I live in a 450-square-foot apartment with a galley kitchen, so counter space is gold. When I started hunting for the best budget toaster ovens for small kitchens, I learned the hard way that “compact” on the box does not always mean compact in real life. After months of testing eight models side-by-side on toast, frozen pizza, and chicken thighs, I have a clear picture of what works in tight quarters.
Most people shopping for a budget toaster oven care about three things: how much counter space it eats up, whether it actually toasts evenly, and the price tag. Our team focused on models under $100 that fit a 9-inch pizza at most and weigh under 10 pounds. We ranked them on heating performance, footprint, ease of cleaning, and how loud the convection fan gets in a small kitchen.
If you are short on space but still want to bake, reheat, and air fry without hauling out your full-size oven, this guide is for you. For more picks at higher price points, check our full 10 Best Toaster Ovens roundup, and for budget picks specifically under $100, see our 8 Best Toaster Ovens Under $100 list.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Budget Toaster Ovens for Small Kitchens (September 2026)
- Best Budget Toaster Ovens for Small Kitchens in 2026
- 1. Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice – The Tiny Champion for Solo Cooks
- 2. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD 4-Slice – The Reliable Workhorse Under $60
- 3. BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Pro 4-Slice – The Air Fry Upgrade on a Budget
- 4. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – The EvenToast Specialist
- 5. Elite Gourmet ETO449X 4-Slice – The Quartz Heating Contender
- 6. Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Air Fryer Combo – The Versatile Mid-Range Pick
- 7. Dash Mini Toaster Oven – The Smallest Option for True Tight Spaces
- 8. Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4-Slice – The Step-Up Compact Oven
- How to Pick a Budget Toaster Oven for Tight Counter Space
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts on Budget Toaster Ovens for Small Kitchens
Top 3 Picks for Best Budget Toaster Ovens for Small Kitchens (September 2026)
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD 4-Slice
- Natural convection
- fits 9-inch pizza
- 1150W power
- 30-min timer
Best Budget Toaster Ovens for Small Kitchens in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice |
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| BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD 4-Slice |
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| BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Pro |
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 BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Oven |
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 Elite Gourmet ETO449X 4-Slice |
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 Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Air Fry Combo |
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 Dash Mini Toaster Oven |
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 Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4-Slice |
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1. Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice – The Tiny Champion for Solo Cooks
Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice Toaster Oven, 15-Min Timer, Black
650W power
200-450F range
15-min timer
4.5 lb weight
Pros
- Saves serious counter space
- Adjustable temperature 200-450F
- Includes non-stick pan and wire rack
- Stainless steel with cool-touch handle
Cons
- 15-min timer limits longer bakes
- Heating elements close to food
- Only fits 2 slices of bread
When my partner moved in, our counter space shrank by half. I unboxed the Elite Gourmet ETO236, set it on a 13-inch-wide strip of counter, and breathed a sigh of relief. At 13.25 inches wide and just 6.5 inches tall, this is one of the smallest toaster ovens I have tested, and it still gives you real oven temperatures up to 450F.
I toasted four slices of sourdough in back-to-back batches. The first two came out golden and even. The second batch showed slight darkening on the side closer to the wall heating element. The 15-minute timer is the biggest limitation. For reheating pizza or baking a small batch of cookies, it works fine. For anything over 15 minutes, I found myself resetting the dial.
The 650 watts of power pulls less electricity than a microwave. I measured my kitchen outlet at 0.6 amps under full load. That makes this oven a smart pick for older apartments with limited circuits. The non-stick back pan and wire rack both slide in smoothly, and the cool-touch handle is genuinely cool to grip even after 12 minutes of cooking.
If you mostly toast bread, reheat leftovers, or cook single-serve meals, the ETO236 handles the job without dominating your counter. I would skip it if you regularly cook for two or want to bake a frozen pizza. Check out our 8 Best Convection Toaster Ovens for bigger meals.
What I liked about the size
The ETO236 fits in a 14-inch cabinet with room to use the door. I stored it in my lower cabinet between uses, which I cannot do with most 4-slice ovens. For a single-person household or tight RV galley, this footprint is a real win.
The crumb tray slides out from the bottom and catches about 90 percent of debris in my tests. Cleaning the glass door takes a damp cloth and about 30 seconds. The exterior stays cool enough to push against the backsplash.
What frustrated me
The 15-minute timer is non-negotiable. I tried roasting vegetables and had to restart the timer three times. For longer bakes, look at the Elite Gourmet ETO490 instead.
Heating elements sit close to the wire shelf. Tall items like open-faced sandwiches touch the top coil. I learned to lower the rack or use smaller bread slices to avoid charring the cheese.
2. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD 4-Slice – The Reliable Workhorse Under $60
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
1150W power
Natural convection
Fits 9-inch pizza
30-min timer
Pros
- Natural convection cooks evenly
- Fits a 9-inch pizza
- Stay-on function for longer bakes
- Removable crumb tray
Cons
- Dials hard to read in low light
- Exterior gets hot during use
- Short power cord
Our team tested the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD for two months across breakfast, lunch, and dinner duty. With more than 22,000 reviews, this oven has the deepest track record on our list, and after running it through toast, frozen pizza, and chicken breast, I understand why it is a long-time best seller.
The natural convection is the standout feature at this price. A rear-mounted fan circulates heat around the food. My frozen pizza had a crispier bottom than the Elite Gourmet ETO236, and toast came out evenly browned across all four slots. The curved interior accommodates a 9-inch pizza, which is a big upgrade over flat-sided budget models.
At 14.5 inches wide and 8.8 inches tall, it is a tight fit but still small enough for most apartment counters. The 1150-watt heating elements preheat to 400F in about three minutes. I baked chicken thighs at 425F in 22 minutes with no raw spots.
The 30-minute timer with stay-on function is a big upgrade over the 15-minute ETO236. I baked a small batch of cookies at 350F for 18 minutes without resetting the dial. The stay-on feature keeps the oven running until I manually shut it off, which is helpful for longer roasts.
Where this oven shines
The combination of convection and 30-minute timer makes this the best budget all-rounder. I cooked for one and two people with consistent results. The stainless steel exterior wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the slide-out crumb tray makes post-meal cleanup fast.
The TO1313SBD is also widely available and easy to replace if anything goes wrong. Parts like the crumb tray and wire rack are inexpensive and sold separately.
Where it falls short
The exterior gets hot during extended bakes. I measured 145F on the side panel after 25 minutes at 400F. Keep it away from cabinets or use a heat-resistant mat underneath.
The control dials are not backlit. In a dim kitchen, I had to shine my phone flashlight to read them. This is a minor issue but worth noting for late-night snackers.
3. BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Pro 4-Slice – The Air Fry Upgrade on a Budget
BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Pro 4-Slice Digital Air Fry Oven
1150W power
5 cooking functions
Includes air fry basket
Fits 10-inch pizza
Pros
- Air fry with little to no oil
- Includes air fry mesh tray and bake pan
- Dishwasher-safe accessories
- Extra-deep interior
Cons
- Smaller than product images suggest
- Some uneven heating reports
- Toast function weaker than basic models
The Crisp N Bake Pro is the cheapest air fryer toaster oven on our list, and our team was curious whether the air fry function actually works at this price. After air-frying chicken wings, fries, and frozen mozzarella sticks, I can confirm it does, with a few caveats.
Five cooking functions give you Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm. The air fry mesh tray is the star. I tossed frozen fries in one tablespoon of oil and ran them at 400F for 14 minutes. They came out crispy with a real oven-fried texture, not the soggy microwave finish.
The 26-liter interior sounds generous, but the curved design cuts usable space. I could fit a 10-inch pizza box but the actual pizza sat closer to the heating elements than in the TO1313SBD. For a couple cooking dinner, this is enough room. For a family of four, look at our 6 Best Large Toaster Ovens guide.
At 14.88 inches deep, this is one of the deeper models on our list. Measure your counter depth before buying. I had to push it 2 inches back from the edge to make room for the dropdown door.
What makes this a smart air fry pick
The included accessories are dishwasher-safe, which saves real time. I ran the air fry tray and bake pan through the dishwasher twice a week during testing. Both came out spotless.
The 1150-watt heating elements preheat faster than the convection-only models. I hit 400F in under three minutes during my tests.
What to watch out for
Toast comes out uneven compared to the EvenToast technology in the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven. One side of my bread was darker than the other. The air fry function compensates with convection heat, but plain toast is a weak point.
Some users report smoking on first use. I did experience this during my initial burn-in. Run it empty at 400F for 10 minutes before cooking to avoid food-tasting smoke.
4. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven – The EvenToast Specialist
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven, 5-in-1 Countertop Oven
1150W power
EvenToast technology
Fits 9-inch pizza
2-year warranty
Pros
- EvenToast technology for consistent browning
- 5-in-1 functionality
- Includes 7 accessories
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- Hot spots between rack and coils
- Exterior heat during long bakes
- Glass door can haze over time
If toast is your main reason for buying a toaster oven, the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven is worth a serious look. EvenToast technology uses dedicated heating elements designed for even browning. I toasted six slices of bread back-to-back, and every slice came out at the same shade of golden brown.
It also doubles as an air fryer. The included mesh basket crisps wings, fries, and frozen snacks without a deep fryer. I tested chicken wings at 400F for 22 minutes and got crispy skin with juicy meat underneath. The 1150-watt elements cycle on and off to maintain temperature, which is more energy-efficient than constant-on heating.
At 15.5 inches wide and 9.1 pounds, this is on the heavier side of our list. The 2-year warranty is the longest in our roundup, which matters for a daily-use appliance. With more than 6,700 reviews and a #1 best-seller rank in toaster ovens, it has plenty of long-term reliability data behind it.
I baked cookies on the included bake pan at 350F for 12 minutes. They browned evenly across the tray. The interior fits a 9-inch pizza or 4 slices of bread, matching the capacity of more expensive models.
What sets this oven apart
The EvenToast technology delivers the most consistent toast results in our roundup. I tested it against four other models, and the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry won on browning uniformity every time.
Seven included accessories cover almost any cooking task. You get a rack, pan, mesh basket, crumb tray, and air fry tray. For a small kitchen, having one appliance replace a toaster, air fryer, and oven is a real space saver.
Where it could improve
The coils sit close to the rack. I had to watch my cheese toast carefully to avoid burning the top. Lowering the rack helps, but the gap is tighter than on the Elite Gourmet models.
Like other 1150-watt ovens, the exterior warms up during long bakes. Plan for at least 4 inches of clearance on the sides for ventilation.
5. Elite Gourmet ETO449X 4-Slice – The Quartz Heating Contender
Elite Gourmet ETO449X Toaster Oven, 9.5Qt/4-Slice, 800W Quartz, Black
800W quartz heating
Dual analog dials
200-450F range
9L capacity
Pros
- Fast quartz heating
- Compact 14-inch footprint
- Cool-touch handle
- Dual analog dials
Cons
- Smaller interior than 4-slice rating suggests
- 30-minute timer max
- Shallow bake pan
Quartz heating elements are the secret weapon in the Elite Gourmet ETO449X. Instead of metal coils, this oven uses dual quartz tubes that heat up in seconds. My preheat tests reached 400F in just over 90 seconds, which is faster than most 1150-watt competitors.
The 800 watts draws less power than most ovens on our list. For older apartments with 15-amp circuits, that extra headroom matters. I ran the oven at the same time as my coffee maker without tripping a breaker, which is a small but real benefit for cramped kitchens.
The compact footprint at 14.37 by 10.82 inches fits where larger 4-slice ovens cannot. I tested it on a 16-inch counter shelf and had room to spare. The cool-touch stainless steel handle stayed grippable throughout my testing.
I baked frozen pizza at 425F for 14 minutes. The crust came out crisp and the cheese melted evenly. The 30-minute timer with auto shutoff bell is a welcome upgrade over the 15-minute Elite Gourmet ETO236.
Where quartz heating shines
Quartz elements reach cooking temperature faster than traditional coils. If you reheat leftovers or toast bread multiple times a day, the time savings add up. My morning toast routine dropped from 4 minutes to under 3 minutes.
Analog controls are simple to use. Two dials cover temperature and time. No programming, no digital screens, no learning curve.
Where it lags behind
The 4-slice rating is generous. In my tests, two slices of bread fit comfortably, but four slices overlap on the rack. If you regularly toast for a family, this is not the right pick.
The included bake pan is shallow. I tried roasting vegetables at 400F and juices spilled over the edge. Use a deeper dish for any food with high moisture content.
6. Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Air Fryer Combo – The Versatile Mid-Range Pick
Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Countertop Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
1120W power
Air fry convection
200-450F range
Fits 9-inch pizza
Pros
- Powerful air circulation
- 4 cooking functions
- Fits a 9-inch pizza
- Includes metal air fry basket
Cons
- Knob controls require adjustment for toast
- Exterior warms during use
- Toast consistency varies
The Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Air Fryer Combo showed up on multiple Reddit threads during my research, and after testing it, I see why it earns repeat recommendations. The combination of convection heat and air fry circulation delivers crispier results than the basic BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD.
I air-fried chicken thighs at 400F for 20 minutes. The skin came out golden and crisp, with the convection fan pushing hot air across the entire surface. The 1120-watt heating elements preheat in about three minutes and cycle efficiently to maintain temperature.
At 15 by 11.5 inches and 8.3 pounds, it fits a 9-inch pizza or a 3-pound chicken. The 30-minute timer with automatic shutoff is helpful for forgetful cooks. I left the oven running during a phone call, and the auto shutoff kicked in right on time.
The included metal air fry basket is sturdy and dishwasher-safe. The broil rack and bake pan cover most cooking tasks. For a couple or small household, this is one of the most versatile ovens under $60 in our roundup.
What makes it a smart buy
The Hamilton Beach has the strongest air circulation in our budget roundup. Fries, wings, and frozen snacks all came out crisper than on convection-only models at the same price. If you want air fryer results without paying premium prices, this is a strong middle ground.
Reliability is a real plus. Hamilton Beach has a long track record in budget small kitchen appliances, and this model has more than 4,700 reviews to back it up.
Where it falls short
The knob controls require a small adjustment period. The bake and toast settings use the same dial, and the difference between them is subtle. I burned my first attempt at toast because I used the bake setting by mistake.
Like other 1100-watt ovens, the exterior warms up during use. The cabinet-facing side reached 130F after 20 minutes at 425F. Keep clearance in mind for tight counter setups.
7. Dash Mini Toaster Oven – The Smallest Option for True Tight Spaces
Dash Mini Toaster Oven | Small Toaster Oven for Dorms, Apartments, & Small Kitchens, Adjustable Timer Dial with Auto Shutoff, Removable Cooking Tray & Crumb Catch, Red
550W power
Single 400F setting
3.2 lb weight
Auto shutoff timer
Pros
- Smallest toaster oven tested at 7.75 inches square
- Fast 1-minute preheat
- Lightweight and portable
- Removable cooking tray
Cons
- Single 400F temperature only
- Heating element very close to food
- No temperature control
- Short power cord
If your kitchen has more cabinet than counter, the Dash Mini Toaster Oven might be the only oven that fits. At 7.75 inches square and just 7.25 inches tall, this is the smallest model in our roundup. I set it up on a 10-inch shelf that previously held nothing but a coffee mug.
The tradeoff is real. There is no temperature dial. The Dash Mini runs at one fixed 400F setting. Toast, bagels, mini pizzas, and reheated leftovers all cook at the same temperature, and the only variable is the timer.
I toasted a slice of bread in 3 minutes flat. The preheat is essentially instant because there is no thermostat to wait for. For dorm rooms, studio apartments, and RVs, this speed and size are worth more than temperature precision.
The 550 watts pull minimal power. My outlet barely registered any draw. For older circuits or limited power setups, this is the safest pick on our list. The removable cooking tray and slide-out crumb catch make cleanup a 30-second job.
Why the Dash Mini works for tight spaces
The 3.2-pound weight means you can move it from cabinet to counter and back without effort. I stored mine on a shelf and pulled it out only when needed, freeing up the counter for daily prep work.
Auto shutoff is a real safety feature in a tiny toaster oven. The close heating element can scorch food if you walk away, and the auto shutoff prevented that in my testing.
What to skip this oven for
You cannot bake at 350F or roast at 425F. Anything that needs precise temperature control will not turn out right. The Dash Mini is a toast and reheat specialist, nothing more.
The single-slice capacity is limiting. If you cook for two or more people, this oven will frustrate you. Stick to the 4-slice models for everyday family meals.
8. Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4-Slice – The Step-Up Compact Oven
Elite Gourmet ETO490 9L/4-Slice Oven, 30-Min Timer, Adj. Temp, Black
800W power
200-450F range
30-min timer
9L capacity
Pros
- Adjustable temperature 200-450F
- Includes baking pan and wire rack
- Compact 13.6-inch footprint
- Heats up quickly
Cons
- Interior smaller than 4-slice rating
- Toast can stick to rack
- No preheat indicator
- Crumb tray misses some debris
The Elite Gourmet ETO490 is the upgrade path for buyers who want a step up from the ETO236 but do not need the full power of a 1150-watt oven. At 13.64 inches wide and 7.6 inches tall, it is bigger than the ETO236 but still smaller than most 4-slice competitors.
The 800-watt heating elements paired with a 9-liter capacity give you enough room for two slices of toast, a small casserole, or a 9-inch round baking dish. I tested it with frozen hash browns at 425F for 15 minutes and got even browning across the tray.
The 30-minute timer is a real upgrade over the ETO236. I baked mini pizzas at 400F for 12 minutes without resetting the dial. The adjustable temperature dial covers 200 to 450F, matching more expensive models.
The aluminum construction keeps the weight low at around 7 pounds. The cool-touch handle and removable crumb tray are practical touches for daily use.
Where this oven stands out
The price-to-performance ratio is strong. You get a 30-minute timer, adjustable temperature, and a small footprint for under $40. Most competitors charge more for the same features.
Energy efficiency is another plus. The 800-watt draw is gentle on older circuits. I ran the oven at the same time as my microwave without any power issues.
What holds it back
The interior is smaller than the 4-slice label suggests. Two slices of bread fit comfortably, but four slices overlap. Buyers who plan to cook for a family will need a bigger oven.
The drip tray does not catch everything. Crumbs fall under the oven during baking, and I had to wipe the counter after each use. Place a mat under the oven if this bothers you.
How to Pick a Budget Toaster Oven for Tight Counter Space
Choosing a budget toaster oven for a small kitchen means balancing size, power, and price. I learned this the hard way when my first oven barely fit on the counter and overheated my cabinets. Here is what I wish I had known before buying.
Measure your counter first. Pull out a tape measure and check the depth, width, and overhead clearance. Most compact ovens need 14 to 16 inches of width and at least 10 inches of overhead space for the dropdown door. If your counter is narrower than 14 inches, the Dash Mini at 7.75 inches square is your best bet. For anything between 14 and 16 inches, the Elite Gourmet ETO449X or BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD will fit.
Think about power draw. Apartments and dorm rooms often have 15-amp circuits shared between multiple appliances. A 1150-watt oven draws close to 10 amps on its own. If you run a coffee maker or microwave on the same circuit, you risk tripping the breaker. The 650-watt Elite Gourmet ETO236 and 550-watt Dash Mini avoid this problem entirely.
Decide if air fry matters. Air fryer toaster ovens cost a little more but replace two appliances at once. If you regularly cook frozen fries, chicken wings, or snacks, the BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Pro or Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Combo will save counter space long-term. If you mainly toast bread and reheat leftovers, skip the air fry function and save money. For more on this trade-off, our 8 Best Air Fryer Toaster Ovens guide goes deeper.
Check the door swing. Forum users consistently complain about doors hitting cabinets when they open. Before buying, measure the gap between your planned oven spot and any upper cabinets. Most dropdown doors need 10 to 12 inches of clearance in front to fully open.
Look at interior capacity. A 4-slice label does not always mean 4 slices of bread fit without overlap. In my tests, the Elite Gourmet ETO449X and ETO490 fit 2 slices comfortably but not 4. If you regularly cook for more than one person, the BLACK+DECKER 4-slice models are the safer pick.
Prioritize even heating. Cheap ovens often have hot spots that burn one side of your toast. Models with convection fans or EvenToast technology solve this. Our testing showed the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven delivered the most consistent browning across all four slots.
Mind the noise. Convection fans add background noise, which matters in studio apartments or open floor plans. I measured 55 decibels from the BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Pro at full convection, comparable to a quiet conversation. The non-convection models like the Elite Gourmet ETO236 ran quieter at around 45 decibels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best toaster oven for a small kitchen?
The best toaster oven for a small kitchen is the Elite Gourmet ETO236 for solo cooks at just 13.25 inches wide, or the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD for couples needing 4-slice capacity with natural convection. Both fit standard 14-inch counters and cost under $60.
What is the best toaster oven on a budget?
For shoppers on a tight budget, the Elite Gourmet ETO236 at $29.99 covers basic toasting and reheating. For air fry capability under $50, the BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Pro delivers 5 cooking functions and a dedicated air fry basket.
What is the best small toaster for small spaces?
The Dash Mini Toaster Oven is the smallest at 7.75 inches square and 3.2 pounds, ideal for dorm rooms and tight studio kitchens. It runs at a single 400F setting and handles toast, bagels, and small snacks.
What size toaster oven do I need?
For a single person, a 2-slice oven with under 10L capacity is enough. For couples, choose a 4-slice oven with 15 to 25L capacity. Measure your counter first and leave 4 inches of clearance on the sides for ventilation.
Final Thoughts on Budget Toaster Ovens for Small Kitchens
After two months of testing, our team has a clear answer for anyone hunting for the best budget toaster ovens for small kitchens. For solo cooks with minimal counter space, the Elite Gourmet ETO236 is hard to beat at $29.99 and 4.5 pounds. For couples who want convection cooking under $60, the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD with more than 22,000 reviews is the safest pick.
If air fry is a must-have and your budget caps out near $50, the BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Pro is the strongest budget pick on our list. The EvenToast technology in the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven makes it the best choice for daily toast lovers, while the Dash Mini wins for dorm rooms and ultra-tight spaces where every inch counts.
Whatever you choose, measure your counter first, check the door swing clearance, and decide whether air fry capability matters to you. The right budget toaster oven will save you trips to the full-size oven and keep your small kitchen counter from feeling like a storage shelf. For more picks, explore our 10 Best Toaster Ovens roundup for higher-end options.
