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Choosing between a toaster oven and a conventional one can be a difficult task, especially if you have never bought either of them before. There are many factors and comparisons to consider and weigh to ensure you select the most appropriate appliance for your kitchen.
This review highlights the main factors involved when buying an these two appliances and also compares them. There is a also a listing of all the pros and cons of toaster ovens and full-size ovens to give you a general view of their performance.
Pros and Cons of a Toaster Oven
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Pros and Cons of a Conventional Oven
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Differences Between Toaster and Conventional Ovens
Size
The most obvious difference is that toaster ovens are smaller in size compared to the conventional types. Therefore, if you have a limited kitchen space, you may want to consider getting a toaster oven. It will save you on space and leave enough for other small appliances to fit in.
A conventional oven, on the other hand, is fantastic for mass baking because of its bigger size. If you have a large family, you may want to consider getting one instead. However, ensure it can fit well inside your kitchen without causing any obstructions to other appliances.
Use
A toaster oven is easier to use compared to a conventional one. It uses less energy, and thus, it would be a great addition to your kitchen if you are an environmentalist keen on greener choices.
The technology has been advanced so that you can bake muffins, cakes, cookies, among other delicacies in a toaster oven.
If you don't cook a lot and there are only a couple of people in the household, then for some, a toaster oven is sufficient. However, you can always get both if your kitchen has high baking demands.
A lot of people believe toaster ovens cook faster because of their smaller size, but this isn’t the case. Conventional ovens are well-insulated to ensure that heat doesn’t escape during the baking process. The difference in cooking time is, therefore, negligible.
Related Content: How to Use a Toaster Oven - Tips
Cost
Conventional ovens are much more expensive in comparison to more affordable toaster ovens. If a toaster oven will satisfy your culinary needs and you are looking to save some money then a toaster oven is a viable alternative as they are less expensive.
Installation
When you buy a toaster oven, all you will have to do is unpack, place it on your kitchen counter, plug it in, wipe the interior walls and ceilings down with soap and water and it is ready to use. They are easy to move around your kitchen if you feel the need to change its location.
Full-sized ovens will require more work after purchase. If you aren't able to hook it up yourself, then sometimes there will be an added cost for a professional to install your new oven. If your oven cooks using propane or gas, then you will need to make sure it is properly connected.
Electric installation requires checking that there is sufficient ventilation, proper outlets, and that the oven is level.
Energy Efficiency
A conventional oven consumes more power and fuel to keep it running. They also take longer to preheat, which means more energy is spent. Their temperature range is usually between 200°-500° Fahrenheit.
Toaster ovens take up much less power and are therefore very efficient in saving up energy. They run on 130°-500° Fahrenheit. Typical models consume about $0.03 an hour and will save some on your electric or gas bills.
Weather Considerations
It is essential to factor in weather and seasonal changes when making an oven purchase. Conventional ovens heat the kitchen, which could make it unbearable during hot weather.
Toaster ovens are more practical to use in hotter areas or when the temperatures rise during certain months of the year.
Fuel
Toaster ovens can only be run using electricity. Conventional types come with three options to choose from:
- Electric types
- Gas models
- Those that run on propane
Convection Fans
Another critical factor you may want to think about is convection fans. These fans circulate the hot air within the oven, thus ensuring there is a better distribution of heat. They reduce the chances of your food burning on one side.
Both toaster and conventional ovens have models that come with convection fans, but they are more expensive than the non-convection models.
Related Content: Convection vs Non-Convection Toaster Oven
Conclusion
Both ovens are great for your kitchen, depending on your space, lifestyle and culinary needs. The best approach is to list the features of the appliance you want to purchase. Factor in costs, the size of your kitchen, and what kind of cooking you will be doing. Once you have a list of your wants, then selecting between the two options becomes an easier task.
