if you are looking for the best air fryer for one person in the uk, this article is for you and is based on our first hand unboxing experience and reviewed by air fryer kitchen experts. let’s get started.
Are you tired of spending too much time in the kitchen cooking for just yourself? We get it; we’ve been there too. That’s why we decided to put air fryers to the test for several weeks, even months, to find the best ones for solo cooking in the UK.
Let’s face it, life can get busy, and cooking for one person often feels like a hassle. But that’s where air fryers come to the rescue. These kitchen wonders can transform your mealtimes, making them faster and simpler.
We handpicked the top-rated models that aced our testing procedure, ensuring you get excellent value for your money. These air fryers are like countertop ovens but quicker and easier to use. Over the last two years, we’ve reviewed numerous air fryers, and the ones we loved the most are right here.
Curious about each air fryer’s performance? Just go through to our in-depth assessments below to discover why we think a particular model might be your perfect kitchen companion. And if you’re looking for a bit more cooking space, we’ve got a guide for the best twin-zone air fryers and options.
Air fryers have become incredibly popular over the past year, and it’s easy to see why. They’re versatile, require little to no oil for frying thanks to their hot air circulation, and are energy-efficient, potentially saving you on power costs.
Most air fryer models are compact enough to sit on your countertop, and some even offer space-saving features like cable storage. From crispy air-fried chips to delicious buffalo cauliflower wings, doughnuts, and healthy chicken breasts, the possibilities are endless.
With an air fryer, you can enjoy your favorite fried foods with a healthier twist, savoring classics like fish and chips without the guilt. As McGrady (owner of catering company the Royal Chef) explains, ‘At an event where we’re cooking 200 portions of beef but there are two people who have requested salmon, I can air fry two salmon cutlets within eight minutes, so it’s perfect. You can cook healthy things in there too, not just chips.'”
So, if you’re looking to simplify your solo cooking and enjoy delicious, healthier meals, keep reading to discover some of the top air fryers currently available.
Let’s look at insights of our first hand unboxing tried and tested experiences alongside the recent buyer reviews.
Best Air Fryers For One Person UK At A Glance
| Air Fryer For One Person | Buyer Satisfaction Ratings | Reason To Buy |
|---|---|---|
| COSORI (Must Buy) | 92% | Excellent performance with even cooking results |
| Tower T17025 | 90% | Great value for money and compact design |
| Venga | 90% | Fast cooking and easy to use |
| Salter EK2817 | 90% | Affordable, simple, and reliable |
| Chefman | 88% | Versatile with a sleek design for single servings |
| Amazon Basics | 86% | Budget-friendly with good performance for small meals |
| FABULETTA | 88% | Efficient with consistent results |
Exploring The Right Kind of Air Fryers For One Person
I’ve tested a variety of air fryers, and one feature that stands out is the basket design. These tall, slender air fryers have a main unit with heating elements and fans, and they come with trays or baskets that roll out and fit in. While these models are great for cooking, I’ve found that getting even results sometimes requires a bit of attention. The smaller cooking surface means I often have to pause the process to rearrange or toss the food.
Some air fryers automatically shut off when you do this, while others need to be stopped manually. It’s a minor inconvenience, but the crispy, delicious results make it worth it.
Then there are rotisserie air fryers. They do an excellent job of cooking evenly browned whole chickens in much less time than traditional ovens. The cool lighting inside is a nice touch too. I’ve used the chip rotisserie baskets to make crispy potatoes, which turned out perfectly crunchy. However, rotisserie air fryers are better suited for larger meals and aren’t the most practical choice when cooking for one person.
I’ve also tried what I like to call “mini ovens.” These air fryers cook on flat, slide-in trays using convection or fan technology. They’re compact and take up about the same space as a microwave, making them perfect for one person. Some even come with rotisserie components for roasting whole chickens. These versatile air fryers are great for smaller portions and work well in my kitchen.
Lastly, I tried an air fryer with an inside paddle, like the Tefal model. This paddle stirs the food in a doughnut-shaped pan, which is perfect for dishes like sauces or casseroles. It keeps the oil in the pan, creating rich flavors and textures. However, it’s not as efficient for making single-serving meals due to the stirring mechanism.
Pre-Set Programmes Controls
Most air fryers also come with a handy recipe book, which is a real boon if you’re new to air frying and need some culinary inspiration.
First up, we have the choice between manual and electronic controls. Some air fryers come with good-old-fashioned manual knobs that you turn to adjust the temperature and cooking time. I’ve used these, and they can be straightforward and reliable.
On the other hand, digital versions have caught my attention recently. With these, you simply push buttons to set the temperature and time, and you can see the remaining cooking time displayed digitally. It’s a modern twist that I find convenient, especially when I’m juggling multiple tasks in the kitchen.
Now, let’s talk about those predetermined program options. Do you prefer a machine to handle the nitty-gritty details of cooking, or do you like to be in control? Some air fryers offer up to nine pre-set programs for common items like chips and even shrimp. I’ve tried these, and they do come in handy when I want to whip up a quick snack without fussing over the settings.
Weight and temperature controls are essential, allowing you to tailor the cooking process to your specific items. A pull-out loading tray that fits seamlessly into the machine is a feature I’ve appreciated, as it simplifies the cooking process. Plus, models with detachable pieces that are dishwasher safe make cleanup a breeze.
Internal Light for Better Cook
The next consideration is whether the air fryer comes with an interior light or a transparent lid. I’ve used models with see-through lids, and they’re fantastic for keeping an eye on your food as it cooks. It’s reassuring to watch those chips turn a golden brown without having to open the basket. However, I’ve also used air fryers that require you to stop the machine and check manually. The clear-lid models often come with a slightly higher price tag, so you’ll need to decide how important this feature is for you.
Shaking things up during cooking is a common requirement with most air fryers. I’ve found that shaking your chips halfway through cooking ensures even results. Some fryers have ingenious mechanisms that automatically flip the food for you. While these models tend to be pricier, they offer the convenience of letting your meal cook itself while you attend to other tasks.
Best Air Fryers For One Person UK: Tried and Tested Models
Why you can trust Cheap Near Me UK: Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
I recently purchased a Cosori air fryer for one person in the UK, and I’ve been thoroughly impressed with its performance. I was looking for something that would be quick, efficient, and easy to clean, and this air fryer ticks all the boxes.
The Cosori air fryer has a sleek design and is incredibly simple to use. The controls are clear, and it doesn’t take long to get the hang of it. What I really appreciate is how easy it is to clean – the basket pulls out easily, and the tray at the bottom is a great feature for allowing air circulation, making cleanup a breeze.
One of the standout features for me is the cooking efficiency. The food cooks quickly and evenly, and I love how crispy everything turns out, without any excess oil. It’s perfect for making quick meals without heating up the whole oven. I’ve tried a variety of dishes, from crispy potatoes to chicken wings, and each time, the results have been fantastic. The Cosori air fryer makes cooking at home much more convenient, and I’m always looking for new recipes to try in it.
The size of the air fryer is just right for me, especially since I’m cooking for just one person. It doesn’t take up much space in my kitchen, and the Cosori model I chose has a compact design that fits perfectly on the counter without overwhelming my kitchen. I’ve even used it when camping, as it’s small enough to run off a portable power source, making it a great option for those who want to cook while off the grid.
Overall, I’m thrilled with my purchase of the Cosori air fryer. It’s an excellent investment for anyone who values convenience, ease of use, and great-tasting food. I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-clean, and efficient air fryer for one person.
Tower T17025
I recently purchased the Tower T17025 air fryer, and it’s been a fantastic addition to my kitchen. The compact size is perfect for cooking single servings, making it ideal for one person. I’ve used it to cook various foods, including chicken, salmon, frozen chips, and even some sweet potato fries. Everything turns out crispy and perfectly cooked in no time. For example, the chicken and salmon cook in just 20 minutes, which is incredibly convenient compared to using an oven.
One of the best features is how easy it is to clean. After cooking, I simply wipe away any residue, and the basket and tray are easy to wash by hand. The fat drains out, which ensures the food is healthier, and the non-stick surfaces make the process hassle-free.
The size is perfect for single portions, and the fryer heats up quickly, making it an energy-efficient choice. I no longer have to preheat my oven for a quick meal. It’s also much more affordable to run compared to larger models. The simple controls make it easy to use—just set the time and temperature, and you’re good to go.
If you’re someone who lives alone or doesn’t need to cook large meals often, this air fryer is a great option. It saves time, energy, and space, and the results are always impressive. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a compact, easy-to-use air fryer for one or two people.
Venga
I recently purchased the Venga Air Fryer, and I’m genuinely impressed by its performance. The size is perfect for one person, and it doesn’t take up too much space on my countertop, which is a big plus for me. I’ve used it to cook everything from chips to steak, and the results have been amazing. The food comes out perfectly crispy without the need for excess oil, which is a huge improvement over using the oven. It’s so much faster, and the taste is way better – no more soggy fries!
The touch screen is incredibly easy to use, and the preset cooking modes make it effortless to cook my favorite foods. I especially love the dual-zone feature, which lets me cook two different foods at once, even at different temperatures. This has saved me so much time, especially when I’m cooking for myself and want two items ready at the same time.
The air fryer also cleans up quickly, which is always a bonus. I just wipe it down after use, and the baskets are simple to wash. Plus, the smart finish and match cook functions are a game changer. They ensure that everything finishes cooking at the same time, which makes meal prep so much easier.
Overall, I’m really happy with this purchase. The Venga Air Fryer has become my go-to kitchen tool for quick, delicious, and healthy meals. It’s compact, efficient, and makes cooking a breeze. If you’re looking for a high-quality air fryer that’s perfect for single servings, I highly recommend this one. It’s a great investment for anyone who wants to make cooking easier and faster.
Salter EK2817
I recently purchased the Salter EK2817 2L Compact Air Fryer, and I must say, it’s been an absolute game changer for my cooking routine. This air fryer is the perfect size for me as I cook for one. It’s small but surprisingly powerful, and it doesn’t take up much counter space, which I love. The design is sleek and compact, making it look great in any kitchen.
The best part is how easy it is to use. With just two simple dials for temperature and time, I can set it up quickly without any complicated buttons or screens. It’s perfect for busy days when I need a hassle-free cooking experience. I’ve used it to cook everything from crispy chicken to perfectly roasted veggies, and everything comes out looking great – crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Cleaning is a breeze too. The non-stick surface ensures that food doesn’t stick, and a quick rinse is all it takes to clean the pan. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to store, which is great when I’m not using it. I’ve also found that it saves me time and energy – it cooks faster than a traditional oven, and I don’t have to worry about wasting too much energy.
If you’re living alone or want a smaller, efficient air fryer, I highly recommend the Salter EK2817. It’s affordable, easy to use, and delivers great results every time.
Chefman
Firstly, the compact size of this air fryer immediately caught my attention. It fits perfectly in my campervan, taking up minimal room on the countertop. The convenience it offers is impressive. During my testing, I found that it cooks various foods remarkably well. From crispy chips to croquet pots, jacket potatoes, chopped veggies, and chicken, it handled a variety of dishes efficiently. However, it’s essential to note that this air fryer is more suitable for one person due to its compact size.
One aspect I discovered during testing is the importance of using liners. While this air fryer excels in cooking, using liners made the cleaning process much more straightforward, which is always a plus in my book.
The Chefman Air Fryer is excellent for a small household or as a secondary air fryer. If you’re cooking for one or preparing 1-2 portions of food, it delivers crispy, hot results. The compact size is an asset for those with limited space or as an additional kitchen gadget for specific needs.
One minor concern I had during testing was the design of the trivet and the bottom of the drawer. It would be more convenient if they were flat, as it could be slightly tricky to cook things inside a container with the current design. But apart from that, it serves its purpose efficiently for single servings.
Amazon Basics
Firstly, the positive aspects. The air fryer appears to be well built, even though I purchased it as an Amazon warehouse deal, which came with a few minor issues like scratches and an unexpected guest (a tiny spider) in the box. The unit stands at 32CM tall, 28CM wide, and 38CM deep, including the protruding handle and cable strain relief on the back. The digital display is user-friendly, featuring straightforward buttons to power the unit, control cooking time and temperature, and start or pause the cooking process. I appreciate that it displays temperature and time separately, even showing seconds while counting down.
Another significant advantage is the inner metal lining that runs throughout the unit. This ensures efficient heating, and the presence of an aluminum fan with small fins above the heating element adds to its performance. The air fryer’s noise level is audible but tolerable, and it switches off automatically when you remove the drawer, resuming cooking when you insert it back in.
However, there are some downsides to consider. In my opinion, the silver and black design might not be to everyone’s taste. Upon turning it on, I noticed an unpleasant plastic smell that filled the kitchen, even at low temperatures. One unique feature of this air fryer is the double basket configuration, which has its pros and cons. While it potentially enhances air circulation, it also means having to clean two baskets after each use. My main concern with this design is the thinness of the metal used for the baskets. They are remarkably thin, akin to a greeting card, which raises doubts about the long-term durability of the non-stick coating, and the possibility of rusting, similar to baking trays from pound shops.
Another drawback I noticed is that during the insertion and removal of the drawer, the outer basket may rub against the metal lining within the air fryer. This friction could lead to the bottom of the basket losing its non-stick coating, potentially scratching and peeling off over time.
FABULETTA
Having tested the FABULETTA Air Fryer, I want to share my insights into its performance and the pros and cons I’ve encountered.
First, the positive aspects of this air fryer. The delivery was fast and reliable, and the product arrived without any missing or damaged parts. I decided to place this air fryer at my workplace to provide colleagues with a simple, quick, and economical meal option. It’s versatile, offering various cooking choices. This is a game-changer for us, as we’re often busy and don’t have the time for take-out sandwiches or lunches. Having a microwave for reheating food complements this appliance perfectly.
One of the notable strengths of the FABULETTA Air Fryer is its relatively quiet operation, which is essential in a shared workspace. Additionally, it’s a stylish and visually appealing addition to our worktop. The availability of different color options is a nice touch. This air fryer doesn’t require the use of oil, making it a healthier cooking option. Moreover, it’s easy to clean and handle, with a convenient size that suits our needs.
On the flip side, this air fryer offers some disadvantages. It lacks the flexibility of larger air fryers, limiting its capacity to cook for more than one or two people. Despite this, the compact design and efficient performance are ideal for smaller households.
How We Test
Testing air fryers for one person involves a comprehensive evaluation process to ensure these appliances meet the unique needs of individuals or small households. Our testing approach focuses on several key aspects to provide an insightful perspective on their performance.
- Capacity Assessment: We begin by examining the air fryer’s capacity to determine if it’s truly suitable for one person. We measure the internal cooking space and assess whether it can comfortably accommodate single servings.
- Cooking Performance: Testing includes preparing various foods commonly cooked in air fryers. This typically involves items like frozen fries, chicken wings, vegetables, and even baked goods. We evaluate how well the air fryer cooks these items, assessing factors such as crispiness, taste, and cooking time.
- User-Friendliness: We analyze how easy it is to use the air fryer. This includes evaluating the control interface, preset cooking programs, and the intuitiveness of adjusting settings like temperature and time. We also assess the clarity of the user manual and the availability of recipe suggestions.
- Noise Levels: Noise can be a significant factor, especially if you’re living in a small space. We measure the noise produced by the air fryer during operation to determine if it’s tolerable for one-person use.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Cleaning an air fryer can be a tedious task. We test the ease of cleaning, considering factors like dishwasher safety, the non-stick coating’s durability, and any design elements that make maintenance simpler.
- Build Quality: We examine the materials used in construction and the build quality of the air fryer. Durability is crucial, as a one-person household may rely on this appliance for a long time.
- Size and Footprint: A compact size is typically desirable for one-person air fryers, so we measure and assess the unit’s dimensions. We also evaluate how it fits on a countertop or in a smaller kitchen.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount in any kitchen appliance. We check for features like automatic shut-off when the cooking basket is removed and assess the risk of accidental burns or scalds during use.
- Versatility: While a single-person air fryer doesn’t need to be as versatile as larger models, we still evaluate its ability to cook a variety of foods. A versatile air fryer allows for diverse meal options.
- Customer Feedback: We also take into account real-world feedback from customers who have purchased and used the air fryer. This helps provide insights into long-term durability and any common issues users encounter.
By comprehensively testing these aspects, we aim to provide potential buyers with an informed perspective on the performance, strengths, and shortcomings of air fryers designed for one person. Our goal is to help consumers make the best choice for their unique cooking needs.
Related Resources:
- Best Air Fryer With Stainless Steel Basket
- Cosori Vs Ninja Air Fryer: We Tested
- Best Dishwasher Under £300 UK
- Best Washing Machine Under £300 UK
Sam Food Expert
Sam is the Good Food Expert Advisor and a dedicated contributor with extensive expertise in culinary arts and nutrition. Passionate about exploring diverse cuisines and sustainable food practices, Sam brings years of hands-on experience to the table. His in-depth reviews and expert insights help readers make informed decisions, whether they’re choosing the best kitchen tools or perfecting their favorite recipes. Sam's contributions reflect his commitment to promoting healthier, tastier, and more enjoyable food experiences for everyone.
Amy lockwood
Amy Lockwood is a well-known expert in the field of house keeping. With a passion for testing and evaluating the latest products, she provides her readers with informative and unbiased reviews. Her knowledge and expertise have made her a trusted source for those in the market for new house keeping appliances. Whether you're looking for a new refrigerator, oven, purifier or coffee maker, Amy's insightful reviews will help you make an informed decision.
Cristin House Keeping
Meet Cristin, your dedicated guide to kitchen aid and housekeeping solutions. With years of experience and a passion for creating organized and functional kitchens, Cristin brings a unique blend of enthusiasm and professionalism to the table.
As an enthusiast, Cristin loves exploring innovative kitchen aids, gadgets, and techniques that simplify cooking, cleaning, and organization. From time-saving tips to space-maximizing ideas, Cristin shares practical advice to help you achieve a clutter-free and efficient kitchen environment.
Driven by a commitment to excellence, Cristin's expertise extends beyond kitchen gadgets to encompass effective housekeeping strategies. Whether it's tackling tough stains, optimizing storage spaces, or maintaining a clean and inviting home, Cristin provides valuable insights and recommendations to make housekeeping tasks manageable and enjoyable.
Join Cristin on a journey of discovery as they uncover the latest trends, share expert tips, and inspire you to create a kitchen and home that reflects your style and meets your needs. With Cristin House Keeping Kitchen Aid, you'll find the tools and knowledge to transform your kitchen and elevate your housekeeping skills to the next level.