Toaster vs Toaster Oven – Which Is Better?

Thinking of buying a toaster or a toaster oven but unsure which one is best? I don’t know about you but anyway I am able to minimise the number of appliances in my kitchen the better – however, that doesn’t mean I want to give up on their abilities.

A toaster oven is better than a conventional toaster because a toaster oven is able to toast bread in the same way as a traditional toaster (albeit not as quickly) and also able to cook other foods in your kitchen.

However, it takes up very little extra space and costs very little more than a traditional toaster given it’s extended capabilities. That said, if you’re not planning on using any of the additional toaster oven features and are on a tight budget, you might want to consider a toaster instead a toaster oven.

I’ve broken down the benefits and drawbacks of both a toaster and a toaster oven so you’re ultimately able to decide which appliance is a better fit for your kitchen.

What Is A Toaster?

A toaster is a small electrical kitchen appliance which is designed to turn sliced bread, muffins etc. into slices of toast, or toasted muffins etc. through radiant heat. Toasters generally come in a capacity of between two and six slices and are made from materials including plastic and stainless steel.

Benefits Of A Toaster

Small – This is a relatively small kitchen appliance and therefore can be easily placed in kitchens that have a lack of countertop space.

Fast – A toaster is a kitchen appliance which works quickly to create the desired end result.

Affordable – You can purchase a two-slice toaster for as little as $10, and a four-slice toaster for around $18.

Adjustable – You can adjust the time/temperature of your toaster to ensure that it toasts the bread to your exact requirements.

Long Lifespan – The average lifespan of a toaster is 8-years. Which is fantastic given the affordability of these appliances.

Variety Of Designs – As a toaster is a popular small kitchen appliance it’s one which is available in various shapes and colours. As a result, you’re often able to find one to suit your kitchen with ease.

Low Electricity Consumption – Despite the average toaster being 1,200 watts the amount of electricity required is actually relatively low given how quickly the appliance is able to turn bread into toast for example.

Disadvantages Of A Toaster

Lack Of Versatility – There’s only one thing a toaster can do and that’s toast different types of bread.

Can Be Dangerous – Just like the vast majority of kitchen appliances under the right conditions a toaster can be a dangerous appliance and one which should be used with caution.

What Is A Toaster Oven?

A toaster oven is another small popular kitchen appliance. The name comes from the appliances ability to toast and it’s design (it looks like a small oven).

The toaster oven has been around since 1910 and works as a result of heat being emitted from the heating elements which are often situated on the top and bottom of the interior of the appliance.

Benefits Of A Toaster Oven

Easy To Clean – This appliance has an open body and large door which makes accessing the interior for cleaning relatively easy compared to some other kitchen appliances.

Versatility – It may be small but this kitchen appliance packs a punch. You can do a number of different things with the majority of these machines including; toasting, baking and roasting.

Energy Efficient – Given the fact this appliance is significantly smaller than an oven, it’s no surprise that it’s also more energy-efficient. However, it’s not as energy efficient as a toaster.

Portable & Lightweight – A toaster oven is a great investment if you’re also someone who does a lot of domestic travelling its versatility alongside its portability makes it the perfect kitchen appliance to take on the road.

Easy To Use – Despite being incredibly versatile a toaster oven is still relatively easy to use.

Multiple Capacities – Given the increase in popularity of toaster ovens over the past couple of decades, there’s a number of makes, models and capacities for buyers to choose from. Which means you’re able to buy one that specifically fits your needs.

i.e. No need to buy one bigger than you need or struggling to find one that’s large enough to cook meals for the whole family.

Disadvantages Of A Toaster Oven

Can Cook Foods Unevenly – A toaster oven tends to cook foods unevenly given the space between the two heating elements and the food.

Some makes and models do a better job at coping with this than others so be sure to check the reviews for feedback on this disadvantage specifically to see if it’s a major issue for your appliance.

Doesn’t Last Long – Unlike a toaster, a toaster oven only has an average life span of five years. While this is still a significant amount of time it’s something to think about considering this appliance is also more expensive.

Noisy – These can be noisy appliances given the power they consume. While they won’t be as noisy as the majority of full-size conventional ovens they will be noisier than your toaster.

Expensive – Given the versatility of these appliances it should come as no surprise that they can be expensive. Toaster ovens start at around $25 and go up to $250 depending on the make, model and capacity.