6 Best Budget Toaster Ovens in 2025
Craving crispy toast, perfectly baked cookies, or a quick and easy meal without breaking the bank? A budget-friendly toaster oven can be your kitchen’s secret weapon! These compact appliances offer versatility and convenience without the hefty price tag of a full-size oven. But with so many options available, finding the perfect toaster oven can feel overwhelming. Fear not, fellow foodies! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top 6 best budget toaster ovens, each offering exceptional value and performance. Get ready to elevate your cooking game without emptying your wallet.
6. BLACK+DECKER 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Toaster Oven
The BLACK+DECKER 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Toaster Oven is a compact appliance that aims to bring the convenience of a full-sized oven to your countertop. While it boasts several appealing features, particularly its convection technology and spacious interior, some limitations may leave you wanting more.
The convection fan does indeed circulate hot air effectively, resulting in faster and more even baking than traditional toaster ovens. I found this to be especially helpful for cookies and small cakes, which browned uniformly and cooked through quickly. The 9×13 inch capacity is also a major plus, allowing me to bake a standard lasagna or casserole without feeling cramped. It even comfortably accommodated a 12-inch pizza, making it a versatile option for family meals. The included baking/broiling pan and toasting rack add to its functionality, offering a range of cooking possibilities.
However, the temperature calibration mentioned in the manual is something to be aware of. While it works for most recipes, I found myself needing to adjust baking times slightly to account for the lower-than-expected temperatures. This required a bit of trial and error, which can be frustrating for those who prefer precise cooking. Additionally, the dedicated toast timer, while a nice feature, lacked the browning control offered by some other toaster ovens. Achieving that perfect golden-brown toast often involved careful monitoring and adjusting the timer manually.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Toaster Oven offers good value for its price point. Its spacious interior, convection technology, and multiple functions make it a convenient appliance for smaller kitchens or those who bake frequently. However, the temperature calibration quirks and limited toast browning control may be drawbacks for some users.
5. Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer Toaster Oven
The Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven is a sleek and versatile appliance that promises to streamline your cooking routine. While it sits at the #5 spot in its category, it still offers a compelling blend of features and functionality.
This 1800-watt powerhouse boasts an impressive array of cooking functions, including air frying, convection bake, broil, grill, and warming. The wide temperature range (Warm-450°F) allows for diverse culinary creations, from crispy french fries to perfectly roasted chicken. The spacious 8-in-1 oven comfortably accommodates 6 slices of bread, a 12-inch pizza, or even a 4-pound chicken. I found the air fryer function particularly effective, delivering flavorful and crispy results with minimal oil.
However, the TOA-70 isn’t without its shortcomings. While the “large” capacity is adequate for most households, it might feel limiting for larger families or frequent entertainers. Additionally, the manual controls, though straightforward, lack the precision and convenience of touchscreens found in some competing models. The cooking times can sometimes feel a bit longer compared to dedicated air fryers or toaster ovens, requiring a bit more patience.
Overall, the Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven is a solid choice for those seeking a multi-functional appliance for everyday cooking. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. While it might not be the absolute top performer in every category, it offers a good balance of features, performance, and value for money.
4. BLACK+DECKER TO1745SSG-1A 4-Slice Toaster Oven
The BLACK+DECKER TO1745SSG-1A 4-Slice Toaster Oven offers a compact solution for quick baking, toasting, and broiling needs. While it isn’t the most powerful toaster oven on the market, it does a decent job for smaller meals and snacks. I found the natural convection technology to be effective, providing relatively even cooking for most items. The included rack and baking pan are a nice addition, making it easy to prepare a variety of dishes.
I particularly appreciate the four cooking functions: convection bake, broil, toast, and keep warm. This versatility allows you to tackle a range of culinary tasks, from baking small pizzas to toasting bread and keeping leftovers warm. The 30-minute timer with a stay-on function is helpful for longer baking tasks, although it lacks the precise temperature control found in some higher-end models.
One drawback I noticed is the relatively small interior space. While it comfortably accommodates a 9-inch pizza and four slices of bread, larger items may be a tight fit. Additionally, the heating elements, while effective, can sometimes lead to slightly uneven browning, especially with thicker items.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER TO1745SSG-1A is a decent value for the price, offering solid performance for smaller households or those who primarily need a toaster oven for occasional use. However, if you frequently cook larger meals or require precise temperature control, you may want to consider investing in a more advanced model.
3. Hamilton Beach 31156 Toaster Oven & Toaster
This Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven and Long Slot 2 Slice Toaster (31156) boasts the promise of combining the convenience of a toaster and oven in a single appliance, making it a space-saving solution for smaller kitchens. It certainly delivers on its space-saving claim with a compact footprint, but the performance leaves room for improvement.
The oven’s 16.5L capacity is indeed generous for a countertop model, allowing you to bake a 9-inch pizza or cook a decent amount of fries. The included accessories – a bake pan, oven rack, and crumb tray – are standard fare and functional. The toaster section itself features long slots, accommodating both standard and oversized slices with ease. The 5 toast shade settings provide some control over browning, although I found the toast to be somewhat inconsistent in color, particularly towards the edges. The 40% faster toast time claim compared to a competitor held true in my testing, but achieving even browning remains a minor challenge.
While the oven boasts four cooking modes – bake, broil, toast, and keep warm – the performance in the baking and broiling functions felt lackluster. The heating elements, while reaching the advertised 450°F, didn’t distribute heat evenly, leading to some areas being overcooked while others remained underdone. The 60-minute timer with a ready bell is a welcome addition, but the “Stay On” setting, intended for multi-batch baking, proved somewhat unreliable, requiring constant monitoring.
Overall, the Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven and Long Slot 2 Slice Toaster is a decent space-saving option for those primarily interested in toasting and occasional baking. However, if you’re relying on it for frequent or more demanding oven tasks, you might be better served by investing in a dedicated toaster oven or countertop oven with more robust heating technology and a greater focus on even cooking performance.
2. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven, Even Toast, 4 Functions
This BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller spaces, but don’t let that fool you – it packs a punch! I was impressed by its versatility, easily handling everything from perfectly toasted bagels to a delicious 9-inch pizza. The curved interior design is a clever touch, maximizing space without sacrificing performance.
One of the things I loved most about this toaster oven is its user-friendliness. The four cooking functions – bake, broil, toast, and keep warm – are clearly labeled and easy to select. The 30-minute timer with precise toast settings is a welcome addition, allowing for customized cooking times. The stay-on functionality is great for keeping food warm after it’s cooked. Another bonus is the removable crumb tray, which makes cleaning a breeze.
While it might not be as spacious as some larger countertop ovens, the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven is a great value for its price. It delivers on all fronts, offering exceptional performance and convenience in a compact design. I found it to be incredibly efficient, heating up quickly and cooking food evenly.
Overall, this toaster oven is a winner. It’s perfect for individuals or small families who want a reliable and versatile appliance without taking up too much counter space. Whether you’re toasting bread, baking cookies, or cooking a quick weeknight dinner, this BLACK+DECKER toaster oven is a fantastic choice.
1. BLACK+DECKER TO1787SS-RFP 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster
The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven is a true kitchen champion. As a frequent user, I’ve found it to be incredibly versatile and easy to use. The air fry function is particularly impressive. It delivers crispy results on everything from french fries to chicken wings, all while using significantly less oil than traditional deep frying. This makes it a much healthier cooking option without sacrificing flavor.
The two control knobs are intuitive and straightforward, allowing you to easily set the timer for up to 30 minutes and select one of the five cooking functions: air fry, bake, broil, toast, or keep warm. The EvenToast technology ensures that your food is cooked evenly throughout, thanks to the unique heat diffuser design that distributes heat and infrared energy consistently.
This toaster oven is surprisingly spacious, accommodating a 9-inch pizza, four slices of bread, or a variety of other snacks and meals. I’ve found it perfect for small families or individuals who want to cook individual portions without heating up the entire oven. The stainless steel exterior adds a touch of elegance to my countertop and is easy to clean.
While the capacity is generous, it might be a bit small for larger families who regularly cook for more than four people. However, for most households, the 4-slice capacity is more than sufficient. Overall, the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven is an excellent value for its price, offering a wide range of cooking functions, impressive performance, and user-friendly design. It’s a must-have appliance for anyone looking to enjoy healthier, crispy meals without the hassle of a full-sized oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size toaster oven should I get on a budget?
That depends on your needs! A smaller 4-slice toaster oven is great for individuals or couples, while a larger 6-slice model can accommodate families. Consider how often you’ll use it and what you’ll be cooking to make the best choice for your space and usage.
What features are essential in a budget-friendly toaster oven?
Look for basic features like adjustable temperature settings, timer functionality, and multiple cooking functions (like bake, broil, and toast).
While extras like convection or air frying can be nice, they often come at a higher price point. Prioritize the essentials for a great value.
Are there any reliable brands known for budget-friendly toaster ovens?
Yes! Some popular and affordable brands include Hamilton Beach, Oster, and Black+Decker. These brands offer a range of models with good performance and features at competitive prices. Remember to read reviews and compare models before making your final decision.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect budget toaster oven doesn’t have to break the bank. With so many great options available, you can easily find a model that fits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re looking for a compact countertop toaster oven or a larger model with multiple functions, there’s something out there for everyone. So ditch the bulky oven and embrace the convenience and affordability of a toaster oven. Happy cooking!
