How to Choose the Best Small Ovens
Choosing the right small oven doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it’s important to focus on the features that really matter for your kitchen and cooking needs. Here’s a friendly guide to the key factors to consider before making a purchase.
- Capacity (Liters/Cubic Feet) The first thing to check is how much food your oven can hold. Small ovens usually range from about 12 liters up to 3 cubic feet. If you’re cooking for one or two people, a compact 12–23 liter oven might be perfect. But if you want to roast a chicken or bake multiple trays at once, look for ovens with larger capacities. Think about your typical meals and the type of dishes you like to prepare.
- Wattage & Heating Performance Wattage determines how quickly and efficiently your oven heats up. Higher wattage ovens (around 1600–1800 watts) cook food faster and more evenly, while lower wattage models may take longer. Convection ovens, which use a fan to circulate hot air, often deliver more consistent results than traditional countertop ovens.
- Oven Type (Convection, Air Fryer, Combination) Modern small ovens come in a variety of types:
- Convection ovens: Great for even baking and roasting.
- Air fryer ovens: Perfect for crispy fries, chicken, and healthier frying without oil.
- Combination ovens: Offer multiple cooking modes like microwave + convection, or air fry + bake, giving you versatility in one appliance.
- Control Type (Knobs, Touch, Smart Features) Consider how you want to operate your oven. Knob controls are simple and reliable, while touchscreens or smart ovens offer preset cooking functions, timers, and precise temperature control. If you like a hands-off approach or are a tech enthusiast, a smart oven might be worth it.
- Safety Features & Maintenance Ease Safety should always come first. Look for double-layered glass doors, cool-touch exteriors, and automatic shut-off timers. Easy-to-clean interiors and removable racks also save time and effort. After all, no one wants to struggle with stubborn grease and crumbs after every use!
- Price vs. Performance Finally, consider your budget versus what the oven offers. Some high-end small ovens come with multiple functions and smart features, while more affordable options cover the basics well. The key is to balance the features you actually need with the price you’re willing to pay.
CROSSON 23L Quarter-Size Convection Oven
Product Overview
- Brand: CROSSON
- Dimensions: 22.7″D x 21″W x 22.6″H
- Color: Argent (Brushed Stainless Steel)
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Capacity: 23 Liters
- Wattage: 1600W
- Control Type: Knob Control
- Special Features: Manual operation, 120-minute timer, interior light
- Included Components: 3 sets of wire racks
Performance & Use Cases
This oven is ideal for light-duty commercial use, such as in small cafes, kiosks, and bakeries, as well as for home kitchens requiring versatile cooking capabilities. Its compact size and efficient performance make it suitable for preparing a variety of dishes, including baked goods, roasted vegetables, and reheated meals.
Pros
- Even heat distribution due to bi-directional fan rotation
- Versatile cooking with three-tier rack system
- Safe and easy monitoring with double-layer tempered glass door
- User-friendly design with manual controls
Cons
- Relatively bulky for very small countertops
- Manual controls may lack the precision of digital interfaces
Key Features
- Bi-Directional Fan Rotation: The fan alternates direction every 30 seconds, ensuring even heat distribution and consistent cooking results.
- Powerful 1600W Convection Heating: Delivers rapid and uniform heating, suitable for baking, roasting, and toasting.
- 3-Layer Baking Arrangement: Offers flexibility with three removable wire racks, allowing multiple dishes to be cooked simultaneously.
- Double-Layer Tempered Glass & Interior Lighting: The cool-touch door and internal light facilitate safe monitoring of cooking progress.
- Easy Maintenance Design: Thumb-screw removable racks and smooth surfaces make cleaning straightforward.
KoolMore 24 Inch Built-in Convection Oven & Microwave Combo
Product Overview
The KoolMore 24 Inch Built-in Convection Oven & Microwave Combo is a sleek, silver stainless steel appliance designed for built-in kitchen installations. With a 1.5 cubic feet capacity and 1000W power, this dual oven-microwave combination supports a variety of cooking needs, from quick reheating to full-scale baking and broiling. The touch LCD display makes operation simple and intuitive.
Performance & Use Cases
This built-in oven is ideal for residential kitchens where space efficiency and multifunctionality are priorities. It allows you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, quickly reheat leftovers, or prepare meals requiring precise temperatures, all without crowding the countertop.
Pros
- Time-saving dual-function design
- Safe and quiet operation
- Built-in installation enhances kitchen aesthetics
Cons
- Larger footprint than countertop ovens
- Installation is required, limiting portability
Key Features
- Dual Microwave & Convection Cooking: Combines microwave speed with convection’s even heat for versatile meal preparation.
- Convection Heating Element: Reduces cooking time by approximately 20% while ensuring even heat distribution.
- Cool Door Technology: Double-layered glass keeps the exterior safe to touch.
- Silent, Soft-Close Drawer: Prevents slamming, protecting fingers and enhancing kitchen comfort.
- Reinforced Oven Door Hinges: Supports heavy dishes (up to 66 lbs) safely when moving food in and out.
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Product Overview
The Breville BOV900BSS Smart Small Oven Air Fryer Pro is a brushed stainless steel countertop oven designed for serious home cooks. With 1 cubic feet capacity and 1800W power, it supports a wide range of cooking functions. The oven features knob controls and an intuitive interface for precise operation.
Performance & Use Cases
Perfect for medium to large cooking tasks, this oven excels at baking, roasting, air frying, and dehydrating. Its versatility makes it suitable for families or individuals who want an all-in-one countertop appliance.
Pros
- Multiple cooking functions in one appliance
- Precise temperature control via ELEMENT iQ system
- Large interior capacity for family meals
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than basic small ovens
- Higher price point compared to simple countertop models
Key Features
- ELEMENT iQ System: Smart heating technology with five independent quartz elements, optimizing power where and when it’s needed.
- Super Convection: Reduces cooking time by up to 30% while ensuring even heat distribution.
- Air Fry & Dehydrate Settings: Allows healthier frying and multiple tray dehydration simultaneously.
- 13 Cooking Functions: Toast, bagel, broil, bake, roast, pizza, air fry, dehydrate, slow cook, reheat, proof, cookies, and warm.
- Large Interior Capacity: Fits 9 slices of bread, a 14 lb turkey, or multiple trays for versatile cooking.
Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven
Product Overview
The Ninja DCT451 is a stainless steel 12-in-1 double smart oven that brings true versatility to the countertop. With 12 liters of capacity and 1800W of power, it features knob controls and an easy-clean exterior, designed for families who want flexibility in meal-making.
Performance & Use Cases
This oven shines in busy households where cooking multiple meals is a daily necessity. From baking cookies in the top oven to air frying chicken wings in the bottom oven, it saves time and eliminates back-to-back cooking. Families of up to 6–8 people will appreciate the generous cooking space.
Pros
- Cook two meals at once with separate ovens
- Keeps flavors distinct with FlavorSeal
- Faster meal prep compared to single ovens
- Wide range of functions for flexibility
Cons
- Slightly bulky design may not fit every counter
- Top oven has limited capacity for larger dishes
Key Features
- FlexDoor Design: Choose between accessing just the top oven for quick snacks or opening the full door to use both ovens simultaneously.
- FlavorSeal Technology: Keeps flavors separate, so your pizza doesn’t end up tasting like roasted chicken.
- Smart Finish Technology: Syncs both ovens to cook different dishes and finish at the same time.
- Smart Cook System: Integrated thermometer ensures precise temperature control for perfect doneness.
- 12 Cooking Functions: Bake, broil, toast, bagel, reheat, keep warm, air fry, convection bake, roast, pizza, and dehydrate.
Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Product Overview
The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro is a 30QT large-capacity air fryer toaster oven designed for serious multi-tasking. With 1800W of power, push-button and dial controls, and a stainless steel finish, it’s built to deliver speed, precision, and consistency.
Performance & Use Cases
The Bravo XL Pro is ideal for larger families or home cooks who love variety. Its large 30QT capacity can handle two 13-inch pizzas, a 10 lb chicken, or a 6 lb roast with ease. It’s also RV- and motorhome-friendly for mobile chefs.
Pros
- Large capacity for families and gatherings
- Very versatile with presets and adjustable cooking zones
- Integrated thermometer for foolproof cooking
- Faster and crispier results than earlier models
Cons
- Heavier appliance (19+ lbs)
- Learning curve due to multiple advanced functions
Key Features
- Faster Fan & Better Results: Redesigned convection system for 100% faster fan speed, delivering crispier and evenly cooked food.
- Customizable Heating Zones: Adjustable top and bottom heating ratios for perfect pizza, roasts, and bakes.
- 12 Cooking Functions & 100 Presets: Covers everything from air frying and roasting to slow cooking and dehydrating.
- Multi-Layer Cooking: Advanced convection ensures even results across racks.
- Integrated Smart Digital Thermometer: Monitors internal food temp and auto-shuts off when cooking is done.
Comparison Table of Top 5 Small Ovens
When choosing the right oven for your apartment or compact kitchen, comparing specs side by side helps highlight the best fit for your cooking needs and budget. Below is a quick-glance comparison of the Top 5 Small Ovens of 2025.
CROSSON 23L Quarter-Size Convection Oven
- 23L (0.8 cu. ft.)
- 1600W
- Countertop Convection Oven
- Stainless steel build, even baking, compact design
KoolMore 24" Built-in Convection Oven & Microwave Combo
- 1.5 cu. ft.
- 1000W
- Built-in Convection + Microwave
- Dual cooking functions, soft-close door, reinforced hinges
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
- 1 cu. ft.
- 1800W
- Countertop Smart Oven
- ELEMENT iQ system, 13 functions, air fry & dehydrate
Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven
- 12L (Top) + Full Oven
- 1800W
- Countertop Double Oven
- FlexDoor design, Smart Finish, FlavorSeal, Smart Cook probe
Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- 30QT (0.9 cu. ft.)
- 1800W
- Countertop Air Fryer Oven
- Faster fan, 12 functions + 100 presets, smart thermometer
FAQs
What size small oven is ideal for apartments?
For most apartments and compact kitchens, a 20–30L (0.7–1 cu. ft.) oven is the sweet spot. It’s large enough to bake a small chicken, pizza, or several slices of bread, yet compact enough to sit comfortably on a countertop without hogging space. If you cook family-sized meals regularly, consider something closer to 30L or a double oven model.
Are countertop ovens energy efficient?
Yes, countertop ovens are typically more energy efficient than full-sized ovens because they heat up faster and use less energy overall. Convection and smart ovens are especially efficient, cutting cooking times by up to 30% and saving electricity in the process.
Can small ovens bake, roast, and air fry?
Absolutely. Many modern small ovens now function as multi-cookers. High-end models like the Breville or Nuwave include air fry, dehydrate, roast, broil, and even slow-cook settings. Even entry-level convection ovens can handle baking, roasting, and reheating with ease.
How to clean and maintain a small oven?
- Unplug before cleaning to ensure safety.
- Wipe down after every use with a damp cloth to prevent grease buildup.
- Remove and wash trays/racks with warm soapy water.
- For stubborn stains, use a baking soda + vinegar paste rather than harsh chemicals.
- Check heating elements periodically and avoid scratching the nonstick surfaces inside.
Proper maintenance extends your oven’s lifespan and keeps it running efficiently.
Conclusion & Final Verdict
Choosing the right small oven comes down to your space, cooking style, and budget. In this roundup of the best small countertop ovens of 2025, we’ve highlighted options that fit a range of needs:
- Best Overall: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro – unmatched versatility with 13 functions, powerful convection, and air fry capability. Perfect if you want one appliance to do it all.
- Best for Families: Ninja DCT451 Smart Double Oven – cook two meals at once without flavor crossover. Great for busy households.
- Best Budget-Friendly Pick: CROSSON 23L Convection Oven – compact, sturdy, and reliable, with 3 tiers for flexible baking at an affordable price.
- Best Built-in Option: KoolMore Microwave + Convection Combo – ideal if you want a sleek built-in that saves counter space while offering microwave and oven functions.
- Best for Customization & High Heat: Nuwave Bravo XL Pro – precision control with up to 500°F, 100 presets, and multi-layer even cooking for enthusiasts.
No matter which oven you choose, each of these models delivers excellent results in a compact form making them a smart addition for apartments, RVs, or small kitchens.
Make your pick based on what fits your lifestyle best and enjoy faster, easier, and tastier meals in 2025.