Best Toaster Ovens: great models for different needs and budgets
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Darrian Wilkins - Last update: January 30, 2021
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From the moment you own a toaster oven, you know how important it is to have one in your kitchen. You can use it for so many things; from roasting vegetables and toasting bagels, to cooking a whole chicken.
A good toaster oven should be easy to use, clean, have optimal heat retention, and have a wide variety of functions.
1. Cuisinart Chef's Convection Toaster Oven TOB-260N1
- Spacious 0.95 cubic-foot capacity oven fits 13" pizza and 9" x 13" baking pan
- 1875 watts of power; 15 cooking functions, including innovative Dual Cook and Speed Convection; door sensor to activate oven; auto-slide out rack
- Digital controls with large blue backlit display and LED buttons; interior light; adjustable 2 hour timer and 2 hour automatic shutoff
We have selected Cuisinart TOB-260N1 as the best large toaster oven. It accommodates 9 slices of bread and even a 13-inch pizza. Compared to other large toaster ovens on this list, such as the Breville BOV900BSS, it comes at a lower price but with the same performance.
Another product with good inside capacity is the Black + Decker TO3265XSSD; however, it is missing dehydrating and proofing mode, and its performance is not as well-reviewed as the Cuisinart toaster ovens.
Most buyers have stated that this model has long durability, can be used to cook in 15 different modes, and it has the longest warranty of all the ovens mentioned on this list; hence, we recommend it.
Things We Love
- Fast preheating – It reaches 350°F in little time.
- Large interior – It has a 0.95 cubic foot capacity to fit up to 9 slices of bread, or even a 13’’ pizza.
- Versatility – Can you believe this model offers up to 15 different cooking functions? Choose your favorite among Toast, Bagel, Waffle, Keep Warm, Bake, Broil, Roast, Pizza, Leftovers, Sandwich, Dual Cook, +30s, Convection Cooking Settings, and Defrost.
- Interior visibility – It includes an oven light button that illuminates for 2 minutes.
- LCD – Customers have stated that thanks to it, they can clearly see the cooking function, time of cooking, temperature, and more.
- 3-year warranty – If you complete the product registration online at Cuisinart’s website, you will benefit from a limited 3-year warranty.
What’s Not to Like
- The price – It can be out of many people’s budgets; however, buyers have stated that it’s worth the investment.
- Chemical smell – Some users have remarked that it emits a strong smell after some months of use.
Our score: 4.3 out of 5
Alternative options
2. Panasonic Flash Xpress NB-G110P
- Double Infrared Heating High Efficiency Quartz and Ceramic Infrared Heating Elements are positioned in the front and back to evenly toast, bake, brown and reheat to perfection
- Precise temperature control easily bake piping hot fresh breads and prepared meals, an endless variety of tasty side dishes, home made hors d’oeuvres and more with a convenient manual touch button temperature control sensor
- See through glass door the resilient, see through door is connected to the baking rack to smoothly and safely pull the rack toward you as the door is opened
We have chosen Panasonic Flash Xpress NB-G110P as the best small toaster oven. This product can fit four slices of bread, so it is perfect for individual use. Compared to Hamilton Beach 31401, it has better features, such as double infrared heating for better cooking results and, it has six cooking settings instead of three.
It is more expensive than the Hamilton model, but its performance is superior; hence, many customers have stated that it is worth the investment.
Things We Love
- Double Infrared Heating – It has high-efficiency quartz and ceramic heating elements that will make you toast, bake and reheat to perfection.
- No preheating needed – You don’t need to wait for the appliance to preheat; hence, the toasting process is 40% faster.
- Easy to use – Buyers have indicated that the product is very easy to use due to its preset cooking buttons that automatically calculate toasting times and browning levels.
- Accessories included – It includes an inner tray and baking and removable crumb trays.
- Easy to clean – Customers have indicated that it is a breeze to clean, thanks to its removable trays.
What’s Not to Like
- A flaw with the infrared light – There are some negative reviews about the infrared light because it apparently stops working after some months of usage.
- Customer service – There is negative feedback about customer service. Some people have stated that it is not a quick process and, besides, you need to cover the shipping expenses (although most warranties don’t include shipping costs).
Our score: 4.5 out of 5
Alternative options
3. Breville Smart Oven Air
- The Breville Smart Oven Air with Element iQ System is a versatile countertop oven allowing you to roast, air fry and dehydrate; Use super convection to reduce cooking time by up to 30% and choose from 13 cooking functions; Includes an interior oven light
- Element iQ System: Using 6 independent quartz elements, smart algorithms steer power to where and when it's needed to create the ideal cooking environment; Sensing and digital PID temperature control eliminates cold spots for precise and even cooking
- Air Fry & Dehydrate Settings: Air fry French fries and other family favorites; Higher temperatures combined with super convection (maximized air flow) deliver crispy golden air fried foods; Dehydrate a wide range of food, up to 4 trays of goodness at once
If you are looking for the toaster oven with the best reviews, this is your option. Breville Smart Oven Air has a large interior, it doesn’t leave cold spots in your foods, it’s easy to use, and it has over ten cooking settings, including dehydrate and proof.
It is the most expensive oven from this list; however, we recommend it because the majority of customers rely on it and advise to purchase it. Sure, there might be cheaper options like TOA-65, but compared to Breville toaster oven, it has more negative reviews about its performance.
Things We Love
- Large capacity – Its inside measures are 16’’ x 7’’ x 13.5’’. You can fit a large pizza without an issue, or roast a 14-lb turkey.
- Cooking results – It uses a technology called Element IQ, which moves the power where it’s needed; therefore, there are no cold spots in your foods, and they turn out perfectly even.
- Many cooking functions – Besides toasting, you can choose one of its 13 cooking functions. The most popular are dehydrating and proofing.
- Illuminated interior – You don’t have to open the door of the oven and let the heat go away to check on your food.
- LCD display for cooking settings – Most users have stated that this is a very practical feature since they can forget about the instructions manual.
What’s Not to Like
- Expensive – The price is important for customers, and this model is not a cheap one. However, it is the best reviewed toaster oven for a reason; so, if you can afford it, you won’t regret it.
- Door issue – After some months of use, some buyers stated that the door didn’t close properly. The clients that experienced this problem used the 2-year warranty and got a new unit.
Our score: 4.6 out of 5
Alternative options
4. Cuisinart TOA-65 Convection Toaster Oven Air Fryer
- Specially engineered 1800-watt motor, fan and heater deliver high-velocity, high-heat airflow for perfectly fried results with minimal noise
- 0.6 cu. feet. capacity. Wide range of toaster oven functions: bake, broil, pizza, roast, toast, bagel, reheat, Warm, dual cook
- Low temperature setting to slow cook, braise and more. Plus, dedicated functions for dehydrating and proofing
Cuisinart TOA-65 can accommodate a 4-pound chicken, and it has digital controls for easy use. Compared to similar toasters like Cuisinart TOA-60, it has better features, such as preset functions and slow cooking options.
Things We Love
- Get creative – Besides, air frying, you can choose among many cooking options, such as warm, toast, broil, convection broil, convection bake, regular bake, roast, reheat, and dual cook. It also has a dehydrated and proofing mode.
- Great capacity – You will be able to fit a 4-pound chicken in it; hence, if you have a large family, it won’t be an issue.
- Dishwasher safe – Even though you need to hand wash the oven rack and the crumb tray, the baking pan and air fryer basket are both dishwashers safe.
- Quiet appliance – Unlike other air fryer toaster ovens, buyers have pointed out that this one is nearly muted while cooking.
- Extended warranty – If you register your product online and keep the original proof of purchase date, you can extend your 1-year warranty for another two years.
What’s Not to Like
- It runs hot – If you follow the time and temperature recommendations of the accompanying booklet, you may burn your food. Some customers indicated that it’s best to set the oven 40-50 degrees less.
Our score: 4.2 out of 5
Alternative options
5. Black + Decker TO3265XSSD
- Air fry technology - deep fried taste without the fat!
- 5 cooking functions - bake, broil, toast, keep Warm & air fry. Wattage:1500W
- Extra large capacity - 8 slices of bread, 12" Pizza, 9” x 13” pan with handles
The Black + Decker TO3265XSSD made it into our list as the toaster oven with the best value. It is ideal for numerous families, offers a wide range of cooking options, and it is a budget option.
It might not be as modern as Breville Smart Oven Air or TOA-65, and it lacks some cooking options like dehydrate and proof, but you still get the air fry option, which is a very demanded one.
The reviews about its durability are excellent, as well as the ones regarding its cooking results; therefore, we recommend it. You will gain a lot for the price you will pay.
Things We Love
- Lightweight – Users have stated that this model is easy to move around.
- Different cooking settings – You will have the option of baking, broiling, warming, toasting, and even air frying.
- Small appliance with a large interior – There is much positive feedback about this aspect. People looking for an appliance that doesn’t take all of their counter space but that fits a whole pizza, love this oven.
- Durability – Budget ovens are usually made out of plastic, but this model is made from stainless steel. It is long-lasting and easy to clean.
- Safety timer – It automatically shuts off after 60 minutes for safety purposes.
What’s Not to Like
- No instructions – The majority of negative comments are regarding the lack of a cooking guide.
- Learning curve – The time to adjust to it is longer, especially without a cooking guide.
Our score: 4.4 out of 5
Alternative options
6. Oster TSSTTVMNDG-SHP-2
- 6 slice convection toaster oven for faster, more even cooking. This Oster Large Digital Countertop Oven can fit up a pan with the measure of 2 inches height, 10.5 inches width and 12.5 inches length
- Convection technology and a wide temperature range of 150 to 450 degrees F let you cook with the convenience of an oven
- Digital controls with 7 cooking settings and an interior light for easy viewing
Oster appliances are known for being easy to use. We selected this oven on our list because it the simplest to use, and users have stated it has an excellent performance in all of its seven cooking settings.
There is much positive feedback about its digital controls, and while there are other models on our list that have a digital panel like TOA-65, this one is much cheaper.
It also has one of the best-reviewed designs. It has a black/polished look that will enhance your counter.
Things We Love
- Capacity – The oven measures 19.72 w x 16.29 d x 11.33 h inches, with a 31.5-inch cord. You can accommodate a 12’ pizza with room to spare, and up to 6 slices of bread.
- Digital controls – You can select any of the seven cooking settings with the easy-to-use digital pad.
- Easy viewing – Thanks to the interior light, you can easily check on your food.
- Design – Many customers have remarked that the black/polished design looks very classy.
What’s Not to Like
- Inconsistent temperature – Some negative reviews point that the oven runs hot, and you need to adjust cooking times.
- The door gets hot – There is negative feedback about the insulation of the oven. The door gets too hot, and you need to use an oven mitt to avoid getting hurt.
Our score: 4.4 out of 5
Alternative options
7. Hamilton Beach 4-slice toaster oven
- Fits 4 Slices of Toast or a 9 Inches Pizza: Spacious Interior Can Fit Everything From Snacks to Suppers Without Taking Up Too Much Counter Space
- Saves Time and Energy: Uses up to 75 Percent Less Energy and Is 28 Percent Faster Than a Typical Kitchen Oven When Reheating Precooked Frozen Chicken Nuggets
- Toast, Bake & Broil Settings: Adjustable Temperature and Included Bake and Broil Pan Makes It Easy to Cook a Variety of Foods
We selected Hamilton Beach 31401 as the best small toaster oven with the lowest price. It is not as fancy as the Panasonic Flash Xpress NB-G110P, but it is the best option for you if you are looking for something simple with the basic cooking options – toasting, baking, and broiling.
The Panasonic model indeed has a wider range of cooking options, and its performance reviews are better, but it is also more expensive. It’s up to you to weigh the pros and cons, but we recommend this product if what you need is a small good toaster and save some money.
Things We love
- Energy friendly – It uses 75% percent less energy than a conventional oven.
- Perfect for toast, bake and broil – You can toast up to 4 slices of your favorite bread, bake 9’’ pizzas, and broil steaks or salmons.
- Easy cleanup – Clients have mentioned that it is very easy to clean its stainless steel exterior.
- 30-minute timer – It auto shuts after 30 minutes, which gives users tranquility. Besides, it has a ready bell.
What’s Not to Like
- The warranty – This model has a 1-year warranty only. Some customers have mentioned that it should be extendable.
- The cord is too short – There is some negative feedback regarding the cord’s size. Some people have mentioned that it is too short (less than 2.5 feet), so you have to plug it right in front of the outlet.
Our score: 4.2 out of 5
Alternative options
Short toaster oven guide
An alternative appliance for crispy toasty deliciousness is the toaster oven. Many people might prefer it over a standard toaster because it has many functions.
What is a toaster oven?
It’s different than a microwave oven, in that the heat source is different. It operates like a small oven for reheating, baking and broiling as well as toasting.
What can you make in a toaster oven?
Toaster ovens generally have heating elements both on top and bottom for different functions. They distribute dry heat so they can be used for foods intended to have crispy texture or caramelization. Apart from toasting bread, you can use a toaster oven for toasting sandwiches, roasting vegetables, baking, broiling or reheating various meals.
The advantage of toaster ovens compared to conventional ovens is that the smaller space heats up much faster and doesn’t use as much energy. They are great for saving space in the kitchen as well.
How do you use a toaster oven?
Depending on your toaster oven, you can select various functions and uses. For toasting bread, place the bread flat on the toaster rack and select the appropriate setting and time on the dial. Most toasters make a sound when the toast is ready. An advantage to the toaster oven is that it has more space, so you can toast multiple slices at once, or combine bread and other baked goods in one go.
How do you clean your toaster oven?
Since there are more elements to the toaster oven, you’d think it would be more complicated to clean, but it’s really not. With the following simple steps you can always enjoy a clean toaster oven:
- As always, unplug the appliance before you clean it.
- Open the toaster and dump out any crumbs or food bits that might be stuck inside.
- Remove the rack and the tray and wash them in the sink with warm soapy water. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before putting them back in the toaster.
- For the interior, you can use a solution of vinegar, water, and dish soap, that’s mild and will not damage the appliance. Wipe the inside with a soft cloth and try not to get liquid on the heating elements.
- For the glass door, you can use diluted vinegar to wipe it down and clean it.
- For the outside of the appliance, you can use a mild cleaning product and a soft cloth to get rid of any dirt and food that might be stuck on it.
TIP: You can use a handy non-stick oven liner for the bottom of your toaster oven. That will catch any drips and grease from cooking and then you can easily remove it and dispose of it without having to clean the drip tray.
