Best Small Food Processors

When shopping for the best small food processor, it's crucial to consider a few key features to ensure that it meets your needs.

We have invested our time to analyze and test various small food processors to find those that offer the best combination of performance, size, and user convenience. Whether you want to whip up a quick salsa, grind breadcrumbs, or prepare homemade pesto, having the right small food processor can revolutionize meal prep in your kitchen.

Best Small Food Processors for Cutting, Slicing and Shredding

In our search for the most efficient and best small food processors that make food prep a breeze. These compact powerhouses are perfect for anyone with a cozy kitchen or for those who prefer a minimalist approach to their culinary toolkit.

Our selected lineup offers a mix of versatility, durability, and performance, ensuring that there is an option suitable for all of our chopping, grinding, and pureeing needs.

1. KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Chopper

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We think you'll love this food chopper for its simplicity and efficiency, making it a great addition to any kitchen.

Pros

• It's a space-saver with its petite stature and cord wrap feature.
• The two-speed setting allows for versatile texture control.
• Incorporates a drizzle basin, ideal for emulsifying sauces or dressings.

Cons

• The 3.5-cup capacity may be limiting for larger tasks.
• It lacks a shredding option, which some may find necessary.
• Not suitable for precision cutting.

Upon using this KitchenAid chopper, the first thing we noticed was its compact design. It fits so well on the counter without taking up much space, and storing it couldn't be easier - the neat cord wrap is a nice touch. When it came to preparation, tossing in chunks of vegetables was a breeze; with a simple pulse, we had evenly chopped results ready for any dish.

The drizzle basin feature is particularly impressive. Making a vinaigrette directly in the processor without making a mess added a level of convenience we didn't know we needed. There's no fussing with extra containers, which is a time-saver that we appreciate during meal prep.

What stood out during a week of regular use was just how much we reached for this little device. Whether it was mincing herbs or pureeing cooked fruits for a quick sauce, the chopper handled it all without a hitch. It's tough to return to manual chopping after experiencing the ease this machine brings to the kitchen. And the clean-up? A cinch - just pop the parts in the dishwasher, and you're all set for next time.

2. Hamilton Beach Mini Processor

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For anyone in need of a space-saving, efficient kitchen helper, this mini processor is a smart investment.

Pros

• Simplifies prep with easy stack-and-press operation
• Ideal size for quick tasks and easy storage
• Dishwasher-safe parts for hassle-free cleanup

Cons

• Can overprocess food if not careful
• One-speed setting limits control
• May struggle with larger food pieces

After trying out the Hamilton Beach Mini Processor in my kitchen, I've found it's a real gem for small-batch jobs like chopping nuts or making salsa. The 'stack and press' feature is a highlight—it couldn't be easier to operate, making the process swift and painless.

When whipping up dressings or chopping veggies, I've not missed the bulk of a larger food processor. Its compact size is spot on; it fits neatly into my cabinet and doesn't hog precious counter space.

Cleanup is just as easy as the chopping. I pop the bowl, lid, and blade right into the dishwasher. It's been a breeze to keep this mini processor clean and ready for the next use. However, users should be cautious, as it's quick to turn chopping into pureeing if you're not paying attention, and the single speed can be limiting.

3. Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus

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We believe the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus is a solid choice for those in need of a compact but effective food processor for small-scale tasks.

Pros

• Efficiently chops and grinds, saving us considerable prep time.
• Cleanup is a breeze with dishwasher-safe parts.
• Its size makes it perfect for small kitchens or occasional use.

Cons

• Not suitable for processing large quantities.
• Grinding beans or similar hard food items is not recommended.
• The motor may struggle with heavy-duty tasks.

The Mini-Prep Plus has earned a spot on our countertop for everyday tasks like chopping herbs and grinding hard cheese. The Auto Reversing Smart Blade feature has made food prep significantly easier, as it adapts to the texture of the food for optimal results. Its sleek design fits well in our kitchen and doesn't take up much space, which we certainly appreciate.

We've also found the push-button control panel to be intuitive and straightforward, offering us enough control without any complex settings to figure out. The lightweight design means we can easily move it around or tuck it away as needed without any hassle.

Durability is always a concern with kitchen appliances, but so far, we haven't run into any issues. We take care not to overload the machine, especially after noticing it's not built for grinding beans or heavy-duty chopping. Nonetheless, for its intended use, we've been quite satisfied with its performance. Whether we're prepping ingredients for a quick salsa or making breadcrumb toppings, it handles our small jobs with ease.

4. Hamilton Beach Bowl Scraper

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We think you'll appreciate the convenience that the Hamilton Beach Bowl Scraper Food Processor offers, as it makes preparing meals quicker and less fussy.

Pros

• Built-in scraper saves time
• Large capacity for batch prep
• Streamlines tasks with multiple functions

Cons

• Can emit a burning smell with heavy use
• Not the quietest model on the market
• Pulse function controlled by dial, not buttons

There's something satisfying about watching the processor work its magic as the built-in scraper keeps everything moving without extra intervention. I recently used it for a salsa recipe, and it was a delight not to have to pause and scrape down the sides manually—a true time-saver.

Handling large jobs is a breeze with this food processor. It effortlessly powered through an entire block of cheese, transforming it into perfectly shredded bits ready for my lasagna. It's been a game-changer for meal prep Sundays, with the generous 10-cup bowl accommodating all my chopping and slicing needs.

Versatility is the name of the game with this Hamilton Beach model. Whether I'm craving a silky-smooth hummus or need to quickly slice up veggies for a stir-fry, this power-packed appliance is my go-to. Though I must admit, it can get pretty loud, and I've noticed it can run a bit warm with prolonged use. Nonetheless, the ease of cleaning and robust features make it a valuable addition to my kitchen lineup.

5. Hamilton Beach Food Processor

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If you're seeking a kitchen companion to streamline your meal prep, this gadget's a smart pick due to its ease of assembly and versatility.

Pros

• Effortless to set up with stack and snap assembly
• Intuitive function guide simplifies the process
• Sealed bowl with pour spout for mess-free liquid recipes

Cons

• Some difficulty when cleaning hidden crevices
• Lid may require extra finessing after dishwasher use
• Initial burning smell which, although common, can be alarming

Assembling the Hamilton Beach Food Processor was a breeze, as pieces just stacked into place without fiddling with twists or locks. Whipping up a batch of salsa for impromptu get-togethers felt like a task that took seconds instead of minutes. The labeled blades removed any guesswork, so we were confident we had the setup just right.

The sealed bowl feature earned our appreciation quickly when we tackled a creamy soup recipe; there were no worries about leaks or spills. Adding ingredients without chopping them first was possible thanks to the Big Mouth Feed Tube, shaving extra minutes off our prep time.

However, post-cleanup gave us a minor hiccup. After running the lid through the dishwasher, reattaching it took a bit more effort than we would have liked, hinting that the heat might have changed its shape slightly. Also, there are small nooks within the device where food particles can hide, making deep cleaning a necessity.

6. Bear Mini Chopper

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We believe this compact yet robust Bear food processor deserves a spot in your kitchen for its simplicity and multitasking prowess.

Pros

• Handles tough chopping tasks with ease
• Safe operation with effective safety locks
• Simple cleanup with dishwasher-safe components

Cons

• Might be noisy during operation
• Requires breaks to prevent overheating
• Not suitable for processing large food quantities in one go

After trying this Bear food processor, its convenience stood out immediately. The dual bowls impressed us with their ability to take on different tasks simultaneously. We tackled a batch of coleslaw in the larger bowl while grinding nuts in the smaller one without flavors mingling.

The 400W motor made quick work of various ingredients. We found that the two-speed setting came in handy, with the lower speed perfect for delicate herbs and the higher for heartier vegetables. Transitioning between the two was almost effortless.

The device's safety features gave us peace of mind. We appreciate the hidden buckle safety lock which ensured that it only operated when everything was properly assembled. The anti-slip mat added stability, which is crucial when we're in full-swing meal prep mode.

Cleaning up was a breeze. Both glass bowls are dishwasher-safe, which meant we spent less time scrubbing and more time savoring the dishes we prepared. Despite its powerful performance, the food processor's noise level was noticeable but a small trade-off for the efficient food prep we experienced.

However, we did have to pause occasionally to let the unit cool down. It's also important to note that this mini chopper isn't made for processing large quantities of food in a single batch. But for small to medium tasks, it's more than capable.

7. Black & Decker Food Processor

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We think this compact powerhouse is a great match for any kitchen enthusiast looking to streamline their meal prep.

Pros

• Simple to assemble and use
• Generous 8-cup capacity for bulk processing
• Versatile with both chopping and slicing features

Cons

• Can be noisy during operation
• Slicing disc must be inserted even if not in use
• Smaller than some expect, despite 8-cup volume

The Black & Decker 8-Cup Food Processor is a reliable tool that's made recent meal prep a breeze. Initially, the simplicity of assembling it impressed me; the parts click together without hassle, and I had it up and running in no time. The sizable work bowl handles larger tasks with ease, from chopping vegetables for a stew to whipping up large batches of pesto.

I put the S-blade to good use for making hummus, and it delivered a smooth and creamy spread that rivaled my favorite deli's. The reversible slicing/shredding disc was just as effective, turning blocks of cheese into perfectly shredded mounds for taco night without tiring my hands.

While this machine is a champ at tackling various foods, it does get quite loud, which can be startling. It's also necessary to have the slicing disc inside for it to function, which seems a tad redundant when not in use. Last but not least, some users might find the 8-cup size smaller than anticipated, so it's worth considering how much food you plan to process at once.

8. KOIOS 500W Food Processor

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We'd recommend this for anyone needing a compact and efficient helper in the kitchen that makes quick work of prep tasks.

Pros

• Effortlessly handles a variety of ingredients with speed and precision
• Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
• Dual speed modes for tailored food processing

Cons

• Must be careful with the top in the dishwasher to avoid warping
• Might be too lightweight for some users' preferences
• Safety features require a careful setup to work properly

Chopping nuts and herbs felt like a breeze with this little powerhouse. The 500W motor meant that what usually takes minutes with a knife was done in seconds. Switching between the two-speed settings gave us the control we needed, whether we were pulsating soft fruits or powering through harder veggies. It was gratifying to get such consistent results every time.

Cleanup was another area where the KOIOS stood out. After one too many times of stubbornly hand-washing tedious kitchen appliances, we were thrilled to toss the bowls and blades of this one into the dishwasher. Yes, we heed the advice to keep the lid out after hearing tales of warping, but that was a small adjustment to make for the convenience.

One point where the KOIOS really shines is in its design for multitasking. The stackable storage of the 8-cup bowls helped manage our limited counter space effectively. We made salsa in one, then moved on to chopping meat for tacos without skipping a beat. No flavor mingling and no extra dirty dishes. Just a quick rinse in between, and we were onto the next task.

The food processor felt secure on the counter, too. The rubber ring at the base prevented any nerve-wracking slips or slides. To wrap it up, if you're looking for an easy-to-use, efficient food processor that won't take over your kitchen space, we'd say the KOIOS is a solid bet. It might even earn its permanent spot on your countertop, ready for whatever recipe you throw its way.

9. La Reveuse Small Food Processor

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We've found the La Reveuse Food Processor to be a nifty little helper for quick and efficient meal prep.

Pros

• Simplifies food preparation with versatile chopping and mixing
• Fluid two-speed operation providing control and precision
• Thoughtfully designed to save space in the kitchen

Cons

• Requires hand washing; not dishwasher safe
• Limited capacity for commercial or heavy-duty use
• Operational stability could be a concern for some users

After giving the La Reveuse Food Processor a whirl, we're impressed by how much easier it made our chopping tasks. With its double-layer, four stainless steel blades, we whipped up salsas and purees with little effort. The included whisking disk was a delightful bonus that made prepping for baking much more manageable.

What stands out most is the convenience of this compact food processor. It's well-suited for smaller kitchens, avoiding the clutter that often comes with bulkier appliances. We tucked it away in our cabinet with room to spare.

However, it's not without its limitations. We noticed it has a smaller capacity, which wouldn't be ideal for larger families or batch cooking. Plus, while the anti-slip mat adds some stability, we've had to make sure to hold it down firmly during rigorous chopping sessions. As a space-saving and user-friendly appliance, it seems perfect for everyday use, especially when you need to quickly mince or blend without the hassle of larger, more complex food processors.

10. KitchenAid 7-Cup Contour Silver

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We think you'll love this processor for its ease of use and sleek design, a practical staple for any kitchen.

Pros

• Effortless to assemble with one-click setup
• Straightforward to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
• Compact and neatly stores away

Cons

• May struggle with heavy-duty tasks
• Lid locking can be finicky at times
• Louder operation than expected

Having recently got our hands on the KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor, we were impressed by its user-friendliness. With just a simple twist, the bowl clicks into place, and the illuminated LED controls guide you through the options effortlessly. Whether chopping nuts for a homemade granola or pureeing vegetables for a smooth soup, this machine handles it with precision.

Cleanup was a breeze, too; with dishwasher-safe components, we didn't have to dread the post-prep clean-up. The sealed bowl prevents any leakage, so there were no spills to wipe underneath. For urban dwellers with limited space, the storage-friendly design is a saving grace. Tucking away neatly into our cupboard, it didn't hog space on our countertop.

While using it, we noticed that despite being robust on most occasions, it did emit a fair amount of noise, more than we anticipated. At times, getting the lid to lock in required a bit of a jiggle. And for those who are into making nut butters or doughs, this might not be the powerhouse you need. But for everyday slicing, dicing, and pureeing, it gets the job done efficiently.

All in all, this KitchenAid model is a solid performer for regular kitchen tasks, matching up form with function. It's priced reasonably, which, when combined with its performance and sleek looks, makes it a worthy contender for those who value efficiency and aesthetics in their kitchen tools.

Buying Guide

Capacity

When selecting a small food processor, consider how much you'll typically need to process at once. Look for:

• 3 to 4 cups for individual or small family use.
• 5 to 6 cups for larger recipes or batch processing.

Power

The motor's strength determines how well the processor handles tough ingredients.

• Aim for at least 250 watts for efficient processing.

Features

Consider the features that will enhance usability and versatility.

• Seek out multiple speed settings for different tasks.
• Check for pulse mode, which offers more control over chopping and grinding.

Blades and Attachments

Various attachments can increase the functionality of your food processor.

• Ensure it comes with a multi-purpose chopping blade.
• Look for shredders or slicers for versatility.

Ease of Cleaning

Simplicity in cleaning will save time and hassle.

• Prefer models with dishwasher-safe parts.
• Avoid processors with hard-to-reach crevices.

Durability and Warranty

A good quality food processor should last despite frequent use.

• Opt for sturdy build quality to withstand regular use.
• Value brands offering longer warranties for peace of mind.

Design and Size

An ideal small food processor should fit comfortably on your countertop.

• Measure available space before purchasing.
• Select a design that matches your kitchen's aesthetics.

Budget

Small food processors come in a range of prices.

• Balance cost with the features and quality you need.
• Remember that investing a little more can often mean better performance and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we address some of the most common inquiries regarding small food processors, to help you make an informed decision for your kitchen.

What features should I look for in a high-quality small food processor?

We recommend focusing on a powerful motor, durable blades, easy assembly, and variable speed controls. A high-quality food processor should also offer a pulse function for precise processing.

Which small food processors have the best reviews from kitchen experts?

The Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus and KitchenAid 3.5-Cup Food Chopper often receive high praise for their reliability and performance. Experts appreciate their compact size, efficiency, and ease of use.

How do I choose the right size food processor for my household's needs?

Consider the number of people in your household and the types of dishes you commonly prepare. For singles or couples, a 3-cup processor might suffice, while small families may prefer a 4- to 5-cup capacity.

What are the differences between a mini chopper and a mini food processor?

Mini choppers usually have a simpler design with fewer functions, mainly suitable for chopping and pureeing. Mini food processors come with various attachments, offering a broader range of tasks like grinding and making dough.

Can you recommend any compact food processors that also come with a grating feature?

The Ninja Express Chop is a good option, as it includes interchangeable blades for grating, in addition to chopping and pureeing. Its compact design does not compromise on functionality or power.

Are there any small food processors that are particularly easy to clean and maintain?

The Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap Food Processor is known for its easy cleanup, with dishwasher-safe parts and a stackable design that minimizes the hassle of assembly and storage.