If you’re working with a tight countertop, a toaster oven is a lifesaver-but choosing the right one can be overwhelming. We’ve spent hours comparing specs, reading owner feedback, and evaluating performance to bring you the best budget-friendly options for small kitchens. Our team focused on three things: a small footprint (under 15 inches wide), reliable toasting and baking, and features that justify the price. Whether you need a simple two-slice toaster or a mini convection oven that can crisp up frozen fries, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks for 2026.
Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with 15 Minute Timer & Adjustable Temperature, Bake, Broil, & Toast, Black
We picked the Elite Gourmet ETO236 as best budget because of its ultra-compact 10-inch width, easy dial controls, and ability to toast, bake, broil, and warm. It's the smallest and most affordable, perfect for tight spaces and light use.
- 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 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 chose the BLACK+DECKER Crisp 'N Bake as best value for its combination of air fry, convection, and bake functions in a medium footprint. It delivered crispy results without taking up too much counter space, and the price is unbeatable for the versatility.
- 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.
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD earns runner-up for its consistent convection heating and stainless steel build at a low price. We appreciated the even toasting and straightforward interface, though it lacks an air fry function.
- 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 selected the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Natural Convection model as best for families because of its larger capacity and natural convection that roasts evenly. It fits a 12-inch pizza or four slices of bread, and the removable crumb tray made cleanup easy.
- 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
bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control with Reheat & Cancel Buttons, Fits sourdough, 10” Long Slot, Anti Jam & Auto Shutoff, 900 Watt, Oatmilk
The bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is our pick for best slim design. At just 7 inches wide, it fits in the narrowest spots. It's a dedicated toaster (not a toaster oven), but it toasts evenly with six shade settings and has a keep-warm function, making it ideal for toast lovers with zero counter space.
- Slim Design, Big Impact: With a sleek 3.58" profile, the bella 2-Slice Slim Toaster fits comfortably on any countertop without taking up much space. Part of our Fits-anywhere kitchenware collection, it’s the perfect blend of style and practicality
- One Long Slot for Versatile Toasting: The extra-wide, 10-inch long slot accommodates two slices of bread side by side or thick artisan breads like bagels, baguettes, and Texas-style toasts. No more squeezing or cutting-just perfect toast, every time
- Toasted Perfection: Six shade settings with a convenient cancel function allow you to customize your bread to your exact preference, from lightly golden to dark and crispy. Achieve your ideal toast with just a simple turn of the dial
- Easy Cleanup & Clutter-Free Countertop: The removable crumb tray slides out for quick cleaning, ensuring your smart toaster stays tidy and operates efficiently. Plus, the cord wrap feature keeps your countertop neat and free from tangled cords
Key buying factors
Measure your counter space before buying. Most small toaster ovens are 12-15 inches wide, but some with air fry functions are bulkier. We prioritized models that fit easily under standard cabinets.
Look for even toasting and consistent baking. Convection models circulate hot air for faster, more even cooking. We checked for hot spots and temperature accuracy.
Simple dials or buttons, clear markings, and a timer with auto shutoff are must-haves. A crumb tray that slides out for cleaning is a big plus.
Consider what you'll cook: toast, bagels, frozen snacks, small pizzas, or baked dishes. Some models offer bake, broil, toast, and keep warm functions.
Stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean. Check the door hinge and rack stability. Avoid flimsy plastic parts that may warp.
Auto shutoff, cool-touch exterior, and a sturdy base prevent accidents. Look for a unit that stays cool to the touch on top and sides.
Types explained
Smallest footprint, perfect for a single person or couple. Typically fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of toast. Basic baking and broiling functions.
Best for: Solo users or couples with very limited counter space.Slightly larger, with a fan that circulates hot air. Cooks faster and more evenly. Capacity for a 12-inch pizza or a small chicken.
Best for: Small families who want air fry or convection features without a full-size oven.Includes a high-speed fan and a perforated basket for crispy results with minimal oil. Often larger but can replace an air fryer.
Best for: Health-conscious cooks who crave crispy texture and want to save counter space.Care & usage tips
Slide out the crumb tray after each use and wipe with a damp cloth. Built-up crumbs can cause smoke or fire.
Use a non-abrasive sponge with mild soap to remove grease splatters. Avoid harsh chemicals or steel wool.
Over time, hinges can loosen. Ensure the door closes tightly to maintain even cooking. Clean the seal with a damp cloth.
After comparing five models, we found that you don't need to spend a lot for reliable performance; the best budget picks offer even toasting, versatile cooking, and a space-saving design for under $80.
When testing, we recommend running a first-time burn-in cycle (empty at 400°F for 15 minutes) to remove any manufacturing residues.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use aluminum foil in a toaster oven?+
Yes, but avoid covering the crumb tray or touching the heating elements. Use foil to line the drip pan for easy cleanup, but never block airflow.
What size toaster oven fits a 9-inch pizza?+
Most compact toaster ovens that are 12 inches wide or larger can fit a 9-inch pizza. Check the interior dimensions in the specs.
Do toaster ovens use a lot of electricity?+
They typically use 1200-1500 watts, similar to a microwave. For short cooking times, they're efficient and don't heat up the kitchen like a full oven.
How do I clean a toaster oven without damaging it?+
Unplug and let it cool completely. Remove the crumb tray and racks. Wipe interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Never submerge the unit in water.
Can I bake cookies in a small toaster oven?+
Yes, but only bake a few at a time. Use a small baking sheet and reduce the temperature by 25°F compared to a regular oven, since toaster ovens heat more directly.