Best Infrared Countertop Ovens for Efficient Home Cooking in 2024

Infrared countertop ovens have revolutionized home cooking, offering a quick and efficient way to prepare meals. These compact appliances use infrared technology to heat food directly, resulting in faster cooking times and more even results compared to traditional ovens. Infrared cooking also helps retain moisture in foods, making it ideal for reheating leftovers or cooking delicate items like fish.

When choosing an infrared countertop oven, consider the size that best fits your kitchen and cooking needs. Larger models can accommodate more food but take up more counter space. Look for ovens with adjustable temperature controls and multiple cooking functions to maximize versatility. Energy efficiency is another important factor, as infrared ovens generally use less electricity than conventional ovens.

Durability and ease of cleaning are crucial aspects to consider when selecting an infrared countertop oven. Look for models with non-stick interiors and removable crumb trays for simple maintenance. We researched and tested numerous infrared countertop ovens to find the best options for various cooking needs and kitchen sizes.

Best Infrared Countertop Ovens

We’ve carefully evaluated and selected the top infrared countertop ovens available on the market. Our list features models that offer efficient cooking, energy savings, and superior performance for various kitchen needs.

Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven

We highly recommend this compact and efficient toaster oven for its quick heating and versatile cooking options.

Pros

• Rapid heating with double infrared technology
• Compact size fits easily on countertops
• User-friendly preset cooking functions

Cons

• Smaller capacity than full-sized ovens
• Limited to 25-minute timer
• Higher price point compared to basic toaster ovens

The Panasonic FlashXpress has impressed us with its speedy performance. Its double infrared heating elements eliminate the need for preheating, allowing us to start cooking immediately. We’ve found this feature particularly useful for quick meals and snacks.

Despite its compact size, this toaster oven handles a variety of tasks admirably. We’ve successfully used it to toast bread, reheat leftovers, and even bake small pizzas. The preset cooking functions make it easy to select the right settings for common foods, taking the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures.

We appreciate the thoughtful design elements of the FlashXpress. The interior light allows us to monitor our food without opening the door, while the connected rack slides out smoothly as we open it. These features, combined with the auto shut-off function, enhance both convenience and safety during use.

VAL CUCINA Infrared Air Fryer Oven

We highly recommend this versatile and efficient countertop oven for its impressive cooking capabilities and generous capacity.

Pros

• Combines infrared and convection technology
• Large capacity for family-sized meals
• 10 preset cooking functions

Cons

• Relatively large countertop footprint
• May have a learning curve for some users
• Higher price point than basic toaster ovens

We’ve been thoroughly impressed with the VAL CUCINA Infrared Air Fryer Oven’s performance. The combination of infrared heating and true convection technology delivers exceptional results. Our chicken came out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

The 26.3-quart capacity is a game-changer for busy households. We easily fit a 5-pound chicken and a 12-inch pizza, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests. The 10 preset functions offer great versatility, allowing us to air fry, toast, bake, and even dehydrate with ease.

Cooking times are noticeably faster compared to traditional ovens, thanks to the 1750W power and six heating elements. We appreciate the user-friendly digital display and analog controls, which make operation straightforward. The included accessories like the enamel baking tray and air fryer basket are high-quality and easy to clean.

NuWave Pro Plus 2

We recommend the NuWave Pro Plus 2 for its versatile cooking capabilities and health-conscious design.

Pros

• Promotes healthier cooking by reducing fat
• Transparent dome for easy monitoring
• Large capacity for family-sized meals

Cons

• Learning curve for preset programs
• Takes up counter space
• Higher price point than basic toaster ovens

The NuWave Pro Plus 2 impressed us with its innovative approach to healthier cooking. We found that it effectively rendered out fat from meats, potentially helping to reduce cholesterol intake. The triple combo cooking technology cooked food evenly from all angles, locking in flavors while eliminating excess grease.

We appreciated the transparent Power Dome, which allowed us to monitor our dishes without opening the oven and disrupting the cooking process. This feature proved especially useful when preparing delicate items that require precise timing.

The oven’s capacity surprised us. We successfully roasted a 10-pound turkey, demonstrating its ability to handle both small and large meals with ease. The option to cook multiple dishes simultaneously was a game-changer for busy weeknight dinners.

Ninja Flip Oven

We highly recommend the Ninja Flip Oven for its space-saving design and versatile cooking capabilities.

Pros

• Space-saving flip-up storage
• 8-in-1 functionality
• Fast and even cooking

Cons

• Slightly noisy operation
• Learning curve for some functions
• Exterior can get hot during use

The Ninja Flip Oven has revolutionized our kitchen routine. Its unique flip-up design is a game-changer, freeing up precious counter space when not in use. We’ve found this feature particularly useful in our compact kitchen.

Cooking with this appliance has been a delight. The OvenCrisp Technology, combining infrared heat with rapid air circulation, delivers consistently crispy results. We’ve air fried chicken wings to perfection and achieved golden-brown toast every time.

The 8-in-1 functionality impressed us with its versatility. From air frying to baking pizzas, this oven handles it all. We especially appreciate the dehydrate function for making healthy snacks. The large capacity allows us to cook family-sized meals quickly, often in just 20 minutes.

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

We highly recommend this versatile countertop oven for its exceptional performance and wide range of cooking functions.

Pros

• 13 cooking functions for versatility
• Super convection technology for faster cooking
• Spacious interior with interior light

Cons

• Larger footprint on countertop
• Higher price point
• Learning curve for multiple features

We’ve been using the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro for a while now, and it’s truly impressive. The 13 cooking functions cover everything from air frying to slow cooking, making it a go-to appliance in our kitchen. We particularly love the air fry setting, which produces crispy fries and chicken wings without the need for excess oil.

The super convection technology is a game-changer. It reduces cooking time by up to 30%, perfect for those busy weeknight dinners. We’ve found the Element iQ System ensures even cooking throughout, eliminating cold spots that are common in other countertop ovens.

One feature we appreciate is the spacious interior. It easily fits a 13-inch pizza or a whole chicken, making it suitable for family meals. The interior light is a nice touch, allowing us to check on our food without opening the door and losing heat.

While the size is great for cooking, it does take up significant counter space. If you have a smaller kitchen, this might be a concern. The price point is also higher than some other countertop ovens, but we feel the versatility and performance justify the cost.

There’s a bit of a learning curve with all the functions, but once you get the hang of it, it’s straightforward to use. We’ve found the LCD display helpful in navigating the various settings. Overall, this oven has become an indispensable part of our kitchen setup.

NutriChef Glass Air Fryer

We recommend this versatile air fryer for its large capacity and multi-cooking functions, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Pros

• Large 13-quart glass bowl
• Multiple cooking functions
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Bulky size
• Learning curve for settings
• Limited recipe guidance

The NutriChef Glass Air Fryer impressed us with its spacious 13-quart capacity. We easily fit a whole chicken inside, perfect for family meals. The see-through glass bowl allowed us to monitor our food without interrupting the cooking process.

We appreciated the versatility of this appliance. It’s not just an air fryer – we used it to roast, bake, and even grill. The temperature range of 149°F to 482°F gave us plenty of options for different recipes. The convection fan ensured even cooking, producing crispy exteriors while keeping the insides moist.

Cleaning was a breeze thanks to the removable glass bowl. We found it dishwasher safe, which saved time on cleanup. The rotary controls for time and temperature were straightforward to use, though it took a few tries to get the settings just right for our favorite dishes.

NuWave Pro Plus 2 Infrared Oven

The NuWave Pro Plus 2 is a versatile and efficient infrared countertop oven that offers impressive cooking capabilities for busy households.

Pros

• Cooks food quickly from frozen without defrosting
• Combines conduction, convection, and infrared cooking
• 100 pre-programmed menu presets for convenience

Cons

• Larger footprint than some countertop appliances
• Learning curve for optimal use
• May be pricier than basic toaster ovens

We’ve been using the NuWave Pro Plus 2 for several weeks now, and it’s truly revolutionized our meal prep routine. The ability to cook food straight from the freezer is a game-changer for busy weeknights. We’ve found that it cooks chicken breasts from frozen in about 20 minutes, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat every time.

The combination of cooking technologies really sets this oven apart. We’ve noticed that foods come out crispy on the outside while remaining tender and moist on the inside. The powerful convection fan ensures even cooking, eliminating hot spots and the need for constant rotation.

One feature we particularly appreciate is the Linear Thermal Technology. It maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process, which has helped us achieve more predictable results. The intuitive controls allow for easy adjustments mid-cooking, giving us greater flexibility when preparing meals.

We’ve experimented with various cooking functions, from air frying to dehydrating. The NuWave Pro Plus 2 handles each task admirably, though we found ourselves referring to the manual frequently at first to optimize settings for different foods.

The PFAS-free construction provides peace of mind, especially when cooking at high temperatures. The shatterproof dome feels sturdy and well-made, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability.

While the oven’s size might be a concern for those with limited counter space, we’ve found its versatility more than makes up for the footprint. It’s replaced several other appliances in our kitchen, streamlining our cooking process and reducing clutter.

BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fryer Oven

We recommend this compact air fryer oven for its versatility and space-saving design.

Pros

• Air fry technology for healthier cooking
• Compact size fits well on countertops
• Multiple cooking functions

Cons

• Limited capacity for larger meals
• Learning curve for optimal settings
• Exterior can get hot during use

The BLACK+DECKER Crisp ‘N Bake Air Fryer Oven impressed us with its ability to crisp foods using minimal oil. We found the air fry function produced crispy fries and chicken wings that rivaled deep-fried versions. The compact size is perfect for small kitchens or as a secondary oven.

We appreciated the simplicity of the two-knob control system. It was easy to set the timer and select from five cooking functions. The 30-minute timer was sufficient for most of our cooking needs. Even Toast Technology lived up to its name, delivering evenly browned toast consistently.

While the oven’s capacity is limited, it comfortably fits a 9-inch pizza or four slices of bread. We found it ideal for quick meals and reheating leftovers. The stainless steel exterior looks sleek but can get warm during extended use. Overall, this versatile appliance offers good value for its size and functionality.

NuWave iQ360 Smart Oven

We recommend the NuWave iQ360 Smart Oven for its versatile cooking options and precise temperature control.

Pros

• Customizable triple heat zones
• Wide temperature range with 5°F increments
• 120 preset cooking functions

Cons

• Large footprint on countertop
• Learning curve for advanced features
• Higher price point

The NuWave iQ360 Smart Oven impressed us with its advanced features and cooking precision. We found the triple surround heat zones particularly useful, allowing us to adjust the top, bottom, and rear heaters independently. This gave us greater control over our cooking, especially for dishes requiring different heat levels.

During our tests, the linear thermal technology maintained consistent temperatures throughout the cooking process. We set it to bake at 375°F, and it held steady without fluctuations. The digital controls were responsive, letting us make on-the-fly adjustments to time and temperature.

We appreciated the integrated digital temperature probe. It took the guesswork out of cooking meats to the perfect doneness. The carryover cooking mode was a nice touch, preventing overcooking during the resting period. While the 120 presets offer convenience, we did spend some time familiarizing ourselves with all the options.

Feature	Specification
Capacity	34 Quarts
Wattage	1800 watts
Temperature Range	50-500°F
Dimensions	18.13″D x 17.04″W x 13.38″H

The air frying function produced crispy results, rivaling dedicated air fryers we’ve used. We found the massive 5-inch convection fan contributed to even cooking and browning. The included accessories, like the reversible grill/griddle and air fry basket, expanded our cooking options.

NutriChef Infrared Air Fryer Oven

We recommend this versatile countertop oven for its efficient cooking and health-conscious design.

Pros

• Versatile cooking functions
• Healthier cooking with minimal oil
• Easy to use and clean

Cons

• Large footprint on countertop
• Manual controls may lack precision
• Glass bowl requires careful handling

The NutriChef Infrared Air Fryer Oven impressed us with its multifunctional capabilities. We found it effortlessly handled various cooking tasks from air frying to roasting and baking. The 13-quart capacity proved ample for family meals.

During our tests, the infrared convection technology cooked food evenly and quickly. Chicken came out crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside. We appreciated how little oil was needed, making our meals healthier without sacrificing taste.

Cleaning up after use was a breeze thanks to the glass bowl design. The stainless steel construction felt sturdy and durable. While the manual controls took some getting used to, they were straightforward once we got the hang of them. We did notice the oven takes up considerable counter space, so keep that in mind for smaller kitchens.

Buying Guide

When shopping for an infrared countertop oven, several key factors should guide your decision. We’ll explore the most important features to consider.

Size and Capacity

Choose an oven that fits your counter space and cooking needs. Consider both exterior dimensions and interior capacity. Larger ovens offer more cooking space but take up more room.

Power and Temperature Range

Look for ovens with adequate wattage for your cooking requirements. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times. A wide temperature range allows for versatile cooking options.

Preset Functions

Many infrared ovens come with preset cooking modes. These can simplify meal preparation and ensure consistent results. Common presets include toast, bake, broil, and reheat.

Construction Quality

Durable materials like stainless steel often indicate a well-built appliance. Check for sturdy construction and quality insulation to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Ease of Cleaning

Non-stick interiors and removable crumb trays make cleaning much simpler. Some models feature self-cleaning functions for added convenience.

Additional Features

Consider extra features that might enhance your cooking experience:

• Interior light for better visibility
• Multiple rack positions for cooking flexibility
• Digital controls for precise temperature and time settings
• Automatic shut-off for safety

By carefully evaluating these aspects, we can choose an infrared countertop oven that best suits our needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Infrared countertop ovens offer unique advantages and features compared to conventional ovens. We’ll address common queries about their benefits, efficiency, capacity, and functionality.

What are the benefits of using an infrared countertop oven compared to a conventional oven?

Infrared countertop ovens cook food faster and more evenly than conventional ovens. They use infrared technology to directly heat food, reducing cooking times by up to 50%.

These ovens also preserve more nutrients and moisture in food, resulting in healthier and tastier meals. They’re more compact, making them ideal for small kitchens or as a secondary cooking appliance.

How energy-efficient are infrared countertop ovens in comparison to traditional ovens?

Infrared countertop ovens are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ovens. They use less electricity because they heat food directly rather than heating the surrounding air.

These ovens also preheat faster, reducing overall energy consumption. Many models use up to 50% less energy than conventional ovens, potentially lowering electricity bills.

Can infrared countertop ovens accommodate large meals suitable for family gatherings?

While infrared countertop ovens are smaller than full-sized ovens, many models can still handle family-sized meals. Some units have capacities large enough to cook a 12-inch pizza or a whole chicken.

For larger gatherings, it may be necessary to cook in batches. However, the faster cooking times of infrared ovens can help offset this limitation.

What features should one look for when choosing the best infrared countertop oven for baking?

When selecting an infrared countertop oven for baking, look for adjustable temperature controls and multiple rack positions. These features allow for precise heat management and even baking.

A built-in timer and automatic shut-off function are crucial for preventing overcooked baked goods. Look for models with dedicated baking presets for common items like cookies, cakes, and bread.

How do infrared countertop ovens differ from standard countertop convection ovens?

Infrared ovens use radiant heat to cook food directly, while convection ovens circulate hot air. Infrared cooking is generally faster and can produce crispier exteriors on foods.

Convection ovens excel at even heating and are versatile for various cooking methods. Infrared ovens are typically more energy-efficient but may have a steeper learning curve for cooking times.

Are there specific infrared countertop oven models recommended for elderly users for ease of use?

For elderly users, we recommend infrared countertop ovens with large, easy-to-read displays and simple, intuitive controls. Models with preset cooking functions can simplify operation.

Look for ovens with automatic shut-off features for safety. Lightweight designs with easy-to-grip handles are also beneficial for users with limited strength or mobility.