Kitchen appliances are practical gadgets, but they also take up a lot of space. Does anyone have space for blenders, food processors, air fryers, coffee makers, mixers or toasters? I could have easily continued with this list because I’m not the only one who thinks this way. One of our editors discovered something interesting Reddit thread It discussed which devices are worth their space requirements.
We’ve all asked ourselves: What kitchen appliance would we fight to stay on our kitchen counter? Well, we all had some very serious thoughts and opinions on the subject, calling out our favorite gadgets that have helped us get through busy weeknights, slow Sundays, and packed family dinners. Make room on your kitchen counter for some of these popular recipes Keurig coffee makers, Cuisinart food processors, Breville toaster ovens And OXO kettle.
Editors-loved kitchen appliances that deserve a spot on your countertop
- Available in 6 colors: Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker$80 (was $110)
- Under $100: Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Food Processor$50
- Over 11,200 5-star reviews: Zojirushi Micom rice cooker and warmer$199 (was $233)
- Amazon’s choice: Vitamix Ascent X2 SmartPrep Kitchen System$700 (was $750)
- Limited time offer: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro$350 (was $400)
- Fast heating: OXO Brew wireless glass kettle$100
- 41 grind settings: Fellow Opus coffee grinder with conical burr$200
- 5,000+ purchased last month: Cuisinart Food Processor 14 Cup Food Processor$250 (was $320)
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Amazon
“I would be lying if I said anything other than my Keurig,” says co-editor Dani DeAngelis. “I have to say that I’ve had previous Keurig models and other coffee makers that took 17 million years to brew a cup, but this one literally takes seconds. I love it!” It’s worth noting that this nifty device takes up hardly any space – it measures just 5 x 13 x 12 inches.
Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Food Processor
Amazon
“I love my mini food processor. It makes the best vinaigrettes and is also great for chopping small amounts of things like nuts and herbs,” notes Carolyn Malcoun, assistant editorial director. Small but mighty, the versatility of this handy device only increases its value. It’s easy: just press the chop or grind button to get your ideal blend.
Zojirushi Micom rice cooker and warmer
Amazon
“I have been using this rice cooker every week for over two years. It has changed my rice cooking life and I have never looked back,” says Assistant Manager Penelope Wall about this rice cooker. She loves the easy-clean steam vent cap, nonstick interior, straightforward rice-to-water ratio instructions, music timer, and retractable power cord. Best of all? “This rice cooker makes perfectly cooked, fluffy rice every time. When it’s ready, it automatically switches to warm until you’re ready to eat.”
Vitamix Ascent X2 SmartPrep Kitchen System
Amazon
It’s my turn! I have a Vitamix blender set that is so versatile that it has replaced three appliances: a stand mixer, a personal blender, and a food processor. Since it is versatile, I think the price is even more justified. Not only do you get the power of the Vitamix, but you also save a ton of money by not buying a standard Vitamix or other appliance (because in my opinion no kitchen is complete without a Vitamix).
My exact set is no longer available, but this Ascent X2 set is the next best thing – it replaced mine when the brand updated the line. It includes a standard 48-ounce pitcher that makes it easy to blend individual smoothies thanks to the conical shape. The food processor attachment includes two reversible blades that can chop, slice, grate and knead.
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Amazon
Several editors, including myself, mentioned the versatility of the Breville Toaster Air Fryer. I recently purchased this model and it is definitely worth the counter space. Adapted from Editor Alex Loh: “My new favorite appliance is my air fryer and toaster oven. It’s been a game-changer in hot weather because I can cook my entire dinner in it and it doesn’t heat up my kitchen like my regular oven does. I chose the air fryer because I like having multiple appliances in one.”
OXO Brew wireless glass kettle
Amazon
“I put my kettle on the counter and use it to boil water for tea, of course, but it comes in handy regularly when I’m cooking or baking and need boiling water. It boils water faster than in the microwave and doesn’t make that annoying whistling sound when it’s done like a stovetop kettle does,” says editor-in-chief Megan Ginsberg.
Fellow Opus coffee grinder with conical burr
Amazon
If you have a good coffee grinder, your coffee will always taste better, no matter what brewing method you use. Carving out a corner of my countertop for this Fellow grinder was the best decision I ever made for my coffee routine. The Fellow Opus features a grinder that grinds the beans rather than crushing them for a cleaner, fresher taste. Ultimately, when you grind your coffee in the morning, it’s all about preserving the flavor and aroma! It is precise enough to grind beans to the ideal consistency for drip coffee, French press, pour-over, espresso pulling and more. I would argue that this is more important than the coffee machine itself!
Cuisinart Food Processor 14 Cup Food Processor
Amazon
Wall makes room on her countertop for another helpful appliance: “I’ve had my Cuisinart food processor for over 15 years and it still works well. I use it for everything.” Her favorite dishes include savory recipes like pizza dough, hummus, pesto and, thanks to the different blades, even sliced or shredded potatoes and vegetables. She also uses it for sweet recipes, including ice cream and fro-yo.
