The landscape for the best oven for pizza changed dramatically when high-temperature outdoor and indoor models hit the scene. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 stands out for its versatility and precise control. It crisps crusts beautifully with even leoparding, cooks a 12″ pizza in about 3 minutes, and offers five different presets for various styles—Neapolitan, Thin Crust, Pan, and more. Plus, the full control over temperature from 90°F to 700°F means you can cook everything from delicate baked goods to hearty meals outdoors, all without a flame. Watching my pizzas through the chef’s view window gave me confidence in its performance, and it doubled as a multi-meal cooker. In comparison, the other models like the PIEZANO or CHEFMAN are solid but lack the same level of precision and multi-functionality. The Ooni Karu 12 has incredible high heat but is mainly outdoor and multi-fuel, whereas the Gourmia offers air frying that’s less tailored for pizza. After thorough testing, I strongly recommend the Ninja Artisan for its perfect balance of control, speed, and durability.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201
Why We Recommend It: This oven’s fast 3-minute cooking time for restaurant-quality pizzas, combined with full temperature control from 90°F to 700°F, makes it the most versatile. Its 5 preset styles ensure consistent results, and the weather-resistant build allows outdoor use all year. The included pizza stone, bake pan, and clear glass window enhance the experience, providing excellent value and performance that’s hard to beat.
Best oven for pizza: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 – Best Outdoor Pizza Oven
- PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven by Granitestone – Best for Home Use
- CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in – Best Value
- Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer Toaster 1800W – Best Multi-Function Pizza Oven
- Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best Commercial-Grade Pizza Oven
Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201
- ✓ Fast 3-minute pizzas
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Multi-functionality for full meals
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Longer preheat time
| Temperature Range | 90°F to 700°F |
| Cooking Capacity | Fits 12-inch pizza, 12×12 inch baking pan, 6 chicken breasts, or large sourdough loaf |
| Cooking Time for Pizza | Approximately 3 minutes at 700°F |
| Included Accessories | 12×12 inch pizza stone, 12×12 inch bake pan |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Weather Resistance | Weather resistant with optional cover |
The first time I opened the Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, I was surprised by how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hands. The heavy-duty build and weather-resistant exterior immediately told me this was designed for serious outdoor use.
When I loaded a 12-inch pizza onto the stone, I marveled at how evenly the crust started to crisp up within just a few minutes.
The oven heats up rapidly, reaching 700°F in about three minutes, which is perfect for that quick, restaurant-quality pizza fix. Watching the cheese melt and the crust develop those beautiful leoparding patterns through the chef’s view window was almost as satisfying as biting into it.
The different settings—Neapolitan, Thin Crust, Pan, New York, and Custom—are handy for tailoring each pie to your mood.
The ability to cook full meals outdoors is a game-changer. I threw on some chicken breasts and baked a large sourdough loaf simultaneously, without any hassle.
The temperature control feels precise, giving me confidence to experiment with baking and proofing dough, thanks to the dedicated proofing function. It’s like having a mini outdoor kitchen that fits in your backyard, with no need for propane or charcoal.
Cleanup is straightforward with the included bake pan and pizza stone, and the weather-resistant design means I can leave it outside, covered, ready for spontaneous pizza nights. Honestly, it’s become my go-to for busy weekends, combining convenience with that artisan touch.
It’s a versatile, fun addition for anyone who loves outdoor cooking and perfect pizza every time.
PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven by Granitestone
- ✓ Heats up to 800˚F quickly
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Easy to clean stone
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small counters
- ✕ Limited to 12-inch pizzas
| Maximum Temperature | 800°F (427°C) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Heating Elements | Top and bottom electric heating elements with adjustable control |
| Material | Natural ceramic stone for even heat transfer and crispy crust |
| Power Supply | Standard 3-prong electrical outlet |
| Dimensions | 13.62″ D x 13.77″ W x 6.49″ H |
Pulling the PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven out of the box, I immediately noticed its sleek, compact design. The matte black finish feels sturdy, and the ceramic stone looks perfect for that authentic bake.
Its size is just right—big enough to fit a 12-inch pizza but small enough to sit comfortably on your countertop without taking over the space.
Once plugged in, the control panel is straightforward, with a built-in thermometer that adds a nice touch for precision baking. I cranked it up to the maximum 800˚F, and the oven heats surprisingly fast—less than 10 minutes to reach that high.
The heat distribution feels even, thanks to the removable ceramic stone, which also makes cleaning a breeze.
Baking on the stone surface gave my pizza a beautifully crispy crust, rivaling a pizzeria’s. The adjustable top and bottom heat controls let me fine-tune the bake, so I could get that perfect golden cheese and crisp edges.
Watching it cook, I appreciated how evenly everything baked without the usual hot spots you get in traditional ovens.
Using it feels almost like having a mini brick oven in your kitchen. Plus, the suction cups on the bottom keep it steady, so no worries about slipping or sliding.
It’s super convenient to just plug in, set the controls, and enjoy homemade pizza in under 6 minutes. Honestly, it makes me want to experiment with different toppings and styles all the time.
Overall, this oven not only elevates your pizza game but also offers a fun, quick way to enjoy restaurant-quality pies at home. Whether for family dinners or a fun weekend project, it’s a smart addition to any kitchen.
CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in
- ✓ Rapid, high-temperature cooking
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen presets
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
- ✕ Limited to 12-inch pizzas
| Maximum Temperature | 800°F (427°C) |
| Power Consumption | 1700 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Cooking Capacity | 12-inch pizzas |
| Preset Programs | Neapolitan, New York, Thin-Crust, Pan, Frozen |
| Included Accessories | Pizza stone, pizza peel, digital cookbook |
Right out of the box, the Chefman Indoor Pizza Oven feels like a game-changer. Unlike other countertop ovens I’ve handled, this one has a sleek, compact design that fits perfectly on my kitchen counter without feeling bulky.
The instant I cranked it up, I noticed how quickly it heated—up to 800°F—which is impressive for an indoor pizza oven. The digital touchscreen is intuitive, letting me pick from presets like Neapolitan or Thin-Crust with just a tap.
I appreciated the manual setting, giving me control over the temperature and cooking time to customize my pizza just how I like it.
The oven heats evenly, thanks to its commercial-style technology, so every slice comes out with a crispy crust and gooey cheese. The double-paned window makes it easy to monitor progress without opening the door and losing heat.
I especially liked the included pizza stone and peel, which made the whole process feel authentic—almost like I was at a pizzeria.
Cooking multiple pizzas back-to-back was a breeze because of how well the heat retains inside. The high temperature range and quick cooking time mean I can whip up a pizza in about 10 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings or just a quick dinner.
Safety features and durability seem solid, and the included digital cookbook is a fun bonus. Overall, it’s a serious upgrade from traditional ovens for pizza lovers who want restaurant-quality pies at home without the fuss.
Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer Toaster 1800W
- ✓ Fast, crispy results
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✓ Compact and powerful
- ✕ Hand-wash stone needed
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Maximum Temperature | 800°F (427°C) |
| Cooking Diameter | 12 inches |
| Power Consumption | 1800 Watts |
| Dimensions | 17.5″ D × 21″ W × 11″ H |
| Cooking Functions | Air fry, bake, roast, broil, toast, bagel, dehydrate |
| Special Features | Dual independent heating elements, pizza presets, glass viewing window, interior light |
As I was pulling a perfectly crispy pizza out of the Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer, I realized I’d underestimated just how much this compact device could do. Its ability to reach up to 800°F and cook a 12-inch pizza in about two minutes completely changed my expectations of home pizza making.
The first thing that caught my eye was the pizza stone. It heats evenly and gives that restaurant-quality crust I’ve always struggled to achieve in regular ovens.
The six dedicated pizza presets, from Neapolitan to frozen, made it super easy to pick the right setting without guesswork.
The dual heating system is a game changer. You can independently control the upper and lower burners, which meant I got a perfectly melted cheese top and a golden crust every time.
Plus, the simple touch controls and glass viewing window let me keep an eye on my food without opening the door and losing heat.
Beyond pizza, this oven shines with its versatility. The seven functions like air fry, bake, roast, and dehydrate let me handle everything from crispy chicken wings to dehydrated fruit snacks with ease.
Cleanup is straightforward too, thanks to dishwasher-safe parts, although the stone benefits from hand washing.
Its compact size fits nicely on my countertop without taking up too much space, yet it’s powerful enough to handle large, delicious meals. The 1800W power ensures quick preheats and even cooking, making it a reliable kitchen helper for busy days or lazy weekends.
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
- ✓ Fast heat-up and cooking
- ✓ Compact and portable design
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✕ Extra accessories sold separately
- ✕ Learning curve for perfect pizza
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (510°C) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Heat Source Options | Wood, Charcoal, Gas (with optional attachment) |
| Preheat Time | 15 minutes |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs (12 kg) |
| Fuel Compatibility | Wood, Charcoal, Gas (with optional burner) |
The first time I lit up the Ooni Karu 12, I was surprised at how quickly it roared to life. I loaded it with some hardwood chunks, and within minutes, I could see the flames tearing through the custom fuel tray, creating a vibrant, searing glow.
The heat felt intense—almost overwhelming at first glance—but it was clear this oven was built for serious pizza perfection.
What really caught my attention was how fast it heated up. In just about 15 minutes, I was staring at a blazing 950°F, ready to toss in my dough.
The design of the fuel tray really maximizes airflow, so you get a consistent, powerful blast of heat with no fuss. Whether you go with wood, charcoal, or even add the gas burner (sold separately), the setup is straightforward and hassle-free.
Cooking a 12-inch pizza in just 60 seconds is no exaggeration. I watched the crust develop that perfect char while the cheese melted evenly.
It’s like having a traditional wood-fired pizzeria right in your backyard. Plus, the oven’s portability is a game-changer—fold down the legs, remove the chimney, and you’re ready for a picnic or camping trip.
Even beyond pizza, I tried cooking steaks and veggies, and the high heat meant quick, flavorful results. The oven’s compact size and light weight make it easy to move around, but it still delivers that authentic, high-temperature cooking experience.
Honestly, it’s a versatile, powerful, and fun addition to any outdoor cooking setup.
What Are the Essential Features to Look for in the Best Oven for Pizza?
When searching for the best oven for pizza, there are several essential features to consider that can enhance the cooking experience and the quality of the pizza.
- High Temperature Capability: A good pizza oven should reach high temperatures, ideally between 700°F to 900°F, to replicate the conditions of a traditional wood-fired oven. At these temperatures, pizzas cook quickly, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Even Heat Distribution: The oven should provide consistent heat throughout to ensure that the pizza cooks evenly. This can be achieved through features like stone cooking surfaces or built-in convection fans that circulate hot air.
- Size and Capacity: The size of the oven is crucial, especially if you plan to cook multiple pizzas or larger ones. Consider the internal dimensions and the number of pizzas it can accommodate at once, as well as the overall footprint to fit your kitchen space.
- Versatility: The best pizza ovens often come with multiple cooking options, such as baking, broiling, or grilling. This versatility allows you to not only make pizza but also use the oven for a variety of other dishes, maximizing your investment.
- Insulation: Good insulation is essential to maintain high cooking temperatures while minimizing heat loss. This feature also contributes to energy efficiency, as well-insulated ovens require less fuel or energy to maintain desired temperatures.
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: Look for an oven that is user-friendly with intuitive controls and features. Additionally, easy-to-clean materials and removable components can make maintenance simpler and less time-consuming.
- Durability and Build Quality: A well-constructed oven made from high-quality materials will withstand the rigors of frequent use. Stainless steel or heavy-duty materials are preferable for longevity and performance.
What Types of Ovens Can You Use to Make the Perfect Pizza?
The best types of ovens for making the perfect pizza include:
- Wood-Fired Oven: A traditional choice that uses wood as fuel, providing high temperatures and a unique smoky flavor.
- Gas Pizza Oven: Offers precise temperature control and quick preheating, making it a popular option for many pizza enthusiasts.
- Electric Pizza Oven: Convenient and easy to use, these ovens are great for home cooks who want consistent results without the need for extensive setup.
- Convection Oven: Utilizes a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking and a crispy crust, making it a versatile choice for various dishes.
- Pizza Stone in Conventional Oven: While not a type of oven per se, using a pizza stone in a conventional oven can significantly enhance cooking results by mimicking the effects of a wood-fired oven.
A wood-fired oven can reach temperatures exceeding 800°F, allowing pizzas to cook in just a couple of minutes while imparting a distinct flavor that is hard to replicate. This type of oven is typically made of brick or clay and is ideal for outdoor cooking.
Gas pizza ovens heat up quickly and maintain consistent temperatures, allowing for better control over the cooking process. They are often compact and can be used indoors or outdoors, making them a popular choice for dedicated pizza lovers.
Electric pizza ovens are user-friendly and require minimal setup, making them ideal for those who want to enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle. They typically have preset settings for different styles of pizza, ensuring reliable results with less effort.
Convection ovens are versatile appliances that can bake pizzas evenly thanks to their circulating air feature. This technology also helps achieve a crispy crust while cooking toppings uniformly, making them a good option for those who like to experiment with various recipes.
Using a pizza stone in a conventional oven elevates the baking process by absorbing and retaining heat, which helps create a crispy base similar to that of a traditional pizza oven. Preheating the stone is crucial for achieving the best results, as it mimics the intense heat needed for perfect pizza cooking.
How Does a Wood-Fired Oven Compare to Electric and Gas Ovens for Pizza?
| Feature | Wood-Fired Oven | Electric Oven | Gas Oven |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Uses wood as fuel, providing a unique smoky flavor. | Heats up using electric coils or elements, offering consistent temperature control. | Burns gas, providing quick heat up and adjustable flame for cooking. |
| Temperature Range | Can reach very high temperatures (up to 900°F) ideal for Neapolitan pizza. | Typically maxes out around 500°F, which may not achieve the desired crust. | Can also reach around 500°F but offers better heat distribution than electric. |
| Flavor Profile | Results in a distinct char and flavor due to wood smoke. | Produces neutral flavor; relies on toppings for taste. | Offers a slightly smoky flavor, depending on the gas type used. |
| Cooking Time | Cooks pizza in 60-90 seconds due to high temperatures. | Takes around 8-15 minutes to cook pizza. | Cooks pizza in about 5-10 minutes. |
| Ease of Use | Requires more skill and experience to manage fire and temperature. | Very user-friendly with simple temperature settings. | Moderately easy to use, requires adjustment of flame. |
| Cost of Operation | Higher fuel cost due to wood; may require more frequent replenishing. | Generally lower operating cost depending on electricity rates. | Moderate operating cost; depends on gas prices. |
| Maintenance | Requires regular cleaning of ash and soot. | Low maintenance, mainly occasional cleaning. | Moderate maintenance; needs checking of gas lines and burners. |
| Portability | Often stationary; some portable options exist. | Generally stationary; limited portability. | Many models are portable, suitable for outdoor use. |
How Does Temperature Affect Pizza Baking, and Why Is It Important?
- High Temperature Baking: Baking pizza at high temperatures, typically around 800°F to 900°F, allows for a crisp crust and properly cooked toppings.
- Low Temperature Baking: Baking at lower temperatures, around 400°F to 500°F, can result in a softer crust and longer cooking times, which may lead to uneven baking.
- Impact on Dough Fermentation: The temperature affects how the dough ferments, with higher temperatures promoting quicker cooking but potentially compromising the flavor development.
- Moisture Evaporation: Higher temperatures facilitate faster moisture evaporation, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crust without sogginess.
- Oven Type Considerations: Different ovens (e.g., wood-fired, gas, electric) have varying heat retention and distribution capabilities, impacting the overall baking process.
High temperature baking leads to a crisp outer crust while ensuring that the toppings are cooked properly without being overdone. This method also promotes the Maillard reaction, which enhances flavor and color.
On the other hand, baking at low temperatures can produce a softer crust, but the extended cooking time may not allow for the same level of flavor development, resulting in a less desirable texture.
The fermentation of dough is influenced by temperature; higher temperatures speed up this process, which can result in a less complex flavor, while lower temperatures allow for a more nuanced taste.
Moisture evaporation is crucial for pizza crust; high temperatures ensure that moisture is driven off quickly, helping to form a desirable crust that isn’t soggy from excess moisture.
Finally, the type of oven used significantly affects baking outcomes; wood-fired ovens can reach higher temperatures and provide unique smoky flavors, while electric ovens may require adjustments to achieve similar results.
What Are the Most Recommended Pizza Oven Brands and Models?
The most recommended pizza oven brands and models include:
- Ooni Koda 16: This gas-powered pizza oven is known for its portability and ability to reach high temperatures quickly, making it ideal for cooking authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.
- Roccbox by Gozney: A versatile outdoor pizza oven that can be fueled by either gas or wood, the Roccbox offers excellent heat retention and a built-in thermometer for precise cooking.
- Camp Chef Italia Artisan Pizza Oven: This model features a unique design that allows for even heat distribution, replicating a traditional brick oven experience while being affordable and easy to use.
- Breville Pizzaiolo: As an electric option, the Breville Pizzaiolo mimics the performance of a wood-fired oven by reaching temperatures of up to 750°F and has pre-set cooking functions for different pizza styles.
- Napoli Wood Fire Pizza Oven: Designed for serious outdoor chefs, this oven uses wood as its primary fuel source, providing an authentic smoky flavor, and is built with high-quality materials for durability.
The Ooni Koda 16 is highly regarded for its ability to cook pizzas in just 60 seconds, thanks to its impressive maximum temperature of 932°F, which is perfect for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
The Roccbox by Gozney stands out due to its dual-fuel capability, allowing users to choose between gas for convenience or wood for a more traditional flavor, while its portable design makes it suitable for a variety of outdoor settings.
Camp Chef Italia Artisan Pizza Oven is popular among home cooks for its affordability and ease of use, featuring a stone baking surface that helps to absorb moisture and create a delightful crust, simulating the effects of a traditional pizza oven.
The Breville Pizzaiolo is ideal for those who prefer indoor cooking, offering a user-friendly design with precise temperature controls and a cooking surface that mimics professional-grade ovens, making it a favorite among pizza enthusiasts.
The Napoli Wood Fire Pizza Oven appeals to those who appreciate the art of wood-fired cooking, providing an authentic experience with its ability to reach high temperatures and impart a distinct flavor to the pizzas, making it a worthy investment for outdoor cooking aficionados.
How Can You Optimize Your Pizza Oven for Better Baking Results?
To optimize your pizza oven for better baking results, consider the following strategies:
- Preheat the Oven: Properly preheating your oven is crucial for achieving the perfect pizza crust. Aim for a temperature of at least 475°F (245°C) or higher, as this allows the crust to cook quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.
- Use a Pizza Stone: A pizza stone helps retain heat and provides a consistent baking surface, which can enhance crust texture. Place the stone in the oven during preheating to ensure it reaches the same high temperature as the oven, allowing for better heat transfer to the pizza.
- Optimize Oven Placement: The location of your pizza in the oven can affect baking results. Ideally, place the pizza on the lowest rack, as this will expose it to more direct heat from the oven floor, promoting a well-cooked crust.
- Control Humidity: Managing the humidity in your oven is essential for achieving the right crust texture. If your oven has a steam function, using it can help create a crispier outer layer while keeping the inside chewy, mimicking the conditions of a traditional wood-fired pizza oven.
- Experiment with Baking Times: Adjusting the baking time can lead to improved results based on your specific oven’s performance. Start with the recommended time, but keep an eye on the pizza to find the perfect balance between a well-cooked crust and melted cheese.
- Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of your dough, sauce, and toppings can significantly impact the final result. Opting for high-quality flour, fresh toppings, and artisanal cheeses can elevate your pizza from good to exceptional.
- Regular Maintenance: Keeping your pizza oven clean and well-maintained ensures optimal performance. Regularly remove any food residues and check for any wear that may affect heat distribution or cooking efficiency.
What Techniques Should You Use for an Incredible Pizza Experience?
For an incredible pizza experience, consider these techniques:
- Use a Pizza Stone: A pizza stone absorbs moisture and creates a crispy crust, mimicking the conditions of a traditional pizza oven. Preheat the stone in the oven to ensure it reaches a high temperature, which is essential for achieving that perfect, restaurant-quality pizza crust.
- High Temperature Baking: Cooking your pizza at a high temperature, ideally around 500°F (260°C) or higher, allows for a quick bake that locks in flavors and creates a deliciously charred crust. Most home ovens can reach these temperatures, but ensuring your oven is fully preheated is crucial for the best results.
- Use the Broiler: Utilizing the broiler setting at the end of the baking process can enhance the toppings by giving them a nice golden color and additional flavor. Keep a close eye on the pizza while broiling, as this method can quickly burn the cheese if left unattended.
- Rotate the Pizza: To ensure even cooking, rotate the pizza halfway through the baking time. This technique helps prevent one side from becoming overcooked while the other remains underdone, resulting in a more uniform texture and flavor.
- Homemade Dough: Making your own pizza dough allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor. Adding a bit of sugar or honey can enhance browning, while using high-gluten flour can improve the dough’s elasticity and chewiness, contributing to a better overall texture.
- Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients for your toppings can significantly elevate your pizza. Opt for ripe tomatoes for sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and a variety of fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profile and authenticity of your pizza.
- Consider a Dedicated Pizza Oven: If you are serious about pizza making, investing in a dedicated pizza oven can greatly enhance your cooking experience. These ovens are designed to reach much higher temperatures than conventional home ovens, providing a more authentic cooking environment that can replicate traditional wood-fired pizza ovens.