Best kitchen appliances for small spaces

by bhs-ahEditor November 20, 2025

Small kitchens can still do big things when you choose the right tools. The best appliances for tight spaces are compact, do more than one job, and store easily. Focus on pieces that save counter space, cut cooking time, and keep cleanup simple. Here are smart picks to help you cook well without clutter.

Multifunction Pressure Cooker

A multifunction pressure cooker can replace several tools, like a rice cooker, slow cooker, steamer, and sauté pan. It cooks fast, saves energy, and makes one-pot meals easy. Choose a 3–6 quart model for small households. Store the pot and lid vertically to save cabinet space.

Air Fryer Toaster Oven

An air fryer toaster oven bakes, toasts, broils, and air fries in one unit. It’s great for crisp veggies, reheating pizza, or small sheet-pan meals. Look for a compact model that fits under cabinets, with a crumb tray and interior light for quick cleanup and easy checks.

Portable Induction Cooktop

A single or double induction burner heats fast and stays cool to the touch. It’s safer for small kitchens and easy to wipe clean. Use induction-ready pans (magnetic bases). When not in use, slide it into a drawer or stand it on its side to free up counter space.

Compact Microwave

A 0.7–1.0 cubic foot microwave handles everyday tasks like reheating, melting, and steaming. Pick one with quick-start buttons, a mute option, and an interior light. A flatbed (no turntable) design can add usable space and make cleaning simpler in a small kitchen.

Immersion Blender with Attachments

An immersion (stick) blender lets you blend soups right in the pot, so there’s less to wash. Choose a set with a whisk and mini chopper to whip cream, make sauces, or chop herbs. It fits in a drawer or hangs on a hook, saving counter and cabinet space.

Mini Food Processor

A 3–5 cup food processor is perfect for chopping onions, making pesto, or preparing salsa. It’s lighter and easier to store than a full-size model. Look for a bowl with measurement marks and simple, two-speed controls for quick, no-fuss prep.

Hand Mixer with Storage Case

A hand mixer beats batters, mashes potatoes, and mixes light doughs without the bulk of a stand mixer. A snap-on storage case keeps beaters and the cord together. Choose a model with multiple speeds and a slow-start setting to reduce splatter in tight spaces.

Single-Serve Coffee Maker

A slim, single-serve coffee maker saves space and cuts waste. Pick one that works with a reusable filter or ground coffee to avoid disposable pods. A taller clearance lets you brew straight into a travel mug, keeping mornings quick and counters clear.