In today’s fast-paced world, our kitchens have become command centers for efficiency and culinary creativity. Among the array of modern appliances, the air fryer toaster oven has emerged as a true game-changer, promising to streamline meal prep and elevate everyday cooking. If you’re searching for the Best Air Fryer Toaster Oven Consumer Reports can guide you to, look no further. This comprehensive guide, informed by expert testing and extensive reviews, will help you navigate the options and discover the perfect multifunctional marvel to grace your countertop.
What Exactly is an Air Fryer Toaster Oven?
At its heart, an air fryer toaster oven is a versatile countertop appliance that merges the capabilities of a traditional toaster oven with the rapid, super-heated air circulation of an air fryer. Imagine crisping up your favorite fries, baking a batch of cookies, roasting a whole chicken, and toasting bagels – all from one sleek machine. Unlike their pod-shaped air fryer cousins, these combination units offer a more expansive cooking cavity and a broader spectrum of functions, making them a true kitchen powerhouse. They typically feature electric heating elements and a powerful fan that circulates hot air, mimicking the results of deep-frying with significantly less oil, alongside conventional oven functions like baking and broiling.
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Our Picks for the Best Toaster Oven in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
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| 1 | BLACK+DECKER Crisp \'N Bake Air Fry Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, Medium Capacity, 4-Slice, 5-in-1, Fits 9” Pizza, 30-Min Timer, Bake, Broil, Air Fry, Toast, Keep Warm, Stainless Steel |
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| 2 | BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver |
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| 3 | OUNIN Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo – 11-in-1 Countertop Convection Steam Oven with Air Fryer, Steam, Dual Cook, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate, 90–430°F, Self-Cleaning, 16qt Capacity |
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| 4 | VAL CUCINA Infrared Heating Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Extra Large Countertop Convection Oven 10-in-1 Combo, 6-Slice Toast, Enamel Baking Pan Easy Clean with Recipe Book, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish |
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| 5 | Ninja Flip Toaster Oven&Air Fryer, 8-in-1 Functionality, Flip Up&Away Capability for Storage Space, LargeCapacity, Air Fry Basket, SheetPan, Wire Rack&Removable Crumb Tray, Stainless,1800 watts, SP151 |
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| 6 | Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact 2 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with 15 Minute Timer & Adjustable Temperature, Bake, Broil, & Toast, Black |
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| 7 | Typhur Sync Oven with Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer Probe, 12‑in‑1 Countertop Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 360° Turbo Convection, Dehydrator, Recipes & 5 Accessories, Large 27QT, Stainless Steel |
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| 8 | Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo 17 cooking presets 1700W french door digital air fryer oven 24L capacity accessories, convection rack, baking pan tray recipe book GTF7460,Large,Black |
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| 9 | Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill, 1800W 8-1 Air Fryer Oven with Bake, Convection Bake, Grill, Broil and Warm Options, Large Capacity, 60-Minute Timer, TOA-70NAS, Stainless Steel |
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| 10 | Chefman Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, Countertop Oven for Quick & Healthy Meals, Bake, Broil, Air Fry, Toast, and Bagel Functions, 450°F Max Temp, 4 Slice Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo |
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The Undeniable Perks: Why You Need an Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Integrating an air fryer toaster oven into your kitchen brings a cascade of benefits that can transform your cooking habits and enhance your culinary output.
Convenience at Your Fingertips
One of the most compelling advantages is sheer convenience. These appliances heat up significantly faster than a full-size oven, making them ideal for quick weeknight dinners or small-batch baking. No more waiting around for a large oven to preheat for a simple snack! They excel at reviving leftovers, giving them a fresh-from-the-oven crispness that a microwave simply can’t match.
Versatility: A Culinary Multitool
The sheer versatility of an air fryer toaster oven is unmatched. Beyond air frying and toasting, most models offer a host of cooking modes, including baking, broiling, roasting, dehydrating, and even slow cooking. Some advanced units come with specialized presets for pizza, cookies, bagels, and proofing dough, truly expanding your culinary repertoire. This means you can create everything from crispy chicken wings and perfectly baked salmon to homemade jerky and decadent desserts, all within one appliance.
Energy Efficiency and Space-Saving Solutions
For smaller meals or when you don’t need to fire up your large oven, an air fryer toaster oven is a more energy-efficient choice. It uses less power and heats a smaller cavity, leading to lower utility bills. Furthermore, it’s a champion of countertop real estate. By combining the functions of a toaster, an air fryer, and often a small oven, it declutters your kitchen, making it perfect for apartments, dorms, or anyone seeking a minimalist approach to kitchen gadgets.
Picking Your Perfect Match: Key Factors to Consider
Choosing the best air fryer toaster oven consumer reports highlight means diving into the details. Here’s what you should think about before making your investment:
Size and Capacity: Small Kitchens to Family Feasts
The internal capacity and external footprint are crucial. If you’re cooking for one or two, a compact model like the Ninja Foodi, which can even flip up to save space, might be perfect. However, for larger families or those who frequently entertain, an extra-large model such as the Ninja Prestige Smart XL or the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, which can accommodate a 9×13 inch baking pan or a whole roast chicken, offers invaluable space. Consider what you’ll typically be cooking to determine the ideal size.
Functions and Presets: More Than Just Air Frying
While all models air fry and toast, the range of additional functions varies widely. Think about whether you need features like dehydrating for snacks, slow cooking for stews, or a dedicated pizza setting. Digital controls often offer more precise temperature and time adjustments compared to manual dials, though some budget-friendly manual models still perform admirably. Look for intuitive interfaces that make selecting and adjusting settings a breeze.
Power and Performance: Achieving Culinary Excellence
High wattage (typically 1500-1800 watts) generally translates to faster preheating and more efficient cooking. However, it’s not just about raw power; consistency and evenness are key. The best air fryer toaster ovens excel in tests for crispy air-fried foods (like chicken wings and French fries), evenly browned toast, and consistently baked cookies. Some units might have “cool spots” or struggle to maintain precise temperatures, which can impact your cooking results.
Brand Reputation and Price: Investing Wisely
Leading brands like Breville, Ninja, Cuisinart, and Instant Pot frequently appear at the top of expert reviews, known for their innovative designs and reliable performance. While premium models offer a sleek interface and a plethora of special features, excellent budget-friendly options also exist. As David Watsky, Managing Editor for Home and Kitchen at CNET, notes, “Spending more on an air-frying toaster will likely get you more special features and a sleeker interface but not necessarily better results. Premium models such as the $380 Breville Smart Oven Air are a joy to use, the Ninja and Cuisinart delivered equally delicious wings, fries and toast for about half the price.” It’s about finding the balance between features you need and a price point that makes sense for you.
Smart Features and Accessories: The Modern Kitchen Edge
Some air fryer toaster ovens, like the Cosori Smart Air Fryer Toaster Oven or the GE Profile UltraFast Smart Air Fry Oven, come with smart features such as app connectivity and voice control, allowing you to manage your cooking from your phone. Additionally, the included accessories can significantly enhance functionality. Look for models that come with an air fry basket, baking sheet, wire racks, and a crumb tray. Some even include rotisserie spits or pizza pans, adding extra value.
Getting the Most Out of Your Air Fryer Toaster Oven: Tips and Tricks
Once you’ve chosen your ideal appliance, a few simple tips will help you master it:
- Preheat Properly: Unless your model boasts a “no preheat” function, always allow it to preheat fully. This ensures consistent cooking temperatures and optimal results, especially for air frying.
- Don’t Overcrowd: For the crispiest air-fried foods, arrange items in a single layer with space for air to circulate. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping. You may need to cook in batches.
- Shake and Flip: For even cooking and browning, especially with fries or vegetables, remember to shake the basket or flip items halfway through the cooking process.
- Clean Regularly: A removable crumb tray is a blessing for easy cleanup. Wipe down the interior and accessories after each use to prevent grease buildup and maintain performance. The CNET review highlights that the Ninja Foodi has a clever design allowing the bottom floor to fold out for easy cleaning, which is a significant plus if you cook greasy foods.
Culinary Adventures: Popular Recipes to Try
The possibilities are endless with an air fryer toaster oven. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- Crispy Chicken Wings: Achieve restaurant-quality wings with a fraction of the oil. Simply season, air fry, and toss in your favorite sauce.
- Perfectly Golden French Fries: Whether from frozen or freshly cut potatoes, your air fryer toaster oven will deliver delightfully crispy fries every time.
- Quick Pizzas: From reheating leftover slices to baking a small fresh pizza, it’s far more efficient than heating a large oven.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower transform into tender, caramelized delights with minimal effort.
- Baked Goods: Whip up a batch of cookies or even a small cake. Many models, like the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer, excel at consistent baking.
- Toasted Bagels and Bread: Of course, it performs its namesake function with precision, delivering perfectly toasted slices and bagels.
Air Fryer Toaster Oven vs. Traditional Appliances: A Showdown
It’s natural to wonder how this hybrid marvel stacks up against other kitchen staples.
- Vs. Microwave: While a microwave is unmatched for speed in reheating liquids and certain dishes, it often leaves food soggy. The air fryer toaster oven excels at making reheated pizza or fries taste fresh and crispy.
- Vs. Full-Size Oven: For smaller meals, the air fryer toaster oven is a clear winner in terms of energy efficiency and preheating time. It’s fantastic for avoiding heating up your entire kitchen, especially in warmer months. However, for large roasts or multiple dishes, your full-size oven is still indispensable.
- Vs. Standalone Air Fryer: The main difference lies in versatility and capacity. A pod-shaped air fryer is primarily for air frying, often with limited space. An air fryer toaster oven offers the full range of oven functions in addition to air frying, typically with a larger, more accommodating cooking chamber.
Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Toaster Oven Hiccups
Even the best appliances can have their quirks. Here are solutions to common issues:
- Uneven Cooking: This often stems from overcrowding. Ensure food is in a single layer with adequate space. Also, rotate racks or flip food halfway through. If an oven consistently cooks unevenly, it might have hot/cold spots, a factor noted in various expert tests.
- Smoking: Grease dripping onto heating elements is a common culprit. Use parchment paper or aluminum foil (ensuring it doesn’t touch heating elements) under fatty foods, and clean your crumb tray and interior regularly.
- Food Not Getting Crispy Enough: Make sure the air fry basket is used when air frying to allow maximum air circulation. Avoid overcrowding, and consider extending cooking time slightly or increasing the temperature if your model tends to run cooler.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is an air fryer toaster oven worth the investment?
A: For many households, absolutely! An air fryer toaster oven consolidates multiple appliances, saving counter space and often energy. It offers incredible versatility for everyday cooking, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Q: What’s the ideal capacity for a family of four?
A: For a family of four, look for models with a capacity of at least 20-25 quarts or one that can fit a 12-inch pizza or a small whole chicken. This allows you to cook sufficient portions without needing multiple batches.
Q: Can I use aluminum foil in my air fryer toaster oven?
A: Yes, you can use aluminum foil, but ensure it doesn’t touch the heating elements. Also, make sure it’s weighted down by food so it doesn’t fly around during operation, which could obstruct the fan or heating elements.
Q: How often should I clean my air fryer toaster oven?
A: For optimal performance and hygiene, you should clean the crumb tray after every few uses. A more thorough wipe-down of the interior, including the heating coils, is recommended every 3-5 uses, especially after cooking greasy foods.
Q: What are the must-have accessories for an air fryer toaster oven?
A: Essential accessories typically include an air fry basket (perforated for circulation), a baking pan, and a wire rack. Some models also offer rotisserie kits, pizza pans, or dehydrating racks, which are great if you plan to use those specific functions.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Cooking with the Right Air Fryer Toaster Oven
The search for the best air fryer toaster oven consumer reports recommend leads to a clear conclusion: these appliances are more than just a trend; they’re a smart, versatile investment for any modern kitchen. They deliver unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and the ability to cook a vast array of dishes with delicious results. By considering your specific needs for size, functions, and performance, you can confidently choose a model that will not only simplify your cooking routine but also inspire you to explore new culinary horizons. Embrace the power of the air fryer toaster oven and transform your everyday meals into extraordinary culinary experiences!