What Size Air Fryer For A Family Of 2: 9 Points To Concern

The right air fryer for you will largely depend on the number of people you cook for often. If you cook just for a family of 2, you will not need to invest in a large, expensive air fryer model. A smaller model will work best for you.

For starters, it will be more affordable than full-size air fryers. Also, these smaller models are often easier to use and clean. Plus, they will take up less kitchen space and are built to be more portable for use on the go.

But with so many fantastic air fryer models, choosing the best one is always challenging. Luckily, we have done most of the hard work for you. Check the best 5 air fryers for a family of 2 now!

We asked 45 air fryer users from our Facebook forum to give us their recommendations. Plus we also did some independent research and tested a few models. And so you can trust that our reviews will be genuine, firsthand, and highly detailed. Finally, we will answer a few questions you might have. So make sure you read to the end.

Best 5 Air Fryer for 2 People – Reviews

1. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer 

The Ninja AF101 air fryer delivers both speed and superior cooking outcomes. It cooks most food in under 20 minutes. Also, it leaves it perfectly brown and extra crispy. Plus, it has one of the most efficient dehydrate functions you can get in a small air fryer.

Pros

• Cooks super fast
• Easy clean up thanks to a ceramic-coated basket
• Makes foods crispier
• Fits under cabinets nicely
• Does not dry out food

Cons

• Has a rubber smell when you first heat it up

Key Features and Unique Benefits

Ninja is one of those brands that hardly ever lets us down when it comes to kitchen appliances. And just by looking at this 4-quart model, we were certain it would not disappoint. For starters, it has a fantastic high gloss finish that gives it a premium, high-end look.

The air fryer is also built to be more versatile than other similar-size models. Besides air frying your favorite snacks, it can also bake cookies and cakes. Also, you can use it to reheat your leftover chicken and pizza or dehydrate fruits and veggies to make chips.

The versatility is mostly thanks to the powerful heating element. The air fryer runs on a 1550-watt heating element. This allows it to reach optimal cooking temperature in just 3 minutes. You can hence have your french fries or chicken wings ready in as little as 15 minutes.

The air fryer also has a 105 to 400℉ temperature range. It allows the temperature to go low enough to dehydrate foods. And it can go high enough to crisp foods fast without drying them out.

And to crown all this up, the air fryer will give you an easy time when cleaning. The basket has a nonstick ceramic coating, and it is also dishwasher-safe. There will never be messy stuck foods to deal with, and cleaning should only take a few minutes.

Actual Cooking Performance and Experience

The dehydrate function on this air fryer actually works as advertised. We have used it to make kale and apple chips, which always turn out perfectly. We love that you can dehydrate small portions of fruits and veggies in as little as 30 minutes. Plus, they always seem to have an extra crunch.

But this air fryer also makes some of the tastiest pork chops. It takes 15 minutes to cook them (6 minutes for each side plus 3 minutes preheating). The porks chops always turn out perfectly browned. And the inside cooks nicely without ever drying out.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

You should buy this air fryer if you love fruit and veggie chips. It has a powerful dehydration function that will allow you to make tasty chips at home.

2. Cosori 5 QT 9-in-1 Air Fryer  

The Cosori 5 QT 9-in-1 Air Fryer gets hotter than most air fryers. The high heat allows you to cook food faster and makes it the perfect model for searing and broiling food. Plus, it supports more cooking functions than most air fryers in its class.

Pros

• Has a handy on/off button
• Cleanup is a breeze
• The square-shaped basket provides extra cooking space
• Well-written and illustrated recipe book
• Dedicated pre-heat function

Cons

• Can be a little loud
• Basket coating peels off easily

Key Features and Unique Benefits

This 5-quart Cosori air fryer is built to speed up your cooking. Although it runs on a 1500-watt heating element, the air fryer reaches up to 450℉. The high heat and the 360° rapid heat circulation allow it to cook up to 20% faster. Also, they ensure food cooks evenly and gets crispier.

Versatility is also at the center of the design. The air fryer supports 9 different functions, from air frying to preheating. Also, there is a preset for common foods from fries to steak and seafood. And so cooking your shrimp only requires you to push one button.

You can also be sure it will be a safer machine to use. For starters, the materials do not include any BPA or PFOA. And the air fryer also has several other safety features. They include auto shut-off and overheat protection.

Actual Cooking Performance and Experience

This Cosori air fryer is one of the few models that can actually make some good air-fried steak. The temperature gets high enough to give the steak a slight char, but the inside remains tender and juicy. Just be careful not to overcook your steak. 5 to 6 minutes per side should be enough to get a perfect medium rare.

If you love chicken wings, this air fryer will serve you well. It makes some of the tastiest and crispiest air-fried chicken wings. And they always end up with a nice golden brown color. But we did notice that you often have to add a couple of extra minutes to the preset. At least if you want to get the wings crispy enough.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Buy this air fryer if you want to reduce the time you cook, as it cooks fast. This air fryer also makes a good buy if you want something highly versatile without spending a lot of cash.

3. Instant Essentials 4QT Air Fryer Oven 

Instant Essentials 4QT Air Fryer Oven has a more simplistic design and some basic dials. It is hence one of the easiest to use in our review. Even an absolute air fryer newbie should figure out this appliance within the first few uses.

Pros

• Very quiet when cooking
• You can turn off the beeps completely
• Takes up less counter space
• Easy to use and clean

Cons

• Instructions are not very detailed
• The plastic does not seem very heavy-duty

Key Features and Unique Benefits

The Instant Essentials 4QT Air Fryer Oven is an easy-to-use model with 2 simple dials. The dials make time and temperature adjustment hassle-free. They also make the air fryer more convenient, even for newbies.

You can also be confident of always getting crispier and more evenly cooked foods. The air fryer uses EvenCrisp technology to ensure your food always gets an extra crunch.

The air fryer also gets to optimal cooking temperature almost instantly. It hence requires little to no preheating. You can cook frozen foods in minutes without thawing them out first.

Cleanup should also be a breeze. This model comes with a non-stick and dishwasher-safe basket and crisper tray.

Actual Cooking Performance and Experience

You will pretty much use this air fryer every day as it seems to cook everything perfectly. Everything from baked potatoes to roasted veggies and frozen shrimp turns out delicious. And the best part is that you do not even need to do much when cooking. Simply add the food and choose the right preset. The air fryer will then do the rest.

Also, we found this air fryer quite handy for reheating food. Any leftovers in the fridge, like pizza, always taste better when you reheat them on this air fryer. It crisps them nicely and never leaves anything soggy.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

The manual dials make this air fryer a good buy if you want something super easy to use.

4. GoWISE USA 3.7-Quart Programmable Air Fryer 

This 3.7-quart GoWISE USA air fryer is perfect for a family of 2 living in a small house with little kitchen space. It is more compact and space-saving to ensure it hardly takes up any significant space. Plus, it is an easy-to-use mode with several presets and handy indicators.

Pros

• Takes up little space
• Controls are easy to understand
• Heats up fast
• Quiet operation

Cons

• Poorly constructed handle

Key Features and Unique Benefits

Using this GoWISE air fryer should be almost effortless. Despite being a small model, it still includes 8 programmable presets. There is a preset for fries, cake, shrimp, and more. Plus, all the other controls are easy to figure out.

The air fryer is also easy to monitor as it cooks. An indicator lets you know when food is ready, and the timer will make 5 loud beeps. You no longer have to worry about burning your fries or overcooking steaks.

This model also has several other convenient features. They include a cool-to-touch handgrip for safer operation. Other safety features include overheat protection and auto shut-off. There is also a dishwasher-safe removable pan that will make cleanup hassle-free.

Actual Cooking Performance and Experience

This little air fryer will not hold as much food as the other models in this review. But, it makes up for that by making the food more delicious. Things like burritos and french fries always have an amazing flavor. Also, grilled veggies, especially carrots and potatoes, cook fast and get a nice crunch.

The air fryer also makes perfect chicken dishes, whether cooking a few wings, thighs, or legs. Provided you remember to season them properly and add a dash of olive oil, they will always get crispy and juicy. The flavor is almost the same as deep-fried.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Buy this air fryer if you want something even more budget-friendly, as it is the cheapest model on our list. Also, it is our most compact option and will be perfect if you have limited kitchen space.

5. Ultrean 5.8 Quart Air Fryer 

The Ultrean 5.8 Quart Air Fryer is the most powerful on this list. Also, it has the most powerful heating element and will cook even faster. It is a perfect choice for a family of 2 looking for the performance of a full-size air fryer.

Pros

• Cooks super fast
• All dishes come out tasting great
• Accurate cooking presets
• It is not messy

Cons

• Takes up more counter space

Key Features and Unique Benefits

The 5.8-quart capacity of this Ultrean air fryer is one of its best features. There is enough space to cook a 4-pound or larger chicken and several pounds of fries or veggies. The air fryer will serve your family of 2 well and gives you plenty of room to cook for your occasional guests.

You can also be sure of faster and more consistent cooking. This is thanks to a powerful 1700-watt heating element. Most foods, from fries to chicken, will cook in under 20 minutes. Also, the powerful heating element allows the air fryer to heat up almost instantly. This will save you even more time.

Cooking most dishes should also be more straightforward. The air fryer has 10 presets for foods like steak, cake, and shrimp. Also, there is an easy-to-use digital touchscreen with clearly marked controls.

Lastly, you can choose from several lovely colors, including green and red. It should hence be easy to find something that matches your kitchen theme.

Actual Cooking Performance and Experience

This air fryer is your best option if you want that excellent crispy fried taste without deep frying. Its powerful heating element gets it hotter and maintains a consistent temperature. This ensures French fries, chicken, and even steak cook to crispy perfection. And you will love that it has the most accurate time/temperature setting. You never have to add any extra time.

The appliance is also quite good for making gluten-free fritters. You only need to play around with ingredients and ensure the batter is thick enough. Also, remember to line the bottom of the tray with parchment paper or even aluminum foil.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

If you are looking for a larger capacity air fryer that can cook a whole chicken, this air fryer is a good buy for you. It is also perfect if you make a lot of beef roast and pork loin.

What to Look for in a Small Air Fryer for 2 People

The right air fryer for your family of 2 largely depends on your preferences. But you can easily narrow down your option by considering the following factors:

1. Cooking Capacity

First, you must ensure the air fryer you choose can hold enough food for 2 people. And so, the air fryer capacity should always be one of the first factors to consider.

An air fryer for a family of 2 should be large enough to hold 2 portions of food. For instance, it should have enough capacity to cook 2 chicken breasts or 6 ounces of french fries. Both are the standard size for 2 portions.

Any air fryer with at least a 2-quart capacity should be ideal for a family of 2. But most people often need something larger that they can still use when they have a few quests. And so a 3 to 5-quart model is much better. Just ensure it is not too large, as it will take up a lot of counter space. But we will look at the deal dimensions later on in this article.

2. Cooking Technology

The cooking technology the air fryer uses also matters. It determines everything from the cooking speed to the cooking outcomes.

The actual technology varies from one brand to the other. But look for something that uses technologies like EvenCrisp. Or even 360-degree Rapid Air Circulation. These technologies will speed up your cooking. Plus, they ensure your foods get crispier without using too much oil.

Still, the technologies need to be paired with a powerful heating element. We will discuss more about power in the next section.

3. Power & Cooking speed

Most air fryers for a family of 2 will be smaller. Still, you need to make sure they have a powerful heating element. A powerful model will speed up cooking. And it ensures foods cook more evenly by maintaining consistent heat.

Something with a power rating between 1300 and 1800 watts should be powerful enough. These air fryers will provide enough power to cook most foods. And they are still energy efficient as they will not draw much power.

A powerful air fryer also reaches higher temperatures (up to 450℉). The high temperature speeds up your cooking and allows you to broil and sear foods.

4. Dimensions and Portability

Besides capacity, the actual size of the air fryer also matters a lot. Whatever model you choose should fit the space you have in your kitchen. Hence the right size for you largely depends on your space.

But, a more compact model works better for most users. For starters, it takes up less kitchen space and is easier to store. Also, a compact air fryer is more portable. You can carry and use it in other places, such as an RV, office, or dorm.

Look for a model under 15 inches wide, as it will take up less space. Also, it should be less than 12 inches high to ensure it fits under most kitchen cabinets.

5. Ease of Use

Air fryers are generally easier to use than most kitchen appliances. But, the ease of use still varies from one model.

Models that have user-friendly interfaces are the easiest to use. Something with a simple touchscreen or digital controls should give you an easy time. Air fryers with analog controls that only include a couple of knobs are also hassle-free.

Other features like presets also simplify cooking. Presets for cooking functions like air frying allow you to cook by pressing one button. It is even better if they are for specific foods like fries and chicken.

6. Cooking Versatility

A good air fryer should go beyond air frying. It should support several other cooking functions besides air fry.

Look for a model that supports all the cooking functions you use often. For instance, your air fryer should have a bake function if you love making cookies and muffins. 

A model that can also reheat and keep food warm or dehydrate fruits and veggies will be more versatile. It is hence more useful in your kitchen.

7. Ease of Cleaning

Well, you probably hate cleaning dishes and kitchen appliances. But, it is a crucial part of owning an air fryer. You have to clean your air fryer after every use. Cleaning up keeps it in good working condition and prevents food contamination.

The best you can do is to look for a model that is easy to clean. Those with non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe accessories will give you the easiest time.

8. Cost

You can get a small air fryer for a family of 2 for under $50. Also, there are still many others that retail for hundreds of dollars.

When it comes to cost, it is all up to you to decide how much money you are willing to spend. Once you come up with a budget, you should look for the best model within that budget.

Also, remember that air fryers with a larger capacity are more expensive. Those that have several cooking functions and advanced features also cost more.

9. Safety Features

Overall, air fryers are safer than other kitchen appliances, such as ovens. Still, whatever model you choose should have enough safety features.

The actual safety features vary from one air fryer to the other. But something with at least the following should be safe enough: 

• Auto shut-off
• Overheat protection
• Stay-cool handle 
• Exterior surfaces that stay cool 

How Big is a 2-Quart Air Fryer?

The size of a 2-quart air fryer largely depends on the model. Also, it will depend on the shape of the air fryer and its type. For instance, a 2-quart basket-style air fryer with a square basket is more compact than a round one.

Also, a basket-style air fryer with a 2-quart capacity will be much smaller than an air fryer oven. This is despite both having the same capacity.

Most 2-quart air fryers will typically be under 12 inches wide. Also, their height hardly ever goes above 13 inches.

How Much Food Does a 2-Quart Air Fryer Hold?

Again this also depends on various factors like the type and shape. A 2-quart air fryer with a square basket will hold relatively more food than one with a round basket.

Most 2-quart air fryers can easily hold 2 to 3 servings of most food. You can cook up to 10 ounces of french fries or 2 standard-size chicken breasts. Also, most will have enough space to hold up to 6 chicken wings.

What Air Fryer Size Do You Need to Cook for 2 People?

You need an air fryer with at least a 2-quart capacity to cook for 2. This should now be clear from our reviews above and the information we have provided. You can still use a smaller model, but you have to cook the food in several batches.

Also, the foods you cook often determine the capacity you need. If you often cook a few servings of veggies or fries, a 2 or 3-quart air fryer is more than enough. But, if you also love cooking a whole chicken or beef roast, you need a larger model. Something with at least a 4-quart capacity will serve you better.

Can You Cook a Whole Chicken In an Air Fryer for 2 People?

That depends on the actual capacity of the air fryer. If you have a 2 to 3-quart air fryer, like many small families, it will not fit a whole chicken. You must cut the chicken into pieces to fit most of it in the air fryer.

A 4-quart air fryer is the smallest size you can use to cook a whole chicken. You can squeeze in a 3-pound chicken, and it will cook well. But, if you want to cook a 4-pound or larger chicken, you need an air fryer with at least a 5-quart capacity.

What Size Air fryer Do I Need for Different Family Sizes?

Here is an overview of the best air fryers for different family sizes:

1. What size air fryer do you need for a family of 3?

The best air fryer for a family of 3 people will have a capacity of between 2 and 4 quarts. The smaller 2-quart models can hold up to 3 standard servings. They will be enough for cooking things like veggies and at least 6 ounces of french fries.

A 4-quart air fryer can hold a smaller, 3-pound chicken, which should be enough for a family of 3. Also, the 4-quart air fryer can hold up to a dozen chicken wings.

2. What size air fryer do you need for a family of 4?

An air fryer with a capacity of 4 to 6 quarts is the best for a family of 4. A 3-quart model can still work if you cook small portions, but it will not be ideal.

Go for the 4-quart model if the family includes kids. The larger 6-quart model is better for adults or teenagers. The -quart air fryer can cook a whole chicken or up to 4 large chicken breasts and a dozen wings. A 6-quart air fryer can hold over 2 pounds of fries and a 5-pound whole chicken.

3. What size air fryer do you need for a family of 5?

A family of 6 people will need an air fryer with at least 6 to 8 quarts capacity. The smaller 6-quart model is enough if you have kids. But you should scale up to the 7 or 8-quart models if the family consists mostly of adults.

The 8-quart air fryer can hold over 24 chicken wings or at least 2 bags of frozen french fries. You can also cook a large whole chicken in the air fryer.

4. What size air fryer do you need for a family of 6?

An air fryer with a 6 to 8 quarts capacity can also work for a family of 6. But if the family has many adults or you cook large portions of food, you may need an extra-large model. The 10-quart air fryers are more suitable.

The 10-quart air fryers can easily fit two 4-pound chickens. It can also hold up to 5 pounds of french fries and dozens of chicken wings. You can even cook a whole turkey in these large air fryers.

Pro Tip: These are estimates and not the exact sizes you need. The actual size you need depends on how much food you cook often and also the food types. Always consider your specific cooking needs before deciding on the air fryer size to buy.

Wrap-Up: What is The Best Air Fryer for 2 People?

The best air fryer for your family of 2 depends on your specific cooking needs and preferences. But any model you choose from our review above should work well.

Consider the capacity you need, what you find easy to use, and your budget before picking one. Once you figure out these and the other factors we highlighted in our buying guide, you can buy your air fryer. And you can then enjoy tastier and healthier meals.

So, do you already have a small air fryer in your home? Has it served you well? Please share your comments below to help other air fryer enthusiasts.