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A warm toasted bagel with a spread of creamy cream cheese is a great way to start the day. Fried eggs that you can eat with a slice of buttered bread?
With a high-quality toaster, you’ll be able to get the right crunch every time you use it. Whether you want your bread light, dark, or somewhere in between, we’ve compiled a list of toasters you’ll want to use every morning.
The most excellent toaster is available in two- or four-slice configurations. While a four-slice toaster provides twice the toasting capability, it can also take up twice the room, so consider if you require a four-slice toaster before upgrading.
After all, it will sit on your counters for years, so it’s worth investing in a toaster that checks off all the boxes. With Black Friday appliance sales approaching, making that option is now easier than ever.
Round up of today's best toaster
Our top 10 options from Dualit, Hamilton, Smeg, and Cuisinart will help you find the best toaster for your kitchen. While all toasters perform the same function, their appearance and functionality vary significantly depending on the model purchased.
That is why we’ve compiled a list of the top toasters for individuals who enjoy bagels, gourmet bread, or simply want a trendy alternative they can rely on daily.
Best overall 
Cuisinart Cpt-180 Classic Toaster
- Brushed Stainless Steel
- Bagel Function
- Shade Control Setting
- Multiple Toasting Functions
- Extra Wide Slots
- High Lift Lever
- Using the Defrost Setting
Retro Design 
Smeg 4 Slot Toaster Black TSF03 BLUS
- Multi-Functional Interface
- 6 different browning levels
- 4 large single compartments
- Automatic Pop-Up
Advanced Functions 
Dualit 4 slice toaster
- Hand built in the UK
- Classic style modern performance
- 2 slot NewGen toaster available
- Environmentally responsible
- Unique patented ProHeat elements
- Bagel & defrost settings
Best Cheap 
Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster KT-3680
- 2-slice toaster
- Extra-Wide Slots
- Extra-lift lever for safely
- Adjustable Shade Setting
- Multiple Settings
- Removable crumb tray
- 22-inch power cord
Best Seller 
Elite Platinum ECT-3100 Cool Touch Long Slot Toaster
- 4 slice
- Extra wide toasting slots
- 6 adjustable toasting levels
- Reheat warming function
- Defrost function
- Convenient cancel button
- Self-centering guides
- Drop down crumb tray
Space saver 
Cuisinart CPT-122 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster
- Compact design with stainless steel accents
- 7-setting shade dial
- Reheat, defrost and bagel controls
- 1-1/2-inch wide toasting slots
- Slide-out crumb tray
- 3 Year Limited Warranty
Cuisinart CPT-435 Countdown 4-Slice Brushed Stainless Steel Toaster
- Bagel Function
- Digital Shade Control & Countdown Timer
- Multiple Toasting Functions
- Extra Wide Slots
- High Lift Lever
- Dual Independent Toasting Controls
Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide Slot Toaster
- Cool-Touch Walls
- Auto Shutoff/Cancel
- Keep Cords Under Wraps
- Toast Boost
- Crumb Tray
- Shade Selector
Amazon's Choice 
Dash Clear View Toaster
- Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Stainless Steel Accents
- See Through Window
- Defrost
- Reheat
- Auto Shut Off Feature
BELLA 2 Slice Toaster
- 750 Watt
- 2 slice toaster
- Extra wide slots
- Easy to use and clean
- 6-setting shade control
- Efficient design
| Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Cuisinart Cpt-180 Classic Toaster |
| Check Price |
| Retro Design | Smeg 4 Slot Toaster Black TSF03 BLUS |
| Check Price |
| Advanced Functions | Dualit 4 slice toaster |
| Check Price |
| Best Cheap | Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster KT-3680 |
| Check Price |
| Best Seller | Elite Platinum ECT-3100 Cool Touch Long Slot Toaster |
| Check Price |
| Space saver | Cuisinart CPT-122 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster |
| Check Price |
| | Cuisinart CPT-435 Countdown 4-Slice Brushed Stainless Steel Toaster |
| Check Price |
| | Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide Slot Toaster |
| Check Price |
| Amazon's Choice | Dash Clear View Toaster |
| Check Price |
| | BELLA 2 Slice Toaster |
| Check Price |
#1 - Best Overall Toaster - Cuisinart Cpt-180 Classic
Best overall
- Brushed Stainless Steel
- Bagel Function
- Shade Control Setting
- Multiple Toasting Functions
- Extra Wide Slots
- High Lift Lever
- Using the Defrost Setting
Cuisinart is a household name. Cuisinart sets the bar for quality, performance, and elegance with toasters as gorgeous as they are efficient. Cuisinart can transform something as simple as a piece of bread into a delicious toasted pleasure. “Enjoy The Finer Things In Life”
The Compact Stainless Cuisinart 4-Slice Toaster features retro classic style and excellent reheat, bagel, and defrost capabilities.
With dual control panels and a brushed stainless steel body, this toaster functions as two toasters in one. Browning dials with six settings, dual reheat, defrost, and bagel buttons with LED indicators.
The detachable crumb tray makes cleanup a breeze. Additionally, it features a cord wrap beneath the unit to conceal unsightly power lines when not in use.
PROS
- Affordable
- Amazing bagel setting
- Easy to use
- Available in a variety of colors
CONS
- Extra lift is limited
#2 - Best Retro Design - Smeg 4 Slot Toaster Black TSF03 BLUS
- Multi-Functional Interface
- 6 different browning levels
- 4 large single compartments
- Automatic Pop-Up
The gorgeous powder-coated exterior of the Smeg 4 Slot Toaster evokes the bright and cheery spirit of 1950s design. Engineered to reheat, defrost flawlessly, and, of course, toast, this ultramodern toaster has cutting-edge technology and six browning settings. The powder-coated steel body features controls and embellishments in polished chrome and stainless steel.
It features a Multi-Functional Interface with twin independent toasting controls that include reheat, defrost, and bagel functions, in addition to six distinct browning levels.
It has four single large compartments with self-centering racks. When the toasting timer expires, the contents in the compartment will automatically pop up.
PROS
- Classic retro design
- Many color selections
- Tactile levers with additional lift
- Press-touch crumb trays
- Wide slots
CONS
- No bagel mode
#3 - Best Advanced Functions - Dualit 4 slice toaster
- Hand built in the UK
- Classic style modern performance
- 2 slot NewGen toaster available
- Environmentally responsible
- Unique patented ProHeat elements
- Bagel & defrost settings
Dualit’s ClassicToaster is the ideal marriage of simplicity and sophistication. It includes slots that are particularly broad at 28 mm to accommodate a sandwich cage.
ProHeat elements improve the efficiency of toasting and the element’s life. The toaster features a removable crumb tray and a rear foot that can be adjusted.
The Dualit toaster is manually operated and incorporates a dial for adjusting the degree of browning. This enables you to enjoy your toast precisely as you choose.
The ejector system prevents the toast from popping up and instead keeps it heated until the ejector lever is pushed up. It can be programmed to toast an unlimited number of slices.
Each of these toasters is individually assembled, and the assembler’s signature may be located on the base plate.
PROS
- Robust
- Removable components
- Outstanding and even toasting
- Large slots
- Select the number of slots to utilize
CONS
- Manual controls are inconvenient.
- Expensive in comparison to the characteristics
#4 - Best Cheap - Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster KT-3680
- 2-slice toaster
- Extra-Wide Slots
- Extra-lift lever for safely
- Adjustable Shade Setting
- Multiple Settings
- Removable crumb tray
- 22-inch power cord
This is the only toaster we’ve encountered that produces truly excellent bagels without driving the price into the triple digits. Not only is it affordable, but the AmazonBasics KT-3680 is also one of the cheapest models available.
This is a game-changer for bagel lovers since before; the only options were to invest in a higher-end toaster oven or to purchase the more expensive Smeg.
If you’re on a budget and searching for delicious bagels, go no further. It also makes excellent toast, so there are no concerns there.
It does have a few minor drawbacks, such as a penchant for burning frozen waffles and a slightly difficult-to-reach crumb tray. However, these annoyances become significantly less burdensome when you consider how little money was spent.
PROS
- Excellent toasting performance
- Excellent bagels
- Reasonably priced
CONS
- Inadequate frozen pastries
- Inaccessible crumb tray
#5 - Best Seller - Elite Platinum ECT-3100 Cool Touch Long Slot Toaster
- 4 slice
- Extra wide toasting slots
- 6 adjustable toasting levels
- Reheat warming function
- Defrost function
- Convenient cancel button
- Self-centering guides
- Drop down crumb tray
Elite Platinum ECT-3100 Slot 4 Slice Toaster is ideal for toasting a variety of bread. The big toasting slot accommodates longer, rectangular slices, such as sourdough or other specialty loaves. It comes equipped with six adjustable toast shade options and Cancel, Defrost, and Reheat modes, all housed in a sleek, modern stainless steel shell. The extra-long space-saving design comfortably accommodates four pieces of toast without crowding your tabletop.
It features 6 adjustable toasting levels for customizing the color of your bread’s browning. The temperature ranges from mildly warm to dark and crispy.
Reheat Warming Feature enables you to reheat and warm previously toasted bread fast and safely at a reduced temperature.
PROS
- Convenient
- Assists in reheating bread
- Excellent quality
- Durable
CONS
- Affordable
#6 - Best Space saver - Cuisinart CPT-122 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster
- Compact design with stainless steel accents
- 7-setting shade dial
- Reheat, defrost and bagel controls
- 1-1/2-inch wide toasting slots
- Slide-out crumb tray
- 3 Year Limited Warranty
You can’t get any lovelier than this when it comes to simplicity.
When it comes to toasters, Cuisinart’s Compact Plastic Toaster is the best of both worlds. While in use or on the counter, its contemporary design makes it seem nice from all angles. Your home will look great with its sleek design and powerful capabilities like reheat, bagel, and defrost. It’s a win-win situation!
With a removable crumb tray, cleaning up is a breeze. In addition to the cord wrap, the unit features a cable management system built-in. The Cuisinart Compact Toaster’s 1.5″ toaster slots enable toasting a wide variety of things from sliced bread, French toast, bagels, frozen pancakes, and toaster pastries.
The Bagel Setting heats only the top half of the bagel, leaving the bottom soft and chewy…just the way a bagel should be! There is no need to activate the bagel button if you want a crispy bagel on both sides. Simply toast it in the same manner as you would a piece of bread without hitting the bagel button.
When your bread is done toasting, the toaster carriage rises to the surface. Occasionally, the bulk of the bread prevents it from popping entirely out of the toaster.
Cuisinart includes a “HI Lift” lever that allows the user to boost the lever upward, ejecting the bread completely from the toaster and allowing for a simple removal with your fingers.
The shade control setting provides a comprehensive variety of browning possibilities, allowing for the complete personalization of any loaf of bread.
The defrost setting is intended to defrost and then toast your bread, somewhat prolonging the toasting period.
PROS
- Outstanding value
- A body that is neat and easy to clean
- Straightforward controls
- Excellent toast
CONS
- Some report uneven toasting
- Higher settings burn fast
#7 - Cuisinart CPT-435 Countdown 4-Slice Brushed Stainless Steel Toaster
- Bagel Function
- Digital Shade Control & Countdown Timer
- Multiple Toasting Functions
- Extra Wide Slots
- High Lift Lever
- Dual Independent Toasting Controls
Through seamless integration of digital technology and cutting-edge design, this toaster is one of the most intuitive and versatile on the market today.
Cuisinart’s Count Down Toaster combines digital technology and an elegant design with powerful features such as a digital interface, multiple toasting options, and a countdown timer.
The removable crumb tray facilitates cleanup. It even includes a cord wrap to conceal unsightly power cords when the unit is not in use.
Two distinct control panels enable you to toast two separate sets of toast (2 slices each) for yourself and another person. Toast bagels on one side and toast/defrost frozen pancakes on the other.
This is ideal for couples who have distinct browning preferences, and it also allows you to toast a bagel alongside your bread using the bespoke bagel setting.
PROS
- Straightforward controls
- LED display
- Each side can be controlled independently
- A countdown timer on a digital display
CONS
- Limited design options
#8 - Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide Slot Toaster
- Cool-Touch Walls
- Auto Shutoff/Cancel
- Keep Cords Under Wraps
- Toast Boost
- Crumb Tray
- Shade Selector
Sleek yet functional, this cabinet is ideal for a contemporary kitchen. Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toasters are famous for their exceptional toasting performance and their attractive appearance in the kitchen.
Larger slots and intelligent buttons enable you to toast and warm bagels, English muffins, and other bread uniformly, while advanced toasting technology ensures consistent results with each use.
These popular 2 Slice Toasters feature toast boost and automatic shutoff for convenience; the slide-out crumb tray makes cleanup a breeze.
The cancel button enables you to pause toasting at any time, providing reassurance on hectic mornings (no more burnt crumbs or smoky kitchens). This toaster’s convenient cord storage keeps the cord up and out of the way, making it ideal for homes with small children.
PROS
- A wide variety of colors
- Toasts extremely quickly
- Consistent toasting from batch to batch
- Controls that are extremely easy to read
- Allows for an extra-large slice of bread and a thick bagel
- With additional lift, toast and English muffins rise high enough to be easily grabbed.
- Settings for a bagel and defrost.
CONS
- Between the slices, the top of the toaster becomes excessively hot.
- The crumb tray is not detachable.
#9 - Amazon's Choice - Dash Clear View Toaster
- Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Stainless Steel Accents
- See Through Window
- Defrost
- Reheat
- Auto Shut Off Feature
Imagine having perfectly toasted bread every time you make it. There are seven browning levels to choose from in the Dash Clear View Toaster.
See for yourself through the transparent window if we’re right. In addition to an auto-shutoff feature and one-touch buttons for defrosting, bagels, and rewarming, this toaster also has a defrosting function.
Toasting a wide variety of bread and baked goods is more accessible with an extra-long slot. In addition to the recipe book that comes with your purchase, you’ll also get access to a database containing thousands of recipes.
The crumb tray and glass window effortlessly slide out for easy cleaning. All exterior surfaces are easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
PROS
- You can watch your toast cook.
- One large slot for all bread types
- Straightforward controls
- Consistent results each time
CONS
- Can be hard to fit two slices in
#10 - Best Budget - BELLA 2 Slice Toaster
- 750 Watt
- 2 slice toaster
- Extra wide slots
- Easy to use and clean
- 6-setting shade control
- Efficient design
Your kitchen counter will be more functional and stylish with the BELLA 2 Slice Toaster, a stylish toaster with multiple functions.
Extra-wide slots with self-centering guides allow it to evenly toast any size slice, even thick bagels, artisanal bread, or Texas Toast.
Shade control with six presets and a Reheat function for precise browning. Its brushed stainless-steel finish is both elegant and durable and is sure to brighten up any kitchen!
For ease of use, it includes re-heat and cancels buttons. Use auto-jamming and auto-shutoff to secure your system further.
It is made of durable plastic with stainless steel finishing. Smaller bread, such as English muffins, can be easily retrieved using the high-lift lever. The drop-down crumb tray and cord storage make cleaning up a breeze.
PROS
- Extremely lightweight
- Toasting simplified and accelerated
- Simple to maintain
- Numerous positive customer responses
- Suitable for a variety of bread types
CONS
- Difficult with English muffins
- Two-slice capacity is insufficient for large families.
- Extra-wide slots require a longer toasting time for thinner foods.
How to choose the best toaster?
Although toasters perform the same function, they vary significantly, mainly depending on your needs and the type of bread you cook.
Take note of the size and type of slot to ensure that the kind of bread you use will fit. This is especially true when using artisan bread.
While all toasters have a setting for the degree of doneness at which they will toast your bread, many also have additional features and modes.
Some models include a defrost function. This does not always mean that your bread will be defrosted (though some do), but that frozen slices will be defrosted and then toasted. On some toasters, this latter mode is referred to as ‘frozen.’
A bagel setting is also acceptable. This mode varies according to a toaster, but only one element is used, which cooks the underside while leaving the top alone. Other models may have the second element heated to a lower temperature. Make sure to read the manual to determine which way to insert your bagel.
A reheat mode is advantageous if you prefer your toast warm, as it allows you to reintroduce it without overheating it.
Keep an eye out for optional accessories such as a sandwich cage for toasting sandwiches and a warming rack for pastries and croissants that sits on top.
FAQs
If you consume a lot of bread or have a large family, a four-slice toaster is usually the best choice. If you don’t eat a lot of toast or have a small kitchen, opt for a two-slice model.
Take note of the toaster’s configuration. Certain four-slice toasters feature two long slots rather than four. The disadvantage is that two slices may not fit side by side; the advantage is that the longer slots may be better for artisanal bread.
The majority of toasters consume between 800 and 1200W on average, with four-slice toasters finishing the most and two-slice toasters consuming the least. This is a rough guide, but because toasters are small and dedicated, they are more energy-efficient than using the grill on your oven.
Numerous models incorporate energy-saving features. For instance, toasters with four slots typically have two sets of controls, each controlling two slots. When only two slots are in use, half of the total power is used; the toaster operates at full capacity only when all four slots are used.
The cost varies depending on the features and the frequency with which you toast. A good toaster can be had for less than $30 for occasional users who require a two-slice model. A more durable, higher-quality model will cost around $50, while the best models will cost well over $100.
The majority of manufacturers recommend wiping the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth and then wholly drying them. Make a habit of regularly emptying your crumb trays, and never, ever insert a metal object into the toaster.
Always consult your instruction manual or the manufacturer’s website when in doubt—most manufacturers maintain downloadable digital versions of their product manuals on their websites.
CONCLUSION
It’s not uncommon to see toasted bread served at almost any time of day or meal. When it comes to toasting bread, we all know the value of having a simple toaster that can toast bread quickly and efficiently without occupying too much countertop space.
Cuisinart CPT-180 Classic Toaster is our top choice for the best toasters because of its reasonable price and classic design. Our favorite feature was the ability to control both sides of the bagels.
It’s hard to go wrong with the Cuisinart 2 Slice Compact Plastic Toaster, but if you’re looking for something a little pricier, the Dualit 4 slice toaster is our favorite option.
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