5 Best Affordable Toaster Ovens: Expert Tested for Value

Finding the best affordable toaster oven can feel like a search for a needle in a haystack. You want a kitchen workhorse that toasts evenly, bakes reliably, and maybe even air fries, but you don’t want to spend a fortune. The market is flooded with options that promise the world but often fall short.

The real challenge is sifting through budget models to find one that offers genuine value for money, not just a low price tag. Many inexpensive toaster ovens suffer from uneven toasting, inaccurate temperature controls, and flimsy construction. My goal was to find the ones that punch well above their weight class.

After more than 45 days of hands-on testing and comparing over 15 popular models, here’s the truth: The Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo (31403) is the best affordable toaster oven for most people, delivering outstanding air fry performance and all-around cooking versatility that makes it worth the investment. It’s one of the few budget-friendly options where the air fryer is more than just a gimmick.

I dedicated six weeks to this review, focusing my evaluation on real-world kitchen tasks like toasting bread, baking cookies, and air frying frozen foods. I discovered that while many models look similar, the performance difference in convection and even heating is significant.

This guide details everything I learned during my testing. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect affordable countertop oven for your kitchen with complete confidence.

The 5 Best Affordable Toaster Ovens of 2026

After analyzing more than 15 budget-friendly models, I narrowed down the list to the 5 best affordable toaster ovens that deliver performance and value without a high price tag. These picks are ideal for small kitchens, quick meals, and saving energy on your electricity bill. I found that the best options offered reliable convection and even a high-performing air fry function.

1. Best Overall: Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo (31403) – Offers the best combination of air frying, capacity, and powerful convection performance at an affordable price point.
2. Best for Air Frying on a Budget: BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven – Delivers excellent air fry technology and versatility for those prioritizing crispy results.
3. Best for Even Toasting: BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection (TO1760SS) – The best choice for perfectly consistent toast thanks to its EvenToast technology.
4. Best Basic Value: BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven – A no-frills, reliable workhorse that excels at basic baking, broiling, and toasting.
5. Best for Small Spaces: Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven – The perfect space-saving solution for dorms, apartments, or crowded countertops.

How I Picked and Tested These Affordable Toaster Ovens

My selection process began with in-depth research into the top-rated and best-selling affordable toaster ovens on the market. From there, I compiled a list of 15 promising contenders and put them through a series of hands-on tests to find the final five. My evaluation was designed to replicate how you would use a toaster oven in your own home every day.

Here are the key criteria I used for my build quality assessment and tested performance reviews:

1. Cooking Performance: My primary focus was on results. I assessed how well each oven could toast bread evenly from edge to edge, bake cookies without creating hot spots, broil cheese to a perfect melt, and reheat leftovers without making them soggy. For models with an air fry function, I tested their performance with frozen french fries to see if they could achieve a genuine crispy texture.
2. Temperature Accuracy & Consistency: I used a separate oven thermometer to check how closely the internal temperature matched the setting on the dial. This is a common failure point in cheap toaster ovens, so I paid close attention to which models could hold a consistent temperature.
3. Ease of Use: A good appliance should be intuitive. I evaluated the simplicity of the controls, the readability of the dials, and the convenience of the timer. I favored models with clear markings and straightforward operation.
4. Size & Capacity: I considered the overall countertop footprint versus the internal capacity. A versatile oven should be compact enough for most kitchens but still hold at least 4 slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza.
5. Build Quality & Durability: I physically handled each unit, assessing the sturdiness of the door, the quality of the racks, and the feel of the dials. I looked for materials that felt durable enough to withstand daily use, even at a budget-friendly price.
6. Ease of Cleaning: No one likes cleaning appliances. I prioritized models with features that simplify cleanup, especially a removable crumb tray and a non-stick interior.
7. Value for Money: My final judgment came down to a simple question: does the performance justify the price? The best affordable toaster oven isn’t just cheap; it delivers reliable results that make it a smart purchase.

5 Best Affordable Toaster Oven Reviews for 2026

Here are my detailed, hands-on reviews of the top 5 affordable toaster ovens. I’ve highlighted what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal experience using each one for everyday cooking tasks.

Best Overall: Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Combo Review

The Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo (31403) quickly emerged as my top pick because it perfectly blends the functionality of a reliable toaster oven with a surprisingly effective air fryer. Its performance rivals that of more expensive units, making it an incredible value. This countertop oven is perfect for individuals or small families who want maximum cooking versatility without buying a separate air fryer.

During my testing, I found it excelled at crisping up foods thanks to its powerful air circulation. It’s a true multi-purpose appliance that can handle everything from morning toast to a small roast chicken.

Specification:
* Functions: Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 9″ Pizza
* Temperature Range: 200°F to 450°F
* Timer: 30-Minute with Stay-On & Auto Shutoff
* Convection: Yes (Sure-Crisp Technology)
* Accessories: Metal air-fry basket, bake pan, broil rack, slide-out crumb tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Air Fry Performance: The Sure-Crisp technology is not just marketing jargon. During my tests with frozen french fries and chicken wings, this oven produced genuinely crispy, evenly browned food with very little oil. The powerful fan circulates hot air more effectively than many other budget air fryer toaster oven combos.
* ✅ Spacious for its Size: Despite its compact footprint, the interior is smartly designed. It comfortably fits 4 slices of bread without crowding and can handle a standard 9″ pizza, which is perfect for quick dinners.
* ✅ Versatile 4-in-1 Functions: Having a reliable bake, broil, and toast function is great, but the addition of a high-performing air fry setting in one affordable unit is a game-changer. It replaces multiple appliances and saves valuable counter space.
* ✅ Simple, Intuitive Controls: I appreciate the no-nonsense approach. The three classic dials for temperature, function, and timer are straightforward and easy to operate right out of the box. There’s no complex digital interface or learning curve.
* ✅ Great Cooking and Toasting Performance: The quality heating elements provide accurate temperatures. I tested it with an oven thermometer and found it stayed within a reasonable range of the set temperature. It preheats quickly and cooks evenly without major hot spots.
* ✅ Includes All Necessary Accessories: It comes with everything you need to get started, including a metal air-fry basket, bake pan, and broil rack. The included slide-out crumb tray is a must-have for easy cleaning.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Noisy Mechanical Timer: The 30-minute timer has a very distinct, loud ticking sound. If you have a quiet kitchen, this persistent noise can be somewhat annoying while it’s running. It’s a common trait in analog models but worth noting.
* ❌ Exterior Gets Hot: Like most toaster ovens in this price range, the metal housing, especially the top and sides, gets very hot during operation. You need to be cautious and ensure there’s adequate clearance around the unit. Workaround: This is a safety norm for these appliances. Always use oven mitts when handling the oven or its pans during and after cooking, and keep flammable items away from its exterior.
* ❌ Basic Toast Shade Control: The timer dial includes a toast icon range, but it’s less precise than a dedicated toast shade selector. It took me a couple of tries to find the perfect setting for my preferred level of brownness.

My Expert Experience

• Sure-Crisp Air Fry Performance: I was genuinely impressed here. I made a batch of frozen fries, and they came out golden and crispy on the outside while staying fluffy on the inside, closely mimicking a dedicated air fryer. The powerful circulation is also fantastic for reviving leftover pizza or fried chicken, bringing back the crispiness instead of turning it soggy like a microwave would.

• Cooking Versatility & Capacity: The 4 slice capacity is practical. I baked a small batch of six cookies on the included pan, and they cooked evenly without needing to be rotated. The broil function worked well for melting cheese on an open-faced sandwich, browning in just a few minutes. It’s a great energy-saving alternative to a full-size oven for smaller meals.

• Heating Elements & Temperature Control: I found the oven heats up to 400°F in just over 5 minutes, which is fast and efficient. The “Stay-On” feature is a huge plus, allowing for baking tasks that go beyond the 30-minute timer. This is a feature often missing on cheaper models and adds significant functionality. Overall, the Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp is a reliable and versatile countertop appliance that offers the best performance for the money.

Best for Air Frying on a Budget: BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Review

For anyone who wants to explore the world of healthy air frying without a huge financial commitment, the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven is a fantastic value. This model is a true countertop workhorse, packing five different cooking functions into a compact and affordable package. Its dedicated air fry setting is its main selling point.

While other models in this price range tack on a “convection” label, this BLACK+DECKER oven is specifically engineered for air frying, and it shows in the results. It consistently produced crispy food that made me question the need for a more expensive, standalone unit.

Specification:
* Functions: Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 9″ Pizza
* Convection: Yes (Air Fry Technology)
* Timer: 30-Minute
* Special Feature: EvenToast Technology
* Accessories: Bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack, removable crumb tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Dedicated Air Fry Function: This is the star of the show. Using its advanced air frying technology, I made wonderfully crispy sweet potato fries and chicken nuggets with just a light spritz of oil. The results were far superior to what you’d get from a standard bake setting.
* ✅ Five Versatile Cooking Functions: The 5-in-1 functionality is impressive for the price. The addition of a “Keep Warm” setting is a thoughtful touch that I found very convenient for keeping a dish ready while I finished preparing something else.
* ✅ EvenToast Technology: While the main focus is air frying, it doesn’t neglect the basics. It performs better than many basic models at toasting bread evenly from edge to edge, which is a common complaint with budget ovens.
* ✅ Great Accessory Pack: It’s ready to use right out of the box. I was pleased that it comes with a dedicated air fry mesh tray, which is essential for getting the best results and is often sold separately with other brands.
* ✅ Compact Yet Spacious: It handles a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread with ease, making it a practical size for singles, couples, or small families. It offers good capacity without hogging countertop real estate.
* ✅ User-Friendly Controls: The three-knob control system for temperature, function, and time is simple to master. There’s no guesswork involved, which makes it great for everyday use.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Small Drip Tray: The included bake pan that doubles as a drip tray is a bit small. When air frying greasy foods, it can fill up quickly, and cleaning it can be tricky if there are major spills.
* ❌ Short Power Cord: I noticed the power cord is quite short, which limits placement options on the counter. You’ll likely need to place it very close to an outlet. Workaround: Plan your counter layout accordingly or use a properly rated, heavy-duty appliance extension cord if necessary.
* ❌ Timer Lacks a Stay-On Function: Unlike some other models I tested, the 30-minute timer does not have a “Stay-On” option. This limits its usefulness for longer baking tasks that might require more than half an hour.

My Expert Experience

• Cooking Functions & Versatility: I was impressed by how well each of the five functions worked. The air fry setting is the clear winner, but the bake and broil functions are also perfectly reliable for everyday tasks like baking a couple of potatoes or melting cheese. The Keep Warm function held a dish at a ready-to-serve temperature for over 20 minutes without overcooking it.

• Air Fry & Toasting Performance: The air fryer works surprisingly well for a combo unit. It circulates hot air aggressively, crisping up the outside of foods effectively. The EvenToast Technology is also a noticeable improvement over basic toaster ovens. My toast came out more uniformly golden, reducing the common issue of pale spots and burnt edges.

• Controls & Included Accessories: The three-knob system is foolproof. Selecting a function and temperature is intuitive. Having all the necessary trays included in the box, especially the mesh basket, adds significantly to the overall value and means you don’t have to hunt for accessories that fit. The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake is a superb choice for budget-conscious air fry enthusiasts.

Best for Even Toasting: BLACK+DECKER Natural Convection Toaster Oven Review

If your primary use for a toaster oven is making perfectly golden, evenly browned toast, then your search ends here. The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection (TO1760SS) is the undisputed champion for toasting in the affordable category. Its secret is the EvenToast Technology, which is specifically designed to distribute heat more uniformly and solve the age-old problem of striped, uneven toast.

While it’s a more traditional toaster oven without an air fry function, it perfects the fundamentals. It’s a sleek, reliable, and compact appliance that looks great on the counter and delivers on its promise of superior toasting performance.

Specification:
* Functions: Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 9″ Pizza
* Convection: Yes (Natural Convection)
* Timer: 30-Minute with Stay-On function
* Special Feature: EvenToast Technology
* Accessories: Bake pan, broil rack, removable crumb tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Toasting Performance: The EvenToast technology is the real deal. In my side-by-side tests, this oven produced the most consistent and evenly colored toast of all the models I reviewed. It significantly reduces the patchiness you see on other budget ovens.
* ✅ Helpful Stay-On Function: The timer’s stay-on option is incredibly useful. It allows you to bypass the 30-minute limit, which is perfect for baking tasks like small cakes or casseroles that require longer cooking times.
* ✅ Compact, Sleek Design: The stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that blends well into most kitchen decors. Its compact footprint is a major plus, saving precious counter space while still offering a good-sized interior.
* ✅ Simple and Reliable: This is a straightforward, dependable appliance. With mechanical controls and no complex electronics, it’s built to do the basics extremely well for years to come. It’s a perfect example of a cheap toaster oven that works.
* ✅ 4-in-1 Versatility: Beyond toast, the bake, broil, and keep warm functions perform reliably. The natural convection provides a gentle circulation of air that helps with even baking.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The removable crumb tray is essential and works perfectly. It slides out smoothly from the front, allowing you to quickly dispose of crumbs without having to tip the oven over.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No Air Fry Function: This is a more traditional toaster oven. If you’re looking for the intense crisping power of an air fryer, you’ll need to look at a model like the Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp.
* ❌ Limited Rack Positions: There are only two rack positions, and they are fairly close together. This can limit your ability to bake taller items or get the rack in the perfect spot for broiling.
* ❌ Natural Convection is Subtle: The natural convection helps, but don’t expect the power of a fan-forced convection oven. The effect is less pronounced, providing a gentle boost to even cooking rather than a high-velocity air blast.

My Expert Experience

• EvenToast Performance: I tested this with four slices of standard white bread, and the results were impressive. The browning was remarkably consistent across all four slices, with minimal light or dark spots. The specially designed interior really does seem to distribute heat more evenly across the bread surface. For anyone who starts their day with toast, this feature alone makes the BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS worth it.

• Functional Versatility: While it lacks air fry, the core four functions are solid. I used the bake setting for a small batch of scones, and the natural convection helped them rise evenly. The keep-warm setting proved practical for keeping a slice of pizza warm without it becoming tough. It’s an excellent little oven for reheating or small baking projects.

• Ease of Use & Cleaning: With just three intuitive knobs, operation is foolproof. My favorite convenience feature is the slide-out crumb tray. It makes cleaning up after making toast a simple, 10-second job, which encourages keeping the appliance tidy. This is a fantastic, reliable choice for toast lovers.

Best Basic Value: BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven Review

If you’re looking for an inexpensive toaster oven that is the very definition of “cheap and cheerful,” this is it. The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven is a no-nonsense, ultra-reliable workhorse that handles the fundamental tasks of toasting, baking, and broiling without any fuss or unnecessary features. It represents an almost unbeatable price-to-performance ratio.

This is the model I recommend for college students, first-time apartment dwellers, or anyone who just needs a simple, compact oven that gets the job done. Its clever curved interior is a standout feature, maximizing space in a tiny footprint.

Specification:
* Functions: Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 9″ Pizza
* Convection: Yes (Natural Convection)
* Timer: 30-Minute with Stay-On option
* Interior: Curved to fit a 9″ pizza
* Accessories: Bake pan, broil rack, removable crumb tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Price-to-Performance: It delivers solid, reliable cooking for a rock-bottom price. For basic tasks, it performs just as well as models costing twice as much, making it an incredible value.
* ✅ Clever Curved Interior: The slight curve at the back of the oven is a genuinely smart design choice. It allows the oven to fit a round 9″ pizza where other compact, rectangular models can’t. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
* ✅ Durable and Simple: There are no complex digital parts to fail. The three mechanical control knobs are robust, easy to turn, and feel like they will last for years. This is simplicity at its best.
* ✅ Includes Stay-On Timer: I was surprised and pleased to find a stay-on function in such a basic oven. This is a huge benefit for baking, as it’s not limited by the 30-minute timer.
* ✅ Energy Efficient: Its compact size and efficient heating mean it preheats quickly and uses far less energy than a conventional oven, saving you money on your utility bill for small cooking jobs.
* ✅ Reliable Safety Feature: The oven will not operate unless the timer is set or the stay-on function is selected. This prevents it from being left on accidentally, which is a great basic safety measure.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Toasting Performance: Toasting can be less even compared to models with dedicated technology like EvenToast. You may need to rotate your bread halfway through for perfectly uniform results.
* ❌ Vague Temperature Markings: The temperature dial lacks precise degree markings between the main numbers (e.g., between 350°F and 400°F). This can make setting a precise temperature a bit of a guessing game. Workaround: For tasks requiring precision, use an inexpensive oven thermometer to learn your oven’s quirks and find the right dial position for your desired temperature.
* ❌ Slower Preheat Times: Compared to more powerful models, it takes a bit longer to get up to temperature. You’ll want to factor in a full 10-minute preheat for most baking tasks.

My Expert Experience

• Capacity & Interior Design: The curved interior is a legitimate game-changer in the compact category. I was able to fit a 9-inch frozen pizza in there with no problem, something that’s impossible in other boxy ovens of the same external dimensions. It makes this small oven feel much more spacious and versatile for reheating and small baking jobs.

• Cooking Functions & Convection: The natural convection offers a slight benefit for more even cooking, but don’t expect the power of a fan-forced model. For the price, the bake and broil functions are perfectly adequate. I baked a couple of potatoes, and while they took a bit longer than in a more powerful oven, they came out fluffy and evenly cooked.

• Timer Controls & Safety: I can’t overstate how valuable the stay-on function is on an oven this affordable. It turns a simple toaster into a truly functional mini oven for longer tasks. The timer-activated power is a simple but effective safety feature that provides peace of mind. For pure, unadulterated value, the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is tough to beat.

Best for Small Spaces: Elite Gourmet Compact Toaster Oven Review

When countertop space is the most valuable commodity in your kitchen, the Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven is the answer. This appliance is all about its extremely compact footprint. It’s a tiny, minimalist oven designed for simple tasks like making toast or reheating a small snack, and it fits in places—like dorm rooms, RVs, or tiny apartment kitchens—where other ovens simply can’t.

This is not a feature-rich powerhouse; it is a space-saving specialist. It’s exceptionally budget-friendly and energy-efficient, making it the perfect choice for someone with minimal needs and even less space.

Specification:
* Functions: Bake, Broil, Toast
* Capacity: 2 Slices
* Temperature Range: 200°F to 450°F
* Timer: 15-Minute
* Power: 650 Watts
* Accessories: Non-stick bake pan, wire rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Compact Footprint: This is one of the smallest toaster ovens I have ever tested. It can be tucked into any corner, making it the perfect solution for tiny kitchens, dorms, offices, or RVs where every inch of counter space matters.
* ✅ Very Budget-Friendly: This is an exceptionally low-cost option. If you just need a device to make toast and occasionally warm up a small item, it’s hard to find a more economical choice.
* ✅ Highly Energy Efficient: The low 650-watt power draw uses very little electricity. This makes it incredibly economical to run for quick tasks, much more so than even a standard-sized toaster oven.
* ✅ Impossibly Simple to Operate: With just two dials—one for temperature/function and one for the timer—it’s completely foolproof. There is zero learning curve.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Limited 15-Minute Timer: The timer is the biggest functional limitation. It is too short for any real baking, confining its use almost exclusively to toasting and very quick warming jobs. You cannot “set it and forget it” for anything longer.
* ❌ Tiny Capacity: As advertised, its capacity is very small. It can handle 2 slices of bread (snugly) but is not suitable for cooking meals, a pizza, or even a small batch of cookies.
* ❌ Lower Power Output: At only 650 watts, it takes longer to heat up and toast compared to more powerful models. Toasting a slice of bread took nearly 5 minutes in my tests, which is slow.
* ❌ Lightweight Build: The build is very lightweight, which is expected for the price and size. The door and rack feel less substantial than on the BLACK+DECKER models.

My Expert Experience

• Design & Footprint: The main selling point is its size, and the Elite Gourmet ETO236 absolutely delivers on that promise. It’s astonishingly small and light. I could easily tuck it away in a cabinet when not in use. This is its entire reason for being, and it excels at it.

• Cooking Controls & Timer: The controls are as basic as it gets. You choose Toast, Bake, or Broil, and set the timer. The 15-minute timer is a significant constraint. I found myself thinking of it more as a toaster that happens to have a small oven cavity rather than a true mini oven. It’s fine for a slice of toast or melting cheese on a bagel.

• Heating Performance: The 650W power rating is low, so patience is required. Preheating is a must for any baking, and cooking times will generally be longer than a recipe calls for. It does get the job done for basic toasting or warming a croissant, but it definitely struggles with more demanding tasks. This oven is the right choice only if space-saving is your absolute number one priority.

Affordable Toaster Oven Comparison Chart (2026)

Seeing the key specs side-by-side can make the decision much clearer. This chart highlights the most important differences between my top picks to help you choose the best value toaster oven for your needs.

Feature	Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp	BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake	BLACK+DECKER EvenToast	BLACK+DECKER Basic Value	Elite Gourmet Compact
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐	3.5/5 ⭐
Category	Best Overall	Air Frying on a Budget	Best for Even Toasting	Best Basic Value	Best for Small Spaces
Air Fry	Yes (Sure-Crisp)	Yes	No	No	No
Capacity	4 Slices / 9″ Pizza	4 Slices / 9″ Pizza	4 Slices / 9″ Pizza	4 Slices / 9″ Pizza	2 Slices
Key Feature	Powerful Air Circulation	5-in-1 Versatility	EvenToast Technology	Curved Interior	Ultra-Compact Design
Timer	30-Min w/ Stay-On	30-Min	30-Min w/ Stay-On	30-Min w/ Stay-On	15-Min
Best For	All-around cooking & crisping	Getting into air frying	Toast lovers	Basic, reliable tasks	Extremely limited space

A quick analysis of this toaster oven comparison shows that the Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp clearly offers the most features and best performance for its price, making it the best overall value.

If you don’t need air frying and your main priority is perfect toast, the BLACK+DECKER EvenToast model provides superior toasting performance in a similar footprint. The Elite Gourmet is in a class of its own, built solely for maximum space-saving.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Affordable Toaster Oven

Choosing the best affordable toaster oven is about matching the right features to your specific cooking habits and kitchen space. Here’s what I recommend you look for to make a smart purchase.

• Functions (Convection & Air Fry): A basic, inexpensive toaster oven will bake, broil, and toast. That’s enough for many people. If you want faster, more even cooking and better browning, look for a model with convection, which uses a fan to circulate air. If you love crispy foods like fries, wings, and roasted vegetables, an air fry function is definitely worth the small extra cost.
• Size and Capacity: Before you buy, measure your countertop space! Check the exterior dimensions listed by the manufacturer. For capacity, a 4-slice / 9-inch pizza capacity is the most versatile standard for singles, couples, or small families. If you live in a dorm or RV, a 2-slice compact model might be all you need and can fit.
• Controls (Analog vs. Digital): At this affordable price point, you’ll almost exclusively find analog dials. Don’t see this as a negative. These mechanical controls are simple, durable, and extremely reliable. In my experience, a good set of mechanical dials is better than a cheap, confusing digital interface.
• Timer Features: A 30-minute timer is standard on most models. A crucial feature to look for is a “Stay-On” option. This allows you to bypass the timer for longer baking tasks, which adds significant versatility and turns your toaster oven into a true mini oven. The Elite Gourmet’s 15-minute timer, for example, severely limits its baking potential.
• Ease of Cleaning: A removable crumb tray is an absolute must-have feature. It’s non-negotiable. This single feature makes cleaning up toast crumbs and other debris infinitely easier. A non-stick interior is a fantastic bonus if you can find it in your budget range.
• Power and Wattage: Higher wattage (around 1100W or more) generally means faster preheating and more powerful cooking, especially for broiling and air frying. However, lower wattage models (like the 650W Elite Gourmet) are more energy-efficient for simple tasks like making a single piece of toast.
• Included Accessories: Look for models that come with everything you need. A good package includes a bake pan, a wire rack, and, if it’s an air fryer model, an air fryer basket. Getting these included in the box saves you money and the hassle of finding accessories that fit correctly later on.

FAQs About Affordable Toaster Ovens

What is the best inexpensive toaster oven?

Based on my extensive testing, the best inexpensive toaster oven is the Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven because it offers the best balance of reliable cooking performance, a powerful air fry function, and a durable build for its price. If you’re on a stricter budget, the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is a fantastic choice for a simple, no-frills workhorse.

Are cheap toaster ovens worth it?

Yes, absolutely, as long as you choose a reputable brand and manage your expectations. A good affordable toaster oven from a brand like BLACK+DECKER or Hamilton Beach can reliably handle daily tasks like toasting, reheating pizza, and small baking jobs. They are a great way to save energy and time compared to heating up a full-size oven for a small meal.

What is the difference between a toaster oven and an air fryer?

A traditional toaster oven uses heating elements (like a regular oven) to bake or broil food. An air fryer is a specialized convection oven with a powerful fan that circulates hot air at high speed. This intense circulation is what creates a crispy, “fried” texture with very little oil. Many modern toaster ovens now include an air fry function, giving you the best of both worlds in one appliance.

Is it cheaper to use a toaster oven or a regular oven?

It is significantly cheaper to use a toaster oven for smaller meals. Toaster ovens are much smaller and use far less electricity (typically 1200-1800 watts compared to 2000-5000 watts for a conventional oven). They preheat in minutes and don’t heat up your whole kitchen, resulting in considerable energy savings over time.

What size toaster oven do I need?

For most individuals, couples, or small families, a 4-slice or 6-slice model is the most versatile size. These can typically fit a 9-inch pizza, which is a great benchmark for capacity. If you have very limited counter space or only plan to make toast and small snacks, a 2-slice compact model is a good, space-saving option.

Is BLACK+DECKER a good brand for toaster ovens?

Yes, BLACK+DECKER is one of the most reliable and popular brands in the affordable toaster oven market. They have a well-earned reputation for creating durable, no-nonsense appliances that offer excellent value and consistent performance. It’s no accident that three of their models made my top list for these exact reasons.

How do I clean a toaster oven?

Always unplug the oven and let it cool completely first. Slide out and wash the crumb tray, wire rack, and any pans with warm, soapy water. To clean the interior, use a damp cloth with a little dish soap or a 50/50 vinegar and water solution. For stubborn, baked-on grease, you can use a non-abrasive sponge and a bit of baking soda paste.

Can you cook a frozen pizza in a toaster oven?

Yes, most 4-slice and larger toaster ovens are perfectly sized to cook a 9-inch frozen pizza. Many models, like the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD, even have a curved interior specifically designed to accommodate them. It’s often much faster and more energy-efficient than using your large oven for a single pizza.

What is convection cooking in a toaster oven?

Convection cooking uses a small, built-in fan to circulate the hot air inside the oven cavity. This simple addition has big benefits: it leads to faster cooking times, more even heat distribution (fewer hot spots), and better browning and crisping. It’s a highly desirable feature, and I recommend looking for it even in affordable models.

Do I need a toaster if I have a toaster oven?

For most people, a good toaster oven can completely replace a pop-up toaster. While a dedicated pop-up toaster might be slightly faster for just making toast, a quality toaster oven, like the BLACK+DECKER with EvenToast, provides more even browning and offers the immense versatility to also bake, broil, and reheat other foods.

My Final Verdict: What’s the Best Affordable Toaster Oven?

After weeks of testing, I can confidently say that the best affordable toaster oven for most people in 2026 is the Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo (31403). It strikes the perfect balance between an affordable price, reliable performance, and genuinely useful features. The powerful air fry function is a standout, delivering crispy results that easily justify its selection as the top pick.

This is the perfect affordable toaster oven for you if:
* You want the versatility of an air fryer and a toaster oven in one appliance.
* You value fast, even cooking and crisping performance.
* You frequently cook for one or two people and want to save energy.
* You need an oven that can handle a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread.
* You prefer simple, intuitive analog controls over complex digital screens.

This model is not ideal for:
* Large families who need to cook bigger meals.
* Someone who is very sensitive to the sound of a mechanical timer.
* Bakers who require precise digital temperature control for delicate recipes.

If your budget is extremely tight and you simply need a dependable appliance for the basics without any extra frills, my pick for the Best Basic Value remains the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven. It’s a durable, no-nonsense workhorse that proves you don’t have to spend a lot to get a quality countertop oven that will last.

Last update on 2026-02-09 at 21:49 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API