Top 9 Best Air Fryers for 2 People (Small Family) in 2024 [Tested & Reviewed by Kitchen Experts]

Are you also a cooking enthusiast or a busy individual seeking a convenient and efficient cooking solution? Look no further!

We at Air Fryer Mag bring you the best air fryer for 2 people tailored specifically according to the needs of small households, delivering delightful meals without compromising taste, flavor, and texture.

So, embrace a healthier lifestyle with our top picks, designed to cater to students, couples, and individuals alike. Elevate your culinary solution and savor guilt-free indulgence with the perfect air fryer companion for your small kitchen.

Let’s dive into the world of wholesome and flavorful cooking- read on to find your ideal air fryer match!

1. Philips HD9741/99 4.1QT Digital Air Fryer – Top Pick

Philips has made it to the top of our list for its generous capacity, terrific features, and incredible cooking results. Being the pioneer of air fryers, Philips did not disappoint us the whole time we tested this kitchen appliance.

Philips air fryer is one of the kindest cooking gadgets we have encountered. Coming in the plastic construction and non-stick coating, it manages to look great on the kitchen countertop. But we still have doubts about its durability and lifespan.

But when we shed light on its capacity, we believe it is enough to prepare meals for two people. The small family or a couple living alone can benefit from this technology, easily preparing snacks and even main dishes to cut at the dine-outs and takeaways.

The 4.1-capacity basket can easily cater to a large number of chicken wings, fish filets, French fries, kebabs, and more food items. Cooking in this small air fryer, you don’t have to indulge in the effort of batch cooking because it can cater to you with significant food servings.

The best thing about the Philips air fryer is its ability to consume little to no oil when air frying food items, making it the healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

Moreover, the fat removal technology captures excess fat and makes meals healthier for conscious individuals. It also gets instantly hot, reducing the preheating time and turning the frozen items into a golden crisp.

The rapid air technology saves time and effort in the kitchen. Still, the multi-cooking technology makes the whole cooking spicier by allowing you to not only try air fry but also give you the opportunity to bake, grill, roast, and reheat the food.

Yes, the 4 cooking presets in the same device is nothing short of cost-saving and an amazing thing in the kitchen. It eliminates the need to rely on different appliances that consume space and energy.

Lastly, the digital control system on the simple interface makes this device accessible to everyone. Whether new to the air fryer machine or have been using it for a while, the Quick control dial set helps you easily manage the timer and temperature to promote easy usage.

We couldn’t believe how easy it was to clean. Even though the coating is non-stick, the dishwasher-safe components simplify the cleaning process for busy couples and households.

Compared to other mini air fryers, we have had a great experience with this multipurpose and budget-friendly air fryer, designed specifically for small households and little portion servings.

Verdict

Philips Air fryer with fat removal technology is the ultimate cooking companion for modern households. Its sleek and compact profile effortlessly blends into small kitchens, and its versatility lets you discover the world of culinary possibilities at the most reasonable price.

2. DASH 2 Quart Compact Air Fryer Oven

Our next masterpiece is from Dash, a well-known place for high-quality air fryers. This compact device is not an exception in keeping up the Dash name, and we’re pretty much impressed by its quick and flavorful performance.

If you’re searching for an effective and reliable small air fryer that perfectly fits the requirements of busy couples, students, or individuals who are focusing on their healthy diet, then this piece is definitely made for you.

It harnesses the power of AirCrisp technology that reduces added fat by an impressive 70-80% while retaining the mouthwatering flavor of your favorite meals. This air fryer has covered you whether you’re craving crispy wings, golden fries, or baked goods.

Designed with small families’ needs in mind, the Dash small air fryer comes equipped with a 2-quart basket capacity, ideal for preparing meals of 1-2 servings. From quick weekday dinners to weekend cravings, this air fryer easily accommodates culinary desires.

Also, if you’re a newbie, you must be worried about overcooking your favorite meals, right? No worries anymore because the air fryer has an auto shut-off safety function that automatically turns off the device once the cooking time is up.

Besides, the cool-touch housing and handle make it a breeze to handle, allowing you to focus on your cooking creations without any safety concerns.

Don’t let its compact size fool you, and this air fryer packs a punch when it comes to versatility. From appetizers to desserts, there’s no limit to the range of dishes you can create.

Moreover, the Dash air fryer is not only easy to use but also easy to clean. Its dishwasher-safe components make it a breeze for busy people to get the whole post-cooking process smooth.

Another standout thing about this air fryer we liked the most is its manual temperature and timer controls. Unlike Philips, it gives you full control of your cooking style with no complicated settings and navigation buttons.

Plus, it comes with a recipe book, giving you more room to try new things every day and get creative in the kitchen. However, the one thing that many chefs didn’t like was that once the timer is set, you can’t navigate or stop even if your food is already ready. Other than that, it is a must-have for small families.

Verdict

Dash compact air fryer is the ideal kitchen companion with user-friendly manual controls, AirCrisp technology, easy cleaning, and a compact profile. It is easy to use and store when not in use, and compared to other rivals, its performance is quite better at a reasonable price.

It is a must-try at this stage of revolutionized kitchen appliances!

3. BELLA 2.9 QT 5-in-1 Manual Air Fryer Oven

For the love of manual controls and aesthetic kitchen appliances, we introduce you to this visually appealing and user-friendly cooking gadget that is ready to transform your cooking experience at home.

Bella 2.9-quart air fryer is one of the eye-pleasing and fast cooking appliances that will leave you wondering about its other qualities, especially how it replaces other kitchen appliances and makes room in your everyday life.

It comes in a Matte white color and plastic construction that is also durable and reliable for the cooking gadget. It may get hot after the intense cooking sessions, but it won’t harm the appliance.

The interface is also easy, with a manual Dial knob that saves you from complicated navigation. The simple knob makes cooking easy while keeping the timer and temperature range at your fingertips.

Moving on to the capacity, we believe a 2.9-quart basket should be enough to prepare food servings for 2 people. This mini air fryer basket can cater to fish sticks, sausages, French fries, nuggets, chicken balls, thighs, and other food items for everyday occasions.

Its small size may fool you, but this masterpiece can do beyond air frying. This 5-in-1 multi cooker lets you air fry, broil, bake, roast, reheat the leftovers, and taste freshly made. So if you’re a busy bee, all these presets can make your life smooth and easy and help you save money from dine-outs.

But that’s not it. Health-conscious individuals can also trust this cooking machine because it promises guilt-free meals with 88% less fat and 65% fewer calories than a typical restaurant and traditional cooking.

Post-cooking is not hectic as the dishwasher-safe non-stick basket makes the cleaning breeze. Deep cleaning is also recommended once in a while to maintain its long lifespan, and cleaning the heating element and inside the air fryer wouldn’t require hassle or special knowledge.

However, you should follow the safety protocols during the cleaning process. Avoid putting metal in the air fryer and the components that are not air fryer-safe. Also, many people complain about the plastic smell issue after using the fryer a few times.

On the brighter side, these issues are manageable if you refer to the user manual or read our detailed guides. But unlike the Dash compact fryer, it lacks safety functions which is a big turn-off for me.

Verdict

All in all, the Bella 5-in-1 air fryer helps you unleash your culinary creativity and provide you with guilt-free food items with little to no oil to maintain your healthy lifestyle. Its standout features are user-friendly manual controls and rapid air circulation, even when it lacks safety controls.

Its affordable price, small size, easy cleaning, and versatility make it the best kitchen companion in this modern age of kitchen appliances.

4. Chefman 3.6 QT Small Air Fryer

As an avid chef and Chefman fan, I couldn’t resist testing this incredible mini air fryer designed specifically for individuals and couples wanting a healthy lifestyle while not disappointing their taste buds with fewer fried items.

This air fryer definitely brings convenience, versatility, and a touch of elegance to any kitchen, considering its small footprint and attractive appearance in matte black.

Besides, it is equipped with a small 3.6-quart capacity, which should be enough to whip up flavorful items for small households. Whether you want a quick snack for supper or want to prepare breakfast for the go, this air fryer is designed to cover all your cooking needs.

Its 2-in-1 tank and basket design further maximize the cooking capacity while maintaining a small footprint, allowing chefs to save space in the kitchen countertop. It also helps with comfortable storage in cabinets when not in use.

The best thing about the Chefman air fryer is the dual knob controls and a 60-minute integrated timer. The adjustable controls put you in charge of your cooking creations, and the straightforward interface makes it easy for anyone to control the machine.

Additionally, health-conscious people can embrace a healthy lifestyle even while cooking with this air fryer, as it consumes at least 98% less oil than traditional fryers. So, indulge in guilt-free crispy vegetables, mini pizzas, Fries, wings, and leftovers while reducing your overall oil consumption.

The integrated rapid air circulation system ensures the food is perfectly cooked and leaves no room for errors, like undercooked meals. However, you may take some time to get used to the manual controls and 60-minute non-adjustable timer.

On the brighter side, when it comes to cleaning the air fryer, we loved that part. It was absolutely hassle-free, thanks to the non-stick easy-to-remove basket. We opt to wash the residue with warm water and soap, but you can take the help of a dishwasher if you’re in a hurry.

So, why wait to experience the joy of perfectly cooked meals with the air fryer featuring an adjustable temperature range from 200-400F? This range is ideal for preparing a variety of meals, including seafood, chicken tenders, potato wedges, or even desserts.

However, compared to other air fryers at this price, we were shocked not to see programmable features and cooking presets in the unit. Many new chefs find the cooking presets helpful for specific recipes.

But its generous capacity for two people, excellent frying performance, and user-friendly controls overcome the drawbacks.

Verdict

In short, Chefman’s small air fryer is an ideal addition to small kitchens and households of 1 or 2. Its space-saving profile, efficient cooking performance, and easy post-cleaning make it stand out despite some noticeable drawbacks.

5. Cosori 2.1 Qt 4-in-1 Small Air Fryer Oven

Now introducing, the Cosori small air fryer, known as the market leader product, has captured our attention with its alluring design, user-friendly controls, and cutting-edge cooking technology.

Its compact size isn’t the only quality we adore this air fryer; it delivers impeccable cooking results- crispy exteriors and perfectly cooked tender insides. It can prepare a great quantity of food with a drop of oil, ultimately making the meals healthier than the restaurants and traditional ways.

Its 2.1-quart basket capacity may seem modest to many, but it is surprisingly spacious, making it ideal for singles, couples, students, and busy small households. If you’re living alone and want to cut time in the kitchen, this air fryer can also be relied on for main dishes.

Additionally, the user-friendly panel with a temperature display and labeled buttons ensure seamless operation, enhancing overall cooking efficiency. We are impressed by the small footprint and comfortable controls for busy people who can’t seem to waste time on complexities.

Also, with 1300W of heating elements and built-in rapid air circulation, this cooking gadget guarantees evenly cooked interiors and golden-brown exteriors. Versatility is its forte, with a temperature range from 170 to 400F, empowering you to experiment with various culinary delights.

Furthermore, silent operation is an unexpected yet appreciated surprise, making the Cosori mini air fryer a safer and more pleasant alternative to traditional noisy frying methods.

Its cutting-edge fast air-circulation technology guarantees superior cooking results, evenly distributing heat for 90% less oil and crispier exteriors.

However, cooking meals may take slightly longer and have fewer culinary options than some modern models; its efficacy and efficiency make it a worthwhile investment. So, trust this little culinary powerhouse to transform your cooking experience for the better.

Verdict

The Cosori Small Air Fryer is far ahead of the competition when we talk about performance, appearance, and energy consumption. It is worth having cooking gadgets in small kitchens for its versatility, price, and convenience.

6. Ultrean 4.2 Quart Electric Hot Air Fryer

The next we have is the very famous and reliable Ultran 4.2-quart air fryer which is making noise in the market as the kitchen powerhouse and giving hard times to the rivals like Dash and Chefman.

It comes as a healthy solution to consuming fried items and making cooking easy for busy people. It also lets you enjoy splatter-free safe cooking at home no matter what you want and allows you to effortlessly satisfy your taste buds with its tender and crispy cooking results.

The air fryer is equipped with a 4.2-quart basket, which we believe is enough to prepare enough meals for small households like 2 individuals. It should cater to the cooking needs by providing a significant amount of portion size, so you save time and never go back to traditional ways of cooking.

It not only makes cooking a breeze with generous capacity, but operating the cooking gadget is also seamless with an LCD screen and adjustable temperature and timer controls at the front.

There are four easy-to-navigate buttons with clear signs of operation, giving you full control over your culinary creations. The temperature ranging from 180-400F opens doors for endless cooking possibilities, so you never run out of options when you step into the kitchen.

Like the Dash compact air fryer, it also has some safety controls, including overheating protection and an auto switch-off timer (0-30 minutes), giving you safety and precision in every dish.

We were lucky to use it for our favorite fried meals, like Turkey bacon and fish sticks. We were not surprised by how crispy and tender they were, let alone cooked to perfection while reducing our oil intake.

We can also vouch for its versatility, allowing us to grill, bake, roast, and air fryer using the rapid air circulation technology and integrated controls.

However, the one noticeable drawback of the air fryer is pre-programmed settings, forcing you to adjust settings for the specific recipes manually. It comes with much guesswork and practice, but once you get used to the controls and understand their precisions, there’s no going back.

On the other hand, the best thing is convenient cleaning after the whole tiring cooking process. If you’re an individual or a busy working couple who wants to cut time in the kitchen, this machine is ideal with non-stick components, giving you a free hand to use the dishwasher for cleaning.

And if we compare the Ultrean to other big names like Chefman’s small air fryer and Dash compact fryer, its big capacity stands out, and the overheating protection offers added peace of mind while cooking at home.

Verdict

The Ultrean 4.2-quart fryer is a terrific choice for small families, couples, and individuals seeking a healthier and more convenient way to cook their favorite fried dishes at home. Its generous capacity, affordable price tag, precise controls, and seamless cleaning protocol makes it the best choice.

7. Ninja AF101 4 QT Air Fryer

We can’t resist mentioning Ninja when we highlight the top Air fryer brands. It is the oldest yet most reliable place to get kitchen appliances, and its air fryer is no exception. We have this Ninja AF101 air fryer which is not only perfect for small families, but its versatility adds life to boring kitchens and dining rooms.

We can always count on the Ninja air fryers for juicy steaks and perfectly made sausages for breakfast. From crispy fries to tender wings, it gets you covered and satisfies your taste buds at any time of the day.

The Ninja fryer is equipped with a 4-quart capacity which should be enough to prepare meal servings for up to 3 people. Couples or even individuals can count on this fryer for everyday meals, including main dishes.

Also, individuals and couples can take advantage of the capacity to make a variety of dishes in one batch. It saves energy, reduces cooking time, and lets you get creative with the recipes in the kitchen.

Another thing that caught our attention is its user-friendly interface that simplifies the operation. Even though it makes noise while preparing meals which can disturb many people like us, its straightforward profile and amazing results make you compromise on this minor inconvenience.

Also, unlike Cosori, it has a digital interface that makes the controlling a touch away. Whether you want to adjust the temperature or set the timer, you just have to touch the respective button, and boom!

Thanks to the wide temperature range of 105 to 400F, it gives you full control of the recipes and allows you to customize them to give them your taste and feel. Its minimum temperature range is better than Ultrean, giving you well-cooked meals.

But that’s not it. The amazing thing about the air fryer is its multi-functionality. Yes, it can do more than frying, and the wide temperature range with some pre-programmed settings lets you roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate stuff.

Lastly, post-cooking cleaning is not a problem with Ninja air fryers. Its ceramic construction only requires a damp cloth swipe to shine like a new one. Besides, the removable basket is dishwasher-safe, so it reduces the hassle. But, for the deep cleaning of the Ninja air fryer oven, you must be careful with the products.

Also, the downside of the air fryer is its bulky profile, which sometimes makes it hard to maintain on the kitchen countertop and deep clean. Also, despite the bulky profile, the limited capacity inside is a bit irritating to me. Other than that, it is a piece of great investment for kitchens.

Verdict

Ninja AF101 multifunctional air fryer has become a go-to cooking gadget in modern small households. Its spacious 4-quart capacity and intuitive controls offer a seamless, time-saving cooking experience at home.

8. Magic Bullet MBA50100 2.5 Quarts Air Fryer

This small 2.5-quart air fryer is a simple piece of technology that can quickly give you snacks and your favorite meals in no time. It is a versatile kitchen wonder that caters perfectly to couples, individuals, and students alike who want to eat healthy while saving time and cost.

With a 2.5-liter capacity, the Magic Bullet air fryer strikes the ideal balance between compact design and ample space. Ideal for small households or solo chefs, it effortlessly prepares flavorful meals without occupying much space in the kitchen, as Ninja AF101 does.

Additionally, crafted with a premium combination of aluminum and plastic materials, this air fryer exudes durability and reliability, ensuring it remains a steadfast companion in your small kitchen for years.

The best thing about this best air fryer is the wide temperature range that gives you the benefit of precise cooking results. The wide range of 180 to 500F allows endless customization to the recipes for making meals to perfection.

So, whether you’re planning to air fry, roast, reheat, or even bake your favorite muffins or cupcakes, this cooking gadget can help you achieve tremendous and flavorful results easily.

Moving forward to the other highlighting features of the Magic Bullet, the 60-minute timer is worth mentioning. It is a game-changer while cooking, giving complete control over the cooking process and eliminating the guesswork.

When the meal is cooked, and the timer is up, the air fryer notifies you with the noisy beep, saving you time to keep monitoring the dishes in the kitchen. This way, you can multitask or perhaps take a quick nap while preparing dinners.

Yes, because the compelling chamber of the fryer circulates heat 360 degrees, ensuring every nook and cranny of your food is evenly cooked and crisped. So, why waste time and enjoy irresistibly crunchy exteriors with succulent interiors all in record time?

Furthermore, despite the easy operation, its sleek design and practicality extend its cooking capabilities. The compact size and efficient cooking technology make it a perfect fit for any kitchen, dorm room, or small living space.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Magic Bullet mini air fryer is the epitome of convenience, efficacy, and flavor-packed cooking. Whether you’re a single adventurer, or a couple seeking a way to prepare delicious and healthy meals in less time, this air fryer delivers exactly what you’re looking for!

9. GoWISE USA Electric Mini Air Fryer with Digital Touchscreen

Last, we introduce you to this Electric Mini air fryer from the renowned brand, GoWISE. It is one of the great air fryers tailored to meet the culinary needs of individuals, couples, and anyone seeking wholesome cooking.

With a small capacity of 1.7 quarts, this portable air fryer is designed to fit seamlessly into any kitchen, dorm, and limited space. It’s the ideal size for preparing meals for two, making it a perfect budget air fryer for small households.

Additionally, the air fryer features adjustable temperature and timer controls to give you complete control over your recipes and cooking style. The 60-minute timer takes care of the meals while you finish other home chores, and the temperature range of 180F-400F opens endless cooking opportunities.

With this mini cooking appliance, you can embrace a healthy lifestyle as it consumes little to no oil and gives you crunchy, crispy, and delicious cooking results. Whether air frying vegetables, toasting bread, or reheating leftovers, it won’t disappoint you ever.

Also, navigating through cooking presets and adjusting settings is a breeze with the digital touchscreen interface. This seamless feature makes operating the fryer a delight, even for those new to smart air frying.

Moreover, enjoy the convenience of 5 built-in cooking presets. They take the guesswork out, allowing you to make various dishes with just a touch of a button. You will get air fry, toast, reheat, keep warm, and freeze food dehydration in a single appliance.

Verdict

In conclusion, the GoWISE Electric air fryer is a game-changer for anyone seeking a small, versatile, and efficient cooking companion. Its almost 2-quart capacity, user-friendly presets, and wide temperature range makes it stand out. But affordable price still becomes its highlight.

Best Air Fryer for 2 People Buying Guide

Choosing the best air fryer for a household of two requires consideration of specific factors to ensure a well-suited and efficient appliance.

With various options available, focusing on key features that cater to your cooking needs and lifestyle is essential. This comprehensive buying guide will help you understand the vital aspects when selecting the ideal air fryer for two people.

Capacity

A smaller air fryer is sufficient for a household of two. Look for an air fryer with around 2 to 3 liters or 3 to 4 quarts. This size ensures you can prepare enough food for two without excessive leftovers.

Functionality

Versatility remains important, even for a smaller air fryer. Opt for models that offer multiple cooking functions, such as air frying, baking, and grilling. Various cooking options allow you to experiment with different recipes and enjoy delicious meals.

Heating Technology

Advanced heating technologies, like convection or rapid air technology, are still beneficial for smaller air fryers. These technologies provide even cooking, crisp results, and reduced oil usage for healthier meals.

User-Friendly Controls

 Look for an air fryer with intuitive controls, adjustable temperature settings, and easy-to-read timers. A user-friendly interface makes cooking enjoyable and hassle-free, perfect for two people who want a quick and straightforward cooking experience.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Easy cleaning is important for any air fryer, including those for two people. Models with dishwasher-safe components and non-stick surfaces simplify the post-cooking cleanup process, saving you time and effort.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority regardless of household size. Ensure the air fryer you choose has essential safety features like overheating protection and an automatic shut-off function for worry-free cooking.

Reviews and Ratings

Before purchasing, check customer reviews and ratings for the air fryer models you are interested in. Real-life experiences from other users will give you valuable insights into the appliance’s performance and reliability.

Size and Storage

Consider the physical size of the air fryer and whether it fits well in your kitchen space. If storage is a concern, look for compact models that are easy to store when not in use.

Price and Warranty

Compare prices across different models and brands to find an air fryer that fits your budget. Additionally, consider units with warranties to ensure peace of mind and protection against potential defects.

Finding the best air fryer for two people involves considering factors like capacity, functionality, heating technology, user-friendly controls, cleaning, safety features, reviews, size, and warranty. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision and enjoy delicious and healthy meals with your air fryer for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Finding an air fryer for two people doesn’t have to be daunting. With our carefully curated selection of top-tier products, individuals and couples can now embark on a flavorful journey of healthy meals at home.

Say goodbye to excessive oil consumption and welcome a lifestyle every health conscious individual craves. Take advantage of the restaurant-style meals at home while saving big on the budget.

Enjoy cooking!