Looking for a toaster oven that won’t break the bank? Our team spent weeks comparing affordable models from BLACK+DECKER, Elite Gourmet, and Hamilton Beach to find the best performers under $100. We evaluated each on cooking evenness, ease of use, and feature set. Whether you need a compact 2-slice toaster for dorms or a large air fryer combo for family meals, our guide covers top picks across different needs. We focused on real-world cooking tests and aggregated owner feedback to bring you honest recommendations.
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 this as best budget for its impressive air fry and convection capabilities at a low price point. Our team found it delivered crispy fries and even toast, offering great value for cost-conscious buyers.
- 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 this for its small footprint yet surprisingly good performance. Perfect for dorms or limited counters, it toasts evenly and bakes small items well. We liked the simple dial controls.
- 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 this for its excellent balance of size, features, and price. It toasts 4 slices evenly, has a convection fan, and the silver finish looks sleek. In our evaluation, it outperformed many pricier models.
- 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)
This model impressed us with its natural convection that browned baked goods beautifully. The stainless steel build feels sturdy, and the 4-slice capacity suits small families. A close second to our top value pick.
- 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
Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, Fits 9” Pizza, 4 Slice Capacity, Powerful Circulation, Auto Shutoff, Stainless Steel (31403)
We recommend this for users who want true air fry performance without breaking the bank. It fits a 9-inch pizza and makes crispy chicken wings. We found the Sure-Crisp technology delivered crunchy texture consistently.
- POWERFUL AIR CIRCULATION FOR EVENLY BROWNED FOOD WITH LITTLE TO NO OIL: This Hamilton Beach air fryer toaster oven's convection function circulates air around food as it cooks making crispy and delicious fries, chicken, steaks, fish and vegetables.
- AIR FRYER OVEN COMBO WITH 4 VERSATILE COOKING OPTIONS: Enjoy the convenience of a toaster oven and the crispy deliciousness of an air fryer in one compact appliance; this versatile combo offers the functions you love-toast, bake, air fry, and broil.
- 4 SLICE CAPACITY PROVIDES PLENTY OF COOKING SPACE: This air fryer toaster oven combo has room for everything you cook, from 4 slices of toast to a 9" pizza, a 3 lb. chicken in an 8" x 8" pan or a 9" x 5" loaf pan.
- INCLUDES METAL AIR-FRY BASKET, BAKE PAN AND BROIL RACK. The air fryer and toaster oven combo comes with all the accessories you need to air fry, bake, broil, and toast, plus a slide-out crumb tray.
Key buying factors
Even heating and consistent results are critical. We look for models with convection fans and quartz heating elements for better browning and faster cooking.
Consider interior space for your typical meals-fits 4 slices of toast, 9-inch pizza, or a small chicken. Compact models save counter space but limit versatility.
Intuitive controls, clear markings, and smooth drawer or door operation make daily use pleasant. We prefer dials over complicated digital menus at this price.
Look for multiple functions: bake, broil, toast, and air fry. Air fry capability adds value for healthier cooking without extra appliances.
Sturdy construction, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet contribute to safety and longevity. We check for consistent temperature and timer accuracy.
Removable crumb trays and nonstick interiors simplify cleanup. Dishwasher-safe parts are a bonus. We prefer models with easy-access interiors.
Types explained
Basic models with bake, broil, and toast functions. Typically compact and affordable. Ideal for simple reheating and toasting.
Best for: Singles, couples, or dorm roomsIncludes a fan to circulate hot air for faster, more even cooking. Often has multiple cooking modes.
Best for: Baking and roasting small batchesCombines convection technology with air fry capabilities. Usually larger with a basket or tray for air frying.
Best for: Health-conscious users wanting crispy foodsCare & usage tips
After every use, slide out the crumb tray and discard debris. This prevents smoke and fire hazards. Wipe with a damp cloth as needed.
Once a week, wipe interior walls with a damp sponge or mild soap solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage nonstick coatings.
If food splatters on elements, let oven cool, then gently brush debris with a soft brush. Do not use liquid cleaners directly on elements.
In our evaluation we found that convection models significantly outperformed standard toaster ovens in evenness and speed, making them worth the slight premium even on a budget.
For best toasting results, always preheat your toaster oven for 2-3 minutes before use. This ensures even browning and consistent texture.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use aluminum foil in a toaster oven?+
Yes, but avoid covering the heating elements or the entire crumb tray. Use small pieces to line the bake pan, and never let foil touch the sides or back.
What size toaster oven do I need?+
For 1-2 people, a compact 2-slice model suffices. For families, choose a 4-slice or larger that fits a 9-inch pizza or small chicken.
Is an air fryer toaster oven worth it?+
If you often cook frozen foods or want crispy results with less oil, yes. Air fry combos add versatility without needing two appliances.
How do I clean burnt food from the interior?+
Let the oven cool, then make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to burnt spots, let sit for 15 minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Can I bake cookies in a toaster oven?+
Absolutely. Use a small baking pan and reduce recipe temperature by 25°F. Check frequently as convection ovens cook faster.