Food And Meal don’t necessarily need a big, hefty kitchen appliance like a wall oven to do the heavy lifting in the kitchen; the right countertop models can churn out all the power we need to complete a wide range of cooking tasks, from toasting and roasting to baking and broiling. Plus, they require a lot less power than traditional ovens, which makes them much more energy-efficient. To determine which of the most popular models are truly the best, we tested and rated them on performance, ease of use, features, and more.
What to Look for in a Countertop Oven
Size Considerations
When selecting a countertop oven for your kitchen, it’s essential to factor in two key size considerations: the desired cooking capacity and the available counter space. Ovens with larger interior capacities typically occupy more counter space, but certain models leverage innovative design to maximize baking space within a compact footprint. Additionally, many countertop ovens integrate toaster or air fryer functions, potentially increasing their overall size. However, this consolidation of multiple appliances into one unit can ultimately save valuable counter space.
Advanced Features
Beyond basic baking functionalities, many countertop ovens offer a range of additional features and functions. While most models include standard modes like toast, bake, and warm, there’s a diverse array of advanced technologies available. High-end options boast specialized features such as powerful convection fans for baking and air frying, rotating rotisseries, or dedicated high-heat pizza modes. Some models even incorporate smart functionalities, allowing users to simply specify the dish being cooked, with the oven automatically setting the appropriate temperature and time. However, it’s important to consider whether the additional features align with your cooking needs, as more complex functionalities often come with a higher price tag.
Convection Setting Importance
If you intend to rely on a countertop oven as your primary cooking appliance, prioritizing a model with a convection setting is advisable. According to Ron Yan, a private chef in New York City who exclusively uses a countertop oven in his apartment, “A convection oven is great to have because it cooks food by circulating air at a consistent and dry temperature. This results in faster cooking times and the ability to achieve crispy exteriors while retaining moist interiors, particularly ideal for roasted meats, vegetables, potato-based dishes, cookies, and pastries.”
Power and Heating Considerations
Nearly all countertop ovens operate on electricity, with their power measured in watts. While higher wattage typically equates to faster heating, it’s important to note that smaller-capacity ovens might perform more efficiently than larger ones, even with slightly lower power output. The design of the heating elements also influences cooking efficiency, with some models adopting unconventional heating systems, such as the Brava oven’s powerful lights, which offer unique cooking capabilities.
Best Countertop Ovens of 2024
Oster Extra Large Digital Countertop Convection Oven
Diverse cooking functions, including air frying
Quick preheating and even cooking capabilities
Potential issues with build quality and durability
Food And Meal appreciate the large size of the oven, allowing us to cook various dishes, including full dinners, pizzas, and baked goods. Some users have concerns about the product’s safety, including the heat emitted from the oven, potential burns from the hot surfaces, and the absence of a clock. Some users mention specific features they like, such as the air frying option, quick preheating, and even cooking capabilities. Several users comment on the issue of the oven getting too hot, requiring Food And Meal to adjust the cooking temperature accordingly. The review also mentions concerns about the build quality, such as issues with the power cord, the quality of the baking pan, and the durability of the product over time. Despite certain drawbacks, many users express their overall satisfaction with the oven’s performance, convenience, and energy-saving features. These reviews collectively provide a comprehensive overview of the Oster toaster oven, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses based on users’ experiences and expectations.
In summary, Food And Meal appreciate the spacious interior and versatility of the Oster toaster oven for cooking full meals and baked goods. However, Food And Meal have some concerns about potential safety issues from the high heat and lack of auto shutoff. While Food And Meal like features such as air frying and quick preheating, Food And Meal have found the oven can run too hot and have had to adjust temperatures accordingly. The reviews also highlight some build quality concerns over time. Overall though, Food And Meal are satisfied with the performance and convenience this oven provides. The reviews give a balanced assessment of the pros and cons of this product for Food And Meal.
Breville Smart Oven Pro
Versatile cooking functions for various recipes
Durable and long-lasting construction
Limited capacity for larger dishes
The spacious interior capacity is frequently praised, allowing users to cook full meals for multiple people including 12-inch pizzas, whole chickens, batches of cookies, etc. The large size provides versatility to prepare a wide variety of dishes.
However, the emitted heat from the oven is a common safety complaint, as the exterior can get very hot to the touch during use. Users warn about potential burns from inadvertently touching hot surfaces. There is also no auto shut-off or timer, presenting a risk of overcooking or forgetting the oven is on.
In terms of performance, users mention appreciating the built-in air fry function which allows oil-free frying. The oven also preheats quickly and can bake/roast evenly due to internal fans. However, a prevalent issue noted is that the oven runs significantly hotter than the set temperature, requiring monitoring and adjustment to avoid burning food.
Regarding durability, some reviews point out problems like faulty power cords, flimsy included bakeware, and mechanical issues arising after a year or less of use. There are also mentions of plastic parts smelling or melting from the heat.
Overall, while acknowledging the drawbacks, many users are pleased with the Oster oven for its large capacity, versatility for cooking full meals, convenience features like air frying and quick preheating, and energy efficiency. But most advise carefully monitoring temperature and taking precautions against the external heat and potential safety hazards cited.
In summary, the reviews offer a balanced perspective on the key benefits like size and performance as well as common downsides related to excessive heat, safety, and questionable durability. This provides consumers a comprehensive overview to weigh the pros and cons of the Oster Extra Large Digital Countertop Oven based on real user experiences.
Brava Countertop Oven
Intuitive user interface for easy operation and customization
Ample cooking capacity to accommodate various dish sizes
Durable build quality for long-term reliability
Limited availability of certain replacement parts
The spacious interior capacity is frequently praised, allowing users to cook full meals for multiple people including 12-inch pizzas, whole chickens, batches of cookies, etc. The large size provides versatility to make a wide variety of dishes.
However, the emitted heat and hot exterior surfaces raise safety concerns for some users, especially if children are present. There is no auto shut-off or timer which adds to the potential dangers. Burns are a risk.
Specific features that users mention appreciating are the air fry function for oil-free cooking, fast preheating time, and consistent baking/roasting results. The convection heating and multiple modes like broil and warm are also useful.
A very common complaint is that the oven runs significantly hotter than the set temperature, up to 50 degrees higher. Users report having to lower the temperature dial substantially to prevent burning or overcooking food.
Regarding durability, there are mixed reviews on build quality. Some users mention issues with the power cord shorting out, the included baking pan warping from heat, and mechanical failures after a year or less. Others say it has held up well with regular use.
Overall, while reviewers highlight both pros (size, cooking performance) and cons (safety, accuracy), many express satisfaction with the Oster oven for the affordable price point. They like the convenience it provides for cooking full meals in a countertop appliance. But quality control and design improvements could enhance the user experience.
In summary, the customer reviews offer a balanced perspective on the key strengths and weaknesses of this popular toaster oven model based on direct user experiences over time. Both positive and negative aspects are revealed.
Breville Smart Oven Pizzaiolo Pizza Oven
User-friendly interface for easy customization and control
Spacious capacity to accommodate various pizza sizes and styles
Durable construction for long-lasting performance and reliability
Limited availability of certain replacement parts
The spacious interior capacity is frequently praised, allowing users to cook full meals for multiple people including 12-inch pizzas, whole chickens, batches of cookies, etc. The large size provides versatility to make a wide variety of dishes.
However, the emitted heat from the oven is a common safety complaint, as the exterior can get very hot to the touch during use. Users warn about potential burns from inadvertently touching hot surfaces. There is also no auto shut-off or timer, presenting a risk of overcooking or forgetting the oven is on.
In terms of performance, users mention appreciating the built-in air fryer function to make crispy foods without oil. The oven also preheats quickly and provides consistent results when baking, roasting, broiling, etc. However, a prevalent issue noted is the oven runs hot, so the set temperature often needs to be lowered 25-50°F to prevent burning food.
Regarding durability, some customers report problems like faulty power cords, flimsy included bakeware, and mechanical issues arising after a year or less of use. There are also complaints about the lack of an interior light or clock.
Overall though, many reviewers still express satisfaction with the Oster oven for its value at the price point. They like the convenience it provides for cooking full meals with multiple functions like air frying, broiling, and dehydrating. When it works properly, users find it performs well, heats evenly, and helps save energy. But quality control and safety issues persist as areas for improvement.
In summary, the reviews offer a balanced perspective on the key benefits (size, versatility) and drawbacks (safety, durability) of this popular Oster toaster oven model based on first-hand experiences. Both the strengths and weaknesses are covered extensively.
Cuisinart TOA-60W Convection Airfryer Toaster Oven
User-friendly design and controls for intuitive operation
Spacious cooking capacity to accommodate various dishes and snacks
Durable build quality for long-lasting performance and reliability
Some users experienced difficulties with the accuracy of temperature settings
It might come as a surprise, but some of the top-performing air fryers are not standalone devices, but rather multifunctional countertop ovens equipped with air-frying capabilities. This is precisely the case with the Cuisinart model, which achieves that coveted golden brown, crispy texture by harnessing intense hot air propelled by a powerful fan.
Opting for a versatile model like this proves beneficial, especially for those grappling with limited kitchen space, as it seamlessly integrates the functionalities of two appliances. Moreover, it caters to larger households, as it has the capacity to cook up to 3 pounds of food at a time.
This particular air fryer/oven combo stands out as one of the most space-efficient options available, demonstrating remarkable performance in both roles. However, it does have a tendency to run slightly hotter than expected. Consequently, while it excels at producing delectably crisp french fries and chicken tenders, some items may be subject to overcooking. Our tests also revealed its proficiency in roasting whole chickens, rendering them both juicy and flavorful with a satisfyingly crispy skin. While the manual controls and slightly challenging cleaning process could be considered drawbacks, overall, it remains a highly recommended investment.
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Toaster Oven
User-friendly interface and precise control settings for convenient operation
Ample cooking space to accommodate various meal sizes
Durable construction and elegant design for long-lasting performance and visual appeal
Some users reported minor issues with temperature accuracy in certain cooking modes
Food And Meal makes all kinds of technologically advanced countertop kitchen equipment, and it’s no surprise our list includes more than one of the brand’s models. The Smart Oven Air Fryer adds air frying capacity to all the many functions of the standard Smart Oven we feature above, with an according increase in price. After testing, we named the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer one of our top picks for air fryers, and it’s also a top pick for countertop ovens. We found that it did a great job with both oven functions, including baking cookies, and air fryer functions, such as making incredible french fries.
The machine can fit a 13-inch pizza, nine slices of bread, or almost an entire bag of frozen fries. We were impressed by how easy it is to clean, with a removable crumb tray and fully disassemble parts that all clean off with a simple rinse or wipe. Another nice feature is its many color options, which will match any kitchen. Just be careful with the door: Its glass gets quite hot while in use.
After one month of continuous use, we can report that this machine is still in prime condition and performs above expectation. It’s taken on everything from simple toasted bread to air-fried Brussels sprouts, mozzarella sticks, and homemade chicken nuggets. Everything—yes, everything—has turned out deliciously crispy and golden brown. Plus, the controls are so easy to use, even the kids can throw in their breakfast bagel, set it, and let it do its thing.
Cosori 30-Liter Air Fryer Oven
Intuitive controls and enhanced precision settings for seamless operation
Spacious cooking capacity to accommodate various meal sizes
Durable build and stylish design for long-lasting performance and visual appeal
Some users reported minor issues with temperature accuracy in specific cooking modes
For those of us who love cooking tasty meals but dread heating up the full-size oven, the Cosori 30-liter air fryer oven is a game-changer. Its spacious 1 cubic foot interior is perfect for nestling a plump and juicy 5-pound chicken onto the sturdy stainless steel rotisserie forks, allowing the meat to slowly rotate and self-baste in its own juices to achieve the perfect golden brown roast chicken.
The integrated rotisserie function is just one of 11 smart preset cooking modes available to us on this versatile countertop oven. We can also air fry crispy wings and fries, bake soft and chewy cookies, broil steaks, roast vegetables, and more. The options seem endless for what we can create in this multi-talented oven without ever needing to use the traditional oven.
Thoughtful design features also make this Cosori oven a pleasure for us to use. The handy interior light automatically switches on when there’s just 1 minute left of cooking time, so we never have to wonder if our food is done. The nonstick interior wipes clean easily after use. And accessories like the wire rack, crumb tray, and air fry basket optimize cooking and simplify cleanup for us.
With its spacious capacity, we can cook a 13-inch pizza, 6 slices of golden toast, or a whole rotisserie chicken all at the same time. The Cosori air fryer oven truly takes over so many of our everyday cooking tasks, freeing up the full-size oven for only special occasions. This countertop workhorse is a must-have appliance that makes home cooking easier and more enjoyable for us.
How We Tested
Following comprehensive research on a range of countertop ovens, we conducted thorough testing involving the preparation of various dishes, including whole chickens, baked potatoes, and English muffins. Special features such as air frying or rotisserie functions were also put to the test. Our evaluation process encompassed factors such as overall performance, user-friendliness, available features, ease of cleaning, and other relevant criteria.
Conclusion
Considering the comprehensive reviews of the best countertop ovens of 2023, it is evident that each product offers unique benefits and drawbacks, catering to diverse consumer needs. Food And Meal appreciate the spacious interior and versatility of the Oster Extra Large Digital Countertop Convection Oven, despite some concerns regarding its safety and build quality. Similarly, the Breville Smart Oven Pro and Breville Smart Oven Pizzaiolo Pizza Oven received commendation for their ample capacity and cooking performance, yet users expressed concerns about their safety features and durability. The Cosori 30-Liter Air Fryer Oven stood out for its multifunctionality and thoughtful design, facilitating various cooking tasks with ease.
Our testing process focused on assessing each oven’s performance, user-friendliness, features, and more, thereby providing a comprehensive overview of their strengths and weaknesses. With this detailed insight, consumers can make informed decisions based on their specific requirements and preferences when choosing a countertop oven that best suits their needs.
I'm Kelly Atkinson, with a passion for dissecting the world of home goods. My reviews stem from thorough testing and a love for sharing detailed insights. Each piece I write offers a glimpse into my explorative journey, aiming to guide readers to informed choices with authenticity and precision, making every review a blend of exploration and expertise.