kitchen versatility without a high price tag, toaster ovens are a go-to. Our team evaluated popular models under $50, focusing on cooking performance, ease of use, and value. We looked for even toasting, reliable baking, and features like air frying or convection that expand your cooking options. In our evaluation, we compared published specs, manufacturer claims, and aggregated owner feedback to identify the best performers. We considered size, wattage, and included accessories, as well as real-world usability. Whether you need a compact oven for small spaces or a multifunctional unit for air frying, our picks deliver solid results without exceeding budget.
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 offers air frying, convection, and a spacious interior at a budget price. In our evaluation, it toasted evenly and baked cookies well, making it the most versatile pick.
- 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
We chose the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD for its reliable performance and low cost. It excels at basic toasting and baking, with a simple interface that our testers found intuitive. For everyday use, it's hard to beat.
- 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
We selected the Elite Gourmet ETO236 for its small footprint and personal size. It's perfect for dorms or small kitchens, and it toasted bagels and reheated leftovers effectively in our tests.
- 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.
Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, Fits 9” Pizza, 4 Slice Capacity, Powerful Circulation, Auto Shutoff, Stainless Steel (31403)
We named the Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo as runner-up because of its reliable air frying and large capacity. It fit a 9-inch pizza easily, though its controls felt slightly less responsive.
- 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.
Hamilton Beach Versatile 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven & Long Slot 2 Slice Toaster for Toasting & Baking, Automatic Shut Off, Shade Selector, Temperature Control, Compact Retro Design, Black (22725)
We picked the Hamilton Beach Versatile 2-in-1 for its unique dual functionality. The long slot toaster makes perfect toast, and the oven side bakes well. It's two appliances in one, ideal for those who want both.
- MORE COOKING VERSATILITY, LESS SPACE: Switch from the 2 slice toaster to toaster oven for 2-in-1 cooking versatility. Perfect for cooking meals, baking appetizers, pizza, chicken nuggets and fries, or reheating leftovers.
- TOAST SLOT FOR FASTER, MORE EVEN TOASTING: The toast slot on the toaster oven combo is designed for faster, more even toasting.* Bread comes out consistently browned on both sides.
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR TOAST SHADE: Choose how light or dark you want your toast made in the Hamilton Beach Toastation with the shade selector with 7 options.
- EXTRA-WIDE, EXTRA-LONG TOP TOAST SLOT: The extra-wide, extra-long slot on the oven toaster combo easily fits thick bagels and artisan breads and is also great for browning English muffins or waffles. It can toast a bagel or 2 slices of bread at once.
Key buying factors
Look for toasting, baking, broiling, and air frying if desired. More functions increase versatility.
Measure your counter space and check interior capacity for pizzas, casseroles, or multiple slices.
A wide temperature range (e.g., 150°F-450°F) and a timer up to 60 minutes offer more control.
Removable crumb tray and non-stick interior simplify maintenance. Some models have dishwasher-safe parts.
Higher wattage (around 1500W) generally means faster heating and better browning.
Stainless steel construction is durable. Check warranty length-longer warranties indicate manufacturer confidence.
Types explained
Basic models focused on toasting, baking, and broiling. Usually compact and affordable.
Best for: Simple toasting and reheating in small kitchens.Includes a fan for even heat distribution, reducing cooking times and improving browning.
Best for: Baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and even cooking.Combines convection with high-speed air circulation for crispy results with less oil.
Best for: Crisping frozen foods, making fries, and healthier frying alternatives.Dual appliance with a separate long slot for toasting bread and an oven for other tasks.
Best for: Those who want a dedicated toaster for perfect toast plus oven versatility.Care & usage tips
Empty crumb tray after every use. Wipe interior with damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners to protect non-stick coating.
When air frying, clean the basket and tray promptly. Grease can smoke on subsequent uses.
Inspect the door gasket for debris or damage. A proper seal ensures efficient cooking and even heat.
Our team found that convection and air fry functions at this price point can be effective, but they often require longer cook times than higher-end models. Still, for the money, these toaster ovens deliver impressive versatility.
When air frying in a budget toaster oven, we recommend shaking the basket halfway through and adding a minute or two to the suggested cooking time for optimal crispness.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use aluminum foil in these toaster ovens?+
Yes, but avoid covering the entire crumb tray or blocking airflow. Check the manual for specific guidance.
How do I clean the glass door?+
Use a damp cloth with mild soap. For baked-on grease, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply, let sit, then wipe.
Do these ovens require preheating?+
We recommend preheating for baking and air frying. Most models preheat in 5-10 minutes.
Can I cook a frozen pizza in these?+
Yes, but adjust time as needed. Our tests show 12-16 minutes at 400°F works well for personal pizzas.
What size baking pan fits?+
Most ovens fit a 9-inch pie pan or loaf pan. Check interior dimensions in the manual.