When it comes to creating a functional, efficient, and enjoyable kitchen, small appliances are the real MVPs. From speeding up meal prep to helping you master barista-style coffee at home, the right tools can make everyday cooking easier and far more satisfying. After extensive hands-on testing and performance comparisons, we’ve rounded up the 14 best small kitchen appliances that consistently outperform the competition — and are readily available in South Africa.
These appliances are not only stylish and compact but also reliable workhorses you’ll find yourself using every day.
1. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL takes air frying to a new level. It cooks food with little to no oil, delivers crispy results, and has a large capacity ideal for families. Its fat-removal technology sets it apart, making it a healthier option for everything from chips to roast chicken.
2. Taurus Rice Cooker With Glass Lid (600ml, 300W)
Perfect for small households or students, the Taurus Rice Chef may be compact, but it delivers fluffy, perfectly cooked rice every time. The glass lid makes it easy to monitor cooking, and its simple design means minimal fuss and easy cleanup.
3. Defy 30L Mirror Microwave
Defy is a trusted household name in South Africa, and their 30L mirror microwave combines performance and modern design. It features powerful heating, a range of pre-set functions, and a spacious interior — perfect for reheating, defrosting, or quick-cooking meals.
4. DNA Dual Airfryer Oven
This multifunctional air fryer oven is a game-changer, with two cooking drawers and preset programs that let you air fry, roast, grill, and even bake at the same time. It’s sleek, energy-efficient, and perfect for cooking meals with different elements — all at once.
5. NutriBullet Pro 900 Blender
A staple in health-conscious homes, the NutriBullet Pro 900 powers through fruits, veggies, seeds, and ice with ease. It’s ideal for smoothies, protein shakes, and nut butters — and it cleans up in seconds. Its compact size fits neatly in any kitchen.
6. Cuisinart CPT-640P1 4-Slice Toaster
This Cuisinart toaster is built for performance and consistency. With wide slots, customizable settings, and a high-lift lever, it browns everything from artisan bread to bagels evenly. The stainless-steel finish adds a touch of luxury to your countertop.
7. Delonghi Eclettica Cordless Kettle
The Eclettica brings both form and function with its sleek Italian design and rapid-boil technology. It features a 1.7L capacity, 360° swivel base, and auto shut-off safety. Perfect for your morning coffee or a quick cup of tea.
8. Breville The Barista Express Espresso Machine
A dream for coffee lovers, this semi-automatic espresso machine lets you grind, brew, and steam milk like a pro. It features a built-in conical burr grinder and powerful steam wand, allowing you to enjoy rich, café-style drinks from home.
9. Kenwood Multipro Express Food Processor
Whether you’re chopping onions, kneading dough, or slicing veggies, the Kenwood Multipro Express makes prep work a breeze. It includes multiple attachments and a generous bowl size, making it a versatile essential for home cooks of all levels.
10. KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer
This hand mixer stands out for its smooth, powerful performance and sleek design. With nine speeds and multiple attachments, it can handle everything from whipping cream to dense cookie dough — and it’s comfortable to use for extended periods.
11. Braun MultiQuick 9 Hand Blender (1200W)
The MultiQuick 9 is one of the most powerful and efficient immersion blenders we tested. It blends soups, sauces, and baby food directly in the pot with splash control and minimal effort. The added accessories make it a true all-in-one tool.
12. SnoMaster ZBC-15 Portable Automatic Ice Maker
For South African summers and weekend braais, this compact ice maker is a game-changer. It produces bullet ice in under 15 minutes and is small enough to sit on your countertop or take along on road trips and camping adventures.
13. MagicVac Maxima 2 Vacuum Sealer
Extend the shelf life of your groceries and reduce food waste with the MagicVac Maxima 2. It offers strong, reliable suction and supports both wet and dry food modes. Ideal for meal prepping, sous-vide cooking, and bulk shopping.
14. KitchenAid Artisan 4.8L Stand Mixer
The iconic KitchenAid Artisan isn’t just beautiful — it’s a powerhouse. With its sturdy build, planetary mixing action, and a wide range of available attachments (sold separately), this mixer can handle everything from bread dough to cake batter with ease.
Small appliances are the heartbeat of a modern kitchen — and investing in high-quality ones can elevate your cooking experience significantly. From the robust performance of the NutriBullet Pro to the elegance of the KitchenAid stand mixer, each of these tested appliances earned its place for reliability, convenience, and versatility.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your setup, these 14 kitchen essentials offer the performance and durability every home cook needs. Most importantly, they’re widely available in South Africa at major retailers like Takealot, Makro, Yuppiechef, Hirsch’s, and Checkers.
