I wasn’t planning to buy an air fryer and certainly not the Bella 4QT. But while browsing online, I saw it priced under $60 and figured it was worth trying. My kitchen is already crowded with gadgets I rarely touch, so I didn’t expect much. But within a few days, this compact little appliance proved it had a permanent spot on my counter. It’s not just about frying food without oil; it’s the way it handles weeknight dinners without the hassle that really impressed me.
A Smarter Way to Cook in the Summer
I initially purchased the Bella because I did not want to heat up my entire kitchen by using the oven during summer. That alone would have been reason enough to keep it, but I noticed an unexpected bonus. My electric bill actually went down. One user mentioned the same thing and was pleasantly surprised by how much more energy-efficient this air fryer was.
The Bella heats up quickly, cooks fast, and does not need to be preheated. I have prepared full meals like chicken breasts, vegetables, and even frozen snacks, all without the wait or the heat of a traditional oven. A few others pointed out that food finishes faster than it did in their older or larger models. That lined up perfectly with my experience.
Perfect for Small Kitchens
My kitchen is not very big, so counter space is important. I ended up replacing my toaster with this air fryer, and I have not missed it for a second. The Bella’s slim, long basket design makes it surprisingly spacious without taking up much room. Another reviewer mentioned it was the only air fryer they could find that fit into a narrow spot on their counter. I appreciated the same thing. It looks neat and tidy, not bulky or awkward.
The design was another selling point for me. I picked the “Oatmilk” color, which blends nicely with the rest of my kitchen. Several others also complimented the look, saying it was stylish, clean, and sleek compared to other models. It feels like something made to be on display, not hidden in a cupboard.
Looking for more top-rated options? See our curated list of the Best Air Fryers for Every Budget and Kitchen Size.
Simple Controls and Easy to Clean
Learning how to use this air fryer was straightforward. The digital display is intuitive. At first, changing the time and temperature felt a bit tricky, but after a couple of uses, I had it figured out. Someone else mentioned accidentally turning it off instead of starting it, which I also did once. After that, it became second nature.
Cleaning it is easy too. I use parchment liners most of the time, and when I do not, the ceramic-coated basket still wipes clean without any effort. One reviewer who had cooked mozzarella sticks noted how easy it was to clean up even after melted cheese. That was reassuring. The ceramic coating is a huge plus. It does not flake like Teflon and still looks like new even after weeks of regular use.
Safe Materials and Peace of Mind
I do not have pets, but I was surprised to learn that some air fryers use materials that can be harmful to birds. One customer mentioned that they needed a non-toxic, PFOA- and PTFE-free appliance for their home because they have pet birds. The Bella uses a ceramic coating that is free from those harmful substances, which makes it a safer option for households with animals and small children. That gave me peace of mind as well.
What I Use It For
So far, I have used it for French fries, chicken, toast, reheating pizza, and even cookies. It has completely replaced my toaster, and I hardly ever use the microwave anymore. One user mentioned that they mostly used it for reheating and baking, and I think that is a great starting point for anyone unsure about how they will use one.
Some customers have gone as far as buying a second unit to cook side dishes at the same time. After seeing how useful it is, I understand the temptation. I am planning to try out new recipes soon, like chicken tikka and roasted vegetables, and maybe even do some baking.
Quiet and Reliable
One of the features I did not expect to appreciate so much was how quiet it is. My old air fryer sounded like a small vacuum cleaner. The Bella runs so quietly that one reviewer said her husband did not realize it was on. I have had the same experience. You can cook breakfast without waking anyone up.
Need help choosing the right air fryer? Check out our Air Fryer Buying Guide to understand what features really matter for your cooking style.
Final Thoughts
After using the Bella 4QT Air Fryer every day for weeks, I can confidently say that it has been worth every penny. It is compact, easy to clean, quick to cook, and looks great on the counter. It is ideal for one or two people and works well for anything from snacks to full meals.
Most reviewers, myself included, had only minor concerns. Some had issues with delivery delays, and a couple mentioned a small learning curve with the controls. But the positives far outweigh any downsides. If you are still wondering whether an air fryer is worth it, or if you are looking for something small, non-toxic, and dependable, the Bella is a solid choice. I am glad I finally gave it a chance.
