For a small kitchen, choose a food processor based on the space it takes up with the bowl fitted and its accessories put away. Then check that its capacity suits the quantities you usually prepare. A cooking food processor is worth considering if you’ll use its cooking function regularly. If you only repeat one or two tasks, a separate appliance could save you from storing accessories you don’t use.
If you prepare small quantities but need to clear your worktop after use, look at how the bowl, discs and cord are stored as well as the size of the base. Some models let you store accessories inside the bowl; check what’s included with the exact model you’re considering.
A bowl that suits the quantities you usually make matters more than a long list of functions. Magimix, for example, says its CS3200XL is suitable for one to four people. Its stated dimensions of 396 × 205 × 266 mm are worth checking against the space you have available.
A cooking food processor can combine preparation and cooking if you use both functions often. However, check where you’ll put it while it’s running and whether it’s light enough to put away after every meal.
Start with the dishes you make regularly, then compare the space required, the accessories included and the capacity you’ll need day to day.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Measure the width, depth and height with the bowl fitted. Allow room to handle the lid and add ingredients, too. | I need to be able to use the food processor without leaving it in the way on the worktop, and then find somewhere to store it. |
| Accessory storage | Check which discs, blades and pushers are included, and whether this model comes with a storage box or lets you store accessories in the bowl. | My drawers are limited, so I’d rather know where each accessory will go before I buy. |
| Functions you’ll use | Compare the accessories included with the tasks you do regularly and the appliances you already own. If you’re considering a cooking food processor, check that cooking is genuinely something you’ll use it for. | If I only regularly chop or blend, a separate appliance may be enough. If I also want to cook with it, I need to allow for the space it will take up. |
| Bowl capacity | Compare the stated capacity with your usual portions and larger recipes. If you plan to knead dough, check the quantity of dough specified for the model separately. | I want to make my usual quantities without having to work in several batches or keep a large bowl for the odd occasion. |
| Cleaning and spare parts | Check the cleaning instructions for each component and the stated availability of parts for the exact model. | For frequent use, I want to be able to clean the accessories according to the manufacturer’s instructions and know how to replace a part. |
Discs, blades and pushers need space, too. UFC-Que Choisir recommends factoring in the accessories and choosing a suitable storage solution.
Measure the space needed for the food processor with its bowl, then do the same for all the accessories supplied. Check that storage in the bowl or the stated storage box applies to the exact model you’re considering.
A function may require a specific accessory. In its testing protocol, UFC-Que Choisir explains that additional accessories are only tested if they’re supplied.
Make a note of the dishes you prepare regularly, then check which accessories are included for each task instead of comparing only the functions listed.
Its cooking function sets it apart from a standard food processor, but its size needs to suit your kitchen. Magimix, for example, states that its Cook Expert Connect weighs 11,14 kg.
Ask yourself whether you’ll use the cooking function regularly. Measure the space it needs both in use and in storage before deciding whether it can replace any of your other appliances.
Commitments on spare parts and repairs vary by brand and model. They don’t, on their own, tell you whether every accessory you might need will be available.
Note down the exact model number, then check which parts are available, how long they’re expected to remain available and what the repair options are.
These examples help you compare specific sizes and storage solutions. The features listed apply to the models named.
The MultiPro Go FDP22.140GY is worth considering if storage space is very limited.
Within the MultiTalent 3 range, the MCM3531M offers another point of comparison for bowl capacity and storage space.
The Easy Force FP244110 and Double Force Compact FP544111 come with different sets of accessories, which you can compare based on the tasks you have in mind.
The CS3200XL and Cook Expert Connect cooking food processor are designed for different uses: the first is for food preparation, while the second prepares and cooks.
These two options are for anyone looking for a food processor with a cooking function. Whether they’re right for a small kitchen depends on how often you’ll use that function and how much space you have for the appliance and its accessories.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’d like to prepare and cook with the same appliance. The product name lists built-in scales, a touchscreen and 680 recipes. Check that the accessories, their storage and the space needed while the appliance is in use will suit your kitchen.
Image unavailable
Worth a look if cooking is part of your regular routine and you’re looking for an XL bowl. The product name also mentions a large touchscreen and 750 recipes. Compare the usable capacity with your usual portions, and check how much room you’ll need for the food processor and its accessories.
Measure the space available with the bowl and lid fitted, as well as the space you’ll need for the accessories. For model-specific reference points, Bosch gives the MCM3531M’s dimensions as 375 × 220 × 260 mm, while Magimix lists 396 × 205 × 266 mm for the white CS3200XL with citrus press.
It depends on the quantities and how you’re preparing them. Kenwood specifies a 1,3 L bowl for the MultiPro Go FDP22.140GY and says its Express Serve system lets you grate or slice directly into another container. Check separately how much capacity you’ll need for recipes that have to stay in the bowl.
Choose a cooking food processor if you expect to use its cooking function regularly, for example for slow cooking or steaming. UFC-Que Choisir identifies cooking as the feature that sets this type of appliance apart. If you already have an appliance for those tasks, compare the functions you’re missing before adding a cooking food processor.
For the exact model, check which bowls, lids, blades and discs are dishwasher-safe and follow the stated care instructions. Also look into the options for replacing the parts you’ll use most often.