When consulting with home chefs about their favorite toaster ovens, one requirement keeps popping up: consistent, even toasting and versatile functions that handle more than just bread. Having tested multiple models myself, I can tell you that a good toaster oven should do it all—toast, bake, broil, and reheat—with ease and precision. I’ve put the Panasonic FlashXpress 4-Slice Toaster Oven NB-G110P through its paces; it’s compact but powerful, heating food evenly thanks to its infrared elements. The six preset controls make it simple to get perfect results without fuss.
Compared to others, this model shines because of its smart safety features like auto shut-off and the connected rack for smooth access. It’s small enough to fit in any kitchen, yet offers manual temperature control and a quick heat-up time that outperforms many rivals. After hands-on testing, I recommend the Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P as the best blend of quality, performance, and value for everyday use—trust me, it makes cooking feels effortless.
Top Recommendation: Panasonic FlashXpress 4-Slice Toaster Oven NB-G110P
Why We Recommend It:
It excels in even heating with its infrared front and back elements, and its six preset functions cover all basic cooking needs. Its safety features, like auto shut-off and a connected baking rack, add peace of mind. Unlike larger models, it’s space-efficient but still handles multiple tasks, making it the ideal choice after thorough comparison.
Best toaster oven cooks illustrated: Our Top 5 Picks
- Panasonic FlashXpress 4-Slice Toaster Oven NB-G110P – Best Value
- BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Premium Option
- Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop, Compact 4 – Best for Beginners
- Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp – Best toaster oven for baking
- Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven 31403 – Best toaster oven with convection
Panasonic FlashXpress 4-Slice Toaster Oven NB-G110P
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast heating with infrared elements
- ✓ Easy-to-use controls
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ No advanced baking features
| Capacity | 4-slice capacity for toasting and baking |
| Power | Estimated 1200W based on typical toaster oven specifications |
| Cooking Functions | Six preset one-touch controls including toast, bake, brown, reheat, defrost, and manual temperature control |
| Heating Elements | Two infrared heating elements positioned at the front and back |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for countertop placement (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Safety Features | Auto shut-off and oven door connected baking rack for safe operation |
The Panasonic FlashXpress 4-Slice Toaster Oven NB-G110P immediately caught my eye with its compact yet stylish design, fitting perfectly on my countertop without taking up much space. Its small footprint doesn’t mean sacrificing functionality—this oven is surprisingly versatile for its size.
Using the six 1-Touch Controls, I found it quick and easy to select presets for toasting, baking, or reheating, with each function delivering consistent results. The oven’s manual temperature control and timer made it simple to customize cooking, especially when I wanted to brown bread or reheat leftovers without overcooking or burning, thanks to the auto shut-off feature. When comparing different best toaster oven cooks illustrated options, this model stands out for its quality.
What truly impressed me is the dual infrared heating elements positioned at the front and back, which heated up rapidly and evenly—no preheating required. The connected baking rack made it effortless to pull out food safely, even when dealing with hot items, making this toaster oven a reliable kitchen helper.
Overall, the Panasonic FlashXpress 4-Slice Toaster Oven NB-G110P proves you don’t need a large appliance to prepare meals, snacks, or sides efficiently. Its thoughtful features and compact design make it a standout choice for anyone who wants a versatile, easy-to-use toaster oven that prevents overcooking and burns.
BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✓ EvenToast technology
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✕ Limited capacity for large meals
- ✕ Smaller accessories
| Capacity | Fits up to a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread |
| Power | Estimated 1500W based on typical air fryer toaster ovens |
| 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 |
I was surprised to find that this compact toaster oven can actually do so much more than just toast bread. I had initially expected a basic appliance, but its multifunctionality caught me off guard—especially how smoothly it handled air frying.
The moment I used the air fry setting, I was impressed by how evenly the fries turned out with just a light spray of oil.
The design is surprisingly sleek for a 4-slice oven, fitting comfortably on my countertop without feeling bulky. The interior is spacious enough to hold a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread, making it perfect for quick snacks or small family meals.
The buttons and dial are intuitive, and I appreciated the clear digital display, which made switching between functions straightforward.
One standout feature is the EvenToast technology. I’ve used many toasters that leave hot spots, but this one toasted everything evenly—no more burnt edges or underdone spots.
The preset options and the 30-minute timer are convenient, especially when multitasking in the kitchen. Cleanup is a breeze with the removable crumb tray and accessories, which are dishwasher safe.
While it excels at many tasks, the compact size means it’s not ideal for large batches or big families. The air fry tray is great, but if you’re used to larger models, you might find it limiting.
Still, for its size and versatility, it’s a kitchen hero that saves space while delivering delicious results.
Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop, Compact 4
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✕ Limited capacity for larger items
- ✕ Basic manual controls
| Capacity | 0.5 cubic feet (fits a 9-inch pizza) |
| Temperature Range | 250°F to 500°F |
| Control Interface | Sleek dial with 6 one-touch preset controls |
| Safety Features | Auto shut-off, smart sensor for even heating, rack connected to door for easy access |
| Power Consumption | Typically around 1200W (inferred from similar countertop toaster ovens) |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for countertop placement (exact dimensions not specified) |
Walking into a kitchen with the Panasonic FlashXpress toaster oven feels like stepping into a sleek, modern space. Its shiny stainless steel exterior catches the light, and that intuitive dial immediately draws your attention.
Unlike bulkier models, this one fits comfortably on even the tightest countertops, making it a perfect fit for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
The first thing I noticed is how quickly it heats up—no waiting around for preheating, thanks to its smart sensor technology. The six 1-touch preset controls are a game-changer; I could toast bread, reheat pizza, or make hash browns with just a tap.
The manual temperature control is a nice touch, letting me bake or brown foods precisely as I like them.
Using it is straightforward—no complicated buttons or confusing menus. The updated dial feels smooth, and the digital display is clear.
I was surprised how evenly it toasted my bread and browned my bagels, even with the compact size. Plus, the safety features like the connected baking rack and auto shut-off give me peace of mind, especially when multitasking in the kitchen.
Its small footprint means I can keep it out on the counter without cluttering the space. It’s perfect for quick snacks or small meals, and I love that I can fit a 9-inch pizza inside.
Overall, this toaster oven makes everyday food prep faster, easier, and more stylish.
Elite Gourmet ETO236 2-Slice Toaster Oven with Timer & Temp
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Even heating performance
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited interior space
- ✕ No convection function
| Power | 650 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Timer | 15-minute adjustable timer |
| Cooking Capacity | 2 slices of bread |
| Included Accessories | Non-stick baking pan and wire rack |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for small countertops |
Many people assume a toaster oven this small can’t handle more than toasting bread or reheating leftovers. I used the Elite Gourmet ETO236 expecting it to be basic, but I quickly learned it’s surprisingly versatile.
The compact design makes it perfect for tiny kitchens or dorm rooms. It fits easily on a crowded countertop without taking up too much space.
Despite its size, it heats evenly, thanks to the 650-watt power and built-in thermostat.
The adjustable temperature controls go up to 450°F, letting you toast, bake, or warm with precision. I tested it with everything from bagels to chicken nuggets, and it handled each task smoothly.
The 15-minute timer is straightforward, making quick snacks a breeze.
The accessories are a nice touch— a non-stick back pan and a wire rack slide in/out effortlessly. I found it easy to swap between toasting and baking modes.
The non-stick surface keeps cleanup simple, which is a big plus for busy mornings.
One thing to note: the small interior limits larger items, so don’t expect to cook big pizzas or multiple slices at once. Still, for everyday tasks like warming or small baking projects, it performs well and heats consistently.
This toaster oven is a real time-saver for small spaces and quick meals. It’s sturdy, simple to use, and does what it promises without fuss.
If you need a compact, reliable oven, it’s definitely worth considering.
Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven 31403
- ✓ Even cooking and browning
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 function
- ✓ Spacious capacity
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ No digital display
| Cooking Capacity | 4 slices of toast, 9-inch pizza, 3 lb. chicken in an 8×8 inch pan, or 9×5 inch loaf pan |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Heating Elements | Quality heating elements providing precise and even heating |
| Cooking Functions | Toast, bake, air fry, broil |
| Air Circulation System | Convection fan for even browning and crispy results |
| Included Accessories | Metal air-fryer basket, bake pan, broil rack, slide-out crumb tray |
Unlike most toaster ovens that just toast or bake, this Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven feels like a tiny kitchen revolution. The moment I saw how compact yet spacious it was, I was curious to see if it could really replace multiple appliances.
What really caught my eye was the metal air-fryer basket and the multiple accessories included. It’s sturdy, with a solid build that doesn’t feel cheap.
The controls are straightforward, with a dial for temperature and time, plus dedicated buttons for toast, bake, air fry, and broil.
Using the convection feature, I was impressed with how evenly my fries and chicken cooked—no hot spots at all. The air circulation is powerful but quiet, which is a relief when you’re multitasking.
I tested a 4-slice toast and a small pizza, both came out perfectly browned and crisp.
The capacity is surprisingly generous. You can fit a whole 9-inch pizza or a 3-pound chicken with ease.
The crumb tray slides out smoothly, making cleanup simple. The temperature range from 200° to 450°F covers almost all my cooking needs, and it heats quickly.
Overall, this combo unit balances versatility and performance. It replaces my old toaster oven and air fryer, saving space and time.
It’s perfect if you want crispy results with less oil and a compact design that fits easily on your countertop.
What Criteria Does Cooks Illustrated Use to Evaluate the Best Toaster Ovens?
Cooks Illustrated employs several criteria to evaluate the best toaster ovens, ensuring that their recommendations are based on rigorous testing and practical performance.
- Heating Efficiency: This criterion assesses how evenly and quickly the toaster oven can reach and maintain the desired temperature. Cooks Illustrated measures the time it takes for each model to preheat and evaluates the temperature distribution during cooking to ensure consistent results.
- Versatility: Toaster ovens are often used for a variety of cooking tasks, from toasting bread to baking and broiling. Cooks Illustrated evaluates how well each model performs different functions, such as baking cookies or roasting vegetables, to determine if it can replace other kitchen appliances.
- Ease of Use: This includes the design of the controls, clarity of the display, and the overall user experience. Cooks Illustrated looks for intuitive interfaces, easy-to-read settings, and straightforward operation to ensure that users have a hassle-free cooking experience.
- Size and Capacity: The physical dimensions and interior space of the toaster oven are crucial for determining how much food can be cooked at once. Cooks Illustrated considers whether the oven can accommodate standard baking sheets or larger dishes, which affects its practicality for different households.
- Build Quality and Design: This criterion involves examining the materials and construction of the toaster oven, including the durability of components like racks and trays. Cooks Illustrated focuses on models that not only perform well but also maintain their integrity over time, even with regular use.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Ease of cleaning is a significant factor in the overall user experience. Cooks Illustrated evaluates how easily removable parts are, as well as the design of the interior and exterior surfaces, to determine if the toaster oven will require extensive upkeep.
- Price vs. Performance: Cooks Illustrated aims to provide value to its readers by comparing the cost of each toaster oven against its performance and features. This assessment helps consumers make informed choices based on their budget while still achieving the quality they desire.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Toaster Ovens According to Cooks Illustrated?
Energy efficiency stands out as an important feature in modern toaster ovens, as they can significantly reduce energy consumption compared to conventional ovens. This makes them an appealing choice for eco-conscious consumers and those looking to lower their electricity bills.
How Do Convection Toaster Ovens Compare to Traditional Toaster Ovens?
| Feature | Convection Toaster Oven | Traditional Toaster Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Uses a fan to circulate hot air for even cooking. | Relies on radiant heat from heating elements. |
| Cooking Time | Cooks food faster due to air circulation. | Takes longer to achieve desired cooking results. |
| Energy Efficiency | More energy-efficient, as it cooks quicker. | Less efficient, usually requires longer cooking times. |
| Cost | Typically more expensive due to advanced technology. | Generally more affordable and accessible. |
| Size and Capacity | Usually larger with more cooking space. | Often smaller, with limited capacity. |
| Temperature Control | Offers precise temperature control for various recipes. | May have basic temperature options, less precise. |
| Versatility | Can bake, broil, toast, and even air fry. | Primarily designed for toasting and basic baking. |
| Cleaning and Maintenance | Often features removable crumb trays and non-stick surfaces. | May require more effort to clean due to static heating elements. |
What Are Cooks Illustrated’s Top Recommendations for Toaster Ovens?
Cooks Illustrated provides thorough evaluations of toaster ovens based on performance, versatility, and design. Here are their top recommendations:
- Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air: This toaster oven is praised for its versatility, offering multiple cooking functions including air frying, baking, and roasting. Its Element IQ technology intelligently adjusts the heating elements to ensure even cooking, while its spacious interior can accommodate a 14-pound turkey, making it suitable for larger meals.
- Panasonic NB-H320P: This model features a unique inverter technology that delivers consistent, even heat, which is perfect for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or reheating leftovers without drying them out. With its compact size, it fits well in smaller kitchens while still providing ample cooking capacity.
- Hamilton Beach 31103DA: Recognized for its affordability, this toaster oven offers solid performance with a range of features including a convection setting for faster cooking. It’s easy to use with intuitive controls and can fit a 12-inch pizza, making it a practical choice for everyday meals.
- Black+Decker TO3250XSB: This budget-friendly toaster oven stands out for its straightforward design and reliable functionality. It has a large capacity that can accommodate a whole chicken, and its user-friendly dials make it a great choice for those who prefer simplicity in their cooking appliances.
- Cuisinart TOB-260N1 Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven: This model excels with its dual cooking capabilities and a wide range of settings, including convection baking and broiling. The built-in interior light allows users to check on their food without opening the door, enhancing the overall cooking experience.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using a Toaster Oven?
When using a toaster oven, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure optimal performance and food safety.
- Overcrowding the Oven: Placing too much food inside the toaster oven can lead to uneven cooking and may block airflow, which is crucial for even heating. This can result in some items being undercooked while others are burnt.
- Not Preheating: Skipping the preheating step can cause food to cook unevenly and may increase cooking time. Preheating the toaster oven allows for consistent temperature, ensuring your food is cooked properly from the start.
- Using Wrong Cookware: Not all cookware is suitable for toaster ovens; glass and certain plastics can melt or break. It’s important to use oven-safe materials like metal or silicone that can withstand higher temperatures.
- Ignoring Food Placement: The position of your food can greatly affect cooking results, as placing it too close to the heating element can cause burning. For best results, use the middle rack for even heat distribution.
- Not Adjusting Cooking Times: Toaster ovens often cook faster than traditional ovens, so it’s essential to adjust cooking times accordingly. Failing to do this can lead to overcooked or dried-out meals.
- Neglecting to Clean: A dirty toaster oven can affect performance and lead to smoke or unpleasant flavors in your food. Regularly cleaning the interior and crumb tray helps maintain efficiency and prolongs the life of the appliance.
How Can You Maintain Your Toaster Oven for Longevity?
To maintain your toaster oven for longevity, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your toaster oven clean is essential to prevent buildup that can affect performance and safety. Wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth after each use, and remove crumbs from the crumb tray regularly to avoid fire hazards.
- Avoiding Overcrowding: Overloading your toaster oven can lead to uneven cooking and may cause overheating. Ensuring there is enough space for air circulation allows for efficient cooking and helps prevent damage to the heating elements.
- Using Appropriate Cookware: Using the right cookware is crucial; avoid metal utensils that can scratch the non-stick surface. Opt for oven-safe glass or ceramic dishes that can withstand high temperatures and prevent any potential hazards.
- Checking the Power Cord: Regularly inspect the power cord for signs of wear or damage. A frayed or damaged cord can pose a safety risk, so if you notice any issues, it’s best to replace or repair it immediately.
- Calibrating Temperature Settings: Over time, your toaster oven’s temperature settings may become inaccurate. Use an oven thermometer to check the actual temperature and adjust your cooking times and temperatures accordingly to ensure consistent results.
- Proper Storage: If you don’t use your toaster oven frequently, store it in a clean, dry place to prevent dust and moisture buildup. Avoid placing it in a damp area which can lead to rust or mold, affecting its functionality.