Benchtop Ovens

About Benchtop Ovens

A benchtop oven is a more compact version of the traditional, full-size oven found in commercial and residential kitchens. Their size allows them to be easily kept on counters and benchtops. 

Unlike combination ovens and freestanding ovens, benchtop ovens come in two types, i.e., glass convection and toaster ovens.

Toaster ovens typically toast around six to seven toast slices. In addition, some appliances include settings, which allow homeowners to choose from different preferences from light to medium to dark shades. 

Convection ovens look like regular toaster ovens, but they use a large thermal-resistant glass bowl for food while its lid includes a fan and heating element.  

Reasons Why Benchtop Ovens Are A Must For The Kitchen 

Ovens are a must-have kitchen appliance because they help people cook delicious and nutritious food quickly. Thus, they're an excellent investment. There are many types to choose from, such as freestanding ovens, wall ovens, combination ovens, and benchtop ovens. 

Here are a few convincing reasons why benchtop ovens are different from others and a necessary appliance:

• Benchtop ovens reduce energy wastage
• These appliances pre-heat rather quickly and save time 
• They're a lot safer for children to use compared to bigger ovens and allow them to cook food independently 
• Ideal for multi-course meals, like Thanksgiving, because they are spacious and allow dishes to bake at different temperatures
• They're a better option than popup toasters as they can toast several things such as thick bagels, garlic bread, and pastries with frosting. Popup toasters are restricted by size and can only toast dry items
• They're compact and fit into smaller spaces
• Compared to big ovens, benchtop appliances are more effective and energy-efficient 
• They're much easier to unload and load
• They are portable, much like microwaves

Things To Consider 

Here are a few factors to consider before buying a benchtop oven (no matter the type chosen):

Easy Cleaning

Remember, non-stick lining is relatively easier to clean. So, always look for appliances that don't have too many crevices and cracks to amass dirt. All small ovens – whether benchtop convection ovens or steam ovens – have a detachable crumb tray, making cleaning a lot easier. 

Size

Make sure the size of the unit is accurate and fits in the kitchen. Plus, it should be big enough to fit cookware.

Controls

Ensure the small kitchen appliance purchased comes with clear labels and is easy to grip, turn and press. For example, most compact ovens have a minimum of three rotaries such as timer, function selection, and temperature.

On the other hand, benchtop convection ovens typically come with two rotaries for time, temperature, and handle, acting as an on/off switch.

Baking Trays

A few benchtop cookers have embedded trays explicitly designed to fit into ovens, making them more convenient.

Racks

Compact ovens typically come with three racks, and a few of them have two-sided frames, giving two height choices for every position. On the contrary, glass convection benchtop ovens have two/three racks of various heights.   

Accessories

For compact ovens, accessories may include roasting trays (many have drip tray inserts for juices dripping from meat), biscuit trays, pizza trays, handles, and rotisseries for roasting.

Glass ovens, on the other hand, may include air fryer inserts, height extension rings, lid holders, and rack tongs. 

Capacity

The capacity for benchtop ovens may range from approximately 9 to 45L. Typically, the more their capacity, the bigger their dimensions.  

If an individual has an oven toaster griller, then the capacity needed will be determined based on the number of people to feed and cooking frequency. 

In addition to that, consider the food types as well. For example, if a person intends to make a large pizza or pie, ensure the toaster oven is big enough. 

Safety

Door temperatures can easily reach 75-99°C, and the back of the benchtop oven can become as hot as 167°C. Therefore, be careful and situate it in a place where there is nothing else close by.

Never touch the appliance during or after usage. Also, avoid leaving anything near or on the unit, which may get damaged by the heat. However, the controls and handles of benchtop ovens remain cool to the touch, similar to wall ovens.

Cost

Though the cost of benchtop ovens varies based on brand, model type, and features, the average price of both glass convection and compact benchtop ovens is between $40 and $450. Thus, depending on one's requirements, space and budget, they can calculate what the price will probably be.

If you need assistance to find the right benchtop ovens for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.