Black & Decker 4-Slice Toaster Oven

Finding the right toaster oven can be a game-changer in the kitchen, especially for quick meals or small baking tasks. The Black & Decker 4-Slice Toaster Oven (TO1322SBD) had caught my eye for its compact size and promises of even toasting, so I decided to see if it lived up to its claims.

Design and Build

Out of the box, the simplified name toaster oven impressed me with its sleek, stainless steel finish. Measuring 11 inches in height, 15.5 inches in width, and 9 inches in depth, it fit my small kitchen counter perfectly. Weighing just 2.8 pounds, it was easy to maneuver when I needed to make space for other appliances.

However, I noticed that the exterior gets very hot during operation, which is a significant consideration for safety. It’s advisable to keep it a good distance from walls and other appliances to prevent any heat-related issues.

Performance

The hallmark feature of this toaster oven is its Even Toast Technology, designed to provide uniform toasting. I found this to be fairly accurate. Toasting four slices of bread at once, I observed that the slices were evenly browned, which is a pleasant departure from the uneven toasting I've experienced with other units.

I also tested the baking function with a 9-inch pizza. The result was impressive; the crust was crisp, and the cheese melted evenly. The broil function worked well too, although it required close monitoring to prevent grease splatters from hitting the heating elements. For those concerned about splatters, the instruction manual provides useful tips on managing this issue.

Ease of Use

The toaster oven offers four cooking functions: bake, broil, toast, and keep warm. These functions are managed through dials on the front of the unit. I must admit that the dials took a bit of getting used to. They are somewhat stiff and require a firm twist to set accurately. The 30-minute timer with a stay-on functionality is a nice touch, but it’s essential to keep an eye on the food to avoid overcooking.

The removable crumb tray simplifies the cleaning process, making it easy to discard crumbs and spills. For added convenience, I lined the baking tray with aluminum foil, which further reduced the cleanup time.

Cooking Versatility

While primarily a toaster oven, this unit proved versatile enough for various cooking tasks. It handled warming, baking, and even some light broiling without any issues. For instance, frozen French fries came out crispy, and warming up rolls yielded a pleasant, oven-fresh texture.

However, I did notice some steam escaping during baking and toasting, which can be a minor annoyance. This didn’t seem to affect the cooking process but is worth noting if you’re placing the toaster oven near other items on your counter.

Durability and User Experience

One unexpected test of durability occurred when the oven accidentally fell face-first onto my kitchen floor. Surprisingly, it survived without a scratch, which speaks volumes about its build quality.

However, there are some drawbacks. The clearance between the oven rack and the heating element is quite minimal, which can cause taller items to burn if not carefully monitored. This makes it less suitable for cooking items that may rise or require more headspace.

Energy Efficiency

An often-overlooked benefit of toaster ovens is their energy efficiency compared to conventional ovens. This toaster oven heats up quickly and uses less electricity, making it an eco-friendly option for small cooking tasks. It’s particularly useful for those who find bending down to use a standard oven challenging due to mobility issues or back pain.

Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, this toaster oven is not without its flaws. The dials, as mentioned before, can be tricky to use and read, especially for those who prefer more modern digital controls. Additionally, the toaster function, while generally effective, can sometimes result in uneven toasting if the bread is not positioned correctly.

Another concern is the lack of insulation on the sides, which can make the exterior dangerously hot to the touch. It’s crucial to handle the unit with care, especially if you have children around.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Black & Decker 4-Slice Toaster Oven (TO1322SBD) is a solid performer for its price point. It excels in even toasting, baking small items like pizzas, and reheating leftovers without making them soggy. The compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens or those who need a secondary oven.

However, its shortcomings, such as the hot exterior, tricky dials, and limited clearance, may be deal-breakers for some users. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, versatile toaster oven for light to moderate use, this model is a worthy contender. For more demanding cooking needs or those who prefer digital controls, you might want to explore other options.

Would I recommend it? Yes, but with reservations. It’s a great addition for quick tasks and small spaces, but it requires careful handling and a bit of a learning curve to fully utilize its potential. If you’re willing to overlook these minor inconveniences, this toaster oven could be a valuable asset to your kitchen.