“This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase“
Comparing Two Infrared-Powered Models – VAL CUCINA Air Fryer Toaster Oven Review
When it comes to high-performance countertop ovens, few brands have blended smart design, healthy cooking, and affordability as well as Val Cucina. In 2025, two of their standout toaster oven air fryer models—Model 1 and Model 2 —are redefining what a home cook can expect from a multi-function oven.
Both feature infrared heating, nontoxic enamel interiors, and generous cooking space, but subtle differences in power, layout, and internal dimensions make each better suited for different kitchens.
This in-depth review compares the two side-by-side and breaks down everything from build and performance to user feedback and overall value.
🧰 Design & Build Comparison
Both Val Cucina val cucina 10-in-1 air fryer oven models share the same industrial-quality feel. The brushed stainless-steel exterior, minimalist branding, and large viewing window give them a premium aesthetic without a premium price tag. That said, there are some important distinctions in their layout and size:
Control Placement & Exterior Footprint
- Model 1 places its controls on top, making it slightly more compact from side to side.
- Model 2 has controls on the right side, which results in a wider exterior footprint.
Despite identical internal capacities (26.3 quarts), these layout differences affect usability depending on your kitchen counter layout. If you have overhead cabinets or limited side space, this matters.
📏 Interior Size Differences
While both ovens offer great interior space, they differ in specific internal dimensions:
| Model 1 (Top Controls) | Model 2 (Side Controls) | |
| Interior Width | 13.0 inches | 13.2 inches |
| Interior Height | 7.9 inches | 9.1 inches |
| Interior Depth | 12.5 inches | 11.5 inches (approx.) |
- Model 1 has greater depth, making it better suited for long pans or trays.
- Model 2 has more height, useful for fitting taller dishes like whole chickens with accessories or bundt cake pans.
🔥 Heating Technology & Power
One of the strongest selling points of both ovens is infrared heating, which delivers fast, direct heat with minimal preheat time and excellent moisture retention. Both use 360° true convection in tandem with the infrared elements.
But here’s the difference:
| Feature | Model 1 | Model 2 |
| Heating Power | 1750 watts | 1650 watts |
| Heating Type | Infrared + convection | Infrared + convection |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 450°F | 150°F to 450°F |
- Model 1, with its 1750W power and wider temp range starting at 100°F, offers better low-temp functionality for dehydration, proofing dough, or warming delicate foods.
- Model 2 trades slightly lower wattage for a taller cavity—a strategic trade-off depending on your needs.
🍳 Cooking Performance
Both models offer 10 cooking presets: Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Roast, Reheat, Pizza, Slow Cook, Warm, and Dehydrate. The combination of infrared heat and convection fans means:
- Faster preheat times (under 2 minutes)
- Even browning with fewer cold spots
- Crispier textures at lower oil use
- Juicy roasts without drying the center
Real-world testing shows excellent performance for everyday dishes—frozen fries crisp evenly, cookies bake consistently, and toast comes out golden on both sides. Infrared’s radiant heat also gives food better color and texture compared to standard convection alone.
✅ Included Accessories
Both models come well-equipped:
- Air Fry Basket
- Wire Rack
- Baking Tray (enamel-coated)
- Crumb Tray
- Recipe Guide
- Instruction Manual
All accessories are PTFE- and PFOA-free, dishwasher-safe, and durable under high heat. The enamel coating resists chipping and makes cleanup easy.
🧼 Safety & Ease of Use
A major advantage of the Val Cucina ovens is their non-toxic enamel interior, which is free from chemical coatings like Teflon. This is a big deal for health-conscious buyers and families.
Both models also include:
- ETL certification for electrical safety
- Cool-touch exterior surfaces
- Crumb tray and auto shut-off for added fire safety
💬 Real User Feedback
Across verified Amazon reviews and online forums, feedback is highly positive. Here’s a breakdown:
👍 What Users Love:
- “Air fries just as well as standalone air fryers—crispy, fast, no oil.”
- “Love the even cooking—perfect toast and juicy chicken.”
- “The enamel coating is a game-changer. No weird smells and easy cleanup.”
- “Controls are intuitive. Didn’t even need to read the manual.”
👎 Room for Improvement:
- Fan noise is audible during cooking but not disruptive
- No interior light, making it harder to check food without opening the door
- Some found the external size bulky, especially with Model 2’s wider footprint
🔍 Model Choice: Which One Is Best for You?
| Situation | Go With… |
| You need more vertical space | Model 2 |
| You want greater cooking depth | Model 1 |
| You’ll air fry or dehydrate at low temps | Model 1 |
| Your countertop is narrow | Model 1 |
| You prefer top-mounted controls | Model 1 |
| You want taller chicken/bread clearance | Model 2 |
⚖️ Comparison with Other Brands
While Val Cucina might not have the name recognition of Breville, Ninja, or Cuisinart, it competes closely in terms of:
- Cooking Performance – Equal or better crispiness, and faster heat-up
- Build Quality – High-grade enamel interior, stainless steel frame
- Price – Often $50–$100 cheaper than similar models
- Safety – One of the few ovens with a truly non-toxic coating
If you’re looking for smart app controls or built-in steaming, brands like Breville Joule or Tovala may offer extras—but you’ll also pay 2–3× more.
🧠 Final Verdict: Is the Val Cucina Air Fryer Oven Worth It?
Absolutely. Both Val Cucina toaster oven models offer excellent value, especially for health-conscious buyers who want non-toxic interiors, faster cooking, and flexible functionality. The use of infrared heating, combined with convection airflow, delivers consistent results that rival much more expensive brands.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, crisping snacks, or replacing your full-size oven entirely, Val Cucina’s ovens are smartly designed, easy to use, and surprisingly powerful for their price.
Choose Model 1 if you value compact width, stronger power, and lower starting temps. Go for Model 2 if you need more headroom for tall dishes and prefer side-mounted controls.