8 Small Kitchen Appliances for Compact Spaces

Small kitchen appliances have many advantages. They are usually less  inexpensive compared to larger models, easy to store, and when well-chosen functional too. In the past we have lived in places with very small kitchens and consequently have had to choose essential appliances and fun gadgets that take up minimal space.

When working in a compact kitchen, appliances need to be convenient and efficient. Sometimes, buying separate devices is better but nowadays there are many appliances which can handle more than one job. Airfryers and ovens are only two examples.

However small your kitchen is, here is a list of the appliances that we find work best for us, with which we use to make all our recipes!

List of best small kitchen appliances for compact spaces

• Food processor – Braun 4-in-1 Immersion Hand Blender, Stick Blender, Food Processor
• Stand mixer – KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5-Quart Stand Mixer
• Toaster – Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Shade Selector
• Air fryer – Dash Tasti-Crisp Electric Air Fryer + Oven 
• Microwave – BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock
• Rice cooker – Dash Mini Rice Cooker Steamer with Removable Non-stick Pot
• Coffee maker – Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Built-In Burr Coffee Grinder, Programmable
• Juicer – Ninja JC101 Cold Press Pro Compact Powerful Slow Juicer with Total Pulp Control 

Things to consider before buying 

Size

A small kitchen space requires small sized appliances, so identify exactly how much space is available before shopping. 

Frequency of use

When space is an issue it is even more important to consider how often you are using an appliance. You don’t want to end up with plenty of small appliances just sitting in cupboards and not being used. Make sure you will use the device otherwise it should not be purchased

Price 

The price is always important even if money is no object. It sometimes is worthwhile choosing a more expensive item if it is multi-functional. Consider what is most valuable for your personal needs; the brand, functionality, innovation, and style are only a few things to think about. 

Ease of use

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a new appliance. There might be removable parts that are dishwasher safe, and other machines might be easy to clean with just a warm, soapy towel or damp cloth. Knives, blades and other sharp parts are best hand washed.

Overview of best small kitchen appliances for compact spaces

Best food processor – Braun 4-in-1 Immersion Hand Blender, Stick Blender, Food Processor

This hand operated blender doesn’t look like a real food processor. Opinions will vary but we are very happy with this compact model and consider suitable for tiny kitchens as it is a 4-in1 appliance with easy storage.

Even though the hand blender has a powerful 350 watt motor, it is extra light to hold. The click system for the blender onto the lid of the 2-cup bowl is easy and adds extra safety when using the processor. Extra accessories supplied include a whisk, beaker and masher. 

Read also: Best mini food processors

Best stand mixer – KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5-Quart Stand Mixer

This compact stand mixer has the same power as the full-size KitchenAid tilt-head models while being 25% lighter and 20% smaller. The 3.5qt stainless steel bowl can still mix up dough for a loaf of bread or five dozen cookies. This model has 10+ optional attachments separately available to turn it into a pasta maker, spiralizer or more. It is a great option for a small family, or those who only cook or bake smaller batches at one time. There are 9 available colours of this artisan mini model.

Read also: Best stand mixers

Best toaster – Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Shade Selector

This Hamilton Beach toaster with wide slots warms consistently and quickly. Illuminated buttons have a choice of  toasting level, bagel setting, and defrosting. The shade selector means your toast can be lightly toasted or very crunchy. A high-lift boost raises foods a little higher than usual when ready allowing for easy removal of bread without burning fingers. The crumb tray is easy to remove and clean. This toaster works particularly well for bagel lovers as it warms the bagels perfectly on the inside without toasting it too much on the outside. 

Read also: Best toasters for all bread types

Best air fryer – Dash Tasti-Crisp Electric Air Fryer + Oven 

Because the capacity is only 2 qt your food will be ready in less time than it takes to preheat an oven, making it more energy efficient.

Overcooking is difficult with the auto-shut off function, and the cool touch housing and handle makes it safer to use. The non-stick fryer basket is dishwasher safe and easy to clean. Because it is lightweight and compact, it is ideal for a couple or for people with small kitchens. 

Read also : Air fryers for healthier living

Best microwave – BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock

This model with only 700 watts has pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizzas, frozen vegetables, beverages and a dinner plate.

The usual power settings, clock and kitchen timer are presented together with a 30 second express cooking button. A large LED digital display with clock function, an easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, and a removable 10” glass turntable is all featured in this compact model.

Read also: Best microwave

Rice cooker – Dash Mini Rice Cooker Steamer with Removable Non-stick Pot

With only a 2-cup capacity, this rice cooker is also used to cook oatmeal, stews, soup, quinoa, pasta, and even steamed veggies! This machine is easy and quick to use! Set it and forget – might be a step too far – but preparation time is minutes (simply add water to your uncooked rice, pasta, or veggies), and press the cook button. Your steamed meal or side dish is ready in less than 20 minutes, with less clean up. The keep warm function ensures your ingredients will never overheat or overcook.

The fun colour options will match any kitchen décor and this mini rice cooker is backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty and includes a rice paddle, measuring cup, removable pot with PFOA-free non-stick coating, recipe book and recipe database access.

Read also: Best rice cookers to cook rice to perfection

Best coffee maker – Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Built-In Burr Coffee Grinder, Programmable

This compact coffee maker can brew up to 10 cups of coffee at once,or you can choose the exact number by pushing the power button setting. Be careful to fill the tank with enough water although it is not very easy to fill due to the small reservoir.

There is a choice between coffee beans that will pass through the burr grinder or ground coffee. 3 strength control settings (strong, medium or mild) and 8 coffee powder control grades for adjustable coarseness, create your desired drink. Set the timer mode to automatically start the machine. A bell will ring after the coffee is brewed but there is a warming plate to keep the carafe of coffee hot for up to 2 hours.

Read also: The science behind coffee quality

Best juicer – Ninja JC101 Cold Press Pro Compact Powerful Slow Juicer with Total Pulp Control 

This Ninja juicer might be compact, it is still powerful. This cold press model produces little foam and the amount of pulp ending up in the juice can be controlled by three interchangeable pulp filters – no pulp, little pulp, or lots of pulp. 

The Ninja compact model still has a 16 oz (½ L) jug and is easy to disassemble and dishwasher safe.

Read also: Best juicers for fruit and vegetables