Looking for a toaster oven that won’t bust your budget? We’ve spent hours comparing the most popular models under $100, putting them through their paces with toast, pizza, and even air frying. Our team focused on even heating, ease of use, and real-world cooking results to find the best picks for every kitchen. From compact two-slice options to larger convection ovens, we found standout performers that deliver great results without the premium price tag. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or trying your hand at air frying, our guide will help you choose the right toaster oven for your needs.
BLACK+DECKER Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, Medium Capacity, 4-Slice, 5-in-1, Fits 9” Pizza, 30-Min Timer, Bake, Broil, Air Fry, Toast, Keep Warm, Stainless Steel
We picked the BLACK+DECKER Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven for its versatile air fry and convection features. In our evaluation, it cooked evenly and handled everything from toast to chicken nuggets with consistent results.
- 5-IN-1 MULTIFUNCTIONAL COOKING- Enjoy versatile cooking with Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm settings. Perfect for preparing a wide variety of meals from crispy fries to perfectly baked pizzas and golden toast.
- HEALTHY AIR FRYING TECHNOLOGY - Cook crispy, delicious meals with little to no oil using advanced air frying technology. Enjoy healthier alternatives to your favorite fried foods without compromising taste or texture.
- EVENTOAST TECHNOLOGY FOR PERFECT TOAST - Achieve evenly toasted bread, bagels, and more with BLACK+DECKER’s EvenToast technology, ensuring consistent results every time with no hot spots.
- COMPACT YET SPACIOUS INTERIOR - Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread, making it ideal for quick family meals, snacks, or small batch cooking while saving valuable counter space.
Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with 15 Minute Timer & Adjustable Temperature, Bake, Broil, & Toast, Black
We chose the Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Toaster Oven for its small footprint and low price. It toasted bread evenly and was simple to operate, making it a great budget-friendly option for basic needs.
- COMPACT & SPACE SAVING: Versatile compact design fits nicely in small spaces when counter space is limited.
- ADJUSTABLE TIMER: The 15 min timer is perfect for toasting and warming up food for a quick and easy snack or breakfast.
- ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROLS: Adjust your oven controls between 200F-450F degrees for toasting, warming or baking.
- 650 WATTS OF POWER: Built-in temperature thermostat maintains even cooking heat to keep food warm, bake or toast.
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
We selected the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven for its reliable performance and affordable price. It produced consistent toast and had easy-to-use controls, making it a solid choice for everyday toasting and reheating.
- ACCOMMODATES 9-INCH PIZZA OR 4 SLICES OF BREAD - Designed to maximize utility within a compact footprint, the curved interior fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread. Place items evenly for best results when toasting, baking, or reheating.
- FOUR VERSATILE COOKING FUNCTIONS - Select from baking, broiling, toasting, or keeping food warm. Natural convection airflow circulates heat throughout the oven-preheat for 10 minutes to ensure consistent cooking and crisp results.
- PRECISION 30-MINUTE TIMER WITH STAY-ON OPTION - The 30-minute timer includes clearly marked toast settings and a stay-on function. Oven will not operate unless timer is set or stay-on is selected, ensuring controlled and safe operation.
- CONVENIENT REMOVABLE CRUMB TRAY - The slide-out crumb tray allows for quick, hygienic cleanup. To prevent spills and overheating, keep food and bakeware at least 1½ inches from the top heating elements and fully contained within the tray.
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection, Stainless Steel, TO1760SS (TO1760SST-1)
We recommend the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection for its larger capacity and convection cooking. It fit a 9-inch pizza easily and baked cookies evenly, though it lacks an air fry function.
- Four Cooking Functions: Choose from convection bake, broil, toast, and keep warm
- Compact Size: Easily fit a 9" pizza, four slices of bread, or a variety of other snacks and meals; Wattage:1150W
- 30-Minute Timer: The precise cooking timer features a stay-on function for longer baking tasks
- Included Rack and Pan: The included rack and bake pan fit perfectly in the toaster oven
Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with 30-Minute Timer, Adjustable Temperature Control, Includes Baking Pan and Wire Rack, Bake, Broil, Toast, Black
We like the Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven for its compact design and 30-minute timer. It toasted four slices evenly and had a retro look that adds style to any kitchen.
- COMPACT & VERSATILE: Compact design fits nicely in smaller spaces & also provides the power needed to cook many types of foods.
- ADJUSTABLE TIMER: The 30-min timer is perfect for all your baking, roasting and toasting needs as well as warming up a quick and easy snack.
- ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Adjust your oven controls between 200F-450F degrees for toasting, baking, roasting & warming.
- 800 WATTS OF POWER: Built-in thermostat maintains consistent heating for even cooking and perfect results when baking, roasting, toasting or keeping foods warm.
Key buying factors
We look for even toasting and consistent baking. Convection fans help circulate heat for faster, more even cooking.
Consider the interior space. Small models fit 2 slices, while larger ovens can handle a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of toast.
Look for features like air frying, convection, and a timer. Presets for pizza, cookies, and reheat add convenience.
Clear controls, easy-to-read dials, and intuitive settings make a difference. We prefer models with a stay-clean interior.
Stainless steel construction feels durable. Check for solid door hinges and non-slip feet.
We balance price with features. The best picks offer reliable performance and useful extras without costing too much.
Types explained
Small footprint, ideal for singles or couples. Fits 2 slices of toast or a small pizza.
Best for: Small kitchens, dorms, or limited counter spaceVersatile capacity for small families. Can toast 4 slices, bake a 9-inch pizza, or roast a small chicken.
Best for: Everyday use for 2-4 peopleBuilt-in fan circulates hot air for even cooking and faster results. Great for baking and air frying.
Best for: Those who want faster, more consistent cookingCare & usage tips
After each use, let the oven cool, then wipe interior with a damp cloth. Remove crumb tray and wash with soap and water.
Use non-abrasive sponges to avoid scratching the interior coating. Glass door can be cleaned with vinegar solution.
Periodically inspect the cord for damage. Do not wrap cord around hot appliance.
We found that convection models consistently outperform non-convection ovens in both speed and evenness, making them worth the slight premium even on a tight budget.
For the best toast results, always preheat your toaster oven for a few minutes. We found this reduces cooking time and gives a more even golden color.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use aluminum foil in my toaster oven?+
Yes, but avoid covering the heating elements or blocking air vents. Never line the crumb tray with foil as it can cause fire hazard.
How do I clean a toaster oven?+
Unplug and let cool. Remove crumb tray and wash with warm soapy water. Wipe interior with a damp cloth. For stubborn grease, use a baking soda paste.
What's the difference between convection and regular toaster ovens?+
Convection ovens have a fan that circulates hot air, cooking food faster and more evenly. They're better for baking and roasting.
Can I toast frozen bread in a toaster oven?+
Yes, but use a lower setting or increase time. We suggest using the toast function with a longer timer for frozen slices.
What size toaster oven do I need?+
For 1-2 people, a 2-slice oven is sufficient. For families, a 4-slice model with larger interior is recommended.