5 Top-Rated Countertop Toaster Ovens in 2025
Tired of waiting for the oven to preheat? Craving a crispy slice of toast without the fuss? Countertop toaster ovens are the answer to your culinary prayers! These compact powerhouses offer the convenience of a full-sized oven in a fraction of the space, making them perfect for small kitchens or anyone who wants quick and easy cooking options. But with so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Fear not, fellow foodie! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top 5 best countertop toaster ovens to help you find the perfect match for your culinary needs.
5. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven, Even Toast
The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven is a compact countertop appliance that aims to bring oven-like functionality to smaller kitchens. I found it to be quite efficient for its size, easily accommodating 4 slices of bread or even a 9-inch pizza. Its stainless steel exterior gives it a sleek look, and the curved interior design maximizes space utilization.
While this toaster oven boasts four cooking functions – bake, broil, toast, and keep warm – my experience revealed some limitations. The baking function, while capable of cooking small meals, struggles with even heat distribution, particularly for larger items. The broiling function, however, performed admirably, delivering a nice sear on my grilled cheese sandwiches. The toast settings are straightforward and offer precise browning control.
The 30-minute timer with stay-on functionality is a handy feature, and the removable crumb tray makes cleaning a breeze. However, the small size of the oven can be a drawback for larger families or those who frequently cook for multiple people. You might find yourself making multiple batches to feed everyone, which can be a bit time-consuming.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven is a decent value for its price, especially if you’re looking for a compact appliance for small kitchens or individuals. It performs well for basic tasks like toasting and broiling, but its limited capacity and uneven baking performance might not be ideal for everyone.
4. Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster 30-QT XL Capacity
The NuWave Bravo XL Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a large, feature-packed appliance that aims to replace multiple kitchen gadgets. It boasts 12-in-1 functionality, including air frying, baking, broiling, roasting, dehydrating, reheating, and defrosting. Its 30-quart capacity is impressive, making it suitable for larger families or those who enjoy cooking in bulk. The brushed stainless steel exterior gives it a sleek look that would blend into most kitchens.
One of the Bravo’s standout features is its intuitive digital interface. You can easily adjust cooking time, temperature, and even customize the power output of the top and bottom heating elements. This level of control is great for achieving specific cooking results, like crispy pizza crusts or evenly roasted vegetables. The integrated digital temperature probe is another useful addition, ensuring your food is cooked to the perfect doneness without the guesswork.
However, despite its impressive features, the NuWave Bravo XL isn’t without its drawbacks. While the 112 presets are tempting, many of them felt overly specific and not particularly practical. The included recipe book, while comprehensive, didn’t offer much inspiration beyond the basics. The 30-quart capacity, though advertised as a benefit, can be a double-edged sword. While it’s great for large meals, it also means that the oven can feel bulky on the countertop and may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
Overall, the NuWave Bravo XL offers a good amount of functionality and features for the price. Its precise temperature control and digital temperature probe are definite assets. However, the overwhelming number of presets and the lack of truly innovative recipes might leave some users feeling underwhelmed. If you’re looking for a versatile countertop appliance that can handle everything from air frying to baking, the NuWave Bravo XL is worth considering. Just be prepared for a large footprint and a learning curve as you explore its many features.
3. BLACK+DECKER TO1787SS-RFP 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven
The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven (TO1787SS-RFP) is a compact countertop appliance that aims to deliver the benefits of both traditional toasters and air fryers. While it did a decent job with its core functions, it fell short in some areas that could impact your overall user experience.
The air frying function was its strongest point. I was genuinely impressed with its ability to crisp up chicken wings and french fries without relying heavily on oil. The “Crisp ‘N Bake” technology does live up to its name, delivering a satisfying crunch. The toaster oven’s 4-slice capacity is also a plus, allowing you to cook enough for a small family or group. The 5 cooking functions – Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm – offer decent versatility for a countertop appliance.
However, the controls are a bit simplistic and lack precision. The timer only goes up to 30 minutes, which might be limiting for certain recipes. Additionally, the single knob for selecting cooking functions doesn’t offer a clear visual representation of the chosen setting, requiring you to rely on memory or the manual. The “Even Toast Technology” was a bit underwhelming. While it did a passable job with toasting, I noticed some slight variations in browning across different slices.
For its price point, the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven offers a decent value proposition. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a compact appliance capable of air frying and traditional toasting. However, if you prioritize precise temperature control, a wider range of settings, or a user-friendly interface, you might want to explore other options.
2. Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven
The Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven is a fantastic option for anyone looking to add a versatile and reliable appliance to their kitchen. With its 1800 watts of power, this toaster oven can handle a wide range of cooking tasks, from toasting bagels and bread to baking pizzas and even broiling meats. The 0.5 cubic foot capacity is surprisingly spacious, easily accommodating a 11-inch pizza or six slices of toast.
What really impressed me was the EvenToast shade control. It ensures every slice of bread is perfectly toasted, no matter how many you cook at once. This eliminates the frustration of uneven browning and ensures consistent results every time. The appliance also boasts a cool-touch handle and easy-grip dials, making it comfortable and safe to use. The nonstick interior is a dream to clean, simply wipe it down after use and you’re done.
The package includes a baking pan, wire rack, removable crumb tray, and a recipe book, providing everything you need to get started. I found the recipe book to be particularly helpful, offering a variety of creative ideas for using the toaster oven.
While the Cuisinart TOB-40N doesn’t quite match the bells and whistles of some of its more expensive competitors, it delivers exceptional performance and value for the price. If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile toaster oven that won’t break the bank, this is an excellent choice.
1. BLACK+DECKER 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection
This BLACK+DECKER 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Toaster Oven is a real game-changer for anyone who loves the convenience of countertop baking. The convection technology is fantastic – it heats up quickly and evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked dishes every time. I’ve used it to bake cookies, roast vegetables, and even make a small pizza, and the results have been consistently impressive.
One of the things I appreciate most about this toaster oven is its spacious interior. It easily fits a standard 9×13 inch baking pan, which is a huge plus compared to some smaller models. The included baking/broiling pan is also a nice addition, making it easy to slide food in and out. I especially like that the oven can also accommodate a 12-inch pizza. The dedicated toast timer is another great feature that ensures perfectly browned toast every time.
While the oven does perform beautifully, I did notice that the temperatures are slightly lower than the dial setting. However, the manufacturer has calibrated the dial to account for this, so you can still achieve the desired results.
Overall, this BLACK+DECKER toaster oven is an excellent value for the price. It’s compact and stylish, with a stainless steel finish that looks great on the countertop. Its versatility, ease of use, and impressive performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to enjoy the convenience of home baking without the hassle of a full-sized oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size countertop toaster oven do I need?
A: The best size toaster oven for you depends on your household size and cooking needs.
- Small (2-4 slices): Perfect for individuals or couples who primarily toast bread or small snacks.
- Medium (4-6 slices): Suitable for families of 3-4 who want to reheat leftovers, bake small dishes, or toast multiple slices.
- Large (6+ slices): Ideal for larger families or those who frequently bake larger items like pizzas or casseroles.
What features should I look for in a countertop toaster oven?
A: Consider these features when choosing a countertop toaster oven:
- Temperature Control and Range: Look for precise temperature control with a wide range (300°F to 500°F) for versatility.
- Timer: A timer with an auto-shutoff function ensures safe and consistent cooking.
- Baking Pan and Rack: A good-quality baking pan and rack are essential for even cooking.
- Accessories: Some toaster ovens come with additional accessories like pizza stones, broiling pans, or crumb trays, which can enhance functionality.
- Ease of Cleaning: Choose a toaster oven with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Are there any specific brands to consider?
A: Many reputable brands offer excellent countertop toaster ovens. Some popular choices include:
- Breville: Known for their innovative features and high-quality construction.
- Cuisinart: Offers a wide range of models with various features and price points.
- KitchenAid: Provides durable and stylish toaster ovens with consistent performance.
- Hamilton Beach: Offers budget-friendly options with essential features.
- Oster: Known for their reliability and user-friendly designs.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect countertop toaster oven can elevate your cooking experience. Whether you prioritize ease of use, versatility, or sleek design, the options we’ve explored offer something for everyone. Consider your needs, budget, and desired features to make the best choice for your kitchen. Happy toasting!