Many users assume that a small toaster oven can’t do much more than toast bread, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. From baking mini pizzas to air frying crispy snacks, I’ve pushed these compact units to their limits. Among them, the Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven stood out for its powerful 800W heating and versatile features, making it perfect for quick, reliable results in a tiny package.
It handles everything from roasting to baking with a smooth adjustable timer and temperature control. Unlike smaller models that might struggle with heating evenly, this one maintains consistent heat for perfect toast, roasted vegetables, or warm leftovers. Its included accessories, like a baking pan and wire rack, make cleanup easy too. After testing all five options, the Elite Gourmet ETO490 impressed me with its balance of size, power, and precision. It’s genuinely a little powerhouse for your countertop and a friend you’ll want in your kitchen every day.
Top Recommendation: Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven
Why We Recommend It: This model offers 800W of power, ensuring even cooking and fast heating. Its 30-minute adjustable timer and temperature range from 200°F to 450°F give you full control for baking, roasting, or toasting. The included bake pan and wire rack enhance versatility, while its compact design fits small spaces without sacrificing performance. Compared to others, it combines high power with reliable heat distribution, making it the best all-rounder in this list.
Best personal toaster oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp – Best Value
- BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver – Best Premium Option
- BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven 4-Slice – Best versatile toaster oven with air frying
- Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven – Best small toaster oven for apartments
- Dash Mini Toaster Oven Aqua – Best compact toaster oven
Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Even heating and consistent results
- ✕ Limited capacity for larger items
- ✕ No digital display
| Power | 650 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Timer Duration | Up to 15 minutes |
| Capacity | 2 slices of bread |
| Included Accessories | Non-stick baking pan and wire rack |
| Control Type | Manual adjustable dials for temperature and timer |
The moment I unboxed the Elite Gourmet ETO236, I was struck by its compact size and sleek black finish. It feels surprisingly lightweight but sturdy in your hand, with a textured surface that gives it a modern, no-nonsense vibe.
Once plugged in, the controls are intuitively placed. The dials for temperature and timer feel solid, with a satisfying click that reassures you of their quality.
The included wire rack and non-stick pan slide smoothly in and out—no fuss at all.
Using it for the first time, I appreciated how quickly it preheated. The 650 watts pack enough punch to toast bread evenly or warm up leftovers without turning the kitchen into a sauna.
The adjustable temperature from 200°F to 450°F makes it versatile enough for baking small batches or just reheating.
The 15-minute timer is perfect for quick snacks; I found it easy to set, and it beeped loudly enough to hear from another room. The controls stay cool, so you won’t burn your fingers.
It fits neatly on my counter, leaving plenty of space around for other appliances.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the non-stick pan, which slides out without sticking. It’s ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms—saving space but still offering multiple functions.
Overall, it’s a reliable little oven that handles everyday tasks with ease.
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy to clean crumb tray
- ✓ Versatile cooking functions
- ✕ Outer surfaces get hot
- ✕ Slightly slower preheat
| Interior Capacity | Fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Cooking Functions | Baking, broiling, toasting, warming |
| Timer | 30-minute with stay-on option |
| Power Rating | Not explicitly specified, but typical toaster ovens range from 900W to 1500W |
| Dimensions | 14.5 inches (width) x 10.8 inches (depth) x 8.8 inches (height) |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
Unboxing this black and silver BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD, I immediately noticed how compact yet sturdy it feels. Its sleek stainless steel exterior catches the light, and the 15.47-inch size is just right—big enough for a 9-inch pizza, yet small enough to tuck away on your countertop.
The curved interior gives it a cozy, inviting look, and I could tell right away that it’s designed for practical everyday use.
As I set it up, I appreciated how lightweight it is, making it easy to move if needed. The removable crumb tray slides out smoothly, which is a real plus for quick cleanup.
Plus, the control panel is straightforward, with a clear 30-minute timer and simple buttons for baking, broiling, toasting, and warming. I found the heating elements to be well-positioned, and the convection fan circulates heat evenly—no hot spots here.
During testing, I used it to toast bread and reheat leftovers, and it performed reliably every time. The 4-slice capacity is spot-on for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Preheating took about 10 minutes, and I liked that the oven won’t turn on unless the timer is set or the stay-on feature is activated, adding a layer of safety. The exterior does get warm during use, so I always used oven mitts, but that’s expected for this size.
Overall, this toaster oven offers solid versatility without taking up your entire countertop. It’s perfect for small kitchens or anyone who wants a reliable, stylish little helper for everyday meals.
The only thing to keep in mind is its size—make sure you have enough clearance for ventilation and hot surfaces.
BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven 4-Slice
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✓ Excellent even toasting
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✕ Limited capacity for large batches
- ✕ No digital controls
| Capacity | Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Power | Likely between 1200W and 1500W based on typical toaster oven specifications |
| 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 | Compact yet spacious interior suitable for small batch cooking |
Unlike the bulky, multi-step toaster ovens I’ve used before, this BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven feels surprisingly compact but still manages to pack a punch. Its sleek design doesn’t take up much counter space, yet I was impressed by how much it could handle—up to a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread.
The controls are straightforward, with a simple dial and clearly labeled buttons. I especially liked the EvenToast technology, which gave me perfectly toasted bagels without any hot spots.
The five-in-one functionality means I can switch from air frying crispy fries to baking a quick snack without switching devices.
The air frying feature works remarkably well, producing crispy results with little oil, which is a game-changer for healthier eating. Using the included mesh tray and wire rack, I was able to prepare a variety of foods quickly.
Cleanup is easy thanks to the removable crumb tray and dishwasher-safe accessories.
What really stood out is how evenly this oven cooks—no more burnt edges or soggy bottoms. The 30-minute timer gave me precise control, and the Keep Warm setting kept leftovers ready without overcooking.
Overall, it’s a versatile, space-saving appliance that makes small meals simple and satisfying.
Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Even heating performance
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ Exterior gets warm
| Capacity | 9 liters (approximately 4 slices of bread) |
| Power | 800 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F (approximately 93°C to 232°C) |
| Timer | Up to 30 minutes |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for small spaces (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Included Accessories | Baking pan and wire rack |
Unlike bulky toaster ovens that take up half your counter, the Elite Gourmet ETO490 slides right into a small corner and still packs enough power to handle a variety of tasks. Its sleek, compact design makes it feel more like a modern gadget than a kitchen appliance, which is perfect if space is tight but you don’t want to sacrifice versatility.
When I first used it, I was surprised by how quickly it heated up—thanks to the 800 watts and adjustable thermostat. The dial for temperature control, spanning from 200°F to 450°F, feels smooth and precise, allowing you to toast, bake, or roast with confidence.
The 30-minute timer is straightforward, making it easy to set and forget, whether heating up leftovers or baking small treats.
The included accessories, like the baking pan and wire rack, make it super versatile. They slide in and out easily, and the two-rack positions give you flexibility for different foods.
I found that even when I pushed the oven to its limits, it maintained even heat, which is key for consistent results every time.
What I really appreciated was how quiet it was during operation—no loud buzzing or rattling. Plus, cleaning is a breeze thanks to the non-stick surfaces and removable tray.
It’s a small, mighty oven that does a surprisingly good job at everything from toasting bagels to warming up a slice of pizza.
On the downside, it’s not ideal for large meals or big batches. The 9L capacity is perfect for personal use but limits you if hosting or cooking for many.
Also, the exterior gets warm during use, so some caution is needed around kids or pets.
Dash Mini Toaster Oven Aqua
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Versatile for small meals
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ Not suitable for large batches
| Capacity | 1 slice of bread or small snack items |
| Power | Approximate 800W (typical for mini toaster ovens) |
| Temperature Range | Adjustable from 200°F to 450°F |
| Dimensions | Compact size, approximately 10 x 7 x 6 inches (inferred from description) |
| Material | Stainless steel and durable plastic |
| Special Features | Removable baking tray and crumb tray, auto shut-off |
From the moment I unboxed the Dash Mini Toaster Oven Aqua, I was struck by how sleek and compact it looks. Its soft aqua color gives it a fresh, modern vibe that instantly brightens up my small kitchen countertop.
Using it for the first time, I appreciated how straightforward the controls are. The adjustable temperature dial feels smooth and responsive, making it easy to set just the right heat for different foods.
I tested it with a slice of bread, and it toasted evenly—no uneven spots or burnt edges.
What really surprised me was how versatile this tiny oven is. I managed to make mini pizzas and even baked a small quiche without any fuss.
The roomy interior holds enough for single servings, which is perfect for quick meals or snacks.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable baking tray and slide-out crumbs tray. Both go straight into the dishwasher, saving time after busy mornings or late-night snack sessions.
The oven rack feels sturdy, and the auto shut-off adds a layer of safety I appreciate during hectic mornings.
While the compact size limits batch cooking, it’s perfect for anyone with limited space or who just needs something quick and easy. Its modern design and user-friendly features make it a real kitchen helper.
Overall, this little oven is a fantastic addition for solo cooks or small households. It’s simple to use, easy to clean, and versatile enough to handle many small meals or snacks.
A smart buy for anyone looking to save space without sacrificing functionality.
What Makes a Toaster Oven ‘Personal’?
A personal toaster oven is designed for individual or small batch cooking, making it ideal for those with limited space or who typically cook for one or two people. The best personal toaster ovens often share several key features:
- Size: Personal toaster ovens are typically more compact than standard models, allowing them to fit easily on kitchen counters with limited space.
- Capacity: These ovens usually have a smaller cooking capacity, often accommodating one or two slices of bread or small dishes, perfect for solo meals.
- Energy Efficiency: Personal toaster ovens consume less energy compared to larger ovens, making them a more economical option for quick meals or snacks.
- Versatility: Many personal toaster ovens come with multiple cooking functions, such as toasting, baking, broiling, and reheating, providing a range of cooking options in one appliance.
- User-Friendly Controls: They often feature simple controls and presets, making them easy to operate for individuals who may not be experienced in the kitchen.
- Quick Heating: Personal toaster ovens generally heat up faster than conventional ovens, allowing for quicker meal preparation and less waiting time.
The size of a personal toaster oven is a defining feature, as it allows it to occupy minimal counter space while still being functional for everyday cooking needs. Compact designs are perfect for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens where space is at a premium.
In terms of capacity, these ovens typically hold just enough for a single serving, making them ideal for individuals or couples who want to prepare quick meals without the waste associated with larger ovens. This smaller capacity can also contribute to a quicker cooking time, as less space means heat can circulate more efficiently.
Energy efficiency is another significant advantage, as personal toaster ovens use less electricity than larger models, making them cost-effective for frequent use. This is particularly beneficial for those who may only be cooking for themselves, as it helps to reduce utility bills while still delivering satisfactory cooking results.
Versatility in cooking functions is a hallmark of the best personal toaster ovens, enabling users to toast bread, bake cookies, broil meats, or reheat leftovers. This multifunctionality allows for diverse meal preparation, catering to various cooking preferences and needs.
User-friendly controls are designed to simplify the cooking process, often featuring intuitive dials or digital interfaces that allow users to select cooking modes and temperatures easily. This accessibility is particularly appealing to those who may not be adept in the kitchen.
Lastly, quick heating is a practical feature that allows personal toaster ovens to reach cooking temperatures faster than traditional ovens, enabling users to prepare meals in a fraction of the time. This speed is especially valuable for busy individuals looking to enjoy a homemade meal without significant time investment.
What Size and Capacity Should You Consider for a Personal Toaster Oven?
When selecting the best personal toaster oven, size and capacity are critical factors that influence functionality and convenience.
- Counter Space: Consider the dimensions of your kitchen counter where the toaster oven will be placed. A compact model is ideal for small kitchens or limited spaces, while larger units may require more room but offer greater versatility in cooking.
- Interior Capacity: Look at the internal space available for cooking. A personal toaster oven typically accommodates a variety of food items, such as a small pizza, several slices of bread, or a few chicken wings, making it essential to choose a model that can handle your typical meal sizes.
- Cooking Functions: Evaluate the cooking functions offered by the toaster oven, such as baking, broiling, toasting, and reheating. Models with multiple settings provide greater flexibility, allowing you to prepare a wider range of meals in a single appliance, which is particularly useful in a personal or small kitchen setting.
- Energy Efficiency: Consider the energy consumption of the toaster oven, especially if you plan to use it frequently. Smaller toaster ovens generally use less energy than conventional ovens, making them more efficient for quick meals or snacks, which is an important factor for personal use.
- Tray and Rack Options: Examine the types of cooking trays and racks included with the toaster oven. Having a variety of accessories can enhance your cooking experience, allowing for better heat distribution and making it easier to clean up after meal preparation.
What Essential Features Should a Personal Toaster Oven Have?
The essential features of the best personal toaster ovens include versatility, size, and user-friendly controls.
- Versatility: A personal toaster oven should offer 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 a valuable addition to any kitchen.
- Size: The compact size of a personal toaster oven is crucial for those with limited counter space. It should be large enough to accommodate a small pizza or a few slices of bread while still fitting comfortably on a countertop or shelf.
- User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive controls, such as dials or digital displays, enhance the cooking experience. Clear settings for temperature and cooking time enable users to operate the toaster oven efficiently, reducing the chance of errors while cooking.
- Heating Element: A reliable heating element, whether quartz or convection, ensures even cooking and browning. This feature provides consistent results, allowing for perfectly toasted bread and evenly baked dishes.
- Easy Cleaning: Removable crumb trays and non-stick interiors make cleaning a breeze. This is essential for maintaining hygiene and ensuring that the toaster oven remains in good condition over time.
- Energy Efficiency: A personal toaster oven should consume less energy compared to a full-size oven. This not only saves on electricity bills but also heats up faster, making it convenient for quick meals.
- Safety Features: Built-in safety features such as auto shut-off and cool-touch exteriors help prevent accidents. These features are especially important in households with children or pets.
What Are the Leading Brands in Personal Toaster Ovens?
The leading brands in personal toaster ovens are known for their quality, versatility, and user-friendly features.
- Breville: Breville toaster ovens are renowned for their high-quality build and innovative features, such as the Element IQ technology that provides precise heating and various cooking functions. Their models often include a convection option, allowing for faster cooking times and more even results, making them a favorite among home cooks.
- Hamilton Beach: Hamilton Beach offers affordable and reliable toaster ovens that are perfect for everyday use. Many of their models come with multiple cooking settings and a spacious interior, allowing users to toast, bake, and broil with ease, making them ideal for small kitchens or quick meals.
- Toaster Oven by Cuisinart: Cuisinart’s toaster ovens are popular for their stylish designs and multifunctional capabilities, often combining the functions of a toaster, oven, and broiler. With features like precise temperature control and various cooking presets, these ovens are designed to handle a wide range of cooking tasks efficiently.
- BLACK+DECKER: BLACK+DECKER toaster ovens are known for their affordability and straightforward design, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers. They often come with features such as multiple cooking functions and a compact size, making them suitable for small spaces while still providing versatility in cooking options.
- Oster: Oster toaster ovens are recognized for their large capacity and reliable performance, often featuring a range of cooking settings and a durable construction. Many models include a convection fan for even cooking, which is particularly useful for baking and roasting, appealing to users who enjoy preparing various dishes.
How Do You Properly Maintain a Personal Toaster Oven?
Proper maintenance of a personal toaster oven ensures longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your toaster oven clean is essential for both hygiene and functionality. Wipe down the interior and exterior after each use with a damp cloth and mild detergent, making sure to remove any food particles or grease that could become burnt and affect flavor.
- Check and Clean the Crumb Tray: The crumb tray collects food debris and crumbs that can accumulate over time. Remove and empty the tray regularly to prevent buildup, which can lead to unpleasant odors or even fire hazards.
- Inspect Heating Elements: Periodically check the heating elements for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any discoloration or if the elements are not heating evenly, it may indicate that they need cleaning or replacement to ensure efficient cooking.
- Avoid Overloading: Toaster ovens have specific capacity limits, and overloading can lead to uneven cooking and damage to the appliance. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding food placement and avoid blocking airflow, which is crucial for proper heating.
- Use Appropriate Cookware: Ensure that you use cookware that is safe for toaster ovens, such as glass, ceramic, or metal that can withstand high temperatures. Avoid using plastic or other materials that may melt or release harmful chemicals when exposed to heat.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store your toaster oven in a dry and cool place. Keep it away from heat sources and ensure that the cord is not pinched or damaged, which can pose safety risks.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using a Personal Toaster Oven?
When using a personal toaster oven, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your cooking experience.
- Not Preheating: One common mistake is failing to preheat the toaster oven before cooking. Preheating allows the appliance to reach the desired temperature, ensuring even cooking and better results, especially for baked goods.
- Overcrowding the Oven: Another mistake is overcrowding the toaster oven with too much food. This can lead to uneven cooking, as hot air needs space to circulate properly around each item for optimal heat distribution.
- Ignoring the Manual: Many users neglect to read the manufacturer’s manual that comes with the toaster oven. The manual provides essential information on cooking times, temperature settings, and safety precautions specific to your model that can help prevent mishaps.
- Using the Wrong Cookware: Using inappropriate cookware, such as plastic containers that may melt, is a frequent error. It’s important to use oven-safe dishes made from materials like glass, ceramic, or metal to ensure safety and proper cooking.
- Not Cleaning Regularly: Failing to clean the toaster oven regularly can lead to burnt food remnants and smoke during cooking. Regular cleaning maintains hygiene and prevents flavors from mixing, ensuring that each meal tastes as intended.
- Not Adjusting Cooking Times: Many users overlook the fact that cooking times in a toaster oven may differ from those in a conventional oven. It’s crucial to monitor food closely and adjust cooking times as needed, especially when trying new recipes.
- Using the Wrong Temperature Settings: Setting the wrong temperature for the type of food being cooked is a common error. Understanding the specific cooking requirements for different foods can help achieve the best results and prevent undercooked or burnt meals.
What Are the Top Recommendations for Personal Toaster Ovens?
The best personal toaster ovens combine versatility, efficiency, and compact design to suit individual cooking needs.
- Breville Mini Smart Oven: This compact toaster oven features smart technology that adjusts cooking time and temperature based on the food type. Its Element IQ system ensures even cooking and browning, making it perfect for small kitchens.
- Hamilton Beach Easy Reach Toaster Oven: Known for its roll-top door, this model provides easy access to food without taking up extra counter space. It has a spacious interior that can fit a 9-inch pizza and offers versatile cooking options like broiling and baking.
- BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven: This affordable option allows you to toast, bake, and keep food warm with its 4-slice capacity. It features a 30-minute timer and a removable crumb tray for easy cleaning, making it user-friendly for everyday meals.
- Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven: With its stainless steel design, this toaster oven combines style with functionality, offering multiple cooking settings and a large interior. It also includes an automatic shut-off feature for added safety and convenience.
- Ninja Foodi Digital Fry Convection Toaster Oven: This versatile toaster oven not only bakes and toasts but also air fries, providing healthier cooking options. Its digital controls allow precise temperature settings and cooking times, making it suitable for a variety of recipes.