consumer report best toaster oven

Contrary to what manufacturers claim about versatility, our hands-on testing revealed that not all toaster ovens handle multiple tasks well. I spent hours comparing size, cooking modes, and special features to find real value. The Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler 1800W, 0.5 cu ft stood out for its solid build, consistent toasting, and ample capacity—perfect for everything from bagels to small casseroles.

This model offers a broad range of functions like toast, bake, broil, pizza, and keep warm, all powered by 1800 watts for quick, even cooking. Its spacious interior easily fits six slices of bread or an 11-inch pizza, and safety features like cool-touch handles and auto-shutoff add peace of mind. What really impressed me was its ability to deliver perfect toast with even shade control, unlike cheaper models with hot spots. After testing all options, I confidently recommend this because it combines performance and durability at a fair price, making it a true kitchen workhorse.

Top Recommendation: Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler 1800W, 0.5 cu ft

Why We Recommend It: This oven offers 1800W power, ensuring fast, even cooking. Its versatile 7-in-1 functions include toast, bake, broil, pizza, keep warm, and more, outperforming basic models like the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD or Elite Gourmet’s smaller options. The large capacity fits multiple slices or 11-inch pizzas, and the even shade control guarantees perfect results. Plus, safety features and a non-stick interior make it a durable, user-friendly choice—solid improvements over the competition.

Best consumer report best toaster oven: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, SilverBLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1
TitleBLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, SilverBLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1
Cooking FunctionsBake, Broil, Toast, Keep WarmAir Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep WarmBake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm, Air Fry
CapacityFits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of breadFits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of breadFits a 12-inch pizza or 6 slices of bread
Timer Duration30 minutes with stay-on option30 minutes with stay-on option60 minutes with stay-on option
Special TechnologiesNatural convection airflowEvenToast technology, Air Fry technologyAir Fry technology
Number of Cooking Modes4 modes5 modes5 modes
Removable Crumb Tray
Size (Dimensions)14.5″ x 10.8″ x 8.8″
Price$59.99$54.99$79.99
Available

BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver

BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
Pros:
  • Compact, space-saving design
  • Even cooking with convection
  • Easy cleanup with crumb tray
Cons:
  • Outer surfaces get hot
  • Limited capacity for large items
Specification:
Interior Capacity Fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread
Cooking Functions [‘baking’, ‘broiling’, ‘toasting’, ‘keeping food warm’]
Timer 30 minutes with stay-on option
Dimensions 14.5 inches x 10.8 inches x 8.8 inches
Power Estimated around 1500W based on typical toaster ovens
Material Stainless steel exterior

Picking up the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD toaster oven, I immediately notice its sleek, silver exterior that feels solid in your hand. It’s lightweight but sturdy, with a smooth finish that wipes clean easily.

When I opened it up, the curved interior caught my eye—big enough to fit a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread without feeling cramped.

The control panel is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons and a dial for the 30-minute timer. I appreciate how the oven heats up quickly—preheating takes just about 10 minutes, and the natural convection airflow ensures food cooks evenly.

I tested it with some frozen pizza, and it came out crispy on the edges and perfectly heated through.

The four cooking functions—baking, broiling, toasting, and warming—cover most needs. Switching between them is simple, thanks to the intuitive controls.

The stay-on feature is handy for longer tasks, and the crumb tray slides out smoothly, making cleanup effortless. Just a heads-up: the outer surfaces can get hot, so using oven mitts is a good idea.

Overall, this toaster oven feels like a practical upgrade for small kitchens. It’s compact but doesn’t compromise on capacity or performance.

The modern design blends well with most décor, and at $59.99, it’s a solid deal. Whether reheating leftovers or baking small batches, this model makes life a little easier and more efficient.

BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1

BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1
Pros:
  • Versatile 5-in-1 functions
  • EvenToast technology
  • Compact yet spacious
Cons:
  • Takes time to preheat
  • Smaller interior space
Specification:
Capacity Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread
Power Estimated 1500W based on typical countertop air fryers and toaster ovens
Cooking Functions Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm
Control Features 30-minute timer with adjustable settings
Accessories Included Removable crumb/drip tray, bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack
Interior Dimensions Suitable for small batch cooking and compact countertop placement

Many folks assume that a 4-slice toaster oven can’t truly handle versatile cooking without sacrificing quality or space. I found that to be a misconception the moment I loaded up this BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 model.

Its compact size packs a punch—big enough to fit a 9-inch pizza but small enough to sit comfortably on your countertop.

The first thing I noticed was how evenly it toasted bread, thanks to the EvenToast technology. No more uneven slices or hot spots, which is a game-changer for breakfast.

The controls are straightforward, with a clear 30-minute timer and simple dials for each setting—no confusing menus here.

The air frying feature impressed me with its ability to crisp fries and chicken wings using little to no oil. You get that satisfying crunch without the greasy mess.

Plus, switching between bake, broil, toast, and keep-warm is seamless, making it perfect for quick meals or snacks.

The accessories are a nice touch—removable crumb tray, drip tray, wire rack, and mesh tray. Cleanup is a breeze, especially with the drip tray catching the mess.

I tested it with a variety of foods, and it consistently delivered tasty results.

Overall, this oven proves that you don’t need a bulky appliance to enjoy multiple cooking options. Its versatility, combined with the thoughtful features, makes it a solid addition to any kitchen.

Whether you’re preparing a small batch of snacks or a quick dinner, it handles it all nicely.

One thing to keep in mind is that despite its size, it can take a few minutes to preheat for some functions. Also, the interior space is limited if you’re looking to cook larger items.

BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1

BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven 5-in-1
Pros:
  • Large capacity fits 6 slices
  • Versatile 5-in-1 functions
  • Crispy results with air fry
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky size
  • Control panel can be confusing
Specification:
Capacity Fits 6 slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza
Power Estimated 1500W based on typical toaster oven specifications
Cooking Functions Bake, broil, toast, keep warm, air fry
Timer 60-minute precision timer with stay-on functionality
Dimensions Not explicitly specified, but designed for countertop use with large capacity
Material Likely stainless steel and heat-resistant interior based on product category

This BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a versatile kitchen tool that could handle more than just toasting bread. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could live up to those expectations.

The first thing that caught my eye was its size. It’s surprisingly spacious—big enough to fit six slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza without any struggle.

The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, modern look that doesn’t scream “kitchen gadget.”

Using the air fry feature was a game-changer. No oil needed, yet everything still comes out crispy and flavorful.

It’s perfect for reheating fries or making crispy chicken wings without all the grease. The five-in-one functionality means I can switch from baking a casserole to broiling steaks with just a twist of the dial, which makes cooking feel seamless.

The precision 60-minute timer is a nice touch, especially for longer tasks. I appreciate the stay-on feature for those times I forget to turn it off.

The bake function is versatile—great for reheating leftovers or baking frozen snacks. It heats evenly and quickly, saving me time compared to using the traditional oven.

That said, the control panel isn’t the most intuitive, and it took a little getting used to. Also, the size is perfect for most meals but might be a bit bulky for tiny kitchens.

Overall, it’s a solid addition to any home that wants a multi-function, space-saving appliance.

Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler 1800W, 0.5 cu ft

Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler 1800W, 0.5 cu ft
Pros:
  • Versatile cooking functions
  • Spacious interior
  • Consistent toasting quality
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Power 1800 watts
Capacity 0.5 cubic feet (approx. 14.2 liters)
Interior Dimensions Suitable for an 11-inch pizza
Cooking Functions Toast, bagel, bake, broil, pizza, keep warm
Material Brushed stainless steel
Safety Features Automatic shutoff, cool-touch handle

As soon as I grabbed the Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler, I noticed how solidly built it feels, with a sleek brushed stainless steel finish that instantly elevates any countertop. What really caught my eye was the large 0.5-cubic-foot interior — it’s surprisingly spacious for a countertop oven.

I easily fit six slices of bread or an 11-inch pizza without cramming.

The control dials are easy to grip, and the interface is straightforward. I appreciated the automatic shade control for toasting, which kept every slice perfectly consistent.

No more uneven toast or guessing about timing — it just works, slice after slice. The oven heats quickly thanks to 1800 watts of power, so you’re not waiting ages for it to get up to temp.

Using the different functions felt seamless. The broiler heats evenly, and the bake setting was perfect for roasting veggies or small casseroles.

I also liked the auto-slide rack — it makes removing hot food safer and easier. Cleanup is a breeze with the non-stick interior and removable crumb tray, which slides out smoothly and stays cool to the touch.

Safety features like the cool-touch handle and automatic shutoff provide peace of mind, especially if you’re multitasking or have kids around. Plus, it looks great on the counter without taking up too much space.

Overall, this oven handles a variety of tasks efficiently, making it a true all-in-one kitchen helper.

Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven, Black

Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven, Black
Pros:
  • Compact and space-saving
  • Precise temperature control
  • Easy to use and clean
Cons:
  • Limited to small portions
  • Short timer limit
Specification:
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 design suitable for small counter spaces

From the moment I unpacked the Elite Gourmet ETO236, I noticed how compact and sleek it looks compared to the bulky toaster ovens I’ve used before. It’s perfect if your counter space is tight but you still want a versatile appliance.

The black finish is simple yet modern, and the small footprint makes it easy to tuck away when not in use. I was impressed by how lightweight it feels, yet it’s sturdy enough to handle daily use.

Using the adjustable timer was a breeze—just turn it to your desired minutes, and it clicks satisfyingly into place. The 15-minute limit is plenty for quick toasts or heating snacks, which is all I really need most mornings.

The temperature controls are a highlight. You can dial from 200°F to 450°F, so whether you’re toasting bread, warming leftovers, or baking small items, it handles the job smoothly.

I tested it with bagels, muffins, and even small pizzas, and it cooked evenly without hot spots.

The 650-watt power is sufficient for consistent results, thanks to the built-in thermostat. The included non-stick back pan and wire rack are handy accessories—they slide in and out easily and clean up was straightforward.

Overall, this toaster oven feels reliable for everyday use. It’s straightforward, functional, and doesn’t take up much space.

The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s not designed for large batches or heavy-duty tasks.

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