. Top-tier for those investing in long-term quality.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Ninja AF101 Air Fryer (4-Quart) Rank #1 | 🏆 Top Pick | N/A | Check price |
Dash Tasti-Crisp Air Fryer (2.6-Quart) Rank #2 | 💰 Budget Pick | N/A | Check price |
Cosori Pro II Air Fryer 5.5-Quart CP358-AF Rank #3 | ⭐ Editor's Choice | N/A | Check price |
Instant Vortex Mini 2-Quart Air Fryer Rank #4 | — | N/A | Check price |
Dreo Smart Air Fryer 4.7-Quart DR-AF330UK Rank #5 | — | N/A | Check price |
Philips Essential Airfryer Compact HD9252/91 4.1 Quart Rank #6 | — | N/A | Check price |
