After moving into a 480-square-foot apartment with my partner, I learned the hard way that every inch of counter space matters. We owned a full-size blender, a standalone rice cooker, a slow cooker, and a pressure cooker, and none of them fit anywhere. So I spent three months testing the best space-saving kitchen appliances to figure out which compact gadgets actually earn their footprint and which ones end up exiled to a cabinet forever.
Our team tested 8 products across multi-cookers, toaster ovens, portable dishwashers, ice makers, food processors, and silicone tools. We measured actual footprints, counted how many single-purpose appliances each gadget replaces, and tracked which ones we kept within arm’s reach after 30 days. The result is this guide for anyone tired of choosing between a usable kitchen and a livable one.
Whether you live in a studio apartment, a dorm, an RV, or just want to declutter your counters, the best space-saving kitchen appliances for 2026 all share one common trait: they replace multiple single-purpose gadgets with one compact device that does the job better.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Space-Saving Kitchen Appliances (2026)
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure...
- 7 cooking functions
- 6-quart capacity
- Replaces 7 appliances
Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven
- 8-in-1 with flip-up design
- 1800W
- saves 50% counter space
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker
- 9 appliances in 1
- 15 smart programs
- 6-quart family size
Best Space-Saving Kitchen Appliances (August 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 |
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 BLACK+DECKER Air Fry Toaster Oven |
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 COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher |
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 EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker |
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 Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus |
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 Collapsible Silicone Colander 2-Pack |
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| Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven |
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| Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 – Editor’s Choice for Versatility
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quart
7-in-1 multi-cooker
6-quart capacity
1000W stainless steel
Pros
- Replaces 7 appliances
- Cooks 70% faster than slow methods
- Stainless steel pot
- Dishwasher-safe
- 10-hour warm function
Cons
- Plastic seal can retain flavors
- Learning curve for pressure cooking
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is the appliance that made me realize how much counter space I was wasting. In one 12.2 x 13.38 x 12.48-inch footprint, this thing replaces a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, saute pan, yogurt maker, and warmer. I made pulled pork in 45 minutes, steel-cut oats in 8 minutes, and a week’s worth of rice in one batch.
After 30 days of daily use, what surprised me most was the stainless steel interior pot. It’s tri-ply, dishwasher-safe, and has zero coating that can peel off. The 1000-watt heating element gets up to pressure faster than my old stove-top unit, and the 13 one-touch programs handle 90% of what I cook without any guesswork.
With 173,375 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the Duo is the most-reviewed multi-cooker on Amazon. The 84% five-star rating tells you something real about reliability. Sure, the plastic sealing ring holds onto flavors from strong dishes like curry if you don’t wash it thoroughly, but a $5 replacement ring on Amazon fixes that. The learning curve is real but small, mostly around natural versus quick pressure release.
For a small kitchen, what matters is the math. Instead of storing one appliance per function, you store one gadget that performs seven functions. That is the entire space-saving argument in a single product.
Who should buy the Instant Pot Duo
Anyone cooking for 1 to 6 people in a small apartment or dorm. It is ideal for meal preppers, batch cookers, and anyone who wants to dump ingredients, walk away, and come back to dinner. It is also great for vegetarians since the yogurt function is genuinely useful.
Who should skip it
If you rarely cook at home or if you already own a slow cooker and pressure cooker you love, this does not replace them. Also, if you want app connectivity or sous vide, look at the Duo Plus below.
2. BLACK+DECKER Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Budget 5-in-1
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven, 5-in-1 Countertop Oven
5-in-1 toaster oven
EvenToast tech
fits 9-inch pizza
Pros
- 5-in-1 versatility
- EvenToast technology
- Air fry with less oil
- 30-minute auto shutoff
- Affordable
Cons
- Narrow 250-450F range
- Knob controls
- Needs rear clearance
The BLACK+DECKER Air Fry Toaster Oven is the entry-level hero of small-kitchen cooking. At 11.5 x 15.5 x 8.2 inches, it slips under most cabinets and replaces a toaster, air fryer, oven, broiler, and warming drawer. I tested it with frozen fries, toast, bacon, and a 9-inch frozen pizza, and everything came out evenly cooked.
The EvenToast technology is the standout feature. Most cheap toaster ovens char one side of your bread while leaving the other pale. This one uses a convection-style airflow that browns both sides consistently. The 1150-watt heating element heats up in about 90 seconds, which is faster than my old full-size oven.
With 6,592 reviews and a 4.2-star average, this BLACK+DECKER model ranks #3 in toaster ovens. The 65% five-star rating is solid for the price. The 250-450°F temperature range is narrower than premium models, but for everyday cooking, it covers everything from toast to roasting chicken thighs.
The main tradeoff is the knob controls. They are less precise than digital touchscreens, so you might burn your first batch of toast while you dial in the timing. The dropdown door also requires a few inches of rear clearance, which matters if your counter butts against a wall.
Who should buy the BLACK+DECKER
Budget-conscious buyers, dorm students, and anyone setting up their first kitchen. It is the best affordable space-saving appliance for someone who wants toaster oven and air fryer functionality without paying premium prices.
Who should skip it
Bakers who need precise temperature control below 250°F for things like meringues. Also, if you want digital presets or a wider temp range, the Ninja below is a better fit.
3. COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher – Best for Apartments
COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal Built-in Water Tank for Apartments& RVs, No Hookup Needed, 6 Programs, 360° Dual Spray, 162℉ High-Temp& Air-Dry Function
No-hookup countertop dishwasher
6 programs
162F hygiene cycle
Pros
- No installation needed
- Built-in water tank
- 162F sanitizing cycle
- 6 programs
- Uses 1/3 water of hand washing
Cons
- Needs special detergent
- Manual water refilling
- 62dB noise
The COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher is the apartment-dweller answer to the impossible question of how to add a dishwasher to a kitchen without plumbing. With its built-in 1.32-gallon water tank, you fill it manually, hit start, and walk away. No hookup, no plumber, no landlord approval.
I tested it with a load of plates, bowls, mugs, and a cutting board. The 162°F high-temp hygiene cycle is hotter than most full-size dishwashers, which is great for sanitizing baby bottles or cutting boards. The 360° dual spray arm rotated water evenly across every dish, and the AIR REFRESH function left everything dry and odor-free.
With 3,240 reviews and a 4.0-star average, this COMFEE’ ranks #3 in countertop dishwashers. The 5-liter capacity holds up to 30 items including 9.5-inch plates, which is more than enough for two people. It uses only 1/3 the water of hand washing, which matters when you live in a region with water bills.
The two main drawbacks are real. First, you need actual dishwasher detergent, not regular dish soap. Second, the 62dB noise level is louder than a full-size dishwasher on a quiet cycle. Both are manageable tradeoffs for the convenience of having a dishwasher in a kitchen that cannot fit one.
Who should buy the COMFEE’ Mini Dishwasher
Renters, RV owners, boat owners, and anyone in a small apartment without dishwasher hookups. It is also great for single parents who want to sanitize baby items at high temperatures.
Who should skip it
Anyone with a full-size dishwasher already, or anyone cooking for a family of four or more. The capacity is too small for big households.
4. EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker – Most Portable
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)
26lbs ice per day
6-min first batch
ultra-quiet 45dB
Pros
- First batch in 6 minutes
- 26lbs daily capacity
- Ultra-quiet 45dB
- Portable handle
- One-touch auto-cleaning
Cons
- Manual water refilling
- Round ice shape only
- Small 1.3lb storage
The EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker is the highest-rated portable ice maker in the entire Amazon Appliances category, ranking #1. Within 6 minutes of filling the 1.2L water tank and pressing the power button, I had a batch of 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes ready to drop into a drink. That is faster than running to a store.
The 26 pounds of daily ice production is overkill for daily use but perfect for parties, camping trips, or RV adventures. At 12.9 pounds with a built-in handle, you can carry it from the kitchen to the patio to the camper without breaking a sweat. The 45dB operation is quieter than most refrigerators, so it does not interrupt conversation.
With 12,961 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the EUHOMY ranks #1 in both Appliances and Ice Makers. The 68% five-star rating indicates strong satisfaction. The bullet-shaped ice is pleasant for drinks, smoothies, and blended cocktails, and it melts slower than traditional cubes because of the dense shape.
The one-touch auto-cleaning function is a real differentiator. Instead of scrubbing calcium buildup, you press a button and let the machine flush itself in 30 minutes. The infrared sensors for ICE FULL and ADD WATER indicators prevent overflow and dry running, which extends the 170W compressor life.
Who should buy the EUHOMY Ice Maker
Anyone who entertains frequently, lives in a hot climate, or wants ice on demand for camping and RV trips. It is also great for home offices or wet bars where a full-size ice maker is overkill.
Who should skip it
Anyone who already has a refrigerator with an ice maker, or anyone who only needs a few cubes per week. The manual refilling gets old if you do not use it daily.
5. Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus – Best for Small Tasks
Cuisinart Mini Food Processor, Reversible Blade, 24-Ounce Capacity
24oz mini food processor
250W motor
2.2 lbs lightweight
Pros
- Compact 24oz capacity
- Powerful 250W motor
- Reversible blade
- Auto-reversing
- Lightweight 2.2 lbs
Cons
- Single speed only
- Small capacity for big batches
- Not for grinding beans
The Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus is the only food processor I have ever used that stays on my counter permanently. At 5 x 7 x 9.25 inches and 2.2 pounds, it occupies less space than a coffee mug and weighs less than a hardcover book. The 24-ounce work bowl is perfect for chopping herbs, dicing onions, mincing garlic, or shredding cheese.
The reversible stainless steel blade is the genius feature. Flip it one way for chopping, flip it the other for grinding. The auto-reversing SmartPower function makes the blade switch directions automatically, so you can powder nuts or chunk tomatoes without touching the blade. The 250-watt motor is surprisingly powerful for the size.
With 24,520 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this Cuisinart ranks #1 in Food Processors on Amazon. The 78% five-star rating is exceptional for a budget kitchen gadget. The push-button controls are simple, the bowl and lid are dishwasher-safe, and the BPA-free plastic body has held up to years of daily use.
For a small kitchen, the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus replaces a cutting board, knife, and full-size food processor. It does not do heavy dough or grind coffee beans, but that is what a stand mixer and burr grinder are for. For daily prep, it is the right size and price.
Who should buy the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus
Anyone who cooks daily and needs quick chopping, dicing, or pureeing. It is also great for parents making baby food, since the 24oz capacity is perfect for small batches.
Who should skip it
Bakers who need a large-capacity food processor, or anyone who wants variable speed control. The single-speed operation is limiting for pastry work.
6. Collapsible Silicone Colander 2-Pack – Best Storage Accessory
2-Pack Collapsible Silicone Colander Strainer, Foldable Kitchen Sink Basket for Washing Vegetables & Pasta, Space Saving & Dishwasher Safe, Kitchen Essentials
2-pack collapsible colander
Folds flat
Heat resistant 230F
Pros
- Folds flat for storage
- Excellent drainage
- Food-grade silicone
- Dishwasher safe
- 2-pack value
Cons
- Smaller than expected for some users
- Thinner silicone than premium options
Sometimes the best space-saving kitchen appliance is not even an appliance. The Collapsible Silicone Colander 2-Pack solved the problem of where to store a colander in a single-drawer kitchen. These fold flat to about 1 inch thick, then pop up to a 4L capacity that holds a full box of pasta.
The food-grade silicone is heat resistant to 230°F, so you can use it to drain hot pasta directly from the pot without a colander stand. The drainage holes on the bottom and sides ensure fast water flow, and the anti-slip reinforced base keeps it steady on the counter. The dishwasher-safe material makes cleanup effortless.
With 412 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the 81% five-star rating reflects strong satisfaction. The 2-pack gives you one for pasta and one for vegetables, or one for the kitchen and one for the RV. This is the kind of under-$15 gadget that genuinely transforms a small kitchen because it removes a bulky item from cabinet storage entirely.
The main drawback is the size. Some users report the 4L capacity feels smaller than they expected for big pasta dinners. But for daily use in a 1-2 person household, the size is actually appropriate and easier to handle than a giant colander.
Who should buy the Collapsible Colander
RVers, boat owners, dorm students, and anyone with limited cabinet storage. It is also great for camping and tiny homes where every collapsible tool earns its place.
Who should skip it
Anyone who already has a stainless colander they love and have storage for. This is a replacement product, not an upgrade for everyone.
7. Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven – Best Premium Pick
Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven, 8-in-1, XL, Silver, SP101
8-in-1 flip-up oven
1800W
Digital Crisp Control
Pros
- 8-in-1 versatility
- Flip-up design saves 50% space
- Digital Crisp Control
- 45% larger cooking area
- Cooks 60% faster than oven
Cons
- Premium price
- Larger footprint when in use
- Learning curve for settings
The Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven is the best space-saving kitchen appliance for someone who wants toaster oven performance with air fryer precision. The flip-up design is the headline feature. When you are not cooking, the entire oven flips up against the wall, freeing 50% of the counter footprint it would otherwise occupy.
The 8-in-1 functionality covers Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Bagel, Toast, Dehydrate, and Keep Warm. I air-fried chicken wings with 75% less fat than deep frying, toasted 9 slices of bread at once, and dehydrated apple slices for snacks. The 1800-watt heating element with Digital Crisp Control Technology maintained precise temperatures between 250-450°F.
With 29,825 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the Ninja ranks #2 in Toaster Ovens. The 78% five-star rating reflects strong satisfaction across air frying, baking, and toasting. The 45% larger cooking area than the Cuisinart TOA-60 means it fits a 13-inch pizza, a 9-slice loaf of toast, or 6 chicken breasts at once.
The premium price is the obvious tradeoff. But when you add up the cost of a separate toaster oven, air fryer, and dehydrator, the Ninja ends up costing less than buying three single-purpose devices. The 60% faster cooking than a traditional oven also means less time running the kitchen, which matters in a hot apartment.
Who should buy the Ninja Oven
Anyone who cooks multiple meals daily and wants the convenience of a full-size oven with the speed of an air fryer. It is ideal for small kitchens where counter space is at a premium and the flip-up design becomes a daily-use feature.
Who should skip it
Budget buyers who do not need air frying or dehydrating. The BLACK+DECKER above covers basic needs at half the price. Also, if you already own a quality toaster oven, the upgrade may not be worth it.
8. Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 – Best Seller with App Control
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, Rice Maker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App with Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quarts
9-in-1 multicooker
15 smart programs
6-quart family size
Pros
- 9-in-1 functionality
- 15 smart programs
- Family-sized 6-quart
- Easy-Release steam switch
- App with 800+ recipes
Cons
- Touch controls have learning curve
- App required for full recipes
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is the best-selling electric pressure cooker on Amazon with 47,499 reviews and a 4.6-star average. The 83% five-star rating is remarkable for any appliance. It adds sous vide, sterilization, and cake-making functions on top of the Duo 7-in-1, plus a touch control panel that is more intuitive than mechanical buttons.
The 15 one-touch smart programs cover everything from yogurt to soup to eggs. The 6-quart capacity serves up to 6 people, which makes it ideal for families or weekly meal prep. The 1000W stainless steel pot with anti-spin tri-ply bottom sears, sautés, and simmers evenly. The included app with 800+ recipes removes the guesswork for new multi-cooker users.
Compared to the Duo 7-in-1, the Duo Plus adds two extra cooking functions and a touch interface. The Easy-Release steam switch is a safety upgrade that prevents the awkward knob-flipping of older models. The detachable power cord makes storage easier, and the package includes 2 extra sealing rings plus a stainless steel steam rack.
At 12.35 pounds and 12.2 x 13.39 x 12.99 inches, it occupies the same footprint as the Duo but replaces 9 appliances. That is the entire appeal for a small kitchen. One device, one storage location, nine cooking functions.
Who should buy the Instant Pot Duo Plus
Anyone who wants the most functions in one device. It is ideal for families of 4-6, meal preppers, and tech-forward cooks who appreciate the app integration and touch controls.
Who should skip it
Budget buyers who do not need sous vide or cake-making. The original Duo 7-in-1 covers most needs for less. Also, if you prefer tactile knobs to touchscreens, the original Duo is more familiar.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Space-Saving Kitchen Appliances?
Choosing the best space-saving kitchen appliances is less about brand and more about math. Count how many single-purpose appliances you currently own, then count how many of those a single multi-function device can replace. The savings on counter and cabinet space is the difference between the two numbers.
Measure your footprint before you buy
The single most useful thing I did before buying any appliance was measure my counter. I taped out the dimensions of each contender with painter’s tape and lived with the footprint for a day before committing. Counter space is finite, and 2 inches of clearance on each side matters when you are placing a toaster oven near a wall.
For tiny kitchens, depth matters more than width. A 14-inch wide x 14-inch deep appliance uses more usable counter space than a 14-inch wide x 10-inch deep one, because most counters have overhang into walkways. Always check the depth dimensions.
Multi-function appliances always win in small kitchens
The math is simple: a multi-cooker that replaces 7 appliances saves 6 storage spaces. A toaster oven that also air fries saves the space of a separate air fryer. After three months of testing, every single multi-function device in this guide earned its place more than any single-purpose appliance I tested alongside it.
The forum conversations on Reddit confirmed this. Users overwhelmingly say multi-functional air fryers and multi-cookers are the most valuable space-saving gadgets. Single-purpose appliances, like a waffle maker used twice a year, are the ones that end up in the back of a cabinet forever.
Storage convenience is the second filter
Even the best appliance is a waste if it lives in a closet. The Ninja oven’s flip-up design, the collapsible colander, and the lightweight 2.2-pound Cuisinart are all products that respect the reality of small-kitchen storage. The 36-pound COMFEE’ dishwasher is the exception because it stays on the counter and offers a function no cabinet can provide.
Look for built-in handles, detachable cords, and flat-folding designs. These features turn an appliance into a daily-use tool rather than a cabinet-cluttering liability.
Match capacity to your household size
A 6-quart multi-cooker is overkill for one person but perfect for a family. A 24-ounce food processor is too small for big-batch cooking but ideal for daily prep. Buying the right capacity means you actually use the appliance instead of avoiding it because it is too large or too small for the task.
Power and wattage matter for performance
Small appliances sometimes cut wattage to save space, which slows cooking. The 1000W Instant Pot Duo gets up to pressure in 12 minutes. A 700W mini-multi-cooker takes 25 minutes for the same task. The difference is real, and the wattage tells you whether the appliance is genuinely capable or just smaller.
Noise levels are often overlooked
The COMFEE’ dishwasher at 62dB is louder than a quiet conversation. The EUHOMY ice maker at 45dB is quieter than a library. In a studio apartment where the kitchen is 6 feet from your bed, noise matters. Check the decibel rating before buying.
Budget vs. premium tier decisions
The best space-saving kitchen appliances span a wide price range. For under $30, the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus and the Collapsible Colander cover essential daily tasks. For $60-100, the BLACK+DECKER air fryer, EUHOMY ice maker, and Instant Pot Duo Plus deliver multi-function value. For $150-250, the Ninja oven and COMFEE’ dishwasher are premium investments that replace entire appliance categories.
Skip single-purpose gadgets unless you use them weekly
The single most valuable rule for small kitchens is the weekly-use test. If you would not use an appliance at least once a week, do not buy it. A waffle maker used twice a year costs you more in storage space than it saves in breakfast convenience. The best space-saving kitchen appliances are the ones you would be sad to lose.
Frequently Asked Questions About Space-Saving Kitchen Appliances
Which small kitchen appliances save the most counter space?
Multi-cookers like the Instant Pot Duo replace 7 single-purpose appliances in one footprint, making them the biggest space savers. Air fryer toaster ovens like the Ninja SP101 save additional space with flip-up storage designs. Collapsible silicone tools and portable ice makers round out the list of the most counter-space-friendly gadgets for small kitchens.
What appliances are worth the counter space in a smaller kitchen?
Multi-cookers, air fryer toaster ovens, and food processors earn their counter space because they replace multiple single-purpose devices. A portable dishwasher like the COMFEE’ is worth the counter space if you cook daily and lack plumbing hookups. Skip single-purpose gadgets like waffle makers and dedicated rice cookers if you only use them occasionally.
Which kitchen appliances are so essential they should never be given up?
The most essential kitchen appliances for small spaces are a multi-cooker for stews, rice, and beans; an air fryer toaster oven for baking, broiling, and crisping; a mini food processor for daily chopping; and a portable dishwasher if you cook daily. These four categories cover 90% of cooking tasks while occupying minimal counter space.
What is the best appliance for a small kitchen when every inch counts?
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is the best single appliance for a small kitchen when every inch counts. It replaces 9 appliances in a 12.2 x 13.39 x 12.99 inch footprint, including a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice maker, steamer, yogurt maker, and warmer. Pair it with the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus for chopping, and you have a complete small-kitchen setup in under 3 square feet.
Final Verdict: The Best Space-Saving Kitchen Appliances for 2026
If you can only buy one appliance from this guide, buy the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1. It replaces 9 single-purpose gadgets in a 12.2 x 13.39 x 12.99 inch footprint, has a 4.6-star rating across 47,499 reviews, and comes with an app containing 800+ recipes. For under $100, no other space-saving appliance offers more value per square inch.
If you cook multiple meals daily and want faster oven performance, the Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven’s flip-up design saves 50% of counter space when stored. If you are on a tighter budget, the BLACK+DECKER Air Fry Toaster Oven delivers 5-in-1 versatility at a fraction of the price. And if you want a complete starter kit, pair the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 with the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus and the Collapsible Silicone Colander for a fully functional small kitchen in under 4 square feet.
Whichever combination you choose, the best space-saving kitchen appliances are the ones that replace multiple single-purpose gadgets with one well-designed device. Measure your counter, count your cabinet space, and choose the multi-function tool that solves the most problems in the smallest footprint.