Comparison: Best Air Fryer For College Students (Updated | Oct 22nd)
College life often means limited space and even more limited time for cooking. An air fryer can be a game-changer, offering quick and easy meals with healthier results than traditional frying. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best air fryer for a dorm room or small apartment?
This comparison will explore several popular air fryers perfect for college students, considering factors like size, ease of use, features, and cleaning. We’ll weigh the pros and cons of each to help you find the ideal appliance to simplify meal prep and enjoy delicious food without breaking the bank or sacrificing precious study time.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for best overall:
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt -
Best for supreme space-saver:
CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket -
Best for stylish and compact:
Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes -
Best for best value:
Sweetcrispy Air Fryer 6QT with Window -
Best for large capacity:
Chefman TurboFry Touch Dual Air Fryer -
Best for dorm-friendly:
COSORI Air Fryer 2.1 QT -
Best for large capacity:
Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry -
Best for best budget:
Bear Small Air Fryer 2.1 QT -
Best for precise cooking:
Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer | 8-1 Preset Cook Modes | Transparent Fry Bowl for Best Cooking Results | Cook Shrimp -
Best for maximum crispiness:
COSORI Air Fryer Pro 9-in-1
Product Comparison: Best Air Fryer For College Students
Best Overall
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V
COSORI
- 𝘼𝙞𝙧 𝙁𝙧𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉, achieving crispy, juicy results every time
- 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Cosori's unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°– 450°F temperature control deliver evenly cooked dishes with perfect texture in every bite
- 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝘾𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: The basket and crisper tray feature a premium ceramic coating that is nonstick, durable, and heat-resistant to improve your cooking experience
- 𝙏𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology helps speed up cooking and save time to deliver perfectly crispy family meals, even on busy days
- 𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: The 6-quart square basket offers a wide, deep design, great for the entire family meals while saving you space on your kitchen counter or cabinet
- 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Enjoy a quieter and more peaceful kitchen environment with TurboBlaze operating at less than 53dB even on the highest fan speed
- 95% 𝙇𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙊𝙞𝙡: Enjoy the same crispy fries as traditional deep frying with up to 95% less oil*. Enjoy all your favorite fried foods without the guilt. *Fat content analyzed by SGS lab
- 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧-𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙚: The nonstick, ceramic coated cooking basket and crisper plate make cleaning a breeze. Spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying delicious meals
Supreme Space-Saver
CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket, Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Digital Timer and Shake Reminder – Black
Chefman
- FAST AND EASY: This small air fryer comes prepared for any culinary challenge. The capacitive touch screen display can customize your cooking time and temperature up to a maximum of 400°F! Cook food fast up to three times quicker than an oven.
- HEALTHY COOKING: Say goodbye to excess oil and fat, and hello to healthy cooking. This mini air fryer uses little-to-no oil to make delicious meals that are good for you, too.
- SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: The square basket maximizes its 2-quart capacity. Housed in a sleek, narrow design to keep its countertop footprint small, this airfryer eliminates clutter and extraneous appliances.
- SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Halfway through cooking, the TurboFry Air Fryer automatically notifies you with an audible alarm that it’s time to shake your food for the crispiest results possible.
- COMPACT STORAGE: This 2-quart air fryer is perfectly sized for healthy meals for 1-2 people. It fits in perfectly as a mainstay on your countertop, or its small frame fits perfectly in your cabinets.
- SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: The nonstick 2-quart basket and rack are both dishwasher safe to keep clean-up fast and simple.
- SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology ensures added safety by turning off the fryer when cooking finishes or the basket is removed.
- RESOURCES: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 900W/120V – RJ38-2T-BLACK
Stylish and Compact
Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket – Black
Chefman
- FAST AND EASY: This compact air fryer handles any culinary challenge. Customize cooking time and temperature with the digital touch screen display or use one of four preset functions for quick, one-touch meals. Perfect for serving 2-4 people
- 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Achieve the perfect finishing crunch on your air-fried favorites. Increase the heat to 450°F during the final two minutes of cooking: perfect for extra crispy chicken tenders and French fries.
- STYLISH AND COMPACT: The sleek, narrow design of this air fryers maximizes its 4-quart capacity while minimizing its countertop footprint. Its compact size makes it a great space saver, fitting perfectly on your counter or in your cabinets
- HEALTHY COOKING: Enjoy delicious meals with little-to-no oil. This Chefman small air fryer lets you cook healthier, low-fat meals that still taste amazing
- SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Get notified with an audible alarm halfway through cooking, reminding you to shake your food for the crispiest results possible
- SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: The 4-quart nonstick basket and rack are both dishwasher safe, making clean-up quick and easy. The stylish matte-black finish is timeless and easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth
- SAFETY FIRST: With automatic shutoff technology, this air fryer ensures added safety by turning off when cooking is finished or when the basket is removed
- TRUSTED QUALITY: This air fryer is cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and comes with a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 1500W/120V – RJ38-4T-BLACK
Best Value
Sweetcrispy Air Fryer 6QT with Window, Square Airfryer Oven 12-in-1 for Family, 400°F Rapid Air Crispy Technology, Roast Bake Dehydrate, Nonstick & Easy-Clean Basket,Grey
Sweetcrispy
- Clear Viewing Window: Allows you look food without opening the air fryer, helping to maintain consistent temperature and cook times for perfectly crispy results.
- Large Capacity: Sweetcrispy 6.34QT Air Fryer is perfect for cooking family meals with square basket design maximizes cooking space, offering more room to fry.
- Safe and Nontoxic Materials: Sweetcrispy Air Fryer is made with nontoxic materials that are free from harmful chemicals. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your meals are prepared in a safe and healthy environment.
- Basket Dishwasher Safe: The non-stick basket and accessories are dishwasher safe,so that you can spend more time enjoying your meals and less time scrubbing.
- Top Rated Air Fryer: Its superior performance, user-friendly features, and stylish design make it a must- have for anyone looking to enjoy delicious, healthier meals with ease.
Large Capacity
Chefman TurboFry Touch Dual Air Fryer, Maximize The Healthiest Meals With Double Basket Capacity, One-Touch Digital Controls And Shake Reminder For The Perfect Crispy And Low-Calorie Finish
Chefman
- TWO AIR FRY BASKETS The Dual Air Fryer can cook two different foods in two ways in two separate baskets. Cook a main in one and a side in the other or crisp up a couple snacks for game day fun
- EXTRA-LARGE CAPACITY: 9-quart total cooking capacity makes it easy to cook for the whole family.
- PERFECT-TIMING SYNC FINISH: Want two foods to finish cooking at the same time? Just select Sync Finish and the air fryer will do the math so the two baskets finish together.
- HEALTHY EATING MADE EASY: Because air frying requires little to no oil, foods crisp up beautifully without all the fat. Great for reheating leftovers, too.
- AUTO REMINDERS: For the best results, most foods benefit from a shake about halfway through cooking. That’s why this air fryer features a visual and audio SHAKE reminder.
- CARE-FREE CLEANUP: A nonstick interior and bonus basket liners prevent foods from sticking, which makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, the baskets and racks are top-rack dishwasher-safe.
- SAFETY FEATURES: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long lasting durability. Stay-cool handles, auto-shutoff, and overheat protection
- 1-YEAR WARRANTY: A one-year warranty provided by Chefman means you can purchase worry-free. 1500 watts/120 volts – RJ38-SQPF-45TDB.
Dorm-Friendly
COSORI Air Fryer 2.1 QT, Small & Mini 4-in-1 airfryer Ideal for Simple Meals and Snack, Easy to Leftover Food to Crispy, Up to 97% Less Oil, 30 In-App Recipes, Nonstick & Dishwasher-Safe Basket
COSORI
- 𝑫𝒐𝒓𝒎-𝑭𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈: Compact design fits perfectly in dorms, offering versatile Air Fry, Reheat, Roast, and Bake functions for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks—even during busy study sessions
- 𝑴𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔: Compact basket heats faster, cutting down kitchen time and can help give you more time to relax after work
- 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒆𝒓 𝑪𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑺𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒓𝒔: Ultra-light 4.87-lb air fryer makes cooking easy, better than heavy pans or ovens
- 𝑪𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑶𝒊𝒍, 𝑪𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒂𝒕: Use up to 97% less oil, allowing seniors to enjoy meals with little to no added oil in each bite.Tested using french fries against traditional deep frying. Results may vary
- 𝑺𝒏𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑭𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒔: 2.1-quart capacity delivers ideal portions for families, with a compact size that's easier to use, clean, and better for crispy snacks than ovens or larger fryers
- 𝑹𝒆𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝑳𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝑭𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒉 𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒔: Select "Reheat" to effortlessly bring leftovers like fries, wings, and pizza back to crispy perfection
- 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑻𝒓𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒔 and 𝑹𝑽𝒔: With a size of 10.1 (L) x 8.3 (W) x 10.5 (H) inches and 120V/900W power, it's perfect for small kitchens in trucks or RVs, making delicious meals easy
- 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓-𝑺𝒂𝒇𝒆: Nonstick accessories clean easily in the dishwasher
Large Capacity
Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 5QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of French Fries | 400F Max Temp | Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate | 120V | Grey | AF141
Ninja
- AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air surrounds food for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
- LARGE CAPACITY: The 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate fit up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries.
- FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods in just minutes for an extra-crispy finish.
- SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest air fryer design allows you to save even more space on your countertop without compromising capacity.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The basket and crisper plate are both nonstick for easy cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, chef-inspired 20 recipe book and cooking charts.
Best Budget
Bear Small Air Fryer 2.1 QT, Mini Airfryer Adjustable Time&Temp Control, Compact Size Space Saving for 1-2 People Quick Healthy Meals Snack in Minutes with Nonstick Basket
Bear
- 𝟐.𝟏 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐅𝐫𝐲𝐞𝐫: 2.1qt capacity serving up dinner for 1-2 people small families, dorms, or RVs, saving counter space with Dimension 9.45×9.45×11 in(LWH), basket with grill 7.7×3.4 in. Bear Small Air Fryer may be your need to make your weeknight dinners a breeze if you’re looking for a quick, easy way to make dinner or snacks, chicken wings, french fries
- 𝐀𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐩&𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐥: Bear air fryer with dual knobs that makes it very easy to set the time, temperature to air crisp. Dial in temperatures range 176-400°F, and cooking times 0-60 mins for crispy tasty meals. You can also manually set the cooking time and temperature for custom cooking needs
- 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐎𝐢𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠: With Rapid Air Circulation 360° airflow to crisp food with 85% less oil, Cooks food 30% faster than traditional ovens frying. Reduced oil use for healthier meals, enjoy crispy foods without the added calories and fats
- 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫-𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Whisper-quiet during cooking, paired with a durable usage. Built-in safety features smart pause when basket is moved. Keep your mind at ease and Enjoy crispy meals without disrupting conversations,work or study, ideal for open-concept kitchens
- 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐩: With nonstick basket and dishwasher-friendly removable tray, ensure this small compact airfryer to save time on cleaning up after your meal, easily be cleaned with mild soap and water, more efficient for busy individuals or families looking to put together meals quickly
Precise Cooking
Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer | 8-1 Preset Cook Modes | Transparent Fry Bowl for Best Cooking Results | Cook Shrimp, Steak, Fries, Wings, Chicken & More | Precise Temperature Control & Time | Grey
NutriChef
- PRECISE COOKING RESULTS – Cook and air fry Shrimp, Steak, Fries, Wings, Fish, Chicken, and Defrost Cooking Presets. Ensure exact cooking results with adjustable temp control (up to 390°F) and timer settings (up to 60 minutes).
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE & PRECISE CONTROL – Experience powerful performance with the 1200W heating element for fast heating and cooking, cook large portions with the 5.8 QT food capacity with our instant air fryer mini, and achieve perfectly cooked meals
- EASY CLEANING & SAFETY FEATURES – Experience easy cleaning with the air fryer's non-stick & dishwasher-safe tray, ensuring safety w/ automatic shut-off & overheat protection, enjoy safe handling & convenient serving w/ the handle & removable basket
- EFFICIENT COOKING TECHNOLOGY – Cook your meals quickly and evenly with the 360° hot air circulation technology, and monitor your cooking progress through the LED touch screen and transparent window, the perfect addition to your kitchen appliances
- COMPACT DESIGN & EASY STORAGE – The sleek and compact design of our small air fryer allows you to save countertop space, ideal for small kitchens with limited space. This stainless steel air fryer ensures long-lasting performance
Maximum Crispiness
COSORI Air Fryer Pro 9-in-1, Compact 5QT, 450℉: Half Time & Chef-Grade Cook, One-Wipe Clean Glass Panel, 130+ In-App Recipes with Nutritional Info, Nonstick & Dishwasher-Safe Basket, Ceramic, Gray
COSORI
- 𝙀𝙣𝙟𝙤𝙮 𝙈𝙖𝙭𝙞𝙢𝙪𝙢 𝘾𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙅𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨: Create golden, crispy chicken and perfectly seared steak with up to 450℉ and advanced JuiceLock technology, delivering tender, juicy results for meat lovers.
- 𝙑𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙈𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝘾𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙇𝙤𝙬-𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙗 𝘿𝙞𝙚𝙩𝙨: Featuring 9 cooking functions, including steak, chicken, seafood, bacon, and more, effortlessly prepare nutritious meals tailored to your dietary needs.
- 𝙋𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙁𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙈𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙨: With a high-temperature setting of up to 450℉, rapidly heat the surface of your food for faster cooking times, ensuring meals are ready for the whole family in a flash.
- 𝟭𝟯𝟬plus 𝙒𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙚𝙨 and 𝟭𝟵 𝙉𝙪𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙁𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙨: Includes a 30-recipe cookbook and 100plus app recipes. The VeSync app offers detailed nutritional info like protein, calories, fat, and fiber to easily manage your diet.
- 𝟱-𝙌𝙩 𝙇𝙖𝙧𝙜𝙚 𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙁𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙈𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙨: Easily prepare 2-3 servings at once with the spacious square basket, perfect for feeding the whole family in one go.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What size air fryer is best for a college student?
A compact air fryer between 2-5 quarts is generally ideal for a college student, offering enough capacity for single servings without taking up too much space.
Are digital or manual air fryers better for college students?
Digital air fryers often offer more precise temperature and timer controls, but manual air fryers are typically more affordable and simpler to use, which can be a good option for students.
What features should I look for in an air fryer for a dorm room?
Consider features like a compact design, easy-to-clean components (dishwasher safe), and safety features like automatic shut-off.
Is an air fryer with multiple functions necessary for college?
While multi-functional air fryers can be versatile, a basic model that air fries well is often sufficient for simple college cooking needs.
How important is wattage for a college air fryer?
Check your dorm's guidelines on appliance wattage limits. Most smaller air fryers will be suitable, but it's always best to confirm.
What is the best way to clean an air fryer in a dorm?
Regularly clean the basket and any removable parts with soap and water. Non-abrasive sponges are recommended. Wipe down the exterior as needed.
Are air fryers energy-efficient appliances for college students?
Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than conventional ovens, making them a good option for cooking quickly and saving energy in a dorm setting.
