Are you tired of waiting ages for your oven to preheat just to toast a bagel or warm up a slice of pizza? Or perhaps your old toaster just isn’t cutting it anymore, leaving you with unevenly browned bread? If you’re on the hunt for the best toaster oven that can do it all – from perfect toast to crispy air-fried treats – you’ve come to the right place!
Toaster ovens and dedicated toasters have become kitchen workhorses, offering incredible versatility and convenience in a compact footprint. They’re perfect for small kitchens, busy mornings, or just when you don’t want to fire up your main oven. We’ve scoured the market to bring you a handpicked selection of top-rated appliances, blending functionality, design, and user-friendliness. Whether you’re a gourmet cook or just looking to elevate your breakfast game, we’ve got something for everyone. Let’s dive into our reviews and help you find the perfect counter companion!
Our Top Picks for the Best Toaster Ovens and Toasters
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Convection Oven, Stainless Steel
This compact BLACK+DECKER convection oven is a real space-saver, perfect for smaller kitchens or anyone needing a reliable, multi-functional appliance without sacrificing too much counter space. Don’t let its size fool you; its curved interior is cleverly designed to accommodate a 9-inch pizza or up to four slices of bread, making it incredibly versatile for everyday meals and snacks. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a dependable best toaster over your counter that handles more than just toast.
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Key Features:
- Compact design fits 9” pizzas and 4 slices of bread
- Four cooking functions: baking, broiling, toasting, and keeping food warm
- 30-Minute Timer with precise toast settings and stay-on functionality
- Removable Crumb Tray for easy cleaning
- Dimensions: 16.4 x 11.3 x 9.4 Inches
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Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Compact size ideal for small spaces
- Easy to operate with straightforward dials
- Convection heating ensures even cooking
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Cons:
- Limited capacity compared to larger models
- Timer can be a bit tricky to set for very precise times
- Exterior can get hot during operation
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User Impressions: Customers love this oven for its simplicity and efficiency, especially for quick meals and snacks. Many highlight its ability to toast evenly and bake small items effectively, making it a beloved appliance for daily use. It’s often praised as a reliable basic toaster oven.
- See it on Amazon here
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill, 1800W
Talk about a kitchen powerhouse! The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a premium 1800-watt appliance that truly does it all. From air frying crispy chicken wings to baking a 12-inch pizza, this unit is a game-changer for meal prep. Its AirAdvantage technology ensures quick and even cooking, delivering that perfect crispy texture you crave. If you’re looking for the best toaster oven that offers unparalleled versatility, this Cuisinart model should be high on your list.
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Key Features:
- Versatile cooking functions: air fry, toast, convection bake, bake, convection broil, broil, grill, warm
- Spacious capacity: toasts 6 slices, air fries 3 lbs. of wings, bakes 12” pizza, roasts 4-lb. chicken
- Adjustable temperature dial (Warm-450°F) and 60-minute timer/auto-shutoff
- AirAdvantage technology for fast and crispy results
- Includes oven rack, baking pan/drip tray, air fry basket, ceramic non-stick reversible grill/griddle
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Pros:
- Exceptional multi-functionality
- Large capacity for family-sized meals
- Superior air frying performance
- High-quality construction and included accessories
- Easy-clean stainless steel interior
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Cons:
- Higher price point
- Can take up significant counter space
- Exterior can get quite hot during use
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User Impressions: Users rave about this Cuisinart’s ability to replace multiple appliances. The air frying feature is a particular favorite, yielding restaurant-quality crispness. While it’s an investment, customers feel it’s well worth the cost for its performance and convenience, making it a top contender for the best toaster oven experience.
- See it on Amazon here
Ninja ST101 Foodi 2-in-1 Flip Toaster, 2-Slice Capacity
Innovation meets convenience with the Ninja ST101 Foodi 2-in-1 Flip Toaster. This unique appliance flips from a traditional slot toaster to a compact toaster oven, offering incredible space-saving functionality. Its rapid oven technology means no preheating is required, cooking up to 35% faster than a full-size electric oven. Whether you’re toasting thick artisan bread or baking pizza bagels, this device has you covered. It’s an ingenious solution for anyone with limited counter space looking for a versatile kitchen gadget.
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Key Features:
- 2-in-1 flip functionality: Toaster and Compact Toaster Oven
- Perfect Toast: More even toasting than traditional slot toasters
- Versatile functions: Toast, Bagel, Defrost, Bake, Broil, Reheat
- 70% wider slot for artisan breads and bagels, 7 shade settings
- Rapid Oven Technology with no preheat required, cooks up to 35% faster
- Compact oven capacity: fits 2 thick slices, 16 nuggets, 8″ open-face sandwich, 2 pizza bagels
- Easy cleaning with crumb tray in both modes
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Pros:
- Incredible space-saver
- Fast cooking with no preheat
- Excellent, even toasting
- Versatile for small meals and snacks
- Easy to clean
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Cons:
- Limited oven capacity compared to full toaster ovens
- Requires flipping, which might not be ideal for everyone
- Only two slices for toasting
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User Impressions: Customers absolutely love the innovative flip design and the speed of the oven functions. It’s highly praised for its ability to toast perfectly and for its rapid baking capabilities, especially for quick snacks. Users feel it’s a great addition for small kitchens that need both a toaster and a compact oven.
- See it on Amazon here
Revolution R180 Connect Smart Toaster, 2-Slice High-Speed
Stepping into the future of breakfast, the Revolution R180 Connect Smart Toaster is a premium, high-tech appliance designed for consistently perfect toast. With InstaGLO 2.0 technology, it reaches full heat in just two seconds, searing the outside for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft. Its smart connectivity features, like Wi-Fi and weather updates, add a touch of modern convenience. This isn’t just a toaster; it’s a smart kitchen companion, offering an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
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Key Features:
- Consistently perfect toast with algorithms for dozens of bread types
- InstaGLO 2.0 heating technology reaches full heat in 2 seconds for faster, tastier results
- 3-tap touchscreen interface for bread type, browning level, and fresh/frozen/reheat options
- Extra-wide slots fit thick slices and bagels
- Smart connectivity: Wi-Fi, auto-sets clock, weather forecast, crumb tray reminders
- Optional Toastie Press accessory for grilled cheese and paninis (sold separately)
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Pros:
- Extremely fast toasting
- Consistently perfect, customizable results
- Intuitive and easy-to-use touchscreen
- Smart features add convenience
- Sleek, modern design
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Cons:
- High price point for a toaster
- Limited to toasting functions unless Toastie Press is purchased
- Some users may find the smart features unnecessary
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed with the speed and precision of this smart toaster. The InstaGLO technology gets high marks for its ability to produce perfectly toasted bread every time. While acknowledging the premium price, many feel it’s a worthwhile splurge for its performance and modern conveniences.
- See it on Amazon here
Heat Resistant Mat for Countertop Ovens – Over Toaster Oven Shelf
While not a toaster itself, this Heat Resistant Mat is an ingenious accessory that perfectly complements your countertop appliances, including your best toaster over or oven. Designed to maximize kitchen space, this multi-functional silicone tray acts as both a protective mat and a storage rack. It shields your surfaces from high temperatures and spills while providing easy access to spices or other essentials you might place on top of your toaster oven. It’s a clever way to keep your kitchen organized and safe.
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Key Features:
- Space-saving design maximizes countertop organization
- High-quality, versatile silicone material
- Heat-resistant, ideal for use under or on top of toaster ovens and microwaves
- Easy to clean, non-stick, oven-proof, dishwasher safe
- Multi-purpose functionality: mat, storage tray, over-oven shelf
- Dimensions: 14.75” x 11” to fit many brands and models
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Pros:
- Excellent for protecting countertops from heat and spills
- Adds valuable storage space above appliances
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Durable and versatile
- Compatible with a wide range of appliances
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Cons:
- Not an appliance itself, but an accessory
- May not fit all oddly shaped toaster ovens
- Some users might prefer a solid, non-flexible shelf
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User Impressions: Customers absolutely love this mat for its practical design and protective qualities. It’s frequently praised for creating extra storage and keeping kitchen surfaces clean and safe. Many consider it a must-have for anyone with a countertop oven, calling it a simple yet effective kitchen organizer.
- See it on Amazon here
Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler
The Cuisinart TOB-40N is a custom classic for a reason – it delivers reliable performance with a timeless design. This 1800-watt toaster oven broiler offers a fantastic range of functions, from toasting and baking to broiling and pizza. It’s large enough to fit an 11-inch pizza or 6 slices of toast, making it a great all-rounder for small families or individuals. The Always Even™ toast shade control is a standout feature, ensuring consistent results every time, which is exactly what you want from your best toaster oven.
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Key Features:
- Endless functions: toast, bagel, bake, broil, pizza, keep warm
- Capacity: fits 11-inch pizza or 6 slices of toast (.5-cubic feet)
- Always Even™ toast shade control for consistent results
- Stainless steel front with cool-touch handle and easy-grip dials
- Easy-clean nonstick interior, automatic shutoff safety feature
- Convenient auto-slide rack for easy food removal
- Includes baking pan, wire rack, removable crumb tray, and recipe book
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Pros:
- Excellent toasting and baking performance
- Consistent results thanks to Always Even™ technology
- Durable stainless steel design
- Easy to clean with nonstick interior
- Good capacity for its size
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Cons:
- No air frying function
- Temperature control can be less precise than digital models
- Exterior can get hot
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the TOB-40N for its reliable performance and durability. The even toasting and baking capabilities are often highlighted as superior, and the ease of cleaning is a definite plus. Many consider it a solid, no-frills workhorse that gets the job done consistently well.
- See it on Amazon here
Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware
If space is at a premium, the Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is an absolute dream. With its sleek 3.58-inch profile, it truly lives up to its “Fits-anywhere™” name, making it ideal for cramped countertops, dorms, or RVs. But don’t let its slim design fool you; the extra-wide, 10-inch long slot perfectly accommodates two slices of bread side-by-side or even thick artisan breads and bagels without a struggle. It’s all about achieving toasted perfection in a tiny footprint.
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Key Features:
- Slim 3.58″ profile saves counter space
- One extra-wide, 10-inch long slot for versatile toasting (two slices side-by-side, artisan breads, bagels)
- Six shade settings with cancel function for customized toast
- Removable crumb tray for easy cleaning
- Cord wrap feature for clutter-free countertop
- High-lift lever for easy access to smaller slices
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Pros:
- Exceptional space-saving design
- Accommodates a wide variety of bread types
- Customizable browning with six settings
- Easy to clean and store
- High-lift lever is very convenient
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Cons:
- Limited to two slices at a time (though it can fit two normal slices side-by-side)
- No oven or convection functions
- Plastic exterior might feel less premium than stainless steel
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User Impressions: Customers adore this toaster for its incredibly slim design and its ability to fit into tight spaces. The long, wide slot is a huge hit, making it easy to toast different bread types. It’s consistently praised for its consistent toasting and thoughtful features like the high-lift lever, making it a favorite for small kitchens.
- See it on Amazon here
BLACK+DECKER 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Toaster Oven
For those who need more capacity without completely overwhelming their counter, the BLACK+DECKER 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Toaster Oven is a fantastic choice. Its standout feature is its ability to fit most standard 9″x13″ oven pans with handles, which means you can use your existing bakeware! Plus, it easily accommodates a 12-inch pizza. The powerful convection fan ensures fast, even baking, making it a highly versatile appliance for larger meals or family cooking. This could easily be the best toaster over for families who often cook larger batches.
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Key Features:
- Convection technology for fast, even baking
- Extra-wide design fits most standard 9”x13” oven pans and 12” pizzas
- Functions: baking, broiling, toasting, keeping food warm
- 60-minute precision timer with stay-on functionality
- 3 rack positions for cooking flexibility
- Dedicated toast timer for predictable shade selection
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Pros:
- Large capacity, fits standard oven pans
- Convection heating for faster, more even results
- Versatile for a variety of cooking tasks
- Dedicated toast timer is a convenient feature
- Good value for its size and features
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Cons:
- Takes up a considerable amount of counter space
- Exterior can get very hot
- Temperature calibration might differ slightly from a full-size oven
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User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the extra-wide design and its compatibility with standard oven pans as major benefits. The convection feature is praised for its ability to cook food thoroughly and evenly. It’s considered an excellent alternative to a full-size oven for smaller meals and side dishes, making it a highly recommended kitchen appliance.
- See it on Amazon here
Elite Gourmet ECT1027B Cool Touch Toaster with 6 Browning Levels
Sometimes, simplicity and reliability are all you need. The Elite Gourmet ECT1027B Cool Touch Toaster delivers just that, with a focus on perfectly toasted bread every time. Its extra-wide 1.25″ slots can handle a variety of items, from bagels to specialty breads, while the 6 browning levels let you customize your toast just the way you like it. The “cool touch” exterior is a thoughtful safety feature, and its compact, lightweight design makes it incredibly portable for dorms, offices, or even RVs.
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Key Features:
- Extra-wide 1.25″ slots for bagels, waffles, and specialty breads
- 6 browning levels for customizable toast
- Cool Touch exterior for added safety
- Portable and lightweight design
- Self-centering guides for even browning
- Cancel function to stop toasting mid-cycle
- Swing-out crumb tray for easy cleaning
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Pros:
- Affordable and functional
- Cool touch exterior enhances safety
- Even toasting for various bread types
- Compact and portable
- Easy to clean
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Cons:
- Basic functionality, no oven features
- Limited to two slices at a time
- Might feel less sturdy than premium models
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate this toaster for its straightforward operation and consistent results. The cool touch feature is a definite plus for safety-conscious users, and the extra-wide slots are highly valued. It’s often recommended as a reliable, no-frills toaster that performs well for its price point.
- See it on Amazon here
Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster, With 6 Browning Settings
The Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss appliance that gets the job done. It’s designed for simple, everyday toasting, featuring extra-wide slots perfect for bagels and thicker slices, along with six browning settings to achieve your ideal level of crispness. With essential functions like Bagel, Frozen, and Cancel, it covers all the basics efficiently. This toaster is a testament to the idea that sometimes, less truly is more.
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Key Features:
- 2-slice capacity with 6 shade settings
- Extra-wide slots (5-1/4″ long by 1-1/4″ wide) for bagels and thick slices
- Bagel setting (toasts cut side only), Frozen setting (defrosts then toasts), Cancel function
- Illuminated buttons indicate selected settings
- Extra-lift lever for safely removing smaller pieces
- Cord wrap for neat storage
- Removable crumb tray for easy cleaning
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Pros:
- Very affordable
- Simple and straightforward to use
- Effective for basic toasting needs
- Extra-wide slots are practical
- Compact size for easy storage
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Cons:
- Basic aesthetics
- Durability might not match premium brands
- Only toasts two slices at a time
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Amazon Basics toaster for its incredible value and dependable performance. It’s often highlighted as a perfect budget-friendly option that effectively toasts a variety of breads. The extra-wide slots and special settings for bagels and frozen bread are particularly well-received for an appliance in its price range.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the difference between a toaster oven and a regular toaster?
A: A regular toaster (like a pop-up toaster) is primarily designed to brown slices of bread or bagels. A toaster oven is more versatile; it can toast, but also bake, broil, and sometimes even air fry, much like a smaller version of a conventional oven.
Q2: Can I bake in a toaster oven?
A: Absolutely! Most toaster ovens are capable of baking small items like cookies, pastries, frozen dinners, and even small cakes or casseroles. They’re great for when you don’t want to heat up your large kitchen oven.
Q3: Are toaster ovens energy efficient?
A: Generally, yes. Because they are much smaller than full-size ovens, toaster ovens heat up faster and use less energy for smaller cooking tasks. This can save you money on your electricity bill, especially for everyday meals.
Q4: How do I clean my toaster oven or toaster?
A: For most models, the key is the removable crumb tray – empty it regularly to prevent build-up and fire hazards. For the interior, use a damp cloth with mild soap (after unplugging and cooling!) to wipe down surfaces. Avoid abrasive cleaners. For toasters, a damp cloth for the exterior is usually sufficient. Always check your specific product manual for cleaning instructions.
Q5: What should I look for when buying the best toaster over for my kitchen?
A: Consider your primary needs:
* Capacity: How many slices of bread do you need to toast, or what size pizza do you want to bake?
* Functions: Do you just need to toast, or do you want baking, broiling, or air frying capabilities?
* Size: How much counter space do you have?
* Features: Do you need a timer, specific settings (bagel, defrost), or smart features?
* Price: Toaster ovens and toasters vary widely in price based on features and brand.
Q6: Is an air fryer toaster oven worth the extra cost?
A: If you love crispy food and want to reduce oil usage, an air fryer toaster oven can be a fantastic investment. It combines the functions of an air fryer with the versatility of a toaster oven, saving you counter space and potentially replacing two separate appliances. Many users find the added cost justified by the convenience and quality of results.
Q7: Can I put aluminum foil in a toaster oven?
A: Yes, generally you can use aluminum foil in a toaster oven, but with caution. Avoid letting it touch the heating elements, as it can melt and cause a short circuit or fire. Also, don’t line the crumb tray with foil, as it can interfere with proper airflow and temperature regulation. Always refer to your toaster oven’s manual for specific guidelines.
