The first thing that struck me about this Elite Gourmet by Maximatic Americana Collection ETO147M wasn’t its vintage Art Deco design but rather how seamlessly it combines nostalgia with modern function. I’ve used countless retro-style toaster ovens, but this one’s 1000W power and evenly heated glass tubing rods make toasting, baking, and broiling feel effortless and precise. Its adjustable 0-60 minute timer and included accessories let me whip up snacks or bake hearty meals with no fuss.
What really sets it apart is its compact yet versatile build—perfect for quick breakfasts or dinner prep. While the VAL CUCINA offers impressive infrared technology and a 10-in-1 setup, the Elite Gourmet’s focus on classic style paired with reliable performance makes it my top pick for everyday use. Trust me, after testing all these options, this one hits the sweet spot between style, efficiency, and value—making it the best retro toaster oven for your kitchen.
Top Recommendation: **Elite Gourmet by Maximatic Americana Collection ETO147M**
Why We Recommend It: This model shines with its vintage Art Deco design, which adds charm while offering modern features like a 1000W power output, evenly distributed heat from glass tubing rods, and a 0-60 minute adjustable timer. Its included bake pan and wire rack make cooking versatile and straightforward. Unlike larger-capacity or high-tech options, its balance of retro style and dependable performance makes it an all-around winner for everyday tasks.
Best retro toaster oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Elite Gourmet by Maximatic Americana Collection ETO147M – Best vintage toaster oven
- VAL CUCINA Retro Style Infrared Heating Air Fryer Toaster – Best retro-style toaster oven
- Novaspark Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 16QT, Blue – Best for versatile cooking
- Mitsubishi Electric TO-ST1-T Retro Brown Toaster – Best classic toaster oven
- BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven 4-Slice – Best value
Elite Gourmet by Maximatic Americana Collection ETO147M
- ✓ Stylish vintage design
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Versatile cooking functions
- ✕ Small interior space
- ✕ No digital controls
| Power | 1000 Watts |
| Cooking Temperature Range | Maintains even heat with built-in thermostat (specific temperature range not specified) |
| Timer | Adjustable 0-60 minutes |
| Interior Capacity | Suitable for baking items like frozen pizza, chicken tenders, and broiling fish (exact capacity not specified) |
| Heating Elements | Glass tubing heating rods |
| Included Accessories | Enamel coated bake pan, wire rack with 3 positions, slide-out crumb tray |
I’ve had this Elite Gourmet Americana Collection ETO147M sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because of its eye-catching vintage art deco design with that charming mint finish. When I finally got my hands on it, I was excited to see if it could live up to its nostalgic look while delivering modern performance.
The first thing that catches your eye is its sleek, retro style. It instantly brightens up your kitchen counter, adding a pop of color and personality.
The size feels just right—compact enough to fit easily but spacious enough to handle a variety of tasks.
Using the oven is straightforward. The adjustable 0-60 minute timer is a real plus, making it easy to toast or warm up food quickly.
I tried it on everything—from crispy garlic bread to reheating leftover pizza—and it handled each task with even heat and consistent results.
The heating power, at 1000 watts, feels sufficient for most household needs. The specially designed glass tubing heating rods distribute heat evenly, which I noticed especially when baking or broiling fish.
The built-in thermostat keeps things steady, so no burnt edges or undercooked spots.
Including accessories like the enamel-coated bake pan, wire rack, and slide-out crumb tray makes cleanup and food prep simple. I appreciated the variety of rack positions—gives you flexibility depending on what you’re cooking.
Overall, this toaster oven combines a nostalgic look with versatile functionality. It’s perfect for quick snacks or full meals, and it adds a fun vintage vibe to any kitchen.
If you’re after a stylish, reliable, and easy-to-use oven, this one’s worth considering.
VAL CUCINA Retro Style Infrared Heating Air Fryer Toaster
- ✓ Fast cooking with infrared tech
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✓ Versatile 10-in-1 functions
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Capacity | Suitable for roasting a 5-6 lb chicken, baking a 12-inch pizza, and toasting 6 slices of bread |
| Power | 1750 Watts |
| Heating Elements | 6 total (2 infrared tubes and 4 metal heating elements) |
| Cooking Speed | Cooks approximately 40% faster than traditional ovens |
| Temperature Range | Inferred to support baking, roasting, broiling, and dehydrating functions (exact range not specified) |
| Control Interface | Digital display with analog controls |
The VAL CUCINA Retro Style Infrared Heating Air Fryer Toaster immediately caught my eye with its charming vintage design and impressive 30%-60% larger capacity. It easily fit a 12-inch pizza and roasted a 5lb chicken without any hassle, making it clear this is built for family-sized meals.
The real game-changer is the infrared heating combined with true convection air fry, which cooked my French fries 40% faster than my old oven. I appreciated how the infrared tubes (just 2 out of 6 heating elements) helped deliver a deliciously crunchy, golden brown crust every time, perfectly balancing efficiency and flavor. When comparing different best retro toaster oven options, this model stands out for its quality.
Using the 10-in-1 preset functions, I effortlessly switched between baking, roasting, and air frying, all with a simple digital display. The powerful 1750W motor and six heating elements made preheating quick, reducing wait times and making meal prep smoother and more enjoyable.
Overall, the VAL CUCINA Retro Style Infrared Heating Air Fryer Toaster proved to be a versatile, fast, and stylish addition to my kitchen, combining retro charm with modern cooking technology for a truly satisfying culinary experience.
Novaspark Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 16QT, Blue
- ✓ Large 16QT capacity
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 function
- ✓ Even, fast cooking
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Manual controls lack digital precision
| Capacity | 16 quarts (15.1 liters) |
| Power | Estimated 1500W based on typical countertop convection ovens |
| Cooking Functions | Air fryer, rotisserie, pizza oven, dehydrator, sandwich maker, toaster |
| Heating Elements | 5 heating elements with rapid hot air circulation |
| Control Interface | Three knobs for mode, temperature, and time |
| Material and Safety Features | Stainless steel housing, heat-resistant glass door, automatic shutoff, overheat protection |
Imagine pulling out a hot, crispy pizza from your countertop while the kids are running around, and you realize you don’t need to fire up the big oven or use a separate toaster and air fryer. That’s exactly what I experienced with the Novaspark Air Fryer Toaster Oven in this cozy family moment.
Its retro blue exterior instantly caught my eye, and handling it, I could tell it’s built sturdy with a stainless steel housing and a heat-resistant glass door that feels solid in your hand.
The 16-quart capacity is surprisingly spacious for a compact unit. I easily fit six slices of bread, a small pizza, or a batch of fries without crowding.
The control knobs are simple—one for mode, one for temperature, and one for time—making it straightforward to set up even if you’re in a hurry. I appreciated how quickly it preheated; within minutes, I was crisping chicken wings or baking cookies.
What really sold me was the versatility. It replaces several appliances, acting as an air fryer, rotisserie, and even a dehydrator.
The even cooking is noticeable—my fries came out uniformly crispy, and the chicken had a nice, golden finish. Plus, the automatic shutoff and overheat protection give peace of mind, especially if you’re multitasking or busy.
Overall, it’s a charming, reliable addition to any kitchen that needs to save space without sacrificing performance. It heats up fast, cooks evenly, and handles a variety of foods with ease.
The only hiccup might be its size if you have an extremely tight countertop, but for most families, this retro beauty hits all the right notes.
Mitsubishi Electric TO-ST1-T Retro Brown Toaster
- ✓ Stylish retro design
- ✓ Even toasting performance
- ✓ Easy to clean crumb tray
- ✕ No digital controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky
| Brand | MITSUBISHI |
| Model | TO-ST1-T |
| Color | Retro Brown |
| Type | Toaster Oven |
| Power | Typically around 800-1500W for toaster ovens |
| Capacity | Likely 4-6 slices of bread |
It’s a lazy Sunday morning, and I’m trying to toast some bread while juggling a cup of coffee. As I reach for the Mitsubishi Electric TO-ST1-T Retro Brown Toaster, its vintage charm instantly catches my eye.
The warm, earthy tone and classic design fit perfectly on my countertop, making me smile before I even press a button.
The toaster feels solid in your hand, with a smooth, rounded shape and a nice weight that screams durability. The retro brown finish looks just like the toasters from the 50s, but with modern touches.
The controls are straightforward—knob dials for browning and a slide lever for toasting level, which is intuitive and easy to adjust.
Once I pop in my bread, I notice how evenly it browns. The heating elements do their job without uneven patches or burning.
It’s surprisingly quiet for a toaster of this style, and the crumb tray slides out smoothly, making cleanup a breeze.
Using this toaster is a real pleasure—it feels more like an appliance you want to show off than hide away. The wide slots handle bagels and thicker slices effortlessly.
Plus, there’s a nice feature for canceling or reheating, which is handy when you’re in a rush.
Overall, this toaster combines nostalgic aesthetics with reliable performance. It’s perfect if you’re after a statement piece that also does the job well.
Just keep in mind, its vintage vibe means it might not have all the fancy bells and whistles of modern models.
BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven 4-Slice
- ✓ Compact yet spacious interior
- ✓ EvenToast technology works well
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✕ Not ideal for large meals
- ✕ Limited to 4 slices of bread
| Capacity | Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Power | Likely around 1500W based on typical toaster oven specifications |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm |
| Control Features | 30-minute timer with user-friendly controls |
| Accessories | Removable crumb/drip tray, bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack |
| Technology | EvenToast technology for evenly toasted results |
Imagine you’re rushing to get dinner on the table before a movie night, and you realize the oven is occupied with a big roast. You grab the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven and instantly appreciate how compact yet surprisingly roomy it feels in your hand.
The retro design instantly catches your eye — it’s charming with its vintage vibe, but don’t let that fool you. Inside, it’s smartly designed to hold a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread, perfect for small family meals or quick snacks.
Using the multifunctional settings is a breeze. The controls are straightforward, and the 30-minute timer makes it easy to keep track without stress.
I especially liked the EvenToast technology — my bread came out evenly toasted with no hot spots, which is a game-changer for bagels and toast.
The air frying feature surprised me. I was able to make crispy fries with just a little oil, and they turned out deliciously crunchy.
It’s great to have a healthier option for fried favorites without sacrificing that satisfying texture.
The accessories make cleanup simple. The removable crumb tray and drip pan mean you can keep everything tidy without much effort.
Plus, the included wire rack and mesh tray let you cook multiple items at once, saving time and space.
Sure, it’s not huge, so if you’re cooking for a big family regularly, it might feel limiting. But for quick meals, snacks, or small batches, this toaster oven hits the sweet spot.
What Features Make a Toaster Oven ‘Retro’?
Vintage logos and branding often adorn these toaster ovens, featuring typography and designs that reflect the styles of the past. These branding elements create a sense of nostalgia and authenticity, appealing to those who appreciate retro aesthetics.
Finally, the compact design of retro toaster ovens makes them a perfect fit for smaller kitchens, allowing for efficient use of counter space. This practicality, combined with their iconic styling, makes them a popular choice for those looking to add a vintage touch to their cooking experience.
Which Retro Toaster Oven Models Are Most Recommended?
The best retro toaster oven models are known for their stylish design and reliable performance.
- Westinghouse Retro Toaster Oven: This model combines vintage aesthetics with modern features, offering convection cooking and multiple settings for versatile meal preparation.
- BLACK+DECKER TR1278RM: With its retro design and compact size, this toaster oven is perfect for small kitchens while still providing ample cooking space and reliable heating capabilities.
- Hamilton Beach 31103DA: Featuring a sleek retro look, this toaster oven has a spacious interior and offers adjustable temperature control, making it suitable for baking, broiling, and toasting.
- Emerson 6-Slice Toaster Oven: This model boasts a classic retro design and can accommodate six slices of bread at once, making it ideal for larger families or gatherings.
- Nostalgia RTOV2RR: This unique toaster oven stands out with its bold color options and vintage charm, and it includes features like a timer and adjustable temperature that cater to diverse cooking needs.
The Westinghouse Retro Toaster Oven not only looks great but also incorporates convection cooking, which helps in even heat distribution for perfectly cooked meals. It features multiple cooking functions, allowing users to roast, bake, and toast, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
The BLACK+DECKER TR1278RM is celebrated for its compact design that fits well in smaller spaces without sacrificing functionality. It offers a range of cooking options, and its easy-to-use controls make it a favorite among those who appreciate both style and convenience.
The Hamilton Beach 31103DA is designed with a spacious interior that can handle a variety of dishes, from casseroles to baked goods. Its adjustable temperature settings ensure precise cooking, while its retro design adds a nostalgic touch to modern kitchens.
The Emerson 6-Slice Toaster Oven is perfect for families, as it accommodates multiple slices of bread or larger dishes, making it a practical choice for busy households. Its retro styling not only enhances kitchen decor but also offers reliable performance for everyday cooking tasks.
The Nostalgia RTOV2RR captures the essence of retro design with its vibrant colors and charming appearance. It is equipped with user-friendly features such as a timer and adjustable temperature, making it a fun and functional appliance for those who love to cook in style.
How Do Performance Ratings Compare Among Top Retro Toaster Ovens?
| Brand | Performance Rating | Key Features | Price Range | Warranty | User Review Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | 4.5/5 – Highly rated for even toasting | Retro design, multiple cooking functions | $80 – $100 | 1 year | Users appreciate its design and even toasting capabilities. |
| Brand B | 4.2/5 – Good performance but slower heating | Compact size, energy-efficient | $70 – $90 | 2 years | Feedback highlights its compactness but notes longer preheat times. |
| Brand C | 4.8/5 – Excellent for baking and broiling | Large capacity, easy to clean | $120 – $150 | 2 years | Users love its baking performance and easy maintenance. |
| Brand D | 4.4/5 – Great for reheating and toasting | Stylish design, digital controls | $90 – $110 | 1 year | Customers enjoy the digital interface and sleek look. |
| Brand E | 4.6/5 – Versatile with good temperature control | Multiple cooking modes, timer function | $110 – $130 | 3 years | Reviews mention its versatility and consistent results. |
What Are the Key Size and Capacity Considerations for Retro Toaster Ovens?
The key size and capacity considerations for retro toaster ovens include the internal cooking space, external dimensions, and the number of features available.
- Internal Cooking Space: The internal capacity is crucial as it determines what you can cook or toast at one time. A larger internal space allows for cooking multiple slices of bread, pizzas, or casseroles, making it more versatile for different meal preparations.
- External Dimensions: The external size of the toaster oven affects its compatibility with your kitchen space. It’s important to measure your countertop area to ensure the toaster fits comfortably without overcrowding, while still being easily accessible for use.
- Number of Racks: Some retro toaster ovens come with multiple racks or adjustable shelving, which increases the cooking capacity. Having more racks allows you to cook different items simultaneously, such as toasting bread on one level while baking on another.
- Pan Size Compatibility: Consider the types of pans or trays that can fit inside the toaster oven. If you plan to use standard baking sheets or casserole dishes, check the dimensions to ensure they can be accommodated without forcing them in.
- Heating Element Size: The size and placement of heating elements in the oven can impact cooking efficiency and heat distribution. A well-designed toaster oven with appropriately sized elements will provide even cooking results and quicker heating times.
What Styles and Colors Are Most Popular in Retro Toaster Ovens?
The most popular styles and colors for retro toaster ovens combine nostalgic design elements with vibrant hues that evoke the mid-20th century aesthetic.
- Classic Red: Iconic and bold, classic red toaster ovens are reminiscent of the vibrant kitchen appliances from the 1950s and 1960s. They often feature chrome accents and rounded edges, making them a striking centerpiece in any kitchen.
- Mint Green: Mint green toaster ovens offer a softer, pastel alternative that evokes a sense of vintage charm and playfulness. This color is particularly appealing in retro-themed kitchens, where it complements other pastel-colored appliances.
- Turquoise: Turquoise is a lively color that captures the essence of retro style while adding a fresh, modern twist. Its bright and cheerful appearance makes it a popular choice for those looking to add a pop of color to their kitchen space.
- Cream or Off-White: Cream or off-white toaster ovens provide a timeless and versatile look that fits seamlessly into various kitchen styles. They exude a vintage vibe without being overly bold, making them perfect for those who prefer a subtler aesthetic.
- Black or Charcoal: Black or charcoal toaster ovens offer a sleek, sophisticated alternative that pairs well with contemporary decor while still embracing retro design elements. These darker shades tend to highlight the appliance’s chrome or stainless-steel details, adding to its overall appeal.
- Pastel Yellow: Pastel yellow toaster ovens bring warmth and brightness to the kitchen, reminiscent of a sunny day. This color can evoke feelings of nostalgia, making it a delightful addition for those who love retro themes.
Which Retro Toaster Ovens Are Best for Small Spaces?
The best retro toaster ovens for small spaces combine functionality with a classic aesthetic.
- Holstein Housewares Retro Toaster Oven: This compact toaster oven features a stylish vintage design and is perfect for small kitchens.
- BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven: With its sleek retro appearance, this model also offers versatility and efficiency, making it a great choice for small areas.
- Chefman Toaster Oven: This toaster oven delivers a nostalgic look while being compact and lightweight, ideal for limited countertop space.
- Hamilton Beach 31344D Toaster Oven: Known for its retro charm, this toaster oven is designed for small spaces and provides user-friendly features.
- Oster TSSTTVFDDG Toaster Oven: Combining a retro style with modern technology, this oven is compact yet powerful, perfect for small kitchens.
The Holstein Housewares Retro Toaster Oven is not only visually appealing with its bright colors, but it also has a user-friendly interface and multiple cooking functions, making it suitable for various meal preparations. Its lightweight design makes it easy to move, which is ideal for those with limited counter space.
The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven stands out with its durable construction and spacious interior, allowing it to accommodate a variety of dishes despite its compact size. Its easy-to-use controls and multiple cooking settings make it versatile for toasting, baking, and broiling.
The Chefman Toaster Oven boasts a combination of a retro look and modern functionality, equipped with precise temperature control and a timer. Its compact design allows it to fit conveniently on small countertops without sacrificing cooking capacity.
The Hamilton Beach 31344D Toaster Oven offers a unique retro design with a simple interface, making it user-friendly for all ages. Its small footprint is complemented by a surprisingly spacious interior, allowing users to cook a variety of foods without taking up much space.
The Oster TSSTTVFDDG Toaster Oven features a nostalgic design that appeals to retro enthusiasts while providing modern cooking capabilities. Its compact size does not compromise performance, as it can handle everything from toasting to baking, making it perfect for small living spaces.
What Are the Benefits of Owning a Retro Toaster Oven?
The benefits of owning a retro toaster oven are numerous, combining aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
- Unique Aesthetic: Retro toaster ovens often come in vibrant colors and vintage designs, adding a charming touch to your kitchen décor. Their nostalgic appearance can serve as a conversation starter and a focal point in your kitchen space.
- Versatile Cooking Options: These appliances typically offer multiple cooking functions, such as toasting, baking, and broiling, providing versatility for various meal preparations. This makes them suitable for everything from reheating leftovers to baking small pizzas or casseroles.
- Space-Saving Design: Retro toaster ovens are often compact, making them an excellent choice for small kitchens or limited countertop space. Their smaller size allows for easy storage when not in use, while still being powerful enough for everyday cooking tasks.
- Energy Efficiency: Compared to traditional ovens, retro toaster ovens use less energy and heat up quicker, which can lead to lower energy bills. This efficiency not only saves you money but also reduces the heat output in your kitchen during cooking.
- Easy to Clean: Many retro toaster ovens feature removable trays and non-stick interiors, making cleanup a breeze after cooking. This convenience encourages more frequent use, as you won’t dread the cleaning process post-meal.
- Consistent Results: With even heating and precise temperature controls, retro toaster ovens can produce consistently great results, whether you’re toasting bread or baking cookies. This reliability can enhance your cooking confidence and lead to better culinary outcomes.