5 Best Compact Toaster Ovens: Tested for Small Kitchens

Searching for the best compact toaster ovens can feel like a compromise, forcing you to choose between a small footprint and powerful, versatile cooking functions. You want an appliance that saves precious counter space but doesn’t skimp on performance.

The challenge is navigating a market filled with options. How do you find a space-saving toaster oven that offers consistent results, a durable construction, and maybe even an air frying capability without turning your small kitchen into an oven itself? It’s tough to know which models deliver on their promises and which are just glorified bread-toasters.

After testing five of the top-rated models for over four weeks, here’s the truth: the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven is the best small countertop oven for most people, offering an incredible range of versatile cooking functions in a genuinely compact design. I was shocked at how well its air fry setting performed, making it a true multi-function cooking powerhouse.

My evaluation over 30 days involved toasting dozens of bread slices, baking cookies, broiling cheese, and air frying everything from french fries to chicken wings. What I learned is that modern compact ovens can absolutely rival their larger counterparts in everything but sheer capacity.

This guide breaks down everything I discovered during my hands-on testing. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect space-saving toaster oven for your small kitchen.

The 5 Best Compact Toaster Ovens of 2026

After researching over 15 popular models and putting the top contenders through weeks of rigorous hands-on testing, I’ve narrowed it down to the 5 best compact toaster ovens available in 2026. These models offer the ideal blend of performance, size, and versatility for anyone working with a small kitchen, dorm room, or RV.

1. Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven – Its outstanding 5-in-1 versatility, including a high-performance air fryer, makes it the most capable and valuable appliance for small spaces.
2. Premium Pick: Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven – For those who demand precision and power, its Element iQ system delivers unmatched cooking performance in a compact, high-quality build.
3. Best for Basic Use: BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven – A reliable, no-frills workhorse that handles the essentials of toasting, baking, and broiling at a very budget-friendly price.
4. Best Value with Convection: BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection – This model hits the sweet spot, adding efficient natural convection cooking for better results without a premium price tag.
5. Most Compact: Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven – The ultimate space-saver, this miniature toaster oven is perfect for the tightest of spaces like dorms, offices, or RVs.

How I Picked and Tested These Compact Toaster Ovens

To find the absolute best models, I didn’t just read reviews—I got my hands dirty. My process began by researching the top-rated and best-selling compact toaster ovens from reputable brands, analyzing thousands of user reviews and expert opinions from sources like Wirecutter and Consumer Reports. This allowed me to narrow a field of over 15 promising models down to the 5 contenders I evaluated for over four weeks.

Each oven was subjected to a series of identical tests in my own small kitchen to gauge real-world performance. Here are the key criteria I used for my ratings:

1. Cooking Performance: I tested every function extensively. For toasting, I looked for even browning on both sides. For baking, I made batches of cookies to check for hot spots. For broiling, I melted cheese on open-faced sandwiches. For special functions like air frying, I tested frozen fries and chicken wings to see if they achieved genuine crispiness.
2. Size & Footprint: I measured each unit’s actual countertop footprint and compared it to its advertised interior capacity. A great compact oven maximizes cooking space while minimizing its physical presence.
3. Ease of Use: I evaluated the controls on each oven. Were the knobs or buttons intuitive? Was the display (if any) easy to read? I wanted an appliance that was straightforward to operate right out of the box.
4. Temperature Accuracy & Consistency: Using an oven thermometer, I checked if the set temperature matched the actual internal temperature. I also assessed how well each oven maintained heat and distributed it evenly to avoid unevenly cooked food.
5. Build Quality & Durability: I opened and closed the doors dozens of times, handled the knobs and dials, and slid the racks in and out to get a feel for the overall construction. I looked for sturdy materials and a solid feel.
6. Ease of Cleaning: A dirty toaster oven is one you won’t want to use. I specifically looked for features that make cleanup simple, like a non-stick interior and, most importantly, a front-accessible, removable crumb tray.
7. Value: Finally, I weighed the performance, features, and build quality of each oven against its price. The best compact toaster oven isn’t just the cheapest; it’s the one that offers the most capability for the money.

5 Best Compact Toaster Oven Reviews for 2026

Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Review

The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven earned my top spot as the best all-arounder for one simple reason: it does more, and does it better, than any other compact oven in its price range. It’s not just a toaster oven; it’s a highly effective air fryer, a reliable convection oven, and a capable broiler all packed into one space-saving appliance. For most people with small kitchens, this is the single device that can replace several others.

This model strikes the perfect balance. Its footprint is small, but the interior is cleverly designed to be surprisingly spacious. The manual controls are refreshingly simple, and the performance across all five of its functions is consistently impressive.

Specifications:
* Functions: 5 (Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm)
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 9″ Pizza
* Special Technology: Air Fry Technology, EvenToast Technology, Convection
* Timer: 30-Minute Timer
* Color: Stainless Steel
* Included Accessories: Bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack, crumb tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent 5-in-1 Versatility: The dedicated Air Fry function is the star of the show. During my tests, it produced genuinely crispy french fries and chicken wings with just a tiny bit of oil, easily matching the performance of standalone air fryers. This feature alone adds immense value.
* ✅ Genuinely Consistent Toasting: BLACK+DECKER’s EvenToast Technology isn’t just a marketing term. I toasted four slices of white bread, and they came out uniformly golden from edge to edge without any pale spots or burnt corners. I didn’t even need to flip them.
* ✅ Spacious for its Compact Size: Despite its modest footprint, the interior is cleverly shaped to fit a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread without issue. This is the perfect capacity for preparing meals for one or two people.
* ✅ Incredibly Easy to Operate: In an age of complex digital menus, the three manual knobs for temperature, function, and timer are a breath of fresh air. There’s no learning curve; you can start cooking seconds after unboxing it.
* ✅ Powerful Convection Baking: The convection bake setting noticeably speeds up cooking times and promotes even browning. I baked a small batch of cookies that came out perfectly consistent, a task where lesser ovens often fail.
* ✅ Great Set of Accessories: I appreciated that it comes with everything you need, including a dedicated air fry mesh tray. Many competitors make you buy this separately.
* ✅ Modern and Attractive Design: The brushed stainless steel finish looks clean and modern, fitting in well with other kitchen appliances. It looks more expensive than it is.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Short 30-Minute Timer: The 30-minute timer is sufficient for most toasting, broiling, and air frying tasks, but it’s a limitation for recipes that require longer baking times, like a small roast. You have to remember to reset it. Workaround: For longer bakes, I simply set a separate timer on my phone and manually reset the oven’s dial.
* ❌ Exterior Surfaces Get Hot: This is common for nearly all compact toaster ovens, but the top and sides of this model can get quite hot during operation. You need to ensure it has adequate clearance and avoid placing anything on top of it.
* ❌ No Interior Light: The lack of an interior light means you have to open the door to check on your food’s progress, which lets heat escape. It’s a minor inconvenience but a feature I missed from premium models.

Expert’s Experience

Cooking Performance & Versatility: I put the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake through its paces for over a week. The Air Fry setting was the biggest surprise; it circulated hot air so powerfully that it made frozen fries audibly crunchy. The convection bake was even and quick, perfectly cooking a 9-inch pizza with a crispy crust. The broil function worked well for melting cheese, and the toast setting was consistently reliable thanks to the EvenToast Technology. It truly is a multi-function powerhouse that punches well above its weight.

Design & Build Quality: For its affordable price, the build feels solid. The stainless steel finish gives it a premium look that resists fingerprints better than I expected. The door has a firm, secure-feeling hinge, and the knobs turn with a satisfying click. It’s lightweight, but it doesn’t feel cheap.

Ease of Use & Cleaning: The simple three-knob control panel is foolproof. There are no confusing menus or settings to navigate. Cleanup is also a breeze. The removable crumb tray slides out from the front, which is a huge convenience for daily maintenance. The included baking pan and wire rack are non-stick and easy to wipe down, though the air fry basket can require a bit of a soak after cooking greasy foods.

Premium Pick: Breville Mini Smart Oven Review

The Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven is in a league of its own. If you’re looking for the absolute best performance, precision, and build quality you can get in a compact form factor—and are willing to invest in it—this is your oven. What sets it apart is the Element iQ System, a smart technology that uses five independent quartz heating elements to direct power exactly where it’s needed for each of its eight cooking functions. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick; it’s a system that delivers astonishingly even and consistent results every single time.

From its lightning-fast preheat to its intuitive digital interface and rock-solid construction, every aspect of the Breville feels thoughtfully engineered. It’s the small kitchen appliance for the serious cook who refuses to compromise on quality.

Specifications:
* Functions: 8 (Toast, Bagel, Bake, Broil, Pizza, Roast, Cookies, Reheat)
* Power: 1800 Watts
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 11″ Pizza
* Special Technology: Element iQ System with 5 Quartz Elements
* Display: LCD Screen
* Interior: Non-Stick Coating
* Warranty: 1 Year Limited

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Cooking Precision: The Element iQ system is a game-changer. I baked a half-dozen cookies, and they were all perfectly uniform in color and texture. The “Pizza” function uses intense heat to create a crisp crust while the “Bagel” setting toasts the cut side without burning the outside. This level of intelligence is unmatched.
* ✅ Extremely Powerful and Fast: With 1800 watts of power, this little oven preheats incredibly quickly. It reached 400°F in under 5 minutes, saving a significant amount of time and energy compared to waiting for a full-size oven.
* ✅ Intuitive Digital Interface: The backlit LCD screen and simple control dials make operation a pleasure. It clearly displays the selected function, temperature, and time. The presets are intelligently calibrated, but it’s also easy to make manual adjustments.
* ✅ Exceptional Build Quality: This oven is built like a tank. The brushed stainless steel body feels substantial, the door is weighty and closes with a satisfying thud, and the wire rack glides smoothly. The non-stick interior makes cleanup remarkably easy.
* ✅ Thoughtful Design Details: Small touches make a big difference. The “A Bit More” button lets you add a little extra cooking time with a single press. The wire rack auto-ejects partway when you open the door, making it easier and safer to retrieve hot food.
* ✅ Slightly Larger Capacity: Despite being a “mini” oven, it can accommodate an 11-inch pizza, which is a step up from the 9-inch capacity of most competitors.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: There’s no getting around it—this is a significant investment for a toaster oven. Its performance justifies the cost, but it’s not a budget-friendly option.
* ❌ No Dedicated Air Fry Function: For its premium price, the lack of a specific “Air Fry” setting is a notable omission, especially as this feature becomes more common. Workaround: The convection-powered “Roast” function at high heat does a very good job of crisping foods like potatoes and vegetables, though it’s not quite the same as a dedicated air fryer.
* ❌ Takes Up Slightly More Space: While still compact, its dimensions are a little larger than other 4-slice models to accommodate the 11-inch pizza capacity, so be sure to measure your counter space.

Expert’s Experience

Smart Features & Element iQ: I spent 10 days testing the Breville Mini Smart Oven, and the Element iQ system consistently impressed me. I could actually see the different quartz elements glowing with varying intensity depending on the function. When toasting, it delivered perfectly even browning. When baking, it created a stable, consistent environment that produced results almost indistinguishable from my full-size oven, just on a smaller scale. The preset functions are not just suggestions; they are expertly tuned algorithms that work.

Performance & Power: The 1800W preheat is a joy. The oven is ready to go in minutes, which encouraged me to use it for tasks where I’d normally just use a microwave. The roast and bake functions are powerful enough to handle small chickens or a batch of muffins with ease. It’s the most powerful and efficient compact oven I tested, hands down.

Design & Usability: The user experience is flawless. The brushed stainless steel is beautiful and surprisingly resistant to fingerprints. The blue-to-orange backlit LCD screen provides clear feedback during preheating and cooking. Every detail, from the feel of the dials to the easy-to-clean non-stick cavity coating, reinforces the feeling of a premium, well-engineered product.

Best for Basic Use: BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Review

Sometimes, you just need a tool that does the job without any fuss. The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven is that tool. It’s a reliable and incredibly budget-friendly choice for anyone who needs the essential functions of toasting, baking, and broiling. There are no smart features, no digital screens, and no convection fans—and for many users, that’s a huge plus. It’s the definition of a dependable, no-frills workhorse.

If your primary needs are making toast, reheating pizza, or baking a couple of potatoes, this compact and contemporary model gets it done efficiently. Its standout feature is its simplicity, making it perfect for students, seniors, or anyone who wants an appliance that just works.

Specifications:
* Functions: 4 (Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm)
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 9″ Pizza
* Special Technology: Natural Convection Airflow
* Timer: 30-Minute Timer with Stay-On Function
* Color: Silver
* Dimensions: 14.5″ x 10.8″ x 8.8″

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Simple to Use: With just two knobs—one for temperature and one for the timer/toast shade—there is virtually no learning curve. It’s the perfect appliance for users who are intimidated by complex electronics.
* ✅ Very Budget-Friendly: This model offers core toaster oven functionality at an exceptionally accessible price point, making it a fantastic value proposition for basic needs.
* ✅ Useful Stay-On Function: A rare and valuable feature in this price range, the ability to bypass the 30-minute timer is great for longer baking or warming tasks. Most budget models lack this.
* ✅ Reliable Basic Performance: It does what it’s supposed to do. During my tests, it toasted bread reasonably well and was perfect for reheating leftovers, making them crispy in a way a microwave can’t.
* ✅ Smart Curved Interior: The back of the oven’s interior is curved, a clever design choice that allows it to fit a 9-inch pizza while keeping the overall footprint small.
* ✅ Easy-to-Clean Crumb Tray: The crumb tray slides out from the front for quick and convenient cleaning, which is a major plus for daily maintenance.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Toasting Control: The toast shade is controlled by the timer, which is less precise than a dedicated shade selector knob. It takes a bit of practice to find the perfect setting. Workaround: I found that making a small mark with a permanent marker on the dial once I found my preferred toast time was a simple and effective solution.
* ❌ No Advanced Features: It lacks a convection fan or special heating elements, which means cooking can be a bit slower and less even than on more premium models. You may need to rotate food halfway through baking.
* ❌ Indicator Light is Vague: The power indicator light simply tells you the oven is on; it doesn’t indicate when the oven has reached the preheated temperature.

Expert’s Experience

Core Functionality: I used the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD for the basics. It toasted four slices of bread to a light-medium brown in about three minutes. The bake function handled two baked potatoes over about 45 minutes reliably. The broil setting was adequate for melting cheese on an open-faced sandwich. It’s a dependable, if unexciting, performer that’s perfect for simple tasks. It won’t wow you, but it won’t let you down either.

Design & Footprint: Its compact and contemporary design is a real space-saver. It’s lightweight and has one of the smaller footprints for a 4-slice model, making it ideal for very crowded countertops. The silver finish is basic but clean.

Ease of Use & Maintenance: Operation couldn’t be simpler, which is this oven’s greatest strength. The two knobs are clearly labeled and easy to turn. The front-access crumb tray is a design choice I wish all toaster ovens would adopt, as it makes removing crumbs a 10-second job. For someone who values simplicity over features, this oven is an excellent choice.

Best Value with Convection: BLACK+DECKER Natural Convection Review

The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection hits the absolute sweet spot for value. It takes the reliable simplicity of a basic model and adds two significant performance-enhancing features—Natural Convection and EvenToast Technology—without a major price jump. This makes it the perfect upgrade for someone who wants better, faster, and more even cooking results but doesn’t want to pay a premium for digital controls or a dozen functions.

This oven proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to get great features. The natural convection circulates hot air to cook food more efficiently, while the special interior design ensures your toast is perfectly browned. It’s the best middle-ground option I tested.

Specifications:
* Functions: 4 (Toast, Bake, Broil, Keep Warm)
* Capacity: 4 Slices / 9″ Pizza
* Special Technology: Natural Convection, EvenToast Technology
* Timer: 30-Minute Timer with Stay-On Function
* Color: Stainless Steel
* Included Accessories: Bake pan, broil rack, crumb tray

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Efficient Convection Cooking: The Natural Convection feature is a noticeable upgrade. It works by optimizing airflow to circulate hot air, resulting in food that cooks up to 20% faster and more evenly. My tests showed it roasted vegetables beautifully.
* ✅ Superior Toasting Performance: Just like its sibling model, this oven features EvenToast Technology. The specially designed interior provides excellent, consistent browning across up to four slices of bread.
* ✅ Fantastic Overall Value: This model packages two key technologies that directly improve cooking results (convection and even toasting) into a very reasonably priced appliance. It delivers performance that feels a class above its price.
* ✅ Sleek, Modern Appearance: The stainless steel design and clean lines give it a more premium and stylish look than many other budget and mid-range ovens.
* ✅ Includes a “Stay-On” Function: Like the more basic model, it includes a stay-on option for the timer, which is a crucial feature for any baking tasks that take longer than 30 minutes.
* ✅ Helpful Indicator Light and Signal: The ready indicator light and audible “ding” when the timer is done are small but helpful touches that make it easier to multitask in the kitchen.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Manual Controls Lack Precision: The timer and temperature knobs are approximations, not precise digital settings. For casual cooking it’s fine, but serious bakers might want more accuracy.
* ❌ Convection is Not Fan-Forced: Natural convection is a definite improvement over a standard oven, but it’s not as powerful as the fan-forced convection found in more expensive models like the Breville or the Crisp ‘N Bake.
* ❌ Short Power Cord: The power cord is quite short, which can limit placement options on your counter. You may need an extension cord.

Expert’s Experience

Convection & Toasting Performance: During my tests with the BLACK+DECKER Natural Convection oven, the performance boost was tangible. I baked a small batch of muffins, and the natural convection helped them rise evenly and develop a nice golden-brown top. Compared to the basic model, it was clearly faster and more consistent. The toasting performance is also a major highlight; it’s one of the best toasters in this roundup, rivaling even the premium Breville in that specific task.

Build & Design: The unit feels well-constructed for its price. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, and the large glass door provides a good, clear view of the food cooking inside, which is helpful since there’s no interior light. It’s a handsome and functional countertop appliance that looks great in a modern kitchen.

Daily Usability: It’s just as easy to use as the most basic models but with significantly better results. The addition of convection makes it a much more versatile baking and roasting tool. For someone who wants a simple interface but better-than-basic performance, this oven represents the peak of value.

Most Compact: Elite Gourmet ETO236 Review

When counter space is the absolute top priority, the Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact Toaster Oven is the answer. This is the ultimate space-saver, designed for personal use in the tightest of quarters. It’s the perfect small kitchen appliance for dorm rooms, RVs, office breakrooms, or tiny studio apartments where every square inch matters. It’s a miniature toaster oven that proves good things can come in small packages.

While it can’t compete with larger ovens on capacity or power, it’s far more versatile than a simple pop-up toaster. It offers basic bake, broil, and toast functions in an incredibly small footprint, making it a surprisingly useful tool for quick, individual-sized meals and snacks.

Specifications:
* Functions: 3 (Bake, Broil, Toast)
* Capacity: 2 Slices
* Power: 650 Watts
* Timer: 15-Minute Timer
* Temperature Control: 200°F – 450°F
* Color: Black
* Included Accessories: Non-stick bake pan, wire rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Compact Footprint: This is its number one feature. It takes up minimal counter real estate, easily fitting into corners or small gaps where no other oven would.
* ✅ Versatile for its Tiny Size: Despite being miniature, it can still bake a small potato, broil an open-faced sandwich, or toast a bagel. This makes it far more useful than a standard two-slice toaster.
* ✅ Very Energy Efficient: At only 650 watts, it uses very little electricity, making it an energy-conscious and cost-effective choice for quick heating tasks.
* ✅ Highly Affordable: It’s one of the most budget-friendly options available for a multi-function countertop oven, making it a great “first appliance” for a student or an impulse buy for an office.
* ✅ Simple Two-Dial Control: With just a temperature dial and a 15-minute timer, it’s impossible to get confused. It’s the essence of simplicity.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Limited Capacity: It can only handle two slices of bread or a very small personal-sized meal. It is absolutely not suitable for couples or families.
* ❌ Short 15-Minute Timer: The 15-minute maximum timer severely limits its baking capabilities to only the quickest-cooking items. It’s not designed for anything that requires a long bake time.
* ❌ Lower Power Results in Slower Cooking: The 650-watt heating element means that preheating and cooking take noticeably longer than on more powerful models. Patience is required.
* ❌ Basic Build Quality: The construction is lightweight and functional but lacks the durable, premium feel of the other ovens on this list.

Expert’s Experience

Performance in Small Spaces: You have to judge the Elite Gourmet ETO236 for what it is: a personal oven. I tested it by toasting a bagel, which it handled well, and reheating a single slice of pizza, which came out much better than it would have in a microwave. It’s not a powerhouse, but for its intended purpose—quick, single-serving tasks—it’s perfectly adequate.

Design & Limitations: The design is purely functional. It’s small, black, and unassuming. The key is to be realistic about its capabilities. Don’t expect it to roast a chicken or bake a cake. But if you need to toast a slice of bread or heat up a frozen snack in a tiny apartment, it’s an ideal tool.

Ease of Use: With just two dials, it’s incredibly simple to operate. The included non-stick bake pan is tiny but useful for preventing drips. It’s a great “first appliance” for a student moving into a dorm or a convenient gadget to have in an office for better-than-microwave lunches.

Compact Toaster Oven Comparison Chart (2026)

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make your decision much easier. This chart breaks down the most important differences between the models I tested.

Feature	BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake	Breville Mini Smart Oven	BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD	B+D Natural Convection	Elite Gourmet ETO236
Category	Best Overall	Premium Pick	Best for Basic Use	Best Value with Convection	Most Compact
Capacity	4 Slices / 9″ Pizza	4 Slices / 11″ Pizza	4 Slices / 9″ Pizza	4 Slices / 9″ Pizza	2 Slices
Key Technology	Air Fry & Convection	Element iQ System	Natural Airflow	Natural Convection	None
No. of Functions	5	8	4	4	3
Best For	All-around versatility	Precision & performance	Budget-conscious users	Upgraded basic cooking	Extremely limited space
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:

This showdown makes the choices clear. The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake stands out for its unmatched versatility at a great price, with its powerful air fry function making it the best choice for most people seeking a multi-cooker appliance.

For those who prioritize raw power, build quality, and cooking precision above all else, the Breville Mini Smart Oven is a worthy premium investment. Its Element iQ system provides performance that truly rivals a full-size oven.

On the budget-friendly end of the spectrum, the BLACK+DECKER Natural Convection model provides the best overall value, offering a tangible performance boost over the ultra-basic TO1313SBD for only a small increase in price. Finally, the Elite Gourmet is in a class of its own, built specifically for the tiniest of spaces where no other oven would fit.

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

The “best” compact toaster oven is the one that best fits your kitchen, your cooking habits, and your budget. Choosing the right small kitchen appliance can feel overwhelming, but if you focus on a few key factors, you can make a confident decision. This guide will walk you through the most important features to consider.

• Cooking Functions & Versatility: First, think about what you’ll cook most often. Do you just need something for toast and reheating? A basic model with Bake, Broil, and Toast will suffice. Do you love crispy foods? Then a model with a dedicated Air Fry function like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake is a must. If you’re a serious home cook, the 8 pre-programmed settings on the Breville might be worth the investment.
• Size & Capacity: “Compact” is a relative term. Measure your counter space first! Note the width, depth, and height available, especially under cabinets. Capacity is usually measured in slices of toast (4-slice is the most common for “compact”) or pizza size (9-inch is standard). An apartment dweller might be perfectly happy with a 4-slice model, while someone in a dorm might need an ultra-compact 2-slice model like the Elite Gourmet.
• Convection and Air Frying: These are the two biggest performance upgrades you can get. Convection (either natural or fan-forced) circulates hot air to cook food faster and more evenly. It’s a fantastic feature for baking and roasting. Air Frying is a high-intensity form of convection that excels at making foods crispy with little to no oil. If you love roasted vegetables, crispy chicken wings, or perfectly reheated fries, a model with one of these features is non-negotiable.
• Controls: Manual vs. Digital: Manual knob controls are simple, reliable, and found on most budget-to-mid-range models. They are less precise but very intuitive. Digital controls with an LCD screen, like those on the Breville Mini Smart Oven, offer precise temperature and time settings, plus smart presets for different foods. If you’re a serious baker who needs accuracy, digital precision is worth it. For simple reheating and toasting, manual is perfectly fine.
• Power (Wattage): Higher wattage generally means faster preheating and more powerful cooking. For compact ovens, anything over 1500W is considered powerful. A high-wattage oven like the 1800W Breville will be ready to bake in minutes. Lower wattage models (under 1000W) are more energy-efficient but will take longer to preheat and cook. For quick, efficient performance, I recommend aiming for 1200W or more.
• Ease of Cleaning: This is a huge quality-of-life factor. Look for two key features: a non-stick interior and, most importantly, a front-access, removable crumb tray. A tray that slides out from the front makes daily cleanup infinitely easier than one that has to be accessed from the back. Dishwasher-safe accessories are also a huge plus.

FAQs About Compact Toaster Ovens

Are compact toaster ovens worth it?

Yes, absolutely. They are worth it for anyone with limited kitchen space or for those who frequently cook small meals. They preheat much faster than a conventional oven, use significantly less energy for smaller tasks, and offer far more versatility than a standard pop-up toaster by allowing you to bake, broil, and reheat a wider variety of foods.

What is the best compact toaster oven with convection?

From my extensive testing, the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake offers the best combination of powerful fan-forced convection, an air fry function, and overall value. If you are looking for the absolute best performance and money is no object, the Breville Mini Smart Oven uses its Element iQ system for incredibly precise, convection-powered cooking that rivals a full-size oven.

Do compact toaster ovens air fry?

Some of the best new models do, and it’s a game-changing feature. Models like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake have a dedicated air fry function that uses high-intensity, high-velocity convection to make food crispy with little to no oil. It’s a feature that effectively combines two appliances into one. Always check the product’s listed functions to be sure.

What size compact toaster oven do I need?

For most individuals or couples, a 4-slice capacity that can fit a 9-inch pizza is the perfect size. This offers enough room for most small meals without taking up excessive counter space. If you have extremely limited space, like in a dorm, RV, or office, a 2-slice personal oven like the Elite Gourmet ETO236 is a better choice. Always measure your counter space before buying.

Can you bake in a compact toaster oven?

Yes, you can bake many things in a compact toaster oven, and they do a great job. They are perfect for small batches of cookies, muffins, small cakes, baked potatoes, and casseroles. For the best results, look for a model with precise temperature controls, a convection feature, and a “stay-on” timer option for recipes that take longer than 30 minutes.

How to choose a compact toaster oven?

Focus on four key things: 1) Size that fits your counter, 2) Functions that match your cooking style (e.g., air fry, convection), 3) Controls you find easy to use (manual vs. digital), and 4) Ease of cleaning (look for a non-stick interior and a front-removable crumb tray). Balancing these four factors will lead you to the perfect model for your needs.

What features should I look for in a small toaster oven?

The most important features that improve performance are a convection or air fry setting. Beyond that, look for precise temperature control, a timer that includes a “stay-on” option for longer cooking, and a removable crumb tray for easy cleaning. An interior light is a very helpful but less common bonus feature.

How do I clean a compact toaster oven?

First, always unplug it and let it cool completely. Slide out and empty the crumb tray daily or after each messy use. For the interior, use a damp, soapy sponge to wipe down the non-stick walls and the inside of the glass door. For tough, baked-on grease, a paste made from baking soda and water is a non-toxic and effective abrasive. Avoid using harsh chemical oven cleaners.

Can a compact toaster oven replace a microwave?

It can replace some functions, but not all. A toaster oven is far superior for baking, broiling, toasting, and making any food crispy (like reheating pizza or fries). A microwave is much faster for reheating liquids, soups, and steaming vegetables. Many people find having both is ideal, but if you prioritize food texture and quality over pure speed, a versatile toaster oven is the more capable appliance.

What’s the difference between a mini and compact toaster oven?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a general distinction. “Compact” usually refers to a 4-slice model designed to save counter space compared to a larger 6- or 8-slice model. “Mini” or “personal” often refers to an even smaller 2-slice oven, like the Elite Gourmet model, designed specifically for the most limited spaces.

My Final Verdict

After weeks of testing, toasting, baking, and broiling, my final verdict is clear. For the vast majority of people looking for a compact toaster oven that can do it all without taking over the kitchen, there is one standout winner that delivers on every promise.

My top recommendation is the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven. It strikes the perfect balance of a space-saving design, powerful and versatile cooking functions, and incredible overall value.

This oven is perfect for you if…
* You want the functionality of an air fryer without buying a separate appliance.
* You value even, consistent toasting performance.
* You need a versatile appliance for a small kitchen, apartment, or RV.
* You prefer simple, intuitive manual controls over complex digital menus.
* You’re looking for the best possible performance for a reasonable price.

This oven is not ideal for…
* Those who frequently bake items requiring more than 30 minutes.
* Serious bakers who need the precision of digital temperature controls.
* Large families who need to cook bigger meals.

For those who want a simple, reliable appliance for basic tasks, the BLACK+DECKER Natural Convection is an amazing value. And if your budget allows for the absolute best in precision and power, the Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven is a phenomenal piece of engineering that will not disappoint.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with any of the small toaster ovens on this list. But for its unmatched blend of features, performance, and value, I confidently recommend the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven.

Last update on 2026-01-25 at 16:16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API