Best 8 Small Air Fryers for One Person according to 6 Factors

An air fryer allows you to make some tasty and healthy meals at home. But, most models seem to be made for families. This can be a little discouraging if you live alone and prefer something smaller.

A small air fryer is more energy-efficient and cost-effective for one person. Also, if you are a student, it takes up less space, making it perfect for your dorm, or you may want to cook with an air fryer in your RV when camping. And the good news is that there are still many good air fryer models for one person. You just need to find one that works for you.

So which is the best air fryer for one person?

We have asked 40 air fryer users from our Facebook Forum to give us their opinion. Plus, we did our independent research and tested several models. We will use this data to bring you a roundup of the best air fryers for one person. Also, we give you a few one-person air fryer recipes. So make sure you read to the end!

What is the Best Size Air Fryer for One Person?

Any 2 to 5-quart air fryer should be good enough for one person. But the right capacity still depends on what you want to cook, and if you don’t have too much budget, there are also many cheap air fryers. 

2-quart or smaller air fryers are perfect for making small portions of fries and a few wings, small air fryers are usually low wattage air fryers, and they are perfect for college students. The 5-quart model will be perfect for cooking a whole chicken.

The 1 to 2-quart air fryers can be too small if you want to cook substantial meals. These air fryers are often better for reheating and warming food. They can still cook 1 or 2 portions but may serve you poorly. Plus, they are often not very powerful.

Any air fryer with a capacity larger than 5 quarts will be too big for one person. These air fryers will also be more expensive. And they take up a lot of counter space.

8 Best Air Fryer for One Person – Reviews

Picture	Best For	Main Features
	Best for Crisping Foods Check the Price	Timer & Auto shut-off Handy countertop design LED digital display
	Best for Dehydrating Check the Price	Larger 4Qt capacity Wide temperature range Ceramic coated basket
	Best for Odor-free Cooking Check the Price	Integrated Air Filtration system Larger 4Qt capacity Cool-touch handle
	Best Budget Air Fryer Check the Price	Customizable smart programs Fast preheating EvenCrisp Technology
	Best Multifunctional Air Fryer Check the Price	9 cooking functions Shake reminder Intuitive touchscreen
	Best Programmable Air Fryer Check the Price	Rapid air technology 8 cooking presets Handy cooking indicators
	Best Stainless Steel Air Fryer Check the Price	EvenCrisp technology 6-in-1 cooking functions Customizable cooking programs
	Best for Broiling Check the Price	High heat output -450°F 9 cooking functions Large 5Qt capacity

1. Amazon Basics 3.2 Quart Compact Multi-Functional Digital Air Fryer

If you are looking for a multifunctional air fryer that simplifies air frying, the Amazon Basics Air Fryer is a good choice. Besides air frying, it can also bake, roast, and grill. Plus, it is straightforward to use, thanks to the simple controls.

Pros

• Cooks foods more evenly
• Convenient to use under cabinets
• Shuts off automatically when done cooking
• Takes up little counter space
• Convenient cord management

Cons

• Temperature increments are only at 10°F
• The power button placement is not well thought out

Main Features

The Amazon Basics air fryer uses an intuitive LED interface. Plus, there at 7 different cooking functions. Each cooking function is also preset for a specific food type like fish, chicken, and steak. You can make some tasty golden brown chicken by pressing just one button.

Also, there is an accurate timer and auto shut-off feature. The two make it safe to operate and ensure your food does not overcook or burn. From our air frying experience, we have noticed that things like veggies are easy to overcook. But this is not a concern with this air fryer.

And the design is quite space-saving. You get an air fryer that can cook enough food for one person without using significant counter space. The air fryer also has a unique cord management feature. Any extra cord will tuck inside the back. This design keeps things neat and ensures safety.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

This air fryer can hold more food without taking up much space. The basket holds more food than other similar capacity models.

Plus, it makes foods crispier and healthier. You do not need to use much oil. For instance, you need less than 1 Tbsp of olive oil when air-frying french fries. Simply drizzle the oil on the fries, and they will get super crispy. You will need a little more than this with many other air fryers. 

2. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer

If you need an air fryer that goes beyond air frying, the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is perfect. It can also dehydrate, roast, and do much more.

Pros

• Supports at least 4 different cooking modes
• Wide temperature range for easy cooking customization
• Cleans up easily thanks to the ceramic coating
• Long enough power cord
• The exterior surface does not get hot when cooking

Cons

• Does not shut off automatically when you remove the basket
• Setting time/temperature can be a little awkward

Main Features

The Ninja AF101 is built for versatility. The model supports a wide temperature range between 100 and 400℉. The temperature goes low enough to slow-cook some fantastic beef roast and high enough to heat your leftover pizzas quickly.

Besides the wide temperature range, you also get a ceramic-coated basket. The ceramic coating prevents your pastries and chicken from sticking. Plus, the material does not add toxins or other stuff that will make your food taste awkward. 

And unlike most other one-person air fryers, it can hold a lot of food. The 4-quart capacity allows it to cook over 2 pounds of fries or chicken wings. We squeezed around 2 and a quarter pounds of french fries in there. But we should have probably stuck with the recommended 2-pound capacity. The basket was a little overcrowded, so some fries did not get very crispy.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

This air fryer is one of the few one-person models that can dehydrate foods. Making beef jerky at home should now be hassle-free. But the dehydration functions seem to make even better kale chips and dried herbs. 

The temperature and fan speed can go low enough to allow for dehydration. And you can have your tasty apple or kale chips ready in as little as 30 minutes. Most other air fryers would take several hours to dehydrate.

3. Elite Gourmet EAF4617 Electric Digital Hot Air Fryer

The Elite Gourmet EAF4617 ticks every important box. The air fryer is easy to use, versatile, and the perfect size for one person. Plus, the larger capacity ensures it can serve you well when you need to cook more food.

Pros

• Precise time/temperature adjustments
• Allows you to cook several portions in one batch
• Safe materials and design
• Compact and highly portable

Cons

• Initial plastic smell
• The timer cannot be adjusted once set

Main Features

The feature-rich Elite Gourmet air fryer will ensure an unforgettable cooking experience. For starters, it has a 4-quart capacity. There is enough space for over 3 pounds of chicken wings, and you can even squeeze a small chicken in there.

The Elite Gourmet air fryer has simple knobs that easily adjust time and temperature. You can adjust both precisely to suit any food you are cooking. But there are also 7 presets for common foods to make things even easier. We specifically love the baked preset. This function will ensure baking your muffins and small cakes is no longer hectic. Simply push the button, and you will have your perfectly baked muffins ready in as little as 15 minutes.

Safety is also at the heart of the design. Both the pan and rack are PFOA and PTFE-free. Also, they are dishwasher-safe for hassle-free cleanup.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

You never have to worry about food odors lingering in your home when air frying. This model has an integrated air filtration system to eliminate the smell. Cooking foods with strong smells, like fish, should not be an unpleasant experience.

Again the bake function gives this air fryer an edge over other models. Besides muffins, It will make some tasty doughnuts and other pastries within a few minutes. Better yet, you do not even have to do much. 

4. Instant Vortex 4-in-1, 2-QT Mini Air Fryer Oven Combo

The Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Mini Air Fryer Oven Combo is the cheapest model on our list. The model will be perfect if you want a one-person air fryer on a tight budget. Plus, the air fryer is also one of the most space-saving at just 11 inches wide.

Pros

• Highly affordable
• Makes foods extra crispy
• Easy and quick cleanup
• Relatively faster cooking
• More energy efficient

Cons

• No recipes included
• Instructions are not detailed enough for newbies

Main Features

We love Instant Vortex air fryers as they never disappoint. This 4-in-1 air fryer can bake, roast, and reheat food. But, what makes it stand out is the EvenCrisp Technology. The technology ensures your frozen sweet potato fries and cheese sticks always get crispier and golden brown.

The air fryer also has customizable smart programs. These programs will make everyday foods like veggies and wings easy to cook. You only need to push the right button. And the appliance will automatically set the time and temperature. 

Overall the air fryer is also super easy to clean up. The basket has a non-stick surface and is also dishwasher safe.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

This air fryer requires little to no preheating. It will speed up your cooking by shaving off several minutes from your total cooking time.

For instance, you can air fryer a portion of french fries or onion rings in as little as 15 minutes. Most other models require at least 18 to 20 minutes. You have to include 3 to 5 minutes for preheating.

5. Dreo Air Fryer 4 Quart Hot Oven Cooker

Dreo Air Fryer 4 Quart Hot Oven Cooker is built to cater to all your cooking needs. The multifunctional model will easily replace most of your kitchen appliances. 

Pros

• Incredibly easy to use with multiple presets
• Sleek and compact design
• Comes with some cool recipes
• Allows for odor-free cooking

Cons

• Controls can be a little confusing at first
• LED display is not very bright
• Instructions are a little skimpy

Main Features

This Dreo air fryer is perfect for you if you want maximum functionality. The 9 functions are the most we have seen so far in a one-person air fryer. Besides air frying, you can use it for baking small 8-inch cakes reheating your leftovers, and more. You will probably use it daily for most of your cooking.

Despite being a 4-quart model, it has a compact design. The space-saving body ensures it takes up little space. The Dreo air fryer will fit perfectly in kitchens with limited space. And at just 9.4 inches high, you should not have difficulties with storage. The height allows the appliance to fit perfectly under any standard kitchen cabinet.

The air fryer also has other convenient features that give it an edge. They include an intuitive touchscreen and simple knobs. The two make the operation almost effortless. 

Also, there is a shake reminder. We found the shake reminder quite useful when cooking tater tots. The function ensures the tater tots get evenly crispy as you never forget to toss them. It is easy to forget something cooking in an air fryer when busy with other stuff in the kitchen.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

This is a high-temperature air fryer. It can reach up to 450℉. Most other air fryers hardly go beyond 400℉. This makes it perfect for searing steaks. It will give the meat a perfect sear and lock in all the juices to make it more delightful.

The high temperature also allows for faster browning. Your chicken wings will get to that golden brown color faster than when using other air fryers.

6. GoWise USA 3.7-Quart Programmable Air Fryer

The GoWiseUSA 3.7-Quart Programmable Air Fryer will make air frying almost effortless. This programmable air fryer gives you presets for all common foods. This way, most of your cooking only requires you to push one button.

Pros

• Allows both auto and manual controls
• Easy monitoring with handy indicators
• Cooks fast with little preheating
• Excellent cooking results for both fresh and frozen foods

Cons

• The basket feels quite fragile
• Bad exhaust port location

Main Features

Like most high-performing air fryers, this GoWise model uses rapid air technology. The technology allows it to crisp foods perfectly. Plus, it cooks them more evenly without using too much oil. You can even skip the oil for some foods like breaded shrimp.

The programmable air fryer has 8 presets. You can use them for cooking common foods like fries and steak. And they are quite accurate. The presets get the time and temperature spot on. But you can still adjust the temperature manually from 170 to 400℉. This makes the air fryer perfect for you if you like trying recipes you get online.

You also get a digital screen and indicators with this air fryer. The digital screen makes operation and monitoring a breeze. The indicator lets you know when the food is ready. Plus, the air fryer also makes loud beeps to alert you when the cooking is complete.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

This air fryer is another model that cooks faster than most others. Its powerful 1400-watt heating element allows it to reach optimal cooking temperature fast. The little to no preheat time ensures you cook most foods in under 20 minutes.

Also, it holds more food than most other similar size air fryers. You can easily fit half a dozen chicken wings in a single layer and even more when layering them.

7. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1, 4QT Air Fryer Oven

The Instant Vortex Plus 4QT Air Fryer Oven has everything you can wish for in a one-person air fryer. It is highly versatile and has a larger capacity. The 1600-watt air fryer is the most powerful model in this review.

Pros

• More powerful
• Crisps with little to no oil
• Hassle-free operation
• Quieter operation

Cons

• The light stays on even in standby mode
• The initial smell is terrible

Main Features

This 6-in-1 air fryer will replace 6 different appliances in the kitchen. Besides air frying, you can use it as a broiler, dehydrator, and much more. It will save you space and cash by replacing all these appliances.

Also, like other Instant Vortex air fryers, it uses EvenCrisp technology. The technology ensures even cooking and crispier results. Better still, it reduces oil usage by up to 95%. You can cook super crispy sweet potato french fries or chicken thighs with only a tablespoon of olive oil.

Cooking should also be more hassle-free with the customizable presets. You can use them for cooking common foods like potatoes and cookies. You just need to press one button to make perfect chocolate chip cookies using your store-bought dough.

Also, this air fryer model will speed up cooking as it hardly needs any preheating. Plus, it comes with non-stick and dishwasher-safe accessories to simplify cleaning.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

This air fryer makes quick and delicious snacks. This makes it perfect for cooking appetizers and side dishes. You can make the tastiest and crispiest chicken wings and finger foods.

Most foods turn out crispier than when using other models. We love that foods like pizza get an extra crunchy crust. And this is regardless of whether you are cooking fresh pizza or reheating leftovers.

Plus, the more powerful 1600-watt heating element ensures everything cooks faster. Most of these air-fried snacks will take just 15 to 20 minutes.

8. Cosori 5 QT 9-in-1 Airfryer

The Cosori 5 QT 9-in-1 Airfryer is the largest capacity one-person air fryer in this review. You can cook enough food for 1 to 4 people. But it is still compact and space-saving. This air fryer will work perfectly for one person and still make cooking for guests easy.

Pros

• Larger capacity to cook more food in one batch
• Has an actual on/off button
• Gets hotter to speed up cooking
• Shuts off automatically when you remove the basket
• Super quiet operation

Cons

• The finish is not scratch or fingerprint-resistant
• Temperature is in 10°F increments

Main Features

The larger capacity is the highlight of this air fryer. But there is still more to the air fryer than this. For starters, it is a multifunctional 9-in-1 model. You can use the air fryer for cooking everything from frozen fries to steaks. 

Also, it reaches higher temperatures of up to 450°F. This makes it perfect for your high-heat cooking. You can quickly sear steaks and lock in all the juices. Also, the high temperature ensures more efficiency and allows it to cook up to 20% faster. Bacon takes under 8 minutes, and you can cook most veggies in around 10 minutes.

This air fryer also has a sleeker look compared to other models. The look includes an upscale finish and a tempered glass panel. The glass panel makes operation more effortless with clearly marked functions. Also, the panel is conveniently located at the top for easy access.

What Makes it Better than Other Models?

An air fryer for one person does not always have to be small. And this is more so if you prefer to cook large portions. This 5-quart model proves this. There is enough space to cook a whole chicken or roast large meat cuts.

Despite its size, it is still super quiet. It hardly makes any sound when cooking. The AirWhisper Technology keeps the noise level below 55 dB. There are no loud beeps or alerts. This ensures a more enjoyable cooking experience.

6 Features to Consider When Choosing an Air Fryer for One Person

There are many air fryer models out there that can work for you if you live alone. But you have to choose something that will suit your needs best. You can ensure this by considering the factors below: 

1. Capacity

Almost any air fryer out there can hold enough food for at least one person. Still, the actual capacity matters. You want something that can work for your specific situation.

Most one-person air fryers will have a capacity of between 1 and 5 quarts. Go for the smaller ones if you want something for occasional use or warming food. Larger models are perfect if you cook regularly. Also, they are more versatile as they support several cooking functions.

That said, you are always better off with something larger. It will come in handy if you need to cook food for more than one person.

2. Dimensions 

How much space can you spare for an air fryer in your small kitchen or dorm?

You need to answer this question and choose an air fryer that can work for your space. But the good news is that most one-person air fryers are quite space-saving. Most models will be under 15 inches wide. They will only take up a few square inches of your space.

Also, ensure the air fryer can fit under your kitchen cabinets for easy storage. Something under 12 inches high should be perfect here.

3. Power Rating

The power rating also matters when choosing a one-person air fryer. The model you buy should be powerful enough to ensure efficient cooking. But it should still be energy efficient. 

Energy efficiency is even more important if you use it in places with a limited power supply. For example, in an RV or dorm.

Most small air fryers for one person will have a power rating of between 1000 and 1500 watts. Make sure you get something powerful enough that still does not draw much power.

4. Accessories

Most air fryers will come with all accessories you need to utilize the appliance fully. So you do not have to worry much about the accessories.

Still, there are some basics you need to watch out for when shopping. But they also depend on the specific air fryer type you are buying.

A crisper tray and basket are often all you get for the regular basket-style air fryers. Some models also include a reversible rack and basket divider. 

Air fryers with more cooking functions will come with many accessories. The most important thing is to ensure you get everything you need to use the appliance.

5. Ease of Use

Your air fryer must also be easy to use. Look for something with a digital user interface. It will be hassle-free to use.

Also, models with clearly marked knob controls will give you an easy time. Other things like presets and a detailed manual can simplify operation for you.

6. Easy to clean

A small air fryer for one person should give you an easy time when cleaning up. You should spend more time enjoying your air-fried foods and less time cleaning.

Models with non-stick and dishwasher-safe accessories are the easiest to clean. Food will not stick to the accessories. And washing them only requires you to pop them in the top rack of your dishwasher.

Plus, go for something with sleek surfaces that are stain and fingerprint resistant. Such surfaces only require a quick wipe-down to clean them.

Air Fryer for One Person Recipes

Here are some simple recipes you can try on your air fryer for one person:

1. Air-Fried Chicken Wings

Ingredients: ½-pound chicken wings, 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic salt, and 1 tsp lemon pepper

Nutrition: 84 calories/chicken wing

Instructions

• Split the wings into flats and drummettes
• Use a paper towel to pat the wings dry and place them in a mixing bowl
• Coat the wings with the olive oil before sprinkling the garlic salt and lemon pepper
• Toss them to ensure more even coating
• Preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes at 400˚F
• Once the air fryer is hot enough, add the wings and cook each side for 8 minutes
• Serve and Enjoy!

Pro Tip: Cook your wings for an extra 3 minutes to make them crispier and to get a nice, golden brown color.

2. Air Fryer Meatballs

Ingredients: 1/2-pound ground lean beef, 1 egg, 1/3 cup bread crumbs, 2 Tbsp milk, and your favorite meatballs seasoning and spices

Nutrition: 60 calories/meatball

Instructions

• Combine all the ingredients except the meat in a bowl
• Add the ground beef to the mixtures and combine them thoroughly
• Portion the meat into 8 medium size meatballs and arrange them in the air fryer basket
• Preheat the air fryer at 400˚F
• Once the air fryer is hot enough reduce the temperature to 380˚F and pop in the basket
• Set the timer to 15 minutes or cook the meatballs until they are perfectly brown
• Allow the meatballs to rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving

Pro Tip: Keep checking the meatballs every few minutes to ensure they do not overcook. Also, aim for 165˚F internal temperature.

3. Mini Air Fryer Pizza

Ingredients: Canned biscuits, 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour, 2 tsp olive oil, marinara/pizza sauce, 4oz pepperoni slices, 1/2 pound cooked sausages, 8oz shredded mozzarella cheese

Nutrition: 150 calories/serving

Instructions

• Roll out the biscuits into 3-inch circles
• Spread the pizza or marinara sauce on each biscuit
• Add the sausage and pepperoni and top with the cheese
• Preheat the air fryer at 400˚F
• Arrange the pizzas on the basket and ensure there is adequate space between them
• Cook for 5 minutes or until your pizzas are golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted
• Serve the pizzas immediately while they are still hot!

Wrap-Up: Which Model Should You Choose?

It should now be clear there are countless air fryer models for one person out there. You just need to find what works best for you.

Consider factors like the quantity of food you will be cooking and where you will be using the air fryer. This will allow you to make a more informed choice.

All 8 models in our review will work well for you. It is up to you to decide what will suit your specific situation and buy it today.

And remember to come back and share your experiences using the air fryer. Please also share this article to help others find the perfect air fryer!