Modern toaster ovens list a lot of functions on the dial. Here is what each one actually does, so you can use the machine you bought properly.
The core settings
- Toast: heats both elements evenly for browning bread and bagels.
- Bake: steady all-round heat for cakes, cookies and small dishes.
- Broil: top-down high heat for grilling, melting and finishing a crust.
Convection and air fry
Both use a fan. Convection circulates hot air for faster, more even baking. Air fry pushes that airflow harder for a crisp, fried-style finish. Many ovens list them separately even though the mechanism is related.
The extras
- Roast: higher heat for meat and vegetables.
- Reheat: gentle warming without overcooking.
- Dehydrate: low, long heat for fruit and jerky on multi-function models.
Getting the best results
Preheat when baking, use the fan settings for anything you want crisp, and do not overcrowd the tray — air needs room to move. See our multi-function ovens to get every setting on one machine.