10 Best Inexpensive Toaster Oven, Reviews & FAQs

The best kind of toaster oven largely depends on your specific needs and preferences, but there are a few standout features and models that consistently receive high praise. For overall quality and advanced features, Breville's Smart Oven series is highly recommended. These toaster ovens come with Element IQ technology, which adjusts the heating elements for optimal cooking performance. Models like the Breville Smart Oven Pro offer multiple cooking functions, convection settings, and a spacious interior.

If you're looking for versatility and a wide range of functions, the Cuisinart TOB-260N1 Chef's Convection Toaster Oven is an excellent choice. It offers 15 cooking functions, dual cook settings, and an extensive temperature range, making it suitable for baking, broiling, toasting, and even roasting.

For budget-conscious buyers, the Hamilton Beach Easy Reach is a great option. Its unique roll-top door design saves counter space and provides easy access to your food. Despite its lower price, it still offers reliable performance and multiple cooking functions.

Is it Cheaper to Use the Oven or Toaster Oven?

Using a toaster oven is generally cheaper than using a conventional oven, especially for small to medium-sized meals. Toaster ovens are more energy-efficient because they have a smaller interior space that heats up more quickly and requires less energy to maintain the desired temperature. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, toaster ovens use about half the energy of a full-sized oven.

In addition to energy savings, toaster ovens preheat faster and cook smaller portions more efficiently, which can save both time and money on your utility bills. For tasks like toasting, reheating, or baking small items, a toaster oven is a more cost-effective option than using a full-sized oven.

What Appliance Can Replace a Toaster Oven?

Several appliances can replace a toaster oven, depending on the functions you need:

• Microwave Oven: Ideal for quick reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals. While it doesn’t toast or bake as well as a toaster oven, it's more efficient for many tasks.
• Convection Oven: Offers even cooking and is suitable for baking, roasting, and more. It's larger and can handle bigger meals but may be more expensive.
• Air Fryer: Great for frying, baking, and roasting with less oil. Modern air fryers often come with multiple cooking functions similar to toaster ovens.

What's Better, a Toaster Oven or an Air Fryer?

Choosing between a toaster oven and an air fryer depends on your cooking habits and preferences:

• Toaster Oven: Versatile and can handle a wide range of cooking tasks including toasting, baking, broiling, and reheating. It’s suitable for those who need a multifunctional appliance and often cook small to medium-sized meals.
• Air Fryer: Specializes in providing a crispy texture with minimal oil, making it ideal for healthier frying. Many air fryers also have baking and roasting capabilities, but they may have a smaller capacity than toaster ovens.

If you prefer an all-in-one appliance for various cooking tasks, a toaster oven is better. If you prioritize healthier frying and crisping, an air fryer might be more suitable.

Can an Air Fryer Replace My Toaster Oven?

An air fryer can replace a toaster oven for many tasks, but there are some limitations to consider:

• Advantages: Air fryers are excellent for frying with little to no oil, providing a healthier alternative to traditional frying. They are also good for baking and roasting small items, and many models come with additional functions like dehydrating and reheating.
• Disadvantages: Air fryers typically have a smaller capacity than toaster ovens, making them less suitable for larger meals or batch cooking. They also may not perform toasting and broiling tasks as effectively as a toaster oven.

If you mainly use your toaster oven for tasks like frying, baking small items, and reheating, an air fryer could be a suitable replacement. However, if you frequently need to toast, broil, or cook larger quantities, you might prefer the versatility and capacity of a toaster oven. Some modern air fryer toaster oven combos can offer the best of both worlds, combining the functions of both appliances in one unit.

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