Contrary to what manufacturers claim about toaster ovens being simple gadgets, my testing revealed that a few models truly stand out. The key is how well they handle quick meals, toast, and even larger dishes without taking up too much space. I’ve used several, but the Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven impressed me the most for its compact yet versatile design, ideal for small kitchens.
It heats evenly with its adjustable thermostat and 650W power, perfect for toasting, warming, or baking small meals. The included non-stick pan and wire rack make cleanup a breeze, and the adjustable timer simplifies meal prep. Compared to bulkier models, it balances size, performance, and affordability beautifully—just what any space-conscious household needs. Trust me, this one will surprise you with its efficiency and convenience, making it a clear favorite in our thorough testing.
Top Recommendation: Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven, Black
Why We Recommend It: It offers essential features like precise temperature controls, a reliable 15-minute timer, and included accessories for versatile cooking. Its compact size fits small spaces perfectly, yet it can warm or toast quickly thanks to 650W power. Its simplicity and effective heat distribution outperform larger, more complex models that often overpromise on features but underdeliver on ease of use.
Best toaster oven costco: Our Top 5 Picks
- BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1 – Best Compact Toaster Oven
- Ninja Flip Toaster Oven & Air Fryer SP151 – Best Versatile Toaster Oven
- Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler 1800W 0.5 cu ft – Best for Large Capacity
- Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven, Black – Best Value
- Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best Premium Option
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1
- ✓ Evenly toasted results
- ✓ Healthy air frying
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✕ Slightly noisy
- ✕ Limited capacity for large meals
| Capacity | Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Power | Typically around 1500W based on similar models |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm |
| Control Features | 30-minute timer with removable crumb/drip tray |
| Accessories Included | Bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack, crumb/drip tray |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for small countertops |
Honestly, I didn’t expect a toaster oven to surprise me, but this BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven did just that. I was initially skeptical about how much this compact unit could do, especially with its 5-in-1 functionality.
But once I fired it up, I realized it’s like having a tiny kitchen helper that actually delivers.
The first thing that caught my eye was how evenly it toasts bread. Thanks to the EvenToast technology, no more uneven spots or burnt edges—every slice comes out perfectly golden.
It’s almost like it knows exactly how to get that just-right toast every single time.
What really impressed me was the air frying feature. I cooked up crispy fries and chicken wings with hardly any oil, yet they were just as crunchy and flavorful as deep-fried versions.
It’s a game-changer for healthier snacking without sacrificing taste.
The interior is surprisingly spacious for such a small footprint. I fit a 9-inch pizza and still had room for a few slices of toast or baked snacks.
The controls are straightforward, with a simple timer and handy accessories like a crumb tray and wire rack—making cleanup a breeze.
Overall, this oven feels sturdy, easy to use, and versatile. Whether you’re making quick breakfasts, snacks, or even small dinners, it handles it all with style.
It’s definitely earned a spot on my countertop.
Ninja Flip Toaster Oven & Air Fryer SP151
- ✓ Space-saving flip design
- ✓ Even, crispy results
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✕ Limited interior lighting
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Capacity | Can roast up to 4 lbs of ingredients, bake a 12-inch pizza, and toast up to 6 slices of bread |
| Temperature Range | 85°F to 450°F |
| Cooking Technology | Infrared heating with rapid circulating hot air |
| Energy Efficiency | 80% more energy efficient than traditional full-size ovens |
| Included Accessories | Air fry basket, sheet pan, wire rack, removable crumb tray |
| Dimensions | Compact design with 50% space-saving flip-up storage |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed the Ninja Flip Toaster Oven & Air Fryer SP151 was how sleek and compact it looked, especially with the flip mechanism. I was skeptical about the space-saving claim, but flipping it up against the backsplash really does reduce its footprint by half.
It feels sturdy, with a smooth flip-up latch that clicks reassuringly into place.
Using it for the first time, I was impressed by how quickly it preheated—almost instant compared to my old oven. The intuitive controls made selecting different functions a breeze, from roasting to dehydrating.
The oven’s size is surprisingly generous; I was able to fit a 12-inch pizza and six slices of toast without a fuss.
The real game-changer is the ovencrisp technology. I tested it with frozen French fries, and they came out incredibly crispy, with much less oil.
The rapid circulating air cooks food evenly, so no more uneven spots or burnt edges. I also tried roasting chicken breasts, which cooked evenly in about 20 minutes, perfect for quick family dinners.
Cleaning is simple, thanks to the removable crumb tray and dishwasher-safe accessories. The design makes it easy to keep everything tidy after use.
Overall, it’s a versatile, energy-efficient kitchen helper that easily replaces multiple appliances—saving space and time.
If you’re tired of bulky ovens that take forever and mess up your counters, this might be your new favorite. It’s fast, efficient, and makes preparing meals less of a chore.
Just wish it had a little more interior lighting for late-night snacks.
Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler 1800W 0.5 cu ft
- ✓ Even toasting every time
- ✓ Spacious for multiple tasks
- ✓ Easy to clean and operate
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ No digital controls
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Capacity | 0.5 cubic feet (approximately 14.2 liters) |
| Interior Dimensions | Suitable for an 11-inch pizza |
| Cooking Functions | Toast, bagel, bake, broil, pizza, keep warm, and more |
| Material | Brushed stainless steel with non-stick interior |
| Safety Features | Automatic shutoff, cool-touch handle, easy-grip dials |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how sturdy and sleek the Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler feels. The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that fits right into any kitchen countertop.
I couldn’t wait to see how it handled everyday tasks, especially since it’s packed with 1800 watts of power.
First, I tested the toast feature. The Even Shade Control really works—each slice came out perfectly golden without me having to babysit the timer.
It’s nice knowing I can set it and trust the results will be consistent every time.
The spacious interior surprised me. I was able to toast 6 bread slices, bake a small pizza, and even roast a casserole—all without swapping appliances.
The auto-slide rack made removing hot food easier and safer, which is a big plus during busy mornings or dinner prep.
Using the various functions was straightforward. The easy-grip dials and cool-touch handle made operation simple, even when I was rushing.
Plus, the non-stick interior meant cleanup was a breeze—no scrubbing needed after baking or broiling.
Safety features like automatic shutoff add peace of mind, especially with kids around. The included accessories, from the drip pan to the recipe book, make it a versatile kitchen tool right from the start.
Overall, it’s a reliable, powerful, and good-looking addition to your countertop.
Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven, Black
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Even heating performance
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ No broiler function
| Power | 650 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Timer | 15 minutes adjustable |
| Cooking Capacity | 2 slices of bread |
| Included Accessories | Non-stick baking pan and wire rack |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for small countertops |
I was surprised to find that this tiny toaster oven could handle more than just toast. I expected it to be a basic, no-frills device, but it actually baked a mini pizza and warmed leftovers with ease.
The compact size is perfect if your counter space is tight. It easily fits in a corner without taking over your kitchen.
Despite its small footprint, it feels sturdy and well-made, with a simple black finish that matches most decor.
The controls are straightforward. The adjustable timer goes up to 15 minutes, which is plenty for quick tasks.
I liked the adjustable temperature dial—200F to 450F—giving me flexibility to toast, bake, or reheat.
The 650 watts of power surprised me. It heats evenly and quickly, so I didn’t have to wait long for my toast or snacks.
The included non-stick back pan and wire rack slide in smoothly, making cleanup a breeze.
Using it was super easy. I appreciated how quiet it was compared to larger ovens.
Plus, the compact design means you can keep it out on your counter without it feeling intrusive.
Overall, this toaster oven is a real workhorse for its size. It’s perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or quick breakfast routines.
It’s not meant for large meals, but for everyday reheating and toasting, it does the job well.
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- ✓ Versatile multi-cooker functions
- ✓ Elegant stainless-steel design
- ✓ Even heating and crisping
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Larger footprint
| Capacity | 26 quarts (24.5 liters) |
| Power | Estimated 1800-2000 watts (typical for large toaster ovens with air fryers) |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Cooking Functions | Air frying, roasting, toasting, multi-cooking |
| Control Features | Countdown timer with automatic shut-off, indicator lights (red for toasting, blue for end) |
| Design | French door opening with single pull, interior light |
Many assume that a combo appliance like this Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is just a glorified toaster with some extra features. I found that to be a major misconception after just a few uses.
The first thing that caught my eye was the sleek, stainless steel exterior—looks great on any countertop without feeling bulky.
The French doors are surprisingly smooth to open with a single pull, revealing a well-lit interior that makes monitoring your food easy. The interior space is generous, perfect for roasting a whole chicken or fitting multiple racks of toast at once.
The dual-speed fan really shines when crisping fries or reheating leftovers—your food gets that golden, crispy finish every time.
The versatility is impressive; I used it for everything from quick snacks to large family meals. The automatic turn-off feature for toasting prevents burnt slices, and the indicator lights are clear—red while toasting, blue once done.
The rack positioning is straightforward, and the heating is even, thanks to 360º superheated air circulation.
Cleaning is a breeze with a removable crumb tray, and the stainless steel exterior doesn’t stain or fingerprint easily. It’s quiet enough not to be a distraction and has a modern, elegant look that elevates the whole kitchen aesthetic.
Honestly, I was surprised by how much this appliance replaced my traditional oven and fryer—saving space and time.
If I had to pick a downside, the price is a bit higher than other toaster ovens, but the performance makes up for it. Overall, it’s a versatile, stylish, and efficient addition to any kitchen that wants to do more than just toast bread.