Finding the right small toaster oven can be tricky with so many models promising big results in a compact footprint. Our team spent hours researching and comparing top contenders, focusing on even cooking, versatility, ease of use, and build quality. We looked at published performance data, manufacturer specs, and thousands of owner reviews to identify the standouts. Whether you need a simple toaster for toast and bagels or a multi-tasking air fryer toaster oven for crispy fries and roasted veggies, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we share our top picks across different categories, from budget-friendly to feature-packed. All of these models fit easily on a countertop and deliver reliable results for everyday cooking.
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 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with 15 Mi timer because it's a no-frills performer at a great value. It's perfect for singles who need a reliable toaster oven for toast, bagels, and small snacks without taking up much space.
- 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 Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, Medium Ca for its air frying capability in a compact design. Our evaluation found it consistently cooked crispy fries and even baked goods, making it a versatile addition to any small kitchen.
- 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 Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver impressed us with its balance of size, performance, and price. We like that it fits 4 slices of toast or a 9-inch pizza, and the natural convection ensures even browning without a premium price tag.
- 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 Toaster Oven with Natural Convection, Stainless Steel, TO17 as our runner-up because it offers reliable everyday performance with larger capacity. It's a solid choice for families who want consistent toasting and baking without extra bells and whistles.
- 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 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)
The Hamilton Beach Versatile 2-in-1 Countertop Toaster Oven & Long Slot 2 Slice Toas earned our 'Unique Design' label. We loved that it combines a long slot toaster with a small oven, saving counter space for those who toast long bread and also need occasional oven baking.
- 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
Consider how much food you typically cook. A 2-slice toaster oven is great for singles or couples, while 4-slice models accommodate families. Measure your counter space before buying.
Look for features like convection, air frying, broil, bake, and toast. More functions add versatility, but a simpler model may suffice if you only toast and reheat.
Check for intuitive controls, clear labeling, and easy-to-clean interiors. A removable crumb tray and nonstick coating simplify maintenance.
A wide temperature range (e.g., 150°F-450°F) allows for slow drying or high-heat roasting. Accuracy ensures consistent results.
Stainless steel construction and sturdy knobs indicate longevity. Look for models with good reviews on longevity and customer support.
Auto shut-off, keep warm, defrost, and one-touch presets add convenience. Some models offer air frying for healthier cooking.
Types explained
Smallest footprint, ideal for 1-2 people. Simple buttons and basic functions like toast, bake, broil. Fits in tight spaces and under cabinets.
Best for: Singles, dorm rooms, small kitchens, or occasional use.Fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of toast. Often includes convection for even baking. Good balance of capacity and countertop size.
Best for: Couples or small families who bake, roast, and reheat frequently.Adds air frying capability with a built-in fan for crispy results with less oil. Usually larger with multiple cooking presets.
Best for: Health-conscious cooks who want an all-in-one countertop appliance.Care & usage tips
Unplug and let cool. Wipe interior with damp cloth. Remove and wash crumb tray regularly to prevent smoke and buildup.
Use mild soap and soft sponge. Harsh scrubbers can damage nonstick coatings and stainless steel finishes.
Keep at least 4 inches of clearance around the oven for airflow. Blocked vents can cause overheating and uneven cooking.
We found that convection models generally produced more even browning and faster cooking, but basic models still made excellent toast. The choice really depends on how much variety you want vs. simplicity.
When air frying in a toaster oven, shake or flip food halfway through for best results. Also, preheating is key for crispy textures-don't skip it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use aluminum foil in a toaster oven?+
Yes, but avoid covering the heating elements or blocking airflow. Use foil on the drip tray or to wrap food, not on the bottom of the oven.
How do I clean a toaster oven without damaging it?+
Unplug and let it cool completely. Wipe interior with a damp cloth, use a soft brush to dislodge crumbs, and wash the crumb tray with soapy water.
What's the difference between convection and a regular toaster oven?+
Convection ovens have a fan that circulates hot air for faster, more even cooking. They're better for roasting and baking, while regular models are simpler and often cheaper.
Can I fit a whole pizza in a small toaster oven?+
Most 4-slice models can hold a 9-inch pizza, and some compact ones fit a 6-inch. Check the interior dimensions before buying.
Are small toaster ovens energy efficient?+
Yes, they typically use less energy than a full-size oven for small meals. Preheating is faster, reducing overall power consumption.