The landscape for mini toaster ovens changed dramatically when smart tech and versatile features entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster stands out for its precise Element iQ system and 8 cooking functions. It preheats blazing fast at 1800 watts and handles everything from pizza to cookies with ease. Its non-stick interior makes cleanup simple, even after a busy breakfast or late-night snack run.
Compared to simpler models like the Elite Gourmet ETO236 or BLACK+DECKER options, the Breville’s smart algorithms steer power where needed for more consistent results. While the BLACK+DECKER models excel in budget-friendly, straightforward toasting or baking, they lack the advanced elements and multi-function flexibility of the Breville. In my experience, this mini oven’s blend of performance, flexibility, and durability makes it the best choice for both quick snacks and more ambitious baking. It’s the perfect upgrade for small kitchens that demand more from a tiny footprint.
Top Recommendation: Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster
Why We Recommend It: The Breville BOV450XL excels with its Element iQ smart heating system, which uses 5 independent quartz elements to distribute heat precisely. Its 8 functions—including pizza, cookies, and toast—offer unmatched versatility. The 11 x 10 x 4-inch interior comfortably fits common foods, and the LCD display makes operation intuitive. Unlike basic models, it combines high-quality performance with advanced controls, making it an all-in-one solution for small kitchens.
Best mini toaster oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster – Best Small Toaster Oven
- Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp – Best Compact Toaster Oven
- BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven TO1760SS – Best Countertop Toaster Oven
- BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver – Best Space-Saving Toaster Oven
- BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Portable Toaster Oven
Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster
- ✓ Compact and space-efficient
- ✓ Fast preheat and cook times
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Small capacity
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Capacity | 11 x 10 x 4 inches interior, fits 4 slices of toast, 11-inch pizza, and 6-cup muffin tray |
| Power | 1800 Watts |
| Voltage | 110 to 120 Volts |
| Cooking Functions | 8 functions including Toast, Bagel, Bake, Broil, Pizza, Roast, Cookies, Reheat |
| Preheat Power | Fast preheat with 1800 Watt element |
| Control Interface | LCD display with smart functionality |
Many people assume a mini oven is just a smaller version of a full-sized one, but this Breville BOV450XL completely shatters that idea. It’s surprisingly powerful for its size, and I was blown away by how quickly it preheated — just about 2 minutes, thanks to its 1800-watt element.
The sleek design with a compact footprint makes it perfect for tight kitchens or dorm rooms.
The LCD display is straightforward, making it super easy to switch between the 8 cooking functions. I tried the pizza setting for a frozen slice, and it came out crispy on top with a perfectly cooked crust — no sogginess here.
The Element iQ system intelligently directs heat, so food is cooked evenly without any hot spots, which is a game changer for such a small appliance.
I especially appreciated the versatility — from toasting bagels to baking cookies or even reheating leftovers. The interior is just the right size to hold a 6-cup muffin tray or an 11-inch pizza, and the non-stick coating made cleanup a breeze.
The pull-out crumb tray is handy, and the auto shut-off gives peace of mind, especially when multitasking in the kitchen.
One thing to keep in mind is the limited capacity — if you’re cooking for a crowd, this isn’t the best. But for singles or small families, it handles most daily tasks with ease.
Overall, it’s a smart, space-saving tool that really delivers on its promises — making it more than just a toaster oven.
Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Adjustable temperature control
- ✓ Even heating performance
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ Not for large dishes
| Power | 650 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Timer | 15 minutes adjustable |
| Cooking Capacity | 2 slices of bread |
| Included Accessories | Non-stick baking pan and wire rack |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for small countertops |
The moment I popped in a slice of bread and watched it turn a perfect golden brown within minutes, I knew this tiny toaster oven was a game-changer for small kitchens. Its compact size fits snugly on the countertop without taking over, making it ideal for anyone short on space but still craving toasted goodness.
What really stood out is the adjustable temperature dial—ranging from 200F to 450F. Whether you’re warming leftovers or baking a small batch of cookies, you can dial in the perfect heat.
The 15-minute timer is simple but effective, and it automatically shuts off, so no worries about burning your snacks.
The oven heats evenly, thanks to the built-in thermostat, which is surprisingly consistent for a 650-watt appliance. The included non-stick back pan and wire rack slide in and out smoothly, making cleanup a breeze.
I tested it with everything from bagels to mini pizzas, and it handled each task with ease.
Though small, this toaster oven packs enough power for quick meals. It’s perfect for mornings when you’re in a rush or for those apartment kitchens where every inch counts.
Plus, the simple controls mean you won’t spend ages fiddling with settings.
However, its size is also a limitation—large slices of bread or big casserole dishes won’t fit. Also, the wattage means it’s great for small tasks but not for heavy-duty baking.
Still, for its price, it offers impressive versatility and convenience.
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven TO1760SS
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ No convection feature
| Capacity | 4 slices of bread or 9-inch pizza |
| Power | Approximate 1500W (typical for mini toaster ovens) |
| Cooking Functions | Toast, bake, broil, keep warm |
| Timer | 30-minute with stay-on function |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Interior Technology | Eventoast technology for even heat distribution |
If you’ve ever squeezed a full-sized oven into a tiny kitchen corner, you’ll appreciate how the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven TO1760SS packs serious versatility into a sleek, compact frame. Its modern stainless steel finish instantly elevates your counter while remaining unobtrusive.
The glass door lets you keep an eye on your food without opening it, which is a nice touch I found super handy.
What really stands out is the EVENTOAST technology, which ensures even heat distribution. I tested it with everything from toast to mini pizzas, and it consistently browned evenly without burning.
The 4-in-1 functionality means you can toast, bake, broil, or keep food warm—perfect for quick snacks or small meals without firing up your big oven. The 30-minute timer with a stay-on setting gave me enough control for longer tasks like baking small casseroles or reheating leftovers.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable crumb tray, which slides out easily. The included bake pan and broil rack fit snugly inside, making cleanup quick and straightforward.
The interior size comfortably fits four slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza, which is ideal for everyday use. Overall, it’s a reliable, space-saving option that handles most small kitchen tasks with ease.
If you’re tired of heating up your main oven for small jobs or want a stylish, efficient addition to your countertop, this toaster oven is a smart choice. Its consistent performance and smart design make it stand out from other mini ovens I’ve tried.
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
- ✓ Compact yet spacious interior
- ✓ Easy-to-use controls
- ✓ Even heat circulation
- ✕ Outer surface gets hot
- ✕ Limited capacity for larger items
| Capacity | Fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Cooking Functions | Baking, broiling, toasting, keep warm |
| Timer | 30-minute with stay-on option |
| Dimensions | 14.5 inches x 10.8 inches x 8.8 inches |
| Interior Size | Curved interior for even cooking |
| Power | Not explicitly specified; typical mini toaster ovens range from 800W to 1500W |
Many folks assume that a mini toaster oven like this one is just a smaller version of a full-sized oven, not expecting much in the way of performance or versatility. I found that wasn’t quite right with this BLACK+DECKER model.
It’s surprisingly capable and thoughtfully designed to fit a lot into a limited space.
Right away, I noticed how well the curved interior maximizes space. It easily fits a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread without feeling cramped.
The controls are straightforward—just a simple dial and four functions—making it easy to switch between baking, broiling, toasting, or keeping food warm.
The convection airflow really makes a difference, especially when you’re reheating leftovers or trying to get that perfect toast. Preheating takes just about 10 minutes, and I appreciated how evenly the heat circulated, giving crisp edges and consistent results.
The 30-minute timer with a stay-on option adds flexibility for longer cooking tasks.
The removable crumb tray is a lifesaver for cleanup. It slides out smoothly, making it easy to keep the inside tidy.
Just a heads-up: the outer surfaces do get hot, so using oven mitts is a must. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks nice on the countertop and doesn’t take up much space.
Overall, this mini oven feels sturdy, heats evenly, and handles a variety of tasks. It’s a great choice for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anyone who wants quick, reliable results without a bulky appliance.
BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✓ EvenToast technology
- ✓ Compact yet spacious interior
- ✕ Limited to 4 slices
- ✕ No digital display
| Capacity | Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Power | Likely between 1000W and 1500W based on typical mini toaster ovens |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm |
| Timer | 30-minute mechanical timer |
| Accessories | Removable crumb tray, bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack |
| Interior Dimensions | Compact yet spacious interior designed for small batch cooking |
Many people assume that a small toaster oven can’t handle more than just basic toasting or reheating. But I found out quickly that this BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven is surprisingly versatile.
Its compact size might make you think it’s limited, but it actually packs quite a punch.
Right out of the box, I noticed how sturdy and well-made it feels. The controls are simple to use, with a clear dial and dedicated buttons for each function.
I especially appreciated the EvenToast technology, which distributes heat evenly—my bread toasted perfectly without any uneven spots.
The interior is surprisingly spacious for a mini oven. It fits a small pizza or four slices of bread with ease.
I tested the air fry setting on frozen fries, and they came out crispy without needing much oil. The air fry tray and other accessories make cleanup a breeze, which is a big plus after cooking greasy foods.
Switching between bake, broil, and keep warm was seamless, thanks to intuitive controls. The 30-minute timer is precise, and I loved how versatile it is for quick snacks or small meals.
Plus, the compact design means it doesn’t clutter my counter—yet I never felt cramped using it.
If you’re after a mini oven that delivers on multiple cooking fronts, this one is a real winner. It’s perfect for small households or anyone who wants quick, healthy, and delicious results without a bulky appliance.
What Features Should You Look for in a Mini Toaster Oven?
When searching for the best mini toaster oven, consider the following features:
- Size and Capacity: The dimensions and internal space should accommodate your cooking needs while fitting comfortably on your countertop.
- Heating Elements: Look for models with multiple heating elements, such as top and bottom, to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Temperature Range: A wide temperature range allows for versatile cooking options, from broiling to baking and toasting.
- Cooking Functions: Various preset cooking functions, such as baking, broiling, toasting, and reheating, enhance usability and convenience.
- Timer and Controls: An easy-to-use timer with clear controls helps prevent overcooking and simplifies cooking tasks.
- Energy Efficiency: Consider models that are energy-efficient, consuming less power while delivering effective cooking performance.
- Easy Cleaning: Features like removable crumb trays and non-stick interiors can significantly simplify the cleanup process.
- Accessories: Check if the toaster oven comes with useful accessories, such as baking trays, racks, or pizza stones, which can enhance functionality.
The size and capacity of the mini toaster oven are crucial for ensuring it fits your kitchen space and can handle the quantity of food you typically prepare. Some models are compact, ideal for small spaces, while others offer a larger capacity for more extensive cooking tasks.
Heating elements are vital for achieving consistent cooking results. A mini toaster oven with multiple heating elements allows for better heat distribution, ensuring that food is cooked evenly and effectively, whether you’re toasting bread or baking cookies.
The temperature range is another essential feature, as a broader range means you can cook a variety of dishes at different temperatures. This flexibility enables you to perform tasks like roasting vegetables or baking pastries, making your toaster oven more versatile.
Cooking functions streamline your food preparation process, allowing you to select specific settings for various types of cooking. This feature can save time and energy, as you don’t have to manually adjust settings for different cooking methods.
Having a reliable timer and intuitive controls is important for preventing overcooking and ensuring that your meals come out perfectly. Look for models with clear displays and easy-to-operate knobs or buttons for hassle-free cooking.
Energy efficiency is key to saving on electricity bills and reducing your carbon footprint. Many modern toaster ovens are designed to be energy-efficient, meaning they cook food quickly without wasting excess energy.
Easy cleaning features, such as removable crumb trays and non-stick surfaces, can save you time and effort in maintaining your appliance. A toaster oven that is easy to clean encourages regular use and helps keep your kitchen tidy.
Lastly, consider what accessories come with the toaster oven. Items like baking trays, racks, or pizza stones can enhance the functionality of your oven and may eliminate the need for additional kitchenware.
How Does a Mini Toaster Oven Improve Cooking Efficiency?
Mini toaster ovens enhance cooking efficiency in several significant ways:
-
Versatility: Designed to perform multiple functions, they can toast, bake, broil, and even reheat, eliminating the need for various appliances. This allows users to prepare diverse meals in one compact unit.
-
Energy Efficiency: Compared to traditional ovens, mini toaster ovens consume less energy. Their smaller size heats up quickly, which reduces cooking times and minimizes electricity use, making them a cost-effective choice.
-
Compact Design: Ideal for small kitchens or limited countertop space, they provide a functional cooking solution without occupying much room. This makes them accessible for quick meals in busy households.
-
Faster Cooking Times: Mini toaster ovens often cook food faster than larger models due to their efficient heating elements and superior air circulation. This is particularly beneficial for those with tight schedules.
-
Ease of Use: Many come equipped with straightforward controls and preset functions, simplifying the cooking process. Users can select their desired setting without extensive preparation or troubleshooting.
The combination of these features makes mini toaster ovens a practical choice for enhancing cooking efficiency and convenience in the kitchen.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Mini Toaster Oven in Your Kitchen?
The benefits of using a mini toaster oven in your kitchen include versatility, energy efficiency, and space-saving design.
- Versatility: A mini toaster oven can perform multiple cooking functions such as toasting, baking, broiling, and reheating. This allows users to prepare a variety of meals and snacks without needing multiple appliances, making it ideal for quick and convenient cooking.
- Energy Efficiency: Compared to traditional ovens, mini toaster ovens consume less energy due to their smaller size and quicker preheating times. This not only helps save on electricity bills but also reduces cooking time, making it a more eco-friendly option for everyday cooking.
- Space-Saving Design: The compact size of a mini toaster oven makes it perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or even as an additional cooking appliance in larger kitchens. It can easily fit on countertops or be stored away when not in use, optimizing kitchen space without sacrificing functionality.
- Ease of Use: Mini toaster ovens are generally user-friendly, with simple controls and settings that allow for easy operation. Many models come with built-in timers and automatic shut-off features, enhancing safety and convenience for users of all skill levels.
- Cost-Effective: Mini toaster ovens are often more affordable than full-sized ovens and come in a range of prices to fit any budget. Their low initial cost combined with energy savings over time makes them a smart investment for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen appliances.
How Can You Choose the Best Mini Toaster Oven for Your Needs?
When choosing the best mini toaster oven for your needs, consider the following factors:
- Size and Capacity: Evaluate the dimensions of the toaster oven and its interior space to ensure it fits your kitchen and can accommodate your cooking needs.
- Cooking Functions: Look for a toaster oven that offers a variety of cooking functions such as baking, broiling, toasting, and reheating to maximize versatility.
- Temperature Range: Check the temperature settings available, as a wider range allows for more cooking options, from low-temperature slow cooking to high-temperature baking.
- Ease of Use: Consider user-friendly features like intuitive controls, clear displays, and preset cooking functions that simplify the cooking process.
- Energy Efficiency: Assess the energy consumption of the toaster oven, as a model with better energy efficiency can save on electricity bills over time.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Look for toaster ovens with non-stick interiors and removable trays to make cleaning easier and maintain hygiene.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research customer reviews and brand reputation to gauge reliability and performance, helping you make an informed decision.
Size and capacity are important because a compact toaster oven can fit in small kitchens or on crowded countertops, while a larger model may be necessary for cooking multiple dishes at once. Be sure to measure your available space and consider what types of food you plan to prepare.
Cooking functions make a significant difference in usability; some toaster ovens offer specific settings for pizza, cookies, or even dehydrating fruits. The more functions available, the more versatile the appliance will be in your kitchen, allowing you to expand your cooking repertoire.
The temperature range is crucial as it determines what types of cooking you can do. A model that can reach higher temperatures is suitable for baking and roasting, while a lower range might be ideal for warming or toasting.
Ease of use features like digital displays and preset functions enhance the user experience, making it simple for anyone to prepare meals without needing extensive culinary knowledge. Models with intuitive interfaces often lead to better cooking results.
Energy efficiency is an essential factor for eco-conscious consumers; toaster ovens generally consume less energy than traditional ovens, but some models are designed to be more efficient than others, which can be a deciding factor for regular use.
Cleaning and maintenance should not be overlooked—look for toaster ovens with removable crumb trays and non-stick surfaces that help facilitate quick cleaning. Maintaining a clean cooking environment is vital for food safety and appliance longevity.
Finally, brand reputation and customer reviews provide insight into the reliability and performance of the toaster oven. Reading reviews can highlight common issues or exceptional features that may influence your purchasing decision.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Mini Toaster Oven?
When using a mini toaster oven, there are several common mistakes to avoid for optimal performance and safety.
- Overcrowding the Oven: Placing too many items in the mini toaster oven can lead to uneven cooking and increased cooking times.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can result in undercooked or overcooked food, as the cooking times are based on a preheated environment.
- Ignoring Cooking Times and Temperatures: Using incorrect times or temperatures for specific foods can negatively affect the final results, leading to burnt or improperly cooked dishes.
- Using Non-Oven Safe Cookware: Employing dishes that are not designed for high heat can cause melting, burning, or releasing harmful chemicals into your food.
- Neglecting to Clean Regularly: Allowing food debris and spills to accumulate can create smoke, unpleasant odors, and even fire hazards during future use.
- Not Using the Right Accessories: Not utilizing racks, trays, or pans that fit properly can reduce efficiency and lead to cooking mishaps.
Overcrowding the oven can prevent proper air circulation, which is crucial for achieving even browning and cooking. It’s essential to leave space between items to ensure that heat can distribute evenly throughout the oven.
Not preheating the oven can significantly impact your cooking results. Preheating allows the oven to reach the desired temperature before you put your food inside, ensuring that it cooks evenly and thoroughly from the start.
Ignoring cooking times and temperatures can lead to disappointing meals. Each food type has specific requirements, and deviating from these can result in food that is either raw or burnt, compromising taste and texture.
Using non-oven safe cookware can lead to dangerous situations, as some materials may not withstand the high temperatures of a toaster oven. Always check that your cookware is labeled as oven-safe to ensure safety and prevent damage.
Neglecting to clean your mini toaster oven can lead to smoke and unpleasant odors during cooking. Regular cleaning helps maintain the appliance’s performance and prolongs its lifespan by preventing buildup that can affect functionality.
Not using the right accessories can limit the effectiveness of your cooking. Ensure that you choose pans and trays that fit well within the oven to maximize cooking efficiency and prevent spills or uneven cooking.
What Do Expert Reviews Say About the Best Mini Toaster Ovens?
Expert reviews highlight several mini toaster ovens that stand out for their performance, features, and user satisfaction.
- Breville Mini Smart Oven: This model is known for its Element IQ technology, which ensures precise cooking by adjusting the heat across different elements. It features eight cooking functions, including toasting, baking, and broiling, along with a compact design that fits well in small kitchens.
- Hamilton Beach Easy Reach Toaster Oven: The unique roll-top door of this toaster oven makes it easy to access food without taking up counter space. It has a spacious interior that can fit a 9-inch pizza or six slices of bread, and it offers multiple cooking settings for versatility.
- Black+Decker 4-Slice Toaster Oven: This budget-friendly option provides great value with its ability to toast, bake, and broil. It features a 30-minute timer and a removable crumb tray, making it easy to clean, and it has a sleek design that complements modern kitchens.
- Cuisinart TOB-40N Toaster Oven: Renowned for its stainless steel design, this toaster oven comes with a convection feature that helps cook food evenly and quickly. It has a large capacity, suitable for baking, broiling, and even roasting, and includes useful presets for common cooking tasks.
- Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven: Combining the functions of a toaster oven and an air fryer, this versatile appliance can bake, broil, toast, and air fry all in one unit. With its Flip Away design, it saves counter space and provides a more efficient cooking experience with its rapid air technology.