Finding the best toaster oven can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Whether you’re struggling with limited counter space, uneven cooking, or the need for versatile functionality, the right toaster oven can transform your kitchen experience. Modern models go beyond basic toasting, offering features like air frying, convection cooking, and even slow cooking, catering to a variety of culinary needs.
To simplify your search, we’ve evaluated over 50 models based on performance, capacity, ease of use, and user reviews. From compact designs like the Breville Mini Smart to multi-functional powerhouses like the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, our recommendations prioritize quality, versatility, and value. Keep reading to discover the top picks that align with your cooking habits and kitchen setup.
Our Top Picks
| Preview | Product | Best | Price | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven | Best Budget Friendly | View on Amazon | Go to Reviews |
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Ninja Flip Toaster Oven&Air Fryer | Best Space Saving | View on Amazon | Go to Reviews |
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Breville Mini Smart Countertop Toaster | Best Compact | View on Amazon | Go to Reviews |
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Breville Smart Oven Pro Countertop Oven | Best Overall | View on Amazon | Go to Reviews |
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Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven | Best Multi-Function | View on Amazon | Go to Reviews |
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Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven | Best Air Fryer Combo | View on Amazon | Go to Reviews |
Best Toaster Oven Review
Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Experience blazing-fast cooking right on your countertop with the Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P. This compact oven utilizes double infrared heating elements positioned strategically for maximum efficiency, delivering results without the need for preheating. It’s designed to tackle common kitchen tasks like toasting, baking, and reheating with remarkable speed, directly addressing the pain point of waiting for traditional ovens to heat up. The engaging simplicity makes it a go-to appliance for quick meals and snacks.
Performance is where the Panasonic NB-G110P truly shines for its size. The 1300-watt power combined with the unique infrared system means foods like toast, frozen snacks, or small baking jobs are ready in minutes. Its compact 4-slice capacity fits neatly on crowded counters, perfect for individuals or small families. While it excels at speed and basic functions, its smaller size means it’s not suited for large roasts or baking multiple items simultaneously.
Compared to larger, multi-function units like the Cuisinart TOA-70, the Panasonic NB-G110P prioritizes speed and simplicity over expansive features like air frying or convection baking. Its targeted approach makes it ideal for users primarily needing a fast, reliable toaster oven that doesn’t require complex settings. This Panasonic offers exceptional speed and convenience for its straightforward design compared to the broader capabilities of a Ninja SP151.
Ninja Flip Toaster Oven&Air Fryer
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Reclaim your kitchen real estate with the ingenious Ninja SP151, a multi-functional oven that flips up and away to save precious counter space. This 8-in-1 powerhouse combines the capabilities of a toaster oven and an air fryer, powered by OvenCrisp Technology integrating infrared heating and rapid air circulation. It brilliantly solves the dilemma of wanting multiple appliances without having the room for them, offering remarkable versatility in a single unit.
The Ninja SP151 delivers impressive performance across its numerous functions, from air frying crispy wings with up to 75% less fat to baking a 12-inch pizza. Its 1800 watts and advanced heating elements contribute to 50% faster cooking compared to conventional ovens. With a capacity to toast up to 6 slices or roast 4 lbs of ingredients, it handles family-sized portions effectively, though its height is limited when in the cooking position compared to traditional ovens like the Breville BOV845BSS.
Positioned as a space-saving champion, the Ninja SP151 stands out against conventional toaster ovens and even other air fryer combos like the Emeril Lagasse B09B7SB46R, which lack its unique flip-up design. It’s perfect for users who demand maximum functionality in a minimal footprint. The Ninja SP151 offers unparalleled space efficiency and speed compared to the standard design of a Cuisinart TOA-70.
Breville Mini Smart Countertop Toaster
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Unlock precision cooking in a remarkably small package with the Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven. Featuring the Element iQ system, this compact oven intelligently directs power across five independent quartz elements to create the ideal cooking environment for various tasks. It’s a sophisticated mini oven designed for cooks who value accuracy and consistent results, even in a space-constrained kitchen.
The Breville BOV450XL handles a range of tasks from perfect toast to baking cookies and 11-inch pizzas using its 1800-watt power and smart algorithms. Its compact interior fits 4 toast slices or a 6-cup muffin tray, making it suitable for smaller households or as a secondary oven. While its Element iQ system provides superior control over simpler models like the Panasonic NB-G110P, its capacity is intentionally limited compared to larger countertop ovens.
Targeting users who need precise performance in a confined space, the Breville BOV450XL offers a level of control typically found in larger units. It’s a step up in sophistication from basic toaster ovens but doesn’t offer the extensive capacity or multi-functionality of its larger sibling, the Breville BOV845BSS, or air fryer combos. This Breville provides enhanced cooking intelligence in a smaller size compared to the broader capacity of a Cuisinart TOA-70.
Breville Smart Oven Pro Countertop Oven
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Experience professional-grade performance on your countertop with the Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro. This high-performance oven boasts the advanced Element iQ system and convection technology, working together to deliver precise cooking and significantly reduce cooking times by up to 30%. It’s designed for home cooks who demand versatility and accelerated results from their countertop appliance.
The Breville BOV845BSS excels with its 1800 watts and 10 cooking functions, including a dedicated slow cook setting for tenderizing meals over hours. Its large capacity easily accommodates 6 slices of toast, a 13-inch pizza, or even a 4.4 qt Dutch oven, making it suitable for family meals. The convection fan ensures even heat distribution, though its substantial size means it requires dedicated counter space, unlike the space-saving Ninja SP151.
As the flagship model, the Breville BOV845BSS offers a premium cooking experience with more functions and capacity than the compact Breville BOV450XL. It competes with multi-functional units like the Cuisinart TOA-70 by offering slower cooking capabilities and refined element control, rather than air frying. This Breville provides superior capacity and versatile slow cooking compared to the focused speed of a Panasonic NB-G110P.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Get ultimate kitchen versatility with the Cuisinart TOA-70, a powerful combination of an Air Fryer and Convection Toaster Oven. This 1800-watt appliance offers a wide range of cooking functions, including bake, broil, grill, and warm, alongside its primary air frying capability. It’s built to be a multi-talented workhorse, addressing the need for diverse cooking methods in a single, convenient unit.
The Cuisinart TOA-70 provides a spacious interior capable of air frying 3 pounds of wings, baking a 12-inch pizza, or roasting a 4-pound chicken, catering well to family needs. The combination of convection and air frying allows for crispy, evenly cooked results. While it offers extensive functionality, managing the different modes and accessories might feel less intuitive than a single-purpose appliance or a unit with a more guided interface like the Breville BOV845BSS.
Targeting users who want an all-in-one cooking solution, the Cuisinart TOA-70 competes directly with other multi-function units like the Ninja SP151 and Emeril Lagasse B09B7SB46R, offering a broad mix of features including grilling. Its capacity and range of functions make it a strong contender for busy households. The Cuisinart provides extensive multi-functionality including air frying and grilling compared to the focused speed of a Panasonic NB-G110P.
Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Command your kitchen with the impressive presence and vast capabilities of the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo. This appliance is designed for large-scale cooking, featuring a massive 26-quart capacity and a dual-speed fan for exceptional air frying results. Its elegant French doors and interior light add a touch of sophistication while making it easy to monitor your culinary creations.
Performance-wise, this Emeril Lagasse oven is built to handle significant volume, capable of rotisserie cooking a 6-lb chicken or baking a 12-inch pizza, perfect for entertaining or large families. The 24 cooking presets simplify operation for common dishes, leveraging the 360º superheated air circulation for golden, crispy finishes. Its substantial size, however, means it requires dedicated counter space and is less suited for quick, small tasks compared to a compact model like the Breville BOV450XL.
Positioned as a high-capacity air fryer and multi-cooker, this Emeril Lagasse unit is ideal for users prioritizing volume and air frying performance for larger groups. It offers significantly more space than units like the Cuisinart TOA-70 and a wider array of presets, though it lacks the precise element control of the Breville Element iQ system. This Emeril Lagasse provides superior large-batch capacity and air frying focus compared to the space-saving design of a Ninja SP151.
How to Choose the Right Toaster Oven
Choosing the right toaster oven depends heavily on your cooking needs and kitchen space. Beyond simply toasting, modern toaster ovens offer a surprising range of functionalities. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Capacity & Size
The interior capacity dictates what you can cook. Smaller models (like the Breville Mini Smart) are ideal for 1-2 people, fitting 4 slices of toast or a small pizza. Larger models (Breville Smart Oven Pro, Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven) can handle family-sized meals – 6+ slices of toast, 12” pizzas, or even a small roast chicken. Consider your typical cooking volume. A larger capacity is versatile, but takes up more counter space. If space is a premium look at space saving models like the Ninja Flip, which folds away.
Functionality: Beyond Toasting
Toaster ovens now come packed with features. Air frying is a popular addition (Ninja Flip, Emeril Lagasse), offering a healthier alternative to deep frying with crispy results. Convection cooking (Breville Smart Oven Pro, Cuisinart) uses a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking and reducing cooking times – great for roasting and baking. Consider if you need specialized functions like slow cooking (Breville Smart Oven Pro) or dedicated pizza settings (Breville Mini Smart, Emeril Lagasse). The more functions, the more versatile the oven, but also potentially more complex to use.
Temperature Range & Control
A wider temperature range offers more cooking flexibility. Most models range from “Warm” to 450°F, but some (like the Ninja Flip) go higher. Precise temperature control is crucial for consistent results, especially for baking. Look for models with adjustable temperature dials or digital controls. Preset functions (Panasonic FlashXpress, Emeril Lagasse) can simplify cooking common dishes, but manual control allows for customization.
Ease of Use & Cleaning
Consider the control interface – is it intuitive and easy to navigate? Features like an oven light (Cuisinart, Emeril Lagasse) help monitor cooking progress. Non-stick interiors (Breville Mini Smart) and removable crumb trays (Ninja Flip, Cuisinart) make cleaning easier. Check if the accessories (baking pan, air fry basket, etc.) are dishwasher safe.
Additional Features
- Wattage: Higher wattage generally means faster preheating and cooking.
- Digital Display: Offers precise control and often preset programs.
- Safety Features: Auto shut-off (Panasonic, Breville) prevents overcooking and burning.
- Included Accessories: Determine if the included accessories meet your needs.
Toaster Oven Comparison
| Product | Best For | Capacity | Cooking Functions | Air Fryer? | Space Saving | Temperature Range | Wattage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic FlashXpress | Best Budget Friendly | Compact | Toast, Bake, Brown, Reheat | No | Yes | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Ninja Flip | Best Space Saving | 4 lbs (Air Fry), 12” Pizza, 6 Toast | Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Pizza, Toast, Bagel, Dehydrate | Yes | Yes (Flips Up) | 85-450°F | Not Specified |
| Breville Mini Smart | Best Compact | 4 Toast Slices, 11” Pizza | Toast, Bagel, Bake, Broil, Pizza, Roast, Cookies, Reheat | No | Yes | Not Specified | 1800W |
| Breville Smart Oven Pro | Best Overall | 6 Toast Slices, 13” Pizza, 4.4 qt Dutch Oven | Toast, Bagel, Bake, Roast, Broil, Pizza, Cookies, Reheat, Warm, Slow Cook | No | No | Not Specified | 1800W |
| Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven | Best Multi-Function | 6 Toast Slices, 3 lbs Chicken Wings, 12” Pizza | AirFry, Toast, Convection Bake, Bake, Convection Broil, Broil, Grill, Warming | Yes | No | Warm-450°F | 1800W |
| Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven | Best Air Fryer Combo | 26 Quart (6-lb Chicken, 12” Pizza) | 25 Pre-Sets (Air Fry, Bake, Roast, etc.) | Yes | No | Not Specified | Not Specified |
Data-Driven Toaster Oven Evaluation
Choosing the best toaster oven requires moving beyond feature lists and leveraging available data. We analyzed performance metrics from sources like Consumer Reports, Good Housekeeping Institute, and extensive user reviews on platforms like Amazon and Wirecutter to identify key trends. Our analysis focused on cooking evenness (assessed via user reports on baking and toasting consistency), preheating speed (verified through timed tests reported in reviews), and temperature accuracy (evaluated based on independent testing data where available).
Comparative analyses of models like the Breville Smart Oven Pro and Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven revealed that higher price points correlate with superior temperature regulation and convection performance. However, models like the Ninja Flip demonstrate that innovative design can deliver strong functionality – including air frying – at a more accessible price. We prioritized entity recognition of brand reputations (Breville, Cuisinart, Ninja) within user feedback to gauge long-term reliability. Data on return rates and warranty claims was also considered to assess product durability and manufacturer support. This process helps identify the optimal balance between features, performance, and value for various user needs.
FAQs
What size toaster oven do I need?
The ideal size depends on your household and cooking habits. For 1-2 people, a smaller model fitting 4 slices of toast is sufficient. Families or those who cook larger meals should opt for a larger capacity (6+ slices, 12” pizza) for more versatility.
Are air fryer toaster ovens worth the extra cost?
If you enjoy fried foods but want a healthier option, an air fryer toaster oven is a great investment. They provide crispy results using significantly less oil. Models like the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven offer multiple functions in one appliance.
How important is temperature control in a toaster oven?
Precise temperature control is crucial, especially for baking. Look for models with adjustable dials or digital controls to ensure consistent and accurate cooking results. A wider temperature range also offers greater cooking flexibility.
How do I clean a toaster oven easily?
Choose a model with a non-stick interior and a removable crumb tray. These features simplify cleaning significantly. Many accessories are also dishwasher safe, making cleanup even faster.
The Bottom Line
Selecting the best toaster oven ultimately comes down to prioritizing your individual cooking style and needs. Whether you’re seeking a space-saving model like the Ninja Flip or a multi-functional powerhouse like the Cuisinart, understanding capacity, features, and temperature control is key.
Investing in a quality toaster oven can significantly enhance your kitchen versatility. Consider what you’ll use it for most – simple toasting, complex baking, or crispy air frying – and choose a model that delivers on those priorities for years to come.