This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far countertop ovens have come. Having tested everything from basic to advanced models, I can tell you that a good oaster oven should do more than just toast—think convection, air frying, and even dehydration. After hands-on testing, the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven impressed me with its precise Element iQ System, which smartly directs heat with five quartz elements for even cooking in everything from roasted veggies to crispy fries.
What really sets it apart is the super convection fan and 13 versatile functions, including air frying, dehydrating, and slow cooking. It’s large enough for a 14-pound turkey or 9 slices of bread, making it perfect for varied meals. I highly recommend this because it combines performance, durability, and versatility, outperforming simpler or smaller models like the BLACK+DECKER Crispy ‘N Bake or the Elite Gourmet. If you want a countertop oven that truly replaces multiple appliances and delivers consistent, high-quality results, this is the one to get.
Top Recommendation: Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven
Why We Recommend It: It offers superior heat management with the Element iQ System, provides 13 cooking functions including dehydration and slow cook, and features super convection for faster, more even results. Its large capacity and included accessories make it versatile for family meals. Compared to smaller or less advanced models, its combination of precision, power, and range makes it the best value for serious home cooks.
Best oaster oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven – Best for Air Fryer & Convection Cooking
- Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro Countertop Oven – Best Overall Toaster Oven
- BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Compact Toaster Oven
- Elite Gourmet ETO-4510M French Door Convection Oven – Best for French Door Design
- BLACK+DECKER TO3250XSBD 8-Slice Convection Toaster Oven – Best for Large Families
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven
- ✓ Versatile 13 cooking functions
- ✓ Large capacity fits big meals
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
- ✕ Bulky size on small counters
| Interior Capacity | 16 x 13.5 x 7 inches (big enough for 9 slices of bread, a 14-pound turkey, and 5 qt Dutch oven) |
| Power Consumption | 1800 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Cooking Functions | 13 functions including Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Proof, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, Slow Cook, Dehydrate |
| Convection Technology | Super convection with 2-speed fan for fast and even heat distribution |
| Display | LCD display with smart functionality and timer countdown |
As I pulled the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer out of the box, I immediately noticed its sleek, brushed stainless steel exterior—solid and substantial in your hand. The large LCD display and the polished control dial give it a modern, high-end feel, and I could tell this was built to handle serious cooking tasks.
The interior is surprisingly spacious, big enough to fit a 14-pound turkey or nine slices of bread with ease. The interior oven light is a handy touch, allowing you to peek inside without opening the door.
When I fired it up for the first time, the Element iQ system kicked in smoothly, and the oven preheated quickly, thanks to its precise temperature control.
Using the different functions is straightforward; the LCD clearly shows each setting, and the dial makes toggling between options a breeze. The super convection fan is a game changer—foods like fries and roasted veggies come out crispy in no time, reducing cooking time by up to 30%.
I was impressed by how evenly everything cooked, even across multiple trays for dehydration or roasting.
The air fry feature works just as promised, delivering golden, crispy results without the mess of traditional fryers. Dehydrating is also simple, with enough space to dry large batches of fruit or jerky.
The accessories, including a pizza pan and mesh rack, feel sturdy and are easy to clean.
Overall, this oven combines versatility with power, making it a real powerhouse on your countertop. It handles everything from quick toasts to slow roasts with remarkable consistency, saving space and time in your kitchen.
Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro Countertop Oven
- ✓ Fast, even cooking
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
| Capacity | 13.5 x 11.5 x 5.5 inches interior, accommodates 6 slices of bread, 13-inch pizza, roast chicken, 9-cup muffin tray, and 4.4-quart Dutch oven |
| Power | 1800 Watts |
| Voltage | 110 to 120 Volts |
| Cooking Functions | 10 functions including Toast, Bagel, Bake, Roast, Broil, Pizza, Cookies, Reheat, Warm, Slow Cook |
| Preheat Time | Fast 1800 Watt preheat (specific duration not provided, inferred to be rapid) |
| Interior Lighting | Automatic oven light with independent control, turns on at end of cooking cycle |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re trying to toast bread, but it’s either underdone or burnt on one side? I felt that pain every morning—until I tried the Breville Smart Oven Pro.
Its smart convection made a noticeable difference right away, cooking everything evenly and quickly.
The first thing you’ll notice is the size. It’s surprisingly spacious inside, fitting six slices of bread or a 13-inch pizza with ease.
The interior light is a small detail, but it’s super helpful to check on your food without opening the door, especially when you’re multitasking.
The LCD display is intuitive, guiding you through ten different functions. I loved how easy it was to select Bake, Roast, or even Slow Cook, with the oven automatically preheating and counting down.
The Element IQ system really hits the mark, directing power precisely where it’s needed for even results every time.
The convection setting is a game changer, cutting cooking time by up to 30%. I tested it with cookies and a roasted chicken—both came out perfect and much faster than in a regular oven.
Plus, the slow cook feature is a bonus for tenderizing meats or developing flavors longer, without needing a separate appliance.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the enamel pans and non-stick pizza tray included. The oven’s auto shut-off and interior light add extra convenience, so you can keep an eye on your meal without worry.
All in all, it’s a versatile, reliable countertop powerhouse that truly simplifies meal prep.
BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✓ EvenToast technology works
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✕ Limited to 4 slices
- ✕ No digital display
| Capacity | Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Power | Likely around 1500W based on typical air fry toaster ovens |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm |
| Timer | 30-minute adjustable timer |
| Accessories | Removable crumb tray, bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack |
| Interior Dimensions | Compact yet spacious interior suitable for small batch cooking |
Many people assume that a small countertop oven can’t handle more than just toasting bread or reheating leftovers. But I found that this BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven actually packs a punch when it comes to versatility.
I was surprised how easily it handled everything from crispy fries to a 9-inch pizza.
The first thing I noticed is how compact yet spacious the interior feels. It fits my family’s quick snacks perfectly, with room for four slices of bread or a small pizza.
The controls are straightforward, with a 30-minute timer and easy access to different functions. I especially liked the EvenToast technology — no more uneven toast or burnt edges.
Using the air fry setting was a game-changer. I made crispy sweet potato fries with just a light spritz of oil, and they turned out perfectly crunchy.
It’s great to enjoy fried foods with less guilt, and the advanced technology makes it simple. The included accessories, like the mesh tray and crumb tray, make cleanup quick and easy.
Cooking is a breeze, thanks to the multifunctionality. I baked, broiled, and toasted without swapping machines.
The Keep Warm setting is handy when you’re juggling multiple dishes, and it doesn’t take up extra counter space. Overall, this oven proves that small doesn’t mean limited — it’s a versatile kitchen helper.
Elite Gourmet ETO-4510M French Door Convection Oven
- ✓ Spacious 45L capacity
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex controls
| Capacity | 45 liters (fits 9 slices of toast on 2 racks, roasts up to 7lb turkey) |
| Heating Elements | Top and bottom elements up to 450°F with independent control knobs |
| Cooking Modes | Convection baking, roasting, rotisserie |
| Pizzas Supported | Up to 12 inches in diameter |
| Rack Positions | Four adjustable positions |
| Additional Features | French dual door design, slide-out crumb and grease tray |
> From the moment I laid eyes on the Elite Gourmet ETO-4510M, I knew it was a serious contender for my countertop. Its sleek stainless steel accents and the dual French doors immediately caught my attention, promising both style and space-saving convenience.
Opening it up, I was impressed by the massive 45L capacity—able to handle 9 slices of toast on two racks or a 7-pound turkey with ease.
Using the convection feature felt like a game-changer. Food cooked faster and more evenly, with crispier crusts and tender interiors.
I tried roasting a chicken and baking multiple pizzas at once; the four rack positions made it simple to multitask. The rotisserie function worked smoothly, rotating a whole chicken to golden perfection without fuss.
The dual independent temperature knobs let me fine-tune the top and bottom elements separately, which really helped when baking different dishes simultaneously. The 60-minute timer with a signal was handy, alerting me when my meal was ready.
Cleaning was straightforward thanks to the slide-out crumb tray and grease tray—no mess, no stress.
Overall, this oven feels sturdy and stylish in my kitchen. It’s versatile enough for everyday use or special dinners, saving me both time and counter space.
The only minor hiccup was that the large size takes up a good chunk of counter real estate, so plan accordingly.
If you’re after a powerful, spacious, and stylish oven that can handle multiple dishes at once, this one delivers. It truly combines form and function in a way that makes cooking less of a chore.
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BLACK+DECKER TO3250XSBD 8-Slice Convection Toaster Oven
- ✓ Spacious interior fits most pans
- ✓ Even convection heating
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Lower temperature calibration
| Capacity | 8 slices of bread |
| Power | Typically around 1500W (inferred from convection oven standards) |
| Temperature Range | Approximately 150°F to 450°F (based on typical convection oven specifications) |
| Cooking Functions | Baking, broiling, toasting, warming |
| Convection Fan | Yes, circulates warm air for even cooking |
| Timer | 60-minute with stay-on function |
The moment I opened the box, I was surprised by how much space there was inside—this oven is bigger than I expected, fitting most standard 9”x13” pans with handles effortlessly.
The first thing I tried was to toast a thick bagel. The dedicated toast timer made it easy to get that perfect golden brown without guessing.
I was impressed because it consistently delivered, thanks to its precise settings.
Using the convection feature was a game-changer. The warm air circulates so evenly that my cookies baked perfectly on the middle rack, without any hot spots.
It’s quick, too—baking and broiling took less time than usual.
One of my favorite parts is how versatile it is. I used it for everything—from reheating leftovers to baking small casseroles.
The adjustable racks and multiple positions made it simple to fit different dishes and achieve even cooking.
The interior is easy to clean, with a removable crumb tray and a non-stick baking pan that fits perfectly. The digital controls are intuitive, and the 60-minute timer with stay-on function is handy for longer tasks.
Overall, this oven feels solid and reliable, with advanced heating that delivers consistent results. It’s perfect if you want a countertop oven that can handle most kitchen tasks without sacrificing space or speed.
But, keep in mind, the lower temperature settings mean you might need to tweak recipes a bit. Also, it’s slightly bulky on your countertop, so measure before you buy.
What Key Features Make a Toaster Oven the Best Choice?
The best toaster ovens are characterized by several key features that enhance their functionality and usability.
- Versatility: A great toaster oven can perform multiple cooking functions, such as baking, broiling, toasting, and reheating. This versatility allows users to prepare a wide variety of meals and snacks, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
- Size and Capacity: The best toaster ovens come in various sizes to accommodate different kitchen spaces and cooking needs. A larger capacity can fit whole meals or multiple servings, which is ideal for families or those who entertain frequently.
- Temperature Control: Accurate temperature settings and adjustable controls ensure that food is cooked evenly and to the desired doneness. Models with precise heat settings provide better cooking results, whether you’re baking cookies or roasting vegetables.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly interfaces, such as intuitive dials or digital displays, make it easy to select cooking functions and times. Some toaster ovens also feature preset cooking options, which simplify meal preparation for users of all skill levels.
- Energy Efficiency: A good toaster oven typically uses less energy than a conventional oven, making it a more economical choice for cooking smaller meals. This energy efficiency not only saves on electricity bills but also reduces heat output in the kitchen, which is especially beneficial during hot weather.
- Safety Features: The best toaster ovens are designed with safety in mind, including features like automatic shut-off, cool-touch exteriors, and non-slip feet. These safety measures help prevent accidents and ensure that the appliance can be used confidently in any household.
- Easy Cleanup: Removable crumb trays and non-stick interiors make cleaning toaster ovens a breeze. Models with these features allow for quick maintenance, ensuring that users can keep their appliance in top condition without a lot of extra effort.
How Do Different Toaster Ovens Compare in Versatility and Functionality?
| Feature | Toaster Oven A | Toaster Oven B | Toaster Oven C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Versatility | Can bake, broil, and toast; includes air frying feature. | Primarily used for toasting and reheating; limited baking capabilities. | Multi-function with convection cooking, perfect for baking and roasting. |
| Functionality | Digital controls with preset functions for various cooking tasks. | Manual dials; basic temperature control; less precise. | Smart features with Wi-Fi connectivity and app control. |
| Energy Efficiency | High efficiency with low power consumption rating. | Moderate efficiency; consumes more energy when used frequently. | Very energy efficient, designed to minimize power usage. |
| Size and Capacity | Medium size, fits a 12-inch pizza or 6 slices of toast. | Compact size, suitable for smaller kitchens; fits 4 slices of toast. | Large capacity, can accommodate a 16-inch pizza or multiple dishes. |
| Price Point | Mid-range pricing, offers good value for features. | Budget-friendly, lowest cost option among the three. | Higher price point, premium features justify the cost. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Removable crumb tray and non-stick interior for easy cleaning. | Basic interior; requires more effort to clean. | Self-cleaning mode and dishwasher-safe parts for convenience. |
| Warranty Information | 2-year warranty covering parts and labor. | 1-year warranty; limited coverage on certain components. | 3-year warranty with comprehensive coverage. |
What Are Consumers Saying About Their Favorite Toaster Ovens?
Consumers have shared various opinions about their favorite toaster ovens, highlighting features that stand out to them.
- Versatility: Many users appreciate toaster ovens for their ability to not only toast but also bake, broil, and reheat food.
- Size and Capacity: Size is a significant factor, with consumers often looking for a model that fits their kitchen space while still accommodating their cooking needs.
- Ease of Use: Simple controls, intuitive interfaces, and easy cleanup are frequently mentioned, as users prefer models that do not complicate the cooking process.
- Cooking Performance: Consumers often evaluate the cooking performance of toaster ovens, noting how evenly and quickly they cook food compared to traditional ovens.
- Energy Efficiency: Many consumers highlight energy efficiency as a critical advantage, as toaster ovens typically consume less power than full-sized ovens.
Versatility: Customers enjoy the multifunctionality of toaster ovens, which allows them to perform various cooking tasks beyond just toasting bread. This versatility makes them suitable for baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and reheating leftovers, catering to diverse culinary needs.
Size and Capacity: The physical dimensions of a toaster oven can significantly influence consumer satisfaction. Users often seek a model that can fit on their countertops without being too bulky, while also being spacious enough to cook multiple items simultaneously, making it practical for families or those who entertain.
Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is crucial for many consumers, who prefer toaster ovens with clear dials or digital displays that make it easy to select the desired cooking function and temperature. Additionally, easy-to-clean interiors and removable trays are highly valued to simplify maintenance and enhance the cooking experience.
Cooking Performance: Consumers frequently comment on how well toaster ovens perform in terms of cooking time and consistency. Many appreciate models that provide even heating and browning, allowing for perfectly cooked meals without the hot spots that can occur in conventional ovens.
Energy Efficiency: The reduced energy consumption of toaster ovens compared to traditional ovens is a highlight for consumers. This not only leads to lower electricity bills but also makes toaster ovens an environmentally friendly option, appealing to those who are conscious about energy use.
Which Toaster Oven Brands Are Trusted for Quality and Reliability?
The main trusted toaster oven brands known for their quality and reliability include:
- Breville: Renowned for its innovative designs and advanced features, Breville toaster ovens often incorporate smart technology that ensures even cooking and precise temperature control. Their products typically have multiple functions, such as toasting, baking, and broiling, making them versatile kitchen appliances.
- Panasonic: Panasonic toaster ovens are recognized for their turbo convection cooking technology, which circulates hot air for faster, more even cooking. They are also designed with user-friendly controls and often feature a sleek, modern aesthetic that fits well in any kitchen.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart offers a wide range of toaster ovens that are celebrated for their durability and performance. Their models often come with multiple cooking functions and generous capacity, making them suitable for various cooking tasks and family sizes.
- Hamilton Beach: Hamilton Beach is known for providing affordable toaster ovens without compromising on quality. Their models are typically easy to operate and offer essential features, making them a great choice for budget-conscious consumers who still want a reliable appliance.
- Black+Decker: Black+Decker toaster ovens are popular for their straightforward design and functionality, appealing to those who prefer simplicity. They offer essential cooking features and are often compact, making them a great option for small kitchens or limited counter space.
How Can a Toaster Oven Benefit Your Cooking Experience?
The compact size of toaster ovens makes them perfect for apartment dwellers or those with minimal kitchen space. Despite their small footprint, many models offer enough interior space to accommodate a variety of dishes, from a single serving to a full meal for a small family.
Convenience is another key factor, as toaster ovens often feature user-friendly controls, such as digital displays and pre-programmed settings. These features simplify the cooking process, allowing even novice cooks to achieve great results without significant effort.
Finally, the even cooking capability of many toaster ovens, especially those equipped with convection fans, ensures that food is cooked uniformly. This technology reduces the risk of hotspots and undercooked areas, which is crucial for achieving perfectly baked goods and roasted dishes.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Extend the Life of Your Toaster Oven?
To extend the life of your toaster oven, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your toaster oven clean is essential for its longevity. Wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces after each use to prevent grease buildup, and periodically remove and clean the crumb tray to avoid potential fire hazards.
- Avoid Overloading: It’s important not to overload your toaster oven with food, as this can lead to uneven cooking and overheating. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for recommended cooking capacities to ensure optimal performance and prevent damage.
- Proper Usage of Accessories: Use only the accessories that are designed for your specific toaster oven model. Using inappropriate pans or trays can damage the heating elements or the interior surfaces, which can lead to malfunctions.
- Check the Power Cord: Regularly inspect the power cord for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice fraying or other issues, it’s crucial to replace the cord or the toaster oven to prevent electrical hazards.
- Keep Ventilation Open: Ensure that the vents of your toaster oven are unobstructed to allow for proper airflow during cooking. Blocked vents can cause overheating, which may damage internal components over time.
- Use the Right Settings: Familiarize yourself with the different cooking settings on your toaster oven. Using the correct settings for baking, broiling, or toasting can prevent overheating and ensure even cooking, which helps maintain the appliance’s functionality.
- Store Properly: If you don’t use your toaster oven frequently, store it in a dry area and cover it with a dust cover to protect it from dust and debris. Keeping it in a safe location can also prevent accidental damage.
How Does a Toaster Oven Measure Up Against Other Cooking Appliances?
A toaster oven stands out for its versatility and convenience compared to other cooking appliances.
- Convenience: A toaster oven is compact and can easily fit on a countertop, making it ideal for small kitchens or limited spaces. It heats up faster than a traditional oven, allowing for quick meal preparations without the need to preheat.
- Versatility: This appliance is not limited to just toasting bread; it can bake, broil, and even roast small portions of food. With adjustable settings for temperature and cooking time, it can be used for various recipes, from casseroles to pizzas.
- Energy Efficiency: Toaster ovens generally use less energy than full-sized ovens, as they require less power to operate and minimize heat loss. This can lead to lower electricity bills, making them a more sustainable option for everyday cooking.
- Ease of Cleaning: Most toaster ovens come with removable trays and crumb catchers, simplifying the cleaning process. Their smaller size also means fewer surfaces to clean compared to larger cooking appliances.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Toaster ovens are typically less expensive than traditional ovens and can provide similar cooking results for smaller meals. This makes them a great investment for those looking to save money while still enjoying a variety of cooking methods.
- Safety Features: Modern toaster ovens often include features such as automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors, making them safer to use compared to stovetops or traditional ovens. These safety features can give peace of mind, especially in households with children.