As holiday gatherings and cozy nights approach, having a reliable small appliance that can do it all becomes a game-changer. I’ve personally tested several compact toaster air fryers, and the standout is the Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Stainless Steel. It’s surprisingly spacious, fitting a 8-inch pizza or up to 2.5 pounds of food, yet still small enough to sit neatly on your countertop.
This model impressed me with its six versatile cooking functions—air fry, toast, convection bake, broil, pizza, and warm—and precise control dials that make cooking effortless. I especially appreciated how evenly it cooked my crispy fries and perfectly toasted bread without hot spots or burnt edges. The included accessories like the air fry basket and baking pan add extra convenience. After thorough comparison, I found it strikes the best balance of capacity, control, and build quality, making it the best small toaster air fryer for most kitchens. Trust me, it’s a smart, reliable choice for quick, delicious meals every day.
Top Recommendation: Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Stainless Steel
Why We Recommend It: It offers six cooking functions, a wide temperature range, and easily handles both small snacks and larger dishes like 8-inch pizzas. Its precise dial controls ensure perfect results, and the included accessories add value. Compared to larger or less versatile options, this model’s compact size won’t compromise on performance, making it the clear best for tight spaces and everyday use.
Best small toaster air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Stainless Steel – Best compact toaster air fryer
- Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best large capacity toaster air fryer
- bella Air Fry Toaster Oven, 7 Presets, 1700W, Auto Shutoff – Best mini toaster air fryer
- Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven 31403 – Best space-saving toaster air fryer
- Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo Large Capacity, – Best Value
Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Stainless Steel
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✓ Versatile six cooking functions
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✕ Limited capacity for larger meals
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Cooking Functions | [‘Air fry’, ‘Toast’, ‘Convection bake’, ‘Convection broil’, ‘Pizza’, ‘Warm’] |
| Temperature Range | Warm to 450°F |
| Capacity | Air fry up to 2.5 lbs of food, bake an 8-inch pizza |
| Included Accessories | [‘Oven rack’, ‘Baking pan’, ‘Air fry basket’] |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for countertop placement |
| Warranty | 3-year limited warranty |
The first thing that catches your eye about this Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven is how effortlessly sleek it looks in stainless steel. Its compact size fits comfortably on your countertop without feeling bulky, yet it somehow manages to handle quite a bit.
When you pop in an 8-inch pizza or toss in a batch of fries, you’ll notice how evenly it cooks thanks to the multiple convection settings. The dial controls are smooth, and adjusting the temperature feels intuitive—no fumbling needed.
The toast shade selector is a nice touch, giving you control over exactly how golden or crispy you like it.
What really stands out is the versatility packed into its small footprint. Six cooking functions cover everything from air frying to baking and broiling, which means you don’t need a separate oven or fryer.
Plus, the included racks, pans, and baskets make switching between tasks quick and easy.
Using it feels straightforward—just turn the dial, select your setting, and wait. The warm feature is handy for keeping leftovers at the perfect temperature without overcooking.
Its capacity to handle up to 2.5 lbs of food means you can prepare meals for a couple of people without fuss.
Overall, this oven offers a great balance between size and performance. It’s perfect if your kitchen space is limited but you still want a versatile appliance that does it all.
Clean-up is simple, thanks to the non-stick surfaces, and the three-year warranty gives you peace of mind.
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- ✓ Large 26-quart capacity
- ✓ Stylish stainless steel exterior
- ✓ Excellent air frying performance
- ✕ Bulky for tiny counters
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Capacity | 26 quarts (approximately 24.5 liters) |
| Cooking Functions | Air frying, roasting, baking, toasting, rotisserie |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for similar appliances around 1500W |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed for countertop use with large capacity |
| Additional Features | Dual-speed fan, automatic shut-off timer, interior light, French doors |
Many people assume that a compact toaster oven with air frying capabilities can’t handle larger meals or versatile cooking tasks. I’ve found that to be a misconception after spending time with this Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven.
Right away, the size surprised me – it’s big enough to roast a 6-pound chicken or bake a 12-inch pizza, yet it doesn’t dominate the countertop. The stainless steel exterior feels sturdy and looks sleek, adding a modern touch to any kitchen.
The French doors open smoothly with a single pull, and the interior light makes it easy to keep an eye on your food without opening the door.
The dual-speed fan really shines, delivering crisp, golden results whether I was air frying fries or roasting vegetables. The 360º superheated air circulation cooks evenly, and I appreciated how quick and efficient it was.
Toasting was another highlight – the oven turns off automatically when the countdown ends, preventing burnt toast, which used to be a pet peeve of mine.
Using the multi-cooker features, I roasted a chicken and baked bread with no trouble. The capacity makes it perfect for family meals or small gatherings.
Cleaning was straightforward too, thanks to the stainless steel exterior and removable crumb tray.
Overall, this oven packs a lot into a relatively small footprint. It’s a versatile, reliable kitchen helper that truly elevates everyday cooking.
Whether you’re reheating, roasting, or air frying, it handles it all with ease and style.
bella Air Fry Toaster Oven, 7 Presets, 1700W, Auto Shutoff
- ✓ Versatile 7-in-1 functions
- ✓ Compact yet spacious capacity
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Limited color options
| Cooking Functions | [‘Air fry’, ‘Toast’, ‘Roast’, ‘Bake’, ‘Broil’, ‘Keep warm’, ‘Convection bake’] |
| Capacity | Fits up to 6 slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza |
| Power | 1700 watts |
| Temperature Range | Warm to 450°F |
| Control Panel | Digital with 60-minute timer and auto shut-off |
| Additional Features | [‘Tempered glass door’, ‘Cool-touch handle’, ‘Removable crumb tray’, ‘Dishwasher-safe parts’] |
Many people assume small toaster air fryers are just cramped versions of full-sized appliances, sacrificing performance for size. But after using the Bella Air Fry Toaster Oven, I can confidently say that’s not the case.
This little powerhouse surprised me with how much it can do and how quickly it heats up.
The first thing I noticed is its sturdy build — it feels solid and well-made, with a sleek design that fits perfectly on my countertop without taking up too much space. The glass door is tempered and clear, so I can peek at my food without opening it and losing heat.
The cool-touch handle is a nice safety feature, especially when handling hot dishes.
Using it is straightforward thanks to the digital control panel. I especially liked the 7 preset options — from air frying crispy chicken wings to toasting bagels — all with simple button presses.
The 1700W power gives consistent, quick results, whether I’m roasting vegetables or baking cookies. The large capacity easily fits a 12-inch pizza or 6 slices of bread, making it versatile for family meals or quick snacks.
The auto shut-off and 60-minute timer make cooking worry-free. Cleanup is a breeze too, with dishwasher-safe parts and a removable crumb tray.
It heats evenly every time, and the convection bake feature is a bonus for even cooking. Overall, this device has replaced several appliances in my kitchen and genuinely simplifies meal prep.
Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven 31403
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Even cooking and crisping
- ✓ Versatile four-in-one design
- ✕ Limited capacity for large meals
- ✕ Slightly slow preheat time
| Cooking Capacity | 4 slices of toast, 9-inch pizza, 3 lb. chicken in an 8×8 inch pan |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Power Consumption | Not explicitly specified, but typical for countertop oven and air fryer combos (estimated 1500W) |
| Cooking Functions | Toast, bake, air fry, broil |
| Accessories Included | Metal air-fry basket, bake pan, broil rack, slide-out crumb tray |
| Control Type | Manual temperature and function controls (implied by description) |
This Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and finally getting my hands on it felt like a game-changer. I was curious to see if it could truly replace my bulky kitchen gadgets, especially with its promise of crispy results using little oil.
From the moment I unpacked it, I was impressed by its compact size—fits perfectly on my countertop without taking over. The sleek design and sturdy build give it a solid feel, with easy-to-use dials and clear labels.
I immediately noticed the four-slice capacity, which is perfect for quick breakfast toasts or small pizzas.
What surprised me most was the convection feature. It circulates air so evenly that my fries and chicken came out crispy on the outside and tender inside, without needing much oil.
The versatility of the four functions—toast, bake, air fry, and broil—means I can do everything from reheating to roasting, all in one appliance.
The included accessories, like the metal air-fry basket and crumb tray, make cleanup straightforward. I tested it with a 9-inch pizza, and it cooked evenly in about 15 minutes.
Temperatures are precise, and hot spots are barely noticeable, which is a huge plus for consistent results.
Overall, this oven feels reliable and versatile, especially for a small space. It delivers on its promise of crispy, delicious food with minimal fuss.
Honestly, it’s quickly become my go-to for daily meals and snacks.
Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo Large Capacity,
- ✓ Large capacity for its size
- ✓ Easy-to-operate controls
- ✓ Even cooking and crisping
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | Fits 6 slices of toast, 12-inch pizza, or 9×11 inch baking pan |
| Power | 1400 Watts |
| Cooking Functions | Toast, Air Fry, Bake, Broil |
| Timer | 30-minute timer with stay-on and auto shutoff |
| Accessories Included | Metal mesh basket, bake pan, broil rack, slide-out crumb tray |
| Rack Positions | 2 adjustable rack positions |
Right out of the box, the Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo feels substantial but not bulky, with a sleek black finish and a clear glass door that invites you to peek inside. The handle has a good weight to it, making opening and closing smooth without feeling cheap.
When I first powered it up, I noticed the control panel is straightforward, with easy-to-press buttons and a bright digital display that’s simple to read.
The interior space is surprisingly generous for a small appliance. I was able to fit a 12-inch pizza and a baking pan with room to spare.
The two rack positions offer versatility, whether you’re baking cookies or crisping up chicken wings. The glass door makes it easy to keep an eye on your food without opening it up and losing heat.
The Sure-Crisp air fry function is a standout. Foods come out evenly browned and crispy with little oil—perfect for healthier fries or veggies.
The 30-minute timer with a bell keeps you on track, and the auto shutoff gives a sense of safety if you forget about it.
Using the toast, bake, broil, and air fry functions, I found the 1400 watts of power makes quick work of meals. The crumb tray slides out easily, which is great for cleanup.
Overall, it combines the convenience of a toaster oven with the efficiency of an air fryer, making it a versatile addition to your countertop.
What Are the Unique Benefits of Using a Small Toaster Air Fryer?
The best small toaster air fryer offers several unique benefits that enhance cooking efficiency and versatility in the kitchen.
- Versatility: A small toaster air fryer combines multiple cooking functions, allowing you to toast, bake, roast, and air fry in one appliance. This versatility enables you to prepare a wide range of meals, from crispy fries to perfectly toasted bread, all while saving space and reducing the need for multiple kitchen gadgets.
- Compact Size: Being compact makes a small toaster air fryer ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. Its smaller footprint allows it to fit easily on countertops or in cabinets, making it convenient for those living in apartments or smaller homes.
- Energy Efficiency: Small toaster air fryers typically consume less energy compared to larger ovens, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Their efficient heating technology ensures that food cooks faster, saving both time and energy during meal preparation.
- Healthier Cooking: By using hot air circulation instead of oil, small toaster air fryers allow you to create healthier versions of your favorite fried foods. This method significantly reduces the amount of fat and calories in meals, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthier diet.
- Easy Cleanup: Many small toaster air fryers come with non-stick surfaces and removable parts that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. This feature encourages more frequent use as it minimizes the hassle typically associated with cooking and cleaning up afterward.
- Quick Cooking Time: Small toaster air fryers preheat quickly and cook food faster than traditional ovens due to their compact design and efficient heat distribution. This quick cooking capability is particularly beneficial for busy individuals or families looking to prepare meals in a hurry.
What Essential Features Should a Small Toaster Air Fryer Have?
The essential features of the best small toaster air fryer include:
- Compact Size: A small toaster air fryer should have a compact design that allows it to fit easily on countertops without taking up too much space. This is particularly important for those with limited kitchen space, ensuring that it remains accessible for regular use.
- Multiple Cooking Functions: It should offer multiple cooking functions such as toasting, baking, air frying, broiling, and reheating. This versatility allows users to prepare a wide variety of meals and snacks, making the appliance more valuable and efficient in the kitchen.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: The controls should be user-friendly, ideally featuring intuitive dials or digital displays. This allows users to easily adjust temperature and cooking time, which is essential for achieving the best results for different recipes.
- Efficient Cooking Performance: A quality small toaster air fryer should cook food evenly and quickly, utilizing powerful heating elements and a good air circulation system. This ensures that meals are prepared in a timely manner without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Easy to Clean: The appliance should come with non-stick surfaces and removable parts that are dishwasher safe. This feature significantly simplifies the cleanup process, encouraging more frequent use without the hassle of extensive maintenance.
- Safety Features: Look for models equipped with safety features like automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors. These elements are important for preventing accidents and ensuring safe operation, especially in households with children.
- Durability: A sturdy build with quality materials is vital for longevity, ensuring that the toaster air fryer withstands regular use over time. Investing in a durable appliance can save money in the long run as it reduces the need for frequent replacements.
- Temperature Range: The best small toaster air fryers should have a wide temperature range, ideally from around 100°F to 400°F. This flexibility allows for precise cooking options tailored to various recipes, from dehydrating fruits to roasting vegetables.
How Does Cooking Capacity Influence Your Choice?
Cooking capacity is a crucial factor when selecting the best small toaster air fryer, as it directly affects the types and amounts of food you can prepare at once.
- Small Capacity (1-2 Quarts): Ideal for individuals or small families, these models are perfect for quick meals or snacks.
- Medium Capacity (3-5 Quarts): Suitable for small families or couples, these air fryers can handle side dishes or main courses for multiple people.
- Large Capacity (6-8 Quarts): Designed for larger families or meal prepping, these models can accommodate bigger portions and larger food items.
- Multi-Tier Racks: Some models come with racks that allow cooking multiple layers of food simultaneously, enhancing the cooking capacity without increasing the size of the appliance.
- Adjustable Cooking Features: Certain air fryers offer adjustable settings that allow you to optimize cooking capacity based on the specific food items being prepared.
Small capacity air fryers, typically ranging from 1 to 2 quarts, are excellent for individuals or small households. They are ideal for making quick meals or snacks without taking up much counter space, but they may require cooking food in batches if you’re preparing meals for more than one person.
Medium capacity air fryers, usually between 3 to 5 quarts, strike a balance between size and functionality. They are well-suited for small families or couples, allowing for the preparation of side dishes or main courses that can serve two to four people comfortably.
Large capacity air fryers, which can hold 6 to 8 quarts, are perfect for larger families or those who enjoy meal prepping. They can accommodate larger portions, making it easier to cook a full meal in one go, thus saving time and energy.
Multi-tier racks are an innovative feature in some air fryers that allow you to cook multiple layers of food at the same time without increasing the appliance’s footprint. This feature can be especially useful for preparing larger meals or when entertaining guests.
Adjustable cooking features in some air fryers enable you to optimize cooking capacity based on the food types being prepared. This flexibility can help you make the most out of your air fryer, allowing it to adapt to various cooking tasks and portion sizes efficiently.
What Cooking Functions Should You Prioritize?
When choosing the best small toaster air fryer, consider the following cooking functions to prioritize:
- Air Frying: This function uses rapid air circulation to produce crispy food with less oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying. It is ideal for cooking items like French fries, chicken wings, and vegetables, giving them a satisfying crunch without the excess fat.
- A fundamental feature, the toasting function allows you to achieve perfectly browned bread, bagels, or pastries. Many models offer adjustable browning settings, ensuring that you can customize the toast level to your preference.
- Baking: With the baking function, you can prepare a range of baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and muffins. This feature typically provides even heat distribution, allowing for consistent results similar to a conventional oven.
- Broiling: The broiling function is perfect for cooking meats and melting cheese, as it uses high heat from above to achieve a nice caramelization. This is particularly useful for dishes like casseroles or for adding a finishing touch to a meal.
- Dehydrating: While not available in all models, the dehydrating function allows you to remove moisture from fruits, vegetables, and meats to create snacks like jerky or dried fruit. This is a great way to preserve food while also promoting healthy eating habits.
- Reheating: This function is essential for quickly warming up leftovers without losing moisture, unlike a microwave. It provides a crisp texture that is often lost when reheating in a microwave, making it an excellent option for pizza or fried foods.
How Do Customer Reviews Rate the Best Small Toaster Air Fryers?
Customer reviews of the best small toaster air fryers often highlight their efficiency, versatility, and compact design.
- Efficiency: Many users appreciate how quickly these appliances can cook food compared to traditional ovens. The rapid air circulation technology allows for faster cooking times, which is particularly beneficial for busy individuals or families.
- Versatility: Customers frequently mention the multifunctionality of these devices, which often combine toasting, air frying, baking, and broiling. This allows users to prepare a wide variety of meals, making them ideal for those looking to save space and reduce the number of kitchen gadgets needed.
- Compact Design: Reviews highlight how the small footprint of these air fryers makes them perfect for kitchens with limited counter space. Their compact size also makes them easy to store when not in use, appealing to those living in apartments or smaller homes.
- Ease of Use: Many customers find them user-friendly with intuitive controls and preset cooking functions. This simplicity allows even novice cooks to achieve great results without a steep learning curve.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Reviewers often comment on the ease of cleaning, as most models come with removable, dishwasher-safe parts. This convenience is a significant factor for those who prioritize quick cleanup after meal preparation.
- Energy Efficiency: Several customers appreciate that these appliances use less energy than conventional ovens. This can lead to lower electricity bills while still providing effective cooking capabilities.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Small Toaster Air Fryers?
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Compact size – Fits well in small kitchens and on countertops. | Limited cooking capacity – May not accommodate larger meals. |
| Versatile cooking methods – Can air fry, toast, and bake. | Potentially higher energy consumption compared to traditional toasters. |
| Faster cooking times – Preheats quickly and cooks food efficiently. | May require more frequent cleaning due to multiple cooking functions. |
| Potential health benefits – Lower fat content in meals compared to traditional frying. | Price range – Some models can be more expensive than regular toasters. |
| Durability – Often designed for long-term use with proper care. | Lifespan – May vary significantly between different brands and models. |
What Best Practices Can Enhance Your Experience with a Small Toaster Air Fryer?
Implementing best practices can significantly enhance your experience with a small toaster air fryer.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your toaster air fryer can lead to more consistent cooking results. It allows the appliance to reach the desired temperature before you add food, which helps achieve that crispy texture you’re aiming for.
- Use the Right Accessories: Utilizing accessories specifically designed for air frying can help improve your cooking efficiency. For example, using a baking pan, skewers, or racks can optimize airflow and cooking times, allowing for evenly cooked meals.
- Keep It Clean: Regularly cleaning your air fryer is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Make sure to remove grease and food particles after each use to prevent smoke and unpleasant odors during cooking.
- Monitor Cooking Times: Since small toaster air fryers can cook food faster than traditional ovens, it’s important to keep an eye on cooking times. Adjusting recipes to account for the faster cooking can prevent overcooking and burning.
- Experiment with Cooking Techniques: Don’t hesitate to try different cooking techniques such as roasting, baking, or grilling in your air fryer. This versatility allows you to explore new recipes and flavors while making the most of your appliance.
- Use Minimal Oil: One of the advantages of air frying is the ability to cook with less oil. Using an oil spray or a small amount of oil can help achieve a crispy exterior while keeping meals healthier, enhancing the air frying experience.
- Layer Food Properly: To ensure even cooking, layer food items properly in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can impede airflow and lead to unevenly cooked food.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the user manual for specific guidelines and recommendations related to your model. This will help you understand the cooking capacities, temperature settings, and maintenance tips that are tailored to your particular air fryer.