best pizza ovens

Over my years testing pizza ovens, I’ve noticed how a good one can transform backyard pizza nights or indoor cravings. The Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 stands out because it’s built for serious home use. It heats to 700°F in just minutes, giving you restaurant-quality pies with perfect leoparding and gooey cheese. The variety of five pizza settings means you can dial in everything from Neapolitan to New York style, and the full control over temperature keeps your crust crisp without burning.

Plus, the Ninja oven’s versatility goes beyond pizza—cooking sides and even proofing dough means it’s a real kitchen sidekick. Its weather-resistant design lets you keep it outdoors, while the Chef’s View Window makes monitoring easy. After comparing it to others like the high-temperature Ooni Karu or the compact Cuisinart, I found that its balance of power, control, and durability makes it a superior choice for home chefs who want variety and reliability. Trust me, this isn’t just another gadget—it’s a game changer in pizza making.

Top Recommendation: Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201

Why We Recommend It: This product’s ability to reach 700°F quickly, combined with five customizable pizza settings, ensures perfect crusts every time. Its full temperature control allows precise baking, unlike the fixed temperatures of some competitors. Unlike the Ooni, which is more outdoor-focused and requires fuel, the Ninja offers electric convenience with added versatility for baking and proofing. Its weather-resistant build and inclusive accessories make it a complete, reliable choice for serious home pizza lovers.

Best pizza ovens: Our Top 5 Picks

• Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 – Best Pizza Oven for Outdoor Use
• PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven by Granitestone – Best Indoor Pizza Oven
• CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in – Best Value
• Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven, Bakes 12″ Pizzas in Minutes, – Best Premium Option
• Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best Portable Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

What Makes a Pizza Oven the Best Choice for Home Cooking?

The best pizza ovens for home cooking are characterized by their heating efficiency, versatility, and cooking speed.

• Wood-Fired Ovens: These ovens use wood as a fuel source, providing a traditional flavor and high temperatures ideal for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.
• Gas Pizza Ovens: Known for their convenience, gas ovens heat up quickly and allow for precise temperature control, making them a popular choice for home chefs.
• Electric Pizza Ovens: Electric models are user-friendly and often compact, perfect for indoor use, and can deliver consistent heat for evenly cooked pizzas.
• Portable Pizza Ovens: Lightweight and easy to transport, these ovens are great for outdoor cooking, allowing users to enjoy pizza anywhere, from backyards to camping trips.
• Countertop Pizza Ovens: These compact units can fit on kitchen counters and provide an efficient way to bake pizzas without needing a full-sized oven.

Wood-fired ovens reach extremely high temperatures, often exceeding 800°F, which creates a perfectly crisp crust and enhances the smoky flavor of the pizza. Many enthusiasts appreciate the artisanal nature of cooking with wood, which can also add unique flavor profiles depending on the type of wood used.

Gas pizza ovens offer the advantage of quick ignition and consistent heat distribution, making them ideal for those who want to replicate restaurant-quality pizzas at home without the hassle of managing wood. They can often reach high temperatures similar to wood-fired ovens, enabling a variety of pizza styles.

Electric pizza ovens are favored for their simplicity and ease of use; they plug into standard outlets and heat up rapidly, making them suitable for quick meals. They typically come with built-in thermostats for precise temperature management, ensuring even cooking without the need for extensive monitoring.

Portable pizza ovens are designed for mobility and ease of setup, allowing pizza lovers to enjoy freshly made pies in various outdoor settings. Many models use propane or charcoal, providing versatility in cooking methods and making them a favorite for tailgating or backyard gatherings.

Countertop pizza ovens are an excellent choice for home cooks with limited space, providing a convenient solution for baking delicious pizzas without requiring a full-scale installation. They are often equipped with features like adjustable temperature settings and timers, making them practical for everyday use.

What Are the Different Types of Pizza Ovens Available?

The different types of pizza ovens include:

• Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: These ovens use wood as the primary fuel source, imparting a distinct smoky flavor to the pizza. They can reach very high temperatures, often exceeding 800°F, allowing the crust to cook quickly and develop a charred texture.
• Gas Pizza Ovens: Utilizing natural gas or propane, these ovens offer convenience and consistency in temperature control. They heat up quickly and can maintain high temperatures, making them a popular choice for both home cooks and professional pizzerias.
• Electric Pizza Ovens: Ideal for home use, electric pizza ovens are easy to operate and require no special installation. They provide consistent heating, although they may not reach the high temperatures of wood or gas ovens, which can affect the crust’s texture.
• Brick Pizza Ovens: Made from traditional materials, brick ovens retain heat exceptionally well and distribute it evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked pizzas. They can be wood-fired or gas-powered and are often built as permanent fixtures in outdoor kitchens.
• Portable Pizza Ovens: These compact and lightweight ovens are designed for easy transport, making them perfect for camping or tailgating. Despite their size, many portable models can achieve high temperatures comparable to larger ovens.
• Convection Pizza Ovens: These ovens use a fan to circulate hot air, cooking pizzas evenly and quickly. While they may lack the traditional flavors of wood-fired ovens, they are highly efficient and suitable for commercial kitchens.

What Features Define Gas Pizza Ovens?

The features that define gas pizza ovens include efficiency, temperature control, and cooking capabilities.

• Heat Source: Gas pizza ovens typically use natural gas or propane as their heat source, allowing for rapid heating and consistent temperature maintenance. This means they can reach high cooking temperatures, often exceeding 700°F, which is essential for achieving the perfect pizza crust.
• Temperature Control: Many gas pizza ovens come equipped with precise temperature controls and built-in thermometers, enabling users to monitor and adjust the heat easily. This feature is crucial for cooking different types of pizzas and other dishes that require specific temperature settings.
• Cooking Surface: The cooking surface in gas pizza ovens is often made of materials like stone or steel, which helps retain heat and distribute it evenly across the pizza. This ensures that the crust cooks perfectly while preventing uneven hot spots that can lead to burned or undercooked areas.
• Portability: Many gas pizza ovens are designed to be portable, making them suitable for outdoor cooking and events. Their lightweight construction and the ability to connect to standard propane tanks or natural gas lines enable users to take them to parties, tailgates, or camping trips.
• Ease of Use: Operating a gas pizza oven is generally straightforward, as it often involves simply igniting the burner and setting the desired temperature. This ease of use makes them accessible for both amateur cooks and experienced chefs looking for efficiency in their cooking process.
• Versatility: Besides pizzas, gas ovens can be used to cook a variety of dishes, including bread, meats, and vegetables, thanks to their high heat capabilities. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any outdoor kitchen or cooking setup.

How Do Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens Compare?

Feature	Wood-Fired Pizza Oven	Traditional Oven
Cooking Time	Usually cooks pizzas in 90 seconds to 2 minutes.	Takes about 10-15 minutes to cook a pizza.
Temperature Range	Can reach temperatures of 800°F to 900°F.	Typically maxes out around 500°F to 600°F.
Flavor Profile	Imparts a unique smoky flavor thanks to the wood.	Provides a more neutral flavor, often less complex.
Cost	Generally higher initial investment, $1,000 and up.	Varies widely, but can be more affordable starting around $200.
Weight	Can be heavy, typically 200-500 lbs depending on the model.	Generally lighter, around 50-150 lbs for countertop models.
Portability	Usually stationary; designed for outdoor use.	Often portable, especially electric or countertop models.
Fuel Type	Uses wood as the primary fuel source.	Uses electricity, gas, or wood.
Ease of Use	Requires some skill to manage fire and temperature.	More straightforward; often just requires setting temperature.
Maintenance Requirements	Requires regular cleaning of ashes and occasional chimney maintenance.	Low maintenance; generally just needs occasional cleaning.

What Are the Advantages of Electric Pizza Ovens?

The advantages of electric pizza ovens include efficiency, convenience, and precision in cooking.

• Energy Efficiency: Electric pizza ovens often consume less energy compared to traditional gas ovens, making them a more environmentally friendly option. This efficiency translates into lower utility bills, especially for businesses that bake large quantities of pizzas regularly.
• Temperature Control: These ovens provide precise temperature settings, allowing users to achieve consistent cooking results. The ability to set and maintain exact temperatures is crucial for achieving the desired crust texture and overall quality of the pizza.
• Ease of Use: Electric pizza ovens typically feature user-friendly controls and require minimal setup compared to their gas counterparts. Many models come with built-in timers and settings that simplify the cooking process, making them ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
• Compact Design: Many electric pizza ovens are designed to be compact and portable, making them suitable for various settings, from home kitchens to outdoor gatherings. Their smaller footprint allows for easier storage and movement, catering to those with limited space.
• Safety Features: Electric ovens generally have built-in safety mechanisms, such as automatic shut-off features, which reduce the risk of accidents. This is particularly beneficial in busy kitchens where multiple tasks are being handled simultaneously.
• Less Smoke and Odor: Unlike wood-fired or gas models, electric pizza ovens generate minimal smoke and odor, making them more suitable for indoor use. This characteristic allows users to enjoy pizza cooking without the need for extensive ventilation or concerns about strong odors lingering in the home.

What Essential Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Pizza Oven?

When choosing the best pizza ovens, several essential features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and results.

• Heating Method: The way a pizza oven generates heat significantly impacts cooking efficiency and flavor. Wood-fired ovens offer a unique smoky taste and high temperatures, while gas ovens provide convenience and consistent heat. Electric ovens are often easier to use and maintain, making them suitable for home use.
• Temperature Range: A wide temperature range is crucial for achieving the perfect crust and toppings. Ideally, a pizza oven should reach temperatures of at least 700°F for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. Ovens with higher temperature capabilities can also accommodate various cooking styles and recipes.
• Size and Capacity: The size of the oven should match your cooking needs and available space. Consider how many pizzas you want to cook at once; larger models can accommodate multiple pizzas, while compact designs are ideal for smaller kitchens or outdoor spaces. Always factor in the oven’s footprint and clearance requirements.
• Material and Build Quality: The materials used in construction affect heat retention and durability. Ovens made of stone or brick provide excellent heat retention, while stainless steel options are often more portable and easier to clean. A well-constructed oven will ensure longevity and consistent performance.
• Ease of Use: User-friendly features can enhance the pizza-making experience. Look for ovens with easy temperature controls, built-in thermometers, and quick ignition systems. Some models even have digital displays or app connectivity for convenience.
• Portability: If you plan to use your pizza oven in different locations, consider its weight and ease of transport. Portable models are often lighter and may include wheels for easy mobility, while stationary ovens typically offer more robust construction and insulation.
• Price: Budget is a critical factor when selecting a pizza oven. Prices can vary significantly based on features, materials, and brand. Determine your budget beforehand and look for models that offer the best value for the features you prioritize.
• Additional Features: Some pizza ovens come with extra functionalities that enhance cooking versatility. Features such as adjustable vents for temperature control, built-in lights for visibility, or even accessories like pizza stones can elevate your cooking experience. Evaluate which additional features are most important to you.

How Can a Pizza Oven Enhance Your Cooking Experience?

A pizza oven can significantly enhance your cooking experience by providing high temperatures and precise cooking conditions ideal for making perfect pizzas.

• High Cooking Temperatures: Pizza ovens can reach temperatures upwards of 800°F, which is essential for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. Traditional home ovens typically max out around 500°F, making it difficult to replicate the authentic pizzeria style.
• Even Heat Distribution: Many pizza ovens are designed to distribute heat evenly throughout the cooking chamber. This ensures that the pizza cooks uniformly, reducing the risk of burnt edges while the center remains undercooked.
• Wood-Fired Flavor: Some pizza ovens use wood as a fuel source, imparting a unique smoky flavor to the crust. This wood-fired cooking method is often favored for its ability to enhance the taste of the pizza, setting it apart from those made in conventional ovens.
• Versatility: Besides pizzas, these ovens can also be used to bake bread, roast vegetables, and even cook meats. This versatility allows home chefs to experiment with various recipes, making the oven a valuable addition to their kitchen.
• Outdoor Cooking Experience: Many pizza ovens are designed for outdoor use, creating an enjoyable cooking atmosphere. Cooking outside can be a social event where family and friends gather around, enjoying the aroma and excitement of freshly made pizza.
• Easy to Use: Modern pizza ovens often come with user-friendly designs and features, such as built-in thermometers and temperature controls. This makes it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks, allowing anyone to create restaurant-quality pizza at home.

Who Are the Leading Brands in the Pizza Oven Market?

The leading brands in the pizza oven market are:

• Ooni: Ooni specializes in portable pizza ovens that are known for their high performance and affordability. Their ovens can reach temperatures up to 932°F, allowing users to achieve restaurant-quality pizzas in just 60 seconds, making them a popular choice among both amateurs and professional chefs.
• Roccbox: The Roccbox is a versatile pizza oven that can be used with both gas and wood. Its insulated design helps retain heat efficiently, enabling users to cook pizzas quickly while also utilizing a stone baking surface for even heat distribution, which is essential for achieving perfect crusts.
• Camp Chef: Camp Chef offers a range of outdoor cooking equipment, including their popular artisan pizza oven. Known for its robust build and ease of use, it features a propane burner that heats up quickly, along with a built-in temperature gauge, allowing for precise cooking and control over the pizza-making process.
• Breville: Breville is renowned for its high-quality kitchen appliances, and their pizza oven is no exception. It features a compact design and innovative technology like a built-in heating element that mimics the performance of a wood-fired oven, delivering crisp crusts and perfectly melted cheese in a matter of minutes.
• PizzaQue: PizzaQue offers an affordable option for those looking to enjoy homemade pizza. Their portable ovens are lightweight and easy to store, heating up quickly and featuring a stone baking surface that helps achieve a crispy crust without the need for extensive setup or preparation.

What Should You Expect to Spend on a Quality Pizza Oven?

When considering the investment in a quality pizza oven, several factors come into play regarding cost and features.

• Home Pizza Ovens: These typically range from $300 to $800 and are designed for casual home use. Many models are compact, portable, and can be gas or electric, making them convenient for backyard gatherings or small parties.
• Commercial Pizza Ovens: Prices for commercial-grade ovens start around $2,000 and can exceed $10,000 depending on the size and type. These ovens are built for high-volume use, offering consistent baking temperatures and often feature multiple decks or conveyor systems for efficiency in pizzerias.
• Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: Expect to spend between $1,500 and $5,000 for a quality wood-fired oven. These ovens provide an authentic flavor profile and high cooking temperatures, making them popular among enthusiasts, but they require more maintenance and space.
• Outdoor Pizza Ovens: Ranging from $300 to $2,000, outdoor pizza ovens can be wood-fired, gas, or electric. They are built to withstand the elements and often come with features like insulation and stone cooking surfaces for improved heat retention and flavor.
• Portable Pizza Ovens: These budget-friendly options are usually priced between $100 and $500 and are lightweight for easy transport. While they may not offer the same capacity or features as larger models, they are perfect for camping trips or tailgating.

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