For a single person or a couple, a 4 to 5 litre air fryer is usually enough, and it heats up quickly and fits on a smaller worktop. Bigger family models cost more and take up more room than you need.

We picked the best-reviewed compact air fryers on Amazon UK. Capacities are as stated in each listing. We haven't tested them ourselves. This comparison is based on the Amazon listings and customer ratings, so check the latest price and details before you buy.

If you cook for friends often, a bigger dual-drawer model may suit you better. See our family air fryer page.

Short answer: One or two people don't need a huge air fryer. A 4 to 5 litre single-basket model is plenty. The Ninja 4.7L Pro has the top rating, and the Philips 2000 Series 4.2L and Russell Hobbs 4L are cheaper well-rated options. Prices and ratings are from Amazon UK, checked when our catalogue was last updated. Prices change, so check the latest on Amazon.

1. Top rated: Ninja 4.7L Air Fryer Pro

Ninja 4.7L Air Fryer Pro
Ninja 4.7L Air Fryer Pro
★★★★☆ 4.8 · 936 Amazon UK ratings
£99

A 4.8 rating, the highest on this page, from more than 900 buyers. The most expensive of the compact models.

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2. Best value: Philips AirFryer 2000 Series 4.2L

Philips AirFryer 2000 Series Single draw 4.2L
Philips AirFryer 2000 Series Single draw 4.2L
★★★★☆ 4.7 · 693 Amazon UK ratings
£50

A 4.7 rating from nearly 700 buyers at around £50, which is a lot of well-known brand for the money.

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3. Most reviewed: Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital

Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer [7 Cooking
Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer [7 Cooking
★★★★☆ 4.5 · 2,168 Amazon UK ratings
£50

A 4.5 rating from more than 2,100 buyers, the most reviewed compact model here, at around £50.

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4. Russell Hobbs 4.3L Digital

Russell Hobbs Digital Oil Free Air Fryer
Russell Hobbs Digital Oil Free Air Fryer
★★★★☆ 4.5 · 376 Amazon UK ratings
£60

A slightly larger Russell Hobbs at a low price, with a 4.5 rating from about 360 buyers.

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5. Cheapest: Tower Vortx 4.2L Digital

Tower T17147 Vortx 4.2L Digital Air Fryer
Tower T17147 Vortx 4.2L Digital Air Fryer
★★★★☆ 4.3 · 478 Amazon UK ratings
£38

The cheapest here at around £40, with a 4.4 rating from more than 440 buyers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What size air fryer is best for one or two people?
4 to 5 litres is usually plenty for one or two people. It heats quickly and takes up less worktop space.
Is a small air fryer worth it?
Yes if you cook small portions or frozen food. Choose a bigger one if you often cook for guests.
HomeGadgetPro Editorial Team
Our buying guides are based on real Amazon UK product data, verified customer ratings and independent research. Prices are checked weekly. We may earn commission on purchases made through links in this article — see our affiliate disclosure.