Best Countertop Ovens with Defrost in 2026: 2 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You need steam functions and app control Smeg Retro Combi Steam Countertop Oven It offers steam, air fry, and app control with 19.8-inch width.
• You want to toast six slices at once PlumChef 27.5 Qt French Door Toaster Oven Its 6-slice capacity and 1700W power handle large baking loads.
• You prefer a black finish for your kitchen Smeg Retro Combi Steam Countertop Oven The Smeg model comes in a black color option.

Our 2 picks

1 Best overall

Smeg Retro Combi Steam Countertop Oven

Best for: Versatile cooking with steam and app control

Cooking Function

Air Fry, Convection, Bake, Steam, Defrost, Grill (what this guide is about)

Temperature Range

104°F to 446°F

Convection System

Fan-assisted

Control Type

LCD digital display, app

Color

Black

Size

Large

View on Amazon: Smeg Retro Combi Steam Countertop Oven Affiliate link

This Smeg countertop oven offers 10 cooking functions, including defrost, air fry, and steam. It features a large 27.5-quart capacity and a wide temperature range from 104°F to 446°F. You get app control and an LCD display for precise adjustments. The 42-pound unit measures 19.75 inches long. It suits those wanting versatile cooking options in a stylish, retro design.

Pros

• 10 distinct cooking functions including defrost and air fry
• Large 27.5-quart interior capacity
• App control and LCD digital display
• Wide temperature range from 104°F to 446°F

Cons

• Heavy 42-pound build
• Large footprint measuring 19.75 inches long
• No dedicated defrost time setting listed

Good fit if

• You need multiple cooking modes like steam and air fry
• You want app control for remote operation
• You have counter space for a large unit

Skip if

• You have limited counter space
• You prefer a lighter appliance
• You only need basic toasting

Verdict: Smeg 27.5 Qt Combi Oven is a high-capacity, feature-rich option for cooks who want steam, air fry, and app control. It fits kitchens with ample space and a need for versatile functions.

2 Best 6-slice

PlumChef 27.5 Qt French Door Toaster Oven

Best for: large families needing 6-slice capacity

Cooking Function

Air Fry, Convection, Bake, Toast, Defrost, Grill (what this guide is about)

Internal Capacity

27.5 qt, 6 slices

Cooking Functions

5-in-1

Wattage

1,700 W

Convection System

Dual-speed fan

Door Type

French Door

View on Amazon: PlumChef 27.5 Qt French Door Toaster Oven Affiliate link

The PlumChef 27.5 Quart oven offers a large 6-slice capacity and 1700W power for faster cooking. It includes a dedicated defrost function alongside air frying, convection, baking, toasting, and grilling. The dual-speed fan provides 360-degree air circulation for even results. Its French door design and stainless steel build suit families needing extra space on the counter.

Pros

• 27.5-quart capacity fits 6 slices of bread
• 1700W wattage for efficient heating
• Dual-speed fan with 360-degree circulation
• Dedicated defrost function included in 5-in-1 settings

Cons

• Large footprint at 16.9 inches wide
• Heavy at 19 pounds
• No smart app or remote control mentioned

Good fit if

• You need to cook for a family of four to six
• You want a dedicated defrost setting for frozen foods
• You prefer a French door for easy access

Skip if

• You have limited counter space
• You prefer a compact 4-slice model
• You want smart home integration

Verdict: PlumChef 6-Slice Countertop Oven is a high-capacity option for households that need to bake multiple slices or roast larger items. Its 1700W power and dual-speed fan support efficient cooking for larger groups.

Specifications side by side

Is Defrost Worth It on a Countertop Oven?

Defrosting is a dedicated cooking function that thaws frozen food gently using low heat or convection. This feature helps you prepare meals faster by removing ice without starting the cooking process. It is useful for quick weeknight dinners where you need to thaw meat or vegetables. Both the Smeg and PlumChef models include this setting. If you often cook from frozen, this spec saves time. If you thaw food in the fridge overnight, you can skip it.

Worth it if

• You frequently cook from frozen ingredients
• You need to thaw food quickly before cooking
• You want a dedicated function for gentle thawing

Skip it if

• You prefer to thaw food in the refrigerator overnight
• You rarely use frozen foods in your cooking
• You have limited counter space and need every function

How We Selected Defrost Ovens

We scanned Amazon listings for models that explicitly list Defrost as a cooking function. This feature allows you to thaw frozen foods gently without cooking them. We only included products where the listing title or feature list confirms this capability. We did not test any units ourselves. All details come directly from the published specifications on each product page.

The list orders products by availability first. Then we use the listing's overall rating weighted by review count. Finally, we consider how many of our core criteria the specs meet. We show only one size or variant per product family. Prices and stock levels are displayed live on the page and are not part of this selection process.

Key Specs for Choosing a Defrost Oven

1. Check interior capacity first

   You should verify the internal volume before purchasing. The Smeg model offers 27.5 quarts of space, which accommodates large roasts or multiple dishes. This size requires significant counter space. The PlumChef model provides six-slice capacity, which is ideal for toasting bread or small batches. Larger capacities handle bigger families but demand more room. You must measure your available kitchen area to ensure the unit fits comfortably without overcrowding the workspace.

2. Verify door type preference

   Door style affects accessibility and aesthetics. The PlumChef features French doors, which open from the center. This design allows easier access to the interior and provides a wider viewing area. The Smeg model uses a standard door configuration. You should choose the style that best fits your workflow. French doors may require more clearance in front of the counter. Standard doors might be simpler to operate in tight spaces. Consider how you open the oven during cooking.

3. Compare cooking functions needed

   Identify which cooking modes you actually use. The Smeg unit includes steam, air fry, convection, bake, grill, and defrost functions. This versatility suits cooks who want multiple techniques in one appliance. The PlumChef offers air fry, convection, bake, toast, grill, and defrost. It lacks steam capability. You should select the model that matches your primary cooking habits. Extra functions add value only if you plan to use them regularly. Check the specific function list for each product.

4. Assess physical dimensions carefully

   Measure the width, height, and length of the oven. The Smeg unit measures 19.8 inches wide, 15.5 inches high, and 19.5 inches long. It weighs 42 pounds, indicating a sturdy build. The PlumChef is 16.9 inches wide, 13.8 inches high, and 16.1 inches long, weighing 19 pounds. You need to ensure your counter can support the weight. Leave space for ventilation around the unit. Compare these exact dimensions to your designated spot to avoid fit issues.

5. Review control and connectivity

   Determine if you need smart features. The Smeg model includes app control, allowing you to manage settings remotely. This feature is useful for busy cooks who want to adjust temperatures or timers without being near the oven. The PlumChef listing does not mention app connectivity. You should decide if remote control is essential for your routine. Smart features add convenience but may increase complexity. Check the product specifications for connectivity options before making your final decision.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best countertop ovens under 300
• best countertop ovens under 50
• best countertop countertop ovens
• best countertop outdoor pizza ovens