Best Toaster Oven Picks: Top 10 Options!

The best toaster or toaster oven delivers versatile cooking power, perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or anyone seeking countertop convenience. Choosing the right model is crucial, as an ill-fitting appliance can lead to undercooked meals, uneven toasting, or wasted counter space. Factors like capacity, wattage, and specific functions – from air frying to convection – significantly impact performance and usability.

A poor selection might mean sacrificing essential cooking tasks or settling for subpar results. To help you navigate the options and find an appliance that truly enhances your culinary experience, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best toaster ovens available this year, designed to meet diverse needs and cooking styles.

For those seeking the best toaster or toaster oven, versatility and compact design are key considerations. Many models, like the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD, offer efficient toasting and baking for up to four slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza within a small footprint. Advanced options such as the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven or the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo integrate air frying and multiple cooking functions, maximizing utility without sacrificing counter space.

The Best Toaster or Toaster Oven, Compared

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver Best for: Everyday toaster oven	Check Price
Best Pick 2	BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, Best for: Air fry toaster	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo | 8-in-1 Functionality | Best for: All-in-one cooking	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small, Best for: Small space oven	Check Price
Best Pick 5	Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Best for: Family-sized meals	Check Price

How We Picked

To determine the best toaster or toaster oven, we meticulously evaluated each model based on core consumer needs. We prioritized build quality and durability by examining materials and construction. Real-world performance was assessed across various cooking functions like toasting, baking, and broiling, referencing specific product capabilities for pizza or multiple bread slices.

Safety features, such as automatic shut-off and connected racks, were critical. Standout features like air frying, 8-in-1 versatility, or compact storage solutions, exemplified by models like the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, were also key differentiators in our selection process.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Toast Shade Consistency is Key

When choosing a toaster oven, don’t overlook how evenly it toasts. Many models struggle with hot spots, leading to burnt edges and pale centers. Look for features like multiple heating elements or convection fans designed for uniform cooking.

For instance, the Breville Mini Smart Countertop Oven boasts an Element IQ System, aiming for precise heat distribution ideal for toast and cookies, ensuring every slice reaches your perfect golden-brown shade.

Pizza Size Matters for Countertop Ovens

One of the most common uses for a toaster oven is making personal pizzas, but the size capacity can be a real pitfall. A compact model might only fit an 8-inch pizza, while you might be looking for room for a 9 or 10-inch. Always check the interior dimensions or listed pizza size compatibility.

The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD explicitly states it accommodates a 9-inch pizza, making it a practical choice for this specific need.

1. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver

Best for: Compact efficiency for small kitchens.

With its 15.47-inch silver finish, this Black+Decker toaster oven precisely fits a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread, optimizing limited counter space. Its curved interior ensures even heating for toasting, baking, or reheating, making it a versatile choice. Natural convection airflow circulates heat, ensuring consistent results.

This appliance offers four cooking functions: baking, broiling, toasting, and keeping food warm. Combining natural convection with a precise 30-minute timer, it preheats effectively for consistently crisp results across various cooking tasks. The compact design maximizes utility without demanding excessive counter real estate.

Pros

• Accommodates a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread
• Four versatile cooking functions (bake, broil, toast, warm)
• Natural convection airflow for even heating
• Compact footprint optimizes counter space

Cons

• Requires a 10-minute preheat for consistent cooking

This Black+Decker toaster oven is ideal for individuals or small families who need a compact appliance for everyday tasks like toasting, reheating, and preparing small baked or broiled meals efficiently.

2. BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven,

Best for: Healthy air frying and perfect toast.

Achieve healthier fried foods with little to no oil using the advanced air frying technology in this Black+Decker Crisp ‘N Bake toaster oven. It also features Eventoast technology for consistently golden toast, ensuring you get both crunch and flavor without compromise.

This 5-in-1 multifunctional cooker provides Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm settings, making it perfect for a variety of meals from crispy fries to baked pizzas. Its effective air frying technology and specialized toast settings deliver delicious results with enhanced convenience for everyday cooking.

Pros

• Healthy air frying technology reduces oil usage
• Eventoast technology for perfect toast results
• 5 versatile cooking functions (Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Warm)
• Delivers crispy textures without compromising taste

Cons

• Specific components like a mesh basket are needed for air frying

This Black+Decker air fryer toaster oven is an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy fried food taste with healthier cooking methods and consistently good toast.

3. Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo | 8-in-1 Functionality |

Best for: Space-saving design with large capacity.

Reclaim your counter space with the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, which flips up and away to store against your backsplash, taking up 50% less space. Its 8-in-1 functionality covers Air fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Pizza, Toast, Bagel, and Dehydrate.

Enjoy large capacity cooking with the ability to air fry and roast up to 4 lbs of ingredients, bake a 12” pizza, or toast up to 6 slices of bread, fitting even 6 chicken breasts. The OvenCrust Technology combines infrared heating and rapid circulating air for consistent, edge-to-edge cooking.

Pros

• Flips up for 50% less counter space usage
• 8 versatile cooking functions
• OvenCrust Technology for even cooking
• Accommodates large family-sized meals

Cons

• Requires manual flipping for storage

Ideal for families needing to cook substantial meals while conserving kitchen space, this Ninja toaster oven offers impressive versatility and smart storage.

4. Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small,

Best for: Precision cooking for discerning home cooks.

The Breville Mini Smart Countertop Oven utilizes an Element iQ System with 5 independent quartz elements to steer power for precise results, perfect for pizza, cookies, and golden toast. Its fast 1800 Watt preheat ensures meals are ready quickly.

This mini oven offers 8 cooking functions and smart algorithms that create a tailored cooking environment, ensuring precise outcomes. With a 10″x10″ enamel baking pan included and detailed temperature control, it’s built for cooks who value accuracy and consistent performance in a compact size.

Pros

• Element iQ System for precise cooking control
• Fast 1800 Watt preheat capability
• 8 tailored cooking functions
• Compact, space-saving design

Cons

• Limited to a ‘mini’ size, restricting very large items

For home cooks who prioritize precision and excellent results for items like pizza and cookies in a compact form, this Breville oven offers superior performance.

5. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Best for: Generous capacity with automatic toast control.

Experience versatile cooking with the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven, perfect for air frying snacks or roasting for large gatherings. Its automatic shut-off feature prevents burnt toast, ensuring a perfect finish every time.

This multi-cooker combo features a 1700-watt output and a dual-speed fan for 360º superheated air circulation, delivering golden-fried crispiness. With a 4.5-star rating and touch screen controls, it offers precise temperature management from 75°F to 500°F for diverse culinary needs.

Pros

• Extra-large capacity for family meals
• Automatic shut-off prevents burnt toast
• 1700 Watts of power for quick cooking
• Dual-speed fan for perfect crisping

Cons

• Touchscreen controls may require precise inputs

This Emeril Lagasse oven is ideal for those who often cook for larger groups and want the convenience of air frying combined with foolproof toasting and robust baking capabilities.

6. BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fryer Countertop Convection Toaster Oven,

Best for: Large capacity air frying and multi-cooking.

The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fryer Countertop Convection Toaster Oven offers 5-in-1 cooking versatility, efficiently handling air fry, bake, broil, toast, and keep warm functions. Its large capacity fits a 12-inch pizza or six slices of toast, making it great for family dinners.

Enjoy healthier meals with air fry technology that uses hot air circulation to deliver crispy results with up to 75% less fat. Manufactured in 2022, this appliance includes an air fry basket, bake pan, and rack, providing everything needed for versatile meal preparation in its generously sized interior.

Pros

• Large capacity fits a 12″ pizza or six toast slices
• Air fry technology for healthier, crispy food
• 5 versatile cooking functions
• Includes essential accessories (basket, pan, rack)

Cons

• May take up significant counter space due to its size

This Black+Decker oven is perfect for families or small gatherings needing a versatile appliance that can handle both quick snacks and larger meals like a 12″ pizza, with a focus on healthier cooking.

7. Cuisinart Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler, 1800 Watt Countertop Toaster

Best for: Powerful and spacious custom toasting.

With 1800 watts of high-performance power, this Cuisinart Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler offers versatile cooking, including toast, bagel, bake, broil, and pizza functions in one appliance. Its 0.5-cubic feet interior provides spacious capacity for various meal preparations.

Toast 6 slices of bread or 4 bagel halves, bake an 11-inch pizza, or roast a family-sized casserole within its roomy interior. The ‘Always Even Shade Control’ precisely monitors toasting temperature, automatically adjusting to ensure perfect toast every time, backed by a 2-year limited warranty.

Pros

• 1800 watts for powerful cooking
• 0.5 cubic feet interior capacity
• Always Even Shade Control for perfect toast
• Accommodates 6 slices of bread or an 11″ pizza

Cons

• Functions are not explicitly labeled as ‘air fry’

This Cuisinart toaster oven is an excellent choice for households that frequently bake, broil, or toast larger items and desire consistent results with precise toasting.

8. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection, Stainless Steel, TO1760SS

Best for: Compact design with natural convection.

This BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven features natural convection technology designed to circulate hot air for fast, even cooking. Its compact size easily accommodates a 9″ pizza or four slices of bread, making it suitable for smaller kitchens.

Offering four cooking functions—convection bake, broil, toast, and keep warm—this stainless steel oven has a 1150W heating element and a 30-minute timer with a convenient stay-on function for longer tasks. The included rack and bake pan fit perfectly within the oven’s interior.

Pros

• Natural convection for fast, even cooking
• Accommodates a 9″ pizza or 4 slices of bread
• Four versatile cooking functions
• Includes rack and bake pan

Cons

• Maximum capacity is limited to 4 slices of bread

Ideal for individuals or couples needing a compact toaster oven for everyday tasks like toasting, reheating, and preparing smaller baked or broiled dishes, this model offers efficient cooking.

9. Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven and Long Slot 2

Best for: Space-saving 2-in-1 toaster and oven.

Replace your standalone toaster and countertop oven with this Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 unit, saving valuable kitchen space. It bakes, broils, and toasts, offering the versatility to effortlessly prepare breakfast, lunch, or dinner with its integrated design.

This toaster oven provides 16.5 L of cooking space, suitable for one-pan meals, and includes 2 rack positions. It can hold a 9″ pizza or 3/4 lb. of fries, featuring a 60-minute timer and automatic shutoff for safety and convenience, along with a shade selector for perfect toast.

Pros

• Combines toaster and oven functions in one unit
• 16.5 L spacious interior for various meals
• Accommodates a 9″ pizza
• 60-minute timer with automatic shutoff

Cons

• Long slot toaster functionality is separate from oven

This Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 appliance is perfect for those looking to consolidate kitchen gadgets and simplify meal prep, offering both toasting and oven capabilities in a single unit.

10. Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop, 4-Slice Small Toaster Oven Compact

Best for: Compact with easy-to-use presets.

The Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven boasts Double Infrared Heating for fast, even cooking and toasts up to 4 slices of bread. Its compact design is easy to use, with a connected baking rack that smoothly pulls out as the door opens, enhancing safety.

Featuring six 1-touch preset cooking functions for common foods, plus reheat and defrost, this oven simplifies meal preparation. The 1300W unit includes a removable 9-inch inner baking tray and auto shut-off to prevent overcooking, making it a user-friendly addition to any countertop.

Pros

• Double Infrared Heating for speed and evenness
• Six 1-touch preset cooking functions
• Compact size and easy-to-use interface
• Auto shut-off prevents overcooking

Cons

• Limited to 4-slice capacity

This Panasonic FlashXpress toaster oven is ideal for individuals or couples seeking a compact, user-friendly appliance for quickly toasting, baking, browning, and reheating with simple, pre-programmed settings.

Countertop Ovens: Air Fry Isn’t the Real Upgrade

The true differentiator for countertop ovens is not the presence of an air fry function, but rather the sophistication of its core heating and temperature control. Focus on superior element design and placement, and you outfit yourself for consistent, predictable results across all cooking tasks, from toasting bread to baking small pizzas. The BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS Natural Convection Toaster Oven, for example, relies on what the brand calls natural convection, a simpler system that, while functional for basic toast and warming, lacks the active air circulation that makes other models genuinely versatile.

Compare this to ovens that explicitly leverage advanced heating. The Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven boasts an Element iQ System, which intelligently directs heat where it’s needed most—a critical distinction when you’re trying to achieve a perfectly golden crust on a pizza or evenly baked cookies. This isn’t just about hotter air; it’s about smarter heat distribution, actively preventing hot spots common in less sophisticated designs like the Cuisinart Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler, which, despite its high wattage, can lead to uneven browning.

While many newer models, like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven and the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, prominently feature Air Fry in their names, this capability is often a byproduct of good convection. The real power lies in the underlying heating elements and control systems that enable precise temperature management. The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven, with its larger capacity and specialized door design, might excel at air frying due to its internal space and fan, but its core cooking performance relies heavily on how well its primary bake and broil elements are managed.

Ultimately, prioritizing advanced heating technology over supplementary functions like air frying is the smart play when selecting a best toaster or toaster oven. It ensures that whether you’re toasting a bagel, baking a miniature cheesecake, or indeed air frying some fries, the appliance will perform reliably and deliver superior results. For those who crave consistent performance and precise control across a broad spectrum of cooking, the Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, with its Element iQ system, remains a strong contender.

How to Choose the Best Toaster or Toaster Oven

Toaster vs toaster oven functionality

For pure toast perfection, opt for a dedicated toaster. Look for models with wide slots, at least 1.5 inches, capable of accommodating bagels and thicker artisanal breads without struggle. Consistent browning across the entire surface, free from burnt edges or pale centers, is the hallmark of a quality toaster.

Multi-functionality for small bakes, broiling, or reheating is where a toaster oven excels, offering versatility beyond simple bread toasting. If your primary need is perfectly browned bread and bagels, a dedicated toaster is the superior choice.

Capacity and size considerations

When selecting a unit, consider the number of slices you routinely toast; dual-slot models are standard, but four-slice units serve larger households efficiently. For baking and roasting, measure your intended dishes against the internal dimensions—aim for at least 10 inches in width and 8 inches in depth for common baking pans. A toaster oven’s footprint is critical; ensure it complements your available counter space without overcrowding.

For households needing to toast more than two slices at once or bake small items, a four-slice toaster or a compact toaster oven is the practical selection.

Essential features and settings

Precision in browning is key; look for a toaster or toaster oven with at least six distinct shade settings, ranging from light golden to deep brown, to suit all preferences. Cooking presets, such as bagel, defrost, or reheat, streamline operations, while a clear timer with an automatic shutoff feature ensures safety and prevents over-cooking. A user-friendly, easily accessible crumb tray simplifies cleanup significantly.

For consistent results and ease of use across various tasks, prioritize units with multiple browning levels and convenient presets.

Material and durability

Durability is essential for long-term performance. Stainless steel exteriors not only look sleek but are also resistant to fingerprints and easy to clean. Internally, look for durable materials that withstand high temperatures; nonstick coatings are beneficial for easier food release and cleaning, but ensure they are robust.

Heat-resistant exteriors prevent accidental burns and protect adjacent cabinetry. For a blend of aesthetic appeal and resilient construction that will last, prioritize stainless steel builds with well-finished interiors.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you primarily need to toast bread and occasionally warm small items, choose a compact, basic toaster oven with a 4-slice capacity.
• If you want to prepare full meals, bake small dishes, and roast chicken, look for a larger toaster oven with convection heating and multiple cooking functions like bake and broil.
• If you’re looking for versatility and healthier cooking options, opt for an air fryer toaster oven combo, which can also handle baking, broiling, and toasting.
• If counter space is a major concern, consider a toaster oven with a flip-up design for easy storage.

Quick Best Toaster Or Toaster Oven Buying Checklist

• Size Matters: Ensure the toaster or toaster oven fits your available counter space and can accommodate the items you plan to cook.
• Capacity Needs: Determine if you need to toast multiple bread slices simultaneously or if you require oven-like capacity for larger items.
• Versatile Functions: Identify whether you prioritize simple toasting or desire additional features like baking, broiling, and reheating.
• Ease of Cleaning: Look for models with removable crumb trays and non-stick interiors for straightforward maintenance.
• Control Precision: Check for adjustable browning controls and clear settings for consistent results.
• Safety Features: Prioritize models with auto-shutoff functions and cool-touch exteriors for peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes A Toaster Oven Better Than A Standard Toaster For Snacks?

A toaster oven offers superior versatility for snacks beyond simple toast, excelling at reheating pastries, melting cheese on open-faced sandwiches, or even baking small cookies. Its internal oven chamber allows for more even heat distribution and varied cooking methods, making it ideal for a wider range of snack preparations.

How Does Capacity Influence The Choice Of A Toaster Or Toaster Oven?

Capacity is critical for determining how many items you can prepare at once. Standard toasters typically handle two to four slices of bread, while toaster ovens offer more space for bagels, thicker slices, or small baking dishes. Match the capacity to your household size and typical usage.

What Are The Key Differences In Functionality Between A Toaster And A Toaster Oven?

A standard toaster is designed specifically for browning bread slices, offering simple toasting functions. A toaster oven, however, provides a much broader range of cooking capabilities, including baking, broiling, roasting, and reheating small meals, in addition to toasting bread effectively.

Why Is A Removable Crumb Tray Important For A Toaster Or Toaster Oven?

A removable crumb tray is essential for easy cleaning and preventing burnt crumbs from accumulating and smoking. It allows for quick disposal of debris after each use, maintaining hygienic conditions and a better cooking environment within the appliance. Regularly cleaning this tray is key.

What Role Do Specific Cooking Presets Play In A Toaster Oven?

Cooking presets on a toaster oven simplify preparation by automatically adjusting time and temperature for common foods like pizzas, cookies, or bagels. This eliminates guesswork, ensuring more consistent and optimal results for these specific items without manual setting adjustments.

Final Words

Choosing the best toaster or toaster oven can significantly upgrade your kitchen’s efficiency and culinary range. From perfect toast to quick baked snacks, these appliances offer convenience and versatility for everyday needs. Investing in a quality unit can simplify meal prep and elevate your breakfast and snack routines.