When you're looking to upgrade your kitchen, a good countertop toaster oven can be a real game-changer. It’s not just about toasting bread; these versatile appliances can bake, broil, and even air fry, handling everything from quick snacks to full meals. The best best countertop toaster oven is the Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro, a powerhouse that offers precise control and consistent results, making it ideal for home cooks who appreciate quality.
If you're on a tighter budget but still want solid performance, the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven is a dependable choice that gets the job done without any fuss. While many guides focus on features, we’ll help you understand the crucial factors that truly matter for everyday use, so you can pick the right one for your needs.
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This guide cuts through the noise to give you practical advice. We'll cover the essentials so you can make an informed decision. However, if you find yourself needing to cook for a crowd or looking for very specific functions like steaming, these countertop units might not be your best bet.
Those seeking those capabilities might do better with different appliances altogether.
Everything you read here is based on current Amazon product data, manufacturer specifications, and aggregate owner feedback. We've done the legwork to bring you a clear picture, so you can feel confident in your choice.
Quick Answer: The Best Countertop Toaster Oven
The Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro is your top pick for precise cooking.
- BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven (Best Budget): A simple, reliable performer for everyday toasting and small bakes.
- Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven (Best Compact): Smart features in a small footprint for couples or individuals.
- Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro (Best Overall): Unmatched precision and versatility for serious home cooks.
- Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler (Best High-Wattage): Delivers fast heating and robust cooking power.
- Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven (Best Air Fryer Combo): Combines air frying with toasting and baking for healthier meals.
- BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven (Best Value Air Fry): Good air frying performance at a more accessible price point.
- Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven (Best Dual Function): Offers both a toaster oven and a long-slot toaster.
Thinking about cooking for a large family or needing specialized functions like steam? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven: Best Budget
#1
BLACK+DECKERSimple, reliable performance
7.8OUT OF 10
Ease of Use8.5
Value for Money9.0
Cooking Performance7.0
Build Quality7.5
This is the go-to option for anyone wanting a no-nonsense appliance that performs the basic functions well. The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD handles toasting, baking small items, and broiling with straightforward controls. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as a secondary oven for busy kitchens.
It comes with a crumb tray that slides out for easy cleaning, and the interior is designed to fit common items like 9-inch pizzas or up to four slices of bread. The unit also includes a broil rack and bake pan, so you’re ready to go right out of the box.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. While it offers essential functions, the temperature can be a bit inconsistent compared to higher-end models, and the exterior can get quite warm during operation. This means you’ll want to be mindful of what’s placed around it and use oven mitts when handling the hot racks.
⚠Care: Simply slide out the crumb tray after use and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners to keep the surfaces in good condition.
Pros
- ✓Simple, intuitive controls make it easy to operate right away.
- ✓Compact size fits easily on most countertops without taking up too much space.
- ✓Includes essential accessories like a baking pan and crumb tray for immediate use.
- ✓Offers good value for basic toasting, baking, and broiling needs.
Cons
- ✕Temperature can fluctuate, impacting precise cooking.
- ✕Exterior surfaces get hot, requiring caution during use.
- ✕Not ideal for larger meals or families due to its smaller capacity.
Best for: Individuals, students, or anyone needing basic cooking functions at an affordable price.
Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven: Best Compact
#2
BrevilleSmart tech, small footprint
8.4OUT OF 10
Ease of Use9.0
Value for Money8.0
Cooking Performance8.3
Build Quality8.5
This is a fantastic choice for singles or couples who need a smart, capable appliance without taking up too much counter space. The Breville Mini Smart Oven packs a lot of intelligence into its compact form, offering precise digital controls and pre-programmed settings for common cooking tasks.
It features convection baking, toasting, broiling, and warming functions, all managed through an easy-to-use interface. The interior light helps you keep an eye on your food, and the magnetic auto-eject rack makes removing items safer. This model also has a more advanced IQ heating element technology that ensures more even cooking.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Its “mini” designation is accurate; while it handles a 9-inch pizza or four slices of toast, it won’t fit larger items like a standard 13×9 baking pan. If you often cook for more than two people, you might find its capacity a bit limiting. You might want to check out how
air fryer vs toaster oven comparisons shake out if you’re prioritizing that function for larger meals.
For more cooking space without sacrificing smarts, the larger Breville Smart Oven Pro is an excellent step up. If you’re looking for a similar compact size but with a focus on air frying, the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a solid alternative.
⚠Cleaning: The non-stick interior coating makes cleaning easier, but consistent wiping after use will prevent stubborn residue buildup. The crumb tray is removable for quick disposal.
Pros
- ✓Intuitive digital controls and smart presets simplify cooking.
- ✓Compact design is perfect for smaller kitchens or limited counter space.
- ✓Consistent heating thanks to Element iQ system.
- ✓Magnetic auto-eject rack adds convenience and safety.
Cons
- ✕Limited capacity for larger items or family meals.
- ✕Higher price point compared to basic toaster ovens.
- ✕Some users find the digital display bright in dim lighting.
Best for: Singles, couples, or small households prioritizing smart features and countertop space.
Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro: Best Overall
#3
BrevillePrecision, power, and versatility
9.1OUT OF 10
Ease of Use9.2
Value for Money8.5
Cooking Performance9.5
Build Quality9.0
This is the benchmark for countertop ovens, offering unparalleled precision and a wide range of cooking functions that serious home cooks will appreciate. The Breville Smart Oven Pro uses Element IQ technology to intelligently distribute heat where it’s needed most, ensuring consistent results whether you’re toasting, baking, roasting, or even dehydrating.
With its 10 preset cooking functions, you can easily select bake, roast, toast, broil, cookies, pizza, reheat, warm, slow cook, and dehydrate. The intuitive LCD screen and dial controls make it easy to adjust time, temperature, and function, and the interior oven light lets you check progress without opening the door. It’s spacious enough for a 13-inch pizza or a whole chicken, making it incredibly versatile.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. It’s definitely on the pricier side for a countertop oven, and its larger footprint means it requires significant counter space. While it handles most tasks exceptionally, some owners report that the convection fan can be a bit noisy at higher settings, though this is common with most convection appliances.
If you’re looking for a powerful countertop oven but need something slightly more compact, the Breville Mini Smart Oven is a great alternative. For those who want advanced features but don’t need quite this level of precision, the Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler offers robust cooking power at a more accessible price.
⚠Maintenance: Regularly clean the crumb tray and interior surfaces. The oven rack is designed to eject automatically when the door is opened, reducing handling of hot parts.
Pros
- ✓Element IQ system for precise and even cooking.
- ✓10 pre-set functions cover a wide array of cooking needs.
- ✓Large capacity fits larger dishes and family-sized meals.
- ✓Intuitive LCD display and controls for easy operation.
Cons
- ✕Higher cost compared to other models.
- ✕Requires a considerable amount of counter space.
- ✕Convection fan can be audible during operation.
Best for: Enthusiast home cooks who want precision, versatility, and excellent performance for a wide range of culinary tasks.
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Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler: Best High-Wattage
#4
CuisinartPowerful heating for quick cooking
7.7OUT OF 10
Ease of Use8.0
Value for Money7.5
Cooking Performance7.8
Build Quality7.0
This Cuisinart model is a workhorse, delivering high heat for quick cooking and efficient browning. Its 1800 watts of power means it heats up fast and can handle tasks like broiling and toasting with speed and effectiveness, making it a great option for those who want their meals ready without a long wait.
It offers straightforward controls for toast shade, temperature, and cooking function (bake, broil, toast, warm). The interior capacity is decent, suitable for a 13-inch pizza or six slices of toast. This makes it a solid choice for families or anyone who frequently uses their toaster oven for more than just a quick snack.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. While powerful, this oven lacks some of the advanced digital precision found in premium models; temperature control is good but not as refined. The exterior can also get quite hot to the touch, so be mindful of placement in your kitchen. If you’re looking for a step up in temperature accuracy and digital features, the Breville options are worth considering.
For a similar wattage but with integrated air frying capabilities, the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is the next logical step. If your primary need is a basic toaster and oven in one unit and you don’t need the high wattage, the Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 might be a more fitting choice.
⚠Hot Surface: The exterior surfaces, especially the top, can become very hot during operation. Ensure there’s adequate ventilation around the unit and avoid placing flammable items nearby.
Pros
- ✓High wattage provides fast preheating and cooking times.
- ✓Good capacity for pizzas, roasts, and multiple toast slices.
- ✓Simple, analog dials are easy to understand and operate.
- ✓Durable build for long-term use.
Cons
- ✕Temperature control is less precise than digital models.
- ✕Exterior gets very hot, posing a burn risk.
- ✕No interior light to monitor food without opening the door.
Best for: Families or individuals who need a powerful and fast-heating oven for everyday cooking tasks like baking and broiling.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven: Best Air Fryer Combo
#5
CuisinartHealthy cooking, multiple functions
8.5OUT OF 10
Ease of Use8.8
Value for Money8.0
Cooking Performance8.7
Build Quality8.5
If you’re looking to embrace healthier eating without cluttering your kitchen with multiple appliances, this Cuisinart is a prime contender. It expertly combines the functions of a toaster oven with a powerful air fryer, allowing you to achieve crispy results with less oil. This 8-in-1 unit can also bake, broil, roast, and warm, making it a true kitchen multi-tasker.
It boasts 1800 watts of power, ensuring quick preheating and efficient cooking across all its modes. The digital display and intuitive controls make selecting the right function and adjusting settings straightforward. It’s large enough to fit a 12-inch pizza, a whole chicken, or six slices of toast, making it suitable for families.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Some users find that the air fryer function can be a bit noisy, which is common for powerful air circulators. Also, while it has a generous capacity, achieving truly even “fried” results on larger batches might require shaking or rotating the food partway through, similar to stand-alone
air fryer types.
For those who want a dedicated air fryer and a separate toaster oven, you might consider those options. If you’re looking for a similar multi-functionality but prioritize a smaller footprint, the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven is a more compact alternative.
⚠Air Fry Settings: While this oven excels at air frying, achieving the best results often requires experimenting with cook times and temperatures, as food density and size can impact cooking.
Pros
- ✓Versatile 8-in-1 functionality including air fry, bake, broil, and toast.
- ✓Powerful 1800W heating for quick cooking and crisping.
- ✓Digital controls offer precise adjustments for various cooking modes.
- ✓Spacious interior accommodates larger meals and family portions.
Cons
- ✕The air fry fan can be noisy during operation.
- ✕Large batches may require shaking for even crisping.
- ✕Requires significant counter space due to its size.
Best for: Home cooks wanting to achieve healthier, crispy meals with the convenience of multiple functions in one appliance.
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven: Best Value Air Fry
#6
BLACK+DECKERGreat air fry performance on a budget
7.9OUT OF 10
Ease of Use8.5
Value for Money9.0
Cooking Performance7.0
Build Quality7.5
For those who want to try air frying without a huge investment, this BLACK+DECKER is a smart pick. It’s a compact, 5-in-1 appliance that handles toasting, baking, broiling, and air frying, offering good value for its versatility.
This model is designed for smaller kitchens, fitting easily on the counter. It can toast up to four slices of bread at once and handle small meals. The controls are simple analog dials, making it easy to select your desired function and temperature, and the timer ensures you don’t overcook your food. It comes with a removable crumb tray for easier cleanup.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The performance for both air frying and toasting is decent but not exceptional compared to dedicated appliances or higher-end toaster ovens. The heating elements can be a bit uneven, and the exterior gets warm. If you’re a serious home cook who demands perfect results every time, you might need to look at more premium options, such as the Breville models previously discussed.
If you’re looking for a more robust air frying experience, the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven offers more power and capacity. If your priority is simply toasting and basic oven functions without air frying, the standard BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is a more straightforward choice.
⚠Cleaning: The crumb tray slides out for easy removal of crumbs. Wiping the interior with a damp cloth after it cools down will help maintain its condition.
Pros
- ✓Combines toasting, baking, broiling, and air frying in one unit.
- ✓Compact size fits well in smaller kitchens.
- ✓Affordable option to try out air frying capabilities.
- ✓Simple analog controls are easy to use.
Cons
- ✕Air frying and toasting performance are adequate but not superior.
- ✕Exterior surfaces get warm during operation.
- ✕Smaller capacity may limit batch sizes.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers looking to add air frying to their kitchen routine without purchasing a separate appliance.
Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven: Best Dual Function
#7
HamiltonToaster oven plus long-slot toaster
8.3OUT OF 10
Ease of Use9.0
Value for Money8.8
Cooking Performance7.8
Build Quality8.0
This Hamilton Beach is a clever space-saver, combining two common kitchen tasks into one appliance. It functions as a standard toaster oven for baking and broiling, but also features two extra-long slots perfect for toasting artisan bread, bagels, or French toast sticks.
The oven part offers basic controls for temperature, function, and timer, with a capacity that can handle a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread. The toaster slots are designed to accommodate wider slices than a typical 2-slice toaster, offering more flexibility for breakfast items. This dual functionality can be particularly appealing for small kitchens where counter space is at a premium.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Performance in both modes is functional but not exceptional. The toaster oven might not heat as evenly or as quickly as higher-wattage models, and the toasting can sometimes be inconsistent. If you’re a serious baker or toast enthusiast, you might find that separate, specialized appliances offer superior results. It’s a good all-rounder, but not a specialist in either category.
If you frequently toast bread and want that capability combined with an oven, this is a solid choice. However, if your primary need is a dedicated high-performance toaster oven, you might prefer models like the Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro or the Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler. If you’re considering toaster alternatives, our
guide to toasters for thick bread can offer more specialized options.
⚠Dual Use: While it serves two purposes, remember that the oven and toaster functions may operate independently. Be sure to manage your cooking times accordingly.
Pros
- ✓Combines toaster oven and long-slot toaster functionality.
- ✓Long slots accommodate wider bread slices and bagels.
- ✓Space-saving design for smaller kitchens.
- ✓Simple, user-friendly controls for both functions.
Cons
- ✕Oven performance is basic and can be uneven.
- ✕Toasting consistency may vary across the bread surface.
- ✕Not ideal for complex baking or precise cooking.
Best for: Those who want to save space by combining a toaster and a basic toaster oven, especially for breakfast needs.
Buying Guide: Capacity, Controls, and Versatility
When you're picking out a countertop toaster oven, it’s easy to get lost in all the features. But really, it boils down to a few key things that will make a difference in your daily cooking. Think about how much food you usually make, how you like to control your cooking, and what else you want the appliance to do besides just toasting.
Capacity & Size
This is probably the first thing you'll notice. Toaster ovens range from compact models that can fit four slices of bread or a small 9-inch pizza, all the way up to larger units that can handle a 13-inch pizza or even a small chicken.
- For 1-2 people: A smaller capacity oven, like the Breville Mini Smart Oven (0.45 cu. ft.), is usually plenty. It won’t hog counter space and is perfect for reheating leftovers or making toast and a small baked item.
- For families or entertaining: Look for ovens with 0.6 cu. ft. or more capacity. Models like the Breville Smart Oven Pro or the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven offer enough room for larger dishes and can handle more food at once.
- Measure your space: Before you buy, measure your countertop and the space above your stove or cabinets. Some toaster ovens are quite tall or deep, and you don't want to get a unit that won't fit.
Controls: Digital vs. Analog
How you prefer to set your cooking temperature and time can really influence your satisfaction with an appliance.
- Analog Dials: These are typically found on more basic or budget-friendly models, like the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD. They're straightforward and offer a tactile feel. You turn a dial to select the function, temperature, and time. The main drawback is that they can be less precise; for example, a dial might jump in 25 or 50-degree increments, which might not be ideal for recipes requiring very specific temperatures.
- Digital Displays: More advanced ovens, such as the Breville Smart Oven Pro, feature digital screens and buttons or a combination of a dial and buttons. These offer much finer control, often allowing you to set temperatures in 5-degree increments. They also typically have pre-programmed settings for specific foods like toast, cookies, or pizza, taking some of the guesswork out of cooking. These are generally easier to read and offer more consistent results.
Versatility: More Than Just Toast
The modern toaster oven is a true multi-tasker. Beyond basic toasting and baking, many offer advanced features that can replace other appliances in your kitchen.
- Air Frying: This is a hugely popular feature, allowing you to get crispy foods with significantly less oil than deep frying. Models like the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven or the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven are great if you want this capability. They use a high-speed fan to circulate hot air, mimicking the results of a deep fryer.
- Convection Baking: Most mid-range to high-end toaster ovens include a convection fan. This fan circulates hot air within the oven, which helps food cook more evenly and often faster. It's great for roasting vegetables, baking cookies, and achieving a crispier crust on breads or pizzas.
- Other Functions: Some ovens offer specialized modes like dehydrating (for making fruit chips or jerky), slow cooking, proofing dough, or even bagel settings that toast the cut side more intensely. Consider what other cooking tasks you do regularly and see if a toaster oven can simplify them for you.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Countertop Toaster Oven
This category is fantastic for many kitchens, but it's not the perfect solution for everyone. If your primary cooking needs fall into certain areas, you might be better served by other appliances.
You Need to Cook for Large Crowds Regularly
If you regularly host big family dinners or need to prepare meals for more than 4-6 people at once, a countertop toaster oven, even the largest ones, will likely be too small. You’ll constantly be cooking in batches, which is time-consuming and inefficient. For this scenario, a full-sized oven is a must.
You might also consider a good food processor vs blender combination to speed up prep work for large meals, but the actual cooking will still need a larger capacity.
You Require Specialized Cooking Methods
Toaster ovens excel at dry-heat cooking like baking, broiling, roasting, and toasting. However, if your culinary ambitions frequently involve steaming, sous vide, or pressure cooking, a countertop oven won't cut it. These methods require specialized appliances like steam ovens, sous vide machines, or pressure cookers.
Trying to adapt these cooking styles to a toaster oven would be difficult and yield poor results.
Your Kitchen Space is Extremely Limited
While many toaster ovens are designed to be compact, some of the more feature-rich models can still take up a significant amount of counter space. If your kitchen is exceptionally small, with very little available surface area, trying to cram in a toaster oven might be impractical. In such cases, prioritizing a good, reliable toaster for your bread and perhaps a dedicated appliance like an air fryer vs oven for other tasks might be a better use of your limited space.
Final Verdict
For a blend of precision, versatility, and excellent performance, the Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro stands out as the best countertop toaster oven on the market. Its advanced Element IQ system and a wide array of cooking functions make it a powerful tool for any serious home cook.
If you're looking for a more compact option with smart features, the Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven offers impressive capabilities in a smaller footprint. For those prioritizing powerful heating and fast cooking times without all the bells and whistles, the Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler is a reliable, high-wattage choice.
Need a healthy way to enjoy crispy foods? The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is an excellent multi-functional appliance. On a tighter budget but still want air frying?
The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven offers good value. For those who want a simple, reliable appliance for basic toasting and baking, the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven is a solid, affordable pick. And if you love the idea of combining a toaster and a toaster oven, the Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven might be the perfect space-saver.
Remember to consider the "Who Should NOT Buy" section before making your final decision. If a toaster oven doesn't quite fit your needs, there are other great appliances out there to explore.
FAQ
What's the best Countertop Toaster Oven overall?
The Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro is our top pick due to its exceptional precision, versatility, and cooking performance.
Are countertop toaster ovens worth it?
Yes, countertop toaster ovens are generally worth it, especially if you want a versatile appliance that can handle more than just toasting. They offer convenience for quick meals, reheating, and can often replace your main oven for smaller tasks, saving energy.
Can a toaster oven replace a regular oven?
For everyday cooking, small batches, or single servings, a good countertop toaster oven can often replace a regular oven. However, for large roasts, holiday turkeys, or baking multiple dishes simultaneously, a full-sized oven is still necessary.
Which toaster oven is best for air frying?
If air frying is a priority, the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven (TOA-70NAS) is a strong contender. It offers dedicated air fry settings and powerful circulation for crispy results. The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven also provides air frying at a more budget-friendly price.
How do I clean a toaster oven?
Cleaning typically involves removing the crumb tray and washing it separately. The interior can usually be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild detergent once it has cooled. For tougher messes, consider checking the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning recommendations or using a non-abrasive cleaner.
