8 Best Countertop Convection Oven Reviews for 2022
If you’re anything like me, your kitchen is your haven. From whipping up late-night treats to prepping 5-course meals, that’s where all the magic happens. Unfortunately, cooking up all these delicious bites without an oven to lean on is like cutting bread with a dull knife; a.k.a, super difficult and -at times- impossible.
And, yes, I know what you’re thinking. “What about conventional ovens, Markella?” Well, splurging on such pricey kitchen equipment isn’t for anyone – which is why I got you the next best thing, and that’s countertop convection ovens.
Often dubbed as mini-ovens, these kitchen appliances are specially designed to circulate hot air around the food, forcing it to cook from the inside out it in no time. As a result, you can spend less time prepping and more time savoring the food (that’s always a good thing, right?). Convection ovens are also smaller in size than their regular counterparts which means they’re perfect for folks with limited kitchen space such as college students and city dwellers.
So, if this sounds like something that would save you lots of time and energy, these 8 best countertop convection ovens are a great place to start. I assure you that between their restaurant-worthy performance and easy-to-use interface, they’ll take your meals to a whole new level.
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Best Countertop Convection Oven Reviews for 2022
It’s true: Choosing the right convection oven isn’t always as easy as it sounds – and given the plethora of options available these days, it’s super easy to pick one model over another just because it’s shinier. To keep you from making such rookie mistakes, I rounded up the 8 best countertop convection ovens on the market today, and trust me their sleek design is just the beginning.
1. Wolf Gourmet WGCO100S Countertop Oven with Convection
If this is your first time using a convection oven and you want to make the most of it (even if you don’t know how), this model is a no-brainer. Sporting a bunch of high-end features, the Wolf Gourmet best-seller takes the guesswork out of the whole cooking process, sparing you the confusion and hassle. Luckily, that’s just one of the perks. Intrigued much? Here’s exactly what this model has to offer.
PROS
- Powerful Convection System
One of the most noteworthy features of this convection oven is the advanced convection system. The model comes with a powerful fan, five different heating elements and a set of high-volume airflow vents, all of which help the hot air reach every nook of the chamber and leave no cold spots behind. As a result, your food is cooked thoroughly with almost zero effort. The best part? Since hot air is trapped in the chamber, the appliance cuts cooking time by about 25% which is always a win in my book.
- Large Cooking Chamber
If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I love to cook food in large batches. This way I save lots of time from cooking it again and again when I’m out – which is why I came to love this model. The Wolf Gourmet convection oven is big enough to fit a 5 ½- pound chicken, so you can bet it’ll fit your family-sized pizza or 12-piece muffin tin.
- Pre-Calibrated Temps
One of the best features on this device is that it boasts six different cooking modes; baking, roasting, broiling, warming, proofing, and toasting. Besides the versatility that this has to offer, each method is calibrated in advance, so once you make your choice, the appliance fine-tunes itself and makes sure the heating elements reach the required temperature to perform the task you have in mind. If that’s not newbie-friendly, then I don’t know what is.
- Integrated Temperature Probe
The model also comes with a detachable temperature probe which allows you to check the food’s internal temp without having to open the door. As a result, you don’t let all the hot air leak out of the chamber, and thus, save lots of energy and time in the process. Plus, knowing the exact temp of your food helps you know if it’s cooked or not without having to check every once in a while. And for those of you who think attaching and detaching the probe is too much of a hassle, note that it’s specially designed to latch onto the socket using just one hand.
- Automatic Shut-Off Feature
I also love the fact that it comes with an auto shut-off feature which turns the thing off after four hours of use. This gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m in a rush to get things done.
- Long-Lasting Materials
Another great thing about this convection oven is that it’s made of stainless steel. For those of you who don’t know, this material is durable AF and can take the highest of temperatures and nastiest of stains without so much as a blemish. In other words, it’s built to last, allowing you to get a bang for your buck.
- Easy to Clean
Since the inside of the oven is coated with a BPA-free non-stick sheet, it prevents food from sticking to the sides and makes cleaning a breeze. The model also has a removable drip tray which slides out of the chamber and is dishwasher-safe. So, all you need is a damp cloth, a little bit of soapy water and your convection oven will look as good as new.
CONS
- Pricey
I’m not going to lie: Your wallet may feel the pinch with this one. But, I think it’s a small price to pay considering the multiple, newbie-friendly feats it comes with.
2. Breville BOV845BSS Convection Toaster Oven
Also known as the Smart Oven Pro, this Breville must-have is not for the faint of heart. The device boasts a unique IQ-centric design which takes over and guarantees a chef-worthy result every time. But, this is merely the beginning. If you like the sound of that, here’s everything else this appliance has in store for you.
PROS
- Element IQ Design
Unlike most of its peers, the model features a “smart” technology design which distributes heat all across the cooking chamber in the most well-thought-out way possible. Specifically, the device transfers an equal amount of heat to its five, smartly-placed heating elements, making sure the cold air “sinks” at the bottom and the hot air stays at the top. This way your food is continuously exposed to heat and cooked evenly.
- Multiple Cooking Options
One of the most impressive feats of this model is the variety of cooking methods it boasts. Specifically, the Breville mini-oven can cook your food in ten (!) different ways, from baking, roasting and toasting to broiling, warming and reheating. However, the most intriguing one is slow cooking. Yes, you read that right; this convection oven can also slow cook your food, helping you create the most delicious dishes ever with just the push of a button.
- Reliable Convection System
Aside from the smart technology that it uses, the device also has a powerful inbuilt fan which circulates the hot air throughout the oven, reducing cooking time even more.
- LCD Display
Adding to its futuristic design, the model also comes with an LCD which grants you access to the device’s pre-programmed cooking modes. The display also shows the temps that your food is being cooked and the cooking time assigned to each method, helping you plan your meals accordingly.
- High-Quality Safety Features
What I also like about this convection oven is that it comes with an auto shut-off feature which makes cooking a tad safer for me.
- Spacious Chamber
It’s also worth noting that the model’s cooking chamber is quite big, allowing you to fit generous batches of your treats, from one family-sized pizza to a 5-pound chicken. Speaking from personal experience, it can cook food for up to six people in one go.
- Easy to Clean
Being the top seller that it is, this countertop convection oven also features a non-stick interior coating which keeps food from sticking to the sides and burning. That makes cleaning much more comfortable and spares you the fuss, especially after cooking greasy foods.
CONS
- Loud Fan
Even though the fan is strong AF, it often makes a rather loud noise which can be annoying.
3. Black + Decker TO3240XSBD Convection Countertop Toaster Oven
If you’ve been using convection ovens with pre-set cooking options but think it’s time you took things to your own hands, this Black + Decker charmer is an absolute must-have. Unlike many on the market, the appliance sports a temperature knob which allows you to adjust the cooking temps yourself and finally cook your food the way YOU want to. Of course, this is just one of the things this gem of an oven can do. Wanna know more? Then, keep scrolling down.
PROS
- Huge Capacity
The first thing that drew me to this mini-oven was the size of the chamber. From what I’ve seen so far, it’s wide enough to fit eight slices of bread, a big pan of lasagna or a 12-inch pizza which means it can cook for a family of four (or six) with ease.
- Durable Materials
It’s also made of stainless steel, making sure the device is in it for the long haul. Just make sure to maintain it properly, and it could last a lifetime (and then some).
- Efficient Convection System
The appliance also comes with a high-quality convection fan which distributes hot air throughout the chamber and makes sure the food is cooked evenly. That said, you don’t have to stir it halfway or anything like that. Just pop it in there, set it and forget it. Cool, huh?
- Adjustable Temperature Settings
This Black + Decker appliance also stands out thanks to its manual temperature settings. Specifically, the device features an adjustable knob which allows you to choose the temps at which you can cook your food. As a result, you can experiment with various dishes that go way beyond pizza and chicken.
Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s only good for experienced users. The unit also comes with four pre-set cooking options (baking, toasting, broiling and keeping warm), sparing you the prep work when it comes to simple tasks such as making bread, cookies or cake. In other words, while it’s usually recommended for experienced users, it can also do the trick for total beginners.
- Built-In Timer
It also sports a built-in timer which lets you decide on the cooking time of each dish. Of course, that depends on the dish’s ingredients, so feel free to play around.
- Budget-Friendly
If you take a look at the price, you’ll also notice that it’s quite low compared to most contenders on this list, a quality that makes it perfect for those of you who don’t want to spend more than $100 for a convection oven.
- Easy to Clean
The unit also has a removable crumb tray which is very easy to slide in and out. As a result, you can dispose of any food residues within minutes and call it a day. And since the thing is made of stainless steel, well… let’s just stay, there’s not a nook in that chamber that some soapy water and a sponge can’t clean.
CONS
- Short Cord
The only drawback of this model is the short cord which makes it kind of hard to move around. So, upon purchase, make sure to save a spot for it on your counter that’s close to the plug.
4. Cuisinart CSO-300N1 Steam & Convection Oven
If you want to buy a convection oven for the sole reason of cutting cooking time in half, this model is a one-way street. Thanks to its special, air-tight design, the Cuisinart hot seller traps heat inside the chamber, forcing food to cook faster and sparing you the hour-long waiting. But, this isn’t where the “magic” ends. There are many more reasons why this is one of the best countertop convection ovens on the market today. So, ready to get the skinny?
PROS
- Reduced Cooking Time
The device is specially designed to keep heat from leaking out the chamber which means it’s capable of maintaining a specific temperature for as long as possible. This quality forces your food to cook faster than with a regular oven, helping you cut cooking time by up to 40%.
- Unique Bread Proofing Technology
For most, owning a convection oven means that they got round-the-clock access to well-roasted chicken. But, this model is so much more than that. Thanks to its unique bread proofing technology, it creates the perfect environment for the dough to “rise” by merely helping it retain its moisture. As a result, you can bake the perfect loaf of bread while nailing that elusive texture everyone’s after (you know, the one that’s crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside).
- Large Capacity
Another thing I cherish about this model is the large-ish cooking chamber. In fact, it’s big enough to fit a 5-pound chicken, so you can be sure it can feed your entire 4-member family in one go.
- Multiple Cooking Functions
Much like all best-sellers on this list, this one comes with numerous cooking functions (nine, to be exact), but here’s the twist. While most models use just one of them at a time, this one allows you to combine two of them at once. So, you can poach and steam your veggies at the same time or steam and broil your steaks before serving. Isn’t that amazing?
- Top-Notch Steaming Mode
Even though this model made a name for itself for its impeccable baking and broiling “skills,” it’s also known for steaming food to perfection. That said, it also doubles as a steamer, so you can readily use it to cook rice or steam veggies, fish and poultry.
- Easy Cleanup
By now you know that cleaning a convection oven is quite easy. However, this model takes the cake on this department thanks to its “Steam Clean” Technology feature which sterilizes the inside of the oven with steam using just one button.
CONS
- Plastic Parts Become Moldy
Certain parts of the device are made of plastic which isn’t as bad as it sounds, but there’s one problem. As steam piles up inside the chamber, these parts tend to capture mold which isn’t always easy to get rid of.
5. Oster Digital Countertop Convection Oven
If your goal is to feed a crowd without having to cook for hours on end, this model is all you need. Sporting a big cooking chamber with two oven racks, the Oster mega-seller fits two large pizzas in one go which means it’s a definite crowd-pleaser. Of course, this is just one of the things that make this model a worthwhile investment. Read on and find out four more reasons why you need this convection oven in your life.
PROS
- Huge Capacity
As mentioned above, this is by far the biggest model on this list. That means it’s perfect for folks with large families or a knack for hosting parties.
- Efficient Design
Since this model is larger than most, one would assume that it’s not as efficient as the rest. Luckily, this is not the case as Oster experts made sure it performs aptly in any case scenario. In fact, its heating elements are a veritable powerhouse as they distribute heat not just quickly but also evenly throughout the chamber.
- Adjustable Temperatures
Besides the pre-set cooking options, the model also sports an adjustable temperature button which allows you to take the initiative when you’re cooking something of your own, i.e., your signature dinner rolls.
- Safe to Use
The kitchen appliance comes with a 90-minute timer which -once it’s out- initiates automatic shut-off. This way you know you’re safe even if you absent-mindedly leave the device on. And as much we’d like to disagree, we all have those moments, no?
- Newbie-Friendly Interface
Even though it features a bunch of buttons, this model is straightforward to use. That’s because each of them is marked with the task it performs, so you’re not left wondering what you’re supposed to do with it. That’s why it’s perfect for first-time users.
CONS
- Fragile Oven Door
If there’s one thing I’d change on this model is the quality of glass used for the door. Several past owners have mentioned that the glass shattered due to the high temps which is -of course- concerning.
6. Oyama TRO-110C Turbo Convection Oven
If you’re looking for a reliable convection oven that’s easy to use, this model screams your name. Equipped with a bunch of beginner-friendly features such as the temperature-to-cooking-time diagram that’s printed on top of the lid, the Oyama convection oven takes the confusion out of the whole process and makes everything much more manageable – even if this is your first time using the appliance. But, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s everything else you need to know about this mini-oven before you add it to your cart.
PROS
- Efficient Design
Upon first look, it’s obvious that the Oyama best-seller is somewhat different from most convection ovens; and yes, that’s thanks to its glass bowl. While some of you may argue that this quality is less than ideal, note that the see-through glass gives you the chance to check on the food while it’s cooking and determine whether it’s ready or not without having to open the lid. In other words, you “trap” the heat inside the bowl and save lots of energy in the process. More than that, you force the food to cook faster than usual which is also a huge time-saver.
- Perfect for Large Families
With a total capacity of 12 liters, the bowl is big enough to fit pretty much anything, from your Thanksgiving turkey to a large pie. Friendly note: It also comes with two cooking racks which means you can cook several foods at once.
- Easy-to-Use Interface
Featuring just two knobs (one for setting the temperature and one for adjusting the timer), the appliance is a synonym to simplicity. So, all you have to do when you want to cook your food is set the time and temp and cover with the lid. Oh, and another thing: There’s a bare-bones diagram printed on top of the cap which shows how long and at which temperature you should cook each food. Trust me; it couldn’t get easier than that!
- Affordable
Costing less than $60, this countertop convection oven won’t break the bank.
- Durable Materials
And if you’re worried about the glass cracking or shattering because of the high temps, note that it’s heatproof, so there’s almost zero chance this will ever happen.
CONS
- Slow Customer Service
The one thing I didn’t like about this product is the company’s customer support. If the thing breaks down, they do very little to compensate the buyer for the broken or damaged items, so that’s something you should definitely keep in mind.
7. Hamilton Beach 31104D Countertop Oven with Convection & Rotisserie
If you have a soft spot for rotisserie chicken but want to steer clear of the store-bought variety, this convection oven is the stuff of dreams. Equipped with a special rotisserie skewer, the model helps you grill meat from the comfort of your home – even in the dead of winter. Of course, that’s just one of the perks of owning a Hamilton Beach convection oven. Wanna know more? Read on!
PROS
- Fit For Large Families
Even though it looks small on the outside, the device is big enough to fit a 5-pound chicken which means it’s perfect for families with lots of mouths to feed. Large chamber aside, the unit also comes with two oven racks, giving you the chance to cook multiple foods at once – if needed.
- Doubles as a Rotisserie Oven
Not to sound biased, but this is one of the very few convection ovens that doubles as a rotisserie oven. So, if you’re a fan of grilled meat, this one is a definite must-have. The best part is that it’s super easy to glide the skewer in, so even a rookie can do it.
- Extra Accessories
The device also comes with a bunch of accessories which fit the chamber’s dimensions. These include a removable drip/crumb tray, two baking pans, and a broiler rack. While this may not sound like a big deal, note that in some cases, buyers need to pay extra for these tools – FYI, that’s not the case here.
- Easy to Use
If you take a closer look at the model, you’ll also notice that it has just three knobs (one for adjusting the temps, one for setting the time and one for choosing the type of cooking you’re after). So, from what you see, the device is pretty straightforward to use, proving assisted fan cooking is easier than most people think.
CONS
- Low-Quality Glass Door
If there’s one thing you should consider before investing in this model is the glass door, and particularly its quality. A few previous users saw the thing shatter after it was exposed to heat.
8. Kitchen Aid KC0275SS Digital Countertop Convection Oven
If you’re a sucker for high-end kitchen appliances, this state-of-the-art convection oven is where your search ends; and it’s not just because of the nine pre-programmed functions or the super-efficient heating elements. The best-selling mini-oven also comes with a bunch of other time-saving features which make the purchase seem all the more alluring. But, enough talk. Here’s why this model is definitely worth your attention.
PROS
- High-Quality Convection System
From the fan to the heating elements, the model features a reliable convection system that distributes the heat evenly and leaves no part of the food uncooked. As a result, you’ll always enjoy a delicious meal, no matter what you choose to cook with.
- Adjustable Timer
The appliance also comes with an adjustable timer which allows you to cook each meal for up to two hours. Considering most recipes don’t require more than an hour of cooking, this time window is all types of convenient.
- Versatile Cooking
Programmed to cook your food in nine different modes, this convection oven is a synonym to versatility. So, whether you want to bury yourself knee-deep in bagels or cook your beef roast like a pro, this model has your back.
- Roomy Chamber
Capable of fitting a plump chicken or two large pizzas, the mini oven’s cooking chamber is exactly what you need if you have a large family, and want to cook lots of food as fast as possible.
- Easy to Clean
The inside of the device is coated with non-stick varnish which makes cleanup a breeze. More than that, the coating is BPA-free which means there’s zero chance any chemicals will ever leach into your food.
CONS
- Takes Time to Heat Up
Even though it can reach and withstand high temps, the convection oven takes some time to get there which can be annoying if you’re in a hurry.
What to Look For When Shopping For the Best Countertop Convection Oven
In a world where conventional ovens can do pretty much anything (grilling, searing, roasting and toasting), there’s little room for convection ovens to shine. And that’s why many folks end up with a deadbeat model that’s too pricey, to begin with. Luckily, getting your hands on the best countertop convection oven from the get-go is as easy as keeping these four requirements in mind. So, who’s ready for some smart shopping?
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Cooking Capacity
The first thing you need to check when shopping for a countertop convection oven is the chamber’s capacity. By doing so, you always know how much food your model can cook in one go which is super important if you’re feeding a crowd or hosting a party.
With this in mind, models with a large cooking chamber and two racks are a must-have for folks with large families. And if this sounds too vague for you, make sure your convection oven is big enough to fit a 5-pound chicken. If it fits something big as that, it’s good enough to feed a family of four.
On the other hand, if you’re cooking for one, I’d advise you to opt for a small-ish model with one rack max. This way you’ll save lots of -otherwise, wasted- counter space and make storage a breeze.
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Well-Designed Airflow System
This may sound weird, but when it comes to shopping the best countertop convection oven, most buyers often neglect to pay attention to the model’s airflow system. And if you’re wondering, yes! That’s the most important feature on the dang device.
To give you an idea of how important it is, note that a weak airflow system doesn’t distribute hot air across the chamber efficiently which means it fails to cook your food all the way through. As a result, you end up with a pile of half-baked… goodies (?) and lots of wasted time and money. Wanna know an easy way to avoid such scenarios? Choose a model with high-volume airflow vents and a powerful fan.
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Temperature Control Settings
While it’s not a must, being able to adjust the cooking temps yourself could make your meals all the more delicious. After all, most recipes come with specific cooking instructions (including pre-set temperatures), so being able to follow them to the tee guarantees a near-perfect result every time.
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Multiple Cooking Options
Another thing you should consider when shopping for a countertop convection oven is the way you want to use it, and specifically, what you want to do with your food. That said, there are models which can do just the basics – as in bake a pizza or brownie, roast a few chicken fillets or toast your morning bagels.
Of course, your options don’t end there. Some (slightly more advanced) models feature multiple cooking options that allow you to do all of the above plus steam veggies or fish, thaw your frozen goodies, broil your meat and reheat your leftovers. So, before you add your new device to the cart, take a mental note of the functions you want to target, and the choice will pop right in front of you.
Final thoughts
So, these are the 8 best countertop convection ovens on the market today. Which of them would you snatch ASAP? I’d love to hear your top pick in the comment section below. Until then, happy shopping!
