The countertop kitchen composter is a lovely vision. Instead of a smelly bucket of vegetable scraps and coffee grounds breeding fruit flies on your counter or attracting rats to your backyard, you could just put it all into a nifty electric gadget, and at some undetermined point in the future you'll have a bountiful supply of nutrient-rich compost to use in your garden.
Anhui Tian jian supply professional and honest service.
Unfortunately, none of the more popular electric machines on the market do this. Even though some of these devices are marketed as “composters" and have instruction booklets and apps detailing all the ways in which one can use compost, the vast majority of kitchen composters are just going to grind up and dry your food scraps. Your waste output will be greatly reduced in volume and will no longer smell, but if you’re hoping to put eggshells and banana peels into a machine and magically scoop out the kind of true compost you’d buy at the garden center, that’s just not going to happen.
That said, you can mix small amounts of these grounds into potting soil in very small ratios, or use them as feeder for a “real” compost pile, but most of these machines are meant for those wanting to reduce the volume of food waste their household produces. Which is in and of itself a legitimate goal, as cast-off food makes up 24 percent of municipal solid waste, resulting in the release of methane, a destructive greenhouse gas, as it breaks down in the landfill.
Or maybe you'd just like your food grounds to be odor-free and shelf-stable before adding them to your green waste bin for municipal composting or your backyard compost. In any case, despite critics’ cries of greenwashing and corporate astroturfing, there is still value to these devices. They make people more aware of their food waste. They don't use as much power as you think they would (around 1 kilowatt-hour was typical). And our top pick, the Reencle Prime (8/10, WIRED Recommends), even produces something close to compost.
Read on for our assessment, and once you're done, check out some of our other kitchen-related guides, including Best Coffee Makers, Best Toaster Ovens, Best Meat Subscription Boxes, and Best Meal Kit Delivery Services.
Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best-in-class reporting that's too important to ignore for just $2.50 $1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. Subscribe Today.
I'm WIRED's senior commerce editor in charge of home and kitchen devices and have been reviewing products for our Gear section for the past 10 months. I cook daily for my family of three, and I've been processing our kitchen scraps in these composters in my home kitchen since summer . Each was tested under typical household use for a minimum of four weeks each, and in several cases six weeks or longer. I tested all cycles offered and with all manner of foods allowed according to the manual, and in the case of the Reencle and the Mill, even attempted to use the finished product in my yard and houseplants (to varying effect).
As previously mentioned, none of these machines make truly ready-to-use compost, but the Reencle Prime (8/10, WIRED Recommends) comes closest to a traditional compost bin. Popular in South Korea years before it appeared in the US, the Reencle arrives with a starter bag of ReencleMicrobe (which can be purchased separately for $65) containing activated carbon, wood pellets, glucose, and a trio of patented microbes ready to chow down. There's also a prefilled carbon filter that slots into the back.
At 14 x 15 x 22 inches, the Prime is too large for a kitchen counter but instead conveniently operates much like a heated trash can. The lid can be opened via sensor at the bottom or a button on the control panel, and in goes your organic matter. That's it. There are no cycles, tablets, or auxiliary buckets to worry about. Even the app is totally optional. Within hours to days, depending on the item, the scraps are broken down into a material resembling a cross between dirt and sawdust.
Dimensions12 x 13 x 18.4 inchesCapacity:Minimum 1.5 lbs., maximum 2.2 lbs.Can't process:Large bones or shells, fruit pitsFastest waste breakdown:2 to 24 hours or longer, dependingHow to use its output:Sift, mix 1:4 ratio with soil, cure for 3 weeks and add to plants indoors or outdoors; add to compost pileWarranty:1 yearFoodCycler
First off, I appreciate that FoodCycler doesn’t even pretend it's making a composter. “The FoodCycler is a food waste recycler,” the company explained firmly before agreeing to ship a test unit. “Our primary goal is to provide a modern food waste solution for users who may lack access to traditional composting or other disposal options that divert from the landfill. Therefore, the resulting byproduct cannot be labeled as ‘compost.’” And indeed—the FoodCycler breaks down food so quickly, and with no microbial involvement, that there’s no way anyone could think this was proper compost. But if you are going to go with a grinder/dryer, the Eco 3 is one of the most efficient ones you can buy.
Launched in , the Eco 3 is a smaller version of the Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50 (7/10, WIRED Review), sporting a larger 3.5-liter capacity and, according to FoodCycler, better grinding capability. At 11 x 9 x 13 inches, it is small enough to sit on a counter- or tabletop, though the real convenience with this machine is its auxiliary pail. Fill the sleek, 8-inch-tall lidded container with scraps (in my household of three people, this took about three days), and once it's full, swap out the lids, seat it in the machine, and press a button.
A few hours later, you'll have a handful of “Foodilizer,” a "homemade soil amendment” that looks like finely ground dirt. In fact, the output is the most finely ground of any of these machines. There's no assembly with this machine (other than filling a filter with carbon granules), no app, no making an account, no pods or tablets or choosing various cycles—you don't even have to plug it in until you're ready to use it.
The cycle runs from four to nine hours depending on the water content of the scraps, and it produces an audible but unobtrusive whir (about 36 dB on my decibel meter). I did occasionally have trouble getting the bucket to seat correctly, but the manual addresses this, and I was always able to get it right after a couple of tries.
Dimensions:11 x 9 x 13 inchesCapacity:3.5 LCan't process:Compostable plastics, beef bones, candy, oils/fatsFastest waste breakdown:4 to 9 hoursHow to use its output:Mix with soil at 1:10 ratio, or 1:15 if using meat/dairy; add to compost; sprinkle on your lawnWarranty:3 yearsPela
The Lomi 2 is the new smart version of the original Lomi, which WIRED contributor Richard Baguley rated a 7/10 in . It has an app with three cycles that serve different purposes” “Eco-Express" for quick breakdown; “Grow” for grounds to use in your yard; and “Lomi Approved” for approved bioplastics and related items. Like the FoodCycler, Pela straightforwardly markets this as a food grinder and dehydrator—the Lomi does not make real compost, and its primary purpose is to either reduce the volume of scraps in your trash can or process the scraps to be added to a “real” compost pile. However, it does perform these tasks well and for several hundred dollars less than the Mill (below).
When I first unboxed the sleek-looking 2, I watched the setup video in Lomi's app, where an actor removed items from the packaging, including a bag of Lomi Pods, a microbial “nutrient activator” for Grow mode (45 tablets for $30). My machine did not come with Lomi Pods, and it turned out these both need to be purchased separately and are optional, in case you plan to add the resultant “Lomi Earth” from the Grow mode to your garden (at a 1:10 ratio).
At 16 x 13 x 12 inches, the Lomi is small enough to sit on a counter or table, though it is on the larger side—about the size of a small microwave—so it will take a significant outlay of counter space. There's an activated charcoal filter, which you fill with a baggie of granules. Scraps (including meat and dairy!) go right in the bucket set into the machine, which means you have to open and close the lid each time you add something. (Unlike the Reencle, above, or Vego, below, scraps can't be added during a cycle.) Though the lid wasn't hard to get on and off, it was enough of a pain that I found myself using the bucket from the FoodCycler, above, lined with a Matter compostable food scrap bag. When it was full, I just threw the whole thing in the Lomi, bag and all.
Which leads me to perhaps the best feature of the Lomi 2: It can break down compostable bioplastics, like bags. In fact, the Lomi itself comes in a giant compostable bag, which, when torn into pieces, can be processed down to what looks like dehydrated lettuce right in the machine. It should be noted, though, that Lomi recommends only 10 percent nonfood waste per cycle. (I exceeded this percentage on multiple occasions to no negative effect, but rules are rules.)
You can also earn points in Lomi's app each time you run a cycle (up to 10 points for a Grow cycle), to redeem for things like filter refills (like the FoodCycler, Lomi uses activated charcoal granules), cases from Lomi parent company Pela, or merch from partners like Pakt. The app also has a helpful, searchable database telling you what can or can’t go in. However, the Lomi makes significantly more noise during its cycles (46 dB) compared to the Reencle, but the trade-off is that it is totally odorless with its lid sealed. Update April 30, : Lomi says it is pulling the Lomi 2 from the US market for now due to tariffs.
Dimensions:16 x 13 x 12 inchesCapacity:3 LCan't process:Beef bones, candy, oils/fatsFastest waste breakdown:3 hours in Eco Express modeHow to use its output:Mix with soil at 1:10 ratio, or 1:15 if using meat/dairy; add to compost; spread on your lawnWarranty:1 yearVego
If you have a surfeit of stinky kitchen waste and want it dry and broken down lightning fast—say, in two hours, the quickest of any machine on this list—the Vego is your machine. It's roughly the same size and dimensions as the Lomi, with many of the same operational features but the distinction of being significantly less expensive. However, there are definitely some inconveniences that go along with the price point.
For one, like the Lomi, scraps need to be added into the bucket seated in the machine. You can remove the bucket, but unlike the FoodCycler, there's no separate lid for the bucket and the metal mechanism underneath is exposed. Further, the lid to the machine is a bona fide pain to get on and off, requiring a precise lining up of notches and two hands to wrench it open or closed. Not easy to do with fists full of scraps. It's also got four different cycles to choose from—Vego, Express, Fertilize, and Grass. I tried them all. Express mode results in grounds that look more roughly chopped, as with the Mill, but there seemed to be little visual difference among the others, including Vego mode.
Vego claims its Vego mode does create a biologically active soil amendment when processed with one of the included VegoTabs (packet of 30, $25 if purchased separately). These “compost enhancer tablets" can be added during the Vego, Fertilize, and Grass modes. You can also add scraps while it's in Vego mode, and there's a clear lid and nifty light inside in case you want to watch the process.
In all modes, but Vego mode especially, the barrel turns every couple of minutes, emitting a loud whirring. Because the sound isn't constant, it's more noticeable. Even from 10 feet away, I found it obtrusive enough to want to turn up the TV volume. The Vego has an app, but it's meh at best, unhelpful at worst. It tells you the weight of scraps you've added (why?), as well as the benefits of and directions for using finished compost, which is not what is produced by the machine. There's also completely unrelated information about composting outside. However, this is the best entry-level option of this type of machine, so it's worth a look if you plan on having a separate bucket setup.
Dimensions:14.37 × 11.22 × 12.64 inchesCapacity:4 LCan't process:Meat, dairy, fat/oils, hard items like fruit pits or beef bonesFastest waste breakdown:2 to 24 hours depending on cycleHow to use its output:Mix with soil at 1:10 ratio, add to existing compost, spread on lawnWarranty:1 yearMill
All of these machines do a great job breaking down food scraps in some way or another, but still don't fully address what one is supposed to do with them absent a yard or compost pile. Adding them at a 1:10 (or 1:15!) ratio to potting soil is kind of a pain, and many people don't have the space to store all this dirt. The Mill is the only device that addresses this issue by allowing users to ship their grounds in a box via USPS to a farm in Washington state that repurposes them for chicken feed.
When I first tested the Mill (6/10, WIRED Review), I didn't care for this idea, which seemed inefficient at best, and canceling out the benefit of recycling the food waste at worst. I also didn't love the coarse texture of the grounds, having tried to use them in my garden and finding them too easily rehydrated. The price also seemed over the top for what's essentially an oversized Lomi. But if you're looking to reduce the amount of food waste leaving your house, the Mill has the best ease of use, requiring the least amount of work on a user's part.
With so many models available, choosing the best electric composter can feel overwhelming. But the right choice can significantly enhance your sustainable lifestyle, making food waste management faster, cleaner, and more convenient.
An electric composter uses heat and grinding mechanisms to break down food scraps into a crumbly material that, following a curing period, can be used as compost in the garden. This significantly reduces the time and effort required compared to traditional composting methods which can take many months.
It's an ideal option for indoor composting, where space is at a premium, but also helps the process if you're learning how to compost in your garden. However, not all models are created equal, so understanding your specific needs is essential.
This guide will help you navigate the options to find the best electric composter that fits your lifestyle and supports sustainable living.
Whether you're a seasoned composter or new to the concept, our analysis of the best electric composters will empower you to make an informed decision.
To select these composters, we researched the latest models, read real product reviews, and interviewed manufacturers where possible.
For more information, please visit Organic Waste Composting Machine Manufacturer.
When choosing the best electric composter for your needs, there are various aspects to consider. Are you composting for a large family or just yourself? How quickly do you want to be able to use the compost in the garden? Are you prepared for ongoing running costs in terms of filter replacements and spare parts?
In this guide, we will explain the different appliance types and features to help you find an electric composter that suits your requirements and budget.
Electric composters are designed to break down food waste and contribute to compost in the garden. They work by heating the waste to a high temperature – usually at least 160°F (71°C) – to destroy harmful bacteria and remove moisture.
The appliances also use a grinding or chopping mechanism to break down the food waste and move it around in the unit, aerating the waste and giving it a dry, loamy texture.
In the space of just a few hours, the process reduces the mass of the food waste by 70-90%. The resulting material does not produce a strong odor, which is also controlled through the use of a charcoal filter.
The end product may look like compost – or even sawdust depending on the appliances used and the food types processed. However, it is not yet compost…
When investing in an electric composter, it's important to understand that none of the machines produce finished compost that can be immediately used for planting in the garden. This is why some appliances are branded as "food recyclers", with the goal of reducing the levels of food waste going to landfill.
In nature, it takes many months for organic matter to decompose and become crumbly, fertile compost with a balanced nutrient profile that feeds plants and contributes to a loamy soil structure. Electric composters can't produce the same results in a few hours – but they can significantly speed up the process.
Using heat and movement, the appliances break down and dehydrate kitchen scraps to create food grounds. The downside of this process is that the heat treatment destroys beneficial compost bacteria in the process, which decompose the material and contribute to healthy soil. The waste material might look similar to compost, but it hasn't actually decomposed. It can be better described as "pre-compost".
If you simply add the pre-compost to plants, then it can attract mold, disrupt the nutrient balance in the soil, and add excess sodium. This is why most manufacturers advise a curing period before planting – or using it in soil in low concentration.
Some brands – most notably Reencle – have refined the electric composting process by adding resilient bacteria strains into the unit and processing the material over a longer period at a lower temperature. This allows the bacteria to remain active and speeds up the compost maturation process – though it still requires a short curing period.
A key consideration when choosing an electric composter is the time it takes for ground, dehydrated food waste to become usable, plantable compost.
On average, most pre-composts produced by electric composters need three months to mature before they are plantable. This can be achieved by adding the food grounds to an existing compost pile or mixing them with soil in an unplanted area of the garden.
If you want to be able to use your compost more quickly, then it can be mixed with soil at a ratio of 10:1 (soil to compost) and applied as mulch or top dressing.
Where bacteria are enabled to thrive in the process, as with Reencle, the plantable curing time is reduced to just three weeks, or immediately if used as mulch or top dressing.
When thinking about composter size, don’t just consider the amount of food waste your household generates – consider how much space you have in your kitchen.
Some electric composters are trash can-sized, designed to sit on the floor, while others are compact enough to take pride of place on your countertop. Smaller units are ideal for individuals or small families, while larger models can accommodate higher volumes.
Electric composters can hold anything from 2-12 lbs, so it’s vital that you choose a design compatible with the amount of food waste your household produces.
One of the advantages of electric composters is that the appliances are able to process a wider variety of waste types that wouldn't usually be added to a compost heap, such as meat, dairy, and even weeds.
Some composters are able to tackle tougher waste than others, such as small bones, shellfish shells and even avocado pits, while others are a little more restrictive about what can be composted. Check the manufacturer's guidelines before purchasing to ensure it is suitable for your needs.
When choosing an electric composter, it’s essential to consider the carbon filter lifecycle and the associated ongoing costs. Carbon filters play a critical role in reducing odors produced during the composting process, making your device suitable for indoor use. However, these filters are not permanent and require regular replacement to maintain their effectiveness.
The lifespan of carbon filters varies depending on the composter model and usage frequency. Some filters last as long as a year, while others may need replacing more frequently. Before purchasing, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement intervals and the cost of replacements. Over time, these expenses can add up, potentially making one composter model more expensive to operate than another, even if the initial price is lower.
Evaluate the availability of replacement filters, as some brands may have limited supply or require ordering directly from the manufacturer.
Noise level is an important factor to consider if the composter will be used in a sociable kitchen or other living spaces. Different models operate at varying noise levels, depending on their size, technology, and mechanisms for breaking down food waste.
Electric composters with grinding or shredding features tend to be louder, as these components crush waste into smaller pieces. However, some premium models incorporate noise-reduction technology to minimize disturbance. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for decibel levels, which can give you a clear idea of the noise impact. For reference, a noise level below 50 decibels is considered relatively quiet, equivalent to a moderate conversation.
Consider your household environment when evaluating noise. If your home has an open floor plan or if the composter will run overnight, a quieter model may be preferable. Frequent users might also prioritize low noise over speed or capacity.
As with any appliance, ongoing maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity. While filters play a key role, other maintenance tasks are equally important.
Electric composters require regular cleaning to prevent clogs, unpleasant smells, and reduced performance. Most units feature removable buckets or chambers for easy cleaning, while some have cleaning programs. Look for models with dishwasher-safe buckets for the ultimate convenience.
If your composter has a grinding or shredding component, it may need an occasional clean and check. Food scraps – particularly fibrous, stringy waste – can sometimes get stuck, requiring manual removal. Some models also recommend occasional lubrication to keep the grinder running smoothly.
Aside from filters, certain parts like seals, grinding blades, or heating elements may wear out over time. Research the availability and cost of these replacements before committing to a specific model.
Electric composters are designed to use minimal energy, with shorter cycles using about 1kW of power – at a cost of about 16.63 cents per cycle.
However, composters with longer cycles will cost slightly more to run. This is something to consider when choosing a model that operates at a longer period and lower temperature to preserve the bacteria in the compost.
For most users, however, the running cost is so low that it does not make much difference to energy bills.
Electric composters cost anything from $300 to over $1,000, with options to satisfy most budgets. However, you must weigh the upfront cost against long-term usage costs – such as replacement carbon filters, microbe pods, energy usage, and replacement parts.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Catering Waste Treatment Equipment.