Can a Toaster Oven Replace an Air Fryer Find Out Here

A toaster oven can replace an air fryer for most cooking tasks, especially if it includes a convection or air frying function. While air fryers offer faster, more concentrated cooking in compact spaces, versatile toaster ovens provide similar results with larger capacity and greater flexibility, making them a practical all-in-one solution for small kitchens.

Key Takeaways

• Toaster ovens can air fry with convection settings, but results may vary.
• Air fryers cook faster due to compact design and intense heat circulation.
• Space matters: Toaster ovens offer more capacity but take up more counter space.
• Energy efficiency: Air fryers use less power for small batches and quick meals.
• Versatility wins: Toaster ovens handle baking, roasting, and reheating beyond air frying.
• Clean-up is easier with non-stick air fryer baskets vs. toaster oven crumb trays.

Can a Toaster Oven Replace an Air Fryer? Find Out Here

Let’s be real: the kitchen appliance market is crowded. Between blenders, slow cookers, and the latest trendy gadgets, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Two appliances that often cause confusion? The toaster oven and the air fryer. They look similar, they cook similar foods, and sometimes, they even live on the same countertop. But here’s the big question on many home chefs’ minds: Can a toaster oven replace an air fryer?

Maybe you’re trying to save space. Maybe you’re on a budget. Or maybe you’ve just seen too many ads and want to cut through the hype. I’ve been there. When I first moved into my tiny apartment, I couldn’t justify owning both a toaster oven and an air fryer. So I started experimenting. I roasted veggies, crisped up chicken wings, and even tried baking cookies—all to see if one appliance could truly do it all. In this post, I’ll walk you through what I learned, the pros and cons of each, and whether you can realistically use a toaster oven as an air fryer substitute. No fluff. No sales pitch. Just honest, practical advice.

How Do Toaster Ovens and Air Fryers Work?

To answer whether a toaster oven can replace an air fryer, we first need to understand how each one works. It’s not just about looks—it’s about science and airflow.

The Science Behind Toaster Ovens

Toaster ovens are essentially mini conventional ovens. They use heating elements (usually quartz or metal rods) placed at the top and bottom of the oven cavity. These elements get hot and radiate heat, which cooks food from the outside in. Most models let you adjust the temperature and have settings for toast, bake, broil, and sometimes convection.

Convection toaster ovens add a fan to circulate hot air, which helps food cook more evenly and slightly faster than in a regular toaster oven. But even convection models don’t match the intense airflow of a dedicated air fryer.

For example, I used my convection toaster oven to make frozen tater tots. They cooked through in about 20 minutes, but the texture was more like baked potatoes—soft, not crispy. Not bad, but not the golden, crunchy result I was hoping for.

How Air Fryers Create Crispy Magic

Air fryers are designed specifically for one thing: crispy food. They use a powerful fan and a compact cooking chamber to blast hot air (usually around 400°F) at high speed around the food. This rapid circulation mimics deep frying by creating a Maillard reaction—the chemical process that turns food golden brown and crunchy without submerging it in oil.

The key difference? Airflow. Air fryers are built like a cylinder with a basket that lifts food off the bottom, allowing air to circulate on all sides. This is why air-fried chicken wings come out with a crispy skin and juicy interior, even with just a light spray of oil.

I tested this by making the same batch of chicken nuggets in both appliances. The air fryer version was ready in 12 minutes and had that satisfying crunch. The toaster oven version took 25 minutes and required flipping halfway through—still edible, but not quite the same experience.

Performance Comparison: Cooking Speed, Texture, and Versatility

Now that we know how they work, let’s compare how they perform in real kitchen scenarios. This is where the rubber meets the road—and where you’ll decide which one fits your lifestyle.

Cooking Speed: Air Fryer Wins

Air fryers are faster. No contest. Because of the compact size and intense airflow, they heat up quickly and cook food faster than toaster ovens. Most air fryers preheat in 2–3 minutes. Toaster ovens? Anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes, especially non-convection models.

For example, I made frozen mozzarella sticks. In my air fryer: 8 minutes at 390°F. Crispy, gooey, perfect. In my toaster oven: 15 minutes at 400°F. Still good, but the cheese started leaking out, and the breading wasn’t as crisp.

If you’re someone who wants dinner on the table in 10 minutes, the air fryer has a clear edge.

Texture and Crispiness: Air Fryer Still Leads

Here’s the big one: crispiness. Air fryers are built for it. Toaster ovens, even convection ones, struggle to match that deep-fried texture. The reason? Air fryers use a perforated basket that allows air to flow under the food. Toaster ovens use flat trays, so the bottom of your food sits in its own juices or oils, leading to soggy spots.

I tried making sweet potato fries in both. The air fryer batch was crispy on all sides, with a slight char. The toaster oven batch was soft on the bottom, even after flipping. I had to broil them for an extra 3 minutes to get any crunch.

That said, you can improve toaster oven crispiness. Use a wire rack on your baking tray. Elevate the food so air can circulate underneath. It’s not as good as an air fryer, but it helps.

Versatility: Toaster Oven Takes the Cake

Now, let’s talk flexibility. While air fryers excel at frying-style cooking, toaster ovens are far more versatile. You can:

• Bake cookies or brownies
• Toast bread (obviously)
• Roast a small whole chicken
• Reheat pizza or leftovers
• Broil steaks or fish
• Dehydrate fruits (with some models)

Air fryers can do some of these, but not all. Most don’t have a broil function. Baking in an air fryer is tricky—the basket shape limits what you can fit. And forget about toasting bread unless you have a model with a dedicated toast setting.

For instance, I wanted to make a small lasagna. My toaster oven handled it easily. My air fryer? Not a chance. The dish was too big, and the air flow would have dried it out.

So if you want one appliance that can handle breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, the toaster oven wins on versatility.

Size, Space, and Kitchen Practicality

Let’s talk real estate. Counter space is precious. So which one takes up less room—and which one fits your kitchen better?

Footprint and Storage

Air fryers are generally more compact. Most are cylindrical and stand vertically, taking up less counter space than a toaster oven. A typical air fryer is about 12” wide and 12” deep. Toaster ovens? They’re wider and deeper—often 15” to 18” wide and 14” to 16” deep.

But here’s a twist: some convection toaster ovens come with an air fryer function. These models have a special basket and a high-speed fan, essentially turning your toaster oven into an air fryer. They’re bulkier, but you get two appliances in one.

I tested a convection toaster oven with an “air fry” setting. It worked—sort of. The basket was smaller than a standalone air fryer, and the fan wasn’t as powerful. But for small batches of fries or nuggets, it did the job. Just don’t expect restaurant-level crisp.

Ease of Use and Cleanup

Air fryers are easier to clean. The basket is non-stick and usually dishwasher-safe. Just pull it out, scrub it, and you’re done. Toaster ovens have more parts: racks, trays, crumb trays, and sometimes removable liners. Grease and crumbs collect at the bottom, and if you’re not careful, they can burn and smoke.

I once forgot to clean the crumb tray after making garlic bread. The next time I used the toaster oven, there was a smell. Not a good one. Air fryers don’t have this issue because the basket lifts out completely.

That said, toaster ovens often have more intuitive controls. Dials for temperature and time, plus dedicated buttons for toast, bake, and broil. Air fryers sometimes have touchscreens or confusing presets. If you’re not tech-savvy, the toaster oven might feel more familiar.

Cost and Long-Term Value

Money matters. So let’s break down the cost of each appliance and what you get for your buck.

Initial Price and Features

Air fryers are generally cheaper. You can find a decent 5-quart air fryer for $70–$100. High-end models with smart features (like app control) go up to $200, but most people don’t need those.

Toaster ovens range from $50 for basic models to $300+ for convection or smart ovens. The sweet spot is around $100–$150 for a reliable convection toaster oven with multiple functions.

But here’s the catch: if you buy a toaster oven with an air fryer function, you’re paying more upfront—but you’re saving money in the long run because you don’t need two appliances.

Energy Use and Efficiency

Air fryers use less energy. They’re smaller, heat up faster, and cook food quicker. According to energy.gov, air fryers use about 1,500 watts, while toaster ovens use 1,200–1,800 watts. But because air fryers cook faster, they actually consume less total energy per meal.

For example, cooking 1 pound of chicken wings:

• Air fryer: 12 minutes at 1,500 watts = 0.3 kWh
• Toaster oven: 25 minutes at 1,500 watts = 0.625 kWh

That’s more than double the energy. Over time, this adds up—especially if you cook often.

Also, air fryers don’t heat up your kitchen as much. Toaster ovens radiate heat from all sides, which can make your kitchen feel like a sauna in summer. Air fryers are more contained.

Durability and Longevity

Both appliances can last 5–7 years with proper care. But toaster ovens, especially convection models, tend to have more durable heating elements and fans. Air fryers, with their high-speed fans and non-stick baskets, are more prone to wear and tear. The basket coating can chip, and the fan can get clogged with grease over time.

I’ve had my convection toaster oven for 6 years. It still works like new. My air fryer? The non-stick coating started peeling after 3 years. I replaced it with a stainless steel basket, but it’s not as non-stick as it used to be.

Can You Really Replace One With the Other?

So, back to the original question: Can a toaster oven replace an air fryer? The answer? It depends.

When a Toaster Oven Works as an Air Fryer

If you have a convection toaster oven and are willing to adapt, you can mimic air frying. Here’s how:

• Use a wire rack or elevated tray to let air circulate under food.
• Preheat the oven (this helps with crispiness).
• Flip food halfway through cooking.
• Use less oil—but not zero. A light spray helps with browning.
• Cut food into small, even pieces for faster, more even cooking.

I used this method to make air-fried Brussels sprouts. I halved them, tossed them in olive oil and seasoning, and cooked them on a wire rack at 400°F for 18 minutes, flipping once. The result? Crispy on the outside, tender inside. Not quite air fryer-level, but close.

This approach works best for foods that don’t need intense airflow—like veggies, small cuts of meat, or reheating leftovers.

When You’re Better Off With an Air Fryer

But for certain foods, nothing beats a dedicated air fryer. These include:

• Frozen foods (fries, nuggets, mozzarella sticks)
• Chicken wings or drumsticks
• Anything that needs a crispy, golden crust
• Small batches of food (air fryers are perfect for 1–2 people)

Air fryers also excel at reheating. Pizza, fried chicken, even french fries—come out crispy, not soggy. Toaster ovens can reheat, but they often dry out food or leave the bottom soft.

And if you’re short on time, the speed of an air fryer is hard to beat. I once made a quick lunch of air-fried salmon and asparagus in 15 minutes. In the toaster oven? 25 minutes minimum.

The Hybrid Option: Best of Both Worlds

My personal favorite? The convection toaster oven with an air fryer basket. It’s not perfect, but it’s the closest you’ll get to replacing both appliances. You get the versatility of a toaster oven (baking, roasting, toasting) and the crispiness of an air fryer—just not as intense.

I use mine for everything: air-frying small batches, baking cookies, roasting veggies, and even making mini pizzas. It’s not as fast or crispy as a standalone air fryer, but it’s close enough for my needs.

Data Table: Toaster Oven vs. Air Fryer – Key Differences

Feature	Toaster Oven	Air Fryer
Best For	Baking, roasting, toasting, reheating	Crispy frying, small batches, speed
Cooking Time	10–30 minutes (slower)	5–15 minutes (faster)
Texture	Good, but can be soggy if not elevated	Excellent crispiness on all sides
Size	Larger footprint	Compact, vertical design
Cleanup	More parts, harder to clean	Simple basket, dishwasher-safe
Energy Use	Higher (longer cook time)	Lower (faster, more efficient)
Price Range	$50–$300+	$70–$200
Best For Families?	Yes (larger capacity)	Yes, for 1–2 people

Final Verdict: Should You Replace One With the Other?

After months of testing, cooking, and cleaning, here’s my take: You can use a toaster oven as a partial replacement for an air fryer—but not a full one.

If you’re choosing between the two and can only buy one, ask yourself:

• Do you value speed and crispiness? Go with an air fryer.
• Do you cook a variety of foods and need versatility? Choose a convection toaster oven.
• Are you short on space or budget? Consider a toaster oven with an air fryer function.

For most people, the ideal setup is either:

1. A convection toaster oven with air fryer capabilities (best for families or multi-purpose use)
2. A dedicated air fryer (best for singles, couples, or crispy-food lovers)

I ended up keeping both—but only after realizing I didn’t need two full-sized appliances. I downsized to a compact convection toaster oven with an air fryer basket. It’s not perfect, but it’s practical. And honestly? That’s what kitchen gear should be: useful, not flashy.

At the end of the day, no appliance is magic. It’s how you use it. Whether you go with a toaster oven, an air fryer, or both, focus on what fits your cooking style, your space, and your life. Because the best kitchen tool is the one you actually use—not the one with the most features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a toaster oven replace an air fryer for crispy foods?

Yes, many modern toaster ovens have air fryer settings or convection modes that circulate hot air similarly to an air fryer. However, air fryers typically cook slightly faster due to their compact size and more concentrated airflow.

What’s the difference between a toaster oven and an air fryer?

A toaster oven offers more cooking functions (baking, broiling, toasting), while air fryers specialize in high-speed air circulation for crisp results. If you want versatility, a toaster oven with air fryer capabilities can replace a standalone air fryer.

Can I use my toaster oven to air fry frozen foods?

Absolutely! A convection toaster oven can crisp frozen snacks like fries, nuggets, or wings just like an air fryer. Just adjust cooking time by a few minutes and flip halfway for even results.

Is an air fryer toaster oven combo worth it?

Yes, combo appliances save counter space and offer both toasting and air frying functions. Look for models with dedicated air fry baskets to ensure proper airflow and crisping.

Do toaster ovens use more energy than air fryers?

Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient due to their smaller size and faster cooking times. However, a toaster oven with air fryer mode is a practical compromise if you prioritize multi-functionality.

Which cooks faster: an air fryer or a toaster oven?

Air fryers win for speed, as their compact design and powerful fan reduce cooking time by 20-30%. A toaster oven with convection settings can come close but may require slight adjustments.