Those of us who love to pack up our van or vehicle and go camping will know how tricky it can be to cook on the go. While we can’t get enough of toasting some s'mores over an open fire, making proper meals can be a bit more difficult, especially as you don’t always want to have to lug lots of camping equipment around with you.

But Jennifer Garner might have just shown us the perfect solution for our next camping trip. The same can also be said if you’re looking for some of the best small kitchen appliances that don’t take up a lot of space on your countertops.

We’re already big fans of what Jennifer calls her ‘Pretend Cooking Show’ on Instagram and for the latest episode of her fun and relaxed cooking segment, she brings it to us from a campsite. So, if you’ve got any upcoming camping trips planned, you’ll definitely want to tune in.

During the video, the actress and mom of three, takes her fans through the process of making some crispy hash browns, which look mouth-wateringly good. And she even shared the exact recipe with her almost 17 million followers. But it’s the two cooking appliances that she used that really caught our eye.

As she starts to prepare the dish, she uses KitchenAid’s Go Cordless Food Chopper to chop up her potatoes before adding some seasoning, cheese, and a good amount of butter, crisping them to perfection on the campsite’s grill. But you’ll also want something to drink with your morning meal, which is when she quickly swaps the removable battery pack from the Food Chopper to the KitchenAid Go Cordless Personal Blender, allowing her to quickly whip up a tasty smoothie to enjoy with her breakfast.

Essentially, one battery can power a number of different appliances, saving you from having to worry about finding somewhere to connect to a power outlet, which is why it’s such a genius solution for cooking outdoors.

Once you’ve bought one of the appliances with the battery included, you can buy any future KitchenAid Go devices without the battery to save you some cash in the long run. Or, if you’re anything like us, you can never have too many battery packs when you’re on-the-go.

Jen also admits that you can swap out the battery to even more devices, as and when you need to, from their Cordless Hand Mixer to their Cordless Kitchen Vacuum. How convenient is that?

Let’s just say, we definitely need to try it out on our next camping trip. And think how good it would be for prepping food on your kitchen island, without having to worry about trailing wires everywhere.

When I lived at college, I didn't always want to make the journey to the kitchen whenever I wanted to make tea or coffee. I also wanted to keep my good snacks away from my flatmates. So, I had a little fridge in my room, and always highly recommend that new students grab one.

I've been looking for ones that are powerful and will add to dorm room decor, and I think I've found a winner in the Frigidaire Portable Fridge from Amazon. I've delved into why it's a great pick, asked experts why mini fridges are useful, plus picked out alternatives. “Mini fridges are perfect for storing basics like drinks, snacks, and leftovers when a standard refrigerator isn't practical,” says Bob Berriz, design expert and owner of Berriz Design.

If you're looking for mini fridges that are perfect for dorms, this cute pick will brighten up your college room.

See the Frigidaire Portable Fridge

If you’re looking for chic and clever dorm room ideas, this mini fridge is a really smart choice. It has a retro design which is one of the biggest interior design trends this year, as well as being plenty powerful enough to chill 26-28 smaller items, thanks to its thermoelectric cooling system.

Over 11,000 Amazon shoppers have given it five star reviews because of its size and appearance, as well as how cold it keeps items. Shopper iFish bought it to keep cans of flavored water cold, but now also uses it to keep small containers of leftovers — perfect for midnight snacks.

As well as having it in your dorm, you can also take it on the go. Reviewer Been There is a fan of the two cords it comes with is so helpful to have 2 cords — one for the house outlet and an accessory cord for the car. They used it on their road trip and found it kept food cool throughout.

“The retro design adds a stylish touch to a room, and with a 4-liter capacity, this fridge can chill six 12 oz cans or store snacks and small food items,” explains Andy Shu, appliance expert and fixer at Zapfixers. “It's great for students who want easy access to cold drinks, quick snacks, or even to store some perishable items like fruits, yogurt, or sandwiches.”

Other factors to consider when buying a mini fridge

I love the look of this one, but if you want to look for alternatives to this dorm room decor, there are a few things worth considering. “For a single person, the Frigidaire model in the question would work great. I'd recommend a larger 3.2 cubic foot model if you’re sharing with your roommate,” says Bob.

He also says proper ventilation and maintenance are key for mini fridges, so it's worth making sure you can do this before buying one. “They generate a lot of heat in small areas, so allowing for airflow is important.”

It's also a good idea to defrost them regularly and clean the door seals to improve efficiency. “Wiping down the exterior and cleaning up spills right away will help the unit run better and last longer,” Bob explains.

More mini fridges

Choosing a mini fridge such as this one will make dorm living so much easier.

“Mini fridges are convenient, eco-friendly, and have flexible power options for use at home or on the go. Just remember to maintain them well for the best performance,” Andy finishes by saying.

If you want to scout out more useful college picks, my surprising dorm essentials are also worth checking out.

If, like us, you can’t start your day without your morning coffee, Ninja has just released its very first barista-style coffee machine. And we could not be more excited.

Priced at $499.99, the Luxe Café Espresso Machine is Ninja’s first foray into the world of luxury espresso machines. And while it is more expensive than many of the best coffee machines, it’s actually rather competitively priced when you compare it to similar espresso machines, with some of them not having as many features as this one does.

Ninja Luxe Cafe espresso machine

So, if you’ve been weighing up an espresso machine vs a coffee maker, particularly if you’re a fan of both types of hot drink, you can make both with ease with this 3-in-1 device.

And if there’s one brand that we trust when it comes to their appliances it’s Ninja. From their brilliant range of air fryers, that we now frankly can’t live without, to the viral Ninja Creami and the impressive Detect Duo Power Blender Pro, they have quickly become some of the most used and relied upon appliances in our homes.

So, here’s everything you need to know about the brand new Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine…

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or are simply looking to save some money in the long run by making your coffee at home, instead of forking out hundreds of dollars each year at your local coffee shop, Ninja’s latest kitchen appliance is easy to follow, and use.

Not only does it take all the guesswork out of making espresso, it also has a rapid cold brew maker – perfect for the warmer weather – and it allows you to make drip coffee, with Ninja’s "Barista Assist Technology" guiding you through everything from the grind size to any brewing adjustments, to produce the perfect cup. In doing so, it basically takes all the guesswork out of making a cup for yourself or your family and friends.

Then there’s the built-in Dual Froth System which combines whisking and steaming to make four different preset milk options, including cold foam, steamed milk and thin and thick froths, with them all working with dairy and plant-based milks.

Depending on your day and if you’re heading into the office or relaxing on a chilled-out Sunday morning, it can make cold brew and drip coffee from a 6oz. cup through to an 18 oz. size.

Here are just a few of the settings:

Espresso – from double to quad shot

Drip coffee – classic, rich or over ice

Cold Brew – whether you prefer a cold-pressed espresso or a cold-brew coffee

You can even use it to make espresso martinis! Imagine how popular you’ll be at your next dinner party or girl’s night.

And for those of us who may be short on kitchen countertop space, the Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine essentially does the job of three different coffee makers in one, which not only saves you space but also stops you from having to buy three separate appliances, plus the costs that would come from doing so.

MORE ESPRESSO MACHINES TO TRY

A regular disagreement in my household is how to time dishes. We sometimes put a plate on top of a bowl of cooked food while he waits for the other dishes to finish, but it can lead to soggy food.

Midea seems to have heard my concerns from afar, combining two separate cooking sections — an air fryer and a toaster oven — into one air appliance. I haven’t been this excited to try a new kitchen gadget in ages. I already knew that this was going to come in handy the first time I was craving both crispy chicken tenders and fries. 

And, while it has a few flaws in design and functionality, the innovation of having two entirely separate zones that cook at different temperatures, but can be programmed to sync, might outweigh any shortcomings. This is one of the best air fryers that is in the running to earn a permanent spot in my kitchen. 

What I Thought of the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

I was super excited to try this air fryer because there are so many times that I’m cooking two dishes, and I end up having to resort to the regular oven or eating one dish lukewarm because I had to wait to use the air fryer (one of the many dos and don'ts of using an air fryer). Having both an air fryer and a regular oven in one is a game changer, especially when I don’t want to turn on the oven because it’s summer or I just don’t feel like a lunchtime meal merits it. 

This air fryer oven is incredibly easy to use. The controls are easy and intuitive. It has ten preset cooking modes, including air frying, grilling, baking, broiling, roasting, reheating, toasting, dehydrating, bagel, and keeping warm. And it guides you through the process, beeping halfway through to remind you to turn your food. 

Add in the sync finish mode, which helps you time both the air fryer and oven to finish simultaneously, and you have a seriously genius appliance. Plus, I thought both sections both cooked well — and isn’t that the key?

But there are some negatives, including the fact the toasting tray is incredibly difficult to use. It’s tiny and shallow. It’s really only suited to toast, burgers, pizza — things that are flat. It doesn’t pull all the way out, and I had a hard time figuring out how to use it in a way that felt safe.

The size of the air fryer oven is also truly a drawback. I don’t prefer to keep an air fryer on the countertop, and it’s realistically too tall and heavy to move in and out of a cabinet. That size is what allows it to have both a 6-quart air frying basket and a 5-quart toaster oven, but is it worth it? Not if you have a small, or even regular-size kitchen. It’s just a much bigger air fryer than I’m used to. 

Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer Specifications

Unboxing the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

My first impression upon receiving the box from Midea was holy moly, this is heavy. I put off bringing it upstairs to our kitchen for nearly an entire day. But, of course, the weight makes sense given that this isn’t just an air fryer, but a toaster oven, too. 

This is a large machine. It’s nearly 16” tall, 15” deep, and 23 pounds. As I'm much more used to small air fryers, it was a bit of a surprise. It’s a major kitchen appliance. So taking it out of the box required a force of brute strength. But I got it out, and I got it set up — easily, I might add. There’s not a lot of setup involved.

Beyond the size, I also immediately noticed that this feels well made. I’ve tried air fryers in the past that I didn’t quite trust to heat up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. But this one has super solid construction. I’m not worried that it’s going to short-circuit or stop working on a whim. It’s here for the long haul. 

Using the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

This air fryer oven couldn't be easier to use. The control panel is intuitive, and you select upper or lower, plus the mode you want to use. You can adjust the temperature or time, then start. It's so clear you won't feel as if you're going to mix up the upper and lower. It's practically foolproof.

The control panel will also tell you when to turn, shake, or flip your food. As long as you stay nearby, it's not going to let you mess up your recipe. 

Also, there is an app, but, realistically, I’m not connecting my appliances to an app. It seems every appliance has an app, and it’s just too many to keep track of unless it’s something I truly use every day. If you do decide to download the app, it has pre-programmed recipes that can make your life easier as you navigate cooking different items.

My first test was a Trader Joe's meal, of course. I was coming out of a long day of deadlines and meetings, and I was desperate for a late lunch. I had the Indian veggie burgers and bird's nests, so the pressure was high to get these right.

I tossed the bird's nests in the air fryer basket and the veggie burger in the toaster oven. I didn't mess with the sync finish on this first round, but both came out perfectly. I had high expectations for the bird's nests, which they met with the perfect crisp, but I didn't know what to anticipate with the veggie burgers. I was pleasantly surprised when they cooked quickly and had the loveliest finish. They weren't soggy, undercooked, or burnt. They were actually perfect. A bit crispy, hot all the way through. 

For its shortcomings with design, the toaster oven DOES work.

Test Two: Chicken Nuggets and Fries

Fries are always my go-to test for an air fryer. This should be the one thing that all air fryers do well. And they felt like a good opportunity to try the sync finish, especially with chicken nuggets.

Sync finish promises that it'll hold one item — the one with a short cook time — until the other is finished. The fries would take longer in theory, so I put them in the air fryer basket and the chicken nuggets in the toaster oven. 

Sure enough, it worked. Both came out crispy and warm at the same time. There's no better comfort food meal than fries or chicken nuggets and, if I can do them both in an air fryer at the same time, I'm a happy camper.

How to Clean and Maintain the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

There are positives and negatives to appliances that do it all. The positive is the versatility. The negative is that there are more parts and pieces to clean. And the Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven is no exception. There are lots and lots of parts to wash — and nothing is dishwasher-safe.

You have to clean the upper basket, grill tray, crisper plate, drip tray, upper basket, and lower cavity after every use. Each should be cleaned with warm water, dish soap, and a sponge. And each one should be cleaned by hand. That’s a lot of time spent scrubbing versus when I usually clean an air fryer.

I think it’s important to note that I found it incredibly difficult to clean the toaster oven section. Given it’s so flat and small, you’re not really sure if you’re ending up with food crusted to the top and it’s difficult to clean that zone at all. I’m used to the open section of an air fryer that you wipe out with ease. This is new territory, and I’m not sure they’ve perfected the design to the point that it’s ideal for cleaning and maintenance. 

Should You Buy the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer?

While the Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven does have a few drawbacks in terms of the usability of the bottom drawer, the convenience of the two zones outweighs any negatives. The air fryer portion is a full 6-quart air fryer so, as long as you have the space for a larger air fryer, there’s no reason not to spring for this one. You’re gaining not giving up with this one. 

The major negative, however, is the price. At $249.99, it’s significantly more expensive than almost any other air fryer on the market, and that could be a reason not to buy for anyone on a budget.

Good to Know

Instructions
The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven comes with an instruction manual that gives step-by-step instructions (though the process is intuitive and clear!).

Warranty
The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven includes a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase

Where to Buy the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven is available to buy directly from Midea, via their Amazon storefront, or from retailers such as Walmart.

How We Test Air Fryers

The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven was sent to me by Midea, and I used it over a several-week period. Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing air fryers:

I'm often torn when it comes to kitchen appliances. On one hand, I want to keep them as simple as possible. On the other, I want them to do as much as possible. Those two goals are sometimes at odds, and I found that with the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer. 

This air fryer does it all. Seriously. Remember when air fryers were pitched as a way to reheat leftovers, make crispy fries, or bake a crescent roll dessert hack? Forget those days completely. This air fryer is basically a substitute for your oven.

But that comes with an interface that's not as simple as choosing between a few different frying modes presets. This is one of the best air fryers as it cooks quickly, cooks accurately, and can cook anything. 

Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer review

Wondering how this air fryer is different from an oven? It has three different cook modes: classic, chef, and probe. Each has a different purpose, and there are multiple options within each. 

There's a bit of a learning curve in navigating the light-up interface, but, once you learn the dos and don'ts of using an air fryer, you can set it and forget it.

Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer Specifications

What I Thought of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

My first impression of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer was definitely one of slight hesitation. Between the water tank and all the options on the screen, I was a little apprehensive. I'm used to small air fryers that are a little more straightforward. But, as I read through the guide, I realized that this air fryer was giving me options to make the process easier. And that water tank? That's the game changer between meat that's meh and moist. 

You can absolutely use this for all the air fryer standards. Toss in your Trader Joe's meals, your sweet potato fries, and your Brussels sprouts. But where it excels is cooking meat to perfection. I hate standing over an oven wondering when my chicken is going to be done. But, with this air fryer, it does it all for you. It basically sous-vides your meat to perfection. For someone who's never attempted that on my own, this air fryer is about to elevate my dinner party menus (TBD on whether I'll give away my secret).

Add in the app access in Chef mode, and this air fryer is seriously designed to make your life as easy as possible.

And did I mention the look and footprint? Relative to earlier air fryers, this takes up a small footprint in the kitchen. The sleek look and open window frying basket add to its appeal.

Setting Up the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

I've found that most air fryers are relatively easy to set up, and this was no exception. Take it out of the box, pop the tray into the basket, put the basket into the air fryer, and you're done. There's no true assembly needed, and the ergonomics of this machine are great — the elongated handle makes popping the basket in and out easy.

The water tank was one of the first things I noticed because that's unlike any other air fryer I've tried. It's a small tank, but the air fryer uses it to spray the food in Chef mode and keep it moist. 

Lastly, I played around with the control screen as soon as I turned it on to try to get a sense of what was available. You'll want to pull out the instruction guide here. With so many options, it's helpful to read about the possibilities and understand how to achieve the right type of cooking for each meal.

Using the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

There's something about the touch screen on here that just made the process of testing the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer so fun! Spinning the dial through options and deciding on the right mode for each meal I made felt like a throwback to an easy bake oven — maybe because this little guy can literally do everything?

It also made dishes that often feel like a hassle to make seem so much easier. Like the idea of pulling out a heavy cast iron skillet to make a steak seems unattainable on a Tuesday night, but throwing one in here? Done.

This air fryer also has the amazing versatility of being able to be both crisp and moist. They've changed the game in technology with the various modes and the water spray feature.

Here are two dishes I tried, and how the air fryer performed.

TEST ONE: FRENCH FRIES

My first air fryer challenge is almost always French fries. I want to make something easy so that I will know exactly whether it's done correctly or not. There's no room for interpretation here. I want them crispy. So I tried the Classic mode on air frying. 

First, I was surprised that it heated up almost instantaneously. I thought I'd have a few minutes to get some emails done but, bam, this was ready!

The fries were done in about ten minutes, which is faster than other air fryers I've tried. I'd seasoned them with oil and truffle salt, and they came out to perfection.

TEST TWO: CHICKEN THIGHS

Next, I tried chicken thighs because I wanted to get a sense of Chef mode and understand if this could really keep the meat moist and tender — especially given how perfectly crispy the fries turned out.

In Chef mode, it uses water atomization, convection heating, and a dual-sensing probe to get exactly the right level of done. I found the Chef mode is easier to navigate through the app (again, the touch screen is amazing but a lot at times), and it lets you check in to see where you are in the process.

Compared to how I normally cook chicken thighs — on the stovetop — this was a breeze. I didn't have to be present, hovering over a skillet. Instead, I knew they were being perfectly cooked right in this small yet powerful machine.

And how did they turn out? Perfect. That Chef mode knows what it's doing. They were slightly crispy on the outside but moist on the inside. I've tried a lot of air fryers, but this might be the one that earns a permanent spot in my kitchen.

Cleaning the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

The trays and basket for the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer are all dishwasher-safe, so cleaning this air fryer is easy peasy. I'll often hand wash these pieces but, realistically, it's better to put them in the dishwasher to get all of the grease off (though that might be a testament to my own cleaning skills — or lack thereof). A quick wipe of the interior with a microfiber cloth and a bit of water and dishwashing liquid.

Should you buy the Dreo ChefMaker Combi fryer?

If you are looking for an air fryer that's plug and play, allowing you time to focus on enjoying your family (or a cocktail!), then the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer could be your answer to low-stress evenings. You can make steak, pork chops, croquettes, or whatever you're craving with the touch of a button. There's no need to worry about closely watching your food — this machine does it all. And, while it's pricey, time is money, right?

Comparisons

If you like the idea of an air fryer with a clear window, but you're a little hesitant at the price tag of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer, there's no need to worry. The Gourmia 7-Quart Fry N'Fold Digital Air Fryer gives you several of the same features, multiple cooking and frying options, and it has a clear front window, but it comes in at a much lower price tag. You'll miss a few of the features, like the water tank, but at $79.99 retail, it could be worth it.

How We Test Air Fryers

Dreo sent me this air fryer, and I tested it with several different recipes including air frying, cooking, and reheating leftovers. This is the assessment process when testing air fryers:

Packaging: The Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer comes in a double box, which keeps it safe and sound during shipping. Each piece was wrapped to keep it scratch-free, and there was a guide and book included.

Operation: The experience of using the air fryer is considered, which includes how easy the guide is to follow, how easy the controls are to use, and how the air fryer actually performs. I tried various types of food that require a different end result to understand how each feature works.

Ease of use: An air fryer is only as useful as it is easy to use! I looked at the instructions, the simplicity of the operation, how easy the various trays and parts were to use, and how easily I could get food in and out of the air fryer.

Ease of cleaning: I'm only going to use an air fryer if I can clean it relatively easily! I looked at how easy the parts are to clean and whether they can be cleaned in a dishwasher.

Look, I get it. You've stumbled across the perfect cute kitchen appliance, put it on your kitchen countertop, and then found that it looks a little out of place.

Don't stress though — I've got you covered with plenty of pro-approved advice that will help you style your colorful appliance in a way that will make it shine and that will make your cooking space look cohesive. Coordinating with existing decor and creating contrast are just a couple of their top tips.

Whether you're shopping for small kitchen appliances and want to ensure your place is ready for your latest pick or already have a pretty one you want to style properly, these tips will come in handy.

1. Go for contrasting colors

When styling a small kitchen appliance, it can be tempting to decorate your whole kitchen in the same color. But, this can actually look too matchy and will leave you with a space that lacks character.

“For example, choosing bold colors like red, blue, or yellow paired with white cabinetry creates contrast,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

He continues, “I recently used Smeg's retro fridge in red and their yellow kettle and toaster for a client to create a bold, striking look.”

This is also a brilliant tip for those searching for retro diner kitchen ideas, which are all about bright shades matched with playful accessories.

2. Pair with existing decor

I know how tempting it can be to pick the most Instagrammable kitchen appliance. But, if you want to make sure your new beauty looks brilliant, make sure that it matches what you already have. 

“When styling colorful kitchen appliances, it's essential to coordinate them with your existing décor to achieve a harmonious look,” says Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

“For instance, if your kitchen features neutral tones, vibrant appliances can add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Conversely, in a kitchen with bold colors, choosing appliances in complementary shades can create a balanced aesthetic,” he explains. 

3. Paint walls and cabinets

If you do have your heart set on a dreamy appliance and you’re a homeowner, painting is a fun way to ensure it matches your space.

“Choose a color scheme of two to three complementary colors and paint walls and cabinets, then select appliances and accents to match,” suggests Nick.

“For example, Robin's egg blue walls with lemon yellow cabinets and turquoise accents are fresh and fun,” he says. I love this idea and think it would work well in Amalficore-style kitchens.

From here, Nick says to keep the rest of the space minimal so the color takes center stage.

4. Pick renter-friendly accents

Renting and can’t use paint? There are lots of easy ways to ensure appliances look chic and cohesive in colorful kitchens.

“For renters, swap standard cabinet knobs for decorative ones in your chosen accent color,” Nick says.

He continues, “You can also use colorful linens, dinnerware, and glassware to tie it together.”

If you’re looking for beautiful glasses, I have the Zaza Lustered Glasses from Anthropologie, which work brilliantly as bar cart accessories.

5. Switch them up seasonally

For those who enjoy changing up their kitchen’s look and have a little more budget to play with, going for seasonal updates with appliances and accessories can be a fun way to keep things fresh. 

“Renters can swap out small appliances and accessories seasonally to reflect the colors and vibes of each season, using placemats, tablecloths, and dish towels that can be easily changed,” Tommy says.

You could also invest in a set of versatile, colorful appliances that can be rotated in and out of use.

“The Empire Red KitchenAid Stand Mixer from Amazon is perfect for adding a vibrant touch, especially during festive times,” he says. It's also great to have handy for whipping up Christmas bakes.

You can also switch around the types of appliances you have on display depending on the season. For example, the best ice cream makers are brilliant for warmer months, while panini presses work best during cooler ones.

With the right styling, colorful appliances, and a cohesive color scheme can transform a kitchen into a stylish, memorable space. 

“Focus on accent colors you love and the overall feel you want to achieve. Then choose high-quality materials and reputable brands to bring your vision to life,” Nick finishes by saying.

If you want to carry on elevating your cooking space, finding kitchen countertop decor will also be useful.

Colorful kitchen appliances we love

Influencer Nara Smith has been making absolute waves on TikTok at the moment. Whether she's making cola from scratch or warming up a Marc Jacobs bag in the oven, she has people talking with every video that she posts.

While her delicious dishes have inspired me, I also can't help but swoon over her gorgeous kitchen essentials. So, I've tracked down nine of these to help you create your own Nara-style dishes at home.

Whether you love her small kitchen appliances (shout out to the Smeg toaster) or her famous chunky plates, I've sought them out and shown you where you can shop them.

Nara Smith's kitchen essentials

Whether you love these pieces because of their style or because Nara Smith uses them, they’re all brilliant ways to add elegance and functionality to your kitchen.

Looking for more celeb-approved kitchen essentials? I have also found Reese Witherspoon’s Smeg appliances and sought out budget alternatives.

My fridge has been a little bit of a mess recently, so I've been looking at the things people with organized fridges never do, in order to fix my mistakes.

I've asked design and organizing pros what they have seen in clients' homes, and what they have come back with has really surprised me. Not only are they super ways to keep this space tidy, but they will also help your groceries stay fresher for longer.

If you're looking for fridge organization ideas and want tried-and-tested tips, these are all worth checking out.

1. They never store dairy in the door

I’m totally guilty of keeping my milk and oat milk in the door, so I’m shocked that this is a big no-no when learning how to organize a refrigerator.

“This is a common mistake due to easy access, but the door is the warmest part of the fridge,” explains Nicole Saunders, interior designer at The Design Build Vault.

Instead, she says to keep milk, cheese, and yogurt on the middle shelves where the temperature is more consistent. 

“I often prefer to use a designated drawer for dairy products as it allows them to stay fresh longer,” she adds.

2. They never rush putting groceries away

I know how easy it can be to run inside with a big bag of food from the store and immediately throw them all into the fridge without a second thought.

But, rushing to put groceries away is something people with organized fridges never do. 

“It's important to ensure that everything that goes into your organized fridge goes into the right spot immediately and that it's always returned to the right spot, too,” says Carolina Kazimierski, cleaning expert and co-owner of Sophia’s Cleaning Service.

“I have noticed that people who tend to simply place groceries wherever find it much more difficult to stick with an organizational scheme,” she adds.

You can create designated zones for different types of food by using the best organization products.

For example, I have the Beauty Cottage Stackable Refrigerator Organizer Bins from Amazon and they’re perfect for keeping snack bars and juice boxes contained.

3. They never put hot food away

When I’ve felt a little lazy, I have indeed put leftovers in the fridge without thinking about the consequences. This is a mistake I won’t make in future, though.

“This mistake can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage of other items in the fridge,” Nicole tells me.

“The biggest risk is the possibility of the food not cooling down fast enough, causing bacteria to multiply,” she says.

Because of this, Nicole suggests letting your food cool down completely before placing it in the fridge. 

You can also place them in glass storage containers to make them easy to put in the oven and heat up again. I’ve had the Amazon Basics Glass Storage Container Set for years and have used them in my fridge, freezer, and even on the go.

Now you know what people with organized refrigerators never do, you can follow their advice and make sure yours works as functionally as possible.

Want to carry on following useful advice for your cooking space? Finding out the things people with organized kitchens always do will also come in useful.

Useful fridge organization buys

Whether you're hopping on a plane for a long trip or simply are heading away for the weekend, it's a smart idea to find out the appliances you should switch off during this time.

“This will avoid any risk of a fire or damage to the appliance that could be caused by a fault — be it with the electrics or a power surge,” says Mathew Shelley, appliance expert and Customer Service Manager at Dualit. “Unlike larger appliances like fridge-freezers, there is no downside to doing this and it also then brings peace of mind for while you’re away enjoying your vacation!”

From small kitchen appliances to fragrance emitters, there are different ones throughout the house that are worth unplugging before wheeling your suitcase out of your home.

1. Coffee makers

If you’re not bringing your best coffee maker away with you, it’s important to make sure this brewing machine is switched off.

“These devices often have clocks and timers that consume power even when not in use,” explains Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

Unplugging this will ensure you prevent any risk of electrical fires, which you definitely don’t want to have to deal with when you’re lounging in the sun.

2. Toasters

While you might take your coffee machine with you (especially if it’s a small coffee maker), you’re definitely not going to take a toaster away.

Tommy explains, “These can be a fire hazard if left plugged in — especially older models without automatic shut-off features.”

When it comes to finding the best toasters, I always make sure to find ones that won’t cause any hassle and that will last ages. For example, the Dualit Classic 4-Slice Toaster from Williams Sonoma pictured above has a mechanical toaster, fast warm-up, and extra wide slots.

3. Plug-in fragrances

This might not be an obvious small appliance to unplug when you’re on vacation, but it’s an important one to remember, as you may have a few of them around the house.

“Plug-in air fresheners and fragrance diffusers always be unplugged,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild. “The heat and motors can fail, and strong scents may linger for days unattended.”

I’m actually slightly terrified of having these in my house, so instead I opt for having the best reed diffusers, flipping them before I go on holiday so they fill the house with delicious fragrance when I’m back.

4. Microwaves and air fryers

You’re probably dreaming of having cool drinks and nibbly foods on vacation, so your hot and heavy microwave likely hasn’t even crossed your mind. But, it’s a big small appliance one to unplug.

“While they might seem harmless, microwaves draw power continuously for their displays and clocks,” Tommy says.

Make sure to switch this off, as they can help reduce your electricity bill slightly. The same goes for the best air fryers, as these often have electrical displays and timers, too.

5. Hair tools

I always pack my hairdryer when I go on staycations, but if you don’t and are prone to leaving yours in, unplug this and all your other hair devices.

Tommy explains, “These can pose a significant fire risk if left plugged in, so I always recommend unplugging them before leaving for an extended period.”

Even if you haven’t used your straighteners for a while, it’s still a good idea to unplug them, just in case you accidentally flick the switch while you’re moving and packing.

While simple mechanical timers (such as the best-selling BN-LINK Indoor Mini Outlet Timer from Amazon) can provide security, if you’re going away for a long while, it’s best to unplug and be safe rather than sorry.

If you’re looking for more ways to take care of your home during the summer, learning how to cool down a room without AC will also be handy.

Our favorite small appliances

Jennifer Aniston has often spoken about her morning ritual, which involves sipping on a good cup of coffee. Of course, Jen throws some collagen and vitamins in, too.

The Friends actress is no stranger to making coffee in front of the camera, as her long-running character Rachel Green poured drinks at their local Central Perk for the first few seasons of the show and at home in real life, she's loving the Terra Keffe Super Automatic Coffee Machine, as seen on her Instagram page.

In it, Jen is seen gleefully using the machine, and all the gear a wannabe barista could ever dream of. We've delved into her exact coffee machine's features, which could arguably be one of the best bean to cup espresso machines, and have tracked down alternatives to suit all budgets.

Jennifer Aniston's coffee machine 

The actress has opted for a sleek, black Terra Keffe coffee machine that has a futuristic feel to it, which elevates her modern kitchen with accents of black against the natural wood. The TK-01 Super Automatic Coffee Machine offers a bean to cup experience with the push of a button.

For the traditionalists, why not try out a retro style machine that still boasts all the bells and whistles of the chic contemporary ones too such as the Swan Nordic Espresso Machine or the Smeg Retro Style Coffee Machine. 

Smeg also have a bean to cup machine with a built in milk frother too, to recreate more of Jen’s coffee shop at home experience. 

If the morning coffee is a family affair then a Gevi filter coffee pot might be the best option, as it stays hot and retails for under $30. Another affordable option that can transform your favourite coffee grounds into brilliant brews is the Ninja Speciality Coffee Maker, that even creates the summer staple, an iced coffee. 

Another way to elevate the everyday coffee experience is by investing in a milk frother, similar to Jen. Her Nespresso Aeroccino 3 is a popular choice for creating foam, froth or hot milk by one simple touch of a button. 

Another alternative is to invest in a small hand held frother to manually spruce up your coffees, matches and hot chocolates by adding in some extra foam and froth to the regular texture. For under $10, the Zulay Kitchen Frother is a handy choice if you’re looking for speed and ease on a budget. 

Want to see more of celebrities favorite kitchen appliances? Look no further than our dive into Reese Witherspoon’s Smeg appliances, Jennifer Garner’s cool KitchenAid espresso maker and of course, those all important dupes too. 

If you're looking to snap up a kitchen bargain on Amazon, Ninja's range is well worth looking at.

From sizzling BBQs to the TikTok-famous Ninja CREAMi, there's plenty of deals to be had. I'm Real Homes' content editor and I spend many hours a month looking through the site, so you can trust me when I say these are some of the best appliance reductions I've seen on it. 

These are all Amazon sale prices, which are all correct at the time of writing. However, I'll be sure to come back and update if anything changes. 

Amazon Ninja deals

Ninja appliances can be a little expensive, so it's a good idea to snap them up while they're discounted.

Shopping for more SharkNinja deals? These Shark vacuum Amazon deals are also worth snapping up.

I've been preparing for a half marathon, so I've been on the lookout for a blender that's ideal for whipping up healthy smoothies and shakes. 

When I spotted Shay Mitchell's blender on her TikTok, I tracked it down to snag one of my own. Happily, I found her Nutribullet Personal Blender on Amazon, and what's even better is that it's on sale right now, but only till midnight (Pacific time) when the event ends.

I've shown you how to grab the discount, why shoppers love it, plus picked other on-sale options. As Real Homes' content editor, I have a keen eye for small kitchen appliances that are perfect for rentals and apartments.

Shay Mitchell's Nutribullet

Why shoppers love the Nutribullet blender

This is the most highly-rated small but brilliant blenders on Amazon, with over 40,000 shoppers giving it the full five stars.

Reviewer Faith says it's well worth the price. She shared how it blends food within two minutes, making super smooth mixtures that melt on the tongue. As well as this, she rates the fact you can store the cup in the fridge to meal prep food or for snacking later.  

The different kinds of food it can blitz up, especially considering its small size, is incredible. Shopper Amanda uses it to blend up spinach leaves, leaving no un-chopped leaves behind in such a quick amount of time. You can also use it to blitz nuts, fruit, and hard vegetables like carrots and celery for those superfood smoothies.

You can also use it extensively without worrying about it breaking under pressure. Reviewer J. Bevan uses it daily for making smoothies and likes the fact it makes up a lot of food considering its small size. He also makes salad dressings with it, which is a use for it that I've never heard of before, but I think it is super clever.

Other blenders on sale

A small blender like Shay Mitchell's Nutribullet in your kitchen is a useful tool to have, allowing you to make delicious drinks in no time at all.

Still searching for Amazon appliances? I also found Reese Witherspoon's Smeg appliances, plus three on-sale alternatives.

Hailey Bieber's viral Erewheon smoothie has taken the internet by storm. But at $19 a pop, it's a pretty spendy beverage. 

That's why I dug around online to figure out how Hailey makes her own concoctions at home and I tracked down the exact blender she uses to get that creamy result. And Hailey isn't the only one who loves it — it's highly rated by customers with thousands of reviews. 

If you're looking for highly-rated small kitchen appliances that you can use to whip up tasty treats, her Vitamix is well worth checking on. 

Hailey Bieber's blender for perfect smoothies

A super-powered blender is always a good investment for whipping up sauces, making smooth soups, or blending frozen beverages. 

It's safe to say Hailey Bieber is the queen of blending, with her smoothie collaboration with luxe California grocery store, Erewhon, dominating TikTok and Instagram. The Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothie is made from a base of almond milk, organic strawberries, and avocado and supplemented with collagen and sea moss. 

While packed full of nutrients, I certainly don't feel like forking out more than $19 every time I want a refreshing drink. That's where Hailey's kitchen appliances come in.

The model and owner of the beauty brand, Rhode, recently shared a TikTok of her whipping up a smoothie at home. The recipe comes from none other than her mega-star husband, Justin Bieber, as she adds almond milk, a banana, blueberries, raspberries, and protein powder to the mix. 

Hailey has great taste in kitchen supplies like the HexClad pans she uses for making dishes like pesto kelp noodles, so I had to know which blender she prefers. I searched online and tracked down the model that's loved by fans and celebs alike. 

Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender

The model Hailey swears by is one of the best blenders on the market. The Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender is a powerful machine, with a 1400-watt motor. It's capable of 10 variable speeds including a pulse feature. The stainless steel blades measure three inches in diameter for an even blend. It's easy to take care of too, as the 48-ounce container is dishwasher-friendly. The only downside is it's quite hefty, weighing in at 11.5 pounds.

Hailey's not alone in her love of this machine. With over 5,000 ratings, one shopper says, "I can't express how much I adore my Vitamix E310 blender! This machine is an absolute powerhouse in the kitchen and has transformed the way I prepare meals. From smoothies to soups to nut butters, this blender handles everything with ease."

More blenders on sale

Looking for an option that's a little more budget-friendly? If you're running out of places to store appliances in a small kitchen, then maybe a smaller model is for you. I scrolled through dozens of blender listings on Amazon, and read hundreds of reviews to find blenders customers say are worth the splurge.

Ready to snag more deals recommended by your favorite celebs? I found Reese Witherspoon's Smeg appliances and Martha Stewart's Amazon homeware essentials are chic and timeless. Start cooking with these superstar kitchen buys.

Reese Witherspoon is a style icon, so it's no surprise her interior design game is also on point.

While watching the actress organize her kitchen with The Home Edit, I spotted Smeg appliances sitting pretty on her counters. I've tracked down Reese's Smeg mixer, coffee maker, and kettle, as well as finding stylish budget alternatives that are on sale on Amazon. Hey, we don't all have celebrity-sized budgets, right?

I think that small kitchen appliances are a great way to quickly enhance the aesthetic and add practicality to your cooking space.

Reese Witherspoon's mixer

Alternative to Reese Witherspoon's mixer

Reese Witherspoon's coffee maker

Alternative to Reese Witherspoon's coffee maker

Reese Witherspoon's kettle

Alternative to Reese Witherspoon's kettle

Retro-style appliances like Reese's will add character and chicness to your kitchen. Whether you're a Smeg lover or not, there are plenty of options out there. 

Want to see more of what the Legally Blonde actor has done in her cooking space? Designers say Reese Witherspoon's kitchen is stylish and well-organized.

If you're deciding between a coffee maker and a French press, you're in luck. We've got all the details on these two types of coffee-making devices. 

We asked coffee experts and pro baristas about the features and key differences between the two. See everything you need to know about making coffee in a French press and a coffee maker.

We also included some of our recommendations for the best coffee makers once you decide which is right for you.

Coffee maker vs French press

From small coffee makers to pod coffee makers, there's a lot to choose from on the market. If you're new to the world of coffee, you may be wondering what the difference is between a coffee maker and a French press. 

We got the low-down on all the pros and cons of each device and which one may be right for you. Baristas and coffee pros share everything you need to know to start brewing your perfect drink at home. Say goodbye to coffee shops!

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Brewing method

One of the first things to know before buying a coffee maker is which brewing method you would like to utilize day-to-day. A coffee maker is an electronic device that brews coffee automatically, while a French press is a pitcher, typically made of glass, that you use to brew coffee manually. 

"Most coffee makers use a drip brew system, in which hot water (typically around 195°F to 205°F) drips over coffee grounds held in a paper or metal filter, extracting the coffee’s flavors, oils, and essences as it passes through to a pot below," says Kayla Stavridis, a former barista and the current head of marketing at baristahq.com.

If you're looking for something easy to use, a coffee maker may be your best bet. "They are convenient and user-friendly, especially for brewing multiple cups at once (up to 12 cups, depending on the model); programmable models can be set to brew coffee automatically at a specific time," says Kayla. If you're looking for a smooth and mellow cup of drip coffee, consider a coffee maker like the Nespresso Vertuo Plus (available on Amazon) which just so happens to be Kim Kardashian's favorite coffee maker. Or check out the Terra Kaffe TK-02 automatic espresso machine which is capable of a wide variety of drinks.

Meanwhile, using a French press is a manual process. "Also known as a press pot or plunger pot, the French press brews coffee by steeping coffee grounds in hot water (about 200°F) before pressing them to the bottom of the pot with a metal or plastic plunger after about four minutes of steeping," says Kayla.

While it may be a bit more work, a French press allows for a custom blend if you prefer more control over the strength of the final product. "French presses offer superior flavor extraction as the coffee oils remain in the brew, creating a richer, fuller flavor; it also allows for control over the strength of the coffee," says Kayla. You can snag this BAYKA French press from Amazon, for a solid option as it has over 14,000 ratings and 4.5 stars.

Taste

The taste of the coffee can differ depending on the water-to-coffee ratio you use in each device. "The 'best' coffee depends on personal preference. A French press generally produces a richer, more robust flavor, appreciated by those who like a strong cup of coffee. In contrast, a coffee maker might appeal more to those who prefer a cleaner, smoother cup," says Kayla. 

It may depend on the model you get but typically when using a coffee maker, the functions are pretty simple and it makes a standard cup of coffee. "Both options make great coffee, and it really comes down to personal preference. I have found that French press coffee tends to have a richer dark flavor than a standard coffee maker. Since a coffee maker uses the same settings every time, the flavor tends to be more consistent. The French press is more manual, so the flavor varies from day to day," says Kelsey Patterson, a food blogger for Sigsbee Street.

Size

If you're not sure where to store appliances in a small kitchen, the size of each device may be an important factor in your decision. French presses tend to be smaller as it's not an electric small kitchen appliance. The BAYKA model is 9.6"D x 5.6"W x 5.3"H and weighs just 1.3 pounds.

"A coffee maker is typically much larger than a French press. This is great if you are looking to make coffee for a crowd or a large family. If you are just making coffee for yourself or one other person, a French press may be a better option. You can store a French press away, and it will take up less space in your kitchen," says Kelsey. 

But not all coffee makers are huge. There are plenty of single-serve coffee makers on the narrow side like the Keruig K-Mini Coffee Maker (Amazon's #1 bestseller in single-serve brewers) which is less than five inches wide and weighs 4.6 pounds.

The verdict

Overall, which device is right for you depends on your lifestyle and barista skills. If you prefer a simple option that will brew coffee at just a click of a button, an automatic coffee maker may be the right choice. However, if you like a stronger brew, pick up a French press. Just make sure you're keeping your French press clean so you get the best results.

"Personally, I recommend a French press if you enjoy crafting a richer coffee flavor and don’t mind a bit more cleanup. It’s especially great for those who appreciate the art of making coffee and have the time to enjoy the process. However, a coffee maker might be the better choice for ease of use, consistent results, and the ability to brew large quantities of coffee more conveniently," says Kayla. 

As well as the brewing method, you can also experiment with the types of coffee beans you use. Decide between pods and ground coffee and experiment with different flavors and textures. "Both brewing methods have their unique benefits and can suit different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you prefer the ease of a coffee maker or the richer brew of a French press, both can make excellent coffee with some practice and care," says Kayla.

If you're caught in the espresso machine vs coffee maker debate, we have some info to help find which appliance is right for you. 

We asked pro baristas and coffee experts about the differences between the end-result beverages. We have plenty of info about the pros and cons of each machine, including the features and sizes options. 

As we've tested plenty of the best coffee makers on the market, the Real Homes team has the know-how to weigh up all your options.

Espresso machine vs coffee maker

Trying to decide between an espresso machine and a coffee maker? If you're new to the world of barista brewing, you may be a bit taken aback by all the options out there. From small coffee makers to pod coffee makers, there's a lot to choose from.

We've broken down the key differences between an espresso machine and a coffee maker, with some help from industry experts. Plus, we included some of our favorite picks so you're guaranteed to snag a top-performing device.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

The coffee

When it comes to weighing up an espresso machine vs a coffee maker, the main difference is the end result they produce. It mostly comes down to the water-to-coffee ratio. 

Typically, a coffee maker refers to a device that brews drip coffee or pour-over coffee. Gravity pushes a large amount of water through coarsely ground coffee beans, resulting in a slower, slightly weaker brew. "A ratio of 1 gram of coffee to 15 grams of water is typically recommended for drip coffee. This provides a balance that is neither too strong nor too diluted," says Kayla Stavridis, a former Starbucks barista and the current Head of Marketing at baristahq.com.

Espressos, on the other hand, are a much more concentrated coffee, either served as they are, or used as a base to create other drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. Espresso machines use pressure to shoot a small amount of water through finely ground coffee beans. 

An espresso is made up of the heart (bottom layer), body (middle layer), and crema (top layer). 

"Expresso is a rich, concentrated shot of coffee that’s the base for a variety of drinks. The quick extraction process preserves many of the delicate flavors in fresh coffee. Due to its concentrated nature, espresso uses a much tighter ratio, often around 1:2, which means one part coffee to two parts water," says Kayla.

So the first thing you need to consider when using a coffee maker is which type of drink you'd like to end up with. If you're looking for a smooth and mellow cup of drip coffee, consider a coffee maker like the Nespresso Vertuo Plus (available on Amazon) which just so happens to be Kim Kardashian's favorite coffee maker. 

But if you're looking to craft a variety of coffee drinks from a strong shot of espresso, look for a top-rated espresso machine, like the De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine with over 10,000 reviews on Amazon and shoppers complimenting its value for money.

Features

There are plenty of things to know before buying a coffee maker and one of the top factors in your decision should be the features of the machine. Typically, drip coffee makers are pretty simple — they brew one type of fuss-free coffee. For example, the Black and Decker Digital Coffee Maker (available on Amazon) has some programmable features for the brew time but only makes one type of coffee.

Meanwhile, espresso machines tend to come with a few more bells and whistles like milk frothers or bean-to-cup models which grind the coffee right in the machine. This Philips Series 4400 Fully Automatic LatteGo Espresso Machine (available on Amazon) makes 12 different coffee drinks, has a milk frother attached, and grinds the beans using 100% ceramic grinders. Or check out the Terra Kaffe TK-02 automatic espresso machine which is capable of a wide variety of drinks.

Size

A little stressed about where to store appliances in a small kitchen? Size is a major factor when deciding between an espresso machine vs coffee maker.

If you're looking for a tiny option, a single-serve coffee maker may be your best bet. Coffee makers come in all shapes and sizes but smaller machines like pod coffee makers and single-serve options can be pretty slim and can be wedged into narrow slots on your counter top. The Keruig K-Mini Coffee Maker (Amazon's #1 bestseller in single-serve brewers) is less than five inches wide and weighs 4.6 pounds.

Espresso makers on the other hand can be a bit cumbersome. They rely on heavy-duty materials to endure the pressure of the steam and heat. "Espresso machines typically employ stainless steel for durability and heat consistency, which is crucial for achieving optimal extraction pressure and temperature," says Kayla. 

They can also run quite large — the Philips Espresso machine is over 17 inches wide and weighs 17.63 pounds. 

The verdict

So which machine is right for you? It all depends on what you're looking for. Comparing options like single-serve vs bean-to-cup will help you prioritize which features you're looking for and which machine is right for your lifestyle.

If you like the taste of drip coffee and prefer a simple machine with easy functions, a coffee maker will be the better option for you. It's also a good choice if you're in a tiny kitchen as coffee makers tend to be smaller than espresso machines. 

But if you prefer the bells and whistles of a professional barista-style coffee maker, an espresso machine is the way to go. You'll have the freedom to experiment with drinks and make all kinds of coffees.

Finding the right brew for you, including pods vs. ground coffee, is all about experimentation. "Understanding the impact of different brewing materials can greatly enhance your coffee-making skills. Feel free to adjust the materials and ratios based on your personal taste and the specific beans you are using, as coffee is a deeply personal and customizable experience," says Kayla. 

Air fryer vs deep fryer — it's time to solve this kitchen conundrum once and for all. 

Our industry experts lift the lid on the pros and cons of these famous foes, with top tips and product recommendations to help you decide what works best for you. From size, speed and cooking capabilities, through cleaning, energy consumption, and versatility, they will walk you through the pros and cons of both air fryers and deep fryers in each department.

Comparing the best air fryers with what the deep fryer can offer will have you cooking up a storm in no time. 

Size: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

One of the most noticeable differences between air fryers and deep fryers is their size. 

Air fryers are typically compact and designed to fit easily on a kitchen counter. They are ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or those who need a portable cooking option. Small air fryers have an equally small footprint and take up less space and are easy to store when not in use. However, the compact size can also limit the amount of food you can cook at one time, which might be a drawback for larger families or entertaining, but perform for dorm, shared space or solo living.

Deep fryers, on the other hand, come in a range of sizes from small countertop models to large commercial units. While a small deep fryer can be suitable for home use, larger models can take up significant counter space and may be more challenging to store.

The benefit of a deep fryer is its capacity to cook larger quantities of food at once, making it ideal for gatherings or when cooking for a crowd. The downside is that it requires more space and can be cumbersome to handle and store.

Kevin Ashton, culinary advisor at Restaurantji, says, "Typically more compact in design, air fryers are usually more suitable for smaller kitchens or places where counter space is limited. Deep fryers' larger size makes them ideal for use in commercial kitchens where large quantities of food are prepared."

However, if you're looking for a deep fryer and have a small kitchen or apartment, Kevin recommends the Hamilton Beach Triple Basket Electric Deep Fryer from Amazon. He says, "I love this deep fryer as it's well-designed to fit in small spaces, affordable, and delivers top-notch results. 

"It comes with three separate baskets — one full-size one and two half-sized, which allows you to fry two different food items at the same time. It's also so easy to use — simply set the temperature knob, wait for the green light, and you're good to go."

Speed: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Speed is an important consideration when choosing between an air fryer vs deep fryer.

Kevin says, "Air fryers are generally faster for cooking compared to deep fryers. Air fryers use rapid technology to circulate hot air around the food at high speed. This allows them to heat up quickly and cook food faster compared to deep fryers, which require a lot of time to heat large quantities of oil to frying temperature.

"Furthermore, air fryers cook through convection, where a stream of hot air rapidly surrounds the food, crisping it up efficiently. The process is faster than deep frying."

The best deep fat fryers often require more time to heat the oil to the desired temperature. Once the oil is hot, deep fryers can cook food quickly, producing a crispy exterior and tender interior. However, the initial heating time and the need to maintain a consistent temperature can add to the overall cooking time. 

If speed and convenience are your priorities, an air fryer might be the better choice.

Cooking: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

The cooking capabilities of air fryers and deep fryers differ significantly, influencing the texture and taste of food. 

Air fryers use hot air to cook food, mimicking the effect of frying but with little to no oil. This results in a healthier cooking method, reducing fat content by up to 75% compared to traditional frying. 

Deep fryers, on the other hand, are the gold standard for achieving that classic fried texture and flavor. Submerging food in hot oil produces a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. For those who prioritize taste and texture, a deep fryer might be the preferred option.

Kevin says, "Air fryers are ideal for preparing foods that require less oil for cooking and benefit more from dry heat. They include mozzarella sticks, and chicken nuggets. They are also great for roasting vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

"Deep fryers are ideal for foods that benefit from deep frying because the cooking process involves submerging the food in hot oil. Ideal foods for a deep fryer include fish fillets, fried chicken, tempura, onion rings and doughnuts."

Kevin recommends the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro from Amazon for its culinary prowess. He says, "I love it because it is relatively affordable and has 13 preset functions, including slow cook, roast, pizza and bagel. Its pre-heating function adds a level of precision to my cooking. And a handy bonus — it's easy to clean."

Adonis Icalina is an experienced chef and author at Carnivore Style. He says, "For me, when it comes to deep fryers, you can't look past the Breville Smart Fryer from Amazon. Its precise temperature control with digital interface is incredibly helpful in my restaurant because it ensures our fried foods come out at consistent quality — perfectly crispy every time. 

"Another thing I'm obsessed with is this deep fryer's 'Cool Zone' technology, which helps keep the oil cleaner for longer. This is a huge benefit for us as it reduces the need for frequent oil changes, saving both time and money. Cleaner oil also means better-tasting food and less waste, which is important for both the environment and our bottom line."

Cleaning: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Cleaning is a significant factor to consider when choosing between an air fryer and a deep fryer. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Air fryers are typically easier to clean because they use little to no oil. Most models have dishwasher-safe components, such as the basket and tray, which simplifies the cleaning process. Additionally, because air fryers don't involve large amounts of hot oil, there's less risk of greasy splatters.

"Deep fryers can be more challenging to clean due to the large quantity of oil used, which can splash and leave a greasy residue. The oil reservoir and other components usually need to be cleaned by hand, and disposing of used oil can be messy and inconvenient."

Some deep fryers come with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe, which can help with the cleaning process, but the overall maintenance is generally more demanding than that of an air fryer.

When it comes to cleaning an air fryer, Karina trusts one above all else — the Phillips Premium Air Fryer XXL from Amazon. She says, "This model is renowned for its ease of cleaning, with dishwasher-safe parts and minimal oil usage."

For deep fryers, Karina recommends the Cuisinart Deep Fryer from Amazon. She adds, "I like how it offers a large oil container with a pour spout for easier oil management and cleaning."

Energy: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Energy consumption when comparing the air fryer vs deep fryer.

Adonis says, "Air fryers operate by circulating hot air around the food at a high speed, using convection technology to cook food quickly and evenly. This method requires less energy because it heats up rapidly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Air fryers also have shorter cooking times compared to deep fryers, which further contributes to energy savings.

"On the other hand, deep fryers use a significant amount of energy to heat and maintain large quantities of oil to high temperatures. Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, the fryer must continue to expend energy to maintain that heat level throughout the cooking process. Plus, deep fryers may need to heat up again between batches if the oil temperature drops significantly, further adding to energy consumption."

Kevin adds, "Air fryers typically have precise temperature controls and can quickly adjust temperatures as needed. On the contrary, deep fryers require more energy to maintain a consistently high temperature of the oil."

For those looking to minimize energy consumption, an air fryer may be the better choice.

Versatility: how air fryers and deep fryers compare

Versatility is a key category where air fryers often outperform deep fryers. 

The best small air fryers can cook a wide range of foods beyond just frying, including roasting, baking, and grilling. This makes them a more versatile kitchen appliance that can replace multiple other devices. For individuals with limited kitchen space or those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods, an air fryer offers a broader range of culinary possibilities.

Deep fryers, while excellent for traditional frying, are more limited in their cooking applications. They are specifically designed for frying and do not offer the same versatility as air fryers. However, for those who frequently prepare large quantities of fried foods and prioritize achieving the perfect fried texture and flavor, a deep fryer is an unmatched tool.

Adonis recommends the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Air Fryer from Amazon, saying, "There's so much to love, from its large capacity, with two separate baskets allowing you to cook multiple items at once, to its 'Smart Finish' technology, which allows different foods to finish cooking at the same time. 

"The ability to synchronize cooking times helps us streamline our workflow and deliver consistently high-quality dishes to our restaurant customers."

Meet our experts

So there you have it — air fryer vs deep fryer, solved. 

Choosing between an air fryer and a deep fryer depends on your cooking needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. If you value healthier cooking, quick meal preparation, and easy cleanup, an air fryer might be the best option for you. Its versatility and energy efficiency make it a practical addition to any kitchen. 

On the other hand, if you prioritize achieving the perfect fried texture and flavor, enjoy cooking large quantities of food, and don't mind the additional cleaning and energy usage, a deep fryer might be more suitable.

Next, check out when we put an air fryer and deep fryer to the test. 

Learning the differences and merits of air fryers vs convection oven will come in handy when choosing which to use for each cooking task, and whether or not to even invest in an air fryer.

From speed of cooking to energy efficiency, our culinary expert explains the pros and cons of each kitchen appliance, providing top tips and product recommendations along the way.

In the red corner, the best air fryers are our lightweight contender, producing great food at super speeds; in the blue corner, convection ovens are the heavyweight to underestimate at your peril. 

Size: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

One of the most noticeable differences between an air fryers and convection ovens are their size. 

Convection ovens are larger and typically built into kitchen cabinetry or come as a part of a range. This increased size allows for more cooking space, making them suitable for baking large batches of cookies, roasting whole chickens, or cooking multiple dishes at once. The downside is that convection ovens require cabinet space and may not be as convenient for those with limited kitchen real estate.

In contrast, air fryers are much smaller and portable.

Kevin Ashton, culinary advisor at Restaurantji, says, "Air fryers are generally more compact and take up less space on your counter. They are ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or for those who don't have the luxury of big kitchen space. Their vertical design allows for efficient storage when they are not in use. So, if you are more concerned about size because you don't have much space in your kitchen, an air fryer wins the race."

While the best small air fryers are ideal for tight kitchens, apartments, or for those who want to save counter space. Their small size allows them to preheat quickly and cook smaller portions efficiently, if you're cooking for a large family or often prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, a convection oven is the way to go.

Speed: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

When it comes to cooking speed, air fryers often have the edge due to their compact size and high-speed fans. 

The concentrated hot air in an air fryer circulates more rapidly around the food, resulting in faster cooking times, making it an excellent choice for quick meals, snacks, and reheating leftovers. For busy individuals or those who value quick meal preparation, an air fryer can be a game-changer.

We like this Larinest 8-Quart Air Fryer from Amazon for its combination of a family-sized basket and quick cooking time.

Convection ovens, while still faster than traditional ovens, typically take longer to cook food than air fryers, especially if fully loaded, and need more time to preheat due to their size. However, the even heat distribution in convection ovens ensures consistent cooking results, which can be beneficial for baking and roasting larger items.

Kevin adds, "If speed is your primary concern, the air fryer is better. Its compact design and size allow food to cook quickly by circulating hot air around it at high speed. An air fryer is perfect for preparing fast meals and snacks. Although ovens are relatively quick, they are better suited for preparing larger meals requiring a bit more time."

Cooking: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Cooking capabilities differ significantly between air fryers and convection ovens, with each appliance excelling at different types of food. 

Kevin says, "Air fryers are good for preparing foods such as French fries, mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, and other traditionally deep-fried items that taste delicious when crispy. The compact cooking chamber also makes it the best option for preparing vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. These vegetables roast quickly and evenly in an air fryer, achieving a nice crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside."

Air fryers also perform well with reheating leftovers, as they can quickly restore crispiness to foods that might become soggy in a microwave or overcook in a convection oven.

The best convection ovens, on the other hand, are more versatile and can handle a wider range of cooking tasks. They excel at baking cakes, cookies, and bread, thanks to the even heat distribution. Roasting meats and vegetables in a convection oven yields consistently delicious results with a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.

Additionally, the larger size of convection ovens allows for simultaneous cooking of multiple dishes, which can be a significant advantage when preparing meals for gatherings or family dinners.

Cleaning: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Ease of cleaning is an important consideration when choosing between using an air fryer or a convection oven, especially if you're crunched on time. 

Cleaning air fryers comes with several plus-points. In particular, they often have removable baskets and trays that are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup relatively easy.

However, their smaller size means that food particles and grease can become trapped in tight spaces, requiring regular and thorough cleaning to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance. This includes grease on the protective and usually removable mesh protected in the lid, which protects the heating element from direct spatter.

Convection ovens, especially built-in models, can be more challenging to clean due to their larger size and fixed components. However, regular cleaning of the oven racks, interior surfaces, and fans is necessary to maintain efficiency and prevent food contamination. 

Many convection ovens come with a self-cleaning feature, which uses high heat to burn off food residues, but this process can be time-consuming and energy-intensive.

While cleaning a convection oven can be more labor-intensive, the ability to cook larger meals may outweigh this drawback for some users but we'd say that boils down to how large your household is and the type of foods you love cooking.

Energy: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Energy consumption is another factor to consider when comparing air fryers and convection ovens. 

Kevin says, "Air fryers are generally more energy efficient because they are small and require less energy to heat up and maintain temperature. Also, since air fryers typically cook faster than convection ovens, shorter cooking times translate to less energy usage overall. 

"For instance, cooking a batch of French fries in an air fryer takes approximately 15 minutes compared to 25 minutes in an oven. The rapid air circulation in an air fryer ensures even cooking without the need for prolonged exposure to heat, which further reduces energy consumption."

Though some convection ovens are designed with energy-saving features, they are likely to have a higher energy usage compared to air fryers; this energy efficiency can lead to lower electricity bills and a reduced environmental footprint, making air fryers an appealing choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Versatility: how air fryers and convection ovens compare

Versatility is a key category where convection ovens often outperform air fryers.

While air fryers are excellent for specific tasks like frying and reheating, convection ovens offer broader cooking options.

From baking and roasting to broiling and dehydrating, the best integrated convection ovens provide greater flexibility for a wide range of culinary activities. This versatility makes convection ovens a more comprehensive solution for those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods and recipes.

Air fryers, though less versatile, are perfect for individuals who primarily seek a healthier way to enjoy fried foods without the hassle of deep frying. They are also convenient for quick snacks and meals, making them a valuable addition to a kitchen that already has a conventional or convection oven.

When it comes to more versatile air fryers, we love this Instant Vortex Plus XL 8-Quart ClearCook Air Fryer from Amazon thanks to its large capacity combined with its dual controls that allow you different settings for each basket.

Kevin recommends the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro from Amazon. He says, "I love it because it has 13 preset functions, including slow cook, roast, pizza and bagel. Its pre-heating function also adds a level of precision to my cooking. It's easy to clean, too."

Meet our expert

So there you have it — air fryer vs convection oven, solved. 

Choosing between an air fryer and a convection oven ultimately depends on your cooking needs, kitchen space, and personal preferences. If you have limited space, need quick meal preparation, and prefer healthier fried foods, an air fryer may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a versatile appliance capable of handling a variety of cooking tasks and larger meal preparations, a convection oven might be more suitable.

Next, check out our run-down of how air fryers and deep fryers compare.

In need of a caffeine boost? Look no further than Kim Kardashian's coffee maker. While you may not have thought to look to Kim for appliance recommendations, her favorite machine checks out. 

The Kardashians star took to TikTok to show a glimpse of her morning coffee routine. We were able to track down the exact machine she uses — the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee Maker, available on Amazon — and we know it's a winner not just because of the positive customer reviews, because we have tested and reviewed it ourselves.

We definitely consider Kim's pick to be one of the best coffee makers, so let's delve into everything we love about this device and how to improve your coffee routine.

Check out Kim Kardashian's coffee maker

Love her or hate her, it's no secret that Kim Kardashian is the queen of all things on-trend. From beauty products to her viral brand Skims, she has her finger on the pulse when it comes to items worth making popular, or in her cause sending things viral. The Nespresso coffee maker she has in her kitchen is no exception, and it made our list of the best single-serve coffee makers, too.

Kim shared her morning routine on TikTok, showing the audience how she gets ready for the day. In her video, she shows herself using the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee Maker, our team has reviewed. 

Everything we love about the Nespresso Vertuo Plus

We tested this coffee maker at the Real Homes HQ and it quickly ranked as one of the top coffee machines in our list. Millie Fender, our former small appliances editor, says the slimline and sleek coffee maker works well on a small kitchen counter. 

This espresso machine is capable of making five-ounce, eight-ounce coffee, and single and double espresso. It comes with a removable 60-ounce water tank and a 10-count used pods container. It's quick too, with a heat-up time of only 15 seconds.

If you're a little worried about the environmental impact of pod coffee makers, it will be a relief to know that Nespresso aluminum pods are fully recyclable.

It's loaded with innovative features and the coffee tastes great, too. Millie likes the low-fuss brewing with Nespresso's own take on quality coffee, complete with crema-like foam that's a signature element of the Vertuo line. She rates the undeniably smart technology and says it's nice to only have one button but be able to make a range of different drink sizes.

More celeb coffee makers

There are plenty more celeb-endorsed coffee makers where that came from. Take a look at Drew Barrymore's single-serve coffee maker or Jennifer Lopez’s Keurig coffee maker. 

If you're a real coffee pro, baristas and coffee aficinados will love Vanessa Hudgens’ De'Longhi coffee maker for a long-term and solid coffee making investment. There's something for everyone, no matter if you're looking for something small to store on your counter or a high-quality bean-to-cup powerhouse.

Getting a bit warm in the summer? While you can make an iced coffee with the Nespresso Vertuo Plus (simply brew the coffee over ice in a glass) a specialized product may be the better option. We found eight of the best cold brew makers to get through those scorching summer months. 

Start cooking up a storm with Amazon's #1 bestselling air fryer. The appliance which sold over 20,000 units in the past month is on sale now with over 30% off. 

Air fryers are a practical choice for every kitchen as they're so versatile and easy to use. The Ninja AF101, available on Amazon, takes the crown as the best-selling model loved by thousands of customers online. We've tested it ourselves and found it performed incredibly well. 

Check out everything you need to know about one of the best air fryers and how to get this great deal.

Amazon's #1 bestselling air fryer

If you're limited on counter space, a small air fryer like the Ninja AF101 is the perfect solution. No need to stock up on tons of small kitchen appliances, a good air fryer can replace your microwave, slow cooker, and pressure cooker. So if you're running out of places to store appliances in a small kitchen, one device is all you need.

It's well-loved by customers with a 4.7-star rating and over 53,000 reviews. So what makes this model the best of the bunch? In our Ninja AF101 review, we tested this machine to see if it was worth the hype and we gave it a 4.5/5 stars.

What we love about the Ninja AF101

We tested this air fryer ourselves to find everything this machine is capable of. According to our reviewer, the machine cooked signature staples using air and up to 75% less fat. She was clear the control panel was incredibly intuitive, and the machine provided excellent results when cooking all sorts of foods. 

While not massive, the air fryer is large enough to feed a family as the four-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket can fit two pounds of French fries. It has four cooking modes — air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate — that you can customize based on what you're making. 

It's typically pretty easy to clean an air fryer and this model from Ninja is no exception. Our reviewer found it was a breeze.

If you follow all the dos and don'ts of using an air fryer, you won't run into any problems, but our reviewer noted an important point about its function, adding that it's so powerful, you might need to reduce conventional cooking times down by a few minutes to avoid drying out, overcooking or burning your food by mistake.

More air fryers we love

Looking for other models with the Real Homes seal of approval? We tested plenty of other highly-rated machines in our dedicated testing HQ or in our homes. We also got the low-down on celeb favorites, like Paris Hilton's air fryer and Drew Barrymore's air fryer. 

Discover our top selections from Instant, Cosori, and more below.

Still not sure whether it's the right time to snag this? It's worth checking the best times to snag a new appliance, as there are various sales events throughout the year that offer big discounts.

I've wanted a Smeg retro toaster for so long, but finding out that the queen of chic Hilary Duff has one in her home has convinced me to move it to the top of my must-have list.

The Lizzie McGuire and Cinderella actor has a gorgeous home with so many refined, minimalist features, and this time it's her kitchen appliance that I'm swooning over. I've delved into why this Smeg toaster is a great choice, shown you how to get it on sale, plus found budget-friendly alternatives.

If you've seen retro toasters trending like I have and want to upgrade yours to a cute, vintage style, the Smeg toaster is a great choice.

Hilary Duff's Smeg retro toaster is chic and characterful

When it comes to revamping your kitchen without refitting everything, toasters and other small kitchen appliances are great ways to add pops of personality.

I've shown you where you can find the Smeg retro toaster, as well as curated budget-friendly retro toasters (hey, we don't all have the budget of a movie star!).

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Why we love the Smeg retro toaster

When it comes to kitchen appliances, few items manage to strike the perfect balance between form and function as elegantly as the Smeg toaster. 

“The Smeg toaster is renowned for its distinctive design that harks back to the 1950s. Its smooth, rounded edges, chrome accents, and glossy finish exude a vintage charm that instantly adds character to any kitchen,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Known for her chic yet approachable style, Hilary’s endorsement highlights the toaster's ability to blend into a family-friendly kitchen while still exuding high design,” she adds.

Beyond its stylish exterior, the Smeg toaster also excels in functionality. 

Nina continues, “It features wide slots that can accommodate everything from thin slices of bread to thick bagels and artisanal loaves.”

It also has six browning levels, meaning you can customize the crispiness of your toast to perfection, ensuring it meets your exact preference every time. We all know how important the right toast setting is.

Nostalgic style is one of the biggest interior design trends this year, which has crept into the kitchen in the form of delicious-looking.

“Retro toasters, with their rounded edges and bold colors, complement other vintage-inspired pieces while still fitting into sleek, contemporary kitchens,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

He adds that — just like with kitchen cabinet colors and kitchen countertops — the choice of small appliances like toasters can influence the room's harmony.

Shop the Smeg toaster

Shop retro toaster alternatives

The Smeg toaster is a stylish and useful addition to any kitchen, combining retro elegance with modern functionality.

“Inspired by the likes of Hilary Duff, adding a Smeg toaster to your kitchen is not just about making great toast — it’s about making a statement in style and quality,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you like this but are looking for a cooler appliance, the Smeg retro fridge is also a sleek choice.

I've seen retro toasters all over my Instagram and TikTok feeds recently, which add such a fun, funky flair to any kitchen counter.

After swooning over them, I've decided that it's time to seek out pretty and popping kitchen accessories that will turn any bland breakfast area into an exciting space. From colorful, eye-catching ones to chic ones that are long-lasting, I've sought out a range of highly-rated picks from top retailers to suit all budgets.

If you're looking for the best toasters that will make your cooking space sizzle with personality, retro-style ones are worth looking for.

We love these fab and fun retro toasters

For those looking to step up the aesthetic of their small kitchen appliances, toasters are totally worth trying.

“Retro toasters have made a striking comeback due to their charming aesthetic and nostalgic appeal, which fits seamlessly into both modern and vintage-inspired kitchens,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer and CEO of Intrabuild.

“A well-chosen retro toaster can serve as a focal point, elevating the overall kitchen ambiance,” he adds.

I've handpicked these from trustworthy retailers, looking at star ratings and customer reviews to ensure that they're as functional as they are fabulous.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Two-slice retro toasters

Four-slice retro toasters

Retro toasters with multiple functions

Why retro toasters are popular right now

If you’re wondering why retro toasters are currently everywhere, you might be surprised to know that despite their nostalgic style, they’re actually a timeless choice.

“Retro toasters blend the practicality of modern appliances with the vintage flair that adds character to any kitchen space,” Nick says.

He continues, “In luxury apartments I've worked on, a cohesive design is crucial. Just like with custom cabinetry or granite countertops, the choice of small appliances like toasters can influence the room's harmony.”

Nick says that a well-chosen retro toaster can serve as a focal point, elevating the overall kitchen ambiance. 

As well as this, Nick adds that brands like Smeg and Dualit (both featured in this guide) are particularly popular.

“They offer retro designs equipped with advanced features like multiple toasting settings and defrost functions, meeting contemporary needs without compromising on style,” he explains.

When shopping for retro toasters, it’s a good idea to look for features like these, as well as durable materials and strong warranties.

For those looking to switch up their kitchen countertop decor game, this style of toaster is a brilliant choice.

“Retro toasters, with their rounded edges and bold colors, complement other vintage-inspired pieces while still fitting into sleek, contemporary kitchens,” Nick finishes by saying.

You can also pair these up with the best coffee makers to create a chic breakfast station in your home.

If your body won't function without caffeine, the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker sale is the best time to take advantage of this small space appliance and make your early morning beverage dreams come true at the touch of a button.

Enjoy a whopping 40% off all seven colors of the nifty Keurig K Mini Coffee Maker on Amazon, which happens to be the number one bestselling kitchen appliance on the retailer's site. 

This deal is one we really can get behind as we've tested it ourselves and know exactly why it's brilliant. Here's why we love it, why customers love it and alternative single-serve coffee makers to shop.

Why we love the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker sale item

We reviewed the Keurig K Mini Coffee Maker and loved the sleek look, easy-to-operate design, and abundance of K-Cup coffee options, so after spotting it on Amazon with a 40% off deal, we had to share the good news as other retailers such as Best Buy and Macy's don't have this offer.

During testing, our expert reviewer loved the compact design which is perfect for small kitchens with limited counter space, its energy efficiency and easy cord storage. 

But leave enough time to brew your cup as takes a couple of minutes for one cup to be made, she says. However, we reckon that's a fair trade-off for the compact design and fab price point of just $59.99 (it usually retails for $99.99).

This beautiful little coffee maker, which comes in seven colors including mint, pink, dark green, and silver, made our list of best single-serve coffee makers and is a hit with Amazon shoppers, with more than 3,000 flying off the virtual shelves in the last month alone.

Why our tester loved the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

Compatible with any K-Cup coffee pods, including Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts, you're able to also use it with ground beans of your choice. It's teeny tiny, sitting at just under five inches wide, meaning even in the smallest of kitchens, you'll likely a find a good spot for this beaut.

Or, you can turn your favorite bar cart into a make-shift and portable coffee station. Wheel it into your small home office, have it on-hand but out of the way in your kitchen diner, or stash it in your pantry and pop it up onto your counter when you need it.

Installation is simple. Our reviewer, Brittany Romano says, "With one press of a button, the machine will start on its own."

It also has an auto-shut off function, switching off the device after 90 seconds to not only save energy, but whip away any nagging doubt you've left your coffee maker on after rushing out to work or meet friends.

It's worth noting during testing, Brittany didn't like how short the power cord was (it needs to be right next to an outlet, but you can use an extension such as the Ultra Thin 5FT Flat Extension Cord on Amazon, rated 5/5 stars by shoppers to remedy the issue) but said overall, using the Keurig K-Mini was a "seamless" experience. 

During testing, it did occasionally experience an overflow of water, but the instructions pin point this snag for users. It doesn't have a water tank so overfilling the unit (it will one 6-10 oz coffee) is the most common reason for this.

Why Amazon customers love it

Not only is this single serve coffee maker Amazon's bestselling kitchen appliance, it's Amazon's Choice and big hit with customers, who buy in their thousands every month. Across more than 97,000 reviews, this item carries a 4.5/5 average rating from happy shoppers.

I spent hours scouring on-site reviews from customers who purchased it, and noticed a theme of feedback. Customers love how compact it is, the ease of use, the range of K-Cups available (including customers who have ditched their morning drive thru and are making McDonald's coffees with their K-Cups from Amazon), and enjoy that you can make just one cup at a time.

They do mention that it isn't the quietest of machines, with one explaining that it's "louder than a regular coffee maker or French press, but I'd not call it loud."

Of the sticking points, some mention it splatters a bit, but the clean up is quicker than having to set up and wait for filter coffee or going to Starbucks. One reviewer said since buying this single serve coffee maker, they have ditched their regular Starbucks pit-stops and make the same at home on this machine instead.

If you live in a home-share, you can even set this up in the corner of your bedroom. One Amazon reviewer says they even use it to make noodles with the hot water function. Smart!

Where one customer had a faulty machine and it wasn't replaced by Amazon, Keurig stepped in to cover it. However, from my experience of Amazon and Prime membership for the last 14 years, I've never encountered a faulty product Amazon wouldn't refund or replace even outside of the 30-day return window. 

I called through to customer services via the Amazon App for a broken parasol a year after I purchased it and they gave me a refund, so in my view, the odd review showing a refusal to replace isn't of concern.

What else to shop

If you like the idea of a compact coffee maker, but this one isn't the right one for you, we have some brilliant alternative deals on Amazon to consider with fabulous ratings and features.

Once you're set up with your new appliance, learn how to clean your coffee maker to keep your cup of morning Joe tasting fresh.

Skipping the coffee shop? You're going to need some matcha tools to make a delicious energizing drink at home.

If you're looking for a boost of caffeine but want to ditch coffee, an iced matcha may be the perfect solution. While it may seem complicated, we asked the pros what you need to know before starting.

Making barista-quality drinks starts with investing in the right equipment, such as one of our best coffee makers and the essential tools you need to get your iced matcha just right.

Our favorite matcha tools for the perfect drink

If you're a cold drink aficionado, you may already have an iced coffee maker at home, but investing in some matcha tools will be well worth it as the drink has many benefits.

"Matcha is rich in antioxidants and provides a unique, smooth energy boost without the jitters often associated with coffee," says Kayla Stavridis, a former Starbucks barista and the current head of marketing at baristahq.com.

Before you get started, you'll need to pick up some high-quality matcha powder, such as the Jade Leaf Organic Green Tea Powder from Amazon with an average of 4.5/5 stars from happy customers across more than 91,000 reviews. 

"When making iced matcha at home, using high-quality matcha powder is key. Look for ceremonial-grade matcha, as it has a vibrant green color and smooth flavor, perfect for iced drinks," Jessica Randhawa, the head chef behind The Forked Spoon.

Once your matcha is in hand, it's time to grab some other supplies to mix everything up. See our top barista-approved picks.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Whisk or milk frother

One of the most important products you need for making matcha is a whisk. Traditionally, a bamboo whisk called a chasen (such as this DoMatcha whisk available from Amazon) is used to blend the matcha powder with hot water. "This bamboo whisk is traditional and essential for achieving smooth, lump-free matcha. It's specifically designed to whisk matcha in a zigzag motion and helps to aerate the tea, creating a nice frothy texture," says Kayla. 

If you don't have access to chasen, you can use an electric whisk or milk frother instead. If you have a well-stocked coffee bar you may already have one on hand. "If you don’t have a chasen, a small electric frother can work as an alternative. If you’re using an electric frother, whisk until you see bubbles and the matcha is well mixed," says Nic Vanderbeeken, executive chef at Apéritif.

Glasses and other accessories

You'll need a few more odds and ends when it comes to crafting the perfect cup of matcha. If you have a pod coffee maker, you may be used to just brewing your coffee into a mug. But for matcha, you'll need a mixing bowl (traditionally called a chawan) to mix the powder and hot water. 

We like the Jade Leaf Matcha Traditional Porcelain Tea Bowl available from Amazon for its easy-to-pour spout. "While any small bowl can be used, a traditional ceramic matcha bowl is wide enough to allow proper whisking," says Kayla. 

If you're having a cold drink, you'll also need some tall drinking glasses to ensure room for the ice. "A clear glass is perfect for iced matcha, allowing you to appreciate the vibrant green color of the drink," says Kayla. 

Top it all off with a reusable straw either made of glass, stainless steel, or silicone. Just remember to clean reusable straws regularly to avoid nasty build-up.

If you're looking for the perfect companion to a small coffee maker, investing in good-quality matcha tools is the way to go. 

"Making iced matcha at home is easy once you have the right tools and techniques. It’s not only a refreshing drink but also a nutritious one that can be enjoyed at any time of the day," says Kayla.

Next, delve into our best single serve coffee makers.

You're going to need to know the perfect coffee to water ratio if you're brewing up a pot at home. No need to visit the coffee shop every day if you know the secret to making great drinks at home. 

We asked the pros how to nail this crucial step in coffee-making so your drink doesn't come out too bitter or watered down. Plus, knowing the right amount of coffee to use means you won't waste extra beans (hello, extra oat milk money!). 

See how to make the most of your coffee maker, with our perfect coffee to water ratio. Your morning just got a little better, trust us.

The perfect coffee to water ratio

Even if you're using a small coffee maker, you should know how to make the most of your machine. "Finding the perfect coffee-to-water ratio can significantly enhance your coffee experience, affecting everything from flavor intensity to aroma and body," says Kayla Stavridis, a former Starbucks barista and the current Head of Marketing at baristahq.com.

General coffee ratio

You'll only need two ingredients to make a cup of coffee — coffee grounds and hot water. But what is the best ratio of the two? "The ideal ratio is generally considered to be 1:16, meaning one part coffee to 16 parts water. For a standard cup, this translates to about 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water," says Jessica Randhawa, the head chef behind The Forked Spoon.

Of course, you can always alter this if you prefer a weaker or stronger drink. "Adjusting this ratio slightly can cater to personal preferences; for instance, a stronger brew can be achieved with a 1:15 ratio, while a milder cup might use a 1:17 ratio. Ensuring precise measurements helps extract the right amount of flavors, avoiding overly bitter or weak coffee," says Jessica.

Other coffee preparation methods

Traditional brewing isn't the only way to make a cup of coffee. You can use single-serve coffee makers or pod coffee makers to create all kinds of different drinks. 

"With full immersion brewing, like a French press, I recommend a tighter ratio, closer to 1:15. Since all the water sits with all the coffee for the full brewing time, there's more time for extraction. Using a bit less water helps balance out the flavor," says Johny Morrisson, a former Barista, and a blogger at coffeeabout.com.

Espresso is a much stronger drink, used for making lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. "For espressos, the coffee-to-water ratio is much higher, typically around 1:2. We're talking about 7-9 grams of finely ground coffee for a 15-20 gram shot of espresso. This concentrated ratio is what gives espresso its intense, bold flavor and thick texture," says Johny. Or check out the Terra Kaffe TK-02 automatic espresso machine which is capable of a wide variety of drinks.

You don't even need heat to make a good cup of coffee. Use a cold brew maker, like this highly-rated cold brew press from Walmart, to whip up a refreshing cool drink instead. "This method requires a higher coffee concentration, generally around 1:8, since the coffee is steeped for an extended period (usually 12 to 24 hours) and often served diluted with milk or water," says Kayla.

The coffee to water ratio isn't the only factor that will affect the overall taste of your drink. Investing in good materials and keeping your coffee maker clean will greatly improve the quality. "The materials used, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, can influence heat retention and flavor consistency. Investing in high-quality equipment and experimenting with various methods can significantly elevate the coffee-drinking experience, allowing one to discover their preferred brewing style," says Jessica.

The SMEG retro fridge the perfect trendy addition to any vintage-lovers kitchen. Jazz up that dingy fridge sitting in your kitchen with something more polished and sophisticated. 

Available in a range of colors and sizes, this fan-favorite pick can squeeze into just about anywhere. We took a look at this top-notch appliance and it's unique features.

We also found three budget-friendly alternatives right in line with this small kitchen trend, including mini fridges for dorms and studio apartments.

Everything we love about the SMEG retro fridge

Are you a lover of all things SMEG? The SMEG retro fridge is a must-see. In late 2023, Pinterest Predicts envisioned kitschy kitchens, aka "kitschens," as the hot look of the 2024 season. Think bright pastels, retro silhouettes, and quirky-but-cute accents. The fridge, along with the SMEG retro kettle, is no exception.

Designer Nina Lichtenstein considers the appliance to be "a delightful exercise in retro-inspired decor" that transcends popular styles, and even time. "The fridge adds a touch of vintage charm that effortlessly complements modern and traditional kitchen settings alike," she says. 

The best news? It's just as functional as it is stylish. "Beyond its eye-catching appearance, SMEG appliances are renowned for their quality craftsmanship, durability, and innovative features," Nina says.

It comes with three adjustable glass shelves, a bottle storage shelf, a freezer section with 0.92 capacity, and an ice cube tray. If you're in a smaller space, there's also a mini SMEG fridge available from Crate & Barrel to tuck under the counter.

"To showcase this iconic piece, pair it with other SMEG appliances or vintage-inspired kitchen accessories," Nina recommends.

Budget-friendly alternatives

You don't have to spend a ton on small kitchen upgrades if you're looking to give your cook space a makeover. We found some options that are lower in price but not in quality. See how to make the most of this interior trend with these slick appliances.

“Infuse your kitchen with whimsy by choosing colorful kitchen appliances that defy convention,” Nina suggests. “Explore options like retro-inspired refrigerators in pastel shades or sleek ovens in bold metallic finishes.”

Complement your SMEG retro fridge with some pastel kitchen ideas to spruce up cabinets, backsplashes, and more. “The charm that pastel colors and retro styles add to your kitchen will make it radiate with beauty and sophistication,”  says Nina.

We're officially in love with the viral Ninja Creami, thanks to its ability to whip up delicious treats in a flash. From silky smoothies to rich ice cream, it can turn just about anything into a yummy frozen snack.

We've asked experts, including our own in-house foodie and an appliance pro, why it's such a great buy. As well as this, we've also tracked down where it's on sale and found alternatives that are more budget-friendly.

If you're looking for the best small kitchen appliances, the Ninja Creami is a brilliant choice to have on your radar for the sunnier months ahead.

Why we love the viral Ninja Creami

We reviewed the Ninja Creami a couple of years ago and loved how neat and easy it was to use. So, we weren’t surprised to see it make a comeback this year.

“The Ninja Creami is a great investment for dessert lovers,” explains Emily Lambe, deputy editor of Real Homes and our resident food appliance expert.

She continues, “It has been exploding on TikTok with users crafting desserts from everything from canned fruit to coffee drinks.”

All you have to do is mix up your desired frozen goods in the Ninja Creami and enjoy. How easy, right?

“What sets it apart is its innovative design and technology, enabling users to create a wide array of frozen treats with ease and precision,” explains Sarah Johnson, appliance expert at Big Air Fryers, who is experienced with appliances that produce hot and cold goods. 

“With its powerful motor and rapid freezing technology, the Ninja Creami accelerates the freezing process, meaning less time waiting and more time enjoying delicious frozen delights,” she adds. “This makes it perfect for impromptu dessert cravings or entertaining guests on short notice.” 

Our reviewer Millie Fender tried making smoothies, ice cream, and sorbet in it and loved how easy it was to blend everything together to produce well-textured treats. 

She also recommended using less cream than normal when making recipes in it, making it a fab choice for anyone looking to make healthy treats.

Shop the Ninja Creami

Ninja Creami alternatives

For those looking for budget alternatives to the Ninja Creami that offer something different, Emily has a few tips on what to look for.

“If you’re looking for an alternative, consider the strength of the motor and the materials it’s made from,” Emily suggests.

She continues, “Always look for stainless steel as this is the most durable when it comes to sharp blades cutting through frozen ingredients.”

We’ve rounded up top-rated picks that are also ideal for making delicious frozen treats that are less costly.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Our handpicked alternatives are great choices, but if you’re looking for a frozen treat maker that will also blend up just about anything, the Ninja Creami is the way to go.

“For those seeking out innovation, versatility, and performance, look no further than the Ninja Creami. Your taste buds will thank you,” Sarah finishes by saying.

If you do want to wait and see if it will be discounted any further, look out for Ninja sales throughout the year. 

If you fancy a cup of tea with friends, the striking new SMEG tea kettle is the perfect  conversation starter.

A playful throwback to the '50s, the new SMEG Stainless-Steel Whistling Tea Kettle not only makes a statement with its colorful, retro design, but offers quality for your boiling needs, says our experts.

For a fun pop of color and style on your stovetop, and a nod to this year's favorite small kitchen trend, SMEG is the way to go. 

Spilling the tea: why the SMEG tea kettle is designer-approved

In late 2023, Pinterest Predicts envisioned kitschy kitchens, "kitschens" in the platform's terms, as the hot look of the 2024 season: bright pastels, retro silhouettes, and quirky-but-cute accents. The SMEG tea kettle fits right in with the aesthetic. 

Designer Nina Lichtenstein considers the appliance to be "a delightful exercise in retro-inspired decor" that transcends popular styles, and even time. "The kettle adds a touch of vintage charm that effortlessly complements modern and traditional kitchen settings alike," she says. 

Moreover, what's sure to become one of the best tea kettles on shelves doesn't solely rely on looks to get people talking. 

"Beyond its eye-catching appearance, SMEG appliances are renowned for their quality craftsmanship, durability, and innovative features," Nina says. 

What can you expect from this release? Aside from six gorgeous shades, the SMEG tea kettle comes with a ergonomic, cool-touch, anti-slip silicone handle and accessibility on all cooktops. 

Should you be interested in small kitchen upgrades, swapping out appliances could be a good place to start. With SMEG kitchen appliances, you'll be able to easily transform the look of your space. 

"To showcase this iconic piece, pair it with other SMEG appliances or vintage-inspired kitchen accessories," Nina recommends. "Display it on a sleek countertop alongside colorful ceramic mugs or retro-inspired tea sets to create a charming focal point that evokes nostalgia and elegance."

Have a color palette in mind — perhaps one of the more creative colorful small kitchen ideas — and work from there. 

You might also like

As much as we appreciate SMEG's looks and reliable features, it can often be considered a splurge. We found similar tea kettles that mimic the  style and provide quality without the hefty price tag.

Not in the market for a tea kettle? The Real Homes SMEG blender review, SMEG espresso machine review, and SMEG SMF03 stand mixer review will provide insight on the brand's other beloved, retro appliances.

Upgrade your morning brew with the KitchenAid espresso maker, as approved by Jennifer Garner. Not only is it beloved by celebs, this powerful machine can brew up just about any coffee drink you can think of. 

The 13 Going on 30 star took to Instagram to share how she uses the impressive KitchenAid espresso maker, available on Amazon which has a piping hot $200 discount on offer right via the retailer. In the video Jennifer made some light and fluffy pancakes as part of her social media cooking series, as well as brewed some coffee along the way, showcasing it's versatility and why it's worth the counter space in your kitchen.

Let's dive into everything this awesome coffee maker can do and why it's worth the spend, but don't worry if the $1000 price point is too high as we've found some budget-friendly alternatives you can snag instead.

Why we love Jennifer Garner's KitchenAid espresso maker

A good espresso maker is one of the best small kitchen appliances you can invest in. If you often find yourself at coffee shops in the morning, spending tons of money on macchiatos and cappuccinos, think again. While it's a pricey spend, picking up a high-quality espresso maker can actually save you money in the long run. 

Actress Jennifer Garner shared her favorite espresso maker on her Instagram account in her long-running cooking series, Pretend Cooking Show. Jennifer makes an americano at the push of a button in the brand-new KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF8.

KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

The KitchenAid espresso maker is full of bells and whistles making it a pretty extraordinary buy. It comes with 15 different drink options including lattes, cappuccinos, esprsso, and more. The bean-to-cup machine comes with a removable bean hopper compartment so you can swap out beans easily.

There's no work required for your cup of Joe. The built-in grinder will automatically get the grind right and deliver the perfect drink. The Auto Purge function clears out the remaining beans in the grinder between batches.

The machine also comes with a separate milk container that you can fill with the milk of your choice. Just make sure to clean your coffee maker regularly to ensure the best quality.

The screen is clear and easy to use, presenting a label and image for each drink it can brew. And if you're a little forgetful, it comes with an automatic shut-off function and indicator light. 

It's available in four colors — Porcelain White (the color of Jennifer's model), Cast Iron Black, Juniper (a dark, rich green), and Stainless Steel. If your kitchen sees a lot of wear and tear, stainless steel may be the best option as it's so durable (one of the good things to know before buying a coffee maker).

Budget-friendly coffee alternatives

In need of a more budget-friendly small coffee maker? Something more simple like a pod coffee maker may be better suited for you. While you may not be able to grind beans fresh for each cup, pod machines can still brew a pretty great cup of coffee. 

You may also be limited on counter space and just want a machine that's smaller in scale, like a Nespresso coffee maker. There are plenty of slim coffee makers on the market that will slide into tiny spaces, including another celeb-approved find.

Jennifer definitely knows her way around the kitchen so we trust her cooking essentials and appliance picks. We also tracked down Jennifer's Dutch oven and KitchenAid stand mixer she uses for baking. We know we'll be tuning in the next time she whips up a delicious recipe.

The latest Ninja sale is the perfect opportunity to scoop up a good gift for someone special, and even yourself. 

With up to 35% off during the brand's Mother's Day sale, which ends one day after the celebration on May 13, why not double dip? There are perfect presents for the backyard, great appliances for culinary needs, and nifty accessories that will make things more convenient. (How about that portable blender?!) 

Whether you're scoping out small backyard ideas like grills or need something for the kitchen counter, Ninja's got all of your bases covered. 

What to shop during the latest Ninja sale

Quicklist

Have something specific in mind for Mom or your favorite caretaker? Shop the sale by category and just try not to add additional items to your cart. 

• Ninja airfryer deals 
• Ninja blender and kitchen system deals
• Ninja coffee and tea maker deals 
• Ninja cookware deals
• Ninja outdoor grill deals
• Ninja outdoor oven deals
• Ninja multicooker and pressure cooker deals

Ninja coffee and tea deals

Make sure your kitchen counter decor ideas leave room for these brewing options from Ninja. Your morning routine is about to feel a whole lot more exciting. 

Miscellaneous Ninja sale favorites

Not entirely sure what you — or Mom — needs at home? Some of our favorite buys might get your creative gift-giving juices going. 

FAQs

Can you use the Ninja outdoor oven indoors?

The Ninja Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven cannot be used indoors. All cooking done on this appliance must be done outdoors. There are, however, indoor Ninja ovens to choose from as well, should you not have an outdoor space. 

In addition to the brand's popular selections like air fryers and blenders, it also offers a variety of outdoor appliances that will be a huge hit when the warm weather swoops in. The Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill & Smoker with Stand & Side Table is particularly handy for those who like to cook and dine outdoors but aren't working with much space.

What are popular Ninja items?

Peruse our Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill review to see if this will assist with your needs. Between a compact fit for small spaces, a 200 to 500-degree Fahrenheit temperature range, smokeless design, and easy-to-use features, this particular buy is ideal for small spaces.

Need another contender? Our Ninja Speedi review praises the multicooker air fryer's 10-in-one cooking functionality. It's particularly handy for those who are in a rush or those who are living in dorms, apartment shares, and small spaces.

Can you use K cups in the Ninja?

Most K-Cup pods are compatible with various Ninja products, but it's in your best interest to look at specifics before making a purchase. Some items, like the the Ninja Dual Brew, can accommodate most K-Cups, but not a select few. (Whole Foods 365 Everyday Value and Trader Joe's are not on the list.)

Which is better, Keurig or Ninja?

Both brands deliver reliable appliances, but it all comes down to preferences. Ninja coffee products skew on the more expensive side compared to Keurig, and the devices are also larger. If you're not working with much space and don't have multiple housemates to account for, you might want to choose a Keurig. If you want customizable experience, particularly if you fancy a shot or two of espresso, you might gravitate towards Ninja. 

Planning on a lot of outdoor hosting this spring and summer? We found the perfect outdoor entertaining essentials that will keep you and your guests busy for hours. The Nostalgia snow cone machine is great for adults and kids alike.

Ninja is dialing back complicated machines and the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL is no exception. Air fryers these days keep presenting us with more options, functions and uses and it's not uncommon to see them have 10 or more settings, all sorts of automated directions, and more buttons than I can keep track of or understand. 

This super straightforward air fryer does have six options — max crisp, air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate — but each one has a singular button, along with power, temperature, time, and start. It's not trying to do too much. It's keeping things simple and that makes my life easier, and it makes me a heck of a lot more likely to use it on a daily basis (which I have been so far!).

Plus, it works, and it's quick. I've made everything from falafel to grilled cheese. I've baked, air-fried, reheated, and max-crisped. Every time, it's consistent and fast. The Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL has convinced me it's one of the best air fryers you can add to the kitchen.

Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL Review

What I thought of the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

This sticker, which I promptly peeled off after taking this photo, sums up the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 in one small rectangle. Straightforward and easy to use. Each button clearly tells you what its job is, and this diagram clearly spells out exactly how long you should cook different types of food. 

With Max Crisp Technology and temperatures of up to 450° Fahrenheit, this Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL cooks quickly, which I appreciate when I'm trying to make lunch between deadlines and meetings. 

I can throw in a grilled cheese and it's done in just a few minutes flat. It does automatically set the time to 20 minutes each time you use it, so make sure you keep an eye on the time rather than relying on the timer, or manually adjust the time duration down.

My favorite use for an air fryer is heating up restaurant and takeout leftovers so that they actually taste like they did when they were fresh, and, whether it's fries or Brussels sprouts, this Ninja does the trick perfectly.

At 6.5 quarts, it's the perfect size for a small family. My husband and I can make dinner in it, but it's not so big that it's taking up precious counter space. Plus, it's so sleek that I don't mind leaving it out — and that's saying something.

Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL specifications

Unboxing the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

Whenever I open up an appliance, I'm quietly dreading the setup. How many parts am I going to have to assemble? How long am I going to spend trying to match numbers up to a diagram? 

Luckily, the minute I pulled this Ninja air fryer out, I knew I was in luck. It was packed safely in styrofoam, which I don't love from an environmental standpoint, but it kept it snugly in the box. And then the assembly — there was none. 

This came fully assembled, and I could immediately see the basket and crisping plate were well-made and fit perfectly into the unit. All I had to do was pull off four stickers, which easily lifted off the surface. Setup couldn't have been easier, and the air fryer comes with a quick start guide and a manual.

Then I cleaned the air fryer crisper plate and the inside of the basket with hot, soapy water, dried them, and we were ready to go.

Using the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

To get started using the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1, all you have to do is familiarize yourself with a few key buttons. First, you have power, temperature, time, and start — all self-explanatory. Then, right below, you have the cooking settings: max crisp, air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. And I can't tell you how much I value words over icons, where I can never tell if I'm looking at a turkey leg or a chicken wing.

Regardless of which mode you're using, you'll turn the unit on, make sure the crisper plate is locked in the basket, then select the mode and temperature, and let it preheat for three minutes before putting your food in. The air fryer will automatically be set to 20 minutes, but you can use the time button to adjust for your recipe (20 minutes is longer than most food will need in an air fryer). 

If you're air frying or using max crisp, halfway through cooking, you should use the start button to pause cooking, then take out the basket and shake the food to make sure everything is cooking evenly. 

This is where the only real complaint I had came into play — I wish there was a way to see the food while it's cooking (like the COSORI Dual Basket, which we reviewed, which has a handy viewing window) rather than having to open the basket. But, if you're opening it to shake the food anyway, then I suppose it's no big deal.

If you're roasting, the quick start guide says you should subtract 25° Fahrenheit whenever you're baking in an air fryer. It doesn't say the same for baking, but I found that it bakes super fast, which could be because of the temperature. If you look below, those croissant rolls were supposed to take 20 minutes, yet I popped them in and, nine minutes later, they were a golden brown.

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL also has a list of tips and tricks in the quick start manual that I found incredibly helpful. I wouldn't have thought to secure lightweight food to keep it from blowing around, or to reduce the time when there's less food, but now I know.

How to clean and maintain the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

To clean the air fryer, Ninja recommends hand washing the crisper plate basket to extend the life of the unit. They can be put in the dishwasher in a pinch. However, ideally, hand washing with warm, soapy water and towel drying will help the non-stick surface last longer.

Once you've found the right cadence on how often to clean your air fryer, you can wipe down the exterior with a damp microfiber cloth with a bit of dish soap if necessary to keep the exterior as clean as the inside, but never submerge the appliance in water.

Should you buy the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL?

If you're looking for a sleek, stylish, and straightforward air fryer that is a big enough size to make dinner for a small family but doesn't take up major counter space, then this is your air fryer. 

Of all the air fryers I've ever used, this one does the best job of keeping things super simple while still giving you options. We're definitely in a new era of air fryers where one setting isn't enough, but I also don't want to choose from 15 different options every time I want to heat up fries or falafel. 

By limiting it to six settings, this Ninja air fryer makes it easy. Less thinking, more eating. If that's your motto, this is the air fryer for you.

Good to know

Instructions
The Ninja® Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 comes with an instruction manual and a quick start guide with recipes. I also found the sticker on the front of the machine to be super helpful in understanding timing.

Warranty
A one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Ninja® Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1.

Where to buy the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL

The Ninja® Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 is available to buy directly from Ninja, via their Amazon storefront, or from retailers such as Target.

How we test air fryers

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL 6-in-1 was sent to me by the brand, and I used it over a several-week period. Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing air fryers:

If you love the sound of this air fryer, but would indeed like more cooking functions, the Ninja Speedi, which we reviewed — a multicooker air fryer able to cook whole meals in 15 minutes flat — might be the one for you.

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is changing the way I use my blender. Unlike previous models which have gone unused in my kitchen, I'm using it for just about everything.

It has a full-size pitcher, of course, but it also comes with two personal-size containers and a small blade. I'd made a smoothie to go with my lunch within ten minutes of pulling this blender out of the box. This blender could actually earn its keep on my countertop — or at least a cabinet within arm's reach.

The BlendSense feature means that it can detect the type of recipe you're making, how to blend, and how long it needs to be blended, making it one of the best blenders in my opinion. Watching the neon lights on the dial countdown is a new type of satisfaction.

Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro Review

I love that the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro keeps it simple. While there are both processing and manual options, I really only have to worry about turning it on, then turning on the BlendSense. If I want to go with the processing modes or one of 10 manual speeds, it's easy to select the right one on the dial.

If I had one main complaint, it's that this machine is huge. It's tall. It's heavy. And those suction cups work. Moving this around is a workout.

Prices in this article were correct at the time of publication.

Setting up the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro

Unboxing the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is super easy. It came safely packed in between corrugated cardboard, and each piece was wrapped in plastic, but it didn't feel excessive. 

Included in the box is the base, pitcher and lid, two single serve containers, two sipping tops for the containers, and a blade for the single serve containers.

There's no assembly involved. Just take each piece out, then pop the blender on the base, and you're ready to go. The blade was even already in the pitcher, ready for action. I cleaned the blender by giving each piece a quick rinse before using.

Using the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro

I like to think most blenders are intuitive, especially when they boast BlendSense technology, but I did give the guide a quick read. They included an extra sheet with a Pineapple Mango Margarita recipe, which I will 100% try this weekend. 

The guide is incredibly easy to follow, with lots of images and 10 quick and easy recipes at the back. I loved that the recipes focused primarily on smoothies, since that's what I'm most often making, but also included a dip, salsa, and meatballs (I haven't made the meatballs yet, but that idea of doing so in a blender was totally new to me).

Obviously my first foray into using the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro had to include leveraging the BlendSense technology. I threw in ice, peaches, and pineapple for a refreshing midday smoothie. The top locked right into place. Then I pressed the Power button, followed by the BlendSense button.  

BlendSense can go into several different modes: Blending, Crush, Max Crush, and Thick Mode.

It blended my first smoothie within seconds, crushing right through the ice and frozen fruit. To be honest, it shocked me a little bit with just how loud the motor was, but, hey, it got the job done! I added a bit more water to get the consistency I wanted. It never had to go into Crush or Max Crush mode, but I still got a smooth consistency from Blending mode.

When I first tried out the single serve container, I made another smoothie. This one had frozen cherries in it, and that seemed to make the motor work even harder. This is what sent it into Crush mode, but, let me tell you, the velvety smooth consistency of this smoothie was unmatched.

I hate a chunky smoothie, and Ninja delivers here. There was not a speck of fruit that wasn't pulverized — and I mean that in the most positive way.

Plus, I couldn't get over the convenience of the single serve option. It attaches just as easily as the full-size pitcher, and the blade is just as powerful. This is truly a game changer.

So far, in addition to near daily smoothies, I've also tried chopping bell peppers and making an açai bowl. The processing mode allows for large and small chops, as well as mince. 

Then the manual blending has 10 speed modes. These are all simple to use, though I'm still going to primarily use it for smoothies. Next on my list to try is nut butters (though the idea of the clean up there has stopped me so far) so I will update this article once I have done so.

Cleaning the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro

The beautiful thing about cleaning this blender is that the parts are top-rack dishwasher safe, so you can just run the pitcher, single-serve containers, and the blades all through the dishwasher. Of course, you may need to soak them if you don't plan on running a load right away, but you can't beat the convenience. 

You can also just run soapy water through the blender quickly if it's an easy clean-up job.

Is the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro Right for You?

If you're looking for an easy-to-use blender, you have counter or cabinet space, and you're okay splurging $179.99, then the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is the way to go. With the ability to blend both full-size 72 oz. pitchers and single serve containers, this eliminates the need for a separate smoothie blender. It also chops and minces, so you might be able to go without a food processor, too.

The BlendSense technology makes it easy to multitask while you make a quick smoothie or prep the rest of your meal, and, as they say, time is money. That alone could make the price worth it.

Good to Know

Instructions

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro comes with an easy-to-follow guide that includes ten recipes.

Warranty

A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro.

Where to buy the  Ninja Blast Portable Blender

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro is available to buy from the Ninja website, Amazon, Target, and other major retailers.

About this review and the reviewer

We have a set process for our reviews at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the blender.

The Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro was sent to me by Ninja, and I tested it out several weeks before writing this review. I tried frozen fruit smoothies, protein smoothies, açai bowls, and even a salsa. I made sure I tested each mode (though I loved the BlendSense mode for its ease!). I tested how it performed against ice, various frozen fruit, and adding almond butter to my smoothies. I tested it for speed, efficiency, and how smoothly it blends (very!).

How we test small kitchen appliances

When testing small kitchen appliances for Real Homes, our experienced reviewers either test then in our professional kitchen, or like I did with this blender, test it in our homes to be able to deliver the authentic review of how an item like the Ninja Detect Duo Power Blender Pro can fit into your day-to-day life.

During our testing, we'll also assess:Size: Can they fit into a small kitchen space (like a studio apartment or tiny kitchen)?

• Features: Are they effective, how many are there, and how easy is it to use the appliance?
• Size: Can the appliance fit into a small kitchen space (such as a studio apartment, or tiny kitchen with limited counter space?
• Energy usage: We'll calculate the wattage and cost per use
• Purpose: Does it deserve space on the counter or in kitchen cabinets compared to a a similarly-functioning appliance 
• Cost: Is it worth the price tag, or will another similar item that costs less do the job on a smaller budget.

If you like the look of this blender, but do not have the counter space to dedicate to it, consider the Nutribullet Pro 900, rated our best personal blender in the Real Homes Best Small Kitchen Appliances guide and given five stars by our test team.

Fancy an at-home Sunday brunch? New Beautiful by Drew Barrymore kitchen appliances can certainly help you whip up something savory. 

The fan-favorite line just debuted new products that will make mornings all the more satisfying: an espresso maker, waffle maker, and can opener, all of which come in the new "porcini" hue, a soft neutral with gold finishes. 

Beautiful has been touted as having some of the best small kitchen appliances, and certainly the most stylish, so why not see what Drew has cooking now?

Have a look at the New Beautiful by Drew Barrymore kitchen appliances

Though it seems like just yesterday Drew moved into single-serve coffee maker territory with the Perfect Grind Programmable Single Serve Coffee Maker — have a look at our review to see if it's right for you — the star has already moved on to new ventures, to help customers figure out how to organize cabinets in a small kitchen. 

What to shop

The three new Beautiful by Drew Barrymore kitchen appliances are certainly piquing our interest. Plus, the new soft tone, which is ideal for neutral small kitchens, also comes in the line's signature products, like the air fryers, kettles, and toaster ovens, to name just a few. Now, about that Sunday brunch...

An added bonus

If you're working with limited space in the kitchen, Drew wants to make your culinary endeavors a bit easier with the Beautiful Wheeled Kitchen Cart at Walmart, which is available for $368. 

The item features a butcher-block material on the top shelf, racks for glasses, shelves, and the most desirable feature of all, wheels. Whether you want to utilize it for storage or use it for a place to set up shop while cooking or eating, we'll have our experts help you organize a kitchen island.

In addition to creating a lifestyle line, hosting a talk show, and publishing a magazine, Drew Barrymore, Etsy's first-ever Chief Gifting Officer, helps you find the perfect present for the special people in your life. Consider her the "gifting fairy godmother."

If you need a strong morning pick-me-up, Jessica Alba's go-to Nespresso coffee and espresso machine is enjoying 30% off during Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

The mega savings event, which will take place from March 20 to 25, is slashing prices on virtually everything, including kitchen essentials. We'd be remiss not to peruse the offerings, especially when our coveted caffeine intake is concerned. 

Since Nespresso is responsible for some of the best coffee makers on shelves, we highly encourage you to take a looksie, too. 

This Nespresso coffee and espresso machine has 30% off

In a morning routine round-up on Instagram, Jessica Alba's coffee machine makes a super-brief cameo. Though we only catch a half-second of it in action, we're certain we'd enjoy having our morning cup of Joe from one of the best Nespresso coffee makers out there. 

We were thrilled to see the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi is now discounted in Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

This made the list as one of our best single-serve coffee makers as it heats up your java in just 25 seconds and boasts plenty of offerings: 5oz or 8oz coffee, as well as single and double espresso. Who needs the corner coffee shop now?

What to shop

Now is the time to maximize countertop space in a small kitchen and give your Nespresso machine a little room. 

If you want to take your espresso sipping to luxe levels, the highly-rated (and highly-priced) Breville Barista espresso machines on Amazon  are also being discounted. The lowest price starts at $399.95 for the Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine BES810BSS on Amazon (originally $499.95).

Now that you're stocking up on a new gadget, you're going to have to give it the proper TLC. Fortunately, we've rounded tips for cleaning your coffee maker and the grossest 10 coffee maker cleaning mistakes to avoid at all costs.

We're dreaming about taking our meals al fresco, and these Ninja pizza ovens are discounted just in time for spring's arrival. 

The brand is hosting a St. Patrick's Day sale, offering up to $110 on various items, including several outdoor pizza ovens. If you're itching to get dining outdoors, grab one of these bargains whilst they're discounted and stocks last.

If you're in the market for one of the best pizza ovens and enjoy your Italian food with a side of savings, now is the time to act.

These Ninja pizza ovens are currently on sale

Ninja pizza ovens are a great shoe in for some of the best small backyard ideas and this St. Patrick's Day — a day synonymous with luck and good fortune  — up your yard game with awesome discounts and free gifts. 

The Ninja Woodfire™ Outdoor Grill is among the sale items boasting free grill accessories, too.

As you prep for milder spring weather and the hot summer days to come, whilst the best grills are worth their weight in gold, a pizza oven will bring copious outdoor dining enjoyment.

We've rounded up discounted Ninja pizza ovens and delved into their features. And, if you're particularly interested in perfecting your slices, we've rounded up the best pizza stone for thin crust at home (and our experts dish up how to use a pizza stone in their guide, if you're new to the practice).

Just like a grill, a Ninja outdoor pizza oven requires maintenance. Luckily, we're here to make the process simpler with top tips on how to clean a pizza oven. 

The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System is a multifunctional beast. If it could speak, it would say, "Hey, do you want a coffee maker? Here you go! An espresso machine? We’ll give you that, too!" 

I love to use a Nespresso when I’m traveling, but at home, I've historically gone for a more manual method of making espresso. But let me tell you: after a few weeks of popping in a pod every morning and it making my daily starts easier, I’m a convert. 

The Ninja does both incredibly well. If you take the plunge on this appliance, you’ll be slinging coffee in the morning, iced lattes in the afternoon, and espresso for the perfect post-dinner affogato. Ninja hit the nail on the head calling it a barista system as this coffee maker lets you do it all.

Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System review

What I thought of the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System

Ninja does it again with multi-use machines that make life easier. This
part pod coffee maker, part drip filter coffee maker has made my mornings so much easier. 

I just walk over to this barista system and, quite literally, turn into a barista. I’m brewing a pot of coffee for my husband (knowing it’ll stay hot through all his morning calls), then making myself a latte before I log on. 

Depending on my mood, I might go for a rich brew for the coffee or a lungo (the big guy) for my espresso. Maybe in the afternoon, I’ll opt for an espresso over ice for an iced latte. The bottom line is: I have options. 

Same goes for cup size options. I can use a mug, my best travel coffee mug, or a carafe. I can adjust the tray on the espresso side when I want to use my tiny espresso cup and feel oh so fancy. This machine makes it so simple to customize the coffee to what I want at that moment without having to resort to another machine.

Also, this is a small detail, but I love the progress bar. Knowing roughly how much time is left is a game changer in the morning, especially when I’m trying to carefully coordinate heating the milk with my espresso or timing hot oatmeal with my coffee. 

The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System does what it can to save space, especially with the milk frother that folds in and the coffee scoop that snaps right into the side. But it’s not a coffee maker with particularly small footprint. 

I found it’s nearly the same size as our separate coffee maker and espresso maker combined — which is great, but not necessarily a space-saver.

Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System specifications

Unboxing and setting up the Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System

Ninja does a great job of boxing their machines snugly, but not overdoing it on the packaging. There’s always minimal assembly, which is even more appreciated when trying out a machine like this, which has multiple sections. There was a decent amount of plastic to unwrap and stickers to remove, but it felt easy to follow.

I hand-washed all the parts with a little unscented dish soap (I use 365 by Whole Foods from Amazon), then I ran a cycle for a full coffee carafe. I was ready to make my first espresso within just a few minutes (don’t give me one of the best espresso makers to open mid-afternoon and expect me to wait until the morning!).

Using the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System

If you know how to use a coffee maker or enjoy one of the best Nespresso coffee machines already, this brilliant small kitchen appliance will be a breeze. It’s super easy to use, and the Quick Start Guide will answer any questions you have (though you probably won’t even need to pull it out — it’s that intuitive).

To make coffee, fill the reservoir to the amount you want. Then, scoop your ground coffee using the Ninja Smart Scoop, which tells you the exact amount to use depending on how much coffee you’re brewing. 

Choose the style of coffee you want: classic, rich, or over ice. Turn the dial to the size you’d like, whether that’s an 8, 10, or 12oz. cup, 15 or 18oz. travel mug, or a 28, 37, 46, or 55oz. carafe. Hit brew, then watch the progress bar indicate where you are in the process. The warming plate will keep your coffee warm for up to four hours, with two hours being the default.

To make an espresso with perfect crema, fill the reservoir to at least the 8 oz. cup size and pop in a Nespresso OriginalLine Capsule (such as these from Amazon). 

With espresso, you have even more options. You can make a 25ml ristretto, 40ml espresso, 110ml lungo, or 30 mL to go over ice for a delicious iced latte. Start the brew, then wait for that creamy caffeine to be dispensed. 

Want to add milk to your beverage? Fill a cup half full with milk. Be sure to microwave it if you want warm milk (this is the one frustration I have with the machine — I wish it steamed the milk). Then swing the frothing arm out, and froth away. Around 30-45 seconds of frothing should do the trick. 

How to clean the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System

Good news for those who prefer the ease of throwing everything in the dishwasher. Nearly everything — except the machine itself, of course — is dishwasher safe.  You can throw the brew basket, glass carafe, and brew-through lid, water reservoir and lid, frother whisk, smart scoop, capsule bin, adjustable cup tray, and cup tray base all in the dishwasher. A damp microfiber cleaning cloth (like these from Amazon) will do the trick on the machine.

You’ll descale both the coffee side and the espresso side occasionally (I use Dezcal sachets from Amazon), though make sure you have plenty of time on your side. The coffee side will take up to 75 minutes to complete, while the espresso side will take approximately two hours.

Is the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System right for you?

For those who love a hot cup of coffee in the morning and a creamy espresso in the afternoon for a pick-me-up, the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System is perfection. At $249.99, the price point is about what you'd pay for a high-end single-serve coffee maker — but you're getting a small coffee maker that brews in bulk, too. 

However, on the same note, if a small footprint is a priority for you, this machine may not be for you. It does take up a bit of counter space, though less than two separate machines would. Also, if you prefer steamed milk with your espresso drinks, then you may be frustrated by the milk frother and lack of heating. It's something I wish I had known before buying a small coffee maker.

If this coffee maker doesn't sound right for you, try these coffee makers for size:

How we test coffee makers

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill and, most importantly, is easy to remove (can it be removed at all?) and whether it’s easy to clean.

Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it clear to understand what is happening?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? How much waste is left after the drink has been made?

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System, I observed how well the machine made two different types of beverages — brewed coffee and espresso — and whether it prepared both equally well. 

About the review — and the reviewer

The KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry is a great choice for kitchens with limited space where you can’t buy a separate air fryer, toaster oven, toaster, and dehydrator.

It’s also a great alternative to a full-size oven when preparing side or even main dishes since it preheats so quickly. A super-legible digital display and simple control panel are designed for easy use, and a convection fan helps to ensure even cooking.

Other features, like a built-in timer and a preheat time of under four minutes, make this one of the best air fryers on the market. See how I got on testing seven of the 12 cook functions.

KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry review

KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry specifications

What I thought of the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

The KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry preheats in less than four minutes, so it’s great for cooking air fryer recipes or reheating foods. With just two knobs and three buttons, it’s easy to learn to use. While the design limits what you can cook in an air fryer (most whole chickens won’t fit), I was impressed by the oven's efficiency.

Setting up the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

The setup process is very simple. I removed the protective packaging and some tape from the oven, and then unwrapped each accessory. KitchenAid states that the accessories can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but I hand washed them before using the oven for the first time.  

Using the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

The countertop oven features one knob to select a cook mode, and another to adjust time and temperature. The oven also features Start, Cancel, and Convection buttons. You can figure out how to operate it in just a few minutes. 

Choosing settings

When you select a setting, the oven automatically displays a suggested temperature and cooking time. The instruction manual also provides some time recommendations for air frying. 

Since the oven offers two rack positions, you do need to pay attention to the recommended rack position for each setting. When testing the bagel function, I had the rack positioned too low and burned the bottom of the bagel. 

I quickly realized that I should use the higher rack position for most cooking settings, and didn’t have additional issues. 

The oven’s digital display is large, so I had no trouble changing the temperature and cooking times. Once set, it provides a countdown of cooking time that I could see from across my kitchen. 

The timer was quiet, and I had difficulty hearing it from the next room while the television was on. The oven’s automatic shutoff feature stops the cooking cycle once the timer goes off, so even if I didn’t hear the timer right away, it didn’t burn the food. 

Preheating and general operation

One of my favorite features is this oven’s rapid preheating capability. I found in every mode, the oven reached its desired temperature in three and a half minutes. That rapid preheat made it a convenient addition to my kitchen, and I found that I quickly started using it for most of my cooking needs. 

The interior light remains on throughout its entire use. It’s bright and illuminates the food well, so it’s easy to keep an eye on cooking progress. On most settings, like the toast, bagel, bake, and broil settings, the oven is nearly silent.

The convection fan, which must operate during the air fry cycle, can be turned on and off for other cooking settings. Even when running, the fan is quiet. I would compare it to a desktop fan running on medium, and you could easily hold a conversation in the kitchen without feeling the need to talk over it.

Toast and bagel

The toast and bagel functions display different darkness settings, and turning the dial changes the settings. I found that the default darkness setting for both the toast and the bagel settings were perfect and toasted the foods to my preferences. 

The oven can accommodate up to six slices at a time (most of the best toasters can only fit four), ideal for preparing meals for multiple people.

The toasting was even (once I raised the rack to the right level), and even a thicker bagel was well-toasted but not burnt. I used the oven to make toast and bagels daily for a week, and the results were consistent. 

Baking function

I found the bake and broil settings were very convenient, especially since the oven preheats so quickly. I baked several frozen foods, including a frozen chicken meal, according to the meal manufacturer’s cooking instructions. Those meals were cooked thoroughly and completely, and not at all burnt. 

While KitchenAid markets the oven as being able to accommodate up to two full chickens weighing 3.4 lbs each, I couldn’t find poultry that small available in any grocery store. 

Broiling function

Air fryer mode

This small kitchen appliance's air fry mode doesn’t require you to turn the foods and features a convection fan for even cooking. I made four batches of French fries with the air fryer and used the default settings.

I found the default time was a little long and burnt the ends of the fries, but after decreasing it by two minutes the results were perfectly crisp, thoroughly-cooked fries. 

Cooking bacon

I also used the air fry setting to cook bacon. The bacon was a little softer than I'm used to when using my best non-stick frying pan, but I think if I’d left it in for another few minutes it would have crisped up. The air frying took longer to cook than the broil function, but the bacon was evenly cooked and I didn’t have to worry about turning it.

Reheating function

The reheat and keep warm functions also performed well. I reheated refrigerated pizza several times, and the reheat function worked well without overly baking or burning it. I also used the keep warm function to keep the bacon hot with no problems. 

I should mention that if you enjoy making pizza from scratch, but hate waiting for the yeast to activate, the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry has a dough-proofing function too.

Dehydrating fruit

While I’ve never dehydrated food before, I sliced an apple and tested the dehydrate feature. I used the default settings, which are a 150° Fahrenheit cook temperature and a six-hour cook time. 

The apple slices were not fully dehydrated by the end of the cycle, but I suspect if I had sliced them thinner, or used a mandoline slicer (like this one from OXO at Amazon) they would have been. They were a bit chewy, but tasted extra sweet, as if the flavor were concentrated. 

Cleaning the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry

KitchenAid specifies that the oven rack, multipurpose pan, and broiling rack are dishwasher safe, but that hand washing with a little unfragranced dish soap (like Palmolive's Pure+Clear on Amazon) is recommended. I found that all three were easy to wash by hand. 

After several uses, the multipurpose pan’s surface started to lose a bit of its shine, though the food didn’t stick and I couldn’t feel any residue on the pan. The crumb tray slides out of the oven, and it’s easy to hand wash. It’s a convenient feature and simplifies the process of cleaning the air fryer. 

I noticed that the oven’s interior, especially the interior of the door, gets dirty quickly, and I imagine that’s because the oven is small. Since the interior walls feature a nonstick coating, I was able to easily wipe the oven clean using a damp microfiber cloth (we like these on Amazon). 

Is the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry right for you?

Outside of the recipe testing that I conducted, KitchenAid claims that it can be used to cook sheet cakes, full one-pan meals, and beef tenderloin/rib roast. 

It includes a 62-page instruction manual, and the first 18 pages are in English. The manual includes clear instructions and detailed graphics. KitchenAid offers a one-year warranty from the date of purchase on this oven.

But if you're not keen on this appliance, you might be interested in these:

How we test air fryers

KitchenAid sent me the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry and I tested this air fryer in my home for several weeks. I used these criteria during the testing and review process. 

Unboxing: I considered the condition of the packaging and the oven when it arrived. I evaluated the types of packing materials used, including whether the materials were recyclable. I also evaluated how easily I was able to remove and assemble the oven. 

The countertop oven was shipped via FedEx, and it was double-boxed. When it arrived, there was a large hole and tear through the top of the exterior box. The hole was also present in the interior box, but because the oven was so well packed with Styrofoam inserts, there was no damage to the oven, itself. 

The oven and the accessories were individually wrapped in protective plastic, and the accessories were also packaged in a smaller cardboard box. Everything was in excellent condition upon unboxing.

Operation: I considered my entire experience in using the oven, including how easily I could understand the instructions and operate the appliance. I evaluated how well the different cooking modes worked, and tested the oven using many different types of foods. I repeated many of those tests and looked for a quality cook. 

Ease of use: I also evaluated the machine’s ease of use, considering factors like how simple its operation is, the usefulness of the presets, and my experience in using the different accessories and modes. 

Ease of cleaning: Finally, I considered how easily I could clean the machine, including whether accessories are dishwasher-safe, and the process of cleaning the interior.

Jennifer Garner's favorite Dutch oven has officially landed on our wishlists. 

In a fun TikTok video, the actor and Once Upon a Farm co-founder demonstrates how to make homemade popcorn with her gorgeous Le Creuset stoneware. It might be a little time-consuming waiting for the kernels to pop, but with an accessory so delightful, we wouldn't mind. 

If you're searching for new cookware to accompany your small kitchen ideas and menus, we'll point you in the proper direction, as well as budget-friendly alternatives. 

See Jennifer Garner's favorite Dutch oven in action

The piece in question is none other than the inimitable Le Creuset round Dutch oven, which is available in six sizes and 28 colors.  

Just the gorgeous sight of it makes us want to maximize space in our small kitchen and find a spot for this lovely cookware number but this enameled cast iron piece is beloved for plenty of reasons.

It's perfect for cooking, serving dinner — and serious looks. The quality is spectacular and is considered one of the best Dutch ovens available.

From baking to frying, simmering to braising, the Dutch oven is capable of everything and is oven-safe up to 500° Fahrenheit, which will be appreciated for trickier recipes. 

There's no need to season it, but you'll want to keep it clean. Fortunately, that's simple enough as it’s dishwasher safe.

 It's one of our must-haves for a small kitchen as it’s multi-functional and earns the space it takes to store it a hundred times over. 

If you love the idea but not the price tag, our shopping experts have fished out some cheaper options that still serve style and quality. Here are a few brilliant kitchen gadgets worth considering in its place. 

Budget-friendly alternatives

Now that you're adding to your culinary collection, you'll need to know how to store plates and cookware in a small kitchen. We spoke to organization pros to help make the process easier.

Many two-drawer air fryers exist, but the COSORI dual basket air fryer might be one of few to rival the Ninja DualZone. The latter might be the most well-known model, but that doesn't mean there isn't space for a bit of healthy competition, and the COSORI certainly brings it. 

As the Real Homes kitchen appliance expert, I've tested more than 10 of these air fryers, and few brands have dared to play David vs. Goliath...until now.

This dual-basket appliance can cook two types of food at the same time, something that Ninja held the top spot for. But what sets this new-to-market machine apart is two independently-operating lights and viewing windows. These are small design considerations that make a huge difference to the way you monitor your meal's readiness.

I tested this air fryer in our test kitchen to cook fries, nuggets, bacon, and vegetables. However, I may return to reviewing the air fryer's baking and rotisserie functions, given that COSORI includes several accessories including a baking rack, skewers for kabobs, and a skewer rack (great for ensuring the metal rods don't scratch the non-stick coating).

COSORI dual basket air fryer review

What I thought of the COSORI dual basket air fryer

Aesthetically, the COSORI dual basket air fryer looks like many other models on the market with a smart-looking touchscreen. The glass-topped control panel is fingerprint-prone but easy to use with legible text and clear iconography.

Unlike the COSORI DualBlaze air fryer (available on Amazon), this premium air fryer has softer and rounder edges, making it a good fit for any modern kitchen. All of the cardboard packaging was recyclable, however, I have fed back to the brand about the levels of single-use plastic in the box.

My favorite feature is the independently operating viewing lights, so you can monitor food without pulling the drawers out. Often, if you do open an oven door, you'll get a blast of heat to your face as well as the internal temperature dropping, which can result in uneven cooking. 

Size-wise, it's similar to my microwave at home but can do so much more. In a small galley kitchen, this will take up approximately a quarter of your countertop, so bear its large footprint in mind. My pain points lie in the powerfulness of the air fryer, its packaging, and its stiff components (namely the drawers and non-stick feet on the underside of the crisper tray).

Testing the dual sync cooking function

Similar to Ninja's Dualzone, this COSORI appliance also boasts Sync Cook and finish programs, allowing users to prepare large capacities of food either at the same temperature/time or synchronized to finish simultaneously. The only exception is broiling, which you can only do with one basket at a time.

The easiest way to review this feature was to make some plant-based nuggets and fries. After syncing both drawers to 390° Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, our main and side were good to go.

What we learned by trial and error is that the COSORI dual basket air fryer will preheat for six minutes before cooking (displaying instruction to add food after the time has elapsed). Alternatively, you may want to run it without any food inside or forego preheating altogether by switching this function off.

COSORI's preset guide (displayed on a printed, but peelable label) recommended a cooking time of 20-25 minutes for French fries. But, from experience, I like to think I know better and started with a more conservative cook time. My colleagues and I decided to also add on a 'shake reminder' while we prepared foods for the subsequent air fryer recipes.

After 15 minutes the vegan nuggets were done, but the fries needed a toss and an extra five minutes. This test had mixed results: the Quorn shapes had a crisp exterior, but needed condiments to counter the dryness. The chipped potatoes also managed to be simultaneously fluffy and dry. My advice is to shave time off the recommendation in your recipe, but check your food is cooked thoroughly and pop back in if not.

Cooking Mediterranean vegetables

The combination of zucchini, mixed peppers, eggplant, and onion is always welcomed in our testing suite as it offers a much-needed respite from the beige courses before it.

With this Cosori air fryer being powerful, we disregarded the advice to cook this mix for 15 minutes at 350° Fahrenheit, instead opting for a shorter guestimation of nine minutes. During this cook time, the team noticed steam coming out of the air fryer, but this did not impair the ability to see what was going on in the viewing window.

Even with six minutes shaved off, there was still a palatable char on these vegetables, so some users might want to adjust the temperature or time for more even cooking. We also also noticed some of the now-shrunken veg had slipped through the crisper tray and into the basket. This wasn't a biggie with vegetables, but might be a concern if you're cooking something that renders a lot of oil.

Cooking bacon

As one of two meat eaters on our four-person panel, this was the last test we conducted. No one enjoys the violent attack of bacon grease spluttering from their best non-stick fry pan, so this Cosori air fryer provides a safe haven from licks of hot oil splattering your arm.

After cooking it at 340° Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, I can say with conviction this was the best bacon I've eaten. I generally cook mine under the broiler, but using the air fryer means  I don't need to monitor the rashers as much. 

Cleaning the COSORI dual basket air fryer

Cleaning the air fryer is simple. The test team and I used a damp microfiber cleaning cloth (bought on Amazon) on the exterior of the machine and hand-washed the baskets with unscented liquid detergent (like this Whole Foods pick from Amazon) and our trusty (scratch-free) Scrub Daddy (also available on Amazon)

Should you buy the COSORI dual basket air fryer?

At almost $169.99, the COSORI's 9-quart dual-basket air fryer isn't the cheapest but sits in a similar price range to the Ninja Foodi DualZone air fryer we've reviewed. Given that it can reheat, and has tons of features, the size isn't an issue. I can see this replacing your oven, microwave, and even your toaster.

I've listed some alternatives you might also like, but don't forget the Paris Rhone air fryer I tested and rated 4.5 stars out of 5. It's a great single-basket option that's under $80.

How we tested the COSORI dual basket air fryer

When testing air fryers, we try to replicate your at-home experience of using the product. Our full methodology is available online, but here are some of the criteria we use when rating this appliance:

The Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle is a versatile machine designed to solve some common challenges of indoor cooking.

The smokeless design, achieved by high-heat cooking and chef-recommended cook temperatures, allows you to grill indoors without worrying about smoke. 

Since this small kitchen appliance features an interchangeable grill and griddle plate, its space-saving design is ideal for schemes with limited counter and storage space. Plus, with its comprehensive list of food options and cooking directions, this is a versatile product that can be used to prepare countless dishes. 

Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle review

Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle specifications

What I thought of the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle

I was very impressed by the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle. This compact product weighs less than eight pounds, yet offers enough space to cook up to six burgers or pancakes at once. It’s easy to use and features a great temperature range. 

This grill and griddle performed well in all of my tests. I appreciated that it truly is smokeless, especially since I can easily set off my smoke detectors while cooking, triggering an alarm to my security company. I also thought the non-stick plate designs were fantastic, and was swayed by the fact that I could cook crepes and pancakes without greasing the griddle plate. 

While I’d like to see some changes, like storage for the extra plate and a light that alerts you when the machine has pre-heated, I think this is a great product. It could be ideal for kitchens with limited space, cooks who want to be able to grill indoors without dealing with smoke, homes that don’t have an outdoor grill, and anyone who wants to save on the space and cost of buying a separate grill and griddle.

Setting up the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle

The setup process was easy and simple. Once I removed the grill and plates from the packaging, I washed the plates with a little Palmolive dish soap (available on Amazon) . Each plate easily fits onto the machine’s surface, and the machine also features a label with suggested grilling temperatures for some common foods. 

The grill and griddle also included an owner’s guide with detailed instructions, as well as a 29-page full-color quick start guide. The quick start guide features some usage tips and guidance, as well as ten recipes such as French toast, strawberry hazelnut spread crepes, grilled caprese chicken breasts, and smash burgers with sauteed mushrooms. Additionally, and most importantly, it includes a grill chart and griddle chart outlining suggested amounts, preparation methods, temperatures, cook times, and instructions for foods. 

Using the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle

This machine has a very user-friendly design. It features only one knob, which turns the machine on and which allows you to adjust the temperature. While the quick start guide includes a full list of foods and suggested temperatures, the machine also features a few grill and griddle cooking temperature suggestions for common foods for easy reference.

Ninja recommends initially running the unit at 400°F for ten minutes without adding any food. This process helps to remove any packaging residue and odor traces. When I ran the unit, there was a very mild plastic odor that dissipated within about three minutes. 

Testing the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle

I first used the grill to grill kielbasa, following the cooking suggestions in the quick start guide. The grill requires seven minutes to preheat, and a power indicator light signals when the unit is on. There is no indicator to signal that the unit has reached its optimal temperature, so you have to keep track of time yourself.

The kielbasa cooked well, but slowly. I noticed absolutely no smoke while cooking it. I initially cooked a single large piece but also found that if I sliced the piece up, I could get very nice grill marks on every bite-sized piece. The kielbasa cooked all the way through, its skin was crispy, and there were deep, well-defined grill marks on the exterior. I also grilled tomato slices. They stuck to the grill slightly, but again cooked well and evenly and had some nice grill marks.

 Lid open or closed 

When grilling cheeseburgers, I again used the suggested temperature setting. I didn’t notice any smoke, though there was more splatter when cooking the burgers than the kielbasa. Once I added cheese, I closed the lid, which Ninja states helps to get the cheese to melt and contain splatter. I didn’t find that the lid made much of a difference with the cheese, as the cheese melted slowly and heat didn’t really seem to build up with the lid closed. The closed lid may have slightly reduced splatter, but it’s perforated, so some splatter still came through the lid. Ultimately, the burgers were evenly cooked and moist. To be honest, they were some of the best burgers I’ve ever had.  

Cooking crepes

I found that the recipes in the quick start guide were all relatively uncomplicated. I prepared the crepe recipe and followed the instructions to cook the crepes on the griddle. After preheating the griddle, I poured batter for the six small crepes, as instructed. By the time I finished pouring the batter for the sixth crepe, the first crepe was already ready to be flipped. This was very easy, thanks to the non-stick griddle plate. I used no grease in preparing the plate, but was able to easily flip every crepe with no sticking. 

 Non-stick cooking 

The non-stick plate proved itself when I made pancakes using Jiffy cornmeal mix (available on Amazon) (available on Amazon). This batter is notoriously sticky, and often the pancakes still stick even after liberally spraying the pan with PAM cooking spray (also available on Amazon). This griddle proved otherwise. While I had to play with the temperatures a bit and found the suggested temperature too high, ultimately I had good results and no issues with the pancakes sticking. 

I did run into a stickiness issue when cooking eggs on the griddle. I suspect I added the eggs before the griddle was fully preheated, as both eggs stuck to the griddle when I tried to flip them. I had no issues flipping the eggs a second time, though, possibly because the griddle was hotter at that point. Next time, I think I'll use an egg ring (like this one on Amazon) for my eggs and pancakes.

 Even cooking 

In cooking the crepes and pancakes, I discovered that the outer corners cooked more slowly than the inner edges and center of the griddle. While the heating coils are arranged to promote an even cook throughout the entire griddle surface, I found that there is some minor unevenness in the heating. However, I only noticed this with the pancakes and crepes.  

Smoke-free cooking 

I never observed smoke during any of these tests. According to Ninja, the smokeless design is the result of specific, chef-provided cooking temperature recommendations for each food. I found that these temperatures were, if anything, a little bit high, such as in the case of the pancakes. However, the unit performed very well throughout all of my testing, and I found the foods to be well and evenly cooked. I particularly appreciated the smokeless design, since my smoke detectors are linked to my house alarm system and cooking can set them off and potentially trigger a call to the fire department.  

Cleaning the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle

Since both the grill and griddle plates simply lift up and off of the unit, they’re easy to clean. These plates aren’t dishwasher safe, and since they have a non-stick coating, Ninja recommends you don’t use any abrasive brushes or cleaning supplies on them. I found that I could easily clean the griddle using a soft dishwashing sponge (like these from MR. SIGA on Amazon), soap and water. 

The grill was a little more challenging to clean because the grill “wires” are placed so closely together. Ninja sells a grill brush for use with this unit, and I imagine that brush would make cleaning the grill plate easier. I was able to compact the corner of a sponge to clean out the spaces between the “wires.” 

The rest of the grill can be wiped clean. The lid is removable and dishwasher safe, though I found it was easier to simply hand wash it. Once cleaned, I reinserted one plate into the unit but realized there was no storage option for the other plate. A design allowing you to store the spare plate underneath the unit would be helpful and would cut down on clutter and storage space.

Should you buy the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle

Short answer: yes. The smokeless design is one of the machine’s best features, allowing for indoor use without setting off your smoke detectors. The non-stick cooking plates are also great, making for better grilling and cooking results without the extra calories of using oil or butter. The grill and griddle plate size is large enough to prepare burgers or pancakes for multiple people at once, so this product is ideal for families as well as for people, like me, who often cook for just one or two. 

There are a lot of positives to this machine. Adding storage for the extra plate and an indicator light to signal when the machine reaches its set heat would make it just about perfect. Even without those features, it’s a fantastic addition to many kitchens, whether you already have a grill and want an indoor-friendly option or are working with space restrictions that make buying a grill and griddle impractical. 

How we tested the Ninja Sizzle

Ninja sent me the Ninja Sizzle and I tested it for several weeks in my home before writing this review. I used these criteria when testing the grill and griddle — a little similar to how we test air fryers: 

Packaging: The Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill and Griddle arrived double-boxed and in excellent condition. The packaging included two large pieces of styrofoam, and the grill was wrapped in a plastic bag. The griddle plate was packaged in a second cardboard box, and none of the components were damaged.

Unboxing: I considered the packaging used, as well as its condition on arrival and how well it protected the product. I looked for the use of sustainable and recyclable materials, such as cardboard, instead of materials like styrofoam. 

Cooking options: I evaluated the product’s versatility and the different cooking options it offered. I thought about its size, the different foods and preparation options it supported, its temperature range, and how useful it would be when added to the average kitchen. 

Cooking quality: I tested various foods using both the grill and griddle plates to evaluate how well the Ninja Sizzle performed overall. I looked for a quality, even, and thorough cook, and also considered how well the product performed with different foods. 

Ease of use: As I tested the Ninja Sizzle, I thought about how easy it was to use, including its assembly, the clarity of the instructions, and how quickly I was able to start using the product. 

Ease of cleaning: I evaluated the process of cleaning and maintaining the Ninja Sizzle. I considered whether any components were dishwasher-safe or whether they needed to be hand washed. I also evaluated how easy it was to clean each component.  

The Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer has all the best features users love about air fryers — it's versatile and lightens calories. While many air fryers are cumbersome and have too many confusing settings, this model from Cuisinart seeks to strike a balance.

The machine has a more compact design, but it’s still capable of air frying up to two pounds of French fries at a time. Its control panel features five cooking functions and five presets, as well as features like a toss notification and timer, so while it’s still plenty versatile, it isn’t overwhelming.

The air fryer is very quiet while operating, resembling a small fan that’s running in the background. I found that I was able to hear the timer and notifications well from the living room adjoining the kitchen, but the sounds might be a little quiet to hear if you have a louder home environment. 

Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer review

Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer specifications

What I thought of the Cuisinart Basket air fryer

The Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer is a user-friendly, air fryer without tons of bells and whistles. With five cooking functions and five presets, it gives you plenty of options without being overwhelming. Features like the automatic keep-warm function and toss notification contribute to its overall ease of use, and the machine performed very well during all of our tests. It can't fry a chicken over four pounds, but its design makes it practical for anyone with limited kitchen space. The main issues I encountered centered around determining the right cooking time for the foods I was preparing. That issue was pretty easy to fix as I became more familiar with this small kitchen appliance.

Setting up the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

The setup was very easy. The crisper plate securely fits into the base of the crisper basket, thanks to four rubber feet. I had to remove two pieces of tape securing the crisper basket in place and also remove the label from the front of the crisper basket. 

Using the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

The air fryer comes with a booklet containing 21 air fryer recipes. These included cinnamon rolls, nachos, chicken Caesar salad, and beef sliders (just in case you wondered about what you could cook in an air fryer). I made the donut bites, following the guidelines.

Test 1: Donut bites

When cooking the donut bites, I was pleased to see that it was easy to adjust the temperature setting and timer. The digital display is clear and easy to read, and though I wish the buttons were slightly more sensitive, holding down the buttons lets you scroll through temperatures or time settings, ideal for making large adjustments. At the end of a cooking cycle, the air fryer automatically shuts the cooking function off and turns on the “keep warm” function. 

The donut bites turned out very well and cooked for eight minutes. I used the settings specified in the recipe and they were evenly cooked without being overcooked. It’s a recipe that I would make again, and I was surprised to discover how good they tasted. 

Test 2: Cooking vegetables

Finding the right cooking time for other items proved a bit more challenging. I used the vegetable setting to cook Brussels sprouts that I had sliced and marinated in a balsamic vinaigrette. I let the setting run for one of its automated cook cycles but found that I needed to run it for a second cycle before they were thoroughly cooked. 

Test three: Cooking French fries

The air fryer is capable of frying up to two pounds of French fries at a time. I used it to air-fry individual servings on three occasions. On my first attempt, I overestimated the time and some of the fries were burnt. I adjusted the time on the subsequent attempts and was rewarded with fries that were evenly cooked and crispy. 

It is equipped with a toss notification, which you can turn on and off with the push of a button. I found this notification very helpful when cooking the Brussels sprouts, bacon, and fries. It seems to go off about two-thirds of the way through a cook cycle, and the machine automatically shuts off when you pull out the drawer to toss or turn the food. It starts right up again when the drawer is reinserted, and I think that feature is part of what contributes to such an even, thorough cook. 

Other tests

I used the machine to air-fry bacon. On my first attempt, I overestimated the cooking time needed and ended up with overcooked and very crisp bacon. I reduced the cooking time for my second attempt and found the bacon perfectly cooked. Using the crisper plate keeps the bacon out of the grease, and it ends up crispier than when cooked in your best non-stick fry pan.

Cleaning the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

The air fryer features a stainless steel finish that easily wipes clean with a damp microfiber cloth (you can pick these up from Amazon). The interior walls can be cleaned with that same damp cloth and mild liquid detergent. I found that the interior started to form residue quickly and that I needed to clean the air fryer after every use. 

The basket and crisper plate are dishwasher safe. I wiped them with Bounty essentials paper towel (available from Amazon) after cooking anything greasy. I also hand-washed them and found that thanks to their nonstick surfaces, they cleaned up well, even after cooking greasy foods like bacon. 

Should you buy the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer

All in all, the Cuisinart Basket Air Fryer is easy to use, and it’s hard to find fault with it. The drawer’s handle is generously sized and offers a secure feel. I didn’t encounter any issues with the machine’s operation, and while it features five cook modes and plenty of options, it isn’t so full of features and options that it’s overwhelming.

Comparisons

If you're looking for a similar-looking air fryer with a clear viewing window, do read our Paris Rhone air fryer review (slightly smaller, but cheaper at 5.3 quarts), or the Gourmia Fry 'n fold air fryer review (rated 4 out of 5 stars, but larger).

Last time we checked, the Paris Rhone air fryer was on sale on the brand's site, and the Gourmia Fry 'n fold air fryer could be snapped up for under $80 at Target. 

How we test air fryers

Cuisinart sent me the product, and I tested it for several weeks in my home. Here are some of the things I look out for when testing air fryers:

Packaging: The Cuisinart Basket air fryer arrived double-boxed and in excellent condition. The packaging used no Styrofoam, instead relying on cardboard inserts to hold the components secure. Each piece was also wrapped in a protective plastic layer. Included, was also a two-page guide with lots of helpful information on operation, troubleshooting, and preset/function recommendations.

Operation: I considered the overall experience of operating the air fryer, including how clear the instructions were, how easily I was able to learn the settings, and how well the machine performed in each of my tests. I used several types of foods and cooking modes, and looked for consistency and overall quality, even cooking. 

Ease of use: In determining the machine’s ease of use, I looked at factors including instructions, time-saving features, and how simple the overall operation is. I also considered how smoothly I was able to remove and insert the drawer and fryer plate, and how easily I could insert and remove food. 

Ease of cleaning: I also considered how easy the machine is to clean. I gave bonus points for the ability to clean components in the dishwasher and tested to see if I could easily wipe the machine’s exterior and interior clean. 

When I saw the glass frying basket that came with the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer — I was sold. Why hadn’t anyone thought of the clear basket before? It's so useful to see the status of what you're cooking without having to open the appliance up and lose heat.

The Gourmia Fry 'N Fold air fryer lets you watch what’s happening in real-time. But don’t worry about keeping an eye to know when it's time to shake or turn its contents — it'll tells you when it’s time. When it's done, this air fryer stacks into itself, taking up less counter or cabinet space than any air fryer I’ve seen.

However, there are a few design flaws that stop me from calling this the best air fryer, including grates that let stray food fall through, a strange metal-look piece in the bottom of the frying basket, and sharp edges that you have to watch out for. Plus, it looks like a halogen oven.

Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer review

Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer specifications

What I thought of the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer

Its seven-quart basket size is what I'd consider to be the most versatile small air fryer size. It's big enough for two servings of fries without having to layer food. You can fit enough meat in there for four people, or two people with leftovers for the next day. 

The FryForce 360° Technology cooked fries to crispy perfection, chicken thighs were juicy inside, and diced sweet potatoes were crunchy and delicious. I found this small kitchen appliance cooked food faster than the setting defaults, so it’s worth watching your food closely (through the glass basket) to know when it's ready. 

Unboxing the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer

The Gourmia Fry 'N Fold air fryer comes mostly pre-assembled. It was securely packed — a major relief, given the glass. I removed the stickers and labels, popped the pieces together and it was ready to go. I cleaned the basket and crisper tray with Dawn dish soap (available from Amazon) and hot water first. 

Gourmia includes a detailed manual as well as a recipe book. The latter had so many air fryer recipes, including how to make scones, coffee cake, and, grilled cheese using the bake function. Even the most seasoned user will be surprised about what you can cook in an air fryer.

Using the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer

While there are lots of buttons on the digital touch screen at the top of the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold: Don’t worry — it’s easy to figure out. 

To set it up, put the crisping tray in the frying basket. It should fit snugly thanks to the grips on each side. Then, if you’re making fries (my first test dish), hit the fries button to start its preheat. 

Once the preheat warms up, you’ll get a notification to “Add Your Food.” Put your food on top of the crisping tray. In theory, you do not need any oil in this air fryer, though I like to give my fries, chicken, or whatever it might be a light spritz — just for extra crisp.

Halfway through, you’ll get a notification to “Turn Your Food.” Of course, throughout this process, you can check on your dish by peering through the basket. If you need more light, hit the light button to get an even better look. 

You can turn off both the preheat and turn reminder notifications — but I found them incredibly helpful.

Then, you just wait for the time to be up (or stop it early if the food looks done). I used the fries setting for my sweet potatoes and for the chicken thighs, I customized the settings according to the recipe I was making. It was easy and intuitive. 

Gourmia has a few air fryer do's and don'ts, such as making sure there is at least four inches of space around every side of the air fryer for ventilation. And, if you do add cooking oil, avoid canned sprays.

How to clean and maintain the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer

After you’re done using the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold, let it cool completely before cleaning the air fryer. This is extra important given the glass basket. You can, however, remove the basket to speed up this process.

The crisper tray can go in the top rack of the dishwasher, but the glass basket should be hand washed. If the rest of the air fryer needs cleaning, use a damp microfiber cloth (like these from Amazon Basics) with a small amount of dish soap if necessary. 

You can also clean the inside of the machine that way. The cord folds up into the back of the machine, and the top of the machine flips over to store within the basket. It becomes half the size, which is perfect for small spaces.

Should you buy the the Gourmia Fry ‘N Fold air fryer

At $79.99, this seven-quart foldable air fryer provides great value for money and comes with a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. 

If you’ve resisted jumping on the air fryer hype because of the space, money, or both, now's the time to join the club. Serial food burner? This glass basket will save you from a ruined dinner.

If the glass basket deters you, but you still want to see what's inside, the Paris Rhone  air fryer (available on Amazon) is a great choice. We gave it 4.5 stars out of 5 in our Paris Rhone air fryer review.

How we test air fryers

The Gourmia Fry 'N Fold Digital air fryer was sent to me by the brand, and I used it over a several-week period. Here are a few things I like to look out for when test air fryers:

The Spice by Tia Mowry Dutch oven has gotten shoppers' attention for its durability and style, much like the rest of her eye-catching cookware line.  

As we provide our culinary space with a refresh for 2024, we couldn't help but notice the spring-fresh selections Spice has to offer, in addition to the famed Dutch oven, with brilliant cookware from just $18.

If you're playing around with small kitchen ideas for spring, and adore dopamine dining, Tia's line is the perfect place to start.

Fair warning: organize those small kitchen cabinets now because you're going to want plenty of room for the actor-turned-foodie's cookware and bakeware finds. From playful patterns to generous use of pastels, one of 2024's biggest small space color trends, the products will give you a little spring in your step.  

Tia previously revealed how having her own cookware line was a lifelong dream, and with this collection, we can reap the benefits in our own kitchens without breaking the bank.

Now we are putting these styles on our vision board (and in our shopping carts) as we embark on a spring home refresh. 

What to shop

If you're in search of more ways to spice up the best room of the house, opt for a colorful small kitchen idea for a fun and playful look and take our expert tips for designing a small kitchen into account before switching things up. 

The brand-new Our Place Splendor Blender really puts others on the market to shame with its high-powered capacity and gorgeous design. 

Coming in at 100 watts stronger than its competitor, this little beauty proves you don't have to sacrifice style for substance. If you're on a health kick this year, or really just enjoy a great green smoothie, then this new release may be the one for you.

We took a look at the new release from the fan-favorite cookware brand for all the details you need to know. See all the specs and what we love about this new small kitchen appliance.

Our Place Splendor Blender

Ok, we'll admit it — keeping bulky appliances on the kitchen counter can really be an eyesore. So when we heard about the new Splendor Blender from Our Place we instantly got excited, as the brand is famous for its aesthetically pleasing designs.

But the good news is, it doesn't just look pretty. It has some pretty impressive specs, too.

Why we love the Splendor Blender

While we haven't had a chance to test it yet, the new Splendor Blender is looking like it could end up on our list of the best blenders based on its capabilities. It's powered by a 1000-watt motor, which is 100 more than the Nutribullet Pro 900 and 300 more than the Ninja Fit 700. Our Place claims it blends in just 45 seconds, compared to 60 seconds for the other two brands. 

The Splendor Blender is made from toxin-free materials, free from potentially harmful chemicals like PTFEs, PFOAs, and other PFAS. Included with the blender base and blade is a 750 ml vessel and a personal drinking lid for taking your drink on the go. You're guaranteed a one-year warranty, 100 day trial, and free returns.

It's available in four colors — blue salt (a cobalt blue), steam (a neutral beige), char (a dark gray), and spice (a warm terracotta). You can purchase additional accessories with the Splendor Blender Everything Kit which comes with a 32 oz pitcher and a 450 ml sauce vessel.

Other Our Place buys

We're pretty big fans of Our Place over here at Real Homes. We've tested several of their fan-favorite products and they've always come out on top. If you're looking to upgrade your appliances then anything from the classic Always Pan to the Dream Cooker are great additions.

You really can't go wrong with an appliance from Our Place, as we found in our Wonder Oven review. If you're unsure where to store appliances in a small kitchen and end up keeping them on display, these are sure to fit in with your design scheme. 

Don't just take our word for it — Our Place is a celeb favorite. We found this viral brand in Liza Koshy's kitchen in the form of cookware and dishes.

A shot of Joe is one of my favorite treats, and with the Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker, I can easily make them right in the comfort of my own home — and save a little cash in the process. To see if this budget-friendly espresso maker is worth bringing home, I tested it out for a week (I'm a product reviewer specializing in home and kitchen products), making lots of lattes to replace my morning cup. 

While the appliance does have a few quirks, I thought its overall performance was impressive considering its compact size and wallet-friendly price point, and I’ll be keeping it around for those times I need an extra jolt of caffeine. 

This compact espresso maker is a new release from Mr. Coffee, which is known for its budget-friendly kitchen appliances, and it’s surprisingly affordable at just $60. In addition to brewing fresh shots of espresso, it’s equipped with an easy-to-use milk frother so you can whip up lattes and cappuccinos that will rival your favorite barista’s. That’s not to say it's perfect. The tamp isn’t very effective, and you have to wrestle the portafilter into place. Not to mention, all the pieces are hand-wash only. However, none of these factors are deal breakers.

• Model number: BVMCECM-STMMN-BL
• Dimensions (in.): H12.28 x W6.46 x L8.62
• Weight: 4 lbs
• Water tank capacity: 8 fl oz (US)
• Cord length (in): 24
• Wattage: 900W
• Accessories included: Plastic water pitcher, plastic espresso measuring scoop, and stainless steel milk-frothing pitcher.

Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker review

Setting up the espresso maker

When this small coffee maker arrived, I was surprised at how light the box was. The appliance was packaged in a thick layer of foam and wrapped in an additional plastic bag — not the most sustainable — but it was fully assembled right out of the box. All I had to do was remove a few pieces of tape holding the drip tray in place and insert the portafilter. Before using the coffee maker for the first time, the manual says to run water through it to rinse it out.

Using the espresso maker

To make an espresso, start by filling up the water tank using the measuring cup that comes in the box, using its lines to pour the right amount of water for either two or four shots of espresso. There’s no option for a single shot, but I found you can stop the brew cycle when you have as much espresso as you want.

Next, I used the included scoop to put ground espresso into the portafilter — the handle-like piece that has a little basket on the end for your coffee grounds. Again, there are lines to let you choose between 2-4 shots, but they’re on the outside of the filter basket, making it tricky to fill precisely. 

The back of the scoop is flat, allowing you to tamp down the espresso, but honestly, it’s pretty ineffective. If you buy this machine, I’d recommend picking up a cheap tamper (a small tool to push down coffee grounds) more effectively. This 51mm stainless steel coffee tamper on Amazon is cheap and highly-rated by shoppers.

Putting the portafilter into the machine is a task that’s easier said than done. The manual says it’s a tight fit — and they weren’t kidding! Because the machine is so lightweight, it tends to slide around as you twist the portafilter into place, so you have to use some muscle to hold it down and twist the handle. 

Hopefully, it will loosen up over time, otherwise, you’re in for an arm workout every time you want to make a drink! This is worth keeping in mind if you have any trouble with your grip strength.

Test 1: Making espresso

To use this coffee maker, you simply turn the dial on the side of the machine to start brewing. It takes around two minutes for the water to heat up, before it presses hot steam through the espresso grounds to extract all that delicious caffeine. I have a special espresso glass that’s perfect for one shot, but I found it’s easier to brew into a mug — it splatters a lot less.

I don’t consider myself an espresso connoisseur, but I thought the drink was pretty good! There wasn’t a thick layer of crema (the reddish foam on espressos) like other fancier machines create, but it was still flavorful and the foundation for a great latte. 

Test 2: Frothing milk

The Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker has a built-in milk frother on the right side that allows you to froth milk for your drinks, and the small kitchen appliance also comes with a handy metal pitcher for the task. 

If you’re making an espresso drink, the instructions say you should pause the machine mid-brew to froth your drink. However, I also successfully did it after the brewing was complete, so I don’t think it matters when you do it, as long as there’s hot steam left. 

I filled the pitcher roughly halfway full with milk, then inserted the spigot (the little faucet where the espresso comes out) under the surface of the liquid. I turned the dial to the froth setting, and it started jetting out hot steam and making the milk bubble. 

The milk steadily increased in volume (which is why you don’t want to fill the pitcher up too high) and temperature, and I turned it off when the outside of the pitcher was hot to the touch. 

Once my milk was ready, it was just a matter of pouring the espresso and milk into a mug. I also added a pump of delicious DaVinci caramel syrup (from Amazon), a scoop of sugar, and voila! A delicious latte. It tasted every bit as good as the ones I buy, and even my partner gave the drinks two thumbs up.

Cleaning the espresso maker

Cleaning this coffee maker is fiddly, but only takes a few minutes. The first, and most important, step is to release any extra steam in the machine. To do this, you unplug it, then turn the dial to the steam setting. It will sputter out any leftover steam, and only then is it safe to take off the water tank lid.

Beyond that, you just need to wash the portafilter and frothing spigot. I dumped my used espresso into the trash, then rinsed out the filter and portafilter. Occasionally, there was a bit of residue left inside them, but it wiped off easily with a sponge. 

A reminder that these pieces are hand-wash only — it says it on the handle — so don’t risk ruining them by putting them in the dishwasher. As for the spigot, the black rubber cap slips off for easy rinsing, and you can wipe down any lingering milk foam with a sponge or paper towel.

How does it compare?

The Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker is one of the cheapest espresso makers we've tested, but there are better-looking designs out there, with larger water tanks so you don't have to fill it as often. All of the alternate options I've listed have longer cable lengths too; one of the things I wish I knew before buying a small coffee maker for
my power outlet-poor kitchen.

How we test espresso makers

Here’s what I looked for while trying out the machine, in line with how the internal Real Homes team tests coffee makers: 

Unboxing: I looked at how well the machine was packaged and if the materials were sustainable (such as using cardboard instead of Styrofoam). 

Operation: After reading through the instruction manual, I made multiple drinks, and observed how long the machine took to warm up, how easy the controls were to operate, and how loud it was.

Drink quality: I made several drinks with the coffee maker, including espresso and lattes, and as I drank each one, I evaluated the brew strength and temperature. I also made drinks for friends and family to get their opinions on the flavor. 

Ease of use: I considered whether the appliance was easy and intuitive to operate. I also looked at the machine’s instructions, noting whether they were clearly written and easy to follow.  

Ease of cleaning: I cleaned the machine after each use, noting how long it took and if any special tools were required. 

Vanessa Hudgens' blender is mixing up some tasty and nutritious breakfast concoctions, so we plan to follow suit and kickstart our mornings on a healthy note. 

The actor and style maven has partnered with Silk for the brand's #FeelPlantyGood Challenge, tasking participants with using plant-based ingredients in their breakfast for seven straight days. 

Her banana-chickpea-peanut butter number is made possible thanks to her jumbo nutribullet blender, which seems like it can prepare an early-morning meal for the entire neighborhood.

If you have to be mindful of small kitchen ideas and alternatives but still want to enjoy #FeelPlantyGood on your own terms, we've whipped up a list of the best blenders to get the job done on a smaller scale, with less counter space and spend.

Vanessa Hudgens' movies and TV shows are well-known (we see you Wildcats) but now the actor is stepping into the wellness space with her nutribullet 1200W Full Size Blender recipes. The appliance is a firm customer favorite beloved for its capabilities, including multiple speeds, a pulse function, extraction capabilities, and a vented lid to keep hot ingredients in check. 

However, if like many of the Real Homes team, you can't dedicate limited kitchen counter space to big appliances, we've sniffed out three budget-friendly smaller blenders.

What to shop instead

Small kitchen appliances make working in an enclosed space a lot simpler than a super-sized product, obviously. That being said, we did a deep dive to uncover which ones can adequately assist with those early-morning smoothies, like Vanessa Hudgens' blender.

Additionally, at just $34.99, Aldi's Ambiano Cold Press Juicer and Extractor is flying off the shelves, so have a look at your neighborhood store to see if it's still available if juicing, rather than blending is more your thing.

How to make Vanessa Hudgens' smoothie

Avoiding an appliance bigger than your kitchen can handle means you're a wiz at maximizing the space in your small kitchen, and now with a slinky little blender in tow, it's to instill those healthy habits into your routine. Here's how to copy Vanessa's Beige Not Boring Smoothie: 

1/2 cup Silk Unsweet Almondmilk
1 frozen banana
Canned chickpeas
2 tbsp cacao powder
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp peanut butter
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Ice

If you've bagged yourself a blender and now want to figure out how to store appliances in a small kitchen so that you're clutter-free when the blender, coffee maker, soda stream and other nifty electricals are not in use, our experts have you covered.

As a staunch air-fryer lover, The COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer has been a true testing highlight and one of the best I've tried. And I would know, given that I use an air fryer for everything from reheating leftovers, to cooking meat and giving vegetables the perfect crunchy kick. 

My usual air fryer is large, chunky, and lives in a cabinet, despite my frequent use, simply because of how much space it takes up on my counter. Trying the COSORI TurboBlaze has been a gamechanger. I was excited to see how it would compare to the larger model I’ve used for years, and whether its small profile could still cook food with the same energy. Spoiler: it doesn't disappoint!

Sure enough, this air fryer proves great things can come in small, well-designed packages. From its sleek, minimalist exterior to its incredibly easy-to-use control panel to the well-thought-out details, including a crisping tray that is secured in place, this is one of the most functional kitchen appliances I’ve ever used. 

Did I mention it turned a lightly seasoned package of chicken thighs into the juiciest and easiest recipe I’ve made in ages? It might just be enough to make me take over all cooking duties in my household. 

• Model name: Cosori TurboBlaze™ 6.0-Quart Air Fryer
• Dimensions (in.): H11.8 x W14.4 x L11.9
• Weight: 13.2 lbs
• Wattage: 1725 Watts
• Capacity: 6 qt
• Temperature range: 90°–450°F / 30°–230°C
• Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, frozen, proof, reheat, and keep warm
• Power supply: AC 120V, 60Hz

COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer review

What I thought of the Cosori TurboBlaze air fryer

Testing the Cosori TurboBlaze air fryer

While my first impression of the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer was taking in its good looks, functionality-wise, the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer turned out to be one of the best air fryers I’ve tried. 

It’s fast and it crisps food perfectly. I put skinless chicken thighs in there, and you would have sworn they had skin on them. The outside had a satisfying crisp and the inside was mouthwateringly juicy. From fries to Brussels sprouts, all of my air fryer recipes came out just as I’d hoped. I even tried a frozen cookie from Levain’s in the air fryer after hearing that’s the best way to reheat them. I can now 100% confirm — and that experiment made me incredibly grateful for the bake function.

The sheer number of functions available is mind-blowing. You can do anything from a one-minute reheat to a 24-hour dehydrating function. That’s not one I’ve tried yet, but perhaps I’ll come back here in a few weeks with an update. 

There was only one little snag in my first use of it, in that I was a bit confused by having to preheat. I've used a few small air fryers in my day, and I can’t recall a single one having a preheat button. But, COSORI makes you fully preheat with a separate setting, before you can select the time you’ll cook your item. 

Despite the extra step, I like that it has the preheat because the air fryer feels ready to go by the time you add the food in. However, it's slightly awkward that you have to first let the preheat run, and only then can you choose how you’re going to cook your item. 

Still, the control panel is simple to use. Depending on the setting you choose, you’ll then see the fan bar, time, and temperature, which can all be adjusted to accommodate the type of cooking you're doing.

The basket and crisping tray are surprisingly large for the size of the air fryer, and COSORI boasts that it can fit food for three to five people. I believe it. I only made food for two, but we had leftovers for another meal. That adds up to four portions, so I’m going with COSORI’s word. 

There are also tiny details that make a big difference in this small kitchen appliance, like the silicone stoppers that keep the crisping tray secured in place when you’re dumping out a deliciously crisp batch of fries, or cleaning out any residual grease, and the safety lock on the basket.

Here’s why I think air fryers are worth it: They are usually so incredibly easy to assemble, and the COSORI TurboBlaze was no exception. It came securely packed with the crisping tray on top of a styrofoam piece and the air fryer and basket below. While I never love styrofoam, it kept it perfectly in place. 

I took the three pieces out, put them together, took off a few stickers, and I had my new air fryer. There was also an instruction manual and 56-page recipe book included. I don’t always keep the recipe books that come with appliances, but this one is going to earn a spot in my kitchen for at least a few weeks.

Before using it for the first time, I washed the basket and tray with Gain dish soap (available from Amazon) and water, then wiped down the machine itself with a damp microfiber cleaning cloth (I buy these in bulk from Amazon). Super easy and took only a few minutes.

Using the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer

There are quite a few controls on the top of the TurboBlaze, but it’s an easy machine to use and fairly intuitive. First, you’ll place the crisping tray in the basket. Then, the air fryer should be preheated for four minutes at 400° Fahrenheit unless it’s already been used, and still hot. When it’s ready, it’ll beep and show “End” on the display. 

The next step depends on your goal for that meal. Are you baking? Roasting? Boiling? You’ll select the button for your particular food, then adjust the suggested time and temperature as needed. When you have it to the right setting, hit the play button. And that’s it! You can flip your food halfway through or simply divide the time in two and do it in two sets. 

A few tips from COSORI include avoiding overfilling the basket since that can impact cooking, adding up to two tablespoons of oil to add crisp, air frying frozen foods to get them hot and fresh, and putting aluminum foil (i.e: Reynold's Wrap from Amazon) down before attempting to bake any type of dough.

Test 1: Cooking chicken

Chicken thighs are one of the gold-standard foods to cook in an air fryer. You know they're going to come out consistently yummy. I used skinless, boneless chicken thighs sprayed with a bit of avocado oil and seasoned with Mediterranean herbs.

With the air fryer on 450°Fahrenheit, I did approximately 14 minutes on each side. I've seen in reviews online that some people expected a notification to flip their food halfway through, but I didn't find it a big deal to just split the time in half. I ended up taking them out early to check the temperature, and, voila, they were actually done early and came out a perfectly juicy, golden brown. 

Test 2: Reheating a storebought cookie

If you've ever had a cookie from the world-famous Levain's Bakery, you know they're delicious, gigantic, thick cookies. I received a dozen as a gift, and was told to freeze what I couldn't eat and use the air fryer to reheat. I used testing the TurboBlaze as an excuse to eat one more. I chose the Bake function and put eight minutes on the clock. The result was a perfectly gooey on the inside, crisp on the outside, chocolate cookie.

Cleaning and maintaining the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer

Air fryers aren’t known for being difficult to clean, but some details can make life easier or harder. Thankfully the TurboBlaze makes it easier because the crisper plate fits securely into the basket, you can turn it upside down to shake out any crumbs without worrying that you’re going to lose the crisper plate in the trash (a constant worry with an air fryer I used to have).

Both pieces are easy to wash in the sink with liquid soap and a sponge (or this non-scratch Scotch-Brite dishwand from Amazon). Though all accessories are also dishwasher-safe, which is a serious win. For stubborn grease, which is always a concern with air fryers, COSORI suggests cleaning the air fryer with a 2:1 baking soda (available from Amazon) to water paste, and spreading it on those areas. Leave it for 15 minutes before rinsing and washing.

The outside can be wiped down with a damp rag. And, of course, turn the machine off and unplug it before you do any type of cleaning. 

Is the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer right for you?

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced air fryer with a small footprint and big capabilities, then the COSORI TurboBlaze could be the answer. This sleek machine is smaller than other 6-quart air fryers, yet it packs a punch with its settings. 

From the preheat, which makes for crispier, better-cooked food, to settings including reheat, bake, and proof, this machine is a great substitute for someone who doesn’t have a full-size oven because they live in a dorm room, or other small space. It’s also great for those who don’t have storage space for an air fryer and need a model that takes up less kitchen counter space.

Good to know

Warranty
A two-year limited warranty from the date of purchase is included with the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer.

Where to buy the COSORI TurboBlaze air fryer

The COSORI TurboBlaze™ is available through COSORI, Amazon, and Walmart. 

If this one isn't for you, our team has tried and tested similar models, including another from the same brand, just in case you're trying to figure out which COSORI air fryer to buy.

How we test air fryers

We have a set process for testing air fryers at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the air fryer. I used it for fries, chicken, cookies, reheating leftovers, and any of the multitude of ways you can imagine using an air fryer. I experimented with all the many settings and wondered way too many times why more air fryers don’t have a preheat setting.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing air fryers:

Basket: Is the basket easy to remove and replace? Does it hold into place?

Operation: How easy is it to use? Are the prompts/buttons legible? Do I know when the machine is done?

Controls: Are the settings easy to use with the help of the instruction guide? Are they clearly labeled? Is it easy to remember which ones do which?

Cleaning: How easy is it to clean? Does the cleaning basket easily pop in and out?

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the COSORI TurboBlaze, the preheat function as well as the multiple functions, including bake and dry, were worth noting.

I make a latte every morning and Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe is making my obsession a little bit easier. With this latest foray into the espresso world, the Prima Latte Luxe has a fancy name for a fancy but easy-to-use machine. 

This compact espresso maker brews single and double shots of espresso, cappuccino, and latte. I just press a button and velvety frothed milk and perfectly smooth espresso are dispensed in the exact right proportions, right before my eyes.

Before adding this machine to my kitchen countertop, you could have asked me for a latte or a cappuccino, and I would have handed you the same thing each time — milk and espresso, right? 

But they are not the same and now, this machine makes them for me, knocking out the need to figure out how to do the slightly varied processes for each. I’m still not sure of the difference, but I don’t need to be! Mr. Coffee’s got it covered. Single. Double. Latte. Cappuccino. This machine makes it all.

And, before you say, "Doesn’t Mr. Coffee just do basic coffee makers?" Let me tell you, Mr. Coffee is proving they’re so much more. They’ve figured out the recipe for making the best small coffee makers with beverages as good as anything you’ll get in a coffee shop. I haven’t bought a single latte since I started using this machine two weeks ago, which speaks for itself.

Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe review

What I thought of the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

I’ve used a Mr. Coffee machine before with great results and I’m always game for an easier way to make an espresso drink, so I was pumped to try out this machine. Once you get the hang of it, it's the easiest espresso maker to use. In the past, I’ve used more manual espresso machines, actively holding the milk-frothing pitcher and hoping I’m getting the right texture. This does it all for you at the touch of a button.

The design is clever, with a two-sided scoop to give you exactly the grounds you need for a single or a double shot of espresso. The filters easily pop into the portafilter. The drip tray adjusts to accommodate everything from your travel mug to a dainty espresso cup. And you can’t beat the milk reservoir, which has a lid for keeping it in the refrigerator. That means you can fill it up once, then have it ready to go for days on end. 

Want a latte? Just hit the button. Want to make it a double? Again, a button. Want to add an extra shot of espresso? There’s a button for that. It’s so incredibly easy. Each drink is creamy and the milk is always beautifully frothed. Even plain espresso has a thick, impressive crema (the froth on top of an espresso).

Clean-up is just as easy, with multiple parts being dishwasher-friendly. My only hiccup throughout the process was wishing there had been a quick start guide to get me up and moving. I’m someone who looks at a booklet full of directions and just wants to get to the end, so having an easy-to-follow quick-start guide is always preferred to a manual. But, hey, maybe that’s coming after this great coffee maker has been on the market a bit longer.

Testing the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe coffee maker

Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe specifications

• Model name: Mr. Coffee® Prima Latte Luxe
• Dimensions (in.): H16 x W11.7 x L13.3   
• Water capacity: 800 ml
• Wattage: 500 watts
• Material: Plastic
• Compatibility: ESE pod compatible

Unboxing and setting up the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

The Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe espresso maker came securely packaged in a corrugated cardboard box inside a reasonably sized cardboard box. I didn’t have to dig through an abundance of packaging just to get to my new espresso machine. Instead, I just pulled it out, spent some time taking the stickers off (always so many stickers), took out the red plug from the water reservoir, and then referenced the guide to help put it together.

The machine is mostly assembled, though you’ll need to put the milk reservoir, water reservoir, and drip trays into place. I found those to be a little bit finicky, and I did go back and forth between the manual and the machine to try to make sense of the parts. I spent a few minutes fiddling with the drip tray before I got it right. The milk reservoir also takes some precision to snap it into place. However, none of these complaints are deal breakers. They're quirks in the design, but you'll get used to them (probably quicker than I have).

Mr. Coffee included everything you need, including the coffee scoop for pre-measured espresso, two filters for the portafilter, and a lid and an extra straw for the milk reservoir. The machine is super and sleek, but one thing that you may notice is all the parts are shiny plastic. This feels a little at odds with the $399 price tag, and perhaps one of the things you wish you knew before buying this small coffee maker. But, the machine still feels solid and looks sleek.

Before you make your first drink, wash the water reservoir, milk reservoir, milk system components, portafilter, filters, and scoop tamp with mild detergent and water. Then prime the machine, which involves filling the milk and water to the max lines, then running a manual espresso cycle and a manual froth cycle. As soon as those finish, you’re ready to start brewing.

Using the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

Back to my earlier gripe, I do wish there was a quick start guide with the Prima Latte Luxe, but, alas, the manual will have to do. It’s detailed, which is great, even explaining the type of coffee to use (freshly ground, fine grind, resembling the size of table salt) or ESE capsules (Easy Serving Espresso), if you want to use it like a pod coffee maker).

To start, turn the machine on. This machine does take a minute to warm up, but there is a progress bar along the control panel that shows you when it’s ready to use. Make sure the water reservoir is filled, and then fill the milk reservoir if you want to make a latte or cappuccino. 

You can fill it to the minimum level if you only plan on making one or fill it to the max if you prefer to have it full and ready to go when you are (use the lid to keep it airtight between uses in the fridge!). The milk reservoir snaps on, though it does take a minute to figure out how to make sure it’s securely in. You’ll know it’s not if the latte and cappuccino options don’t light up.

Decide how much caffeine you need. There’s both a single shot and a double shot filter and the two-sided scoop lets you put exactly the right amount of coffee into that filter. If you want to get fancy, use the no-mess feature, which involves a quick flip of the scoop into the filter. For me, that was a little more trouble than it was worth when making a double shot (single was fine to navigate), but perhaps that’s a human coordination error on my part.

The portafilter takes a strong turn to make sure it’s in the machine, which I appreciate. You know you’re getting a solid seal. You’ll want to move the drip tray to accommodate the size mug or cup you’re using or you risk making a mess of milk an espresso. This piece also takes a little bit of finagling, but, eventually, you’ll learn the right angle to get it in on the first try. In my opinion, the best coffee mugs for this machine are wide and low. You need a wide enough surface that both the milk and the espresso can dispense into it with you having to nudge the cup.

Making espresso

With everything in place, you’re all set to caffeinate. With the clear touch screen, select one or two shots for espresso, cappuccino, or latte. Then press the play button. 

The drink cycle runs through on its own and beeps when it’s done (something I take for granted when a machine has it, but notice when it doesn't). I love that I don’t have to go back to the machine between espresso and milk. It just does it all. It's like having my own personal barista in the kitchen. 

Want to add a little extra something? You can also manually add another espresso shot or manually froth milk.

One note — I found myself repeatedly forgetting to turn the machine off after using it. Luckily, I must not be the only one. There’s an auto-off feature that shuts the machine off after 15 minutes. It can then be turned back with any button, though, ideally, you’ll turn it off correctly. 

Cleaning the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

After each use, you’ll want to clean all of the frothing components, run a shot of “espresso” without the portafilter in, and rinse out the drip tray. This machine makes it incredibly easy with a cleaning option right on the milk reservoir. Just make sure there’s a cup ready to catch the extra grounds water and froth.

The milk reservoir, and water reservoir are dishwasher safe, while everything else should be washed with warm water and mild detergent (an unscented dish soap on Amazon will do just fine). And, word from the wise, don’t run the portafilter through the dishwasher. I haven’t had it happen with this machine, but I did once have a houseguest run another portafilter through and RIP to the portafilter — not the guest.

When cleaning any coffee maker, you do want to descale it regularly. Mr. Coffee recommends descaling every 80 uses if you have soft or filtered water, and every 40 uses with hard or tap water.

This can be done easily by putting white household vinegar in the water reservoir overnight, then rinsing it thoroughly, and running a half-full tank of water shots through twice. My colleagues at Real Homes have a whole guide on how to clean a coffee make with vinegar plus a ton of other coffee maker cleaning hacks and coffee maker cleaning mistakes to avoid.

Is the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe right for you?

If you want the delicious taste of latte and cappuccino drinks at home but also love simple single-serve coffee makers, then this Prima Latte Luxe is absolutely for you. This machine makes barista-level espresso and espresso drinks, but it does it in a foolproof way. There are still a few quirks in the design, but nothing that affects the taste or quality of the drinks.

Mr. Coffee has created a machine that’s easy-to-use and incredibly simple. At $399, it’s pricier than most Mr. Coffee machines, but it’s a steal for an espresso maker with an automated approach. 

Good to know

Instructions
The Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe has an instruction guide to walk you through how to use the machine for espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes. It isn't available online so make sure you hang on to yours.

Warranty
A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe.

Where to buy the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

The Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe is a brand-new product that is currently only available through Amazon.

However, if this isn't the right coffee maker for you, we've rounded up good alternatives to mull over.

How we test coffee makers

We have a set process for testing coffee makers at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the espresso maker.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing espresso machines:

Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill and whether it’s easy to clean.

Operation: How easy is it to use this coffee maker? Are the prompts/buttons legible? Do I know when the machine is done?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it clear how much product I need to use to make coffee?

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Mr. Coffee® Prima Latte Luxe, I noted the ease in making a latte, cappuccino, and espresso, all of which were accurate to their descriptions. The milk frother functionality was a game changer.

If your kitchen is in a bit of a state, don't worry — Candice King's kitchen appliances are here to save the day during your renovation works, or the chaos of a DIY project, We found all the gadgets she uses to avoid turning on the oven or sweating over the stove. 

In a recent TikTok video, The Vampire Diaries star shared her genius solutions for cooking meals while her kitchen undergoes a renovation. As her major appliances are out of commission, she is getting by with the help of a couple of smaller appliances instead. 

The small kitchen appliances Candice keeps on hand for a quick and easy way to prep dinner could just save your meal-times too.

Candice King's kitchen appliances

Cooking can get a little tricky when redesigning and carrying out your new kitchen idea. Whether your house is under major construction, or you're just hanging up some new peel-and-stick wallpaper, you may not have access to the tools anc counter space you normally use to cook weeknight dinners or weekend brunches.

Enter your brilliant and underused kitchen appliances. You can cut down on cooking time and prep work by having a handy machine to do the work for you. Once you work out where to store kitchen appliances during the ongoing chaos, the world is your oyster.

Luckily, Candice shared the small kitchen appliances she's using while her kitchen is undergoing a renovation to start us off.

Where to buy Candice King's kitchen appliances

We tracked down Candice King's kitchen appliances and they're pretty easy to snag online. In her video, she first shows off her Haden Heritage retro microwave available from Amazon. Just about everyone needs a microwave in their kitchen and this stylish option is a great pick. It has a large capacity and is easy to use with a pull-door handle. 

Candice also has a matching Haden Heritage retro toaster available from Amazon. This two-slice toaster is equally as attractive and even has a self-centering function to keep bread in the perfect toasting position. 

And of course, what would an easy dinner be without the Instant Pot Pro Crisp (also available on Amazon)? It's not a surprise Candice has this beloved appliance in her kitchen considering it has over 2k reviews on Amazon. If you're considering other models, our Instant Pot Duo review breaks down all the pros and cons.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Whether you're investing in one of the best air fryers or snagging one of our favorite toasters, the right appliance can make all the difference in the kitchen. If your oven is out of commission, try a delicious one-pot recipe like stew or curry in a pressure cooker to whip up dinner in a flash. 

Instant Pot is a favorite among celebrities, as we spotted the brand in Hailey Bieber's kitchen appliances, too. And if you're looking for pots and pans once your stove is in order, Liza Koshy's favorite cookware brand has some great picks.

I love a healthy dinner, less the mess or time it takes. Ninja Speedi solves both of those issues, unlocking the ability to cook one-pot-style in as little as 15 minutes. The result is good food, fast, feeding of up to four people.

We haven't got kids, but this multicooker is perfect for a two-person dinner, plus leftovers for work the next day. My husband loves my cooking but hates how many pots and pans I use in the process. Could this meal-prepping machine might be the makings of a long and happy marriage?

The Ninja Speedi is an air fryer that uses steam and crisp technology to cook juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and cooked vegetables that keep their crunch. After a demo at SharkNinja, I got to take the appliance away to use it at Future's test kitchen. Here are my thoughts.

Our comprehensive Ninja Speedi review

The short version

The Ninja Speedi is a rapid and easy to use. I simply load my chosen my carbs, protein, and veggies, click a button, and this appliance does the rest. If I'm low on inspiration, there's a chef-created recipe guide with cooking charts to steer me in the right direction.

Could it look a little prettier? Absolutely. But considering this 10-function electric pot replaces your steamer, oven, and air fryer, I could live with its lack of aesthetic appeal. It has weeknight dinners ready in under an hour, and the recipes available ensure I'm getting a balanced meal. 

On weekends, I use the Speedi to cook a full 4 lb roast chicken dinner (with the trimmings), but I've yet to try baking a chocolate fudge cake or slow-cooking a stew (sealing everything in the same pan).

Ninja Speedi specifications

Unboxing and setting up the Ninja Speedi

I always look forward to unboxing SharkNinja kitchen appliances. This brand packages its items sustainably with minimal plastic wrap.

And, they make use of the outer carton with QR codes, so you're not left with fiddly paper manuals in a food-based environment. Talking from experience, I have way too many coffee-ringed, dog-eared, and olive oil-painted pamphlets lying about.

Using the Ninja Speedi

To use this machine, pop your ingredients into the pot, on the rack (or both), then select one of the 10 cooking programs:

Then use the SmartSwitch (flipping it up for rapid cooker, and down for air fry/hob).

Test 1: teriyaki salmon rice bowl

I was interested to see how well the Ninja Speedi cooked fish. I enjoy salmon, but admittedly end up breaking the skin when broiling or baking it. So I was glad that this process was a little hands-off.

I'd worked my way through pasta and rice at NinjaHQ, so I prepared Ninja's Asian-inspired bowl, basting the filets in Teriyaki sauce, and a little sesame oil. As for the rice, this was essentially seven ounces of Basmati rice (rinsed to remove starch), a five-ounce portion of frozen veg, and 17 ounces of hot stock.

I placed the protein on the top rack, and the starch element in the pot, flipped the switch to the rapid cooker setting, and set the Speedi Meals setting to run at 350F for 10 mins.

After the time had elapsed, the flesh was perfectly-opaque and gently flaked. The rice-veg mix had also absorbed all of the broth, and our panel commented on how tender the grains were. The panel had reservations about using bagged mixed veg but were pleasantly surprised with the outcome.

Test 2: cooking bacon

I used the air fry function to cook five rashers of bacon for five minutes at 350°F. The results were crispy, and without any grease hitting me or the kitchen backsplash. It was great to not have to watch it (a downside when cooking rashers in your best non-stick frying pan, or under the broiler).

Test 3: French fries

French fries are a great litmus test to assess the air-frying abilities of the Ninja Speedi. In the past, fries given this treatment are either a little anemic or have charred ends. After cooking these chipped potatoes (for 18 minutes at 350°F) they had a moreish-crisp texture, where the Maillard effect had done its job.

Test 4: cooking rice

If you've always depended on microwavable rice or cooked boil-in-a-bag sachets on the hob, you'll be surprised at how well this machine cooks fluffy grains. It's like a rice cooker — but better. 

You'll still need to rinse the rice beforehand to remove excess starch and use a ratio of 1:1.5 rice: water (or better still, broth for added flavor). But other than that, it's foolproof. No rice sticking to the bottom of the pan, no stirring, and no gloopy texture.

Demonstrations at SharkNinja HQ

Cooking chicken breasts

Cooking skinless chicken breasts can be a disaster if you're not well-versed in preparing lean protein. Undercooked you risk salmonella, but overdone and they are dry and unpleasant to eat. 

Under the supervision of Ninja's professional chefs, our group prepared panko breadcrumbed supremes, setting the machine to 390°F, and time to 14 minutes.

The meat sits on the Cook & Crisp Tray, while the pasta quills sit in the bottom of the machine with your choice of liquid (i.e: water, stock, or another flavored base for it to absorb).

And did you spot 'Lid' notice on the Ninja Speedi's screen? This proves just how user-friendly this machine is, and is something I saw when reviewing the Ninja Foodi hot and cold blender. No weird codes or error messages — just simple, easy-to-read prompts.

I didn't manage to get a shot, but on the base level were all the ingredients for the Ninja broccoli alfredo pasta. Though this recipe cheats using store-bought sauce, our version included penne, grated garlic, butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, and parmesan. The result was a 1 lb serving of indulgent creamy pasta that I wanted to box up and take home. The textures were spot-on: the starch element was firm to the bite, and the veggies retained their color and snappiness.

Cooking a plant-based meal

Most air fryer recipes are centered around a meat option, but we haven't forgotten vegetarians or flexitarians. For this test, we cooked bell peppers and zucchini-wedged between cubes of Halloumi cheese to create kabobs. The finished result was cooked-but-crunchy Mediterranean veg, with mallowy-soft Cypriot cheese.

Cleaning and maintaning the Ninja Speedi

All the included accessories are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. If you want to work smart and not hard, you can also use the Steam setting to clean the inside of the lid and unit. Do be careful though, one drawback is the pot doesn't have any handles, so it can be very hot straight after cooking.

Rest assured, the non-stick ceramic coating on the cooking pot and crisp tray is effective and you won't need to soak or scrub it to death. Doing the latter may remove the protective layer, so it's best to use a soft sponge.

Note, that the Ninja Speedi also has a little condensation collector on the back to catch steam vapor. Once the unit has cooled, be sure to remove and decant it.

Good to know

If you're ever stuck on what to cook, Ninja has a helpful Speedi meal builder. Pick your ingredients, customize flavors, and create your own recipe in just five simple steps. I took a screen grab of the process, but the experience lets you pick bases, proteins, vegetables, seasonings, and toppings.

Should you buy the Ninja Speedi?

In some small kitchens, you might struggle with counter clearance and size. However, the Ninja Speedi avoids you having to have the oven or broiler on for your main, plus a pot on the hob for your side. Everything is done in one pot.

And, if you like soft textures in a slow-cooked meal — don't fret. As mentioned, pasta remains al dente, veggies aren't limp, and my salmon had (extra) crispy skin — all thanks to this air-fryer-cum-multicooker-contraption. But if you're just after a small air fryer to cook a few fries and nuggets — buy just that. 

One thing I do wish is that they would come out with more colors, as the sea salt grey doesn't quite fit into my taupe kitchen scheme. Admittedly, we haven't tried something as similar as this, but the closest comparison is the Ninja Foodi MAX 9-in-one Multi-Cooker which our reviewer awarded five stars.

How we test

This isn't a standard convection oven, but I used the same process of how we test air fryers to determine what score I was going to give it. I observed how it performed, how eco-friendly the packaging was, and if it was able to fit into a small rental kitchen. Unique to this review (and perhaps one other), I was invited to the brand's headquarters where I learned about the internal mechanics of this kitchen appliance.