We know that a good toaster oven can transform your kitchen routine without breaking the bank. After comparing over a dozen models under $50, we narrowed down five that deliver solid performance, versatility, and durability for the price. In our evaluation, we looked for even toasting, reliable temperature control, and useful extras like air frying or convection. We also considered build quality, ease of cleaning, and countertop footprint. These picks represent the best value we found for budget-conscious cooks.
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 because it combines convection and air frying in a compact, budget-friendly package. It produced evenly crisped french fries and juicy chicken wings in our tests, outperforming others at this price.
- 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 offers reliable toasting and baking in a slim design that fits small counters. We appreciated the precise toast shade control and the large viewing window. It's a solid workhorse for basic needs.
- 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.
Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with 15 Minute Timer & Adjustable Temperature, Bake, Broil, & Toast, Black
Elite Gourmet ETO236 is perfect for singles or small spaces. It toasts evenly and has a handy 15-minute timer. In our evaluation, we found it heats up quickly and is easy to store, though capacity is limited.
- 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.
Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo | 8-in-1 Functionality | Flip Up & Away for Storage Space | Air Fry Basket, Sheet Pan, Wire Rack & Removable Crumb Tray |1800 Watt | Stainless Steel | SP151
The Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo delivered the best air frying results among all tested models, but its higher price and larger footprint keep it from the top spot. We recommend it if you prioritize air frying performance over size and cost.
- RECLAIM YOUR COUNTER SPACE: Takes up 50% less space when you flip it up and away to store against your backsplash.
- 8-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Pizza, Toast, Bagel, Dehydrate.
- OVENCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Infrared heating and rapid circulating air combine for edge-to-edge even cooking.
- LARGE CAPACITY, SMALL FOOTPRINT: Air fry & roast up to 4 lbs of ingredients, bake a 12” pizza, toast up to 6 slices of bread, fits 6 chicken breasts.
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection, Stainless Steel, TO1760SS (TO1760SST-1)
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice TO1718 is our top pick for toasting multiple slices at once without convection. It's straightforward, reliable, and cleans easily. We chose it for its consistent browning and low price point.
- 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
Key buying factors
Consider how much food you typically cook. 2-slice models suffice for singles, while 4-slice or medium ovens fit small pizzas and casseroles.
Convection fans circulate hot air for even cooking and faster results. It's a plus for baking and roasting but not essential for basic toasting.
Some budget ovens include an air fry basket. This adds versatility for crispy results with less oil, but may require more counter space.
Look for adjustable temperature up to at least 450°F and a timer that goes beyond 30 minutes. Accurate controls improve cooking success.
Removable crumb tray and nonstick interior simplify maintenance. Slide-out trays are more convenient than fixed ones.
Measure your space. Compact models save room but cook less. Some feature flip-up designs to store vertically.
Types explained
Small footprint, ideal for toasting and basic reheating. Good for individuals or dorm rooms.
Best for: Singles or limited counter spaceOffers even baking and roasting with a fan. Fits small pizzas or 12-inch pans. Versatile for most households.
Best for: Small families and home cooks wanting convectionIncludes a dedicated air fry basket and often convection. Cooks crispy foods with less oil.
Best for: Health-conscious cooks who want air fryingLarger capacity, typically without convection. Reliable for toasting 4 slices at once.
Best for: Toasting and simple baking for up to 4 peopleCare & usage tips
Empty the crumb tray after each use to prevent burnt crumbs and smoke. Wash it with warm soapy water monthly.
Use a damp cloth to wipe the interior walls once a week. Avoid abrasive cleaners that damage nonstick surfaces.
Do not touch elements. If food debris falls on them, let cool then gently brush off with a soft brush when the oven is unplugged.
After testing all five models, we found that even at this low price point, convection makes a noticeable difference in baking and roasting-our top picks all feature it. But for pure toasting, simpler models can be just as effective and more affordable.
We recommend using an oven thermometer to verify the actual temperature-budget ovens often run hotter or cooler than the dial setting, affecting cook times.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a toaster oven for baking a small pizza?+
Yes, most medium models or 4-slice ovens can fit a 9- or 10-inch pizza. Check the interior dimensions before buying.
Do budget toaster ovens have an auto shut-off?+
Many models include a timer that shuts off the oven when it reaches zero. Some also have a stay-on function for longer cooking.
Is air frying really effective in a toaster oven under $50?+
Yes, but results vary. Models with a dedicated air fry basket and convection fan produce crisper food than those without.
How do I clean a toaster oven with nonstick interior?+
Use a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads. Nonstick coatings can scratch easily.
What is the warranty on these budget toaster ovens?+
Most come with a 1- to 2-year limited warranty. Check the manufacturer's website for exact terms.