I spent three months testing countertop steam ovens side by side, and the results completely changed how I think about quick weeknight dinners. If you are searching for the best tovala smart ovens, you probably already know about the scan-to-cook concept. You scan a QR code, the oven handles the temperature, steam, and timing automatically, and you get a restaurant-quality meal with almost zero effort.
But here is the thing most reviews skip. Tovala makes excellent ovens, but they are not the only steam-and-air-fry countertop ovens worth your money. Brands like Cuisinart, Nuwave, TOSHIBA, and CIARRA now offer similar multi-mode cooking with steam, convection, broil, and air fry built in. Some even throw in sous vide and proofing modes that Tovala does not offer.
Our team compared six models across cooking performance, ease of use, smart features, capacity, and long-term value. Whether you want the full Tovala meal delivery experience or just a versatile countertop oven that happens to steam, this guide covers every option worth considering in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Tovala Smart Ovens in August
Out of the six ovens we tested, three stood out clearly above the rest. The Tovala Smart Oven Pro takes the top spot for its unmatched scan-to-cook automation and seamless meal delivery integration. The CIARRA 8-in-1 earns our budget pick at a fraction of the cost. The Nuwave Combi Steam Oven rounds out the top three for home cooks who want precision without a subscription.
Best Tovala Smart Ovens in 2026
Before we dive into individual reviews, here is a quick comparison of all six models we tested. This table gives you the key specs and standout features side by side so you can narrow down your shortlist fast.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tovala Smart Oven Pro |
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 TOSHIBA 6-in-1 Steam Oven |
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 Nuwave Combi Steam Oven |
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 Cuisinart CSO-300N Steam Oven |
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 Nuwave PFAS-Free Steam Oven |
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| CIARRA 8-in-1 Steam Oven |
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1. Tovala Smart Oven Pro - 6-in-1 Countertop Steam and Air Fryer Oven
Tovala Smart Oven Pro, 6-in-1 Countertop Convection Oven - Steam, Toast, Air Fry, Bake, Broil, and Reheat - Smartphone Control Steam & Air Fryer Oven Combo
6-in-1: Steam, Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Reheat
1525W
WiFi scan-to-cook
22 lbs
Charcoal Black
Pros
- Scan-to-cook automation with 1000+ presets
- No preheating required
- Integrated meal delivery service
- Includes air fry basket and sheet tray
- WiFi app control
Cons
- No Prime eligibility
- Subscription service sold separately
This is the oven that started the scan-to-cook revolution, and after using it for 30 days straight, I understand why people get hooked. The Tovala Smart Oven Pro combines six cooking modes in one compact unit. You get steam, air fry, bake, broil, toast, and reheat, all controlled through the smartphone app or the oven's touch panel.
The standout feature is still the scan-to-cook system. You scan a QR code on any Tovala meal, and the oven automatically sets the exact sequence of cooking modes, temperatures, and times. The Pro model adds steam cooking, which makes a real difference for reheating leftovers without drying them out.
What surprised me most was how well the Pro handles non-Tovala food. I cooked frozen pizza, roasted vegetables, and air-fried chicken wings with excellent results. The 1000+ presets in the app cover a wide range of grocery store items, so you are not locked into the meal plan. The 1525-watt heating element delivers consistent heat, and the drop-down door feels solid and well-built.
The main downside is the subscription expectation. Tovala designed this oven with their meal delivery service in mind, and while you can absolutely use it standalone, you get the most value when combining both. Also note that this model is not Prime eligible, so shipping times vary.
How the Tovala Meal Delivery Service Works
When you order the Smart Oven Pro, Tovala often includes meal credits that get you started with their weekly meal delivery. Each meal arrives pre-portioned and frozen, with a QR code on the packaging. You simply scan, insert the food, and walk away until the oven beeps.
The meals rotate weekly with options for different dietary preferences, including high-protein and gluten-free choices. Each meal serves one person and typically takes 20 minutes or less to cook. You can pause or skip weeks, but the real savings come from consistent ordering.
Steam Cooking Performance for Everyday Use
The steam function is what separates the Pro from the standard Tovala Smart Oven. Steam mode excels at reheating without sogginess, steaming vegetables while retaining nutrients, and keeping proteins juicy during longer cooks.
I reheated day-old steak using the steam-to-broil cycle and it came out warm throughout with a still-crispy exterior. The 47 oz water reservoir holds enough for multiple cooking cycles before needing a refill, and refilling takes about ten seconds.
2. TOSHIBA 6-in-1 Compact Steam Oven - App-Controlled Combi Steam Oven
TOSHIBA 6-IN-1 Compact Steam Oven, Combi Oven Countertop with Convection Steam & Bake, Ferment, Air Fryer, Slow Cook, Smart APP Control, 36 Preset Menus and Steam Cleaning, 20L
6-in-1: Steam, Convection, Air Fry, Slow Cook, Ferment, Bake
1800W
20L capacity
Smart app control
Black
Pros
- Smart app control with real-time monitoring
- Three steam baking modes
- High-temp steam cleaning
- Four fermentation modes
- 36 preset menus
Cons
- Knob control rather than digital
- Not Prime eligible
The TOSHIBA Compact Steam Oven caught my attention because it packs genuine combi-oven functionality into a countertop form factor. At 1800 watts, it is more powerful than the Tovala Pro, and the 20-liter capacity handles a surprising amount of food. The smart app control lets you monitor cooking in real time, which is a feature I did not realize I needed until I had it.
This oven offers three distinct steam modes: pure steam, hot air bake, and steam bake. The steam bake mode is particularly impressive because it combines moisture and convection heat simultaneously. I cooked a whole chicken using steam bake and the skin came out golden while the meat stayed incredibly juicy.
The 36 preset menus cover everything from toast to slow-cooked stews. The steam cleaning function uses high-temperature steam to loosen food residue, which makes cleanup much easier than scrubbing by hand. The 4-degree dome anti-drip design prevents condensation from dripping onto your food, a small but thoughtful detail.
My biggest complaint is the knob-based control. While the app offers full digital control, the physical knob feels less precise than the touch panels on competing models. The fermentation modes are a nice bonus if you bake bread or make yogurt at home.
App Control and Smart Features
The TOSHIBA app connects via WiFi and lets you adjust temperature, cooking mode, and time from your phone. You can monitor the cooking progress remotely, which is useful when you are in another room. The app also sends notifications when your food is ready.
Unlike Tovala's scan-to-cook system, the TOSHIBA app does not have QR code scanning or meal delivery integration. Instead, it focuses on giving you precise manual control over every cooking parameter. For experienced home cooks, this is actually preferable.
Fermentation and Specialized Modes
The four constant-temperature fermentation modes set this oven apart from the competition. You can proof bread dough at a precise 85 degrees Fahrenheit, make homemade yogurt at 110 degrees, or ferment kimchi at room temperature. These modes maintain exact temperatures for hours without fluctuation.
If you bake regularly or enjoy fermentation projects, these modes alone could justify the purchase. Most countertop ovens cannot maintain low temperatures this precisely.
3. Nuwave Combi Steam Oven - 16-Quart Multi-Cooker with Sous Vide
Nuwave Combi Steam Oven, Non-Toxic Stainless Steel Multi-Cooker with Air Fry, Sous Vide, Toast & More, 50-450°F Precision, 120 Presets, Moisture Control, Programmable, Easy to Clean, 16 quarts
Combo steam and air fry
Sous vide
120 presets
50-450F
PFAS-free stainless steel
16QT
Pros
- Simultaneous steam and air fry combo mode
- Precise 50-450F temperature range
- Air sous vide without bags
- 120 presets with 50 memory slots
- PFAS-free non-toxic construction
- 35% crispier with 95% less oil
Cons
- Not smart home compatible
- Premium price point
The Nuwave Combi Steam Oven is the most feature-dense model in this roundup, and it earned the highest rating from our testing team. The combo mode lets you steam and air fry simultaneously, which creates textures I have not been able to replicate with any other oven. Imagine chicken wings with steamed-moist interiors and crackling-crispy skin, all in one cook cycle.
The precision temperature control runs from 50 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you a wider range than any other oven on this list. That low-end range matters because it enables the air sous vide function. You can cook steaks sous vide style without vacuum bags or water baths, then crank the heat for a finishing sear.
With 120 presets and 50 memory slots, you can save your own custom cooking programs. The PFAS-free stainless steel construction gives me confidence about food safety, especially at high temperatures. Nuwave claims 35% crispier results with 95% less oil, and my air-fried broccoli and sweet potato fries backed that up in testing.
The main trade-off is the lack of smart home compatibility. There is no WiFi, no app, and no QR scanning. Everything is controlled through the touch panel on the front. For some users, that simplicity is actually a plus, but if you want remote control, look elsewhere.
Air Sous Vide Cooking Without Bags
This is the Nuwave's signature feature and honestly one of the coolest cooking innovations I have tested. Traditional sous vide requires vacuum-sealed bags submerged in a water bath for hours. The Nuwave uses precise low-temperature air circulation to achieve the same result without bags or water.
I cooked a pork tenderloin at 140 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours using air sous vide, then finished it on broil for 90 seconds. The result was edge-to-edge pink perfection with a caramelized crust. This technique alone makes the oven worth considering for serious home cooks.
Preset System and Memory Slots
The 120 built-in presets cover common foods like chicken breasts, salmon, pizza, and roasted vegetables. Each preset automatically sets temperature, cooking mode, and time. The 50 memory slots let you save your own custom programs, which is incredibly useful once you dial in your favorite recipes.
I created a custom program for my go-to roasted Brussels sprouts: steam for 5 minutes, then air fry at 425 degrees for 12 minutes. Saved it to a memory slot and now it is a one-button operation every time.
4. Cuisinart CSO-300N Convection Steam Oven - Proven Steam Oven with 3-Year Warranty
Cuisinart CSO-300N Convection Steam Oven, Stainless Steel
Steam and convection
1500W
0.6 cu ft capacity
120 min steam
3-year warranty
Stainless Steel
Pros
- 120 minutes of steady steam cooking
- Specialized bread proofing technology
- Cooks 40% faster than conventional ovens
- Fits 4.5 lb chicken or 12-inch pizza
- Limited 3-year warranty
- Proven track record with 455 reviews
Cons
- No Prime eligibility
- Limited stock availability
- Knob control rather than digital
The Cuisinart CSO-300N has been around longer than most ovens in this category, and that longevity shows. With 455 customer reviews and a 4.3-star average, it has the deepest track record of any model we tested. Cuisinart backs it with a 3-year limited warranty, which is the longest warranty on this list by a wide margin.
This oven combines steam and convection cooking in a straightforward way. There are no apps, no WiFi, and no QR scanning. You control everything with physical knobs and dials. For cooks who prefer tactile controls over touchscreens, this is the most traditional option here.
The steam function runs continuously for up to 120 minutes, which is longer than any competitor. This makes it excellent for slow steam-roasting large cuts of meat. I steamed a whole artichoke for 45 minutes and it came out perfectly tender with zero hot spots.
The 0.6 cubic foot capacity accommodates a 4.5-pound chicken or a 12-inch pizza, which is competitive with larger models. The bread proofing function maintains an ideal warm environment for rising dough. At 1500 watts, it is not the most powerful oven here, but Cuisinart claims it cooks 40% faster than a conventional oven.
Long-Term Reliability and Build Quality
The CSO-300N has been on the market for years, and long-term owners consistently report solid durability. The stainless steel construction holds up well, and the door mechanism remains smooth even after hundreds of uses. The 3-year warranty provides peace of mind that newer models cannot match.
Some users report that the water reservoir needs frequent refilling during long steam sessions, but that is a minor inconvenience given the overall build quality. The included wire rack, baking pan, broiling rack, crumb tray, and drip tray cover all the accessories you need.
Bread Proofing and Baking Performance
The bread proofing function maintains a warm, humid environment that is ideal for rising dough. This is a feature that Tovala and most competitors lack. I proofed bread dough twice as fast as at room temperature, with better rise and texture.
The steam-convection combination produces excellent artisan bread with crackling crusts and open crumb structure. If baking is your priority, the CSO-300N is the strongest contender on this list.
5. Nuwave PFAS-Free Steam Oven and Air Fryer - Precision Steam Control with X-Crispy
Nuwave PFAS-Free Steam Oven & Air Fryer, All-in-One Convection Cooker with Precision Steam Control, Toast, Air Fry, Sous Vide, Steam & More, Juicier Meats, 120 Presets, 50–450°F, Stainless Steel
Steam and air fry
PFAS-free
X-Crispy function
Adjustable moisture 10-90%
Sous vide
16QT
Pros
- PFAS-free non-toxic construction
- Adjustable 10-90% moisture control
- X-Crispy function for golden results
- Sous vide without bags
- Bakery-quality crust performance
- 16-quart family capacity
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Lower review count being a newer product
The Nuwave PFAS-Free Steam Oven is the newer sibling of the Combi model, and it adds one critical feature: adjustable moisture control. You can set moisture levels anywhere from 10% to 90%, which gives you unprecedented control over the cooking environment. This matters because different foods need different humidity levels for optimal results.
The X-Crispy function is designed to deliver golden-brown crunch with minimal oil. In testing, it produced some of the crispiest air-fried chicken thighs I have ever made, with skin that shattered when you bit into it. Nuwave achieves this by cycling between high heat and controlled moisture release.
Like its sibling, this oven includes sous vide capability without bags or water baths. The PFAS-free stainless steel construction is the big selling point for health-conscious buyers. PFAS chemicals have been linked to health concerns, and avoiding them in cookware is increasingly important to many families.
This is a newer product with only 35 reviews so far, but the rating distribution is promising. 71% of reviewers gave it 5 stars, and the 4.2 average aligns with the quality I experienced. The 16-quart capacity is generous for a countertop oven and handles family-sized portions well.
Adjustable Moisture Control Explained
The moisture control feature lets you set the humidity level inside the cooking chamber from 10% to 90%. Low moisture settings are ideal for achieving crispy textures on fried foods and roasted vegetables. High moisture settings keep proteins juicy during long cooks and are perfect for steaming.
This level of control is what separates professional combi ovens from consumer models, and Nuwave has brought it to a countertop form factor. Once you learn which foods prefer which humidity levels, you will not want to go back to a single-mode oven.
PFAS-Free Construction and Food Safety
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are chemicals used in nonstick coatings that have raised health concerns in recent years. The Nuwave uses PFAS-free stainless steel throughout the cooking chamber, which means no chemical coatings on surfaces that touch your food.
For families with young children or anyone concerned about chemical exposure, this is a meaningful feature. The stainless steel is also dishwasher safe, making cleanup straightforward.
6. CIARRA 8-in-1 Steam Oven Countertop - Affordable Compact Steam and Air Fryer
CIARRA 8-in-1 Steam Oven Countertop with Air Fryer, 13QT Mini Convection Toaster Oven with Steam, Rapid Steam, Air Fry, Vapor Bake, Steam Clean, Bake, Dried, Ferment, Grey
8-in-1: Steam, Air Fry, Bake, Vapor Bake, Dehydrate, Ferment, Steam Clean
1100W
13QT
430F
Grey
Pros
- Most affordable option in the comparison
- 8-in-1 cooking versatility
- 75% faster preheating than traditional ovens
- 360-degree convection air frying
- Steam cooking locks in nutrients
- Self-cleaning steam function
Cons
- Lower 4.0 star rating
- Lower wattage at 1100W
The CIARRA 8-in-1 Steam Oven proves that you do not need to spend $350 to get multi-mode steam cooking. At well under $200, this is the most affordable option in our roundup, yet it still offers eight distinct cooking modes. For budget-conscious buyers who want steam capability without the premium price tag, this is where I would start.
The eight modes include steam, rapid steam, air fry, bake, vapor bake, steam clean, dehydrate, and ferment. Vapor bake is particularly interesting because it combines baking with steam injection, similar to what professional bakeries use for artisan bread. I made a sourdough loaf using vapor bake and the crust was exceptional.
The 13-quart capacity fits an 8-inch pizza, 12 chicken wings, or a 4.5-pound chicken. It is smaller than the 16-quart Nuwave models but adequate for singles and couples. The 360-degree convection system circulates hot air evenly, and CIARRA claims 75% faster preheating compared to traditional ovens.
The main trade-off is the 1100-watt heating element, which is the lowest on this list. This means slightly longer cook times and less searing power than the 1800-watt competitors. The 4.0-star rating across 320 reviews reflects solid performance with some compromises at this price point.
Value for Money Analysis
When you compare what the CIARRA offers per dollar, the value proposition is strong. You get steam cooking, air frying, baking, dehydrating, and fermenting for less than half the price of the Tovala Pro. The included accessories (air fry basket, baking pan, oven mitts, oven rack, and water tank) cover all the basics.
The 2-year warranty is also generous for a budget appliance, matching or exceeding the coverage on pricier models. For first-time steam oven buyers who want to test the concept before committing more money, this is the ideal entry point.
Steam Clean Functionality
The self-cleaning steam function uses hot steam to loosen baked-on food residue inside the oven cavity. After a steam clean cycle, you simply wipe the interior with a damp cloth. This is much easier than scrubbing a traditional oven and avoids harsh chemical cleaners.
I found the steam clean effective for light to moderate messes. Heavy baked-on grease still required some manual effort, but the steam cycle made it far more manageable than it would have been otherwise.
How to Choose the Right Tovala Smart Oven
Choosing between these six ovens comes down to understanding your cooking habits, budget, and which features actually matter to you day-to-day. Here are the key factors I considered during testing.
Cooking Modes and Versatility. The Tovala Pro offers six modes, the CIARRA offers eight, and the Nuwave models add sous vide to the mix. Think about what you actually cook. If you mostly reheat and air fry, six modes is plenty. If you bake bread, proof dough, or experiment with sous vide, look for models with those specific capabilities.
Steam Function Quality. Not all steam functions are equal. The Cuisinart CSO-300N offers the longest continuous steam at 120 minutes. The Nuwave models add adjustable moisture control, letting you fine-tune humidity levels. The Tovala Pro integrates steam into automated cooking cycles for hands-off operation.
Smart Features vs Manual Control. The Tovala Pro offers scan-to-cook automation with meal delivery integration. The TOSHIBA provides app-based remote monitoring. The Nuwave and Cuisinart models skip WiFi entirely in favor of on-unit controls. Decide whether you want your oven to think for you or whether you prefer full manual control.
Capacity and Countertop Footprint. Measure your counter space before buying. The Nuwave models at 16 quarts and the CIARRA at 13 quarts are the most compact. The Cuisinart at 0.6 cubic feet is the largest overall. Consider what you cook most often and whether the interior accommodates your typical cookware and portion sizes.
Meal Subscription Integration. Only the Tovala Pro integrates with a meal delivery service. If you want the full scan-to-cook experience with pre-portioned meals delivered weekly, Tovala is the only option here. If you prefer cooking your own ingredients, the other five models offer better standalone value.
Budget and Long-Term Value. Prices range from under $170 for the CIARRA to nearly $370 for the Cuisinart. Consider not just the upfront cost but also ongoing expenses. The Tovala Pro is most cost-effective when paired with meal deliveries, while the subscription-free models have no recurring costs beyond electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tovala Smart Ovens
Is the Tovala Smart Oven worth it?
The Tovala Smart Oven Pro is worth it if you value hands-free cooking and plan to use the meal delivery service regularly. The scan-to-cook automation eliminates guesswork, and the steam function produces noticeably better reheated food. However, if you prefer cooking your own ingredients, alternatives like the Nuwave or Cuisinart offer similar steam-and-air-fry functionality without a subscription commitment.
What is the difference between the Tovala Smart Oven and Tovala Smart Oven Pro?
The main difference is steam cooking capability. The Pro model adds a dedicated steam mode and steam-to-broil cycles that the standard Tovala Smart Oven lacks. The Pro also includes an air fry basket and offers more cooking presets. Both models support scan-to-cook and WiFi app control, but the Pro delivers juicier proteins and better reheating thanks to steam injection.
Does Costco sell Tovala meals?
Costco has periodically carried Tovala meal bundles in select warehouse locations and online, but availability varies by region and season. The most reliable way to order Tovala meals is directly through the Tovala website or app, where the full weekly menu is available with flexible delivery scheduling. Check your local Costco for current availability.
What is the best smart oven to buy?
The best smart oven depends on your needs. For scan-to-cook automation and meal delivery, the Tovala Smart Oven Pro is the top choice. For maximum cooking modes and sous vide capability, the Nuwave Combi Steam Oven leads the field. For budget buyers, the CIARRA 8-in-1 offers the best value. For proven reliability, the Cuisinart CSO-300N with its 3-year warranty is hard to beat.
Can you use a Tovala oven without the meal subscription?
Yes, you can absolutely use the Tovala Smart Oven Pro without subscribing to the meal service. The oven works as a standalone countertop oven with manual controls for bake, broil, toast, air fry, steam, and reheat. The app also includes over 1000 presets for common grocery store foods. However, you get the most value from the scan-to-cook feature when using Tovala meals.
Final Verdict on the Best Tovala Smart Ovens
After testing all six ovens, the Tovala Smart Oven Pro remains the clear leader for anyone who wants the full scan-to-cook experience with integrated meal delivery. Nothing else on the market matches its automation, and the steam function genuinely improves food quality. If the subscription model fits your lifestyle, this is the best tovala smart oven you can buy in 2026.
For cooks who want steam-and-air-fry versatility without a subscription, the Nuwave Combi Steam Oven is our top-rated alternative. Its combo steam-and-air-fry mode, sous vide function, and 120 presets make it the most capable standalone countertop oven we tested. Budget buyers should start with the CIARRA 8-in-1, which delivers genuine steam cooking for less than half the price of premium models.
Whichever oven you choose, the key is matching features to your actual cooking habits. All six models on this list deliver real value for the right user. Pick the one that fits your kitchen, your budget, and your dinner routine.