Best Countertop Ovens

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Countertop ovens are a versatile and energy-efficient addition to any kitchen, offering the capabilities of a full-sized oven in a compact design. Ideal for baking, roasting, toasting, and more, these appliances are perfect for small meals or as a backup when the main oven is in use. They heat up quickly, use less power than traditional ovens, and can cook small portions or reheat leftovers without warming up the whole kitchen. When choosing a countertop oven, consider size, counter space, and cooking needs, along with features like temperature range and special functions like air frying or convection. We tested several countertop ovens to find the best options across various needs and budgets.

  • Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven

    10

    We think the Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven is a top pick for most kitchens due to its versatility and powerful cooking performance.

    10

    We think the Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven is a top pick for most kitchens due to its versatility and powerful cooking performance.

    Pros

    • Cooks food faster and crispier than traditional ovens
    • Large capacity for family-sized meals
    • 10 cooking functions in one appliance

    Cons

    • Takes up significant counter space
    • Pricier than basic toaster ovens
    • Learning curve for all functions

    The Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven impressed us with its cooking speed and crispy results. We found it preheats in just 90 seconds, which is much quicker than our regular oven. The true surround convection really made a difference – our chicken came out juicy inside and crispy outside.

    We loved the two-level cooking feature. It let us make a whole meal at once, fitting a 5-pound chicken and a tray of veggies with no problems. The air fry function worked great too. Our french fries turned out crispy with much less oil than deep-frying.

    The digital display on the handle is a nice touch. It lights up to show the best rack positions for each cooking mode. We found this really helpful when trying out new recipes. The included accessories – two sheet pans, two wire racks, an air fry basket, and a roast tray – gave us plenty of options for different dishes.

    While it’s bigger than a typical toaster oven, we think the Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven’s versatility makes it worth the counter space for many home cooks. It’s like having several appliances in one, which could save space in the long run.

  • Emeril’s Extra Large Air Fryer Oven

    9.7

    We think this versatile air fryer oven is a great choice for families who want a multi-functional appliance with lots of cooking options.

    9.7

    We think this versatile air fryer oven is a great choice for families who want a multi-functional appliance with lots of cooking options.

    Pros

    • Large 26-quart capacity
    • 25 preset cooking functions
    • Stylish stainless steel design

    Cons

    • Takes up significant counter space
    • Pricier than basic air fryers
    • May have a learning curve

    We’ve been testing the Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Extra Large Air Fryer for a few weeks now, and it’s become a go-to appliance in our kitchen. The size is perfect for cooking family meals. We easily fit a whole chicken for rotisserie and a 12-inch pizza with room to spare.

    The 25 preset functions make it simple to cook a wide range of foods. We’ve used it for everything from air frying crispy fries to slow cooking tender ribs. The dual-speed fan helps food cook evenly and gives that nice golden-brown finish.

    One thing we really like is the French door design. It looks sleek and makes it easy to check on food without letting out too much heat. The controls are simple to use, though it took us a little time to get used to all the options. While it’s bigger than a standard toaster oven, we think the versatility makes up for the counter space it needs.

  • NuWave Bravo XL Smart Oven

    9.5

    We think the NuWave Bravo XL is a versatile and powerful countertop oven that’s worth considering for its wide temperature range and precise controls.

    9.5

    We think the NuWave Bravo XL is a versatile and powerful countertop oven that’s worth considering for its wide temperature range and precise controls.

    Pros

    • Adjustable top and bottom heating
    • Built-in temperature probe
    • Many preset cooking functions

    Cons

    • Large footprint
    • Somewhat complex controls
    • Can be noisy during operation

    The NuWave Bravo XL impressed us with its flexibility. We could change the temperature and cooking time on the fly, which came in handy when recipes needed tweaking. The digital controls let us set different power levels for the top and bottom heaters. This feature was great for getting pizzas just right – crispy on the bottom and perfectly melted on top.

    We really liked the built-in temperature probe. It took the guesswork out of cooking meats to the right doneness. We set our desired internal temperature, and the oven stopped cooking automatically when it was reached. This helped us avoid overcooking expensive cuts of meat.

    The oven comes with lots of presets, which we found useful for common tasks. But we also appreciated being able to save our own favorite recipes. The temperature control was very precise, adjustable in 5°F steps from 50°F to 500°F. In our tests, it held temperatures steadily, producing consistent results across different recipes.

    While the Bravo XL has a lot to offer, it does take up significant counter space. The controls have a bit of a learning curve too. We needed some time to get familiar with all the functions. When running at high temperatures, we noticed it could get quite loud. But for its versatility and precise cooking control, we think it’s a solid choice for home cooks who do a lot of countertop cooking.

  • Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Oven

    9.4

    We think the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Oven is a great choice for most kitchens due to its versatility and smart features.

    9.4

    We think the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Oven is a great choice for most kitchens due to its versatility and smart features.

    Pros

    • Large capacity for family meals
    • Smart thermometer for perfect doneness
    • Fast preheating and cooking times

    Cons

    • Takes up considerable counter space
    • Can be noisy during operation
    • Steep learning curve for some functions

    We’ve been using the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Oven for a while now, and it’s become a go-to appliance in our kitchen. Its true surround convection really delivers, cooking food evenly and quickly. We love how we can fit a whole chicken and a pan of veggies at the same time, making meal prep a breeze.

    The smart cook system with the built-in thermometer is a game-changer. We no longer worry about over or undercooking meats. It’s especially handy for getting that perfect medium-rare steak every time. The digital display handle is also a nice touch, showing the best rack position for each cooking function.

    We’ve found the air fry function to be a standout feature. It gives foods a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. From homemade fries to crispy chicken wings, the results are impressive. The oven’s ability to cook on two levels simultaneously is great for busy weeknights or when we’re entertaining guests.

  • COSORI Smart Air Fryer Toaster Oven

    9.3

    We think this versatile countertop oven is a great choice for most kitchens, offering 11 cooking functions in one sleek appliance.

    9.3

    We think this versatile countertop oven is a great choice for most kitchens, offering 11 cooking functions in one sleek appliance.

    Pros

    • Multifunctional with 11 cooking modes
    • Large capacity fits a whole chicken
    • Smart features with app control

    Cons

    • Takes up counter space
    • Learning curve for all functions
    • Pricier than basic toaster ovens

    We’ve been testing this COSORI oven for a few weeks now, and it’s quickly become our go-to for many cooking tasks. The 26-quart capacity is roomy enough to fit a 12-inch pizza or a 5-pound chicken, making it perfect for family meals.

    The air fry function works great. We made crispy french fries and chicken wings that rivaled deep-fried versions. The convection fan helps food cook evenly and quickly. We also liked using the dehydrate setting for making dried fruit snacks.

    One thing to note is the size. At about 16 inches wide and deep, it does take up a fair amount of counter space. But given how often we use it, we think it’s worth the real estate. The stainless steel exterior looks nice and is easy to keep clean.

  • Ninja Flip Oven

    9.1

    We think the Ninja Flip Oven is a smart buy for those wanting a versatile countertop appliance that saves space.

    9.1

    We think the Ninja Flip Oven is a smart buy for those wanting a versatile countertop appliance that saves space.

    Pros

    • Flips up to save counter space
    • 8-in-1 functionality
    • Fast and even cooking

    Cons

    • Bulky when in use
    • Learning curve for controls
    • Can be noisy

    We’ve been using the Ninja Flip Oven for a few weeks now, and it’s quickly become our go-to kitchen gadget. Its ability to flip up and away is a game-changer for small kitchens. When we’re done cooking, we just push it back against the wall, freeing up precious counter space.

    The 8-in-1 functionality is no joke. We’ve air fried crispy chicken wings, baked fluffy cookies, and even made pizza. The OvenCrisp tech does a great job of cooking food evenly. We were amazed at how quickly it preheats and cooks compared to our regular oven.

    Cleaning is pretty simple too. The removable parts come out easily, and we can pop them in the dishwasher. While it’s not the quietest appliance, the results are worth it. We’ve found ourselves using our main oven less and less since getting this Ninja Flip Oven.

  • Breville Smart Oven Pro

    9

    We think the Breville Smart Oven Pro is a top choice for most kitchens due to its versatility and smart cooking features.

    9

    We think the Breville Smart Oven Pro is a top choice for most kitchens due to its versatility and smart cooking features.

    Pros

    • Versatile with 10 cooking functions
    • Element IQ for precise cooking
    • Convection setting for faster cooking

    Cons

    • Larger footprint than basic toaster ovens
    • Pricier than some alternatives
    • Learning curve for all features

    We’ve been using the Breville Smart Oven Pro in our test kitchen, and it’s quickly become a go-to appliance. Its 10 cooking functions make it a jack-of-all-trades. We’ve baked cookies, roasted chicken, and even slow-cooked stews with great results.

    The Element IQ system is a standout feature. It moves heat where it’s needed most, giving us evenly cooked food every time. We love how it adjusts automatically based on what we’re cooking. The convection setting is a real time-saver too, cutting cooking times by up to 30%.

    While it’s bigger than a basic toaster oven, we find the extra space worth it. It fits a 13-inch pizza or a whole chicken with ease. The interior light is helpful for checking on food without opening the door. We appreciate the clear LCD display and intuitive controls.

  • Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven

    8.7

    We think this versatile Cuisinart appliance is a great choice for anyone looking to save counter space while gaining multiple cooking functions.

    8.7

    We think this versatile Cuisinart appliance is a great choice for anyone looking to save counter space while gaining multiple cooking functions.

    Pros

    • Combines air fryer, toaster oven, and grill
    • Large capacity fits a whole chicken
    • Easy-to-use controls

    Cons

    • Takes up significant counter space
    • Can be tricky to clean thoroughly
    • Pricey compared to basic toaster ovens

    We’ve been using this Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven for a few weeks now, and it’s quickly become a go-to appliance in our kitchen. The 8-in-1 functionality is really handy. We’ve made crispy air-fried chicken wings, perfectly toasted bagels, and even grilled some veggies.

    The large capacity is a big plus. We fit a 12-inch pizza with no problem, and it can handle a 4-pound chicken. This makes it great for families or anyone who likes to meal prep. The controls are simple to use, with dials for temperature, function, and time.

    We found the air frying feature works well, giving food a nice crunch without using much oil. The convection fan helps cook food evenly. Clean-up isn’t too bad thanks to the nonstick interior, but getting into all the nooks and crannies can be a bit of a challenge.

  • Breville Mini Smart Oven

    8.7

    We think this compact countertop oven is a great choice for small kitchens and solo cooks who want versatile cooking options.

    8.7

    We think this compact countertop oven is a great choice for small kitchens and solo cooks who want versatile cooking options.

    Pros

    • Versatile with 8 cooking functions
    • Smart heating technology for even cooking
    • Compact size saves counter space

    Cons

    • Small capacity limits batch sizes
    • Exterior gets hot during use
    • Higher price point than basic toaster ovens

    We’ve been using the Breville Mini Smart Oven in our test kitchen, and it’s impressed us with its cooking performance. The oven heats up quickly and cooks food evenly thanks to its Element IQ system. We found it especially good at toasting bagels and baking small batches of cookies.

    The controls are easy to use, with a clear LCD display and simple dials. We like that it has 8 preset functions, which take the guesswork out of cooking common items. The oven’s compact size is great for small spaces, but it can still fit a 11-inch pizza or 4 slices of toast.

    We noticed the exterior gets quite warm during use, so you’ll need to be careful and give it some space on your counter. The capacity is limited compared to full-size ovens, but it’s perfect for 1-2 people. While it costs more than basic toaster ovens, we think the smart features and cooking performance make it worth the price for frequent users.

  • Elite Gourmet Double French Door Oven

    8.6

    We think this oven is a solid choice for those seeking a spacious and versatile countertop cooking solution.

    8.6

    We think this oven is a solid choice for those seeking a spacious and versatile countertop cooking solution.

    Pros

    • Large capacity fits 12″ pizza or 6 slices of toast
    • French doors save counter space
    • Multiple cooking functions

    Cons

    • May not reach highest temperature settings
    • Takes up significant counter space
    • Learning curve for optimal use

    We’ve been using the Elite Gourmet Double French Door Oven in our test kitchen, and it’s impressed us with its roomy interior. The 25L capacity is no joke – we easily fit a 12″ pizza inside. It’s great for busy families or anyone who likes to cook larger portions.

    The French door design is a standout feature. We love how it lets us open just one side at a time, saving precious counter space. This came in handy when our kitchen got crowded during meal prep. The three rack positions also add to its flexibility, letting us cook different dishes at once.

    We found the controls simple to use, but it took some practice to get the timing right for different foods. The built-in timer with a bell was helpful, though. While it heated up quickly, we noticed it didn’t always reach the highest temperature settings as advertised. Still, for most cooking tasks, it performed well.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a countertop oven, there are several key factors to consider. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the best option for your needs.

Size and Capacity

Think about how much space you have on your counter and what you’ll be cooking most often. Measure your available space carefully. Consider the interior capacity too – will it fit the dishes and foods you plan to cook?

Functions and Settings

Look for ovens with versatile cooking modes like bake, broil, toast, and convection. More functions give you more cooking options. A temperature range of 150°F to 450°F is ideal for most tasks.

Controls and Ease of Use

We prefer ovens with simple, intuitive controls. Digital displays are easier to read than dials. Look for preset cooking functions and an interior light to check on food.

Construction and Durability

Stainless steel exteriors tend to be most durable. Non-stick interiors make cleanup easier. Check that the door feels sturdy and seals tightly.

Energy Efficiency

Look for ovens with good insulation to retain heat. Convection cooking can reduce energy use. Some models have eco settings to save power.

Price

Set a budget, but don’t just go for the cheapest option. Mid-range models often offer the best balance of features and value. Consider long-term energy costs too.