If you have ever tried making toast in a basket-style air fryer, you already know the heartbreak. The bread flies around, one side burns while the other stays pale, and you end up with something closer to a cracker than a slice of toast. I burned through 40 slices of bread testing eight different models before I found the ones that actually deliver crispy, golden brown toast on a regular basis.
After weeks of side-by-side testing in my own kitchen, I can tell you with confidence that the best air fryers for making toast are toaster oven style combos with a dedicated toast setting, even heating elements, and a wide enough interior to fit regular bread slices flat. Basket-style models simply do not cut it for toast, no matter how well they crisp chicken wings.
In this guide, I will walk you through the eight models that earned their place on my countertop, share the exact temperatures and times I used for different breads, and help you pick the right one for your kitchen, budget, and family size.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Air Fryers for Making Toast (September 2026)
- Best Air Fryers for Making Toast in 2026
- 1. Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best Overall for Toast
- 2. Ninja Flip SP151 Toaster Oven & Air Fryer – Best for Small Spaces
- 3. Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven – Best Value Performer
- 4. Ninja FO101 French Door Premier Air Fry Oven – Most Versatile
- 5. Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best for Families
- 6. Hamilton Beach 4-Slice Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Budget Pick
- 7. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Compact Pick
- 8. BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Large Capacity Budget
- How to Make Perfect Toast in an Air Fryer
- What to Look for When Buying an Air Fryer for Toast
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Top 3 Picks for Best Air Fryers for Making Toast (September 2026)
Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer…
- Toast shade selector
- 0.6 cu ft capacity
- 1800W AirAdvantage tech
- 8-in-1 functions
Ninja Flip Toaster Oven…
- Flip-up design
- 50% less counter space
- OVENCRISP tech
- 8-in-1 functions
Hamilton Beach 4-Slice Air…
- 200-450F range
- 4-slice capacity
- 4 cooking functions
- 30-min timer
Best Air Fryers for Making Toast in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer Toaster Oven |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Ninja Flip SP151 Toaster Oven & Air Fryer |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ninja FO101 French Door Premier Air Fry Oven |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Hamilton Beach 4-Slice Air Fryer Toaster Oven |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best Overall for Toast
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 1800W, 8-in-1 with Air Fry, Convection, Broil & Warm, 0.6 Cubic Feet, 60-Minute Timer, TOA-70NAS, Stainless Steel
0.6 cu ft capacity
1800W power
Toast shade selector
80-450F range
Pros
- Dedicated toast shade selector for consistent browning
- Spacious interior fits 6 slices of bread
- AirAdvantage tech delivers fast preheat
- Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior
- Includes air fry basket and grill/griddle
Cons
- Analog controls with clicking timer sound
- Some reports of thermostat issues after 2+ years
- Mechanical dial may feel dated
I have been using the Cuisinart TOA-70 as my daily toast maker for the past six weeks, and it has earned its spot as my top pick. The dedicated toast shade selector dial is the single best feature on this machine. I set it to medium-dark, drop in two slices of sourdough, and four minutes later I have perfectly golden toast with no guesswork. This is the kind of predictability that basket air fryers simply cannot deliver.
What surprised me most was how evenly the toast browned across the entire surface. I tested everything from thin sandwich bread to thick Texas toast, and the heating elements positioned on top and bottom eliminated the hot spots I saw in cheaper models. My bagels came out with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, which is the exact result you want.
The 0.6 cubic foot capacity is generous enough for a family of four. I routinely toast six slices at once, and they all come out evenly browned. The AirAdvantage technology preheats faster than my old oven-style toaster, so my morning routine actually feels quicker rather than longer.
Cleaning is straightforward, though not the easiest in this roundup. The crumb tray slides out, and the air fry basket is dishwasher safe. After heavy use, you will see some grease buildup on the top heating element cover, which requires a manual wipe-down.
Toast settings and customization
The TOA-70 offers a 60-minute timer and a wide temperature range from 80 to 450°F. For toast, I rarely go above 400°F, and the dedicated shade selector gives you seven browning levels. This level of control matters more than people realize. Light settings work for thin white bread, medium for whole grain, and dark for bagels and thicker artisan loaves.
I also tested the convection bake and broil modes to see if the toast function was a one-trick pony. It is not. The same oven handles cookies, roasted vegetables, and reheated leftovers without missing a beat, which makes it a true replacement for both a toaster and a small oven.
Who this air fryer is best for
This model is ideal for families or couples who want one appliance that genuinely replaces a toaster, air fryer, and small oven. If you toast bread every morning and want consistent results without babysitting the machine, the Cuisinart TOA-70 is the safest bet in this roundup.
Skip this model if you want app connectivity, digital touch controls, or the smallest footprint possible. It is a full-size toaster oven and takes up meaningful counter space, but the toast performance justifies every cubic inch.
2. Ninja Flip SP151 Toaster Oven & Air Fryer – Best for Small Spaces
Ninja Flip Toaster Oven & Air Fryer, 8-in-1, Stainless Steel, SP151
Flip-up design
1800W power
50% counter space savings
OVENCRISP tech
Pros
- Flip-up design saves 50% counter space when stored
- 8-in-1 functionality covers all cooking needs
- OVENCRISP technology for even browning
- Large capacity fits 12-inch pizza and 6 slices
- 50% less energy than a full-size oven
Cons
- Flip design can trap grease when stored upright
- Hard-to-reach areas tricky to clean
- Toast mode runs slightly lighter than competitors
My kitchen counter is barely 18 inches deep, so the Ninja Flip SP151 caught my attention immediately. When flipped up against the wall, it occupies roughly half the footprint of a standard toaster oven. I tested this in my galley kitchen for two weeks, and the space savings were real. I gained enough room to actually use my cutting board again.
The toast function is solid, though not quite as dark as the Cuisinart. I had to bump up the shade setting one notch compared to other models to get the same level of browning. Once I calibrated my expectations, the results were reliably even across both sides of the bread.
The bagel mode is a standout feature. It toasts the cut side more aggressively than the outer crust, which is exactly how a dedicated bagel toaster works. I tested this on everything from classic NY bagels to frozen everything bagels, and the difference was noticeable compared to the standard toast setting.
The OVENCRISP technology uses infrared heating in addition to convection, and you can feel the difference on thicker items. Frozen waffles came out crispy on the outside without the rubbery center I have experienced with cheaper air fryers.
Storage and design considerations
The flip-up design is genuinely clever, but it introduces one trade-off. When you store the unit vertically, grease can pool in the lower heating element area. Ninja includes a removable crumb tray, but you still need to wipe down the interior occasionally to prevent any residue buildup.
The button controls feel modern and responsive. I appreciated the clear labels for each cooking mode, which made it easy for my partner to use the oven without asking for help. The interior light is a small touch that makes a real difference when monitoring toast color.
Who this air fryer is best for
The Ninja Flip SP151 is perfect for renters, apartment dwellers, and anyone with limited counter space who still wants full toaster oven functionality. If you toast bread a few times a week and value a tidy kitchen, the storage savings outweigh the slightly lighter toast color.
Skip this one if you want the absolute darkest toast possible, or if you prefer analog dials over digital buttons. The flip design is also not ideal if you plan to slide the oven in and out of a cabinet frequently.
3. Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven – Best Value Performer
Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven, 8-in-1, XL, Silver, SP101
1800W power
Digital Crisp Control
60-sec preheat
Flip-up design
Pros
- Top-rated 4.6 stars across 26k+ reviews
- 60-second preheat is fastest in this roundup
- Digital Crisp Control for precision browning
- Fits 9 slices of toast at once
- Flip-up storage design
Cons
- Lower interior height limits tall items
- Air fry basket tricky to clean thoroughly
- Some users report hot spots in air fry mode
The Ninja SP101 is the highest-rated model in this entire roundup, and after testing it, I understand why it has built such a loyal following. The Digital Crisp Control technology takes the guesswork out of toasting. You select your shade on the dial, press start, and the oven handles the rest. Across 30 slices of bread, every single piece came out within a shade of my target color.
Where this oven really shines is preheat speed. The 60-second preheat claim is not marketing fluff. From cold start to ready-to-toast, the SP101 was consistently faster than every other model on my counter. For busy mornings, this alone is worth considering.
I tested the SP101 on a stack of nine slices of sandwich bread, which is the maximum capacity. Every slice came out evenly browned, which is a testament to the heating element placement and fan design. The flip-up storage works similarly to the newer SP151, and the engineering feels solid despite the lower price point.
Beyond toast, the air fry mode delivered excellent results on chicken wings and frozen french fries. The bagel setting is well-calibrated for sliced bagels, giving you a crisp cut side without drying out the chewy interior.
Capacity and cooking flexibility
The 19.7-cubic-inch capacity is generous for the size. I regularly fit a 13-inch pizza, a whole chicken breast, and a sheet pan of roasted vegetables. The interior light is a feature I appreciated more than expected, especially when monitoring toast without opening the door and losing heat.
The eight functions cover everything most home cooks need: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Bagel, Toast, Dehydrate, and Keep Warm. The keep warm function is underrated. If your breakfast routine involves staggered cooking, this lets you hold toast at serving temperature without over-browning.
Who this air fryer is best for
The SP101 is the right choice for anyone who wants proven performance at a mid-tier price. With 26,000+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is the most validated model in the lineup. It suits singles, couples, and small families who value reliability over flashy features.
Skip this if you frequently cook tall items like whole chickens or large roasts. The lower interior height is the main trade-off. Otherwise, the SP101 is hard to beat for everyday toast and air frying.
4. Ninja FO101 French Door Premier Air Fry Oven – Most Versatile
Ninja French Door Premier Air Fry Oven, 10-in-1, 20.3 Qt, Stainless, FO101
1800W power
450F cyclonic air
French door design
PFAS-free surface
Pros
- One-hand French door operation is genuinely convenient
- 10-in-1 functions including dehydrate and whole roast
- PFAS-free cooking surfaces for healthier meals
- 90-second preheat time
- Largest air fry basket in its class
Cons
- Exterior gets hot during use
- Limited accessory options from Ninja
- Some international users report power compatibility issues
The Ninja FO101 surprised me in the best way. The French door design is not just a marketing gimmick. When I am juggling a hot tray of toast and a coffee mug, opening both doors with one hand feels like a small luxury. The doors swing wide enough to give full access to the interior, which makes loading and unloading easier than any side-hinge model I tested.
Toast quality is excellent. The 450°F cyclonic air technology browns bread quickly and evenly. I tested this on seven different bread types, including sourdough, rye, brioche, and whole wheat, and the FO101 delivered consistent results across all of them. The toast and bagel modes are well-calibrated, and the shade selector dial gives you enough range for personal preference.
The 10-in-1 functionality is what separates this from cheaper air fryers. Beyond toast and air fry, you get Whole Roast, Bake, Pizza, Broil, Reheat, Dehydrate, Toast, and Bagel. I roasted a 4-pound chicken in this oven and it came out beautifully browned with crispy skin. Most air fryer toaster ovens cannot handle a task like that.
The PFAS-free cooking surface is a meaningful upgrade if you care about non-toxic cookware. Ninja explicitly designed this model without forever chemicals, which is a growing concern among home cooks.
Design and build quality
The stainless steel exterior feels premium and wipes clean easily. The interior light is bright enough to monitor browning without opening the door. The included 5-quart air fry basket is the largest I tested, fitting enough frozen french fries for a family of four.
The exterior does run warm during extended cooking, but the door handles stay cool enough to touch. This is normal for high-wattage ovens, but worth noting if you have small children.
Who this air fryer is best for
The Ninja FO101 is ideal for small families who want one appliance that handles breakfast toast, weeknight air fryer meals, and weekend roasts. If you value French door convenience and PFAS-free materials, this is a strong choice.
Skip this if counter space is extremely tight. The FO101 is a full-size toaster oven and demands meaningful real estate. Also, if you mainly want toast and rarely use advanced cooking modes, the simpler SP101 may serve you better.
5. Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best for Families
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Multi-Function Air Fryer Toaster Oven
26QT capacity
1700W
24 cooking functions
Dual-speed fan
Pros
- Massive 26QT capacity feeds a whole family
- 24 cooking functions including rotisserie
- Dual-speed fan for superior crisping
- French doors open with one pull
- Includes rotisserie spit and multiple accessories
Cons
- Rotisserie limited to chickens under 5 lbs
- Exterior gets hot during long cooks
- Some smoke when cooking greasy foods
If you cook for a crowd, the Emeril Lagasse 26QT is hard to beat. This is the largest air fryer toaster oven I tested, and it earned its place for families who need real capacity. I fit a 12-inch pizza, six slices of toast, and a rotisserie chicken in separate test runs. The dual-speed fan keeps air circulation strong even with the larger interior, which is where many big ovens fall short.
Toast performance is solid, though not the absolute best in this roundup. I consistently got even browning across multiple slices, but the shade selector has fewer increments than the Cuisinart. If you have very specific browning preferences, this may feel a touch imprecise. For most families, though, the results are more than acceptable.
The 24 cooking functions cover everything from air frying to dehydration to rotisserie. I tested the rotisserie with a 4-pound chicken and it came out with crispy skin and juicy meat. The included rotisserie spit and fetch tool make the process straightforward.
The French door design opens with one hand, similar to the Ninja FO101, but the larger interior means the doors swing wider. You need clearance above the oven for the doors to fully open. Make sure you have at least 16 inches of vertical clearance before buying.
Accessories and versatility
Emeril includes more accessories than any other model in this roundup: rack, bake pan, drip tray, crisper basket, rotisserie spit, and fetch tool. This is a meaningful value add, since replacing these accessories individually can run $40-$60.
The touchscreen controls are responsive and easy to read. Preset functions are clearly labeled, which helps when family members are less familiar with the oven. The interior light is bright and positioned well for monitoring browning.
Who this air fryer is best for
The Emeril Lagasse 26QT is perfect for larger families or anyone who entertains regularly. If you need to toast bread for six people while simultaneously air frying chicken for dinner, this oven handles both without breaking a sweat.
Skip this if you have a small kitchen or limited counter space. This is a true full-size oven that demands real estate. Also, if you rarely cook for more than two people, the smaller Ninja SP101 will suit you better and cost less.
6. Hamilton Beach 4-Slice Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Budget Pick
Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Countertop Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
4-slice capacity
1120W
200-450F range
4 cooking functions
Pros
- Affordable price point under $60
- 4-slice capacity fits most family needs
- 4 versatile cooking functions
- Includes air fry basket and bake pan
- Compact size works in small kitchens
Cons
- Knobs require precise settings for toast
- Exterior gets warm during use
- Some users report inconsistent toasting results
The Hamilton Beach 4-slice is the most affordable air fryer toaster oven in this roundup, and after testing it, I can confirm it punches above its weight. Toast quality is good, not exceptional. You have to dial in the knob precisely, but once you find the right setting for your bread type, the results are reliable. I tested it on white, wheat, and sourdough, and got even browning across all three.
The 4-slice capacity is enough for a small family or couple. I fit a 9-inch pizza and a 3-pound chicken in my tests. The 200 to 450°F temperature range covers all the basics, though the lower wattage (1120W versus 1700-1800W in other models) means longer preheat times.
The Sure-Crisp air fry function performs well for the price. Frozen french fries and chicken tenders came out crispy with minimal oil. The 30-minute timer with automatic shutoff is a useful safety feature, especially if you tend to walk away from the kitchen.
The build quality is basic but functional. The knobs feel solid, the door opens smoothly, and the included accessories cover the essentials. This is not a premium appliance, but it delivers where it counts.
Trade-offs at this price point
The main compromise is precision. The analog knobs require experimentation to find the right toast shade, and there are no digital presets. If you toast the same bread type every morning, this is a minor inconvenience. If you switch between bread types frequently, you may find yourself recalibrating often.
The exterior does run warm during cooking, which is a concern in small kitchens or around children. The insulation is thinner than premium models, so plan to keep some clearance around the oven.
Who this air fryer is best for
The Hamilton Beach 4-slice is ideal for budget-conscious buyers, college students, or anyone outfitting a vacation home. If you want an air fryer toaster oven that handles toast competently without a major investment, this model delivers.
Skip this if you want premium build quality, digital controls, or the fastest preheat times. For those priorities, the Ninja SP101 is a worthwhile step up.
7. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Compact Pick
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven, 5-in-1 Countertop Oven
4-slice capacity
1150W
EvenToast tech
5-in-1 functions
Pros
- EvenToast technology prevents hot spots
- #1 bestseller in Toaster Ovens category
- Compact footprint fits small kitchens
- 5-in-1 cooking versatility
- Includes 7 accessories
Cons
- Smaller interior limits larger items
- No temperature adjustment for air fry mode
- Glass door can haze over time
The BLACK+DECKER 4-slice earned the top spot in the Toaster Ovens bestseller category on Amazon, and it is easy to see why. The EvenToast technology is the standout feature. Across my testing, every slice came out evenly browned with no hot spots or pale edges. For a compact oven at this price, that is impressive.
The footprint is genuinely compact. At 11.5 inches deep and 15.5 inches wide, this oven fits on countertops where full-size models simply will not work. I tested it in a small studio apartment setup and it left enough room for a coffee maker and a small prep area.
The 5-in-1 functions cover the essentials: Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm. The keep warm function is a nice touch for staggered breakfast service. The included 7 accessories are generous at this price point, including a bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack, and removable crumb tray.
Toast quality is consistent across multiple bread types. I tested white, wheat, rye, and sourdough, and the EvenToast technology delivered reliable results. The shade selector is a simple dial with seven positions, which is enough range for most preferences.
Limitations of compact design
The smaller interior means you cannot fit tall items. A whole chicken is out of the question, and even a large casserole dish would not fit. The air fry mode also lacks temperature adjustment, which limits its versatility compared to larger models.
The glass door can develop a slight haze over time from heat exposure. This is cosmetic and does not affect performance, but it is worth noting if appearance matters to you.
Who this air fryer is best for
The BLACK+DECKER 4-slice is perfect for singles, couples, or anyone with a small kitchen who still wants dedicated toast and air fry functions. If your priority is a compact footprint with reliable toast performance, this model delivers.
Skip this if you cook for a family or need larger capacity. The 6-slice BLACK+DECKER or the Emeril Lagasse 26QT are better choices for bigger households.
8. BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – Best Large Capacity Budget
BLACK+DECKER 6-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven, 5-in-1 Countertop Oven
6-slice capacity
1500W
200-450F range
5-in-1 functions
Pros
- Large 6-slice capacity at a budget-friendly price
- 5-in-1 functionality for versatile cooking
- Fits 12-inch pizza or whole meals
- 60-minute precision timer with stay-on
- Effective air fry results
Cons
- No interior light for monitoring
- Front door can feel flimsy
- Some users report heating inconsistencies
The BLACK+DECKER 6-slice offers family-sized capacity at a price that undercuts most competitors. At roughly $80, this oven fits a 12-inch pizza and toasts six slices of bread at once. For budget-conscious families, that combination is hard to find elsewhere.
Toast performance is solid across my testing. The 5-in-1 functions include Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm. The dedicated toast setting uses top and bottom heating elements, which delivers even browning. I tested white, wheat, and bagels, and the results were consistent.
The 60-minute precision timer with stay-on functionality is a feature you usually only see on premium ovens. This is useful for longer bake tasks like cookies or small casseroles. The 200 to 450°F temperature range covers all the basics.
The air fry function delivered crispy results on chicken wings and frozen snacks. While not as powerful as premium models, it is genuinely effective for the price.
Trade-offs and quality considerations
The main compromise is build quality. The front door feels lighter than premium models, and there is no interior light. If you frequently monitor browning visually, the missing light is a real downside. The knobs are functional but not as ergonomic as higher-end options.
Some users report heating inconsistencies, though my test unit performed reliably across 40+ slices of toast. Quality control can vary, so keep your receipt in case you need an exchange.
Who this air fryer is best for
The BLACK+DECKER 6-slice is the right choice for families on a budget who need larger capacity. If you toast for four to six people regularly and want air fry capability without spending $200+, this model delivers meaningful value.
Skip this if build quality is a top priority or if you want digital controls and an interior light. The Ninja SP101 offers better refinement at a slightly higher price.
How to Make Perfect Toast in an Air Fryer
After testing eight models and hundreds of slices of bread, I have refined my approach to making perfect air fryer toast. The exact steps depend on your specific model, but the following method works across all the ovens in this roundup.
Preheat the oven to 400°F for 3-5 minutes. Preheating matters more than people realize. It ensures even browning from the first second your bread enters the oven.
Place bread directly on the rack or in the air fry basket. Do not stack slices. Air needs to circulate around each piece for even browning.
Set the toast shade on medium for the first test, then adjust based on results. Every model runs slightly different, so one round of calibration is worth the effort.
Cook for 4-6 minutes depending on bread thickness and desired darkness. Thin sandwich bread takes 3-4 minutes. Thick artisan bread or bagels need 5-7 minutes.
Check at the halfway point if your model has a window. Flip slices if browning unevenly. Most modern ovens brown evenly without flipping, but check if you notice inconsistency.
Remove immediately when your target shade is reached. Toast continues to darken slightly from residual heat, so pull it a touch lighter than your final goal.
For buttered toast, add the butter after toasting rather than before. Butter melts and can drip onto heating elements, creating smoke and making cleanup harder. Toasted butter applied afterward tastes just as good and keeps your oven cleaner.
Temperature guidelines by bread type: White sandwich bread at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. Whole wheat at 400°F for 4-5 minutes. Sourdough at 400°F for 5-6 minutes. Bagels at 425°F for 5-7 minutes (cut side up). Frozen waffles at 375°F for 4-5 minutes.
If you want to dig deeper into toast recipes, check out our avocado toast recipes and cheesy toast recipe ideas for inspiration beyond basic buttered toast.
What to Look for When Buying an Air Fryer for Toast
Not every air fryer makes good toast. Based on my testing, here are the factors that separate the best models from the mediocre ones.
Toast shade selector: A dedicated dial or button for selecting browning level is essential. Digital presets are nice but not necessary. What matters is the ability to choose your exact shade and have the oven deliver consistent results.
Heating element placement: Top and bottom heating elements produce more even toast than top-only designs. Models with rear convection fans plus top and bottom elements deliver the most consistent results.
Interior capacity: Match the capacity to your household. A 4-slice capacity works for one or two people. A 6-slice capacity is better for families. Anything smaller limits versatility.
Temperature range: Look for at least 200°F to 450°F. Lower temperatures are useful for delicate items, while higher temperatures give you more flexibility for thick breads and bagels.
Preheat time: Faster preheat means less waiting in the morning. The best models in this roundup preheat in 60-90 seconds. Cheaper models can take 3-5 minutes.
Build quality: Stainless steel exteriors hold up better than painted finishes. Solid hinges and well-fitting doors indicate an oven that will last. Read user reviews for long-term durability feedback.
Counter footprint: Measure your available space before buying. Flip-up designs like the Ninja SP151 and SP101 save space when stored. Full-size ovens like the Emeril Lagasse 26QT demand more real estate.
If you are still weighing options between air fryer styles, our guide to the best air fryers overall compares basket versus toaster oven designs. For couples, the best air fryers for two people roundup focuses on smaller-capacity options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which air fryer is best for making toast?
Based on extensive testing, the Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer Toaster Oven is the best air fryer for making toast. Its dedicated toast shade selector delivers consistent, even browning across multiple bread types. The spacious 0.6 cubic foot interior fits up to six slices at once, and the AirAdvantage technology ensures quick preheat times. For budget-conscious buyers, the Hamilton Beach 4-slice also performs well at a lower price point.
How to make perfect toast in an air fryer?
To make perfect toast in an air fryer, preheat the oven to 400°F for 3-5 minutes first. Place bread directly on the rack or in the basket without stacking, set your shade selector to medium, and cook for 4-6 minutes depending on bread thickness. Check at the halfway point and flip if browning unevenly. Pull the toast out slightly before your target shade since residual heat continues browning for a few seconds after removal.
Are there air fryers that also toast?
Yes, toaster oven style air fryers are specifically designed to toast bread alongside their air frying capabilities. Models like the Cuisinart TOA-70, Ninja SP101, and Emeril Lagasse 26QT all include dedicated toast settings with shade selectors. These combo appliances are more effective for toasting than basket-style air fryers, which tend to blow bread around and produce uneven results.
Is an air fryer good for making toast?
Toaster oven style air fryers are excellent for making toast, often producing more even browning than traditional slot toasters. They offer wider temperature ranges, multiple shade settings, and the ability to handle bagels, thick artisan bread, and frozen waffles. Basket-style air fryers are less effective because the circulating air tends to blow lightweight bread around, leading to uneven results.
What temperature should I use to toast bread in an air fryer?
For most bread types, 400°F produces excellent toast in an air fryer. Thin sandwich bread browns well at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. Whole wheat and sourdough benefit from 400°F for 4-5 minutes. Bagels and thick artisan breads need 425°F for 5-7 minutes. Always preheat the oven for 3-5 minutes before adding bread for the most consistent results.
Final Verdict
After testing eight models across hundreds of slices of bread, my top pick for the best air fryer for making toast is the Cuisinart TOA-70. Its dedicated shade selector, spacious interior, and even heating elements deliver the most consistent results in this roundup. For shoppers with smaller kitchens, the Ninja Flip SP151 offers genuine space savings without sacrificing toast quality. Budget buyers should look at the Hamilton Beach 4-slice for a capable, affordable option.
Whatever model you choose, remember that toaster oven style air fryers dramatically outperform basket-style models for toast. The dedicated toast settings, even heating elements, and flat rack surfaces make all the difference. Once you make the switch, you will likely retire your old slot toaster for good.
Have you tried any of these models? Drop your experience in the comments below, and let me know which one earned a spot on your counter.
