Kmart fans divided by $39 'game-changing' kitchen item: 'Actually surprised'

The new kitchen gadget at Kmart has sparked debate over whether size matters in the kitchen.

Islah Palmer in a still from TikTok (left), Kmart store front (centre, inset), a kitchen (right).
Unlike Islah Palmer, not everyone is a fan of the latest mini appliance from Kmart. Photo: TikTok/Getty

Kmart's latest kitchen release is causing quite a stir, with home cooks divided over whether the $39 mini air fryer is a brilliant buy or a bit of a letdown. While some shoppers are raving about its compact size—perfect for single servings and smaller meals—others are left wondering if it’s practical for everyday use.

The mini air fryer, designed to deliver the same crispy results as its larger counterparts, has ignited a lively debate online. Fans love its convenience for quick snacks, particularly in smaller kitchens or even caravans.

NSW Kmart shopper Elle Jamison, who purchased the air fryer on impulse, tells Yahoo Lifestyle she was very impressed with the device: "I love that I can make a snack without heating the whole oven — total game-changer for solo diners!"

TikToker Islah Palmer said the new appliance is "so cute". "They're actually very pretty and have a lot of settings!"

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Aussie mum Jodi Ferris told Yahoo Lifestyle she bought the mini air fryer due to the limited space in her family's caravan.

“I found it really cooks well, I was actually surprised how well it cooked! We use it for small burger patties, chicken schnitzels, snacks and nuggets for my little one," the NSW shopper said.

“I also have the blue mini jug from the Kmart mini range, which we also have in the caravan for coffees, hot choc, boiling water etc. It's been great too!”

Jodi Ferris (left) the mini air fryer (right).
NSW Kmart shopper Jodi Ferris said she was surprised by how well the mini air fryer works. Photos: Supplied

Another happy customer added online: "Best Kmart purchase I’ve made in a while! It works so well and is super quiet."

Others echoed these sentiments, praising the air fryer’s practicality for those who live alone or cook in smaller quantities.

“I’m a single girl, and it’s the perfect size for me,” gushed one user. “The bigger ones are so heavy; this is ideal.”

Several shoppers also suggested the appliance would be perfect for elderly people or those with mobility issues, thanks to its lightweight and easy-to-handle design.

However, the mini air fryer hasn’t won over everyone. Critics took to social media to voice their frustrations, with some saying the small size limits its usefulness.

“Aren’t they so cute! It could fit a whole chicken nugget,” one user joked. Others questioned its practicality for everyday cooking.

The mini air fryer in it's box (left) and a Kmart store front (right).
The mini air fryer has been a big hit with some shoppers. Photo: Facebook/Getty

“It’s too small to be practical,” one commenter complained, while another remarked, “A lot of these small appliances look like children's toys.”

There have also been some concerns raised about how well the small air fryer cooks.

“Your food needs room to cook properly,” one user explained.

“You don’t have to fill up an air fryer, but you need good circulation. I've had five air fryers, and the smaller ones just don’t cook as evenly. I sold my smaller ones because they didn’t perform as well.”

Kmart's mini air fryer (left) and mini ricer cooker (right.\, top) and mini noodle maker (right, bottom)
Kmart's mini appliance range has some shoppers comparing the compact gadgets to kids' toys. Photo: Kmart

Kmart’s new mini air fryer is just the latest addition to its growing line-up of compact kitchen gadgets, a trend that's been gaining popularity among space-conscious shoppers.

Alongside the air fryer, Kmart has released a range of mini appliances, including mini rice cookers, waffle makers, and even a single-slice toaster, all designed to cater to smaller households or those with limited kitchen space.

These smaller versions of everyday kitchen tools are perfect for people who don’t need large appliances but still want convenience, and range in price from just $6.

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While mini appliances might not be for everyone, particularly larger families, they cater perfectly to specific needs — making them a staple in Kmart’s ever-growing range of budget-friendly, space-saving kitchen tools.

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