How to Select the Perfect Pizza Oven

Pizza may be one of the most beloved foods on the planet, but choosing the right equipment to make it consistently, efficiently, and profitably? That’s where things get hot, and only the right oven can take the heat

Whether serving up slices in a high-volume QSR, baking artisan pies in an experiential concept, or firing up classics in a neighborhood pizzeria, selecting the right pizza oven isn’t just about preference. For savvy operators, it’s about profit.

Middleby’s Pizza Oven Buying Guide makes it easier than ever to find the pizza oven of your dreams. But before you start using the selector tool, let’s break down the different aspects you must consider.

Step 1: What Concept Do You Operate?

Not all pizza operations are created equal. From convenience stores and cruise lines to fast-casual restaurants and B&I cafeterias, your business model sets the tone for everything that follows. Each concept comes with unique space, throughput, and style expectations. A small full-service restaurant might need a compact and ventless solution, while an experiential pizzeria may prioritize visual appeal and baking theatrics.

Step 2: What Size Pizza Are You Making?

Pizza comes in all shapes and sizes—and so should your oven. Whether you’re baking 9-inch personal pies or 20-inch New York-style masterpieces, oven cavity size, chamber height, and belt width must align with your crust.

Middleby’s selection tool lets you filter by pizza size (from 9” to 20”) so your oven doesn’t limit creativity or consistency. If you offer a variety of sizes, select your largest as the baseline to ensure complete coverage.

Step 3: What’s Your Hourly Throughput?

Throughput is where capacity meets urgency. Are you firing up a few dozen pizzas during lunch? Or are you cranking out 100+ pies an hour to feed stadium crowds or dinner rushes?

This step helps filter ovens that can handle your volume without bottlenecking service. Typical output ranges include:

• • 21–45 pizzas per hour
  • 46–90 pizzas per hour
  • Over 100 pizzas per hour

This is where a mismatch can cost you. Choose the right oven to meet your rush with confidence.

Step 4: What Are Your Mechanical Requirements?

Gas or electric? It’s more than just a utility hookup–it can directly impact your operation’s performance. Gas ovens typically offer quicker heat recovery and deliver a more traditional bake. Electric ovens can provide greater energy efficiency and may better fit spaces with ventilation or utility constraints. Each has its strengths—the right choice depends on your specific setup and service needs.

When you use Middleby’s Pizza Oven Selector Tool, this final step prompts you to choose between gas or electric. Your answer should reflect the utility setup and goals of your operation.

Take the Guesswork Out of Commercial Pizza Oven Shopping

With hundreds of models and configurations available, choosing the right commercial pizza oven can feel overwhelming. Middleby’s Pizza Oven Selection Tool simplifies the process. It walks you through the same key decisions outlined above, helping you narrow down your options and compare models. Start your selection journey now and find the pizza oven built for your operation.