7 Best Toaster Ovens with Quartz Heating Elements (November 2026)

The best toaster ovens with quartz heating elements include the Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop for fast compact cooking, the BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven for simple 4-slice cooking, and the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven for small air-fry batches.

On this page (12 sections)

1. Which toaster oven with quartz heating element is best?
2. How we compared radiant heating toaster ovens
3. 1. Panasonic FlashXpress: Best for fast compact cooking
4. 2. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD: Best for simple 4-slice cooking
5. 3. BLACK+DECKER Crisp 'N Bake: Best for small air-fry batches
6. 4. Oster 10 Function Air Fryer Oven: Best for broad cooking menus
7. 5. Elite Gourmet ETO236: Best for very small spaces
8. 6. VAL CUCINA: Best for family-size infrared cooking
9. 7. Elite Gourmet ETO449: Best for simple quartz heating
10. What should you look for in an infrared toaster oven?
11. How do these toaster ovens compare for daily use?
12. Final verdict on the best toaster oven with quartz heating element

The best toaster oven with quartz heating element for most compact kitchens is the Panasonic FlashXpress, because its double infrared heating, 1300W power and 6 auto cook options cover toast, reheating and small meals in a small body. The Elite Gourmet ETO449 is the clearest match for shoppers who specifically want dual quartz elements and simple analog controls.

Quartz and infrared toaster ovens are useful when you want direct radiant heat for toast, browning and quick countertop cooking. The best choice depends on whether you need compact size, air frying, a broad cooking menu or room for larger meals.

If you are considering Breville, compare Breville toaster oven deals.

For a model-level comparison, see Breville Smart Oven Pro vs air fryer.

This guide compares the heating design, controls, capacity and included accessories for 7 models.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for fast compact cooking

   Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for simple 4-slice cooking

   BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for small air-fry batches

   BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven

   9.4/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Oster 10 Function Air Fryer Oven Toaster

   Best for broad cooking menus
   Check it
5. 5

   Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice Toaster Oven

   Best for very small spaces
   Check it
6. 6

   VAL CUCINA 26.3 QT Infrared Air Fryer

   Best for family-size infrared cooking
   Check it
7. 7

   Elite Gourmet ETO449 Toaster Oven

   Best for simple quartz heating
   Check it

Which toaster oven with quartz heating element is best?

The Panasonic FlashXpress is the strongest compact pick for most countertops.

The Elite Gourmet ETO449 is the most direct choice for a small oven with dual quartz elements.

VAL CUCINA and Oster make more sense when capacity and cooking modes matter more than a small footprint.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against the cooking task you have in mind.

It does not treat a heating term in isolation.

The available models use different combinations of infrared, quartz, metal heating elements and convection.

The scores therefore reflect the complete cooking setup rather than one heating label alone.

That matters in daily use because airflow, rack position and accessories change how food browns.

For a larger countertop appliance, compare this list with our Best High End Toaster Oven guide.

It is useful if a larger oven is already under consideration.

If you already use a Breville model, our guide on how to use a Breville toaster oven covers the controls and cooking process.

Use it to judge whether presets or manual dials fit your routine.

How we compared radiant heating toaster ovens

We compared the heating language first, then looked at the cooking space, functions, controls and cleanup features. A quartz or infrared element can be useful, but the oven still needs a size and control layout that fit your routine.

Panasonic describes the FlashXpress as using two infrared heating elements positioned at the front and back. The Elite Gourmet ETO449 lists dual quartz elements, while VAL CUCINA combines 2 infrared tubes with 4 metal heating elements and high-velocity air circulation.

We also considered whether each oven suits a specific buyer:

• Small kitchens may favor the Elite Gourmet ETO236 or ETO449.
• Four-slice households may prefer either BLACK+DECKER model.
• Air-fry users have stronger options in the BLACK+DECKER Crisp 'N Bake, Oster or VAL CUCINA.
• Larger meals need the 25L Oster or 26.3-quart VAL CUCINA.
• Simple controls favor the analog ovens, while the Oster uses a digital display.

1. Panasonic FlashXpress: Best for fast compact cooking

1

Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop: Best for fast compact cooking

9.7/10Our score

• Double infrared heating
• 1300W power
• 6 auto cook options
• 250–500°F temperature range

The Panasonic FlashXpress combines double infrared heating with 6 auto cook options and manual temperature control in a compact countertop body.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Double infrared heating
• 6 auto cook options
• Removable crumb tray

Cons

• Small interior
• Timer runs up to 25 minutes

The Panasonic FlashXpress is the best toaster oven with quartz heating element alternative for a small counter when double infrared heating and compact controls matter most. Its 1300W design has front and back infrared elements, and Panasonic describes it as requiring no preheat.

Six 1-touch cooking options simplify common foods. The preset menu includes toast, waffles, bagels, frozen food and reheating, while the manual controls cover a 250–500°F temperature range.

The interior fits 4 slices of bread or a pizza up to 9 in. Its 0.04 cu ft capacity and 12 x 13 x 10.2 in exterior make it easier to place than the larger air-fryer ovens here.

The baking rack connects to the dropdown door and moves toward you as the door opens. The package includes a baking pan, crumb tray and wire rack, and the automatic shut-off helps limit overcooking.

Choose it when quick compact cooking and preset controls are more useful than a large interior. Its 25-minute timer and small capacity are less suited to long cooking or large batches.

2. BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD: Best for simple 4-slice cooking

2

BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven: Best for simple 4-slice cooking

9.5/10Our score

• Natural convection
• 4 cooking functions
• 30-minute timer
• Fits a 9-inch pizza

This compact BLACK+DECKER model fits 4 slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza and uses natural convection for baking, broiling, toasting and warming.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Fits a 9-inch pizza
• 30-minute timer
• Removable crumb tray

Cons

• Requires a 10-minute preheat
• Manual knob controls

The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is a practical choice for 4 slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza, with four functions: bake, broil, toast and keep warm. Natural convection circulates heat through the 10-liter interior.

Its 30-minute timer has toast settings and a stay-on option. The oven needs a 10-minute preheat for consistent cooking, so it suits readers who prefer a familiar manual process over instant-start cooking.

The 10.8 x 14.5 x 8.8 in body is compact, and the removable crumb tray helps with routine cleanup. The included oven setup is simple, with one shelf and a stainless steel body.

Keep food and bakeware at least 1.5 in from the top heating elements. The outer surfaces become hot during use, so leave ventilation space and use oven mitts.

Choose this model if you want a basic 4-slice oven with convection and a timer. It is less focused on quartz or infrared heating than the models that name those elements directly.

3. BLACK+DECKER Crisp 'N Bake: Best for small air-fry batches

3

BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven: Best for small air-fry batches

9.4/10Our score

• 5 cooking functions
• EvenToast technology
• Air fry mesh tray
• Fits 4 slices or a 9-inch pizza

The BLACK+DECKER Crisp 'N Bake adds air frying to a compact 4-slice toaster oven, with a mesh tray, 30-minute timer and 5 cooking functions.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Air fry function
• 5 cooking modes
• Includes rack, pan and mesh basket

Cons

• Only a 30-minute timer
• More accessories require storage

The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven adds air frying to a compact 5-in-1 countertop oven. Its modes are Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast and Keep Warm, with EvenToast technology for bread and bagels.

The interior fits up to 4 slices or a 9-inch pizza. The air fry mesh tray lets hot air surround food, while the included rack, pan and mesh basket give you more ways to arrange small meals.

Two knobs control the cooking function and 30-minute timer. The 11.5 x 15.5 x 8.2 in body is wider and deeper than the smallest ovens here, so measure the counter before setting it up.

This oven is a better match for shoppers who want crisp foods and toast from one appliance than for shoppers focused only on quartz elements. Use the drip or crumb tray as directed and keep food clear of the heating element.

Choose it for small air-fry batches, toast and 9-inch pizzas. Choose the Oster or VAL CUCINA when you need a bigger cooking space or more functions.

4. Oster 10 Function Air Fryer Oven: Best for broad cooking menus

4

Oster 10 Function Air Fryer Oven Toaster: Best for broad cooking menus

9.0/10Our score

• 10 cooking functions
• 25L capacity
• 1750W power
• 3 rack levels

The Oster gives you a larger 25L cooking space, 10 functions, a digital display and 3 rack positions for varied countertop cooking.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 10 cooking functions
• Fits a 12-inch pizza
• Includes 4 cooking accessories

Cons

• Largest footprint among the compact picks
• 1750W power needs planning

The Oster 10 Function Air Fryer Oven Toaster Oven Countertop is the most versatile pick for buyers who want one countertop appliance to cover many cooking jobs. Its functions include air fry, bake, broil, defrost, dehydrate, pizza, roast, tender roast, toast and warm.

The 25L capacity fits a 12-inch pizza, and 3 rack levels let you change the position for different foods or cook more than one item. Its 20.4 x 18 x 13.2 in size needs more counter planning than the compact 4-slice models.

The 1750W oven has a digital display and touch controls. It includes a baking pan, crumb tray, wire rack and air fryer mesh rack, so you can use the modes without finding matching accessories first.

Oster describes the TenderRoast function as a low-temperature setting for poultry, meat, pork and seafood. Its air-fry mode is designed for a crisp finish with less oil than traditional deep frying.

Choose this model when a broad menu and 25L capacity matter more than quartz-specific wording. For a smaller oven with infrared heating, the Panasonic is easier to fit.

5. Elite Gourmet ETO236: Best for very small spaces

5

Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice Toaster Oven: Best for very small spaces

8.9/10Our score

• 2-slice capacity
• 650W power
• 15-minute timer
• 200–450°F temperature range

The Elite Gourmet ETO236 is a small manual toaster oven for simple toast, baking and broiling where counter space is limited.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Small footprint
• 650W power
• Includes pan and wire rack

Cons

• Only fits 2 slices
• 15-minute timer

The Elite Gourmet ETO236 Compact 2-Slice Toaster Oven is the smallest and lowest-power choice in this group. Its 650W design has room for 2 slices, a 15-minute timer and adjustable temperature controls from 200–450°F.

This model suits toast, warming, baking and broiling when you have very little counter space. Its 7.5 x 13.25 x 6.5 in dimensions and 4.5 lb weight make storage and placement simpler than with the larger ovens.

The manual controls keep the operation straightforward. A non-stick back pan and wire rack are included, and the rack slides into different positions for different foods.

The trade-off is capacity. It is not the right choice for 4 slices, a 9-inch pizza or family-size air-fry batches.

Choose it for a dorm, office, RV or compact kitchen where basic cooking matters most. Choose the ETO449 instead if you want 4-slice capacity and dual quartz elements.

6. VAL CUCINA: Best for family-size infrared cooking

6

VAL CUCINA 26.3 QT Infrared Air Fryer: Best for family-size infrared cooking

8.7/10Our score

• 2 infrared tubes
• 4 metal heating elements
• True convection
• 10 preset modes

VAL CUCINA combines infrared heating and true convection in a 26.3-quart countertop oven with room for larger meals and multiple cooking modes.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Infrared and true convection
• 10 preset modes
• Includes air fry basket and baking tray

Cons

• Heavy at 23 lb
• Needs more counter space than small ovens

The VAL CUCINA 26.3 QT Infrared Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo is the best fit for larger meals that need infrared heating and true convection together. It combines 2 infrared tubes, 4 metal heating elements and high-velocity air circulation.

Its 26.3-quart capacity fits a 5–6 lb chicken, 6 slices of bread, 20 chicken wings or a 12-inch pizza. The 15.5 x 16.5 x 13 in body is larger than the compact picks, and its 23 lb weight makes a permanent counter location practical.

Ten preset modes cover Air Fry, Toast, Bake, Broil, Roast, Reheat, Warm, Slow Cook and Dehydrate. The controls combine a digital display with analog controls, and the 1750W power supports the larger cooking space.

Accessories include an air fry basket, crumb tray, enamel baking tray, recipe book and wire rack. The enamel baking tray is described as non-stick and PTFE/PFOA free.

Choose VAL CUCINA when family-size capacity and infrared plus convection are the priority. For a smaller daily toaster oven, Panasonic or Elite Gourmet is easier to place.

7. Elite Gourmet ETO449: Best for simple quartz heating

7

Elite Gourmet ETO449 Toaster Oven: Best for simple quartz heating

8.4/10Our score

• 800W quartz heating
• Dual quartz elements
• 4 cooking functions
• 30-minute timer

The Elite Gourmet ETO449 uses dual quartz elements in an 800W, 9L body with simple analog controls and 4 cooking functions.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Dual quartz elements
• Compact 9L size
• Includes bake pan and wire rack

Cons

• Requires preheating for baking
• 30-minute timer

The Elite Gourmet ETO449 is the clearest choice for a compact toaster oven that specifically names dual quartz elements. Its 800W heating system uses quartz elements for toast, baking and broiling in a 9L, 4-slice body.

The analog controls include a temperature dial from 200–450°F and a 30-minute timer with an auto-shutoff bell. Elite Gourmet recommends preheating at 450°F for about 10 minutes before baking.

Its 14.37 x 10.82 x 7.87 in body suits apartments, dorms, offices and RVs. The tempered glass door and stainless steel handle make it easy to check food and handle the door, while the crumb tray supports cleanup.

The oven has 4 functions: bake, broil, toast and keep warm. It includes a bake pan, wire rack and drop-down crumb tray, with 2 rack positions for flexible placement.

Choose it when you want quartz heating, 4-slice capacity and simple knobs. Choose Panasonic if you prefer double infrared heating and auto cook buttons.

What should you look for in an infrared toaster oven?

The best infrared toaster oven should match its heating design to your cooking habits, but capacity and controls still matter. Look for named infrared or quartz elements, the temperature range you need, enough room for your usual food and a timer that fits your recipes.

Quartz heating element or infrared heating?

Quartz and infrared terms describe related but not identical parts of the cooking design. The Elite Gourmet ETO449 names dual quartz elements, Panasonic names double infrared heating, and VAL CUCINA combines infrared tubes with metal elements and convection.

If you want the most direct quartz match, start with the ETO449. If you want a compact oven with infrared heating and automatic cooking options, the Panasonic is stronger.

How much space do you need?

A 2-slice oven is enough for toast and small snacks. A 4-slice oven adds room for a 9-inch pizza, while the Oster and VAL CUCINA offer 25L and 26.3-quart capacities for larger food.

Measure the counter depth, width and height before ordering. Also leave room for ventilation and for the dropdown door to open.

Are digital controls better than knobs?

Digital controls make preset menus easier to repeat, while knobs offer direct manual adjustment. Panasonic uses touch controls and 6 auto cook options, Oster uses a digital display, and the Elite Gourmet models use analog dials.

Choose digital controls if you want guided programs. Choose knobs if you want to set temperature, function and time yourself.

How should you care for a toaster oven heating element?

Let the oven cool fully before cleaning. Remove the crumb tray and cooking accessories when possible, clear loose crumbs, and wipe the interior according to the model instructions.

Keep food and bakeware away from the heating elements. If an oven stops heating, first check the power connection and controls, then review Why Is My Toaster Oven Not Heating Up?.

Do not attempt a repair while the oven is plugged in.

For general heating-element repair information, see How to Replace an Oven Heating Element?. To avoid damage, use the manual for the exact model before removing any part.

How do these toaster ovens compare for daily use?

The Panasonic is the best compact all-rounder, with double infrared heating, 6 presets and a 250 to 500 degree range.

It suits toast, reheating and small meals where counter space is limited.

The Elite Gourmet ETO449 is simpler and more directly focused on dual quartz elements.

Its analog dials suit cooks who prefer to set temperature and time by hand.

The BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD is a straightforward 4-slice oven for baking, broiling, toast and warming.

Natural convection helps circulate heat, but a 10 minute preheat is part of its routine.

The Crisp 'N Bake adds air frying without moving to a much larger countertop appliance.

Its mesh tray helps hot air reach food, which supports crisp results for small batches.

That model suits fries, snacks and toast when one oven must cover several jobs.

The Oster and VAL CUCINA are better for larger meals.

Oster offers 10 functions and 25 liters of capacity for a 12 inch pizza or a whole roast.

Its digital display and 3 rack levels add flexibility for different foods.

VAL CUCINA combines 26.3 quarts with infrared tubes, metal elements and true convection.

That setup suits a 5 to 6 pound chicken, 6 slices of bread, 20 chicken wings or a 12 inch pizza.

The family-size capacity comes with a larger body and 23 pounds to lift.

The Oster also needs more counter planning at 20.4 x 18 x 13.2 inches.

The Elite Gourmet ETO236 is the space-saving choice.

Its 2-slice capacity and 650W power make it suitable for basic tasks.

It can toast, warm, bake and broil in a dorm, office or RV.

It is not suited to larger pizzas or family batches.

Choose capacity by the food you make most often.

Choose controls by whether you want presets or direct manual adjustment.

Final verdict on the best toaster oven with quartz heating element

The Panasonic FlashXpress is the best toaster oven with quartz heating element alternative for most compact kitchens.

Its double infrared heating, 1300W power and 6 auto cook options cover common daily tasks.

Pick the Elite Gourmet ETO449 if dual quartz elements and analog controls are your main priorities.

That choice suits toast, baking and broiling in a 9 liter, 4-slice body.

Preheating at 450 degrees for about 10 minutes is recommended before baking.

Choose the Oster for 25 liter capacity and 10 cooking functions.

Its 3 rack levels and digital display support varied meals.

Choose VAL CUCINA for a larger infrared and convection setup.

Its 26.3 quart capacity suits family meals and larger batches.

Allow for its 23 pound weight and larger counter footprint.

Choose either BLACK+DECKER model for 4-slice cooking.

The TO1313SBD covers baking, broiling, toast and warming with natural convection.

The Crisp 'N Bake adds air frying for small batches with a mesh tray.

Choose the ETO236 for the smallest space.

Its 2-slice capacity and 650W power suit basic toast and warming.

Review Best Toaster Oven Smart WiFi if connected controls matter more than radiant heating.

Otherwise, match the oven to size, controls and the foods you cook every week.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for fast compact cooking

   Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for simple 4-slice cooking

   BLACK+DECKER TO1313SBD Toaster Oven

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for small air-fry batches

   BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Air Fry Toaster Oven

   9.4/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is a quartz heating element in a toaster oven?

A quartz heating element uses a quartz tube around a heating wire to produce radiant heat. In a toaster oven, radiant energy can brown the surface of food directly, while the oven's layout and any airflow also affect cooking.

Check the stated heating design, wattage and controls before choosing.

Is an infrared toaster oven the same as a quartz toaster oven?

Not always. Quartz elements can produce infrared radiant heat, but an infrared toaster oven may use more than one heating technology.

Panasonic lists double infrared heating, Elite Gourmet lists dual quartz elements, and VAL CUCINA lists infrared tubes with metal heating elements and true convection.

Do toaster ovens with quartz heating elements need preheating?

It depends on the model and the food. Panasonic describes its FlashXpress as needing no preheat, while Elite Gourmet recommends about 10 minutes at 450°F before baking with the ETO449.

Follow the instructions for the specific oven and recipe.

What size toaster oven should I choose?

Choose by the food you make most often and the counter space available. A 2-slice model suits toast and small snacks, 4-slice models fit more bread or a 9-inch pizza, and 25L to 26.3-quart ovens suit larger pizzas, air-fry batches and family meals.

How do I clean a toaster oven with infrared or quartz heating?

Unplug the oven and let it cool fully before cleaning. Remove the crumb tray, rack and pan when the design allows, then clear crumbs and wipe surfaces as directed.

Keep food and bakeware away from the heating elements, and never use wet materials on hot elements.