Thinking about upgrading your small kitchen with a countertop oven? You’re not alone! In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know-from the latest trends and expert tips to real user experiences and product recommendations for 2025. Whether you’re tight on space or just want a more efficient way to cook, our hand-picked list of the best countertop ovens for small kitchens will help you make the right choice.
Trends & Data: What’s New in Countertop Ovens for 2025?
Countertop ovens are more versatile and smarter than ever. In 2025, the best models offer:
- Smart features: App integration, scan-to-cook, and remote control for easy, hands-off cooking.
- Multi-functionality: Baking, broiling, air frying, dehydrating, and even steaming-all in one compact unit.
- Energy efficiency: Many models use up to 50% less energy than traditional ovens.
- Compact, sleek designs: Modern ovens fit comfortably on small countertops and look great in any kitchen.
- Healthier cooking options: Air fryers and steam functions let you prepare crispy or moist meals with less oil or fat.
These trends mean you can do more with less space, making countertop ovens a must-have for small kitchens, apartments, dorms, or anyone looking to save time and energy.
Product Selection: Why These Ovens Made the List
We selected ovens based on:
- Size and footprint: Ideal for small kitchens.
- Versatility: Multiple cooking modes.
- User ratings: High customer satisfaction and strong reviews.
- Unique features: Smart tech, air fry, or steam functions.
- Value: Options for every budget.
Comparison Table: Best Countertop Ovens for Small Kitchens (2025)
| Feature/Model | Breville Smart Oven Pro | Panasonic FlashXpress | Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Mini | Tovala Smart Oven Pro | Oster Extra Large Digital |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Best Overall | Best for Toasting/Speed | Best Value Air Fryer | Best Smart/Steam Oven | Best Large Capacity |
| Dimensions (inches) | 19 x 13.9 x 14.1 | 13 x 12 x 10.25 | 15.5 x 16 x 14 | 18.5 x 12.3 x 11 | 21.5 x 19 x 13 |
| Weight | 22.5 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 21 lbs | 16 lbs | 26 lbs |
| Functions | Bake, Broil, Toast, Air Fry, Slow Cook | Toast, Bake, Reheat, Pizza | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast | Bake, Broil, Steam, Scan-to-Cook | Bake, Broil, Toast, Convection |
| Smart/App Control | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Capacity | 12″ pizza, 6 slices bread | 9″ pizza, 4 slices bread | 12″ pizza, 6 slices bread | 12″ pizza, 4 slices bread | 2 x 16″ pizzas, 18 slices bread |
| Air Fryer | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Steam Function | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Price Range | $$$ | $ | $$ | $$$$ | $$ |
| Best Overall/Value | ⭐ Best Overall | ⭐ Best Value | ⭐ Best Smart | ⭐ Best Large Capacity |
Key Comparison Criteria
When choosing the best countertop oven for a small kitchen, focus on these features:
- Size & Footprint: Fits comfortably on your counter and in your storage space.
- Cooking Functions: Look for ovens that can bake, broil, toast, air fry, or steam-depending on your needs.
- Ease of Use: Simple controls, clear displays, and easy cleaning make daily use a breeze.
- Capacity: Make sure it fits your typical meals (e.g., pizza size, number of bread slices).
- Energy Efficiency: Saves on utility bills and reduces heat in your kitchen.
- Smart Features: App control, scan-to-cook, or programmable settings for convenience.
- Price & Value: Balance features with your budget-sometimes a mid-priced oven offers the best bang for your buck.
Summarized User Reviews
Breville Smart Oven Pro
- Pros: Excellent build quality, intuitive controls, spacious interior, even cooking, air fry capability, attractive stainless steel design.
- Cons: Exterior gets very hot, only one cooking rack, premium price.
- Common Feedback: Reliable for daily use, replaces the main oven for many, but caution needed with hot surfaces.
Panasonic FlashXpress
- Pros: Super fast (no preheat needed), perfect toast, compact, easy to use and clean, reliable for years.
- Cons: Limited baking capacity, boxy design, power can be strong for delicate items.
- Common Feedback: Ideal for quick meals, toast, and reheating; beloved for its speed and simplicity.
Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Mini Oven
- Pros: Multiple cooking settings, replaces several appliances, quiet operation, excellent air fryer results.
- Cons: Larger footprint, can be heavy for some users.
- Common Feedback: Great value, many stop using their regular oven, highly rated for versatility.
Tovala Smart Oven Pro
- Pros: App control, scan-to-cook, steam function, easy meal prep, compact size.
- Cons: Smaller capacity, requires refilling water for steaming, some uneven cooking at the back.
- Common Feedback: Perfect for singles/couples, tech-savvy users love the convenience, but not ideal for large families.
Oster Extra Large Digital Countertop Oven
- Pros: Huge capacity, energy efficient, easy to clean, digital controls, fits large dishes.
- Cons: Bulky for very small kitchens, exterior and glass door get hot, some uneven cooking, no interior light.
- Common Feedback: Excellent for families or batch cooking, many use it instead of their main oven, but be cautious of hot surfaces and size.
Product Recommendations
Here are our top picks for 2025-each selected to meet different needs and budgets:
- Breville Smart Oven Pro – Best Overall: Versatile, reliable, and stylish. Great for daily use and advanced cooks.
- Panasonic FlashXpress – Best for Toasting/Speed: Lightning-fast, compact, and perfect for toast and snacks.
- Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Mini Oven – Best Value Air Fryer: Affordable, multi-functional, and highly rated.
- Tovala Smart Oven Pro – Best Smart/Steam Oven: App-enabled, scan-to-cook, and steam functions for tech lovers.
- Oster Extra Large Digital Countertop Oven – Best Large Capacity: Ideal for families or batch cooking, with impressive energy savings.
Disclosure: This guide may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our content and recommendations.
FAQs About Countertop Ovens
- Can a countertop oven replace my regular oven?
- For most everyday tasks, yes! They bake, broil, toast, and air fry efficiently, but check the size for larger meals.
- What’s the difference between a countertop oven and a toaster oven?
- Toaster ovens focus on toasting; countertop ovens offer more functions like baking, air frying, and sometimes steaming.
- Are countertop ovens energy efficient?
- Yes, many use up to 50% less energy than full-size ovens.
- Do they get hot on the outside?
- Most do-especially metal models. Keep them clear of flammable materials and use caution.
- Can I bake a cake or pizza in a countertop oven?
- Absolutely! Just check the oven’s maximum pan size and capacity.
- Are smart ovens worth it?
- If you like tech and convenience, yes-features like app control and scan-to-cook can save time and effort.
- How do I clean a countertop oven?
- Most have removable crumb trays and nonstick interiors. Always unplug before cleaning and avoid harsh abrasives.
- What’s the best countertop oven for air frying?
- Can I use metal pans in a countertop oven?
- Yes, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe materials.
- How long do countertop ovens last?
- With proper care, most last 3–7 years or more. Look for models with strong user reviews and good warranties.
What Others Miss
- Noise Levels: Some ovens (especially with convection fans) can be louder than expected. Check reviews if noise is a concern.
- Replacement Parts & Service: Not all brands offer easy access to replacement trays or racks; Breville and Cuisinart generally do.
- Smart Features Compatibility: Not all smart ovens work with every phone or home assistant-double-check before buying.
- Safety for Kids/Elderly: Hot exteriors are a real risk; consider models with insulated sides or clear safety warnings.
- Storage Tips: For very small kitchens, lighter models like the Panasonic FlashXpress are easier to move and store.
Conclusion
Countertop ovens have become essential for small kitchens in 2025-offering powerful performance, smart features, and space-saving designs. Whether you want the ultimate in versatility (Breville Smart Oven Pro), the fastest toast (Panasonic FlashXpress), or app-enabled convenience (Tovala Smart Oven Pro), there’s a perfect fit for every home.
Ready to upgrade? Explore our top picks, read user reviews, and find the countertop oven that will make your small kitchen more efficient, stylish, and fun. Have questions or want to share your own experience? Drop a comment below or check out our related guides for more expert advice!