Both cook beautifully; the 20Qt handles bigger birds, the 18Qt saves space. The main deciding factor is how much you plan to cook. For most average cooking needs the 18 Qt is ample, but if you often roast for larger groups or want extra flexibility, the 20 Qt is worth the slightly larger footprint and capacity.
Holiday meals and weekend batch cooking used to stress me out. The AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt roaster ovens changed that. Both offer set‑and‑forget roasting and freeing up your main oven. I’ve cooked multiple full meals in each and learned they shine in different ways: the 18Qt nails everyday use and tight kitchens; the 20Qt is a crowd-pleaser for large cuts. I tested both and will share what actually matters so you can pick the right one.
Maximize your counter space without sacrificing capacity; the AROMA 18Qt Roaster Oven fits a full 22lb turkey while keeping your main oven open for desserts.
Is AROMA 18Qt Good?
The short answer is yes. The AROMA 18Qt is an excellent fit if you cook for 4–8 people or want a second oven without giving up counter space. It fits a 22‑lb turkey, roasts evenly, and keeps food juicy thanks to the self‑basting lid. It’s ideal for apartments, small kitchens, or anyone who meal preps weekly.
I used the 18Qt to roast a 6‑lb chicken with root veggies on a Wednesday night. Cleanup took minutes, and the meat stayed moist without constant basting. On game day, I set it to low to keep chili warm for hours—no scorching and zero babysitting. For me, it’s the “practical daily driver” in the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt debate.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- 18‑quart capacity; fits up to a 22‑lb turkey
- Self‑basting lid recirculates moisture for juicier results
- Adjustable temperature with dedicated Keep Warm setting
- Removable roasting pan and rack for easy cleanup
- Compact footprint with an eye‑catching red finish
What I Like
- Even roasting with little to no basting needed
- Excellent size for daily meals or small gatherings
- Keeps side dishes warm without drying them out
- Removable pan and rack make cleanup fast
- Uses less energy than firing up a full‑size oven
What Could Be Better
- No built‑in timer; you’ll need your phone or a kitchen timer
- Exterior gets hot; keep some clearance on the sides
- Storage can be tricky in very small cabinets
My Recommendation
If you want a versatile second oven that doesn’t hog space, the 18Qt is a smart buy and often the best value in the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt matchup.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Small homes and apartments | Compact size with enough capacity for family meals |
| Meal prep and weeknight cooking | Even heat, easy cleanup, reliable Keep Warm |
| Holiday sides | Acts as a second oven without using the range |
Forget the stress of a crowded kitchen; the AROMA 22Qt Roaster Oven easily fits a 26lb turkey, leaving your main oven wide open for all those holiday sides. It’s the ultimate secret for hosts who want to serve a massive feast without the “oven tetris” nightmare.
Is AROMA 20Qt Good?
Yes—especially if you cook for large groups. The AROMA 20Qt handles a 24‑lb turkey and big roasts with ease. It keeps moisture locked in and delivers even browning. If you host often, want extra headroom for hams or brisket, or regularly cook for 8–14, the 20Qt shines.
I cooked a 20‑lb turkey with herb butter in the 20Qt for a family reunion. The self‑basting lid kept the bird juicy while I used the kitchen oven for rolls and casseroles. Another weekend, I used it to roast two pork loins at once, then switched to Keep Warm for serving. In the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt choice, this one is my “crowd gear.”
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- 20‑quart capacity; fits up to a 24‑lb turkey
- Self‑basting lid for hands‑off moisture control
- Adjustable temperature plus Keep Warm setting
- Removable roasting pan and rack for easy cleaning
- Stainless steel exterior with a sturdy feel
What I Like
- Extra capacity for big birds, briskets, and double roasts
- Frees the main oven for sides and baking
- Moist, even results without fuss
- Solid, premium look that suits most kitchens
- Great for entertaining and holiday hosting
What Could Be Better
- Larger footprint; needs more counter and storage space
- No integrated timer
- Heavier to lift and clean compared to the 18Qt
My Recommendation
If you host often or want more freedom for large cuts, pick the 20Qt in the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt choice.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families and gatherings | Handles big turkeys and multi‑roast meals |
| Holiday hosts | Keeps mains cooking while the oven bakes sides |
| Bulk meal prep | More space means fewer cooking batches |
AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt: Side-by-Side Test
I cooked birds, roasts, and big pots of chili in both units over several weekends. Here’s how the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt stack up where it counts.
Capacity and Footprint: How Much Can You Cook?
Both are roomy, but the 20Qt adds headroom for larger birds and double roasts.
| Aspect | AROMA 18Qt | AROMA 20Qt |
|---|---|---|
| Max turkey size | Up to 22 lb | Up to 24 lb |
| Best for household size | 4–8 people | 8–14 people |
| Counter/storage needs | Moderate, more compact | Larger, needs more space |
| Batch cooking | Good | Excellent |
Rating: AROMA 18Qt – 8/10 | AROMA 20Qt – 9/10
The 20Qt wins for capacity in the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt matchup, while the 18Qt fits smaller kitchens better.
Cooking Performance: Juiciness and Evenness
I tested whole birds, pork loins, and vegetables for browning and moisture.
| Aspect | AROMA 18Qt | AROMA 20Qt |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture retention | Excellent (self‑basting lid) | Excellent (self‑basting lid) |
| Even heating | Very good | Very good |
| Browning on large cuts | Good | Very good, due to extra space |
| Consistency over long cooks | Stable | Stable |
Rating: AROMA 18Qt – 8.5/10 | AROMA 20Qt – 9/10
Both deliver juicy, even results; the 20Qt edges ahead with better airflow around big cuts in AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt tests.
Temperature Range and Control: Set-It-and-Forget-It?
Both offer adjustable heat and a Keep Warm setting.
| Aspect | AROMA 18Qt | AROMA 20Qt |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustable temperature | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Warm | Yes | Yes |
| Heat stability | Very good | Very good |
| Control simplicity | Simple dial | Simple dial |
Rating: AROMA 18Qt – 8.5/10 | AROMA 20Qt – 8.5/10
In AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt temperature control, it’s a draw—both are straightforward and steady.
Build and Design: Look and Feel
Materials and finishes affect durability and style.
| Aspect | AROMA 18Qt | AROMA 20Qt |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior | Red finish | Stainless steel |
| Lid | Self‑basting | Self‑basting |
| Handle feel | Secure | Secure |
| Overall sturdiness | Solid | Solid, slightly heavier |
Rating: AROMA 18Qt – 8/10 | AROMA 20Qt – 8.5/10
In the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt design face‑off, the 20Qt’s stainless look and heft feel more premium.
Cleanup and Maintenance: After-Dinner Reality
Removable parts and surfaces make cleanup easier.
| Aspect | AROMA 18Qt | AROMA 20Qt |
|---|---|---|
| Removable pan | Yes | Yes |
| Removable rack | Yes | Yes |
| Ease of scrubbing | Easy | Easy |
| Weight to handle | Lighter | Heavier |
Rating: AROMA 18Qt – 9/10 | AROMA 20Qt – 8.5/10
The 18Qt is easier to lift and wash; in AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt cleanup, the 18Qt wins.
Energy Use and Heat Spill: Comfort in the Kitchen
Running cooler and with less heat spill matters in summer.
| Aspect | AROMA 18Qt | AROMA 20Qt |
|---|---|---|
| Energy vs full oven | Lower | Lower |
| Ambient heat output | Less | More (due to size) |
| Best for small kitchens | Yes | Okay with space |
| Heat retention | Very good | Very good |
Rating: AROMA 18Qt – 9/10 | AROMA 20Qt – 8/10
For the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt heat test, the 18Qt runs cooler and suits tight spaces.
Value for Money: What Do You Get?
Consider price, capacity, and how often you’ll use the extra space.
| Aspect | AROMA 18Qt | AROMA 20Qt |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price vs size | Lower, strong value | Higher, pays off if you host |
| Daily utility | High | High for big families |
| Long‑term versatility | Great for sides and mains | Excellent for large mains |
| Overall value | Excellent for most users | Excellent for entertainers |
Rating: AROMA 18Qt – 9/10 | AROMA 20Qt – 8.5/10
In AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt value, the 18Qt is the better buy unless you need max capacity often.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
The AROMA 18Qt is the sweet spot for most homes. It’s compact, easy to clean, and perfect as a second oven. In everyday AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt use, it offers better value and simpler storage.
Choose the AROMA 20Qt if you host large gatherings, cook big birds, or batch cook in bulk. Its extra space and stainless look make holidays easier. For frequent entertainers, the AROMA 20Qt wins the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt decision.
FAQs Of AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt
What’s the main difference in the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt?
Capacity. The 18Qt fits up to a 22‑lb turkey. The 20Qt fits up to a 24‑lb turkey and gives more room for large cuts.
Does the 20Qt cook faster than the 18Qt?
Cooking times are similar. The 20Qt can brown big cuts a bit better thanks to more airflow. In most AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt tests, speed was a tie.
Which is better for small kitchens in the AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt?
The 18Qt. It takes less counter space, runs a bit cooler, and stores easier.
Are both good for holiday meals?
Yes. In AROMA 18Qt vs AROMA 20Qt holiday use, pick the 20Qt if you host big crowds or cook a large turkey. Otherwise, the 18Qt is plenty.
Do both have a Keep Warm setting?
Yes. Both models offer adjustable heat and a dedicated Keep Warm, which is great for serving.
