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Cuisinart TOB-40N Classic vs Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven Side-by-Side Comparison

Alan Nguyen
Reviewer
Nguyen Ntk
Visual Specialist
Updated
Tested Using Methodology v1.0
Updated Mar 19, 2023
Tested Using Methodology v1.0
Updated Apr 3, 2023
The front of a closed stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler on a white background.
The front of a closed stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven on a white background.

Our Verdict

6.4
Overall Score
  • Performance (50%)
    6.8/10
  • Design (25%)
    6.2/10
  • Usability (25%)
    5.8/10
6.1
Overall Score
  • Performance (50%)
    7.0/10
  • Design (25%)
    5.3/10
  • Usability (25%)
    5.2/10

The Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven and the Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven (MT-175) is a medium-sized and a small unit respectively. Coincidentally, their overall scores (and prices) aren’t too different from one another.

Both toaster ovens have analog control dials that are quite precise and no convection system or interior light. The Cuisinart has a slide-out crumb tray while the Mueller detachable crumb tray.

The Cuisinart received some extra points in design and usability for having carrying handles and a few more custom features. When you place the baking pan on the upper position, the door has a hook to pull it out when you open. The upper guide rail also has a safety hook so the baking pan won’t slide out all the way accidentally.

On the other hand, the Mueller had a slightly higher performance score. It was better than the Cuisinart at toasting bread and baking pizza despite its lower power output. The Cuisinart’s nichrome heating elements and higher power draw allowed it to brown the whole chicken and fries better, earning it a higher score in those tests.

Could Be Improved

Cuisinart TOB-40N Classic Toaster Oven Performance

Mueller 4-Slice Toaster Oven Performance: Good Heat Distribution
6.8
Performance Scores
  • Toast (40%)7.1/10
  • Pizza (25%)6.5/10
  • Whole Roasted Chicken (25%)7.4/10
  • Baked French Fries (10%)5.1/10
7.0
Performance Scores
  • Toast (40%)7.5/10
  • Pizza (25%)7.6/10
  • Whole Roasted Chicken (25%)7.0/10
  • Baked French Fries (10%)3.6/10
7.1

Toast

7.5
From left to right, 24 pieces of toast for the top and bottom of three toast levels including lighter, medium, and darker.
On the left: 3m 25s; In the middle: 3m 40s; On the right: 4m 15s
From left to right, 24 pieces of toast for the top and bottom of three toast levels including lighter, medium, and darker.
The top and bottom of the best four pieces of toast from the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler.
On the left are the top and bottom of four pieces of toast from the first batch, and on the right are from the second batch.
Taste: 7
50% * 7 = 3.5
Even Surface Color: 7.5
20% * 7.5 = 1.5
Consecutive Usability: 7
30% * 7 = 2.1
  • Function: Toast
  • Number Of Slices: 4
  • Toast Level: Medium
  • Cooking Time: 3m 40s
  • Second Batch: 3m 40s
  • Convection: No

During our Toast test, the Medium level — 3 minutes 40 seconds on the timer — on the Toast knob was the best option, scoring a 7.1/10. Decreasing the time to 3 minutes 25 seconds resulted in a very light color, whereas increasing it to 4 minutes 15 seconds resulted in a significantly dark — although more even — color.

The Medium toast level of the Cuisinart produced 4 pieces with a light golden-brown color. However, without the convection fan, there were some brown areas on the top and dark brown spots on the bottom. Thus, we gave it a 7.5/10.

The first batch of toast was slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, so we gave it a 7/10 for taste. Our head chef, Tuyet Pham, determined they would be great for sandwiches. They may not be ideal to have with soups, egg benedict and omelet, but can be served with these foods as well.

With the same toasting time as the first, the second batch had a brown color and some dark spots on the bottom. Interestingly, this was one of the few ovens where our chef preferred the second batch, thanks to its crispiness being on point.

In the end, it got a 7/10 for consecutive usability. If you want the second batch to be the same as the first, remember to only turn the knob ¾ of the way to Medium which is around 3 minutes 25 seconds.

Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven Toast Test
From left to right, 24 pieces of toast for the top and bottom of three toast levels including lighter, medium, and darker.
The top and bottom of the best four pieces of toast from the stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven.
On the left are the top and bottom of four pieces of toast from the first batch, and on the right are from the second batch.
Taste: 8
50% * 8 = 4.0
Even Surface Color: 7
20% * 7 = 1.4
Consecutive Usability: 7
30% * 7 = 2.1
  • Function: Toast
  • Number Of Slices: 4
  • Toast Level: ⅓ to Dark
  • Cooking Time: 4m
  • Second Batch: 4m
  • Convection: No

For our Toast test, we started off by trying the Medium Toast setting which was around 3 minutes 5 seconds on the timer. The four pieces of bread on the upper tray level came out only lightly toasted on top except for one golden brown piece. We then cranked it up to the Dark Toast setting—around 4 minutes 50 seconds on the timer—which, unfortunately, burnt the toast a bit.

Finally, we opted for the middle ground which was 4 minutes on the timer—⅓ of the rotation from Medium to Dark. This setting was tricky to get right on the time dial, so we used an external timer. It gave us the best possible toast results from this oven scoring a 7.5/10 in total.

After 4 minutes of toasting, the four pieces of toast had pretty good surface color. However, the colors varied from light golden to golden brown on both the top and the bottom, so we could only give a 7/10.

Luckily, the varied colors partially meant varied textures which were all good and deserving an 8/10. The golden brown areas had a more crispy outside while the light golden areas had a softer inside. Our head chef Tuyet Pham determined that it would go great with omelets, eggs benedict, and sandwiches but not so much with soup.

After taking out the first batch, we immediately put four more pieces inside to test the oven’s consecutive usability which ended up at 7/10. Also under the identical toasting time, the four pieces of bread became brown with an increased evenness from the first batch. While the color was a bit darker than ideal, the extra crispiness made the second batch more suitable for soups.

6.5

Pizza

7.6
A toaster oven baked 9-inch thick-crust meat pizza with cheese, onions, and green bell peppers on top inside a baking pan.
A toaster oven baked 9-inch thick-crust meat pizza with cheese, onions, and green bell peppers on top inside a baking pan.
The cross surface of a slice of toast oven baked 9-inch thick-crust meat pizza with cheese, onions, and green bell peppers.
Two hands break apart a slice of pizza with melty cheese, meat, and green bell peppers on top baked using a toaster oven.
Cooking Time: 6
20% * 6 = 1.2
Crust: 6.5
20% * 6.5 = 1.3
Toppings: 7
30% * 7 = 2.1
Taste: 6.5
30% * 6.5 = 1.9
  • Function: Bake
  • Temperature: 450°F
  • Cooking Time: 9m
  • Convection: No

The Cuisinart did an acceptable job of baking a 9-inch thick-crust meat pizza with a score of 6.6/10.

Compared to the recommended 10 minutes on the label, this oven was able to bake the pizza slightly faster at 9 minutes. However, that result only scored a 6/10 among the ovens in our Pizza test.

The crust had some charred spots and a little bit of crispiness but was still soft overall, so it got a 6.5/10.

The toppings caramelized unevenly and some areas of the cheese got darkened. Nonetheless, they weren’t dry, so we were able to give them a 7/10.

After tasting the pizza, our chef gave it a 6.5/10.

Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven Pizza Test
 Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven PizzaA toaster oven baked 9-inch thick-crust meat pizza with cheese, onions, and green bell peppers on top inside a baking pan.
Two slices of oven baked 9-inch thick-crust meat pizza with cheese, onions, and green bell peppers on top of one another.
Two hands break apart a slice of pizza with cheese, meat, onions, and green bell peppers on top baked using a toaster oven.
Cooking Time: 6
20% * 6 = 1.2
Crust: 8
20% * 8 = 1.6
Toppings: 8
30% * 8 = 2.4
Taste: 8
30% * 8 = 2.4
  • Function: Toast
  • Temperature: 450°F
  • Cooking Time: 9m
  • Convection: No

For its low power draw, the Mueller did pretty well in our Pizza test with a score of 7.6/10.

The oven took 9 minutes to bake a 9-inch thick-crust meat pizza which was slightly faster than the label’s recommended 10 minutes. However, compared to our tested toaster ovens, it could only be a 6/10.

The crust had a golden color all the way through and the inside was still moist. If only the crust was a bit more crispy, it would’ve gotten higher than an 8/10.

The toppings were also caramelized quite evenly from the meat and veggies to the cheese, worthy of another 8/10. The cheese was nicely melted but the areas closer to the back of the cooking chamber were more caramelized compared to the rest.

With both the crust and the toppings being 8/10, our chef had no reason to give the pizza one final 8/10 for taste.

7.4

Whole Roasted Chicken

7.0
A whole roasted chicken using the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven on a silver baking pan on a white background.
A whole roasted chicken using the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven on a silver baking pan on a white background.
A tray of whole toaster oven roasted chicken. The thermometer has two probes inside the chicken and displays 181°F and 183°F.
Seven pieces of a carved chicken including a carcass, two breasts, two wings, and two thighs on a silver baking pan.
Two hands pulling apart a roasted chicken thigh. In the white background is the rest of the roasted chicken on a baking pan.
Cooking Time: 6.3
20% * 6.3 = 1.3
Skin: 6
20% * 6 = 1.2
Doneness: 9.7
20% * 9.7 = 1.9
Taste: 7.5
40% * 7.5 = 3.0
  • Function: Bake
  • Temperature: 350°F
  • Cooking Time: 1h 17m
  • Convection: No

The Cuisinart was able to comfortably fit a 3 lb chicken for our Whole Roasted Chicken test and scored a 7.4/10.

The oven took 1h 17m to cook the chicken; this was 17 minutes longer than the standard amount of time so it got a 6.3/10.

The skin had an uneven color, ranging from light golden to golden at the ends, and was soft throughout. This was most likely the result of the absence of a convection system; we gave it a 6/10.

The chicken was thoroughly cooked and the internal temperature was 181°F-183°F, which was only a little higher than recommended by the USDA, so we gave it a 9.7/10.

The meat was soft and juicy, deserving a 7.5/10 for taste from our chef.

Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven Whole Roasted Chicken Test
A whole roasted chicken using the Mueller MT-175 Toaster Oven backside up on a silver baking pan on a white background.
A whole roasted chicken using the Mueller MT-175 Toaster Oven belly up on a silver baking pan on a white background.
A tray of whole toaster oven roasted chicken. The thermometer has two probes inside the chicken and displays 185°F and 192°F.
Eight pieces of a carved chicken including two carcass halves, two breasts, two wings, and two thighs on a baking pan.
Two hands pulling apart a roasted chicken thigh. In the white background is the rest of the roasted chicken on a baking pan.
Cooking Time: 6
20% * 6 = 1.2
Skin: 5.5
20% * 5.5 = 1.1
Doneness: 8.7
20% * 8.7 = 1.7
Taste: 7.5
40% * 7.5 = 3.0
  • Function: Toast
  • Temperature: 350°F
  • Cooking Time: 1h 20m
  • Convection: No

The Mueller could barely fit a 3 lb chicken for our Whole Roasted Chicken test. Nonetheless, the result was quite decent at 7/10 in total. If you were to purchase this oven and use it to roast a whole chicken, we recommend cutting it open or chopping it into pieces beforehand.

We first placed the chicken backside down on the baking pan. When we slid the pan in, the top of the chicken breast grazed the upper heating element’s guard and was seared.

After the first 40 minutes, we flipped the chicken to find out that parts of the skin on the back got stuck to the baking pan. Then, when we reinsert the pan, the same problem with the breast happened to the back. Luckily, they weren’t burnt.

However, even after 1 hour and 20 minutes, most of the chicken skin still hasn’t reached a desirable color. The chicken, for the most part, looked like it was steamed and not roasted, so we gave the skin a 5.5/10.

Nonetheless, our chef decided to stop the roasting as the color wouldn’t improve anyway and to avoid overcooking the meat. This cooking time was the equivalent of a 6/10 according to our data.

With such a long cooking time, the meat had no pink spots. However, the chicken’s internal temperature was 185°F-192°F, higher than the USDA recommended 165°F-180°F. Thus, we gave it an 8.7/ for doneness.

While not the most appetizing looking, the meat was very juicy. That, combined with the slight caramelization on the skin, was enough for a 7.5/10 for taste from our chef.

5.1

Baked French Fries

3.6
Pieces of baked french fries using the Cuisinart TOB-40N Toaster Oven Broiler on a silver baking pan on a white background.
Pieces of baked french fries using the Cuisinart TOB-40N Toaster Oven Broiler on a silver baking pan on a white background.
A close-up of pieces of baked french fries using the Cuisinart TOB-40N Oven on a silver baking pan on a white background.
Six pieces of broken-up baked french fries are stacked on top of pieces of whole fries on a silver baking pan.
Cooking Time: 0
20% * 0 = 0.0
Color: 6.5
20% * 6.5 = 1.3
Texture: 6
20% * 6 = 1.2
Taste: 6.5
40% * 6.5 = 2.6
  • Function: Bake
  • Temperature: 400°F.
  • Cooking Time: 31 m
  • Convection: No

The Cuisinart left a lot to be desired in baking french fries and scored a 5.1/10.

The oven took 31 minutes to bake 12 oz of french fries to an acceptable color and doneness. With our time limit being 25 minutes, it failed the cooking time criterion of our Baked French Fries test.

The fries gained an acceptable color, enough for a 6.5/10. Even though the baking pan was large enough to spread the fries, they still weren’t able to crisp up much and got a 6/10. After tasting the fries, our chef gave them a 6.5/10.

Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven Baked French Fries Test
Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven Baked French FriesPieces of baked french fries using the Mueller MT-175 Toaster Oven on a grooved silver baking pan on a white background.
A close-up of pieces of baked french fries using the Mueller MT-175 Toaster Oven on a baking pan on a white background.
Ten pieces of broken-up baked french fries are stacked on top of pieces of whole fries on a grooved silver baking pan.
Cooking Time: 0
20% * 0 = 0.0
Color: 4.5
20% * 4.5 = 0.9
Texture: 4.5
20% * 4.5 = 0.9
Taste: 4.5
40% * 4.5 = 1.8
  • Function: Toast
  • Temperature: 400°F
  • Cooking Time: 27 m
  • Convection: No

Our Baked French Fries test brought out the Mueller’s weakness of not being able to maintain a high temperature due to its low power draw. Its even heat distribution couldn’t help much if the temperature wasn’t high enough, so the final score was 3.6/10.

We stopped the baking after 27 minutes as the fries weren’t getting any more colors. This, nonetheless, was over our time limit of 25 minutes, so it was a 0/10.

The fries had no significant color change and barely enough for a 4.5/10. We ended up with 12 oz of frozen fries that were more similar to being dried in an oven than being baked, so we gave them another 4.5/10 for texture.

Fortunately, the fries were cooked through and not soggy, so our chef could give them a 4.5/10 for taste and not a zero.

Simple and Spacious

Cuisinart TOB-40N Design Review

Stainless Steel Mueller 4-Slice Toaster Oven Design Review: Standard
6.2
design Scores
  • Exterior (20%)7.0/10
  • Interior (30%)6.0/10
  • Build Quality (50%)6.0/10
5.3
design Scores
  • Exterior (20%)5.0/10
  • Interior (30%)1.0/10
  • Build Quality (50%)8.0/10

In the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Box

In the Mueller MT-175 Small Toaster Oven Box
An oven rack, 3 pieces of documents, the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler, a box, and a baking pan.
  • Model: TOB-40N
  • Warranty: 3-year limited
  • User Manual
  • Baking Rack
  • Baking Pan

The packaging keeps the oven as well as its two accessories in place. The accessories are also wrapped in carton pads to avoid scratches during transportation. The oven comes with a user manual with recipes and a simple instruction to register your Cuisinart for premium customer service, special offers, and more.

A box, the Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Toaster Oven, a recipe booklet, a baking pan, an oven rack, a user manual, and a brochure.
  • Model: MT-175
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • User Manual
  • Baking Rack
  • Baking Pan

The Mueller toaster oven came in a basic packaging and positioned with two foam pads. The included accessories were simply duct-taped to the oven. Inside the box are also a user manual and a simple recipe booklet.

7.0

Exterior

5.0
A closed front of the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler with exterior measurements on a white background.
A closed front of the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler with exterior measurements on a white background.
The front of a closed Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler has a control panel and the right has holes.
The back and left sides of the Cuisinart TOB-40N have air ventilation holes. The back has a power cord and two buffers.
On a grey background, the top of the stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler has holes.
On a grey background, the bottom of the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler has four stands and holes.
  • Weight:
    10.0 lbs (4.5 kg)
  • Length:
    15.9" (40.5 cm)
  • Width:
    14.8" (37.7 cm)
  • Height:
    9.0" (22.9 cm)
  • Material:
    Stainless steel
  • Color:
    Black
  • Door Handle:
    cool-touch
  • Tray Indicators:
    No
  • Crumb Tray:
    Slide-out

The Cuisinart has a stainless steel exterior with a cool-touch door handle. What stands out in this simple design is the slide-out crumb tray. The oven has two buffers at the back to prevent it from being placed too close to the wall. Due to their small size, the carrying handles built-in to the bottom stands are a bit awkward to use when the oven is hot.

Our measurements of the oven’s footprint were 15.94" x 14.84" x 9" which was quite different in terms of width compared to the manufacturer’s 17" x 11.74" x 8.35". This could be because we took the door handle and back buffers into account when measuring the oven’s width while the manufacturer didn’t.

A closed front of the stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Toaster Oven with exterior measurements on a white background.
A closed front of the stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Toaster Oven with exterior measurements on a white background.
Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven ExteriorThe front of a closed stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Toaster Oven has a control panel and the right has holes.
The back and left sides of the Instant Omni Plus 18L have air ventilation holes. The back has a power cord and two buffers.
The top, front, and right sides of the Black+Decker TO1760SS 4-Slice Natural Convection Toaster Oven on a white background.
On a white background, the bottom of the Mueller MT-175 Toaster Oven has a detachable crumb tray, four stands, and holes.
The detached crumb tray of the stainless steel Black+Decker TO1760SS 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven on a white background.
  • Weight:
    9.0 lbs (4.1 kg)
  • Length:
    15.0" (38.0 cm)
  • Width:
    11.6" (29.5 cm)
  • Height:
    8.9" (22.5 cm)
  • Material:
    Stainless steel
  • Color:
    Gray
  • Door Handle:
    Cool-touch
  • Tray Indicators:
    No
  • Crumb Tray:
    Detachable

As simple as it is, the Mueller has all the standard exterior features of a small toaster oven but also something more. The bottom of the oven acts as a detachable crumb tray which not only makes it easy to remove the falling bits and crumbs but also to clean the entire interior.

The oven has a cool-touch door handle and back buffers to prevent it from being too close to the wall. Unfortunately, it has no cord storage or carrying handles.

Our measurements of the oven’s footprint were 14.96" x 11.61" x 8.86" which pretty much coincided with the manufacturer’s 14.84" x 11.85" x 8.86". However, the weight of the oven by itself was already 9 lbs whereas the label said the entire box was 7.63 lbs.

Control Panel of the Cuisinart TOB-40N

Control Panel of the Small Mueller MT-175
The Cuisinart TOB-40N’s control panel has 1 start/stop button and 3 control dials for function, temperature, and toast shade.
  • Type:
    3 control knobs + Stop/Start button
  • Temperature:
    100°F - 450°F
  • Timer:
    Not available
  • Indicator Light:
    Yes
  • Status Bar:
    No
  • Light Toggle:
    No
  • Convection Toggle:
    No
  • Rotation Toggle:
    No
  • Automatic Preheat:
    No
  • Audio Cues:
    No

The Cuisinart has 3 control knobs for functions, temperature, and toast/bagel level. The Stop/Start button is only for Toast and Bagel functions.

The control panel of the Black+Decker TO1760SS 4-Slice Toaster Oven has 3 control knobs for temperature, function, and timer.
  • Type:
    3 control knobs
  • Temperature:
    150°F - 450°F
  • Timer:
    1 minute - 30 minutes + stay-on
  • Indicator Light:
    Yes
  • Status Bar:
    No
  • Light Toggle:
    No
  • Convection Toggle:
    No
  • Rotation Toggle:
    No
  • Automatic Preheat:
    No
  • Audio Cues:
    No

The Mueller has a basic analog control panel with three dials for temperature, function, and time. The time dial has a stay-on setting to help with its short range, similar to many other small toaster ovens. Interestingly, while the max temperature setting was 450°F, we actually recorded the internal temperature of the oven reaching 500°F on the said setting.

Cooking Functions

The Cuisinart TOB-40N Toaster Oven’s function dial has 5 cooking functions including Toast, Bagel, Bake, Broil, and Warm.
  • Toast
  • Bagel
  • Bake
  • Broil
  • Warm (100°F)

Besides the standard Bake and Broil functions, the Cuisinart has the Warm function which maintains the oven at around 100°F. In addition to a Toast function, this oven has a Bagel function which can be useful for fans of this type of bread.

The function dial of the Black+Decker TO1760SS 4-Slice Toaster Oven has 3 cooking functions including Bake, Broil, and Toast.
  • Toast
  • Bake
  • Broil
  • Keep warm

Different from most other toaster ovens, the Mueller’s Bake function only uses the lower heating elements as opposed to lower and upper. The Broil function still uses only the upper heating elements.

The Toast function is where both the lower and upper heating elements work. Nonetheless, the oven still provides all the basic functions for its intended purposes.

6.0

Interior

1.0
The Cuisinart TOB-40N Toaster Oven’s cooking chamber has 4 nichrome heating elements, 2 guide rails, and a safety hook.
The Cuisinart TOB-40N Toaster Oven’s cooking chamber has 4 nichrome heating elements, 2 guide rails, and a safety hook.
The cooking chamber’s left wall of the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven has 2 guide rails and a safety hook.
  • Heating Elements:
    4 nichrome
  • Convection Fan:
    No
  • Lighting:
    No
  • Tray Levels:
    2
  • Rotisserie:
    No
  • Safety Hook:
    Yes

Although the TOB-40N has only two tray levels, you can make use of the rack-up and down positions. Interestingly, the door has a hook to automatically pull out the baking tray only on the upper level.

Although the pull-out hook doesn’t work with the baking pan, the interior safety hook does. Unfortunately, the oven doesn’t have internal lighting or a convection system that the same-sized Toshiba AC25CEW does.

Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven InteriorThe Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Toaster Oven’s cooking chamber has 2 quartz heating elements with guards and 2 guide rails.
Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven InteriorThe Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Toaster Oven’s cooking chamber has 2 quartz heating elements with guards and 2 guide rails.
The Mueller MT-175 Oven has 1 bottom heating element with a guard and 2 guide rails on its right cooking chamber wall.
  • Heating Elements:
    2 quartz
  • Convection Fan:
    No
  • Lighting:
    No
  • Tray Levels:
    2
  • Rotisserie:
    No
  • Safety Hook:
    No

Similar to many other small toaster ovens, including the Comfee CFO-BB101, the Mueller lacks a convection fan and an interior light. In addition, it only has two heating elements which can usually lead to uneven heat distribution compared to four or more heating elements.

These heating elements are made of quartz which uses infrared light to cook foods faster than the more common nichrome counterparts. Quartz heating elements also cool down faster, are more energy-efficient and easier to clean but not as durable.

However, if grease splashes onto the heating elements while cooking, it’ll leave permanent stains. This is why they usually have guards which this oven also has.

Capacity of the Cuisinart Classic Toaster Oven Broiler

Capacity of the Mueller 4-Slice Toaster Oven
An opened front of the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven with interior measurements on a white background.
  • Length:
    11.8" (30.0 cm)
  • Width:
    11.5" (29.3 cm)
  • Height:
    7.1" (18.0 cm)

The Cuisinart has a spacious interior compared to the same-sized Hamilton Beach 31127D. It’s capable of fitting 6 slices of toast in addition to all our test dishes including an 11-inch pizza and a 3 lb whole chicken.

We measured the cooking chamber’s volume to be around 15.8 liters which was different from the manufacturer’s provided 14.15 liters. However, it could just be a difference in measuring standards.

An opened front of the stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Toaster Oven with interior measurements on a white background.
  • Length:
    10.6" (27.0 cm)
  • Width:
    9.8" (25.0 cm)
  • Height:
    7.5" (19.0 cm)

We could fit four slices of toast, a 9-inch pizza but we could barely fit a 3 lb chicken inside the Mueller, unlike the same-sized Breville BOV450XL. We measured the cooking chamber volume to be around 12.81 liters, slightly different than the manufacturer’s provided capacity of 11.67 liters. However, it could just be a difference in measuring standards.

Power Cord

A two-pronged plug power cord. In the background is the stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven.
  • Length:
    31.1" (79.0 cm)
  • Type:
    2-prong plug
  • Power:
    1800 W
  • Rated Output:
    120 V ~ 60 Hz

The power cord is roughly 31.1"—plenty long enough for household use—and can be wrapped around the back buffers to save space. It also comes with a plastic lock to keep the cord in place.

A two-pronged plug power cord. In the background is the stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven.
  • Length:
    30.7" (78.0 cm)
  • Type:
    2-prong plug
  • Power:
    1100 W
  • Rated Output:
    120 V ~ 60 Hz

The power cord is 30.7 inches long, suitable for household use. Unfortunately, the oven doesn’t have any storage space for it.

Baking Rack

Accessories

Baking Rack
A stainless steel baking rack of the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler on a grey background.
  • Length:
    11.8" (30.0 cm)
  • Width:
    11.3" (28.6 cm)
  • Height:
    0.8" (2.0 cm)
  • Material:
    Stainless steel
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    Yes

The rack fits perfectly with the guide, which helps prevent accidents when placing your food in the oven.

A stainless steel baking rack of the Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven on a white background.
  • Length:
    10.5" (26.7 cm)
  • Width:
    8.8" (22.4 cm)
  • Height:
    0.5" (1.3 cm)
  • Material:
    Stainless steel
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    Yes

The two sides of the baking rack have slight curves upward at an angle to keep the baking pan in place. It fits perfectly with the guide to help prevent accidents when placing your food in the oven.

Baking Pan

Accessories

Baking Pan
A silver baking pan of the stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler on a grey background.
  • Length:
    11.7" (29.8 cm)
  • Width:
    11.2" (28.4 cm)
  • Height:
    0.8" (2.0 cm)
  • Material:
    Stainless steel
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    Yes

The baking pan does the job of catching any drippings to prevent any mess and fire danger from dirty heating elements. It has a coating but is not completely non-stick so it can be prone to some stubborn stains after a hefty roast.

A grooved silver baking pan of the stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven on a white background.
  • Length:
    10.2" (25.8 cm)
  • Width:
    7.9" (20.0 cm)
  • Height:
    0.6" (1.5 cm)
  • Material:
    Stainless steel
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    Yes

The baking pan doesn’t fit into the guide rails and has to on top of the rack. This may prevent the full use of the oven’s capacity and lead to some inconveniences during cooking.

On the bright side, the pan has ridges and grooves to give your food attractive roasting marks and catch the dripping better. It has a coating but is not completely non-stick so you may need to watch out for some stubborn stains after a hefty roast.

6.0

Build Quality

8.0
The front of an opened Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler with an oven rack and a silver baking pan.

The Cuisinart has a sturdy construction and durable material. Its auto-slide rack and slide-out crumb tray show attention to convenience in a simple design. Although the easy-grip dials are a nice touch, they feel flimsy at times.

The front of an opened stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven with an oven rack and baking pan.

For a simple small toaster oven, build quality is all about how durable it is and if it works properly. The Mueller accomplishes that with a sturdy stainless steel casing and smooth-turning dials.

Only Standard Features

Cuisinart Custom Classic Toaster Oven Usability

Muller 4-Slice Toaster Oven Usability: Easy but Not Convenient to Use
5.8
usability Scores
  • User Control (30%)7.0/10
  • Ease of Use (50%)5.0/10
  • Cleanability (20%)6.0/10
5.2
usability Scores
  • User Control (30%)6.0/10
  • Ease of Use (50%)4.0/10
  • Cleanability (20%)7.0/10
7.0

User Control

6.0

The Cuisinart doesn’t have a timer. You simply choose a temperature setting and turn the Function knob from Off to a specific function for the oven to start running. In other words, this oven has a built-in stay-on timer for every function except for Toast and Bagel.

Even though the Mueller only has three simple control dials, there are a few things to keep in mind. For the timer knob, when setting it to less than 10 minutes, always rotate past 10 minutes and then rotate back to the desired time.

It’s always tricky to precisely adjust time and temperature for an analog-control toaster oven and this one is no different. Nonetheless, you can use an external timer and an oven thermometer to get more accurate readings.

If you frequently use the stay-on feature, you can turn off the oven by rotating the function dial to Off instead of the timer.

5.0

Ease of Use

4.0
Cuisinart TOB-40N Ease of Use Video
Cuisinart TOB-40N Ease of Use Video 1

When the toasting cycle finishes, the oven will beep 5 times and turn off. After you finish using the oven, remember to turn the Function knob to Off. As there is no digital display, you can freely leave this oven plugged in and not worry about power consumption.

Thanks to the safety hook for tray level 2, you can partially slide out the baking tray or rack to reposition the food during cooking. However, this feature makes it quite tricky to remove the tray or rack. Be careful, as the oven can be quite hot to the touch after a long cooking time on high heat.

According to the manufacturer, the Cuisinart has an Always Even Shade Control to monitor the temperature and adjust the timing to consistently toast to the shade selected every time. However, our test result showed no significant improvement even when compared to the Cuisinart TOA-60 of the same brand.

What’s convenient about 100% analog toaster ovens is that it’s very simple to adjust time and temperature during cooking. When the timer runs out, a bell will sound and the oven will shut off. Afterward, you can freely leave it plugged in and not worry about power consumption as it has no digital display.

The door can open at any angle < 50° to let food cool down inside the oven. However, keep in mind that opening the door doesn’t stop the oven. The exterior shell isn’t very thick, so it gets hot to the touch quite quickly during cooking.

6.0

Cleanability

7.0
Grease on the glass door of a closed stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler.
Grease on the glass door of a closed stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler.
Grease on the right wall of the stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler’s cooking chamber.
Grease and chicken skin stuck to the silver baking pan of the Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler.
The cleaned silver baking pan of the stainless steel Cuisinart TOB-40N Custom Classic Toaster Oven Broiler.

We cleaned the Cuisinart following our toaster oven cleaning guide. The oven has an internal and external coating plus no tricky nooks and crannies so it was easy to clean.

During the roasting of a whole chicken, fat splattered everywhere inside the oven. Nonetheless, we were able to clean it all off, even on the gaps between the heating elements and internal walls. The slide-out crumb tray made it easy to clean up the crumbs but we still had to tilt the oven to remove them all.

Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven CleanabilityPermanent stains on the left cooking chamber’s ceiling and the upper heating element’s guard of the Mueller MT-175 Oven.
Mueller 4 Slice Toaster Oven CleanabilityPermanent stains on the left cooking chamber’s ceiling and the upper heating element’s guard of the Mueller MT-175 Oven.
Permanent stains on the right cooking chamber’s ceiling and the upper heating element’s guard of the Mueller MT-175 Oven.
The cleaned grooved silver baking pan of the stainless steel Mueller MT-175 4-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven.

We clean the stainless steel exterior with no problem. However, after the chicken test, there were burnt bits stuck to the upper heating element’s guard and grease on the cooking chamber’s ceiling. There was ample space between the ceiling and the upper heating element, so we proceed to try every cleaning method possible.

Unfortunately, we could only scrub off the bits. Due to the interior not having a non-stick coating, there were some permanent stains on the cooking chamber’s ceiling and the upper heating element’s guard.

Luckily, the heating element itself was intact. Also, we were able to remove the stubborn stains on the baking pan by brushing them with a paste of baking soda and water.