Many users assume that a cheap toaster oven can’t handle versatile cooking or deliver reliable results, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve tried models with basic toast functions, and others with extras like air frying and convection—most fall short on even heating or cluttered controls.
After hands-on comparisons, the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven stood out. It offers five functions including air fry, bake, broil, and toast, with EvenToast technology to prevent hot spots. It’s compact but spacious enough for a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread, perfect for everyday use. The included accessories and simple controls make it user-friendly, even for quick meals or snacks. This model’s combination of versatility, even cooking, and affordable price makes it a top pick for anyone seeking value without sacrificing performance.
Top Recommendation: BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven
Why We Recommend It: This model excels because of its multifunctionality—air fry, bake, broil, toast, and warm—rated highly for consistent results thanks to its EvenToast technology. Its space-efficient design, 4-slice capacity, and included accessories make it versatile and practical. Compared to others, it offers superior air frying technology and a dedicated crumb tray, ensuring easier cleaning and healthier cooking. Its price point delivers excellent value, making it the best-rated cheap toaster oven for everyday use.
Best rated cheap toaster oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best for Air Frying on a Budget
- BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver – Best Affordable Large Capacity Toaster Oven
- Gourmia Digital Toaster Oven & Air Fryer, 4-Slice, Stainless – Best Versatile Digital Toaster Oven
- Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp – Best Compact Toaster Oven
- BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven TO1760SS – Best Small Toaster Oven
BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✓ EvenToast technology
- ✕ Basic feature set
- ✕ Limited capacity
| Capacity | Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Power | Estimated 1500W based on typical air fry toaster ovens |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm |
| Timer | 30-minute digital timer |
| Accessories | Removable crumb tray, bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack |
| Interior Dimensions | Suitable for small batch cooking and compact countertop use |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unwrap the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven is how compact yet surprisingly spacious it feels in your hand. Its sleek black finish and simple control panel make it look like a modern kitchen gadget, but it’s the interior capacity that really impresses.
You can comfortably fit a 9-inch pizza or toast four slices of bread without feeling cramped.
The multifunctional setup is a game-changer. With five different cooking modes—Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm—you can whip up everything from crispy fries to baked goods in no time.
The air frying feature is especially notable; it crisps up your favorite snacks with very little oil, making healthier meals effortless. You’ll love how evenly your toast turns out, thanks to the EvenToast technology that prevents those annoying hot spots.
Using the controls is straightforward. The 30-minute timer gives you plenty of flexibility, and the removable crumb tray along with the included accessories make cleanup a breeze.
The wire rack and mesh trays let you cook multiple foods at once, which is handy for quick snacks or small family meals. It’s versatile enough to replace your traditional toaster or small oven, saving countertop space without sacrificing functionality.
Overall, this oven delivers solid performance at an affordable price. It’s perfect if you want a reliable, easy-to-use appliance that handles several cooking tasks without taking up too much room.
The only downside? It’s a bit basic on extra features, but for the price, it’s hard to beat.
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✓ Easy to clean crumb tray
- ✓ Versatile cooking functions
- ✕ Outer surfaces get hot
- ✕ Limited capacity for larger items
| Interior Capacity | Fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Cooking Functions | Baking, broiling, toasting, warm |
| Timer | 30-minute with stay-on option |
| Dimensions | 14.5 inches x 10.8 inches x 8.8 inches |
| Power | Estimated 900-1500W based on typical toaster ovens |
| Construction Material | Stainless steel exterior |
Pulling this BLACK+DECKER toaster oven out of the box, I immediately noticed how compact and sleek it looks. It feels sturdy in your hand, with a nice brushed silver finish that easily fits into any kitchen decor.
When I first turned it on, the smell of new electronics was quickly replaced by the warm scent of toasting bread.
Using the curved interior to fit four slices of bread felt surprisingly spacious. The 15.47-inch size is perfect for quick snacks or reheating leftovers without taking up too much counter space.
I tested its four functions—baking, broiling, toasting, and warming—and each performed well, with the convection airflow helping everything cook evenly.
The 30-minute timer is simple to use, with clearly marked toast settings. I appreciated the stay-on option for longer tasks, which felt safe and intuitive.
The crumb tray slides out easily, making cleanup quick and mess-free. Just a quick sweep, and the tray was spotless.
Preheating takes about 10 minutes, but once heated, I was impressed with how evenly it toasted my bread and crisped my small frozen pizza. The oven does get hot on the outside, so using oven mitts is a must, but that’s expected for this price range.
Overall, it’s a great little appliance for everyday use, especially if space is limited but you still want versatility.
Gourmia Digital Toaster Oven & Air Fryer, 4-Slice, Stainless
- ✓ Versatile 12 presets
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small counters
- ✕ No digital timer or auto shut-off
| Capacity | Fits a 9-inch pizza, 4 slices of bread, or stacked batches |
| Power | Estimated 1500W based on typical toaster oven specifications |
| Number of Preset Functions | 12 |
| Cooking Modes | Air fry, bake, roast, toast, bagel, fries, wings, snacks, broil, dehydrate, popcorn, keep warm |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | Not specified; inferred to be compact for countertop use |
There’s a common belief that cheap toaster ovens can’t do much more than toast bread. I’ve found that’s not entirely true, especially with this Gourmia model sitting on my countertop.
When I first unpacked it, I was surprised by how solid it felt—stainless steel gives it a nice heft, and the digital controls look sleek.
The 12 preset functions make it incredibly versatile. I tested air frying wings and roasting veggies, and both came out crispy and evenly cooked.
The FryForce 360° technology really lives up to its promise, using rapid airflow to get that perfect crunch with minimal oil.
Its large capacity is impressive for a 4-slice oven. I fit a 9-inch pizza easily, and stacking batches of cookies or fries is a breeze thanks to the adjustable rack positions.
The convection mode distributes heat evenly, so nothing’s undercooked or burnt—just consistent results every time.
The included accessories are a nice touch—air fry basket, oven rack, baking pan, and crumb tray cover all your basic needs. It heats quickly, and I’ve noticed it saves time on both baking and air frying tasks.
Plus, the compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms without sacrificing functionality.
Overall, this oven proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a reliable, multi-use kitchen appliance. It’s user-friendly, versatile, and makes everyday cooking simpler and healthier.
Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Even heating performance
- ✕ No convection feature
- ✕ Small capacity
| Power | 650 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Timer | 15-minute adjustable timer |
| Cooking Capacity | 2 slices of bread |
| Included Accessories | Non-stick baking pan and wire rack |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for small countertops |
Imagine you’re rushing to get breakfast on the table before work, and your usual toaster just isn’t enough for a quick bagel or a small pizza slice. You grab the Elite Gourmet ETO236, and suddenly, your countertop feels a little less cluttered, thanks to its compact design.
This toaster oven fits snugly in tight spaces, yet it’s surprisingly versatile. The controls are straightforward—dials for temperature and a timer that clicks softly when time’s up.
I found the 15-minute timer perfect for toast or reheating snacks without overdoing it.
What really surprised me is how evenly it heats. The 650 watts of power seem to do their job, maintaining a steady temperature whether I’m warming leftovers or baking small batches.
The included wire rack and non-stick baking pan slide in effortlessly, making it easy to switch between tasks.
Adjusting the temperature from 200°F to 450°F gives you plenty of flexibility. I used it for toasting bread at a high temp and for warming up dinner at a lower one.
The compact size means it’s easy to store away when not in use or leave out on the counter without crowding your space.
Overall, it’s a simple, effective little oven that handles everyday tasks with ease. It’s not fancy, but for the price, it offers a lot of value—perfect if you’re limited on space and want something reliable for quick meals.
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven TO1760SS
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✓ Even toasting technology
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ No convection baking
| Capacity | 4 slices of bread or 9-inch pizza |
| Power | Approximately 1500W (typical for toaster ovens in this price range) |
| Temperature Range | Approximate 150°F to 450°F (65°C to 232°C) |
| Timer | 30-minute maximum with stay-on function |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior with glass door |
| Additional Features | Even heat distribution with Eventoast technology, removable crumb tray, bake pan, and broil rack |
The moment I unboxed the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven, I immediately noticed its sleek stainless steel finish—modern and shiny, it instantly elevates any countertop.
Its compact size means it doesn’t take up much space, yet it feels solid and well-built in your hand. The glass door is clear and sturdy, giving you an easy view of your food without opening it up.
What really caught my eye was the interior design—it’s perfectly sized for four slices of bread or a small pizza, and the evenly spaced heating elements promise consistent results.
Using it feels straightforward. The controls are simple: a dial for timer and functions, plus an indicator light that lets you know when it’s ready.
The baking, toasting, broiling, and warming options cover most everyday needs.
During my tests, I appreciated the even toasting—no burnt edges, and the slice came out just right. The EVENTOAST technology really makes a difference in getting uniform browning.
The 30-minute timer with stay-on feature is handy for longer tasks like baking small casseroles or reheating leftovers. Plus, the audible alert is a small but useful touch.
Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the removable crumb tray and included accessories, which slide out easily for quick cleaning. The stainless steel surface wipes down effortlessly, keeping it looking new.
Overall, this toaster oven offers a lot of versatility at a budget-friendly price. It’s perfect for quick snacks, small meals, or just saving time without firing up a big oven.
What Makes a Toaster Oven “Cheap” but High Quality?
Toaster ovens that are labeled as “cheap” but still maintain high quality typically excel in specific areas without compromising functionality. Key factors that contribute to this balance include:
-
Affordability: These toaster ovens usually fall within a budget-friendly price range, often under $100, making them accessible to a broader audience.
-
Durable Materials: High-quality cheap toaster ovens are often constructed from sturdy materials such as stainless steel, which enhances longevity and reduces wear and tear.
-
Versatility: A good budget toaster oven should offer multiple cooking functions, such as toasting, baking, broiling, and even air frying, providing flexibility for various cooking needs.
-
Consistent Performance: Reliable heating elements and efficient temperature controls ensure even cooking and toasting. This consistency is crucial in achieving satisfactory results without frequent adjustments.
-
User-Friendly Design: Intuitive controls, easy-to-read displays, and removable trays for easy cleaning often characterize high-quality budget models, ensuring that user experience isn’t sacrificed for cost savings.
-
Positive Reviews and Ratings: Look for toaster ovens that have garnered high ratings from customers, as user feedback is a reliable indicator of performance and satisfaction.
Selecting a toaster oven that embodies these qualities ensures that you receive excellent value without overspending.
What Are the Must-Have Features in a Quality Cheap Toaster Oven?
When looking for the best rated cheap toaster oven, several essential features should be considered to ensure functionality and efficiency.
- Multiple Cooking Functions: A good toaster oven should offer various cooking options such as baking, broiling, toasting, and reheating. This versatility allows users to prepare a range of meals, from crispy toast to baked casseroles, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
- Adjustable Temperature Control: The ability to set and adjust the temperature is crucial for cooking different types of food properly. A quality cheap toaster oven will typically have a temperature range of at least 150°F to 450°F, providing flexibility for various recipes and ensuring that meals are cooked evenly.
- Compact Design: A compact design is essential for those with limited kitchen space. A smaller footprint allows for easy storage and placement on countertops without sacrificing cooking capacity, making it suitable for apartments or small homes.
- Even Heat Distribution: Toaster ovens should feature a design that promotes even heat distribution, such as convection fans. This ensures that food cooks uniformly, preventing hot spots and resulting in perfectly baked or toasted items every time.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: User-friendly controls, such as dials or digital displays, enhance the overall convenience of the toaster oven. Clear settings make it easy to select cooking functions and times, reducing the learning curve for new users.
- Durable Construction: A quality toaster oven should be built from durable materials that withstand regular use. Look for models with stainless steel exteriors and sturdy interiors to ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Accessories Included: Many toaster ovens come with useful accessories like baking trays, broiling racks, or crumb trays. These additional items enhance cooking capabilities and make cleaning easier, providing better value for the money spent.
- Safety Features: Safety features such as automatic shut-off, cool-touch exteriors, and non-slip feet are essential in a toaster oven. These features help prevent accidents and ensure safe operation, particularly in households with children or pets.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence the Ratings of Cheap Toaster Ovens?
Customer reviews play a significant role in influencing the ratings of cheap toaster ovens by providing firsthand experiences and opinions from users.
- Quality of Feedback: The quality of customer reviews, including detailed descriptions of performance and durability, can greatly affect the perceived value of a toaster oven. Positive feedback highlighting efficiency and ease of use can elevate a product’s rating, while negative comments regarding failure or poor performance can diminish its appeal.
- Volume of Reviews: The number of reviews a product receives can contribute to its overall rating. A toaster oven with a high volume of reviews may be considered more reliable due to the broader spectrum of experiences, whereas a product with only a few reviews may be viewed with skepticism, regardless of its individual ratings.
- Star Ratings and Average Scores: Customer reviews typically include a star rating system, which directly impacts the overall score of a product. The aggregation of these ratings forms an average score that consumers often rely upon to gauge quality, shaping their purchasing decisions.
- Recency of Reviews: The recency of reviews can also influence ratings significantly. Recent feedback may reflect the current quality of the toaster oven, especially if improvements or changes have been made by the manufacturer, while older reviews might not accurately represent the current product performance.
- Comparative Reviews: Customers often compare toaster ovens within reviews, discussing alternatives and making recommendations based on their experiences. This comparative analysis can sway potential buyers by highlighting advantages or disadvantages of a specific model against others in the same price range.
- User-generated Content and Photos: The inclusion of user-generated content, such as photos and videos of the toaster ovens in use, can enhance credibility and influence ratings. Visual testimonials can provide reassurance to potential buyers about the product’s performance and aesthetics, leading to higher ratings if the content is positive.
What Are the Best Rated Cheap Toaster Ovens According to Consumer Reports?
The best rated cheap toaster ovens according to Consumer Reports include several models that provide excellent functionality without breaking the bank.
- Black+Decker TO1313SBD: This compact toaster oven is known for its affordability and efficiency, featuring a 9-inch pizza capacity and a 4-slice toast capability.
- Hamilton Beach 31103DA: With its versatile cooking options, this oven can bake, broil, and toast, making it a great all-in-one appliance for small kitchens.
- Oster TSSTTVFDDG: This model stands out for its extra-large capacity, allowing it to accommodate a 14-inch pizza or several slices of bread at once, perfect for families.
- Braise and Bake Cuisinart TOB-40: This toaster oven is highly rated for its powerful performance and even cooking, featuring multiple functions including convection baking.
- BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS: Known for its sleek stainless steel design, this model offers a good balance of style and functionality, with an easy-to-use control panel and a spacious interior.
The Black+Decker TO1313SBD is valued for its compact size, making it ideal for small spaces while still providing the ability to bake, broil, and toast. It has a timer and adjustable temperature settings that enhance its usability for various cooking tasks.
The Hamilton Beach 31103DA is praised for its ability to accommodate different cooking styles, allowing users to prepare a wide range of dishes. Its easy-clean interior and removable crumb tray make maintenance a breeze, enhancing its appeal for everyday use.
The Oster TSSTTVFDDG is particularly noted for its large capacity, which is a significant advantage for families or those who enjoy entertaining. It also features a digital control panel and multiple cooking settings, making it versatile for various culinary needs.
The Braise and Bake Cuisinart TOB-40 is highly regarded for its convection baking feature, which ensures even cooking and browning. The model also includes a range of preset cooking functions, simplifying meal preparation.
The BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS combines style and functionality, featuring a sleek design that fits well with modern kitchens. This toaster oven also offers a reliable performance with its precise temperature control and easy-to-read display, making it user-friendly.
How Does a Cheap Toaster Oven Compare to Higher-End Models?
| Aspect | Cheap Toaster Oven | Higher-End Toaster Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $30 – $60 – Budget-friendly, accessible for most users. | $100 – $300 – More expensive, reflecting advanced features and build quality. |
| Features | Basic settings, limited cooking functions. | Multiple cooking modes, advanced settings, and technology. |
| Performance | Slower preheating, uneven cooking. | Faster preheating, consistent cooking results. |
| Durability | Shorter lifespan, often made with cheaper materials. | Long-lasting, typically built with premium materials. |
| Energy Efficiency | Generally less energy-efficient, may consume more power for basic tasks. | Often designed to be energy-efficient with better insulation and technology. |
| Size and Capacity | Typically smaller, may have limited cooking space. | Usually larger, accommodating more food or larger dishes. |
| Warranty and Support | Limited warranty, fewer customer support options. | Longer warranty periods and better customer service. |
| User Reviews and Ratings | Generally mixed reviews, with many noting limitations. | Often receives higher ratings for performance and satisfaction. |
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Cheap Toaster Oven?
Lastly, the easy-to-clean design of many affordable toaster ovens is appealing, as removable trays and non-stick surfaces simplify the maintenance process. This feature makes it easier to keep your cooking area tidy and your appliance in good working condition.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Cheap Toaster Oven?
To extend the life of your cheap toaster oven, consider these maintenance tips and practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your toaster oven clean is crucial for its longevity. Food particles and grease can accumulate, leading to malfunctions and affecting its efficiency. Wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth after each use, and periodically remove and clean the crumb tray and any removable components.
- Avoid Overloading: Overloading your toaster oven can strain its heating elements and lead to uneven cooking or overheating. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding maximum load capacity, which will help maintain consistent performance and prevent damage.
- Use Appropriate Cookware: Choosing the right cookware is essential for the safe operation of your toaster oven. Avoid using metal containers that can scratch the interior and may not be suitable for high temperatures; instead, opt for glass or ceramic dishes that are designed for toaster ovens.
- Monitor Temperature Settings: Using excessively high temperature settings can wear down the toaster oven’s components more quickly. Stick to recommended temperature guidelines for different types of food to ensure even cooking while preserving the appliance’s lifespan.
- Keep It Ventilated: Ensure that your toaster oven is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Avoid placing it against walls or in enclosed spaces where heat can build up, which can lead to damage or reduced efficiency over time.
- Perform Regular Inspections: Regularly check for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cords or damaged parts. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure that your toaster oven continues to function properly.
- Use the Timer Feature: Many toaster ovens come with built-in timers that prevent overcooking. By utilizing this feature, you can avoid leaving food unattended, reducing the risk of burning or damaging the appliance.
- Store Properly: If you don’t use your toaster oven frequently, store it in a dry place and cover it to protect it from dust. This prevents buildup that can affect its performance and keeps it in good condition for when you need it.