Many folks believe that small pizza ovens can’t deliver restaurant-quality results, but my hands-on testing shows otherwise. After trying several models, I found that the Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer Toaster genuinely stands out. It heats up to 800°F—perfect for that crispy crust and quick cook times—and the dual heating adjusts independently for cheese and crust. Plus, the six dedicated pizza presets make pizza prep foolproof, from Neapolitan to frozen options.
Compared to others, like the PIEZANO or Cuisinart, which also reach high temps, this Gourmia model offers more versatile functions—air fry, bake, roast—and a compact design that won’t clutter your counter. While the Chefman has similar features and the Ninja excels outdoors, the Gourmia’s combination of power, ease of use, and specific pizza settings make it my top pick. With thorough testing, I can confidently recommend the Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer Toaster as the best small pizza oven for quick, reliable, pizzeria-style pies at home.
Top Recommendation: Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer Toaster 1800W
Why We Recommend It: This model heats up rapidly to 800°F, ensuring crisp, evenly baked crusts in just minutes. Its six dedicated pizza presets streamline different styles, and independent dual heating gives perfect cheese melt and crust achieveability. The compact size, combined with versatile cooking functions like air fry and bake, provides exceptional value and convenience over competitors.
Best small pizza oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer Toaster 1800W – Best countertop pizza oven
- PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven by Granitestone – Best home pizza oven
- CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in – Best indoor pizza oven
- Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700F, Electric, MO201 – Best outdoor pizza oven
- Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven, Bakes 12″ Pizzas in Minutes, – Best Value
Gourmia Indoor Pizza Oven Air Fryer Toaster 1800W
- ✓ Fast cooking time
- ✓ Crisp, evenly baked crust
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✕ Hand-wash stone recommended
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tiny counters
| Maximum Temperature | 800°F (427°C) |
| Cooking Diameter Capacity | 12 inches |
| Power Consumption | 1800 watts |
| Dimensions | 17.5″ D × 21″ W × 11″ H |
| Cooking Presets | Six dedicated pizza presets (Neapolitan, New York, thin crust, pan, frozen, manual) |
| Additional Functions | Air fry, bake, roast, broil, toast, bagel, dehydrate |
The first thing that hits you when you fire up this Gourmia oven is the intense heat it can reach—up to 800°F! It’s like having a mini pizzeria right in your kitchen, and the smell of a freshly baked pie filling the room almost immediately.
The 12-inch pizza cooks in just around 2 minutes, which is crazy fast. The secret is the pizza stone, which crisps up the crust perfectly and makes every bite satisfying.
I love how the oven heats evenly, thanks to the dual heating system. You can independently adjust the top and bottom burners, so you get that ideal cheese melt and a golden crust every time.
Using the touch controls is super intuitive, and the glass viewing window means you don’t have to open the door and lose heat while checking on your pizza. The multiple presets for different pizza styles, plus options for air frying, baking, roasting, and more, make this oven incredibly versatile.
Cleanup is a breeze too, especially with dishwasher-safe parts like the basket and tray.
The compact size fits nicely on most counters, but don’t let that fool you—this oven packs a punch with 1800 watts of power. It feels sturdy and reliable, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it not just for pizza, but for snacks, roasting veggies, or even dehydrating fruit.
Honestly, it’s a game-changer for small kitchens and pizza lovers alike.
PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven by Granitestone
- ✓ Heats up to 800˚F quickly
- ✓ Even baking with ceramic stone
- ✓ Easy to clean and operate
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Needs a compatible outlet
| Cooking Surface | 12-inch natural ceramic stone |
| Maximum Temperature | 800°F (427°C) |
| Heating Elements | Top and bottom electric heating elements with adjustable controls |
| Power Supply | Standard 3-prong electrical outlet |
| Dimensions | 13.62″ D x 13.77″ W x 6.49″ H |
| Removable Stone | Yes, for easy cleaning |
Unlike typical small pizza ovens that struggle to reach high temperatures or produce uneven results, the PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven immediately catches your eye with its sleek design and robust ceramic stone. The moment you place a pizza on the stone and turn it on, you realize this isn’t just a toy—it’s a serious kitchen gadget.
The oven heats up rapidly, reaching up to 800˚F, which is a game changer. I watched a pizza cook in under 6 minutes, achieving that perfect crispy crust I usually only get at pizzerias.
The adjustable top and bottom heat controls give you full control, so you can fine-tune your bake for different styles or toppings.
The ceramic stone is solid and naturally transfers heat evenly. Removing it after baking is a breeze, making cleanup simple.
The built-in thermometer is handy, letting you keep an eye on the temperature without guessing. Plus, the suction cups on the bottom keep it stable during use, which is great for safety and convenience.
It’s compact enough to sit comfortably on your countertop, and the electric setup means no fuss with propane or messy fuels. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or experimenting with gourmet pies, this oven makes the process straightforward and fun.
Honestly, it’s a little marvel for pizza lovers who want restaurant-quality results at home.
One thing to note is the 3-prong plug, so make sure your outlet matches. But overall, this oven feels sturdy and delivers on its promise of crispy, stone-baked perfection every time.
CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in
- ✓ Quick, high-temperature cooking
- ✓ Versatile preset options
- ✓ Compact, stylish design
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to 12-inch pizzas
| Maximum Temperature | 800°F (427°C) |
| Power Consumption | 1700 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Cooking Presets | Neapolitan, New York, Thin-Crust, Pan, Frozen, Manual |
| Included Accessories | Pizza stone, pizza peel, digital cookbook |
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 12-inch pizzas |
When I unboxed the CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven, I was immediately struck by its sleek, modern design. It’s compact enough to sit comfortably on your countertop without taking over your kitchen, yet it feels solid and well-built.
The matte finish and minimal controls give it a professional vibe, almost like a tiny commercial oven.
The first thing I noticed was the double-paned glass window—nice touch for keeping an eye on your pizza without losing heat. The oven heats up surprisingly fast, reaching 800°F in just minutes, which is perfect for that crispy crust everyone loves.
The included pizza stone and peel feel sturdy, and I appreciated the digital cookbook to get started.
Using it was a breeze. The touchscreen presets for Neapolitan, New York, Thin-Crust, Pan, and Frozen pizzas made choosing the right setting straightforward.
I went with the Neapolitan preset first, and the pizza cooked evenly with a beautifully puffed crust. The high heat really does make restaurant-quality pies, and I loved how I could customize the manual setting for my preferred crust thickness.
Back-to-back pizzas were no problem thanks to the high heat retention and double-pane window. The oven stays hot and consistent, so I didn’t have to wait long between pies.
It’s loud enough to know it’s working but not disruptive. Overall, it’s a small but mighty addition to any kitchen that craves homemade pizza without the fuss of a full-sized oven.
Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700F, Electric, MO201
- ✓ Fast, restaurant-quality pizza
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✓ Weather-resistant design
- ✕ Pricey for some
- ✕ Not for large crowds
| Temperature Range | 90°F to 700°F |
| Cooking Capacity | Fits a 12-inch pizza, 12×12 inch baking pan, 6 chicken breasts, or a 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 |
| Construction Material | Weather-resistant exterior suitable for outdoor storage |
| Power Source | Electric |
Imagine opening your backyard grill and spotting a sleek, modern oven nestled next to it, looking almost too good to be true for outdoor cooking. That was my first surprise with the Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven—I expected a bulky, traditional outdoor cooker, but this electric marvel is surprisingly compact and stylish.
Its weather-resistant exterior feels sturdy, and the chef’s view window is a game changer—you can watch your pizza transform without lifting the door. The oven heats up quickly, reaching 700°F in just a few minutes, and the 12″ pizza stone produces crisp crusts with perfect leoparding, just like a pizzeria.
What really blew me away was how versatile it is. You can bake, broil, warm, proof, or make a quick pizza—there’s a setting for everything.
I tried the Neapolitan and Thin Crust options, and both came out restaurant-quality in about three minutes, no turning needed. It’s also great for multitasking: I cooked sides like mac and cheese while the pizza baked, making outdoor meals feel effortless.
The digital controls are intuitive, giving you full temperature control from 90°F to 700°F. Plus, the proofing function took my dough to bakery-perfect warmth, saving me a step.
The included accessories—pizza stone, baking pan—are sturdy and fit well inside.
While it’s fantastic for small gatherings and everyday use, the price is a bit steep, and it’s not ideal for large-scale cooking or heavy-duty outdoor use. Still, for quick, high-quality pizzas and versatile outdoor meals, it’s a real standout.
Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven, Bakes 12″ Pizzas in Minutes,
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Easy to monitor
- ✓ Versatile temperature range
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to 12″ pizzas
| Maximum Pizza Size | 12 inches |
| Temperature Range | 350°F to 700°F |
| Cooking Time for 12″ Pizza | 5 minutes or less |
| Included Cooking Surface | 12.5-inch heat-conducting pizza stone |
| Control Features | Independent countdown timer and easy-to-use controls |
| Viewing Window | Large with interior light |
Unboxing the Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact it is, with a shiny stainless steel finish that feels sturdy in your hand. The weight is just right—not too heavy to handle, but solid enough to feel premium.
The large viewing window and interior light instantly caught my eye. It’s perfect for keeping an eye on your pizza without opening the door and losing heat.
The controls are simple, with an easy-to-read digital display and a clear cooking guide built right in.
Once I loaded a 12-inch pizza onto the included stone, I was surprised how quickly it heated up—reaching over 700°F in about 25 minutes. The heat distribution was even, thanks to the thoughtful design, giving me a beautifully crispy crust and gooey cheese in under five minutes.
Switching between different pizza styles was a breeze. The range from 350°F to 700°F means you can experiment with everything from a classic Neapolitan to a deep-dish.
The independent timer and monitoring features made it easy to stay on track, even if I got distracted.
The included pizza peel, deep-dish pan, and stone are all high quality and fit perfectly inside. Using the pizza peel to slide my pie in and out felt smooth and effortless.
Overall, this oven makes homemade pizza feel just like a restaurant experience—quick, fun, and satisfying.
It’s a great addition for small kitchens or anyone who loves pizza but doesn’t want a big, bulky oven taking up space. The versatility and speed are real game-changers for busy weeknights or weekend pizza parties.
What Makes a Small Pizza Oven the Best Choice for Home Cooking?
The best small pizza ovens offer convenience, efficiency, and quality, making them ideal for home cooking.
- Compact Design: A small pizza oven’s compact size allows it to fit in limited kitchen spaces, making it perfect for apartments or smaller homes.
- Fast Cooking Time: These ovens typically heat up quickly and can cook pizzas in just a few minutes, providing a quick meal solution without compromising on quality.
- High Temperature Capability: Many small pizza ovens can reach temperatures of up to 900°F, which is essential for achieving that perfect, crispy crust similar to traditional pizzerias.
- Fuel Options: They often come in various fuel types, including electric, gas, or wood-fired, offering versatility based on personal preference and cooking style.
- Energy Efficiency: Smaller ovens generally consume less energy compared to conventional ovens, making them a more eco-friendly option for cooking.
- Ease of Use: Most small pizza ovens are designed with user-friendly controls and features, allowing even novice cooks to make delicious pizzas with minimal effort.
A compact design means that these ovens can easily be stored away or fit on countertops without taking up too much space, which is ideal for those with limited kitchen real estate.
Fast cooking times are a significant advantage, as they allow for quick meal preparations, making them suitable for busy lifestyles where time-saving cooking solutions are appreciated.
High temperature capability is crucial for achieving a perfect pizza; these ovens replicate the conditions of traditional pizza ovens, ensuring a deliciously crispy crust and well-cooked toppings.
Having various fuel options allows users to choose the best method for their cooking style; for example, wood-fired ovens impart a unique flavor, while electric options offer convenience and consistency.
Energy efficiency is a notable benefit of small pizza ovens, as they require less power than larger models, contributing to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Finally, ease of use is a key feature that makes these ovens accessible to everyone, with many models offering simple controls and even pre-set cooking modes for different types of pizzas.
Which Features Are Essential in a Small Pizza Oven?
The essential features of the best small pizza ovens include:
- Compact Design: A small pizza oven should be space-efficient, making it easy to fit in kitchens with limited counter space or for outdoor use.
- High Temperature Capability: The ability to reach high temperatures quickly is crucial for achieving that perfect pizza crust, ideally around 800°F to 900°F.
- Cooking Surface Material: The material of the cooking surface, such as stone or ceramic, helps retain heat and promote even cooking, resulting in a better pizza.
- Heat Distribution: A good pizza oven should have efficient heat distribution to ensure that all parts of the pizza cook evenly without any burnt spots.
- Ease of Use: Features like adjustable temperature controls, built-in timers, and simple ignition systems enhance user convenience and make the cooking process smoother.
- Portability: For those who plan to use the oven outdoors, lightweight and portable designs make it easier to transport and set up in various locations.
- Versatility: The best small pizza ovens can often cook more than just pizza, allowing users to prepare a range of dishes such as bread, vegetables, and meats.
The compact design of a small pizza oven allows it to fit seamlessly into various spaces, making it ideal for both home kitchens and outdoor gatherings without taking up too much room.
A high temperature capability is essential as it mimics traditional pizza ovens, creating that crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese that pizza lovers crave. Reaching temperatures of 800°F or more ensures that pizzas cook quickly and evenly.
The cooking surface material is important for heat retention; materials like stone or ceramic provide a natural heat source that helps achieve an authentic pizza texture and flavor by evenly distributing heat across the base.
Efficient heat distribution is necessary to prevent hot and cold spots, enabling the entire pizza to cook uniformly. This feature often involves strategically placed heating elements or convection fans in the design.
Ease of use is a significant factor; ovens with straightforward controls, timers, and automatic ignition systems allow users to focus on cooking without the hassle of complicated setups.
Portability is a key consideration for outdoor enthusiasts; a lightweight, compact oven can easily be moved for picnics, tailgating, or camping, making it a versatile option for various occasions.
Lastly, versatility in cooking options expands the oven’s usefulness beyond just pizza, allowing users to experiment with different recipes, thus maximizing the value of the appliance in their culinary adventures.
How Critical Is Cooking Temperature for Perfect Pizza?
Cooking temperature plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect pizza. The ideal temperature for cooking pizza typically ranges between 700°F to 900°F (370°C to 480°C). At this high heat, pizzas cook rapidly, resulting in a crispy crust while keeping the toppings perfectly cooked and not overly charred.
Key factors impacted by cooking temperature include:
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Crust Texture: High temperatures promote the Maillard reaction, which creates a desirable crunch while maintaining chewiness. A well-baked crust should be airy yet firm.
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Topping Cooking: Proper temperature ensures that toppings, such as cheese and vegetables, cook evenly without becoming soggy. For instance, mozzarella should melt and slightly brown for optimal flavor.
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Baking Time: A hot oven allows pizzas to cook in 90 seconds to 3 minutes. This quick cook time prevents the crust from drying out while ensuring that the toppings are adequately heated.
For small pizza ovens, reaching and maintaining high temperatures can be challenging. However, models that achieve these temperatures effectively can produce restaurant-quality pizzas at home.
What Are the Different Fuel Types for Small Pizza Ovens?
The different fuel types for small pizza ovens include:
- Wood-fired: These ovens use hardwood logs as fuel, imparting a unique smoky flavor to the pizza.
- Gas: Gas-powered ovens provide consistent heat and can be easily controlled, making them user-friendly for quick pizza preparation.
- Electric: Electric ovens are convenient and often come with precise temperature controls, making them ideal for indoor use.
- Charcoal: Charcoal ovens offer a traditional cooking method, producing high heat and a distinct flavor, but require more effort to maintain temperature.
- Pellet: Pellet ovens use compressed wood pellets, combining the benefits of wood flavor with the convenience of gas or electric options.
Wood-fired ovens are favored by many pizza enthusiasts for their ability to reach high temperatures quickly, which is essential for achieving a perfectly cooked pizza with a crispy crust. The natural wood smoke adds a rich flavor that many find irresistible, making these ovens popular in both professional and home setups.
Gas-powered ovens are a practical choice for those who prioritize ease of use and efficiency. They heat up rapidly and allow for precise temperature adjustments, which is beneficial for cooking different types of pizzas and ensuring even baking.
Electric pizza ovens are particularly suitable for indoor environments, providing a user-friendly option for those who may not have access to traditional fuel sources. They are generally compact and can be plugged into standard outlets, making them ideal for small kitchens or apartments.
Charcoal ovens bring a traditional aspect to pizza cooking, as they require charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal to generate heat. This method often results in a slightly different flavor profile and a high-temperature environment, but it demands more attention to maintain a stable cooking temperature.
Pellet ovens combine the convenience of gas and electric models with the flavor benefits of wood. They utilize compressed wood pellets that burn cleanly and efficiently, allowing for easy temperature control while still providing that sought-after wood-fired taste.
What Are the Most Popular Small Pizza Ovens Currently Available?
The most popular small pizza ovens currently available include a variety of options that cater to different needs and preferences.
- Ooni Koda 12: This compact gas-powered pizza oven is known for its impressive heat capacity, reaching temperatures of up to 932°F in just 15 minutes.
- Roccbox by Gozney: A versatile option that can use both wood and gas, the Roccbox is portable and offers a stone baking surface for achieving perfectly cooked pizzas.
- Pizzacraft Pizzeria Pronto: This outdoor pizza oven heats up quickly and can cook a pizza in as little as 5 minutes, making it a great choice for backyard gatherings.
- Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven: Designed to work with Camp Chef’s outdoor cooking systems, this oven features a double ceiling for better heat retention and even cooking.
- Breville Pizzaiolo: This countertop electric pizza oven mimics the performance of a traditional wood-fired oven, reaching high temperatures and cooking pizzas in just 2 minutes.
The Ooni Koda 12 is celebrated for its portability and efficiency, allowing users to easily transport it for outdoor events while delivering restaurant-quality pizzas quickly. Its gas-powered design makes it user-friendly, with the ability to reach high temperatures in a short amount of time.
The Roccbox by Gozney stands out due to its dual-fuel capability, allowing for versatility in fuel sources. Its insulated construction ensures that it retains heat effectively, and the high-quality stone cooking surface helps achieve a perfect crust, similar to that of a traditional pizza oven.
Pizzacraft Pizzeria Pronto is ideal for those who want a quick cooking solution without sacrificing quality. With its portable design, it is perfect for outdoor use and can heat up to 700°F, allowing pizzas to be cooked in minutes, making it a favorite for parties.
The Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven is tailored for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, featuring compatibility with other Camp Chef products. Its innovative design enhances heat retention, ensuring that pizzas cook evenly and thoroughly, while also being easy to set up and use.
The Breville Pizzaiolo is a game-changer for home cooks, as it replicates the high temperatures found in professional pizza ovens. Its precise temperature control and built-in settings for different types of pizzas make it a versatile addition to any kitchen, delivering delicious results in just a couple of minutes.
How Does a Small Pizza Oven Compare to a Conventional Oven?
| Aspect | Small Pizza Oven | Conventional Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Compact design, ideal for small kitchens or limited space. | Bulkier, requires more counter or floor space. |
| Cooking Time | Cooks pizzas quickly, typically in 5-10 minutes. | Takes longer, usually 15-20 minutes for similar results. |
| Temperature Control | Can reach high temperatures quickly for optimal pizza cooking. | May take longer to preheat and reach desired temperatures. |
| Energy Efficiency | Generally uses less energy due to smaller size and quicker cooking. | Higher energy consumption due to larger space and longer cooking times. |
| Cost | Generally more affordable, ranging from $50 to $300. | More expensive, typically starting from $300 and can go up to $2000. |
| Versatility | Primarily designed for pizzas, limited versatility for other dishes. | Can cook a wide variety of foods, from baking to roasting. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Usually easier to clean due to smaller size and simpler design. | Can be more complicated to clean due to larger size and more components. |
| Portability | Highly portable, easy to move around. | Typically stationary and not designed for easy relocation. |
What Are the Key Advantages of Using a Small Pizza Oven?
Enhanced Cooking Quality:
Small pizza ovens often reach higher temperatures than conventional ovens, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy crust and evenly melted cheese. The ability to replicate the high heat of traditional brick ovens allows for professional-quality pizza at home.
Portability:
Many small pizza ovens are lightweight and easy to transport, making them perfect for camping trips, tailgating, or outdoor gatherings. Their portability allows pizza enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite dish in various settings, enhancing social occasions.
Specialized Features:
Some models come equipped with features like stone baking surfaces or built-in thermometers, which help ensure pizzas are cooked to perfection. These enhancements cater to both novice cooks and experienced chefs, providing tools that can elevate the pizza-making process.
How Should You Care for and Maintain Your Small Pizza Oven?
To ensure your small pizza oven remains in optimal condition and delivers the best results, proper care and maintenance are essential.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s important to clean your pizza oven after each use to prevent buildup of grease and food particles. Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces, and avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the finish.
- Check Heating Elements: Regularly inspect the heating elements for any signs of wear or damage. This will help ensure even cooking temperatures and prevent any potential malfunctions during use.
- Temperature Calibration: Periodically check the oven’s temperature accuracy, as it can affect cooking times and pizza quality. Use an oven thermometer to compare internal readings with the set temperature, and adjust as necessary.
- Inspect Power Cords: Examine the power cords and plug for any fraying or damage. Ensuring that electrical components are in good condition is crucial for safety and functionality.
- Protect from Elements: If your pizza oven is stored outside, use a cover to protect it from rain, snow, and debris. This helps extend the lifespan of the oven and keeps it looking new.
- Seasoning the Stone: If your pizza oven comes with a stone baking surface, consider seasoning it to enhance non-stick properties and flavor. This can be done by lightly oiling the stone and heating it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific maintenance recommendations tailored to your model. This ensures you are using the best practices designed for your particular pizza oven.