COSORI air fryer review Small 2.1 QT model delivers crispy meals with less oil

Description

Highlights of the COSORI Mini Air Fryer Experience

Testing the COSORI Air Fryer 2.1 QT, Small & Mini 4-in-1 brought a surprising blend of convenience and versatility to my kitchen routine. Its compact design is perfect for small spaces like dorms or tiny apartments, where countertop real estate is precious. The four one-touch cooking functions — Air Fry, Reheat, Roast, and Bake — cover just about every quick meal or snack I throw its way. The 900-watt power heats the basket fast, meaning less waiting and more eating. I found the basket size ideal for cooking single to double portions, which fits my lifestyle since I’m usually just cooking for one or two people.

The nonstick coating on the basket makes cleanup a breeze — I just pop the basket in the dishwasher after use. I also appreciate that it uses up to 97% less oil, which means guilt-free crispy results without the mess or smell of deep frying. The automatic shut-off feature gives peace of mind, so I don’t have to hover over it constantly. Plus, the programmable timer and temperature control (170°F to 400°F) let me customize cooking easily, whether I’m crisping leftover fries or roasting veggies.

Good Aspects That Stood Out

• Ultra-compact size fits comfortably on any kitchen counter or even inside an RV
• Four distinct cooking modes cover a wide variety of meals and snacks effortlessly
• Dishwasher-safe basket with nonstick coating simplifies cleaning
• 30 in-app recipes available through the VeSync app provide great cooking inspiration
• Uses significantly less oil for healthier meals without sacrificing crispiness

Drawbacks Worth Considering

• The basket’s 2.1-quart capacity is perfect for small portions but might feel limiting for larger families or meal prepping in bulk
• Only four preset functions might not satisfy users looking for more specialized cooking options
• The plastic outer casing feels somewhat lightweight and less durable compared to some competitors
• The need to leave 5 inches of clearance behind and above the unit can be tricky in very cramped kitchens
• Some users might find the touch controls less intuitive compared to manual dials or more advanced digital interfaces

Versatility in Cooking Functions and Controls

The 4-in-1 cooking functions let me air fry, roast, bake, or reheat with ease, and each mode is accessible through a simple touch interface. The temperature range from 170°F to 400°F and a timer up to 60 minutes provide enough flexibility for a variety of dishes. I tested reheating pizza and fries, and the “Reheat” mode brought leftovers back to crispy perfection without drying them out. The Air Fry function works great for chicken wings and small batches of fries, delivering the texture I expect from a deep fryer but with much less oil.

Programming the timer and adjusting temperature manually isn’t rocket science here, but the touch buttons can be a bit sensitive, requiring a light touch. The automatic shut-off is a reassuring feature that prevents overcooking or burning, especially useful if you get distracted.

Design and Portability: A Perfect Fit for Small Spaces

The COSORI mini air fryer is ultra-lightweight, weighing just 4.87 pounds, making it easy to move around or store away when not in use. Its dimensions (about 10 x 8 x 10.5 inches) take up minimal counter space, which is a godsend in my cramped kitchen. The compact footprint fits nicely even in small dorm rooms or RVs, where I’ve also tested it during a weekend getaway.

The basket’s size is ideal for single meals or snacks but feels a bit tight for bigger family portions. The grey plastic outer shell looks modern but could benefit from a more premium feel. Despite this, the lightweight construction means it heats up quickly and cools down fast, helping save energy and time.

Value Proposition: Is This Mini Air Fryer Worth It?

Considering its 900-watt power, compact size, and multi-functionality, this air fryer offers solid value for those who want a fuss-free appliance that fits small kitchens. It competes well on cost-effectiveness, especially for people who don’t need large batch cooking but want crispy, healthier meals. The inclusion of 30 app recipes adds a nice bonus for anyone new to air frying or looking to expand their menu.

The price point feels fair compared to larger models with more bells and whistles, but users must accept the trade-offs in capacity and controls. For small households, dorm dwellers, or RV travelers, this small air fryer provides excellent bang for the buck without the bulk or complexity of bigger units.

Competing Products and How This Stands Out

Compared to popular mini air fryers like the Dash Compact and the Ninja AF101, the COSORI model shines in its ease of use with four straightforward cooking functions and the added bonus of app integration with recipes and nutrition info. The Dash model is similarly compact but lacks the VeSync app support and has a slightly smaller basket. The Ninja AF101 offers more cooking presets and a larger capacity but at the cost of a bigger footprint and higher price.

Where this small air fryer struggles is in its slightly less durable plastic build and limited preset options. However, its energy efficiency and lightweight design make it more portable and convenient for quick snacks or reheating. The automatic shut-off feature is common among competitors but feels particularly reliable here. For users prioritizing simplicity, portability, and quick crispy results without deep frying, this unit holds its own nicely.

Practical Use and Family Feedback

My partner and I often use this mini air fryer to quickly reheat leftovers or make snacks after busy days. Even my kids like how fast it crisps up frozen fries or chicken nuggets without a greasy mess. The nonstick basket cleans quickly, and the dishwasher-safe feature is a lifesaver when we’re too tired to scrub. However, for family dinners, the small capacity means I still need to cook in batches or use the conventional oven.

My coworker borrowed it for her RV trip and appreciated the compact size and quiet operation, mentioning it was perfect for limited kitchen space on the road. On the downside, she noted the touch controls took some getting used to, especially while driving.

Cleaning and Maintenance Ease

Cleanup ranks high on my list of priorities, and this air fryer meets expectations well. The basket and crisper plate are dishwasher safe, and the nonstick coating prevents food from sticking stubbornly. I tried using air fryer liners compatible with this size, which helped keep the basket even cleaner and saved time. Just be cautious to fold them properly to avoid contact with the heating element, preventing any burning.

The exterior wipes down easily with a damp cloth, although the plastic surface can attract fingerprints. Overall, maintenance is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for anyone new to air frying or those who dislike complicated cleaning processes.

Additional information