Best Inexpensive Small Kitchen Appliances That Save You Money
Eating out is more expensive than ever, with Americans now spending a record 55.7% of their food budget on restaurants and takeout. That’s a lot of money going straight to someone else’s kitchen! But here’s the good news: with the right small kitchen appliances, cooking at home can be just as convenient—and way more affordable. Let’s talk about the best small kitchen appliances that can help you make delicious meals without draining your wallet.
Let’s be real: eating out isn’t just a once-in-a-while splurge anymore—it’s become the default for many of us. And the numbers prove it. In 2023, Americans spent a record-breaking 55.7% of their food budget on dining out, while grocery spending hit an all-time low. That’s $1.5 trillion—yes, trillion—heading straight to restaurants, takeout joints, and delivery apps. But here’s the kicker: the average home-cooked meal costs just $4 to $6 per person, compared to $15-$20 or more for a restaurant meal. That means a single dinner out could cover the cost of two or three home-cooked meals. In other words, we’re paying more than ever for food made by someone else, even when cooking at home is the better deal.
It’s no secret that convenience plays a huge role in this trend. The average American orders delivery 4.5 times a month—because after a long day, it’s easy to grab your phone and hit “order.” But here’s the thing: cooking at home can be just as easy (and way cheaper) with the right tools. Not to mention, home-cooked meals tend to be healthier and more customizable to your dietary needs. Ever tried asking a fast-food place to cut the salt, swap the oil, or use better-quality ingredients? Good luck with that.
So if rising restaurant prices are making your wallet sweat, it’s time to rethink the takeout habit. With a few key small kitchen appliances—think choppers, slow cookers, and electric pressure cookers—you can make fast, delicious meals with minimal effort. Let’s talk about the best ones to have on hand and how they can save you serious money while keeping mealtime stress-free.
Must-Have Inexpensive Small Kitchen Appliances
Jump to appliance:
- Food Processor: Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor
- Hand Mixer: KitchenAid 5 Ultra Power Speed Hand Mixer
- Stand Mixer: KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Stand Mixer
- Blender: Ninja Professional Plus DUO Blender
- Immersion Blender: Mueller Multistick 800W 4-in-1 Immersion Blender
- Chopper: Vidalia Chop Wizard
- Toaster: Cuisinart 4-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster
- Pressure Cooker: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Slow Cooker: Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker
- Toaster Oven: BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven
- Coffee Maker: Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
- Sous Vide: Monoprice Sous Vide Immersion Cooker
1. Food Processor: Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor
Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor with Bowl Scraper, Black & Stainless
Let’s face it—one of the biggest reasons we eat out is convenience. Chopping, dicing, and slicing can feel like a chore, especially after a long day. The Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor takes the hassle out of prep work with its powerful 450-watt motor, large feed chute, and built-in bowl scraper to speed things up.
Instead of spending extra on pre-chopped veggies or store-bought shredded cheese, you can do it in seconds. Toss in an onion, and boom—no more tears. Need to shred a whole block of cheese for homemade pizza? Done. Prepping big batches of salsa, soup, or coleslaw? This food processor handles it all. Plus, the dishwasher-safe bowl, lid, and blades make cleanup a breeze.
2. Hand Mixer: KitchenAid 5 Ultra Power Speed Hand Mixer
KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer
When selecting an electric mixer, consider carefully your specific need. If you often use a mixer for small jobs, my pick for Best Inexpensive is the KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer. It is perfect for small-batch baking, whipping up cream, or mixing cookie dough without the hassle. If you require a more robust kitchen appliance for mixing, read on.
With five speeds, a soft-start feature to prevent splatters, and an easy-to-grip handle, this mixer makes kitchen prep effortless. The lockable swivel cord lets you work from any angle, and when you’re done, cleanup is a breeze with dishwasher-safe beaters and a simple eject button.
3. Stand Mixer: KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Stand Mixer
KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer
If you bake often, this is the stand mixer to own. The KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer tackles everything from bread dough to big batches of cookies, and it even shreds meat with ease.
With 10 speeds for everything from slow stirring to whipping, a tilt-head design for easy access, and a durable, all-metal build, this mixer is built to last. The 5-quart stainless steel bowl handles up to nine dozen cookies in one go, and with over 20 colors to choose from, it’s as stylish as it is functional. This is the last stand mixer you’ll ever buy.
4. Blender: Ninja Professional Plus DUO Blender
Ninja Professional Plus DUO Blender
You could splurge on a $400 power blender—or save a bundle and get the Ninja Professional Plus DUO. With 1400 watts of power and Total Crushing Blades, it turns ice into snow, blends smoothies to perfection, and rivals its pricey competitors.
This blender does the thinking for you with Auto-iQ Technology, featuring preset programs that handle pulsing, blending, and pausing automatically. The 72-ounce pitcher is perfect for big batches, and the two 24-ounce to-go cups let you blend and dash. Plus, everything is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. It’s a beauty!
5. Immersion Blender: Mueller Multistick 800W 4-in-1 Immersion Blender
Mueller Multistick 800W 4-in-1 Immersion Blender
For quick blending without the bulk of a traditional blender, the Mueller Multistick 800W is a powerhouse. With 12 speeds and a turbo boost, it powers through soups, smoothies, and sauces. The Titanium steel blades and full copper motor make quick work of everything from baby food to salsas.
This 4-in-1 set includes a whisk attachment, chopper, and beaker, giving it versatility. Cleanup? A breeze—just pop the detachable parts into the dishwasher. For power, convenience, and value, this immersion blender is hard to beat.
6. Chopper: Vidalia Chop Wizard
Vidalia Chop Wizard
The Vidalia Chop Wizard is still my pick for the best inexpensive chopper. Today it is the same price I paid for mine more than 15 years ago! It’s easy to use, simple to clean, and produces beautiful results. Just press down, and the ultra-sharp stainless steel blades do the rest.
The catch container doubles as a measuring cup, so you can chop and portion in one step. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup simple. Whether you’re making salsa, stir-fry, or a fresh fruit salad, this little tool cuts your prep time in half—without cutting your fingers.
7. Toaster: Cuisinart 4-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster
Cuisinart 4-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster
A toaster that actually toasts evenly? Yes, please! The Cuisinart 4-Slice Compact Toaster gets the job done—whether you’re crisping up classic toast, warming a bagel, or reviving frozen waffles with the defrost and reheat settings. The bagel mode is a game-changer, perfectly toasting the cut side while gently warming the other.
With seven shade settings, extra-wide slots, and dual controls, you can make breakfast exactly how you like it—without fighting over who gets their toast first. The removable crumb tray makes cleanup easy, and the compact design keeps your counter tidy. Available in a 2-slice model for smaller spaces.
8. Pressure Cooker: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Once upon a time, pressure cookers had a bit of a reputation—think rattling lids and kitchen mishaps. But the Instant Pot has changed the game. It’s a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and food warmer all in one, making meal prep faster and easier than ever.
With one-touch cooking and 13 smart programs, you can make everything from fall-apart tender ribs to homemade yogurt. Need dinner in a hurry? Pressure cooking cuts cook time by up to 70%. Want a hands-off meal? The slow cooker function has you covered. Plus, the stainless-steel inner pot ensures even cooking, and cleanup is simple with its dishwasher-safe parts. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or just trying to get dinner on the table fast, this kitchen must-have does it all!
9. Slow Cooker: Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker
Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker
If an Instant Pot feels like overkill (hard to imagine, but possible), a slow cooker is the perfect alternative. The Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker makes cooking effortless. Its 6-quart capacity is just right for everything from a whole chicken to a hearty pot roast.
What sets this slow cooker apart? Smart technology lets you cook by time or precise temperature, automatically switching to Warm when done. The temperature probe ensures meats are cooked to perfection, while the clip-tight gasket lid makes it ideal for potlucks and tailgates—no spills on the way. Plus, the dishwasher-safe crock and lid make cleanup easy. Whether you’re meal prepping or letting dinner simmer all day, this slow cooker gets the job done.
10. Toaster Oven: BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven
If you think a toaster oven is just for toast, think again. The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven does way more than crisp up your morning bread—it bakes, broils, toasts, and keeps food warm, all in a compact, countertop-friendly size.
Need to reheat leftovers without drying them out? Craving a quick, crispy 9-inch pizza? Done. The natural convection technology ensures even cooking. Plus, the removable crumb tray makes cleanup easy. Whether you’re making a midnight snack or a full meal, this toaster oven is a kitchen must-have.
11. Coffee Maker: Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
Coffee is serious business, and while my top choice remains the BUNN 13000 12-CUP, the Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is my pick for the Best Inexpensive option. It won’t make the absolute best cup of coffee in the world, but for the price, it delivers a solid, satisfying brew—and in a generous 14-cup capacity.
It’s fully programmable (because no one should have to fumble with coffee settings before caffeine), offers brew strength control for regular or bold flavor, and features a Brew Pause function so you can sneak a cup before the full pot is ready. Plus, the easy-fill water reservoir and auto shutoff make it a convenient, hassle-free choice. If you need a reliable, budget-friendly coffee maker that does the job well, this is it.
12. Sous Vide: Monoprice Sous Vide Immersion Cooker
Monoprice Sous Vide Immersion Cooker
If you’re curious about sous vide but don’t want to drop a small fortune on a high-tech model, the Monoprice Sous Vide Immersion Cooker is a solid pick. It skips the fancy app controls in favor of straightforward, no-fuss operation, making it great for beginners and seasoned home chefs alike.
The LED touchscreen makes setting your temperature and cook time easy, while the adjustable clamp attaches securely to a range of pot sizes. With 800 watts of power and precise temperature control, you’ll get restaurant-quality results—whether you’re cooking a steak to perfect medium-rare or gently poaching salmon. Plus, because the water bath does all the work, cleanup is effortless. Affordable, reliable, and easy to use—this is sous vide without the sticker shock.
Smart Ways to Save on Kitchen Appliances
Outfitting your kitchen with reliable appliances doesn’t have to drain your budget. Look for models that offer the best balance of performance and price, skipping unnecessary bells and whistles that drive up costs. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, especially around Black Friday, Labor Day, and Amazon Prime Day, when retailers slash prices on kitchen gear. Refurbished or open-box deals from reputable brands can also save you a bundle without sacrificing quality. And don’t forget to read reviews and compare features—sometimes, the “best inexpensive” option performs just as well (or better) than the high-end alternatives. A little research and timing can make all the difference when upgrading your kitchen on a budget.
Question: If you could only have one small kitchen appliance, which one would it be? (And no, you can’t pick your fridge!) Let’s hear your favorites.
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Hi Mary, I have a question. You mentioned that the Cuisinart Programable Coffee maker will not make a great cup of coffee. What makes a great cup of coffee (aside from your Bunn coffee maker) I have an old Mr. Coffee maker, must be at least 20 years old and still going strong. It is a very basic model. No programable features, no strength of coffee. Just plug it in and press start. Going by your comment on the Cuisinart Programable Coffee you would probably say my Mr. Coffee maker does not make a great cup of coffee What makes a great cup of coffee. I do no buy coffee outside of the home as we do not eat out, all our meals are homemade from scratch. So I have nothing to compare my coffee to. I am interest in your thoughts on what makes a great cup of coffee. Aside from getting a Bunn coffee maker which would not fit anywhere in my mid size kitchen. Counter space is at a premium.
Never had a stand mixer in 52 years of marriage and never have missed it. I also have no idea what that last item is – the immersion cooker – and don’t know when I’d use it and likely would not pay close to $100 for it!
I’m with you! If these are the inexpensive ones, what is considered expensive? I have prchased some Aldi small appliances and they work great and have a great guantee.
Where do I get the best spray bottles? you had them on here a couple of months ago. get 3 for $ Cant remember where and how much? Thanks.
Here’s the article: https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/some-but-not-all-spray-bottles-are-designed-to-fail/
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I bought the hamilton beach food processor for my daughter who does the cooking and she absolutely hates it. Now I have to spend money on a new one.
Send it back, Barb! What is it about that processor she doesn’t enjoy? This is the food processor I use all the time, and I love it. So, her feedback would be of interest and possibly help for others considering it.
Enjoy your newsletters and all the good info you give us. I would love some info on Air Fryers.
Thank you
What is an Air Fryer? Why You May or May Not Need One
do you have any suggestions for electric can opener and bottle/jar opener? i have arthritis in my hands and opening cans, bottles, and jars is getting more difficult and the appliances i tried didn’t work very well. thank you.
Best Inexpensive: Can Openers—UPDATE
100% the Hamilton Beach electric on her list. It doesn’t work like most can openers – it cuts BELOW the lid of the can and then you pop the lid off. Be sure to tear down the paper on the can if it reaches right up to the lid so the can opener can grab that seal. I love it and so does my daughter – and I like that her kids can also use it with no sharp edges to get an accidental cut.
Thank you for your wonderful advice on small appliances. I do have a recommendation for a stand mixer. I prefer the KitchenAid 6 quart where the bowl raises up. It actually takes less room because the tilt-up has to be pulled out from under the cupboards. With mine I just leave it where it is!!
Agree! Had a tilt head for years, upgraded to the bowl-lift. The lift has a bigger motor and is heavy duty. The attachments are expensive but a huge time-saver! It cuts my canning time down substantially. Homemade pasta is super easy. Shredded, sliced, or diced potatoes in seconds. Shred cheese. Kids love the shaved ice. Just using the paddle, chicken or pork can be shredded in seconds. My KA gets a workout and is indispensable.
You are right about the chop wizard. We have two in the house, two in the RV and two in reserve. I use onions in almost everything, and it has saved many many tears.
Everyone should be eating onions almost every day – they are the best source of Quercetin which is one of the best disease preventers there is!
I Love the Mueller immersion blender, purchased at Amazon. VERY powerful. I received the Vidalia Chop Wizard in 2008 as a gift and use it weekly! It’s so great for chopping carrots, celery and other root veggies for consistent sized veggies for soups. Love the Instant Pot, but still use a slow cooker for stews. As usual, Mary’s advice on these is on the money!
Kroger’s has stopped sharpening knives so I need to purchase a knife sharpener. Will appreciate any ideas. Really need an electric one due to arthritis in wrists. Thanks for all you do. Ruth
Plase let us know about air fryers. Now they come in two styles, the original big round or squares ones and now some airfryers are coming out that look like toaster ovens and have more functions that a regualr air fryer. Which stule is best and whcih ones are the best.
Do you have a suggestion for the best air fryer?
Thanks for your piece on inexpensive small appliances. You mentioned a coffee maker that was good for the $, but what is the BEST coffee maker in your opinion?
David, Mary mentioned it in the first line of her post about coffee makers. It’s a Bunn.
as for a small blender, my sunbeam oscar (bought in 1986) is still going strong as is my avocado green hand mixer (also sunbeam) from early 90’s. and yes, i agree mr. coffee coffee maker is also a great item. and there are many models; mine is definitely NOT new. thank you mary for all your helpful reviews of these everyday items. your daily email is awaited in great anticipation in this otherwise tough covid 19 atmosphere. stay well and safe.
What do you think about air dryers? Mary can you discuss this?
The world became a lesser place the day Oster stopped production of their Kitchen Center! I’ve used mine (& several replacement parts via eBay) everyday the past 35 years.