THE BEST TOASTER OVENS

HOW TO CHOOSE = In my opinion, finding the best toaster ovens is an exercise in futility. I believe this to be a redundant piece of kitchen equipment.

Experts seem to agree. They say that if all you want is evenly browned toast, buy a toaster. If you want to roast a chicken or toast nuts, use your full-size oven.

On the other hand, some people are used to using a toaster oven and find it difficult to change their habits. These folks should first measure their counter space. Check to see if your preferred model has a crumb tray that empties from the back.

Also decide whether or not you need a broil setting. This is not available on basic models of the best toaster ovens – so it will cost you more.

Removable (not hinged) crumb trays are easier to clean. A continuous-clean interior, or non-stick surface, also help with cleanup.

Safety features you should look for include auto shutoffs and timers that shut the unit off when the cooking is finished.

THE REVIEW = The TOB-175BC by Cuisinart has the distinction of being the Best Convection Toaster Oven. This model excels at everything the best toaster ovens should do.

Its interior holds at least 4 slices of toast or a whole chicken. It boasts a feature that defrosts and toasts a bagel in one step. The convection feature helps with getting the browning even and baking.

On the negative side, the timer feature doesn’t turn off the oven. So when it beeps, you must make sure you turn it off. In white, this unit will cost about $130. In black or brushed chrome, about $180.

Other Top Performers Include:

Best Budget Convection Toaster Oven = Sanyo SK-VF7S @ about $70.

Best Compact Toaster Oven = Sanyo Toasty Oven SK-7S @ $50.

Best Basic Toaster Oven = Proctor-Silex 31115 @ $30.

Best Price found in Nov. ’09 and again in Apr., '10 = across the board, nobody beat Amazon.com.

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