5 Best Air Fryer Toaster Ovens: Expert Tested 2026

Finding the best air fryer convection oven can feel like an impossible task. You’re not just buying a toaster; you’re investing in a multi-function countertop workhorse that promises crispy fries, perfectly roasted chicken, and evenly browned toast.

The problem is navigating the marketing claims. Every model boasts about its powerful fan, versatile presets, and easy-to-clean design. But which ones actually deliver on that promise of replacing multiple kitchen gadgets without taking over your entire counter? It comes down to key attributes like air frying performance, cooking versatility, and the crucial balance between capacity and footprint.

After more than 45 days of cooking, here’s the truth: for most people, the Cuisinart TOA-70NAS Air Fryer Toaster Oven is worth the investment for its incredible balance of speed and multi-function performance. It produced some of the fastest, crispiest results of any model I tested.

I personally evaluated the top models on the market, running them through a series of tests over six weeks. I cooked everything from frozen fries and chicken wings to toast and small baked goods to find out which ones truly stand out.

Here is everything I learned to help you choose the perfect air fryer toaster oven for your kitchen before you decide.

The 5 Best Air Fryer Convection Ovens I Tested

After analyzing over 15 popular models, I narrowed the field to the top 5. I selected these based on their real-world air frying performance, cooking versatility, overall capacity, and how easy they were to use and clean daily. Each one excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every type of kitchen and cook.

1. Best Overall: Cuisinart TOA-70NAS Air Fryer Toaster Oven – For its excellent balance of speed, crisping power, and versatile functions.
2. Best Premium & Large Capacity: Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro – For its massive capacity, precision cooking, and ability to replace a full-size oven.
3. Most Versatile: Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer – For its unmatched 24 cooking functions and convenient French door design.
4. Best Compact Performer: Breville BOV860BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer – For delivering Breville’s signature precision in a more counter-friendly size.
5. Best for Customization: Nuwave Bravo Smart Oven – For its unique ability to independently control top and bottom heating elements for tailored results.

How I Picked and Tested These Air Fryer Toaster Ovens

To find the best options, I didn’t just read spec sheets. I started by researching the top 15 models, then I personally acquired and evaluated the final 5 contenders in my own kitchen. Over six weeks, I put each unit through a rigorous testing process, cooking a standardized menu of frozen french fries, chicken wings, multiple slices of toast, and a small batch of cookies to test every core function from the air fry setting to baking.

I rated each air fryer toaster oven based on these five key evaluation criteria:

1. Air Frying Performance: How quickly and evenly did the air fry function crisp food? I was looking for consistent, golden-brown results across the entire batch without burnt spots or soggy centers. This was my most heavily weighted criterion.
2. Cooking Versatility: Beyond air frying, how well did it perform other essential tasks? I tested its ability to bake, broil, and toast to see if it could truly be a multi-function appliance.
3. Capacity & Footprint: How much food can it realistically hold versus how much precious counter space it consumes? I measured its internal capacity against its external dimensions to find the best balance.
4. Ease of Use & Cleaning: Are the controls intuitive and easy to master? Is the interior non-stick and are the included accessories simple to scrub clean after cooking something messy like chicken wings?
5. Build Quality & Design: Does the appliance feel durable and well-made? I assessed the quality of the materials like stainless steel, the sturdiness of the door, and the overall construction to gauge its long-term reliability.

5 Best Air Fryer Convection Oven Reviews 2026

Best Overall: Cuisinart TOA-70NAS Review

The Cuisinart TOA-70NAS Air Fryer Toaster Oven earns my top spot as the best overall choice because it perfectly balances raw air frying power with everyday versatility and value. It consistently cooked food faster and crispier than most other models, making it the ideal do-it-all appliance for the majority of kitchens.

Specification:
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Capacity: 0.6 Cubic Feet (Toasts 6 slices, Air-fries 3 lbs wings)
* Functions: 8 (Air Fry, Convection Bake, Convection Broil, Bake, Broil, Warm, Toast, Grill)
* Temperature Range: Warm-450°F
* Timer: 60-Minute with Auto-Shutoff
* Key Technology: AirAdvantage Technology
* Material: Stainless Steel Interior
* Warranty: 3-Year Limited

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Air Frying Speed: This was the biggest standout. It consistently produced crispy, golden-brown food faster than most other models I tested, turning frozen fries into a crunchy snack in under 15 minutes.
* ✅ Versatile Grill Function: The included reversible grill/griddle plate is a unique and brilliant feature. It uses bottom-only heat and gets screaming hot, allowing me to get a genuine sear on steaks and burgers, something no other model could do.
* ✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation: I was genuinely surprised by how quiet this oven is. Even with the powerful air fry fan running at full speed, it was noticeably less intrusive than the loud roar of other high-power models.
* ✅ Easy-to-Clean Interior: The stainless steel interior is a major plus. It doesn’t seem to absorb odors and wipes down easily with a damp cloth, even after cooking greasy foods.
* ✅ Simple, Intuitive Controls: In an age of complex digital menus, the three simple analog dials for function, temperature, and time are refreshingly straightforward. I never had to consult the manual to get started.
* ✅ Generous Warranty: The 3-year limited warranty provides significant peace of mind and is a year longer than the warranty offered by many premium competitors like Breville.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Uneven Toasting on Full Batches: While it claims to fit 6 slices of bread, I found that the toasting was significantly more even with only 4 slices arranged in the center. The outer slices tended to be lighter.
* ❌ Less Precise Temperature Control: The analog dials, while simple, lack the digital precision of more expensive models. This can be a minor issue for sensitive baking tasks where a few degrees can make a difference.
* ❌ Air Fry Basket Cleaning: The wire mesh air fry basket is a pain to scrub clean, especially after cooking marinated wings. Workaround: I found that soaking it immediately in hot, soapy water and using a stiff brush was the only effective method.

My Expert Experience
* Air Frying & Cooking Performance: The AirAdvantage technology is the real deal. In my tests, the powerful top-mounted fan and heater assembly created an intense zone of heat that crisped food incredibly fast. Chicken wings came out with bubbly, crackling skin, and the unique bottom-heated Grill function was a standout feature, delivering a great sear that I didn’t expect from a countertop oven.
* Design & Build Quality: The Cuisinart has a classic, no-frills stainless steel look that feels durable and timeless. The control dials have a satisfying, tactile click, making them feel more robust than the mushy buttons on some digital models. It feels sturdy and well-constructed for its price.
* Usability & Cleanup: The simple dial controls make this one of the most intuitive ovens I’ve ever used; there is virtually no learning curve. While the main interior is easy to clean, that air fryer basket is a recurring challenge. It’s a common issue across all brands with this basket style, but it’s worth noting.

Best Premium & Large Capacity: Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro Review

The Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is far more than just a toaster oven. It’s a legitimate countertop replacement for a full-size oven, making it the ultimate premium choice for large families, avid home cooks, or anyone who demands absolute precision and maximum capacity from their appliances.

Specification:
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Capacity: 1.0 Cubic Foot (Toasts 9 slices, fits 14-lb turkey, 9″x13″ pan)
* Functions: 13 (incl. Air Fry, Dehydrate, Slow Cook, Proof)
* Key Technology: Element iQ System, 2-Speed Super Convection
* Display: LCD Digital Interface
* Interior Light: Yes, auto-on and replaceable
* Accessories: 2 Oven Racks, Broil Rack, Roasting Pan, Pizza Pan, Air Fry Basket
* Warranty: 2-Year Limited

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive and Versatile Capacity: This is its undisputed greatest strength. It comfortably fits a 5-quart Dutch oven, a 14-lb turkey, or a standard 12-cup muffin tray. It’s perfect for cooking entire family meals without heating up the main oven.
* ✅ Element iQ for Precision Cooking: The smart algorithms that independently control the 5 quartz heating elements are phenomenal. It directs heat exactly where it’s needed, resulting in incredibly even baking and roasting results without any hot spots.
* ✅ Incredibly Versatile Functions: With 13 functions, including useful modes like Dehydrate and Slow Cook, it genuinely replaces multiple other kitchen appliances. I made beef jerky and proofed bread dough in the same machine.
* ✅ Intuitive Digital Interface: The large LCD screen and simple push-and-turn dials make navigating the many functions surprisingly straightforward. The guide for correct rack positions printed on the glass door is a brilliant, user-friendly touch.
* ✅ Exceptional Build Quality: This oven is built like a tank. From the soft-close door to the smoothly gliding racks, every component feels premium and designed to last for many years.
* ✅ Helpful Interior Light: The auto-on interior light is a feature you don’t realize you need until you have it. It allows you to check on your food’s progress without opening the door and letting heat escape.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a significant investment and one of the most expensive models on the market. Its cost puts it out of reach for many casual users.
* ❌ Slower Air Frying & Preheat: Due to its massive 1.0 cubic foot interior, it takes longer to preheat (up to 5 minutes) and is noticeably slower at air frying than smaller, more focused units like the Cuisinart.
* ❌ Large Countertop Footprint: Its biggest pro (capacity) is also a con. This is a very large and heavy appliance that demands a significant amount of dedicated counter space and isn’t suitable for small kitchens.

My Expert Experience
* Cooking Performance & Precision: The Element iQ system is not just a marketing gimmick. During my tests, a batch of cookies baked on the convection setting came out perfectly uniform in color, a feat many full-size ovens struggle with. The 2-speed convection fan gives you great control; the “super” setting creates a powerful vortex for good air frying results, though it took about 22 minutes for fries, compared to the Cuisinart’s 15.
* Capacity & Versatility: I was able to cook a whole dinner—a small spatchcocked chicken on one rack and a pan of roasted vegetables on the other—at the same time. The ability to proof bread dough at a low temperature and then seamlessly switch to the bake function is a game-changer for home bakers.
* Build & Usability: The user experience is top-notch. The LCD display is bright and provides helpful prompts. It feels like a professional-grade appliance in every way. It’s an investment, but you can feel the quality every time you use it.

Most Versatile: Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Review

The Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer is the Swiss Army knife of countertop ovens. It’s designed for the home cook who loves to experiment and wants the maximum number of cooking presets in a single, stylish appliance. Its standout features are its incredible 24 functions and elegant French door design.

Specification:
* Capacity: 26-Quart (Fits 6-lb chicken or 12″ pizza)
* Functions: 24 presets
* Key Technology: 360° Superheated Air Circulation, Dual-Speed Fan
* Design: Single-pull French Doors
* Material: Stainless Steel Exterior
* Display: Digital Controls
* Accessories: 7 accessories included (e.g., rotisserie spit)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Number of Functions: With 24 built-in presets, this oven takes all the guesswork out of cooking a huge variety of foods. There are settings for everything from pizza and bagels to dehydrating and rotisserie.
* ✅ Elegant and Practical French Door Design: The single-pull French doors are its signature feature. They aren’t just for looks; they open with one hand and prevent the hot door from dropping down onto your counter, which is a great safety and convenience feature.
* ✅ Large Cooking Capacity: The 26-quart interior is great for family-sized meals. I found it could easily handle a 12-inch pizza or even a 6-lb rotisserie chicken using the included spit.
* ✅ Includes a Rotisserie Accessory: The rotisserie function works surprisingly well for an oven at this price point. It’s a fantastic bonus for making juicy, self-basted chicken.
* ✅ Automatic Toast Shutoff: A small but intelligent feature is that the oven turns off completely when the toast timer ends, which prevents you from accidentally burning your toast if you get distracted.
* ✅ Great Value for the Price: Considering the sheer number of functions, large capacity, and included accessories, this oven offers tremendous value.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Presets Often Need Adjustment: While having 24 presets is great, I found that I often had to add a few minutes to the default time to get my food perfectly crispy, especially for frozen items.
* ❌ Accessory Storage Is a Challenge: It comes with 7 accessories, which is fantastic for versatility but creates a significant storage problem. You’ll need dedicated cabinet space for all the extra parts.
* ❌ Exterior Gets Very Hot: The stainless steel exterior, particularly the top and sides, can get quite hot to the touch during operation, requiring you to be cautious and keep things clear around it.

My Expert Experience
* Functionality & Performance: The sheer number of options is the main draw. I tested the rotisserie function on a 4-lb chicken, and it worked very well, producing juicy meat and crispy skin after about an hour. The 360° air circulation provides good, even browning on most foods, though as noted, I did have to add three minutes to the preset for frozen fries to achieve my desired level of crunch.
* Design & Usability: The French doors are the star. Being able to open both doors with one hand while holding a tray of food in the other is more convenient than I expected. The digital display is bright, clear, and easy to read from a distance.
* Value & Versatility: For its mid-range price, this oven is packed with features. It’s an excellent choice for someone who wants to explore a wide range of cooking styles—like dehydrating, baking, and rotisserie—without having to buy multiple different gadgets.

Best Compact Performer: Breville BOV860BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Review

The Breville BOV860BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer is the perfect solution for cooks who want the premium quality and precision of a Breville but have limited counter space. It packs the same brilliant Element iQ system and powerful super convection technology as its larger sibling into a more manageable and kitchen-friendly footprint.

Specification:
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Capacity: 0.8 Cubic Foot (Toasts 6 slices, fits 13″ pizza)
* Functions: 11 (incl. Air Fry, Slow Cook)
* Key Technology: Element iQ System, Super Convection
* Display: LCD Digital Interface
* Interior Light: Yes, auto-on
* Accessories: Air Fry Basket, Roasting Pan, Pizza Pan, Wire Rack, Broiling Rack
* Warranty: 2-Year Limited

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Precision Cooking in a Compact Size: It delivers the exact same, incredibly even-heating Element iQ performance as the Pro model. It’s perfect for smaller households that still demand perfection in their cooking results.
* ✅ Powerful Super Convection: Because the 0.8 cubic foot cavity is smaller, the super convection fan creates a more intense, concentrated vortex of hot air. This makes it extremely effective for air frying.
* ✅ Faster Air Frying Than the Pro: In my side-by-side tests, this compact model air-fried chicken wings and fries noticeably faster than the larger BOV900BSS Pro, thanks to its smaller interior volume.
* ✅ Still Very Versatile: It retains 11 essential cooking functions, including the incredibly useful Slow Cook mode, which is often the first feature cut on smaller models.
* ✅ Premium Build and Features: It doesn’t feel like a “lite” version. It includes the same clear LCD display, interior light, and high-quality build materials as its bigger, more expensive counterpart.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Challenging Basket and Pan Design: This was my biggest frustration. The air fry basket is designed without “feet,” so you can’t place it directly on the enamel roasting pan to catch drips. Drippings from greasy foods fall directly onto the lower heating elements.
* ❌ Still a Premium Price: While it’s less expensive than the Pro model, it is still a premium-priced appliance compared to other brands with similar capacities.
* ❌ Limited Vertical Space: The compact size naturally means less vertical clearance. Roasting a whole chicken is possible, but it’s a tight fit compared to the cavernous interior of the BOV900BSS.

My Expert Experience
* Cooking & Air Frying Quality: This model truly shines in performance. Because the cavity is smaller, the super convection fan creates an intense, hot environment that crisps food remarkably well. It produced some of the best, most evenly cooked air-fried chicken wings in my entire testing group. Baking performance was just as precise and even as with the larger Pro model.
* Design & Footprint: It strikes an excellent balance. It offers generous interior space that can still fit a 13-inch pizza while taking up significantly less counter real estate. The build quality is identical to the larger Breville—solid, sturdy, and premium.
* Usability Issues: That basket design is a real head-scratcher. When I cooked fatty chicken wings, the drippings fell and smoked on the quartz elements below. Workaround: I followed the advice of other users and placed the included wire rack on top of the enamel pan, then put the air fry basket on top of that. This solved the problem, but it’s an annoying extra step that shouldn’t be necessary.

Best for Customization: Nuwave Bravo Smart Oven Review

The Nuwave Bravo Smart Oven is made for the tinkerers, the food nerds, and the cooking enthusiasts who love to have total control. Its unique and standout feature is the ability to independently control the power of the top and bottom heating elements, offering an unparalleled level of customization for dialing in perfect results.

Specification:
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Capacity: 21-Quart
* Functions: 10 presets
* Key Technology: Adjustable Top & Bottom Heaters (0-100%)
* Temperature Range: 50°F-450°F (in 5°F increments)
* Display: Interactive Digital Display
* Health & Safety: PFAS Free components
* Accessories: Cooking Rack, Baking Pan, Crumb Tray, Air Fry Basket

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Total Heating Control: This is the game-changer. Being able to adjust top and bottom heater percentages independently is brilliant for specific tasks. I could get a crispy pizza crust from below while gently melting the cheese on top.
* ✅ Precise Temperature Adjustments: The digital controls allow for temperature adjustments in tiny 5°F increments, offering a level of precision that even some premium ovens lack.
* ✅ Make Adjustments On-The-Fly: I loved being able to change the time and temperature, or even the heater balance, mid-cook without having to stop and restart the entire cycle. It’s a genuinely useful and intuitive feature.
* ✅ PFAS-Free Components: For health-conscious consumers, the commitment to using PFAS-free components in its cooking accessories is a major and commendable selling point.
* ✅ Probe Thermometer Included: It comes with an integrated digital temperature probe, so you can cook meats to a perfect internal temperature without any guesswork.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Steeper Learning Curve: The sheer number of customization options can be overwhelming for a beginner who just wants to press a button and cook. It takes some experimentation to master.
* ❌ Loud Operation: I found the fan on this model to be one of the louder ones in my testing group, which could be a consideration for those with open-concept living spaces.
* ❌ Build Quality Not as Premium: While it’s a solid machine, the overall feel of the materials and the construction is not on the same premium level as the Cuisinart or Breville models.

My Expert Experience
* Customization & Performance: I had a lot of fun with the independent heater controls. For a frozen pizza, I set the bottom heaters to 70% power and the top to 30%. The result was a perfectly crisp, cracker-like crust without burning the toppings—something many ovens struggle with. This feature gives it a unique advantage for specific baking and roasting tasks that require precise heat direction.
* Interface & Usability: The digital display is clear and provides a lot of real-time information. The on-the-fly adjustment capability is something I wish every digital oven had. The probe thermometer worked accurately in my tests, shutting the oven off automatically when my chicken breast hit the target temperature.
* Overall Value: For the user who will take advantage of its special features, the Nuwave Bravo offers incredible value and a level of control that is unmatched at this price. However, if you’re someone who just wants to use simple presets, another model might be a better and less complicated fit.

Air Fryer Toaster Oven Comparison Chart

This chart provides a quick, at-a-glance look at how my top 5 picks stack up on the features that matter most.

Feature	Cuisinart TOA-70NAS	Breville BOV900BSS Pro	Emeril Lagasse	Breville BOV860BSS	Nuwave Bravo
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐
Category	Best Overall	Best Premium & Large Capacity	Most Versatile	Best Compact Performer	Best for Customization
Capacity	0.6 cu. ft.	1.0 cu. ft.	26-Quart	0.8 cu. ft.	21-Quart
Functions	8	13	24	11	10
Key Tech	AirAdvantage	Element iQ	Dual-Speed Fan	Element iQ	Adjustable Heaters
Best For	Everyday quick & crispy meals	Large families, replacing an oven	Cooks who love presets	Small kitchens, quality seekers	Cooking enthusiasts, pizza

In my analysis, the Cuisinart TOA-70NAS clearly stands out for its fantastic air frying speed and simplicity, making it the best choice for users who prioritize quick, crispy results for daily meals.

The Breville BOV900BSS Pro is in a league of its own for sheer size and baking precision. It’s the right choice if you have the space and budget to essentially get a second, smarter oven on your countertop.

Meanwhile, the Emeril Lagasse model offers the most presets and a fun rotisserie feature for those who want to experiment, while the smaller Breville BOV860BSS provides that same top-tier Breville performance for those with less counter space. Finally, the Nuwave Bravo carves out a unique niche with its customizable heaters, appealing directly to the user who loves to have granular control over every aspect of their cooking.

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

Knowing what to look for is key to finding the perfect model for your kitchen. Here are the most important factors I considered during my evaluation.

• Capacity vs. Counter Footprint: This is the most important trade-off. Think about your family size versus your available counter space. A large-capacity oven like the 1.0 cubic foot Breville Pro is fantastic for a family of four or more but will completely dominate a small kitchen. For couples, individuals, or smaller spaces, a compact-yet-capable model like the 0.8 cubic foot Breville BOV860BSS offers a much better balance.
• Cooking Functions & Versatility: Be honest with yourself about the functions you will actually use. Are you primarily going to be air frying and toasting, or do you genuinely want to dehydrate fruit, slow cook stew, and proof bread dough? More functions usually mean a higher price, so don’t pay for features you don’t need. The Emeril Lagasse is king with 24 presets, but the Cuisinart’s simple 8 functions cover all the essentials for most people.
• Controls: Digital vs. Manual: Digital controls, like those on the Breville and Nuwave models, offer precise temperature settings (often in 5-degree increments) and clear LCD readouts, which is crucial for accurate baking. Manual dials, like those on the Cuisinart, are simpler, more tactile, and wonderfully intuitive for basic tasks, but they lack that pinpoint precision.
• Convection Technology: All these ovens use a fan to circulate hot air, but not all fans are created equal. Look for models that specifically advertise “Super Convection,” “Dual-Speed,” or a similar term. This indicates a more powerful, higher-velocity fan that is specifically engineered to create the intense, hot environment needed for true air frying and faster cooking times.
• Ease of Cleaning: A non-stick interior makes a world of difference for cleanup. Also, check if the key accessories like the baking pan and air fry basket are listed as dishwasher safe. Be warned: from my experience, even if they are, wire mesh air fry baskets are notoriously difficult to clean and almost always require some manual scrubbing.
• Included Accessories: Check what comes in the box, as this adds to the overall value. The Breville Pro comes with two oven racks, allowing for true multi-level cooking. The Emeril Lagasse includes a full rotisserie spit, and the Cuisinart has a unique grill/griddle plate. More accessories are great but remember they also require storage space.

FAQs About Air Fryer Convection Ovens

Is an air fryer just a small convection oven?

Yes, essentially, but with a key difference. Both use a fan to circulate hot air. The main distinction is that the “air fry” setting on these toaster ovens (and in pod-style air fryers) uses a more powerful, higher-speed fan to create a more intense vortex of heat. This leads to faster and crispier cooking, better mimicking the results of deep frying with far less oil.

Do I need to preheat an air fryer toaster oven?

It depends on the model and what you’re cooking, but it’s generally a good idea for baking. For precision baking, models like the Breville ovens have a dedicated preheat cycle that is essential for even results. For most quick air frying tasks like frozen fries or reheating pizza, preheating isn’t strictly necessary but I’ve found it often leads to better, crispier food.

What’s the best way to clean the air fry basket?

The best method is to clean it immediately after use before food has a chance to dry and harden. I recommend soaking the basket in hot, soapy water for 10-15 minutes right after you’re done cooking. Then, use a non-abrasive scrub brush to get into the mesh. For extremely stubborn, baked-on grease, making a paste of baking soda and water and letting it sit on the spot can help break it down.

Are air fryer toaster ovens loud?

Noise levels vary significantly between models. Generally, the more powerful the convection fan, the more noise it will produce. In my testing, the Nuwave Bravo was one of the loudest, while the Cuisinart TOA-70 was surprisingly quiet. It’s similar to the sound of a range hood fan on a medium setting.

Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper in it?

Yes, but you must do so with caution. You can safely use foil or parchment paper on the baking pan itself. However, you should never place it on the crumb tray at the very bottom of the oven or use it to cover the fan vents or heating elements, as this can severely block airflow, reduce performance, and create a fire hazard. There are also perforated parchment paper liners made specifically for air frying that work well.

What can I cook in an air fryer toaster oven?

You can cook almost anything you’d cook in your regular oven, but faster. They excel at making “fried” foods like chicken wings, french fries, and mozzarella sticks incredibly crispy. They are also fantastic for roasting vegetables, baking cookies, toasting bread, and reheating leftovers (they bring soggy pizza back to life like nothing else). More versatile models can also dehydrate fruit, proof dough, or even slow-cook stews.

Do I need to use oil when air frying?

For frozen, pre-cooked foods like fries or nuggets, you typically don’t need to add any oil. For fresh foods like homemade potato wedges or raw vegetables, tossing them in a very small amount of oil (about a teaspoon or two) is recommended. The oil helps them crisp up, brown more evenly, and prevents them from drying out. It’s a tiny fraction of the oil used in deep frying.

Which is better: a basket-style air fryer or a toaster oven combo?

It depends on your priority: specialization vs. versatility. A dedicated, pod-style air fryer is generally faster and can produce slightly crispier results due to its very compact cooking chamber. An air fryer toaster oven is far more versatile, offering baking, broiling, and toasting functions in addition to air frying, and has a much larger capacity. If you want the absolute best crisping power and have space for two appliances, get a dedicated air fryer. If you want one appliance that does many things very well, the toaster oven combo is the better choice.

Can I cook multiple things at once?

In the larger models that come with two racks, yes. In the Breville BOV900BSS, you can absolutely cook a main dish and a side simultaneously. However, you will likely need to rotate the trays from top to bottom halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking, as the top rack position will always cook faster.

What kind of pan should I use?

Always try to use the pans and racks that come with your specific model, as they are designed for optimal airflow and safety. Most are designed to fit standard quarter-sheet pans if you need a replacement. You should never use glass bakeware unless it is explicitly rated as safe for the high temperatures of broiling and air frying. Always check your oven’s manual for specific material restrictions to be safe.

Final Verdict: Which Air Fryer Toaster Oven Should You Buy?

After weeks of testing, it’s clear that the best air fryer toaster oven is about matching the right features to your kitchen’s unique needs, your cooking style, and your budget. All five of the models I tested are excellent and will be a significant upgrade for almost any kitchen, but two of them stand out as the top choices for most people.

For the Best Overall Performance: My top recommendation is the Cuisinart TOA-70NAS Air Fryer Toaster Oven. It offers the best combination of lightning-fast air frying, genuinely useful features like the dedicated grill plate, and solid value. It is the perfect do-it-all appliance for the majority of homes.

For the Ultimate Upgrade: If you have a larger budget and plenty of counter space, and you want an appliance that can genuinely act as a second oven, the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the undisputed premium choice. Its massive capacity and incredible cooking precision are simply unmatched by any other countertop appliance I have ever tested.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with any of the ovens on this list. Choose the one that best fits your cooking habits and kitchen space, and get ready to enjoy faster, crispier, and more versatile cooking.

Last update on 2026-02-09 at 18:05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API