The best toaster or toaster oven is a kitchen workhorse, delivering convenience and versatility for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re toasting bagels, reheating leftovers, or baking a small batch of cookies, the ideal appliance can significantly elevate your meal preparation. However, the market is flooded with options, and a misstep can lead to wasted counter space and disappointing results.
Factors like capacity, heating elements, pre-set functions, and ease of cleaning vary widely, impacting how effectively and efficiently you can cook. This curated list guides you to the top 10 models, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your specific kitchen demands and cooking style.
For those seeking the best toaster or toaster oven, versatility and compact design are key features. The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven offers 5-in-1 functionality including air fry, bake, broil, toast, and keep warm, making it a strong contender for versatile countertop cooking. Other notable options include the Breville Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven for its Element iQ System and the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo for its space-saving design, both handling tasks like pizza and toasting efficiently.
Best Toaster or Toaster Oven: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver Best for: Everyday use | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, Best for: Air frying | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo | 8-in-1 Functionality | Best for: Versatile cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small, Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Best for: Family meals | Check Price |
How We Picked
To select the best toaster or toaster oven, we prioritized real-world performance, build quality, and safety above all else. We thoroughly evaluated each model’s versatility, looking at features like air frying and convection cooking, evident in options like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake and Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven. Durability and user-friendly interfaces, exemplified by the Panasonic FlashXpress’s connected rack and auto shut-off, were crucial.
Models offering exceptional value through multiple functions and sturdy construction, such as the Breville Mini Smart Countertop Oven, naturally rose to the top, while less robust or specialized units were ruled out.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Toasting Evenness: Beyond Just Browning
When evaluating toaster ovens, look beyond basic toast functions. Pay attention to how consistently heat is distributed, especially for multi-slice toasting. Models like the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD or the Panasonic FlashXpress claim to accommodate multiple slices, but the true test is whether they deliver uniform browning across all four.
Consider if a convection feature, found in models like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry models, contributes to more even results by circulating air, preventing hot spots and ensuring golden perfection every time.
Space-Saving Storage Solutions
Countertop real estate is precious, making storage a key consideration for toaster ovens. While many boast compact footprints, think about where it will live when not in use. The Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo offers an innovative flip-up design for easy storage against your backsplash, a significant advantage for smaller kitchens.
If vertical storage isn’t an option, assess the overall dimensions and ensure it won’t overwhelm your workspace or cupboards. Think about how often you’ll be moving it.
1. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
Best for: Compact daily use, toast, snacks.
This BLACK+DECKER toaster oven fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread thanks to its curved interior, enabling even cooking for small meals and reheating.
Across its four functions, baking, broiling, toasting, or keeping food warm, natural convection airflow circulates heat. A 10-minute preheat ensures consistent cooking results for a variety of foods.
Pros
- Accommodates 9-inch pizza for small meals
- Four versatile cooking functions available
- Curved interior promotes even heat circulation
- Compact footprint for limited counter space
Cons
- Natural convection may require a 10-minute preheat for optimal results.
This model is ideal for individuals or couples needing a basic toaster oven for everyday tasks. It’s perfect for toasting bread, reheating leftovers, or baking small dishes simply and efficiently.
2. BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven,
Best for: Health-conscious family meals, air frying.
This BLACK+DECKER toaster oven utilizes healthy air frying technology, allowing you to cook crispy foods with little to no oil.
With five cooking functions including Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm, it offers versatile meal preparation. Its Eventoast technology is designed to achieve perfect toast results for multiple slices.
Pros
- Healthy air frying with minimal oil
- Five versatile cooking functions
- Eventoast technology for better toast
- Accommodates various meal preparations
Cons
- Limited capacity for family-sized portions when air frying.
This toaster oven is a great option for those looking to make healthier versions of fried foods without sacrificing taste. It’s suitable for singles or couples who enjoy a variety of cooked meals and snacks.
3. Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo | 8-in-1 Functionality |
Best for: Space-saving, versatile family cooking.
Reclaim 50% of your counter space by flipping this Ninja oven up and away to store against your backsplash.
With 8-in-1 functionality including Air fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Pizza, Toast, Bagel, and Dehydrate, it offers extensive cooking options. The OvenCrisp technology uses infrared heating and rapid air circulation for edge-to-edge cooking.
Pros
- Stores vertically, saving 50% counter space
- Eight versatile cooking functions
- OvenCrisp technology for even cooking
- Large capacity for 6 slices of bread or 12″ pizza
Cons
- Vertical storage may not fit all under-cabinet spaces.
This multi-functional oven is perfect for families who want to maximize their kitchen real estate without compromising on cooking capabilities. It handles everything from weeknight dinners to breakfast bagels efficiently.
4. Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small,
Best for: Precision cooking, small batch baking.
The Breville Mini Smart Countertop Oven utilizes an Element iQ System with 5 independent quartz elements to steer power precisely where and when needed.
This system creates a tailored cooking environment for precise results, with a fast 1800 Watt preheat. It offers 8 cooking functions for preparing pizza, cookies, and golden toast in its compact size.
Pros
- Element iQ System for precise cooking
- Fast 1800 Watt preheat time
- Eight dedicated cooking functions
- Tailored cooking environments for specific foods
Cons
- Small capacity limits larger batch cooking.
This mini oven is ideal for individuals or couples focused on achieving precise results in smaller batch cooking. It’s a smart choice for those who frequently make items like cookies, pizzas, or toast with exacting standards.
5. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Best for: Large gatherings, French door convenience.
This Emeril Lagasse French Door Toaster Oven features a 1700-watt output for versatile air frying and multi-cooking capabilities.
Its dual-speed fan circulates 360º superheated air for golden fried crisping. The oven includes an automatic shut-off feature when the toast count-down timer ends, preventing burnt toast.
Pros
- 1700-watt power for rapid cooking
- Dual-speed fan for 360º air circulation
- Automatic shut-off prevents burnt toast
- French door design offers wide access
Cons
- Requires dedicated counter space due to its size.
This extra-large toaster oven is suited for larger families or those who frequently entertain guests. The French door design and powerful air frying make it excellent for preparing a wide range of dishes, from snacks to full meals.
6. BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fryer Countertop Convection Toaster Oven,
Best for: Family-sized meals, healthy frying.
Achieve up to 75% less fat in your meals with the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fryer’s technology using hot air circulation.
This appliance offers 5-in-1 versatility, including air fry, bake, broil, toast, and keep warm functions. Its large capacity interior fits six slices of toast or a 12-inch pizza, making it great for family dinners.
Pros
- Reduced fat cooking with air fry technology
- Large capacity fits 12″ pizza
- Five versatile cooking options
- Crispy results without excess oil
Cons
- Heating element placement may not be ideal for all baking tasks.
This model is perfect for families seeking to enjoy fried foods with a healthier approach. Its substantial capacity makes it a strong contender for preparing meals for multiple people efficiently.
7. Cuisinart Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler, 1800 Watt Countertop Toaster
Best for: High-power family cooking, consistent toasting.
The Cuisinart Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler delivers 1800 watts of high-performance power for a wide range of cooking functions.
Its 0.5-cubic feet interior capacity allows toasting 6 slices of bread or baking an 11-inch pizza. Always Even Shade Control monitors toasting temperature for consistent results every time.
Pros
- 1800-watt power for fast cooking
- 0.5-cubic feet spacious interior
- Always Even Shade Control for consistent toast
- Accommodates 6 slices of bread or an 11″ pizza
Cons
- No dedicated air fry function.
This high-wattage toaster oven is ideal for those who need robust performance for baking, broiling, and toasting. It’s well-suited for families who frequently prepare larger meals and desire consistent results.
8. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection, Stainless Steel, TO1760SS
Best for: Compact everyday use, quick meals.
This BLACK+DECKER 4-slice toaster oven features natural convection technology for fast, even cooking within its compact stainless steel design.
With 1150W of power, it offers four cooking functions: convection bake, broil, toast, and keep warm. The 30-minute timer includes a stay-on function for longer baking tasks.
Pros
- Natural convection for even heat
- 1150W power for quick cooking
- Includes stay-on function for timers
- Compact size fits a 9″ pizza or 4 bread slices
Cons
- Timer maxes out at 30 minutes, requiring resets for longer cooks.
This compact toaster oven is a practical choice for smaller households or those with limited counter space needing a reliable appliance. It is efficient for toasting, quick baking, and reheating small portions.
9. Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven and Long Slot 2
Best for: Dual functionality, compact kitchens.
This Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 appliance replaces both a standalone toaster and a countertop oven, saving valuable space.
Offering 16.5 L of cooking space, it provides versatility to bake, broil, and toast, suitable for one-pan meals. It features 2 rack positions and can accommodate a 9″ pizza or 3/4 lb. of fries.
Pros
- Combines toaster and oven functions
- 16.5 L spacious interior
- 2 rack positions for versatile cooking
- Accommodates a 9″ pizza or 4 slices of bread
Cons
- Toasting slots are long, not traditional wide slots.
This 2-in-1 appliance is perfect for individuals or small families in compact living spaces who want the functionality of two appliances in one. It’s ideal for streamlining breakfast preparation and simple meal cooking.
10. Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop, 4-Slice Small Toaster Oven Compact
Best for: Quick toasting, small counter spaces.
The Panasonic FlashXpress toaster oven utilizes double infrared heating for quick and efficient toasting, baking, and browning.
With 1300W of power, it features six 1-touch presets for common foods, plus reheat and defrost options. A connected baking rack pulls out with the door for safe and easy access to your food.
Pros
- Double infrared heating for speed
- Six 1-touch cooking presets
- Auto shut-off prevents overcooking
- Rack connected to door for safety and ease
Cons
- Small interior limits what can be cooked simultaneously.
This compact toaster oven is excellent for individuals or couples prioritizing speed and convenience for everyday tasks. It’s ideal for quickly toasting bread or bagels and reheating small portions of food.
Air Fryer Oven Feature Creep vs. Core Utility
When evaluating a countertop oven, the single most important consideration is whether its additional features genuinely enhance your cooking or merely inflate the price and complexity. Many potential buyers get bogged down in the burgeoning air fryer toaster oven category, chasing multi-functional gadgets that offer capabilities they rarely, if ever, will utilize.
Consider the distinction between a foundational appliance and a jack-of-all-trades. The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, for example, offers a straightforward 4-slice capacity and a 9-inch pizza capability. It focuses on core toaster oven functions like toasting, baking, and broiling.
In contrast, models like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven and the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo introduce air frying, broiling, dehydrating, and other distinct cooking modes. While these advanced functions can be appealing, a key question for any buyer is the frequency of their actual use.
The Cuisinart Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler, with its 1800 watts and versatile cooking functions including toast, bagel, bake, broil, and pizza, represents a middle ground that often proves more practical for the average household than highly specialized units. Similarly, the Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven targets efficiency and core functionality. The inclusion of air fry on a unit like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fryer Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, while seemingly an advantage, can lead to sticker shock without a corresponding increase in the types of meals you’ll consistently prepare.
The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven, for instance, boasts a larger capacity and air frying but comes with a price tag and footprint that may not be justified for simple reheating or toast preparation.
The trap lies in assuming that more functions equate to better value. For many, the added complexity of air frying or dehydrating settings is unnecessary clutter. The Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, with its Element iQ System, aims for precision in basic functions, a goal that a truly effective best toaster or toaster oven should prioritize.
Often, the most significant differentiator isn’t the presence of air frying, but the quality and control of the fundamental bake, toast, and broil functions, alongside ease of cleaning and compact design.
Ultimately, the most discerning buyer will prioritize reliable execution of core tasks over a laundry list of niche cooking methods, making a simple toaster oven like the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection, TO1760SS, a surprisingly robust choice for those not seeking advanced culinary features.
What to Look For in a Best Toaster or Toaster Oven
Capacity and size
A toaster oven capable of toasting four slices of bread, like the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven (TO1760SS), offers more family-friendly convenience than a two-slice model. For oven functionalities, consider the internal capacity relative to your cooking needs. The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, for instance, accommodates a 9-inch pizza or four bread slices within its compact footprint, making it suitable for smaller households or simpler meals.
Those needing to prepare larger dishes or cook for more people might find the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven more appropriate, designed for larger gatherings. Another crucial factor is the countertop footprint; some models, such as the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, are engineered for space-saving storage by flipping up against the backsplash, reclaiming valuable counter space when not in use.
Always measure your available counter space and consider the typical items you plan to cook to ensure a perfect fit.
Functionality and settings
The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven boasts a 30-minute timer, a valuable feature for ensuring your food is cooked perfectly without burning. Beyond simple toasting, consider toaster ovens with specialized functions like bake, broil, and convection; the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven offers 5-in-1 versatility including air fry, bake, broil, toast, and keep warm. If you frequently find yourself needing to thaw frozen items, look for models with dedicated defrost modes, though many appliances like the Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven are designed for rapid heating and can achieve similar results quickly through their 1-Touch settings.
Adjustable browning controls, such as those found on most toasters, allow you to fine-tune your toast to your exact preference, from lightly golden to a deeper brown. Automatic shut-off, a safety feature present on units like the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven, provides peace of mind by preventing overcooking and potential hazards.
Design and materials
A toaster oven’s exterior finish not only impacts its aesthetic on your countertop but also its durability. You’ll find options like the sleek stainless steel on the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven TO1760SS, which offers a classic look, or models in black that can blend seamlessly with other appliances. Beyond the shell, the interior material plays a crucial role in both cooking performance and cleanup.
A nonstick interior coating, often found in models like the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD, makes it easier to wipe away grease and food residue, especially after broiling or baking. For ultimate ease of maintenance, look for a removable crumb tray, a feature designed to catch errant crumbs from toasting bagels or bread slices, preventing them from accumulating within the oven.
This thoughtful design element, evident in many popular toaster ovens, significantly simplifies the post-cooking cleanup process.
Quick Best Toaster Or Toaster Oven Buying Checklist
- Consider Capacity: Decide if a 2-slot or 4-slot toaster meets your household’s needs.
- Evaluate Oven Functions: For toaster ovens, check for bake, broil, convection, and air fry capabilities.
- Check Size: Ensure adequate counter space and that oven models fit intended cookware.
- Look at Controls: Aim for intuitive settings and clear shade selection dials or digital displays.
- Prioritize Easy Cleaning: A removable crumb tray is essential for maintaining hygiene.
- Material Matters: Stainless steel exteriors offer durability and a premium look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Primary Difference Between A Toaster And A Toaster Oven?
A toaster primarily toasts bread slices using heating elements. A toaster oven is more versatile, capable of toasting, baking, broiling, and reheating small meals, offering expanded functionality beyond simple bread toasting.
How Does Convection Cooking Work In A Toaster Oven?
Convection cooking in a toaster oven utilizes a fan to circulate hot air evenly. This promotes faster and more uniform cooking, resulting in crispier textures for items like roasted vegetables or baked goods.
What Interior Dimensions Should I Look For In An Oven-Style Toaster?
For oven-style models, consider interior dimensions that can accommodate common bakeware, such as a 9×13 inch pan. This ensures you can prepare a wider range of meals beyond just toast.
Are Digital Or Manual Controls Better For A Toaster Or Toaster Oven?
Digital controls offer precise temperature and time adjustments, which can be beneficial for various cooking functions in a toaster oven. Manual controls are often simpler for basic toasting needs in a standard toaster.
How Important Is A Removable Crumb Tray On A Toaster Or Toaster Oven?
A removable crumb tray is crucial for easy cleaning and preventing burnt crumb buildup, which can affect performance and create odors. It significantly simplifies maintenance for both toaster and toaster oven models.
Final Words
Investing in the best toaster or toaster oven can significantly enhance your kitchen’s efficiency and versatility. From perfect morning toast to quick weeknight meals, these appliances offer convenience and consistent results. Upgrade your countertop with a reliable model that suits your needs and enjoy culinary ease.