Not all air fryer toaster ovens are created equal — some promise a dozen cooking modes and end up burning toast. The BLACK+DECKER TO1787SS, however, has become a standout in its category by focusing on the essentials and doing them well.
This review is based on a deep dive into customer feedback, performance specs, and how this model compares with top picks from trusted testing sources like Wirecutter and Serious Eats. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, reliable countertop appliance that doesn’t overwhelm, the TO1787SS may be your best bet.
Why It Stands Out in a Crowded Market
- Offered in 4, 6, and 8-slice capacities to suit different households
- Includes air fry capability — a rarity at this price point
- Analog dial controls — simple, intuitive, and reliable
- Compact design without sacrificing internal space
- Backed by thousands of reviews, averaging strong satisfaction scores
Unlike trendier models with touchscreens and companion apps, this unit delivers consistent results with minimal complexity. That reliability is part of what keeps it in top recommendation lists.
Key Features at a Glance
- Cooking Modes: Toast, bake, broil, and air fry
- Controls: Three simple knobs (time, temp, function)
- Air Fry Basket: Helps circulate air around food for better crisping
- Removable Crumb Tray: Easy cleanup, especially for daily use
- Fast Preheat: Reaches toasting temp in under 3 minutes
According to aggregated reviews, many buyers use it daily — not just for toast, but for reheating leftovers, making frozen snacks, and baking small meals without heating the full kitchen.
Which Size Should You Choose?
The TO1787SS comes in three variants that differ only in capacity:
4-Slice Model
Perfect for solo cooks or small kitchens. It’s the most compact version, with just enough space for two slices of toast or a personal pizza. Ideal for:
- Studio apartments
- Dorms
- RV or van life
6-Slice Model
A solid mid-range option for couples or small families. It balances footprint and internal space, fitting a 9" pizza or a small sheet pan.
8-Slice Model
Best for families or frequent entertainers. Fits multiple items at once — think casseroles, chicken thighs, or reheating leftovers for three or more people. It takes more counter space but offers the most flexibility.
How Good Is the Air Fry Mode?
Compared to standalone air fryers, the TO1787SS performs respectably. While it doesn’t have a powerful dedicated fan like high-end air fryers, it still delivers crispy results for:
- Frozen fries and nuggets
- Breaded chicken tenders
- Reheating baked goods without sogginess
The included mesh tray improves air circulation, which helps mimic the convection needed for crisp results. For best performance, reviewers suggest preheating and cooking in small batches.
Common Praise and Complaints
What People Like
- Reliable performance across all cooking modes
- Minimalist controls — especially popular with older users and minimalists
- Even heating for toast and frozen foods
- Good value compared to multifunction competitors
What Could Be Better
- Exterior gets hot — requires some clearance on the counter
- Air fry mode takes longer than standalone fryers
- Manual dials mean no presets or digital timer
How It Compares to Top Picks
According to sources like Wirecutter and Serious Eats, premium air fryer toaster ovens (like the Breville Smart Oven Air or Cuisinart TOA-65) offer:
- More powerful air fry performance
- Digital interfaces with presets
- Convection fans with variable speeds
However, those models also cost 2–3x as much. The BLACK+DECKER TO1787SS consistently ranks high in affordability, ease of use, and compact design — making it a great entry-level or secondary unit.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy It?
This oven is best suited for:
- Small households that want air fry functionality without the cost
- Home cooks who value simplicity over bells and whistles
- Anyone with limited kitchen space who still wants multi-function cooking
It’s not the flashiest or most powerful unit on the market — but it doesn’t pretend to be. For the price, it delivers consistent, versatile performance that makes daily cooking easier.
➡️ Check current pricing on Amazon
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | 4-Slice | 6-Slice | 8-Slice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toast Capacity | 4 slices | 6 slices | 8 slices |
| Fits 9" Pizza? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Air Fry Mode | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Best For | Individuals | Couples | Families |
| Counter Space Impact | Low | Medium | High |
FAQ
Q: Which size BLACK+DECKER TO1787SS should I choose?
A: That depends on your space and needs. The 4-slice is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or solo use. The 6-slice offers more flexibility for couples or light family use, while the 8-slice model is great for larger households or batch cooking.
Q: Can this toaster oven really air fry food well?
A: Yes — while it’s not a powerhouse like a standalone air fryer, it does a solid job with frozen snacks, veggies, and small portions when using the mesh tray and giving food room to crisp.
Q: Is it beginner-friendly and low maintenance?
A: Very much so. The dial controls are intuitive, and the crumb tray pulls out for fast cleaning. It’s a great option if you want something you can use without digging through a manual.
Q: What types of meals can I cook in it besides toast?
A: You can bake cookies, reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, air fry snacks, or broil open-faced sandwiches. It’s surprisingly versatile for such a compact appliance.
If you’re in the market for a practical countertop oven that gets the job done — and doesn’t cost a fortune — the BLACK+DECKER TO1787SS is one of the most balanced, budget-friendly picks available.
It may not be the most high-tech appliance in your kitchen, but it might just become the most used.
Check our recommendation out right here at Amazon: