I burned through six months of frozen pizza, sad desk lunches, and test batches of cookies to find the best budget toaster ovens worth your counter space. After testing eight models between $29 and $87, I can tell you which cheap toaster ovens actually deliver and which ones will leave you frustrated.
If you live in a small apartment, dorm room, or just want a secondary oven without dropping $300 on a Breville, this guide is for you. I baked cookies, reheated leftovers, and air fried chicken in every model to see which budget toaster oven gives you the most value for under $90.
Here on 7ate9 Bakery’s kitchen appliance buying guides, we believe you don’t need to spend a fortune for solid everyday cooking. The eight ovens below prove it. Some impressed me with build quality, others with versatility, and a few genuinely surprised me at how well they performed against models three times the price.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Budget Toaster Ovens (September 2026)
Best Budget Toaster Ovens in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Elite Gourmet ETO236 – 2-Slice Compact |
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 Elite Gourmet ETO490 – 4-Slice Versatile |
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 Elite Gourmet ETO449X – Quartz Heating |
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| BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD – 4-Slice Stainless |
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 BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake – 5-in-1 Air Fry |
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| Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp 31403 – Air Fry Combo |
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 BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS – Convection Bake |
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 BLACK+DECKER TO3250XSBD – 8-Slice Extra Wide |
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1. Elite Gourmet ETO236 Personal Compact Toaster Oven – Best for Tight Spaces
Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice Toaster Oven, 15-Min Timer, Black
650W power
2-slice capacity
200-450F range
Compact under $30
Pros
- Compact footprint fits dorms and offices
- 650W heats fast for small meals
- 15-minute timer covers most tasks
- Under $30 price point
- Includes wire rack and bake pan
Cons
- Too small for 9-inch pizza
- No convection
- Manual dials only
The Elite Gourmet ETO236 is what I reach for when I need to toast one or two slices of bread without firing up my full oven. At 13.25 inches wide and just 7.5 inches deep, it barely takes up any counter space. After two months of daily use in my office kitchenette, this little toaster oven still looks brand new.
The 650-watt heating element isn’t going to win any speed contests, but for a basic toaster it does the job well. I tested it with bagels, English muffins, and reheated slices of pizza. Toast comes out evenly browned on both sides at the medium setting. The 15-minute timer is plenty for most snacks and small meals, though longer baking tasks will require you to manually restart it.
Temperature control runs from 200F to 450F, which covers everything from warming bread to broiling open-faced sandwiches. I found the dial markings a bit vague around the 350F mark, so I relied on a separate oven thermometer for the first week. Once I figured out the dial position, results stayed consistent.
The included bake pan and wire rack slide in and out smoothly. The drop-down crumb tray makes cleanup painless. Build quality is reasonable for the price, though the aluminum door feels lighter than the stainless steel models. For a college dorm, office pantry, or anyone wanting an affordable secondary oven, this one punches above its weight.
Cooking Performance
Toast quality is solid for the price point. I baked 4 chocolate chip cookies as a basic baking test and got usable results in 10 minutes, though the browning was uneven toward the back. Reheating leftovers works fine for small portions. Don’t expect to roast a chicken or bake a large casserole in this size.
Best Use Cases
This budget toaster oven shines for one or two people who mainly want toast, reheated leftovers, and simple snacks. It’s ideal for dorm rooms, studio apartments, office break rooms, or as a small secondary oven next to your microwave. Skip it if you regularly cook for a family or want to bake larger items.
2. Elite Gourmet ETO490 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven – Best Versatile Compact
Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4-Slice Oven, 30-Min Timer, Adj. Temp, Black
800W power
4-slice capacity
30-min timer
Includes crumb tray
Pros
- Spacious 9L interior fits 4 slices
- 30-minute timer covers longer tasks
- Removable crumb tray simplifies cleanup
- 800W handles basic baking
- Trusted brand with 40+ years
Cons
- Aluminum door feels less premium
- No convection
- Manual controls only
The Elite Gourmet ETO490 is the step-up option for shoppers who want more capacity than the ETO236 but still want to stay under $50. After three weeks of testing, this 4-slice model became my go-to for reheating multiple slices of pizza and toasting bagels for weekend brunch.
With 800 watts of power and a 9L interior, this toaster oven handles most everyday cooking tasks. I baked a small batch of dinner rolls and they came out golden brown on the outside and soft inside. The 30-minute timer is a meaningful upgrade over the 15-minute model. I was able to bake small casseroles without babysitting the timer.
Two rack positions give you flexibility for taller items. The removable crumb tray slides out easily and catches every crumb. The aluminum door is the main compromise at this price point. It gets warm during use but doesn’t get dangerously hot. Elite Gourmet has been making kitchen appliances for over 40 years, and that experience shows in the thoughtful design touches.
The thermostat held steady within 10-15 degrees of my set temperature during testing, which is impressive for a budget model. Some competing ovens at this price swing 25-30 degrees. The included baking pan and wire rack are decent quality, and cleanup is straightforward with a damp cloth.
Cooking Performance
Toast is evenly browned at medium settings. The 4-slice capacity handles two sandwiches at once. Baking small batches of cookies produces consistent results. The main limitation is no convection, so don’t expect bakery-level even heat distribution.
Best Use Cases
Couples, small families, and anyone who wants a versatile everyday oven under $50. Works great for apartments and condos where you need one appliance to handle toast, small baking projects, and reheating. Skip if you need air frying or convection for crispy foods.
3. Elite Gourmet ETO449X Quartz Heating Toaster Oven – Best Quartz Heating Pick
Elite Gourmet ETO449X Toaster Oven, 9.5Qt/4-Slice, 800W Quartz, Black
800W quartz heating
9.5Qt capacity
Fits 8-inch pizza
4 cooking functions
Pros
- Dual quartz elements heat faster than coil models
- Cool-touch handle and tempered glass door
- Easy analog controls
- Includes bake pan and crumb tray
- Fits 8-inch pizza in compact frame
Cons
- Newer model with fewer long-term reviews
- Manual dials
- No digital presets
The Elite Gourmet ETO449X caught my attention because it uses dual quartz heating elements instead of traditional metal coils. Quartz heating is what you find in higher-end toaster ovens, and seeing it in a budget model under $35 is rare. After four weeks of testing, I noticed faster preheat times and more even browning compared to similarly priced coil ovens.
The 9.5-quart capacity holds a full 8-inch pizza, which is a step up from many compact ovens. I baked homemade pizza and the crust came out crispy on the bottom without burning the toppings. The 800W rating combined with quartz elements delivers noticeably faster results. Toasting two slices of bread takes about 3 minutes versus 4-5 minutes on coil models.
Four cooking functions cover the basics: bake, broil, toast, and keep warm. The dual analog dials are simple and intuitive. I didn’t need to read the manual to figure it out. The cool-touch stainless steel handle and tempered glass door feel more premium than the price suggests. The drop-down crumb tray makes cleanup quick.
Elite Gourmet recommends preheating at 450F for about 10 minutes before baking. I followed this advice and got the best results when I did. The lower review count (107 reviews) reflects that this is a newer model, but the 4.4-star rating and 71% 5-star reviews are strong signals.
Cooking Performance
Quartz heating makes a real difference for toasting and broiling. I got more even browning across multiple slices of bread. The oven preheats faster than the ETO236 and ETO490 models. Baking is consistent once you follow the preheat recommendation.
Best Use Cases
Anyone who wants premium heating technology without paying premium prices. Works well for small kitchens, RVs, offices, and apartments. The 8-inch pizza capacity is a plus for casual pizza nights. Ideal for buyers who want a step up from basic coil ovens without jumping to a $100+ model.
4. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD 4-Slice Toaster Oven – Editor’s Choice
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
1150W convection
4-slice capacity
30-min timer
22k+ reviews
Pros
- 22
- 000+ reviews prove long-term reliability
- 1150W handles heavier baking tasks
- Natural convection for even cooking
- Fits 9-inch pizza and 4 slices
- Stainless steel design looks premium
Cons
- Outer surfaces get hot during use
- Need 1.5-inch clearance from top elements
The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is the toaster oven I recommend to friends who ask for a single, reliable recommendation. With 22,170 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this model has been a bestseller for years. I tested it for six weeks and understood quickly why so many people swear by it.
The 1150W heating element paired with natural convection airflow delivers even cooking results. I baked a frozen pizza that came out with a crispy bottom and bubbly cheese. The 30-minute timer with stay-on option is perfect for longer baking tasks. Toast comes out evenly browned thanks to the dedicated toast shade settings.
Four cooking functions cover most everyday needs: baking, broiling, toasting, and keeping food warm. The curved interior is clever engineering. It fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread while keeping the overall footprint compact. At 14.5 inches wide and 10.8 inches deep, it slides neatly into most kitchen corners.
The stainless steel exterior looks more premium than the price suggests. The slide-out crumb tray is easy to remove and clean. The main safety note is that the outer surfaces get hot during use, so I keep it away from the edge of my counter and away from flammable items.
Cooking Performance
Toast is consistently even across multiple slices. Frozen snacks cook through without raw spots. The natural convection circulates heat well enough for baking cookies, though it’s not as powerful as true fan convection. Reheating leftovers is faster than my microwave for most items.
Best Use Cases
Anyone who wants a proven, reliable toaster oven under $70. Great for small to medium families, couples who entertain, and home bakers making small batches. If you want one appliance to handle toast, frozen snacks, baking, and reheating, this is the safest pick. The 22,000+ reviews and bestseller ranking speak for themselves.
5. BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Air Fryer Combo
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven, 5-in-1 Countertop Oven
1150W
5-in-1 air fryer combo
Fits 9-inch pizza
2-year warranty
Pros
- 5 cooking functions including air fry
- EvenToast technology for consistent browning
- Includes air fry mesh basket
- 2-year warranty adds peace of mind
- Fits 9-inch pizza and 4 slices
Cons
- 10% of reviewers report reliability issues
- Painted finish may wear over time
The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake is the model I tested when I wanted air frying without buying a separate appliance. This 5-in-1 combo handles air frying, baking, broiling, toasting, and keeping food warm. After five weeks of use, I cooked chicken wings, French fries, and roasted vegetables that came out crispy with little to no oil.
The 1150W heating element provides enough power for serious cooking. The EvenToast technology delivers consistently browned toast across all four slices. I made a full batch of toast for brunch and every slice came out the same shade. The air fry mesh basket is well-designed and circulates hot air around food for crispy results.
Two rack positions and seven included accessories give you flexibility for different cooking styles. The 2-year limited warranty is a nice bonus at this price point. Most budget toaster ovens come with just a 1-year warranty, so the extra coverage shows BLACK+DECKER’s confidence in the product.
The main caveat is the 10% of reviewers who report 1-star experiences. I didn’t encounter any reliability issues during my testing, but it’s worth noting. The painted finish on my unit started showing light wear after a few weeks of regular cleaning. If you want a long-lasting finish, the stainless steel TO1313SBD might be a better pick.
Cooking Performance
Air frying produces noticeably crispier results than baking alone. Chicken wings were crispy outside and juicy inside. French fries came out golden without deep-frying. Baking and broiling performance matches the TO1313SBD. Toast quality is excellent thanks to EvenToast technology.
Best Use Cases
Anyone who wants air frying capability without buying a separate air fryer. Ideal for small kitchens where counter space is at a premium. Great for families who want healthier fried foods. The 2-year warranty adds value if you’re worried about reliability concerns in budget ovens.
6. Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best Value Pick
Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Countertop Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
1120W air fry combo
4-slice capacity
4 cooking functions
1-year warranty
Pros
- Powerful air circulation for crispy results
- Includes metal air-fry basket
- 4 versatile cooking options
- 4-slice capacity fits family meals
- Strong value under $50
Cons
- Knob controls less precise than digital
- Smaller than some competitors
The Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp is the air fryer combo I’d recommend to anyone wanting the best balance of features and price. At under $50, you get a genuine air fryer plus toaster oven in one appliance. After seven weeks of testing, this model has earned a permanent spot on my counter.
The 1120W heating element combined with a powerful air circulation fan delivers crispy air-fried results with minimal oil. I cooked frozen chicken nuggets that came out crispy on the outside and tender inside. French fries were golden brown without deep frying. The Sure-Crisp technology lives up to its name.
Four cooking functions cover the basics: toast, bake, air fry, and broil. The 4-slice capacity handles a 9-inch pizza, which makes it family-friendly. The stainless steel finish looks modern and resists fingerprints better than I expected. The included metal air-fry basket, bake pan, and broil rack are all sturdy.
The knob controls are less precise than digital models, but they’re simple and intuitive. The 1-year warranty is standard for this price range. Hamilton Beach has built a strong reputation for affordable, reliable small kitchen appliances. This model shows why so many shoppers trust the brand.
Cooking Performance
Air frying is the star here. Results are crispy and even. Toast quality is solid, though the knob-based shade selector requires some guesswork for the first few uses. Baking is consistent for small items like cookies and rolls. The broil setting works well for melting cheese on open-faced sandwiches.
Best Use Cases
Budget-conscious shoppers who want air fryer capability under $50. Great for small families, couples, and anyone who wants to consolidate kitchen appliances. The Hamilton Beach reputation for reliability makes this a safe pick. Skip if you need digital precision or larger capacity than 4 slices.
7. BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS Natural Convection Toaster Oven – Best Convection Pick
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven with Natural Convection, Stainless Steel, TO1760SS (TO1760SST-1)
1150W convection
4-slice capacity
Natural convection technology
2-year warranty
Pros
- Natural convection for fast even cooking
- 2-year limited warranty
- Fits 9-inch pizza and 4 slices
- Four versatile cooking functions
- 14k+ reviews confirm reliability
Cons
- Limited temperature range granularity
- Smaller capacity than wide-format models
The BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS is what I reach for when I want true convection cooking without paying premium prices. Natural convection technology circulates heat throughout the oven for more even browning. After five weeks of testing, I baked cookies that came out evenly golden across the entire tray.
The 1150W heating element heats up quickly and maintains temperature well. The 30-minute timer with stay-on option handles longer baking tasks. I baked a small frozen lasagna that cooked through evenly without hot spots. The convection airflow made a real difference compared to non-convection models at the same price.
Four cooking functions include convection bake, broil, toast, and keep warm. The interior fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread. At 16.9 inches wide, this model is slightly larger than the TO1313SBD but offers better convection performance. The polished stainless steel finish looks clean and modern.
The 2-year limited warranty is a meaningful upgrade over the 1-year warranties common in this price range. With 14,488 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this model has proven itself over years of use. The removable crumb tray slides out easily for cleaning.
Cooking Performance
Convection baking produces more even results than non-convection models. Cookies, rolls, and small casseroles bake evenly across the tray. Toast comes out browned on both sides. Broiling works well for melting and browning toppings. The main limitation is no digital precision, but the knob controls are reliable.
Best Use Cases
Home bakers on a budget who want convection for more even baking. Works well for small families and couples who bake regularly. The 2-year warranty adds peace of mind. Ideal if you want more baking capability than the basic TO1313SBD but don’t need air frying.
8. BLACK+DECKER TO3250XSBD 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Toaster Oven – Best Large Capacity
BLACK+DECKER TO3250XSBD 8-Slice Extra Wide Convection Countertop Toaster Oven, Includes Bake Pan, Broil Rack & Toasting Rack, Stainless Steel/Black
1500W
8-slice extra wide
Fits 9x13 pans
Convection heating
Pros
- Fits standard 9x13 inch baking pans with handles
- Powerful 1500W convection heating
- 3 rack positions for flexible cooking
- 60-min timer with stay-on
- Dedicated toast timer
Cons
- Larger footprint requires counter space
- Heavier than smaller models
The BLACK+DECKER TO3250XSBD is the budget toaster oven I recommend when size matters. This 8-slice extra wide model fits standard 9×13 inch baking pans with handles, which is a game-changer for home bakers. After six weeks of testing, I’ve baked sheet pan dinners, roasted vegetables, and made multiple trays of cookies that just wouldn’t fit in smaller ovens.
The 1500W heating element is the most powerful in this roundup. Convection heating circulates air throughout the spacious interior for even cooking. I baked two trays of chocolate chip cookies at once and both came out evenly browned. The 60-minute timer with stay-on handles long baking tasks without babysitting.
Three rack positions give you flexibility for different cooking styles. The dedicated toast timer is a thoughtful touch that delivers consistent results. The included bake pan, broil rack, and toasting rack are all sturdy and well-designed. Cleanup is straightforward with the removable crumb tray.
The trade-off is size. At 22 inches wide and 14.5 inches deep, this oven takes up significant counter space. It’s also heavier at 17.5 pounds, so plan your placement carefully. If counter space is tight, look at the more compact models above. If you have room and want serious baking capability, this is the best budget pick.
Cooking Performance
Convection baking is excellent for the price. Sheet pan dinners cook through evenly. Multiple racks of toast brown consistently. The 1500W power preheats faster than smaller models. The main consideration is the larger footprint, not cooking quality.
Best Use Cases
Home bakers and families who want full-size baking capability under $90. Works great for anyone who regularly cooks for 4+ people or makes sheet pan meals. The 8-slice capacity means you can reheat food for the whole family at once. Skip if you have limited counter space.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Budget Toaster Ovens
Shopping for the best budget toaster oven means balancing price with the features that matter for your cooking style. After testing eight models, I’ve identified the factors that separate winners from disappointers. Here’s what to consider before you buy.
Capacity and Size
Capacity ranges from 2 slices to 8 slices in this budget roundup. For one or two people, a 2-slice or 4-slice model handles everyday tasks without taking up much counter space. For families or frequent entertaining, the 8-slice extra-wide model is worth the extra footprint. Measure your counter space first and leave room for ventilation around the oven.
Wattage and Heating Performance
Wattage directly affects how fast and evenly your oven cooks. Budget models range from 650W to 1500W. Lower wattage works for simple toast and reheating but struggles with baking. Quartz heating elements heat faster than traditional coils, which is why models like the ETO449X perform well despite modest wattage ratings.
Cooking Functions
Most budget ovens include 4-5 cooking functions: toast, bake, broil, keep warm, and sometimes air fry or convection. Air fryer combos cost more but consolidate two appliances into one. Convection models bake more evenly but add cost. Decide which functions you’ll actually use before paying for extras.
Build Quality and Durability
Common pain points from forum discussions include heating elements failing after 1-3 years, controls becoming unresponsive, and temperature inaccuracy. Stainless steel exteriors last longer than painted finishes. Brands with longer warranties signal confidence in their products. The BLACK+DECKER 2-year warranty on the Crisp ‘N Bake and TO1760SS stands out at this price point.
Temperature Accuracy
Budget models can swing 20-30 degrees from set temperatures. For serious baking, look for convection models or those with quartz heating. If precision matters, an oven thermometer helps you learn each model’s quirks. The Elite Gourmet models held within 10-15 degrees in my testing, which is good for the price.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Removable crumb trays make cleanup dramatically easier. Drop-down crumb trays are even better since they catch crumbs without you having to slide anything out. Non-stick interiors help with baked-on messes. Stainless steel exteriors wipe clean with a damp cloth and resist staining better than painted finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Toaster Ovens
What is the best budget toaster oven?
The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is the best budget toaster oven overall based on our testing. With 22,170 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, 1150W convection heating, and proven long-term reliability, it delivers the best combination of performance, features, and value under $70.
Are cheap toaster ovens worth it?
Yes, cheap toaster ovens are worth it for basic cooking tasks like toast, reheating leftovers, and simple baking. Models from BLACK+DECKER, Hamilton Beach, and Elite Gourmet under $75 deliver solid performance. The main trade-offs are fewer features and shorter lifespans compared to $200+ premium models. For everyday use, budget ovens offer excellent value.
How much should I spend on a toaster oven?
For most shoppers, $50-$75 is the sweet spot for budget toaster ovens. Under $30 gets you basic toast and reheating. The $50-$75 range unlocks convection, air frying, and larger capacity. Spending over $100 moves you into premium territory with longer warranties and better build quality. For most users, $60 covers everything you need.
What brand of toaster oven lasts the longest?
Based on user reports and warranty terms, BLACK+DECKER and Breville lead in longevity. BLACK+DECKER’s 2-year warranties on models like the Crisp ‘N Bake signal confidence. Some users report 5+ years from BLACK+DECKER budget models. Hamilton Beach also has a strong reputation for reliability in the under-$50 range. Elite Gourmet has been making kitchen appliances for 40+ years with consistent quality.
Can you bake in a budget toaster oven?
Yes, you can bake in a budget toaster oven with reasonable results. Cookies, rolls, small casseroles, and frozen baked goods all work well in budget models. The key limitations are smaller capacity (most hold 4 slices or a 9-inch pizza max) and less even heat distribution than premium ovens. Convection models like the BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS bake more evenly than non-convection budget options.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Toaster Oven Should You Buy?
After testing eight models over six months, my top pick for the best budget toaster oven is the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD. It balances power, capacity, reliability, and price better than anything else in this roundup. The 22,000+ reviews and proven track record make it the safest bet for most shoppers.
If you want air frying under $50, grab the Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp. If you’re working with a tight budget or limited counter space, the Elite Gourmet ETO236 under $30 handles basic tasks well. For bakers who need convection or larger capacity, the BLACK+DECKER TO1760SS and TO3250XSBD deliver premium-style performance at budget prices.
Whatever you choose from this list, you’re getting solid performance without the premium price tag. The best budget toaster oven is the one that fits your kitchen, your cooking style, and your budget. We’ve given you the data. Now it’s time to start cooking.