You want your kitchen to work for you. Nearly 60% of U.S. households own an air fryer, showing how popular countertop cooking appliances have become. People love their speed, easy cleaning, and modern look. You can create a sleek, flexible kitchen that fits your style and needs.
Countertop Cooking Appliances: What Are Your Options?
You have more countertop cooking appliances to choose from than ever before. The market keeps growing, with new features and smart technology making your kitchen life easier. Many people now look for countertop appliances that save time, boost energy efficiency, and fit into small spaces. North America leads the way in adopting these smart cooking appliances, especially countertop convection ovens.
Air Fryers Overview
Air fryers have become a must-have in many kitchens. You use hot air to cook food quickly and get that crispy texture you love. Air fryers let you enjoy fries, chicken, and veggies with less oil. They work well for busy nights or quick snacks. Cooking with countertop appliances like air fryers means you can make healthier choices without losing flavor. You can find air fryers in many sizes, so you can pick one that fits your space and needs.
Electric Grills Overview
If you want to grill indoors, an electric grill gives you that option. You can sear burgers, grill veggies, or even make paninis. Electric grills come in many styles and sizes. Some models, like the Ninja Woodfire Pro and Weber Q 1400, offer high-heat searing and portability. Others, such as the Char-Broil Patio Bistro, use infrared technology for smoky flavor. Here’s a quick look at some popular electric grill models:
| Model | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber Q 1400 | Portable, cast-iron grates | Durable, easy to transport | No temp display |
| Ninja Woodfire Pro | Multi-function, built-in thermometer | Versatile, high searing | Small cooking area |
| Char-Broil Patio Bistro | Infrared, large cooking space | Smoky flavor, easy to clean | Uneven heating |
You can find an electric grill for almost any cooking style.
Multi-Cookers Overview
Multi-cookers give you the most flexibility. You can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, and even air fry in one appliance. Models like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp and Zavor LUX LCD stand out for their large capacity and multiple functions. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Model | Capacity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Zavor LUX LCD | 6 qt | Pressure cook, steam, slow cook |
| Breville Fast Slow Pro | 6 qt | Nonstick, easy cleaning, strong performance |
| Instant Pot Duo Crisp | 8 qt | Air fry, dehydrate, large basket |
With so many options, you can find countertop cooking appliances that match your cooking style and kitchen space.
Air Fryer: How It Works and Who It’s For
Cooking Method and Results
When you use an air fryer, you cook food by blowing hot air around it. This method gives you crispy fries and chicken wings with only about a tablespoon of oil. Traditional deep frying uses up to 3 cups of oil, so air fryers help you cut fat by up to 80%. You get similar flavor and texture to fried food, but with fewer calories. Air fryers also work faster than ovens, giving you great cooking results in less time. You’ll notice your food stays juicy inside and crispy outside, which makes every bite delicious.
Pros and Cons of Air Fryers
Here’s a quick look at what people like and dislike about air fryers:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Uses less oil for healthier meals | Can still form some harmful compounds at high heat |
| Safer than deep fryers—no hot oil spills | May reduce healthy fats in fish |
| Reduces harmful acrylamide | Doesn’t guarantee a healthy diet |
| Easy to use for many foods | Needs proper food handling |
Tip: Air fryers make cooking safer and cleaner, but you still need to follow good food safety habits.
Best Features and Uses
You can use air fryers for fries, chicken, veggies, and even baking. The best air fryers offer adjustable temperature, timers, and presets for different foods. These features help you get perfect cooking results every time. Air fryers also keep your kitchen free from oil fumes and mess.
Size, Capacity, and Storage
Air fryers come in many sizes. Most countertop models hold 3-5 quarts, which works for small families. If you have a big family, look for larger models or air fryer ovens. Here’s a handy chart to help you pick the right size:
Ease of Use and Cleaning
You’ll love the ease of use. Air fryers have simple controls and removable baskets. Cleaning is easy—just wipe the basket or put it in the dishwasher.
Price Range and Value
Air fryers fit many budgets. You can find basic models for under $50, while larger ones with more features cost more. Think about price and value when you choose, and pick the fryer that matches your cooking needs.
Air Fryer vs Electric Grill: Key Differences
Cooking Style and Health Impact
When you look at air fryer vs electric grill, you notice big differences in how they cook and how healthy your meals can be. Air fryers use hot air to cook food fast and evenly. You need little to no oil, so your meals have less fat. An electric grill uses direct heat and often needs more oil to keep food from sticking. This can add extra calories. Check out this table for a quick comparison:
| Aspect | Air Fryer | Electric Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Usage | Little to none | More oil needed |
| Cooking Method | Hot air circulation | Direct heat |
| Food Texture | Crispy outside, juicy inside | Smoky, charred flavor |
| Health Impact | Lower fat, fewer calories | Higher fat, more calories |
Versatility and Best Uses
Air fryers shine when you want crispy fries, chicken wings, or roasted veggies. You can even bake snacks. An electric grill works best for steaks, burgers, kebabs, and grilled chicken. It gives you those classic grill marks and smoky taste. Air fryers keep food moist inside, while an electric grill gives you a deep sear.
Space, Storage, and Cleaning
You will find that air fryers usually take up less space on your counter. They are easy to store and clean, with baskets that often go in the dishwasher. An electric grill can be bulkier and may need more effort to clean, especially if it has grill plates.
Cost Comparison
You can find a basic air fryer or electric grill for $25 to $100. As you move up in price, air fryers offer digital controls, more presets, and bigger baskets. High-end models can cost over $200 and come with smart features. Electric grills also range in price, but you pay more for larger cooking areas and extra functions.
Air Fryers vs Multi-Cookers: Versatility and Value
Cooking Functions and Flexibility
When you compare air fryers vs multi-cookers, you notice a big difference in cooking functions. Multi cookers give you a wide range of cooking options. You can braise, steam, make yogurt, cook rice, and prepare soups or stews. These appliances replace several single-use gadgets in your kitchen. Air fryers focus on frying with hot air, but they also let you grill, bake, roast, and dehydrate. Still, multi cookers offer more functions and greater versatility. If you want one appliance that handles many tasks, multi cookers stand out for their features and flexibility.
Health, Speed, and Efficiency
You want healthy meals fast. Multi cookers use up to 80% less energy than an electric oven and can cut cooking time by up to 70% compared to traditional pressure cookers. They make one-pot meals easy and automatic. Air fryers also use less energy than regular ovens and cook food quickly, especially when you want crispy results. Both appliances help you save time and energy, but multi cookers shine when you need to prepare hearty, liquid-based dishes.
| Feature | Multi Cooker | Air Fryer |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | Uses up to 80% less energy than an electric oven | Uses less energy than a regular oven |
| Cooking Speed | Reduces cooking time by up to 70% | Fast for frying and roasting |
Size, Capacity, and Storage Needs
Multi cookers usually hold 6 quarts or more, which works well for small families and batch cooking. You can make soups, stews, or casseroles with ease. Air fryers have a smaller capacity, so they fit snacks or smaller meals. If you want to cook for a group, multi cookers give you more space and versatile meal prep options.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
You will find both appliances simple to use. Multi cookers often have clear controls and preset functions. Air fryers offer easy baskets and quick cleaning. The ease of use makes both choices great for busy cooks, but multi cookers may need a bit more attention when cleaning after cooking liquid dishes.
Price and Value
When you look at price and value for features, multi cookers usually cost between $80 and $160. Air fryers range from $50 to $400, with some models costing more than multi cookers. You get more functions and versatility with multi cookers for the price, making them a smart pick if you want value for features and lots of cooking options.
Multi-Cookers: The All-in-One Countertop Cooking Appliance
How Multi-Cookers Work
A multi-cooker brings many cooking methods together in one device. You can slow cook, sear, sauté, bake, steam, and even keep food warm. Some models let you cook two dishes at once with separate pots and controls. You might see DualSync Technology, which helps your meals finish at the same time. The nonstick pots are easy to clean and can go in the oven up to 450°F. With a multi cooker, you can switch from searing to baking without changing pans. This appliance replaces several tools, making meal prep and cleanup much simpler.
Pros and Cons of Multi-Cookers
You get a lot of convenience with a multi-cooker. It cooks quickly, sears well, and has safety features like push-button steam release. Many users love the quieter operation and attractive design. However, some people find the controls tricky. The settings may not remember your last choices, and some preset times do not fit every recipe. Slow cooking and sous vide might not work as well as with single-use appliances. Still, most users agree that the pros outweigh the cons.
Best Features and Uses
Multi cookers stand out for their wide range of functions. You can sauté, sear, roast, steam, cook rice, and slow cook. Some of the best multi cookers add pressure cooking and roasting, which save you time. You can even bake cakes or cook several dishes at once using pot-in-pot cooking. Newer models offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so you can control them from your phone. These features make multi cookers a top pick for busy kitchens.
Size, Capacity, and Storage
Most multi-cookers hold about 6 quarts, which works for families or batch cooking. You can prepare soups, stews, or casseroles with plenty of room. The design is compact, so you save space compared to owning several appliances. When you finish, the nonstick pot makes storage and cleaning easy.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
You will find the ease of use a big plus. Multi cookers have clear controls and preset functions. The nonstick, dishwasher-safe pot means you spend less time cleaning. You can move from cooking to serving without extra steps.
Price Range and Value
Multi cookers come in a wide price range. You can find basic models for under $80, while advanced ones with more features cost more. For the value, you get many functions in one appliance. If you want to save space and time, a multi-cooker is a smart investment.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Air Fryers, Electric Grills, and Multi-Cookers
Health and Nutrition
When you want healthier meals, countertop cooking appliances can help you make better choices. An air fryer stands out for cutting fat and calories. You use up to 70% less oil than deep frying. That means your fries or chicken wings have up to 75% less fat and 70–80% fewer calories. You also lower harmful acrylamide by up to 90%. This helps with weight management and heart health.
Here’s a quick look at how air fryers compare to deep frying:
| Aspect | Deep Frying | Air Fryer | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil Usage | High | Low | 50%-70% less oil used |
| Acrylamide Content | High | Low | Up to 90% reduction |
| Saturated Fat | High | Low | 75% less in fries |
An electric grill gives you a smoky flavor and grill marks. You may need to use more oil to keep food from sticking, so the fat content can be higher than with a fryer. Still, you can grill lean meats and veggies for healthy meals. Multi-cookers let you steam, stew, or pressure cook. You can make soups and stews with less oil, which keeps meals light. If you want to cut fat and calories, an air fryer is your best bet, but all three appliances can help you eat healthier.
Tip: Even with an air fryer, remember to enjoy fried foods in moderation for the best health results.
Cooking Versatility
You want an appliance that can handle many recipes. Air fryers do more than fry. You can roast, bake, grill, and even dehydrate. Try making crispy tofu, roasted veggies, or homemade bagels. Many air fryers come with recipe books and online guides, so you can experiment with new dishes.
Electric grills focus on grilling. You get great results with burgers, steaks, seafood, and veggies. Some models let you make paninis, but most stick to grilling. If you love that grilled flavor, an electric grill is a solid choice.
Multi-cookers win for cooking versatility. You can steam, pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, and even bake. Some models combine air frying, steaming, and sous vide. You can cook rice, stews, yogurt, and more. This makes multi-cookers the most versatile of all countertop appliances. If you want one tool for many jobs, a multi-cooker is hard to beat.
Note: When you compare air fryers vs multi-cookers, multi-cookers offer more cooking functions, but air fryers give you more ways to get crispy results.
Speed and Convenience
You want dinner fast. Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food in less time than ovens. For example, you can cook chicken and veggies in about 10–15 minutes. That’s up to 30% faster than a regular oven. You don’t need to preheat for long, so you save time.
| Appliance | Average Cooking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | 10–15 minutes | Fast, juicy results |
| Electric Grill | 12–20 minutes | Quick for grilling, needs preheating |
| Multi-Cooker | 20–30 minutes | Fast for stews, soups, and rice |
An electric grill cooks burgers or veggies in about 12–20 minutes. You get that grilled flavor without waiting for a charcoal grill to heat up. Multi-cookers take a bit longer to build pressure, but they cook stews and soups much faster than stovetop methods. You can set it and walk away, which makes meal prep easy.
If you want the fastest results for crispy foods, go with an air fryer. For hands-off cooking, a multi-cooker is super convenient.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning can be a chore, but some countertop cooking appliances make it easier. Air fryers need cleaning after every use. You should wash the basket and drawer, and sometimes hand wash to remove stuck-on grease. A weekly deep clean keeps your fryer safe and working well.
Electric grills need regular cleaning too. You should wash the grill plates and check for wear. Some parts are dishwasher-safe, but you may need to scrub off cooked-on food. Maintenance is less frequent than with a fryer, but you still need to keep it clean for the best cooking results.
Multi-cookers are easy to clean. You just wash the inner pot and wipe down the outside. The nonstick coating helps food slide off. You should check the seals and valves now and then, but overall, cleaning is simple and quick.
Cleaning tip: Always let your appliance cool before washing. This keeps you safe and protects your countertop appliances.
Space and Storage
Countertop space matters, especially in small kitchens. Air fryers come in many sizes. Most basket-style models need about 15–17 inches of width and 12–21 inches of depth. They fit well on most counters and store easily in a cabinet.
| Appliance Type | Model/Style | Width (inches) | Depth (inches) | Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basket-style Air Fryer | Cuisinart 6-quart | 16.5 | 12 | 12.25 |
| Basket-style Air Fryer | Instant Vortex 6-quart | 14.92 | 12.36 | 12.83 |
| Air Fryer Toaster Oven | Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro | 17.5 | 21.5 | 12.7 |
Electric grills can be bulky, especially if you pick a model with a large cooking area. You may need more counter space to use and store it. Multi-cookers are usually compact, with most holding about 6 quarts. They save space by replacing several single-use gadgets.
If you want to save space, look for a compact fryer or multi-cooker. Electric grills may need more room.
Cost and Value
You want the best value for your money. Air fryers range from $50 for basic models to $400 for smart, large-capacity versions. You get great cooking results and healthier meals, so many people feel the price is worth it.
Electric grills start around $25 and go up to $200 or more for bigger, feature-rich models. You pay more for extra cooking space and better build quality. If you love grilled flavor, an electric grill is a good investment.
Multi-cookers cost between $80 and $160 for most models. You get many cooking functions in one appliance, which saves you money and space. If you want the most versatility and value, a multi-cooker is a smart buy.
Think about what you cook most and how much space you have. The right countertop cooking appliances will give you the best results for your kitchen and budget.
Which Countertop Cooking Appliance Fits Your Kitchen and Lifestyle?
For Healthy Eaters
If you want to eat healthier, you probably look for ways to cut down on oil and keep more nutrients in your food. Air fryers stand out because they let you enjoy crispy foods with much less oil than deep frying. Nutritionists often recommend air fryers for this reason. You get that satisfying crunch without all the extra fat. Steaming is another great way to keep your meals healthy, since it helps vegetables keep their vitamins and flavor. Food processors and high-speed blenders also help you make fresh sauces, smoothies, and soups at home, so you can skip the processed stuff.
Here’s a quick look at what nutrition experts suggest:
| Appliance | Health Benefit / Reason for Recommendation | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | Cooks with less oil, producing healthier meals; mimics deep-fried texture and crunch without excess fat. | Easy to use and clean; highly popular among nutritionists. |
| Food Processor | Speeds up prep for healthy meals; lets you make homemade sauces and dressings. | Versatile for chopping, slicing, blending. |
| High-speed Blender | Makes nutrient-packed smoothies, soups, and sauces; can heat while blending. | Good for nutrient retention and easy digestion. |
| Food Steamer | Steams veggies for healthy meals instead of frying or roasting. | Preserves nutrients and flavor. |
Tip: If you want to eat healthy but still crave fries or chicken wings, an air fryer is your best friend. You get the taste you love with a lot less guilt.
For Busy Families
You have a full schedule and need dinner on the table fast. The right countertop appliance can save you time and stress. Air fryers with two baskets, like the Ninja® Foodi® 6-in-1 Smart 10-qt., let you cook two foods at once. You can make chicken in one basket and veggies in the other. This means less waiting and more eating together. Multi-cookers, such as the Instant Pot Duo Mini, also help busy families. You can pressure cook, slow cook, or steam meals with just a few button presses. Set it and forget it—your meal cooks while you help with homework or relax.
Many families love these appliances because they:
- Cut cooking time in half or more.
- Let you cook big batches for leftovers.
- Offer simple controls for easy use.
If you want to save time and keep everyone fed, try a multi-cooker or a dual-basket air fryer. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family.
For Small Kitchens
When you have limited counter space, every inch counts. You need appliances that do more but take up less room. Multi-cookers like the Instant Pot DUO60 7-in-1 give you lots of cooking options in a small footprint. You can even find a 3-quart version for really tight spaces. Compact air fryers and mini food processors also fit well in small kitchens. Some coffee makers and toaster ovens are designed to be extra slim, so you can enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without crowding your counter.
Here’s a table to help you see which appliances work best in small kitchens:
| Appliance | Footprint (HxWxD in inches) | Why It Works for Small Kitchens |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot DUO60 7-in-1 6 Quart | 13 x 13.5 x 12.25 | Multipurpose, replaces several gadgets, smaller version available |
| Nespresso Essenza Mini | 8 x 5 x 13 | Super compact, quick coffee, fits anywhere |
| Danby DDMW007501G1 Microwave | 10 x 18 x 13 | Small, quiet, fast heating |
| Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P | N/A | Space-saving toaster oven |
| Cuisinart Mini Prep Plus DLC-2A | N/A | Tiny food processor, easy to store |
| Vitamix 5200 | N/A | Compact blender, powerful, fits well |
Note: If you want to save space, look for appliances that do more than one job. Multi-cookers and compact air fryers are top picks for small kitchens.
For Versatile Cooks
You love to try new recipes and want an appliance that can keep up. Multi-cookers are your best bet. They let you sauté, steam, slow cook, pressure cook, and even bake—all in one pot. Some models even have air frying or sous vide features. You can make soups, stews, rice, yogurt, and more. If you want to experiment with different cuisines or batch cook for the week, a multi-cooker gives you the flexibility you need.
Air fryers also offer some versatility. You can roast, bake, grill, and dehydrate. But if you want the most options, a multi-cooker wins.
- Try a multi-cooker if you want to cook everything from chili to cheesecake.
- Use an air fryer for crispy snacks, roasted veggies, and quick meals.
Love variety? A multi-cooker turns your kitchen into a playground for new flavors and cooking styles.
For Budget Shoppers
You want to get the most value for your money. Good news: you don’t have to spend a lot to get a great countertop appliance. Basic air fryers start at around $50 and still deliver crispy, tasty results. Electric grills and compact multi-cookers also come in at budget-friendly prices. If you want one appliance that does it all, a multi-cooker gives you the best bang for your buck. It replaces several single-use gadgets, saving you money and space.
Here’s how you can save:
- Choose a basic air fryer for quick, healthy meals.
- Pick a compact multi-cooker for maximum versatility.
- Look for sales or refurbished models to stretch your budget further.
Tip: Think about what you cook most. Pick the appliance that matches your favorite meals and fits your budget. You’ll enjoy cooking more and spend less.
You want the best fit for your kitchen. Think about what you cook most.
- A fryer gives you quick, crispy meals with less oil.
- An electric grill brings indoor searing.
- A multi-cooker handles many recipes.
Pick the fryer, grill, or multi-cooker that matches your space, health goals, and style.
FAQ
Can I cook frozen food in an air fryer?
Yes! You can toss frozen fries, nuggets, or veggies right in. The air fryer cooks them fast and makes them crispy without thawing.
Tip: Shake the basket halfway for even cooking.
Do multi-cookers replace slow cookers and rice cookers?
Absolutely. A multi-cooker handles slow cooking, rice, steaming, and more. You get several appliances in one, which saves space and time.
Is it safe to use an electric grill indoors?
Yes, you can use most electric grills inside. They don’t produce smoke like charcoal grills. Just keep the area well-ventilated and follow the safety instructions.
