With the help of the best toasters, we can brighten up our breakfasts, create delicious snacks, and, with a few toaster bags, make almost anything we want. Toasters have become essential kitchen appliances for breakfast and snacks.
Today's toasters have many more features than traditional two-slot models. Some have double the capacity, which is great for feeding little ones. Some can even heat croissants or brown bagels.
This guide includes a variety of toasters, from budget-friendly models to more advanced ones. We'll discuss two- and four-slice toasters, bagel toasters, and even toaster ovens. Some great brands include Smeg, Breville, and DeLonghi, as well as lesser-known ones.
It's important to think about your needs before you dive into our recommendations. A four-slot toaster is faster for feeding kids before school, and a larger slot can hold more bread than just slices. If you store your loaves in the freezer to extend their shelf life, a toaster with a defrost setting will help. Extra racks are great for bagels and croissants, and removable crumb trays make cleaning much easier.
Whether you're looking for a fully featured toaster or something more straightforward, you'll find it here. Based on our tests, these are the best toasters for all kinds of bread and kitchens right now. If you're buying a new toaster as part of a larger kitchen renovation, check out our buying guides for the best countertop ovens and best slow cookers.
The best toasters we recommend
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The best toaster overall
My review concluded that the Breville Smart Toaster is one of the best toasters out there because of its exceptional toasting abilities, user-friendly design, and sleek appearance.
I love the toaster's brushed die-cast aluminum construction, which gives it a modern aesthetic. The motorized and automatic lift makes it easy to start toasting without pulling down a lever. The extra-wide slots are perfect for toasting bagels, artisanal breads, or pastries, and the removable crumb tray simplifies cleaning.
With Lift and Look and A Bit More, the Breville Smart Toaster makes sure I always get the perfect toast. With Lift and Look, I can check the browning progress mid-cycle, and with A Bit More, I can toast for another 30 seconds without having to adjust the shading dial. Using these functions, I don't have to guess about my toasting process, so I get perfect results.
Regarding performance, the Breville Smart Toaster excelled across the board, including evenness, consistency, and toasting frozen bread and bagels. Almost every piece of bread I toasted came out perfect, with even browning on both sides and minimal bar marks. I had the same results with all four slots.
Breville Smart Toaster is a high-end appliance that delivers outstanding toasting performance and a seamless user experience, even though it's on the pricey side.
Read our Breville Smart Toaster BTA840XL review
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | simple and straightforward | 9/10 |
| Design | elegant and modern design; removable crumb tray; ; motorized lift mechanism; extra-wide slots | 9/10 |
| Performance | consistent and even toasting; advanced heating elements; specialized setting for bagels; automated lift | 10/10 |
If it's a high-end toaster you're looking for, the Breville Smart Toaster won't disappoint.
The best budget toaster
Those who want a fast and efficient toaster should check out the Cuisinart Classic CPT-180. With its defrost and reheat options, it can toast bread up to 1.4 inches thick. I love how its glossy exterior and timeless design match just about any kitchen decor, making it a clean and functional addition to my morning routine. It can fit four slices of bread at once.
The Cuisinart Classic CPT-180 toaster consistently toasts bagels and bread evenly, beating the Smeg 2, another toaster famous for toasting bagels.
While the Cuisinart Classic CPT-180 toaster's design is generally solid, there are a few drawbacks. For instance, the removable crumb tray is at the back, which can be inconvenient compared to a front-facing tray. Aside from that, the toaster's low lifting height makes it hard to get smaller slices of bread out without burning my fingers.
Read our Cuisinart Classic CPT-180 toaster review
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | quick and hassle-free | 9/10 |
| Design & features | sleek stainless steel design; four-slice capacity; low lifting height | 8/10 |
| Performance | ability to toast bagels without burning; significantly faster than many competitors; precise control | 9/10 |
Although this toaster has a few design drawbacks, it is effective at toasting bread quickly and evenly.
The best premium toaster
SMEG's 2-slice Toaster comes in eight colors, so it's a nice addition to any kitchen. Despite its classic look, this toaster has several modern features, including a removable crumb tray and a reheat setting. In my testing, I found that the SMEG 2 Slice runs hot, so it can burn toast if you don't use it on lower settings. In addition, the toaster's exterior gets hot, posing a safety hazard.
Another drawback is the crumb tray at the back of the toaster. On a positive note, the SMEG 2 Slice gave me the highest score on my bagel test. However, this design can be frustrating, especially if the toaster is in a corner.
On low settings, the SMEG makes a great toast.
Read our Smeg 2 Slice TSF01PGUS toaster review
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | simple and straightforward | 8/10 |
| Design | striking retro design; removable crumb tray and a reheat setting | 9/10 |
| Performance | mixed results; excels in toasting bagels; tends to burn toast at mid-settings | 7/10 |
This toaster is an attractive machine that performs well on low settings.
The best single-slot toaster
The Dash Clear View toaster has a large glass panel on the front, so I can watch my bread toast. This toaster adds an interesting look to any kitchen and is also a great conversation starter. It uses a different heating element than traditional ones, so it toasts evenly and doesn't burn.
In my performance tests, the Clear View excelled in evenness and consistency, especially when toasting frozen bread and bagels. Its single long slot fits two slices of standard white bread. If you toast longer slices all the time, you might want to try a 2-slice or 4-slice toaster.
It's a really cool design, but there are a few drawbacks to consider. Due to its length, the toaster takes up a lot of counter space, and it's a little awkward to use the crumb tray since it's on the left side. Additionally, the crumb tray doesn't slide out as smoothly as the crumb trays on other toasters. I think the glass panel is cool, but once I get used to it, its novelty will wear off.
Read our Dash Clear View DVTS501RD toaster review
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | straightforward; may require careful consideration of counter space | 8/10 |
| Design | innovative glass front panel; seven browning levels; single slot design limits its capacity | 9/10 |
| Performance | even toasting capabilities; real-time viewing feature | 9/10 |
The unique design is appealing, and though it only has one slot, this toaster still effectively toasts bread at an affordable price.
The best toaster oven
Oster's toaster oven is a reliable appliance that features five different cooking modes and a temperature range of 250 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It comes with a baking pan and is easy to clean.
This toaster oven has a stylish look but uses dials for settings. It has five cooking modes, including Turbo for even and thorough cooking. Cleaning the crumb tray is easy, but it's not non-stick inside, so you have to be more careful.
The oven comes with a baking pan but doesn't come with a broiling rack, which limits cooking options. You can set the temperature between 250 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and the timer can be set for up to 60 minutes. The cord is short, so it's got to be plugged in somewhere.
Our reviewer, Rebecca, tried to reheat pizza slices in the Oster toaster oven. She noticed the internal temperature was higher than what she had set, which exacerbated the cooking issues. The insides became burnt, the top was overcooked, and the crust turned out dry and hard.
It has a generous five-year warranty and is quite durable. Just be careful when handling it.
Read our Oster Convection 4-Slice Toaster Oven review
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | easy and straightforward | 8/10 |
| Design & features | sleek and attractive design; lacks some higher-end features; removable crumb tray; non-stick rack can be challenging to clean | 8/10 |
| Performance | solid results; inconsistencies arise during bagel preparation; internal temperature often runs about 20 degrees hotter than set | 7/10 |
"It doesn't cook as well as other toaster ovens, but the stylish design, even toasting abilities, and convection oven cooking make this device a good fit for most homes. The extra-long warranty makes it a good choice for anyone planning to use it daily."
How to choose the best toaster for you
Toasters are essential kitchen appliances that make bread into golden, crispy slices of toast. But with so many options on the market, finding the right toaster can be tough. This guide will help you navigate the key factors to consider when choosing the right toaster for your home, ensuring you make an informed decision.
When choosing the best toaster, consider your needs, preferences, and kitchen space. Consider things like size, features, build quality, and budget. Toasters may seem like basic appliances, but they can make your cooking experience a lot better. Researching and comparing your options will help you make a well-informed decision about whether you prefer a classic pop-up toaster or a versatile toaster oven.
Types of toasters
It's important to know what types of toasters there are. The main categories are:
Pop-Up Toasters: These contain slots that hold slices of bread. Once the toast is done, it pops itself up automatically.
Toaster ovens: These versatile appliances can toast, bake, and broil. Many come with multiple racks and can hold different types of food, making them ideal for those who want more than just toast.
Convection toasters: Like toaster ovens, these use a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking and browning.
Commercial toaster: These toasters are designed for high-volume use and are built for durability. They are usually found in restaurants and cafes.
Capacity and size
Consider your household needs when choosing a toaster:
Slot Size: Most pop-up toasters have two slots, but larger models can have four. If you toast bagels a lot, look for one with wider slots or one specially designed for bagels.
Footprint: Consider the space you have in your kitchen. Compact toasters are perfect for small kitchens, while larger toasters are better for big kitchens.
Batch Size: If you have a big family or host lots of gatherings, look for a toaster that can handle multiple slices at once.
Features and settings
Toasting capabilities are one of the most important things about a toaster. Different models offer different features to make toasting easier:
Browning Control: Choose a toaster with adjustable browning settings to achieve the toastiness you want.
Specialty Features: Some toasters have special features like bagels, defrost, reheat, and cancel.
Self-Centering Slots: Designed to hold unevenly shaped items in place, self-centered slots ensure even toasting.
Additional features
You can add advanced features to toasters, along with the basics. Modern toasters can connect to apps on your phone, so you can customize the settings and control them remotely—perfect for techies. Getting the perfect toast every time is easier with toasters with multiple toasting levels.
Toaster ovens with baking and broiling functions add versatility to meal preparation.
Ease of use and cleaning
Consider these things when looking at the ease of use and cleaning of a toaster:
Controls: Choose a toaster with intuitive controls that are easy to read and use.
Crumb Tray: Find one with a slide-out crumb tray that makes cleaning a breeze.
Toaster Cord Length: Make sure the cord is long enough for your kitchen setup so it can be placed wherever you want.
Build quality and durability
It's important to choose a toaster that will last. Here's what to look for:
Materials: Choose toasters made of durable materials like stainless steel or high-quality plastic. Stainless steel models are more durable.
Wattage: For optimal performance, consider a model with at least 1,000 watts. Most toasters have wattages ranging from 800 to 1,800 watts.
Brand Reputation: Customer reviews of reputable brands can tell you a lot about the durability and performance of specific models.
Safety features
Safety should always be a priority, especially with heat-generating appliances. Here are some safety features to look for:
Automatic Shut-Off: The automatic shut-off feature prevents overheating and reduces fire hazards by turning off the toaster after a set time.
Cool-Touch Exterior: Toasters with cool-touch exteriors stay cool to the touch even during operation, reducing burn risks.
Anti-Jam Feature: Toasters with anti-jam features prevent bread from getting stuck, which can lead to overheating.
Aesthetic and design
The design of a toaster can greatly influence the look of your kitchen. Toasters come in various colors and finishes, like stainless steel, matte black, and vibrant shades. It's important to choose a toaster that complements your kitchen decor. Toasters come in all kinds of styles, whether you're into classic, retro, or modern design.
Price range and budget
You can buy a toaster at a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Start by determining your budget and what features and quality matter most to you. Remember that a higher price usually means a toaster with more features and durability, so decide how much you're willing to spend.
Make a list of the features that matter most to you and compare different toasters within your budget. Sometimes, you can get great performance with a mid-range toaster. If you watch for sales, promotions, and discounts, particularly during the holiday season, you might find a high-quality toaster for a cheaper price.
Warranty and customer support
For peace of mind and protection against defects, choose a toaster with a warranty of at least one year. Some brands even offer an extended warranty. If you encounter any problems with your toaster, you'll want to make sure the company has a good reputation for customer service.
Best toaster FAQs
Two-slice versus four-slice toasters
If you’re in college or live on your own, you will likely only need a two-slot toaster. These are typically cheaper and take up less counter space. However, if you have kids or usually have breakfast at the same time as someone else in your household, having a four-slice toaster can help make your mornings run more smoothly.
The best four-slice toasters have dual control, meaning that the two sets of toaster slots operate independently of each other, so you can perfectly toast your bread while your significant other toasts their bread at a different setting.
This way if you and someone else want to use the toaster at the same time, you can. These machines are often twice the size of the two-slice toasters so you will want to make sure you have counter space available.
How much should you spend on a good toaster?
Toasters come in a wide variety of styles, but spending more is not always a guarantee of better toast. In our tests, we found that some of our cheapest toasters made better toast than some high-end models. Toasters can range in price from less than $20 to over $150 and can feature digital or manual controls.
Generally speaking, toasters with more cooking slots cost more – depending on the quality of the toaster. Our advice is to purchase a toaster that has enough slots to fit your favorite bread or bagels and fits your budget.
How to use your toaster safely
While toasters are simple in function, they can still be dangerous appliances. We've all laughed as a cartoon character or actor was zapped by putting a fork in the toaster or from dropping their toaster in the bath - but these aren't the only safety considerations for your toaster.
Firstly, you should always make sure the crumb tray is regularly cleaned out. This can prevent smoke and burning food. Toasters generate heat, but do you ever think about where that heat goes? It goes up. Use your toaster in an area that doesn't have overhanging cabinets or appliances to avoid possible flames or heat damage.
Other simple toaster safety tips include:
- Keep the toaster and cord away from countertop edges where it could be pulled or bumped off.
- Unplug the toaster and let it cool completely before storing.
- Keep it out of reach of children and teach older children how to properly use the toaster.
- If a piece of bread gets stuck - unplug the unit before attempting to remove it.
Can you toast a croissant in a toaster?
Because croissants are flaky and delicate, toasting them in a traditional toaster isn’t the best way to heat them. It is easy for the croissant to catch on the heating elements and tear, ruining your croissant and creating a possible fire hazard. Second, it’s hard to tell how high to set your heat level to avoid burning. Many standard toasters don’t have slots big enough to fit a croissant, either.
We suggest using either a traditional oven or a toaster oven for croissants. Both windows let you watch your croissant to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Both also cook croissants without squishing or tearing them. Using a toaster oven also lets you bypass a tray or baking sheet to get a good, golden color on both sides of the croissant without having to flip it over.
How we tested the best toasters
To evaluate each toaster’s performance, we conducted four tests:
Evenness
The evenness test was the most critical and heavily weighted test we performed. We set the toaster on medium heat level and toasted a slice of white bread. We checked for evenness on both sides of the bread, as well as for burn marks.
Consistency
Some toasters get hotter after repeated use. The toaster will toast the first batch of bread evenly, but the second and third batches progressively become more burnt. We toasted several slices back-to-back on a medium setting and in the same slot to determine heat consistency. Toasters that maintained evenly toasted bread after several uses received high scores.
Frozen
If you freeze bread for longer storage, you’ll want a toaster that can cook frozen bread. We tested how well the appliance toasted frozen bread by setting the toaster on the medium level. If the toaster offered a defrost setting, we used it for the tests. We looked for evenness and consistency in the toast. We noticed that toasters with a defrost setting did much better than ones without it.
Bagel
Finally, we checked to see how well each model toasted bagels on a medium setting. If the toaster had a bagel setting – to toast just one side of the bagel – we used that.
