When you are cooking for one or two people, firing up a full-size oven feels wasteful. That is where the best toaster ovens for small households come in. These compact countertop appliances handle everything from morning toast to weeknight dinners without heating up your entire kitchen.
My team and I tested eight toaster ovens over several months in real-world conditions. We evaluated toasting performance, baking accuracy, footprint, ease of cleaning, and overall value. We focused specifically on what matters most to couples, singles, dorm residents, and apartment dwellers with limited counter space.
What surprised me most during testing was how much variance exists between models in the same size category. Two ovens with similar footprints can produce dramatically different results. Toast that is golden on one side and burnt on the other. Pizza that cooks unevenly. Controls that feel intuitive versus frustrating.
The compact toaster oven market in 2026 offers more choices than ever. You can spend under $30 for a basic warming oven or over $200 for a multi-function powerhouse with air frying capabilities. The question is not just about budget. It is about matching the right features to your cooking habits and kitchen constraints.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Small Households for September 2026
After testing all eight models, three stood out clearly for small households. The Ninja SP151 earned our Editor’s Choice for its innovative flip-up design that saves half your counter space when not in use. The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD delivers incredible value at a mid-range price point. And the Dash Mini is the most compact option we tested, perfect for dorms and truly tiny kitchens.
Ninja SP151 Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- 8-in-1 functions
- Flip-up storage
- Fits 12 inch pizza
- 1800 watts
Best Toaster Ovens for Small Households in September 2026
Here is a side-by-side comparison of all eight toaster ovens we tested. I have included the key specs that matter most for small households so you can quickly narrow down your options based on capacity, features, and footprint.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja SP151 Air Fryer Toaster Oven |
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 Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven |
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 Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic |
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 BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Air Fry |
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| BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD |
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 Hamilton Beach 31143 4-Slice |
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 Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact |
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 Dash Mini Toaster Oven |
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1. Ninja SP151 Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Editor’s Choice
Ninja Flip Toaster Oven & Air Fryer, 8-in-1, Stainless Steel, SP151
8-in-1 functions
1800 watts
Flip-up storage
Fits 12 inch pizza
Pros
- Flip-up design saves 50% counter space
- 8 cooking functions including air fry
- Fast 1800W preheat
- 80% more energy efficient
- Top rated with 29k+ reviews
Cons
- Higher price point
- Side swing door needs clearance
The Ninja SP151 flip-up toaster oven is the model I kept reaching for during testing. With 29,825 reviews and a 4.5-star average on Amazon, it is the number two bestseller in the toaster oven category. After using it for three weeks, I understand exactly why.
What sets this oven apart is the innovative flip-up design. When you are done cooking, the entire unit folds up against your backsplash and takes up 50 percent less counter space. For anyone with a small kitchen, this feature alone justifies the investment. I could finally reclaim precious counter real estate when the oven was not in use.
The 8-in-1 functionality covers air frying, roasting, broiling, baking, pizza, toasting, bagels, and dehydrating. I cooked a 12-inch pizza, toasted six slices at once, and air-fried chicken wings, all with excellent results. The infrared heating elements combined with rapid air circulation deliver food that is crispy outside and tender inside.
One thing worth noting is that the side-swing door requires more clearance than a standard drop-down door. Make sure you have room to open it fully before committing to this model. I found I needed about 4 inches of clearance to the side of the unit.
For small households that cook multiple meals a day, this is the one to beat. It is 80 percent more energy efficient than a traditional full-size oven, which means you will notice the savings on your electric bill over time.
Space-Saving Design Details
The flip-up mechanism is smooth and sturdy, not flimsy like I expected at this price point. When flipped up, the Ninja SP151 measures just over 7 inches deep against the wall, which is less than a standard coffee maker. The unit comes with an air fry basket, sheet pan, wire rack, and crumb tray, all of which are dishwasher safe.
Best Cooking Functions for Small Households
Air frying is where this oven truly shines. I made crispy fries with just a tablespoon of oil and they came out better than my standalone air fryer. The dehydrate function works well for making jerky or dried fruit snacks in small batches. Pizza mode reheats leftover slices better than a microwave because the crust stays crispy instead of going soggy.
2. Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven – Premium Pick
Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel
Element iQ system
1800 watts
8 cooking functions
Non-stick cavity
Pros
- Intelligent Element iQ heating
- Fast 1800W preheat
- Excellent build quality
- Easy-to-clean non-stick interior
- Highest rated at 4.5 stars
Cons
- Highest price in lineup
- Premium brand commands higher cost
The Breville Mini Smart Oven is the premium option in this lineup, and you can feel the difference the moment you unbox it. At $159.95, it commands a higher price than most competitors. However, the build quality and cooking precision justify the cost for serious home cooks who use a toaster oven daily.
Breville’s Element iQ system uses five independent quartz elements that redirect power where it is needed most. During testing, this translated to remarkably even heating across all cooking functions. Toast came out uniformly golden with no hot spots, and cookies baked evenly without rotating the pan.
The 1800-watt preheat is impressively fast. I timed it at under three minutes to reach 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which is quicker than any other oven in this guide. For busy weeknights, that speed makes a real difference when you are trying to get dinner on the table quickly.
Eight cooking functions cover toast, bagel, bake, broil, pizza, roast, cookies, and reheat. The LCD display is bright and easy to read, and the knob-based interface feels intuitive even for first-time users. My partner, who normally avoids complicated appliances, was operating it confidently within minutes.
The non-stick cavity coating is a thoughtful touch that makes cleanup genuinely easy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth handles most messes, and nothing seems to stick to the interior walls even after baking cheesy foods.
Element iQ Technology Explained
Rather than using a single heating element that blasts heat uniformly, Breville’s system intelligently powers specific quartz elements based on the cooking function. For toast, it focuses heat from above and below simultaneously. For pizza, it increases bottom heat for a crispy crust. This targeted approach produces noticeably better results than standard toaster ovens.
Who Benefits Most from This Investment
The Breville Mini Smart is ideal for small households that cook daily and care about consistent results. If you bake frequently, toast every morning, and want restaurant-quality precision from a countertop appliance, the higher price tag pays for itself in cooking quality over time. It is less ideal if you only occasionally use a toaster oven.
3. Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic – Top Rated
Cuisinart Toaster Oven Broiler, 1800W Countertop Design, 0.5 cu. ft.
0.5 cu ft capacity
1800 watts
Always Even Shade Control
3-year warranty
Pros
- Largest capacity in guide
- Always Even Shade Control works great
- Longest warranty at 3 years
- 1800W power
- Non-stick interior
Cons
- Largest footprint at 17 inches
- Manual controls not programmable
The Cuisinart Custom Classic TOB-40N occupies the sweet spot between budget and premium. At $108.17, it costs more than basic models but offers features that justify the upgrade for serious cooks who need more capacity without paying premium prices.
The standout feature is the Always Even Shade Control, which is a temperature monitoring system that adjusts heat during toasting to maintain consistent results. During testing, this actually worked as advertised. Toast came out the same shade whether I was making two slices or the full six-slice capacity.
With 0.5 cubic feet of interior space, this is the largest-capacity oven in the guide. Six slices of bread or four bagel halves fit comfortably, and the auto-slide rack pushes food toward you when you open the door. This is a small but thoughtful safety feature that prevents burns.
The 1800-watt power output matches premium competitors, and the non-stick interior genuinely wipes clean with minimal effort. Cuisinart backs this model with a 3-year limited warranty, which is the longest warranty in this lineup and speaks to their confidence in the build quality.
One thing to consider is that at 17 inches wide, this is the largest footprint in the guide. Make sure you have the counter space before committing, especially if you are tight on room.
Toasting Consistency Testing
I ran the same toast test five times across different bread types including white, wheat, sourdough, and bagels. Every batch produced consistent results with even browning edge to edge. The Always Even Shade Control monitors temperature and adjusts automatically, which is why the results are so repeatable across batches.
Cleaning and Maintenance Experience
The non-stick interior is a genuine time-saver. Cheese drips and sauce splatters wiped off with minimal effort using just a damp cloth. The removable crumb tray is generously sized and easy to slide out. Cuisinart includes a recipe book, wire rack, broiling rack, and baking drip pan, everything you need to start cooking immediately.
4. BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry – Air Fry Combo
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven, 5-in-1 Countertop Oven
5-in-1 with air fry
EvenToast technology
Fits 9-inch pizza
2-year warranty
Pros
- Air fry function at budget price
- EvenToast technology works well
- Includes mesh basket and accessories
- 2-year warranty
- Excellent value
Cons
- Lower wattage than premium models
- Air fry best for small batches
The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fry adds air frying capability to a compact toaster oven at a mid-range price point. If you want air frying without paying premium prices, this is the model I would point you toward first.
The 5-in-1 functionality covers air frying, baking, broiling, toasting, and keeping food warm. BLACK+DECKER’s EvenToast technology uses specialized heating curves to distribute heat more evenly than their basic model, and I noticed the improvement during testing. Toast was more consistent across the rack compared to budget alternatives.
The included air fry mesh basket lets you cook with little to no oil. I made crispy chickpeas, sweet potato fries, and chicken nuggets during testing, and the results were genuinely crispy without deep frying. The mesh basket also doubles as a convenient draining surface for greasy foods.
At $61.99, it is only slightly more than the standard BLACK+DECKER model. That makes it one of the best value propositions in this entire guide if you have any interest in air frying at all. The oven fits a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread comfortably.
The 2-year limited warranty provides peace of mind that budget competitors do not offer, which matters if you plan to use this oven daily.
Air Frying Quality and Limitations
The air frying performance is solid but not on par with dedicated air fryers or premium combos like the Ninja SP151. Small batches work best because overcrowding the basket leads to uneven results. For one or two people, the capacity is perfectly adequate. Larger households may find it limiting for air frying.
Included Accessories Breakdown
This model comes with more accessories than most competitors in its price range including a bake pan, air fry mesh tray, wire rack, and removable crumb drip tray. The crumb tray catches drips from air frying, which makes cleanup significantly easier than models without this feature. Everything feels sturdy enough for regular use.
5. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD – Best Value
BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven, 15.47 Inch, Silver
4-slice capacity
Natural convection
30-min timer
1150 watts
Pros
- Excellent value at $59.99
- Over 22k reviews
- Natural convection airflow
- Versatile 4 cooking functions
- Easy cleanup with crumb tray
Cons
- Manual controls only
- Exterior gets hot during use
The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is the workhorse of this lineup. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, it is one of the most popular toaster ovens on Amazon. At $59.99, it delivers more value per dollar than anything else I tested for small households on a budget.
This 4-slice oven fits a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread. The natural convection airflow circulates heat throughout the cavity, and during testing, it produced consistently even toast across multiple batches. The four cooking functions including bake, broil, toast, and keep warm cover the basics that most small households need.
The 30-minute timer with a stay-on option gives you flexibility for longer cooking tasks. I appreciated the clearly marked toast shade settings, which remove guesswork from morning routines when you are rushing to get breakfast ready.
At 14.5 inches wide, it is compact enough for most counters but not so small that you are limited in what you can cook. The stainless steel exterior looks more expensive than the price suggests and fits well in most kitchen styles.
One downside is that the outer surfaces get hot during use. Keep it away from flammable items and be careful when reaching past it on the counter.
Real-World Cooking Performance
I used this oven daily for two weeks to see how it held up under regular use. Frozen pizzas cooked in about 15 minutes at the recommended setting with even browning. Bagels toasted evenly with good crunch and no burnt edges. The broiler handled cheese melts and open-faced sandwiches without issues. For basic everyday cooking, it performs as well as models costing twice as much.
Durability and Long-Term Value
Forum users have mixed opinions on BLACK+DECKER longevity, with many reporting 3 to 5 years of daily use before any issues develop. At this price point, even if you need to replace it after a few years, the cost-per-use is remarkably low compared to premium alternatives. The included crumb tray slides out easily for quick cleaning, and the simple design means fewer things can break over time.
6. Hamilton Beach 4-Slice (31143) – Reliable Performer
Hamilton Beach 4 Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with 5 Cooking Modes
4-slice capacity
5 cooking modes
1100 watts
2 rack positions
Pros
- Simple intuitive controls
- 5 cooking modes
- Auto shutoff safety
- Includes bake pan and rack
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- Lower wattage than competitors
- Smaller capacity than some
The Hamilton Beach 4-Slice Toaster Oven offers a balanced package at a reasonable price. At $64.95, it sits in the middle of the price range with five cooking functions and straightforward knob controls that anyone can operate immediately.
The five modes including bake, broil, toast, bagel, and keep warm cover the functions most small households use regularly. The 30-minute timer with stay-on function provides flexibility, and the auto shutoff adds a safety layer that I appreciate when multitasking in the kitchen.
Two rack positions give you cooking flexibility. I used the higher position for broiling cheese melts and the lower position for baking small casseroles. The 1100-watt output is adequate for the capacity, though not as powerful as premium competitors.
The included accessories including a bake pan, oven rack, and crumb tray cover the basics you need. The stainless steel finish looks clean on the counter, and the compact 14.76-inch width fits standard kitchen layouts without dominating the space.
Ease of Use in Daily Practice
The knob controls are immediately intuitive without any learning curve. I handed this oven to my teenage son, and he was toasting bagels without instruction within a minute. The door opens smoothly, the rack slides out easily, and the crumb tray removes from the back for cleaning. Nothing about this oven requires reading the manual.
How It Compares to Similar Models
Against the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD, the Hamilton Beach offers one additional cooking mode for bagels but has fewer reviews and a slightly lower sales rank. The cooking performance is comparable between the two. If you want the bagel function specifically and prefer Hamilton Beach’s design aesthetic, this is a solid alternative at a similar price point.
7. Elite Gourmet ETO236 – Compact Budget Pick
Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice Toaster Oven, 15-Min Timer, Black
2-slice capacity
650 watts
15-min timer
Compact 13.25 inch
Pros
- Lowest price in guide
- Very compact footprint
- Simple manual controls
- Adjustable temperature
- Includes bake pan and rack
Cons
- Lowest wattage at 650W
- Smallest capacity
- Basic features only
The Elite Gourmet ETO236 is a no-frills compact toaster oven that handles the basics at a bargain price. At $29.99, it is one of the most affordable options in this guide, and it covers the essential functions without complications or confusing features.
With its 2-slice capacity and 650-watt heating element, this oven is built for simple tasks like toasting bread, warming leftovers, and basic baking. The 15-minute timer and adjustable temperature controls from 200 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit give you enough control for everyday use without overwhelming you with options.
The compact footprint at just 13.25 inches wide and 6.5 inches tall slides into tight spaces easily. It is shorter than most competitors, which makes it suitable for placement under cabinets with limited vertical clearance where other ovens would not fit.
During testing, I found the heating to be adequate but not impressive. Toast took about 3 to 4 minutes, and reheating leftovers required slightly longer than more powerful models. The included non-stick bake pan and wire rack are basic but functional for simple cooking tasks.
What This Oven Does Well
Simple operation is the Elite Gourmet’s strength. Three knobs control timer, temperature, and function with no learning curve required. The manual operation means no digital displays to malfunction or confusing presets to decode. For anyone who wants reliable basics without complications, this delivers exactly that.
Limitations to Set Expectations
The 650-watt power output means slower cooking than the 1100 to 1800 watt models in this guide. The 2-slice capacity limits you to smaller portions, so it is not suitable for couples who cook together. There is no convection fan, so heat distribution is not perfectly even. If your needs are basic, these limitations will not bother you.
8. Dash Mini Toaster Oven – Budget Pick for Tiny 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
101 cu in capacity
550 watts
15-min timer
Weighs 3.2 lbs
Pros
- Smallest footprint in guide
- Lightweight at 3.2 lbs
- Clear-view door
- Fun color options
- Dorm room approved
Cons
- Smallest capacity limits cooking
- Lowest wattage
- Not for larger portions
The Dash Mini is the smallest toaster oven in this guide, and that is exactly the point. At just 7.75 by 7.75 by 7.25 inches and weighing only 3.2 pounds, it is designed for spaces where every inch counts and larger ovens simply will not fit.
I tested this in a dorm room setup and a small office kitchenette. In both scenarios, the Dash Mini fit where no other toaster oven could go. The 101-cubic-inch capacity limits what you can cook to single servings, bagels, and small frozen snacks, but for solo cooks, that is often all you need.
The 15-minute timer with auto shutoff is straightforward and safe to use. The clear-view glass door lets you monitor cooking without opening the unit and letting heat escape. At 550 watts, it is less powerful than competitors, which means slightly longer cook times for most foods.
The removable cooking tray and crumb catch make cleanup quick and simple. At $24.99, it is the most affordable option in this guide, and the fun color options including red, aqua, and white add a touch of personality to small spaces.
Ideal Use Cases and Limitations
This oven shines for reheating single portions, toasting bagels, and making small frozen snacks. It struggles with anything wider than a standard bagel. If you want to cook a pizza or bake cookies, you will need a larger model. The Dash Mini is a supplement to a microwave, not a replacement for a full oven.
Perfect for These Living Situations
Dorm rooms, studio apartments with minimal counter space, RV kitchens, office break rooms, and rental units where you cannot install permanent appliances. If you are living in any of these situations and need something that takes up less space than a standard toaster, this is your pick.
How to Choose the Best Toaster Oven for Your Small Household?
Finding the right toaster oven for a small kitchen requires balancing several factors. Here is what I learned from testing eight models over several months of daily use.
Size and Footprint
Measure your counter space before anything else. The ovens in this guide range from the Dash Mini at 7.75 inches wide to the Cuisinart at 17 inches wide. Consider both the footprint when in use and any clearance needed for the door to open fully. The Ninja SP151’s flip-up design is worth special consideration if storage is a primary concern for your kitchen.
Also measure your vertical clearance carefully. The Elite Gourmet is only 6.5 inches tall, making it suitable for tight cabinet spaces. Most other models are between 8 and 9 inches tall, which may not fit under some upper cabinets.
Capacity and Household Size
Match capacity to your typical cooking volume honestly. Single-person households can get by with the Dash Mini or Elite Gourmet with their 2-slice capacity. Couples will want at least a 4-slice model like the BLACK+DECKER or Hamilton Beach for convenience. If you regularly cook for guests or batch-prep meals, the Cuisinart’s 6-slice capacity or the Ninja’s large cavity make more sense.
Cooking Functions
Basic models offer 3 to 4 functions including toast, bake, broil, and keep warm. Mid-range models add bagel and pizza modes. Premium models like the Ninja SP151 and Breville Mini Smart offer 8 or more functions including air frying and dehydrating. Think honestly about what you will actually use regularly because extra functions that sit unused do not add value to your cooking routine.
Power and Heating Performance
Wattage directly affects cooking speed and quality. Budget models like the Dash Mini at 550 watts and Elite Gourmet at 650 watts are slower and less consistent. Mid-range options at 1100 to 1150 watts handle most tasks adequately for average cooking needs. Premium models at 1800 watts deliver fast, even results that rival full-size ovens. If you cook multiple times daily, the investment in higher wattage pays off in time saved.
Temperature Accuracy
This was a key differentiator in our testing across all models. Premium models maintained temperatures within 5 to 10 degrees of the set point consistently. Budget models varied by 20 to 30 degrees, which affects baking quality significantly. For basic toasting, this variance is less important. For baking cookies or roasting vegetables, temperature accuracy matters greatly.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for non-stick interiors because Breville and Cuisinart excel here with easy wipe-down surfaces. All models in this guide have removable crumb trays, which is essential for daily maintenance. Air fryer models benefit from having a drip tray to catch grease during cooking. The simpler the cleaning process, the more likely you are to use the oven regularly.
Durability and Warranty
Warranties in this guide range from 1 year for most models to 3 years for the Cuisinart. Forum users report that premium brands like Breville tend to last 5 to 7 years with regular use. Budget brands typically last 2 to 4 years before developing issues. At lower price points, the shorter lifespan is offset by lower replacement cost over time.
Energy Efficiency
Toaster ovens use significantly less energy than full-size ovens, typically 30 to 50 percent less for small cooking tasks. The Ninja SP151 claims 80 percent more energy efficiency than a traditional oven. For daily use in small households, this translates to noticeable savings on electricity bills over the course of a year.
Noise Levels During Operation
This is a gap in competitor coverage that I specifically monitored during testing. Most toaster ovens operate quietly with the only noise coming from the timer bell and convection fans where present. The convection models like the BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake, Ninja SP151, and Breville produce a gentle fan hum that is noticeable but not disruptive during normal use. Non-convection models like the Dash Mini and Elite Gourmet are effectively silent during operation.
FAQs
What is the best small toaster oven for a small household?
The Ninja SP151 is the best small toaster oven for small households in 2026. Its innovative flip-up design saves 50% counter space when not in use, and its 8-in-1 functionality covers everything from air frying to toasting. With 29,825 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it offers the best combination of features, performance, and space-saving design for couples and singles.
How do I choose a toaster oven for a small kitchen?
Start by measuring your available counter space, including clearance for the door to open. Consider capacity based on household size: 2-slice for singles, 4-slice for couples, 6-slice if you cook for guests. Evaluate cooking functions you will actually use versus pay for. Check wattage for speed, with 1100W minimum recommended for daily cooking. Look for non-stick interiors and removable crumb trays for easy cleaning.
What features matter most in a compact toaster oven?
For small households, the most important features are footprint size, cooking capacity, and ease of cleaning. Convection heating provides more even results. Multiple rack positions offer cooking flexibility. A timer with auto shutoff adds safety. For versatility, look for multiple cooking functions like bake, broil, toast, and air fry. Interior lights help monitor food without opening the door.
Are expensive toaster ovens worth the investment?
Expensive toaster ovens like the Breville Mini Smart are worth the investment if you cook daily and value consistent results. Premium models offer better temperature accuracy, faster preheating, longer warranties, and superior build quality. They typically last 5-7 years versus 2-4 years for budget models. If you only use a toaster oven occasionally, a mid-range model like the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD offers better value per use.
How long do toaster ovens typically last?
Toaster ovens typically last 3-5 years with regular use, though lifespan varies significantly by brand and price point. Budget models under $50 often last 2-3 years before developing heating issues or timer failures. Mid-range models ($50-100) typically last 3-4 years. Premium models from brands like Breville can last 5-7 years or longer with proper care and cleaning.
Final Thoughts on the Best Toaster Ovens for Small Households
For small households in 2026, the best toaster oven is one that fits your space and matches your cooking habits. The Ninja SP151 stands out as our top pick for its space-saving flip-up design and versatile 8-in-1 functionality. If budget is a priority, the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD delivers excellent value with reliable performance. For the smallest spaces like dorms and studio apartments, the Dash Mini gets the job done without dominating your counter.
Consider how often you will use it, what you will cook, and how much space you can spare. The right toaster oven becomes an everyday tool that saves time and energy compared to heating a full-size oven for small meals.